How to choose a waterproof bag?
→ How to choose the right waterproof bag for your boat?
To find out how to choose the right waterproof bag, you'll need to consider a number of different criteria. Whether at sea or on land, the waterproof bag is today's essential accessory for protecting your equipment from water, sand or UV rays.
Far from appearing to be a gadget, they are the most effective solution for protecting your clothes or sensitive electronic equipment from external aggression.
From the classic waterproof backpack, to the large-format travel bag, via tube bag versions and other waterproof smartphone pouches, there are several criteria to be determined according to your intended use. Discover our buying guide to find the you need.
→ Waterproof bags: the different volumes available
Before choosing the size, or volume (expressed in liters), of your waterproof bag, you need to find out what you want to use it for.
To help you understand the different models on offer, we've listed the best recommended volume for your activity below:
➡️ 1 to 30-liter waterproof bag
Ideal for small on-board equipment, electronic devices or a day at the seaside. VHF, smartphone, bunch of keys and beach towel will easily find their place.
From 5 liters, a tube bag allows you to carry the essentials.
➡️ Waterproof bag 30 to 60 liters
Perfect for a seaside holiday or a weekend of regattas. It can be easily stowed away in the cabin and offers different carrying systems for greater comfort. You can add overalls and watch jackets to it, as well as your usual accessories.
With a capacity of 40 liters or more, a waterproof backpack is ideal for a weekend or short trip.
➡️ Waterproof bag 60 to 150 liters
Suitable for sailors or yachtsmen who take to the sea almost every weekend in high season. Almost all your equipment (watch kit, boat boots, toiletries, laptop...) will find a place of choice in an 80l waterproof bag (or even larger if necessary).
From a volume of 90 liters, a waterproof bag will be sufficient for an extended stay.
What size waterproof bag should I choose?
The question of the right size for a waterproof bag is a recurring one. Our customers regularly ask us to find the right size for their waterproof bag.
A bag that's too big can quickly prove cumbersome in use. That's why the question of choosing the right waterproof bag size is so important.
→ The different types of waterproof bags
Where do I put my stuff when I'm paddling? What do I do with my bunch of keys when I go swimming alone? If you've ever asked yourself questions like these, the waterproof bag is an effective and inexpensive solution for protecting your belongings from the water. To keep up with growing demand, brands have been ingenious in adapting their waterproof bags to suit everyone's activities.
Some models even feature reinforced compartments to avoid shocks in the event of accidental falls. Tube bag, waterproof backpack, submersible bag... Discover all our available waterproof bags!
→ Tube bag: ease of use
The tube bag is a sailing staple, appreciated for its simplicity and availability in several sizes.
It consists of a single large pocket for storing a variety of loose equipment. Despite this unorganized storage, it remains very practical.
Carried over the shoulder, slung over the shoulder or as a backpack, depending on the model(Guy Cotten, Gill, Zulupack, Ortlieb, Feelfree), it is waterproof thanks to its roll-up closure and hard-wearing thanks to its PVC or Nylon Ripstop fabric.
→ Waterproof backpack: efficiency and comfort
The combines comfort and moisture protection. Ideal for hiking, waterside excursions or travel, they keep your hands free and your belongings dry.
Available in a range of sizes, these bags can be adapted to suit all uses. Their watertightness is ensured by a special roll-up, flap or zip closure.
Some models are designed to carry electronic devices in complete safety. Consult our guide to and narrow down your choice.
→ Waterproof case: essential accessories
Protecting your high-tech devices(smartphones, tablets, VHF...) is essential outdoors, especially when sailing, where water is a real hazard.
Waterproof covers enable them to be used in all weathers, despite a slight drop in tactile responsiveness on some models. They do, however, provide good protection, and for VHFs or smartphones, the microphones and audio outputs offer satisfactory sound.
→ Protect your belongings with the waterproof travel bag
Larger than a conventional backpack, the lets you carry more gear while protecting it effectively.
With few compartments, it features a large main pocket for protection againstmoisture and dust.
Ideal for a transatlantic cruise, the Tri+Sec, with its patented 640g/m² canvas, is both highly resistant and waterproof.
→ Submersible waterproof bag: guaranteed immersion
Submersible bags, or immersion-proof bags, withstand prolonged immersion. Their volume varies from model to model, adapting to your needs.
Ideal for extreme environments, crossings or diving. The brands and HPA offer high-quality models.
→ How do I know if my bag is waterproof?
What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant? What's the difference between waterproof and water-repellent? What is the measure of waterproofness?
Any questions you may have about the waterproofness of your waterproof bag will be determined by the protection rating.
The protection index, or IP standard found on waterproof bags, is an international standard of the International Electrotechnical Commission relating to the waterproofness of products sold as such. This index defines the level of protection and resistance offered by a material to solid and liquid intrusion.
It is made up of 2 digits:
▪️ The first number, from 3 to 6, indicates the level of protection against solid objects (stones, sand, dust, mud, etc.).
▪️ The second, from 3 to 8, indicates the level of protection against water.
All the waterproof bags available on our site are totally dustproof (i. e. IP6). The level of water protection varies from model to model: for example, the Zulupack 18L waterproof bag has an IP67 rating. This means it is perfectly watertight against solids, and will withstand short-term immersion in water (30 min max).
→ The different types of closure
Looking at our various waterproof bag models, you'll have noticed that there are 2 closure modes available. The closure mode can determine the level of waterproofness of your waterproof bag.
➡️ Roll-up closure
This system ensures that the bag is completely watertight. 3 turns are enough to protect the contents. 2 clips on either side of the waterproof bag lock the closure system.
➡️ Watertight zip
Simpler and more practical than a roll-up closure, the watertight zip, or zipper closure, allows quicker opening and access to the bag's contents. When not completely watertight, the zipper is fitted with a double flap, as on certain Guy Cotten models, to prevent possible water splashes. The patented TIZIP® zippers are IPX7 waterproof.
The use of Tizip zipper lubricant is essential to preserve your patented zipper. Applying Tizip lubricating gel to your bag's watertight zipper will make it supple and easy to open.
→ How do I close a waterproof bag properly?
Most waterproof bags feature a 3-ply roll-top closure to ensure watertightness. To guarantee the protection of your belongings, follow our 3-step advice to learn how to close your waterproof bag properly. A poorly closed waterproof bag can compromise its waterproofing and let moisture in.
To be effective, the roll-up closure of roll top waterproof bags requires a minimum of 3 folds. Beyond that, you risk reducing the bag's capacity and losing volume. Remember to check that your belongings fit in your bag before embarking.
- FOLD
To close the bag properly and make sure it'swatertight, first make sure the two black sealing strips don't wrinkle. Fold the top section over the sealing strips, align the strips and press them together.
- CLOSE x3
Hold the strips firmly in place and press down on the bag to expel any trapped air. Fold and roll the opening tightly over itself at least 3 times (until the black strips are no longer visible, if your bag has them).
- LOCK
Connect the two side buckles and press on the waterproof bag to compress it. Place the two top straps over the rolled-up opening, engage the buckles and press the bag down to compress it further.
→ How to look after your waterproof bag?
Now that the waterproof bag has no more secrets for you, comes the question of maintenance. How do you care for your waterproof bag?
Rest assured, because of the way it's made, a waterproof bag requires very little maintenance. However, these few tips will help ensure that it lasts a long time, especially if you use it regularly. Learn how to maintain your waterproof bag in 5 steps:
EMPTY AND VENTILATE YOUR WATERPROOF BAG
After each use in damp and/or dusty conditions (such as at the beach), empty your waterproof bag of its contents and shake it vigorously upside down. Remember to leave all pockets open.
RINSE YOUR WATERPROOF BAG WITH FRESH WATER
Once you've shaken off the dust, rinse your waterproof bag with fresh water.
HANDWASHING
Get a sponge or soft brush and scrub your bag with warm water and a non-detergent soap. Start with the inside of your waterproof bag and work your way to the outside, remembering to thoroughly clean the straps. Rinse again.
DRY AWAY FROM HEAT SOURCES
Once washed and rinsed, let your waterproof bag air-dry upside down to allow the water to drain away. Avoid direct contact with sunlight or excessive heat.
STORE YOUR BAG IN A DRY PLACE
Store your waterproof bag flat or suspended in a dry place away from UV rays.
NAUTISPORTS ADVICE: to avoid condensation in high temperatures, avoid leaving damp clothes in your waterproof bag for too long.
