As diverse as duffel bags can get from time to time in both their purpose and functionality. Nothing beats the durability of an adventure-ready waterproof duffel bag. For this begs the question, to what extent are you planning to expose this item to the elements? Ideally, the answer should be that it doesn’t matter. For these aren’t water-resistant packs, they’re waterproof. And if the waterproof vs. water resistant debate wasn’t enough already, we can attest there’s a definite bonus to opting for waterproof packs if the journey looks like it could be a wet one.
That’s where the gear comes in handy, specifically the duffel bag, where no matter what’s contained (waterproof or not), everything from expedition gear to apparel to tech is safe from harm’s way and packed for protection. Fortunately, just like their non-waterproof brethren, waterproof duffel bags come available in several size options for both weekend trips and lengthier overland trips into the wilderness. Whatever the intended use, these 12 will keep things dry no matter what.
Matador Pocket Duffel
Functioning within the realm of purposeful convenience, the Matador Pocket Duffel is a waterproof pack that does just that: folds down to fit inside a pocket-sized attachment bag for easy transport. As for the bag itself, each pocket duffel features a 30D waterproof ripstop Cordura exterior, a quick-access external zippered pocket, 30-liters of storage capacity, and reinforced stress points for added durability.
Rains Weekend Bag
Even if the intended use is mild, a waterproof weekender bag is still a great gear item to have. Especially when you consider a sleek and minimalist option like the Rains Weekend Bag. Here, this fine bag features a waterproof Aqua Guard zipper closure, 46-liters of storage capacity, a carabiner clip, adjustable snap buttons, and a spacious single main compartment to any and all weekend style picks.
Mountain Hardwear Outdry Duffel
Building out both backpacks and duffel bags for the adventurist, Mountain Hardware has this art down pat. Just take their Outdry Duffel for reference. Each pack is made with 210D Robic Nylon fabric and hosts OutDry waterproofing technology to keep up to 50 liters worth of gear safe and dry at all times. Additionally, the pack comes equipped with multiple lashing friendly loops, a single strap for straightforward carry, and three colorways to choose from.
Watershed Chattooga Dry Duffel
Looking for a reliable dry duffel bag ideal for weekend water sports on the lake or river? The Watershed Chattooga Dry Duffel might just be the pick for you. Here, this submersible 30-liter duffel hosts a 420-denier Cordura ripstop nylon construction, RF-welded seams to guarantee a leak-free experience, a ZipDry Seal to ensure watertight easy access to the bag’s main compartment, and is built right here in the USA.
NRS High Roll Duffel
Anyone familiar with the iconic NRS Bill’s Bags will appreciate this similarly-designed duffel option that makes packing your gear and keeping it protected incredibly simple and straightforward. This option hosts a gear capacity of 70-liters, a heavy-duty 21 oz. PVC and polyester construction, a fold-down StormStrip closure system to keep the water out, and webbing chains for additional exterior attachments.
Amabilis Dave Jr.
For the ambitious weekend warrior, this 25-liter waterproof duffel isn’t for the faint-hearted. Each Amabilis Dave Jr. pack features a waterproof tarpaulin and armor-plated SuperFabric exterior, #8 YKK Aqua Guard zippers, military-grade hardware, an internal zippered security pocket, and an anodized aluminum heavy-duty grab handle. Time to conquer the outdoors 48 hours at a time.
Mad Water USA Duffel
Yet another trusty and reliable USA-made waterproof pack, the USA duffel from Mad Water is fully submersible up to 3 meters compliments of PVC-free polyurethane, RF-welding, a YKK waterproof zipper, and various other heavy duty components. Comfortably store upwards of 30 liters worth of gear in this handsome bag without worry of what a little rain or river-fording might contribute to your belongings.
Ortlieb Duffel
From motorcycle touring to rafting and kayaking, to even mountaineering, the Ortlieb Duffel and its waterproof construction will keep your gear safe from whatever foul weather or rugged environment might dish out. Here, the brand opted for up to 85 liters of storage space, a TIZIP zipper for both durability and easy access, two internal pockets, a reinforced bottom, padded shoulder straps, two daisy chains for easy tie-downs to roof racks, and an outer mesh pocket to round things out.
Otterbox Yampa 35
Those who appreciate the technology behind Otterbox’s dependable coolers will most certainly find solace in there Yampa 35 waterproof duffel bag. Whether you’re oceanside, lakeside or riverside, you can’t help but love the durable nature of the pack. Each piece features waterproof zippers, a low-density foam exoskeleton, and a couple backpack straps for versatility. Add that to a combination of TPU-coated nylon, multiple interior pockets to organize the 35-liter main compartment and waterproof sealed seams and yo have one rugged pack for the outdoors. Journey on.
Filson Dry Duffel
Perfect for the lengthy finishing trips, outdoor adventures, or trips through the Amazon rainforest for that matter, the Filson Dry Duffel will keep what’s meant to remain dry, bone-dry. We can attribute this to the bag’s PU-coated 840D nylon exterior, water-tight construction, a dual-lock top closure fastener, and high-density plastic hardware. Additionally, with up to 70 liters of capacity, there’s plenty of spacious room for your gear to keep safe.
Yeti Panga 50
A household name at this point, there’s nothing Yeti can’t build to perfection. At least that’s what appears to be true with the likes of additional gear items to their famed cooler collection. The Panga is no different, featuring 50 liters of gear capacity, a waterproof zipper, a laminated high-density nylon shell making the bag fully submersible, an EVA molded bottom, and two easy access pockets for smaller, yet valuable, carry items.
Subtech Pro Drybag
In the world of waterproof packs, the phrase “over-engineered” simply doesn’t exist. Rather, a fully prepped and prepared duffel that can handle even the most extreme conditions and abuse is a welcome addition. Enter the Subtech Pro Drybag, featuring a TPU620D construction with welded seams to last a lifetime, an air, water and condensation-tight zipper making it waterproof to 164 feet, and detachable straps made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum alloy. The Subtech can even float when fully packed and function as a backpack for good measure.
The 10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Tents
It’s not just outdoor-friendly duffel bags that are a necessity for an adventure-filled outing. Backpacking tents are also a priority. Needless to say, our list of the 10 best ultralight camping and backpacking tents will guide you to a shelter on the trail that won’t take up too much space in your new duffel bag.
