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A change of clothes, laptops and tech, a packed lunch and drink, and bike spares/tools….
Bike backpacks are a popular way to carry these items on a commute.
No need to install anything on the bike as long as you can keep the weight on the light side. I mean, who wants a broken back?! 💊🤢🏥
Let me help you choose one…
Top 15 Best Cycling Commuter Backpacks
Bike commuter backpacks come in many different shapes and sizes and have very distinct attributes.
Below are fifteen of the best in different categories.
1. Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Pack (best overall)
• Capacity: 34 liters
• Waterproof: Yes (with rain cover)
Everything you’re likely to want from a commuter backpack is present in the Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Pack.
What’s special about it?
For a start, it’s made from 210 dernier nylon, a urethane-coated material known for water repellency and durability.
This well-made backpack has a roomy main compartment with a laptop sleeve and a separate pocket for a change of clothes and commuter shoes.
Stretch-mesh pockets at the front and sides of the Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Pack can easily accommodate a drink bottle and sundry items.
A concealed LidLock attachment point will secure your bike helmet to the bag.
Video: LidLock attachment point
In terms of carrying comfort, this top-quality backpack includes Osprey’s AirSpeed™ trampoline suspended back panel.
This creates space between the bag and your back for an excellent level of ventilation.
For extra rainproofing, the Radial Bike Commuter Pack includes a high-viz rain cover that is plenty large enough to cover the backpack at full capacity.
Usefully, there’s also a kickstand, which keeps the backpack vertical when placed on the ground.
What we like:
- Quality – great design and durable nylon construction
- Rainproof – water resistant backpack material and hi-vis waterproof cover
- Organise – padded laptop sleeve, multiple compartments & pockets
- Ventilation – AirSpeed technology allows air to flow over your back
What we don’t like:
- The price – high price for high quality, but this isn’t a budget option
Read more: Full Osprey Radial backpack review
2. Altura Thunderstorm City 30 Hi-Viz Backpack (best waterproof)
- Capacity: 30 liters
- Waterproof: Yes
You’ll struggle to find a more waterproof bag than the Altura Thunderstorm Hi-Viz Backpack, or indeed one that is more visible.
Its bright yellow color stands out in daylight and is one of the more noticeable colors in human vision.
This Altura backpack boasts an impressive IPX6 rating, which goes way beyond just being rainproof or showerproof.
It can withstand high-pressure jets of water, the like of which you’re unlikely to encounter naturally. It lives up to its name.
Among its other features are a padded 13” notebook sleeve, an internal zipped pocket and key loop, light attachment points, reflective details and a grab handle.
The backpack’s roll-top closure contributes to its waterproofing.
Made from a polyester ripstop material, the Thunderstorm City 30 is built to last.
It’s comfy to carry, too, thanks to a draft venting back system that allows air onto your back.
A chest and waist strap help to keep things stable.
What we like:
- Waterproof – this is impervious to water under any real-world conditions
- Visibility – the bright yellow model stands out (also available in black)
- Ripstop – made from a durable fabric resistant to tearing
- Ventilation – venting channels at the back help avoid large sweat patches
What we don’t like:
- Laptop – 13” laptop capacity is modest (though the spec may be conservative)
- Organisation – could do with more pockets
3. Chrome BLCKCHRM 22X Bravo 3.0 Pack (best for capacity)
• Capacity: 35 liters
• Waterproof: Yes
If you need to carry a lot of stuff on your commute, the Chrome BLCKCHRM 22X Bravo 3.0 Pack offers a solution.
It includes a removable cross strap system that lets you carry extra cargo on the front (e.g., a commuter bike helmet) in addition to its 35L capacity.
This backpack is robustly made with a 22X nylon shell, inspired by the design of sailcloth material for extreme tear resistance.
CORDURA® TPX durable laminate technology boosts strength and adds waterproofing.
Other standout features of this backpack include:
- a padded laptop sleeve for 15” notebooks
- a fast-access phone pocket with waterproof zip
- and a taped waterproof liner that doubles as a handy removable tote bag.
The Chrome BLCKCHRM 22X Bravo 3.0 Pack has a rolltop closure for fast access and protection against rain.
The crossvent molded back panel is comfy on the back and allows airflow.
What we like:
- Durable – extremely hardwearing with its tear-resistant sailcloth design
- Capacity – lots of space, plus the ability to tie more cargo onto front
- Notebook – protects a 15” laptop with a padded sleeve
- Tote – removable waterproof tote bag adds extra functionality
What we don’t like:
- Cost – excellence doesn’t come cheap
4. MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault 24 Backpack (best for toughness)
• Capacity: 24 liters
• Waterproof: yes
Quality of manufacturing is exemplary in the MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault 24 Backpack.
Made out of durable 500D Cordura, the bag features a unique 3-zip design with YKK zippers for fast and easy access to the interior.
Speaking of the interior, inside the rear of this backpack you’ll find a dedicated compartment for technology and documents.
A padded sleeve accommodates a laptop of up to 15”, while a divider allows space for a tablet or papers.
The main compartment is where you’ll store bulky luggage like a change of clothes, but it also includes several organizing pockets of different sizes and depths.
This includes two mesh zipper pockets.
Little is said about waterproofing in this bag, but rest assured it will keep contents dry.
The bag is comfortable to carry and makes a great commuting backpack.
What we like:
- Durable – made of hardwearing 500D Cordura nylon
- Clean – simple and functional military-inspired design
- Access – fast access with excellent 3-zip closure
What we don’t like:
- Upright – doesn’t stand up on its own
5. TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack (best for organization)
- Capacity: 28 liters
- Waterproof: yes
If you want to carry a lot of stuff and keep it organized at the same time, the TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack may be for you.
It holds most laptops between 15” to 17” in its dedicated rear pocket.
An internal organizer lets you keep pens, phones, chargers and notebooks in order, and there’s plenty of room in the main compartment for items of clothing.
The backpack is made from 400D polyester and is beautifully manufactured.
Other features include:
- reflective tape and zipper pulls
- a key lanyard
- a neoprene side pocket for a water bottle
- and a compression straps for keeping the bag compact.
This backpack has an air mesh ventilated back panel and generously padded straps for comfort.
What we like:
- Get Organized – internal organizer for pens, phones and notebooks
- Tech – carry a laptop with up to 17” display
- Rainproof – the backpack is water resistant
- Zippers – strong, high-quality zippers
What we don’t like:
- Internal pockets – could do with more zippered internal pockets
6. Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City (best roll-top)
- Capacity: 21 liters
- Waterproof: Yes (IP64 rated)
If you’re looking for a rainproof backpack with pedigree, the Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City should pique your interest.
This bag is IP64 rated as long as you roll the roll-top closure 3-4 times.
That means it will keep out rain and is dust-tight.
Note: the zippered front pocket is not waterproof, so you may want to avoid putting items in there that must stay dry.
Made from PU laminated nylon, the Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City is durable and lightweight.
It includes a removable organizer with a padded sleeve for notebooks or tablets.
Ergonomic shoulder straps make it easy to carry.
The back of this Ortlieb bag has foam pads with ventilation channels to help keep your back as cool as possible.
Detachable chest and waist straps help to keep it stable in use.Reflective logos increase your visibility at night.
What we like:
- Waterproof – once you’ve rolled down the top, rain will not get inside
- Loop – for optional rear light and U-lock
- Tech – a padded sleeve keeps your notebook or tablet protected
- Durable – Made from hard-wearing PU laminated nylon
What we don’t like:
- Pocket – exterior pocket not waterproof
Read more: Full Ortleib Commuter Daypack City review
7. Deuter Race X Biking Backpack (best for breathability)
• Capacity: 12 liters
• Waterproof: water repellant (plus rain cover)
A small, lightweight backpack that is comfortable to carry is the Deuter Race X Biking Backpack.
This stylish backpack has DWR (Durable Water Repellency) impregnation to help keep the rain out and comes with a high vis rain cover.
In terms of comfort, the Race X Backpack offers Deuter’s Airstripes technology.
This comprises two air-channeled foam profiles covered with a breathable Wide AirMesh lining.
The system allows air to flow over 80% of the rider’s back.
This PFC-free backpack is ideal for commuters who only need to carry a few essentials with them to work.
Useful features include:
- zip closure
- an elasticated inner compartment for storing worn or wet clothes
- two outer side pockets
- a valuables compartment
- a rear light loop
- and an adjustable hip belt with mesh wings.
What we like:
- Weatherproof – DWR coating makes the bag water resistant
- Lightweight – easy to carry, less burdensome than many backpacks
- Breathability – Airstripes system allows plenty of ventilation to back
- Stable – adjustable hip belt, broad & comfortable shoulder straps
What we don’t like:
- Capacity – best for commuters who like to travel light
8. Thule Pack ‘n Pedal Commuter Backpack (best for comfort)
• Capacity: 24 liters
• Waterproof: yes (main compartment)
A great all-round bag from a top brand is the Thule Pack ‘n Pedal Commuter Backpack.
One of the secrets behind its comfort for 15” laptop carriers is the way it positions its laptop compartment and tablet sleeve on top of the bag.
The backpack is made more comfortable still by the airflow channels in its EVA padded back and its breathable shoulder straps.
For protection against the rain, anything you store in the main compartment of this roll-top backpack will stay dry.
As well, you get a stowable rain cover with reflective print to make the whole bag waterproof.
Other great features include:
- an organization compartment with a U-lock stash pocket
- high vis interior lining so you don’t lose stuff
- and a “crushproof SafeZone” that protects breakable items like sunglasses.
A cool feature is the pull-out helmet net that holds a bike helmet securely in place at the front of the backpack.
What we like:
- Comfort – a winner in the comfort stakes with its clever design
- Rainproof – waterproof main compartment and rain cover for extra protection
- Innovation – pleasing features like the crushproof zone and secure helmet net
- Visibility – high vis reflective elements and light attachment points
What we don’t like:
- Access – not the best for quick access
9. Voltaic Convertor Solar Backpack (best extra features)
- Capacity: 20 liters
- Waterproof: yes
While most backpacks have their strengths and weaknesses, some offer features completely off the grid.
That’s definitely the case with the Voltaic Convertor Solar Backpack, which includes a 5.5W solar panel and a 6,400 mAh USB battery pack.
This innovative backpack from Voltaic allows “pass-through” charging, meaning you can charge the included battery pack and a USB device simultaneously as you ride or walk.
You can charge phones, camera batteries and tablets with the backpack.
Larger items like laptops will have to wait until you’re at home, work or a coffee shop.
The high-efficiency solar cells charge your phone as quickly as it charges at home.
The eco credentials of the Voltaic Convertor Solar Backpack are further elevated by its recycled plastic construction.
It’s constructed from 21 recycled plastic bottles (recycled PET fabric), making it waterproof, lightweight and resistant to UV light.
Other features of this backpack include a padded laptop and tablet sleeve for 15” laptops and 10” tablets.
The main compartment has mesh pockets for organization and a special side pocket for charging portable devices.
A molded high-density foam back along with breathable mesh shoulder straps makes this backpack comfy to carry.
What we like:
- Comfort – a winner in the comfort stakes with its clever design
- Rainproof – waterproof main compartment and rain cover for extra protection
- Innovation – pleasing features like the crushproof zone and secure helmet net
- Visibility – high vis reflective elements and light attachment points
What we don’t like:
- Access – not the best for quick access
- Reflectors – reflector strips tend to wear off
10. BackSåk Waterproof Backpack (best value)
• Capacity: 25 liters (35 L also available)
• Waterproof: Yes
Though it’s a contender for best waterproof backpack, the appealing price of the BackSåk Waterproof Backpack from Skog Å Kust also catches the eye.
It’s easy to spend $150 on a good backpack, but this one costs less than half that.
For your money, you’re reaping the rewards of Swedish design, and weather-related products are of special interest.
This all-weather backpack is robustly made from 500D PVC with watertight welded seams and a roll-top closure.
The backpack is IPX6 rated, meaning no amount of hard rain is going to penetrate the main compartment (outer pockets do not carry this rating).
To make it comfortable to carry, this Skog Å Kust backpack includes a sternum clip and padded back support.
There are horizontal air channels in the back.
The straps are thick and cushioned to improve comfort.
Interior pockets protect your electronics and mobile devices from damp clothes or towels.
The outer splash-proof pocket is ideal for items not harmed by rain, like keys and spare change.
This is more a bag for commuters carrying clothes than electronics, if only because there is no laptop compartment.
What we like:
- Design – minimalistic, functional design
- Weatherproof – nothing in the main compartment will get wet
- Durable – made from 500D PVC for longevity and waterproofing
- Exterior pocket – large zippered exterior pocket useful for ID & keys
- Visibility – reflective details
What we don’t like:
- Laptop – no dedicated laptop space, though the design is activity oriented
11. Proviz Sports Reflect360 Backpack (best for reflectivity)
- Capacity: 30 liters
- Waterproof: yes (1500mm water column height)
Of all the features you might seek in a backpack, few have potential to save your life.
The Proviz Sports Reflect360 Backpack uses 100% EN ISO 20471 certified reflective material
This makes you visible to drivers from a quarter-mile away at night.
Aside from its astonishing nocturnal visibility under a beam of a light, this Proviz bag has much more going for it.
It is robustly water resistant and features waterproof AquaGuard® zips to protect against easy ingress of rain.
The Proviz Sports Reflect360 Backpack is comfortable to carry, too, thanks to its built-in BES Beetle ventilation system.
This ensures good airflow to the back and helps to avoid overheating.
Waist and chest straps assist with stability.
Other mentionable features include:
- a laptop compartment
- a light loop for an LED light, mesh side pockets
- a webbing carrier handle
- an elastic loop for attaching other accessories
- and a hydration-bladder compatibility.
What we like:
- Night time visibility – you won’t find better for dark commutes home
- Waterproofing – a 1500 mm water column height is highly water resistant
- Side pockets – for water bottles (also with reflective trim)
- Ventilation – BES ventilation allows air to move over your back
What we don’t like:
- Daytime visibility – low key material during daytime (in common with most backpacks), so use a flashing rear light to attract attention
12. XD Design Bobby Pro Anti-Theft Backpack (best anti-theft)
- Capacity: 18 liters
- Waterproof: water repellent
If you carry a lot of expensive tech to work, an anti-theft backpack may be for you.
The XD Design Bobby Pro Anti-Theft Backpack offers a number of features that, at the very least, prevent opportunist thieves from casually stealing your belongings.
Features that prevent opportunistic thieves from stealing your stuff include:
- no-access front
- hidden and lockable zippers
- and hidden pockets.
The hidden pockets include RFID protection, though instances of “RFID skimming” are rare.
This eco-friendly backpack is made from recycled plastic bottles.
The material at the front and sides is cut-resistant, so thieves will have a hard time slicing a quick exit for your notebook.
Aside from the security element, this backpack is tech friendly generally.
It includes integrated USB ports that you can hook up to your own power bank inside the bag.
You can fit a regular 15.6” laptop and 12.9” tablet in the compartments.
Internal dividers are adjustable in the Bobby Pro Backpack, so you can arrange things according to your needs.
What we like:
- Security – several features that might prevent casual theft
- Eco-friendly – material made from recycled plastic bottles
- Tech-friendly – built-in charging port and space for notebooks/tablets
- Customizable interior – arrange dividers as you wish
What we don’t like:
- Phone holder – phone holder on the strap (Fidlock) is too small for many modern phones
13. Chrome Industries Lako 3-Way Tote (best convertible)
• Capacity: 17 liters
• Waterproof: Yes (weatherproof tarp liner)
Chrome Industries is known for creating distinct products, as illustrated by the Lako 3-Way Tote.
Why “3-way”?
It can be used as a backpack, a shoulder bag and a tote bag, so you can morph it into whatever you need at the time.
The same rugged carry handles that make the Lako a tote bag convert into backpack straps.
But this bag has more going for it than its chameleon-like properties.
It has a durable nylon shell and keeps the rain off your stuff with a weatherproof tarp liner.
Internal organization is useful with special compartments for wet and dry items.
There’s a padded sleeve for 13” notebooks and a quick-access phone pocket.
Leather hand grips make the bag comfortable on the hands.
What we like:
- Versatility – three different products in one
- Visibility – reflective stripes in shoulder straps
- Strong – durably made with robust shoulder straps
- Distinct – unique style from Chrome
What we don’t like:
- Small – not for commuters carrying lots of gear
- Straps – on the narrow side in backpack mode
14. Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack (best for food)
- Capacity: 10 liters (28 cans)
- Waterproof: water resistant
If you carry a packed lunch to work every day, the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack will keep it fresh.
The main compartment of this backpack is insulated, so it’ll keep your food cold, fresh and crisp.
This backpack is perfect for carrying sandwiches and cool drinks ❄️
A large front pocket in this backpack can be used for non-meltable foods or any other dry items you might need.
You can put anything in it from pens and writing paper to napkins and cutlery.
This backpack doubles up as a good accessory for carrying gear for a picnic 🍕🍗🍉😋
Your phone can go in there, too.
This bag features an antimicrobial liner that resists mould, mildew, and lingering food odours.
It’s the ideal commuter’s backpack if self-reliant lunchtimes are the goal.
What we like:
- Price – great value backpack
- Compact – practical size for cycling (unlike some other food backpacks)
- Stylish – looks good and has a unisex design
- Comfort – padded shoulder straps and wide waist strap for stability
What we don’t like:
- Niche – you’ll want something else if you have to carry clothing or a laptop
- Rain – best to avoid downpours or improvise a rain cover
15. Osprey UL Stuff Pack (best budget option)
• Capacity: 18 liters
• Waterproof: water resistant
You can pay a lot of money for a bike-commuting backpack, so it’s good to know there are decent options at the budget end of the market.
The Osprey UL Stuff Pack is made from a very lightweight, durable 40D ripstop nylon.
This backpack, available in a range of colours, is not what you’d call waterproof.
It will withstand light rain or a brief spell of average rainfall, but the contents will be damp if you’re caught in a downpour.
You can always boost waterproofing ☔️ with an after-market rain cover if you need a Plan B for rainy commutes.
The total cost will still be low.
Among the features of this bargain Osprey backpack are:
- a dual-zippered main compartment
- a top-zippered pocket for essential items
- and a stretch-mesh side pocket for a water bottle or other gear.
Because it’s so light and thin, this backpack is packable itself.
To that end, it comes with its own carrying case.
What we like:
- Cost – you get an eminently usable backpack for a low price
- Lightweight – so light that you are only really bearing the weight of contents
- Durable – 40D ripstop nylon may be thin, but it is strong
- Colours – brighten your commute with poppy orange or tropical teal
What we don’t like:
- Rain – if you’re bike commuting in all weathers, consider buying a rain cover
Important Features For A Cycling Commuter Backpack
Like most purchasable goods, cyclists’ commuter backpacks are not all created equal.
You’ll need to decide on the best product for you based on factors like what you need to carry and how far your commute is.
Below are some of the features you can ponder before choosing a backpack.
Waterproofing
In its literal sense, “waterproof” means that no water can pass under any circumstances.
That doesn’t apply to fabrics, so the word is instead used to denote complete weather resistance.
When a manufacturer describes a product as waterproof, it usually means that even a heavy downpour of rain will not penetrate the bag.
A product described as “water resistant” will, at some unspecified point, allow water into the backpack.
At the very least, a water-resistant bag should be able to withstand light showers or brief exposure to average rain.
IP Ratings
IP ratings are normally reserved for electrical products, but some backpack manufacturers use them.
The second figure refers to protection against ingress of water (e.g., IPX5).
🌧 A rating of 3 or over is usually considered rainproof.
By the time it gets to 5 or 6, the bag will resist jets of water at low or high pressure from any angle—far beyond what you’d normally encounter with rain ⛈️
The Water Column
Another specification you might see regarding waterproofing is the water column height in millimetres.
This indicates the theoretical level of water pressure a fabric can tolerate before water penetrates.
💡 Pro Tip: As a rough guide, items are deemed waterproof at a minimum rating of 1,500 mm.
At that point, the contents of a backpack will stay dry under light to average rain.
With sustained exposure to torrential rain, you might need more.
Below 1,500mm, a backpack may still be water resistant.
The figure is unlikely to be given by manufacturers if it’s modest.
Backpack Type: Roll-Top vs Flap vs Zip Closure
Closely related to waterproofing in a backpack is the type of closure it uses.
Let’s briefly go over the common types:
Roll-Top
Roll-top closures feature on some of the most waterproof bags.
They may need to be rolled down three or four times for full protection.
This type of closure can also be used to make the bag more compact or to maximize capacity.
To secure a roll-top closure and stop it unfurling, a backpack will often use straps or snap fasteners.
Zippers
Zippers are a potential way for rain to enter a bag, so the only time they’re a positive selling point is when they’re waterproof.
They also need to be strong, of course; many bags are thrown away when a zipper breaks or jams.
Regardless of their general shortcomings, zippers remain a handy way to open a bag quickly and easily.
🤔💭 In My Opinion: I like zipper backpacks due to their ease of access.
The quality of zippers is always something to look out for.
Flap
Flap closures are typically rainproof, preventing ingress of water from 60 to 90 degree angles.
This is the equivalent of an IPX3 rating.
The only time water is likely to come at you from lesser angles is when a car drives past you at speed through a puddle 🚗💦, and you’d be unlucky if that splash of water entered a bag.
Buckles are a common way to fasten flap-closure backpacks.
Do You Really Need A Bike-Specific Backpack?
Theoretically, you can ride a bike whilst carrying most types of backpack.
However, but there are bike-specific features that are highly desirable:
Shape
You ideally don’t want anything too “boxy” on your back when cycling.
It’s better if the shape conforms somewhat to the shape of your body.
Size
Oversized backpacks are fine for travellers on foot, but you probably want compact when riding on two wheels.
Consider your own size relative to the bag.
Waterproofing
You can’t duck and dive from downing rain or splashing puddles as much when you’re cycling.
A waterproof bag is one less thing to worry about when the rain starts to fall.
Reflectivity
Backpacks often have reflective strips, so you can be seen at night.
If they don’t, make sure you have reflective strips and clear/visible lighting 🌟 on other parts of you or your bike.
Light loops
Attaching a flashing rear LED to your backpack increases visibility night and day.
Ventilation
The exertion of cycling makes ventilated rear padding even more desirable in a cyclist’s backpack.
Accessory holder
Dedicated space for a bike helmet or U-lock is handy for when you dismount.
Similarly, side pockets for water bottles are useful.
How To Pack For A Morning Commute
Utilize whatever exterior pockets are available for items you need fast access to.
This might include bike tools and spares or a rain cover.
Be wary of putting high-value items in outer pockets if you need to mingle with crowds during your ride.
Vulnerability aside, outer pockets are not always waterproof.
You’ll balance the bag better if you put heavier or bulkier items close to your body, like laptops or U-locks.
Place soft items at the base of the backpack to give extra protection to laptops or other valuable tech.
Frequently Asked Questions On Backpacks For Cycling
Are Messenger Bags Or Backpacks Better For Commuting?
In terms of your health, a backpack is better than a messenger bag for bike commuting.
It distributes weight more evenly across your chest and shoulders, whereas weight distribution in messenger bags is asymmetrical.
How Do You Carry A Suit On A Bike
You can use a dedicated suit backpack or a suit pannier.
These keep clothes looking tidy, and they tend to have a separate waterproof section for dirty or damp clothes.
Does The Weight Of The Bag Or Backpack Matter?
A lighter backpack is naturally less of a strain on your back.
Also, any hill climbing you do on your commute will be tougher and sweatier with a heavy backpack.
Video: Backpack Tips From A Physical Therapist
Time To Pack Up (Conclusion)
To recap on our recommended picks for bike-commuting backpacks, the Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Pack takes overall top spot for its quality, capacity, and comprehensive set of features.
If you’re looking for a weatherproof backpack, the aptly named Altura Thunderstorm Hi-Viz Backpack is worth a look. It’ll keep you visible when driving conditions are atrocious, too.
If your bike commute is short, maybe the need for waterproof materials is less.
Or if you have a locker at work, you might only need modest capacity on your back.
Have we missed a good backpack? What backpack do you have? Let us know in the comments below, or ask us a question!
Read more: Guide to bike commuting
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