Dry bags are perfect for all your gear during an arduous hiking or camping adventure, as they will ensure that your gear stays safe and dry. While these innovative bags can survive splashes of water, people still wonder what the extent of water exposure is for the bag – will it still keep everything inside completely dry when fully submerged? This article will inform you of the best features that dry bags offer, explain the key differences between completely waterproof bags and dry bags, as well as provide helpful tips on purchasing dry bags.
Introduction to Dry Bag Waterproofing
The primary purpose of these bags are to keep your valuables dry regardless of the weather. As these tools are used underwater and harsh environments, adventurers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts prefer these bags in order to keep their gear completely dry. What makes these bags waterproof is the following key design features:
- Roll-top closure: The most distinct feature of dry bags is the roll-top closure which allows users to fold the top of the bag over itself multiple times and then secure it with a buckle, making sure that no water gets inside the bag and the contents remain dry.
- Water-resistant materials: PVC, Nylon and TPU waterproof materials are commonly used to make these bags which are laminated and coated to make them even more resistant to moisture.
- Sealed seams: To prevent water from seeping through any stitching, high-quality dry bags use welded seams instead of traditional stitching. This ensures that there are no weak points where water could potentially enter.
Together, these features provide effective protection against water splashes, rain, and brief submersions. However, the level of waterproofing varies depending on the bag’s design and intended use.
Dry Bags vs. Submersible Bags: The Key Difference
Dry bags are not meant for full submersion but they do provide a certain level of waterproofing. Submersible bags, however, are specially designed to go fully into the water without soaking anything inside. These are categorized as a different type than dry bags as dry bags are intended to be used in water-related activities such as canoeing, kayaking etc. The only difference between submersible bags and dry bags is that dry bags are designed for short splashes of water.
Dry bags:
- Perfect for keeping items safe when it comes to a small amount of rain or minor splashing (like brief dipping).
- Prolonged submersion in water is not permissible. If the bag is not sealed and is submerged under water, then water will begin to seep into the bag.
Submersible bags:
- They are perfect for if you are going full immersion into the water as most of them are IPX8 rated which means they can be submerged for over 30 minutes without getting damaged.
- More suited for professional scuba divers, ocean deep sea explorers and long term kayakers where the equipment would be immersed in water completely.
Understanding Dry Bag Waterproof Ratings
Waterproof dry bags get classified on the water intrusion protection mechanism using the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. Let us analyze some known IP classifications and their characteristics related to dry bags.
- IPX4: Splash-proof – The bag is splash proof which would mean using it would be suitable during light rain or in a situation where there would be a splash of water from any direction.
- IPX6: Heavy splash-proof – The bag due to its superficial waterproofing features making it apt to be used during periods of heavy rainfall or slight immersion underwater.
- IPX7: Waterproof to 1 meter – If you wish to kayak or raft and the submerged bag’s waterproofing features are ideal for you, this is your go to choice as it enables the bag to be immersed underwater upto a radius of 1 metre for half an hour.
- IPX8: Fully submersible – If you’re more into some cool extreme water sports like swimming or diving this IPX8 bag is your best buy as it enables immersion underwater to the range of greater than 1 metre for a period of half an hour.
Remember, the criteria on which you need to select the appropriate dry bag would be its activities. Like for instance, dry bags IPX7 are excellent for swimming or canoeing but for activities like deep water fishing or scuba diving IPX8 would serve the purpose better.
Ideal Use Cases and Limitations of Dry Bags
While dry bags are excellent for preventing water damage from rain, splashes, and brief immersion, they do have limitations when it comes to complete submersion:
-
Ideal scenarios for dry bags:
- Camping: Protecting clothing, electronics, and other gear from rain.
- Hiking: Keeping items dry when crossing streams or during light rain.
- Kayaking or Canoeing: Safeguarding valuables from splashes or short periods of immersion.
-
Scenarios to avoid full submersion:
- Diving or long-term submersion: Dry bags are not designed to be fully submerged for extended periods, especially if the bag is not specifically rated for it (e.g., IPX8). Long periods under water, especially in deep water, can cause the bag to leak.
Tips to Enhance Dry Bag Waterproofing
For optimal usage of your dry bag, i.e. to be able to keep it as waterproof as possible, follow the instructions given below:
- Check for seal integrity: Ensure that the roll-top feature of the bag has been securely fastened before either putting the bag in water or exposing the bag to water. If the top is not tightly secured, it is likely for water to go inside the bag.
- Choose the right bag for your activity: Purchase a bag which has the most suitable IP code for the water activity that you are going to conduct. For those involved in deep water activities, such as diving, an IPX8 waterproof submersible bag is ideal.
- Inspect and maintain the bag: Inspect your dry bag on a regular basis for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tearing or damage to the closure. Dependent on the amount of damage, either repair or replace the bag so that a maximum amount of waterproof coverage can be ensured.
Conclusion
Dry bags are useful for keeping your equipment dry while kayaking, hiking or camping, however. They are not water-resistant. For instance, if you are going to engage in activities where full immersion is possible such as deep-water kayaking or diving, then an IPX8-rated dry bag will be highly recommended.
For most everyday outdoor activities, a high-quality dry bag with an IPX7 or IPX6 rating will provide more than enough waterproofing to keep your items safe and dry. Always consider your specific needs and select the right dry bag based on the level of waterproofing required for your adventure.