Exploring the outdoors is an intensive business. Hauling climbing equipment to the Himalayas, fishing gear to the boat, or camping supplies to the truck all require durable carriers. So we’ve rounded up the best waterproof duffel bags for your most hardcore adventures this year.
Yeti Panga 75 Duffel
- Fully waterproof and submersible
- Constructed with high-density laminated nylon
- Locking waterproof zipper
- Weighs over 6 pounds
Yeti brings its decades-long history of building the world’s best coolers to bear on a similarly durable line of duffel bags. The Panga 75 is an entirely waterproof duffel bag. A long list of technical features, including laminated high-density nylon construction, an EVA bottom, and a locking waterproof zipper system, all combine to make this bag fully submersible. At around $350 and weighing more than 6 pounds, it’s overkill for most outdoor adventures. But if only the best will do, this is likely the single best duffel bag on this list.
Skog Å Kust DuffelSåk Moto
- Budget-friendly choice
- IPX-6 waterproof protection
- Compact size option
- Limited capacity for larger adventures
- Lacks premium design elements
Skog Å Kust’s DuffelSåk is one of the most budget-friendly bags on this list, with a starting price around $80. Yet, it boasts many of the same waterproofing features as its competition, including high-frequency welded seams and IPX-6 protection. The entry-level 40-liter size is handy as a secondary accessory bag for smaller gear and valuables.
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55
- Durable and weather resistant
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Twin haul handles and padded shoulder straps
- Not fully waterproof or submersible
- May not accommodate larger gear needs
Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel has long been a favorite among hard-charging outdoorsmen. It’s a nearly indestructible, weather-resistant option that’s not fully submersible but is more than enough for keeping your gear dry in a hard rain. The 55-liter volume offers plenty of pockets for wrangling your equipment. Multiple carry options include twin reinforced haul handles and padded, removable shoulder straps for when you need to cover more ground.
Aquaquest White Water Duffel
- Designed by experts in wet-weather gear
- Durable fabric with waterproof coating
- Multiple size options (50, 75, and 100 liters)
- Minimal external features for organization
Headquartered in one of the wettest places in North America (an area that sees up to 260 inches of rainfall per year), PNW-based Aquaquest knows a thing or two about playing hard in the rain. The White Water Duffelis the company’s flagship waterproof duffel bag. Ultra-tough 420D ripstop fabric, TPU and PU waterproof coating, and welded seams all ensure that your gear stays dry in any condition. It’s available in 50, 75, and 100-liter sizes, so you can dial in the right capacity for your brand of adventuring.
Dakine 60L Cyclone Hydroseal Duffle
- Lightweight yet durable
- Waterproof zippers and welded seams
- Dual carry options
- Limited to a 60-liter capacity
Dakine has long been a favorite among the surf and beach sports set. The brand’s 60L Cyclone Hydroseal Duffel is a lightweight, durable bag that’s ready to tackle all but the most extreme outdoor adventures. Waterproof zippers and a welded construction ensure that nothing — including dirt, sand, dust, and most importantly, water — gets in. The 60-liter size makes it ideal for shorter trips that don’t require a ton of gear. We also like the option of wearing it like a backpack or tossing it over your shoulder.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel XXL
- Rugged, weather-resistant construction
- Multiple carry options for flexibility
- Weather resistant, but not fully waterproof
Built with a rugged, weather-resistant laminate material and reinforced double stitching, this bag can handle just about anything you throw at it. The spacious 150-liter capacity makes it ideal for extended trips. Multiple carry options add to its versatility, including detachable shoulder straps and padded haul handles.
RGD Fully Waterproof Submersible Duffel
- Fully submersible
- Durable construction
- Available in multiple sizes
- May not be comfortable when using as a backpack
If your adventures demand a fully submersible bag, the RGD Fully Waterproof Submersible Duffel is a great option. Designed with ultra-durable materials, this duffel is built to withstand the harshest conditions. Available in sizes ranging from 40 to 120 literes, it offers 100% waterproof protection and an airtight zipper.
Sea to Summit Duffel
- Made from tough materials
- Convertible carry options
- Lightweight design for its size
- Not fully submersible
- Limited internal organization
The Sea to Summit Duffel 65L is another versatile, waterproof option. Made from waterproof tarpaulin laminate, 1000D nylon base, and steel gated hooks, it provides excellent weather protection and keeps your gear safe from rain, splashes, and dirt. Its sturdy handles double as backpack straps, making it easy to carry regardless of what you’re doing.
So, how do you find the right duffel bag?
1. Size. In this case, size matters. Most duffels range between 30 liters up to 150 liters. A 30-liter bag is perfect for weekend trips with minimal gear or for filling with a sweaty gym kit post-workout. Fifty- and 60-liter duffels can hold gear for about a week, maybe less for gear-heavy sports like mountaineering; 50 is about the limit for carry-on luggage. Most longer expeditions require a 90-liter beast (or larger). We suggest mixing and matching sizes for the most efficient use of space.
2. Water resistance. Every bag on this list is either waterproof or weather-resistant. While most are not dunk-proof because of the zipper, the fabrics can easily stand up to rain, snow, and hardcore splashes. See the fully waterproof options if you need something that can handle being soaked on rafting or paddleboarding trips.
3. Pockets. Some bags are just big open sacs, allowing you to toss everything in without overthinking your gear organization. Others have side pockets, mesh pockets, lid pockets, water bottle pockets, ID pockets — the list goes on. Look for pockets if you want to organize small stuff for quick access.
4. Handles and straps. Driving, flying, driving, flying, kayaking, hiking, driving, and flying (again) to your destination isn’t going to work for your old luggage with wheels. The best duffel bags offer multiple carry options, making them versatile for any type of transportation vehicle (or animal). Dual briefcase-style handles are convenient but get cumbersome with larger duffels. Shoulder straps can handle a heavier load. Side and end handles work well for throwing and dragging. Backpack straps are great for shorter distances and are often removable, so they don’t get chewed up on airport conveyor belts.
