How to Keep Your Gear Dry Using DIY Dry Bags

Keeping your gear dry is essential whether you’re hiking through rainforests, kayaking down rivers, or camping in unpredictable weather. A wet backpack, sleeping bag, or phone can ruin your trip and even pose safety risks. While commercial dry bags are effective, they can be expensive or hard to find. The good news is you can make your own dry bags using everyday materials you likely already have at home.

Start by gathering supplies. You’ll need heavy duty plastic trash bags, preferably 30 to 50 gallon size for larger items, or smaller kitchen trash bags for smaller gear. You’ll also need a heat sealer or a clothes iron, duct tape, and scissors. If you don’t have a heat sealer, a clothes iron set to low heat works just fine.

Cut the trash bag to the size you need. For a small dry bag to hold a phone or camera, cut a rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. For a larger bag to fit clothes or a sleeping bag, use the full width of the bag. Fold the bottom edge up about 3 inches to create a double layer for strength. This will become the base of your bag.

Use the heat sealer or iron to seal the three open sides. Place a piece of parchment paper or a thin towel over the plastic to prevent sticking, then gently press the iron along the edges for a few seconds at a time. Make sure the seal is continuous and free of gaps. Test the seal by blowing air into the bag and pinching the opening shut—no air should escape.

Once sealed, turn the bag inside out so the seams are on the inside. This helps protect the seal from abrasion. Now you can pack your items. Roll the top of the bag down tightly three or four times, then secure it with a waterproof clip or a heavy duty rubber band. For extra security, wrap a strip of duct tape around the rolled top.

Label your bags with a permanent marker so you know what’s inside. Use different colors or sizes for different categories—like one for electronics, one for clothes, and one for food. This makes organization easier and helps you find things quickly.

https://trektentshub.com can also make a waterproof phone case by placing your phone in a small ziplock bag, then sliding it into a slightly larger DIY dry bag for added protection. This double layer method is especially useful in heavy rain or when near water.

DIY dry bags are not only cost effective, but they’re also customizable. You can make them as big or small as you need, and they’re disposable if they wear out. Just remember to reuse them as much as possible to reduce waste.

With a little creativity and basic tools, you can turn ordinary plastic bags into reliable waterproof containers. Whether you’re on a weekend adventure or a long expedition, keeping your gear dry doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A few minutes of prep can save your equipment—and your trip—from getting soaked.