Duffel bags & drybags

Day trip / short outing (inland & coastal): compact bags for oilskins, fleece, water bottle, and documents (handy, easily accessible). Weekend trip / crew luggage: medium-sized duffel bags, preferably with backpack straps for jetties and stairs. Multi-week trip / long-distance voyage: larger duffel bags or a modular combination (e.g., large duffel bag + small dry bag to keep “wet” and “dry” items separate). For motorboats with plenty of storage space, more angular deck bags are practical; for sailboats, softer duffel bags are better, as they can be stowed more easily in lockers.

That depends on how wet it can get on board: Below deck / sheltered cockpit: a water-repellent duffel bag with coated zippers is often sufficient. Open cockpit, dinghy, SUP/beach trip, foredeck work: better to be 100% waterproof (taped seams + roll-top dry bag). Open sea / heavy seas: dry bags or waterproof deck bags are recommended, which remain reliably sealed even under constant spray—ideally with additional internal organization (small zip-top bags/pack liners).

Duffel bags are ideal for luggage, the harbor, arrival and departure, as well as everyday life on board, because they usually offer better organization, comfort straps, and faster packing. Dry bags are the first choice when equipment absolutely must stay dry (electronics, spare clothes, sleeping bag) or when you’re traveling in very wet environments. Many crews combine both: a duffel bag for “everything,” a dry bag for “must-stay-dry” items; there are also high-quality models that combine a dry bag and a duffel bag.

The most versatile models feature backpack straps (hands-free for provisions, gear, lines, fenders) plus a sturdy carrying handle. For motorboats and short distances, shoulder straps and handles are often sufficient. Attachment points (D-rings) are practical for securing luggage inside the boat, as are compression straps to reduce volume and optimize packing size in lockers.

Sailing: soft, flexible duffel bags (easier to stow), slip-resistant materials, secure attachment points, and separate compartments for “wet/dry.” Motorboating: Due to vibration and speed, sturdy zippers, rigid handles, and a stable base are recommended; spray at the stern calls for a waterproof outer shell or an additional dry bag. For both: A document compartment (for boat papers), padded protection for phones/tablets, and easy-to-clean surfaces are invaluable in everyday use.

After contact with salt water or spray: rinse with fresh water, let dry open, and never “roll up” while damp. Regularly remove sand and salt from zippers and fasteners. Occasionally wipe out the inside of dry bags with roll closures and let them dry completely. Do not treat coated surfaces with harsh cleaners—mild soap is sufficient. This keeps the material flexible and waterproof longer. Expose all materials to direct sunlight as little as possible.

The brands cover different areas of focus: Musto, Gill, Zhik, and Henri Lloyd are often found in the premium segment—ranging from sporty to touring-ready—with robust onboard details. C4S Crazy4Sailing, Jeantex, and Gotop are frequently particularly attractive in terms of value for money and practical for inland/coastal use up to demanding cruises—depending on the series. The decisive factors are always the material, the closure type (zip vs. roll-top), and your personal use.