The Essential Dry Bag That Transformed My iPhone Travel Experience

Modern smartphones boast impressive water resistance ratings, but there’s a crucial caveat: most manufacturers don’t cover water damage under warranty. While I’ve never been shy about exposing my iPhone to the elements, there are moments when extra protection becomes essential against water, dust, dirt, and sand.

Why Traditional Solutions Fall Short

I used to rely heavily on ziplock bags for waterproofing gear. They were cheap and readily available. However, over recent years, the quality has noticeably declined. The plastic has become thinner, more prone to splitting and puncturing, and the zip mechanism frequently fails at the worst possible moments. While they remain a low-cost emergency option, they’re no longer something I trust for reliable protection.

A Superior Alternative: Sea to Summit View Dry Bags

Enter the Sea to Summit “View” dry bags. While they might seem mundane at first glance, for outdoor enthusiasts like myself, they’re absolutely invaluable.

Key Features

• Multiple sizes available: ranging from 1 liter (approximately three times a soda can’s capacity) to 35 liters (ideal for sleeping bags)
• Clear TPU window on the front allows you to see contents without opening
• White interior lining for improved visibility
• User-replaceable clip and D-ring system
• Can function as a floating pouch when sealed with air inside

Engineering Excellence

These bags are constructed from lightweight yet durable polyurethane-coated 70D nylon with a roll-top closure. The fabric boasts a hydrostatic head rating of 10,000mm—meaning you could place a column of water over 30 feet tall on the material without it leaking.

All seams are double-stitched and taped for complete waterproofing. Short of full submersion, these bags provide exceptional protection. There’s even a convenient hanging tab at the bottom for attaching to hooks.

Real-World Performance

While these bags protect anything you can fit inside, I find them particularly valuable for electronics and cables. It’s evident these dry bags were designed by people who actually use outdoor gear, as they solve every problem I’ve previously encountered with similar products.

I’ve had these bags clipped to the outside of my rucksack for extended periods, exposed to both rain and sunshine, without a single issue. Everything inside remained clean and dry.

Dual Packing Options

These bags offer two distinct packing methods:

1. Compressed mode: Expel all air before rolling and closing for the smallest possible pack
2. Floating mode: Roll with air inside to create a pouch that floats on water and provides added protection against impacts

For Soft Items: Compression Dry Bags

While View dry bags come in large sizes suitable for clothing and sleeping bags, for soft, compressible items, I prefer the Sea to Summit Evac Ultralight compression dry bags.

These bags feature a one-way fabric valve that automatically releases air—no manual opening or closing required. Simply place your items inside, roll the top, secure the compression straps, and cinch down for maximum compaction. The bags are ultra-lightweight and super thin, yet remarkably durable.

Final Verdict

Sea to Summit doesn’t produce cheap products; everything they manufacture represents top-tier quality, and these dry bags are no exception. Whether you’re hiking in wet weather, spending a day at the beach, or relaxing by the pool (chlorinated water can damage electronics), these View dry bags will keep your valuables dry and protected from sand.

An 8-liter bag costs approximately $30. While this might seem expensive initially, the price becomes insignificant when you consider protecting your $1,000 smartphone, house and car keys, and wallet or purse.

For added security, consider attaching a tracking device to the bag so you always know its location.

ZDNET’s Key Takeaways

• Best dry bag solution for electronics and precious items
• Clear TPU window and white lining provide excellent visibility
• Can function as a floating pouch for water activities
• Durable construction with 10,000mm hydrostatic head rating
• User-replaceable components for long-term use