Here at Cycle Travel Overload we love adventures across countries, powered by nothing more then the energy you exert when pedalling a bicycle! Although backpacks are not considered all that popular with this type of riding. As when bikepacking or bike touring wearing a heavy backpack can cause sweat and pain in your back over the long term. This is why bikepacking bags and panniers are ideal.
However this article is for the commuter! the city slicker looking for a backpack to wear just when cycling into the CBD for work or school or doing the weekly grocery run.
There are many cycling backpack options to choose from. And in this article we are going to share with you some of the most popular cycling backpacks for commuting purposes.
You may even want to consider panniers before deciding on a backpack. As they take the weight of your body and on the bike. However it is best if you ride a touring bike or commuter bike with rear eyelets to accomodate a rear rack to mount the panniers on.
Also these bikes are designed with a longer chainstay length and wheelbase generally. This change in bike geometry stops your heels from hitting the pannier as you pedal. We recommend you head over and check out the best pannier options if you are interested.
Or why can’t you have both? What do you mean? you might be asking! It might be a better idea to opt for backpack panniers. These act as a backpack when you are of the bike or when you just want to roll with a backpack. But convert into a pannier. hiding away the shoulder straps to fit onto a rear rack. And yes you can ride with one pannier on one side of the rear rack. Generally if it is light enough it works. But I have found that the bike is more difficult to manoeuvre when the single pannier is quiet loaded and very heavy. Some of these backpack panniers made the list anyway.
As mentioned in the linked article above. If you have Ortlieb panniers you can use this item to turn the pannier into a backpack!
When looking at a backpack for cycling you want something that is going to offer comfort when wearing on your back and shoulder area. Due to the obvious. When riding you already are putting more strain on your body in a bent over position and the added weight of a backpack and its contents can hurt your back over the long term. A backpack with extra padding in these areas is a good trait.
This also means that a backpack with chest and hip straps is going to offer extra comfort. Taking some of the weight from the strain around your shoulders. And distributing the weight more evenly. Also stopping the backpack from more side to side while riding. Some womens backpacks even have more adjustability to accomodate for fitting under or over the bust area instead of directly over the top.
What type of gear do you typically take with you when commuting? This is something you need to know. If you always take your laptop with you to work in a coffee shop. most but not all cycling backpacks will have a padded compartment area to house a laptop. If you work somewhere where you need to carry a change of clothes like formal wear you will also need a backpack with a large opened storage area. If however you only take a few small things with you regularly then you should be able to get away with a smaller volume backpack.
If you only pack very limited gear like a wallet, phone and keys for example you might be able to get away with a waistpack. (also this linked article has some ultralight weight day pack options. That pack away to nothing if you like bikepacking and want a minimal backpack for when off the bike. But also want it to pack away, taking up very little volume.)
Plus these hip packs look hip! These are getting much more popular in bikepacking for carrying just important small things on your body when travelling like passport. But they would work just as well for a minimalist cycling commuter.
Waterproofing is also idea. But not as common with most backpacks. But if you can find one that is waterproof rather then water resistant this might be a good choice. If you get caught out in the rain while commuting you want to keep your valuables dry and safe. But typically when commuting you re not going to continue to ride in a downpour. Therefore it is conceivable to consider water resistant backpacks as you only need it to briefly keep your gear dry while you seek shelter. Ideally you want a backpack that has at least some deal of waterproofing just incase.
Also when it comes to organisation. There is a backpack for most. If you like just throwing all your stuff into one single compartment and digging through then there is backpacks for that. And also if you rather be super efficient and organised. Putting everything in there little compartments then there is backpacks that are catered to the very organised one.
Ideally the best cycling backpack should have optimal breathability. With channels that run along the back and straps to circulate air flow and allow sweat to whisk away and not build up and cause nasty sweat patches.
Also something to consider is getting a backpack that offers visibility and reflection components to the design. This is just for that extra safety and visibility when riding particularly at night.
Keep in mind that you are most likely not going to find a backpack that fits all these criteria. But it is worth deciding which are most important to you and choose a cycling backpack that specialises in those certain traits. This brings me onto the next point. Some cycling backpacks will have hydration systems installed in the bag. If you have no water bottle cage mounts or plan on commuting longer distances that require you to keep your hydrations up these backpacks are a contending solution. Allowing you to drink directly from a tub that runs out of the bag to your mouth.
Keep in mind that these bags are in no particular order of which is the “best” as the best is subjective to your own personal needs and matching the backpack to those needs.
*If you want to buy any of these cycling backpacks, doing it via the link gives Cycle Travel Overload a small commission which goes into creating more great resources for the bike travel community.
TIMBUK2 Spire Backpack 2.0
Designed exclusively for Apple this backpack is for those Apple fanatics that need a backpack suited just for their Apple products. You are able to provide complete protection for your iPad and MacBook. Built for the urban commuter it is a backpack that packs style. The backpack has some extra upgrades from the previous model. With a water-resistant front exterior and bottom boot aid in fighting the elements. Two front pockets will keep you organised, while giving quick access to your phone, wallet, sunglasses, and small items. You get a padded air mesh on the back and shoulder straps for that comfort and airflow. It also features a strategically placed daisy chain for attaching a bike lock, carabiners, or lights. Weighing in a 2 pounds or 900 grams. It fits most 15″ to 17″ laptops and it is water resistant. Priced at $51.74
SPECIALIZED Base Miles Stormproof Backpack
The rainy day commute cycling backpack! By Specialized they designed this backpack just for that. The main promise of the Base Miles backpack is to keep your stuff dry and keep you safe. Thanks to the reflective panels. You get a backpack that has ergonomic design, contouring to your back at all times and features cycling specific straps that evenly distribute weight. The internal laptop sleeve keeps your computer safe. And they even went as far to test the backpack in a wind tunnel to get you to work or the coffee shop as fast as possible. When you are not using your helmet the backpack has a triple-pointed helmet strap system which keeps your helmet secured to the pack at all times. With a volume of 23L this backpack is priced at $156.95 at Jenson USA
DAKINE Builder 40L Pack
Are you a mountain bike trail builder, who needs a backpack to cart your tools to build trails? This iconic Dakine Builder Pack was designed specifically for this use. It can store everything you need, including hydration, nutrition, gloves and first aid, to the trusty old 5-gallon bucket, with external straps for a quiver of longer tools, even that chainsaw has dedicated storage. It features a 6mm AL internal frame which maintains structure and shape. It also converts to flatbed for construction bucket carry. If you work on trail systems and want a backpack that was meant for carrying all the proper tools. This is the one! Trails don’t build themselves! Priced at $135.00
Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 Hydration Pack – 3 Liters
Is hydration your main concern? If you want to make sure you carry enough water on your commutes this backpack might be the better option. As it is a dedicated hydration pack. With a insulated hydration reservoir and cooling, breathable back panel, which separates from the main bag for even more airflow. The Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 hydration pack helps you beat the heat and stay hydrated. You get 3 L of water storage in a total 10L sized backpack. The Cold Flow storage technology keeps your water cool for over 4 hours. The bite valve attaches to a magnetic hose clip for quick access to hydration. It also comes with a waterproof fabric with taped seams and sealed zippers helps keep moisture out. Weighs in at 2 pounds or 900 grams and priced at $81.93
Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City
One of the more stylish backpacks here, by Ortlieb you know you are getting durability and waterproof construction. The cycling backpack has 1 front pocket (not waterproof); organizer with inner pockets; padded sleeve for notebook/tablet. With a roll-top closure with strap and adjustable alloy hook make for quick access. When it comes to airflow you get ventilated shoulder straps and a back panel which has ventilation channels. Removable waist and sternum straps. And loops for U-lock, helmet and blinking light. Weigh comes in at 1 lb and 10.8 oz or 759 grams. Priced at $175.00 A few things to pick on this backpack is the vertical orientation of the zipper is not ideal. The vertical slit makes it more cumbersome to deposit items into. The three colors the bag is available in are all dark, and it lacks big reflective patches that Ortlieb are famous for on their panniers. It has nothing apart from the small Ortlieb logo (2″ across) located at bottom right.
Chrome BLCKCHRM 22X Yalta 3.0 Pack
The roll top closer design is rather popular with commuter cycling backpacks. But what can I say I really like this style! The main selling point of the Chrome Blckchrm is the versatile contraction. The technical sailcloth material with a 22° bias that resists tearing. Is what it’s all about. Plus the number of nifty little pockets, like for the quick access phone pocket near the lower back area on the backpack. With waterproof zipper. The waterproofing is enhanced with the removable seam-taped waterproof tote liner. The backpack features a padded laptop sleeve, that fits a 15 inch laptop. Priced at $180.00
Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Pack
Specifically made for bike commuting this Osprey backpack offers a few commuting friendly features. When it starts raining you can make use of the integrated high-visibility raincover. More on the visibility aspects of the backpack you get a blinker light attachment (light not included), reflective print and reflective zipper pulls add visibility. The bag has a Ventilating AirScape suspended back panel and for comfort a removable 25mm webbing stabilizing hipbelt. A Hidden LidLock helmet carry attachment point. You get a series of stretch-mesh pockets for extra storage options at the front and side. And if you plan on storing more gear you get the option with the zippered expansion feature. In the main compartment is a laptop/document sleeve and separate shoe/clothing pocket. Perfect for those looking for a backpack with high visibility and is super organised. Priced at $180.00
Timbuk2 Tuck Pack
Timbuk2 make some great cycling backpacks and they have so many options to choose from. Which is why a couple have made it into this list. This is a very stylish commuter backpack available in a couple different color options. A simple and comfort commuter backpack, that keeps it simple with a streamlined look, pockets for all your essentials and a straightforward roll-top. It features dual side slip pockets which secure your U-lock or umbrella. Front vertical zip pocket. Internal organisation pockets for pens and gadgets. While also featuring a stealth side zip pocket for secret stuff. Weighs in at 1 lb 8 oz or 680 grams. Some say that it feels really high quality and love how simple it is and how you can really fill it how much you need and fold over if you’re not carrying so much. Prices start at only $59.93 at REI.com
REI Co-op Commuter Pack
Perfect for your daily commute to work or school, the backpack is comfortable and offers a well-balanced style. It does have a breathable and comfortable mesh foam back panel. And you get that extra padding and comfort from the padded shoulder straps with adjustable sternum strap and detachable waist-belt. The main compartment includes a sleeve for your laptop or can be used for a hydration reservoir. You also get side pockets. The front external flap pocket provides quick access for lock storage and included rain cover. it also has a helmet-carry attachment point when not using your helmet it makes use of the compression straps to attach helmet. It has reflective features to help you be seen at night with a reflective logo and reflective loop for attaching a light. Also available in a bright orange if you really want to be seen on the road. Priced at $67.39
Two Wheel Gear Pannier Backpack Convertible
What about buying a pannier that is also a backpack. This 2 in 1 Two Wheel Gear Pannier Backpack fits to standard bike racks and quickly converts to a professionally organized 22 Litre backpack. It is designed for cycling to work or school with a 15 inch laptop, daily gear and is loaded with a bunch of commuter features. The material it is made from is extremely durable. TPE waterproof-coated 600D polyester or military grade waxed canvas. It also comes with a waterproof rain cover with reflective details. It has some really great reviews on Amazon if you don’t believe, head for a read! Priced at $159.00
Proviz REFLECT360 Cycling Backpack
Is high visibility and being seen at night your biggest quality in a backpack for cycling? Well this is the backpack for you if so! The Proviz Reflect360 uses 100% CE EN 20471 certified reflective material for full reflectivity. Most of the backpack reflects. The backpack’s millions of reflective beads helps other road users to identify you on the road at night. It also features Beetle ventilation system that allows air to move more freely around your back. The 30 L backpack also offers additional waterproofing, the main opening and front pocket storm zips are seam sealed. Priced at $110.00
Showers Pass Transit WP Backpack
Last but certainly not least is Showers Pass 42L Transit Backpack. Showers Pass make some of the best quality waterproof cycling jackets. And this backpack has to be one of my favourite in the list for is functional purposes when used on the bike. A lot of the designs in this list a roll top and Showers Pass takes a step in another direction with the design of this backpack. The fully waterproof backpack with welded seams makes keeping items separate, secure and protected from the elements a breeze thanks to its self-supporting construction. The adjustable waist strap buckles out of the way or can be removed and worn alone as a hip pack. You get a laptop compartment on the inside. Which fits up to 17 inch notebook and is designed to not touch the ground when backpack is dropped. And also 4 other compartments with elastic openings perfectly fit water bottles and other essentials. The lights and reflective touch on this backpack is what I love most. You get four replaceable red LED beacon lights with a light loop on back. Includes 360 degrees of 3M reflective trim that offer high visibility at night. The ultimate cycling backpack if you need something big with heaps of volume, great construction and design. Priced at $264.00
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