The 18 Best Commuter Backpacks for Cyclists

Bags BY Improb May 19, 2018

When you commit to cycling everywhere you go, you quickly find that your life shrinks to the size of a backpack. Seeing as how your backpack is storage for the day’s essentials, you want to guarantee they’re protected by a quality bag, something that’s both rugged and stylish and can stand up to daily use. Most importantly, it needs to be big enough to store your everyday items without being so large that it’s impossible to cycle with.

These 18 commuter backpacks break the mold, providing the space, style, and durability you’re looking for. From canvas bags with plenty of storage space to waterproof satchels made for bulkier items, these bags offer a little bit of everything for the average consumer, making life on two wheels that much easier.

When choosing a commuter backpack, you want to look at five qualities of it: Versatility, reflective details, a comfortable and secure harness, ample organization and storage, and water resistance. Each of these bags is top notch in most or all of those categories.

Timbuk2 Especial Raider Backpack

Some commuter backpacks are all about storing everything you could possibly need. Timbuk2 promotes reducing your daily load to carry only what you need. Weighing in at less than a pound, the Especial Raider is comfortable to carry along and its one dozen color choices lets you pick one that fits you best.

Despite its smaller size, Timbuk2’s bag can carry a laptop and iPad and is outfitted with genuine leather binding for extra durability. Machine washable nylon stands up to daily wear and tear and an insulated interior even keeps your water bottle from sweating all over your items.

Assynt 17 Backpack

Made from waxed canvas, the Assynt 17 Backpack calls to the same durable material you’d expect to see on a mountaineer. The innovative design features a 15” laptop pocket with a 17 liter opening that gives you immediate and easy access to everything you’re carrying with you. Two additional pockets will store the smaller items you’re used to having on your person.

Comfortable harnesses remain in place regardless of how fast and hard you’re pedaling, ensuring you don’t have to think about losing the bag during your ride. The Assynt 17 is a durable bag that will keep your most valuable items protected wherever you’re going. Two sturdy nylon straps keep the top flap closed and secured.

Incase ICON Backpack

Incase remains true to itself with the ICON Backpack. The latest evolution of Incase’s classic design may appear simple, but there’s so much to it that makes it perfect for commuters. Compartments dedicated to all of your necessary electronics will keep your items protected from the elements while intelligent organization makes room for extra accessories you would otherwise have to leave at home.

Described as “tech-optimized,” the ICON series backpack is crafted with airflow channels that provide a little extra cushioning for your gear. Padded shoulder straps with a series of adjustments promise a comfortable fit no matter your size or body build. The ICON is built to feel customized for each buyer.

Boreas Bernal

Built with an integrated Super-Tramp suspension along with a stretch top-panel, the Boreas Bernal is created for a carry load of all shapes and sizes. The conforming material stretches just enough so you’re personal effects aren’t cramped in together while still providing the protection you want for your most valuable items.

Several exterior attachment positions and compression straps allow you to customize the wear for maximized comfort. Whether you’re commuting on a bicycle or taking the train, the Bernal will serve you well with its sturdy build and flexible design. Made from nylon and a stretch polyspan and including a top-lid closure, removable hipbelt, and dual side compression, there’s plenty to draw attention to Boreas’ Bernal biking backpack.

Mission Workshop The Rambler

Mission Workshop’s Rambler has a design that borderlines unique without losing classic functionality. Mission Workshop aimed to produce a bag that was among the most durable options on the market, made from a water-resistant material that makes up the main compartment.

Used either as a roll-top or flap-down configuration, the Rambler can double its size, going from 1,350 cu. In. to 2,700 cu. in . for when you’re in need of extra storage. Each compartment is waterproof thanks to urethane coated zippers, waterproof material, and a reinforced carbon fiber frame suspension.

A front zippered pocket is large enough to fit up to a 15” laptop and tablet or slip a 17” laptop into the rolltop compartment.

Timbuk2 Custom Prospect Laptop Backpack

The real purpose of this cyclist commuter bag is right there in the title – it’s made specifically to keep your laptop safe and you can bet that it delivers on its promise. Available in a slew of colors, the Laptop Backpack is made from a durable and versatile nylon that will keep your most valuable electronics, including a 15” laptop, protected on your ride.

Flap, boot, front, and side panels allow you to customize the biking laptop backpack for what you need, whether you’re traveling with the bare essentials or with everything you need for the day. The airmesh ventilated back panel and roll-top closure keep your items dry while delivering on a cushioned interior intended to prevent unwanted damage and increase the bag’s total volume.

Nomatic Backpack

Sometimes the simplest designs are the most durable and versatile products. Nomatic’s backpack is perfect for cyclists with its top flap for easy access and entry. For even more convenient access, the top flap opens and lays flight, presenting several storage pouches that will keep your smaller items safe. Side access makes it a little easier to pull out larger electronics, like laptops.

A removable panel and removable sunglasses shell is a fun addition that makes the Nomatic Backpack a versatile build. Additions like RFID safe storage, magnetic water bottle pockets, and 20 additional features all come together for an incredibly useful and durable product that can expand from 20 liters to 24.

Thule Pack ‘n Pedal Commuter Backpack

The name says it all. Thule knew who it was catering to with this cycling commuter backpack and was sure to make every feature fit the cyclist’s lifestyle. Front zippered pockets store the essential items you’ll need on the fly while a waterproof main compartment and roll-top closure will store the larger and more valuable electronics and everyday items.

A Crushproof SafeZone protects sunglasses and other fragile items while a removable 15” laptop compartment provides padded protection and a tablet sleeve for extra storage. If you’re tired of having to rummage through bags to find the items you need, a high-visibility interior lining keeps you from having to struggle to find what you’re looking for.

North St. Route Nine Convertible Backpack

North St.’s convertible backpack is less about having a top that you can put down and more about how it can convert from a traditional backpack to a shoulder strap bag without hassle. No matter how you decide to carry it, the interior and exterior pockets will protect your items while you’re riding while the side sleeve pockets will carry smaller essentials.

The Convertible Backpack is outfitted with everything a cyclist could ask for and is a versatile product that’s all about being what the consumer needs. The simple-looking design is large enough to store your personal electronics but remains manageable to ride with.

Patagonia Black Hole 25L Daypack

Patagonia’s 25L Daypack is one of those bags that you’ll buy once and then never need to purchase another bag again. It’s durable, convenient, and easy to carry – all the things one could ask for in a commuter pack. The ripstop polyester is enhanced with a water-resistant laminate finish which is just one layer of protection provided by the Black Hole 25L Daypack.

Your items will fit perfectly in the 15” laptop or hydration pocket while the bucket-style opening and lid with small pocket further improves upon the qualms of having to shuffle through a bag to find what you’re looking for. The heavy-duty back panel promotes a better airflow while you’re on the move while padded shoulder straps and sternum belt are a comfortable wear.

Ethnotek Raja 30 Liter Pack

It’s difficult to determine what the best feature of the Raja 30 Liter pack really is. Is it the robust size, which can carry just about everything you would need throughout your day? Is it the durable build made from a custom patterned premium fabric? Or is it the water-resistant 840-denier ballistic nylon that makes this one of the strongest commuter packs out there?

Chances are, it’s all three qualities. Store up to 17” laptop and enjoy easy access via the large roll top compartment. More than just a commuter pack, Ethnotek’s custom designs are intended to call back to the traditions of Hindi culture, which is where the name Raja (or king) comes from.

Right-side and left-side pockets, custom laptop compartment, large main compartment, and padded shoulder straps come together for the best commuter pack of its kind.

Mixed Works Falcon M

The Falcon M isn’t just waterproof – it’s weatherproof. This durable bag can take a beating but still rise to the occasion of keeping your personal items safe. You’ll feel a level of comfort commuting with this bag on your pack thanks to the ample padded storage for your electronics.

A ventilated 3D mesh was used to create a comfortable back system and provide a steady and even airflow for maximum comfort while riding. Additional features include a cell phone pouch that fits on your shoulder strap, waist belt, comfortable shoulder straps, and removable tablet/laptop sleeve make this a great buy for every cyclist on the go.

Osprey Radial 34

Cyclists know that pedaling through the city can be a tough and unfortunately sweaty task. Osprey sympathizes with the everyday cyclist, which is where the Radial 34 comes into play. Constructed with AirSpeed trampoline suspended mesh backing, this commuter bag is all about promoting airflow so the bag doesn’t feel so heavy while riding.

Ample organization and a built-in kickstand makes it easy to zip open this bag and sort through your possessions. Beyond the AirSpeed design, Osprey knew it didn’t have to go overly fancy with the Radial 34, and while it’s otherwise simplistic in nature, that doesn’t mean it isn’t equipped with the storage you need. Padded sleeves are great for your valuable electronics while a front attachment is included to clip your blinker light onto.

Brooks Saddles Pickwick Day Pack

A commuter bag doesn’t have to have a ton of features to be considered functional. Take, for instance, Brooks Saddles’ Pickwick Day Pack. It’s not a fancy bag when it comes to extra features, but it gets the job done. The simple design has a roll top closure to keep your items from falling out mid-transit and is crafted from a sustainable material intended to repel dirt and other substances.

The water-resistant cotton canvas is detailed with vegetable tanned leather. Though it is a simple build, the day pack features a tool pocket to keep your bicycle repair tools and an additional rear pocket for your smaller personal items, like your wallet, cellphone, and any daily essentials you’re used to carrying with you.

Brooks England Backpack

As with any Brooks product, the England is crafted to be durable no matter the situation. Handmade in Italy, this waterproof canvas backpack was designed with wide webbing straps and belt for a sturdy and comfortable fit while three patch pockets and two internal pockets(including a padded laptop compartment) provide space for the items you need to take with you.

The 20 liter capacity is somewhat on the smaller side, but the Italian-made commuter bag is large enough to fit the daily essential items.

Chrome Industries Hondo Backpack

There is no denying that Chrome Industries’ Hondo Backpack appears a bit bulkier than other models on this list, but that doesn’t mean you should write it off entirely. In fact, the larger size means you have even more storage for the items you need throughout the day, and to keep those items safe, the Hondo is designed from an abrasion and water resistant nylon and tarpaulin liner.

Everything you need for your daily commute will fit within the padded laptop sleeve, U-lock pockets, and accessory compartment. The wide-mouth compartment makes it easy to sort through your items while the adjustable two-strap harness promises a comfortable fit no matter your shape or size.

Boreas MEC Travel Light Daypack

The bells and whistles of fancier commuter bags have been set aside in this Boreas creation, a simple, yet effective nylon travel pack. Forty-denier nylon is water-resistant and encases your everyday items within a zippered front pocket, internal zippered pockets, and easy-access zippered main compartment.

The best part of the MEC Travel Light Daypack is how comfortable it is to wear, thanks to the height-adjustable sternum strap and contoured shoulder straps with mesh lining. Even on the hottest days, Boreas’ daypack isn’t a chore to lug around the city.

Property of… Archie

It’s a classic design that’s been seen time and time again, but Property Of adds a little something extra to the typical backpack to make it one of the best you can find. The Archie is a reflective cycling backpack with a host of quick-access compartments, spacious front pocket for your most important items that you need on the fly, and a 15” laptop compartment.

The material is stonewashed and water resistant, but most importantly, it’s also reflective. If you’re cycling at night, with an Archie on your back, drivers you share the road with should have no problem seeing you.