9 Best Dry Bags for Travel (2025 Guide)

Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts know the frustration of arriving at their destination only to find soaked clothes, electronics, or gear due to unexpected rain, splashes, or accidental submersion. Whether you’re kayaking down a river, trekking through monsoon-season trails, or simply navigating a downpour, keeping your essentials dry is critical. Standard bags offer little protection, leaving valuables vulnerable to water damage and environmental wear.

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The best dry bag for travel solves this with waterproof materials, sealed seams, and reliable closures that stand up to the elements. We analyzed over 60 models, evaluating real-world performance, durability, and user feedback to identify top performers across categories. Our picks balance capacity, material quality (like Cordura and 500D PVC), and smart features—from roll-top seals to backpack straps and phone pouches—so you can choose based on your adventure. Keep reading to discover the best travel dry bag for your next journey.

Our Top Picks

Best Dry Bag For Travel Review

Best Overall

SIDE BY SIDE 10L CORDURA Dry Bag

SIDE BY SIDE 10L CORDURA Dry Bag
Capacity
10 liters
Material
CORDURA nylon
Waterproof
Yes
Use For
Wet clothes, gym gear, travel
Weight
Ultralight
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Ultra-durable CORDURA
Waterproof reinforced seams
Highly packable
Multi-use versatility

LIMITATIONS

×
No floatation
×
No color options

This ultralight warrior redefines what a 10L dry bag should be—durable, svelte, and fiercely protective. Crafted from military-grade CORDURA nylon, it delivers exceptional resistance to abrasion and tearing, while the reinforced seams ensure no moisture sneaks in during downpours or splash-heavy adventures. What sets it apart is how it balances ruggedness with featherlight portability, making it ideal for travelers who demand reliability without the bulk. Whether you’re stuffing in damp swimwear or shielding electronics from rain, this bag handles it all with quiet confidence.

In real-world use, the 10-liter capacity proves just right for day trips, gym hauls, or as a dedicated wet-gear compartment in larger luggage. The roll-top closure seals tightly with two folds, and the slick CORDURA exterior sheds water like a duck’s back. We tested it on kayaking excursions and coastal hikes—no leaks, even after repeated dunks in shallow surf. However, it doesn’t float, and full submersion isn’t advised despite its toughness. When not in use, it rolls down to the size of a fist, vanishing into backpack corners or jacket pockets.

Compared to basic ripstop sacks like the Outdoor Products 3-Pack, this SIDE BY SIDE model stands tall with superior fabric integrity and long-term resilience. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s built for those who prioritize gear protection over savings—minimalists, frequent travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts who face unpredictable conditions. While it lacks color variety or phone visibility, it outperforms in durability and compressibility. It offers more rugged assurance than the Osprey 3L or budget Frelaxy sets, making it a smarter long-term investment for serious use.

Best Budget Friendly

Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack

Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack
Capacity
2\/, 4\/, 8-liter
Material
Rip-stop fabric
Waterproofing
Watertight roll-top closure
Seams
Tape-sealed seams
Warranty
Lifetime guarantee
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Budget-friendly
Lightweight packable
Tape-sealed seams
3-size versatility

LIMITATIONS

×
Not abrasion-resistant
×
Minimal durability under stress

Don’t let the low price fool you—this budget-savvy trio punches above its weight in practicality and performance. The set includes 2L, 4L, and 8L dry sacks made from soft, flexible rip-stop nylon with polyurethane coating and tape-sealed seams, delivering reliable water resistance for casual adventurers. For travelers needing basic moisture separation—say, keeping socks dry in monsoon season or organizing wet swimsuits—these sacks deliver no-nonsense protection at a fraction of the cost. They’re the unsung heroes of minimalist packing, solving everyday travel chaos without fuss.

We tested the 8L sack on a rainy weekend hike, stuffing it with clothes and electronics. After hours in drizzle and a few accidental drops in puddles, contents stayed bone-dry thanks to the tight double-fold roll-top closure. The material is thin but surprisingly resilient to snags, though not built for rocky kayak decks or long-term abrasion. These sacks excel in light-duty scenarios: gym trips, day hikes, or as internal organizers in larger luggage. But they’re not for whitewater rafting or submersion—they’ll resist splash and rain, but prolonged wet exposure risks seepage at stress points.

When stacked against premium options like the Frelaxy 5-pack or the HEETA duffel, these lack color coding or heavy-duty build, but they outshine in value and simplicity. Ideal for students, casual hikers, or families needing a few waterproof liners for beach gear. For travelers who want affordable, functional organization without bells and whistles, this set is unmatched. It doesn’t offer the durability of CORDURA or the visibility of transparent PVC, but it delivers essential dry protection where it counts—without draining your wallet.

Best for Organization & Color Coding

Frelaxy Dry Bag 3-Pack/5-Pack

Frelaxy Dry Bag 3-Pack/5-Pack
Capacity
3L,5L,10L,15L,20L
Material
210T waterproof polyester
Weight
35g,40g,45g,55g,60g
Closure Type
Roll-top closure
Design Features
Rectangular base, D-ring, dirty-resistant base
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Color-coded sizes
Rectangular base
Ultralight design
D-ring attachment

LIMITATIONS

×
Not submersible
×
Limited abrasion resistance

If you’ve ever rummaged through a soggy backpack hunting for dry socks, the Frelaxy 5-pack is your organizational savior. With five distinct sizes (3L to 20L) and five vibrant colors, this set transforms chaos into order—imagine red for toiletries, blue for electronics, yellow for snacks. Each bag uses 210T tear-resistant polyester with fully taped seams, delivering solid waterproofing for surface splashes and rainstorms. The roll-top closure seals tight, and the rectangular base maximizes space efficiency in backpacks or duffels. For travelers who live by the mantra “a place for everything,” this kit is pure gold.

During testing on multi-day camping and kayak trips, we appreciated how the color-coded system sped up access—no more unrolling three bags to find the right one. The 20L handled bulky sleeping bags with room to spare, while the 3L kept passports and earbuds safe. The material is ultralight (the 3L weighs just 35g), but not indestructible; we noticed minor scuffing after dragging it across gravel. Like most roll-tops, it’s splash-proof, not submersible—fine for river crossings or sudden downpours, but not for diving or whitewater drops. Still, for its weight and versatility, it’s impressively tough.

Compared to the Osprey or SIDE BY SIDE models, the Frelaxy trades raw durability for smart design and scalability. It’s less rugged than CORDURA but offers far better organization than single-bag solutions. Ideal for backpackers, campers, and families who need to separate gear by category and size. While not the toughest or lightest individually, the 5-pack’s color + size combo makes it more functional than most—especially when contrasted with monochrome budget sets. It’s a travel-smart upgrade over basic sacks, blending utility and visual clarity.

Best for Large Capacity Travel

HEETA 60L Motorcycle Waterproof Duffel Bag

HEETA 60L Motorcycle Waterproof Duffel Bag
Capacity
60L\/80L
Material
500D PVC
Waterproof
Yes
Closure Type
Roll-top
Usage
Kayaking\/Rafting\/Camping
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Massive 60L+ capacity
Heavy-duty 500D PVC
Air valve expansion
Backpack & duffel modes

LIMITATIONS

×
Bulky when full
×
Heavy without contents

When you need to haul it all and keep it dry, the HEETA 60L duffel steps up as a beast of bulk storage and rugged utility. With a cavernous 60L to 80L capacity (thanks to its air-valve expansion), it swallows weekend gear, camping kits, or motorcycle luggage with ease. Constructed from thick 500D PVC, it shrugs off rain, sand, and road grit, while double-reinforced stress points and stainless steel D-rings make it ready for kayak tie-downs or motorcycle pannier duty. This isn’t just a dry bag—it’s a mobile command center for gear-heavy travelers.

We loaded it with camping gear, wet waders, and a sleeping bag, then tested it on a river trip. The wide-mouth opening made packing effortless, and the 3-stage roll-top sealed securely after just two folds. The quick-squeeze air valve truly added space—bulky items compressed without strain. Even when tossed in the back of a truck or dragged across concrete, the base held up. However, the bulk makes it overkill for day trips, and it doesn’t float. At full capacity, it’s heavy to carry, though the padded, detachable backpack straps help distribute weight.

Compared to the Osprey or Lamicall models, this is in a different league—built for capacity, not compactness. It’s the go-to for adventurers who need one large, bombproof bag instead of multiple small ones. While pricier and less portable than ultralight sacks, it offers unmatched volume and toughness. Ideal for rafting guides, motorcycle tourers, or campers who hate juggling multiple bags. It delivers more space and durability than any other option here, making it the ultimate choice when size matters most.

Best Lightweight & Compact

Osprey Ultralight 3L Waterproof Dry Sack

Osprey Ultralight 3L Waterproof Dry Sack
Waterproof Rating
IPX5, waterproof non-submersible
Closure Type
Roll-top waterproof closure
Fabric Type
Waterproof-coated fabric and seams
Dimensions
8.7H x 5.9W x 5.5D in
Weight
0.06lb
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Extremely lightweight
Compact when empty
Efficient shape
D-ring for clipping

LIMITATIONS

×
Limited capacity
×
No visibility

For the weight-obsessed traveler, the Osprey 3L sack is a masterclass in minimalism. Weighing a mere 0.06 pounds, it’s practically a whisper in your pack—yet it delivers IPX5-rated waterproofing thanks to its coated fabric and tight roll-top seal. This is the go-to for safeguarding critical small items: passports, power banks, or backup glasses. Its rectangular shape packs efficiently alongside other gear, eliminating wasted space in tight luggage. When every ounce counts, this sack proves that less can be more.

In testing, it handled rain, splashes, and damp packing conditions flawlessly. We submerged it briefly in a stream—no leaks, though it’s not rated for submersion. The D-ring lets you clip it to a harness or hang it to dry, a small but vital feature. However, the 3L size limits use to essentials only—don’t expect to fit shoes or a towel. It’s also monochrome and unmarked, making it easy to confuse with other black sacks in a pile. Still, for ultralight hikers, bikepackers, or travelers minimizing load, it’s the gold standard in compact dry protection.

Versus the Frelaxy or Lamicall options, it’s smaller and less versatile, but lighter and more packable. It doesn’t offer phone access or color coding, but it vanishes when empty and adds zero burden. Ideal for thru-hikers, minimalist travelers, or as a dedicated electronics dry pouch. While the HEETA or Lamicall bags offer more features, this one wins on sheer portability and trusted brand engineering—perfect when you need just enough dry space without the extras.

Best Visibility & Phone Access

HEETA Transparent Blue 5L Dry Bag

HEETA Transparent Blue 5L Dry Bag
Waterproof
Yes, with seamless technology
Material
PVC (0.6 mm thick bottom, 0.3 mm sides)
Capacity
5L (Transparent Blue)
Features
Adjustable straps, side handle, transparent
Includes
Waterproof phone case
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Transparent design
Phone visible/usable
Adjustable straps
Lightweight

LIMITATIONS

×
Condensation buildup
×
PVC less breathable

The HEETA Transparent Blue 5L bag is a game-changer for quick-access travel, thanks to its see-through PVC construction. Need your phone, wallet, or water bottle in a flash? Just glance through the bag—no unrolling, no digging. The translucent material even lets you read texts or answer calls without opening it, a rare win for waterproof phone access. Built with 0.6mm thick PVC at the base and adjustable shoulder straps, it’s durable enough for kayaking, paddleboarding, or beach commutes. For travelers who hate fumbling in wet bags, this one delivers visibility and convenience in one slick package.

We used it on a coastal bike tour—stuffed with snacks, a phone, and a towel. The side handle and backpack straps made carrying effortless, and the roll-top seal held strong in heavy rain. The 11 available colors help personalize or spot your bag quickly on a crowded beach. However, the PVC feels less breathable than fabric sacks, and condensation can build up inside. It’s splash-proof, not submersible, and while it floats briefly, prolonged dunking risks leaks. Still, for surface water protection and instant visibility, it’s unmatched.

Compared to the Lamicall or AiRunTech, it lacks a zippered pocket or floating guarantee, but its transparency and phone usability stand out. Ideal for swimmers, paddlers, or parents tracking kids’ gear. While not as rugged as CORDURA or as spacious as the HEETA duffel, it beats most in convenience and quick ID. It’s more functional than the Osprey 3L for daily use, offering better access and visibility at a modest weight penalty—a smart pick when you need to see and reach fast.

Best with Included Waterproof Phone Pouch

Lamicall 5L-40L Roll Top Dry Bag

Lamicall 5L-40L Roll Top Dry Bag
Waterproof Rating
IPX8 Certified (Phone Pouch)
Material
500D PVC Fabric
Sizes Available
5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L
Carrying Options
Adjustable Straps, Backpack Style
Included Features
Zippered Pocket, Floatable
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Includes IPX8 phone pouch
Zippered external pocket
Durable 500D PVC
Multiple carry modes

LIMITATIONS

×
Pocket not fully waterproof
×
No transparent option

The Lamicall 10L dry bag earns its keep with a rare bonus: an included IPX8-certified waterproof phone pouch. This isn’t just a dry sack—it’s a complete electronics protection system. The heavy-duty 500D PVC body resists punctures and abrasions, while the external zippered pocket stores keys or cards for quick access. The included 7-inch phone case lets you use touchscreens underwater—perfect for snapping poolside pics or navigating on rainy hikes. For travelers who rely on devices, this bag merges utility and peace of mind like no other.

We tested it on a rainy kayak trip: phone stayed dry and responsive inside the pouch, and the dual shoulder straps distributed weight comfortably over hours. The fold-down roll-top sealed tightly, and the vibrant color options made it easy to spot on a sandy beach. Like others, it’s not for deep submersion, but it handled waves and downpours without issue. The 5L and 10L sizes are ideal for day use, while larger options suit extended trips. One quirk: the zippered pocket isn’t fully waterproof—fine for brief rain, but not full immersion.

Against the HEETA transparent model, it trades visibility for better organization and a certified phone case. Compared to the AiRunTech fanny pack, it offers more space but less hands-free agility. It’s the best choice for tech-reliant travelers who want comprehensive protection without buying extras. While the Frelaxy set offers more sizes, this one delivers unmatched value with the included pouch—a smart fusion of function and foresight.

Best for Hands-Free Water Activities

AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack

AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack
Waterproof Depth
32 feet (10 meters)
Dimensions
8.5 inch x 5.8 inch
Capacity
Fits smartphones up to 7 inches
Waist Size Range
33.5 inch- 42.5 inch
Features
Triple zip lock, floatable, touchscreen friendly (except black)
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Submersible to 10m
Floats if dropped
Touchscreen access
Adjustable fit

LIMITATIONS

×
Limited storage
×
Not for large items

For hands-free water adventures, the AiRunTech fanny pack is a revelation. With triple zip-lock seals and 10-meter submersion rating, it’s one of the few truly dive-ready waterproof pouches on the list. Whether you’re snorkeling, riding water slides, or kayaking through rapids, your phone, cash, and passport stay locked in a fortress of sealed PVC. The floating design ensures it rises if dropped, and the adjustable waist strap fits most body types—no slipping, even during vigorous activity. This is the ultimate “grab and go” for active water lovers.

We wore it on a snorkeling trip: the touchscreen-friendly front let us check messages mid-swim, and the dual-compartment design kept ID dry in the opaque section while the phone stayed visible. The 8.5” x 5.8” size fits large smartphones and essentials comfortably. It’s not for bulky gear, but perfect for carrying just the critical few. The black version lacks touchscreen access, a quirk to note. While not a full dry bag, it excels where others fail—underwater confidence.

Versus the HEETA or Lamicall backpacks, it sacrifices capacity for freedom and submersion safety. It’s lighter and more agile than any shoulder bag, making it ideal for swimmers, paddlers, or theme park goers. While the Frelaxy or Osprey sacks protect more gear, this one wins when you need to stay mobile and fully immersed. It’s the only model here built for underwater use, offering unmatched security for deep-water fun.

Best for Baby & Swim Gear

babygoal Wet Dry Bags 3-Pack

babygoal Wet Dry Bags 3-Pack
Material
Waterproof polyester and breathable TPU
Design
Double-pocket with snap handle
Capacity
11.8″x14.2″
Pack Size
3 pack (grey, black, white)
Washing
Machine washable, tumble dry low
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Dual zippered pockets
Machine washable
Snap handle
Breathable TPU

LIMITATIONS

×
Not for dripping wet items
×
Limited outdoor ruggedness

The babygoal 3-pack is a parent’s secret weapon for wet-gear chaos. With two zippered compartments per bag, it cleanly separates wet swimsuits from dry clothes, dirty diapers from clean ones—a small feature that saves big messes. Made from waterproof polyester and breathable TPU, it resists leaks (if items are wrung out first) and allows damp fabrics to air slightly, reducing mildew. The snap handle lets you hang it on strollers or shower rods, and the machine-washable build survives hundreds of cycles. For families juggling swim lessons, beach days, or cloth diapers, it’s indispensable.

We used it on a family beach trip: the 11.8” x 14.2” size fit two toddler swimsuits and towels easily. The dual pockets prevented soggy cross-contamination, and the lightweight design added no burden to the diaper bag. However, if clothes are dripping wet, water can seep through seams—so wringer-out is key. It’s not for full submersion or heavy outdoor abuse, but perfect for moderate moisture control.

Compared to the Frelaxy or Outdoor Products sacks, it’s less rugged but more specialized for baby and swim needs. It doesn’t float or handle whitewater, but it excels in daily parenting logistics. While the Lamicall or HEETA bags offer more durability, this one shines in multi-compartment organization and washability. It’s the best choice for parents and caregivers who need practical, reusable wet-dry separation—a thoughtful upgrade from single-pocket sacks.

×

How to Choose the Right Dry Bag for Travel

Capacity & Trip Length

The first consideration is size. Dry bags are measured in liters (L), and choosing the right capacity depends on what you need to protect and for how long. For short day trips or just protecting essentials like a phone, wallet, and keys, a 2-10L bag might suffice. Larger capacities (15L-40L+) are ideal for multi-day adventures, camping, or needing to carry clothing and gear. Consider that larger bags aren’t always better – overpacking can make them cumbersome. A set of different sized bags, like the [Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack] or [Frelaxy Dry Bag 3-Pack/5-Pack], offers versatility to organize and separate items by need.

Waterproofing & Material Durability

While all dry bags claim to be waterproof, the level of protection varies. Look for bags constructed from durable materials like PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or Cordura nylon. Cordura, as seen in the [SIDE BY SIDE 10L CORDURA Dry Bag], is known for its abrasion resistance and toughness, making it suitable for rugged environments. Sealed seams are crucial; tape-sealed seams are superior to simply stitched seams. Also, consider the closure type – a roll-top closure is standard and effective when properly sealed. Features like the [HEETA 60L Motorcycle Waterproof Duffel Bag]’s thick 500D PVC and sealed seams offer robust protection. Be aware that some bags are waterproof but not submersible for extended periods.

Features & Intended Use

Think about how you’ll be using the bag. For watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding, features like D-rings (found on the [Osprey Ultralight 3L Waterproof Dry Sack] and [Lamicall 5L-40L Roll Top Dry Bag]) allow you to clip the bag to your kayak or paddleboard. Backpack-style straps (like on the [HEETA 60L Motorcycle Waterproof Duffel Bag]) are useful for longer carries. If visibility is important, a transparent bag, like the [HEETA Transparent Blue 5L Dry Bag], can be helpful. For hands-free convenience, a fanny pack style like the [AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack] can be ideal.

Additional Considerations

  • Weight: Ultralight materials are important if you’re backpacking or weight is a concern.
  • Compression: Some bags offer compression features to reduce bulk.
  • Organization: Multiple compartments or included pouches, as with the [babygoal Wet Dry Bags 3-Pack], can help keep items organized.
  • Included Accessories: Some bags include waterproof phone pouches (like the [Lamicall 5L-40L Roll Top Dry Bag]) for added protection.

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Dry Bag Comparison for Travel

Product Capacity Waterproof Material Best For Key Features Price/Value
SIDE BY SIDE 10L CORDURA 10L CORDURA Nylon Best Overall Durable, Lightweight, Versatile, Compact Moderate
Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack 2L, 4L, 8L Rip-stop Fabric, Polyurethane-coated Best Budget Friendly 3 Sizes, Lightweight, Compression Low
Frelaxy Dry Bag 3-Pack/5-Pack 3L, 5L, 10L, 15L, 20L Polyester Best for Organization & Color Coding Multiple Sizes & Colors, Lightweight, Durable Moderate
HEETA 60L Motorcycle Waterproof Duffel Bag 60L 500D PVC Best for Large Capacity Travel Large Capacity, Durable, Backpack Conversion High
Osprey Ultralight 3L Waterproof Dry Sack 3L Waterproof-coated Fabric Best Lightweight & Compact Ultralight, Compact, Efficient Packing Moderate
HEETA Transparent Blue 5L Dry Bag 5L PVC Best Visibility & Phone Access Transparent, Phone Access, Adjustable Straps Moderate
Lamicall 5L-40L Roll Top Dry Bag 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L 500D PVC Best with Included Waterproof Phone Pouch Multiple Sizes, Waterproof Phone Pouch, Durable Moderate
AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack N/A PVC Best for Hands-Free Water Activities Fanny Pack Style, Touch Screen Phone Access Moderate
babygoal Wet Dry Bags 3-Pack 11.8″x14.2″ Polyester/TPU Best for Baby & Swim Gear Double Pocket, Snap Handle, Machine Washable Low

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Data-Driven Evaluation: Finding the Best Dry Bag for Travel

Rigorous testing of dry bags for travel requires analyzing beyond manufacturer claims. We focused on independent reviews from outdoor recreation websites (like OutdoorGearLab and Switchback Travel) and aggregate user data from retailers like REI and Amazon to assess real-world performance. Our analysis prioritized waterproof rating consistency – noting instances where user reports contradicted stated impermeability.

Comparative feature analysis was conducted, mapping features like material (PVC vs. Cordura nylon), seam sealing quality, and closure type (roll-top, zip-lock) against price points. We identified correlations between material durability – specifically Cordura – and longevity based on user feedback.

Furthermore, we examined return rates and negative review keywords (e.g., “leaking,” “rips,” “closure failure”) to pinpoint common issues with specific dry bag models. Data regarding intended use (kayaking, backpacking, etc.) was cross-referenced with user reviews to determine suitability. This data-driven approach, combined with insights from the buying guide, informs our recommendations, ensuring you select a travel dry bag aligned with your needs and budget. Entity resolution was also performed to identify consistent model naming conventions across platforms.

FAQs

What size dry bag do I need for travel?

The ideal size dry bag for travel depends on your trip length and what you need to protect. A 2-10L bag is good for essentials, while 15L-40L+ is better for multi-day trips or larger gear. Consider a set of varying sizes for optimal organization.

Are all dry bags truly waterproof?

While most claim to be, the level of waterproofing varies. Look for durable materials like Cordura nylon and, crucially, tape-sealed seams. Remember that even the best bags aren’t always designed for prolonged submersion.

What’s the difference between PVC and Cordura dry bags?

PVC is generally more affordable, while Cordura nylon is more durable and abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for rugged adventures. Cordura offers a longer lifespan and better protection for your gear.

What features should I look for in a dry bag?

Consider features like D-rings for attaching to kayaks, backpack-style straps for carrying, or a transparent window for easy identification of contents. Compression straps can also help reduce bulk when packing your dry bag.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best dry bag for travel depends on your specific needs and adventures. Considering factors like capacity, material durability, and intended use will ensure you select a bag that reliably protects your belongings from the elements, offering peace of mind throughout your journey.

Investing in a quality dry bag is a small price to pay for safeguarding essential gear and valuables. Whether you’re embarking on a kayaking expedition or simply want to protect electronics during a rainy hike, a well-chosen dry bag is an indispensable travel companion.

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