10 Best Bicycle Panniers in 2022 (Outdoor Guide-Reviewed)
Are you tired of carrying all of your gear on your back while you bike to work or go on vacation? Are you looking for a better way to distribute the weight, while keeping your belongings safe and dry? Then a bike pannier might be what you need! These bags attach to your bike and can take the strain from your back.
Choosing the best bike panniers can be confusing as there are so many available. We’ve done the research for you and picked the Back-Roller City Rear Pannier by Ortlieb as our favorites. They're durable, waterproof, and easy to secure to your bike. We’ve also put together a 10 best list for you to consider and created a handy buying guide reviewed by an outdoors and cycling expert to help you make your choice!
Quick List - Top Bicycle Panniers
My name is 박 (Pak). I am a first-generation Korean American who has worked in the outdoors for 6 years as a guide. Now I'm enjoying traveling around with my bicycle and spending time outdoors with my dog Gaara.
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How to Choose Bicycle Panniers - Buying Guide
Before buying bicycle panniers, there are a few points you should take into consideration such as size, capacity, and waterproofing. To help you with this, we’ve put together this handy buying guide!
Decide on the Location of Your Panniers
Pannier bags are secured to a rack that is attached to your bike frame. They can help you carry weight without putting any strain on your back.
Rear Panniers Are Less Obtrusive
Traditionally, panniers are secured at the rear of your bike, but it is also possible to have front-mounted panniers. Rear panniers are more popular as they can carry more weight and it’s easier to ride with unbalanced rear bags than unbalanced front ones.
They also won’t block your view of your front tire and where it’s going! A bike with rear panniers is generally more maneuverable than one with front panniers, also.
However, make sure you have enough heel clearance for them. You don't want your feet to hit the bags every time you pedal. Check the length of your bike's chainstay, the tubes that run from the pedals to the back wheel. Also consider the rack you'll attach the panniers to and the size of your feet!
Depending on your rack, you can either mount the rear panniers higher or lower on your bike, which is personal preference. But having them lower, you are able to strap things to the top of the rack. Having panniers on the rear also allows you to not care much about balancing the weight in both panniers.
Front Panniers Can Add Additional Space
Although rear panniers are more useful in many ways, that doesn’t mean that front panniers are without their merits. They have become increasingly popular in recent years for several reasons. Front panniers are frequently used on longer trips in addition to rear panniers as a way of adding even more space.
Front panniers can be useful when riding up steep hills or on dirt roads. Having weight over the front wheel will keep your tire glued to the road on hills. On dirt, you can improve handling by having front panniers balance your body weight on the back wheel.
Balancing the weight in your front panniers is crucial as it greatly affects your handling, unlike the rear of the bike, where you aren't steering. Front panniers are best when attached lower to the bike. Most cyclists use low-rider racks as keeping the weight lower makes the bicycle feel more stable at low and high speeds.
Choose Between 1 or 2 Pannier Bags
Due to their location beside your wheels, it’s common to buy pannier bags in pairs. By having two, you can distribute the load and balance your bike more easily.
This is especially true with front-mounted pannier bags. You should not only use two bags at the front, but you should ensure that the weight is balanced between the two as evenly as possible. If the front wheel is unbalanced, it makes cycling difficult and unsafe.
Rear-mounted panniers offer a little more flexibility. It’s a bit easier to ride an unbalanced bike if it is the rear wheel that is unbalanced, so riding with one bag becomes possible. Even if you choose two bags for your rear rack, you don’t need to worry about the distribution of weight as much as you do with front-mounted panniers.
When you buy a pannier bag, double-check the listing to see how many bags you will be purchasing. Pannier bags can be sold in either singles or pairs, so make sure you get the number of bags that you need.
Get a Capacity That Works for You
Bike panniers come in a variety of sizes and capacities. The best capacity for you depends on the purpose of your panniers.
Capacity Can Be Total, Not Individual
When buying a pair of pannier bags, the listed capacity is often the combined total of the two bags. For example, a capacity of 40 liters means 40 liters in total, with each bag holding 20 liters individually. Keep this in mind if you purchase a pair of bags and make sure the total capacity works for you.
Usually, the larger pannier at the front risks hitting the down-tube of the bike (or even the ground) when turning sharply, or it could interfere with disc brakes. So the larger capacities of 15+ liters are made for the back of the bicycle.
Longer Touring Might Need Rear and Front Panniers
If you’re looking for panniers to carry your gear while you’re touring, then you should look for those with a capacity of at least 50 liters total. You might also want to add smaller front-mounted panniers as well.
Trips of two weeks or more require a lot of planning and gear, and bags above 50 liters on their rear should be able to carry all that you need.
You should definitely create a packing list and streamline your gear before you leave on your trip. Try packing your panniers with all of the gear you'll be bringing to see if you need all four panniers. If not, having two panniers in the back and a front handlebar bag might do the trick!
Shorter Touring Still Requires Large Panniers
For tours that are around one week, you are still going to need a wide variety of gear, especially if you’re going to be hit by rain or any kind of extreme weather. We would recommend panniers that approach the 30- to 40-liter mark for tours of this length. You may also want to add smaller panniers on the front.
It really depends on the type of gear that you have. If you have lightweight/ultralight outdoor gear, you should be able to fit more in your panniers. If your gear is really heavy and bulky, it is likely that you'll need all four panniers.
Commuting and Daily Use Depends on the Contents
Panniers can also be used for your work commute. Wearing a backpack as you bike can put a strain on your back and make you sweaty, but a pannier will eliminate both of those issues.
If you just travel to work with a change of clothes and other small items, then you won’t need large panniers. You may even be able to fit everything in a single bag instead of pairs.
However, if you commute with a laptop and want to put that in your pannier, then you will need to look at the touring-sized panniers to ensure it can fit. Make sure you check the measurements of the bag, not just the capacity, if you’re looking to put a laptop inside.
You should also consider the type of attachment the panniers have. Ortlieb panniers have their Quick Lock System that self-locks to the rack once you let go of the handle. Those are really handy if you are looking to take these bags on and off constantly. If you are looking to just leave the panniers on the bicycle at all times, that isn't necessary.
Make Sure the Bag is Waterproof
If you bike on even a semi-regular basis, then eventually you will find yourself riding in the rain. Your pannier needs to be waterproof so it can keep the contents of your bag dry. There is an international standard that measures how waterproof an item is, but unfortunately, most panniers have not been rated against this standard.
Instead, you will need to look at the product description and reviews to see how waterproof an item is. Most pannier bags will be made of material that is waterproof against the average rainstorm, such as nylon, but there are a few things you should look for if you want something more durable.
Many bags leak water through one of two places: either the seams, or the opening of the bag. Look for bags that are either seamless or say the seams have been sealed, and ones that close by being folded or rolled over and then clipped closed.
You can also keep an eye out for bags that are made from, or coated in, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU.) This is a polymer that is frequently added to a base material, such as nylon, due to its waterproofing and durability.
Some pannier bags that aren't waterproof usually have a rain cover you can purchase to protect the bag. If not, you can purchase a regular backpacking waterproof cover and use that!
Look For Secure Rack Connections
The last thing you need when riding along a muddy track or busy road is your pannier bags to come loose and fall from your bike. This is why being able to secure your pannier to your rack is of great importance.
Some panniers are fixed in place with Velcro straps, whereas others use metal clips. Panniers made by big-name manufacturers such as Ortlieb use their own locking systems to fix onto your racks. We would recommend looking at bags with clips or these locking systems.
Velcro can be worked loose if your bike frequently rolls over bumpy terrain, but clips shouldn’t be affected. Just make sure that the clips are strong and can hold all of the weight they’re being asked to hold.
Although it’s important that the bags are secure, it’s also important that they’re easy to remove! Thankfully, most of these secure fastenings also have quick-release systems, so you won’t need to wrestle with your bike to remove your panniers.
With bags being rattled by the road, it is often the case that the paint on your rack will wear away where the pannier is attached to the rack. So, it is a good idea to place some sort of protection on those rub points to prevent rust and keep your rack working longer!
Think About Even More Features
There are other small extras that you might find useful when looking for a pannier, whether you use it for commuting or touring.
Some Panniers Double as Backpacks
If you’re using your panniers for your daily commute, then bags that double as a backpack can be of great use. You can easily take your pannier from your bike and then wear it as a backpack to walk into the office with.
Reflective Strips Will Keep You Safe
When traveling at night, you want to be as visible as possible. This is especially true if you commute and cycle down busy roads. Many panniers have reflective patches attached to them for this exact reason. You can also find panniers that have tabs for lights to be attached to.
Additional Pockets Keep Items at Hand
Many panniers have pockets on their exterior that can be used to keep small and important items in easy reach. These are great options for keeping your phone, ID, or wallet at hand.
However, even if the main bag is waterproof, sometimes these exterior pockets aren’t, especially if they’re fastened with a zipper. Water can easily get through zippers, so you may want to avoid these pockets in bad weather!
If you are using your pannier to commute to work, maybe look for a pannier that has a secure laptop pocket as well.
10 Best Bicycle Panniers
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ortlieb Back-Roller City Rear Pannier | | Can Be Removed Quickly but Remain Secure | |
2 | Ibera PakRak Bicycle Panniers | | Bags With Multiple Interior Pockets | |
3 | Hikenture Bike Saddle Bags | | Pannier That Holds 2 Bags of Groceries | |
4 | Tourbon Waterproof Canvas Pannier Bags | | Stylish and Waterproof Bags | |
5 | Rhinowalk Waterproof Bike Pannier Bag | | Tough Material That Is Resistant to Heat and Tears | |
6 | ArcEnCiel Bicycle Rear Seat Carrier Bag | | Large Bags With a High Weight Limit | |
7 | BV Classic Bike Pannier Bags | | Large Reflective Strips to Keep You Safe at Night | |
8 | Rhinowalk Waterproof Bike Pannier Bag | | Has Internal and External Pockets | |
9 | Roswheel 3-in-1 Bicycle Expedition Pannier｜14892 | | Includes a Third Top Bag | |
10 | Vaude Aqua Back Rear Pannier | | Manufactured to Be Climate Neutral |
Can Be Removed Quickly but Remain Secure
These panniers have a capacity of 20 liters each and are made from waterproof material. They close by being rolled down and have reflector strips on the side. The bags are secured to your bike rack by the manufacturer's easy-to-use mounting system and come with an adapter so they can attach to racks of various sizes.
Due to the way these bags close, reviewers say they are best for bike touring or other circumstances where you don't need ready access to your belongings. Reviewers confirm the material is thick, durable, and waterproof. They also praise the bags for being quick to remove yet secure when fastened.
Bags With Multiple Interior Pockets
This pair of pannier bags has two internal pockets and a drawstring pouch so you can easily access smaller items. The bags can be attached and removed from your bike in only seconds, but are secure when on the bike. The bags also come with rain covers to protect them in heavy downpours.
Some reviewers report that these bags developed holes in the corners due to rubbing against an insert. However, reviewers praise the quick-release system of the bags and say the reflective strips are very visible at night. They also like how much weight they can carry.
Pannier That Holds 2 Bags of Groceries
Made from nylon and coated with TPU, these bags are seamless to ensure that they're waterproof. Each bag has two pockets, one external and one internal, to make it easier to find your belongings. They also have both a hand strap and shoulder strap, so you can easily carry them when they're not on your bike.
A couple of reviewers found these bags difficult to attach to their bikes at first, but once they learned how, there were no problems. Reviewers praise the bags for being thick and durable and confirm the material is waterproof. They say that once fastened to the bike, they are very secure.
Stylish and Waterproof Bags
These panniers are made from canvas that has been waxed to make it waterproof. They have both a hand strap and shoulder strap, so you can easily carry the bags when they're not on your bike. These panniers may not have the capacity of some of the bags on this list, but they're perfect for your daily commute.
Reviewers say that these bags aren't large enough to carry a laptop, but to give you an idea, they'll fit a six-pack. Some say that the shape of the bags can sag depending on what is inside. However, reviewers say the material is durable and that they keep their contents dry. Reviewers love the look of these bags and say they do the job!
Tough Material That Is Resistant to Heat and Tears
This single bag is great if you just need one bag to commute and take into the office or class. It's made from tough polyester that is coated in PVC, making it waterproof, durable, and resistant to heat. The bag has an exterior pocket the perfect size for a smartphone and can be easily carried with the included shoulder strap.
Some reviewers report that the plastic clips that attach the bag to their rack broke after a few months. However, reviewers praise the bag for being waterproof and for how much weight it can carry. Reviewers agree that the fabric is high-quality and durable.
Large Bags With a High Weight Limit
The canvas used to make these pannier bags is water-resistant, but not waterproof. The bags do come with a rain cover, however. At a capacity of 50 liters, these bags are some of the largest on this list, and they can carry up to 130 pounds of gear. The bags have multiple reflective strips and also a carry handle.
A few reviewers report that the bags have little internal structure, and this can lead to their corners sagging and getting caught in the spokes if you don't pack them just right. However, reviewers confirm the bags are large enough to fit a lot of groceries, and that water rolls off the canvas material.
Large Reflective Strips to Keep You Safe at Night
This connected pair of pannier bags feature a small, easy-to-access pocket on the front of each bag for small items such as your smartphone. The main compartment of the bags has a zipper opening, and there are reflective strips along the bags to keep you visible by cars at night.
Some reviewers say that the bags aren't as rigid as they should be, so they can hit your back wheel if they're unbalanced. Reviewers say the bags are easy to mount on a bike rack, however, and they praise the bags for their capacity. Reviewers also like the durable material the bags are made from.
Has Internal and External Pockets
This bag can hold up to 27 liters, however, when it is folded over and fastened correctly to be waterproof the capacity reduces to 25 liters. The bag has a quick-release mechanism and comes with a shoulder strap. As well as a large main pocket, it also has two smaller interior pockets and one external one.
A few reviewers found that the clips used to attach the bag to their bike weren't secure enough and could come loose. They also point out that the exterior pocket isn't waterproof. However, reviewers also say that the interior pocket is waterproof and the material of the bag is durable. They like the capacity and the highly visible color.
Includes a Third Top Bag
With this pannier setup from Roswheel, you don't just get two bags to fit either side of your wheel, but you also get a third bag to sit securely on top! The bags are made from water-resistant polyester, and the side bags are angled to keep them away from your heels as you ride.
The bags have little structure, according to reviewers, so they can get caught in the spokes if not loaded correctly. Reviewers like that they have the option of using the top bag or not, and say the material is durable. They also praise the zippers for being covered, which keeps them clean and dry.
Manufactured to Be Climate Neutral
These bags are made from waterproof material and then sealed to ensure that anything inside is protected from getting wet. They have an inside pocket to store smaller items and can easily be attached to any pannier rack. They are manufactured in a climate-neutral way and come with a shoulder strap as well.
A couple of reviewers found that the attachment clips were hard to use because of the stiff back, but most reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers confirm they're waterproof and say they securely fasten to the bike. They praise the capacity of the bags and say they are durable.
Pak's Recommended Bicycle Panniers
The Ortlieb Back-Roller Classics are one of the most popular bicycle touring and commuting bags out there. They have been around for almost 40 years and are made with great German engineering. These bags have been used on many round-the-world expeditions and have a solid reputation. Not to mention, they have great customer service and warranty!
More Products to Make the Most of Your Bike
If you regularly use your bike, whether it be for touring or commuting, then there are many products out there to make your journey easier and more comfortable. We have some more recommendations for you to look at!
Top 5 Bicycle Panniers
No. 1: Ortlieb｜Back-Roller City Rear Pannier
No. 2: Ibera｜PakRak Bicycle Panniers
No. 3: Hikenture｜Bike Saddle Bags
No. 4: Tourbon｜Waterproof Canvas Pannier Bags
No. 5: Rhinowalk｜Waterproof Bike Pannier Bag
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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