River camping means your gear will get wet. Not maybe, but definitely. I learned this on a kayaking trip where I assumed a regular backpack in a trash bag would protect my clothes. It didn't. Water finds a way in. A proper dry bag with a roll-top seal keeps electronics, clothes, and food dry even when the bag goes underwater.
What you need is a waterproof seal that actually works, durable material that won't puncture on rocks, and a size that fits what you're protecting. Small bags work for phones and wallets. Large bags hold clothes and sleeping bags. Some float, which helps if they fall overboard. The right dry bag means you have dry clothes at camp instead of wringing everything out.
1. Heeta Dry Bag Waterproof
The HEETA 5L bag is a good starter size for essentials. The transparent blue lets you see what's inside without opening it. The roll-top closure seals tight when done correctly. The included phone case is useful for keeping your device accessible but protected.
At 5 liters, it's compact enough to fit in a larger pack or strap to a kayak. The lightweight design doesn't add much weight. Good for day trips where you need to protect a few key items.
Pros:
- Roll-top seal keeps water out
- Transparent material shows contents
- Includes phone case
- Lightweight and compact
Cons:
- 5L capacity may be too small for long trips
- Roll-top requires practice to seal properly
2. Frelaxy Dry Bag
Frelaxy's multi-pack approach is smart. Different colored bags let you organize gear by type. Clothes in one, food in another, electronics in a third. The ultralight design keeps weight down. The waterproof construction has held up on multiple kayaking trips.
The assorted colors make it easy to grab the right bag quickly. The 3-pack or 5-pack gives you options for different trip lengths. These pack down flat when not in use.
Pros:
- Multiple bags for organization
- Ultralight and durable
- Assorted colors for quick identification
- Good value in multi-packs
Cons:
- Individual bags may be too large for small items
- Assorted colors may not appeal to everyone
3. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Earth Pak's bag is built tough. The waterproof material handles submersion without leaking. The roll-top design seals securely. The bright orange color is easy to spot if it falls in the water or gets dropped on shore.
The included phone case is a practical addition. At 1.05 pounds, it's light enough for kayaking. The compact dimensions fit in most kayaks without taking up too much space.
Pros:
- Durable waterproof material
- Includes phone case
- Bright orange for visibility
- Lightweight and compact
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- Single color option
4. Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
MARCHWAY's floating design is a key feature. If the bag goes overboard, it stays on the surface instead of sinking. The 20L size is a good middle ground for day trips. The waterproof fabric and roll-top seal work well together.
The backpack-style straps make it easy to carry from car to water. Multiple size options let you choose based on trip length. The teal color is visible in water.
Pros:
- Floats if dropped in water
- Multiple size options
- Backpack straps for easy carrying
- Waterproof roll-top seal
Cons:
- 20L may be limiting for extended trips
- Only available in teal
5. Omgear Waterproof Dry Bag Camping Gear Must Haves Dry Sack With Phone Pouch
OMGear offers sizes from 5L to 40L, which covers most needs. The phone pouch is a dedicated space for quick access. The camouflage pattern blends in on outdoor trips. The waterproof fabric holds up well.
The lightweight and portable design makes it easy to pack. The roll-top closure seals securely. Good choice for kayakers who need flexibility in bag sizes.
Pros:
- Multiple size options
- Dedicated phone pouch
- Lightweight and portable
- Waterproof construction
Cons:
- Camouflage may not suit all preferences
- Smaller sizes may be limiting
6. Heeta Waterproof Duffel Bag Motorcycle Dry Bag Backpack
The 60L capacity is for extended trips or group camping. The extra large size holds substantial gear. The waterproof construction with roll-top closure keeps everything dry. Multiple carrying options with straps and handles make transport easier.
The bright green color enhances visibility. The durable material withstands rough use. This is a serious dry bag for serious trips.
Pros:
- Extra large 60L capacity
- Waterproof roll-top closure
- Multiple carrying options
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May be bulky for casual use
- Roll-top requires proper sealing
7. Heeta Waterproof Dry Bag
The upgraded HEETA bag adds an emergency whistle, which is a smart safety feature. The 5L size is compact for essentials. The roll-top design seals water out. At 0.6 pounds, it's light enough to carry all day.
The blue color is visible. The lightweight design doesn't add bulk. The whistle could save your life in an emergency. While you're at it, take a look at our inflatable kayak. While you're at it, take a look at our waterproof phone case. While you're at it, take a look at our ultralight rain jacket.
Pros:
- Emergency whistle for safety
- Lightweight at 0.6 pounds
- Roll-top waterproof seal
- Compact dimensions
Cons:
- 5L may be insufficient for large items
- Not designed as full backpack
How to Pick the Right One
- For day trips: HEETA 5L or Earth Pak for essential items
- For organization: Frelaxy multi-pack with different colored bags
- For floating capability: MARCHWAY bags that stay on surface if dropped
- For extended trips: HEETA 60L duffel or OMGear large sizes
- For safety features: HEETA upgraded version with emergency whistle
Bottom Line
Roll-top seal and durable waterproof material. Pick the size based on what you're protecting and how long you'll be on the water.
