MCN's guide to the best motorcycle backpacks with our tried and tested favourites

Updated: 23 April 2025

Rider wearing a rucksack whilst on a motorcycle

There’s an entire industry dedicated to motorcycle luggage, tail packs, top boxes, tank bags, saddle bags or panniers. But when you want to just get up and go, sometimes all you need is a trusty motorcycle backpack.

Traveling light can be its own reward. Just you, a backpack, a bike and the road ahead. There’s a huge range of motorcycle backpacks available, from cheap to expensive and everything in between.

There’s hardshell backpacks and soft, textile backpacks. Hardshell backpacks have a rigid outer shape to help protect what’s inside and help with aerodynamics. Soft, or textile backpacks are flexible, great for irregularly sized items and payload. They have external stretch pockets for water bottles with zip pockets to easily stash items like wallets or keys.

Things to consider when buying a motorcycle backpack

Comfort

Some motorcycle backpacks have padded air-cooling mesh, helping cushion your back while allowing airflow to keep your back cool. Consider how the straps will fit you while wearing your jacket. A strap linking shoulder straps across the chest helps distribute weight across your chest, not just on your shoulders, making the weight easier to carry over long distances. This strap will also keep the backpack firmly in place.

Size

Are you traveling light, or light-ish? A long weekend may require 25 liters of storage or more, whereas commuting to work means something smaller. Pockets and compartments are key. If you’re bringing a laptop, you’ll want dedicated (and protected) space for that. And for bulky items like clothing, do some mental math and make sure there’s enough space.

Construction

Remember that laptop? You probably want a waterproof backpack. Check if it’s made of a waterproof material or at least comes with a rain cover. Consider whether you want to mount the backpack to your bike. Some have mounting straps to make it double as a tail bag. Some backpacks have expandable sections to allow helmet storage, though they can be ungainly.

Some of the best motorcycle backpacks we’ve tested

Oxford Atlas B30 Backpack

Expert rating:

5.0

Price: $230.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tried and tested by Justin Hayzelden for six months and 3,350 miles

"I opted for the biggest bag in the collection, the B-30 motorcycle backpack, as it has the option to be used as a rucksack or tail pack. Thanks to a well thought out ergonomic design it’s a comfortable thing to carry even when fully loaded, but that flexibility comes in handy if you want to expand on its 30-litre capacity with other bags in the modular range."

"On a daily basis, the B-30 is my go-to rucksack and has more than enough internal storage to transport laptop, lunch and a change of clothes to the office. The outer construction is a tough but flexible rip-stop fabric with a kind of rubberised reinforced base, that feels like it’s been built to last. Inside is a removable waterproof dry bag, and as a neat touch extra bags can be added using the same hook and loop fastening to create separate compartments."

Pros

Fully waterproof
Tough construction
Innovative modular features

Cons

Sternum catch can be tricky to undo

Quality

5.0
Value

5.0

Construction	Zoned 420D PU backed polyester ripstop, 1000D PU backed polyester
Capacity	30 litres
Waterproof	Yes
Warranty	Lifetime guarantee

Magnetic Speed Lock sternum strap
YKK Aquaguard® zips with glove-friendly pullers
3-point adjustable roll top opening
4-point adjustable shoulder straps
Under seat security strap
Direct vent system creates a breathable back channel
Detachable 100% waterproof lining
Hydration bladder pocket with tube routing
Quick access rear and side pockets

Kriega R22 Backpack

Expert rating:

4.0

Price: $250.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tried and tested by Steve Herbert-Mattick for five months and 2,600 miles

"Firstly, Kriega’s luggage is designed by bikers, for bikers. This is my third of their back packs over the last 20 years and I’ve never had one break. Even tumbling down the road in a 50mph crash, my aging R35 escaped with a single scuff. They are so well made and will likely last a lifetime. The R22 then (taking its name from its capacity) has a waterproof 18-litre main compartment, lined with a removable, washable lining and a simple roll-top closure.

There’s a 4-litre non-waterproof front pocket (that doesn’t actually let water in), the two providing enough room to take my laptop, lunch and gym kit on my daily commute. The Quadloc-LiteTM harness does an excellent job of distributing weight evenly so that even on a recent 500-mile, 15-hour ride I didn’t have any fatigue across my shoulders or upper body. The molded, padded straps and air-mesh back panel make it extremely comfortable to wear and with light loads I barely notice I’ve got it on."

Pros

It's spacious
It's genuinely waterproof
Lots of adjustability
It's rugged and hardwearing

Cons

It's pricey, but it is worth it

Quality

5.0
Value

4.0

Construction	420D Cordura and Ripstop nylon
Capacity	18 liter main compartment and 4 liter extra pocket
Waterproof	Yes
Warranty	10 years

17" laptop pocket
Quadloc-Lite harness transfers shoulder weight to chest and body, giving all-day riding comfort
Air-mesh back panel for rider comfort
Removable waist strap
Four compression straps help keep the load stable
Optional hydration reservoir compatible

Alpinestars AMP-7 Backpack

Expert rating:

5.0

Price: $185.25

Sports Bike Shop

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Tried and tested by Michael Neeves for 13 months and over 10,000 miles

"It's secure and comfortable to wear on and off the bike, thanks to its padded, vented and shaped shoulder straps, which have reflective strips around the front. There’s also a buckled waist strap and a chest strap that moves up and down on a rail, so you can get it in the perfect position. The chest strap has a neat magnetic fastener that can you flick open with one hand wearing gloves. All straps are adjustable."

"I prefer the AMP-7’s clean, sleek looks over a bulkier canvas-type rucksack with their plethora of straps, buckles and drawstrings."

"Over my 22-year MCN Road Testing career I’ve tested waterproof rucksacks, practical ones with lots of handy compartments and many have been comfy and easy to wear, but none have managed combine all those good bits and more, like the Alpinestars AMP-7. It does everything you want from a rucksack, but it’s fully-opening front flap, handy internal bag and neat waterproof cover are its highlights."

Pros

Comfortably standing the test of time
Light and easy to wear
Full of useful features
Easy to pack
Handy removable inner bag
Neat waterproof cover

Cons

Expensive, but well worth it

Practicality

5.0
Looks

5.0
Quality

5.0
Value

5.0
Verdict

5.0

Construction	Padded polyamide and Polyester outer shell with Polyester lining
Capacity	22 liters
Waterproof	Rain cover included

Adjustable waist and shoulder straps
Vented and padded shoulder straps with reflective strips
Adjustable chest strap with magnetic fastener
Zippable main and lap top compartments
Zippable internal and external pockets
Waterproof cover stored in a zipped compartment
Removable inner zipped storage back with mesh front pocket

Shad SW45 Rucksack

Expert rating:

4.0

Price: $171.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tested by Ben Clarke for two months and 600 miles

"The Shad SW45 Rucksack is a little bit like a roll bag that’s been transformed into a highly effective waterproof motorbike rucksack with a few adaptations".

"The Shad SW45 has incredibly plush shoulder straps with a link strap across the chest that allows you to relieve a little shoulder pressure. It’s incredibly comfortable to wear under normal circumstances, but the lack of a waist strap makes it feel heavy on your shoulders if you’ve got a heavy load in it. "

"I really love the ‘stuff it and go’ practicality of the SW45, it’s got IPX5 100% waterproofing you can really trust and I much prefer that to needing an external cover like on some luggage.
40 liters is an absolutely monstrous payload, too, and if you need more than that for a trip, you really ought to be looking at luggage that straps to your bike, anyway. Because there’s plenty of externally accessible pockets, you don’t have to worry about losing the stuff you need most often in the bottom of the main space."

"On top of that, the bag comes with everything you need to fix it to the back of your bike should you wish and there’s a novel flap that can be used to carry your jacket off the bike."

Read our full Shad SW45 review

Pros

Completely waterproof
Comfortable to wear on your back
It has a massive capacity
Doubles as a tailpack
Jacket flap
External pockets are convenient

Cons

A little shapeless unless full
No waist strap

Quality

5.0
Value

4.0
Ease of use

5.0
Overall

4.0

Capacity	40L
Construction	Three-layer tarpaulin and mesh
Waterproofing	IPX5 100%
External pockets	Two
Warranty	Two years

Waterproof
Two external pockets
Doubles up as tailpack
Chest strap
Jacket flap

RST Rucksack

Expert rating:

5.0

Price: $67.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tested by Gareth Evans for six months and 3000 miles

"For one reason or another I’ve been through three motorcycle rucksacks quite recently and this unassuming item from RST is by far the best of the bunch. For me and my lifestyle, it’s perfectly-sized, seriously comfortable, and practical. "

"The 42.5-liter capacity features a laptop pocket, while a trio of zipped smaller pockets hold stuff like disc locks or earplugs. But it’s the thick, highly adjustable chest and waist straps and breathable back protection that make this bag a joy to use. Plus, it’s taken a battering over the last six months and remains in perfect nick. "

"For the money, I can’t see how luggage gets any better than this."

Pros

Practical
Comfortable
Chest and waist straps
Breathable back protection

Cons

Hard to find stock

Quality

5.0
Value

5.0

Capacity	42.5-liters
Construction	1680D polyester with PVC backing

Polyester construction
PVC backing
Multiple internal and external pockets
Additional laptop pocket
Chest and waist fastening straps

Kriega Trail 18 rucksack

Expert rating:

5.0

Price: $275.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tried and tested by Richard Newland for four months and 4,150 miles

"There are rucksacks, and there are Kriega rucksacks. I’ve been using them for almost 20 years
and, whenever I’m asked what luggage I’d really buy with my own money, Kriega always feature in the answer – their products have proved time and time again to near-faultless. And this new Trail 18 is no exception."

"It’s comprised of three main sections: a zipped compartment that holds seven liters, a waterproof roll-top compartment that’ll take another 11 liters, and a netted outer cover. The heavy-duty YKK zipped compartment isn’t waterproof, but it does have a one-liter waterproof pocket inside, which is great for things you need to keep dry and have easy access to."

"It’s sublime in terms of comfort too. Kriega changed the game when they introduced their Quadloc harness, and the T18 uses the ‘Lite’ version. The way it magically spreads the load being lugged is incredible; no digging-in of straps, no sore shoulders or pulled neck muscles, it’s like being gently hugged."

Pros

Superb build quality
It has great features
Very hardwearing

Cons

Expensive but good value

Quality

5.0
Value

5.0

Construction	Ultra-durable 420D Cordura Lite Plus and Hypalon
Capacity	18 liter
Guarantee	10 years

Air-mesh back panel for rider comfort
100% waterproof 1-liter internal pocket
Internal zip pocket with key clip
2L and 3.75L hydration reservoir compatible
External Hypalon net with elastic cord adds useful extra storage

QBag Waterproof Backpack 15

Expert rating:

5.0

Price: $30.00

Sports Bike Shop

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Tested by Justin Hayzelden for two months and 1000 miles

At less than the price of a full tank of petrol, this waterproof backpack from Q Bag is cheap, cheerful and surprisingly good. It’s essentially a dry bag, the kind of thing you’d lash to a canoe or stow on a yacht, adorned with a simple pair of adjustable shoulder straps. There’s a genuine 30-litre capacity to play with and it easily swallows a change of clothes for the office or gym, leaving plenty of room for a laptop, packed lunch and drink bottle.

The roll top closure has proved perfectly effective in keeping the wet out, even in the worst motorway spray, and I really like the fact that the tough ‘rubberized’ construction makes it easy to wipe clean. The additional waterproof zipped pouch is big enough for wallet, phone and a spare pair of gloves, whilst the mesh side pockets make a convenient space for carrying visor cleaning kit.

Pros

30-liter capacity
Rubberised construction

Cons

Not the most stylish

Quality

5.0
Value

5.0

Storage capacity	21 - 30 liters
Construction	Waterproof polyester

Waterproof polyester outer construction
Large outer pocket with waterproof zip
Roll top closure prevents water ingress
Two side mesh pockets for small items
Adjustable mesh shoulder straps
Reflective details for low light conditions

Alpinestars Sealed Sport Pack

Expert rating:

4.0

Price: $199.95

Amazon

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Alternative Retailers

Walmart

$199.95

View offer

Tested by Alison Silcox for 18 months and 2500

"For me, a rucksack should be practical, comfortable and fully waterproof. This 23-liter bag from Alpinestars meets all these requirements. With welded seams and a roll-top closure, the bag is split into two sections, with a specific, padded section to fit my laptop. There’s also a handy, fully waterproof outer pocket, perfect for keys."

"For comfort, there’s a back pad plus the shoulder straps are also padded. There’s an adjustable waist strap, along with a magnetic fastener at the sternum. After 18 months it shows no signs of wear and tear, plus it’s never let wet in. Quality is top-notch, but it’s expensive compared to others."

Pros

Comfort and quality
Practical and waterproof

Cons

Expensive to purchase

Quality

5.0
Value

3.0

Capacity	23-liters
Construction	Waterproof fabric

Waterproof
One external waterproof pocket
Quick-release roll-top closure
Adjustable shoulder harness
Quick-release magnetic centre buckle
Semi-rigid foam back

Oxford Heritage Backpack

Expert rating:

4.0

Price: $118.99

Amazon

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Tested by Gareth Evans for over one year and 3000 miles

"This was my first foray into the world of more fashionable luggage, following a number of more functional items, and the moment I put it on I noticed the difference. This bag is seriously comfortable thanks to its padded shoulder straps, which can be connected via adjustable chest and waist straps to keep the bag in place while you’re riding. I was impressed with the quality of the materials too – both inside and out. The waterproof liner is removable in case you need to clean it, while there’s a laptop pocket and a good-sized main compartment for your odds and ends."

"The outer shell is a soft water-repellent waxed cotton and canvas arrangement featuring an external zipped pocked with poppers on the front. The roll-top closing is secured at both sides by metal clips and adjustable ‘compression’ straps so you can tailor the bag’s capacity to the size of your luggage. The whole roll-top is then also secured using the two large metal buckles, which are my only real complaint with the design – they’re fiddly and never feel particularly secure. This is not a single point of failure though, as mentioned above, so I never felt concerned."

"In fact, I never had a single problem with this bag. It was a brilliant companion for nights away or days out of the office with the laptop. The price is a little indulgent, but there are deals available right now if you shop around."

Pros

Contemporary and fashionable
Padded shoulder straps
Quality of materials

Cons

Roll-top buckles don't feel particularly secure

Quality

4.0
Value

3.0

Capacity	21 - 30-liters
Construction	Water-repellent waxed cotton

Heritage waxed cotton back pack
Easy grab carry handle
Water-resistant top closure
External and internal pockets
Wipe-clean, waxed cotton construction

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a regular backpack when riding a motorcycle?

Yes, but keep in mind they’re not designed for motorcycle use. Motorcycle backpacks often have rated impact absorption or abrasion resistance, waterproofing, mounting straps, or an aerodynamic shape, which makes them much more suitable for motorcycling. Also, loose straps on regular backpacks tend to whip around and flap against the rider while riding.

What is a good backpack size for motorcycling?

Motorcycle backpacks can range from 10 to 40+ liters in volume, but the right size is up to you. 25 liters is a good average size, and works well for everyday commuting, small trips to the shops, and short weekend trips away. If you need more than a backpack-sized amount of luggage, it’s best to take a look at some panniers and top boxes to expand the storage on your bike.

How MCN tests motorcycle backpacks

The MCN team of expert journalists have decades of experience over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t torture test anything. We use it just like you do in the real world and in all conditions to deliver impartial motorcycle backpack buying advice.

MCN covers countless miles each week and tries lots of options in a short space of time. We quickly discover which motorcycle backpacks feel great, which ones don’t and why.

We only feature motorcycle backpacks we’ve extensively tested. Comparison motorcycle backpacks will be included if deemed important and relevant. Testing is ongoing and we will continually add gear and products to our site.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

Scoring explained:

Products are given a score from 1 to 5 stars. Beyond the ratings tab, you’ll find in-depth info on product and gear performance and attributes.

1 star – Avoid at all costs.
2 stars – Barely acceptable.
3 stars – Average or adequate.
4 stars – Above average.
5 stars – Excellent performance.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

– NOTE: While MCN may receive commissions or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections – read why you should trust us.

- Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.

By Anders Carlson

USA Correspondant Rider, writer and enthusiast since 2006. Currently based in Chicago, USA, Anders writes for numerous titles, including Motorcyclist, Cycle World, Motorcycle Classics and even Road & track once. He enjoys subjecting gear to inadvisable road trips, inhospitable conditions and track days. When away from his desk or the open road, Anders loves restoring vintage 2-stroke bikes as much as actually riding new electric motorcycles.

Rider wearing a rucksack whilst on a motorcycle