The open road is best experienced on two wheels. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, bikepacking speeds up your adventure and helps you soak in the great outdoors in a whole new light. Yes, life on a bike is all fun and games – until your first flat tire.
Bike around long enough and you’re bound to run into trouble, and the human body can run out of gas just like a car can. When it’s time to do some tinkering, or time to set up camp for the night, the best bikepacking bags and backpacks will be ready to roll. Technology advances have allowed for bikepacking equipment to feel lighter than ever, which lets you take more with you on your next adventure.
However, you’re still under serious limitations when packing for an entire trip that can fit on a road bike, so every inch is precious. The wrong bikepacking bag may feel fine on mile one, but will eventually become a serious drag.
That’s where this guide steps in. I’ve made all sorts of mistakes while packing for days on my bike so you don’t have to. My most egregious error was assuming that one bag can do it all, especially when you’re packing everything you need on a carbon frame.
The best bag for bikepacking is actually a delectable combo platter that spreads your weight evenly and allows you to store your water, food, and toys without putting everything heavy in one place.
To make sure you’ve got all the goodies on board, this list will look at bikepacks of all shape and sizes. We won’t just cover the basics – we’ll dive deep into backpacks, fanny packs, and spoke mounts that all serve one key purpose: getting you further out there.
Follow along and make sure to leave space for a spare set of tires, and let this guide help you take your bikepacking adventures to the next level.
Quick Answers – What Is The Best Bag For Bikepacking?
#1 Best Bikepacking Backpack – Osprey Talon 22
#2 Best Small Bikepacking Backpack – ACRE HAUSER 10
#3 Best Commuter Backpacking Backpack – LOJEL Eblo: All Conditions Set
#4 Best Day Ride Bikepacking Backpack – Osprey Apogee
#5 Best Weatherproof Bikepacking Backpack – Patagonia Black Hole 25L Pack
#6 Best Roll Top Bikepacking Backpack – Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
#7 Best Mountain Backpack – Deuter Compact EXP 12 Biking Backpack
#8 Best Bikepacking Waistpack – Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack
#9 Best Fork Bag – Revelate Designs Polecat
#10 Best Frame Pack – Revelate Designs Tangle Frame Bag
#11 Best Seat Bag – REI CoOp Junction Seat Bag
ACRE HAUSER 10L
- > $$
- > Weather-resistant
- > Designed for comfort and speed
Osprey Apogee
- > $$
- > Affordable
- > Osprey’s signature Airscape breathability
Patagonia Black Hole 25L Pack
- > $$
- > Plenty of storage space
- > Made out of recycled materials
Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
- > $
- > Minimalist bikepacking backpack
- > Plenty of storage space
Deuter Compact EXP 12 Biking Backpack
- > $$
- > Come with reservoir compatibility
- > Loads of customisation options
Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack
- > $
- > Zippered front pocket
- > Lightest possible bikepacking bag
Revelate Designs Polecat
- > $
- > Waterproof fork bag
- > One of the lightest pieces of protection on the market
REI CoOp Junction Seat Bag
- > $
- > Designed to sit just under your cushion
- > Handy piece of equipment
These Are The Best Bikepacking Bags
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Join REI Today!#1 Best Bikepacking Backpack – Osprey Talon 22
Osprey Talon 22 is our top pick for the best bikepacking backpack
- Price (USD): 135
- Weight (KG): .9
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 22
Choosing the right bikepacking bag is almost as important as getting the right bikepacking bike. I don’t care if you’re bikepacking, mountain biking, scuba diving, or rock climbing, there is no bag better suited for a day’s adventure than the Talon 22. This lightweight pack takes the load off with a serious internal frame and Airscape breathability, generally unheard of in such a small package.
Protect your back with a high-quality load system, including a snug hip belt with pockets large enough to store your cell phone or a few Clif Bars. Two heavy-duty water bottle pockets and large exterior pockets provide a perfect place to store anything you could want while on a ride, and the large main compartment provides plenty of space for layers.
#2 Best Small Bikepacking Backpack – ACRE HAUSER 10L
Our pick for best small bikepacking backpack is ACRE HAUSER 10L
- Price (USD): 220
- Weight (KG): .70
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 14
Take everything you need and nothing you don’t behind the handlebars with this impressive and weather-resistant day bag. You can fit up to three extra litres of refreshment in the handy hydration pack and keep all the necessities close at hand with four weatherproof exterior pockets.
This pack is designed for comfort and speed. The roll-top opening extends storage up to 14 litres if you want to bring an extra change of clothes, while a reinforced hip support system will keep you focused on the path ahead.
#3 Best Commuter Backpacking Backpack – LOJEL Eblo: All Conditions Set
The LOJEL Eblo All Conditions Set is prepared for whatever lies ahead on your adventure.
- Price (USD): 380
- Weight (KG): 2.1
- Storage Capacity (Litres):
- Backpack: 18
- Sling Pouch: 2.5
These days you don’t often see a bag that comes with everything you could possibly need on your commute, but LOJEL has set out to change that. The Eblo All Conditions Set comes with an 18-liter backpack, a 2.5-liter sling pouch, a set of city straps and active straps, and a full-size poncho… I mean what more could you want?!
The backpack itself is constructed from 900D polyester, making sure you’re bag and belongings will survive whatever inclement weather may find you on your bikepacking adventure or commute to work. The active straps are also a nice inclusion that I’ve never seen before. In a matter of seconds, you can switch the bag from casual to active, essentially doubling the possible places you would want to take this pack.
Overall, the LOJEL Eblo sits comfortably on your back with either pair of straps, making it a great choice for all my fellow bike-to-work commuters.
Wanna know more about this brand? Check out our guide to the best LOJEL backpacks and luggage here.
#4 Best Day Ride Bikepacking Backpack – Osprey Apogee
For best commuter bikepacking backpack, checkout Osprey Apogee
- Price (USD): 100
- Weight (KG): .82
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 28
Squeeze in your laptop, a change of clothes, and a packed lunch in this affordable and effective commuting bikepack. The Apogee proves Osprey is not only a great brand for the woods, but also a powerful companion for the urban jungle.
A dedicated laptop compartment signifies that this bag isn’t your usual day bag. It doesn’t have the same frame and hip belt you’ll find on Osprey’s hiking line, instead of bringing along plenty of features that will help you get through the workday in style.
Because there is no frame, I wouldn’t trust this pack over long distances, but this also helps the bag stay malleable and it still brings along Osprey’s signature Airscape breathability that will navigate whatever the workday requires without breaking a sweat.
#5 Best Weatherproof Bikepacking Backpack – Patagonia Black Hole 25L Pack
Patagonia Black Hole 25L Pack is one of the best weatherproof bikepacking backpack
- Price (USD): 132
- Weight (KG): .65
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 25
From 10 litres out to 100, Patagonia’s signature Black Hole line of backpacks maximises storage space and allow shoppers to choose their own adventures. On the lighter side of the series sits this 25 Litre pack, which focuses on simplicity and plenty of storage space to make a day’s commute or bikepacking adventure a breeze.
The body of this pack is completely made out of recycled materials, and those linings are protected by a weather-resistant laminate that will protect your gear through a surprise shower or two.
A front stash pocket keeps everything you need close by and the padded back panel is just as comfortable on mile 15 as it is on mile 1. Patagonia is one of the safest choices in outdoor gear, and their black hole pack is no exception.
#6 Best Roll Top Bikepacking Backpack – Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
Meet the best roll top bikepacking backpack: Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
- Price (USD): 79
- Weight (KG): .68
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 20
One clip, a zippered pocket, and two water bottle holders are all that adorn the exterior of this minimalist bikepacking backpack. Ideal for urban biking and the daily grind, this industrial bag has given bike messengers and delivery people the edge they need for years, all at an affordable price.
The Tuck Pack keeps things simple, giving you one less thing to think about while you navigate tough intersections. You’ll find a large interior compartment with plenty of storage space, and a variable roll-top bag that allows you to pack exactly what you need.
While we wish this signature style could come with hip belts and sternum straps, not every bikepacking backpack has to be built for serious miles. Anyone looking for an everyday bag that won’t complicate things can store it all in the Timbuk 2
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#7 Best Mountain Backpack – Deuter Compact EXP 12 Biking Backpack
Our pick for best mountain backpack is Deuter Compact EXP 12 Biking Backpack
- Price (USD): 130
- Weight (KG): 1
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 12
Loads of mountain biking backpacks come with reservoir compatibility, but Deuter didn’t want to just make a backpack that can hold a reservoir, they built a bag around a reservoir. For adventurers who don’t find many great times to stop and take a drink, this hydration pack is a must-have addition to your team.
Three litres of water carrying capacity blends with 12 litres of storage to provide everything you need to stay hydrated and nourished on a full day outside. The bag comes with its own bladder and bite valve, making it a one-stop-shop for your outdoor adventure, and it’s way more than just a hydration pack. Loads of customisation options allow you to carry exactly what you need, and a rain cover makes sure everything stays dry.
All of this blends with Deuters air stripe backing and an incredibly comfortable waist belt to keep the pressure off your back and keep your pedals in motion.
#8 Best Bikepacking Waistpack – Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack
Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack is our top pick for the best bikepacking waist pack
- Price (USD): 66
- Weight (KG): .32
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 5
I told you this black hole line comes in all shapes and sizes! Day trips to your local back-roads or trails don’t require heavy equipment, so focus on speed and still store everything you need in this sleek waist pack.
It’s just a fanny pack, but you’ll find a surprising amount of storage inside this black hole pack. There is enough storage space in this bad boy to keep a change of clothes on hand for work, pack a lunch for a longer ride, or keep everything you need to fix up your bike if the worst happens.
A zippered front pocket allows you to separate your clean socks from the dirty ones, or just keep your phone, keys, and wallet on hand. All of these features strap on with just one simple clip providing you with the lightest possible bikepacking bag on the market.
#9 Best Stem Pack – Alpkit Stem Cell
Meet the best stem pack: Alpkit Stem Cell
- Price (USD): 45
- Weight (KG): .1
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 3
While this stem cell won’t quite grow the new muscles you need to finish off a longer ride, it will hook on easily to any handlebar frame and store all the essentials to keep the most essential aspects of a bikepacking adventure close by.
Slide in your toolkit, a raincoat, or a packed lunch right across the handlebars with the Alpkit. A Stem Cell performs the same function as a handlebar bag, but stores a bit less in much more lightweight packaging. One solid metal clip seals the bag shut but allows easy opening and closing while you’re flying down the backroads.
There are very few moments where I love digging through a large pack to find a granola bar (a great backpacking snack), and while I’m halfway through a scenic ride is absolutely not one of those occasions. Keep everything you need within arms reach with this affordable pack.
#10 Best Fork Bag – Revelate Designs Polecat
For best fork bag, checkout Revelate Designs Polecat
- Price (USD): 44
- Weight (KG): .3
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 3.5
If you bike long enough, you’re bound to run in to some foul weather. This waterproof fork bag can handle downpours, hailstorms and wind gusts to keep your important tools or electronics rolling along for the ride. Seal up this roll-top bag and hook the polecat to your front tire and you’ll have a tough companion ready for the open road.
Revelate designed this bag to take advantage of a bit of extra space. While bikepacking, every inch and ounce is precious, and these guys know that as well as anyone. This bag is one of the lightest pieces of protection on the market that still packs the durability to hold strong whereever your handlebars take you next.
#11 Best Frame Pack – Revelate Designs Tangle Frame Bag
Our top pick for best frame pack is Revelate Designs Tangle Frame Bag
- Price (USD): 105
- Weight (KG): .45
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 6
Much like their Fork bag, this heavy-duty frame piece is fully weather-resistant and functions admirably on all sorts of bikepacking treks. Take advantage of a section of unused space just above your wheelbase to store CO2, snacks, tubes, and tent stakes to make sure everything you need for a weekend in the woods fits on your bike.
You can find loads of different lengths to make sure your frame bag perfectly fits your specific bike. The difference in a few inches really adds up over hundreds of miles, so I was pumped to see all the customization options this frame bag brings to the table.
Secure this bag with three separate straps that lock onto your frame and incorporate a bit of velcro to stay strong through cobblestone streets or the backwoods. This bag isn’t quite large enough to hold it all, but it offers up enough lightweight value to qualify as an essential part of any longer bikepacking trip.
Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.
So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉
Buy on REI!#12 Best Seat Bag – REI CoOp Junction Seat Bag
REI CoOp Junction Seat Bag is one of the best seat bag
- Price (USD): 49
- Weight (KG): .3
- Storage Capacity (Litres): 4
Your bike should never leave the driveway without enough bikepacking tools to fix a flat tire or get you out of the woods in an emergency situation, and that’s exactly what fits in this Junction Seat Bag. Designed to sit just under your cushion and be forgotten about until you need it the most, REI has done it again with this wonderful piece of Bikepacking equipment.
Hopefully, you’ll hardly ever remember this seatback bag is there, but if you ever do, you’ll be stoked you planned ahead and packed this little piece of luxury with you on your next adventure. Whether it’s fixing up a flat tire or grabbing a snack, it’s only a matter of time before this handy piece of equipment qualifies as an indispensable part of your mission.
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Final Thoughts
What are you waiting for? Strap on one of the best bikepacking bags and backpacks and get to riding. These bags will take your cycling adventures and bike packing trips further and further from home. With the right combination of bikepacking bags, you can spend a week or more roaming through the hills and valleys with nothing but your legs pumping out your adventure.
There is no one bag that can do it all, so your best bet is to combine a few different bikepacking bags to make sure everything you need to enjoy your time on the road is close at hand. I’ll never leave the house without my trusty seat bag close at hand, or without my Talon 22 strapped to my sternum and waist.
The frame style bags work great for longer adventures, while bikepacking bags that hook directly onto your stokes and function rain or shine help stretch out the hours you can spend on the back of your bike.
Every one of these bags is as light as a feather and can pack surprisingly large. Whether you strap your bag to your back, your butt, or your handlebars, you’ll find plenty of ways to store your tools and your toys with the bikepacking bags on this list. There is no wrong way to start exploring, so pick a few of your favourite bikepacking styles and get out there!
Remember though, these backpacks will take a beating on your bikepacking trip, so choosing one build to last and then looking after your backpack properly will help it go the distance.
Ya know, carrying a lot of weight on your bike can make those legs burn more than you can face! check the best electric bikes out on the market if you want an easier option for your trip!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
