How to Close a Roll-Top Dry Bag (How Many Rolls?)

A roll-top bag is only as waterproof as the way you close it. By most manufacturers' accounts, the majority of leaks come from a closure that wasn't rolled properly, not from a defective bag. The good news is that closing one correctly takes about ten seconds.

The short answer: roll it at least three times

Fold the top over at least three times, then clip the buckle. Each fold adds another layer to a long, tight barrier that water has to travel around, which is why a single casual fold isn't enough but three or four firm ones are. If the bag still has loose material after three rolls, keep rolling — just don't overfill the bag so much that you can't.

Step by step

1. Pack it, but don't stuff it. Leave a few centimetres of empty space at the top — roughly the width of your hand. An overfilled bag can't be rolled tightly.
2. Put sharp or hard items in the middle. Keep edges away from the walls and the seams.
3. Squeeze out the excess air. Push down on the bag to expel air, then smooth the top edge flat. If you want the bag to float or be less cramped, leave a little air in — it's a trade-off.
4. Line up the edges. Hold the two sides of the opening together so they're flat and even, with no folds or creases in the mouth.
5. Roll down at least three times. Fold the top over on itself tightly and consistently, like rolling up a sleeping mat.
6. Clip the buckle. Bring the two ends around and click the buckle shut. You should feel it lock.
7. Keep the D-ring on the outside. That's where you'll clip the bag to a kayak, boat, rack or backpack.

Common mistakes that cause leaks

• Only rolling once or twice. The most common mistake by far.
• Rolling a wrinkled mouth. Creases create channels for water. Smooth the opening flat first.
• Overfilling. If the buckle won't close without straining, the seal is under tension and can open.
• Wet or dirty closure strip. Sand, salt crystals and grit stop the layers sealing. Wipe the mouth before you roll.
• Sharp contents. A key or tent peg can puncture the wall. Wrap sharp items or keep them in a separate pouch.
• Skipping the test. Always check a new bag before putting a phone in it — see how to test, clean and store a dry bag.

Does the bag size change how you roll it?

Not really — the method is identical for a 5L and a 15L. But a bigger bag has more material to roll and more weight pulling on the buckle, so the closure matters even more. Not sure which size suits you? Read our 5L vs 15L size guide. Both the Rihla 5L and 15L use a buckle-clip roll-top: roll the top at least three times and clip it shut.