12 Best Waterproof Phone Pouches | The Sun 2021

April 2024 · 11 minute read

SUMMER is on the horizon, and a waterproof phone pouch should be one of your top priorities if you want to keep your phone in tip-top shape.

But with even the average smartphone setting you back hundreds you'll want to make sure it's protected when you're off on your summer holidays, spending a day by the pool, or at the waterpark.

We can all admit that our phones have become an extension of us, in our hand or back pocket at any given moment, even in conditions that aren't exactly meant for our digital devices.

So despite most phones coming with a level of water protection, you don't want to end up with it in a bag of rice hoping it will switch back on for the sake of an underwater selfie, instead invest in a waterproof pouch.

We have rounded up all the best choices on the market for all budgets, so whether you are swimming, cycling, hiking or just going to the beach, we've got you covered.

Best waterproof phone pouches at a glance

Tainada

Waterproof rating: N/A | Touchscreen functional: No | Size: 18 x 10.5 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: No

This unisex zippered neoprene pouch will protect your precious phone from spills, shocks and scratches, making it a handy accessory for travelling or commuting.

It’s versatile too: choose between a carabiner for attaching the pouch to your backpack, a fabric loop for hooking it to your belt or a lanyard you can hang around your neck.

The larger pocket is good for storing a smartphone, power bank or camera, and the smaller pouch can be used to store credit cards, money, cables, keys or headphones.

At over £25, it's one of the pricier options on the list, but the multi-functional pouch comes in an array of stylish colours and has many features to boot to make it a good investment.

MonoTele

Waterproof rating: N/A | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 6.7-inches | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: No

If you’re looking for a waterproof phone pouch specifically to use while cycling, this specially-designed handlebar bag could prove a winner.

Just pop your phone into the waterproof top pocket and you’ll still be able to use the touchscreen for navigation apps or to keep an eye out for an important text message.

The bottom pocket is useful for other valuables like keys, chargers or bike lights and the whole thing straps securely onto your bike frame where you easily access it during quieter moments of your ride.

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Decathlon

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 16 x 9 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

It’s just one up from a plastic bag but with more than 1,000 five-star reviews on the Decathlon site, this basic waterproof pouch has got to be doing something right.

Users say it’s handy for water sports, hiking and the beach - plus, all your phone’s functions including touchscreen, calls and the camera still works perfectly with the pouch in use.

This budget bag is actually waterproof for up to 30 minutes, too, while being submerged in water up to three metres deep - meaning you won’t have to worry too much if you accidentally drop it in the shallows.

Gentlemen's Hardware from John Lewis

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 26.5 x 11.4 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

This bright blue waterproof phone sleeve comes from the design-led gifting brand, Gentlemen's Hardware.

Great for camping, travelling and festivals, it will protect your phone from moisture, dust and dirt and even keep it dry for up to 30 minutes in water up to a metre deep.

For under a tenner, it comes with a handy neck cord and a clip-on carabiner meaning it's multi-functional and ideal for keeping your phone safe and secure, no matter the occasion.

Lifeproof

Waterproof rating: IP68 (100%) | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 14.99 x 7.87 x 1.35 cm | Universal: No | Safe underwater: Yes

If you can’t be bothered to pop your phone into a waterproof pouch every time you want to get outdoors, you could try this waterproof phone case as a more permanent solution to the damage wreaked by your active lifestyle.

It’s a fully-enclosed case that offers decent protection from water, dust and drops of up to two metres – it will even protect your precious iPhone’s ports, microphone and headphone jack.

All the phone’s functions will still work perfectly, even finger recognition, so you won’t miss any of the action when you're rushing to capture the moment.

Overboard Pro-Sports

Waterproof rating: IP68 (100%) | Touchscreen functional: No | Size: 22 x 13 x 4 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

Another great purchase from Overboard, but this time for the runners, hikers and water sports enthusiasts among us.

This comfortable waterproof pouch comes as part of an armband - ideal if you're forgetful or want a fail-safe way to keep your phone safe for longer.

Overboard boasts that it has a Slide Seal System, meaning the arm pouch is 100% waterproof and will protect your phone from dirt, dust and sand as well as water.

It's made of neoprene and can be worn as a hook-and-loop arm strap or lanyard.

What's more, is that this can be submerged in water up to 19ft deep and will even float if dropped accidentally.

OS Waterproof Standard Phone Case

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size:19.5 x 13 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

You'll be able to protect your phone from the elements and unpredictable British weather with this great mid-budget case from Ordnance Survey.

It comes with a soft lanyard for easy carry and a zip lock and hook and loop double closure, along with a crystal clear touchscreen-friendly window.

It is even IPX8 waterproof rated down to 10m for 30mins, and better still, you can still make calls and use the touchscreen through the waterproof phone case while keeping your phone safe and dry as you enjoy your time in the outdoors.

VGUARD

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: No | Size: 21.5 x 15.5 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

If you're heading to a festival and would rather style it up with a cross-body bag than a round-the-neck pouch, then look no further than this VGUARD option from Amazon.

You get a durable, waterproof PVC pouch bag and a phone case for the times when you want options.

The cross-body pouch is large enough to store and keep essentials like your passport, keys and other personal items dry - while the mobile phone pouch can help protect smartphones under 6.5 inches in size.

The body pouch is triple zip-lock sealed, too, for extra protection from water and theft.

Decathlon Waterproof Phone Pouch

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 22.6 x 10.9 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: No

On the other end of the budget scale is the Decathlon, which is still a great buy for anyone that wants to take the occasional photo underwater. It comes in a clear case with a zip-lock closure for added safety and is IPX8 rated so the pouch is waterproof up to 3 metres for up to 1 hour.

You can still use the touchscreen out of the water, but if you are planning to use it in the pool or sea it is recommended you configure your phone to take photos using the device's mechanical buttons as the touchscreen is not functional under the water.

Overboard

Waterproof rating: IP68 (100%) | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 15 x 7.5 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

If you want to use your camera phone on the beach, or while swimming or snorkelling, you’ll need a phone pouch you can really trust.

Overboard’s waterproof phone pouch is submersible in water up to six metres deep, for up to 60 minutes.

The transparent front and back work perfectly to capture crystal-clear video and photos, too - even while you’re in the water.

Armor-X Waterproof Universal Phone Case

Waterproof rating: IPX8 standard | Touchscreen functional: Yes | Size: 13.7 x 7.1 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: Yes

This case is the perfect all-rounder and unlike other models is universal for phones up to 5.1 inches, so whether you are an Apple lover or an Android die-hard you will be able to enjoy this case.

It comes with a clear block design and the touchscreen is still functional inside, meaning you will still be able to use the camera and get those all-important shots in and out of the pool. Better still, it's on sale right now.

It is also waterproof, shock-proof, snow-proof, and dust-proof, as well as being certified IPX8 waterproof tested from 1m deep water for up to 30 minutes.

Drybags

Waterproof rating: IP66 (briefly sub-missable) | Touchscreen functional: No | Size:27 x 11 cm | Universal: Yes | Safe underwater: No

Drybags is a great budget buy and perfect if you just need something to keep the splashes off your device whether you are at the beach, pool, or out for a boat ride.

It's a steal at just £6.50 and comes in a lightweight, crystal-clear case with a handy lanyard to keep your phone close at hand. We also love that despite the low price point the touchscreen and camera are still operational inside the case, so you'll still capture those summer memories.

This case isn't suitable for complete water protection, so if you are planning on diving or getting in the water it's recommended you opt for a larger case that can.

How much does a waterproof phone pouch cost?

The market is full of choices when it comes to waterproof phone pouches, so you can splash out or opt for a bargain depending on your budget, but generally, you can expect to spend between £10-£30.

That being said we've spotted some high-end options like the Lifeproof FRĒ which can set you back almost £70, or on the other end of the scale, the Drybag which will cost you just £6.50, so it really comes down to what features you are expecting to get for your money.

Are dry bags waterproof?

As the name suggests, Drybags aren't completely waterproof, they are better described as water-resistant, they will keep your phone safe and dry from splashes and spills but aren't designed to be jumping in the pool with.

But they do come with a level of protection, for instance, the Drybag we've seen comes with an IP66 rating, meaning it can be briefly submerged in water and can float.

What is the best waterproof phone pouch?

When it comes to best we always say it depends on what you're looking for, if you want something basic to keep your device safe and the splashes and dust away then the Decathlon will suit you perfectly.

But if you want to be in the pool taking photos and your phone fully protected underwater then one of our top picks would be the OverBoard, which comes with an IP68 rating to certify it as 100% water proof.

Are waterproof phone pouches safe?

If bought from a reputable brand, waterproof pouches can be very safe - some are even able to float or last for hours after being submerged in metres of water.

Your best bet is to purchase a 100% waterproof phone pouch, with a double or triple lock and airtight seal.

They usually come with the option to clip the pouch to your belt or backpack, or even come with a lanyard to hang around your neck for added security.

Where to buy a waterproof phone pouch

Your best bet is to head online when it comes to buying a waterproof phone pouch.

We've found that sports or running high-street shops like Decathlon have plenty of options, and Amazon has a countless array of phone pouches in a variety of colours, sizes and price points.

Here are our top picks:

How to clean a waterproof phone pouch

It's as easy as washing your hands! Simply open and submerge in warm, soapy water then pat dry with a paper towel — but be sure to double-check the brand's instructions prior to cleaning.

We would also recommend using a dust cloth after it is dry to remove any dust or lint before use.

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