Bikepacking Panniers
Using bikepacking panniers for your next bikepacking adventure may seem a little out of the ordinary since there are other bikepacking specific bags that seem to be better able to suit your needs. Fortunately, the companies that make bikepacking bags are now responding to this and making pannier bags suited specifically for bikepackers.
This isn’t to say that the pannier bag is going to be the only bag you take when bikepacking, but they make a perfect addition to your suite of bags used to accommodate your trip. If you use a front pannier on the back of your bike, for example, you can avoid the likelihood of overpacking, which is why so many riders choose this option.
Why You Could Benefit by Using Panniers While Backpacking
In the past, pannier bags were big and bulky and sometimes caused rattling as you were riding, but not anymore. Manufacturers are now making pannier bags that are lightweight and more compact, and they are usually made to stay on the bike instead of being removed every day. That being said, they are easy to remove if you choose to do so.
One advantage to bikepacking panniers is that they stay out of your way when you hit the dreaded hike-a bike sections, they are perfect for smaller bikes that can’t accommodate a seat pack as well. Also the fact that their smaller frontal area allows for less aerodynamic drag. Since many panniers are now specifically made for bikepacking, you’ll find them a great addition to the rest of the equipment on your bike.
Straps Versus Hooks: Which Ones Are Best?
All bikepackers will give the straps-versus-hooks debate some thought, and in the end it is really up to you which one works best. Clips and hooks can be a little noisy while you ride, and they’re a little heavier than straps are. But clips and hooks tend to be very sturdy and reliable, and they can work very well in rough terrains and heavy-duty trails provided they come from a well know manufacturer.
Some people prefer straps, which include both Velcro and Voile-style cinch straps because they are both lightweight and easy to maneuver. Although they are a little more time-consuming when attaching or removing your gear, they also tend to be quieter and super secure while you’re riding.
Again, it’s really up to you which one is best, but just keep in mind how important things such as noise levels, ease of installation and removal, and the weight of the actual bag is before you decide for sure which one you want.
Rack Compatibility
When you choose a pannier bag for your next bikepacking trip, you have to make sure your bike rack will accommodate the bikepacking panniers you’re considering. You have to make sure the rack can handle the weight of the bag and its contents and that it’s sturdy enough to use off-road. Also, make sure the diameter of the tubing and the overall shape of the rack is compatible with your pannier’s attachment system.
Conclusion
Minimal is key when choosing the right bag because you don’t want anything that’s going to make your ride cumbersome or difficult.
Pannier bags are made better than ever these days, and this information should provide you with enough to help you get started on finding the right one for you.
If you find that some of these bikepacking saddle bags are unavailable or know of some I should add to the list please let me know by clicking here and sending us an email.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove
- Front pocket is perfect for smaller items
- Sturdy materials
Cons:
- Laptop compartment not padded
- Front pockets a little too tight
Available in three different colors, this pannier is made out of top-notch 600-D material that is super strong and durable. The removable shoulder strap means you can use it only when you need to, and there is even a smaller pocket on the front to keep small items safe and secure. This pannier is perfect for both short- and long-term trips, making it great for commuting and bikepacking.
Moosetreks Panniers
Pros:
- Sturdy nylon materials for extra longevity
- Fits on the rear rack of any bike
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Stitching is prone to failure if packed to tightly
One of the biggest perks to buying this bag is that it fits on any type of bike on the market, including road, mountain, standard, and electric bikes. The bag is 10” x 22” x 3” in size, which means it will never be too big or too small. Best of all, the bag is designed to mount a little higher than most, which means you won’t be running into it on those hike-a-bike sections.
Revelate Designs Nano Panniers
Pros:
- Waterproof top panels for protection against the elements
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Easy-to-use mounting for a perfect fit
Because of the mounting used to install this pannier, you won’t need Velcro or any type of hooks to get it installed properly. The 150-D materials make for an extra-sturdy bag, especially when you consider that even the zippers and the pockets are all made to last for a very long time. It is specially designed to carry items such as food, water, and even fuel with ease, and it is perfect for people who need a lot of space but who don’t want the size of the bag getting in the way.
CyclingDeal Pannier
Pros:
- Great 14-liter capacity
- Strong and built to last
- Very reasonably priced
Cons:
- Some complaints about the handle breaking
- Some complaints about overall quality
This waterproof bag is perfect for protecting your items from the elements, and it is made with a super-strong 500-D polyester fabric that is nearly impossible to tear or shred. It is perfect for bikes of all sizes and designs, and it is priced so that anyone can afford it. It also comes with a full one-year warranty that protects you when something goes wrong, and it is made by a company with a reputation for making high-quality, long-lasting products.
Alpkit Toliari Pannier
Pros:
- Strong 12-liter bag
- Can be loaded on the front or the back
- Adjustable clips for a more stable fit
Cons:
- Difficult to remove
Made with 400-D TPU coated material for extra strength and durability, this pannier bag can be used with or without clips for the perfect fit every time. It is a lightweight but sturdy bag made out of high-quality materials for the longevity you need and deserve. Very resilient against oil and grease, the bag is easy to clean and can accommodate a lot of your belongings to make your next ride a lot more enjoyable. It can also take a lot of abuse and keep on going.
Porcelain Rocket Microwave Pannier
Pros:
- Sold as a pair for convenience
- Compatible with most bike racks
- Drain hole in bottom of holster
This set of two bags comes with a holster, a waterproof lining, and a total of four straps to make installation a breeze. They are a bit unique in design when compared to other pannier bags, so reading the instructions is important. Still, they offer many advantages that other bags do not and will make you wonder what took you so long to discover them. It is also a 210-D ripstop bag that is super strong and can protect the items inside from a lot of abuse.
Pros:
- Very sleek design
- Wear-resistant against rock and gravel
- Reflectors to keep you safe
Cons:
- Heavier than other options
The gravel pack made by Ortlieb consists of two bags, each of which can hold 12 liters. It even comes with a few perks you might not expect, such as padding in the shoulder area and inside pockets to hold extra belongings. It is also waterproof once you roll it over at the top, and it comes with well-made strap-buckle closures to ensure a very snug fit. The reflectors keep you safe when riding after dark, and perfect for those multi-day rides.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Can be paired with thier trunk bag
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Some complaints about overall quality
- A little expensive
Made out of 400-D nylon and a TPU coating, this set of two bags is not only perfect for holding your gear, but it can be counted on to last a long time as well. They are very lightweight and strong. It is made for rear racks only.
Salsa Touring Panniers
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Comes in two sizes
- Can accommodate most rack designs and sizes
With radio-frequency welded construction, this is a super-strong bag you can use in many different conditions and still count on it to work right. It comes with a convenient carrying handle for those times when you’re not on the road, and it even includes a removable “valuables bag” for those impromptu errands you sometimes need to take care of. Each bag can be placed on either the left or right side, and they are so durable that you can ride in any terrain or weather conditions.
Ibera PakRak Panniers
Pros:
- Made for all weather conditions
- Easy to install and remove
- Three-point interlock system for an extra-firm fit
Cons:
- Some complaints about rain covers not draining properly
- Some complaints about overall quality
The quick-release install system makes it fast and easy to install and remove the bags, so you never have to struggle getting the bags on or off your bike. It has multiple compartments for your convenience and a three-point connection that stops the bag from becoming too loose and swaying as you ride. It also has the ability to carry up to nearly 20 lbs. of gear, making it a very useful and versatile pannier bag.
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