Australia is a country full of beautiful beaches, rivers, mountains, and outdoor adventures. Many people in Australia love boating, kayaking, camping, hiking, and road trips, but these activities often involve water, dust, and rough weather. That’s why having a good dry bag is so important.
A dry bag is a waterproof bag that protects your belongings from rain, splashes, dirt, and even full submersion in water. People use dry bags to keep their clothes, food, electronics, and other essentials safe and dry while enjoying outdoor activities.
Because Australia has a strong outdoor culture, many local brands make high-quality dry bags designed for different needs. Some dry bags are lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for hiking and travel, while others are heavy-duty and extra waterproof, built for boating, diving, and extreme conditions.
In this blog, we will introduce the top 10 dry bag manufacturers in Australia. These companies are known for making strong, reliable, and waterproof dry bags for every type of outdoor adventure. Whether you need a compact bag for kayaking, a large dry bag for camping, or a rugged waterproof bag for road trips, you’ll find the best options here. Let’s explore the top Australian dry bag brands and what makes them special.
What Makes a High-Quality Dry Bag?
A dry bag is an important item for boaters, kayakers, hikers, campers, and travelers. It helps keep your belongings dry and protected from water, dirt, and dust. But not all dry bags are the same. Some are more waterproof, stronger, and last longer than others.
A high-quality dry bag should be waterproof, durable, and easy to use. It should also be the right size for what you need to carry. Let’s take a closer look at what makes a good dry bag and why these features are important.
1. Waterproof Material
The main job of a dry bag is to keep water out. This depends on the type of material it is made from.
Best Materials for Dry Bags:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)– A thick, waterproof, and strong Best for boating, rafting, and heavy outdoor use.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)– Lighter and more flexible than PVC but still very waterproof. Great for hiking, backpacking, and travel.
- Coated Nylon– A lightweight fabric with a waterproof coating. Works well for camping and short trips but may not be as waterproof as PVC or TPU.
Why It Matters:
- A good waterproof materialkeeps your items safe from rain, splashes, and even full water submersion.
- PVC and TPU dry bagsare best for extreme outdoor activities, while nylon dry bags are good for lightweight travel and hiking.
2. Strong and Durable Design
A dry bag should be able to handle rough conditions without tearing or breaking.
Key Features of a Strong Dry Bag:
- Thick, tear-resistant fabricthat does not rip easily.
- Reinforced seamsto prevent leaks.
- Scratch-resistant coatingto protect against rocks, sand, and rough surfaces.
Why It Matters:
- A weak dry bag can develop holes or leaks, which means your items could get wet.
- A stronger bag lasts longer, even when used in harsh outdoor conditions.
3. Secure Waterproof Closure
Even if a dry bag is made from waterproof material, it must seal properly to keep water out.
Types of Waterproof Closures:
- Roll-Top Closure– The most common type. You roll the top 3–5 times and buckle it shut to create a watertight seal.
- Zipper Seals– Found on high-end dry bags. These airtight zippers provide full waterproof protection but need regular maintenance.
- Welded Seams– Instead of stitching, some dry bags use heat-sealed seams to block water completely.
Why It Matters:
- A roll-top closureworks well for most outdoor activities.
- Zipper-sealed dry bagsare great for fully submersible protection but may be more expensive.
- Welded seamsmake a bag more waterproof and durable.
4. Choosing the Right Size
Dry bags come in different sizes, and choosing the right one depends on what you need to carry.
Dry Bag Size Guide:
- 5L (Small)– Holds phones, wallets, keys, snacks, and small personal items. Great for short hikes, cycling, or paddleboarding.
- 10L (Medium)– Can fit a change of clothes, a towel, and some essentials. Ideal for day hikes, kayaking, and travel.
- 20L (Large)– Holds multiple clothing items, shoes, and medium-sized gear. Best for overnight trips, camping, and adventure travel.
- 30L+ (Extra Large)– Perfect for multi-day trips, heavy gear, and large equipment like tents and sleeping bags.
Why It Matters:
- Smaller dry bagsare easier to carry but may not fit everything you need.
- Larger dry bagshold more but can be heavy and bulky.
- Some dry bags come in sets with multiple sizes, giving you more options.
5. Comfortable Carrying Options
If you need to carry your dry bag for long distances, it should be comfortable to wear.
Types of Carrying Straps:
- Single Shoulder Strap– Good for small and medium-sized dry bags, making them easy to carry over one shoulder.
- Backpack Straps– Found on larger dry bags, perfect for hiking, travel, and carrying heavy gear.
- Hand Carry Handle– A strong handle makes it easy to grab and move the bag.
Why It Matters:
- A comfortable carrying systemprevents shoulder and back pain.
- Backpack-style dry bags are best for long hikesor carrying heavy loads.
Top 10 Dry Bag Manufacturers in Australia
Australia is a country filled with beautiful beaches, rivers, mountains, and rugged landscapes, making it a paradise for boaters, kayakers, hikers, campers, and adventure seekers. Whether you’re surfing, fishing, rafting, or going on a long camping trip, keeping your gear safe and dry is essential. That’s why high-quality dry bags are a must-have for outdoor lovers in Australia.
There are many trusted Australian brands that make strong, waterproof, and durable dry bags to suit different needs. Some focus on lightweight, travel-friendly dry bags, while others create heavy-duty waterproof bags for extreme conditions.
Here are 10 of the best dry bag manufacturers in Australia, known for their quality, durability, and innovative designs.
1. Sea to Summit – Best for Lightweight and Versatile Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Sea to Summit is one of Australia’s top outdoor brands, known for making lightweight and durable adventure gear. Their dry bags are popular worldwide for hiking, travel, and water sports.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made from ultra-lightweight and waterproof materials.
- Features roll-top closuresfor a secure, watertight seal.
- Comes in various sizes and colorsfor different needs.
- Best For:Hiking, kayaking, travel, and general outdoor use.
2. Caribee – Best for Heavy-Duty Outdoor Gear
- About the Brand:Caribee is a well-known Australian adventure brand that produces backpacks, travel gear, and waterproof bags.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Uses strong, waterproof PVC fabricfor maximum protection.
- Features reinforced seamsto prevent leaks.
- Comes in large sizes, great for camping and multi-day adventures.
- Best For:Backpackers, campers, and long outdoor trips.
3. Ocean and Earth – Best for Surfing and Water Sports
- About the Brand:Ocean and Earth is a leading Australian surf brand that makes gear for surfers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Designed for wet conditions, perfect for keeping gear dry at the beach.
- Uses marine-grade waterproof fabric.
- Includes adjustable strapsfor easy carrying.
- Best For:Surfers, swimmers, and beach lovers.
4. Adreno – Best for Diving and Marine Use
- About the Brand:Adreno specializes in scuba diving, freediving, and spearfishing gear, including waterproof dry bags.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- 100% waterproof, airtight, and durable.
- Built for extreme water exposure.
- Perfect for storing diving equipment and valuables.
- Best For:Scuba divers, fishermen, and marine sports enthusiasts.
5. Wildtrak – Best for Camping and Outdoor Expeditions
- About the Brand:Wildtrak is an Australian outdoor gear brand that makes camping, trekking, and adventure equipment.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Designed for rugged conditions.
- Features large-capacity bagswith backpack straps for comfortable carrying.
- Great for storing clothes, sleeping bags, and food supplies.
- Best For:Campers, trekkers, and outdoor adventurers.
6. OZtrail – Best for Budget-Friendly Waterproof Bags
- About the Brand:OZtrail is one of Australia’s most popular camping and outdoor brands.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Affordable but reliable and waterproof.
- Designed for casual camping, hiking, and water activities.
- Available in multiple sizesto suit different needs.
- Best For:Budget-conscious campers and casual outdoor users.
7. Kathmandu – Best for Eco-Friendly Outdoor Gear
- About the Brand:Kathmandu is a well-known outdoor brand from Australia and New Zealand that focuses on sustainability.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made from eco-friendly, recycled materials.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Ideal for hiking, biking, and travel.
- Best For:Eco-conscious travelers and adventure lovers.
8. Aqua Quest Australia – Best for Ultra-Light Travel Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Aqua Quest specializes in waterproof travel gear, including dry bags for backpackers and travelers.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Ultra-light and compact, making them great for traveling.
- Compression dry bagshelp save space.
- Fully waterproof and weather-resistant.
- Best For:Backpackers, campers, and frequent travelers.
9. Rhino-Rack – Best for 4WD and Outdoor Storage Bags
- About the Brand:Rhino-Rack is famous for car roof racks, waterproof storage bags, and off-road travel gear.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Built for adventure travel and overlanding.
- Designed for storing gear on car roof racks.
- Heavy-duty waterproofingfor extreme weather.
- Best For:Road trippers, 4WD explorers, and outdoor adventurers.
10. Stormtech Australia – Best for Industrial and Professional Use
- About the Brand:Stormtech specializes in heavy-duty waterproof gear for marine, industrial, and rescue use.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Tough, industrial-strength materialsfor extreme durability.
- Designed for rescue teams, boaters, and professional use.
- Extra-large capacity for bulk storage.
- Best For:Marine professionals, emergency responders, and heavy-duty outdoor use.
How to Choose the Best Dry Bag for Your Needs
A dry bag is a must-have for boaters, kayakers, hikers, campers, and travelers. It helps protect your clothes, electronics, and important items from water, dust, and dirt. But with so many different types of dry bags available, how do you choose the right one?
The best dry bag for you depends on how you plan to use it, how much you need to carry, and how waterproof it needs to be. Some dry bags are small and lightweight, great for short trips, while others are large and heavy-duty, designed for extreme outdoor adventures.
Let’s explore the most important features to consider when buying a dry bag.
1. Choose the Right Size
Dry bags come in many different sizes, from small 5-liter bags to extra-large 50-liter+ bags. The size you need depends on what you want to carry.
Dry Bag Size Guide:
- 5L (Small)– Best for small items like phones, wallets, keys, snacks, and first-aid kits. Great for quick trips, cycling, and short hikes.
- 10L (Medium)– Holds a change of clothes, a towel, and some personal items. Ideal for day hikes, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- 20L (Large)– Can fit several clothing items, shoes, and medium-sized gear. Best for overnight trips, camping, and adventure travel.
- 30L+ (Extra Large)– Perfect for multi-day trips, camping, and boating. Holds tents, sleeping bags, and multiple outfits.
Why It Matters:
- Smaller dry bagsare easier to carry but may not fit everything you need.
- Larger dry bagshold more but can be heavy and bulky.
- Some dry bags come in sets with multiple sizes, giving you more options.
2. Pick the Right Material
The material of a dry bag determines how waterproof, durable, and flexible it is. Different materials work better for different activities.
Common Dry Bag Materials:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)– Thick, heavy-duty, and 100% waterproof. Best for boating, rafting, and extreme outdoor conditions.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)– Lighter and more flexible than PVC but still very waterproof. Great for hiking, backpacking, and travel.
- Coated Nylon– A lightweight fabric with a waterproof coating. Works well for hiking, cycling, and short trips, but may not be as waterproof as PVC or TPU.
Why It Matters:
- A strong, fully waterproof dry bagmade from PVC or TPU is best for water sports and wet environments.
- If you need a lightweight, easy-to-pack bag, coated nylonis a better choice.
3. Check the Waterproof Seal
Even if a dry bag is made from waterproof material, it must seal properly to keep water out. The closure system is one of the most important features to check.
Types of Dry Bag Closures:
- Roll-Top Closure– The most common type. You roll the top 3–5 times and buckle it shut to create a watertight seal.
- Zipper Seals– Used on high-end dry bags. These airtight zippers provide maximum waterproof protection but require regular maintenance.
- Welded Seams– Instead of stitching, some dry bags use heat-sealed seams to block water completely.
Why It Matters:
- A roll-top closureworks well for most outdoor activities.
- If you need full submersion protection, choose a zipper-sealed dry bag.
- Welded seamsmake a bag more waterproof and durable.
4. Consider Carrying Options
If you need to carry your dry bag for a long time, it should be comfortable to wear.
Types of Carrying Straps:
- Single Shoulder Strap– Good for small and medium-sized dry bags, making them easy to carry over one shoulder.
- Backpack Straps– Found on larger dry bags, perfect for hiking, travel, and carrying heavy gear.
- Hand Carry Handle– A strong handle makes it easy to grab and move the bag.
Why It Matters:
- A comfortable carrying systemprevents shoulder and back pain.
- Backpack-style dry bags are best for long hikesor carrying heavy loads.
5. Look for Extra Features
Some dry bags come with extra features that make them more useful.
- Waterproof Phone Case– Some dry bags include a small waterproof pouch for phones and electronics.
- External Pockets– Mesh or zippered pockets allow you to store small items separately.
- Transparent Windows– A clear panel lets you see inside the bag without opening it.
- D-Rings & Attachment Points– Useful for securing the dry bag to a kayak, boat, or backpack.
Why It Matters:
- These features make organizing and accessing your items easier.
- They can add extra conveniencewithout making the bag too bulky.
Conclusion
Australia is a country filled with amazing outdoor adventures, from boating and kayaking along the coast to camping, hiking, and off-road trips in the rugged outback. To keep your gear safe and dry, choosing a high-quality dry bag is essential. Fortunately, many Australian brands specialize in durable, waterproof, and well-designed dry bags for different outdoor activities.
In this article, we explored the top 10 dry bag manufacturers in Australia, each offering unique features:
- Sea to Summit and Aqua Questfocus on lightweight and versatile dry bags for hiking and travel.
- Caribee and Wildtrakprovide heavy-duty waterproof bags for campers and adventurers.
- Ocean and Earth and Adrenospecialize in surfing, diving, and marine sports dry bags.
- OZtrail and Kathmanduoffer budget-friendly and eco-friendly options for outdoor lovers.
- Rhino-Rack and Stormtechcreate rugged, high-performance dry bags for 4WD trips, overlanding, and extreme weather conditions.
When choosing a dry bag, consider the size, material, waterproof level, carrying comfort, and special features to match your needs. Whether you’re paddling down a river, exploring the outback, or taking a road trip, investing in a strong, well-made dry bag will keep your belongings protected and ready for any adventure.
