Ultra Dry Adventurer & The Duke of Edinburgh Award

At Ultra Dry Adventurer, we understand what it takes to keep your gear safe in the great outdoors. Whether you’re navigating moorland in driving rain or crossing rivers on your expedition route, our waterproof bags are built to handle whatever the British weather throws at you — and then some.

Trusted by International Search & Rescue

Our bags aren’t just designed for weekend adventures. Ultra Dry Adventurer proudly supplies International Search and Rescue (ISAR) teams who rely on our equipment in the most demanding conditions imaginable. When lives are on the line, these professionals need gear that is 100% waterproof (IPX6 rated — what that means), incredibly durable, and ready to perform — and that’s exactly what we deliver. If our bags are trusted to protect critical rescue equipment in extreme environments, you can be confident they’ll keep your DofE kit safe and dry too.

The Perfect Bag for Your DofE Expedition

For Duke of Edinburgh expeditions at every level — Bronze, Silver, and Gold — we recommend our 55 Litre Waterproof Backpack. Expeditions last several days, so you need room for a sleeping bag, spare clothes, food and cooking kit. For a big single day out, our 35 Litre Waterproof Backpack is the right size. Here’s why DofE participants and leaders love them:

• 100% Waterproof — No rain cover needed. Unlike traditional rucksacks that rely on a separate rain cover (which always seems to blow away at the worst moment), our backpacks are fully waterproof by design. Your sleeping bag, clothes, and equipment stay completely dry, no matter the conditions.
• Tough & Durable — Made from heavy-duty materials that withstand rough terrain, scrubland, and the general wear and tear of expedition life. These bags are built to last well beyond your DofE journey.
• Comfortable to Carry — Padded, adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable even when fully loaded for multi-day expeditions. The 55-litre capacity has room for everything a multi-day expedition needs.
• Lightweight — Every gram counts on a long walk. Our bags are designed to be as light as possible while maintaining maximum protection and durability.
• Easy to Pack & Organise — The roll-top closure keeps water out and makes it simple to access your gear. No complicated buckles or zips that can fail in the field.

Why Waterproof Matters on DofE Expeditions

Anyone who has completed a Duke of Edinburgh expedition knows that wet kit can ruin your trip. A soaked sleeping bag on a cold night isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be a genuine safety concern. Traditional rucksacks with rain covers still let moisture in through seams, zips, and the base of the bag. Our waterproof backpacks eliminate that risk entirely, giving you and your expedition supervisors peace of mind.

Great Value for Schools, Groups & Individuals

Our waterproof backpacks offer outstanding value — especially when you consider each one replaces both a rucksack and a dry bag. For schools and DofE groups looking to equip multiple participants, we also offer group and organisation discounts.

We also have a B2B price list available with up to 30% discount on bulk orders of six cartons or more of dry bags — perfect for DofE centres, outdoor education providers, schools, and youth organisations looking to kit out large groups. To request our B2B pricing or discuss your requirements, contact us directly at mark@ultradrybags.co.uk.

Kit That’s Proven in the Field

From search and rescue operations across the globe to Bronze expeditions on Dartmoor, Ultra Dry Adventurer bags are proven where it matters most — in the field, in the rain, in the real world. Don’t let wet gear hold you back. Adventure with confidence.