The Best Waterproof Phone Cases for Admittedly Accident-prone Travelers

By Dobrina Zhekova and Hillary Maglin
July 03, 2019
Courtesy of Amazon

Losing or damaging your phone can be surprisingly devastating. We keep so much of our lives — photos, directions, calendars, and so on — on that 6-by-3-inch device that breaking it can sometimes feel like the end of the world. And doing so while on vacation is a next-level tragedy. Not only can you no longer capture all the fun moments, but depending on your location, you might be left completely disconnected from the world.

So, just like you wouldn’t forget to pack sunscreen to protect your body during your next water adventure or beach getaway, don’t leave without a quality waterproof case for your phone.

Related: Witty Instagram Captions for Every Type of Fall Photo

In general, there are two types of waterproof phone cases for you to consider. The first one is, for the most part, a regular case. It snaps onto your phone securely and has been designed to keep away water, and in some cases, dust and dirt, too. Most of those phone cases could be submerged into water (although depth and amount of time tolerated differ by model) and many will allow you to take photos and videos. And while there are definitely a few models that have a bulkier construction, most brands are now designing cases that are just as sleek and light as the one you use every day.

The second type looks, and functions, more like a dry bag and is perfect for water sport enthusiasts. Most of them come in a pretty universal size so you can store almost any device (or other valuables) in them and hang them around your neck. You can also opt for a floatable design, which will come in handy if you accidentally drop your phone in the ocean or the pool. 

Below, the best waterproof cases to make sure your phone stays dry and safe while you tweet and Instagram all you want.

Start Slideshow
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

1 of 13

Best for Staying Dry on a Budget: Joto Universal Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

This waterproof pouch is the No. 1 best-seller on Amazon, with over 18,000 five-star reviews. You can store any device that's less than six inches tall or use it as a wallet for your money and cards. It features a simple snap and lock closure for easy access.

To buy: amazon.com, from $7

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 13

Best for Underwater Photos and Videos: Hitcase Shield Link Case

Courtesy of Amazon

In addition to its waterproof and drop-proof construction, this aluminum case has a built-in magnetic mount system that lets you easily attach lenses and other accessories to your phone's camera.

To buy: amazon.com, from $63

3 of 13

Best Floating Case: AquaVault Waterproof Floating Smartphone Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Not only does the AquaVault case shield your phone from water, but if accidentally you drop it overboard, it will float thanks to the company’s patented airbag. The case allows you to retain full access to your smartphone’s functions in the water, including taking photos and videos. It fits any device that measures less than to 7.25 x 4.25 inches.

To buy: amazon.com, $25

Advertisement

4 of 13

Best for iPhone X: Ounne Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

While the iPhone X may be water-resistant, we wouldn’t recommend going snorkeling with it. This minimalist case comes with an affordable price tag and delivers maximum protection against both water damage and accidental drops.

To buy: amazon.com, $22

5 of 13

Best for iPhone 6 Plus: CellEver Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Snap this case onto your phone before swimming or going out in the rain but keep it on all the time for the fun pops of color. The everything-proof protection comes in six neon shades — all of which can take photos and videos under up to 6.6 feet of water.

To buy: amazon.com, $22

6 of 13

For iPhone 6/6s: Yuker Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Swim, surf, or water ski with this case that can be submerged in up to 20 feet of water for a full hour. The anti-slip case is also designed to survive 100 drops, so your phone is safe both underwater and on dry land with this easy-to-install protection.

To buy: amazon.com, $18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 13

Best for iPhone 7/8: Catalyst Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

This water- and drop-proof case allows you to take your iPhone 7 or 8 with you when you go kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, or diving (up to 33 feet) thanks to its secure silicone seal. You can even take crystal clear phone calls or listen to music. If you like the look of this case, the brand also makes it for several other devices.

To buy: amazon.com, $80

8 of 13

Best for iPhone 7 Plus/8 Plus: OTTBA Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Whether you’re heading to the pool or hitting the dusty mountain trails, the OTTBA case will ensure your iPhone survives whatever you or Mother Nature throw at it. This light and slim case is water-, snow-, and dust-proof, and extremely easy to put on. It's no wonder it has more than 180 five-star reviews on Amazon.

To buy: amazon.com, $25

9 of 13

Best for Samsung Galaxy S9: LifeProof Frē Series Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

LifeProof’s Frē series cases remain resistant to water, drops, dirt, and snow, even in the harshest environments. You’ll have full access to all ports, an anti-reflective optical glass camera lens cover on the rear camera, and a built-in screen cover — and it all comes in a sleek package available in four color options.

To buy: amazon.com, $50

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 13

Best for Samsung Galaxy Note 9: Spidercase Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Who said waterproof cases have to be bulky to work? This slim case is water-, snow-, dust-, and dirt-proof and features a high-sensitivity anti-scratch screen protector. The transparent cover also will not interfere with wireless charger connections.

To buy: amazon.com, $21

11 of 13

Best for Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus: Ghostek Waterproof Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Not only is this case waterproof, but it’ll also keep dust and dirt out of your Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus. A polycarbonate shell and rubberized spring bumpers make the case a hard one to crack or waterlog. Plus, the slim design makes it easy to carry and travel with.

To buy: amazon.com, $25

12 of 13

Best for iPhone XS: ORDTBY Waterproof iPhone XS/X Case

Courtesy of Amazon

This sealed-cover phone case is waterproof, shockproof, and essentially everything-proof. Its built-in screen protector and full-body coverage make taking photos and videos underwater a breeze, and you can even bring your phone into the shower with this case attached.

To buy: amazon.com, $23

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 13

Best for iPhone XR: Beasyjoy Waterproof iPhone XR Case

Courtesy of Amazon

Though the iPhone XR is water-resistant on its own, you may want to snap this case on if you’re planning on spending the day at the beach or pool. The rugged, heavy duty outer shell allows for your iPhone XR to be submerged in 10 feet of water for two hours. The case is so good at keeping water out, you can actually wash it with your phone inside.

To buy: amazon.com, $26

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Up Next

Advertisement
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.travelandleisure.com