Maybe you want to get a backpack for bikepacking instead of bikpacking bag. When I talk to bikepacking enthusiast they always say get bikepacking bags compared to using a bikepacking backpack. But considering that backpack are a good solution when it comes to bikepacking if you do it the right way.
If you pack gear in the backpack is fairly lightweight, like a windbreaker, water in a camel back for example. Then it allows some extra space if needed for storing more food when you stock up and you will be using it up and the backpack will get lighter. Some don’t like them as they can result in a sweaty backs or back issues. Some bags a well ventilated that they can reduce this. I believe they key is to pack them with really light weight gear that would otherwise take up space in bikepacking bags. You can use a backpack to add additional store to a all ready well tuned bikepacking bike bag setup.
The one thing to consider if you are going to select a compressible backpack is that most of them are not that comfortable when it comes to packing items that are not soft and you will most likely feel it stab into your back.
Then there is hip packs or also known as fanny packs that can be used as an additional storage option if you don’t want to use a backpack. These are great for storing a camera and personal items like money and passport. That will always be on you and all times and easy to access while riding.
Depending on how your bike is setup you could store a backpack on the rear rack of your bike and fasten it down with bike rear rack straps! I wrote a article all about attaching stuff to your bike. Some bags would work well to be just permanently attached to the top of the rear rack and then if you need to go on a hike or walk you can take the bag of when needed. This especially works well when the backpack is not like a compressible pack and does not pack that small. I know I titled this article about bikepacking, but these compressible backpacks could come in handy when bike touring too. As they pack rather small into a pannier. I have had this problem personally myself with a backpack. I would store it in my pannier and it would take up the entire space inside the pannier. At least these bags pack so much smaller.
Backpacks For Bikepacking
Lightweight backpacks are ideal for bikepacking. Even ultralight weight trail running backpacks are a great option. As they are designed for running and need to be positioned on the body in a way that they don’t more around too much while running. All the backpacks below are some good options that are recommended and are worth looking into further. The best bikepacking backpacks allow for your to stow them away into something as small as a jersey pocket or into a bike bag taking up very little space when not in use. Such compressible packs will be included down below.
The choice you have to make if you are sold on the idea of getting a backpack for bikepacking or bike touring. Is if you should get a fully-featured backpack that you will constantly wear or a packable one, both have their advantages and disadvantages!
Oveja Negra Portero
Oveja Negra have designed a clean, durable, and intuitive pack for the long haul. It is a go anywhere roll-top backpack. You can load it up for a day in the woods or the commute to work.
Comes in a wide range of fun colors and designs. the volume can vary from 16L to 22L with the roll top design. It features, Front zip pocket & side stash pockets. With side compression straps. Made in the USA, weighing in at 19 ounces or 539 grams, and costs $165.
ACRE Supply Hauser
The ACRE Supply Hauser is a rugged pack that comes with wide hydration compatibility, a waterproof design and plenty of storage space for all your essential kit. The pack is compatible with hydration bladders that have a volume up to 3 liters. The pack also comes with a large roll top closure which stops water from entering into the bag and the material used is water resistant and anti-abrasive. Priced From $112.75
Osprey Talon 11
It comes in a 11L capacity, ventilation and comfortable, with the the BioStretch harness and continuous wrap hip belt combine to create an incredibly stable carry system that hugs your body so you can stay balanced on the trail. It even comes with the LidLock helmet carry system which allows for you to attach you helmet to the bag. Zippered hip belts, side stretch mesh pockets, a harness pocket and back panel bungee provide all the organisation you need. Priced $139.95
Wingnut Enduro
These backpack as called Adventure Racing Mountain Biking Backpacks and are designed for hydration for while out on the trail. The new 2019 model comes with a side zip front pocket under the mesh pocket and easily accessed when bag is slinged around to the front. The panel is simplified with a drop pocket instead of a zipper and the padding across the lumbar region is beefier so your lower back is better protected from whatever your carrying. The price of this bag comes in at $150 and you get to choose from a huge variety of different colors for your own style.
Camelbak Skyline 10LR
Camelbak has been around for along time, I remember when I was a kid and rode my dirt bike back in the day with my dad, we used to have them they were so handy for hydration on the go. Purpose built for stability and organisation during aggressive downhill rides. This Camelbak still makes a great bikepacking backpack. The low rider pack is designed to lower the centre of gravity of the packs overall fit on the body. Providing more stability on bumpy trails and lets your upper body move more freely. Priced at $130
Evoc Stage 12L
The Evoc Stage 12 is a daypack that is designed just for your bikepacking needs, with some nice features. Making it a great options for those looking to ride their bike with little equipment but uncompromising carrying comfort. Extra convenience comes with the freely moving BRACE LINK that allows the shoulder straps to adapt to the individual shoulder width of the wearer. Including some airflow technology to reduce those sweaty backs and even a helmet carry system at the form of the bag, plus heaps more features. Available on Amazon from $140
Ultimate Direction Ultra Hydration Vest 4.0
Not really a backpack but Ultra Marathon Hydration Vests by Ultimate Direction could be a great bikepacking storage solution for on the body. They are designed for runners, meaning that they are comfortable to wear when running. Running is much more demanding then riding a bike. In theory I cannot see why they wouldn’t work for a bikepacking adventure.
It is a featherweight vest at 8.1 ounces or 230 grams and carries ample gear with a minimalist feel. 7+ exterior pockets and ample storage for up to 10L+ of capacity. Priced at $129.95 on REI.com
Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
A bag like this Osprey backpack is great for when you go bike touring. Allowing you to have a day bag for non-bike related activities. It is a very good bag, that comes with a very good guarantee as well. Osprey make some great products, their backpacks come with a heap of features. Also they have a lifetime repair or replacement warranty regardless of the cause of the damage. This Ultralight Stuff Pack only costs $34.95. Don’t take my work for it you should head over to Amazon and check out the reviews for yourself. It is the perfect option to carry along with you and when you need that extra space for carting food it does a great job at accomodating, but not recommended for all time use as a backpack while riding.
Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Daypack
The Sea To Summit is the direct competitor to the above Osprey Stuff Pack, but this Sea To Summit is cheaper at $32.95. I should have mentioned the Osprey is a 18L and this backpack is a 20L in comparison. But they both pack smaller then a fist.
Hip Packs (Fanny Packs) for Bikepacking
Rainslinger Waterproof Hip Pack
If you are after a minimalist style and purpose waterproof hip pack this is a nice option. Priced at $69.00, it provides reliable wet weather protection for your gear and keeps you visible with 360 degrees of reflective trim and a red LED Beacon Light.
Skin Grows Back Bum Bags
These guys make some cool and stylish bum bag options. They also do some handlebar bags as far as I can tell. Their B DOUBLE Bum Bag is the one I would be looking into. They cost around $101.15
North St. Bags Pioneer 9 Hip Pack
Most of the hip packs that are specifically designed for bikpacking are handmade option, but built with love they provide some handy solutions. This hip pack by North St comes in a huge variety of designs. It is equal parts hip pouch and bicycle handlebar bag, the Pioneer is also an excellent standalone dopp kit, useful in travel when carrying all your toiletry essentials or other key items. Priced at $54.99
Oveja Negra Royale Hip Pack
Oveja Negra make some really stylish hip packs, with a simple roll-top closure that keeps the bag durable and streamlined, while an interior zippered pocket keeps your important goods stowed away and organised. They pack also comes with a side compression straps keep the load stable, and a 1 1/2″ waist belt provides all day comfort. Priced at $100
Porcelain Rocket Big Dumpling
This bag is bigger then their Dumpling Fanny Pack, purpose built for longer day missions, quick-access to camera gear, or just a bit more storage for bikepacking setups. It has a roll-top/flap closure, no zippers to failSeam-welded construction for incredible weatherproofness. And is priced at $180 CAD
Swift Industries Elwha
Swift Industries make some really cool stuff, I personally love their Rando bags, but this little hip pack is also stylish. It is both a hip pack and handlebar bag. The bag can secure to the bars using a soft-mount webbing system. The 2.5 liter pack comes with two exterior webbing straps on the base. Priced at $120
Bedrock GraySill Hip Pack
The last hip pack in this article is the Bedrock GraySill Hip Pack, this hip pack is unique in that it has some many differences to the attention to how the pack rides on your body. Along with the creative design, bomber materials, and build quality that are Bedrock hallmarks. Offering a 4L+ volume the hip pack costs $100.
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