Whether it’s a weekend getaway or partaking in water activities, you want your gear to be dry and retrievable should it fall in the water. A waterproof duffel bag is a surefire way to protect your investment, but is it worth the hefty price tag? Are there other ways water-resistant methods of securing your gear? In this post, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of investing in a waterproof duffel bag and help you make the best decision for your outdoor needs.
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Why Would You Need a Waterproof Duffel?
If you love water activities, a waterproof duffel bag is something to consider. Not only is it a great protective gear item to have in case of an unexpected dip, but it can also be invaluable for everyday items you don’t want to get wet. There is nothing more detrimental than having your gear getting splashed on. Or worse, falling into the water. If it’s clothing, it’s wet, which is not ideal if you are in a survival situation.
You may be in trouble if it’s personal effects, such as equipment that cannot get wet or electronics. These items you have collected are valuable to you and should be stored safely and kept dry in a rugged and durable waterproof duffel.
On top of the above, true waterproof bags do provide some buoyancy! While it is no replacement for a life jacket or other dedicated PPE, it might assist a mediocre swimmer in a bad situation.
Further Reading: YETI Panga 75 Waterproof Duffel Review
Cost-Effective Alternatives
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast on a budget, a waterproof duffle can break the bank. But don’t worry – there are plenty of cost-effective alternatives!
One option is to keep a backpack dry by wrapping it in a garbage bag or placing it in a pack liner. For smaller items, use dry bags such as the Sea to Summit Dry Bag or dry pouches, and if you must, Ziplock bags. Just remember that these won’t keep all the water out. Most dry bags on the market feature a roll-top design and no water-resistant zipper. Through experience, even the best-sealed Ziplock bags will let a little moisture leak through.
Although these alternatives are not 100%, they are affordable and will keep your gear dry from rain but not from being submerged.
Quality vs. Affordability
For some outdoorsy folks, affordability versus quality often poses a dilemma: should you splurge for durability and dependability or compromise with something less expensive? Ultimately, it comes down to the adventure and your personal preferences.
Travel duffel bags that are affordable are sufficient for short hikes, camping trips, or weekend getaways. However, if you’re engaging in an activity with greater risk potential, like canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or boating, I suggest you invest in quality waterproof packs.
Further Reading: Introduction to Canoeing: A Guide for the New Canoeist
Our outdoor activities are mixed that’s why we opted for quality versus affordability. We invested in a large waterproof duffel bag, the YETI Panga 75 and a smaller Mustang Survival Greenwater 35L Deck Bag. Both have durable designs and are dependable!
With the YETI Panga 75L Waterproof Duffel you no longer need to worry about your gear getting wet. The duffel is 100% dry, thanks to its Hydrolok zipper and U-dock system creating an airtight seal. The high-density nylon shell is puncture resistant, ensuring your items stay safe and secure.
The Panga is constructed to withstand even the harshest conditions, with its DryHaul straps and MetalLock hardware. Plus, it's completely submersible, meaning you can take it on any water-based adventure without worry.
For me, the YETI Panga duffel has a more heavy-duty construction, offers ultimate comfort in its varied carrying options and offers easy access with its large opening. For us, it is the best waterproof duffel bag. Click here for a full review of our YETI Panga 75 waterproof duffle. Both submersible duffels have protected our precious cargo quite nicely. My pet peeve with the Mustang is the opening into the main compartment – it’s a nuisance! The opening is small, and the zipper tends to rub your hands as you use the bag.
The Mustang Deck Bag is fabulous for short canoe trips, paddleboarding expeditions, or even a day trip. The YETI Panga is quite large and serves its purpose for long canoe or boating trips. It even makes a fantastic option for weekend trips.
Pros and Cons of Investing in a Waterproof Duffel
Not one person wants to miss out on their next big adventure, but making sure your gear is safe and secure can be challenging. Of course, as with anything, there are various pros and cons to ponder before purchasing a waterproof duffle bag or a waterproof backpack.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Large Capacity | Expensive |
| Waterproof | Heavy when Packed |
| Large Opening | Small Openings on Some Models |
| Easier to Pack | Very Little to No Pockets |
| Fully-Submersible | |
| Wide Variety of Size Options | |
| Versatility in Carrying Methods | |
| Waterproof Zippers | |
| Leak Tight Construction | |
| Durability | |
| Floats |
Questions to Ask Yourself When Shopping for a Waterproof Duffel Bag
Waterproof Travel Duffel Bags, a Final Thought
Despite the hefty price tag, there are many valuable benefits to a waterproof duffel bag. If you spend an enormous amount of time around water, invest in a quality waterproof duffel – we did and have not regretted that decision. Whether you decide to splurge on a high-quality duffel or opt for a more cost-effective solution, always consider the bags’ purpose before purchasing. Some don’t care to protect all their gear. They may have only a few things to protect – therefore, a dry bag is more suited.
Have you ever invested in a waterproof duffel bag? We want to hear from you!
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