Streamlined, Waterproof, and Built for the Long Ride Ahead
Bikepacking has exploded in popularity — and for good reason. It blends the freedom of touring with the agility of mountain biking, letting you go farther, lighter, and deeper into the wild.
But to get the most from your adventures, you need one thing dialed: your bikepacking bags.
From waterproof seat packs to frame and handlebar bags, the right setup balances storage, stability, and weatherproofing without weighing you down.
We tested and reviewed the best bikepacking bags of 2026 — covering trusted names like Apidura, Restrap, Ortlieb, Blackburn, Vaude, and Topeak — to help you find the perfect kit for your next expedition.
What to Look for in a Bikepacking Bag
Weight & Capacity
- Go light but strong — ultralight bags (1–2 lbs total) help maintain handling.
- 20–35 liters total capacity fits most trips.
Waterproofing
- RF-welded seams + roll-top closure = essential.
- Ratings of IP64+ mean your gear stays dry even in storms.
Stability
- Rigid mounting and anti-sway supports keep bags from bouncing on rough terrain.
Modularity
- Choose a system that lets you mix and match front, rear, and frame bags.
Pro Tip: Skip full racks — modern bikepacking bags attach directly to the bike frame and seatpost, saving weight and drag.
The Best Bikepacking Bags of 2026 (Top Picks)
| Rank | Brand | Best For | Waterproof Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apidura Expedition Series | Ultra-distance adventures | IPX6 | Ultralight, weatherproof, race-ready |
| 2 | Restrap Expedition Range | Gravel & endurance rides | IP67 | Handmade in the UK, submersion-proof |
| 3 | Blackburn Outpost Elite | Off-road touring | IPX7 | Modular waterproof harness design |
| 4 | Ortlieb Bikepacking Line | All-weather expeditions | IP67 | Fully welded, field-repairable |
| 5 | Vaude Trailfront & Trailsaddle II | Sustainable adventure | IP64 | Recycled materials, solid mounting |
| 6 | Topeak BackLoader & FrontLoader | Affordable versatility | IPX6 | Smart design, commuter-friendly |
| 7 | Roswheel Road & Tour Series | Budget builds | IP65 | Great waterproofing under $150 |
| 8 | Brooks Scape Bikepacking Bags | Style-focused touring | IPX4 | Classic aesthetics, modern tech |
Apidura Expedition Series — Best Overall
Best for: Endurance, racing, and fast-touring riders
Waterproof rating: IPX6
Weight: 400–1,300 g (depending on bag)
Apidura’s Expedition range has become the gold standard for ultralight, waterproof bikepacking gear.
Made from welded Hexalon fabric, these bags handle serious downpours without adding bulk.
Highlights:
- Fully welded seams for seamless waterproofing
- Roll-top closures on all main compartments
- Reflective graphics and reinforced mounting points
- Aerodynamic shapes reduce drag
Kit options: Saddle Pack (17L), Handlebar Pack (14L), Frame Pack (4–7L), Top Tube Bag (1L)
Verdict: Featherweight and stormproof — ideal for performance-oriented adventurers.
Restrap Expedition Range — Most Durable Handmade Gear
Best for: Rough gravel and mixed terrain
Waterproof rating: IP67
Weight: 450–1,400 g
Made in the UK, Restrap’s Expedition series uses high-frequency welded nylon with Hypalon reinforcements.
It’s rugged, reliable, and built for harsh conditions — all without racks or bolts.
Highlights:
- 100% waterproof welded seams
- Submersion-proof IP67 rating
- Adjustable roll-top volume
- Reflective details and no-rattle straps
Verdict: Durable, repairable, and handcrafted — built for years of abuse.
Blackburn Outpost Elite — Best for Extreme Off-Road Adventures
Best for: Technical trails, MTB routes, and mixed terrain
Waterproof rating: IPX7
Weight: 1,200 g
Blackburn’s Outpost Elite system uses a harness + drybag combo for easy loading and waterproof protection.
This modular setup absorbs impacts and stabilizes gear on rocky descents.
Highlights:
- Removable waterproof drybags
- Rigid mounting harnesses
- Roll-top openings both ends
- Multiple frame and seat options
Verdict: Bombproof, modular, and bikepacking-tough — perfect for rugged routes.
Ortlieb Bikepacking Line — Best for Expedition Touring
Best for: Multi-day touring and wet climates
Waterproof rating: IP67
Weight: 1,300–1,700 g
Ortlieb applies its legendary waterproofing tech to this streamlined bikepacking line.
With RF-welded PU-coated fabric and field-repairable buckles, these are the bags for riders heading to Patagonia or Alaska.
Highlights:
- Submersion-proof waterproofing
- Quick-release buckles
- Roll-top closures and valve vents
- Made in Germany
Verdict: The expedition benchmark for total waterproof protection.
Vaude Trailfront II & Trailsaddle II — Best Sustainable Option
Best for: Eco-conscious adventurers
Waterproof rating: IP64
Weight: 1,100 g
Vaude’s Trailfront and Trailsaddle use 100% PVC-free, recycled fabrics with welded seams.
They’re lightweight, stable, and sustainably made — with impressive weather resistance.
Highlights:
- Climate-neutral manufacturing
- Quick-release attachment
- Roll-top closure
- Reinforced mounting
Verdict: Durable, sustainable, and well-priced — a smart pick for conscious explorers.
Topeak BackLoader & FrontLoader — Best Budget Setup
Best for: Entry-level bikepackers
Waterproof rating: IPX6
Weight: 600–1,000 g
Topeak’s system uses a flexible harness and removable waterproof drybag for easy loading.
It’s affordable and extremely practical for short adventures or commuters experimenting with bikepacking setups.
Highlights:
- Waterproof removable drybag
- Compression air valve
- Sturdy seatpost strap mount
- Available in multiple sizes
Verdict: Great value for new bikepackers or light-duty riders.
Roswheel Road & Tour Series — Best Value Under $150
Best for: Casual touring and beginners
Waterproof rating: IP65
Weight: 1,100–1,400 g
Roswheel delivers surprisingly strong performance at a fraction of premium prices.
The welded seams and roll-top closures keep essentials dry through long rides.
Highlights:
- Fully welded TPU-coated polyester
- Modular set options
- Reflective trim
- Budget-friendly
Verdict: Ideal for first-time bikepackers building an affordable, functional kit.
Brooks Scape Bikepacking Range — Most Stylish
Best for: Mixed road touring with flair
Waterproof rating: IPX4
Weight: 800–1,500 g
The Brooks Scape collection is proof that classic style and modern performance can coexist.
Its waxed nylon shell and welded seams offer dependable rain resistance with timeless looks.
Highlights:
- Classic Brooks aesthetic
- Waterproof-coated nylon
- Brass buckles and reflective logos
- Excellent craftsmanship
Verdict: Beautifully made and built to last — perfect for weekend touring.
Comparison Table: Best Bikepacking Bags 2026
| Brand | Series | Waterproof Rating | Weight | Key Feature | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apidura | Expedition | IPX6 | 1.1 kg | Ultralight race design | $240 |
| Restrap | Expedition | IP67 | 1.3 kg | Handmade durability | $250 |
| Blackburn | Outpost Elite | IPX7 | 1.4 kg | Harness + drybag | $230 |
| Ortlieb | Bikepacking | IP67 | 1.5 kg | Fully welded expedition setup | $260 |
| Vaude | Trailfront II | IP64 | 1.1 kg | Recycled eco materials | $200 |
| Topeak | BackLoader | IPX6 | 0.9 kg | Budget modular system | $130 |
| Roswheel | Tour Series | IP65 | 1.2 kg | Great value performance | $120 |
| Brooks | Scape | IPX4 | 1.3 kg | Style and craftsmanship | $220 |
How to Choose the Right Bikepacking Setup
| Ride Type | Recommended Setup | Total Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Weekend Overnighter | Saddle (10–15L) + Handlebar (8L) + Frame (4L) | 22–27L |
| 3–5 Day Tour | Add Frame (7L) + Top Tube (1L) | 28–35L |
| Full Expedition | Add Fork Bags (5L each) | 40–50L |
| Gravel Race | Compact Aero Setup | 15–20L |
Pro Tip: Start small. You’ll pack less, ride faster, and enjoy more stability.
Verdict & Final Take
Bikepacking bags have evolved dramatically — and in 2026, we’re spoiled for choice.
The best setups combine waterproofing, weight savings, and modularity without the need for racks or frames.
Editor’s Choice: Apidura Expedition Series
Featherlight, race-proven, and completely waterproof.
Most Durable: Restrap Expedition
Handcrafted, rugged, and ready for years of abuse.
Most Sustainable: Vaude Trailfront II
Eco-friendly, well-built, and great for commuters or explorers.
Best Budget: Topeak BackLoader
Affordable, reliable, and perfect for first-timers.
FAQ — Best Bikepacking Bags 2026
What’s the difference between bikepacking and touring bags?
Touring uses racks and panniers; bikepacking uses lightweight, rackless bags mounted directly to the frame.
Are all bikepacking bags waterproof?
No — only welded, roll-top bags with IP64+ ratings are truly waterproof.
How much can I carry for bikepacking?
A typical setup carries 25–40 liters across front, rear, and frame bags.
Do I need special mounts for bikepacking bags?
No racks needed — most strap directly to the bike’s frame and seatpost.
What’s the best overall bikepacking bag brand?
Apidura and Restrap are the most reliable waterproof options in 2026.
Related Content:
- Best Waterproof Bike Bags & Panniers
- Bike Touring Essentials & Preparation Guide
- Ortlieb Brand Review
- Vaude Brand Review
- Ortlieb vs Vaude Comparison
Why Trust This Guide?
Jeffrey South is the founder of Best Bike Brands. With over 30 years in the cycling world as a shop owner, mechanic, and industry insider, he now shares reviews, guides, and insights to help riders choose the best bikes and gear with confidence.
