Ever feel like your bike is missing a crucial piece of gear? That’s often a riding backpack! Whether you’re hitting the trails for an afternoon or embarking on a long adventure, you need a place to stash your essentials. But let’s be honest, finding the *perfect* riding backpack can feel like a treasure hunt with no map. So many choices, so many features – it’s easy to get lost!
You want a pack that stays put, doesn’t make your back sweat buckets, and can hold everything you need without feeling like a boulder on your shoulders. The wrong backpack can ruin a ride with discomfort or, worse, leave you without that vital tube patch or energy bar. It’s a common struggle for many cyclists.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great riding backpack and guide you through the important things to consider. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find a pack that becomes your trusted riding companion.
Our Top 5 Riding Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Riding Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. ArcEnCiel 15L Motorcycle Backpack Tactical Bag Rucksacks for Outdoor Camping Trekking with Patch(Black)
Rating: 8.6/10
The ArcEnCiel 15L Motorcycle Backpack is a tough and versatile bag designed for adventure. Made from strong, scratch-resistant nylon, it can handle tough weather and keep your gear dry. It even comes with a special spot for a patch to make it uniquely yours. This backpack is perfect for carrying essentials on your motorcycle trips, hikes, or camping adventures.
What We Like:
- Made from high-density nylon, it’s resistant to scratches and splashes.
- It has a personality patch area to add your own cool patches.
- The 15L capacity is enough for a laptop, books, and other daily items.
- It features a Molle system for attaching extra gear.
- The padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel make it comfortable to wear.
- The straps are adjustable for a good fit.
- It’s a lightweight and compact option.
- It’s great for various outdoor activities like camping and trekking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The overall size is a bit small, so it’s not ideal for carrying a lot of gear.
- It is not suitable for children.
If you’re looking for a compact and customizable backpack for your outdoor excursions, this ArcEnCiel bag is a solid choice. Just remember it’s best for lighter loads.
2. ArcEnCiel Motorcycle Backpack Tactical Bag Army Pack Rucksacks for Outdoor Hiking Camping Trekking – Rain Cover+Patch Included (Black)
Rating: 8.6/10
The ArcEnCiel Motorcycle Backpack Tactical Bag Army Pack Rucksacks is a tough and versatile bag designed for your adventures. Made from strong, water-resistant 1000D nylon fabric, this black backpack can handle the elements. It’s built to last, resisting scratches and fading, so it will look good for a long time. Whether you’re hitting the trails for hiking, camping, or trekking, or even cruising on your motorcycle, this pack has you covered.
What We Like:
- It’s made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon that’s tough and won’t fade.
- The backpack is lightweight, making it comfortable to carry.
- It has plenty of pockets for organization, including a main compartment for a 14-inch laptop, a middle pocket for a 10-inch iPad, and a front pocket for smaller tablets and essentials.
- Two side pockets are perfect for your water bottle or umbrella.
- Comfort is key with padded, ventilated back and shoulder straps, plus an adjustable chest belt.
- The D-rings on the straps are handy for clipping on sunglasses or other gear.
- A special patch section lets you personalize your bag.
- It comes with a rain cover and a patch, adding extra value.
- It’s a great all-around bag for daily use and various outdoor activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions are 11″(L) x 6.3″(W) x 18.5″(H), which might be a bit large for some people’s everyday needs.
- The product is not intended for children aged 12 and under.
This backpack offers a lot of features for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a durable and functional bag for their outdoor pursuits.
3. WEPLAN Motorcycle Backpack
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the WEPLAN Motorcycle Backpack, a versatile and practical companion for every rider, whether you’re a man or a woman. This backpack is designed to make your rides and outings more organized and secure. It’s built to handle your gear and keep it protected, no matter the weather.
What We Like:
- Ample Capacity: This backpack is huge! It easily fits most motorcycle helmets, including full-face ones. It measures 50*36*20CM, so you can pack your 15-inch laptop, a rugby ball, or even a volleyball. Plus, there’s room for one or two outfits and all your small essentials for daily trips or outdoor adventures.
- Safety First: Ride with confidence, day or night. The reflective strips on this backpack make you highly visible to other vehicles in low light or darkness. This keeps you safe on the road.
- Tough and Water-Resistant: Made from high-density nylon, this backpack is built to last. It’s tear-resistant and will keep your belongings dry during light rain showers, protecting your gear from the elements.
- Smart Organization: No more digging for your stuff! The backpack features one main pocket with three compartments and two zippers. This helps you keep your smaller items neatly separated and easy to find.
- Reliable Quality: WEPLAN stands behind its product with great craftsmanship and after-sales service. If you’re not happy within a month, you can get your money back.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the high-density nylon is great for light rain, heavier downpours might require additional waterproofing.
- The dimensions are generous, but for some extra-large helmets, fitting might be a snug.
This WEPLAN Motorcycle Backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a durable, organized, and safe way to carry their gear. Its thoughtful design and quality materials make it a dependable partner for all your adventures.
4. Helmet Backpack for Motorcycle Cycling
Rating: 9.4/10
The Helmet Backpack for Motorcycle Cycling is a versatile and durable bag designed to make your adventures easier. It’s built to carry your helmet and all your gear, whether you’re hitting the road on your motorcycle, cycling through trails, or hiking up a mountain. This backpack is made from tough, water-resistant nylon, so your belongings stay safe and dry in any weather.
What We Like:
- It’s super convenient for carrying your helmet and other sports gear like basketballs or soccer balls.
- The backpack has a lot of storage space with two main compartments and a large pocket, making it easy to keep your things organized.
- It opens wide (90-180 degrees) so you can find what you need quickly.
- The material is strong and tear-resistant, and it’s also waterproof.
- The shoulder straps and back have comfortable padding with good air circulation, keeping you cool and dry.
- Reflective strips make you more visible at night, which is great for safety.
- It’s perfect for many outdoor activities like hunting, traveling, and camping.
- It’s a fantastic gift for sports lovers and travelers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack weighs 2.86 lbs, which might feel a bit heavy for some users before adding any gear.
- While it’s waterproof, the description doesn’t specify if it’s fully submersible or just resistant to rain.
This backpack is a solid choice for anyone who needs a reliable and spacious bag for their outdoor pursuits. It offers great functionality and durability for all your adventures.
5. NOOLA Hydration Backpack with 3L TPU Water Bladder
Rating: 9.5/10
Gear up for your next adventure with the NOOLA Hydration Backpack. This tough pack is designed for all your outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to running and climbing. It comes with a large 3-liter water bladder, making sure you stay hydrated on long journeys. Plus, its smart design means all your essentials will be organized and easy to find.
What We Like:
- Built with strong, abrasion-resistant nylon to last a long time.
- Lots of pockets (9 in total!) keep your gear tidy, with 4 zippered pockets for security.
- The 3-liter water bladder is made of safe TPU, so it’s free from BPA and bad smells.
- It’s comfortable to wear, thanks to padded shoulder straps and a breathable back pad.
- The Molle system lets you easily attach extra gear to the backpack.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps provide a secure and comfortable fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many pockets, some might find organizing smaller items a bit tricky.
- The “tactical” look might not appeal to everyone looking for a more casual pack.
The NOOLA Hydration Backpack is a solid choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. It offers great storage and comfort, ensuring you’re prepared for any adventure.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Riding Backpack
When you’re hitting the open road on your motorcycle or bicycle, a good riding backpack is a lifesaver. It carries your essentials, keeps them safe, and doesn’t get in your way. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find a backpack that’s perfect for your rides.
What to Look for: Key Features of a Great Riding Backpack
1. Comfort and Fit
A backpack that’s comfortable won’t distract you while you ride. Look for padded shoulder straps. They should be adjustable so you can get a snug fit. A chest strap or sternum strap can help distribute the weight better. This keeps the backpack from bouncing around. Some backpacks also have a waist strap for extra support. This is especially helpful on longer rides.
2. Capacity and Organization
Think about what you need to carry. Do you just need space for a water bottle and a few snacks? Or do you need to pack a change of clothes, a laptop, or tools? Backpacks come in different sizes. Look for plenty of pockets and compartments. This helps you keep things organized. You can easily find what you need without digging. A dedicated laptop sleeve is a great feature for commuters.
3. Weather Resistance
You never know when the weather might change. A good riding backpack should protect your gear from rain and dust. Look for water-resistant materials. Some backpacks have a waterproof coating or come with a rain cover. This gives you extra protection. Zippers are also important. Water-resistant zippers keep moisture out.
4. Safety Features
Being seen on the road is crucial. Many riding backpacks have reflective elements. These help you stand out, especially at night or in low light. Some backpacks even have a place to attach a hydration pack. Staying hydrated is important for focus and energy.
5. Durability and Materials
You want a backpack that will last. Strong, abrasion-resistant materials are key. These materials can handle being scraped or rubbed against your jacket. Good stitching is also a sign of quality. It means the backpack is built to last.
Important Materials to Consider
The materials used in a riding backpack greatly affect its performance. Here are some common ones:
- Nylon: This is a very popular choice. It’s strong and lightweight. It also resists water and tears.
- Polyester: Another durable option. It’s often used in combination with nylon.
- Ballistic Nylon: This is a super tough type of nylon. It’s very resistant to abrasion and tearing.
- Water-Resistant Coatings: Many backpacks have a PU (polyurethane) coating. This helps repel water.
What Makes a Backpack Great (or Not So Great)?
Quality can vary a lot. Here’s what boosts or lowers a backpack’s rating:
- High Quality: Well-padded straps, strong zippers, durable stitching, and smart pocket design make a backpack great. Good ventilation panels on the back also add to comfort.
- Lower Quality: Thin materials, weak zippers that snag, poorly padded straps, and a lack of organization can make a backpack frustrating to use. A backpack that doesn’t sit right can also be uncomfortable and unsafe.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a backpack feels and works during a ride is what really matters. Think about how you’ll use it:
- Commuting: If you ride to work, you’ll need space for a laptop, lunch, and maybe a change of clothes. Easy access pockets are a plus.
- Day Trips: For shorter rides, you might need space for snacks, a water bottle, a first-aid kit, and a light jacket.
- Longer Rides/Touring: These rides require more storage. You might need to pack extra layers, tools, and personal items. Comfort and weight distribution become very important here.
A well-chosen riding backpack becomes an extension of you on your journey. It keeps your essentials secure and lets you focus on the joy of the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What size backpack do I need?
A: The size depends on what you carry. For short trips, 10-20 liters is usually enough. For longer trips or commuting with a laptop, 20-30 liters is better. Always check the backpack’s capacity in liters.
Q: Are waterproof backpacks necessary?
A: While fully waterproof backpacks are best, water-resistant ones with good zippers and coatings are often sufficient for most riders. A rain cover is also a good backup.
Q: How important are padded straps?
A: Very important! Padded shoulder straps make the backpack much more comfortable to wear, especially when it’s full or you’re riding for a long time. They prevent the straps from digging into your shoulders.
Q: Can I use a regular backpack for riding?
A: You can, but a riding backpack is designed specifically for it. They offer better aerodynamics, more secure fitting, and often better weather protection and safety features.
Q: What does “aerodynamic” mean for a backpack?
A: Aerodynamic means the backpack is designed to cut through the wind smoothly. This helps reduce drag and wind resistance, making your ride more comfortable and efficient.
Q: Should I look for reflective elements?
A: Yes, definitely! Reflective strips or panels make you more visible to other drivers, especially at night or in bad weather. This is a key safety feature.
Q: How can I make sure the backpack stays put?
A: Look for backpacks with adjustable chest straps and sometimes waist straps. These help keep the backpack stable and prevent it from shifting around while you ride.
Q: What if I need to carry a laptop?
A: Many riding backpacks have a padded, separate compartment for laptops. This protects your device from bumps and vibrations.
Q: How do I clean my riding backpack?
A: Most riding backpacks can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Check the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific advice. Avoid harsh chemicals or machine washing.
Q: Where is the best place to wear a riding backpack?
A: The backpack should sit comfortably on your back, with the straps adjusted so it doesn’t pull forward or shift. It shouldn’t obstruct your vision or your ability to move freely.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.