12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks with Enhanced
Fit & Functionality for Spirited Riders
-
Wole Femi Asaolu
- October 25, 2021
- One Comment
Reviews
Backpacks with Hidden Pockets
Backpacks for Techies
Everyday Carry Backpacks
Eco-friendly backpacks
Nordace Siena similar backpacks
Backpacks with lots of pockets
Waterproof backpacks
Laptop backpacks
North Face Borealis vs Jester
Hardside Luggage
Carry-On Luggage
Luggage for Int’l Travel
Wireless Headphones
Wireless Earbuds
Mosquito Repellents
Sleeping Bags
Power banks
Looking for the best motorcycle backpacks?
Don’t worry; that’s why you have me.
When it comes to seeking out the best motorcycle backpacks, I believe that your backpack should match the speed, performance and ruggedness of your motorcycle.
Which is why I have carefully compiled a list of the best motorcycle backpacks the industry has to offer. I’ve made sure to include choices for a wide range of options, from helmet carriers and budget picks, right the way through to top-end options for racers and adventurous souls.
And wanna know the best part?
These options look as good as they function.
Whether it be for day-to-day commute, cross-town sprints or to forest paths, they will keep your stuff safe, dry and easily accessible.
Also, in case you were wondering, every backpack on the list can carry a laptop. Though it’s certainly not one size fits all.
And as usual, there’s a guide and the FAQs sections to help you make an informed decision.
Without further ado, here are the best motorcycle backpacks to hit the road in style.
Table of Contents
12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks 2021
Check out this quick list of the best motorcycle backpacks if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see my full list with in-depth reviews.
- Best overall: Ogio Adult No Drag Mach 3 Backpack
- Best waterproof: Nelson Rigg Hurricane Backpack
- Best budget: Badass Moto Cool Motorcycle backpack
- Best premium pick: OGIO No Drag Mach 5 backpack
- Best EDC: Alpinestars City Hunter Backpack
- Best stylish: Knox Studio Rucksack
- Best Work Appropriate: Kingslong 15-17-inch laptop backpack
- Best for carrying a helmet: Seibertron Molle Motorcycle Backpack
- Best capacity: Oakley Kitchen Sink Motorcycle Backpack
- Best Wildcard: Cali Crusher Smell Proof Backpack
- Best Protection for Transporting Tech: OGIO Renegade RSS Backpack
- Honorable mention: Kriega R30 backpack
Best overall: Ogio Adult No Drag Mach 3 Backpack
Summary: With the Mach 3, you ride with speed while having your stuff safe and secure.
Ogio is at the top of the podium when it comes to making the best motorcycle backpacks for different adventures and the Mach 3 Backpack is a prime example.
A pleasant update from the Mach 1 Backpack, the Mach 3 is much more comfortable.
With ergonomic, fully adjustable shoulder straps, removable chest and waist strap, the backpack would sit comfortably on your back even when you’re picking up speed.
Slick and minimal, it’s made from a water-resistant shell with a bolstered back foam to keep things breathable.
This 18.4-litre sleek bag will swallow all your belongings whenever you hit the roads.
It features a large main compartment with several storage compartments, including a 15-inch laptop sleeve, and a dedicated storage for a pair of adult shoes.
There is also an organizer panel for your smaller items with a padded tablet sleeve as well as a removable strap to secure your helmet.
That aside, the Ogio Adult No Drag Mach 3 Backpack is hydration compatible.
What we also love
Perhaps my favorite thing is the bright red interior lining for visibility so you can easily locate and take out an item.
And hey, the bag has lots of positive customer reviews, so you can be sure it’s an excellent choice.
What’s not great
The downsides?
The Ogio Mach 3 can’t stand up on its own which makes it slightly more inconvenient when loading/unloading.
Best waterproof: Nelson Rigg Hurricane Backpack
Summary: Ride through all elements and carry your gear in comfort with the Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack.
If you’re after a backpack that will prevent your belongings from getting soaked by the rain, then look no further than the Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack.
The bag is made from durable UV coated Tarpaulin PVC, with electronically heat welded seams.
It’s extremely sturdy, waterproof, and can transport all your tech essentials in safety – nice and dry.The Hurricane has all of the room you need to conquer even the busiest of lifestyles!
Storage capacity can swallow a full-face helmet, a 15” laptop, folders, books, tablets, clothes, sleeping bag and any other item you need on your ride. It also has two mesh pockets that are large enough to hold water bottles.
The bag also comes with a removable molle panel that doubles as a waterproof document or map pocket. And there’s no shortage of places to stash or attach stuff, including a clip for securing a hydration tube.
The Hurricane is also super comfortable even on the gnarliest of trails.
This is due to its large, padded, adjustable straps, adjustable chest and waist straps, along with a padded air mesh back panel.
What we also love
The Hurricane can do almost anything- an everyday backpack, a tail bag on a multi-day tour and even as a dry bag on a kayaking trip.
Plus, its front pocket is large enough to hold a 2-liter hydration bladder.
What’s not great
The 40L Hurricane bag can get heavy, bulky and rigid, but then you can just go for its smaller 20L version.
Best budget: Badass Moto Cool Motorcycle backpack
Summary: The Badass Moto backpack is an affordable backpack that’ll hold your helmet and other riding gear comfortably.
I think this is one of the best motorcycle backpacks under $30 that you’ll find.
Better yet, this bag can get you from city streets to forest paths, so it really does represent excellent value for money.
It has a large capacity, which means it will easily hold all your riding gear, and the laptop sleeve will give a good degree of protection.
The expandable mesh pockets are ideal for storing your sunglasses, gloves, water bottles, or goggles.
Also, the Badass Moto backpack has a special compartment for holding a full-face motorcycle helmet, basketball or any large item you wanna take along with you on your ride.
What we also love
It’s also ergonomically designed, with comfort in mind, and is suitable for both men and women.
What is not great
This bag would likely break apart under heavy use.
Best premium pick: OGIO No Drag Mach 5 backpack
Summary: Far from being basic, the Ogio Mach 5 backpack has all the features you will need in the best motorcycle backpacks.
The latest upgrade in the No Drag Mach series, the Mach 5 is bigger, tougher, and armed with more features.
The Mach 5 pack is made from a durable ballistic nylon to keep rips, tears, and snags from occurring. Its exterior is also water resistant, which means your belongings would stay dry and protected.
At 22L capacity, it is great for everyday use and can also be expanded into 24L for other activities that require more storage space.
Even better, there’s protection for your tech and gear.
It has a padded laptop compartment, a protective tablet sleeve, fleece lined pockets for your phone and smaller electronics as well as a protective helmet visor sleeve.
A separate shoe storage compartment is included, as well as a clever built in buckled strap you can clip your helmet to so you don’t have to carry it while you walk.
Comfort has also been addressed with this smart motorcycle backpack.
The air mesh back panel and no slip sternum straps will keep your journey comfortable. The shoulder straps are fully adjustable and well padded, making it easy on the shoulders.
Plus, the waist strap provides stability.
What we also love
It is hydration ready.
What’s not great
This pack is not built for versatility. It is designed for biking and nothing else.
Best EDC: Alpinestars City Hunter Backpack
Summary: Practical, functional and spacious enough, the Alpinestars City Hunter is great for your daily urban raids.
Perfect for a day out on the bike, I think the Alpinestars City Hunter is one of the best motorcycle backpacks for everyday carry.
At 25L, it has the capacity to fit all your riding gear for the daily commute.
There is a fleece-lined laptop sleeve that fits a 15 inches laptop, a padded phone sleeve, as well as 2 external waterproof pockets on the exterior of the bag.
It also comes with a built-in helmet carrier.
The bag is made of multiple materials.
The exterior is made of lightweight 420D nylon, which is durable and easy to maintain while the base is made of Nylon Ripstop 420D, which adds an extra layer of protection to vulnerable areas.
It comes with a rain cover too.
As for riding comfort, you’ve got nothing to worry about.
The shoulder straps are ergonomic with perforated foam inserts and mesh panels for optimized airflow, preventing sweat.
Also, you can adapt the bag to your fit with the adjustable and removable chest strap.
The padded, breathable back panel allows for weight distribution and carrying comfort, especially when loaded out.
What we also love
The reflective details on the shoulder straps and on the front of the bag help improve the visibility of the biker at night.
What’s not great
The Alpinestars City Hunter Backpack is a tad on the small side for overnight trips.
Best stylish: Knox Studio Rucksack
Summary: The Knox Studio Rucksack allows you to haul your stuff in style on and off the bike.
If you want a rucksack that is as slick as it is handy, then this might be the one for you.
This stylish bag is made from durable 600D nylon and leather.
And it guaranteed all-weather protection for your gear on any type of motorcycle.
Aside from its waterproof fabric, the zippers are water-resistant while its interior lining is fully taped at the seams to keep the water out.
This 25L bag with roll top design will keep every possible item you might need at the office or at school or college.
The organization is very simple.
It only gets 2 side pouches, a front pouch, and a main compartment and nothing more.
What we also love
The fit and finish of this bag is excellent.
It features wide and padded shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum and waist strap.
And obviously, the look and simple design of the Knox Studio Rucksack is a winner.
What’s not great
Accessing the roll top main compartment can get tiresome.
There’s no side opening whatsoever to give you easy access, you have to unbuckle the bag three times to open and three times to close.
Best Work Appropriate: Kingslong 15-17-inch laptop backpack
Summary: For bikers on the go who need lots of storage for tech equipment and accessories.
One of the best motorcycle backpacks with work appropriate aesthetics and organization is the Kingslong motorcycle backpack.
It has a large capacity interior with several pockets to comfortably carry all your tech and office essentials.
There’s of course a padded sleeve that can fit up to a 15 – 17.3-inch laptop. In addition to that, you get special pockets for your mouse, keyboard, head phone, cables, portable hard drive, phone, and other accessories.
Still, there’s more.
It also has water bottle pockets, and a front pocket that allows easy access to important items such as glass, headphone, phone, wallet, etc.
You’ll also find this bag roomy enough so that you could also use it for a 3-5 days trip. It is thus ideal for travelers, gamers, commuters and tech enthusiasts who need to carry a variety of tech.
Even better, it’s made of water-repellent high-quality polyester fabric that is resistant to water, tear, scratch and is easy to wash.
You’ll also like that this backpack has a rain cover to protect your sensitive electronics from getting wet when in heavy rain.
The harness system features padded straps, a breathable back panel and a sturdy carry handle. You will find it a comfortable wear, even when the bag is fully packed out.
What we also love
I like that the Kingslong laptop backpack features a built-in USB port so you can charge on the go.
Not to mention, it is affordable.
What’s not great
There’s no hip or chest straps to help lighten the load.
Best for carrying a helmet: Seibertron Molle Motorcycle Backpack
Summary: The Seibertron Molle Motorcycle Backpack offers you a convenient way to carry your motorcycle helmet.
The Seibertron backpack is a tactical and feature-packed pack with a helmet holder that has quickly become an Amazon favorite and one of the best motorcycle backpacks.
This is due to its roomy 35-liter main compartment that easily carries your helmet, lunch, clothes, gym sneakers, and more!
You can totally fit your gear for a weakened expedition or take things from home to the gym or office.
And you know what?
The helmet holder consists of a large buckle panel on the front that can be compressed when not in use.
As one of the best motorcycle backpacks, it comes with built-in straps so you can strap it down to a bike.
Along the outside of this tactical backpack is a MOLLE webbing system for attaching additional accessories.
It also has a water-resistant exterior, heavy-duty zipper; a side and front load compression system to tighten up the bag for a more compact feel.
What we also love
The Seibertron backpack is comfortable to wear with ventilated mesh back, waist belt, sternum straps and padded shoulder straps.
Also, it can be used as a hydration bladder backpack (2-liter hydration bladder sold separately).
What’s not great
One drawback is that this backpack comes with lots of straps that can get confusing.
You should however note that the Seibertron backpack is not waterproof, but only water resistant, at best.
Best capacity: Oakley Kitchen Sink Motorcycle Backpack
Summary: The Oakley Kitchen Sink Backpack is ideal for a ride-out where a little extra carrying capacity is needed.
If you are looking for one of the best motorcycle backpacks with enough space, the Oakley Kitchen Sink pack is your guy.
This roomy 34L bag comes with compartments, pockets and attachment points to help you organize your many gears.
There’s a large compartment for clothing and bulkier items, and a bottom compartment where you can stash a pair of shoes or wet laundry.
In addition, you get a dedicated and padded laptop compartment that fits up to 17.3 laptop, 3 D-ring tie-downs, and 4 fixed webbing points for you to attach more items.
Even better, there are lots of external easy access pockets to your other essentials including a protective media pocket, two big side pockets, and a front organizational panel for smaller items.
With its high level of comfort, this backpack is an amazing choice for bikers.
It features a breathable compression-molded high-density foam back panel, and padded shoulder straps with side compression straps so you feel the load on your back.
And to make the deal sweeter, it has a chest strap, a waist strap and adjustable shoulder straps, so you can align to your perfect fit while it disburses weight more evenly on your shoulders.
Made from a blend of 69% nylon and 31% polyester with a 900D polyester with a water-resistant exterior and heavy-duty zipper, the Kitchen Sink will surprise you with its exceptional strength.
What we also love
This durable and extra-large bag can accommodate a range of items, thus great for travel, camping, hiking, overnight trips or a long-distance ride.
What’s not great
Well, the Oakley Kitchen Sink is quite expensive and you may find the lack of a dedicated storage for the helmet a bit inconvenient.
Best Wildcard: Cali Crusher Smell Proof Backpack
Summary: The Cali Crusher backpack will keep your content safe from the weather and prying nose as you ride.
The Cali Crusher backpack makes the list of the best motorcycle backpacks because nine times out of ten, it is ready for any journey you need the stinkiest odor reined in.
Designed to safely transport your most potent smelly cargo, it is both water resistant and 100% smell-proof.
That’s right, the inside is lined with activated carbon with a double zipper seal design that helps restrain the very pungent smell from seeping out.
And as a bonus safety precaution, the main compartment features a combination lock to keep prying eyes and noses out.
With three compartments, two side pockets and adjustable side straps, it’s easy to keep everything in order on-the-go.
There’s also a laptop sleeve, so you can keep your device protected from scratches or wetness.
Thanks to the adjustable straps, you can tighten the bag for a compact feel or loosen the straps to fit a few changes of clothes while traveling.
What we also love
This stylish and unisex bag is available in six different color options to suit different tastes and is great for school, office, and even the outdoors.
What’s not great
Some users complained about weak zippers.
Best Protection for Transporting Tech: OGIO Renegade RSS Backpack
Summary: If you like pockets, cavernous space, and tech protection in a backpack, the Renegade RSS is hard to beat.
If you’re into tech or simply need a lot of equipment for work, you couldn’t find a comfier and highly organized bag like the OGIO RSS.
This bag has a lot to brag about, as far as organization is concerned, it is no wonder it qualifies as one of the best motorcycle backpacks.
Apart from three main compartments, this 30L bag has no less than eight external pockets to allow you to organize your gear from your expensive laptop to your earphones and ID cards.
Best of all, it gives maximum protection to your expensive laptop and other gadgets. RSS which means ‘reactive suspension system’ works to prevent your laptop from striking a hard surface even when you bang or roughly drop the bag.
Aside from the protected and dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment, there’s a padded pocket for a tablet or e-reader, a cozy camera/mouse pocket, and a crush-proof vault for your sunglasses.
What we also love
A beast of a bag, it also features a luggage handle pass-through, ergonomic shoulder straps with sternum strap and cushioned back panel for ultimate comfort.
What’s not great
If you’re more concerned with style, or want fancy colors, this very limited four-color options bag isn’t for you.
By the way, you can check out my detailed review of the 18 best backpacks for techies.
Honorable mention: Kriega R30 backpack
Summary: The Kriega R30 is a sturdy bag that’ll keep your stuff nice and dry.
The Kriega R30 is one of the all-round most popular backpacks among motorcyclists.
It’s earned fantastic reviews and has a high average score across multiple retailers, so it’s a safe bet if you’re in the market for the motorcycle backpacks.
This backpack will also keep your things perfectly dry too, but is a sturdier, tougher design with a long shelf life.
Made of 420D rip-stop nylon with 1000D Cordura on the base and harness, and waterproof main body, the R30 – like all of Kriega’s kit – is truly built to last (and it’s backed up by a ten-year warranty).
With its 30-litre capacity, it comes with a roll top main compartment which can fit a 17” laptop, books, clothes, and still have plenty of space left over for whatever else you are packing.
It also has 2 pockets with YKK water-resistant zips that gives you easy access to smaller items.
And six compression straps help keep the load stable and compact to avoid unnecessary jostling.
It also has room for a hydration bladder to help stave off thirst.
Note: If you need something bigger or smaller, you can go for your perfect size in the Kriega backpack lineups– R15 to the R35.
This backpack’s key feature is its comfort.
Pack it well and you’ll barely know you’ve got it on, whether biking or walking around town.
This is because its Quadloc harness transfers weight from the shoulders to the chest and body, giving all-day riding comfort, even with heavy loads.
Freedom of movement is also a benefit of Kriega’s design, as both backpacks allow movement of arms and shoulders without any restriction.
And to help mitigate unpleasant back sweat, the air mesh back panel and straps allow air to circulate around your back during your ride.
Not forgetting its wide shoulder and waist straps for weight distribution.
What we also love
Large reflective panels on the front and rear add a level of visibility safety for night riding.
What’s not great
The Kriega backpack’s price tag is quite steep.
Also, the bag could do with more organizational pockets and dividers.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Motorcycle backpacks
When looking for the best motorcycle backpacks, there are features to look out for.
Purpose
If you plan on riding all day and need to drink a lot of water, it’s best you go for a lightweight hydration friendly option.
And if it’s for day trips, a small and compact bag that’ll fit your laptop and other gear inside should be your go to.
There’s of course, a backpack designed with the hardcore biker in mind.
If you plan on taking an extended trip or need a lot of gear to the mountains or other thrilling adventure, expedition packs are better.
Your type of thrilling adventure would determine the type of motorcycle backpack you go for.
Air channels for breathability
Chances are your body temperature will rise as you ride.
The best motorcycle backpacks come with breathable fabric and/or mesh that promote air flow, so you’re not dripping wet when you ride.
It can be very uncomfortable when your backpack sticks to your shirt. Trust me, it doesn’t look sexy at all.
Consider what you carry
In your search for the best motorcycle backpacks, it’s also important you take into account how much storage you need.
If you tend to carry a lot of items, you obviously need a spacious motorcycle backpack. And if you prefer a more minimal approach, a smaller bag is better.
Of course, the best motorcycle backpacks should have a couple of pockets to help you organize and have easy access to your smaller bits.
Just don’t forget to pack your first-aid-kit if you’ll be riding in the great outdoors.
Comfort is key
No one likes a backpack that will dig into your shoulders and constrict your neck, or cause you to overheat.
I know I don’t.
You also won’t want a bag that gets very uncomfortable when it’s loaded with the weight you’d typically carry.
Or worse, a backpack that sticks to your shirt, especially if you are heading to the office.
Yikes!
The best motorcycle backpacks should therefore be well padded with adjustable chest and waist straps.
If you are carrying heavy items, you should look for a backpack with extra padding as well as breathable fabric and/or mesh that promote air flow, so you’re not dripping wet when you ride.
Protection from the element
There’s nothing as unpredictable as the weather. One minute everywhere is sunny and before you know it, your gear is soaked all through.
This is why the best motorcycle backpacks are waterproof or water resistant at the very least so as to keep your content dry when exposed to wet conditions.
Some bags even come with a rain cover that you can easily deploy when the weather turns.
Quality
Motorcyclists who use their backpacks as an everyday carry know the importance of a well-made bag.
You don’t want issues with a broken zip, damaged seam, or even a bag without weather protection.
The best motorcycle backpacks are bags that are comfortable, durable, and with protection from the weather so that it’ll be as rugged as the terrain you’re navigating.
FAQs
What is a good backpack for motorcycle?
A good motorcycle backpack is one that can comfortably store all your biking gear, such as bottles of water, clothing, and snacks when you’re on an off-road adventure.
But beyond that, the best motorcycle backpack is well made, comfortable and is practical for the type of riding you intend to do.
Some of the best motorcycle backpacks are designed so that they have a lower center of gravity.
This thus allows the backpack to sit lower on your back and not get in the way while you’re riding.
Are motorcycle backpacks worth it?
While you might think of it as nothing more than a regular backpack, it’s more than that.
The best motorcycle backpacks come with features that make it more suitable for being outdoors, such as water-resistant features and the ability to carry water reservoirs.
The best motorcycle backpacks can also be used for many other items, such as books and clothing, which makes them great not just for biking but also for other outdoor adventures, such as hiking.
Not to mention, motorcycle backpacks are lightweight, breathable, and easy to carry since you have to wear them while you ride.
So yeah, the best motorcycle backpacks are definitely worth it.
What size motorcycle backpack do I need?
Bigger is not always better.
The best motorcycle backpacks come in different sizes, and the size you need will depend largely on where you’re headed and what you’re carrying.
If you just need somewhere to put your change of clothes, and a few devices, a smaller, lighter bag will suffice, while if you’re carrying a laptop, lunch, spare clothes, shoes and equipment you’ll use throughout your day, a bigger bag with a hip belt is what you should go for.
So, something between 20L and 30L seems to be about right for everyday carry, and above 30L if you need something better.
Also, don’t forget that the weight you haul shouldn’t affect your stability on your motorcycle.
Bottom Line
Like any great companion, a good motorcycle backpack should be reliable and versatile for all adventures — work, day trips, commute, outdoors.
Your backpack is home to your beloved belongings, so you want it to be strong and protective with different sections, and pockets to keep you organized whilst on the go.
Also, it should be comfortable, stylish and armed with features to make your life and trip easier.
Whether it’s for sturdiness, fashion or comfort, at least one of these 12 best motorcycle backpacks are sure to suit you.
Over to you.
Do you agree with these picks or do you have any recommendations?
Take the lead in the comment sections, I’d love to hear from you!
If you’re interested in camera sling bags with great protection for your devices, be sure to check out my guide to the best camera sling bags for photographers on the go.
This article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These backpacks have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
Wole Femi Asaolu
Hey I’m Femi, the founder of Travelccessories. If I’m not busy with my data/number crunching full-time job, or spending time with my family or playing chess, you’d find me researching travel accessories.1 thought on “12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks with Enhanced Fit & Functionality for Spirited Riders”
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Wow, you make me feel like a dinosaur because I am still using my 35-litre hiking pack that I brought over 10 years ago when I go out on my bike.
Your research shows that motorbike backpacks sure have come a long way since then.
There are some really great options here and with so many features it will be hard to choose a clear winner.
Weatherproofing is a must, as is a dedicated laptop space. My current pack becomes uncomfortable when filled and on long journeys, so something with better straps and support would be great. I need time to check out some of the options, but am currently thinking that the Ogio Mach 5 backpack is going to be the one… it just looks so cool.
Thanks for doing the research and giving us the best choices!
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