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Best Bike Panniers
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Ease of Use
Mounting a pannier on your bike means that you need to have a bike rack. Most modern bike panniers are compatible with almost any bike rack. They attach using clips, hooks, or straps on the top, and typically have a bungee system on the bottom that keeps them tightly in place as you ride. This is incredibly important, as a loose pannier is not only a nuisance but can be a real danger to you and those around you if it were to fall off. Before purchasing a pannier thoroughly do your research on how the bag will mount to your bike rack. It is likely that your bag will be compatible, but it never hurts to be sure. If the bag only works with certain racks it is likely that this will be stated in the product description.
The other thing to think about when it comes to mounting your pannier is how easy the bag is to take on and off the rack. If you are buying a touring bag, this type of easy access if less important since it is unlikely that you will need to remove your panniers from your bike very often. In fact, you may want to look for a bag that is harder to remove since this will mean it is more secure as you clock mileage. For the bike commuter though, a pannier that can come off hassle-free saves time, energy, and makes for a more pleasant commute. Although every bike commuter doesn’t need to bring their panniers inside, many do and it’s important to know what this process will look like before purchasing a bag.
Capacity
Before buying a pannier take some time to think about not only what activities you will be doing with this bag, but also precisely what you will need to bring with you when you engage in these activities. Panniers come in a variety of sizes, and with increased capacity comes increased weight. Considering how much space you need before purchasing the bag ensures that you will not be stuck with a heavy bag you never fill. This can be problematic for two reasons. Firstly, the heavier the bag, the more difficult it will be to lug it around. Secondly, an empty bag can be floppy, which is not only unattractive but can also be a nuisance getting in the way of the tires and peddles as you ride.
It is of course also important that you don’t buy a saddlebag that is too small and won’t fit everything you need. Make a list of all the items you will regularly be bringing with you and try to think about how many liters you require to fit everything comfortably. Also, think about any small things you may have for which you would like extra pockets. Taking all of this into account before you buy your pannier will ensure that the bag you end up with is the best one for you.
Water Resistance
The first question to ask oneself before buying a pannier is what you will primarily be using this bag for. There are a few types of biking for which panniers make the most sense, and each requires the bike panniers to perform slightly different functions. It is also possible that you will be using this bag to engage in multiple types of biking, something that should be taken into account as well.
The most typical use of pannier bags is for bike touring, an activity that involves riding long distances to get to a specific destination. Bike tours usually travel over paved roads and can include rides that range from a day or two to ones that last weeks and cover thousands of miles. The bag one picks for these kinds of trips needs to be fully waterproof, as encountering lousy weather is very likely when on the road for an extended period. If the touring pannier you choose is not waterproof, make sure it comes with a rain bag.
Bike panniers are also very popular within the community of bike commuters. These are people who use their bikes daily to get to school, work, or wherever else they may need to go. Typically, for city dwellers, it is unusual for a bike commuter to travel more than 20 miles in one day. If this is the type of biking you will be doing, look for a bag that is water-resistant (most are), but full waterproof capabilities are less critical as it is easier to avoid heavy downpours when you are merely using your bike to get around town.
Features
Extra pockets are also handy for the bike commuter, who will need to access their wallet, keys, and phone more regularly than someone on a bike tour. Touring bike panniers should also be simple in design and very sturdy. They often only have one large pocket for storing everything, which works great when your primary concern is clocking mileage on your bike.
The final primary consideration for a commuting pannier is whether or not you need to take your bag with you when you arrive at your destination, and therefore how easy this bag is to carry. Many panniers come with shoulder straps or handles that make them easily transportable off of your bike. You are going to be bringing this bag into your job or classroom every day make sure it has a comfortable strap. Otherwise, this will turn into a major hassle.
Top 10 Picks
1. Ibera PakRak
This is a great bike bag that is compatible with many different uses. Ample storage space and handy compartments mean you can organize everything you have whether you are biking to work or into a neighboring state.
Read moreEase of Use
This pair of panniers are designed to attach to your back tire using quick-release technology. They snap on and off and require no straps or other bulky equipment. Although they work best with Ibera carriers, the PakRak can be used with any carrier by adjusting the position of the bottom hook.
Capacity
Each saddle bag can carry up to 30L. Multiple compartments also make it easy to store small and delicate items such as your laptop or important bike tools while you are on the road.
Water Resistance
The material on the PakRak is water-resistant, but won’t protect the contents of the bags in heavy rain. Each comes with a rain cover which should be used if you are in that situation. The material itself can be susceptible to wear and tear after heavy use, something that you should think about if you plan on using these bags for many miles.
Features
These packs do not have any extra back straps or shoulder straps for carrying when they are not attached to your bike. There are handles on the top of each bag, but some customers find these difficult to use, making the bags a nuisance to carry. The PakRak is one of the best deals on the market, with ample space and a low price. The fact that this bag comes as a set of two makes the deal even better.
2. Ortlieb Back Roller
The Ortlieb Back-Roller may be the most classic pannier on the market, and for a good reason. This bag works. With a simple design and an easy to remove the system, the Back-Roller allows you to stay on the go while keeping everything you may need close at hand. The proven waterproof material makes it especially appealing to this group, as there is a guarantee that no matter the weather, you will arrive at work with dry clothes and work materials.
Read moreEase of Use
These packs are very easily attached and unattached from your bike. They are compatible with racks up to 16mm in diameter. Some reviewers wish that there was a permanent way to attach them to avoid worrying about theft. However, most agree that they are more than safely attached on bumpy roads. Customers also reported that these panniers are perfect for grocery shopping without a car.
Capacity
The Back-Roller comes as a set of two bags, each with a carrying capacity of 40 L. However; there are no extra pockets on this pannier, so storing small or delicate items can be difficult.
Water Resistance
The Back-Roller’s true claim to fame is its extremely waterproof material. No rain cover is necessary as these panniers will keep everything dry in any weather.
Features
This pannier does not include any extra back or shoulder straps. There is a handle up top that allows one to hold the bag when not attached to a bike, and the strap that is used to secure the top of the pannier while riding can also be used as a shoulder strap. Overall, customers find this bag easy to maneuver. Not a cheap bag, the price for this pannier is on the higher end of the spectrum. The fact that the Back-Roller is bought as a set of two does make the price more appealing.
3. Thule Shield Pannier
This attractive pannier comes in a variety of bright colors that are sure to catch the eye of passersby. It also includes highly reflective materials that ensure that you will be seen by any cars even if you are biking late into the night.
Read moreEase of Use
These panniers are most compatible with Thule brand racks but will work with almost any rack. Some customers have complained that it is difficult to mount at first, but after the initial install, they report that this problem subsides. After setting them up, they are easy to take on and off. This is a fun, practical, and all-around quality bag.
Capacity
The Thule Shield comes as a set of two and is available in either a large or small size depending on your needs. The small version fits 14-liters, and the large accommodates 24-liters. Whichever bag you choose, small interior pockets allow you to optimize the organization.
Water Resistance
The water-resistant material on the Thule Shield protects your things on wet and rainy days, although it does not ensure protection against all weather and a rain cover is recommended in truly bad weather. Rain covers are not included with the purchase of this pannier.
Features
The large shoulder strap makes it easy to bring this pannier inside once you are riding. Built-in handles add even more maneuverability around town. When attached to your bike, the straps are easy to secure and stay tucked out of the way. The price for this bag depends on whether you purchase the small or large version. Each is reasonably priced, about what one should expect to pay for a quality pannier.
4. Axiom WP Monsoon
This attractive pannier set is ideal for many different situations, including touring, commuting, and grocery shopping. The panniers are so durable and waterproof that we really do believe that they could survive a Monsoon. Besides all of the great features and reflectiveness, they're also quite attractive!
Read moreEase of Use
If you’re not typically handy with tools, the Axiom Monsoon is a great choice for you. It is straightforward to install, and the spring-loaded hooks are compatible with 6mm-16mm rails. The slide and flip-lock provide a secure connection to your bike. The fasteners are made by Rixen and Kaul and seem to be high-quality. These panniers can be attached to the front or rear of your bike.
Capacity
Sold as a pair, they can hold up to 45-liters. This makes them ideal for touring, grocery shopping, or commuting. You don’t need to worry about the bags themselves weighing you down either. Together, they weigh 3.5-pounds.
Water Resistance
As the name suggests, these panniers are incredibly waterproof! Customers have been impressed by their durability and dryness through the nastiest of storms. The outside of the panniers is made from 600D polyester and also features a Hydracore waterproof inner. The top roll-down closure system ensures that water will not penetrate the bag.
Features
Each bag has a built-in carrying handle. Additionally, there is one included shoulder strap. Considering there are two saddlebags, we would expect two shoulder straps. There are 3M reflective accents as well as a place to attach the front and rear light clips. As far as the price, these run about average. Considering the amount of weather resistance and durability that is built-in, we think they’re a great investment.
5. ArcEnCiel Bag
The ArcEnCiel pannier is stylish and versatile. The two bike bags are attached in the center so that installing them is a simple task of draping it over the back rack and securing the straps. It comes in a variety of designs so that you can pick the one that fits your lifestyle perfectly.
Read moreEase of Use
These saddlebags can be easily mounted and released without the use of any tools. As for mounting it to the rack, it is compatible with virtually any rear rack system. A top bundle belt is included to accommodate any extra gear that you have to bring along as well.
Capacity
The most popular version of this bag is quite large, with a carrying capacity of up to 50 L. Smaller versions exist if this is more space than you need. Although there is only one large pocket inside the bag, multiple pockets on the outside allow you to organize your things.
Water Resistance
The canvas material of this bag is water-resistant and will keep this pannier and its contents dry in most inclement weather. Some customers did report that this bag fell apart quickly, especially along the seams.
Features
There are no extra straps for carrying this pannier. So that you can pick up the bag easier, there are handles on the top, although these handles may not allow for easy maneuverability. This pannier is definitely on the cheaper end of the spectrum. The price of the bag depends on which style you choose, with the larger versions being more expensive. Still, even the most expensive ArcEnCiel pannier is inexpensive compared with other bags.
6. Lone Peak Millcreek
The Lone Peak Millcreek is an incredibly versatile bag. It works well in a variety of situations, from long bike tours to daily commutes in the city. It is easy to take on and off the rack but stays in place as you ride. It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can pick the one that goes best with your bike.
Read moreEase of Use
The initial setup isn’t difficult because of the universal locking clips and bungee system. The Lone Peak Millcreek is for anyone looking for a pannier. The versatility of its storage areas, the ease with which it can be attached and taken off one’s bike, and the durable material, makes this a great pick for anyone.
Capacity
Each Lone Peak Millcreek can carry about 32 L worth of gear. Each bag has two large pockets and an outside mesh pocket so you can not only fit everything you need but organize it so that everything is easy to find.
Water Resistance
This saddlebag is water-resistant but not waterproof. This means that although your gear is likely to stay dry in light rain, it will not be protected when the rain picks up. However, rain flaps covers in the bag are there to protect everything when the heavy weather does arrive.
Features
These bike bags do not have any extra straps for carrying when they are not attached to your bike. Still, the compact style of the Lone Peak Millcreek makes it easy to handle even without extra straps. One of the more expensive bags on this list, but it is well worth the price. The versatility and durability of this pannier mean you will be using it well into the future.
7. Tourbon Canvas
This sleek pannier is easy to attach and detach from a bike rack, making it an excellent pick for bike commuters. It comes in three different colors so that you can choose the one the fits best with the entire look of your bike.
Read moreEase of Use
Well, we hate to break it to you, but the initial set up of these panniers can be a pain. It has a three-point attachment system with locking springs. However, once that is out of the way, customers love the fact that the panniers can be rolled up and snapped out of the way.
Capacity
Although the actual liter size of this pannier is not listed, customer reviews confirm that the compartments are large and work well for carrying a variety of items. There are no smaller pockets on this bag. One reviewer guessed that each bag holds about 6-liters.
Water Resistance
Made of water-resistant canvas material. However, it is not fully waterproof, so a rain cover is helpful in heavy rain. The canvas material is pliable and can be conveniently rolled up when you want to store the bag.
Features
This pannier set comes with a detachable shoulder strap that can be attached to either one of the bags, turning it from a pannier into a shoulder bag. Although this would look strange with some panniers, the attractive style of this bag makes the transition seamless. This bag is very reasonably priced. Although it is not the cheapest pannier on the market, it is far from the most expensive.
8. Overboard Waterproof Classic
This simple pannier covers the basics one would need for touring. Coming in either yellow or black, it is styled in a utilitarian yet attractive fashion.
Read moreEase of Use
While most reviewers agree that mounting the bag was simple, a few had issues with the portability of taking the pannier on and off each time they had something valuable in it. On the bright side, the pannier is compatible with any bike racks.
Capacity
The Overboard Waterproof Classic accommodates 17 L in each of the two panniers included in the purchase of this pack. Most of the storage is in the large main pocket, but there is also a small zipper pocket on the outside where smaller items can be stored.
Water Resistance
The fully waterproof PVC tarpaulin of this pannier will keep everything stored within dry even in the worst weather. The fold-seal system paired with the high-frequency welded seams also ensure that no water penetrates the bag.
Features
There are no extra straps on this bag for carrying it once you take it off the bike. However, there is a weatherproof outer zippered pocket to store small or easy-access items. Additionally, there are reflective patches on each side, as well as D-ring hooks to attach lights. This pannier is inexpensive compared to other bags of similar size and make. The yellow-colored version is slightly more pricey than the black. Although it is not very large, this bag can accommodate the basic gear needed and performs all necessary basic functions.
9. BV Bike Bag
While not recommended for long-distance or harsh travel, the BV bike bag is a great affordable option that will get your items from point A to point B. The issue with durability puts this bag lower rather than higher on our list.
Read moreEase of Use
This easy to use pannier is simple to take on and off whichever bike rack you decide to install it on. Simple straps attach the upper portion while bungee cords ensure it will stay secure on the rack while you ride. This bag is primarily designed for bike commuters, although it can also be a good choice for shorter touring adventures.
Capacity
In total, the two panniers included in the purchase of the BV Bike Bag can accommodate 26 L worth of gear. There is also a smaller pocket on the outside of this pannier that is perfect for organizing small items such as your phone or wallet.
Water Resistance
The material on this bag is cheap and is known for fraying easily. It is also not waterproof, and a rain fly is necessary if you are going to be using this bag in any inclement weather.
Features
There is a hand strap on the top of each pannier, which makes it easy to carry the bag when it is not attached to your bike. The price of this bag is what makes it a great deal. You are unlikely to find any other pannier for a price as low as this one.
10. Banjo Brothers Market Pannier
The Banjo Brothers Market Pannier is a large bag perfect for hauling heavy loads on your bike. It is a versatile and heavy-duty bag with great features like a removable shoulder strap and extra pockets, and this pack can change to fit your specific needs.
Read moreEase of Use
To attach to your bike is very simple. It consists of two non-locking hooks with an elastic band to help secure the pannier. Installation is quick and easy. It also comes with an additional strap that can come in handy when carrying the bag separately from your bike.
Capacity
It is a spacious carrier at 13.5 inches by 8 inches by 15 inches and comes in at a lightweight two easy to carry pounds. Convenient when fitted to the bike and easy to carry around as a holdall.
Water Resistance
Made from very durable nylon waterproof and protective material. Call it a portable bag for bikes or a pannier or a shoulder holdall or a strap on handlebar holder; it does all these.
Features
Perfect for any bike and you can carry many things very securely, either on the rear of the bike or strapped to the handlebars. Need a shoulder holdall? This product doubles up perfectly when adding the shoulder strap. The price is surprisingly user-friendly, considering the many uses and the durable quality of this product.
Sources
- , The Best Bike Panniers, The Wire Cutter
- , Buyer's guide: The best bicycle panniers, Buying Guide