Dry Bag vs Waterproof Backpack - What To Use When

If you're choosing between a dry bag and a waterproof backpack, it's easy to assume they're essentially the same thing (after all, both are designed to protect your kit from water), but they serve quite different purposes. So which should you choose? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is A Waterproof Backpack?

A waterproof backpack combines the carrying comfort and practicality of a traditional backpack with fully waterproof construction. The Red Adventure Waterproof Backpack is a great example. Built from durable recycled 420D nylon with a TPU coating, welded seams and a roll-top closure, it's designed to keep gear protected from rain, spray, mud and wet environments while remaining comfortable enough for everyday adventures. Its features are designed for carrying comfort and organisation, including:

• Breathable padded back panel
• Ergonomic shoulder straps
• External water bottle pockets
• Internal zipped valuables pocket
• Structured backpack design
• Two capacity options, either a compact 12L profile for smaller frames or an adventure-ready 30L version.

These features make it ideal when you'll be carrying your gear for extended periods.

What Is A Dry Bag Backpack?

A dry bag backpack takes a different approach. The Red Waterproof Roll Top Dry Bag Backpack is essentially a highly waterproof dry bag that can be worn like a backpack. Its construction prioritises waterproof performance above all else, using heavy-duty PVC fabric, welded seams and a simple roll-top closure system. The result is a bag that is fully submersible and designed for activities where water exposure is expected rather than avoided. Key features include:

• 30-litre capacity
• Fully submersible waterproof construction
• Welded and taped seams
• Tough puncture-resistant PVC exterior
• Removable padded shoulder straps
• Internal zipped valuables pocket
• Daisy-chain attachment points for securing extra gear

It's built for paddleboarding, wild swimming, beach trips, kayaking, sailing and any adventure where your gear may end up in direct contact with water.

Waterproof Backpack vs Dry Bag

Long-Term Carrying Comfort

If you're walking, hiking, commuting or exploring for several hours, the waterproof backpack wins out. The Adventure Waterproof Backpack is designed specifically to distribute weight comfortably across your shoulders and back, with a breathable back panel and backpack-style construction.

A dry bag can certainly be carried comfortably, but comfort is secondary to waterproof protection. The removable straps are practical, yet the cylindrical dry bag shape is less ergonomic when loaded for long distances.

Waterproof Protection

Both bags offer excellent waterproof performance, but when you need to maximise your protection, a dedicated dry bag has the advantage. The Roll Top Dry Bag Backpack is specifically designed to be fully submersible, making it a natural choice for paddleboarding, kayaking, boating and wild swimming.

The Adventure Waterproof Backpack is highly waterproof and built to withstand heavy rain, spray and wet conditions, but its primary purpose is versatile carrying rather than repeated immersion.

Organisation

This is where waterproof backpacks really shine. The Adventure Waterproof Backpack includes dedicated storage features such as external bottle pockets and concealed internal organisation, making it much easier to separate and access your gear throughout the day.

Dry bags traditionally use one large main compartment, making them brilliant for throwing in kit quickly, but less convenient when you need frequent access to individual items.

Capacity

The Adventure Waterproof Backpack comes in two sizes, making it a really versatile option for lighter frames through to short weekend adventures. The Roll Top Dry Bag Backpack offers 30 litres in one single compartment, giving significant room for towels, wetsuits, changing robes, extra clothing and bulkier outdoor equipment. 

If your adventures mostly involve walking, commuting, hiking or travelling, a waterproof backpack is usually the better choice. You'll get excellent weather protection along with superior comfort and organisation. If your adventures revolve around paddleboarding, boating, wild swimming, beach days or any activity where your gear could end up in the water, a dry bag backpack is hard to beat.

If you have any questions about either of these excellent waterproof bag options, the Red team can help. You can get in contact with us today for advice from the pros.