Vaude Aqua Box Light Bar Bag review - neat, light and useful

A light bar bag that is surprisingly versatile in regard to both fitment and capacity

Vaude Aqua Box Light Bar Bag attached to a bike
(Image credit: Paul Grele)
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The Vaude Aqua Box Light is a lightweight and watertight bar bag made from a 100% recycled fabric called Econyl, which is also PVC-free, adding to its green credentials. The bag will hold up to 4 liters of gear, and is wide enough that it could easily carry a 25cm pump. Overall a really neat, light and useful bar bag that uses a rolltop closure, and is easy to attach to many bikes.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Light weight

  • +

    Easy to attach to many bikes

  • +

    Holds a useful amount of kit

  • +

    Waterproof

  • +

    Simple

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Wide apart attachment points can cause an issue with certain narrow bar bikes

  • -

    Attachment points can 'dent' bar tape

  • -

    Can stop use of a bike computer and/or front light

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Vaude has introduced a new line to their already extensive catalogue of touring panniers and handebar bags. This new series called the Aqua Light range includes front and rear pannier bags as well as the Aqua Box Light being reviewed here. As you'd expect from the name, it is a watertight bag featuring a rolltop closure to keep your kit dry, or dust free, whatever the weather throws at you.

It is also light, weighing in at 170 grams including the shoulder strap or 143g if you decide that you don't need the strap for that journey! Its 4 liter capacity is plenty enough space to carry a few essential tools, an inner tube, a rain jacket, and sundry snacks...

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