Sea to Summit Evac Lightweight Compression Dry Bag
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Evac Lightweight Compression Dry Bag
5-Size Compression Dry Bag · 70D Recycled Nylon · eVac Air-Permeable Base · Bluesign APPROVED · Non-PFAS
Perfect dry compression storage for everything from bikepacking to sea kayaking and beyond. Made from a bluesign APPROVED recycled 70D nylon waterproof main body fabric and a 70D EVAC waterproof/air-permeable base. Squeeze air out while keeping contents dry, without the need for a purge valve. EVAC Compression Dry Bags are light and simple. Four compression straps make it easy to evenly compress soft items, while the hypalon roll-top closure forms a non-wicking seal. Simple, rugged and reliable — the epitome of durability, versatility, and dry compression.
Truly Lightweight
6.7 oz / 189 g (35L) — half the weight of the HD version.
Pre-Consumer Recycled
100% recycled nylon body — sustainable without sacrificing performance.
Bluesign APPROVED
Chemical safety verified throughout the supply chain.
eVac Air-Permeable Base
Squeeze air OUT, keep water IN — same STS Evac technology as the HD.
4 Compression Straps
2 ladderlock + 2 side-release — even compression for soft items.
Field Repair Buckle
Patented 15mm buckle — user-replaceable in the field.
Size Comparison (5 Sizes × 2 Colors)
70D Recycled Nylon (vs 420D in HD)
The Lightweight uses a 70D fabric — significantly lighter than the HD:
What 70D means:
- 70 denier per fiber (vs 420D in HD = 6x thinner)
- Thinner = less material = less weight
- Thinner = less durability (use case matters)
Trade-off matrix:
| Aspect | 70D Lightweight | 420D HD |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (35L) | 6.7 oz / 189 g | 13.1 oz / 370 g |
| Puncture resistance | Moderate | High |
| Abrasion resistance | Moderate | Very high |
| Best for | Backpacking, kayaking | Motorcycling, snowmobiling, rugged use |
| Cost | $59.95 | $89.95 |
70D is durable enough for:
- Backpacking (careful handling)
- Sea kayaking (smooth interiors)
- Paddle sports (gentle use)
- Packrafting
- General compression use
70D is NOT ideal for:
- Heavy abrasion (motorcycle luggage — use HD)
- Drag across rough surfaces
- Sharp contacts (branches, rocks)
- Heavy loading (use larger size instead of packing too much)
Pre-consumer recycled nylon:
- Per STS FAQ / product specs: "100% Pre-consumer Recycled Nylon"
- Pre-consumer = factory scraps + offcuts (not post-consumer waste)
- Reduces new plastic production
- Same performance as virgin nylon (mostly)
Bluesign APPROVED + Non-PFAS + Pre-Consumer Recycled (SUSTAINABILITY TRIO)
The Lightweight is the most sustainable Evac product:
Pre-Consumer Recycled Nylon:
- 100% recycled content (per materials spec)
- Reduces waste in nylon manufacturing
- Saves energy vs virgin nylon
- Same performance as virgin
Bluesign® APPROVED:
- Chemical safety verified
- Reduced environmental impact in manufacturing
- Worker safety standards
- Verified supply chain
Non-PFAS:
- No forever-chemical water-repellent treatments
- The PU coating is non-PFAS
- Per STS: "Lightweight, bluesign APPROVED recycled 70D nylon main body fabric uses a non-PFAS DWR finish"
Why this matters:
- Most premium outdoor gear now uses non-PFAS
- Bluesign is industry-leading chemical safety verification
- Recycled content reduces environmental footprint
- The Lightweight is STS's sustainability option in the Evac line
Round Shape (vs Oval in HD)
The Lightweight uses a round shape — different from the HD's oval:
Why round (Lightweight):
- Simpler construction
- More efficient fabric layout
- Slightly lighter (less reinforcement needed)
- Better for round sleeping bag shapes
- Easier to roll up for storage
Why oval (HD):
- Better for elongated gear (ski boots, climbing gear)
- Lies flat during compression (more stable)
- Better cargo cage / vehicle fit
- More even compression
Practical difference:
- Round: more space-efficient for puffy items (sleeping bags)
- Oval: better for irregular gear (paddles, fishing rods)
- Both work for general use — just different optimal content shapes
Same Hypalon Non-Wicking + 4 Compression Straps as HD
The Lightweight shares the closure + compression system with the HD:
Hypalon non-wicking roll-top:
- Same synthetic rubber closure
- Doesn't wick water (critical for compression use)
- Same UV + cold tolerance
4 compression straps (same as HD):
- 2 ladderlock + 2 side-release buckles
- Per STS: "Eliminate bulging and achieve even compression"
- Generously sized straps (fill to max capacity)
- Reinforced stitching at stress points
Field Repair Buckle:
- Same patented 15mm buckle
- User-replaceable in field
- Compatible with HD buckles
eVac base:
- Same air-permeable waterproof technology
- 70D eVac (vs HD's 500D) — lighter but less rugged
- Air OUT, water IN
Modular Backpack Packing (NEW FAQ)
Per STS FAQ: "Does this bag work for modular packing in a backpack? Yes! Use these bags for all compressible items. First, squeeze the air out, then pack the dry bag into a tight space so it doesn't draw air back in. It works wonders on sleeping bags and insulated clothing."
What "modular packing" means:
- Use multiple bags for organization (1 for quilt, 1 for clothes, 1 for sleeping bag)
- Each bag = a "module" you can grab and go
- Place bags in your pack based on access priority
- Bottom: sleeping bag (last access)
- Top: extra clothes (mid-trip access)
The "doesn't draw air back in" trick:
- Squeeze air out → roll closed → pack tightly in main pack
- Surrounding gear presses the bag from all sides
- Compression is maintained
- No re-inflation needed
Modular pack setup:
- Sleeping bag (largest bag) — bottom of pack
- Insulated clothing — middle
- Down jacket — top (quick access)
- Each bag accessed individually without unpacking everything
Award-Worthy (Implied) — Lightweight + Sustainable
The Lightweight complements the HD in STS's Evac lineup:
What makes the Lightweight special:
- 100% Pre-consumer recycled nylon body (most sustainable in the line)
- Bluesign APPROVED chemical safety
- Non-PFAS DWR
- Lightest in the Evac line (6.7 oz 35L vs HD's 13.1 oz)
- Same Evac technology (air OUT, water IN)
- 5 sizes vs HD's 4 (additional 5L option)
- Lower price point ($59.95 vs $89.95 for 35L)
Why have both:
- Lightweight: best for general outdoor use (backpacking, hiking)
- HD: best for rugged vehicle use (motorcycle, snowmobile)
- Both share same eVac + Hypalon + buckle tech
- Choice based on use case, not features
Comparison: Evac Lightweight vs HD vs Bikepack Set
Three Evac family members:
| Aspect | Evac Compression Dry Bag (this) | Evac Compression Dry Bag HD | Evac Bikepack Dry Bag Set |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Compression Sacks | Compression Sacks | Storage, Packs & Bags (Bikepack) |
| Best Use | Compression + general + modular packing | Heavy-duty vehicle compression | Cargo cage bike mounting |
| Sizes | 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L (5 sizes) | 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L (4 sizes) | 2 × 3.7L (1 set size) |
| Body Fabric | 70D PU-coated recycled nylon | 420D TPU-laminated ripstop | 420D HD ripstop |
| Base Fabric | 70D eVac | 500D CORDURA® eVac | 500D CORDURA® Evac |
| Shape | Round | Oval | Oval |
| Weight (35L) | 189 g / 6.7 oz | 370 g / 13.1 oz | 333 g / 11.7 oz (set total) |
| Sustainability | Pre-consumer Recycled + Bluesign + Non-PFAS | Bluesign + Non-PFAS | (none specified) |
| Compression Straps | Yes (4) | Yes (4) | No |
| Price (35L equiv) | $59.95 | $89.95 | $110 (2 × 3.7L set) |
Choose Lightweight Compression for:
- Backpacking + general outdoor
- Weight priority
- Modular backpack packing
- Most sustainable option in the line
Choose HD Compression for:
- Motorcycling / overlanding
- Rugged abrasion environment
- Heavy-duty use
- Maximum durability
Choose Bikepack Dry Bag Set for:
- Bikepacking-specific bike mounting
- Cargo cage attachment
- 2 bags designed as a pair
Compared on durability:
- Lightweight uses 70D — moderate durability
- HD uses 420D — high durability
- HD is ~2x heavier but significantly tougher
Best Use Cases
Backpacking (PRIMARY):
- Compress sleeping bags + clothes
- Reduce pack volume by 30-50%
- Modular organization (per FAQ)
- Weight priority
Sea Kayaking (per STS):
- "Perfect for water sports"
- 70D resists light water exposure
- Modular packing in hatches
Bikepacking (smaller sizes):
- 5L for jacket + insulation
- 8L for sleeping bag
- Use inside cargo cage or handlebar roll
Modular Backpack Packing:
- Multiple bags for different gear types
- Each bag = grab-and-go module
- Per FAQ: "It works wonders on sleeping bags and insulated clothing"
Hunt & Fish:
- Sleeping bag compression for backcountry hunts
- Dry storage for clothing layers
- Lightweight for spot-and-stalk hunting
Overland / Van Life:
- Storage compression in limited space
- Stack 35L + 20L + 8L for nested organization
- Dry protection for all gear
Packrafting:
- Lightweight + waterproof for pack + paddle combo
- Modular pack fits in packraft
Backpacking Trip Modular Setup:
- 35L: sleeping bag
- 20L: insulated clothing
- 13L: down jacket
- 5L: accessories (gloves, hat, socks)
- Each bag packed separately for organization
Compatible Accessories
STS Field Repair Buckle (15mm, replacement):
- Same part as HD (compatible)
- Carry spares for long trips
- Field-replaceable in seconds
Bungee Cords:
- Compression reinforcement
- Or external attachment to pack
TSA Locks:
- For luggage (smaller sizes)
- Padlock-able lash points
STS Compression Sack Strap Extenders:
- Add length to straps for extra-large loads
Patch Kit:
- Tenacious Tape or similar
- Fix small tears in the field
Dry Bag Liners:
- Inner bag for extra-waterproof items
- Electronics protection
Color Coding (NEW):
- Turkish Tile (blue) for one gear type
- High Rise (lighter) for another
- Easy to identify at a glance in the pack
Performance
Best Use
Backpacking · Sea kayaking · Bikepacking (small sizes) · Hunt & Fish · Modular backpack packing · Overland
Activity Tier
Lightweight (98-189 g / 3.5-6.7 oz — lightest in the Evac line)
Hydrostatic Head
10,000mm (heavy rain/spray/crossings — not submersion)
Shape
Round (vs HD's Oval — better for round sleeping bag shapes)
Compression
Yes (4 straps — 2 ladderlock + 2 side-release)
Construction
Body
70D PU-coated recycled nylon (10,000mm hydrostatic head)
Base
70D Evac fabric (air-permeable waterproof — air OUT, water IN)
Closure
Hypalon non-wicking roll-top
Seams
Double-stitched + tape-sealed
Buckle
Patented Field Repair Buckle (15mm Polyformaldehyde + Stainless Steel screw)
Interior
White reflective coating (gear visibility)
Sustainability
Recycled Fabric
Yes — 100% Pre-consumer Recycled Nylon (most sustainable in Evac line)
Bluesign® APPROVED
Yes (chemical safety verified)
Non-PFAS DWR
Yes (per STS)
Sizes & Dimensions
5L (Compact)
SKU A4226 · 14.7 × 16.6 × 31.2 cm / 6 × 7 × 12 in · 98 g / 3.5 oz · $39.95
8L (Small)
SKU A4227 · 17.8 × 19.2 × 39.4 cm / 7 × 8 × 16 in · 113 g / 4.0 oz · $44.95
13L (Medium)
SKU A4228 · 20.2 × 22 × 44.7 cm / 8 × 9 × 18 in · 136 g / 4.8 oz · $49.95
20L (Large)
SKU A4229 · 23.5 × 26.5 × 45.7 cm / 9 × 10 × 18 in · 160 g / 5.6 oz · $54.95
35L (Extra-Large) — THIS
SKU A4230 · 29.3 × 32 × 56 cm / 12 × 13 × 22 in · 189 g / 6.7 oz · $59.95
Color Variants (2 colors)
Turkish Tile
Darker blue · All sizes
High Rise
Lighter color (whitish) · All sizes
Profile
Brand
Sea to Summit (Australian outdoor gear, founded 1983, Boulder CO US HQ)
Category
Compression Sacks / Lightweight Dry Bags / Backpacking Compression Sacks / Modular Packing
Launch
25UpdatedProduct (May 2025)
Position in STS Lineup
Lightweight Compression Dry Bag (alternative to HD — weight + sustainability priority)
Submersion Warning (Per FAQ)
Per STS FAQ: "The body of the dry bag is waterproof (10,000 mm hydrostatic head). However, avoid submersion since water can seep through the roll-top closure of any dry bag."
What this means:
- Rain, spray, splashes: OK
- Stream crossings: probably OK briefly
- Submerged in water: water may seep through the roll-top closure
Why any dry bag fails at submersion:
- Roll-top closure relies on the roll staying rolled
- Pressure differential under water can force water through the seam
- Hypalon is highly waterproof but the seam + closure has limits
- ALL dry bags have this limitation
Practical use:
- Don't depend on the dry bag for underwater protection
- For submersion, use dry boxes or sealed pouches
- The dry bag is for keeping items dry in normal wet conditions
Field Repair
Patching tears:
- Use Tenacious Tape or nylon repair tape
- Apply to clean, dry surface
- Round the patch corners (no sharp tape corners to peel)
- Apply to both sides of a tear for strength
Field Repair Buckle replacement:
- Standard STS replacement buckle (15mm)
- Compatible with HD + Lightweight
- Pin removal: use a small flat-head screwdriver or even a fingernail
- Snap in the new buckle (no replacement tools)
Seam leaks:
- Less common (tape-sealed construction)
- Apply seam seal over the affected area (SilNet or similar)
eVac base damage:
- The 70D base is more fragile than the HD's 500D CORDURA
- Easier to puncture with sharp objects
- Patch with repair tape
- Loss of breathability = loss of compression feature
Cleaning
Routine cleaning:
- Mild soap + warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Wipe down exterior + interior
- Air dry fully before storing
Avoid:
- Harsh detergents or bleach (degrades PU + Hypalon + eVac)
- Machine washing (agitator damages seams)
- High-pressure sprays
- Storing wet (mildew)
Cleaning the eVac base:
- Same care (mild soap + water)
- Don't scrub the laminate
- Allow to dry fully (the laminate needs airflow to dry)
Compression Use Best Practices
Don't over-compress (long-term):
- Down/synthetic insulation loses loft if compressed for months
- Short-term compression (trip use): fine
- Long-term storage: leave uncompressed
Use only soft items:
- Compression straps are for soft items (sleeping bags, clothing)
- Don't compress rigid items (cameras, electronics)
- Mixed loads: rigid items in separate bags inside
Best compressible items:
- Sleeping bags (down or synthetic)
- Puffy jackets / insulated clothing
- Soft camping gear
- Towels
Don't compress:
- Hard cases (use a different bag)
- Inflatable items (pad, pillow)
- Fragile items
Per STS FAQ (modular packing):
- "First, squeeze the air out, then pack the dry bag into a tight space so it doesn't draw air back in"
- Tight packing maintains compression
- Use multiple bags for organization
Storage
Between trips:
- Clean and dry before storing
- Store loose (open compression straps partway)
- Store in cool, dry place
Long-term storage:
- Store LOOSE (compressed for months = damaged insulation)
- Hang from a hook if possible
- Or store in a bin without compression
- Periodically air out
Avoid:
- Storing tightly compressed long-term
- Direct sunlight (UV degrades nylon)
- High heat (degrades PU + Hypalon)
- Moisture + sealed storage (mildew)
Avoid These Failure Modes
Don't:
- Submerge the bag expecting it to remain dry
- Compress for long-term storage (degrades insulation)
- Drag the bag on rough surfaces (70D is moderate durability)
- Use harsh chemicals on PU or Hypalon
- Machine wash or machine dry
- Store in direct sunlight for weeks
- Overload beyond the compression straps' capacity
- Force the buckle (snaps the field-repairable pin)
Most common failure points (70D specific):
- Roll-top closure (forgetting to roll enough)
- eVac base (puncture from rocks — 70D is more fragile than HD's 500D)
- Buckle pin (wear over time)
- Strap webbing (frays at stress points)
- Field patches fail (re-patch in better conditions)
Sustainability & End-of-Life
Most sustainable in Evac line:
- 100% pre-consumer recycled nylon
- Bluesign APPROVED
- Non-PFAS DWR
- Lower-carbon-footprint option
Repair-friendly design:
- Field Repair Buckle (replaceable)
- Patchable fabric
- Modular components
- 5-10+ year lifespan
At end-of-life:
- Recycled nylon is recyclable (in specialty facilities)
- Hypalon difficult to recycle
- Buckles + screws are recyclable
Repair culture:
- One Field Repair Buckle extends bag life by years
- Patch kit is reusable
- Most damage is field-repairable
Activity-Specific Tips
- Backpacking: Primary use. Modular packing per FAQ. Multiple bags for organization.
- Sea kayaking: Per FAQ, perfect for water sports. Fits in hatches.
- Modular backpack packing: Use multiple bags by gear type per FAQ.
- Bikepacking: Smaller sizes (5L, 8L) work inside cargo cages or handlebar rolls.
- Hunt & Fish: Sleep system compression + dry storage for clothing.
- Packrafting: Lightweight + waterproof for combined bike + paddle trips.
- Overland: Compression + dry storage in vehicle-limited space.
- Backpacking trip module system:
- 35L = sleeping bag
- 20L = insulated clothing layers
- 13L = puffy jacket + spare insulation
- 8L = base layers + socks
- 5L = accessories (gloves, hat, beanie)
- NOT for: Submersion (FAQ warning). Long-term compression (insulation damage). High-abrasion environments (use HD instead).
Shipping Policy
Components:
All component items (wheels, drivetrains, suspension, brakes, etc.) ship within 2-5 business days of purchase.
Bicycles:
Complete bikes typically ship within 2–3 weeks due to build, tuning, and inspection times. You will receive tracking information as soon as your order is ready to ship.
Riding Gear & Apparel:
Riding gear and apparel orders (helmets, jerseys, gloves, etc.) ship within 2-5 business days.
Returns & Exchanges:
If you received the wrong size or wish to exchange an item, it must be returned in original condition—unused, uninstalled, and with all packaging intact.
For full details, please see our Refund Policy before initiating a return.
