Waterproofing Your Gear Like a Pro

Whether you’re a scuba diver packing for your next liveaboard, a backpacker trekking through rain-drenched trails, or a kayaker exploring remote lakes, waterproofing your gear is a top priority. Wet electronics, soaked clothing, and waterlogged food supplies can ruin your adventure or worse, damage expensive equipment.

The good news? With the right strategies and products, you can waterproof your gear like a pro. In this guide, we break down expert-approved tips and gear recommendations for waterproofing everything from dive equipment to electronics and backpacks. Whether you’re prepping for ocean, river, or rain, this guide is your go-to resource.

Why Waterproofing Matters

Water isn’t always your friend. In the wrong place, it can cause:

• Equipment malfunctions (cameras, phones, dive computers)

• Mold or mildew on wetsuits and sleeping bags

• Food spoilage or contamination

• Hypothermia from wearing wet clothes

• Corrosion of tools and hardware

Pro adventurers know that waterproofing isn’t just about staying dry – it’s about preserving performance, safety, and longevity.

Must-Have Waterproofing Gear

Let’s start with the essential tools pros use to waterproof their setup.

1. Dry Bags

A staple for every diver, hiker, and paddler.

• Roll-top closure keeps water out even if the bag is submerged.

• Available in sizes from 5L to 65L+

• Ideal for clothing, electronics, food, and first-aid kits

2. Waterproof Duffels & Gear Bags

If you carry large amounts of gear – dive suits, fins, hiking boots – you’ll want a waterproof duffel with rugged construction.

3. Dry Cases & Pouches for Electronics

Water and electronics don’t mix. From smartphones to GoPros, waterproof pouches and hard cases offer crucial protection.

4. Ziplock-Style Organizer Bags

Use heavy-duty, resealable plastic or silicone bags to separate items inside your larger bag. This is essential for double-sealing valuables.

Best For:

• Chargers and batteries

• Snacks or freeze-dried meals

• Maps, permits, or emergency contacts

5. Waterproof Compression Sacks

Perfect for clothing and sleeping bags, these sacks reduce volume while keeping water out.

Pro Packing Techniques for Waterproofing

The gear is only half the story. Professionals use a system of layered protection and strategic organization to keep things dry in all conditions.

1. Use the “Bag Within a Bag” Method

Layer your protection:

• Dry clothes go in a compression sack

• That sack goes into a dry bag

• Then into your main duffel or backpack

Each layer adds insurance against leaks, drips, or full submersion.

2. Prioritize What Must Stay Dry

You don’t need to waterproof everything – focus on what matters most:

3. Pack for Water Orientation

Think like water:

• Bottom of pack: Wet/damp items like rainfly, boots, wetsuits

• Middle: Food, clothing in dry bags

• Top: Essentials like jackets, first-aid, electronics in quick-access pouches

4. Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling your gear:

• Saves space

• Squeezes out air

• Creates tighter seals in compression sacks

5. Label & Color-Code Bags

Color-coding helps identify contents fast, especially when it’s raining or you’re diving off a small boat.

Waterproofing Gear for Divers

Scuba diving presents its own challenges. Here’s how pros keep their dive gear protected before and after the dive.

Pre-Dive

• Use a mesh bag to carry fins, mask, and snorkel – water drains quickly.

• Keep electronics in dry boxes until you’re on the dive boat.

• Carry a microfiber towel to dry hands before using your camera or phone.

Post-Dive

• Rinse gear with fresh water immediately to prevent salt buildup.

• Store wet suits and BCDs in dry duffels with ventilation zippers.

• Use hanger hooks or portable drying lines at basecamp or your hotel.

Pro Tip: Waterproofing Clothing

Use DWR Coatings

For hiking pants, jackets, and bags, look for Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coatings or add one yourself using a spray like Nikwax TX Direct.

Avoid Cotton

Pro adventurers never pack cotton – it soaks up water and dries slowly. Instead, go for:

• Merino wool

• Synthetics (nylon, polyester)

• Quick-dry blends

Maintenance Tips to Keep Waterproofing Effective

• Inspect dry bag seams regularly for holes or wear

• Clean zippers and seals with freshwater and silicone lubricant

• Dry bags fully before storing – mold ruins waterproof materials

• Replace cracked buckles or straps before your next trip

Expert Advice: Common Waterproofing Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Overstuffing Dry Bags

Overpacking can break the seal or cause leaks. Always leave enough roll-space (at least three full rolls) at the top.

Mistake #2: Trusting “Water-Resistant” Labels

A water-resistant bag might repel light rain – but won’t save your phone if dropped in a river. Know the difference between:

• Water-resistant – Light moisture only

• Waterproof – Submersion-safe (rated IPX6-IPX8)

Mistake #3: Storing Wet Gear in Waterproof Bags Too Long

These bags keep moisture out – but also keep it in. If you store soaked gear too long without ventilation, expect mildew and odors.

Mistake #4: Skipping Redundancy

Water finds a way. Always use at least two layers of protection for critical items like electronics and medicine.

Bonus: Waterproofing for Specific Activities

FAQs: Waterproofing Gear

What’s the difference between dry bags and dry sacks?

Dry bags are thicker and more durable, ideal for harsh use. Dry sacks are lighter and meant for inside your pack, not external wear and tear.

Can I use trash bags in place of dry bags?

Trash bags work in a pinch but rip easily and lack closures. Heavy-duty contractor bags are more reliable but still aren’t substitutes for proper dry gear.

How do I know if a bag is truly waterproof?

Look for IPX ratings:

• IPX6: Water jets

• IPX7: Immersion up to 1 meter

• IPX8: Long-term submersion

Do waterproof zippers need maintenance?

Yes. Rinse them with fresh water, avoid dirt/sand, and apply zipper wax or silicone lube periodically.

What’s the best way to dry gear after a wet trip?

Hang items in the shade with airflow. Avoid direct sun (which degrades materials) and always wipe down electronics before storing.

Final Thoughts

Waterproofing your gear isn’t just for the ultra-prepared – it’s for anyone who wants to protect their investment, stay safe, and enjoy the outdoors with confidence. From simple dry bags to advanced compression sacks and protective cases, mastering your waterproofing strategy ensures you’re ready for rain, surf, splash or full immersion.

Whether you’re diving in Cozumel, paddling the Boundary Waters, or hiking Olympic National Park, waterproof like a pro… and you’ll never be caught off guard again.