Best wetsuit bags: Wet dry bags for triathletes

Although they go by different names like wetsuit bag, dry bag or even wet dry bag, these handy waterproof packs basically do the same job of keeping your swim gear protected before they’re used and safely contained when they’re dripping wet.

What is a dry bag?

Not only will a dry bag protect your wetsuit from wear and tear before your swim by keeping it tucked behind a durable material, it will also stop any moisture from leaking into your bag, car or any other belongings after you’ve had an intense session in the pool or open water.

This is especially important if you’re swimming in salty water that can do more damage, or have electricals or a mobile device on you.

What dry bag is ideal for a wetsuit?

There are plenty of swimming bags on the market that can help keep your wet and dry belongings separate, but not all can handle the size and weight of a wetsuit so it’s well worth paying attention to the capacity.

In our selection of recommendations below we’ve opted for bags that are on the larger side or serve a specific purpose, keeping in mind handles and straps to make sure they’re easy to carry as well.

It’s also worth noting that some dry bags are created specifically for triathlon wetsuits. These wetsuit bags may include additional features like pockets for swim accessories or even a mat to stand on when changing.

Other dry bags in this list come in the form of a durable waterproof backpack, while others may simply be a standard dry bag that can be used for multiple purposes. We’ve picked the options below based on in-depth research, personal experience and analysis of user reviews.

Best wetsuit bags for 2024

Yeti Camino 35 Carryall

• £150 / $150

This Camino has been in my arsenal for a couple of years now but still looks pretty unscathed, amazing considering the amount of abuse it’s had!

The bucket design is rugged and tough and perfect for lobbing soggy kit in after outdoor swimming or trail running/mountain biking.

Plus, you can then turn a hose on it and use the bag as a bucket to wash it all. It comes in 20-litre and 35-litre versions and a huge selection of colours.

Mine has one internal zip and a loop closure, whereas the updated version now on sale also includes pull-out flaps to create different internal sections.

The loops on the outside are handy for attaching things via carabiner but there’s not much else here to separate wet and dry kit.

Plus, it doesn’t fully close so don’t leave dry kit out in it in the rain! Finally, it’s not that light, with a 1.4kg weight.

RED Tote Bag 33L

• £114.95 / $149

This Tote bag is a very similar beast to the Yeti (above) so realistically, you can’t go wrong with either.

This one is again very sturdy with a tough bottom and waterproofing (though again, with an open top).

Here there are multiple inner pockets with magnetic enclosures and one inner and one outer zippy pocket.

Weight is exactly the same as the Yeti at 1.4kg so again, this isn’t one I’d carry about over long distances though the two straps are versatile between hands or shoulders and comfy enough for short walks.

Multiple colours are available and coming in a whopping £35 cheaper, this might be a sway if you’re on a mid-range budget.

I did find the Yeti a little easier to use as the flappy internal layers did get a bit in the way here when washing things or drying the bag out afterwards.

Plus, that white interior did mark a bit.

Earth Pak Summit Series Waterproof Dry Bag

• £66 / $61.42

Thanks to the fully waterproof promise, this dry bag from Earth Pak should keep your wetsuit tucked away with no risk of getting soaked until it’s ready for the water.

To make sure it’s fully sealed simply fold the top of the bag between three to four times and clasp it shut with the buckle, and the roll-top closure will stop any water penetrating the material.

The straps have been designed with comfort in mind with a padded backing to make transporting your items as easy as possible, and there’s a handy pocket on the front with a splash-proof zip where you can store essentials like your phone, wallet or keys, keeping them separate.

AquaTrek 36 Waterproof Backpack

• £159.99 / $194.99

This wetsuit backpack isn’t just water resistant, it can be also fully submerged.

Able to withstand up to 30 minutes in a depth of one metre underwater, this is ideal if there’s a large chance of your bag being dropped in the ocean or needing to be transported with you across a body of water.

For this very reason it’s been made to be especially buoyant so it shouldn’t sink when it hits the surface, with airtight zippers that keep everything inside nice and dry.

It even has a tow point so you can easily transport it while swimming, with a reflective material that will keep you visible. Put simply, if you’re looking to mix your swimming adventures with hiking or exploring, this could be the option for you.

Lomo Dry Bag Rucksack

• £34 / $40

Transport your gear with little risk of it becoming damp, even in especially wet weather, with the Lomo dry bag rucksack.

It has 40 litres of capacity, which means plenty of space for your wetsuit, towel and any other items, with an ergonomic design featuring a waist belt and chest strap that should help spread the weight over long treks to the pool or open water spot.

To keep things contained and away from the elements, the bag uses a roll-top and buckle design.

Northcore Dry Bag

• £33.99 / $49.99

Packing a potential 40 litres of storage, you’ll be able to fit all your wetsuit gear inside this hefty bag from Northcore.

Boasting heavy-duty PVC material, this is designed to be a durable and rugged option to see you through many trips, with a fully waterproof promise thanks to its internal heat-sealed seams and roll-top design.

Available in a selection of vivid colours that will make it easy to spot on the go, you could opt for a bright red or yellow, with additional reflective patches to make it even more visible in low light.

As well as backpack style straps for carrying, it also has a separate handle to make transporting the hefty item nice and simple.

Olaian Wetsuit Bag

• £17.99 / $21.99

This dry bag will not only store your gear after it’s been soaked through, but it will also create a platform for you to get changed on without getting your feet or wetsuit dirty.

The surface extends to a diameter of 88cm when placed flat so there’s plenty of room to stand on, and can easily be folded together when you step off to become a handy container.

It’s made from coated polyester which will seal your wet gear inside without leaking over the rest of your belongings and has a carrying strap so you can transport it home with no problems.

Ocean and Earth Wetsuit Dry Sack

• £14 / $17

A simple and slick bag that will keep your wetsuit out of sight, this waterproof pack from ocean and earth has a roll down design to keep your belongings inside, and a buckle to make sure it doesn’t unravel.

A subtle design that gets the job done with no unnecessary frills, it features a welded PVC construction that will keep your items safe and separated whether wet or dry.

Quiksilver Sea Stash Surf Backpack

• £60 / $75

You could either opt for a subtle black or a bright safety yellow tone for added visibility with the Sea Stash Backpack from surf brand Quicksilver. Each colour contains the same capacity of 22 litres, with a roll top closure and buckle design that doubles up as a handle for easy carrying.

It has two backpack straps to make your trips a little easier if you have some distance to travel before or after your swim, as well as an additional front pocket to store any extra items that you’d like to keep separate from your wetsuit.