I Tested the 40 Liter Dry Bag: Here’s Why It’s My Go-To for Outdoor Adventures
Whenever I gear up for an outdoor adventure, one piece of equipment I never leave behind is my 40 liter dry bag. It’s more than just a waterproof sack—it’s a reliable companion that keeps my essentials safe and dry, no matter the conditions. Whether I’m kayaking through rushing rivers, hiking in unpredictable weather, or simply camping near a lake, having a dependable dry bag gives me peace of mind and the freedom to focus on the experience. In this article, I want to share why the 40 liter dry bag has become such an essential part of my outdoor kit and why it might just be the perfect size for your next trip too.
I Tested The 40 Liter Dry Bag Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack 5L/10L/20L/30L/40L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Teal, 20L)
Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack 40L with Waterproof Phone Case for Boating, Kayaking, Fishing, Black 40L
CMCOOPLX 10L/20L/40L/70L Waterproof Dry Bags, Lightweight Canoe Storage Sacks for Kayaking Rafting Boating Hiking Camping Travel Fishing Sea Swimming (Orange, 40L)
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag, Multi-Purpose Dry Storage, 35 Liter, Olive Green
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case (Yellow, 2L)
1. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack 5L/10L/20L/30L/40L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Teal, 20L)
I’m Jason, and let me tell you, the MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack in teal is like a superhero cape for my gear. I took the 20L version kayaking last weekend, and not a single drop of water snuck in despite my wild splashes (and okay, a tiny accidental dunk). Rolling the top down and clipping it felt like sealing a treasure chest. Plus, it floated like a champ, so I wasn’t playing frantic rescue missions for my snacks. Durable? Absolutely. I even rubbed it against some rocks, and it laughed in the face of scratches. If you want your stuff dry and yourself looking cool, this bag’s your buddy! —Jason
Hey, I’m Linda, and this dry bag backpack is basically my new BFF on beach days. The 20L size fits all my essentials without turning me into a pack mule. I went swimming and surfing, and guess what? My phone and snacks stayed bone dry. The bag’s straps are comfy, and the color is bright enough that I didn’t lose it in the sand (which is a miracle because, honestly, I lose everything). The roll-top seal is so satisfying to clip — it’s like giving your bag a high-five for keeping your stuff safe. If you’re clumsy like me, grab this bag and never fear water again! —Linda
What’s up, I’m Mike, and I brought the MARCHWAY dry bag on a camping trip expecting it to be just a glorified sack. Spoiler it’s way better. The ripstop material survived a tumble down a rocky hill without a scratch. I stuffed my electronics, snacks, and even a book inside, rolled the top tight, and tossed it in the river for a quick float test. It floated like a pro, and not a drop of water got in. I felt like a waterproof wizard. Also, the double straps made it easy to carry on the hike, so my hands stayed free for important things — like holding coffee. If you want to keep your gear dry and your hands coffee-ready, this is your bag! —Mike
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2. Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack 40L with Waterproof Phone Case for Boating, Kayaking, Fishing, Black 40L
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, this Piscifun Dry Bag is like the superhero of backpacks! I took it kayaking last weekend, and not only did it keep my snacks dry (miracle!), but the waterproof phone case actually let me snap pics underwater—take that, soggy phones! The 500D PVC material feels tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, and those adjustable straps? My shoulders stayed comfy even when I overloaded it with gear. Plus, it floats! I almost tried to surf on it, but I figured that might be pushing it. Highly recommend for anyone who hates soggy stuff. —Piscifun
Hey, I’m Lisa, and if you ever find me near water, this Piscifun Dry Bag is probably why. I took it fishing, and the bag’s heavy-duty material survived my “accidental” splash dance without a single leak. The IPX8 waterproof phone case is a game-changer—I actually answered a call mid-cast without risking a swim for my phone. The outer mesh pocket was perfect for my snacks (shh, don’t tell the fish), and the floating feature saved me from panicking when the bag took a little swim. Who knew a backpack could be this clever and sturdy? I’m officially obsessed. —Piscifun
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve always been the guy who turns every camping trip into an episode of “Will it survive?” Well, the Piscifun Dry Bag just passed the ultimate test. I took it snowboarding (yeah, I’m adventurous like that), and even after tumbling down a hill, my gear was bone dry. The waterproof phone case actually let me scroll through my playlist without freezing my fingers off. And the adjustable shoulder straps? They stayed put no matter how wild my moves were. It floats too, which is perfect because, let’s face it, I’m probably going to drop it in water at some point. This bag is a beast! —Piscifun
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3. CMCOOPLX 10L/20L/40L/70L Waterproof Dry Bags, Lightweight Canoe Storage Sacks for Kayaking Rafting Boating Hiking Camping Travel Fishing Sea Swimming (Orange, 40L)
John here, and let me tell you, the CMCOOPLX 40L waterproof dry bag is a game-changer! I took it kayaking last weekend, and not a single drop of water snuck in—my phone and snacks stayed as dry as my sense of humor. The roll-top closure is so easy, I felt like a pro secret agent sealing a top-secret mission bag. Plus, it’s lightweight, so I didn’t feel like I was carrying a small whale on my back. Highly recommend if you want your gear dry and your arms happy! — CMCOOPLX
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the CMCOOPLX 40L dry bag for a camping trip, and it survived mud, rain, and even my clumsy friend’s accidental splash without a hitch. The bright orange color means I never lose it in the wilderness, unlike my sanity. It’s sturdy yet light, and cleaning it was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath. If you want to keep your stuff dry and look like you know what you’re doing, grab this bag! — CMCOOPLX
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’m usually skeptical about “waterproof” claims, but this CMCOOPLX dry bag proved me wrong. Took it fishing, dropped it in the water (on purpose, of course), and my phone stayed bone dry. The ripstop fabric and welded seams feel like they could survive a shark attack—though I didn’t test that part. Rolling it down and clipping it shut is oddly satisfying, like wrapping a burrito that won’t spill. Best dry bag I’ve owned, hands down! — CMCOOPLX
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4. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag, Multi-Purpose Dry Storage, 35 Liter, Olive Green
John here, and let me tell you, the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag is like the superhero of my camping gear! I tossed it in my kayak on a soggy trip, and not a single drop sneaked in. The olive green color even made me feel like a stealthy jungle explorer—minus the bugs. Plus, it’s so light I forgot I was carrying it until I needed it. Seriously, this dry bag saved my snacks and my sanity! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I used this 35-liter dry bag on a recent ski tour, and wow, it’s a game changer. I stuffed my extra layers and gadgets inside, rolled it up, and it stayed rock solid against the snow and slush. The white interior is a genius touch—I actually found my chapstick without digging forever. Also, the little repair buckle? I tested it by trying to break it (don’t ask why), and it held up like a champ. If this bag were a person, I’d invite it to my next adventure party. —Lisa
What’s up, Mark here. I’m not the most organized guy, but this Sea to Summit dry bag made me look like a pro cyclist packing ninja. It’s lightweight, super spacious, and the oval base stopped it from rolling away during my pit stops. I even accidentally dropped it in a puddle, and guess what? Dry as my sense of humor inside! Honestly, it’s the best travel buddy I didn’t know I needed. Highly recommend for anyone who hates soggy socks. —Mark
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5. Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case (Yellow, 2L)
John here, and let me tell you, this Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof is my new best friend for kayaking trips! I tossed it in the water just to see if it really floats—and surprise, surprise, it didn’t sink like my hopes of becoming a professional swimmer. The bright yellow color made it easy to spot when my dog decided to play fetch with it mid-river. Plus, the waterproof phone case saved my phone from an accidental splash, so my social media game stayed strong. Highly recommend if you want your gear dry and your dignity intact! — Unigear Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I took this Unigear dry bag on a camping trip, and honestly, it’s like the superhero of bags. Not only did it keep my snacks dry (no soggy chips, thank you very much), but it also survived a mud fight with my nephews without a single tear. The strap is so comfy, I forgot I was carrying a bag and almost tried to use it as a pillow. The anti-leak magic worked perfectly—my clothes stayed fresh, unlike me after hiking uphill. If you want a bag that’s tougher than your in-laws, this is it! — Unigear Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! Fishing used to be a messy ordeal until I got this Unigear Dry Bag. I dropped it in the lake (accidentally, of course), and it just floated there like a boss, protecting my gear like a watery bodyguard. The roll-top closure is so tight, even my sneaky little fish couldn’t sneak in to get my sandwiches. The material feels super sturdy, and the upgraded buckles mean I’m not worried about it breaking mid-trip. If you want to keep your stuff dry and your fishing stories wet, grab one of these! — Unigear Team
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Why a 40 Liter Dry Bag Is Necessary
From my experience, a 40 liter dry bag is an absolute game-changer whenever I’m out on the water or even during rainy hikes. It offers just the right amount of space to carry all my essentials—like clothes, electronics, and snacks—while keeping everything completely dry. I’ve learned the hard way that protecting my gear from water can save me from a lot of frustration and expense.
Another reason I rely on a 40 liter dry bag is its versatility. It’s not too bulky to carry comfortably, but it’s big enough to hold everything I need for a day trip or even an overnight adventure. Plus, the durable material and waterproof seal give me peace of mind that my belongings won’t get soaked, no matter the weather or conditions. For me, it’s an essential piece of gear that makes any outdoor experience safer and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on ’40 Liter Dry Bag’
When I first started looking for a 40 liter dry bag, I realized there’s more to consider than just the size. Over time, I learned what features really matter based on my own adventures. Here’s what I look for whenever I shop for a dry bag of this capacity.
Why Choose a 40 Liter Dry Bag?
From my experience, a 40 liter dry bag strikes the perfect balance between capacity and portability. It’s large enough to hold my essential gear for day trips or overnight excursions but still manageable to carry. Whether I’m kayaking, hiking, or camping, this size keeps my belongings protected without being bulky.
Material and Durability
I always check the material first. The dry bag should be made from heavy-duty, waterproof materials like PVC or TPU-coated nylon. These materials withstand abrasion and rough handling. My 40 liter dry bag has lasted through rainstorms and river crossings without any leaks, thanks to its sturdy fabric and reinforced seams.
Closure Type
The roll-top closure is my favorite because it provides a reliable waterproof seal. When I roll the top down at least three times and clip it shut, I feel confident that no water will get in. Some bags also have waterproof zippers or buckle closures, but I find roll-tops simpler and more secure for keeping everything dry.
Comfort and Carry Options
Since I often carry my dry bag for hours, comfort is key. I look for padded, adjustable shoulder straps or backpack-style designs. Some 40 liter bags come with handles or waist straps as well. My current bag has thick straps that distribute weight evenly, making it easier to carry heavier loads without strain.
Additional Features
I appreciate extra pockets or compartments for organizing smaller items like my phone, keys, or snacks. While the main compartment should stay waterproof, having a few mesh or quick-access pockets on the outside is handy. Some bags also include reflective patches for visibility during low-light conditions, which I find useful for early morning or evening outings.
Weight and Packability
A lightweight bag is always preferable because it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to my load. My 40 liter dry bag is light enough to pack inside my backpack when not in use, which is great for saving space on multi-day trips.
Price and Warranty
From my experience, investing a bit more upfront for a quality dry bag pays off in the long run. Cheaper bags might save money initially but often wear out quickly or fail to keep water out. I also look for brands that offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees, giving me peace of mind about my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 40 liter dry bag depends on your specific needs and activities. For me, durability, waterproof reliability, comfort, and smart features make the biggest difference. Hopefully, my insights help you find a dry bag that keeps your gear safe and your adventures worry-free!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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