Taking your Sea-Doo out means bringing essentials, phone, wallet, keys, maybe a change of clothes. The problem? Water gets everywhere. A Sea to Summit dry bag has become the go-to solution for PWC owners who want to keep their gear bone dry while riding.
But here's where it gets tricky: Sea to Summit offers multiple sizes, and picking the wrong one means either cramming your stuff into a bag that's too small or hauling around unnecessary bulk. Size matters more than you'd think when you're working with limited storage space aboard your watercraft.
This guide breaks down six Sea to Summit dry bag sizes side by side, covering capacity, best uses, and which one makes sense for different situations on the water. By the end, you'll know exactly which size fits your needs.
1. Sea to Summit dry bag 3L
The 3-liter Sea to Summit dry bag serves as the smallest option in their lineup, designed for riders who need to protect critical small items without taking up valuable storage space. This compact size fits easily into underseat compartments or glove boxes on most Sea-Doo models, making it the go-to choice for minimalist outings where you only need to secure your essentials.
Best uses on the water and off the water
You'll find the 3L excels at protecting electronics and valuables during short rides where you don't need to haul multiple items. On the water, it handles smartphones, keys, wallets, and small cameras perfectly while fitting into tight spaces on your PWC. This size works well when you're making quick trips to sandbars or doing laps close to shore.
Off the water, the 3L transitions into a daily utility bag for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or beach walks. You can clip it to backpack straps or belt loops using the attachment points, keeping your phone and ID accessible without bulk.
What it fits
Your average smartphone (even larger models like the iPhone Pro Max) fits comfortably with room for a car key fob and some cash. You can squeeze in a small digital camera or GoPro with one battery. If you roll your clothing tight, a thin microfiber towel or lightweight rash guard will fit, though it'll max out the capacity.
The 3L holds roughly the volume of a half-gallon milk jug, so anything bigger than your fist starts to push the limits.
Who should buy this size
This size makes sense if you're a solo rider who runs light and only brings absolute necessities. Day trippers who stay within 30 minutes of their launch point rarely need more storage than this offers. You should consider the 3L if your Sea-Doo already has built-in storage for larger items, and you just need waterproof protection for pocket items.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 3L can't handle group trips where you're carrying items for passengers or extended outings requiring extra clothing. You won't fit sunscreen bottles, first aid kits, or snacks alongside your phone and keys. The narrow shape also means bulky items like sunglasses cases take up disproportionate space, limiting what else you can pack.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Load your heaviest items first (phone, keys) at the bottom of the bag, then add soft items on top. Before rolling the closure, squeeze out excess air from the bottom up to create a tighter seal and reduce the bag's profile. Roll the top at least three times before clicking the buckle, which ensures water stays out even during aggressive riding.
Best size to pair it with
Pair the 3L with an 8L or 13L bag to create a two-bag system. Keep your phone and wallet in the 3L for quick access, while the larger bag holds towels, snacks, and clothing changes. This combination gives you waterproof organization without searching through one overstuffed bag.
2. Sea to Summit dry bag 5L
The 5-liter model adds just enough capacity over the 3L to handle slightly longer trips without creating storage headaches aboard your Sea-Doo. This size strikes a balance between compactness and utility, fitting into front storage bins on most PWC models while holding enough gear for half-day excursions.
Best uses on the water and off the water
This size handles morning rides that extend into afternoon when you need snacks, extra sun protection, or a lightweight jacket. You can store medical supplies, basic tools, or backup electronics without dedicating your entire storage compartment to one bag. The 5L works well for two-person trips where you split essentials between riders rather than one person carrying everything.
What it fits
A full-size smartphone, keys, wallet, and small sunscreen bottle fit comfortably with room left over. You can add a compact first aid kit or energy bars for longer sessions. A baseball cap or folded bandana squeezes in alongside your phone without creating pressure on the screen.
Who should buy this size
You'll benefit from the 5L if you regularly ride for two to four hours and need more than just pocket essentials. Riders who bring passengers occasionally find this size useful for splitting gear responsibilities without overloading one bag.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 5L won't accommodate clothing changes or full-size towels. You can't fit multiple water bottles or larger camera equipment alongside your other gear.
The 5L hits capacity quickly when you mix hard items like phones with soft bulk like towels.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Place rigid items against the back panel to maintain the bag's shape during transport. Push air out by pressing from the bottom upward before rolling the closure tight.
Best size to pair it with
Combine the 5L with a 13L or 20L bag to separate immediate-access items from backup supplies, keeping your phone accessible without digging through clothing or snacks.
3. Sea to Summit dry bag 8L
The 8-liter sea to summit dry bag represents the sweet spot for most Sea-Doo riders who need reliable waterproof storage without sacrificing cabin space. This mid-range size handles full-day trips while still fitting into standard underseat compartments on Switch models and most sport PWCs.
Best uses on the water and off the water
You'll find the 8L perfect for all-day excursions where you need clothing layers, food, and electronics protected from spray and submersion. This size accommodates island hopping trips or extended sandbars sessions when you're away from your launch point for six hours or more. Shore lunches become simpler when you can pack sandwiches, drinks, and dry clothing in one waterproof container.
What it fits
A complete change of clothes (shorts, shirt, underwear) fits alongside your phone, keys, and wallet with room to spare. You can pack two full-size water bottles, multiple snacks, and a small towel without maxing out capacity. Sunscreen bottles, a basic first aid kit, and backup sunglasses all fit comfortably in this size.
Who should buy this size
This size works for single riders on day trips or couples splitting gear between two smaller bags. You should choose the 8L if you regularly ride four to eight hours and need protection for both essentials and comfort items.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 8L can't handle bulky winter gear or multiple full-size towels. You won't fit camera equipment with multiple lenses or extensive safety supplies for group outings.
The 8L reaches capacity when you pack both soft bulk items and rigid electronics together.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Stack clothing at the bottom to create cushioning for your phone and electronics on top. Roll the closure four full rotations minimum to ensure proper sealing during rough water conditions.
Best size to pair it with
Pair the 8L with a 3L or 5L bag to separate immediate-access items from backup supplies, keeping your phone readily available without unpacking your entire day's gear.
4. Sea to Summit dry bag 13L
The 13-liter capacity marks the transition point where a sea to summit dry bag becomes genuinely versatile for extended outings that require more than just basic protection. This size handles full-day trips with multiple people or solo adventures where you need backup gear and safety equipment without forcing you to choose between comfort items and essentials.
Best uses on the water and off the water
This capacity shines during full-day island trips where you're packing for variable weather conditions and multiple meal stops. You can store complete outfit changes, food for two people, and emergency supplies in one container. Multi-hour sandbar gatherings become easier when you bring group supplies like shared snacks, extra towels, and first aid kits without running out of room.
What it fits
Two complete clothing changes (shirts, shorts, underwear) pack comfortably alongside electronics and snacks. You'll fit three full-size water bottles, multiple meal containers, and a beach towel with space remaining. Camera gear including a mirrorless body with two lenses fits when you need photography equipment protected from spray.
Who should buy this size
You'll benefit from the 13L if you regularly bring passengers who don't carry their own bags or take solo trips lasting eight hours or more. Riders who venture far from shore need this capacity for safety equipment and backup supplies.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 13L won't fit in smaller glove boxes on compact PWC models. You can't pack bulky winter jackets or multiple full-size towels for groups larger than two people.
The 13L hits its limits when you try mixing bulky safety equipment with full meal supplies and clothing.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Layer soft items at the bottom to create cushioning zones for hard electronics. Compress the bag from bottom to top before sealing to eliminate air pockets that reduce waterproof effectiveness.
Best size to pair it with
Match the 13L with a 3L or 5L bag to keep your phone and immediate-access items separate from your main storage, preventing constant unpacking when you need quick gear access.
5. Sea to Summit dry bag 20L
The 20-liter sea to summit dry bag provides substantial storage capacity for serious water adventurers who need protection for multiple days' worth of gear or group supplies. This larger size accommodates extended trips where you're carrying equipment for several people or venturing far enough from civilization that backup supplies become essential rather than optional.
Best uses on the water and off the water
You'll find the 20L ideal for overnight trips or full-day excursions with three or more passengers where you're responsible for group gear. This capacity handles multi-stop island hopping where weather changes require layered clothing options and safety equipment. Weekend camping trips accessible by water become feasible when you pack sleeping gear, extra clothing, and food supplies in one waterproof container.
What it fits
Three to four complete outfit changes pack comfortably alongside towels and electronics. You can store six water bottles, multiple meal containers, safety equipment, and a full beach towel without reaching capacity. Photography enthusiasts fit full DSLR kits with multiple lenses, batteries, and accessories while maintaining protection from moisture.
Who should buy this size
You need the 20L if you regularly carry gear for groups of three or more or take solo trips lasting multiple days. Riders who venture into remote areas require this capacity for comprehensive safety supplies and backup equipment.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 20L takes up significant storage space in smaller PWC models and won't fit standard underseat compartments. You can't pack bulky camping gear like sleeping bags alongside full clothing sets and food supplies for extended groups.
The 20L reaches its limits when you try packing both extensive safety gear and comfort items for groups larger than four people.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Position heavy gear at the bottom to create a stable base that prevents the bag from rolling during transport. Compress thoroughly from the bottom upward before executing five full rolls of the closure mechanism.
Best size to pair it with
Combine the 20L with a 5L or 8L bag to separate immediate-access electronics from your main supply storage, avoiding constant repacking when you need quick gear access during stops.
6. Sea to Summit dry bag 35L
The 35-liter capacity represents the maximum size in the sea to summit dry bag lineup, designed for serious expeditions where you need waterproof protection for substantial gear loads. This size handles multi-day trips, large group supplies, or situations where you're carrying equipment that simply won't fit in smaller bags without compromise.
Best uses on the water and off the water
You'll find the 35L essential for multi-day camping trips accessible by water where you need sleeping gear, clothing, and food protected from moisture. This capacity excels during group outings with four or more people when you're designated as the gear carrier for shared supplies. Weekend adventures requiring complete outfit changes for multiple days become manageable when you pack everything in one waterproof container that handles both clothing and equipment.
What it fits
Five to six complete clothing sets pack alongside towels, electronics, and safety gear without forcing compression. You can store camping equipment including sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and multiple days of food for extended trips. Professional camera kits with full DSLR bodies, five lenses, lighting equipment, and accessories fit comfortably with room for protective padding.
Who should buy this size
You need the 35L if you regularly organize group trips lasting multiple days or carry gear for four or more passengers. Solo adventurers venturing into remote areas for extended periods require this capacity for comprehensive supplies and backup equipment.
Downsides and dealbreakers
The 35L won't fit in standard PWC storage compartments and requires deck mounting or separate transport solutions. You can't easily carry this size when partially full as the excess material creates awkward bulk during handling.
The 35L works best when filled completely rather than used as an oversized option for smaller loads.
Packing and closure tips for a better seal
Distribute weight evenly across the bottom to prevent the bag from becoming top-heavy during transport. Execute six full rolls of the closure to ensure proper sealing with this larger volume.
Best size to pair it with
Match the 35L with an 8L or 13L bag to separate quick-access items from your main expedition gear, keeping electronics accessible without unpacking bulk storage during stops.
Next steps
You now have the specifics on six different sea to summit dry bag sizes and understand which capacity matches your riding style. The 3L and 5L handle quick trips and essentials, the 8L and 13L cover full-day adventures, while the 20L and 35L tackle extended expeditions requiring serious gear protection.
Start by assessing your typical trip length and passenger count. Solo riders making short runs rarely need more than an 8L, while groups or multi-day trips demand larger capacities. Most Sea-Doo owners find success with a two-bag system that separates immediate-access items from bulk storage.
Your Sea-Doo deserves accessories that enhance every ride without creating storage headaches. Beyond dry bags, you need proper protection, safety equipment, and maintenance supplies to keep your watercraft performing at its best. Browse our selection of Sea-Doo accessories and protective gear to find everything your PWC needs for safer, more organized time on the water.
