There was a time when all you needed is a rucksack in order to prepare yourself for a cycle commute, but not anymore. These days, when riding a bike, you will require equipment like lights, locks, helmets, and gear like a waterproof jacket, padded shorts, and even a jersey. All these items are undoubtedly necessary, but investing in a commuter bike bag is essential because you have to carry valuables, and you would certainly like to prevent any damages when you get caught in a rain.
For some people, having a bike bag is more about looks. For them, there is a wide range of stylish bike bags as well as backpacks that they can choose from. For those who cycle home through the early mornings or dark nights, a high-visibility commuter bike bag is able to keep them safe and sound.
Best bike bags for commuters
Many people prefer rugged, waterproof bike bags, as this is helpful for them to brave the elements, while others would go for the commuter backpacks that can be aesthetically pleasing. As there are numerous designs out there, you can find the best commuter bike bag that is waterproof, light in weight, and cheap. The following is the list of the best cycling bags that will make you feel less stressed when you have bike rides to and from work.
Backpacks
A cycling backpack is among the most convenient items for short trips, especially when you are on and off the bike, and as you stop, the load goes with you. With the help of a cycling backpack, you are able to commute on a bike that may not have a pannier rack. As compared to the courier bike bags, the backpacks are more comfortable because both your shoulders bear the load.
Although with the courier bike bags, you can get quick access to any contents as these can be opened while being worn, a backpack is always better for any longer trips. It would help if you always were going for a backpack that has comfortable and broad shoulder straps. It is also better to look for a chest strap and a waist strap, as these are able to hold the bag snug against the body so that you can pedal rapidly.
The Henty Wingman backpack is a tarpaulin suit bag that you can hold on your back. It is capable of accommodating a shirt, a suit, or a blouse. There is also a removable utility bag of 12 liters for any other items. This backpack has different features, including the waist and the chest straps, a removable pouch for the phone, a laptop pouch, a rain cover, and a folding coat-hanger.
Seatpacks
This small cycling bag is attached under the saddle and is best for riding during the daytime, while it also helps to keep any spares and tools separate from your personal stuff. A saddlebag or a seatpack is attached to the bike's saddle rails and to the seat post quite often. It can be found in small and large sizes and is specially designed to carry only the essential tools and spares.
The Altura Speed Seatpack comes in different sizes and is big enough to hold different items and even a mini-pump. It's narrow enough so that your legs don't get rubbed. Altura seatpack has good reflectivity, and in order to stop the lighting from jumping off, its LED light strap is rubberized. This famous commuter bike bag also comes with two Velcro straps.
Messenger bags
A messenger bag is an excellent commuting choice as it is fitted with pockets that one can access quickly and easily. A set of comfortable straps help to fasten it, while these straps are made from solid and durable materials. It is worth noting that nothing can beat a bike messenger bag if you have to reach for different items throughout the day. In many cases, you may not even need to get off the bike, as you can loosen the strap, twist your bag around, and you are done.
The Vale Sling Bag by Chrome Industries is one of the best choices for bike messenger bags. Although this messenger bag is not waterproof, it is water-resistant, which means, you can be sure that your belongings are well-protected if heavy rain arrives suddenly during the ride. Other than that, it is a practical bike satchel with a 14-liter volume and is also very good-looking.
Handlebar bags
Those who require a bit of room to store their possessions can go for a bike handlebar bag, which is undoubtedly great, but its space is as much as a backpack. Many experts recommend the Natril Gear cycling handlebar bag because of its excellent functionality and artful blue plus green design. Its size is big enough to fit the sunglasses and wallet, while one of the most impressive aspects of this bag is a clear pocket that lies inside the top flap.
There is also a reflective trim on the outer flap and inside the bag. Therefore, if the flap gets flipped back over the handlebars, there would still be a reflective strip on the front of the bicycle. The bag also has a two-way zipper which means that it cannot be closed around the item that cannot fit perfectly. In order to keep your valuables safe, there are mesh guts on the sides as well as a small zip pocket on the inside.
Bikepacking bags
A bikepacking bag is an excellent choice for urban areas or rough surfaces; while one can describe it as a type of bike travel bag, it is also perfect for long distances. It doesn’t require any extra rack, doesn't add much weight to the bike, and as compared to the panniers, it is much lighter in weight.
As a user, you have complete freedom to decide where you would like to put this bikepacking bag, as it is possible to fit it in different places. You can place the bag comfortably on the handlebar, under the saddle in the main triangle of your bike’s frame, and on the top tube of the bike.
Bottom Line
Unless you plan to minimize your commuting clobber, you would certainly look for a commuter bike bag when going to work on your bike. Although there are different types and qualities, whatever you prefer, you will be required to check its capacity.
Almost all commuter bike bags are rainproof, and if the one you choose isn’t waterproof, you can go for the one that comes with a rain cover. You will find plenty of space in your backpack for a day, and the best cycling bag is the one that also has padded sections and separate pockets. Therefore, you can also rely on the selection of innovative products and get a good bag for your commute.