The Best Bikepacking Bags of 2021: The Ultimate list and Buying Guide

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Whether you are embarking on a single day ride or multi-day expedition, you need to be able to bring your essentials. The right choice of bikepacking bags will offer you ample storage space without compromising on performance or overly bearing on your bike or mountain bike’s frame. One of the top benefits of bikepacking bags is that they utilize the readily available space around the frame of the bike which is otherwise unused. Whether for a road bike or cycle touring.

Below is a look at the best bikepacking bags for your consideration, whether you’re going on a regular cycle or mountain biking, have lots of gear or just need an accessory bag, and a guide on how to choose among the numerous bikepacking bags on the market.

Contents

Best Bikepacking Bags

Ibera Bicycle Triangle Frame Bag

ibera bicycle triangle frame bag isolated on white background

This frame bikepacking bag is one of the best-selling on Amazon for its high-quality build and riding efficiency design. It is available in two sizes a 3L medium and 5L large.

It has multiple external compartments and a spacious, main large internal compartment. It can be packed with items such as tools, keys, wallet, snacks, and other small items. Both the main compartment and slim outside pockets have zippers. Additionally, it is fitted with Velcro straps that secure the bag tightly on the frame. It also has a reflective trim for improved visibility at night.

The frame bag is made of 420D nylon fabric that is durable, water-resistant, and anti-abrasive. Its slim body design offers minimal wind resistance for high speed riding. The slim design also ensures that the bag does not get in the way of your knees and feet when riding.

Specifications

  • Type: Frame bag
  • Capacity: 3L
  • Materials: 420D nylon
  • Waterproof: No
  • Additional features: Multiple compartments
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other Size options: 5L

Pros

  • Slim design for minimal wind resistance
  • Quality build
  • Reflective trim for visibility
  • Water-resistant
  • Spacious main compartment
  • Several external compartments
  • Compatible with most bike

Cons

  • Not waterproof

RockBros Bikepacking Saddle Bag

rockbros bikepacking bag isolated on white background

This RockBros Bikepacking Seat Bag is versatile, functional, and durable. It can be mounted either on the round seat rod or the breaking wind seat rod. As such, it can serve as either a saddle bag or seat bag. It is compatible with most types of bikes including mountain bikes, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, and bmx among others.

This bag has a high-quality build to withstand mud and dirt. It is made of 600D nylon and TPU with a 3-layer design that keeps it waterproof. It also has built-in steel around the using panels that keep the bag compact, in shape, and prevents items from protruding. It is easy to clean and you can easily wipe off dirt and dust with a wet cloth.

It packs light and efficiently. This bikepacking bag has a capacity of 14L and it can be used to pack a wide range of items including clothes and a small sleeping bag or pad. With a roll-up closure design, the saddle bag allows you to adjust its length depending on your capacity needs. It is also foldable for easy storage when not in use.

It is easy to install as it comes with a fixed buckles and straps that you can use to secure the bag under the seat. It also comes with reflective straps for enhanced visibility when cycling at night. It can serve as a fender during heavy rains to prevent muddy water from splashing on your clothes when cycling.

Specifications

  • Type: Saddle bag or seat bag
  • Capacity: 12-14L
  • Materials: 600D nylon and TPU
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Additional features: Built in steel all round
  • Color Options: Black or grey
  • Size options: Standard

Pros

  • High quality build
  • Easy to clean
  • A relatively big capacity
  • Versatile
  • Foldable

Cons

  • Stitching underneath the bag comes off easily

RockBros Top-Tube Bike Bag

rockbros top tube bike bag

The RockBros Top-Tube Bike Bag is versatile, lightweight, and durable. It is easy to install and disassemble on your bike’s top-tube using three adjustable Velcro straps. You can either tie the front Velcro straps to the handlebar stem or the bottom two to the angled bar. It should be mounted behind the headset to ensure it is aero. Furthermore, its slim body design prevents it from rubbing your knees for comfortable riding.

This top-tube bag is made of 210D polyester material which is rip-resistant, wear-resistant and has high abrasion-resistance. The bottom is made of non-slip fabric that ensures it sits firmly on the frame. The material is easy to clean even when here is mud or dirt.

It also has a smooth zipper at the top for easy opening and closing of the bag with one hand even as you ride. The zipper has a protective cap that offers water-resistance protection. Additionally, the bikepacking bag has a reflective log and rope for enhanced visibility when riding at night or in low-lighting conditions.

It is super lightweight (98g) with a capacity of 1L. It can be used for items that you would need to access easily and frequent throughout your trip such as sunglasses, keys, phone, gloves, energy bars, wallets, or repair kit.

It has a tiered storage design for easy organization and access of your items. It has a main compartment and two net pockets on the inside. In addition, it has an outer elastic rope that you can use to store you gloves or a mini-pump. It is specially designed to be compatible with iPhone (7, 8 Plus, 11 Pro, Max, XR, and XS Max), Samsung (Note 9, S9, and S10), and Huawei P30 Pro.

Specifications

  • Type: Top-tube bag
  • Capacity: IL
  • Materials: 210D polyester
  • Waterproof: No
  • Additional features: Compatible with a wide range of phone, Utility pockets
  • Color Options: Black
  • Size options: Standard

Pros

  • Offers quick access of items even as you ride
  • Easy to install and disassemble
  • Fits a 16.9 once water bottle
  • Compatible with different phones
  • Superlight weight
  • Tiered storage design

Cons

  • Not weather-resistant

Rhinowalk Bike Saddle Bag

rhinowalk bike saddle bag wet in rain

This bike saddle bag also doubles up as a seat bag. You can choose among three sizes 1.5L, 5L, 10L, and 13L capacity. The 10L,13L and 15L bags can pack a wide range of items including cycling clothes, shoes, camera, water bottle, sleeping bag, jackets, tubes, repair kits, phones, and many more

It has a sturdy and stable design with non-skid leather on all parts that are in contact with the seat post and strong straps for a tight hold on the seat post even if the bag is loaded with heavy objects. These two prevent swaying and tail wag of the luggage. Its concise style also reduces air resistance enabling high speed cycling.

It has a high-quality build that is waterproof and durable. It is made of superlight 600D TPU material that is water, dust and dirt proof. It is made using a high frequency wielding technology for durability and easy cleaning. The bag is fitted with a plastic buckle at the top for easy lifting and increased bearing capacity.

It is easy to install and disassemble on most bikes, as it has a sticky loop and hook strap with an easy release buckle for easy mounting on a saddle rack or seat post. It comes with a multi-position taillight for enhanced visibility in low light conditions.

Specifications

  • Type: Saddle and seat bag
  • Capacity: I0L
  • Materials: 600D TPU
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Additional features: Plastic buckle, multi-position taillight design, strong banding, no-skid leather
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other size options: 1.5L, 5L, and 13L

Pros

  • High-quality build
  • Waterproof
  • Sturdy and stable design
  • Compatible with most bikes
  • Concise style for high-speed riding
  • Easy to clean
  • Can be used for a wide range of items

Cons

  • Does not stretch for increased luggage capacity

MOOCi Bicycle Frame Bag

mooci bicycle frame bag fixed on bicycle frame

The MOOCi bicycle frame bag has a fashionable and sporty design. It is compatible with most mountain and road bikes. It is super light (weighs 150g) and both the interior compartment and side compartments are quite spacious. The compartments have easy to open zippers.

It has a slim, aerodynamic design that fits well on the frame without getting in the way of your riding experience. It is made of 600D twill fabric that is sturdy and durable. It is waterproof and dust resistant. However, the manufacturer warns against using it in heavy rain conditions. Its exterior has a soft yet firm feel. The bag is easy to install and remove as it is fitted with 4 adjustable wide straps.

Specifications

  • Type: Frame bag
  • Capacity: Not indicated
  • Materials: 600D polyester
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other size options: Not indicated

Pros

  • Spacious storage compartments
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Slim, aerodynamic design

Cons

  • Some people find the soft feel flimsy
  • Manufacturer does not indicate its capacity

RNS Bike Frame Bag

rns bike frame bag green color isolated on white background

This RNS frame bikepacking bag is made of high-duty polyester for water-resistance and durability. The bag is easy to clean even when mud splashes on it. It is ideal for use with different bikes including mountain bikes, fat bikes, and mountain bikes.

It has several spacious storage compartments for easy organization of your items. On the inside, it has flexible dividers to organize things, a net compartment where you can put items such as car keys, maps and phones. On the outside, there are two other compartment where you can put a 350ml water bottle and other essentials. The bag has quality YKK zipper that is easy to open and durable. It also has adjustable hooks and loop fasteners for easy and sturdy mounting on your bike. The manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Specifications

  • Type: Frame bag
  • Capacity: 7L
  • Materials: Polyester
  • Waterproof: No
  • Additional features: Adjustable loops and hook fasteners
  • Color Options: Black, green, gray, and camo
  • Other size options: No

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Good quality build
  • Water-resistant
  • Adjustable hook and fastener design
  • Easy to install and remove

Cons

  • Not waterproof

Roswheel Bike Handlebar Bag

roswheel bike handlebar bag black color

This Roswheel bikepacking bag is versatile as it can be used as a handlebar bag, top-tube bag, saddle bag, or seat bag. It has a detachable inner tank design for mounting versatility. The outer part is made of tear-resistant jacquard nylon while the main compartment is made of a waterproof double-wall TPU. The main tank has a rollup top design that offers an adjustable capacity of between 3L and 9L. It has around-bottomed structure design for easy packing. The bag can be used to store a wide range of items including cycling accessories, sleeping bags, outfits, wallets, gloves, spare tubes, repair kits, etc.,

It is easy to mount as it comes with 3 velcro straps that have flat side release buckles. When mounting on the handle bars, ensure that the weight distribution of the luggage is balanced. It is best used with bikes have a thick handlebar tube because the Velcro straps are quite long. The bag has a reflective logo and safety lights handers for enhanced visibility in the dark.

Specifications

  • Type: Handlebar bag
  • Capacity: 3L-9L
  • Materials: Polyester and nylon
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Additional features: Mounting versatility
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other size options: Standard

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Detachable design
  • Round bottomed tank design for easy packing
  • Mounting versatility
  • Rollup top design for increased capacity

Cons

  • The Velcro straps are too long for a snug fit on the handlebar

Blackburn Outpost Bike Frame Bag

blackburn outpost bike frame bag isolated on white background

The Blackburn Outpost Bike Frame Bag is available in three sizes: Small (3L), medium (5L), and large (7L). It has various compartments for easy organization of your items. It is made of coated 210D rip stop nylon which is expandable to accommodate more items. The compartments have polyurethane zippers that close well and are easy to open. Its design also incorporates hose ports for storage of water bottles or cache battery. This bag offers adjustable mounting through the various adjustable mounting systems to enable it fit in most types of bikes.

Specifications

  • Type: frame bag
  • Capacity: 7L
  • Materials: Polyester and nylon
  • Waterproof: No
  • Additional features: Adjustable mounting systems
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other size options: 3L and 5L

Pros

  • Adjustable mounting systems
  • Multiple compartments
  • Expandable fabric
  • Spacious main compartment
  • Compatible with most types of bikes

Cons

  • Not waterproof

BV Bicycle strap-on saddle/seat bag

bv bicycle strap on saddle seat bag isolated on white background

The BV Bicycle strap-on bikepacking bag is both a saddle bag and seat bag. It is available in different sizes including a non-expandable small (0.4L), expendable medium (0.7-1.0L), and expandable large (1.1-1.5L) for your capacity needs.

Its design incorporates mesh pockets and key clips for easy organization and access of your items. The main compartment is easy to access via the wide zippered opening. Here you can store your phone, wallet, keys, bike lock, mini pump, etc.

Its strap-on design secures the bag firmly on the bike velcro adjustable straps. It also has a 3M Scotch line reflective trim and taillight hanger for visibility in the dark. The manufacturer offers a 100% quality guarantee and one-year limited warranty.

Specifications

  • Type: Seat/saddle bag
  • Capacity:1.5 L
  • Materials: Not indicated
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Additional features: Taillight hanger, strap-on Velcro adjustable straps
  • Color Options: Black
  • Other size options: 0.4L and 1L

Pros

  • Expandable capacity for the large and medium bags
  • Easy to mount and remove strap-on design
  • Adjustable Velcro design
  • Waterproof
  • Reflective trim and taillight hanger
  • Wide zippered opening
  • Limited one-year warranty

Cons

  • Strap design that does not work well if mounting as a saddle bag

RockBros Bike Seat Bag

rockbros bike seat bag isolated on white background

This RockBros bikepacking seat/saddle bag has a 3D shell design with a wave cushion which is shock-resistant and waterproof. It has a taped zipper that reinforces its rain and water proof properties.

It is easy to install for a snug fit on the bike. The bag comes with 2 stickup straps and a rubber buckle that securely attach the bag to the seat post. For enhanced night visibility, it has a reflective strap and a taillight hook. On the inside, it has detailed mesh pockets for storing delicate items such as cash, keys, snacks, and small repair tools. It is best suited for road bikes. The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty.

Specifications

  • Type: Seat/saddle bag
  • Capacity: Not indicated
  • Materials: Polyester
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Additional features: Taillight hanger, mesh pockets, rubber buckle, and 2 stickup straps
  • Color Options: Black, blue, green, and red
  • Other size options: Not indicated

Pros

  • Easy to mount
  • Waterproof
  • Shock-resistant 3D shell design
  • Attaches securely on the seat post
  • Taillight compatible
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Does fit well on mountain bikes

Buying Guide: How to choose a bikepacking bag

Here are some factors to consider when deciding on which bikepacking bag to buy from your local bag maker.

Types of bikepacking bags

There are 5 main types of bikepacking bags as follows:

Frame bags

They sit inside the triangle of the frame. They have a higher load capacity and can be used to carry heavier gear. There are two main types of frame bags: full-frame and half-frame bags.

The full frame bags occupy the entire space on the frame’s triangle. They are usually designed into two parts with an upper and bottom parts that are separated by a divider. The divider helps you to organize your luggage so that what you will need first is on the top part. Some also have additional organizational pockets.

On the other hand, the half-frame bags are smaller than the full-frame ones and sit below the top tube of the bike’s frame. They are ideal for storing a wide range of items including water, food, clothes, sleeping bag, repair kits, personal items, and other gear. For either type, it is important that you measure the size of frame and tube so that you can get the right size frame bag.

Seat bags

Seat bags are designed to fit on the lashes or seat rails. They come with straps for easy mounting and are available in different sizes. Their capacity ranges between 5 and 15 liters.

The right size will depend on your storage needs and the type of bike you will be using it on.

Seasoned bikers recommend that you use smaller seat bags for shorter and sporty rides and bigger ones for longer adventures. When packing a seat bag, ensure that the heavier items are positioned near the bottom of the seat and lighter and frequently used items on the other end.

Note that bigger seat bags offer more tail wag which can limit performance when riding in adverse conditions. Also, if not properly fastened, they can sway from side to side.

To combat this issue, some seat bag manufacturers provide a rigid frame where you strap the seat bag on to reduce sway. Also, if the seat bag has a roll-top closure, it is likely that it will trap air. In this scenario, it is best to go for a bag that has an air release valve.

Handlebar bags

These strap beneath the head tube or handlebar roll. They pack in such a way that it is difficult to access items. Therefore, this bar bag is best for packing items such as sleeping bags and camping clothes that you won’t need to use until you reach your destination. When fastening a handlebar bag on the bike, ensure that it is not crushing the cables. Just be sure you can make use of your handlebar harness well.

Top-tube bags

As the name suggests, they are mounted on the top-tube. They typically have a low capacity and are most ideal for storing repair kits or holding on your phone. You can also store a few snacks in them.

Saddle pack

They are anchored either on the saddle rail or seat posts or seat pack. Most are either one piece or holster, pannier styles. Some have a roll-up top closure that enable it to accommodate more items.

Fastening

Different manufacturers incorporate different fastening mechanisms including Velcro, lacing systems, rubber straps, or braze-ons. While some fasteners are removable others are permanently attached to the bag. Look for a convenient frame pack as well.

Dominant riding style

Off-road riding requires a balanced distribution of luggage weight to ensure stability even on rough terrains. For road riding, aero is paramount and can be achieved by ensuring that the larger luggage is on the seat while lighter and smaller luggage is on the handlebars to reduce drag.

Frame strength

One of the cons of bikepacking bags is that excess weight may compromise the durability of the frame. This can be prevented by packing only a sustainable weight on the frame. Also, wrap the frame and other rubbing points with electrical tape or hellitape to prevent paint from chipping off.

There is a wide range of the different types of bikepacking to choose from. They come in varying sizes, shapes, designs, and gear capacities. Some are made from expendable material or have a rollup design to increase their capacity for larger items like camping gear. Others have a compact design that can function as a rear rack. Some work alongside saddle rails to make the rider more comfortable and offer a bottle cage to keep hydration close.

The best bikepacking bag is one that is waterproof, or a dry bag, that meets your capacity and padding needs, mounts easily and sturdily, and is compatible with your bike or e-bike. Additional features to look out for in a bikepack for bike touring or a bikepacking trip include taillight compatibility and adjustable mounting mechanism.

Last Updated on May 29, 2023 by Danijel Cakalic

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