While the pack made from high-denier nylon, it cannot stand up to more than a very light rain without soaking through. The Top 10 Backpacks for Bike Commuting Reviewed Whether you’ve decided to make the switch to biking to work, or have been cycling your morning commute for years, finding the right backpack for commuting is crucial to ensuring you can bring everything you need Like the Yeti Crossroads, the padded laptop pocket, which also has room for a 10.5-inch tablet, is separate from the main compartment. You wouldn’t know the bag is so effectively waterproof just from looking at it, though – the exterior design is highly stylish and features sharp metal buckles to button down the flap.Another great feature of this messenger bag is that it features a total of nine different compartments. The pack is beautifully designed, with a flap closure that is double-strapped down to the front of the bag to keep it tight. This improves the pack’s ability to contour to the shape of your back and improves the breath-ability of the paneling during hot rides. In fact, sorting bags by capacity is a good place to start your search for the best office backpack.One of the most common items that bike commuters carry is a laptop. Second, the top can be pushed down and cinched with buckles to straps on the sides to keep the top from flopping around while you’re riding. While there is no exterior zipper pocket as on other messenger bags, there are two holders for your water bottles – however, note that they are not stretchable so you’ll need to find water bottles that fit perfectly.The inside of this shoulder bag features a single cavernous space with very easy access, which is ideal if you have a lot of stuff to carry and still prefer a messenger bag. Here are some of our favorites. Our favorite is Ortlieb’s City, which is waterproof on account of the polyurethane-laminated nylon exterior. The backpack is well designed, with four different compartments to help you stay organized. Winter Session Waxed Canvas Backpack Unfortunately, there are no zippered pockets on the inside of the backpack to hold valuables. The weight of your bag or backpack add to the overall weight that you’ll be carrying on your back, so it can be worth considering – especially if you have suffered from back pain while riding in the past. Best Bike Fenders for Commuting | Ultimate Guide, 6 Best Fat Bike Fenders & Mudguards In 2021. This stylish backpack from Timbuk2 uses a roll-top design and a waterproof nylon construction to keep your gear dry. I’m putting the answers to all of your biking questions in one place. The padded shoulder straps are very comfortable, though we wish the back was equally as cushioned. Oct 23, 2020 The right backpack can make your trips easier on … There are several small zippered pockets at the front of the backpack, one of which has a variety of mesh netting inside to hold small electronics and keys. By Adrienne Donica. Still, if you want a backpack that can also become a tote or shoulder bag, look to the Lako. That discomfort wasn’t an issue on foot, though. It doesn’t have a laptop pocket, so you might consider storing your tech in a sleeve for protection. One of the major challenges of commuting to work by bike is that you need a reliable way to get all of your stuff between your home and office as well. The somewhat burly, water resistant Rapha Roll-Top Commuter (£100) is our best backpack for urban cycling. It saved us time by not needing to unfurl the top just to pull out our keys. Each of these bags is top notch in most or all of … The padded shoulder straps are contoured and feature a built-in suspension to keep weight off your shoulders. Also, note that more pockets aren’t always better – they can add weight to the bag, and outside pockets are not always waterproof. The squishy padding on the shoulder straps and back panel kept us comfortable under heavy loads, though we noticed the close-to-back design wasn’t as breathable as those of other packs. Mark & Graham Commuter 3-in-1 Briefcase-Backpack. Remember, you can always buy a rain cover later on. This small backpack from Timbuk2 is ideal for commuters who only need their small laptop and a few other items for their day. It’s also worth noting that the top of the pack can allow splashes to get inside the main compartment since it is a fold-down flap rather than a roll-top closure. The Metron maintains its slim profile thanks to compression straps, and should it start to pour, the rain cover (which stows away in a bottom pocket) can keep your gear dry. Keep in mind that no matter what type of bag you get, you’re only going to want to use it if it’s comfortable to ride with. | Weatherproofing: Water resistant | Tech Sleeve: Yes. Incase Compass Backpack (US$ 79.95) This gives the backpack more structure against your back and prevents it from sliding down when weighted. This 25-liter capacity backpack from Thule is ideal for the organized cyclists who want to keep all of the different items in their pack perfectly sorted. It kept our stuff organized and dry within the three zippered compartments, which had space for a laptop, tablet, shoes, and more. Inside, there is a padded laptop sleeve large enough to hold a 13-inch laptop, as well as another divider for organizing your stuff.The shoulder strap on this messenger bag is easily adjustable, although the shoulder pad is not as thick as on other bags so you may want to limit this bag to shorter rides. So if that will bother you, choose the black color.—Riley Missel, test editor, Capacity: 23 L | Weight: 3 lb. Before you delve into the options, you must consider a few questions and keep them in mind as you move on to sifting through options and finally purchasing … For many commuters, messenger bags and backpacks are at the forefront of those choices. Thule gave the Paramount an aesthetic facelift this year, resulting in a sleeker exterior and replacing the roll-top design with a zippered flap that partially folds over (that still offers some weather protection). Our largest quibble was with the water bottle pockets, which are narrow and not stretchy. The fly is brightly colored to keep you safe in dark, overcast conditions and can be stashed away inside the pack when the sun returns. Capacity: 17 L | Weight: 2 lb. The internal compartment, which has a drawstring closure, includes a laptop sleeve and a small zippered pocket. Some messenger bags offer space for larger laptops, although these days it’s also possible to find backpacks that can hold large laptops, so this is not a huge factor anymore. The exterior of the pack is made from heavy-duty nylon, but Burton finished it nicely to give it a clean aesthetic and a better feel than the nylon in other packs.Unfortunately, that exterior aesthetic means that there is little in the way of the external organization – this backpack has no external pockets or water bottle holders. Quick Answer: The Best Commuter Backpacks. 5 Best Bike Commuter Backpacks Reviews. This strap, which is removable on some packs, is especially nice to have for bike commutes. The water bottle pockets are outfitted with magnets and folded away when not in use, which was a premium touch we appreciated. A certain backpack could be extremely popular and have tremendous sales, and it could still be the wrong one for you. But Matein also offers a 36-liter pack that can store a 17-inch laptop. Overall Dimensions: 9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches The best backpacks for commuting and travel from brands like Timbuk2, Swiss Gear, Mancro, Matein, Kopack, Yorepeck, and Tzowla. 10.9 oz. It's a great option if you find that your phone is running out of juice by the end of the workday.This laptop bag is built to hold a 15 inch laptop in the padded rear compartment. The backpack does have side pockets, but they're not big enough to hold a standard water bottle if the bag is filled to capacity.The backpack is made from durable, water resistant polyester, although you might want to purchase a separate rain cover if you live in an especially wet area. By putting the weight of your gear over the rear wheel, they can negatively affect your handling as well as your bike’s acceleration and braking. In effect, the backpack is a modified pannier bag and features a similar heavy-duty 500-denier PVC construction. | Weatherproofing: Waterproof | Tech Sleeve: Yes. The everyday carry bag offers a padded laptop pocket that keeps your computer against your back to prevent vibrations and keep you comfortable. However, Timbuk2 decided to use a flat panel that is cinched down with buckles rather than a roll-top closure, so be wary of water getting into the main compartment when it is raining hard.The exterior of the backpack features two stretchy water bottle holders as well as a single zippered pocket, although the latter competes with items inside the pack for space. Before diving into backpacks and messenger bags, it’s important to consider whether these are a better option for you than panniers – there are advantages, and disadvantages to both carry systems.Panniers are ideal because they take the weight off of your body and put it on the bike frame. Having the best bike backpack or the best commuter bag can make a big difference in whether you’re able to get everything you need from your home to work and back – and to accomplish that task comfortably in any weather. Padded mesh strips on the back increase airflow and cut down on sweat, and one of our testers liked how the easily adjustable straps comfortably wrapped around the front of her shoulders. We appreciated the detachable waterproof liner that let us keep sweaty clothes on the outside, away from our clean clothes and electronics. The roll-top is easy to close and open thanks to the simple metal hook-and-loop closure on the outside of the bag, which can be quickly cinched down or loosened according to how much stuff is in your pack.The pack’s organization is designed for people who prefer a single large front pocket. Need a small bag to carry just the essentials, a pack with a pocket for a laptop, or something capable of carrying a bunch of groceries? If you can’t stand zippers, get the Pickwick backpack. One of the best backpacks for bike commuting, the Thule Pack-n-Pedal assures of its safety and carrying efficiency. The backpack has a built-in battery and USB outlet that you can use to charge your smartphone or other devices. It swallows a change of clothes, a 17 inch laptop, books, electronics, and more, and still has space left over. Plus, there's a grab strap on the top of the bag for when you get off the bike. We also like the grab handle on top of the bag.This backpack is made with durable, weather-resistant polyester. A waist strap stabilizes the pack and transfers some of the weight to your hips, which alleviates pressure on your shoulders. If you’re traveling a good distance or have a heavy load, look for padded harnesses and straps that will keep the pack comfortable when it’s weighed down. Get it as soon as Mon, May 4. Backpacks; Insights; Buyers Guide; If you’re commuting by bike, a backpack is one of the easiest carry formats to roll with. If this is something you expect to need frequently, be sure to look for a bag with a large main compartment that can hold your folded clothes without crumpling and wrinkling them. With Rydoze, I just want to share my experiences and help you along on your cycling journey. If you lug a ton of stuff, you’ll need a roomy bag. Gear haulers that work as hard as you do. All of these compartments do take away from the space of the main compartment, but there is still plenty of area for a set of folded clothes or shoes.Where this backpack does fall short is in waterproofing. There is a zippered closure on the front of the pack, although the compartment space is big enough only for a phone or wallet. The Icon backpack is a favorite best laptop backpack choice for its understated style and huge carry capacity (and well-padded shoulder straps for carrying it all comfortably). CHECK ON AMAZON. Flap closures, on the other hand, may be more or less effective at keeping water out – waterproof bags with flap closures often have a secondary protection measure, like a drawstring closure inside. We loaded up every backpack with our daily essentials, including a laptop, lunchbox, change of clothes, and other items. 9.6 oz. Today's best Osprey Radial 26 deals. Meanwhile, a sternum strap helps balance unwieldy, top-heavy loads. Messenger bags may be more comfortable for short commutes than for long commutes since they put all of the bag’s weight on one shoulder, whereas a backpack distributes weight over both shoulders. This commuter backpack features a roll top closure that's easy to open and close and cinches down if you don't have much to carry. The best cycling backpacks for commuters Thule Pack 'n Pedal Commuter Backpack Thule makes a range of products from luggage to car racks - and does it all pretty well. This laptop backpack from SWISSGEAR is large enough to hold 17 inch laptops safely while you ride. Because of that, we liked the Sydney best for walking commutes when we weren’t working up a sweat, though the detachable waist and sternum straps and slim design were nice to have when we were riding a bike. Read quick reviews on five top options below, then keep scrolling for longer reviews of these and more great packs, plus tips on how to choose the right one. However, our tester noted that the shoulder straps were a little wide for her liking, and the ridged back panel that helped with airflow irritated her lower back slightly when she wore a thin cycling jersey. Also, there are two mesh water bottle pockets and a zippered pocket in front of the laptop sleeve – although this pocket can be so tight as to be somewhat useless. The backpack also hides a helmet attachment, which can be used to store your helmet on the outside of the pack when you’re not riding.Although the pack is waterproof by design, it is especially ideal for rainy conditions thanks to the included rain fly. A bottle pocket on the outside can hold a small water bottle, while a button-closed pocket underneath the flap is ideal for a small tablet or a notebook. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The padded laptop pocket is smaller than most, fitting 13 models or smaller. Having the best bike backpack or the best commuter bag can make a big difference in whether you’re able to get everything you need from your home to work and back – and to accomplish that task comfortably in any weather.We think the best backpack for bike commuting on the market today is the Timbuk2 Spire backpack. While the straps are padded enough for moderate pack weights, there is only a sternum strap and no hip belt so the backpack can get uncomfortable when it is packed with heavy books or other heavy items. That doesn’t always mean opting for the most heavily padded backpack or messenger bag – more padding can mean more heat build-up during the hot summer months.Also, pay particular attention to the straps. There is also a reinforced shell pocket, which is ideal for delicate items like sunglasses that you don’t want to crush when you put the pack down accidentally. Also, the shoulder straps, while mesh, can hold in heat. It’s comfortable, too. The backpack has an oddly rectangular shape but is comfortable thanks to the wide shoulder straps and ventilated mesh back panel. Also, backpacks may be less likely to shift around on bumpy roads than a messenger bag. This high-quality backpack from Thule incorporates many design features targeted to make the commute to work as comfortable as possible.First, in contrast to many other cycling backpacks, the laptop sleeve is on the front of the backpack rather than directly against the rider’s back. But not all spacious packs are huge. 6.4 oz. A magnetic outer pocket (no zipper) was easy to access but still secure enough that we could trust our phone, wallet, and cash wouldn’t end up on the ground. Best Commuter Backpack for Everyday Use See this backpack on Amazon now The Timbuk2 Q Laptop backpack is made of high-quality nylon and comes with an elasticized external side pocket, which can be used to keep a water bottle on hot days. How we test gear. 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