How to Properly Roll and Seal a Keep Gear Bone Dry Bag

The short answer: To properly roll and seal a Keep Gear Bone dry bag, place your gear inside, remove excess air by pressing down, fold the top over three to five times, clip the buckles, and ensure the seal is tight by testing it. The key is to roll from the bottom of the opening, not the top, and to keep the roll even to prevent air pockets.

Understanding the Keep Gear Bone Dry Bag Design

The Keep Gear Bone dry bag is a popular choice for kayakers, campers, and travelers because of its durable construction and reliable waterproofing. It features a roll-top closure system that, when done correctly, creates an airtight seal. The bag is made with a welded seam construction and a TPU-coated fabric, which makes it both waterproof and abrasion-resistant.

Before you start rolling, it’s important to know the anatomy of the bag. The top of the bag has a wide opening with a stiffened edge, which makes it easier to roll. There are also side-release buckles that snap together to secure the rolled top. These buckles are designed to hold the roll in place, preventing it from unrolling during use.

One common mistake is to think that just clipping the buckles over a rolled top is enough. In reality, the roll itself is what creates the waterproof seal; the buckles only keep it closed. If you don’t roll it correctly, water can seep in through the folds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rolling Your Keep Gear Bone Dry Bag

Follow these steps to get a watertight seal every time:

1. Fill the bag to about 3/4 full. Overfilling makes it difficult to roll, and under-filling leaves too much air, which can cause the bag to float or shift. Leave some space at the top to allow for rolling.
2. Press out excess air. Place the bag on a flat surface and use your hands to press down on the contents, pushing air out through the top opening. You can also gently knead the bag to remove trapped air pockets.
3. Gather the top edges together. Bring the sides of the opening together so they are parallel, like you would when closing a grocery bag. This creates a straight line to roll from.
4. Fold the top over once. Make a first fold, about 2-3 inches from the top, to start the roll. This initial fold is crucial as it sets the direction.
5. Roll tightly toward the buckles. Continue rolling the top down toward the buckles, keeping the roll tight and even. You should aim for at least 3 to 5 rolls, depending on the size of your bag. Each roll should be consistent in size to avoid air pockets.
6. Secure with the buckles. Once you’ve rolled as far as you can, bring the side-release buckles together and snap them shut. Make sure the buckles are clipped over the rolled section, not just the fabric above it.
7. Test the seal. To ensure it’s watertight, you can perform a simple test: turn the bag upside down or squeeze it gently to see if any air escapes. If you hear air hissing, unroll and redo it more tightly.

Tips for a Better Seal and Longer Bag Life

Getting a perfect seal takes a bit of practice, but these tips will help:

• Roll from the bottom of the opening. Always start your first fold at the very edge of the opening, not lower down. This gives you more material to roll and a better seal.
• Keep the roll uniform. If you roll unevenly, you’ll get wrinkles that can leak. Use both hands to keep the roll straight.
• Don’t overstuff. Overstuffing makes rolling harder and stresses the seams. Follow the recommended capacity.
• Clean the sealing area. Dirt or sand on the top edge can compromise the seal. Wipe it down before rolling.
• Avoid folding the same crease repeatedly. This can weaken the material over time. Try to vary the starting point slightly.
• Store the bag with the top unrolled. When not in use, leave it open to air out and prevent creases from setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced outdoor enthusiasts make these errors, which can lead to wet gear:

• Not removing enough air. If there’s too much air, the bag becomes buoyant and may not fit well in your pack or kayak, and the pressure can force water in.
• Rolling only one or two times. This is often insufficient for a waterproof seal. Always aim for at least three solid rolls.
• Clipping the buckles over the unrolled fabric. The buckles must be over the rolled portion to hold it in place.
• Forgetting to test. A quick squeeze test can save your gear. If you hear air, redo it.

When to Replace Your Keep Gear Bone Dry Bag

Even with proper care, dry bags eventually wear out. Inspect your bag regularly for signs of damage:

• Pinholes or punctures in the fabric
• Cracks or tears in the welded seams
• Buckles that are brittle or broken
• Loss of flexibility in the TPU coating

If you notice any of these, it’s time for a new bag. For a variety of reliable options, check out this dry bag buying guide to find the best one for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submerge my Keep Gear Bone dry bag completely?

Yes, when rolled correctly, the bag is designed to be fully submersible. However, prolonged submersion or pressure can stress the seal, so always test before trusting it with sensitive electronics.

How many rolls should I do?

We recommend at least three to five rolls for most bags. The more rolls, the more secure the seal, but be careful not to roll so much that the buckles can’t close.

What if my bag leaks? How do I fix it?

First, check for cracks in the seal or fabric. If the bag is still intact, try re-rolling with more care. For minor punctures, you can use a repair kit designed for TPU-coated fabrics. If the leak persists, it’s time to replace the bag.

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