Expert comparison of waterproof storage cases for POCs, CPAPs, insulin supplies, and medical equipment. Find the best water-resistant protection for beach trips, cruises, and humid destinations.
Best Waterproof Storage Cases for Medical Devices: 2025 Review
Review Disclosure: Last Updated: January 2025. Next Review: April 2025. Product specifications, pricing, and availability change. We may earn commission from affiliate links (at no cost to you). All products are independently evaluated.
Why Waterproof Protection Matters for Medical Devices
You've invested hundreds or thousands of dollars in your portable oxygen concentrator, travel CPAP, or insulin management system. These life-sustaining devices keep you healthy and independent - but they're not designed to withstand water exposure.
From unexpected rain showers to humid tropical destinations, spilled drinks to beach adventures, your medical equipment faces water threats that everyday travelers don't worry about. A single splash can damage electronics, corrupt settings, or render your device unusable far from home.
This comprehensive guide reviews the best waterproof and water-resistant storage solutions for medical device travelers. Whether you're heading to a beach resort, taking a cruise, or simply want extra protection against spills and humidity, these cases will help keep your essential equipment safe and functional.
What You'll Learn:
- Top waterproof cases for different medical device types
- Understanding IP ratings and water resistance levels
- Feature comparison for travel-specific needs
- Packing strategies for humid and wet environments
- Maintenance tips for water protection gear
Understanding Water Resistance Ratings
IP Rating System Explained
The International Protection (IP) rating system tells you exactly how well a case resists water and dust:
IP Rating Format: IP[X][Y]
- First digit (X): Dust protection (0-6)
- Second digit (Y): Water protection (0-8)
Water Protection Ratings:
| Rating | Protection Level | Practical Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IPX0 | No protection | Not water resistant |
| IPX4 | Splash resistant | Protected from splashes from any direction |
| IPX5 | Water jet resistant | Protected from low-pressure water jets |
| IPX6 | Powerful water jet resistant | Protected from high-pressure water jets |
| IPX7 | Immersion (1 meter, 30 min) | Can be submerged briefly |
| IPX8 | Continuous immersion | Designed for underwater use |
For Medical Device Travel:
- Minimum Recommended: IPX4 (splash resistant)
- Ideal for Beach/Cruise: IPX6-IPX7 (jet resistant to brief immersion)
- Maximum Protection: IPX8 (full waterproof)
Other Water Resistance Terms
Water-Resistant: Protects against light moisture and splashes (usually equivalent to IPX4)
Weatherproof: Designed for outdoor conditions including rain (usually IPX5-IPX6)
Waterproof: Can withstand submersion (IPX7-IPX8)
Dry Bag: Flexible, roll-top closure providing submersion protection (usually equivalent to IPX7-IPX8)
Best Waterproof Cases by Device Type
POC and Oxygen Equipment Cases
1. Pelican 1510 Air Case
Best Overall for POC Protection
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IP67 (dust tight, 1m submersion for 30 min)
- Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" (interior)
- Weight: 10.1 lbs empty
- Material: Lightweight HPX high-performance resin
Pros:
- Military-grade durability
- Customizable foam inserts for exact device fit
- Wheeled design for easy transport
- Airline carry-on compliant (most airlines)
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
- Higher price point ($200-250)
- May be oversized for smaller POCs
- Heavy when loaded
Best For: Inogen G3, G5, Philips SimplyGo, SeQual Eclipse users who prioritize maximum protection for high-value equipment.
Price Range: $200-$250
2. Nanuk 935 Waterproof Case
Best Premium Protection
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IP67 (dust and waterproof)
- Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" (interior)
- Weight: 12.1 lbs empty
- Material: High-impact NK-7 resin
Pros:
- Superior impact protection
- PowerClaw latching system (extremely secure)
- Optional padded dividers
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Made in Canada (high quality control)
Cons:
- Premium pricing ($250-300)
- Heavier than competitors
- May exceed some airline weight limits when loaded
Best For: Travelers who need maximum protection for expensive POC equipment, especially for checked baggage scenarios.
Price Range: $250-$300
3. Seahorse SE920 Case
Best Value for POC
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IP67 (waterproof)
- Dimensions: 21.9" x 13.9" x 8.5" (interior)
- Weight: 9.6 lbs empty
- Material: Polypropylene
Pros:
- Excellent value ($150-180)
- Pick-and-pluck foam included
- Strong latches with padlock holes
- Lifetime guarantee
- Military approved
Cons:
- Less refined than Pelican/Nanuk
- Wheels not as smooth
- Foam quality slightly lower
Best For: Budget-conscious POC travelers who want solid waterproof protection without premium pricing.
Price Range: $150-$180
CPAP and BiPAP Cases
4. Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Bag (35L)
Best Lightweight Waterproof Option
Specifications:
- IP Rating: Equivalent to IPX8 (submersible)
- Dimensions: 35 liter capacity
- Weight: 8.3 oz
- Material: 420D nylon with TPU lamination
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Fully submersible protection
- Packs flat when not in use
- Clear window for visibility
- Roll-top closure (reliable seal)
Cons:
- No rigid protection (requires padding)
- Must roll closure correctly for waterproofing
- No wheels or structure
Best For: CPAP travelers who need water protection without adding weight, especially for beach vacations, kayaking, or wet environments.
Price Range: $40-$55
5. Lunchbox CPAP Travel Case (Waterproof Edition)
Best CPAP-Specific Waterproof Case
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IPX6 (water jet resistant)
- Dimensions: Fits ResMed AirMini, DreamStation Go, other travel CPAPs
- Weight: 1.2 lbs
- Material: EVA exterior with water-resistant lining
Pros:
- Designed specifically for travel CPAPs
- Pre-formed compartments for device, mask, tubing
- Semi-rigid protection plus water resistance
- Compact and lightweight
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Not fully submersible (splash resistant only)
- May not fit larger CPAPs
- Limited foam customization
Best For: Travel CPAP users (AirMini, DreamStation Go, Transcend) who want organized, water-resistant storage.
Price Range: $65-$85
6. Aenllosi Hard Carrying Case (Waterproof Zipper)
Best Budget CPAP Protection
Specifications:
- IP Rating: Approximately IPX5 (water resistant)
- Dimensions: Multiple sizes available
- Weight: 0.7-1.0 lbs
- Material: EVA with waterproof zipper
Pros:
- Affordable ($25-40)
- Fits most travel CPAPs
- Lightweight and compact
- Multiple size options
- Includes interior mesh pockets
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof (resistant only)
- Less durable than premium cases
- Limited impact protection
Best For: Budget-minded CPAP travelers who need basic water resistance for everyday protection.
Price Range: $25-$40
Insulin and Diabetes Supplies Cases
7. FRIO Duo Cooling Wallet (Water-Activated)
Best for Insulin Temperature Protection
Specifications:
- Cooling Method: Evaporative (water-activated)
- Temperature Maintenance: Below 79°F for 45+ hours
- Dimensions: Holds 2 insulin pens or vials
- Weight: 2.5 oz (dry)
Pros:
- No ice or refrigeration needed
- Reusable (just add water to reactivate)
- TSA compliant
- Compact and lightweight
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons:
- Requires access to water for activation
- Gets wet during use (need outer waterproof bag)
- Not rigid protection
- Less effective in very humid climates
Best For: Insulin-dependent travelers who need temperature control in warm destinations without relying on refrigeration.
Price Range: $30-$45
8. PackIt Freezable Diabetes Supply Bag
Best Combined Cooling and Water Resistance
Specifications:
- Cooling Method: Built-in freezable gel
- Temperature Maintenance: Up to 10 hours cool
- IP Rating: Water-resistant exterior
- Dimensions: 10" x 7" x 4"
Pros:
- No separate ice packs needed
- Water-resistant exterior
- Multiple compartments for organized storage
- Holds insulin, glucose meter, supplies
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Requires freezer access to recharge
- Not fully waterproof
- Heavier than FRIO options
- Cooling duration limited
Best For: Diabetes travelers with hotel/accommodation freezer access who want organized, water-resistant supply storage.
Price Range: $35-$50
9. Pelican G40 Personal Utility Go Case
Best Waterproof Protection for CGM Supplies
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IP67 (waterproof, dustproof)
- Dimensions: 8.4" x 5.7" x 2.7"
- Weight: 0.8 lbs
- Material: Polycarbonate
Pros:
- True IP67 waterproof rating
- Crushproof and dustproof
- Fits CGM sensors, lancets, test strips
- Interior organization options
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
- No cooling capability
- May be too small for full diabetes kit
- Premium pricing for small case
Best For: CGM users who need waterproof protection for sensors and supplies on beach trips or water activities.
Price Range: $35-$50
Universal Medical Device Cases
10. Pelican V200C Vault Equipment Case
Best Large Waterproof Case for Multiple Devices
Specifications:
- IP Rating: IP67 (waterproof, dustproof)
- Dimensions: 18" x 14" x 8" (interior)
- Weight: 6.6 lbs empty
- Material: High-impact polymer
Pros:
- Fits multiple medical devices
- Pick-and-pluck foam for customization
- Push-button latches (easy open)
- Airline carry-on compliant
- Excellent price-to-protection ratio
Cons:
- No wheels
- May be heavy when fully loaded
- Foam requires customization
Best For: Travelers with multiple devices (POC + CPAP, or diabetes supplies + respiratory equipment) who need one comprehensive case.
Price Range: $100-$140
11. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack (35L)
Best Waterproof Backpack Option
Specifications:
- IP Rating: Equivalent to IPX6-IPX7
- Capacity: 35 liters
- Weight: 1.8 lbs
- Material: 500D PVC
Pros:
- Hands-free carrying (backpack design)
- Roll-top closure for waterproofing
- Comfortable padded straps
- External pockets for quick access items
- Multiple size options
Cons:
- No rigid internal protection
- Requires careful packing for device protection
- Not airline carry-on friendly (soft sided)
Best For: Active travelers who need waterproof protection during hiking, water sports, or adventure activities.
Price Range: $30-$50
Comparison Table: All Cases
| Case | IP Rating | Best For | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pelican 1510 Air | IP67 | POC (premium) | 10.1 lbs | $200-250 |
| Nanuk 935 | IP67 | POC (maximum protection) | 12.1 lbs | $250-300 |
| Seahorse SE920 | IP67 | POC (value) | 9.6 lbs | $150-180 |
| Sea to Summit 35L | IPX8 | CPAP (lightweight) | 8.3 oz | $40-55 |
| Lunchbox CPAP | IPX6 | Travel CPAP | 1.2 lbs | $65-85 |
| Aenllosi Hard Case | IPX5 | CPAP (budget) | 0.7 lbs | $25-40 |
| FRIO Duo | N/A | Insulin cooling | 2.5 oz | $30-45 |
| PackIt Freezable | Water-resistant | Diabetes supplies | 1.5 lbs | $35-50 |
| Pelican G40 | IP67 | CGM supplies | 0.8 lbs | $35-50 |
| Pelican V200C | IP67 | Multiple devices | 6.6 lbs | $100-140 |
| Earth Pak 35L | IPX6-7 | Active travelers | 1.8 lbs | $30-50 |
Packing Strategies for Wet Environments
Layered Protection Approach
Even with a waterproof case, layered protection provides extra security:
Layer 1: Device-Level Protection
- Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture
- Wrap electronics in microfiber cloth
- Place sensitive items in sealed plastic bags
Layer 2: Case-Level Protection
- Use waterproof case appropriate for your device
- Ensure seals are properly closed
- Test waterproofing before travel (empty case)
Layer 3: Bag-Level Protection
- Place waterproof case inside luggage
- Add additional waterproof layer if possible
- Keep most vulnerable items in carry-on
Humidity Management
High humidity can damage electronics even without direct water contact:
Humidity Control Methods:
- Include desiccant packets in case
- Use rechargeable dehumidifying products
- Air out devices when possible
- Avoid storing devices in closed humid spaces
Signs of Humidity Damage:
- Condensation inside screens or displays
- Corrosion on metal contacts
- Musty odor from fabric components
- Difficulty powering on after storage
Beach and Pool Tips
Beach-Specific Precautions:
- Never leave devices in direct sun (heat + humidity)
- Sand is extremely damaging - keep cases sealed
- Salt water is highly corrosive - extra protection needed
- Store devices in shade when not in use
Pool Area Protection:
- Keep devices away from splash zones
- Watch for wet hands before handling equipment
- Chlorine can damage components - avoid exposure
- Store in waterproof case when poolside
Maintenance and Care
Caring for Waterproof Cases
Regular Maintenance:
- Inspect seals and gaskets before each trip
- Clean seals with mild soap and water
- Apply silicone lubricant to rubber seals annually
- Check latches for proper function
- Store cases partially open to prevent seal compression
After Water Exposure:
- Rinse case exterior with fresh water (if salt water exposure)
- Dry completely before storing
- Open case and verify interior stayed dry
- Replace desiccant packets
When to Replace Cases
Signs Case Needs Replacement:
- Cracked or compressed seals
- Latches that don't fully close
- Visible cracks in case body
- Water intrusion after following proper sealing procedure
- Foam that has degraded or lost shape
Expected Lifespan:
- Premium cases (Pelican, Nanuk): 10+ years with proper care
- Mid-range cases: 5-7 years
- Budget cases: 2-4 years
- Dry bags: 3-5 years depending on use
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any waterproof case for my POC? A: Not all waterproof cases provide adequate padding and fit for medical devices. Choose cases with customizable foam or padding designed for electronics.
Q: Do I need waterproof protection if I'm not going to the beach? A: Waterproof cases also protect against spills, rain, humid hotel bathrooms, and accidental exposure. They're valuable for many travel situations beyond beach trips.
Q: Will my device overheat in a sealed waterproof case? A: Potentially, if left in direct sun. Store sealed cases in shade and avoid prolonged direct sunlight exposure. Some cases have pressure equalization valves.
Q: Can I fly with a waterproof case as carry-on? A: Most cases reviewed are carry-on compliant, but always check dimensions against your specific airline's limits. Wheeled cases are usually within limits.
Q: How do I test if a case is truly waterproof? A: Place a paper towel inside, seal properly, and submerge briefly in bathtub. If towel stays dry, seal is working. Test before packing valuables.
Q: Do dry bags provide enough protection for expensive equipment? A: Dry bags protect against water but not impact. Use internal padding (bubble wrap, foam) when using dry bags for electronics.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right waterproof protection for your medical devices:
- Match Protection to Risk: Beach/cruise travelers need higher IP ratings than city travelers
- Consider Device Value: Premium cases justify their cost for expensive equipment
- Layer Your Protection: Combine waterproof cases with internal moisture control
- Prioritize Fit: Proper foam inserts prevent damage from device movement
- Maintain Your Gear: Inspect seals and gaskets regularly
- Think Beyond Water: Good cases protect against dust, impact, and humidity too
- Test Before Travel: Verify waterproofing works before trusting it with devices
With the right waterproof storage solution, you can confidently take your medical devices anywhere - from tropical beaches to rainy cities - knowing your essential equipment stays safe and functional.
Important Disclaimer
This review provides product information only. Always:
- Verify case dimensions fit your specific device
- Test waterproofing before travel
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for device storage
- Consider additional insurance for high-value medical equipment
Product specifications and availability may change. Verify current details before purchasing.



