The waterproof stuff sack is a remarkable outdoor accessory that provides extensive functionality in a compact and lightweight design. It can be used for organizing items like toiletries, food, or clothing, as well as compressing gear such as tents or sleeping bags while safeguarding them from moisture and dirt.
Due to their versatility, waterproof stuff sacks are available in numerous sizes, materials, and styles, ranging from basic nylon bags to ultra-lightweight compression sacks and waterproof roll-top versions. We tested many of these practical bags in diverse backcountry locations globally to evaluate their durability and effectiveness. Below, we present the top stuff sacks. Start exploring with the National Park Shops team through the following review!
Contents
- 1 What’s most important to you in a stuff sack?
- 2 Best Overall: Sea to Summit Lightweight Stuff Sack ($17.95 on Amazon)
- 3 Best Budget: Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack ($15-28 on Amazon)
- 4 Best Waterproof: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry ($23-$40 on Amazon)
- 5 Best food bag: Ursack Major ($129.95 on Amazon)
- 6 Granite Gear Event Sil Dry Sack ($26.95 – $31.95 on Amazon)
- 7 Therm-a-rest Stuff Sack Pillow ($18.99 on Amazon)
- 8 Outdoor Research Packout Ultralight Stuff Sack ($21-$35 on Amazon)
- 9 Why trust us?
- 10 FAQs
What’s most important to you in a stuff sack?
When choosing waterproof stuff sacks for outdoor adventures, several factors must be considered to ensure you get the best combination of functionality, durability, and affordability. Price is often the first consideration, as these small but essential items can be surprisingly expensive. Waterproof, ultralight, and compressible options, which dominate the market, tend to come with a higher price tag. While we are willing to invest a little extra for sacks that offer a good balance between low weight and durability, reliable options are available for every budget.
Another crucial factor is waterproofing, especially for protecting essential gear like clothing or a sleeping bag/quilt. Even with a pack liner or cover, heavy downpours or prolonged rain can let moisture seep through, potentially compromising your most important items. Choosing waterproof stuff sacks or at least highly water-resistant, provides an extra layer of security to keep these critical belongings dry, regardless of the conditions.
Volume is another key consideration when selecting waterproof stuff sacks. With various sizes available, it’s important to match the sack to the specific needs of your gear. For instance, we typically use a medium or large sack for clothing, a small or medium one for personal care items and electronics, a dedicated food bag, and a waterproof sack for a sleeping bag or quilt. Having a clear organizational system not only keeps your pack tidy but also makes it easier to access specific items when you need them. By balancing these factors, you can ensure your stuff sacks are both functional and reliable for your adventures.
Best Overall: Sea to Summit Lightweight Stuff Sack ($17.95 on Amazon)
- Capacities: 3, 5, 8, 13, 20, 30L
- Closure: Drawstring
- Material: 70D nylon
Sea to Summit, an Australian company, leads the stuff sack market with a variety of options that include basic nylon and mesh organizers as well as dry bags and compression sacks. Their waterproof stuff sack is a versatile, high-quality option suitable for various purposes. Made from 70-denier nylon, it features a PU lining and a PFC-free DWR finish, making it both sturdy and highly water-resistant; its white interior helps prevent the common dark-hole effect found in many stuff sacks. The drawcord opening operates smoothly: the rubber pull-tab and cord-lock mechanism allows for easy one-pull access rather than needing to tug on the drawcord and then open the fabric separately. Additionally, the Lightweight includes a handy webbing handle at the bottom and reinforced stitching throughout.
Choosing the Sea to Summit Lightweight Stuff Sack offers advantages over other models due to its user-friendly drawcord design, which is particularly durable and well-constructed. Many backpackers will value its water-resistant material, especially for keeping items like clothing, electronics, or food safe (though it’s important to note that without a roll-top closure or taped seams, the Lightweight isn’t waterproof).
Best Budget: Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack ($15-28 on Amazon)
- Weight: 0.6-2 oz
- Volume: 3, 6, 12, 20, 30 L
- Denier: 40D Nylon RipStop
We were pleased with the Osprey stuff sack. Being constructed from 40D Ripstop Nylon, and weight, they have a rectangular prism shape. We appreciate this design because it fits neatly at the bottom of our backpacks.
What stands out for us is the lower price. They are the most affordable waterproof stuff sack option on our list, which makes them our top choice for the best budget stuff sack.
Best Waterproof: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry ($23-$40 on Amazon)
- Weight: 1.1 oz. / 2.6 oz.
- Volume: 3, 5, 8, 13, 20, 35 L
Sea to Summit’s Ultra-Sil Dry Sacks has long been recognized as a benchmark in the industry for organizing gear. This reputation stems from their dependable nature, lightweight design, and reasonable pricing. Several small but significant features elevate these waterproof stuff sacks to our preferred choice when searching for a waterproof storage solution. For instance, the availability of various color options allows for easy organization, while buckle clasps facilitate convenient hanging. Additionally, the reinforced taped seams are designed to ensure that the contents remain dry even in challenging conditions.
While the fabric used is thinner and may not be as rugged as some alternatives, those who frequently put their gear to the test might consider upgrading to the Lightweight Line or the highly durable Big River Line for enhanced durability. Nevertheless, the Ultra-Sil Dry Sacks are impressively resilient given their weight and can last for many years, provided that users refrain from placing sharp objects inside them, which could compromise their integrity.
Best food bag: Ursack Major ($129.95 on Amazon)
- Weight: 7.6 oz.
- Volume: 10.7 L
When it comes to our food, we prefer to be serious and practical, which is why we often choose to carry a Ursack Major for added security. These waterproof stuff sacks are constructed from Spectra fabric, which has the remarkable property of being bulletproof, making them incredibly durable and resilient. They are designed to withstand a variety of challenges, whether they come from you or nearby wildlife. Ursacks has undergone rigorous testing and has received approval from the International Grizzly Bear Agency, the same organization that evaluates bear canisters.
However, it’s essential to remember that many national parks do not allow Ursacks as a substitute for bear canisters where such containers are mandated. We believe that the Ursack Major offers ample space for approximately five days’ worth of food, but if your trip extends beyond that duration or if you typically pack larger items like freeze-dried meals, you might want to consider upgrading to either the MajorXL (15L) or Major2XL (30L) options.
Granite Gear Event Sil Dry Sack ($26.95 – $31.95 on Amazon)
- Weight: 1.2-2 oz
- Volume: 7, 10, 13, 18, 25 L
- Denier: 30D Cordura Hybrid Sil-Nylon
Granite Gear Event Sil Dry Sack is our top choice for the most waterproof stuff sack. It is also our selection of the best compression sacks for sleeping bags. We discovered that the four available sizes (7L, 10L, 13L, 18L) are adequate for use as a sleeping bag stuff sack. The larger sizes can accommodate a double sleeping bag if you’re hiking with someone.
We appreciate that Granite Gear provides compression straps to convert these sacks into compression bags. The waterproofing and roll-top design does add some extra weight. Although these waterproof stuff sacks aren’t excessively heavy, we found them to be heavier than other options we evaluated.
Therm-a-rest Stuff Sack Pillow ($18.99 on Amazon)
- Weight: 2.7 oz
- Volume: 12 L
- Denier: 20D Polyester
The Therm-A-Rest stuff sack pillow is the most popular option available. We discovered that the combination of double-lined fleece and nylon creates a highly effective waterproof stuff sack that also serves as a comfortable pillow. Additionally, we appreciate its affordable price; at $20, it’s the least expensive option on our list.
We noticed that its weight of 2.7 oz and storage capacity of 12 liters offer a better weight-to-volume ratio compared to other alternatives. You will need to add an extra ounce for the padded headrest. However, if you’re looking for a pillow stuff sack, the Therm-A-Rest is our top recommendation.
Outdoor Research Packout Ultralight Stuff Sack ($21-$35 on Amazon)
- Weight: 0.7-1.9 oz
- Volume: 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, 35 L
- Denier: 40D Siliconized Diamond RipStop Nylon
Outdoor Research’s stuff sacks provide a lightweight option with an excellent weight-to-volume ratio. We appreciate the robustness of these waterproof stuff sacks as well. Constructed from 40D Ripstop Silnylon, they are durable bags priced lower than many DCF options. However, we did notice they are somewhat pricier compared to other nylon stuff sacks. One tester mentioned using one of these sacks for over four years and several thousand miles of hiking, and it remains in great condition.
Why trust us?
We recognize how challenging it can be to find reliable advice on outdoor gear, which is one of the key reasons we created National Park Shops. Our passion lies in outdoor adventures, and we take our guides very seriously.
- Our suggestions are entirely independent and come from practical experience.
- Testing outdoor gear is our profession; we’ve covered more than 20,000 trail miles and spent over 1,000 nights camping in nature.
- Every product we endorse undergoes rigorous field testing, which unfortunately isn’t common practice.
- We attend industry trade shows to keep ourselves informed about the latest product developments.
- We regularly refresh our guides throughout the year and respond to new product releases.
- We approach our recommendations for readers as though they are for our own family and friends.
As lifelong learners, we welcome feedback and are always open to suggestions. If you believe we’ve overlooked a valuable product or made an error, please let us know.
FAQs
How many stuff sacks should I carry?
Some hikers use a waterproof stuff sack for each type of item, while others may only have a couple for their sleeping gear and food, and some don’t use any. The number you carry is entirely up to you. Stuff sacks aren’t essential equipment, but they can enhance the comfort of your backpack and improve your efficiency at camp.
What size do I need?
The dimensions required for your belongings will differ greatly based on the equipment you possess. Whether you utilize lightweight, compact gear or prefer to carry additional comforts can influence this. We will provide some basic recommendations below, but you may need to experiment a bit to find the appropriate sizes for your particular gear.
Is it OK to leave your sleeping bag in the stuff sack?
You can keep your sleeping bag in the stuff sack for a brief period, but if it’s packed tightly for an extended time, it will reduce its fluffiness and insulating properties.
