Bikepacking requires gear that is as resilient and adaptable as the rider. Your saddle bag is a critical piece of this puzzle, serving as a mobile basecamp strapped just behind you. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between a comfortable, organized journey and a frustrating battle with sway, moisture, and limited space. The ideal bag seamlessly integrates with your bike, protecting your essentials from the elements while maintaining stability on everything from smooth tarmac to rugged singletrack.
With numerous options on the market, selecting the perfect saddle bag for your touring needs can be overwhelming. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best bikepacking saddle bags available, detailing their capacities, key features, and the specific types of adventures they are built to conquer. Whether you are planning a multi-day expedition or a swift overnight trip, there is a solution here for you.
The Best Bikepacking Saddle Bags for 2025
- Topeak BackLoader 15L
- ROCKBROS Bikepacking Bag Waterproof Bike Saddle Bag
- Ortlieb Bikepacking Seat Pack QR Seat Bag – 13L
- Blackburn Outpost Seat Pack & Dry Bike Bag
- Blackburn Outpost Elite Universal Seat Pack
- ROCKBROS Bike Rack Bag Trunk Waterproof
- Topeak BackLoader Bike Bag (Black) – Large – 10L
- Ortlieb Seat-Pack S 4.1L Waterproof Saddle Bag
- Apidura Racing Saddle Pack 9L
Topeak BackLoader 15L
For riders embarking on long-distance tours, the Topeak BackLoader 15L offers substantial cargo space without requiring a rear rack. Its high-capacity design is perfect for carrying bulkier items like sleeping bags, shelters, and multiple days’ worth of food. This makes it an excellent choice for self-supported adventures where maximizing storage is a priority.
Constructed from a blend of lightweight polyethylene and nylon, this bag is built to last. The materials provide exceptional water repellency and stain resistance, safeguarding your gear from unexpected rain showers and trail grime. An upgraded saddle-mount system, complemented by compression straps, works to minimize bag sway and improve overall balance, ensuring a stable and predictable ride even on rough, uneven terrain.
ROCKBROS Bikepacking Bag Waterproof Bike Saddle Bag
The ROCKBROS Bikepacking Bag provides excellent value with its adaptable and user-friendly design. Featuring a roll-top closure, it can adjust from a compact size up to a maximum capacity of 14 liters. This flexibility allows you to tailor the bag’s volume to your specific load, making it suitable for both short trips and longer excursions where packing efficiency is key.
This bag is designed for convenience and reliability. Its composite 3-layer material offers solid waterproof protection, and the surface is easy to clean with just a wet cloth. Installation is straightforward, utilizing fixed buckles and straps that secure directly to your seat rails without any tools needed. It is a versatile option that fits a wide range of bikes, including road, mountain, and BMX models.
Ortlieb Bikepacking Seat Pack QR Seat Bag – 13L
Ortlieb is a renowned name in waterproof cycling luggage, and this 13L Seat Pack lives up to that reputation. Crafted from high-quality nylon, it is a soft-shell bag designed to be both lightweight and incredibly durable. Its generous capacity is well-suited for riders who need to carry a significant amount of gear while maintaining a streamlined profile.
The core strength of any Ortlieb bag is its legendary waterproofing. While specific details on the closure system are not listed, Ortlieb’s roll-top designs are typically fully submersible, guaranteeing your belongings stay dry in the heaviest downpours. The quick-release (QR) mechanism suggested in the name points to a user-friendly attachment system that makes installing and removing the bag a simple task at camp or during a stop.
Blackburn Outpost Seat Pack & Dry Bike Bag
The Blackburn Outpost system introduces a clever harness design that separates the mounting hardware from the dry bag itself. The outer harness remains securely attached to your bike, while the inner dry bag can be quickly removed. This is a significant advantage for riders who frequently need to take their gear with them, as it saves time and reduces wear on the attachment points.
This bag is built with performance in mind. It utilizes welded seam construction, which eliminates needle holes and creates a cleaner, more reliable waterproof seal compared to traditional stitched seams. The classic roll-top design allows you to fine-tune the bag’s size to match your load and compress the contents for a more secure and stable package on the bike.
Blackburn Outpost Elite Universal Seat Pack
As the elite version of the Outpost, this seat pack is engineered for the most demanding trails and modern bike geometry. Its standout feature is full dropper post compatibility. A robust T6061 aluminum wing bolts directly to your seat rails, providing a rock-solid mount that maintains stability and clearance even when you activate a dropper post.
It retains the practical harness system of the standard Outpost, allowing for quick bag removal. The included waterproof dry bag features a scuba-style air bleed valve. This innovative component lets you press out excess air after rolling the top closed, which compresses your load further and prevents the bag from feeling buoyant or shifting during your ride.
ROCKBROS Bike Rack Bag Trunk Waterproof
This ROCKBROS bag offers a different approach, designed specifically for use with a rear bike rack rather than attaching directly to the saddle. Its carbon composite leather construction provides strong water resistance and a durable, easy-to-clean surface. With a substantial 34-liter capacity, it is one of the largest options in this roundup, ideal for commuters or tourists who prefer the solid foundation of a rack.
A key feature is its foldable design. The bag can be used as a standard trunk bag and then unfolded with zippers to become a full pannier, dramatically increasing its carrying volume. Adding to its versatility, it includes two shoulder straps, allowing you to convert it into a messenger bag for easy carrying when you are off the bike.
Topeak BackLoader Bike Bag – Large – 10L
The 10L version of the Topeak BackLoader is a great middle-ground option for riders who need more space than a small bag offers but do not require the full 15-liter capacity. It is part of a family of bags that come in 6L, 10L, and 15L sizes, allowing you to select the perfect volume for your typical gear load.
Sharing the same durable construction as its larger sibling, this bag is made from polyethylene and nylon for enhanced durability and water repellency. The secure attachment system uses a hook and loop fastener, making mounting and removal a quick and simple process. This bag is a reliable and straightforward choice for weekend tours and daily rides where organization and easy access are important.
Ortlieb Seat-Pack S 4.1L Waterproof Saddle Bag
For riders who travel light or participate in races like the Tour Divide, the Ortlieb Seat-Pack S offers a compact and ultra-reliable solution. With a 4.1-liter capacity, it is designed to carry just the essentials—repair kits, a jacket, and some snacks—while adding minimal weight and bulk to your setup. Its small size also helps maintain optimal bike handling and rear clearance.
As expected from Ortlieb, this bag is fully waterproof, ensuring your critical items remain dry in any weather condition. The compact form factor and proven attachment system make it a favorite among minimalist bikepackers and gravel riders who value speed and efficiency over large storage capacity. It is the go-to option for when every gram and every centimeter counts.
Apidura Racing Saddle Pack 9L
The Apidura Racing Saddle Pack is engineered for performance-oriented bikepacking. With a 9-liter capacity, it strikes a balance between having enough space for mandatory gear and maintaining an aerodynamic, lightweight profile. It is a popular choice for endurance events and fast-paced tours where efficiency is paramount.
Apidura products are known for their meticulous design and use of high-tech, lightweight materials. The Racing Saddle Pack typically features a streamlined shape that reduces drag and a secure mounting system designed to eliminate sway. While prioritizing weight savings, it does not compromise on weather protection, offering reliable resistance against the elements to keep your gear safe and your pace high.
How to Choose a Bikepacking Saddle Bag
When I’m planning a tour, my saddle bag is one of the first pieces of gear I consider. It’s a core piece of storage that needs to be reliable, stable, and just the right size for my kit. Choosing the wrong one can lead to a miserable ride filled with sway, rub, and constant worry. So, before you look at the list of the 9 best bikepacking saddle bags for touring [2025], let’s break down what actually matters.
First up is capacity, measured in liters. Think hard about how much gear you need to stash back here. For a lightweight overnight trip, an 8-12 liter bag might be perfect. For a multi-week tour where you’re carrying a sleep system and more clothing, you’ll likely need something in the 12-17 liter range. My rule of thumb is to pack my sleep kit and maybe a puffy jacket in the saddle bag, as these are items I don’t need to access during the day.
Next, and this is crucial, is the mounting system. How does the bag attach to your bike? The most common and stable systems use a rigid, lightweight frame that the bag sits in or attaches to. This frame is then secured to your seatpost and saddle rails. This is a game-changer for preventing sway. Other bags use simple straps without a frame, which can be lighter and more flexible, but often at the cost of stability. Check that the straps are robust and won’t slip, and ensure the system is compatible with your saddle and seatpost setup.
Stability is the holy grail. A wobbly bag is more than just annoying; it can affect your bike handling. Look for features that minimize movement. A rigid internal or external frame is the best solution. Some bags also use a “strut” system—carbon or aluminum rods that push the bag away from your wheel and seatpost, creating a solid structure. Also, pay attention to the bag’s shape; a tapered or teardrop design is less likely to hit your thighs as you pedal.
Finally, consider the material and weather resistance. Most high-quality bags are made from waterproof or highly water-resistant fabrics like X-Pac or laminated nylon, with taped or welded seams. A fully waterproof bag means you don’t have to fuss with a separate pack liner, which I find incredibly convenient. If the bag isn’t fully waterproof, check that it at least includes a high-quality roll-top closure and a rain cover. After all, keeping your sleeping bag dry is non-negotiable.
FAQ
What size bikepacking saddle bag do I need?
This really depends on the length of your trip and your packing style. For a simple overnight or weekend trip where you’re staying in shelters, a smaller bag in the 6-10 liter range is often sufficient for your sleep system and some clothes. For longer, self-supported tours where you need to carry a tent, sleeping bag, and pad, you’ll want to look at larger options, typically between 11 and 17 liters. I always recommend practicing packing with your gear at home before you commit to a size.
How do I prevent my saddle bag from swaying or hitting my rear wheel?
Sway is the number one complaint with saddle bags, and the solution almost always lies in the mounting system. Bags with a dedicated rigid frame are far more stable than those that rely solely on straps. Make sure the bag is mounted high enough so it clears your rear wheel, especially on hard bumps. Using a strut or a “stay” system that connects the bag to your seatpost can also dramatically reduce movement. Finally, cinch all the straps down tightly, and ensure the weight is distributed evenly inside the bag.
Are all bikepacking saddle bags waterproof?
Not all, but many of the best ones are. High-end bags often use waterproof fabrics and have fully taped or welded seams, making them submersible. These are my preference because they eliminate the need for extra stuff sacks. However, some bags are only water-resistant and may come with a separate rain cover. Always check the product specifications. If you’re caught in a downpour, a good roll-top closure is your first line of defense, regardless of the material.
Can I use a saddle bag with a dropper post?
This can be tricky but is often possible. Using a full-length dropper post presents a challenge because the bag needs to be mounted high on the post, limiting its travel. Many modern saddle bags are designed with shorter frames or specific strap configurations to accommodate a dropper post with limited travel (e.g., 80-100mm). You won’t get the full range of motion, but you can usually get some functionality. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s compatibility guidelines for your specific post model before buying.
What should I pack in my saddle bag versus other bags?
I use a simple philosophy: pack items you won’t need until you make camp. My saddle bag is reserved for my sleep system—sleeping bag, inflatable pad, and a liner. Sometimes I’ll also put my camp clothes and puffy jacket in there. This works because I don’t need to access these items during the day’s ride. Items I might need, like rain gear, snacks, a repair kit, or a camera, go in my handlebar bag or frame bag for easy access. This strategy makes the 9 best bikepacking saddle bags for touring [2025] so critical for carrying your bulkier, off-bike essentials.