The Best Waterproof Duffel Bag And How to Find It

Water-resistant duffel bags are great for many adventures. However some adventures, especially water sports, require you to have a bag that is 100% waterproof. 

The problem is that so many products claim to be totally waterproof until, well until they’re not. Depending on what you carry in your bag, these situations can be devastating.

We’ve found you the best waterproof duffel bags that are in fact waterproof…not just water resistant.

To cut to the chase, the YETI Panga is our top pick, with the North Face, and MIER duffels coming in close behind.

Read on to learn more.

Top 10 Best Waterproof Duffel Bag

YETI Panga – Best Overall

Our pick for the best waterproof duffel bag is the Yeti Panga Duffel. This bag is airtight, waterproof, and 100% submersible. 

The Panga is available in three different sizes: 50 L, 75 L, and 100 L. The outer shell is made of YETI’s trademarked ThickSkin. This is a laminated, high-density nylon that is impenetrable to anything short of a bullet.

The zipper is a thick and durable Hydrolock zipper. This zipper locks into a U-dock at the closing point to ensure that it seals. This feature is one of extreme quality. The zipper is the most vulnerable part of a waterproof duffel, so YETI has ensured that the Hydrolock zipper can hold up.

The YETI Panga Duffel also has an EVA molded bottom that provides an extra degree of durability. This base acts as a landing pad for the bag, so you can toss it and drag it without causing damage. 

This bag is a waterproof duffel bag backpack combo. It comes with backpack straps and four other quick-grab handles. Combined, that makes a total of six different access points, so you can grab or carry the bag in a way that is easiest for you.

The YETI Panga is an ideal duffel for outdoor excursions and rugged adventures. This bag is not the most fitting airport travel bag. This is partly because it lacks a shoulder strap, interior organization, and lockable zippers.

We are thoroughly impressed by the YETI Panga Duffel Bag. This is a 10-star bag and sets the standard for waterproof duffel bags.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag – Runner Up

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is our runner up for the best waterproof duffel bag. It comes in sizes xs-xl with capacities ranging from 31-132 liters. The most purchased size is the medium, which holds 71 liters.

This bag can be carried as a backpack or a traditional duffel. Additionally, there are two additional handles on either end for hauling purposes. The material is a thick, laminated nylon with a denier count of 840D.

A D-shaped zipper gives open access to the main pocket of the bag. On the interior flap of the main pocket is a zippered, mesh pocket for smaller items. Additionally, there is a smaller, end-cap pocket on one end of the bag. Another small mesh pocket is embedded in the end-cap pocket,

Daisy chain loops and external compression straps make the base camp duffel fitting to take hiking. You can easily attach hiking or camping accessories to the outside of the bag. And, the compression straps make a great place to secure a tent, hiking poles, or a tripod. 

The main zipper is covered with a storm flap to prevent water from getting into the bag. However, the zipper itself is not waterproof. This makes the bag water-resistant rather than completely waterproof. Keep in mind, if you are using this bag as a backpack while hiking the zipper would rest against your back. This would make it pretty unlikely that water would enter.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag is a high-quality water-resistant bag. It has been ranked 9.6 stars, and 92% of customers would recommend this product to a friend.

Pros

• Waterproof duffel bag backpack
• Compression straps
• D-shaped opening
• Many size options

Cons

• Zipper is not 100% waterproof

Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk – Best On Budget

 Skog Å Kust (S.A.K.) is a family-owned and operated company out of Pennsylvania, USA founded in 2015. The Swedish brand name translates to, “Forest, Creek, Coast.” This name is fitting because the brand prides themself on producing functional and durable products focused on all-weather protection. These products hold up to their promise from the forest to the coast.

The Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk is our budget pick. It is a great waterproof bag that doesn’t skimp on quality. The waterproof rating on this bag is IPX6. This IP (ingress protection) rating means the bag can withstand heavy and high-pressure sprays of water.

The S.A.K. DuffelSåk is made of 500D PVC. They’ve welded the seams to make them watertight. And, rather than using a zipper, this bag is designed with a tight, roll-down top.

The top can be rolled 3-4 times and buckled into place to seal out water.

This duffel bag comes in two sizes: 40 liters and 60 liters. There is one main pocket. In addition, there are two small zippered pockets on the interior and two small zippered pockets on the exterior.

This bag does not have backpack straps. However, it does have a single shoulder strap for messenger-style carrying. There are also double handles if you prefer to carry the bag at your side.

One bonus feature of this bag is the attached D-rings. These can be used to easily secure the bag to boat hooks, luggage hooks, or tie-downs.

This S.A.K. waterproof duffel bag has tons of rave reviews. It has earned 9.7 stars.

Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag with Wheels – Best Waterproof Rolling Duffel Bag

The Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag is our pick for the best waterproof rolling duffel bag.

Weight is not a worry when it comes to this bag. You can pack this duffel as heavy as you want because you won’t have to carry it. The material is a Waterproof and wear-resistant PVC fabric that can hold in and protect heavy loads from water and tears.

In situations where you do want to carry the bag, you can use the hidden shoulder straps to convert this duffel into a backpack. Alternatively, one of the exterior duffel straps can be used to carry this duffel as a shoulder bag.

The Stagecoach comes in three sizes: 26 x 9 x 16 inches. As a bonus, the Stagecoach includes a smaller daypack called the Two-Timer Pack. You can use this for a variety of purposes including day hikes or dirty laundry.

Gonex is a trusted company that engineers high-quality, high-performance outdoor equipment. The Stagecoach Waterproof Rolling Duffel is a 10-star product.

MIER Waterproof Dry Duffel Bag

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The MIER Waterproof Dry Duffel Bag offers a lot of value for a little price tag. It is our pick for the best value.

We like to think of this bag as a hybrid between the YETI Panga and the North Face Basecamp. It has striking similarities to the materials of the Panga and the accessories of the Basecamp. And yet, it retails at only $99 (70L). 

The material on this bag is a laminated nylon ripstop that makes it extremely resistant to punctures and abrasions. The seams are heat welded and the zipper is a Hydrolock zipper, just like the YETI Panga. This means that this bag is airtight and 100% waterproof, even when submerged.

The MIER Waterproof Duffel is sold in 45L, 70L, and 90L sizes. Each has one main compartment with a mesh zipper pocket inside. On the front is another zipper pocket, daisy chains, and compression straps. 

This bag has double straps for a traditional duffel carry and a shoulder strap for a messenger style carry. Two more handles are located at each end of the bag to make it easy to haul.

The MIER Waterproof Dry Duffel Bag is great for water activities or rainy adventures. This bag has earned 9.8 stars amongst reviewers.

Aqua Quest White Water Duffel

Looking for a lightweight bag to adventure with? The Aqua Quest White Water Duffel is our pick for the best lightweight, waterproof duffel bag.

This bag weighs only 1.8 lbs. The material is a 420D nylon ripstop with DWR coating. This is a durable and abrasion-resistant material. Welded seams and a roll-down top seal out water and keep the inside dry.

The Aqua Quest Duffel can be carried in two ways. Padded double straps allow you to carry the bag at your side. And, an adjustable shoulder strap is included for you to carry the bag on your shoulder. There are six different D-rings on this bag, which allow you to sling the shoulder strap in a variety of positions.

This duffel is available in 50 L, 75 L, and 100L sizes. It has one main pocket and two rubberized mesh pockets on the outside. Four webbing loops are located on the bottom of the bag making it easy to attach to your vehicle.

The Aqua Quest White Water Duffel has received a 9.3 star rating.

Pros

• 100% waterproof
• Webbing loops on the underside
• Shoulder strap

Cons

• Minimal organizational features
• Not designed to be submerged

Cor Surf Waterproof Duffel Bag

The Cor Surf Waterproof Duffle Bag is the runner up for the best budget-friendly, waterproof duffel bag. This bag is made with good quality materials and retails at only $58. This bag is one of the best in the cheap waterproof duffel bag category.

The Cor Surf Duffel has a capacity of 60 liters. Aside from the main pocket, the bag has a large exterior zippered pocket for easy access to items. Another small, zippered pocket is located inside the main pocket.

Double handles and a padded shoulder strap allow you to carry this bag at your side or on your shoulder. The Cor Surf features several D-rings and webbing straps so you can quickly attach the bag to your car, kayak, quad, or other vehicles.

Many customers have been very happy with their Cor Surf Duffel Bag. It has received a rating of 9.6 stars.

Overboard Waterproof Classic Duffel Bag

The Overboard Waterproof Classic Duffel Bag is the best roll-down top duffel.

The company was founded by two friends who have experienced the tedious struggle of trying to protect their bags from water while on an excursion. For their future peace of mind, as well as their customers, these friends founded Overboard, a company specializing in dry bags.

The Classic Duffel was their first design. The capacities of the three different size options are 40 L, 60L, and 130 L. There is one large pocket and one small exterior zip pocket. A roll-top system helps to create an airtight interior that seals out water. It is even waterproof during a quick submersion.

Durable materials help this bag go the distance. The interior is made of PVC tarpaulin and the exterior is a strong, nylon cotton blend. 

This bag can be carried using its double handles or padded shoulder strap. A small handle is located in the center of the bag that allows you to release the rolled top to open the bag quickly.

The Overboard Waterproof Classic Duffel Bag has been rated 9.4 out of 10 stars.

Earth Pak Voyager Duffel Bag

We chose the Earth Pak Voyager Duffel Bag as the best waterproof duffel for water sports. Whether you’re fly fishing, sailing, camping, or hiking, the Earth Pak Voyager will protect your belongings from the elements.

This bag features a durable laminated material and thermo welded seams to make it 100% waterproof. The main pocket has two mesh organizational pockets inside and a roll-down top at the opening. There is one medium-sized, rubberized mesh pocket on the outside of the bag that is useful for stashing smaller items.

Heavy-duty plastic buckles and compression straps help to tightly seal the roll down top. When the bag is closed properly, water doesn’t stand a chance getting inside. Built-in anchor points made of reinforced 1000D PVC MOLLE System looping on the front and back of the bag allow you to attach it to boats, bikes, cars, and more.

The Voyager Duffel is available in both 50 L and 70 L sizes. Earth Pak suggests using the 50 L on trips up to 1.5 weeks long, and the 70 L duffel on trips up to 2.5 weeks long. As an added safety feature, reflective strips are included on either side of the bag.

Many success stories have been shared about how the Earth Pak Voyager duffel has outlasted rigorous water adventures. This duffel has been given 9.7 stars.

DRY PAK Waterproof Duffel

The DRY PAK Waterproof Duffel is the most simple in design out of all the bags on this waterproof duffel bag review. If you’re looking for a sleek and simple 100% waterproof duffel, then this is the bag for you.

The DRY PAK is made of extra heavy-duty vinyl polyester laminate, reinforced with welded seams. It has a roll-down top to ensure that no water leaks through a faulty zipper. And, this bag also has a zippered exterior pocket, protected from water with a storm flap on each side of the zipper.

The DRY PAK duffel is available in one size with a 70-liter capacity. Its molded bottom adds structure that helps the duffel sit on its own, without rolling over. It can be carried using double handles or the removable, adjustable, and padded shoulder strap.

Many people have found this bag a great fit for the back of a motorcycle. It has a rating of 9.4 stars. 

Pros

• Large, 70 L capacity
• Rugged materials
• 100% waterproof
• Sleek Design

Cons

• Only one size option
• D-rings are thin

Buying guide

Levels of Durability in Waterproof Duffel Bags

It’s said that waterproof duffel bags are all pretty durable in general. However, that’s not something you want to overlook. Especially when you have your expensive camera packed sitting in your bag at the back of your kayak. One flaw in durability and a tip of the kayak could be a very expensive oversight.

Waterproof duffels indeed use more durable materials than standard duffels. However, there is a wide range of waterproof materials that add more or less durability to the bag. Engineering techniques also add to a duffel’s durability.

For example, let’s look at the Aqua Quest White Water Duffel that we reviewed earlier in this post. This bag is made from a very durable type of Nylon and treated with waterproof coatings. The seams are also welded to help keep out water. This is a good example of baseline waterproofing. A bag like this is great for low impact outdoor activities.

Now looking at a bag like the YETI or the MIER. The material on these two bags is ver thick and laminated, giving it a shiny appearance. Water has no chance of absorbing into this kind of material. The two bags have waterproof zippers, heat-welded seams, and rubberized landing pads. Bags like these protect your belongings from water and performance impact.

More: The Best North Face Backpack and How to Find It

What is the Most Comfortable Way to Carry a Duffel?

There are three ways to carry a duffel using double handles, a shoulder strap, or backpack straps.

Double handles are included on most duffel bags. These come in handy when your duffel is light enough in weight to tote at your side. However, these handles are as convenient for times when you need to carry the duffel a long way or when the duffel is packed full and heavy. Carrying a heavy bag at your side for a long time can tire out your arm.

Many duffels come with a single, removable shoulder strap. This is nice to have if you need to carry a heavy duffel or if you have a long walk ahead of you. Waterproof duffels tend to be heavier than standard duffels and often are used to carry sporting gear that has some weight to it. Because of this, it’s nice to have the option to carry the bag on your shoulder.

Backpack straps are increasing in popularity on duffels. Waterproof duffels are known to accompany people on all kinds of outdoor outings, so backpack straps are a huge asset. Whether you’re hiking in the rainy Northwest, trekking between fishing holes, or hauling your gear down the boating dock carrying the bag on your back would probably be most convenient.

More: Osprey Aether 60 vs Osprey Atmos 65: The Search for a Backpack

How Much Weight Can Waterproof Duffels Hold?

Waterproof Duffels have thick, durable materials. Because of this, they can hold a decent amount of weight. In fact, there is no standard weight capacity limit for these types of bags.

If you were to hold one of these bags in your hand, take the YETI Panga for example, you would realize how absurdly thick the material is. The material of this bag in particular feels rubberized. So, it’s not the material that you need to worry about. The material of laminated waterproof duffels will not rip if a lot of weight is packed.

It’s more important to think of the points were materials are connected. Seams, handles, and zippers are all vulnerable points for a heavy load. 

Waterproof duffels can easily hold 50 pounds. Most can haul 75 pounds without a problem. 

However, anything above that depends on how your specific duffel has been engineered and assembled. Keep an eye on the vulnerable points mentioned above as your guide for how heavy to pack your bag.

More: Osprey Porter 46 vs Osprey Farpoint 40: Which Is The Better Backpack To Have

What Size of Duffel Should I Buy?

Duffel bags are sized by volume capacity in liters. For frame of reference, a standard college student’s backpack has an average capacity of 28 liters. And, a weekender bag is around 45 liters.

Earth Pak provides a good size suggestion in reference to their Voyager Duffel. For trips, up to 1.5 weeks, a 50 L bag will hold everything you need. For trips, up to 2.5 weeks long, a 70 L bag is suggested. Many brands provide 100 L bags and larger if you need more packing space.

Waterproof Vs Water-Resistant

Though they sound the same, water-resistant and waterproof are two very different things. Yes, water-resistant bags can protect your belongings from getting wet, but only for a short period. Water-resistant products can hold up against light sprays of water, but anything more intense will seep into the material.

For water sports such as kayaking, fishing, boating, and paddleboarding, you will definitely want a 100% waterproof duffel. If there is any chance that your bag can fall into a body of water, waterproofing is necessary. 

Wheeled Vs Carry

Wheeled duffel bags are convenient for adventures that require you to travel. Being able to wheel your luggage comes in handy at airports and hotels. However, the level of convenience pretty much ends there. If you find yourself needing to hike, walk along an uneven road, or hop from place to place, a rolling duffel could be a hindrance.

Before you buy a duffel bag with wheels, think about how you typically travel. If you need this duffel for airport travel, then wheeled is the right choice. However, if you tend to do more outdoor adventures then the traditional duffel may be a better option.

The traditional duffel is more versatile. They are easier to haul in and out of the trunk of your car or the carry-on compartment of an airplane. Traditional duffels can also be used during outdoor adventures when you may need to make a short trek to your destination.

Traditional duffels don’t have any solid materials like rolling duffels, so they are also easier to compact and store. This comes in handy when you want to stash your empty duffel in another suitcase while traveling.

More: Full Review of The Osprey Daylite: Is It A Good Daypack?

FAQ

Who Benefits Most From a Duffel Bag?

Duffel bags are very versatile, so they serve a variety of purposes. 

Smaller duffel bags make great gym bags. Small duffels are very lightweight and can easily be carried along with other bags you may need throughout the day. If you go to the gym on your way to or from work, it’s nice to have an separate bag for gym clothes.

Duffels are also make great luggage for air travel. They weigh virtually nothing, so you can pack more before reaching the 50 lb airline limit. If you’re carrying the duffel onto the plane, storing it is easy because there are no wheels to catch on the overhead bins.

Duffels are also commonly used for outdoor sports and activities. Their ability to carry a ton of gear is helpful and sometimes down right necessary to have.

How to Clean Your Duffel Bag

Cleaning a waterproof duffel bag can’t get any easier.

Waterproof duffel bags are usually laminated or coated with a lesser form of lamination. This means that you can simply wipe them clean with a wet washcloth. Some people even spray them off with a garden hose and hang them to dry.

More: Osprey Kestrel 38 Review: Is It Good Backpack?

Which Waterproof Duffel is the Best?

The winner of our roundup of the best waterproof duffel bag is the YETI Panga. This is a 5-star duffel bag across the board. 

With that being said, the North Face Base Camp Duffel and the MIER Waterproof Duffel Bag are two alternative options that are both very well designed. 

These bags are 100% waterproof, made of durable materials, and built to last. Each comes in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your specific needs. You might even find that the versatility that these waterproof duffels offer, will have you using them for a variety of purposed.