As thrilling as it is to take your kayak to the waters, it is not the most spacious vessel. It can be very limited in terms of space and storage. But on the other hand, kayaking is an activity that inherently requires a lot of gear.
So how do you find the right balance between a small space and a good amount of gear? Kayak deck bags.
The best kayak deck bags allow you to pack all your essentials in one bag. They are equipped with very functional features, including multiple storage compartments and waterproofing properties.
Needless to say, with numerous models and brands flooding the market, finding the right kayak deck bag is not easy. To make your work easier, we have reviewed our pick of the four best kayak deck bags.
Let’s get started.
Seattle Sports Vinyl Coated Mesh Deck Bag
If you like a minimalistic design deck bag that has excellent features, this one from Seattle Sports is a good choice.
First, the materials of the bag make it fantastic. It is made of open weave mesh with a vinyl coating. This means that the bag keeps your essentials dry and protected. The bag also dries very quickly, which makes it a bonus. This also ensures that the bag will last a number of seasons without any problem.
The lone zipper on the top has a wide-open design, so accessing your essentials is a breeze. You will also love that the zipper is corrosion-resistant, which makes it great to take it out even in salt waters. To strap the back to your kayak, the lash points with swivel snap-hook are provided on the sides.
This deck bag has enough storage compartments to store all your gears, snack, and many more. The webbing handle at the top makes transporting effortless.
Benefits of the Seattle Sports Kayak Deck Bag
- Straightforward and practical design
- Wide-open feature for accessibility
- Durable and waterproof
- Corrosion-resistant zippers
Downsides of the Seattle Sports Kayak Deck Bag
- May not be suitable for smaller decks
- Straps are not adjustable
ADVANCED ELEMENTS Quickdraw Deck Bag
This is a deck bag that is as fancy as it gets. It packs unique design elements with a touch of technology that you can’t ignore.
To begin with, it has a reliable construction with PVC tarpaulin. This makes the deck bag literally indestructible. If you are used to kayaking in extreme weather conditions, this deck bag is a great companion. As expected, it also comes with waterproofing, so everything inside it is kept safe and secure.
Another fantastic feature about this deck bag is the liner that can be lined-up and removed. This adds to the overall convenience and versatility of the bag.
In terms of design, this deck bag has a semi-rigid contour. This thoughtful design makes it easy to view things inside the bag and access them without rummaging inside it.
For strapping the bag to your kayak, it comes with d-rings and straps that are adjustable. The bungee lacing makes it aesthetically pleasing and very functional.
Benefits of the Advanced Elements Quickdraw Deck Bag
- Sturdy and reliable design
- Very user-friendly
- Water-resistant zippers and material
- Adjustable straps make it compatible for all types of decks
Downsides of the Advanced Elements Quickdraw Deck Bag
- Only seven liters
Overboard Gear Waterproof SUP/Kayak Deck Back
This deck bag takes the trophy for being one of the most massive ones on the market. At 20 liter capacity, it can hold a considerable amount of gear and essentials plus smaller bags.
Apart from its size, it features a reliable and durable construction with PCV tarpaulin. It comes with a main compartment that is 100{f58552f1b452d1b85ac9d8facb6cf148c6ab2440ae06435485202b0d82e1ccf5} waterproof. This is also one of the few bags that come with welded seams that are of high-frequency.
You will love the shoulder straps that can also be removed with the roll-top closure. The buckle connectors that are six in number can also be adjusted, which make them a great fit irrespective of the deck size.
In comparison to its features, it comes with an unbeatable price as well. This is one deck bag that we couldn’t find any fault, which makes it one of the best kayak deck bags.
Benefits of the Overboard Gear Waterproof SUP/Kayak Deck Back
- 100{f58552f1b452d1b85ac9d8facb6cf148c6ab2440ae06435485202b0d82e1ccf5} waterproof
- Very sturdy and reliable design
- Suitable for all deck sizes
- Excellent storage capacity
Downsides of the Overboard Gear Waterproof SUP/Kayak Deck Back
- Comes in only one color
Seattle Sports Deluxe Kayak and Paddle Board Deck Bag
This is another great deck bag from Seattle Sports. It has excellent storage capacity up to 15 liters. It features silver-colored vinyl that is highly reflective and makes the bag practical and sturdy.
A unique feature about this kayak deck bag is the clear window on top. You can easily spot what you are looking for and easily reach into the bag to grab it. This is a deck bag that you can use even on stand up paddleboards with ease. As expected from a great bag, it also features welded seams, storm flap, and zippered opening.
Another great feature you will appreciate about this deck bag is that you can customize it according to your preference. The side buckle straps have a quick-release feature, and the lashing points have a Daisy Chain Webbing. Using the external bungee, you also have the option to strap on additional gear.
Benefits to the Seattle Sports Deluxe Kayak Deck Bag
- Sturdy and reliable design
- Storm flap and clear window makes it effortless to use
- Can be customized according to the deck and the user’s preference
- Versatile use
Downsides to the Seattle Sports Deluxe Kayak
- Comes with a premium price tag
What is the best kayak deck bag?
Expanding the storage capacity of a kayak can be quite limiting because of the design of the water vessel. An addition of one of the best kayak deck bags can be a very convenient way to take all your gear with you.
As much as we loved testing and reviewing the kayak deck bags on our list, we couldn’t help but be floored by the Overboard Gear Waterproof SUP/Kayak Deck Back. It comes with stellar features, which makes it reliable and durable. To top it all, it comes at an unbeatable price, which makes it a total winner in our books and we can’t recommend it enough.
