WATERPROOF BAGS
This article is about North Storm® waterproof bags and waterproof dry bags.
What are they, why do you need one and how do they work?
Waterproof bags / dry bags are great, but the key word here is “dry.”
Waterproof isn’t enough either sometimes because these days waterproof can mean so many different things.
Usually when something says it's waterproof it may not really actually be waterproof.
So just a fair warning when researching other products.
If you’re not familiar with North Storm® waterproof dry bags or not sure yet if you need one, then this article will be a good starting point for you to learn more.
THIS ARTICLE WILL TEACH YOU
- What are North Storm® waterproof dry bags?
- Various different uses of a North Storm® waterproof dry bag.
- What features are available in all North Storm® waterproof bags?
- The correct way to close your North Storm® waterproof bags.
- How to choose the right waterproof bag for your specific needs.
- What do you plan to use it for?
- Which size bag is right for me?
WHAT ARE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF BAGS / DRY BAGS?
Lets first focus on the words - Dry Bags -the name should say it all.
Once you buy one dry bag, it’s likely that you’ll need more than just one and you’ll learn why after you read this.
Dry bags are crucial when kayaking, canoeing, boating or doing anything that involves stepping outside.
KEEP ALL YOUR VALUABLES DRY
In a nutshell, waterproof dry bags keep your gear and electronics safe from moisture and water damage.
North Storm® waterproof dry bags is the gear that lets you go out on your boat without having to worry about dropping or losing all your valuables in the process.
A North Storm® waterproof dry bag is also a great way to store your phone and wallet when out on a hike or climbing.
Our bags let you keep all your valuables dry and safe from the elements, whether it’s the rain, snow, dust or dirt.
For those who love spending time outdoors such as kayaking, 4 wheel driving or hiking, our waterproof dry bags are perfect!
Along with camping, biking and travelling, waterproof dry bags let you go into the water without worrying about your camera, drone or any other of your belongings getting wet.
Dry bags are great for those who enjoy spending time on the lake, beach or river – and they float!
I am sure you catch our drift by now – (pardon the pun!)
VARIOUS DIFFERENT USES OF A NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF DRY BAG
KAYAKING
Dry bags are great for kayaking as they keep your dry gear such as jackets, sunscreen and snacks dry while going over rapids or taking on some splashes.
Plus, if you capsize your dry bag will float on the water allowing you to easily and quickly recover it.
North Storm® 60 Litre Waterproof Duffel Bag on a Kayak. Photo: Daygin Prescott
FISHING
Waterproof dry bags are crucial to any fishing trip.
Getting all your gear wet while fishing is not something anyone enjoys.
Our waterproof dry bags are perfect for storing all your gadgets in one place.
Whether that’s lures or valuables such as phones and wallets.
Plus if your dry bag happens to roll off the rocks into the water, (or tide creeps up on you) you can rest easy knowing it will float.
This makes it much easier to recover and dry off than a sinking canvas bag.
North Storm® waterproof Backpack is the perfect fishing companion.
BOATING
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are great for boaters to store your EPIRB, first aid gear, flares, dry clothes and anything else you don’t want to get wet.
Waterproof dry bags for boating are especially helpful when going out on the water in unexpected rough conditions.
In addition boats usually have wet decks, so having a waterproof dry bag means you won't have to worry about your dry clothes getting wet.
North Storm® waterproof duffel bag is perfect to store your safety gear on the boat as they protect your emergency gear from moisture.
CAMPING
Waterproof dry bags are perfect for camping because they keep your gear dry and safe from wet or dirty ground.
They’re also a great place to store cameras, phones or tablets so you don’t have to worry about them getting wet or dirty.
Campers love our dry bags to enable them to quickly grab their gadgets without having to worry about rifling through their clothing first to get to them.
The perfect camping travel accessory! The North Storm® 60 Litre Duffel bag. Drop it anywhere – Photo: Customer: Brad Delaney - North Storm® Ambassador
HIKING / CLIMBING
Our waterproof dry bags are ideal for hikers, climbers and skiers to store their phone, drone or go-pro safely while they’re climbing up a mountain.
Dry bags also keep your gear dry when needing to take on a water crossing.
Plus you can attach those necessary bits and pieces to the external d-rings with carabiner clips for quick and easy access.
Take your waterproof backpack on hiking photography adventures – Photo: Customer: Josh Brownie
BIKING
Waterproof dry bags are perfect for biking because they keep your phone, wallet and spare shoes dry, no more wet gear if it suddenly starts raining while riding.
Plus our waterproof dry bags have a reflective safety strip for when you're riding in the dark.
With additional d-rings and tie down lash points they can be strapped down if necessary.
Featuring our North Storm® Waterproof 30 litre backpack. Perfect for a ride in case a rain shower catches you out. Photo: Ethan Joseph - North Storm® Ambassador
TRAVELLING
Waterproof dry bags are ideal for carrying around while travelling, whether that’s by car, foot, train, bus or air.
Waterproof dry bags keep your clothes dry and safe from any wet weather you might encounter during a journey!
North Storm® Waterproof 30 litre backpack is at home on any scenic adventure keeping the water and bugs off your gear – Photo: Tim Hollister
FOUR WHEEL DRIVING - 4X4
North Storm® Waterproof dry bags are great for keeping your dry gear dry while you're out on the tracks.
You can leave your North Storm® gear on the roof racks in the rain or in the back of the ute.
They’re also perfect to keep your dirty clothes in when you return from the trails so you don’t get the inside of the car smelly or dirty.
North Storm® Waterproof Duffel Bag. Photo: Daygin Prescott
SNOW
Our North Storm® waterproof dry bags are essential for snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding or just visiting the mountains.
North Storm® waterproof dry bags keep your spare gloves and jumper dry when you need to reach for that extra layer.
Protecting your gear even in the harshest of conditions Photo: Customer: Dave – Destination Offroad
DIVING / SNORKELLING
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are great for keeping your dry clothes dry while snorkelling or diving.
Once you're done in the water, you can swap your dry clothes and towel for your wet snorkel gear.
Simply place your wet gear in your bag and keep the sand and water out of your car.
North Storm® 60 litre waterproof duffel bag is perfect for all your surf photography gear, wetsuit and more! Photo: Brad Delaney - North Storm® Ambassador
BEACH
Our waterproof dry bags are great for the beach because they protect your phone or wallet from sunscreen or water.
Plus, they will protect it from any sand that might get kicked up by the wind.
You could even use it as a pillow while you sun bake. Ahhhh this is livin!
Use your North Storm® waterproof duffel bag on the beach or sandy floored campsite – Photo: Customer: Gabby Jay
POOL
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are the perfect accessory for the pool.
Keep your dry clothes protected while you play in the water.
A waterproof dry bag is also a perfect place to store valuables such as phones or keys.
Plus you won't have to worry if it accidentally gets splashed or falls in the water or the kids splash pool water on it.
Dry bags are great to take to the pool, because they protect from splashes or float when they fall in – Photo: Customer: – Bec Willis
CAVE EXPLORING
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are great for cave exploring because of their light weight and slim design.
They will fit perfectly into a backpack for a spare bag later or you can simply sling it across over your shoulder.
Handy, lightweight yet durable they’re also perfect for dry clothes and a map or spare torch.
Bags you can take anywhere, even cave exploring! Photo: Ethan Joseph - North Storm® Ambassador
SAILING
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are great for sailors because they are great to keep anything you need stored dry above or below deck.
Plus waterproof dry bags will attach to anything with a carabiner clip making them handy for a quick on deck retrieval.
A customer photo of their North Storm® Dry Bag at Belmont Skiff club – Bella Jones
SURFING
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are great to use in surf schools where students need their belongings out of harm's way while learning how to surf.
Also our waterproof dry bags are great for storing wetsuits or towels after a surf session to keep your car clean.
Alternatively, you can also fill them up with warm water in winter with your wetsuit inside before you head out and slip into a nice warm steamer. Ahhh cosy.
The perfect waterproof and sand proof bag for any surfing trip – Photo: Brad Delaney - North Storm® Ambassador
GYM
North Storm® waterproof dry bags are a great place to store your spare clothes while you work out.
You can also use our waterproof dry bags as a sweaty gear bag after a good workout.
This will keep those smelly clothes from stinking out your car.
Plus our waterproof dry bags are the perfect size to store all your gym gear, shoes and towels.
We have 3 different sizes to choose from to suit your needs.
Perfect gym back to hide those post workout smells.
EMERGENCY
North Storm® waterproof dry bags can come in handy during emergencies too.
Whether that’s a flood, cyclone or other natural disasters.
It can help to keep important documents safe from water damage when you transport them to dryer land by using our waterproof dry bags.
North Storm® Dry captured during a real flood on the East Coast of NSW in 2019. Photo: Customer: Bec Willis
FEATURES OF A NORTH STORM® 20L WATERPROOF DRY BAG
- Protect your gear from sand, dirt, dust, snow and water + more.
- Floats if dropped in the water.
- Made from 100% waterproof flexible and durable 500D PVC tarpaulin.
- Adjustable and removable shoulder strap/s.
- Perfect for on boat storage.
- Front pocket with zip for extra storage.
- 2 x durable lash points to strap down if required.
- High frequency welded seams – no stitched seams to let water in.
- Top carry handle for additional mobility with heavy duty strapping.
- Reflective strip for high visibility and safety.
- D-Rings for various add on options.
- Great for all water related activities.
- Colour: Charcoal grey with black base.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Reflective size guide print for extra safety.
- Packs down easily for long haul travelling.
- Keeping smells in.
- Easy hose down to clean.
- Class 3: IP66 can handle a quick submersion if dunked.
- Class 2: IP65 zip on external pocket for quick access to smaller items.
North Storm® Dry Bag Photo: Brad Delaney - North Storm® Ambassador
FEATURES OF A 30 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF BACKPACK
- BONUS! You will receive a FREE internal removable 14” laptop/tablet /organiser with every 30 Litre Cirrus Range waterproof backpack purchase!
- Class 3: IP66 can handle a quick submersion if dunked.
- Class 2: IP65 zip on external pockets for quick access to smaller items.
- Internal pocket + additional external stash pockets.
- Floats if dropped in the water.
- Made from 100% waterproof 500D PVC tarpaulin.
- 4 x durable lash points for tie downs.
- Waterproof roll top 2-way closure system (top closure or side closure).
- Comfortable lightweight EVA moulded shoulder straps.
- EVA back padded support with air vented design for fast dry time.
- Reflective front strip + 2 reflective shoulder strap patches for high visibility.
- 3 D-Rings for various add on options.
- 2 x large elastic topped side mesh pockets for larger drink bottles.
- Fully adjustable chest straps with safety whistle buckle.
- Removable and adjustable waist straps.
- Heavy duty strapping with top carry handle.
- High frequency welded seams.
- Top compression strap with buckles.
North Storm® 30 Litre Waterproof Backpack with emergency whistle – Photo: Brad Delaney
FEATURES OF A 60 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG
- BONUS! This duffel bag can also be used as a backpack.
- FREE! Adjustable and removable EVA backpack shoulder straps included in every order.
- Converts into a backpack.
- Class 3: IP66 can handle a quick submersion if dunked.
- Class 2: IP65 zip on external pocket for quick access to smaller items.
- 8 x durable lash points to tie down on your 4×4,
- 100% roof rack ready.
- Double lined base for additional durability.
- Waterproof roll top closure system.
- Made from heavy duty non-rigid waterproof 500D PVC tarpaulin.
- 1 x external mesh drainage pocket for wet items.
- 2 x large Internal zip pockets.
- 1 x top carry handle plus 2 x end grab handles.
- Floats if dropped in water (must be sealed).
- Hard-wearing quick release buckles.
- Heavy duty strapping.
- Reflective strips for high visibility and safety.
- High frequency welded seams.
- Colour: Charcoal grey with black ends.
The North Storm® Duffel bag with 8 tiedown lash points. – Photo: Brad Delaney - North Storm® Ambassador.
HOW TO CLOSE YOUR 20 LITRE NORTH STORM® DRY BAG
The most crucial detail to remember is that you must fold your dry bag at least three times to create the watertight seal.
- Hold the dry bag edges together and roll forward at least 3 - 4 times. (This ensures you create the watertight seal).
- Fasten the dry bag buckles together at the top, sling that bag over your shoulder or throw it in the back of the boat and enjoy your next adventure!
TIP: If you are going out on a watercraft or near water, try to leave as much air inside the bag as you can so the bag will float if it goes overboard or adrift.
HOW TO CLOSE YOUR 30 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF BACKPACK
- Align top edges and roll downwards 3 - 4 times. TIP: Before rolling, expel some air (not all) from your waterproof backpack by gently squeezing the bag. You still want to hold onto that buoyancy the air creates if you are hitting the waterways so it floats should it happen to go overboard.
- Clip the buckles together at the top of the waterproof backpack to close. Alternatively on our waterproof backpack you have the option to close by using the additional clips on each side. Then simply cinch the straps to tighten and off you go on your next adventure!
TIP: If you are going out on a watercraft or near water, try to leave as much air inside the bag as you can so the bag will float if it goes overboard or adrift.
HOW TO CLOSE YOUR 60 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG
- Align top edges and roll down over the quick release handle until the Velcro strip meets up. TIP: Before rolling, expel some air (not all) from your waterproof backpack by gently squeezing the bag. You still want to hold onto that buoyancy the air creates if you are hitting the waterways so it floats should it happen to go overboard.
- Fasten the two top clips that go across the top of your waterproof duffel bag and at each end. Then simply cinch the top straps, secure the seal and throw your waterproof duffel in the back of the ute and you're off!
TIP: If you are going out on a watercraft or near water, try to leave as much air inside the bag as you can so the bag will float if it goes overboard or adrift.
WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO USE IT FOR?
Firstly think about what purposes you need a waterproof bag for so you can ensure you select the correct size for your activities.
Are you a kayaker or fisherman?
Do you need a dry bag to protect your belongings from the elements at the beach, such as sand and water?
Do you like going on adventures like backpacking through the Kimberly’s?
Is storage needed in your caravan or camper for flour or dry foods?
What do you plan on putting in it?
Heavy items or light-weight items?
Will they be used as part of your safety equipment on board a boat?
Is it something you can use for permanent onboard storage?
Duffels are great for packing up for a weekend aways with your mates: Photo: Tim Hollister
DRY BAGS INTENDED USE
You also want to consider the dry bag’s intended use.
For example if you are kayaking or fishing then water resistance is one of the most important factors.
Since you never know what obstacles may arise along the way that could potentially leave your warm clothes drenched and wet.
Do you ride a motorbike or bicycle and carry a backpack?
Do you have a ute and not much room for luggage inside the car?
Are you someone who is always going near water or on the waterways?
Do you want your dry bag to have some buoyancy so it floats in case it goes overboard?
YOU ALSO NEED TO CONSIDER THE DRY BAGS SIZE / VOLUME
Are you looking at a dry bag for your luggage, an overnight trip or multi-day holiday?
How much would you like to spend on a dry bag that is going to last you years of use?
How often will you use your dry bag?
Is it something that is going to be used for special trips or excursions only?
Or are you someone who wants a dry bag that stays in the boot of their car, just in case you end up needing one?
North Storm® waterproof dry bag’s main purpose is to keep your belongings dry and safe from the elements such as water, sand or dirt.
So, if you can relate to any of the questions and answers above – it looks like you could definitely use a North Storm® waterproof bag.
20 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF DRY BAG
- Boating – storage, land to boat transfer, will float if it falls overboard.
- Fishing – light way to carry spare tackle, spray jackets or shoes.
- Camping – can be tied to the roof racks for the journey.
- Surfing – hold wax, towel, keys, leg rope, sunscreen.
- Sailing – perfect to store gear onboard no worries about getting wet.
- Storage – store things you need to keep safe from dust, dirt and moisture at home.
- Gym – will easily hold spare clothing, gym towel and drink bottle.
- Snow – protects your gear from melting snow and mud.
- Diving – great for goggles and wet bathers after a dive.
- Sporting Events – use for your warm up gear and sideline it at outdoor events.
- 4 Wheel Driving – great to store any gear you don’t want getting dirty.
- Travelling – perfect for short trips or carry on for flights.
- Beach days – will easily fit a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat and mobile.
- Motorbike Riding – lash points allow you to tie down the dry bag for easy transportation.
30 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF BACKPACK
- Adventure – protect your gear from the Australian red dirt of the outback.
- Boating – storage, land to boat transfer, will float if it falls overboard.
- Camping – great for a day of exploring away from the campsite.
- Jet Skiing – wear it during your ride. Chest strap and quick dry backpack straps.
- 4×4 Adventures – keep your valuables safe when going over any water crossings.
- Diving – store your wetsuit, goggles, sunscreen and towel easily.
- Gym – carry multiple gym towels, drink bottles and spare clothes.
- Fishing – great to hold your waterproof jacket and fishing tackle while wading.
- Snow Skiing / boarding – perfect to hold your dry clothing to change into at the end of your run.
- Kayaking – tie down and lash points allow you to strap it to your kayak and keep your gear safe.
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding – hold your towel, dry clothes and devices.
- Bushwalking – great to hold your gear in conditions where it may rain or things could get dirty.
- Canyoning - perfect to wear while you wade through water holes and waterfalls.
Bushwalking missions are perfect to protect your gear with a North Storm® waterproof backpack - Photo: Tim Hollister
60 LITRE NORTH STORM® WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG
- Boat Gear Storage – store all your wet weather gear and leave it on your boat all year round.
- 4×4 off-roading – perfect way to transport your gear, just strap it down to your roof racks.
- Camping – use as tent storage while travelling – roof rack ready.
- Fishing missions – cart your wet weather gear, boots, tackle – just attach the backpack straps.
- Sailing / skiff storage – great way to transport gear from land to boat with no worries about water.
- Water skiing – will hold life jackets, wet suits, towels and ropes on the boat or shore.
- Motorbike gear storage – great to strap to your bike with added lash points for tie down or store your riding gear in at home.
- Fitness accessories – store your workout / yoga mat, gym clothing and towels – use the external wet pocket for your gym towel.
- Snow adventures – perfect to travel with all your snow gear and goggles – snow proof too.
- Scuba/ free diving – big enough to hold flippers, snorkels / goggles, towels, wetsuit and more.
- Sporting teams – transport a whole sports team's jerseys in one bag and keep them dry and clean on the sideline.
- Travelling – will hold a great amount of clothing, shoes and accessories while on the move – add the backpack straps.
- Beach gear – off to the beach – keep your car clean by putting all your wet sandy gear into your duffel, then simply hose out at home.
