Before I delve into my list of the best backpacks for various kinds of biking adventures, I should point out that I am a lover of all backpacks/suitcases Osprey. I currently own seven different packs: two 65-70 liter hiking and trekking packs, two rolling, convertible suitcases/backpacks with detachable daypacks, one hydration pack, and two different size backpacks I use for commuting and getting around town. I love the design of all of them. The compartments, pockets, straps, and attachments make sense to me. As a chronic over-stuffer, I can attest that the zippers are strong and durable. I haven’t broken one yet. And I find them comfortable. 

There are “waterproof” backpacks on the market but I’m not a fan, mainly because waterproof often means they aren’t very breathable so if something damp is in your pack, it will take a long time to dry. I don’t use rain covers either. Instead, I use large plastic drawstring bags and Ziplocs to protect things from moisture.

There are basically two categories of biking backpacks: those that are predominantly for hydration purposes and those geared towards carrying things. Below is my list of the best backpacks for biking adventures (and non-adventurous, everyday errands, and commutes).

True to their name, hydration packs exist for the primary reason of carrying water. They are equipped with removable and refillable bladders. Most of them offer storage for a light jacket, keys, phone, and money. Many mountain bikers use hydration packs in lieu of water bottle holders because no matter how secure a frame-mounted bottle holder is, flying down the rocky single track doesn’t lend itself to keeping your bottles on your bike.

Some long-distance/bike-packing cyclists use hydration packs because they allow them to carry more water at a time which is helpful when resupply stops are few and far between. Packs and bladders come in sizes usually ranging from 1.5 liters to 3 liters.

Osprey Raven 14 Women's Bike Hydration Backpack

This pack comes with a 2.5-liter bladder, hip belt pockets, and an attachment for a blinky light. There’s also a pocket on the bottom with a roll-up tool pouch. I wore this pack while cycling through Jordan, including across the Wadi Rum desert, and managed to stay hydrated throughout.

CamelBak Women's Rogue Light Bike Hydration Pack 70oz

CamelBak manufactures all kinds of hydration-related gear. I personally love their insulated water bottles which keep cold things colder and hot things hotter for a longer period of time. This lightweight hydration pack comes with a 2-liter reservoir but has the capacity to carry 7 liters of liquid. A good choice for when you don’t need to carry much else besides water, the Rogue has an extremely minimal design.

The best backpacks for bike commuting all include padded, adjustable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and chest and/or waist straps. I rarely secure my packs with a chest or waist strap but they do come in handy if you’re carrying a large load.

I use this pack when I don’t have to transport a large number of things. The padded back compartment can be used for a laptop up to 13” or a water reservoir. The shoulder straps are not super padded so carrying anything too heavy with this pack is not ideal.

Though not sold as a biking-specific backpack, the Comet is my go-to, everyday, commuting backpack. Interestingly (to me anyway) is that I only discovered this particular backpack because REI accidentally shipped it to me (I had ordered a tent). After I called, they did send the tent but told me I could keep the backpack free of charge.  

The Comet has a padded back and laptop sleeve that fits my 16-inch MacBook Pro with room for all kinds of things including a hefty bike u-lock, a couple of changes of clothes, snacks, extra gloves, and hats, and tools - and it still wouldn’t be filled. I’ve even been known to transport a sewing machine in it. The shoulder straps (and back) are well padded. This pack feels comfortable and secure when riding no matter how much stuff I’ve shoved into it.

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L

While I have not used this particular backpack myself, I do travel with 90 liter Patagonia Black Hole duffels which have survived being thrown on and off a van daily throughout a 5 month trip along the Silk Road, as well as many airports and baggage handlers across the world.

The Patagonia Black Hole line is known for durability and made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. It’s also water-resistant. The backpack has a padded sleeve to keep your laptop comfortable and padded back and shoulder straps to keep you comfortable.

Ortlieb Commuter Urban 21L Daypack

If you want a waterproof backpack, the Ortlieb Commuter Daypack offers durability and protection from the elements, along with a sophisticated, urban design that strives to be a balance between conventional backpacks and office bags. (Which, in my opinion, it achieves).

Ortlieb products aren’t cheap but they are well made, sturdy, and likely to last a lifetime. The Commuter Urban has padded, adjustable shoulder straps and removable waist and chest straps.

Many of my bike messenger friends who get paid to transport all sorts of things around New York City, use Mission Workshop packs. Mission Workshop is based in San Francisco and offers a lifetime warranty on their tough, made in the USA packs.

The larger Mission Workshop Fitzroy has a 40-liter capacity and the smaller Mission Workshop Fraction, a 14 liter.

Wherever you’re headed, a backpack and a bicycle can get you (and your stuff) there.