When gearing up for a refreshing cycle commute, your rucksack is something you might not pay enough attention to. However, this particular gear plays a critical role in our daily commute, which we hardly notice. Naturally, the bike tops the chart in terms of urgency, followed by a helmet, lock, or lights for better visibility at night.
Your backpack rarely gets the attention it deserves. Chances are, your bike commute itinerary already includes a backpack, but is it the right one?
Your rucksack plays a major role in making your commute comfortable and smooth. For one, you will definitely be irritated with back sweat if you get a backpack that doesn’t allow your skin to breathe. Apart from that, the water-proof feature is something you must look for when out on a rainy day.
While the market is loaded with a range of backpacks that help you carry your extra load and commute critically with ease, not all products are right for you. Be smart and bring home a backpack that is worth your investment.
In this article, we have listed out the best backpacks for bike commuting available in the market that tick all the marks for a perfect rucksack.
But, before we do that, let us take a look at some critical elements that you need to look for when planning to purchase a backpack.
What Things to Look for when Buying a Bike Commuter Backpack?
When shopping for a commuter backpack for your bike rides, it is crucial to consider some factors that make up for an excellent product. Here are some of the important ones listed out for you:
Gears to Carry
The first thing you need to focus on when purchasing a backpack is what you want to carry within. It will help you choose the right backpack that keeps your item safe and sound. One of the common items most bikers carry around is their laptop.
If you, too, have plans to carry such sensitive electronics in your backpack, make sure you opt for a commuter backpack that is padded with a laptop sleeve that protects your gear from bumps and scratches.
Apart from that, you also need to focus on backpacks that are designed with water-proof covers to help you protect your belongings if it rains suddenly.
Aim for Comfort
Regardless of the variant of the backpack you choose, you will use it only when it provides you comfort throughout the ride. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to opt for a heavily padded backpack. On the contrary, a heavily padded backpack could add to the heat you feel when carrying it around in the summer months.
Apart from that, you also need to pay deep attention to its straps. In case you plan on carrying a major load, having a backpack with a waist strap will help evenly distribute the pressure from your back to the hips. It will help prevent any extra pressure on your back or shoulders, which might have transcended into pain.
Organizing Features
Before we consider this factor, ask yourself, are you a person that prefers to put all your belongings into a large mess, or are you someone who loves to organize things? If you are the latter individual, you would love a backpack with compartments and pockets that help separate your stuff in a segregated way.
Plus, if you are someone who keeps things in one large compartment, there are several backpacks available in the market that tends to your needs. However, most bike commuters aim for the ones with various compartments for easy storage options.
Waterproofing
If you have to ride in the rain to your work or need to get an emergency task done in time, you could benefit from a waterproof backpack. It will make sure any stuff you carry within the same will remain dry and unaffected by the dripping rain outside.
Now, depending on your needs, the backpack might be partially water-proof or completely water-proof. Additionally, there is a difference between water-proof backpacks and water-resistant backpacks. While water-proof items are completely resistant to water, the ones labeled water-resistant can handle only light showers and not a massive pour down.
For bikers, it is vital to carry a water-proof backpack as it protects their items during their commute in the rainy months.
Top 10 Best Backpacks for Bike Commute Reviews
1. Timbuk2 Especial Medio Cycling Laptop Backpack
If you are looking around for a mid-sized backpack that is water-proof as well, you should surely give the Timbuk2 backpack a quick try.
This rucksack is designed for cyclists that aim to keep things organized.
Material & Design
The bag is designed with internal slip pockets that can fit as big as 15-inch laptops. This sturdy beauty also packs in some extras that are designed to fit in as much as you can carry around without straining the back. Timbuk2 backpack also comes with water-resistant zippers that are PU coated. It helps ensure that water doesn’t seep into your backpack during light drizzles. In case you plan on carrying something extra for an emergency need, you can make use of the front panel that unzips for volume expansion and helps you carry that extra load with ease. The backpack comes with two side-stretch pockets that can help you fit your water bottles.
The material of the backpack is made from durable nylon Cordura that doesn’t rip off easily, even with years of rough use. In order to ensure that the backpack doesn’t fall off from your back during the ride, the straps are manufactured from high-density soft foam & mesh to ensure ample breathability on hotter days.
Ease of Use & Functionality
Talking about the usage and functionality, the compression straps added on the outside are designed for expanding and clinching for maximum storage. The reflective hits ensure that commuters can see you from far away at night and thus avoid any unfortunate accidents.
Additional Information
Additionally, you also get a vista loop that helps attach bike lights that blink. The seam-tape construct added to the internally located drop liner ensures that the backpack lasts for you a long time. The comfortable straps also feature a headphone routing option to keep you entertained on the commute.
Pros:
- Features backbender cooling panel that offers comfort & ventilation
- Comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty
- Packs in an internal mesh panel to store small items like headphones
- Can be used as a makeshift handbag with its sturdy handle
Cons:
- Isn’t completely water-proof, can only handle light drizzles
- Mesh bottle holders tend to stretch out too soon
2. TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack
For adventure freaks, having the right backpack is a critical necessity. With TETON Sports Oasis, you get a chance to indulge in an activity of your choice without compromising on the comfort factor.
The backpack comes in especially handy if you have back issues and don’t want to add to the weight load during your commute.
Material & Design
Created from a rugged high-denier ripstop shell, the backpack comes with a large hydration pack segment that can help you carry as much as 18 liters of water. So, the next time you plan to go out on a trip with your friends or opt for solo travel, this backpack will help adhere to all your hydration needs.
Apart from that, the backpack also features a free bladder for hydration purposes. The 2-liter, kink-free durable sip tube can help you hydrate with ease without having to take off the backpack. With TETON, you also get a push-lock-based cushioned valve that keeps things in place for the roughest rides.
Ease of Use & Functionality
If you have plans to store ice in your backpack, you get a 2-inched large opening that can easily be cleaned off when required. The rucksack can also be customized as per your comfort requirements. Whether you are a man or woman, this backpack will adhere to your personalization needs.
In case you are someone with medium or small stature, you can adjust the bag accordingly without dimming down due to the heaviness. The foam stabilizer design paired with mesh covering ensures that you can carry it around with ease, even for hours.
Additional Information
If you plan to carry your electrical gears during the commute, you can do so with its large pockets that help protect them from water or dust. Apart from that, the zippers are sturdy enough and do not break down even after multiple uses.
Pros:
- Comes with a bungee cord add-on for securing climbing helmets
- Outer shell features a rugged ripstop of high-density make
- Full-length pockets with reversed zipper and weather guard feature
- Ergonomic strap design that contours to your shoulder design
Cons:
- Hydration pack tends to leak after some time
- Drinking tube doesn’t sit straight, hangs down all the time
3. TOMSHOO Cycling Backpack
If you need a stylish yet reliable backpack for your daily bike commute, nothing could beat the beauty of the TOMSHOO cycling backpack.
This rucksack is created from high-quality nylon-based outer material that doesn’t wear out even with rough use.
Material & Design
Made from a rugged ripstop shell with the high-denier make, the backpack also flaunts side straps with compression features to ensure that your bottle or similar items do not fall off during the commute. The ergonomic backing system is designed to reduce the pressure from your back and help correct your posture even when used for a long term. The rucksack is the perfect definition of breathability, reduced back strain, as well as a lightweight commute.
Ease of Use & Functionality
The makers of TOMSHOO have introduced an adjustable shoulder strap that can be modified as required to fit you comfortably while reducing the pressure on your back. The two-way zipper made of metal provides you access to all your items with ease. For safety, you always need to carry your helmet during daily cycling.
To help with this aspect, the TOMSHOO features a mesh cover for your helmet that aids in securing the same in place, even if you go down rough terrain. Add to all these features; you get access to a rain cover that can expand to cover the entirety of the backpack and help protect the valuables from water.
In case you are tired from carrying the backpack around on your shoulders, you can change the routine and carry it around on your hand with the help of its high-strength handle.
Additional Information
TOMSHOO also comes with reflective strips that enhance the visibility & safety aspect at night for you as well as other commuters. If you tend to sweat a lot, the backpack is designed with a mesh panel added to the back. It helps improve the overall airflow while keeping it comfortable for the wearer.
Pros:
- Features soft and cushioned straps that can be adjusted for a perfect fit
- Comes with a spacious prime compartment that can hold a lot for your trip
- Belt pockets on the hip provide quick access to small items
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature a water bladder
- Poor stitching comes off when loaded with heavier objects
4. INOXTO Cycling Backpack
Does your backpack bounce around and fail to stay in place as you are riding around on your bike? If so, it is time for you to change it to the latest INOXTO cycling backpack.
Material & Design
Available in black, blue, orange, and purple colors, this backpack is created from high-quality nylon lining that ensures that water doesn’t trickle into the interiors of the bag. This lightweight beauty has a massive carrying capacity of 18 liters without weighing you down on the road. Not just that, the backpack features strong zippers that don’t break down with constant use. INOXTO features an adjustable chest strap, shoulder strap, as well as waist strap so that it doesn’t bounce around and disturb your balance on the ride.
Ease of Use & Functionality
Talking about the ease of use, this backpack brings in some of the best features for safe and easy storage. In order to help you store your helmet, the hood features a pocket that keeps it in place. The combination also comes with a 2-liter water bladder to help ease your thirst during long commutes.
In case you are someone who loves to travel through the darkness of the night, the reflective strips help keep you completely safe by highlighting your location for the adjoin commuters.
The cycling backpack also comes with 2-prime compartments & several small and big pockets to help store all that you need for your commute. Apart from this, the rucksack also features an exterior pocket to hold objects of high capacity. If you plan on storing small items, this backpack also features an upper pocket with a zipper.
Additional Information
The backpack’s chest strap area also packs in a whistle that can be used for instances that require emergency action. If there is a problem with your backpack, the manufacturer also offers you a year of after-service to take off your worries.
Pros:
- Ideal for running, cycling, hiking, riding, and camping
- Designed for both men and women
- Features magic stickers that help keep the water bladder in place
- Water bladder doesn’t sink or shake during a commute
- Features string bag for better storage of your helmet
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature a rain cover, needs to be purchased separately
- Water might leak; not safe for storage of electrical items
5. N NEVO RHINO Hydration Backpack
Whether you love cycling or camping, you need a backpack that fits your daily requirements. The NEVO Rhino hydration backpack is a must-try option to ease your daily commute with ample storage space.
Material & Design
With the NEVO Rhino hydration backpack, you get an amazing rucksack that features high-quality nylon fabric with a mesh design. The item is designed to be durable and lightweight at the same time. The ergonomically padded support design on the back provides you excellent breathability and comfortable experience.
Most mesh fabrics tend to tear up after a few uses; however, the one added to the NEVO ensures that it doesn’t break down even after being used a lot. If you want to carry around liquids on your commute, you get access to a thermal insulation feature for the water bladder segment. So, you can easily carry hot or cold water.
Ease of Use & Functionality
Talking about its functionality, the insulation feature helps keep the fluid cold or hot for hours without any change in temperature.In case you are a heavy drinker, the backpack houses enough capacity to help you carry as much as 3 liters water. The water bladder is built into the backpack and is completely leak proof. The bladder also comes with a sealable opening that features an extra-wide diameter to help pour out the water with ease.
You can also add some ice to the water bladder to make up for a refreshing drink. To lock the water bladder in place, all you need to do is push the rubber mouth atop the same. So, if you have plans to carry around electronics on your commute, you might not have to worry about water leaking into the same. This thoughtfully designed backpack comes with a high-load carrying waist buckle to help disperse the weight evenly throughout the back.
Additional Information
Additionally, you also get access to a whistle buckle that comes in handy during cases of emergencies. The zippers are designed to run to and fro in a glitch-free manner and do not breakdown midway.
Pros:
- Comes with an adjustable hip strap and shoulder belt
- Features reflective straps for safety
- Comes with a clip for a water pipe that can be connected to your water bladder
- Sturdy chest buckle that doesn’t breakdown easily
Cons:
- Water bladder tends to leave a plastic-like taste
6. Osprey Radial Bike Commuter Backpack
Do you hate it when your backpack’s strap digs deep into your shoulders and leads to intense pain?
However, with the Osprey backpack, you get access to an amazingly padded backpack with adjustable straps.
Material & Design
Created from 210D and 500D nylon, the backpack comes with a densely padded laptop sleeve to ensure that the gadget doesn’t break or scratch on the commute, regardless of how rugged the terrain gets.
The sleeve can fit as big as 15-inch laptops with ease. The backpack also features a separate clothing and shoe pocket to help you store your extra clothing items for emergencies. This commuter backpack also features biking-specific add-ons to ensure you get your money’s worth.
Ease of Use & Functionality
The integrated cover for rain protection ensures that you can overcome any rainy-day situation with ease. If you are looking for a backpack that helps you carry your helmet for safety purposes, this is an option you should definitely consider. The lid lock helmet storage option helps you carry the item with ease.
With Osprey, you also get a loop designed to help attach the blinky lights that can help you commute easily at night time and ensure safety for both you and other riders. Additionally, the backpack also comes with a scratch-free pocket designed to safe-keep your electronics as well as sunglasses. The Osprey also features a side panel with sturdy zippers that can be stretched to fit in a bottle with its breathable mesh design.
Additional Information
The commuter backpack also comes with an organization pocket on the front-end for sensitive and small items. Additionally, the pack features an integrated kickstand that keeps the backpack in the upright position when you are not using it. The backpack houses a zipper expansion feature to help you carry some extra load ranging between 24 liters to 34 liters.
Pros:
- Integrated rain cover can also be removed with ease
- Lid lock attachment to safely tuck away the helmet
- Back panel with adjustable airspeed feature for better breathability
- Zippered pockets that double up as side panels
- Scratch-free fabric design that helps deter water pour down
Cons:
- Material is flimsy and tends to fold over, creating creases
- Doesn’t have an isolated laptop pocket
7. RUPUMPACK Insulated Hydration Backpack
For someone looking for the perfect daypack, nothing could beat the features brought to you by the RUPUMPACK hydration backpack.
This backpack brings in a large bladder with 2.5 liters holding capacity to help quench your thirst on the ride.
No products found.
Material & Design
Decked by a high-density nylon make, the zipper closure design is water-resistant to ensure that that water doesn’t drip into the components within the backpack.Even with such a huge 2.5 liters holding capacity, the backpack doesn’t weigh down on you. It weighs a mere 1.4 pounds when emptied and yet is sturdy enough for your daily commute needs.
The water bladder is created from high-quality EVA material and is free from any BPA. This factor is actually essential, given the fact that a high amount of BPA getting into your drinking water can be injurious to your health. If you hate that plastic taste that comes from water being stored in the bladder, you can be assured that this backpack has dealt with the same with zero taste added to the same.
No products found.Ease of Use & Functionality
If you are someone who loves outdoor adventures such as cycling, running, fishing, hiking, etc., this backpack is an ideal choice for your regular needs. The large bladder opening ensures that ice can be added easily to your water. Additionally, the bladder can also be cleaned up with ease.
The uniquely designed compartment comes with two add-on pockets along with the widely built waist straps. You can add in your phone and similar valuables without having to worry about them getting scratched. The unique design of this rucksack makes it ideal for practical implementations.
Additional Information
You also get an open and conveniently designed compartment that can be used for storing your sweat towel without having to worry about the smell that might stay within the interiors of the bag. RUPUMPACK also comes with a high-quality layer of insulation that is created from aluminum foil to help keep your liquid cool for as long as 4 hours.
Pros:
- Holds as much as 2.5 liters of water to help you keep hydrated through the day
- Functions as a portable cooler designed for indoor & outdoor use
- Comes with a shoulder strap with a clip to fix your bladder hose
Cons:
- Condensation might leak within the backpack, although the bladder itself doesn’t leak
8. Thule Pack-n-Pedal Commuter Backpack
If you happen to live in a place that pours down rain abruptly, you would need a backpack that doesn’t drip around. For such emergencies, investing your money in the Thule Pack-n-Pedal commuter backpack is an ideal choice.
Material & Design
Decked with the 500-denier nylon material, this rucksack features a sturdy water-proof prime compartment that is paired with a roll-top closure to help keep the contents completely dry. The rain cover is integrated into the backpack and can easily be tucked into without taking up a lot of space.
Additionally, the rain cover is designed for high visibility with a bright color to ensure that anyone on the road can see you and maintain a safe distance even when there is limited visibility during stormy sessions.
The rain cover covers the entirety of the bag to ensure that water doesn’t drip into the bag and helps keep your property intact. Not just that, the backpack also comes with a hideaway attachment system for your helmet to ensure that you have access to safety whenever needed. The Thule backpack also comes with a 15-inch padded laptop compartment that helps separate your additional items from your gadgets.
Ease of Use & Functionality
In terms of ease of use, this padding mentioned above can easily be removed when not in need to make more room for other objects to be stored. Additionally, the rucksack also comes with a tablet sleeve that sits right atop the bag as opposed to sitting flat against your back. So, if you are someone seeking comfort during your ride, this backpack is an ideal choice for your bike commute.
Additional Information
With this backpack, you get access to a print with a reflective screen that is visible from a 360-degree angle to enhance your safety on the road. The metal zipper is easy to use and doesn’t break down abruptly when being used.
Pros:
- Flaunts 24 liters carrying capacity
- Zippered side pockets to help keep your items safe
- Sturdy latch that doesn’t break down with regular use
- Durable handle to help carry around the bag with ease
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature any mesh side pockets for water bottles
9. LOCALLION 18 Liters Cycling Backpack
When cycling through rough terrain, you might come across instances when your backpack might slide off and cause you major inconvenience.
To ensure that this isn’t your story, the right way to go would be to opt for the Locllion cycling backpack for your daily wear needs.
No products found.
Material & Design
Created from tear-resistant nylon fabric, the backpack features a 16-inch shoulder drop that makes it ideal for daily commute needs. The back material added to your backpack is designed to be particularly breathable. Not just that, it is padded with a mesh design to ensure added comfort & optimum heat dissipation. Apart from this, you get access to durable shoulder straps that can be adjusted as per requirement. The mesh straps also ensure that you do not sweat through your clothes while carrying this rucksack around.
Ease of Use & Functionality
If you are looking for an ideal backpack for sporting needs, nothing could beat the beauty of this versatile cycling backpack. Whether you plan on going for cycling, hiking, jogging, climbing, or plain simple traveling, this backpack will fit right into your itinerary.
For someone who suffers from back pain, the sack comes with waist straps that are designed for the facilitation of complete stress release. The backpack also ensures stability during the cycling process and doesn’t tumble down even as you drive down the rough terrains.
If your bike doesn’t have any space for keeping your helmet, you can use your backpack to store the helmet and carry it around anywhere you want for optimum safety. The high-quality, specialized clips ensure that the helmet doesn’t fall off abruptly.
Additional Information
Talking about the airflow system embedded within the backpack, the Locallion focuses on optimum ventilation and top-notch temperature control. Apart from this, the reflector design adds into the safety element with night visibility that warns fellow commuters of your presence.
Pros:
- Sponge padding on the shoulder straps help relieve any stress
- Convenient design with external storage design
- Open pocket to help you carry water bottles or water bladders
- Shoulder strap provides access to headphones and drinking hose
- Chest strap with a whistle for emergency events
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a water bladder
10. Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack
Looking for a simple yet classy backpack that is sure to stay by your side for years to come? The Skog Å Kust BackSåk is an amazing option that packs in a range of features for your daily commute needs.
Created from heavy-duty material, the backpack doesn’t wear out even when used roughly.
Material & Design
Made with the use of high-quality 420 rip-stop TPU-coated Nylon, the backpack is designed as a rugged item that can endure a range of variations in weather. The PVC material seals out the moisture or similar weather elements that add to the water-proof factor.
The welded seams ensure that water doesn’t seep in from any corners into your backpack. The roll-down top feature adds a layer of protection for the components kept inside the bag. So, in simple words, the backpack keeps your gear protected and dry when you indulge in a range of outdoor activities.
Ease of Use & Functionality
Apart from the convenience and comfort this backpack brings for your daily needs, this backpack also features a sternum clip that helps keep your helmet in place. Also, the padded back ensures optimum support to help relieve the pressure on the muscles. The thick & cushioned straps can be adjusted for top-quality custom comfort.
The rucksack also comes with handy d-rings on the sides to help hold the water bottles as well as similar gears in place. The side clips can be adjusted and used for a snug and compressed fit. The simplistic look also comes with a front-aligned side pocket that helps store your electronics with ease. The spacious pockets added to the interiors of the backpack help keep the gadgets in place and ensure that no water seeps inside.
Additional Information
Additionally, the outer pockets are splash-proof and help safely hold the IDs, keys, and more with ease. The backpack is available in two sizes, depending on your needs, which include a 25-liter and 35-liter variant.
Pros:
- Doesn’t feature any garish logo or tacky slogan, simple design
- Available in multiple colors with reflective variants as well
- Padded back made of EVA foam
- Reflective trim around the zipper for better low-light visibility
Cons:
- Zippers aren’t as sturdy and breakdown very soon
- Seams tend to come off with time
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the backpack’s weight an important consideration?
Ans: Yes, the overall weight of the backpacks adds to the weight you would be carrying on your shoulders. Now, it is worth considering that if you have ever suffered from shoulder or back pain issues, even the tiniest addition to the weight could bring down your health in a devastating way.
Most heavy bags are created from durable materials that offer more dividers or pockets. However, a durable bag doesn’t always need to be heavy. So, we need to consider this factor before making a purchase.
Which is better: Roll-top backpack or flap-closure backpack?
Ans: Whether you opt for a flap-closure or roll-top, it comes down to your personal preference. However, the design you choose can have a major impact on its water-proof feature. In general, the roll-top closures offer a water-proof feature given the fact that twisting the material tends to make it almost water-proof.
On the other hand, flap closures might not be as effective if you plan to keep the water out. That is why the flap closure water-proof bags generally come with secondary protection measures such as drawstring closures.
What capacity backpack should you purchase for a bike commute?
Ans: Most bike commuters tend to carry items such as spare clothes, laptops, or other valuables as per their daily requirement. However, you cannot carry too much load on your back as it can hurt you. A backpack with 20 to 30 liters capacity would be an ideal choice.
However, you can go for a backpack with a higher storage capacity depending on your requirements. As long as it doesn’t hurt your back, you are good to go.
What is the difference between panniers and backpacks?
Ans: While backpacks are good for daily bike commute needs, panniers are perfect for touring and cyclists that would want to lift heavy or large loads such as shopping necessities.
However, given the fact that panniers can carry heavy loads, you might want to get a rack installed on the bike for a better commute. Backpacks are lightweight and perfect for your simple load carrying needs.
Conclusion
With all these options by your side, choosing for your bike commute needs would surely be easy. So, the next time you are searching for a good backpack, we hope this guide would come in handy and help you make the right decision. Get rid of that back pain and enjoy a comfortable ride with these amazing backpacks brought to you by some of the most popular manufacturers in the market.
If you plan on buying any of these backpacks, do let us know how this worked out for you by putting in a comment below. We look forward to hearing from you!
