The best bikepacking bags will let you travel light on your bike while still carrying all the luggage you need for a multi-day trip. While bicycle touring is a long-established pursuit, bikepacking is far newer.
Certainly, its roots are to be found in traditional touring and Audaxing, but whereas touring usually means a specialist touring bike designed for stability and mounting points for a rack and panniers, most of the best bikepacking bags can be attached directly to the bike's frame, giving you much more flexibility in what you ride and where you can go.
The resurgence in self-supported bike racing on both road and mountain bikes coupled with the interest in all things gravel has led to greater exploration of multi-day rides that piece together both on and off-road sections, all in the pursuit of fun and adventure.
Today it appears that bikepacking could well be on its way to becoming as firmly rooted in cycling culture as traditional touring - and the development of specific bikepacking bags that don’t require pannier racks has certainly aided its growth.
Coupled with the best bikes for bikepacking, these lightweight bikepacking bags, mounted to the frame, handlebars and seatpost, allow you to carry varying loads on both roads and trails. This makes them adaptable for a range of self-supported trips, from mini-adventures to ultra-endurance events and more.
Whether you're planning on a quick over-nighter equipped with little more than a camping stove and a bivvy bag or a trip of a longer duration, we've found the best bikepacking bags and multi-day bike bags on the market. And If you’re new to bikepacking, at the bottom of the page our buyer's guide gives you more detail on all of the things to consider when buying bike luggage.
11 liters is a lot of carrying capacity, and the waterproof Blackburn Outpost does its job very well. The roll-top design is easy to use and attaching it to the bike is very simple. It did catch the tester's legs a little though, so check your saddle/leg/bag combo.
Available in 3 sizes, the Topeak Backloader features waterproof fabric whilst an air purge valve and compression straps reduce its bulk and stabilise the load. Pricing is good although the bag is a little heavier than some on the market.
With a 10-liter capacity and a roll-top closure, Restrap's Bar Pack is perfect for larger loads. There is a smaller compartment to separate the cargo and allow access to some items on the go whilst the waterproof fabric kept everything dry.
Whether used for long trips or commuting, on or off the bike, Chrome's Urban EX bar bag ticked a lot of boxes. The roll-top closure was easy and secure to use, the tough fabric proved durable and the included shoulder strap added extra convenience.
Evoc's Top Tube Pack might only have a 0.5 liter capacity, but the bag's rigid sides and waterproof zip keep the contents secure and stable. Attachment is simple, with just 3 Velcro straps and the addition of a cable port is a nice touch for keeping any handlebar tech charged up.
The 5 Velcro straps used to secure Restrap's frame bag hold it very securely, and meant that it didn't sway or wobble at all. There is access to the 4.5 liter capacity from either side and a divider to help organization whilst the bag is virtually waterproof save for the handy cable port hole.
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Saddle packs
Best bikepacking seat pack for carrying large loads
The Blackburn Outpost seat pack is a clever solution to add a lot of capacity and flexibility without bolting anything onto your bike. The bag itself is a roll-top dry sack and sits in a separate carrier that attaches to your bike, so it's easy to remove the bag for access in camp.
However, it does recommend not attaching to a carbon seat post (but we have in the past). It provides a great level of waterproofing, and its position does act as a bit of an ass-saver, but the extra weight up high does take a bit of getting used to.
The Velcro attachment straps were unfortunately noticeable on the back of the legs when pedalling, something worth considering if you're planning on being in the saddle for multiple days.
The Cluster bag is the smallest of Italian brand Miss Grape's seat post bags at 7 liters, which means that it works well for shorter seatpost lengths and shorter trips, although webbing loops on top allow stowage of extra items outside the main compartment. The rubber straps help to prevent damage to the bike and ensure a stable fit.
The roll-down top ensures water resistance, which we tested in a storm. Loaded up, the bag can sag a little, although it avoids sway and doesn't rub against the thighs as you pedal.
There are several rear bikepacking Tailfin setups, all of which will require the Tailfin rack system. The whole setup with carbon option will set you back over £300 / $400, although there is an alloy rack version that is £70 / $90 cheaper, but a couple of hundred grams more in weight (but you do gain three extra mounts for the ability to add other bottle cages or luggage).
The frame-mounted system boasts to be quick release unlike traditional racks, coming free in a claimed 30 seconds, with either QR or thru-axle compatibility. The seatpost connection is secure and kind to carbon frames and is designed to wrap around any size or shape of seatpost, including deep aero.
The total maximum load for the racking system is a substantial 9kg. With two Transcontinental Races under its belt, the fully waterproof system has won plenty of fans. On test, we found the system to be ace, with the design simplicity and ease of use making you forget the price on the first ride.
The Backloader from Topeak has been specifically designed for bikepacking as a streamlined way of carrying gear. It is constructed using what Topeak says is a lightweight, highly water-resistant and durable fabric.
The pack has compression straps to help condense its waistline, which should reduce the pendulum effect, and a built-in air release button helps reduce the inner bag further. Available in 6, 10 or 15-liter options, it uses both clips and a Velcro mounting system attached to the saddle rails and seat post.
Restrap's 10-liter Bar Pack is made from durable, waterproof nylon. It has an easy-to-use roll-top that's closed using two buckles, with this main compartment complemented by a smaller secondary compartment that uses a Velcro closure. Essentially this means that you can still access items while on the go. On test we loved this combination, with the roll-top being a real winner.
The bag's generous 10L capacity allowed us to carry all we'd want to in a bar bag, with the compression straps doing a neat job of keeping everything in place. The additional details of both a D-lock holder and bungee webbing only added to the Bar Pack's functionality and appeal.
The Chrome Urban Ex is both well-designed and well-made. The roll-top closure makes it easy to access your gear and is suitably robust. Likewise, the rest of the bag feels equally durable, with a tough waterproof fabric on the bag's exterior and a decent level of padding on the inside of the bag. Its smaller size means that it's great for everyday use while still being practical for longer trips. The inclusion of a shoulder strap only helps to increase the bag's versatility.
With an 8-liter capacity, the Topeak Frontloader bag is a good option for light but bulky items like a sleeping bag. There's a harness which can remain attached to the bars and a separate, removable dry bag that opens at each end. An air valve lets you compress the contents down more. The bag and harness combined weigh 500g and will take a maximum 5kg load.
With one sealed pocket, the Frontloader isn't the best bag for access while on the go, but it works well to add plenty of extra carrying capacity. It's stable and doesn't affect the bike's handling, although it can interfere with control cables on some bikes.
Rather than the more usual straps or permanent bolt-on support, the Ortlieb bag has a plastic bracket on which the bag hangs. This attaches without tools to the bars, making it easy to remove when not required and preventing the bag from rubbing on the frame.
The 11-liter capacity means that you can pack a lot into the bag, although it's a little wide for drop bar bikes, when the side mesh pockets are really only suitable for gel wrappers. Ideally, you need at least 44cm bar width to take full advantage of the bag's capacity.
The 1.5-liter capacity and narrow design of the Restrap Race bag means that it's less likely to interfere with your pedalling, while mesh side pockets let you add extra stowage for items like gels. It is attached to the bike with Velcro straps and a bungee cord.
Waterproofing proved fine for moderate rainfall and the bag feels durable. There's plenty of room for a phone, arm warmers and snacks, although we'd have liked better internal compartmentation.
Limited capacity and rigid sides prevent expansion
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Larger phones may not fit
The Evoc Top Tube Bag provides 0.5 liters of extra carrying capacity for those things you need to get to easily on your ride. Its rigid build means that you can fit heavier items like a (smaller) phone as well as gels and the like. There's a waterproof zip and an internal mesh pocket that helps with organisation.
The bag is easy to attach to the bike via three Velcro straps and remains firmly in place. There's adequate space, it's durable and the Evoc bag isn't expensive for a quality build.
This useful ride companion is best for those outings where you want to keep heavier items out of your pockets, or simply need to carry more ride essentials. The fabric is robust and water-resistant and the zip is easy to operate on the move.
Attached to the top tube and steerer with Velcro, we found that these straps were a little long on our test bike, so the bag would work best on oversized tubing.
Can still fit two bottles in larger bike frame sizes
Reasons to avoid
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Not quite fully waterproof
Restrap offers the Frame Bag in three sizes, with the Large offering 4.5 liters capacity and its 50cm length fitting a size 56 frame perfectly - it should work for a 54 too.
Attachment is via three rubberised Velcro straps on the top tube plus two more on the down tube and a further one on the seat tube, making sure that the bag doesn't move around as you ride. It holds its shape well too and is good for heavier items.
Full-length zips on both sides and a central divider, along with internal pockets help with organisation. It's waterproof, save for some ingress through the cable port on the top of the bag.
This half-frame bag is designed to make the best use of real estate inside the front triangle without compromising water bottle access. Compatible with anything from carbon road frames to full suspension mountain bikes, it's the ideal place to keep smaller items that you need to access easily, including snacks, electric items and toiletries.
Ortlieb says that the bag is fully waterproof and uses sturdy Velcro straps to attach to the top, head and seat tubes. There's a 3 liter version available as well.
Backpacks
(Image credit: Future)
Thule Vital 8 Backpack
All-rounder riding pack
Specifications
Dimensions: 23 x 10 x 44cm
Capacity: 8l
Weight: 549 grams
Colors: Black, Moroccan Blue
Reasons to buy
+
Convenient access for valuables
+
Stable when riding
Reasons to avoid
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The clip for the stash space has to undone to fully open the bag
Space in bikepacking bags is always at a premium, so an effective way of adding a little extra capacity is making use of a rucksack. First thing to highlight is the general good advice of letting your bike bear the load rather than your shoulders - heavy kit is still best carried on the bike, and I’ve found going for a smaller sized backpack like this helps to limit the inclination to overpack (and helps stop your kit rattling about so much, too).
There are additional benefits in using a rucksack. I’ve appreciated the convenience of keeping my valuables in the Thule Vital 8, rather than storing them in a top tube bag and having to fish them out and stuff them in my pockets when walking into shops to pick up supplies (and often overstuffing my pockets with those as well!)
Beyond that, by making use of the hydration pack that comes with the Thule Vital 8, that means the space that my water bottles take up can be used by a larger frame bag, which is a more efficient way of using the main triangle of the bike. Of course, you can get this benefit just by using a hydration pack in a full frame bag, but it is easier refilling when the bladder is in your backpack rather than in your frame bag.
The range of pockets and stability when riding with the Thule Vital 8 backpack is great (the latter is somewhat helped by the fact you can’t pack too much into the 8l volume the bag provides). The one downside is that the clip for the stash space (useful for stuffing a windshell or waterproof) has to be undone for you to fully open the main compartment. This adds an extra step and means that the waterproof jacket tends to flop out. It’s frustrating as if the clip was simply on the other side of the zip, neither of those things would be an issue.
All-rounder
Buyers guide to how to choose the best bikepacking bags
Do I need a seat pack for bikepacking trips?
Seat packs are the modern alternative to racks and panniers - but some do feature a lightweight supportive rack. These offer great versatility as you can fit them to almost any bike in a matter of minutes (you'll need to look at specific models if you run a dropper post though).
These seatpost bags typically mount using straps around the seatpost and through the saddle rails. Check that you have plenty of seatpost available for the size of the bag attachment, and smaller riders may find they'll have to opt for a smaller capacity bag here.
Waterproofing varies between models and also has a noticeable impact on cost. Opting for a fully waterproof seat pack (or any bikepacking bag for that matter) will make your life much easier at the end of a long, wet day in the saddle. Alternatively, invest in some good dry bags to pack inside your bags to keep your kit dry.
Often with a generous capacity, a seat pack can be a great place to store bulkier items such as your sleeping bag, clothing and bivvy bag. It may take some time to get used to the feeling of riding with a full seat pack, as your centre of gravity will be raised higher which will affect handling, hence why they are best used for lighter items.
What should I store in a handlebar bag?
Handlebar bags offer great storage capacity at the front of your set-up, both for drop bar and flat bar bikes. For bikepacking trips, the larger bags offer more space, although they're best suited to large and bulky items just like seat packs, as they can be harder to get in and out of quickly.
Mounting-wise, it might take a bit of fiddling to get your dashboard set up just right, especially if you are using a bike computer and lights too. Bar shape will also play a role in system compatibility, although many will work across both straight and drop bar cockpits. However, you will need to consider how they work with the space between the shifters, how much drop there is on your bike from bar to front wheel and your front-end cabling before deciding on capacity.
You might find a handlebar harness is a good alternative for you. This allows you to mount anything from a tent or sleeping bag to a drybag or small duffel bag in front of your bars. Again, like any front bag, you'll need to think about cockpit size, shape and braking, with disc brakes being preferable and cantilever the least compatible.
How do I choose a frame bag for bikepacking?
Do I need a full or half-frame bag - and how do I pack it?
Choose between full-frame bags that fit inside the whole front triangle down to the bottom bracket, or smaller half-frame bags that run along the top tube and leave space for your water bottles. If you're going for the first option, you'll need to think about how else to store your water, for example using a bladder and hose system in the frame bag or on your back.
Although frame bags can be a great way to make use of space on the bike for storage, you'll need to carefully check for compatibility. Smaller frames, sloping top tubes and suspension can make fitting tricky, which is why some people opt to go for a custom-made frame bag.
The other important point about frame bags is that you'll need to learn to pack them well. This narrow space doesn't lend itself to bulky items but is better suited to storing flatter kit, thus resulting in the bag bulging less and reducing the possibility of interference with either you and your pedalling or cranks. If using a half-frame bag, this is a great option for small items that you like to keep close to hand, including snacks, electricals, and toiletries.
Are there other bags well-suited to bikepacking?
Yes, frame, seat and bar bags aren't the only way for you to carry your gear on a bikepacking trip.
Having a small bag that you can gain easy access to while on the bike can be a game changer in terms of not having to dismount, which is easier said than done when you have a fully laden bike to balance, and you can simply reach in while on the move for food or electrical items.
Snack pouch bags can be very versatile, often with Velcro straps meaning you can fit them to almost any bike. If you don't want to wear anything with pockets on a short blast or you are looking for extra storage on a week-long trip, these little bags can make a big difference.
The obvious alternative to bags strapped to your frame is to cantilever them over your wheels in the form of panniers. These will significantly increase your carrying capacity, but that in turn will slow your progress.
If you have a bike intended for touring or bikepacking, you might find the forks come with leg mounts for extra bottle cages, and there are also after-market options that allow you to clamp on additional mounts. These immediately give you increased carrying capacity, either for water or an extra bag.
How we test
Bikepacking bags can only really be assessed by using them extensively; what may be unnoticeable or seem inconsequential at home might turn into a real issue after 3 nights away or 100km into a tough ride. Luckily, Cycling Weekly has a number of keen and experienced bikepackers on hand to put the bags through their paces.
Ease of attachment, stability on the bike and packability are all key considerations for all bikepacking bags, whatever their size. Durability and weatherproofness are also key, as is how the bags interact with the rider in use.
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After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships and claiming the plushie unicorn (true story), Stefan swapped the flat-bars for drop-bars and has never looked back.
But his favourite rides are multiday bikepacking trips, with all the huge amount of cycling tech and long days spent exploring new roads and trails - as well as histories and cultures. Most recently, he’s spent two weeks riding from Budapest into the mountains of Slovakia.
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