The Best Bike Commuter Backpacks for Cyclists

Biking is one of the fastest and most effective ways of transportation. It is not only economical but offers you the best exercise for your health. Your leg muscle will greatly improve every time you push the pedal and move ahead to your destination.

However, as healthy as it is, going for a ride using your bicycle has its own downside. One of the common issues bikers face when on the road is the limited amount of space for their valuables. Unlike using a car, you can load almost anything to the trunk. In biking, you can only carry just enough.

Good thing, there are available gears out there offering you enough compartment space to carry your belongings. Getting a bike commuter backpack is ideal if you are always on the road, and need the perfect gear to carry stuff. It is important to get a bag that provides comfort, good carrying capacity, and durability.

Comfort should be your number one concern when looking for a suitable backpack for bike commuting. A backpack will be attached to your body that can give added pressure on your back. To ease this, a padded strap and a well-fitted backpack should be the ones to look for.

Then, you must get gear that has enough carrying capacity for your needs. Before your purchase, assess first how much load you want to carry on a day-to-day basis, and even during your travels. Check for a bag that can ultimately provide the space for all your valuables.

After which, always consider a very durable bag that can be used for a long time. A cycling commuter backpack should always be an investment. Meaning, it provides both material quality and longevity that can last a couple of years.

To give you more idea about what to look for the best bike commuter backpack, we also prepared a buyer’s guide at the end of this page.

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Top 12 Bike Commuter Backpack Reviews

1. Osprey 845136034952-P Daypack

If you are looking for the best bike commuter backpack with a cool design, this Osprey backpack is made especially for you. This medium-sized backpack comes in different colors, so you can choose the perfect shade that fits your personality. You can select from black, desert orange, hostas green, tectonic print blue, chestnut tan, deep-sea blue, and real red. Whatever color you prefer, this backpack has the right shade for you.

The bag comes with a well-engineered design with two front zippered compartments, and a large enclosure for the main storage space. It has a dual stretch mesh on both sides of the bag to provide users additional rooms for storage. You can put your water bottle and umbrella on either side, and you are able to access them easily when needed. It is the ideal bag to carry if you spend your weekend on the road.

Upon opening the main storage space, you will observe a multi-function interior sleeve where you can place your laptop or tablet. Your gadgets will be well-protected because of the 210D Nylon double diamond ripstop fabric used. It can keep moisture or any form of liquid out of the way.

 Heads-up:  Then, it is comfortable to wear on the back. It comes with a mesh-covered die-cut foam back panel that provides the right ventilation on your back. The air will circulate well on your back because of this innovative design. More than that, you will never run out of space because of the Daylite Plus that comes with it.

 Bottom Line:  If you are in search of a medium-sized bag with plenty of compartment space, this commuter backpack is a great pick. It has several dividers where you can easily organize your stuff and a comfortable back panel for easy carry. This bag is suitable to use on a day-to-day basis.

2. Skog Å Kust BackSåk Z7-QGP0-2OLX Backpack

For bikers looking for a fully waterproof backpack, this Skog Å Kust BackSåk backpack is a perfect choice. It has multiple colors for you to choose from, such as black, navy blue, grey or even a bright yellow. On the other hand, it comes with an all-weather protection design with its 500-Denier PVC to secure your essentials from moisture and heavy rains. It is constructed with welded seams and a roll-down top enclosure to ensure that no liquid can penetrate through the bag.

I was also impressed by how the exterior structure of this product is designed. It looks tough and rigid on the outside with only one top zipper for the main compartment, and the rest is PVC constructed. More so, there is a side zipper and brand logo that add elements to the bag’s overall appearance.

This commuter backpack provides the ultimate comfort and convenience you have been looking for. The combination of Sternum clip and padded back support reduce the pressure you experience while carrying it with heavy loads. Aside from that, it comes with thick cushioned straps, which can be adjusted to custom fit your build resulting in additional comfort. However, you need to be extra careful with the straps as they have the tendency to riff off.

 Heads-up:  This bag does not disappoint in terms of storage capacity. You can choose from 25 liters to 35 liters depending on the holding space you need. Either of the two can provide large storage space for all your belongings. You can bring your laptop, clothes, food packs, books, and still have more space for smaller items. It is the ideal bag to bring on your weekend adventures with your bike abuddies.

 Bottom Line:  If you are the type who always goes for water adventures, this commuter backpack will be extra handy for you. You can bring it at the beach or while canoeing and still be confident that your valuables are safe and well-protected.

3. LOCALLION Cycling Backpack

If you search for a fun and colorful bag, we have this LOCALLIO cycle commute backpack as our top recommendation. This product comes in various vibrant colors that can suit your unique and bubbly personality. You can pick from black, blue, green, orange, pink, purple, red, and yellow variations. It is the perfect bag for both men and women alike.

More than that, this bag is very affordable compared to other items on this list. It is a very versatile bag that you can use in different types of activities. In any kind of outdoor event, this bag can adjust accordingly. You can rely on this bike even when you are jogging, climbing, or hiking. The amount of space it provides for your valuables makes this bag highly dependable.

This bag provides the utmost comfort where it provides a breathable back material for better ventilation. It comes with a padded mesh back panel to prevent you from using it while using this bag. In this way, you can experience the maximum level of comfort, while helping to dissipate under the scorching heat of the sun.

 Heads-up:  Even though this bag is not expandable, it can hold a maximum load of up to 18 liters. It also provides excellent storage space where you easily organize your stuff. It has one external pocket, one upper zipper pocket, 2 mesh pockets and a large main compartment. In this way, you are going to have a dedicated space for each of your items. Thus, you do not worry about misplacing any of your stuff because the bag will keep them well-organized.

 Bottom Line:  If you want something that suits your fun and easy-going personality, this urban commuter backpack is ideal for you. With its vibrant colors and impressive features, you will surely enjoy using this bag. More than that, you can use this for any kind of activity due to the versatility it offers.

4. Timbuk2 1010 Backpack

This Timbuk2 commuter backpack is a great choice for those looking for a simple yet elegant bag design. It has four variations, including black, gunmetal, jet black, and nautical. It has a very minimalist design with one buckle enclosure, one zippered pouch on the side, and a tiny brand logo at the bottom part of the bag.

This cycling backpack comes with a very straightforward roll-top enclosure which can easily be adjusted depending on the load you carry. Even though it is not expandable, you can pack it at full load or half load, and the bag will adjust accordingly. The main compartment has enough storage space for a 15-inch laptop, books, and sets of clothes. Aside from that, it provides an internal organization where you arrange your smaller items like pens, wallets, keys, and mobile phones.

You will also appreciate that this commuter bag gives extra features as reflective zipper pulls, and it looks for you to install bike lights. In this way, you will feel safer at night and more confident in using it in a low-light conditions environment. It is a great bag to use both daylight and nighttime, and can still provide you with added protection in any kind of surrounding.

 Heads-up:  More than that, it is comfortable to use with padded shoulder straps. The material and fit the bag provides ensures that using this bag will never be a burden. It is lightweight and made of rugged 900D polyester. You are guaranteed its quality and durability when in use. It also comes with a lifetime warranty making sure that you can enjoy using this bag for a long time.

 Bottom Line:  For those people who want to keep things simple, this cycling laptop backpack is a reasonable choice. You can enjoy all the basic features you need for a commuter bag. It includes a spacious storage area, comfortable straps, and a lightweight design.

5. @riderbag Reflektor35 Commuter Bag

If you are looking for top-rated cycling backpacks in neon color, this model is the right choice for you. The design comes in three neon color variations, including blue, green, pink, and black. You can easily be spotted when using this bag because of the vibrant color it offers.

This bag is specifically designed to be reflective. The product is engineered for road safety, given the bright colors it gives out. It is named the Riderbag Reflektor35, perfect for commuters who always pass through dark alleys and low-light conditions. You will be visible throughout the night when using this highly reflective bag.

More than that, it comes with padded straps, so it is more comfortable to wear. It provides extra padding on the back and a breathable padded strap to give you the maximum level of comfort you need. This bag is the perfect product to use when going for a hike and any other outdoor activity. Whatever type of environment, this bag is very dependable.

 Heads-up:  It also offers a large storage capacity that can hold an estimated 35-liter load. Even if it is not expandable, you will never run out of storage space when you choose to use this bike for your adventures. You can bring most of your items, and still have enough space for your food packs and spare clothes. Moreover, it has a dedicated storage area for your water bottles, given that it has two large mesh side pockets, as well.

 Bottom Line:  For people who are always on the road at night, this bag for bike commuters is a reasonable choice. With its highly reflective element, people can easily spot you even in the darkest alley. You can always stay safe when you use this bag on your evening commute.

6. Osprey 10002132 Commuter Backpack

Another excellent product that made it to our list is the Osprey commuter backpack. Like some products we reviewed on this list, this bag also comes in different variations. It has black, rose orange, and succulent green designs. Depending on your personality and color preference, this product has the right shade for you. You just need to pick the perfect color that you like.

Just by looking at the exterior side, this bag guarantees durability and great material. It is solid and well-constructed, ensuring that it will not lose shape, no matter how heavy or light you put inside the bag. It has an excellent form and will look extra sturdy when in use. It sits perfectly well on your back and provides great balance while you are riding on your bike.

You will be impressed by how comfortable this bag is. It has padded shoulder straps and a well-ventilated back panel. The air will circulate well on your back, especially during the summer days. You will not be worried about sweating out because the bag offers excellent ventilation. Even when you are riding far and for long hours, you still feel comfortable.

 Heads-up:  In terms of the compartment system, it is just as impressive. You can bring your gadgets and laptop anywhere you go. This bag has a dedicated padded space for your laptop to keep your items safe and secure when on the road. Aside from that, it can be expandable with an integrated zippered expansion for extra space. It is the perfect bag for both short and long daily commutes as long as there is no heavy rain. This bag is not waterproof 100%, unlike some of the ones we reviewed on this list.

 Bottom Line:  If you want to commute in style and comfort, this cycling backpack is a good pick. You can keep your things well-organized because of their sturdy and well-constructed design. Even when passing through rough and challenging terrain, this bag will definitely not lose its shape.

7. Two Wheel Gear Backpack

This Two Wheel Gear commuter backpack does not only offer durability but also versatility. It is a 2-in-1 convertible bag great for both casual and professional use. Since it is one of the most expensive bags on this list, it guarantees plenty of functional features.

It is both a bike commuting backpack or panniers. This product provides a large storage capacity of up to 30 liters. You are confident that you will be able to bring all of your much-needed essentials once you use this bag for a trip. More so, it can easily be attached to your bike rack using the Rixen & Kaul Kompakt Rail Mounting System as a pannier. With this kind of innovation, the bag can be securely fastened to the rack without falling off.

After your commute, you can confidently convert it to a fully functioning backpack when you are on foot. You can bring the bag more easily, and it can fit perfectly well on your back. To switch the bag from a pannier to a backpack, you just need to connect the backpack straps to the quick-release buckles. It is the fastest way to convert a two-in-one bag product without much of a hassle.

 Heads-up:  Aside from that, you can both use it in low light conditions, as well as, during a downpour. It comes with waterproofing materials, including an integrated rain cover, and blinky lights. Hence, it is safe to use on a rainy day or even in low light conditions. With this product, you can have all the safety features you need.

 Bottom Line:  Having a high-quality bag sometimes comes with a hefty price tag. It holds true with this bicycle commuter backpack that offers not only durability but longevity, as well. With all the helpful features it offers, the money you spend is worth the investment.

8. Timbuk2 306-3-2007 Spire Backpack

Another roll-top product we recommended in this list is the Timbuk2 Spire Backpack. Made from a renowned bag company, you are guaranteed its durability and longevity. This bag model is specifically designed for commuters looking for the perfect gear to bring their items at work or school while riding on a bike.

This commuter bag has a spacious compartment where you can place your everyday essentials, including a laptop, books, food packs, and more. It comes with an internal organizer so you can better arrange your small items like phones, pens, IDs, and keys. This bag encourages users to keep things neat and extra tidy. It is the right gear for people who love things to be always organized.

Aside from its spacious main compartment, it also comes with several extra features. For example, you can enjoy an on-strap feature where you can place bottle openers in case you need to bring one for some quick refreshments. The exterior webbing that you see also offers users an ideal attachment system for your carabiners or U-lock. It is the right bag to bring during a camping trip, even though it is at a higher price tag.

 Heads-up:  It is also comfortable to use with a well-ventilated back panel and a removable sternum strap so the bag can fit perfectly well on your body. All you need to do is adjust the strap according to your size and level of comfort. Furthermore, it will give enough room for the air to circulate so you will not sweat out while using the bag. It is also noteworthy to mention that this product comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can enjoy using the product for a long time.

 Bottom Line:  For those looking for the top-tier gear to bring on a camping trip, this commuter bag is one of our top recommendations. It has everything you need to survive your outdoor adventure: large compartment space, comfortable and gear to use, and extra-functional features.

9. Timbuk2 422 Commuter Backpack

The Timbuk2 commuter backpack got the number one spot on our list. With its solid black and well-structured design, you are now more confident to bring it at work or even on your weekend travels. Its exterior appearance looks like it underwent a thorough design process with its front zippered pouch and two buckle enclosures.

This commuter backpack is made of high-quality materials with Polyvinyl fabric and a water-resistant tarpaulin exterior. With this type of material, you are guaranteed that your bag can keep the rain and grime out to make your items always dry and free from moisture.

Moreover, it has a customizable strap to ensure that the bag can sit perfectly well on your back. It comes with a ventilated back panel as an added comfort to the design of the bag, including a padded laptop sleeve.

In terms of the compartment system, it comes with a top-loading enclosure so you can easily access the items inside. Upon opening the main storage space, you will see a large space that can accommodate your laptop, clothes, books, and other valuables. You can organize your things using this bag because it also comes with a front zip pocket to store your smaller essentials. You can put keys, ids, cellphones in this smart compartment system.

 Heads-up:  More than that, it has several extra features which you will love. The bag comes with an on-strap bottle opener, exterior webbing for U-lock, water bottle storage space, and a lifetime warranty. With the amazing features you get, the higher price tag is well-justified.

 Bottom Line:  For cyclists looking for quality and comfort, the cycle commuting backpack is a suitable choice. The bag comes with a ventilated back panel to keep your ride more comfortable. Plus, the compartment system allows you to store essentials in different sizes. You are certain that you will be able to maximize your spending when you choose to buy this bag.

10. Thule 100070 Commuter Backpack

For those looking for a cycling backpack bag that provides plenty of compartments, this Thule commuter backpack is an excellent choice. This product is specifically engineered for users who love keeping things organized. It has several dividers where you can store your items, no matter the size. The bag comes in solid black color with a brand logo printed on top. The design is simple, but the functionality the bag provides is impressive.

As we have mentioned, the bag comes in several storage spaces for big and small items. At the exterior part, you will see two front zippered pouches ideal to place your IDs, keys, cellphones, etc. Then, there are side pockets to place both your umbrella and a water bottle. The main compartment comes with a roll-top closure to ensure that your items are always secure. It is the ideal bag if you require a better organization for your valuables.

This cycling backpack is comfortable to wear, as well. It comes with excellent airflow channels on EVA back panel to allow air to circulate effectively. There will be no sweat build-up on your back while you are using this bag. Aside from that, it also comes with a breathable shoulder strap to ensure that you enjoy maximum comfort and ventilation with this bag.

 Heads-up:  As it comes with a more expensive price tag, there are other additional features to enjoy. It has a 360-degree reflective screen to increase visibility in low-light conditions and areas. More than that, you will see an attachment system on the back of the bag where you can install a tail light for better visibility in the dark.

 Bottom Line:  This backpack for biking to work is our top recommendation if you are looking for comfort and organization. With its smart compartment system, and ventilation system combined, you will certainly enjoy using this bag wherever you go.

11. A-LAB 8541538014 Bicycle & Messenger Backpack

If you are looking for a bag that provides a bigger space to carry things for your outdoor adventures, this A-Lab bag is a great choice. It offers a 26-liter storage capacity and waterproofing material. You can bring this bag to any type of road bike adventure you want.

This bag is specifically designed to be waterproof. It is made of 500D tarpaulin material with PVC coating to prevent moisture and liquids from penetrating the insides of this bag. You are guaranteed that your stuff will remain dry and protected even during a heavy downpour. It underwent a high-frequency welding process to ensure that all sides and angles could keep moisture from going to the bag’s insides.

The product has enough storage space to accommodate laptops and other bigger items. It comes with a high-quality and removable neoprene laptop sleeve, so your gadget remains safe even when you travel. Aside from that, it has a roll-top enclosure that can adjust according to what you put inside the bag. You can set it to semi-full or completely full, and the bag will adjust to how much you store inside. Just make sure not to overload the bag because it is not expandable.

 Heads-up:  Like the other bags we reviewed, it is comfortable to use, as well. It offers adjustable shoulder straps that can be set according to your body frame. You can use the strong nylon buckle and reinforced opening with this bag. It will fit perfectly well on your body given its elastic chest straps. You are sure that it will not slide or slip off from your back.

 Bottom Line:  As a biker who loves the great outdoors, this commuter bike bag is the most ideal for you. Given its waterproofing material, you can bring this bag to any type of road bike adventure. No matter the season, this cycling commuter backpack waterproof is highly dependable.

12. Chrome BG-163-INBK backpack

Our last recommendation on our list is the Chrome IBarrage roll-top backpack. Made from a reputable brand, you are guaranteed that the bag is both durable and functional. This is one of the most favorite commuter backpacks due to its adjustable 5-point cargo net system for storage. You can have enough storage space for your bike helmet and other stuff.

This bag has a rugged design thanks to its solid black color. It looks sturdy on the outside with a firm rectangular bag shape. You are ensured that you can always keep your things in place because of its well-structured and robust design. It can be a messenger bag because of its natural roll-top enclosure. You can have easy access to your belongings when using this product, just make sure to be extra handy with the cargo net, as stitching may not be that impressive.

Since it is made by a renowned brand, you will notice the iconic seat belt buckle of Chrome. It ensures that the bag offers high-quality material and durability. The seat belt buckle also comes with an integrated bottle opener perfect for hiking and camping activities. You can rely on this bag no matter the situation because it is the ideal gear to use outdoors.

 Heads-up:  Aside from that, this bag is very comfortable to use. It has an ergonomic shoulder strap with EVA foam to lessen the pressure on your shoulders. This is one of the commuter bags offering an EVA foam back panel for better air circulation as well as ventilation. Thanks to this feature, it will sit well on your back without bringing too much fatigue to your shoulders.

 Bottom Line:  If you are looking for an expansive bag that can hold most of your travel items, this roll top backpack cycling is our number one recommendation. It is not only waterproof but durable enough to withstand a tough and challenging bike environment. With its cargo net system, you can have extra space for items needing quick access.

What to Look for When Buying a Bike Commuter Backpack

Comfort

Backpacks for biking are not like panniers and frame bags which can easily be installed on your bikes. These bike commuter backpacks are meant to be attached to your body. Thus, it is necessary to find a product that provides the utmost comfort when in use. Meaning, you have to take note of the ventilation system, padded shoulder straps, and convenient back panels so you can enjoy the best comfort from the bag.

Durability

For any kind of product, you want something that can last for a long time. Getting a durable backpack is a good investment that you can use in any type of road environment. It is essential to get something made of high-quality material to withstand the test of time. In this way, you will be able to maximize the money you spend on the product, as well.

Capacity

The carrying capacity is another consideration when looking for cycling backpacks. You have to assess your travel needs, so you can identify how much storage space you should get. It is important to get the right size for the bag, so you will not run out of storage space, or get something too big for your needs.

Compartment system

For those people who want to stay organized, the compartment system is also a must consideration. Some bags offer a dedicated laptop compartment, organizer pockets, smart external pockets, and stretch mesh pockets to keep items in place.

You can choose a bag that offers both a spacious compartment system and an organizing system for your much-needed essentials. In this way, you can readily access your items even when you are on the road.

What Is the Top-rated Bike Commuter Backpack

The most trusted cycling backpacks must offer durability, comfort, enough storage capacity, and an impressive compartment system to keep things organized. You can also pick a product that provides safety features like reflective detailing, excellent attachment points, and is totally waterproof.

In this way, you can use the bag anywhere you go and no matter what type of environment you are going to. It is important that the bag has the capacity to protect the items you store inside.

How to Connect Your Backpack to Your Commuter Bike

Connecting a backpack to commuter bikes is undoubtedly possible. In fact, many commuter bikers do it every day as it offers convenient storage.

• Simply put your bag on a rack and pull its two straps over the bike seat.
• If the backpack has buckles, you can clasp them together around a section of the rack.
• Finally, use a bungee cord for extra security.

But this process will go much smoother with cycling commuter backpacks. For instance, Osprey’s Daypack will be more effective than a traditional backpack when connected to a commuter bike. After all, it was crafted for this specific purpose.

How Much Weight Should I Carry in My Backpack on My Bike Commute

I’ve always enjoyed keeping my commuting backpack cycling weight down. It helps keep the ride smoother and prevents discomfort. So bikers should do their best to limit what they store in these backpacks to only the essentials.

In general, 10% of your body weight is the maximum you should go for. Though you likely won’t carry the bag while cycling, pulling it over your shoulders at some point is necessary, and too much heft will cause discomfort.

Of course, some bags for bicycle commuting make this process easier than others. An excellent example would be Two Wheel Gear’s Backpack. It provides an ample storage compartment to ensure balancing out any weight is much easier. Bikers won’t get the same from a condensed and small cycling backpack.

It also doesn’t hurt that it’s a waterproof commuter backpack. This quality allows the product to serve as a laptop bag for cycling enthusiasts. I could easily see it being a crucial product for any college student.

How Long Does a Bike Commuter Backpack Last

High-quality bike bags for commuting shouldn’t have any issues lasting several years. But sadly, not all options will be made from quality materials. So it becomes vital to choose an option known for its durability and performance.

A solid example would be the Chrome BG-163-INBK backpack. It has routinely been shown to be among the most durable commuter backpack mens and women can have. I could see it lasting up to a decade without needing a replacement.

What Size Backpack Do I Need for Commuting

If you are looking for a product or a bike messenger bag for commuting, you can choose a medium-sized capacity bag. In this manner, you have enough storage space for your essentials. With a medium-sized bag, it can typically carry your sweaty clothes or t-shirt or small pack items in one storage space.

Aside from that, it will not bring too much weight on your bike and can provide even balance for your load. The size also matters depending on the type of activity you need the bag for. If this is a regular daily commute, a medium-sized bag can already do its job.

Where to Buy a Bike Commuter Backpack

In Australia, a bike commuter bag is available in physical stores and online. There are plenty of online platforms offering great deals for a commuter backpack. Some would offer integrated waist straps, impressive waterproof fabric, and superior compression straps for comfort.

You can also check the website of big brands like Chrome, Timbuk2 or Rei commuter backpack if you want to score the best deal.

Conclusion

Looking for the best bike commuter backpack is easy if you know what features to look for. It is always important to identify your needs, budget, and level of comfort when getting a bike commuter bag.

May the products we have listed here give you an idea of what kind of bag you want or need. We offer you a wide range of bags at different price ranges, so you have several options to choose from.