Waterproof Cases and Dry Bags

Waterproof Utility Boxes and Waterproof Storage Bags Resources and Information

Waterproof utility boxes and waterproof storage bags are essential boating accessories. These marine safety products are made from waterproof material and are designed to withstand continued exposure to water. Store your electronics and valuable items safely so you can enjoy your time out on the water. Browse products from top boating supply manufacturers, like Wow Watersports, Plano, Dry Pak, CAMCO, ACR Electronics, Coleman, and more. 

Looking for more boating and marine products? Check out our complete selection of Products and Accessories or shop our broader category of Boating Accessories and Boating Safety Equipment.

Waterproof Cases and Dry Bags FAQs

Why should I use a dry bag?

A dry bag is a kind of flexible container often constructed of a plastic-coated fabric that seals at one end, making it waterproof. The bag's opening is sealed by means of rolling it shut and latching it. Dry bags are perfect for storing products and accessories that are sensitive to water, such as electronics, jewelry, dry foods, and more. While dry bags can get wet and can even be briefly submerged, they are not intended to be completely submerged for very long as water can eventually penetrate the seal. 

Why should I use a dry bag over another type of sealable bag?

Unlike freezer bags or bags with zippers, dry bags feature robust, durable material and minimal construction. This means there are no mechanical elements that could eventually cease to work due to corrosion, and the likelihood of the material tearing or degrading is very low. In short, dry bags are designed to stay functional for a long time, so you don’t have to worry about your possessions becoming lost or damaged. 

What makes the Coleman Dry Gear Bag unique?

Keep water away from important gear with the Medium Dry Gear Bag. Constructed of reinforced, waterproof material that helps protect items from wet conditions, the easy-to-use quick-release buckle at the top of the dry bag makes one-handed opening easy. The specially designed rounded base increases the waterproof bag's total capacity, letting you store even more. Lash tabs allow you to hook other gear outside the bag or tie the bag to a car roof.

• DURABLE: Reinforced, waterproof material helps protect contents from wet conditions
• SIMPLE: Quick-release buckle for one-handed opening
• ERGONOMIC: Rounded base for more space to fit gear
• DIMENSIONS: 23 x 12.5 in.

What is a dry box?

A dry box is a chest constructed of a waterproof material like polymer and features a sealable lid to keep the contents dry and the humidity controlled inside the container. Much like dry bags, dry boxes (or waterproof storage boxes like the Plano Deep Emergency Storage Supply Box) are ideal for storing valuable items that are easy to lose or sensitive to water, like jewelry or electronics. Dry boxes are also great for storing dry foods to keep the moist air from damaging them. 

Can I use any type of duffle bag for a ditch bag? 

A ditch bag must contain the items needed to call for help and to survive in a life raft while waiting for rescue. A ditch bag must be kept in an accessible location on board, ready for immediate removal should the need arise.

We recommend against trying to adapt a duffel bag or using a dry bag. Rather, we advise using bags specifically designed for abandon-ship/survival situations. What features should your ditch bag have? Floatation, water resistance, bright colors for visibility, carrying straps, and tethers for sure. Additionally, we suggest looking for a bag with well-designed dividers so you can organize your gear. Finally, the bag must be large enough to contain survival gear plus food and water for you and all others on board.

What are some boating safety items I should keep in my boat in case of emergencies?

Sea Anchors

Used to stabilize a boat in heavy weather, a sea anchor is a must for offshore boaters. Rather than tethering the boat to the seabed, the sea anchor increases drag through the water and serves as a brake. When attached to the stern, a sea anchor can prevent the vessel from turning broadside to the waves and being overwhelmed by them. Additionally, sea anchors help to hold position and avoid crashing into rocks or other obstacles while waiting for help in a rescue situation.

Life Raft

A life raft is designed to keep the passengers of a sunk, capsized, or burned boat alive until they can be rescued. Although every offshore boater hopes to never need their life raft, it is the most important piece of equipment aboard. Life rafts leave the passengers aboard with little protection from the elements but are designed for visibility to aid with rescue efforts. Although much-needed safety devices, they should only be used as a last resort. Whenever possible, it is safer to stay aboard your main vessel even if it is damaged.

Full Selection of Viking Life Rafts

Rope

Plenty of heavy rope is a must if you need to use your sea anchor or if you need to be towed.

Emergency Food and Water

Suitable food and water rations must be included in your ditch bag. Additionally, these supplies must accommodate the number of passengers on board.

Emergency Boat Plugs and/or Emergency Sealant

These should be carried onboard to plug leaks and avoid taking on water when offshore.

What is a float plan? 

If you are going for just a few hours on your boat, let someone know where you expect to be and when you expect to return. If you plan a longer cruise, leave a written float plan with your marina or a friend. A float plan should include a description of your boat, who is on board, the safety equipment you are carrying, where you expect to be, and when you expect to be there.

Instruct the person holding the float plan to notify the Coast Guard or other appropriate agency if you do not return within a reasonable time after your scheduled arrival (taking into account weather, etc.). When you arrive at your destination, or if your plans change, notify the person holding your float plan to avoid unnecessary worry and the possible waste of search-and-rescue resources. Float plans are not filed with the Coast Guard but that agency and other rescue authorities use them if needed. No special form or format is required for a float plan, but the Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a PDF that can be used as a guide.

As mentioned earlier in this post, our “Essential Guide to Boating Safety: Knowledge, Gear & Technologies” article discusses many safety issues that are universal to all boaters. Topics not included within this article to avoid repetition include:

• Visual distress signals
• Fire extinguishers
• GPS navigation devices
• Compasses
• Searchlights
• Navigation lights
• Anchors
• Anchor lights
• Throwables
• Engine cut-off switch lanyards
• First-aid kits

What are the different types of PFDs?

Inherent PFDs (Also Known as Standard PFDs)

Standard PDFs are those that get their buoyancy from foam, offering built-in, constant flotation. These come in wearable and throwable styles and are ideal for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. They come in a full range of sizes. Sizes include infant, child, youth, and adult. Some are designed specifically for water sports.

Inflatable PFDs

As mentioned, Inflatable PFDs rely on CO2 cylinders that can be inflated either manually or automatically. These are compact and comfortable options but have some drawbacks. Inflatable life jackets aren’t recommended for those who can’t swim or those who are weak swimmers. In addition, only adult sizes are available.

While these PFDs can meet Coast Guard requirements, there are a couple of stipulations. The device must be in a good condition. It must have a full CO2 cylinder with all green status indicators. Additionally, inflatable PFDs are only considered a legal form of flotation by the USCG when you’re wearing them.

Hybrid PFDs

Hybrid PFDs are a reliable option, as they offer a compact design with built-in flotation as a backup. Hybrids come in youth, child, and adult sizes, but aren’t available for infants. A good option for people of all swimming abilities and often designed with water sports in mind, hybrid PFDs are a smart option for many boaters. 

Special Purpose PFDs

PFDs that don’t exactly fit into the previous categories include options such as belt packs and some vests/jackets. They may be inherent, inflatable, or hybrids. These special-purpose devices are designed for specific activities, such as kayaking, wakeboarding, windsurfing, or other water sports. They may not have Coast Guard approval for use outside of those activities.