Best Waterproof Phone Pouches for Travel, Boating, and Open Water Protection

When you're on or near the water, keeping your phone safe shouldn't be a gamble. Whether you're kayaking, snorkeling, or just caught in a sudden downpour, the best waterproof phone pouches offer simple, reliable protection that doesn't depend on your phone model. These pouches are designed for full submersion, easy access, and peace of mind—without the need to swap out your case.

We’ve handpicked the best waterproof phone pouches that combine usability, durability, and universal fit—perfect for marine environments, travel, and everyday water exposure.

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At a Glance: Best Waterproof Phone Pouches

1. Pelican Marine Floating Pouch: Floats, IP68 rated, clear touchscreen
2. Nite Ize RunOff: Rugged build, IP67, dual-camera window
3. Joto Universal Pouch: Budget-friendly, IPX8, fits up to 7"
4. ProCase Floating Pouch: Cushioned float, clear on both sides
5. Hiearcool 2-Pack: Bestseller, IPX8, reliable for travel and swimming

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How We Selected

We looked at how these pouches perform in real conditions—snorkeling, paddleboarding, boating, and wet-weather travel. The goal was to find the best waterproof phone pouches that actually work when you need them.

What we focused on:

• Waterproof rating: Only IP68 or IPX8 certified options
• Universal fit: Must work with most modern smartphones
• Usability: Clear touchscreen response, camera access, easy seal
• Build quality: Durable materials that withstand repeated use
• Floatation or security: Built-in buoyancy or reliable tethering

Every pouch on this list was chosen for performance, not just packaging. They’re made to protect your phone when water is part of the plan—or the problem.

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1. Pelican Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch

When you're carrying your phone around water, a case alone isn’t enough. You need a barrier that can prevent submersion damage—and float your phone back to you if it’s dropped. The Pelican Marine pouch does exactly that. It’s IP68 certified, has integrated floatation, and fits most smartphones. One of the best waterproof phone pouches for open-water scenarios, it’s designed for visibility, recovery, and protection when gear hits the water.

Key Features:

• Waterproof: IP68, submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
• Floatation: Internal air cushions keep it buoyant
• Touchscreen: Responsive clear front panel
• Closure: Durable snap-lock system
• Compatibility: Fits most smartphones
• Extras: Adjustable lanyard included

Why it made our list:

Pelican didn’t just seal this pouch—they engineered it for real-world marine conditions. It keeps your phone dry during full submersion, but the flotation feature is what really earns its place here. If you’re on a boat, paddleboard, or anywhere near deep water, this pouch prevents your phone from sinking and makes recovery easy. The closure system locks with confidence, and the materials hold up under daily use in salt, sun, and spray. We included it because it’s not just protective—it’s recoverable, which matters more than people realize until it’s too late.

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2. Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Phone Pouch

For users moving between water, trail, and rough terrain, this pouch offers a higher standard of sealing. It features the TRU Zip system—an airtight, silent, and toothless closure that keeps out water, sand, mud, and debris. Its dual clear panels support both front and rear camera use, and its flexible form attaches easily to packs or belts. Built for outdoor performance, not just convenience.

Key Features:

• Waterproof: IP67/IP68, airtight TRU Zip system
• Windows: Front and back for full camera use
• Attachment: Anchor points for tethering to packs or belts
• Build: Flexible, rugged material
• Fit: Universal for most phone sizes
• Usability: Supports touchscreen through the pouch

Why it made our list:

We selected the Nite Ize RunOff because it’s built for more than the beach. It protects your phone in wet and dirty conditions where ordinary pouches fail. Whether you're hiking through storm-prone areas or kayaking in silty rivers, this pouch stays sealed and accessible. The zipper doesn’t loosen, the plastic doesn’t crinkle, and the material feels trail-ready. It's one of the best waterproof phone pouches for people who demand gear that holds up under pressure—not just in water, but in unpredictable environments.

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3. Joto Universal Waterproof Pouch

The best waterproof phone pouch doesn’t have to be complicated. Joto’s universal pouch delivers submersion protection, touchscreen access, and a straightforward design that fits most phones. Its dual-sided clear windows let you snap a photo, send a message, or check GPS while keeping your device completely sealed.

Key Features:

• Waterproof: IPX8, submersible up to 30 meters (100 ft)
• Fit: Universal—phones up to 7 inches
• Windows: Clear front and back for screen and camera use
• Closure: Snap-and-lock system
• Includes: Detachable lanyard
• Usability: Basic touchscreen compatibility

Why it made our list:

Joto’s pouch covers the basics with reliability and consistency. It seals tightly, stays responsive, and provides full visibility while keeping your phone dry. There’s no learning curve or complex locking system—it just works. We included it because it’s proven itself over years of real-world use. If you need a dependable backup for travel, a low-risk solution for beach days, or a primary pouch that does its job quietly and well, Joto delivers exactly that.

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4. ProCase Floating Waterproof Pouch

ProCase took a common pouch concept and added a practical upgrade: built-in floatation. If your phone ends up in the water, it won’t sink—making it easier to retrieve in motion-heavy environments like boats, docks, or surf zones. The air-cushioned border is lightweight and doesn’t interfere with screen access or camera visibility.

Key Features:

• Waterproof: IPX8, submersible up to 30 meters
• Floatation: Integrated cushioned frame
• Windows: Transparent front and back
• Closure: Dual snap-lock seal
• Fit: Compatible with most phones
• Includes: Lanyard with adjustable loop

Why it made our list:

We added ProCase to the list because floatation can make or break recovery in open water. This pouch protects against water, but more importantly, it gives your phone a fighting chance if dropped. The materials feel solid, the seal is reliable, and the clear window is fully functional for calls, apps, or photos. It's one of the best waterproof phone pouches for people who need both protection and recovery capability—especially on the move.

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5. Hiearcool Universal Waterproof Pouch (2-Pack)

This pouch is a go-to for travelers, families, and anyone who wants dependable protection without spending much. Sold in a two-pack, Hiearcool’s design offers IPX8 submersion, dual-sided transparency, and basic touchscreen usability. It slips easily into a dry bag, hangs around your neck, or drops into a pack without taking up space.

Key Features:

• Waterproof: IPX8, up to 30 meters
• Pack: Includes two pouches and two lanyards
• Fit: Phones up to 7 inches
• Material: Lightweight, flexible plastic
• Windows: Clear on both sides
• Closure: Snap-and-seal system

Why it made our list:

We chose Hiearcool because it’s built for everyday protection with zero complications. It’s one of the best waterproof phone pouches for those who want simplicity, affordability, and backup-ready convenience. The two-pack format makes it easy to share, gift, or keep an extra ready on the go. It’s not designed for rugged sports, but for everything else—pools, snorkeling, light water travel—it’s reliable, consistent, and user-approved.

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Takeaway

When it comes to protecting your phone around water, a waterproof pouch is one of the most practical and low-maintenance solutions you can carry. It doesn't require you to change your case or compromise functionality. Whether you're out on open water, traveling in wet conditions, or just want a backup layer of protection, the right pouch can make all the difference.

Each pick on this list was chosen for a specific strength—floatation, rugged sealing, travel-readiness, or all-around value. They're not gimmicks. They're tools designed to keep your phone dry, visible, and accessible when it matters most.

The best waterproof phone pouch is the one that fits how you move—on the water, off the grid, or into the unexpected.