The Best Waterproof Duffel Bags: Duffel Dry Bags for Travel & Outdoors

Looking for a durable waterproof duffel bags to keep your gear stays safe and dry?

If you've ever been concerned about your belongings getting wet while traveling or spending time outdoors---a waterproof duffel bag is your secret weapon. These durable and fully waterproof bags are ideal for situations when you just need the ultimate protection.

A versatile travel backpack is great for everyday travel, but when you need to keep your gear safe from even the most extreme conditions, dry bag type duffels are a much better option.

When traveling, especially in foreign climates, you just don't know what conditions you'll find yourself in---and who knows what happens to your bag in transit. I've learned to be better prepared and safe, than sorry.

I've taken 10+ hour overnight bus journeys only to arrive at my destination finding that my luggage was moved from the secure and dry under bus storage to the top roof rack! Thankfully on this trip I decided chose decided to take my The North Face Base Camp Duffel, which keep all my belongings dry---even through a wet and rainy night.

Your average travel backpack and luggage are great for the casual traveler, but if you are one who seeks adventure and outdoors, they often just don't cut it.

Most travel bags will do a decent job keeping your gear dry when exposed to light rain, but a fully waterproof bag will ensure your stuff stays dry---no matter what.

Quick Answer: Best Waterproof Duffel Bags

• Best Waterproof Backpack Duffel Bag - Grundens Gage Tech Shackelton

• Best Waterproof Duffel Bag - Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag

• Best Water Resistant Duffel Bag - The North Face Base Camp Duffel

• Best Travel Duffel Bag - Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel

• Best Duffel Gear Bag - Thule Chasm Bag

• Best Budget Option - Leader Accessories Deluxe Duffel Bag Backpack

Best Waterproof Duffel Bags

Best Water Resistant Duffel Bags With Backpack Straps
	Best Backpack Duffel Bag - The North Face Base Camp Duffel Sizes: 31L, 50L, 71L, 95L, 132L, 150L Material: 1000D TPE laminate fabric	Shop Now
	Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag Sizes: 45L, 60L, 90L, 120L Material: 900 denier rip-stop polyester	Shop Now
	Helly Hansen Duffel Bag 2 Sizes: 30L, 50L, 70L, 90L Material: 100% polyester	Shop Now
	Leader Accessories Deluxe Duffel Backpack Sizes: 40L, 70L, 90L Material: Marine grade vinyl	Shop Now
	Best Travel Duffel Bag - Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel Sizes: 45L, 60L, 90L, 120L Material: Bi-Tech Armor Lite	Shop Now
	Best Duffel Gear Bag - Thule Chasm Bag Sizes: 40L, 70L, 90L, 130L Material:tarpaulin fabric	Shop Now
Best Waterproof Duffel Bags
	Best Waterproof Backpack Pack - Grundens Gage Shackelton Duffel Bag Sizes: 105L Material: 500D PVC	Shop Now
	COR Waterproof Duffel Dry Bag Sizes: 60L Material: waterproof material	Shop Now
	Kwik Tek Dry Pak Waterproof Duffel Bag Sizes: 70L,110L Material: vinyl/polyester	Shop Now
	Aqua Quest White Water Duffel Sizes: 50L, 75L Material: 420D RipStop fabric	Shop Now
	Sag Gear DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag Sizes: 40L, 60L Material: 500D PVC	Shop Now
	Best Waterproof Duffel Bag - Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag Sizes: 105L Material: polyurethane-coated 420-denier nylon	Shop Now
	OverBoard Waterproof Duffel Bag Sizes: 40L, 60L, 90L, 130L Material: PVC tarpaulin	Shop Now
	Wolfman Expedition Dry Duffel Bag Sizes: 33L, 40L, 47L Material: 22oz Vinyl	Shop Now

What Do You Need - Waterproof or Water Resistant?

Some duffel bags I've included in this list are rated as water resistant, but in reality perform incredibly well even the wettest weather. While others are fully waterproof and will even keep your gear dry when fully dunked in water---say for example, when they accidentally fall off the boat.

If you foresee yourself being in incredibly wet conditions or situations where your bag may end up in the water, you'll want to go with a fully waterproof bag. The other option is to go with a water resistant bag that will hold up well even in rainy conditions, but won't keep water out when fully submerged.

If you want a quick recommendation, my top pick is the The North Face Base Camp Duffel. This duffel is perfect whether you're in search of a durable adventure travel bag or the ultimate camping gear carry-all.

Below you'll find reviews of the best waterproof duffel bag options in both categories and a full guide to help you choose the right bag for you.

Water Resistant Duffel Bags With Backpack Straps

Depending on how you plan to use your duffel bag---travel, camping, kayaking, road trips, etc---some models may suit your needs better than others.

These bags are rated as water resistant and made from waterproof materials with a storm flap over the zipper. A water resistant duffel bag will still do the job at keeping your gear dry even in an occasional downpour, but are not designed be fully submerged in water.

Here are just a few of my top recommendations that provide a good mix of functionality, durability, and quality.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Best Water Resistant Duffel Bag

Built ultra-tough and easy to carry with backpack straps, the The North Face Base Camp Duffel is one of the most tried and tested travel duffel bags around.

As a duffel backpack it's one of the most popular expedition duffel bags out there, with adventurers around the world using it for anything from high alpine accents to global travels.

Although not technically a fully waterproof duffel bag, with it's waterproof materials and stormflaps it will easily keep your gear dry even in moderate rainfall. The bags zippers are covered with a flap, which ensures any water landing on the bag runs off and not into it.

I've used this bag extensively on several global trips and my gear stayed dry even after spending a rainy night on top of the bus.

Constructed from heavy duty 1000D TPE laminate fabric the bag is built to hold up to years of even the roughest abuse. Trust me, you'll be hard pressed to break anything on this heavy duty duffel.

For carrying it features alpine-cut shoulder straps which allows you to comfortably wear it as a backpack. This is great walking longer distances and even makes it an alternative to a backpacking bag on longer trips.

Two haul handles at each end also allow you to easily move the bag or secure it down with straps when traveling. The strong padded base protects your gear against any damage when on the ground.

This North Face Duffel Bag comes in a wide range of sizes from XS (31L), S (50L), M (71L), L (95L), XL (132L), and XXL (150L).

The largest size you'll want to go with for a carry-on duffel bag is the medium version, and although I've taken mine on many flights without issues, it's slightly over some airlines size limit.

The XXL bag is an absolute behemoth and will fit an incredible amount of gear. It's one of the largest waterproof duffel bags out there.

For anyone looking for a certain style, this North Face duffel bag is offered a wide range of colors and designs---from red, blue, green, white, black, to camo and limited time color options.

One internal mesh pocket on the inside of the top cover lets you store easy access items separate from the main compartment.

Daisy chains on the external sides allow you to secure your bag using straps---whether its to the top of your car or back of a motorcycle.

You can also cinch the bag down with compression straps to make it smaller when not utilizing it's full capacity.

The bottom line is that the The North Face Base Camp Duffel is one of the most proven duffel bags that can hold up after any adventure you throw at it. With it's backpack carry design and bombproof construction, it's one of the best travel duffel bags for anyone looking to keep their gear safe and dry.

Shop The The North Face Base Camp Duffel

Tech Specs

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

The Black Hole Duffel Bag is Patagonia's answer to The North Face's Base Camp Duffel. It's lighter than most other models, yet still ultra-durable, water resistant, and comes stocked with tons of features.

When on the move this duffel bag backpack can be carried with it's two shoulder straps, shoulder straps, or dual haul handles. Similar to The North Face duffel bag, the padded backpack straps can be removed when not needed.

Daisy chains are located on the side of the bag to keep your bag secured and tied down during transport. It's constructed from 900D polyester ripstop in a TPU laminate and features a DWR finish to repel water. Plus, an ultra-durable padded base protects your gear no matter where you set the bag down.

The Black Hole Duffel stands out among it's competition with the array of organization pockets it offers, making it one of the best travel duffel bags.

In total there is an external mesh pocket and several internal zippered mesh pockets for keeping smaller items. The main compartment is accessed from a top U-shaped flap with extended fabric over the zippers to keep water out.

For air travel the zippers to the main compartment can be locked to keep anyone from accessing your bag. Additionally, compression straps keep your gear from moving around whether you're traveling on train, airplane or pack mule.

It's available in a four sizes including S (45L), M 60L, L (90L), and XL (120L) and several different color options.

Overall the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag gives The North Face Base Camp Duffel bag a run for its money. It's lighter weight and offers several additional organizational pockets, making it a great alternative for anyone looking for a bombproof backpack duffel bag.

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Tech Specs

Helly Hansen Duffel Bag 2

The Helly Hansen Duffel Bag 2 is another great option for anyone looking for a duffel bag with backpack straps that's built to hold up to the roughest abuse.

Although constructed from fully waterproof material, it lacks fully taped seams. So it will keep you gear dry in moderate rain, but you won't want to attempt to take it kayaking. Overall for travel and everyday outdoor adventures it's a versatile water resistant duffel bag option.

The bag features both internal and external zippered pocket, in addition to a padded laptop compartment for keeping your electronics safe. This is the only outdoor duffel bag that we found that has a dedicated laptop storage compartment.

For travel and moving around the bag can be carried using it's shoulder straps, worn as a backpack, or carried with dual haul handles on the ends. Like other models, daisy chain on each side of the bag allow you to secure your bag down when the journey gets rough.

Like The North Face and Patagonia duffel bags, this bag will do fine in moderately wet conditions and even keep your gear dry in the occasional downpour.

It's fabric is 100% waterproof and a stormflap extends over the main compartment's zipper, keeping rain and water from entering the bag. Additionally a durable extends base keeps your gear protected from the bottom.

Shop The Helly Hansen Duffel Bag 2

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Leader Accessories Deluxe Waterproof Duffel Bag Backpack - Best Budget Option

The Leader Accessories Deluxe Waterproof Duffel Bag Backpack is an excellent choice for anyone looking for the the best cheap water resistant duffel bag. It's built extra tough with durable waterproof material and includes all the features you'd expect from higher priced models.

You can travel worry free with this bag as it will keep your gear safe from water, dirt, sand, and just about anything else that it may come into contact with. The durable and strong base makes sure you valuables are protected when on the ground.

Even as one of the lowest priced duffel bags it includes backpack straps, dual haul handles, daisy chains for tying down your bag, and compression straps for securing your load. Packed with features and high quality construction make this a great bag to consider, especially if you don't want to fork over 100+ dollars on a bag.

One drawback of this bag is that unlike other duffel backpack models, the padded shoulder straps are not removable. For most users this won't be an issue as you can just cinch then down along the bag when not in use.

The zippers are covered with a stormflap, which is enough for almost any rainy situation you'll find yourself in. As it's a water resistant duffel bag it's not submersible, but will keep your gear dry in a good downpour.

Various color and 3 size options are available, with the small duffel bag at 40 liters and a large duffel bag holding 90 liters.

Note that although it's marketed as waterproof, it's actually built to be a water resistant duffel bag. You won't want to submerge it in water, but it will keep your gear dry from moderate rain.

Anyone wanting a budget friendly water resistant duffel bag without sacrificing quality or durability should consider the Leader Accessories Deluxe Waterproof Duffel Bag Backpack.

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Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel - Best Travel Duffel Bag

A favorite among adventure and global travelers, the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel is one of the most sought after durable travel duffel bags.

This bag is offered in several sizes from 45L, 60L, 90L, to 120L which gives your options and a perfect fit for any length of trip. It's made with abrasion and water-resistant Bi-Tech Armor Lite fabric technology and will hold up against the roughest conditions and use.

As one of the best travel duffel bags, this bag is fully equipped with various storage pockets and also comes with multiple carry options. It can be used as a duffel backpack, carried with it's dual end haul handles or its side grab handle, plus durable loops for lashing the bag down while transporting.

For traveling it offers lockable zippers covered by stormflaps and a durable padded bottom to protect your gear against rough surfaces. There are plenty of storage options on bag including side pockets, and internal organization pockets.

It's designed to be a foldable duffel bag that can be stored away into it's integrated stuff sack, which can come in handy when traveling.

One drawback of this bag is that it's not fully waterproof and has a lot of zippers making it more susceptible to leaks than The North Face Base Camp and Patagonia Black Hole duffels. That said it will easy keep your gear dry enough to wear if caught in the rain.

Eagle Creek offers one of the best manufacture warranties out there with their "No Matter What" warranty. If it has a problem, they will fix it or replace it, no matter what. That's a huge value it itself.

This well-made, lightweight and durable travel duffel bag is perfect for the global adventurist who needs a little extra protection from their luggage.

If you are looking for a rolling duffel bag for travel, check out Eagle Creek's No Matter What Rolling Duffel.

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Thule Chasm Bag - Best Duffel Gear Bag

Thule is one of the top car rack manufactures, but don't let that fool you. They put their design team to work and make some great waterproof bags and backpacks. Thule Chasm Bag is a the perfect choice for anyone looking for a well-made water resistant duffel bag for traveling, outdoors, or just storing tons of gear.

It comes in several sizes---40L, 70L, 90L, 130L---which gives your options and makes it a suitable travel duffel bag for any sized trip. The 130L bag is an extra large duffel bag that will swallow any gear you put in it.

The bag is constructed from waterproof laminated fabric and has a 1000-denier nylon padded base to provide top protection for your gear.

Packing and unpacking is made easy with it's wide zippered mouth opening and zippered side pockets provide quick access to essential items anywhere inside the bag. It also has two external pockets for items you need quick access to.

When not packed to full capacity external compression straps help secure your load from moving around. Plus, plenty of daisy chains located around the side make it easy to tie down your bag when needed.

For carrying this backpack duffel bag offers many options---end haul handles, hand carry straps, and backpack straps. The traditional duffel handles can easily be tucked away when wearing it on your back. Additionally, the backpack straps can double as a single shoulder strap giving you multiple carry options.

For traveling and flying the bag has lockable zippers for ultimate protection against thieves or exploding bags on the tarmac.

Overall the Thule Chasm Bag is a solid option for anyone looking for versatile duffel backpack that performs just as well for traveling as it does in the backcountry.

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Tech Specs

100% Waterproof Duffel Bag Reviews

The best waterproof duffel bags are constructed from durable and completely waterproof material, have fully welded seams, and are either roll-top closure or have a waterproof zippers.

These bags are ideal for water sports, such as kayaking or boat trips. They will also keep your gear dry when you'll be stuck in the rain for long periods of time. They can even be submerged for short periods of time and keep everything inside dry.

Grundens Gage Tech Shackelton Duffel Bag - Best Waterproof Backpack Bag

This rough-and-tumble duffel lives up to it's namesake. The fully waterproof Grundens Shackelton Duffel Bag is built to carry up to 105 liters of gear on any excursion---whether it's an urban adventure or two week boating trip. It's constructed from 500D PVC tarpaulin fabric with RF welded seams to keep water out even when submerged.

The closure system on the bag is two-step---a water resistant zipper combined with a Velcro roll top. Once it's secured close you won't have to worry about a drop getting inside.

At 105L its large enough for eve the longest adventures and is built tough as nails to withstand the roughest abuse. When not fully packed you can secure your load with it's dual compression straps.

This waterproof duffel stands out from it's competition with it's shoulder strap that can be converted into backpack straps. It's one of the few fully waterproof duffel bags that features backpack carry functionality.

For someone looking for a waterproof duffel bag with backpack straps that is built to last years of the roughest use, look no further than the Grundens Shackelton Duffel Bag.

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Tech Specs

COR Waterproof Duffel Dry Bag

The COR Waterproof Duffel Dry Bag is a large roll-top dry duffel bag that will ensure your gear stays high and dry no matter the conditions.

This 60 liter 100% waterproof duffel dry bag features a large top opening to easily stash your gear. To seal you just need to roll the top closed several times and secure the ends with the integrated buckle clips. Once closed this bag can handle any type of wet conditions and is perfect for travel, river trips, paddle boarding, hunting, motorcycle, kayaking and anything else you can throw at it.

It's a great all-around waterproof duffel bag that will keep your gear safe no matter what. It features a padded shoulder strap and carrying handle, but unlike other models it lacks padded backpack straps. Depending if you'll be carrying your gear long distances you may want to consider another bag that allows backpack carry style.

Two compression straps help keep your gear stable and from moving around when transporting. For organization there is a large exterior water resistant pocket for quick access, as well as a interior zip pocket for smaller items.

Versatile and built ultra-tough with welded seams it's also a great waterproof motorcycle bag.

Without backpack straps the COR Waterproof Duffel Dry Bag is not the best option for traveling, but it's a great gear bag for anyone looking for a fully waterproof beach bag or kayak bag that will keep everything protected from sand, dirt, snow, water, or anything else for that matter!

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Tech Specs

Kwik Tek Dry Pak Waterproof Duffel Bag

Another wide opening fold-top waterproof duffel bag option is the Kwik Tek Dry Pak Waterproof Duffel Bag. At 70 liters this bag is large enough to carry plenty of gear and is built to ensure it stays safe and dry no matter what.

Simply throw your gear inside, roll the top closed several times and clip the ends down to make this bag ready for any wet adventure. For easy access items there are two water resistant zippered exterior pockets for storing smaller items.

The bag is constructed from a heavy duty, waterproof vinyl polyester laminate with electronically welded seams. It features a molded bottom that provides extra protection and allows the bag to sit upright with some structure for easily packing and unpacking.

For carrying it has a removable padded adjustable shoulder strap and dual haul handles when carrying an extra heavy load. It's ideal for boating, paddle sports, a kayak dry bag, hunting, a waterproof bug out bag, motorcycle trips, or any other outdoor activities when you need to keep gear dry.

The drawbacks of the bag include that it lacks backpack straps and any internal pockets for organization.

Overall this waterpoof duffel bag is praised for it's high quality construction and design making it a top choice for anyone looking for a durable and versatile bag. Its perfect for anyone looking for a waterproof bag for boating or durable kayak dry bag.

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Tech Specs

Aqua Quest White Water Duffel

With 75 liters of storage and 100% waterproof Aqua Quest White Water Duffel is ready for any adventure you have planned.

This bag offers everything you want from a waterproof gear bag---and most of all you won't have to worry about your valuables getting wet. With it's roll-top and clip design it keeps everything you want out---water, sand, dirt, snow, etc.

This waterproof dry bag features high quality construction without any compromises. It's made from abrasion resistant Oxford 420D RipStop fabric with TPU lamination. Plus, it has DWR coating, double bar-tacked stress points, and welded seams to round out it's bombproof design. You'll be hard pressed to destroy this bag even with years of the roughest use.

It's fully waterproof and will even keep your gear dry when fully submerged, making it ideal for kayaking, boat trips, hunting, or any other water and ocean sports. For road trips you can pack it and tie it down on top of your car or back of your motorcycle without worrying about your gear getting wet.

Adjustable padded shoulder straps can be attached to any of the 6 D-rings on the bag, plus they are removable when you don't need them. It also have dual haul handles for carrying by hand.

For easy access items it offers two external mesh pockets for smaller items and webbing loops for lashing or clipping gear to or securing your bag while transporting.

Designed for white water, but ready to keep your gear dry in any outdoor adventure the Aqua Quest Waterproof Duffel Bag has great reviews and is built to last.

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Tech Specs

Sak Gear DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag

This sleek looking waterproof duffel bag offers ultimate protection and quality constructions. It's stacked with design features and uses a roll-down top with clip to keep all your belongings safe and dry in any circumstances.

Built from 500D PVC with waterproof welded seams the DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag is among the most heavy duty and durable dry duffel bags on the market.

It's plenty spacious for tons of gear with 60 liters of capacity and features 1 interior zip pocket in addition to 2 outer water resistant zip pockets for smaller items. A unique feature of this bag is that it has a reflective trim around the outer pocket, which adds a nice safety feature for nighttime viability.

There is also a 40L version of the Sak Gear DuffelSak available, if you are looking for a smaller size bag.

For easy carry it has a dual padded haul handles on its ends and a padded adjustable shoulder strap. However, there is no backpack strap for carrying it longer distances.

Overall the DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag a great option for anyone in search of a durable and large dry bag for camping, boating, ocean sports, outdoors, or rugged travels.

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Tech Specs

Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag - Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

Watershed is a well-known that makes the ultimate waterproof luggage bags---from waterproof backpacks, waterproof boat bags, to kayak dry bags. They have a a wide range of high-quality products that cater to avid outdoor adventurers and water sport enthusiasts.

They produce a wide range of waterproof duffel bags in various sizes and styles. The Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag is designed as a 105 liter kayak dry bag, but it easily doubles as a versatile waterproof gear bag for keeping your stuff dry during any type of outdoor adventures.

It features a ZipDry closure system that ensures your gear stays dry and carries enough gear for multi-day expeditions. The bag works works equally well on the back of a kayak as it does strapped down to a cartop.

Made from polyurethane-coated 420-denier nylon pack cloth fabric, it's the ultimate outdoor gear bag that is built to survive even the roughest conditions. The material stays flexible in the cold, is UV stable, and more abrasion resistant than PVC

Rugged carrying handles and side compression straps let you secure and carry your load. Additional nylon webbing lash points can be used for tying down your bag when on rough journeys.

This bag does exactly what you want: keeps your gear dry, no matter what. However, it doesn't have a lot of extra features that travelers may be looking for such as extensive organization pockets, backpack straps, etc. It also comes with a higher price tag that other models out there, but with waterproof bags you often get what you pay for.

The bottom line is if your looking for a bombproof dry duffle bag to protect your gear and willing to pay a bit more, look no further than the Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag.

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Tech Specs

OverBoard Waterproof Duffel Bag

Overboard is known for making some great waterproof backpacks, dry bags, and waterproof cases---the OverBoard Waterproof Duffel Bag is their top rated waterproof dry duffel bag.

With it's built-in backpack straps it ranks among my favorite 100% waterproof backpack duffel bags. This makes is versatile for anything from boating trips to camping adventures. Plus, constructed from a PVC tarpaulin shell with RF welded seams it will keep your stuff dry even when dunked in the water.

The bag is closed using a toll top close and clip system which lets you vary the size of the bag when not full. When the bag is rolled down it also has a Velcro joiner to add that extra security that it won't open up. Compression straps can be used to cinch down you load.

For gear organization it features an external waterproof zippered pocket for small items and one Velcro mesh pocket. On the inside there are two mesh pockets and one wet/dry zippered pocket.

The OverBoard Waterproof Duffel Bag can be worn as a backpack with it's removable and adjustable straps, plus it comes with dual end haul handles. When on the move you can utilize it's D-rings to secure the bag from moving around.

Size wise the bag comes in four options---40L, 60L, 90L and even 130L---and colors including blue, black, yellow, and red.

Overall the OverBoard Waterproof Duffel Bag is a solid option for anyone looking for a fully waterproof duffel bag with backpack straps. It's not the most discrete looking bag on the market, but for outdoor and boating purposes it fits the bill.

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Tech Specs

Wolfman Expedition Dry Duffel Bag - Best Motorcycle Dry Bag

With great design features, one of the best motocycle dry bags out there is the Wolfman Expedition Dry Duffel Bag. It's a compact and versatile waterproof bag that is specifically designed for motorcycle use, but it performs just as well for travel, camping and outdoors.

All sizes of this bag are compact and shorter in length than most other waterproof duffels. It comes in small (33L), medium (40L), or large (47L).

For color options your limited to black or yellow, but don't let that stop you from buying this sturdy and fully waterproof dry bag.

It's design features a roll top closure with waterproof webbing to prevent any water finding it's way into the bag. The bag itself is constructed from reinforced vinyl with RF-welded seams to ensure your gear stays dry.

For compressing the bag down in size it has four compression straps and can be carried using a duffel handle or shoulder straps (which is also removable). For motorcycle use it comes with two mounting straps to secure it onto your bike.

The Wolfman Expedition Dry Duffel Bag is a top choice for anyone looking for one of the best waterproof duffel bags for motorcycle use.

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Tech Specs

Waterproof Duffel Bag Buyer's Guide

Waterproof Duffel Bag Uses

For adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts waterproof duffel bags are the ultimate gear bag. Built ultra-tough from waterproof materials they are designed to keep your belongings dry even in the wettest conditions.

There are a wide array of styles and designs on the market, with certain models better for specific uses. However, even though they are waterproof it doesn't mean you can use the bag for everything. It just means that your stuff will be safe when an unexpected rain storm rolls through.

In my opinion, waterproof duffel bags are the most versatile bag choice out there. They can be used for anything---from day-to-day mundane use to extreme outdoor expeditions.

Here's are just a few ideas:

• International travel - your clothes and valuables are protected from the occasional downpour
• Boating, kayaking, or other water sports -  carry gear and keep it dry
• Motorcycle trips - great long distance trips in all weather conditions
• Storing sports gear - throw all you ski, cycling, etc. gear in one large bag to transport it easily
• Camping and hunting - great for storing hunting and camping gear
• Roadtrips - strap on top of the roof rack or in a pickup bed
• Packable duffel bag - can be stored away until you need it
• Wheeled duffel bags - the best of both worlds

Of course these are just some ideas for using a waterproof duffel bag. I'm sure you can think of many other uses where having a durable, waterproof bag would be the perfect choice to protect your gear.

Why Get a Waterproof Duffel Bag?

I find that waterproof duffel bags are a great option for anything from global adventure travel to hauling my ski gear to the mountain.

I've used them for traveling across SE Asia to weekend camping trips out my backdoor in Oregon. They are the perfect choice when I think my gear may be caught out in the rain or I just need an ultra-durable bag for extra protection.

For a carry on duffel bag when flying, most small and medium bags will work. They also make the perfect weekend bag when you just need to throw some clothes and a toothbrush together.

Extra large duffel bags can hold a ton of clothes and gear. They are great for carrying a lot when traveling for long periods of time. A 130 liter duffel should pretty much fit your entire closet!

A waterproof duffel bag with backpack straps gives you the protection you need from the elements, plus is easy to carry on your back.

Pros & Cons of Waterproof Duffel Bags

Some people love traveling with a duffel bag that offers one large compartment, while others prefer to have tons of small organizational storage options.

With that said, there are obvious advantages and drawbacks of using a waterproof duffel bag vs a normal backpack, bag, or traditional luggage.

Foremost, the biggest advantage of waterproof duffel bags are that they provide the ultimate protection for your gear against water---whether it's in the form of rain, snow, or the ocean. This makes them ideal anytime you think your bag may be rained on, fall in the water, get splashed, or even placed in a puddle. We all know that having wet clothes is a setback on any trip!

Some people like using duffel bags because they give you quick access to all your stuff, but more often you hear complaints with duffels because of their lack of organization. If you prefer keeping all your belongings (toiletries, electronics, etc) separate this is something to consider when going with a duffel bag vs travel backpack or luggage.

The best duffel backpacks are comfortable to wear, but won't give you the performance and fit that a travel backpack will. Without a rigid frame they lack extra support and when carrying a heavy load all the weight is on your shoulders.

The largest waterproof duffel bags can hold upwards of 120L of gear. These bags are massive and work great for hauling all your gear. Plus, their heavy duty built can withstand heavy loads without seams or fabric failures. So, they can hold a ton of gear, but won't compete with the best travel backpacks as far as comfort goes.

Lastly, one potential drawback, as far as styling concerns, is that waterproof duffel bags may look a bit out of place in some situations. Most models are obviously geared for outdoor adventures, which is exactly where you'll look like your heading when checking into a luxury hotel or flight.

How To Choose the Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

Size

The most important factor when choosing the right waterproof duffel bag is it's size and capacity. Will you be using the bag for multi-month travels? Weekend getaways? Taking it kayaking or on river trips? Or just storing your outdoor gear?

Most versions of waterproof duffel bags come in different sizes which allows you to choose one that fits your needs. Sizes range from 20 liters to 130+ liters---you want to be able to store everything you want during your trip or outdoor adventures.

A useful feature on all the duffel bags included in these reviews is that they have integrated compression straps. This means you can compress and secure your load when not using the bag at full capacity. For this reason, if you are on the fence about sizes, I recommend with going with a slightly larger size. You won't be limited with what you pack, yet you can compress the bag down when it's not full.

For air travel, small duffel bags can be used as carry-on luggage. You can even get away with some medium bags, as I've frequently used my medium Base Camp Duffel as a carry on duffel even though the dimensions are slightly larger than some airlines size limit. You'll want to check the carry-on luggage requirements for the airlines that you'll be flying to ensure it's acceptable.

For long-term travel and trips with the whole family using a extra large duffel bag make it possible to pack tons of gear in one bag. A 130 liter duffel bag could fit clothes for the entire family---plus they are built strong so you don't have to worry about overloading it.

Price Range

Price is one of the biggest factors when buying any outdoor or travel gear. It's often worth spending a bit more if you believe you're getting a better quality product.

Due to their construction, with waterproof duffel bags it's frequently the case that you get what you pay for.

You want to be sure that you're getting a bag with high quality material, well-made welded seams, and zippers and closure that will holdup with the roughest use.

You can expect that the larger the bag, the higher the price. That said you can expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $80 for small to medium sizes bags and upwards of $150+ for extra large and high-end models.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a price range is that you purchase a high-quality bag that will hold up.

The last thing you want is for your gear to get wet when the welded seams fail only after several uses. The best waterproof duffel bags will last for years and keep your gear dry on many adventures.

Materials & Durability

As you need it to always keep water out, the duffel bag should be constructed from strong, durable and waterproof materials. The bag needs to withstand the wear-and-tear that comes with traveling---dropped on the ground from baggage handlers, UV light while being tied down to the cartop, and coming into contact with sharp and rough surfaces.

Durable high denier nylon or polyester with a tarpaulin, PVC, or vinyl laminate are sturdy and waterproof materials. These materials are comparable to what whitewater rafts are made from and are incredibly protective against abrasion and rips. They can also be washed and cleaned easily when needed.

The quality of closure hardware (zippers and clips) and seams is also something to look out for. When carrying extra-heavy loads or packed full there is added stress on seams and zippers, which means you want to go with the best.

Design & Features

How do you plan to primarily use your waterproof duffel bag---Traveling? Kayaking? Camping? Motorcycling?

Depending on what activities you plan use your duffel bag there are design features that may suit your needs better.

Some features to consider when choosing the best dry duffel bag include:

• Organization - internal and external pockets
• Rigid or flexible shape - can stand up or be packed away when not in use
• Waterproof vs. water resistant - roll top closure or zippered with storm flap
• Laptop sleeve or dedicated gear pockets
• Multi-carry options - backpack, shoulder, or haul handles
• Lockable zippers and ID pocket for travel
• Exterior pockets for quick access

Comfort & Fit

Some waterproof duffel bags are designed to be comfortably carried for longer period of time, while others are built to just be hauled from car to kayak.

Keep your eye out for padded straps and rubberized handles to give you comfortable carrying options. The last thing you want is to have a bag that is unconformable to move around, which means it ends up in your closet more than on your adventures.

Backpack Straps

Backpack duffel bags are the perfect solution to avoid carrying heavy duffel bags by hand. On the market you'll find quite a few duffel bags with backpack straps which allow you carry the bag on your back when moving around or walking longer distances. One example of this style is The North Face Base Camp Duffel and the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel.

As far as comfort goes, I've found that a duffel backpack won't compete with the best travel backpacks. But for carrying a duffel around airports while traveling or carrying gear in the outdoors they do the job perfectly. That said I would never swap out my backpacking pack with comfortable suspension and waist straps for a duffel bag.

The Bottom Line

Waterproof duffel bags are ideal for anyone that wants a durable and waterproof bag for anything from outdoor adventures, international travel, to day-to-day-use. They are a versatile bag option for protecting your belongings against wet conditions.

I've found they are ideal for storing camping and outdoor gear, using for adventure travel when I need an ultra-sturdy and waterproof bag, and even as carry-on luggage while flying somewhere for the weekend.

The bottom line is that with their rugged construction, the best waterproof duffel bags offer the ultimate protection against rain, snow, dirt, sand, or any other elements you come across.

With tons of great options to choose from these are just some of my top recommendations to look at when comparing duffel bags.

If you are looking for a durable and versatile backpack duffel bag with a proven design, take a look at The North Face Base Camp.

For one of highest quality, ultra-waterproof designs, the Watershed Colorado Duffel Bag is a top option.

If you're after a budget friendly option, both the Leader Accessories Waterproof Duffel Bag and DuffelSak Waterproof Duffel Bag are great bags that won't break your budget, but still offer high quality.

You can also read our guides to the best waterproof backpacks, the best headphones for sleeping and other recommended travel products here.