A cycling backpack is an essential piece of gear for both recreational and professional cyclists. Whether you’re commuting, mountain biking, road cycling, or heading out on an extended tour, the right backpack can greatly enhance your riding experience. It needs to offer comfort, practicality, and versatility while catering to a cyclist’s specific needs.
Too Long Didn’t Read
These are our picks (in no particular order) for cycling backpacks according to their features and best value for money:
1. Rhinowalk Bike Bag Waterproof Bike Pannier Bag 27L,(for Bicycle Cargo Rack Saddle Bag Shoulder Bag Laptop Pannier Rack Bicycle Bag Professional Cycling Accessories)-Green
Price: $85.99 – Click to Buy
Features
- Fully Waterproof: Made of 1000D polyester material with waterproof PVC layer on both sides, this bike pannier is super durable and fully waterproof, as well as anti-tear, wear resistant and heat resisting, protecting your items perfectly.
- Bike Rear Bag Large capacity: up to 25-27L capacity, fully expanded to hold more.
- Bike Rear Seat Rack Pannier Easy installation:Quick release system, easy to be fixed on rear seat trunk rack and carrying handle for portable.
- Removable Shoulder Strap: There is an adjustable nylon shoulder strap in the package, with easy locks on both sides, the strap can be installed and removed effortless, and you can carry the bike pannier on the shoulder while not cycling.
- All new quick release fastener
- Strong and stable, quick and easy to dismantle, to strengthen the PA66 Material +Fiberglass
- Taillight design: it’s safer to ride at night;
- Thickened wear: resistant and non-slip sole;
- The belt and buckle;
- Three warning Reflective strips
- Deepening of structural function: Multiple compartments, humanized design
- This bag with big opening design, easy to put goods out and in;The main and accessory pocket are hierarchical design for classical design;Suitable placed mobile phones,wallets, keys, tools and other small items.
- Velcro fixed, easily disassembly;
- Internal multi-layer layout: Independent partition, easy to take in,large opening inside zipper bag.
- Can hold 14 inches and below size laptop, with reflective strips which makes easier to spot your belongs.
- Two mesh fabric inserts so it’s easy to take things out.
What We Love
- Versatile, can be used as pannier bag as well as carry-on and shoulder bag
- Big capacity especially when you need to carry changes of clothes, laptop and all
- Great safety features
- Waterproof
- Does not smell
2. Ettore Cycling Rucksack 100% Waterproof Dry Bag 25L & 30L- Black/White – Sonar
Price: $83.73 (25L) – $90.28 (30L) – Click to Buy
Features
- 100% Waterproof Design: Made from durable PVC tarpaulin with welded seams and a roll-top closure to ensure your belongings stay dry, even in heavy rain.Available in Two Sizes:
- 25-liter capacity for daily commuting or short trips.
- 30-liter capacity for longer rides or those needing extra storage.
- Roll-Top Closure: Provides maximum waterproof protection and allows for flexible packing size.
- Durable Material: Heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin construction resists wear, abrasions, and water, ensuring long-lasting use.
- Padded Back Panel: Designed for comfort with airflow channels to reduce sweat and keep your back cool during rides.
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps: Padded and adjustable for a customizable and comfortable fit.
- Sternum and Waist Straps: Keep the bag secure and stable, reducing bounce during cycling, especially on rough terrain.
- External Mesh Pockets: Convenient for quick access to water bottles or small items.
- Reinforced Base: Adds durability and protection to the bag when placed on the ground.
- Reflective Elements: Increases visibility and safety during low-light conditions or night riding.
- Internal Organization Pocket: Helps keep your belongings organized, such as tools, electronics, or clothing.
What We Love
Exceptional Waterproofing: Users rave about the rucksack’s ability to keep their gear completely dry, even in heavy rain, thanks to its PVC tarpaulin material and roll-top closure.
Comfortable Fit: The padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, and sternum/waist straps provide a snug, comfortable fit, making it easy to wear for long rides without causing discomfort.
Durability: Many appreciate the rugged and durable construction, noting that the bag withstands daily use, rough terrain, and wear and tear, while still looking great.
Spacious Storage Options: Both the 25L and 30L versions offer ample space for essentials, with users loving the balance of size and capacity for both daily commuting and longer rides.
Sleek Design with Reflective Features: The modern black-and-white design paired with reflective elements not only looks stylish but also enhances visibility and safety during low-light conditions.
3. INOXTO Cycling Backpack Lightweight Men Women Outdoor Sports Rucksack for Running, Hiking, Cycling, Camping, Riding
Price: $74.30 – Click to Buy
Features
- Ergonomic And Comfortable Design: The breathable backpack and suspension system is designed in accordance with the back movement structure of the body, which is comfortable and breathable to adapt to human muscles. Scientifically distributes the weight of the backpack evenly to the entire backpack, effectively alleviating long-term weight-caused muscle pain problems.
- Inoxto Hydration Bladder: Our hiking backpack comes with a 2 liter hydration water bladder. The water temperature is -20 ~ +50 ℃, and it is easy to clean. The water line (40 ” long, 1cm diameter) provides healthy water flow and is easy to drink.
- Perfect Capacity: the storage space of our backpack is 25 liters. This capacity can not only help you store essentials for travel or climbing. And you won’t feel tired of being overweight. It allows you to focus on the journey. The intimate grooming, soft curves, and sleek appearance will make you stick around.
- High-Quality Waterproof Cover: The waterproof cover is made of high-quality nylon material, with a waterproof outer coating and a polyurethane coating on the inner layer. It can provide reliable rain protection up to 3000mm, very suitable for any rain activity.
What We Love
Lightweight and Comfortable: Users appreciate the ultra-lightweight design, which reduces strain and feels comfortable during long rides, runs, or hikes.
Breathable Back Panel: The breathable mesh back panel is highly praised for keeping users cool and reducing sweat, especially during intense activities or in hot weather.
Versatile for Multiple Activities: Many users love the versatility of the backpack, noting that it’s perfect not only for cycling but also for running, hiking, camping, and other outdoor sports.
Hydration Bladder Compatibility: The ability to fit a hydration system is a big plus for those who enjoy long rides or hikes, making it easy to stay hydrated without stopping.
Compact Yet Spacious: Users highlight the balance between being compact and spacious, with enough room to store essentials like tools, snacks, and extra layers without being bulky or cumbersome.
4. Salzmann 3M Wasserdichter Rucksackberzug – Reflektierende Rucksackschutzhlle – Hergestellt mit 3M Scotchlite
Price: $17.90 – $36.64 – Click to Buy
Features
- Made with 3M Scotchlite reflective material (Orgin: USA) with a high reflective rate of 550cd/lux. Our backpack covers are extremely bright when in direct light, can be seen by drivers at night from up to 200m away.
- Our backpack cover is completely waterproof (waterproof rating: 15,000 mm), ensuring your backpack and contents stay clean and dry.
- Two adjustable straps with clips at the back to ensure a snug fit and also reduces the risk of the cover slipping off.
- The cover is made of durable material that withstands harsh weather conditions such as, wind and rain.
- Universal Fit: Designed to fit most backpack sizes (10L to 36L), with elasticized edges to ensure a snug and secure fit over various backpacks.
- Lightweight and Packable: The cover is lightweight and easily folds down for compact storage when not in use, making it convenient to carry in your bag.
- Elastic Straps: Built-in elastic straps and adjustable fastenings ensure the cover stays securely in place during cycling, running, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
- Weather Protection: Provides excellent protection against rain, wind, and dirt, keeping your backpack clean and dry in unpredictable weather conditions.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust, tear-resistant materials, ensuring long-lasting use and reliability in tough weather conditions.
- Easy to Use: Simple and quick to put on and remove, ideal for commuters, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts who need fast rain protection.
- Enhanced Nighttime Visibility: The reflective surface dramatically improves visibility in the dark, making it perfect for night riding, walking, or running.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, camping, commuting, and running.
What We Love
- High Visibility: Users love the reflective 3M Scotchlite material, which significantly increases visibility during low-light conditions, making it ideal for cycling or walking at night.
- Effective Waterproofing: The cover’s 100% waterproof design receives praise for keeping backpacks and their contents completely dry, even in heavy rain or wet conditions.
- Secure Fit: Many users appreciate the elastic straps and adjustable fastening system, which ensure the cover stays securely in place, even during windy conditions or on bumpy rides.
- Durable and Tear-Resistant: The durable, high-quality construction is highly rated for withstanding tough outdoor conditions and daily use without easily tearing or wearing out.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: Users find the cover lightweight and easy to fold and pack when not in use, making it a convenient accessory to have on hand for unpredictable weather.
5. Offshore Drift Collapsible Water Bottle and Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack Water Resistant
Price: $19.97 – Click to Buy
Features
- Lightweight Hiking Backpack – Designed for on-the-go travelers this foldable bag is easy to stick into larger bags and used when you get to your destination or as an everyday daypack for trips to the beach, heading the gym, or outdoor sports.
- Collapsible 500ml. Drink Bottle – Each daypack hiking bag also comes with a versatile silicone water bottle that’s easy to pack, store, and use on the fly without taking up valuable space in your bag. Ideal for hikers, campers, and on-the-go lifestyles.
- Packable, Portable, and Convenient – Both our folding backpack and our BPA-free drink bottle are made to go wherever the adventure takes you. They’re easy to take with you in the car, in larger bags, or on vacations or trips without taking up space.
- Great Travel Pack Bundle – A casual daypack backpack and a reusable water bottle are great for kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for people who love being active and spending time outdoors. Get them for yourself, friends, or family members.
- Trusted Satisfaction Guarantee – Here at Offshore Drift we take pride in the quality, resiliency, and long-lasting value of all our products which is why every order is backed by our unbeatable support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
What We Love
- Compact and Portable Design: Users love how both the collapsible water bottle and the packable backpack can be easily folded down to a small size, making them super convenient to carry when not in use. Perfect for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Lightweight Yet Durable: The ultra-lightweight design of the backpack is praised for not adding unnecessary weight, while still being durable enough to handle daily use and outdoor activities like hiking or cycling.
- Water-Resistant Material: The backpack’s water-resistant fabric is a major highlight, protecting belongings from light rain and moisture without sacrificing portability or comfort.
- Space-Saving Water Bottle: The collapsible water bottle is a favorite feature among users, offering hydration on the go while saving space in their bag when empty. It’s especially loved for hiking, camping, and travel.
- Versatility and Convenience: Both items are appreciated for their versatility—ideal for day trips, travel, commuting, or outdoor activities. Users love how easily they can pack the backpack and bottle away when not needed.
6. Proviz Sports Reflect360 100% Reflective High-Viz Highly Water Resistant Backpack/Rucksack, Great for Sports + Cycling
Price: $168.29 – Click to Buy
Features
- Highly water-resistant material
- Spacer-mesh back ventilation system
- Adjustable hip/waist belt
- Laptop compartment, front zip pocket
- Storm Zips
The highly technical Reflect360 Cycling Backpack offers cyclists year round comfort, style and waterproof protection from the elements. For additional waterproofing, the main opening and front pocket storm zips are seam sealed. The 30 Litre Backpack offers ample space and organisation with a large zipped mesh pocket and multiple slip pockets inside the main compartment. The Reflect360 Cycling Backpack is designed to look and feel great while keeping the weather out and protecting the contents. - Ventilated Padding
The Reflect360 Cycling Backpack provides an extremely comfortable and close fit to the body, aiding stability when in use. The integrated BES Beetle ventilation system helps to ensure good airflow between the cyclist’s back and the backpack to help regulate body temperature and avoid discomfort. The Backpack offers many practical features including: AquaGuard zips, adjustable chest, waist/hip straps, multiple pockets, gear and light loops. - High Viz Outer Shell
The Reflect360 Cycling Backpack is designed using a eflective outer-shell. In the daylight, the backpack is a stylish and modest grey colour. At night when the material picks up an external light source, such as vehicle headlights, the grey colour transforms, providing ultimate reflectivity to other road users. The incredible reflective capability of the material helps other road users to identify a cyclist’s position on the road at night, giving them extra time to react and manoeuvre appropriately.
What We Love
- Outstanding Reflectivity: Users consistently praise the 360-degree reflectivity of the backpack, noting that it significantly enhances visibility in low-light conditions, especially for cyclists and runners. Many feel much safer while commuting or exercising at night due to the high-viz reflective material.
- Water Resistance: The backpack’s highly water-resistant material receives positive feedback for protecting contents from rain and moisture, making it ideal for cycling or outdoor sports in unpredictable weather. Users, however, mention that it may not be fully waterproof in heavy downpours.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: Many users appreciate the comfortable design, with padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap that help distribute the weight evenly and prevent the bag from shifting during movement. This makes it suitable for both sports and commuting.
- Spacious and Practical: The bag’s roomy interior and multiple compartments are highlighted as ideal for carrying essentials such as laptops, clothes, and cycling gear. The organizational pockets are particularly appreciated for keeping items accessible.
- Durability: The build quality is often complimented, with users noting that the backpack is sturdy and long-lasting, capable of withstanding daily use and outdoor conditions without showing significant wear.
- Ideal for Nighttime Cycling: Cyclists especially love the backpack for its visibility and comfort, often describing it as a must-have for commuting or night rides, due to its combination of safety features and practical storage capacity.
7. G4Free 20L Foldable Backpack Water Resistant Daypack for Outdoor Walking
Price: $25.99 – Click to Buy
Features
- Foldable & Lightweight: Minimalist Designed. The ultra-lightweight shoulder bag. Save your space to fold into its built-in pouch as a Sandwich size. (Note: No extra pouch carry with). Easily pack it in your suitcase or purse
- Roomy 20L Capacity: Keep things organized. Unfold size : 16.5*11.8*6.3inch(L*W*H). Three zippered compartments. The main pocket is Large enough to hold ipad and clothes. Outer smaller pockets are great for quick access such as tissue and keys. An inner zippered pocket is a perfect place for travel essentials such as cash, credit cards, and passport. Two large sides mesh pockets for water bottles or umbrella
- Durable & Tear Resistant: Made with high-quality water and tear abrasion-resistant water-resistant coated Polyamide material with SBS zipper. Update version without zipper flap and no struggle to get stuck in the zipper. Reinforced more than 14 places with a Bar-tack process for extra strength
- Comfortable: This is a perfect travel backpack for everyday use. Conformable to wear on your back or carry with a wide S-shape breathable Mesh Shoulder strap. Easy to adjust the length and lock firmly
- Versatile for the Trips: Ultra-lightweight. Ultra-durable. This compact backpack is the perfect companion to hold travel gear for short trips, day trips, vacation, travel, hiking, carry-on, camping, and shopping. This backpack obeys the spiritual airline rules limited and is suitable to take as personal items. It will be a fantastic necessity for no matter outdoor sports or leisure activities in or out of the city
What We Love
- Compact and Foldable Design: Users love the backpack’s ultra-compact, foldable design, which allows it to be packed into its own small pouch. It’s praised for being perfect for travel, as it can be easily stored in a suitcase and used when needed.
- Lightweight Yet Spacious: Many users appreciate that, despite being lightweight, the backpack offers ample storage space (20 liters) for day hikes, travel, or outdoor activities. It’s seen as an ideal size for carrying essentials without feeling bulky.
- Water Resistance: The water-resistant material is a big plus, with users noting that it performs well in light rain or splashes, keeping items dry. However, some mention that it may not be fully waterproof in heavier rain.
- Durable for Its Size: Despite its lightweight and packable nature, users are often impressed with its durability, finding it strong enough to withstand daily use, hikes, and trips without tearing or fraying.
- Versatile for Various Activities: Users find the G4Free 20L backpack perfect for a variety of activities, including outdoor walking, hiking, traveling, and shopping. The versatility and practicality make it a go-to choice for quick trips or excursions.
- Great Value for Money: Many mention that the backpack offers excellent value for its price, with its combination of portability, durability, and functionality making it a favorite among budget-conscious buyers.
- Comfortable to Wear: While not heavily padded, users find the backpack comfortable to wear for short to moderate periods, thanks to the adjustable shoulder straps and lightweight design, making it ideal for day trips.
8. Inateck Sling Bag for Women and Men, Stylish Crossbody Bag with Adjustable Shoulder Strap, Water-resistant Shoulder Bag Multipurpose Sling Backpack for Travel, Cycling, Work, Sport, Hiking, Gym, Olive
Price: $64.99 – Click to Buy
Features
- Compact Yet Spacious: Our crossbody bag for men and women measures 34 x 15 x 8 cm (13.4 x 5.9 x 3.1 inch) with 4L capacity. The front section of the main compartment features a zippered pocket and double-layered 2-grid pockets, while the rear section serves as an electronics storage compartment,compatible with ipad mini, switch, kindle, easily accommodating items such as phones. The divider has four elastic bands for neatly organizing items like data cables.
- Layered Structure&19 Zones: This compact sling bag adopts a layered structure with 19 functional zones. Both the front and rear have concealed zippered pockets for important items. The front pocket includes small pockets and a webbing key hook. The rear pocket has three card slots for quick access of IDs, credit cards, and more. Additionally, there is an interlayer between the front and rear pockets for storing items like umbrellas and achieving dry and wet separation.
- Water-Resistant and Lightweight: This compact lightweight sling backpack has a net weight of 360g. The front panel is made of glossy material, while the rear is crafted with 900D polyester, making it water-resistant and wear-resistant. The main compartment and front and rear partitions all feature YKK zippers, ensuring durability and smooth opening and closing.
- Multiple Wearing Options: The shoulder strap of crossbody bag is equipped with a Duraflex quick-release buckle and a quick-adjustment pressure buckle, allowing you to freely adjust the shoulder strap length (29-48 inch) and easily find the suitable length. This sling bag can be worn diagonally across the chest or over the shoulder or back as a crossbody backpack, adapting to different dressing styles and providing you with a personalized wearing experience.
- Fashionable and Versatile: This shoulder bag is designed in a cool black color with sleek lines. The smooth front cover looks very textured. It is an ideal companion for various occasions such as shopping, traveling, hiking, cycling, fishing, running, walking the dog, attending concerts, and beach outings. Moreover, our crossbody bag also an excellent choice for family and friends.
What We Love
- Stylish and Unisex Design: Users love the bag’s sleek and modern design, with many noting that the olive color is both stylish and versatile. It’s seen as fashionable for both men and women, making it a great everyday bag for work, travel, or casual outings.
- Comfortable and Adjustable Fit: The adjustable shoulder strap receives praise for providing a customizable fit. Many users mention that the sling design is comfortable for extended wear, whether worn across the chest or back, and doesn’t dig into the shoulders.
- Compact Yet Functional: Despite its compact size, users find the bag surprisingly spacious, with enough room to carry essentials like phones, wallets, tablets, and even small water bottles. The multiple compartments are appreciated for keeping items organized and easy to access.
- Water-Resistant Material: The water-resistant fabric is well-liked for protecting items from light rain and splashes. Users find it particularly useful for outdoor activities such as cycling or hiking, though some mention it may not hold up in heavy downpours.
- Multipurpose Use: Many users highlight the bag’s versatility, noting that it’s perfect for a variety of activities including travel, cycling, hiking, gym trips, and even daily commuting. Its compact and functional design makes it ideal for those who prefer a lightweight, hands-free bag.
- Durable and High-Quality: The bag’s durability is frequently mentioned, with users appreciating the quality of the materials and zippers. It holds up well to daily wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for both urban and outdoor use.
- Convenient for Travel: Travelers love the compact size of the sling bag, as it’s easy to carry through airports or cities. It’s described as the perfect travel companion for keeping essentials close without being bulky.
9. Inateck Laptop Backpack Womens Mens 17 Inch Splash-proof Antitheft Roll Top Rucksack for Cycling Business Travel with Headphone Port
Price: $78.99 – Click to Buy
Features
- Flexible Storage Space: The dimension of the laptop backpack can be 48x34x15cm (roll-top) or 56x34x15cm (expanded). The flexible storage space (25L to 30L) can hold books, clothes, A4 paper, and laptop, meeting your different needs for work, school, leisure, riding, and weekend trip.
- Splashproof: With water-resistant film fabric on large area, splashproof polyester material at the bottom, and the SBS water-resistant zippers, the backpack helps defend against water and keeps the stuff in it dry.
- Two Accesses: You can reach the items in the backpack quickly and conveniently, either through roll-top opening, or back zipper opening. It depends on your need.
- Ample Pockets: In the main compartment, there is a padded compartment 43×31×3.5cm for laptop (up to 17″), a padded pocket for 10.5″/11″ iPad Pro, and a left pocket for power bank. The two side pockets can fit a water bottle and an umbrella. Besides, the two front pockets and other small pockets can store various items.
- Headphone/Charging Hole: A soft rubber headphone hole is designed so that a headphone cable or charging cable can pass through. You can enjoy music or charge your device conveniently while walking.
What We Love
- Spacious and Functional Design: Users appreciate the backpack’s large capacity that easily fits a 17-inch laptop, along with other essentials like books, clothes, and gadgets. The roll-top closure is particularly praised for providing extra room when needed, making it versatile for both business and travel purposes.
- Splash-Proof and Weather Resistant: The splash-proof material is a favorite feature, with users noting that it offers reliable protection against light rain and moisture, making it ideal for cycling or commuting in unpredictable weather conditions. However, some suggest using a rain cover for heavier downpours.
- Antitheft Features: The antitheft design, including hidden zippers and secure pockets, gives users peace of mind when traveling or commuting. Many appreciate the added security, especially in crowded or urban environments where pickpocketing could be a concern.
- Comfortable for Daily Use: Users frequently mention that the padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel provide a high level of comfort, even when carrying heavier loads. This makes it a great choice for daily commuting, cycling, or business trips.
- Headphone Port for Convenience: The built-in headphone port is well-received by users who enjoy listening to music or podcasts while on the go. It adds an extra layer of convenience, especially for those who commute by foot or bike.
- Stylish Roll-Top Design: Many users love the stylish and modern roll-top look, noting that it stands out from traditional backpacks. The sleek design is seen as professional enough for business settings, yet casual enough for everyday use or travel.
- Durable and High-Quality Construction: The durability of the backpack is often praised, with users reporting that the tough fabric and sturdy zippers hold up well to regular use, whether for work, travel, or cycling. It’s described as a long-lasting investment.
- Well-Organized Storage: The multiple compartments and pockets inside the bag are appreciated for keeping items organized. Users find it easy to separate their laptop, documents, and smaller items, which is particularly helpful for business or school use.
- Perfect for Cycling: Cyclists highlight the backpack’s secure fit and splash-proof design, noting that it’s comfortable to wear while riding and offers enough space for work essentials or gear. The antitheft features and water resistance make it a top choice for bike commuters.
- Versatile for Various Uses: Overall, users find the backpack incredibly versatile, suitable for business, travel, commuting, or outdoor activities like hiking or cycling. Its combination of security, space, and style makes it a favorite for those who need a reliable and multifunctional backpack.
10. MUPAS Bicycle Backpack for Men and Women Waterproof Ultralight with Rain Cap/Helmet Cover/Mobile Phone Case and Reflective Strips, Cycling Backpack, MTB Backpack, Bike Backpack
Price: $51.12 – Click to Buy
Features
- Professional hydration system: With an outdoor bicycle hydration system that releases both hands, there is a hidden H20 outlet on the shoulder strap, which can quickly refill water anytime and anywhere (delivery without water bag).
- Tight fit and breathable: The newly improved honeycomb carrying system provides good comfort and breathability, and S-shaped shoulder straps ensure that the bicycle backpack fits close to the body and keeps the cycling backpack stable while driving.
- Ultralight and comfortable: MUPAS sports backpack has been specially designed for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, with its lightweight structure, lightweight material and ultra-light weight of 600 g, so you can train outdoors without strain.
- Innovative design: Pockets on the shoulder straps can hold small items such as energy bars, GPS devices and smartphones, so you can quickly and easily access your equipment without taking off the backpack, and keep you in an even hiking rhythm all the time.
- Reflective stripe design: stylish reflective strips on the front and back bicycle backpack are designed to help you reflect light in dark environments for more safety.
- Multifunctional compartment: backpack has multiple storage spaces. You can put your 14 inch laptop, mobile phone, keys and other items in the bicycle backpack for easy transport without taking up space.
What We Love
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Users love how ultralight the MUPAS backpack is, making it perfect for cycling or long rides without adding unnecessary weight. The comfortable fit with adjustable straps is praised for ensuring the bag stays secure during rides without shifting or bouncing.
- Waterproof Protection: The waterproof design is highly appreciated for keeping contents dry in light to moderate rain. Cyclists especially mention that this feature makes it ideal for commuting or mountain biking in unpredictable weather conditions. Some users, however, recommend using the included rain cover for added protection in heavy rain.
- Reflective Strips for Safety: Users commend the reflective strips, noting that they significantly improve visibility during low-light conditions, making it safer for evening or early morning cycling. This safety feature is a big plus for those who often ride in areas with heavy traffic or dim lighting.
- Helmet and Gear Storage: The helmet cover and extra storage options for gear are seen as useful, especially for mountain bikers. The helmet holder is convenient for securing a helmet when not in use, and the dedicated compartments make organizing cycling gear easier.
- Mobile Phone Case: The inclusion of a mobile phone case on the shoulder strap is appreciated for its practicality. Users love that it allows easy access to their phone without needing to remove the backpack, which is convenient for navigation or quick use during rides.
- Spacious Enough for Essentials: While compact, users find the backpack has enough space to carry cycling essentials such as a water bottle, snacks, tools, and extra clothing. It’s praised for being well-organized and providing just the right amount of storage for day trips or commuting.
- Breathable Design: The breathable back panel is another favorite feature, keeping users cool and reducing sweat buildup during long or intense rides. This makes it a comfortable choice for both mountain biking and daily commuting.
- Versatile Use: Many users appreciate that the MUPAS backpack is suitable not only for cycling but also for hiking, running, or other outdoor sports. Its versatile design makes it a great multipurpose backpack for various activities.
- Durability: Users mention that the durable construction holds up well to frequent use and rugged outdoor conditions. The backpack’s ability to withstand daily wear and tear, along with exposure to the elements, is praised by many.
- Great Value for Money: Overall, users feel that the backpack offers excellent value for its price, with its combination of features like waterproofing, reflectivity, and comfort making it a favorite among cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Too Long But I’ll Read
Let’s explore in detail what makes a cycling backpack useful and how to choose one that suits your unique requirements. A useful cycling backpack has several key features:
1. Comfort and Fit
Cycling is a physically demanding activity, and the last thing a rider needs is discomfort from an ill-fitting backpack. Comfort is a top priority when choosing a cycling backpack because long rides, particularly on rough terrain, can become unbearable if the bag causes strain.
Ergonomic Design: The backpack should be designed with the cyclist’s posture and body movements in mind. This means contoured shoulder straps, padded back panels, and adjustable chest and waist straps. A snug fit prevents the pack from shifting or bouncing, which can affect the rider’s balance and cause discomfort over time.Ventilation: To prevent excessive sweating and overheating, a good cycling backpack will feature ventilation channels or mesh back panels. Brands like Deuter and Osprey use technologies like suspended mesh that keep the backpack slightly raised off your back, allowing for airflow.
Adjustability: The ability to adjust shoulder, chest, and waist straps is crucial. A pack that fits snugly without being too tight helps distribute the load evenly across the back, reducing fatigue. The sternum and waist straps prevent excessive movement and ensure the pack remains stable, especially on rough terrain.
2. Hydration Options
Cycling, especially over long distances or in hot weather, requires easy access to water. A useful cycling backpack will often include a hydration system or have the ability to integrate one.
Hydration Bladder Compatibility: Many cycling backpacks come with dedicated compartments for hydration bladders (1.5L to 3L), with a hose that runs along the shoulder strap for easy access. This system allows cyclists to stay hydrated without stopping to reach for a water bottle, which is particularly useful for long-distance rides or races.External Bottle Holders: If you prefer using water bottles, look for backpacks that have external bottle holders. These are usually elasticized pockets on the sides of the bag, positioned for quick access while riding.
3. Capacity and Storage
The amount of gear you need to carry depends on the type of cycling you do. A commuter may need space for a laptop and work essentials, while a mountain biker needs tools, spare parts, and hydration.
Volume: Backpack capacity is measured in liters. For short commutes or road cycling, a small bag of 10-15 liters might be sufficient for essentials like a water bottle, repair kit, and a light jacket. For longer rides or tours, a larger pack of 20-30 liters may be necessary to accommodate extra gear like food, layers, tools, and personal items.
Organization: A well-organized backpack makes accessing gear on the go much easier. Multiple compartments and pockets are key features of a good cycling backpack. Look for a pack with designated pockets for essentials like a bike repair kit, food, and valuables. Some backpacks even come with roll-out tool organizers, ensuring quick access when needed.
Expandable Storage: Some backpacks feature expandable storage options, such as roll-tops or external straps, allowing for extra capacity when needed. This is especially useful for carrying bulkier items like jackets or additional gear for longer rides.
4. Durability
Cycling backpacks must endure a lot of wear and tear, from the vibrations of the road to the demands of weather. Durability is a critical factor to ensure the longevity of the bag.
Material Quality: High-quality materials like nylon or Cordura fabric, which are water-resistant and tear-resistant, are preferred. These materials are both lightweight and robust, capable of withstanding heavy use. Some packs are also coated with polyurethane for additional water resistance.Reinforced Construction: Areas that bear the most weight, such as the shoulder straps, zippers, and base of the backpack, should be reinforced with stronger stitching or extra padding. Zippers should be high-quality, preferably YKK, as they are more durable and less likely to break under stress.
5. Weather Resistance
Cycling exposes riders to the elements, so a cycling backpack needs to be weather-resistant or have ways to protect its contents.
Water-Resistant Materials: A backpack made from water-resistant materials will keep your gear dry in light rain or drizzle. However, for heavier rain, a fully waterproof bag or a built-in rain cover is necessary to protect your belongings.
Rain Covers: Many backpacks come with a stowable rain cover, often stored in a small compartment at the base of the bag. When the weather turns, you can easily pull it out and cover the entire backpack to shield it from rain.
Zipper and Seam Sealing: Even if a backpack is made from water-resistant materials, water can still seep through zippers and seams. Some cycling backpacks are designed with sealed seams and waterproof zippers, adding an extra layer of protection against the elements.
6. Safety Features
Cycling, particularly in low light or traffic-heavy areas, requires the rider to be visible to others. Many cycling backpacks incorporate safety features to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Reflective Elements: Reflective strips or patches on the backpack increase visibility during nighttime or low-light conditions. These elements are often positioned strategically on the front, sides, and back of the backpack, ensuring that you’re visible from different angles.
Light Attachment Points: Some backpacks come with attachment points for bike lights, allowing you to clip a rear light to the bag for added visibility in dark conditions.
7. Versatility and Multi-Use
While designed for cycling, a useful cycling backpack should also offer versatility for other activities such as hiking, commuting, or traveling.
Commuter-Friendly Features: For cyclists who commute, a padded laptop compartment is a useful feature. These compartments protect your electronics from shocks and bumps while riding. Additionally, a backpack with a sleek design and minimal bulk can easily transition from the bike to the office.
Removable Straps: Some backpacks come with removable or tuck-away waist belts and sternum straps, making them easier to use off the bike. This is ideal for cyclists who want a multi-functional pack that can also be used for casual wear or hiking.
8. Accessibility
Easy access to essential items without needing to stop and unpack the entire bag can be a game-changer, especially on long rides.
Quick-Access Pockets: Zippered pockets on the hip belt, shoulder straps, or exterior of the backpack allow riders to grab small items like energy bars, keys, or a phone without having to take the bag off.
Main Compartment Accessibility: Some backpacks feature a wide-opening clamshell design, making it easier to access the main compartment and organize your gear. This is particularly useful for multi-day rides where you might need to pack more items and want to easily see everything at once.
9. Price and Value
A high-quality cycling backpack is an investment, and while it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, it’s worth paying more for features like durability, comfort, and weather resistance. However, there are good backpacks available at different price points.
Budget Backpacks: Affordable backpacks usually provide the basics—lightweight construction, decent storage, and comfort. While they may not offer premium features like hydration systems or advanced weatherproofing, they are still sufficient for casual cyclists or short commutes.
Premium Backpacks: High-end backpacks come with features such as advanced suspension systems, hydration reservoirs, fully waterproof designs, and extensive storage compartments. These are ideal for long-distance cyclists, mountain bikers, or those commuting daily through unpredictable weather conditions.
