Best Motorcycle Backpacks

Written By: Team Zilla
Last Updated: May 3, 2025

Whether you’re commuting to the office or exploring the wilderness on two wheels, you can probably benefit from a backpack designed specifically for motorcycling. The best motorcycle backpacks feature high-quality materials that won’t give out during tough conditions, ergonomics that allow for extended rides in the saddle, and well-placed compartments that allow you to organize and access your most essential belongings. Additional considerations like hydration bladders, waterproofing, and slick styling, can really set apart the best packs from the average offerings.

We’ve asked our team of experts, including riders from a whole range of disciplines, to weigh in on their favorite motorcycle backpacks, so you can find the perfect pack for you. We’ve got top picks, budget picks, and honorable mentions for a variety of categories, in order to put you in the best gear for your specific riding needs. Check out the guide below, and don’t miss out on our whole series of gear guides here, to find the best products on the market according to RevZilla’s most knowledgeable gearheads.  

Looking for a backpack as adventurous as you? Meet the Kriega Trail 18 Adventure Backpack. The ingenious Quadloc-Lite harness shifts weight off your shoulders, making long rides a breeze, while the air-mesh back panel keeps things cool. Storage is smart—an 11L waterproof main compartment, a 7L zip section for tools or a hydration pack, plus a waterproof pocket for valuables. Ultra-durable 420D Cordura Lite Plus, and Hypalon construction mean this pack will stand up to the wear-and-tear of daily use as well as the extra knicks dings that come along with life on two wheels. Bottom line: The Trail18 is the ultimate motorcycle backpack—comfortable, rugged, and built for adventure.

If you want a solid motorcycle backpack without blowing your budget, the Sedici Acqua Hydration Backpack offers serious bang for your buck. Durability, comfort, and hydration are engineered into a sleek, no-nonsense design. Built from tough 420D and 600D polyurethane, this thing is made to handle the road. It comes with a 3L hydration bladder for easy sipping on the go, plus a 5L cargo chamber for your essentials. A neoprene phone pocket keeps your device safe, and the quick-release chest strap makes access a breeze.

The USWE Patriot MTB 15L Protector Pack earns an honorable mention for its mix of safety, stability, and smart design. With a CE-certified SAS-TEC back protector, it will stay flexible during everyday use but stiffen on impact for maximum protection. The brilliantly designed harness keeps things from bouncing around so you’re not adjusting straps mid-ride. A 3L hydration bladder keeps you refreshed, and 15L of storage means there’s plenty of room for gear. Originally built for mountain biking, this pack punches above its weight for motorcyclists who want comfort and protection in one.

The OGIO All Elements Aero-D Backpack is a weatherproof dream come true for commuters looking for the ultimate backpack. With a waterproof main compartment, welded seams, and a roll-top closure, your gear stays dry no matter what. Plus, three water-resistant exterior pockets make it easy to grab smaller items on the go. The sleek, aerodynamic design reduces drag, and reflective accents boost your visibility during early or late commutes. Inside, a removable organization panel fits a 15" laptop, and the padded back panel and adjustable straps keep you comfortable, even when you're loaded up. With 26 liters of space and tough, waterproof construction, this pack delivers in any condition.

The Nelson Rigg Hurricane 2.0 Backpack is your wallet-friendly, waterproof hero. Crafted from heavy-duty UV-treated PVC Tarpaulin, this backpack is built to withstand the elements, and 20 liters of storage is perfect for most commuters making their way to the office, to the gym, or across town. We always love a roll-top design for commuting, while as well as the Rigg Strap mounting system is a unique extra feature that allows for quick and secure connection options when you want to use this pack as a tail bag. At a price point that's hard to beat, the Nelson Rigg Hurricane 2.0 Backpack delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality.

The RSD X Kriega ROAM 34 Backpack earns an honorable mention on our list of top motorcycle backpacks for commuters with its combination of style, functionality, and a touch of adventure. Designed in collaboration with Roland Sands Design, this backpack offers a sleek, urban aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from city streets to weekend getaways. With a 34-liter capacity, it provides ample space for your daily essentials, including a 15" laptop, and features multiple internal pockets to keep your gear organized. The waterproof roll-top closure ensures your belongings stay dry, while the durable construction withstands the rigors of daily commuting. Comfort is key, and the adjustable harness system distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to carry throughout your day. While it may not have the specialized features of some other backpacks, the RSD X Kriega ROAM 34 Backpack offers a versatile and stylish option for commuters seeking a blend of functionality and flair.

The Kriega R30 Backpack is a perennial customer favorite, and it's easy to see why. With a 30-liter capacity, it offers ample space for your gear, and the 100% waterproof main compartment ensures your belongings stay dry, no matter the weather. The innovative QUADLOC harness system provides all-day riding comfort by distributing weight evenly across your body. We especially appreciate the subtle branding that helps maintain the minimalist profile of the bag. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country journey, the Kriega R30 is designed to keep up with your adventures.

Looking for a compact, reliable backpack that won't break the bank? The Kriega R15 Backpack is a top pick among riders seeking value without compromising on quality. With a 15-liter main compartment, it's perfect for daily essentials. The 4-point pack compression system keeps your load secure, while the front sleeve and inner mesh pockets help organize your gear. Designed with the rider in mind, the R15 features an adjustable harness for a snug fit, ensuring comfort during your commute or weekend adventures. The Kriega R15 offers exceptional value for its price point, making it a favorite among budget-conscious riders.

Unlike traditional backpacks, the Klim Arsenal Vest evenly distributes weight around your torso, keeping you balanced and comfortable on the ride. With multiple pockets and compartments, it’s like having a personal assistant that holds everything from tools to snacks, ensuring you're always prepared. Plus, the dedicated hydration bladder compartment makes staying hydrated as easy as sipping through a straw. While some riders prefer the classic backpack feel, the Arsenal Vest earns an honorable mention for those ready to embrace the vest life.

Things to Consider

Can’t I just use a regular backpack for motorcycling?
Just like any piece of motorcycle gear, purpose-made items are going to hold uo much better to the exposure and abuse that comes with riding on 2 wheels. Even a low-speed slide can do a number on the types of materials you see in a typical backpack. That’s why backpacks for riders often feature materials like Cordura and other blends that have been engineered for abrasion resistance.

We mention ergonomics a lot in this guide That’s because the positions you find yourself in on a motorcycle are unique to riding, and the weight shifting around on your back as you reach those positions can have a serious impact on the comfort and safety of your ride in a way that you would never think about when you’re not on two wheels. Because of this, backpacks with moto-specific harness systems and ergos will do a better job keeping things just where you want them.

How much storage do I need in my motorcycle backpack?
This is going to vary depending on what you’re lugging around and what other luggage options your motorcycle offers, but consider this: 12, 12 ounce cans constitute just over 4 liters of volume. Wasted space in packaging often puts a 12 pack at more like 6 to 6.5 liters in the box.  

What’s deal with YKK Zippers?
Zippers are extremely common fail-points on gear. They’re high-use components that have small margins for error before failure. So, when a manufacturer wants to include only the best elements in their gear, they look to the YKK Corporation, a Japanese company that’s been specializing in zippers since 1934.

What are my options for waterproofing a motorcycle backpack?
Motorcycling comes with a great deal of exposure to the elements, so protecting your gear against an unexpected downpour can be crucial. Roll-top bags offer the most extensive waterproofing, while water resistant materials and zippers can get the job done for a short time. Many packs offer waterproof compartments just big enough for a cell phone or small tablet, in case you just want to protect the most valuable gear, while external waterproof shields can be fitted to packs for a less convenient, but highly effective option.

Should I go with a hard shell backpack?
A hard shell backpack will offer great protection against a slide for the gear inside, but shouldn’t be confused for back armor to protect the rider. There’s a trade-off with the added durability and storage and versatility, since a hard-shell pack will always take up a fixed volume regardless of what’s inside, and won’t blend in as nicely should you ever spend any time off the bike, if you care about that kind of thing.