Trash bags are most commonly used for storing trash, but they also have some other surprising applications: Keeping personal items dry: Store clothes and other personal items in trash bags to make sure they stay dry when you're camping, boating, or attending music festivals in stormy weather. Waterproofing a bandage: Taping a piece of trash bag over the top of a bandage is a great way to waterproof it and promote healing. Creating a cold compress: If you don't have a cold compress, you can easily make one with a few ice cubes inside a trash bag. Apply the makeshift compress to swelling and bruises for relief. Moving house: Relocating trash bags full of soft toys and clothes is often easier than traditional moving boxes.