12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks: Reviewed, Rated & Compared

top of the range


The Ogio Mach 3 is aerodynamic, strong and secure.It also offers laptop and shoe storage.

value for money

No products found.

The Locallion is ergonomic, lightweight and comes with reflective stripe safety feature.

Having a motorcycle is great fun. You get to ride the open roads and have some great adventures. But when it comes to storing your daily goods, they really do lack in cargo capacity.

Luckily, motorcycle backpacks have started to pop up making it easy to store all your essentials.  

Motorcycle Backpack Comparison Table

Image

Model

Helmet Section

Waterproof

Check Price

Seibertron Waterproof Large Capacity Molle...

Seibertron Waterproof Motorcycle Helmet Holder

Yes

Yes

OGIO No Drag Mach 3 Backpack, 19' H x 12.5' W...

OGIO No Drag Mach 3 Motorcycle Backpack

Yes

Yes

CUCYMA Motorcycle Backpack Motorsports Track...

Motorcycle Backpack Stealth

Yes

Water-Resistant

Seibertron Motorbike Backpack Motorcycle Bag...

Seibertron Motorbike Backpack

No

Yes

Seibertron Roving Motorcycle Riding Street...

Seibertron Roving Motorcycle Backpack With Raincover

No

Yes

Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack

Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack

No

No

Nelson-Rigg SE-3040 40 Liter Gear Hurricane...

Nelson-Rigg SE-3040 Hurricane Waterproof Backpack

No

Yes

Viking Aero Expandable Universal Fit...

Viking Aero Expandable Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag

No

No

No products found.

LOCALLION Ultra Light Rucksack

Yes

No

Shoei Backpack 2.0 - One Size

SHOEI Backpack 2.0

Yes

No

OGIO 123006.36 No Drag Mach 5 Motorcycle...

Ogio Adult No Drag Mach 5 Backpack

Yes

No - Water-Resistant

Joe Rocket 1409-0000 Blaster Max Black 13.75'...

Joe Rocket 1409-0000 Blaster Max Motorcycle Backpack

Yes

No

Why Do You Need a Motorcycle Backpack

Do you commute to work or school?

If you use your bike to commute then having a motorcycle backpack will work well for you. Commuters usually have to carry lots of things with them for work or school.

They will often be carrying textbooks, laptops and work clothes, having a backpack that’s waterproof can help keep all this protected. You might want to look at the materials used to see how resistant it is to bad weather conditions.

Another thing to look at is how well padded the backpack is, just in case the dreaded happens and you come off your bike. The extra padding will help keep items like your laptop safe under impact.

Are you riding long distances?

It's important to have the right equipment when traveling long distances. You never know what you might need. Having a motorcycle backpack can save you time deciding what you can and can’t take.

You also want to stay comfortable during your journey. We all know that long bike rides can leave you walking like John Wayne. You don’t want to have the added discomfort on your back.

Once off your bike, you need a place to store all your riding equipment, having a backpack with designated spots to place your gear can be very beneficial. It frees you up so there’s less clutter to carry.

Do you need to protect your valuables?

Unlike having a car, you’re not protected from the harsh elements when you’re out and about on your bike. Waterproof features can stop electrical items from getting wet when the heavens open and there’s a downpour. Most motorcycle backpacks come with some form of waterproofing or water-resistance. Buying a backpack without these features can be detrimental to your belongings.

Checking the durability and resistance of the material your backpack uses can give you increased protection. You're looking for something made with high-quality materials and strong stitches, if you fall off this will protect not only your backpack but the valuables inside too.

Do you need a bag that won’t give you back pain?

Choosing the right backpack is essential, as being slouched over a bike can cause issues as it is. You need to find a backpack that fits well. This will help to stop back pain.

Having a well-fitted backpack allows it to sit nicely without causing any discomfort. Having correctly fitted shoulder and waist straps can help take the weight off your back. This can be very important during long bike rides.

Motorcycle backpacks are made specifically for bikers to distribute weight from your neck to your hips. This stops the weight from being solely placed on the back and shoulders of the rider, stopping the cause of back pain.

best motorcycle backpack

What To Look For In a Good Moto Backpack

Helmet Holder

If you go for the outside style, you’ll find a piece of material with straps and clips to hold the helmet in place. This is called a MOLLE system. The material can vary from mesh to nylon so have a look at what's best for you.

The inside style simply has a space that’s big enough to fit a helmet, in there although this does take up storage space.

Sternum Strap

These are straps that are connected to the shoulder straps and clasp around the chest. This provides you with support and helps distribute the weight evenly, taking the weight off your shoulders. You adjust them in the same way you would shoulder straps by pulling the loose webbing through the locking device.

Waterproof

You have a few options when it comes to this. Some will be 100% waterproof meaning that no water can get through. This is always the best option. Some will say that they’re water resistant. That simply means that the material will stop water to a certain degree.

The other option is no waterproofing at all, which means is that it won’t protect you from any sort of rain, making this the least desirable option.

motorcycle blog

"

One thing that makes a specialized backpack better than a typical bag is that it has a strap for the helmet. It is also lightweight and made of the highest quality leather, as well as durable nylon.


Motorcycle Area - Bikers blog

Laptop Compartment

If you tend to commute a lot you might be looking for a backpack that supports a laptop. Some backpacks will come with a dedicated sleeve. This is a padded slot for a laptop.

Make sure you check out what sizes it holds. Some might be able to hold a 17-inch laptop where others may only be able to hold a tablet.

Shoe Compartment

Having a dedicated spot to store your shoes will come in handy when commuting.

The size and location of the shoe compartment will vary from bag to bag. Some will be placed in a separate compartment at the bottom of the backpack. Others will be in the main compartment of the backpack.       

Water Bottle Pocket or Hydration Bladder

Staying hydrated in hot weather or long rides is very important. This is why backpacks come with a place to store your water bottle or hydration bladder.

Water bottle pockets are usually found on the side of the backpacks for quick and easy access at any time. The hydration bladder will be found on the inside of the backpack and allows you to run a tube to the shoulder strap.

Reflective Features

Riding a bike can be dangerous at the best of times, and even more so when riding at night. Having reflective strips at the back can help to save your life by making you more visible.

They come in a few styles. You can get reflective strips. These are pieces of material that have optical grade glass within them to reflect light. You can also get little LEDs on the back that let out light so people can see you.

Size & Weight

The size and weight of the backpack is an important thing to check. The bigger the bag the less aerodynamic it will be. Going for a nice slim and compact backpack may take away space but makes up for it in stability.

Finding the right dimensions will help you find a backpack that suits you as well as providing you with comfort while carrying it. Checking the liters a backpack holds will ensure you have enough space for your gear.

Warranty

Checking if your backpack comes with a warranty is important, if any damage comes to your bag you want to be covered. When looking at the warranty check what it covers. For example, does it cover general wear and tear? You should also look at how long the warranty lasts. The longer the better.


12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks Reviewed

1. Seibertron Waterproof Motorcycle Helmet backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = Yes
  • Laptop Compartment = No
  • Reflective = No
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This motorcycle backpack is great for adventure touring. The large compartments are great and allows you to store lots of gear. The main compartment is massive and features an interior meshed pocket to hold small items. Within the main compartment, you can a fit a 2L water bladder. Unfortunately, this is not included.

It’s made from high quality 900D waterproof fabric. This works well when the rain starts to pour during your journey. One problem I found is that the zipper, although high quality, is not actually waterproof.

For me, this is the best motorcycle backpack with helmet holder that I’ve found so far. It holds well and doesn’t scratch your helmet. The mollie is good design and fully adjustable so you can fit an extra large helmet in there with no problems.

Overall the backpack is very comfortable the shoulder straps are very well padded. Having chest and waist straps help to distribute the weight, so it doesn’t do your back damage during long journeys.  

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Can hold a water bladder
  • Very large
  • Helmet holder

Cons

  • The zipper is not waterproofed
  • To many straps

2. OGIO No Drag Mach 3 Motorcycle Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = Yes
  • Laptop Compartment = 15-Inch Laptop
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

The OGIO is a great backpack. The single shot molded exterior is streamlined making it great for street bikers. The shell is made from a water-resistant material that doesn't deform while riding fast.

It’s well padded with fully adjustable shoulder, chest and waist straps, this makes it sit really nicely. You have the choice to remove the waist strap, stopping the buckle from scratching the gas tank. Another nice feature are the quick release shoulder straps, which makes it easier to remove.   

With a dedicated shoe compartment, it makes it the best backpack for motorcycle commuting professionals. Inside it’s very well organized, with multiple pockets including a laptop holder and zippered security pocket. 

I really like this backpack, the build quality is great and has some very cool features like the helmet clip and the place for a water bladder. Not only does it have many features but the backpack looks the part too.

Pros

  • Hydration ready
  • Stable at speed
  • Quick release straps
  • High quality

Cons

  • Coating scratches
  • Opens funny

3. Motorcycle Backpack Stealth 

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = Water-Resistant
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This hard shell motorcycle backpack is made with a carbon fiber design and a water-resistant nylon material. The carbon fiber exterior helps to keep its shape even if the bag is empty.

It also gives you protection if you fall off. So, it's the best motorcycle backpack with a back protector that I could find. Not only does it keep you safe, but it increases the aerodynamics keeping you stable at high speeds.

With the removable waist and sternum straps, you can ensure that you don't scratch any paint work while leaning over the bike. All straps are fully adjustable and made from a high-density weave. The shoulder straps aren’t only comfortable over long distances but feature a quick release system.

On the inside of the backpack, you have a 30L capacity with internal pockets to keep personal items safe. It also features a compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop safely. On the outside, you have a buckle to hang your helmet, although it does swing about.

Pros

  • Carbon fiber back
  • Water-resistant
  • Holds a laptop
  • Good quality

Cons

  • Small straps
  • Helmet hang buckle swings too much

4. Seibertron Motorbike Backpack 

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = No
  • Waterproof = Yes
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = No
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

If you're looking for a cruiser bike backpack this one might be for you the large size gives you plenty of carrying space. The material is made from 900D waterproof material to give you protection against the elements. One thing to note is that the zippers are not waterproof.

Although it has a spot for your laptop it’s not quite what you may think, it doesn't have a sleeve instead it uses Velcro straps. This can easily hold a 17-inch laptop in it. The backpack itself has plenty of room.

It can expand and collapse depending on how much storage space you desire, this can also help it stop wind drag at high speed. One problem is that with all the straps pulled tight they do tend to flap about while riding.

For the price, this is a nice backpack the straps are comfortable, as are the waist and sternum straps.

Pros

  • Waterproof material
  • Lots of room
  • Laptop space
  • Expands and collapses

Cons

  • Zipper allows water to pass through
  • Too many straps flapping around

5. Seibertron Roving Motorcycle Backpack with Raincover

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = No
  • Waterproof = Yes
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = No
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This backpack works great for dirt biking the removable rain cover allows you to protect the bag from rain and mud. The 900D waterproof material makes it suited to being used for outdoors rides. The material is super strong with great stitching throughout, and the zippers are very high quality.

Inside, there’s plenty of storage space so you can fit a spare pair of shoes or a packed lunch in there. There’s also a compartment that can be used to store your laptop safely ensuring no damage comes to it.

The shoulder straps are comfortable and don't sag even when full, they’re breathable and don't slip under high speeds. There’s also a sternum and waist strap which provides stability through your journey.

Overall a nice backpack with plenty of space, it holds around 42L and doesn't show signs of stress. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a helmet holder, so you need to clip it onto the straps.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Laptop sleeve
  • Rain cover
  • Lots of storage

Cons

  • No helmet holder
  • No water bladder holder

6. Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = No
  • Waterproof = No
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

The Viking Moto is an award-winning small motorcycle backpack. Even with the small size, there’s plenty of storage space. It has several compartments inside which give you plenty of storage options. Inside, there’s a padded compartment that can hold a 15-inch laptop or tablet.

It’s made with a heavy-duty Cordura material and, although it’s not waterproof, it does come with a rain cover to keep your gear dry. The whole backpack works well at high speed with no wind drag. The rain cover even stays on. On the back, it has reflective piping which gives you better visibility at night.  

This backpack is very well made, not only can it hold a lot of gear but it doesn’t deform either. The straps are excellently padded and fully adjustable. This helps it hold to the contours of your body, making it very aerodynamic. It's no wonder this is an award-winning backpack.

Pros

  • Plenty of pockets
  • No wind drag
  • Laptop holder
  • Holds shape well

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • No helmet holder

7. Nelson-Rigg SE-3040 Hurricane Waterproof Backpack 

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = No
  • Waterproof = Yes
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

Out of all the backpack reviews, this is the best waterproof motorcycle backpack. I’d strongly recommend it for snowmobile exertions. The watertight roll top is great for tough weather conditions. I really like the one-way waterproof purge valve that allows you to compress your kit.

With 40L, there’s plenty of space to carry lots of warm clothing for long trips without having to worry about it getting wet. On the inside, there’s space for a 15-inch laptop to fit nicely. Be sure to pack wisely as there aren’t many internal pockets.

If you're not planning on taking a laptop, you could swap it out for a hydration bladder. On the side, there are two pockets that can fit fuel bottles.

It doesn’t just have to be worn as a backpack. The webbing can be used to attach it to the back of your vehicle making it very versatile.

Pros

  • 100% waterproof
  • Laptop storage
  • Reflective webbing
  • Compression valve

Cons

  • Very large
  • Not enough compartments


8. Viking Aero Expandable Motorcycle Sissy Bar Bag

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = No
  • Waterproof = No
  • Laptop Compartment = No
  • Reflective = No
  • Sternum Strap = No

The Viking Aero backpack works well for AVT trips. The adjustable Velcro mounting system allows you to attach it to the back of the vehicle securely. When you attach the rain cover, it will protect you from the rain. But it will also stop mud getting onto the fabric. You can then just rinse off the cover.

There’s plenty of space with the expandable body and the detachable roll bag. It will work well on long trips. There are four side storage pockets which help organize your gear, so it's easily accessible. All the shoulder straps are very well-padded, and the mounting straps are included which are fully adjustable.

Overall the backpack’s material is very strong and affordable. Not only that, but the zips don't show signs of stress. The three straps with a quick release will guarantee a strong mount, although some people do say the clips pull apart easily.

Pros

  • Great storage
  • Quick release buckles
  • Shoulder straps and back mount
  • Strong zips

Cons

  • Weak clips
  • No laptop holder

9. LOCALLION Ultra Light Rucksack

No products found.

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = No
  • Laptop Compartment = No
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This great women's motorcycle backpack has a great design with plenty of storage options to make your gear accessible. On the front, there is a mesh panel that allows you to store a helmet, although you won't be able to fit in a full face one. Not only do you have space for a hydration bladder, but you can easily fit a water bottle in the side pockets.

It's made from a high-quality tear resistant material which gives you a lot of strength even when fully loaded. It's also super light and will last a lifetime if you look after properly. The material at the back is padded well and disperses heat very efficiently, making it comfortable on hot days.

The backpack overall is very strong the shoulder straps are fully adjustable as is the sternum strap. With the reflective strips, it will keep you safe at night which gives you peace of mind while traveling in the dark.    

Pros

  • Fits a water bladder
  • Good storage options
  • Breathable
  • Tear-resistant

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Can’t fit a full face helmet
  • No laptop compartment

10. Shoei Backpack 2.0

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = No
  • Laptop Compartment = Yes
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This can hold a 17-inch device and is extremely well padded making it the best motorcycle laptop backpack on the market. This backpack comes with plenty of storage options. On the outside, you can pull out a helmet holder from the bottom.

The side pockets will stretch out so you can store a water bottle. On the inside, there are soft lined pockets to keep all your media safe without scratching it.

The adjustable padded shoulder straps will give you a comfortable feel however long the journey. Also, the waist and chest straps help to keep the bag in place without it coming loose. The reflective piping on the back and the shoulder straps will keep you visible at night.

Overall, this is a nice back that has lots of room but isn’t overly bulky to carry and fits snugly onto your back. The material feels strong as the zips do. One issue is their placement, as it looks as if the wind could force the zips open.

Pros

  • Laptop compartment
  • Lots of room
  • Helmet section
  • Reflective strips

Cons

  • Wind may force the zips open
  • Handle feels weak

11. Ogio Adult No Drag Mach 5 Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = No - Water-Resistant
  • Laptop Compartment = No
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

This reflective motorcycle backpack has a streamlined single shot molded exterior that won’t deform from wind drag. The shoulder gasket helps it to mold to your body which adds to the aerodynamics. 

On the inside of the backpack, you have plenty of room to play about with, as well as a lot of pockets to organize your equipment. The main compartment is very large and features an adjustable load divider. It also has an organizer panel with a zipped security pocket and mesh dividers.

On the outside, the straps and back are padded well for increased comfort during long bike rides. The hip belt has a clip which is off -centered to ensure it won't scratch your fuel tank. I like the zippered fleece lined hip belt that comes with it to store your electronics. This is removable.

This is a very well made backpack which is great quality and fits really well. The straps hold it your back very efficiently to stop wind drag.

Pros

  • Streamlined
  • Reflective back
  • Good quality
  • Hip pouch for quick access

Cons

  • No water holder
  • No laptop compartment

12. Joe Rocket 1409-0000 Blaster Max Motorcycle Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Helmet Section = Yes
  • Waterproof = No
  • Laptop Compartment = No
  • Reflective = Yes
  • Sternum Strap = Yes

For me, the Joe Rocket is the best motorcycle backpack for school. With plenty of pockets, you can store all your books and pencils. In the main compartment, there’s more than enough room to store a laptop, although it doesn't come with a sleeve. There are two front pockets, one of which has a three pen slot and can also store your cell phone.

It's made from 100% dobby polyester which, unfortunately, is not waterproof, so think about what you'll be carrying. At the bottom of the backpack, you can pull out the helmet holder which should just about have space for a full face helmet.

This backpack has a great comfort level with the shoulder straps being very well-padded as is the back. The chest and waist straps help to keep it secure without it moving about. The zippers work well and don’t show signs of stress even when full.      

Pros

  • Many pockets
  • Reflective design
  • Enough space for a helmet
  • Padded shoulder straps

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • No laptop compartment

Different Bags For Different Bikes

Motorcycle & ATV Type
Street Bikes

You should be looking for something very aerodynamic like the Ogio No Drag Mach 5 Backpack. Stopping wind drag will help you to stay stable on your bike without falling off.

You might want to check for a backplate to keep you safe if you slide like the Motorsports Track Riding Back. The carbon fiber back will help if you slide.

Cruisers

A waterproof backpack with plenty of storage is your best bet if you tend to spend long amounts of time on your bike. You should also look for good chest and waist straps to keep it secure and not damage your back. You could even look for one that comes with a back mounting system.

Dirt Bikes

If you’re spending a lot of your time in wet, muddy conditions, it’s important to find a backpack that can hold up to it. I personally like to get ones with a rain cover so I can rinse the mud off easily. As you usually go out for a full day, I’d look into the sizes to make sure you can get everything in.  

ATV & UTV

Having a lot of space on an AVT getting a back mounting backpack can save your back when you’re going over bumpy terrain. But you need to think about the mud that gets flicked up. Look for a waterproof bag that can wipe down easily. If that fails, find one that can use a rain cover.  

Adventure Touring

While usually traveling long distance for an extended period of time, it's important to have a large backpack. You want to be able to fit all your clothes in and more. You might even want to look into getting one that you can attach to the back of your bike like the Viking Aero.

Snowmobile

Due to snowmobiles being used in harsh and unforgiving weather, you should look for a fully waterproof backpack. The Nelsons Rig backpack does just that. It even attaches to the back of the snowmobile. 

Having a waterproof bag will ensure your warm clothes stay dry. Something that can carry spare fuel will help you not get stuck in the cold while you’re miles away from civilization.


best backpack for motorcycle commuting

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Will a regular backpack do when riding?

In a way, yes but I wouldn’t recommend it. Motorcycle backpacks are specially designed to stay aerodynamic and to stop wind drag. Some also come with back protectors. A motorcycle backpack will keep you a lot safer on the road than a regular one. This discussion on reddit goes through the pros and cons of both types of backpacks.

What if I want a sling bag?

You can ride with sling backpacks. The problem is they tend to slip and don’t stay as secure.

Can I use a motorcycle backpack with a passenger?

The easiest option would be to have the passenger carry the backpack. As we all know, there’s not much space on the back of a bike, so it will impede the passenger.

How heavy of a load should I carry?

I would try not to go too heavy. It will disturb your center of gravity while cornering, which could lead to an accident.

What is the price guide of riding backpacks?

For a good motorcycle backpack at the lower end, you should be looking at around $40+. If you’re looking for something better with more thought put into the design, $100+ is where you should start looking.


Conclusion

In this article, I’ve given you everything you need to make an informed decision when it comes to the best motorcycle backpack.

Make sure you think about what you need in your backpack to do before you purchase. I hope this helps you make the right choice and get the perfect backpack for you.


  • Updated July 29, 2021