I was searching for the best bikepacking bags, as I am making a transition from a more traditional cycle touring setup. So I asked over 100 bikepackers what their favourite and best bikepacking bags that they have used and have had experience with using.
This article is the ultimate list including a mini-review of all the different bike bag brands and companies, with a in-depth look into each specific bag.
These bikepacking bag options are in no particular order, But it must be said that all of them have been recommended by other bikepackers.
Alpkit
Stingray
The Stingray Custom Bikepacking Frame Bag has a huge amount of potential. Starts from $75
The cool thing about this Alpkit bikepacking bag is you literally get to build and design your own bags. You follow easy instructions, sending them a template of your bikes frame. So the idea is to get the bag to fit exactly in your frame.
Koala
AlpKit Koala – bearbonesbikepacking.blogspot.com
The Koala Bikepacking Seat Bag, with a roll top closure, is a large enough bag to fit a 2 person tent, and more. Keeps stable, even when fully loaded you notice very little sway, keeping your gear secure. Compatible with the Exo-Rail. Options for 7 and 13 litres. Costs $85.00
Stem Cell
The Stem Cell Stem-mounted Bikepacking Bag, is perfect for some extra snacks or a water bottle, camera, spare bike tools and many other bike accessories. Great bike bag to seperate storage and keep your gear organised. Price $32.00
Fuel Pod
The Alpkit Fuel Pod Top Tube Bikepacking Bag, is a great storage option on your top tube for gels, extra snacks and other gear. Available in to different sizes. The bag attaches very nicely to the frame. As there are 3 velcro straps. It’s sits firmly and does not get in the way. Price $35.00
Apidura
Apidura is a popular option with bikepackers. I have been considering them for a while now. But as of recently they have released their new waterproof bikepacking bags. But if you are considering buying just all waterproof options in Apidura then you may want to re-think. Only because, they are more expensive and also the waterproof lining on the inside of the bag makes it a little difficult to stuff gear in them. Tommy recommended, “If I had it to do over again today, I would only buy a couple pieces of the waterproof stuff.”
Further more Tommy said, “I’d suggest going with the normal Apudura Kit and adding 1 or 2 waterproof packs strategically. Their “water resistant” bags have worked very well for me, even through some pretty serious rain. If I see a lot of rain in the forecast, I simply use kitchen garbage bag liners in the seat and handlebar packs, while using smaller zip lock bags inside the accessory pack. Lots of ways to make it work without them all being waterproof.”
Saddle Pack
The Apidura Backcountry Saddle Pack, is the cheaper option compared to the Expedition (waterproof option). In three different sizes, 11L, 14L, 17L. A well thought out and large capacity option at 17 Litres. From $95.50
Handlebar Pack
The Backcountry Handlebar Pack is best suited to carry light, compressible items on long distance rides and multi-day adventures. The bag has a double ended opening design with roll up ends, like a dry bag, Allowing you to alter the size of the bag making it smaller if needed. From $79.10
Frame Pack
The Backcountry Compact Frame Pack, has carbon friendly velcro straps, also includes internal storage zip pocket which is great for your passport. From $68.00
Expedition Top Tube Pack (waterproof), Perfect for adding some extra storage solutions to your bikepacking setup. Comes in two different sizes. From $44.00
Expedition Accessory Pocket 4.5L, A good add on bag to the previously mentioned Handlebar pack. Does not work as a standalone product. Also a waterproof option. From $52.00
Salsa Anything Bags. With Anything Cage and Straps
The Salsa Anything Bag and Cage are the ultimate bikepacking bag for your front forks. You can fasten pretty much anything onto the cage itself with the straps, like a large water bottle or other dry bags. And the Salsa Anything Bags are a great addition to this combo.
Bag From $32.00
Cage and two straps From $30.00
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Budget Option for $24.95 on Amazon : Blackburn Outpost Cargo Cage, has silicone straps which seems like a better option for storing larger items, allowing for some flexibility. Has got some really great reviews on Amazon.
Arkel Dry Bag Panniers
These are the lightweight (417 grams in total weight) waterproof panniers. Borderline between bikepacking and cycle touring, these bags are designed with bikepacking in mind. A minimalist attempt at a standard sized pannier.
They have really focused on stripping down the pannier material. They are essentially a dry bag with some velcro straps. There is no stiffener back to the pannier, which results in less weight and no metals clips to attach the pannier to racks.
These panniers work best with a rear rack that provides enough structure and support to keep the panniers from touching the spokes. The material is thin looking but is still durable and waterproof. When packing make sure to take good care to not have sharp object that could wear down the surface of the bag. From $76.00
Carradice Longflap Camper
The Longflap Camper is a beast of a bikepacking saddle bag. Giving you a large 23 litre storage capacity. The bag includes 3 leather straps to connect to the bike. It has options for attaching to the bike with saddlebag fixing accessories. Also they sell a shoulder strap to carry the saddlebag when off the bike.
They are not the most perfect bikepacking saddlebag out there. (hard to find a ‘perfect’ one). But they are so bloody cool! I cannot get over the old school style and the storage potential. From $105
WOHO
The Woho bikepacking bag selections is stylish and lightweight, they are even available for cheaper prices on Aliexpress and they are reputable as decent enough quality bike bags. Find out more at woho.bigcartel.com
XTOURING HANDLEBAR BAG DRY M ＋ ADD-ON PACK BUNDLE $100
XTOURING FULL FRAME BAG DRY, available in a medium and large size. This frame bag is a roll top closure which helps in making it waterproof enough. From $106
XTOURING SADDLE BAG DRY M ＋ ANTI SWAY BUNDLE, really like the design and style of all the Woho bag options, this saddle bage bundle includes a anti sway frame. Price $100
Revelate Designs
RIPIO® FRAME BAG, Comes in 4 size (S to XL), Offer handy features like velcro supporting straps to the inside of the bag for storing a pump. Exit port in the main compartment of the bag for a hydration tube.
TERRAPIN® SYSTEM 8L SADDLE BAG, They also make a larger 14 l saddle pack. But this one is the most popular with bikepackers. The design is a mount that stays on the bike and a inner dry bag that fastens to the mount and can be easily removed when needed. The 8L Terrapin Won the 2018 Bikepacking Awards Gear of Year! $145
SWEETROLL® HANDLEBAR PACK, A highly versatile bag, That is 100% waterproof, dual roll up closure sides for a huge potential for storing gear. From $99
Oveja Negra
Gearjammer™ Seat Bag comes in multiple (unique) colours and patterns. (I really like the MULTICAM TROPIC). Available in a size Medium and Large. The name Gear Jammer is trucker lingo for a “speeding big rig”. From $125
Lunchbox™ Handlebar Bag, is a smaller top bag that is designed to sit on top of the Front End Loader when a dry bag or other gear like a tent is fasten into it. From $45
Chuckbucket™ Handlebar Snack Bag, Designed to hold snacks for when traveling on the go. Also designed around a 1L Nalgene. One hand opening and closing. From $55
Superwedgie™ Frame Bag, available in 2 sizes, see Oveja Negra for the measurements. This bag is a ‘wedge’ shape, that is designed to sit up to the front of the frame. While leaving space at the back to allow for space to mount a water bottle on the seat tube. From $95
Rogue Panda
Rogue Panda sells both custom made and universal bikepacking bags.
Double Decker Frame Bag, you get the option to have a side pocket for a extra $15 and to either choose from there standard colours or pay a little extra to see there current list of cooler patterns. Taking the name from a classic double decker bus they use the same idea with storing gear on two zip compartments on top of each other. From $165
Alamo Top Tube Bag, is one of Rogue Pandas most popular bags. From $60
J Paks
DropperPak Saddle Pack, *Coming Soon* ready for pre-order (at the time of writing this article). Price $200
BarritoPak, Is a small handlebar bag option. It is the perfect place for a rain jacket and pants, gloves, arm warmers, and beer. From $
RukSak, stem bags starting from $55.00
Top Tube Storage, Comes in 4 different sizes, with velcro or bolt-on mounting methods. From $65.00
Bedrock Bags
MOAB HANDLEBAR BAG, A completely unique bike handlebar bag is made for modern trail bikes. This bag takes advantage of modern MTB geometry while preserving rock-solid stability and precise handling on the trail. From $160
BLACK DRAGON DROPPER SEAT BAG, Specifically designed saddle bag for dropper posts. Also works as a smaller non-dropper seat post bag option. From $175
GREYSILL HIP PACK, Hip packs or fanny packs for bikepacking are a really cool idea. I want to get one, would be perfect for storing a camera for quick access. A creative design that offers 4L+ volume, rock-solid ride quality, and a unique and sharp aesthetic. From $100
COCONINO SEAT BAG, A full-size, standard seat-post seat bag, is absolutely unique in design and function. From $175
HERMOSA UL PANNIERS, Received the ‘2018 Gear of the Year at Bikepacking.com!’ These Panniers are perfect for commuting, work on single-track routes, also great for a lightweight road touring setup, and on any trip when you need just a little more space than a general bikepacking gear setup allows. From $300
TAPEATS HANDLEBAR BAG, a newly updated 2019 feedbag. Virtually waterproof, one-handed operation, fits lots of snacks. While offer a more unique stem bag design, with a flap over lid opening. From $50
DAKOTA TANK BAG, “The Dakota is very sturdily made; its shape, design and plastic inserts really help keep it stable and upright. Construction aside, I found it to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing of the bunch {we tested}. It’s a great looking bag!” -Gin from bikepacking.com From $70
PDW
They offer a limited amount of bikepacking gear. The main product on their site is a PDW Bundle Roll. Which is designed for stringing, a dry-bag, tent or stuff sack.
The roll has two heavy-duty interior compression straps offering an extra level of security for bulky loads. From $99
PDW Takeout Basket, really cool product PDW sells is a front handlebar basket. Includes a roll top bag that clips around the rack. To secure it without the need for bungee cords. From $115
Bike Bag Dude
Are Australian handmade to order bikepacking bags. Fully customisable options from frame bags, handlebar rolls, slings, chaff bags, anything cage bags and top tube bags.
Ultralight Custom Frame Bags, a light weight, durable and waterproof fabric Frame Bag. Made to your custom frame measurements. The bags can be made in any configuration you prefer – 1 zip with one main compartment – 2 zips with one main compartment an Internal False Floor and a second zip entry to underneath the false floor – and a 3 zip option which has a Map Pocket on one side. From $250 AUD
Bike Bag Dude Handlebar Rolls, are a fully lined bar roll with sling sold separately. And comes in 4 different sizes from 17 cm diametre to 28 cm. From $150 AUD
Bike Bag Dude Chaff bags | The Rolling – therollingadventures.wordpres
Bike bag Dude Chaff Bags, From $60 AUD
Bike Bag Dude Anything Cage Bags, Custom made Anything Cage Bags have been designed to fit perfectly into Salsa Anything Cages, with a 14 cm diameter. From $90 AUD Each
Bike Bag Dude TT Garage Bags, the dimensions are 29cm long, 70mm wide belly panel, 120mm high at the stem end. They are also fully seam taped and are built with YKK Size 10 water resistant zips. With adjustable strap positions. From $120 AUD
Ortlieb
Ortlieb is a industry leader and have been producing gear for a while and it is reliable stuff. All their bikepacking options are durable and waterproof. Waterproofing is a big thing for a bikepacking bag. As you want your gear dry.
Ortlieb Seat Pack, comes in a 11 and 16.5 litre sizes. It is insuring to know that some of this bags components are replaceable which means over time they can be replaced and extents to longevity of the bags life. The panel and metal brackets do a good job of stabilising the bag. Price $145.00
If you get this bag you may want to also purchase the Seat-Pack Support-Strap as the bag does tend to sway a little when loaded.
Limited Black Edition Ortlieb Bikepacking Bags (see the range here)
Ortlieb Frame Bag
Just like most frame bags this Ortlieb bikepacking frame bag fastens to your frame with velcro straps. The bottom and side straps enter through velcro strap inserts which allow you to dial in the velcro fitting to your frame to make it fit your bike that little bit better. Comes in a size, 4L and 6L.
Again the great thing with Ortlieb is that this bag is completely waterproof, including a waterproof zipper. One cool feature to this bag is the zipper has a little pocket to hold the handle in place, so it does not get in the way of your leg while riding. Price $110
Ortlieb Handlebar Pack, pack your sleeping bag and bag into this bikepacking bag.
Sea to Summit Dry Bags
Sea To Summit bags are a good option for dry bags to store your gear in to then pack in bikepacking bags that are not 100% waterproof. Or you could use them as dry bags for putting into Anything Cages.
Rockgeist Bags
Are also making universal and custom design bikepacking bags.
GONDOLA DROPPER POST SADDLEBAG, This Gondola is a lightweight saddlebag with full dropper post compatibility. Comes in a size Small and Large. From $120
HONEYPOT FEEDBAG, The Honeypot is a round-shaped feedbag designed to fit Nalgene® bottles, Hydroflasks, bike bottles, or other large circular items. From $49.95
CACHE TOP TUBE BAG (S, L, XL), Electronic cord access at stem, 1-handed opening/closing when riding, the zipper pull glows in the dark. Also has stiff foam on sides and bottom. From $54.95
MUDLUST – TRIANGULAR, Rockgeist has a few customised frame bag and other bikepacking bag options. The Triangular frame bag is a full frame bg option. From $165
Timbuk2 Bike Bags
SIGNAL BIKE FRAME BAG, Timbuk2 has a couple bikepacking bag options on the market. They also sell backpack panniers. This is a smaller frame bag option, Multiple attachment points allow for a custom fit via a combination of cam buckles and adhesive straps. From $99
BEACON BIKE HANDLEBAR BAG, A small handlebar bag option. Designed to fit most handlebar sizes, the dual side pockets store hide-away straps that allow it to convert to a shoulder bag for those on the go, after dismount. From $69
Lezyne
XL – CADDY, Extra large, adventure style seat bag. Securely mounts to seat post and seat rails with strategically placed straps to keep bag stable. High quality, durable materials. From $69.99
FRAME CADDY, Large capacity frame pack that compliments current touring/bikepacking setups. Adjustable mounting straps. Protected zipper enclosure. Fits most frames. From $59.99
BAR CADDY, Medium capacity handlebar bag designed for ease-of-use and maximum functionality. Easy access, double sided roll-type enclosures. Highly water resistant, compressible design. High quality, durable materials. From $49.99
ENERGY CADDY XL, Large, simple top-tube organizer for quick on-bike access to yummy snacks or little trinkets. Water resistant, zippered main compartment with side sleeves. Large enough to hold smartphones. From $29.99
Restrap
Restrap began in a back bedroom in 2010. From a single sewing machine, founder Nathan made pedal straps, firstly for himself, then for his friends. Interest grew, so did Restrap, and Nathan branched out to develop the full range of bags, luggage and accessories available today.
STEM BAG, The Restrap stem bag gives you even more storage. Ideally designed for food, or even a water bottle. The stem bag will keep your supplies safe and dry. From $41.99
BAR BAG, Comes in a size small and large. With no mounts or screws, the bag attaches in seconds to any bike. The holster fits up to a 14 litre dry bag and is secured with a hard-wearing buckle that’s easy to adjust. From $132.99
SADDLE BAG, is a very unique style of saddle bikepacking bag. Is secured with a patented magnetic buckle that’s easy to adjust. The bag is hardcase for easy loading and is fastened with reflective military paracord and reinforced eyelets. Available in up to a 14 L in capacity. From $69.99 (smallest size)
RANDO BAG, The randonneur bags that fascinate me. With easy access pockets, quick release rack attachment, and a handy shoulder strap, it’s never been easier to carry your kit in an organised space. Weighs 795 grams and add 11 L of capacity to your bikepacking setup. From $159.99
FORK BAG, this 5L fork bag from Restrap offers yet more options for carrying your gear. Its 100% waterproof, roll-top design will keep your stuff dry no matter the weather conditions. From $49.99
Topeak
BACKLOADER, Comes in 3 sizes (6L, 12L, 15L). The BackLoader is a large capacity seat bag specially designed for bikepackers providing a streamlined way to carry gear without the need for a rear rack. $83.99 (15L)
Best Budget Bikepacking Bags
Blackburn
The Blackburn Elite series is not the most budget friendly, but Blackburn does make some cheaper alternative bikepacking bag options, like the outpost frame bag.
OUTPOST ELITE FRAME BAG, made from waterproof, lightweight materials and welded seams, and featuring removable Hypalon straps that protect your frame, the Elite Frame Bag fits a wide variety of bicycle sizes and styles. From $120
OUTPOST ELITE HANDLEBAR ROLL AND DRY BAG, This is a pair bikepacking setup, Part 1 is a fixed mount with an angle-adjusting, alloy face plate that attaches with a harness to snug your cargo up under your handlebars. Part 2 is a removable and waterproof dry bag. Price $160
OUTPOST ELITE UNIVERSAL SEAT PACK AND DRY BAG, this bag works with dropper or standard seat-posts, and is stable enough to not swing around while it does. Price $170
OUTPOST FRAME BAG, Is a convertible frame bag that gets bigger with a expandable bottom compartment. I have this bag personally and love it. (review coming soon). From $60
Moostreks
Moosetreks Full Frame Bag Updated Premium Zippers, Read more about this frame bag from a previous article I wrote. From ONLY $41.99
Roswheel
Handlebar Bag, For the price of these bags, Roswheel should be in your considerations, the quality is not the best but it stacks up to the more expensive bags on the market. From ONLY $34.95
Top Tube Bag, I have this bag setup on my Surly LHT and has held up very well. And is a great little store solution for behind the handlebar. From ONLY $28.99
RockBros
Packing Front Handlebar Bags 2 Dry Packs, Another great budget Bikepacking bag option is RockBros. This bag specifically is a lot of bag for the money. The big bag is able to fit enough gear for a great adventure. While also the the smaller bag has enough room for snacks, tools, and other such items. Price $58.99
Other Budget Bikepacking Bag Options
Large Bike Saddle Bag, Price $55.99
Waterproof Bike Frame Bag Triangle , Price $23.99
There are so many options when it comes to bikepacking bags that the list could go on and on. But these are just some of the better bags that have been recommended by many bikepackers that I have talked to and got some advice from.
Hopefully it provided some value to you. And just shows what options you have out there. As this bikepacking niche continues to grow. There will be no doubt more innovative and improved bags to come.
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