Packing for a bike ride is always a matter to a lot of cyclists, especially for long trips. Bike riding alone is tiresome enough, let alone carrying heavy luggage on your back. Therefore, many people opt for the most convenient and plausible choice: best bike panniers to carry more stuff.
Bike panniers help to lessen the workload on the strength of the bikers, as well as make use of extra ability to carry luggage on the bike. However, which one is the best for you, and what should you consider when purchasing one? You can check out my top 11 best bike panniers review right down below to get what you want!
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need Bike Panniers?
My answer would always be yes: Best bike panniers would take off a lot of toll on your already stressed body when cycling for a long time. The convenience of having panniers to pack all your luggage has to help me overcome long miles of cycling.
For commuting, bike panniers can store necessities, lunch boxes, laptops, things that won’t fit in a normal school backpack. Or if you have to do the grocery shopping, they would help you to carry all the heavy stuff home safely.
For people with adventurous souls and who are on the road frequently, bike panniers are life-savers. You can store food, tools, clothes, personal belongings without adding a burden to you.
Bike panniers are better than a backpack, because that helps to ventilate air on your back better, making it more comfortable for riding. They are also easy to attach and remove, so if you want to use them as a normal backpack, it would still be possible.
What Are The Best Bike Panniers?
Now let me suggest to you some of my top choices for Best Bike Panniers. These picks are all high-quality and specialized in a certain aspect, you can see for yourself which one will suit you most:
- Best Overall: Roswheel 14892 Bike Panniers
“Reasonably priced, good maximum storage, durable materials, and design.”
- Best Cheap Price: COFIT Bike Panniers
“Compact, good storage ability, cheap price, easy installation, can give vision at night with reflective strips.”
- Best For The Money: Lixada Bike Panniers
“Affordable, durable design to last a long time, simple steps of attaching and detaching, well-divided pockets.”
- Best High-End: ArcEnCiel Bike Panniers
“Expensive but high-quality, heavy-duty design with large capacity, large double side bags.”
- Best For Groceries: Bushwhacker Bike Panniers
“Innovative design, best for carrying groceries, good for carrying large stuff.”
- Best For Commuting: ROCKBROS Bike Panniers
“Small size for daily ride, well-padded design to prevent shock, various pockets to store stuff neatly.”
- Best For Touring: WATERFLY Bike Panniers
“Professional’s choice, excellent materials for protection, good capacity, well-made compartments.”
- Best For Commuting Laptop: Rhinowalk Bike Panniers
“Great choice for students, can protect devices like laptop, waterproof, and shock-absorbing materials included.”
- Best For Camping: BV Bike Panniers
“Good secure system with straps, proper form to avoid impact, safety reflective patch to ensure night-time safety.”
- Best Lightweight: Roswheel Essential Bike Panniers
“Lightweight and compact, still decent storage, durable and well-cushioned design, organized compartment.”
- Best Waterproof: Ibera Bike Panniers
“Endure all-weather, completely waterproof, easy installation can fit large objects.”
Best Bike Panniers Comparison Chart 2021
In case that shortlist is not enough for you, here is the comparison chart for the best bike panniers in 2021. Side by side, all the information you need to know about these models will be presented, so you can compare them easily:
Top 11 Best Bike Panniers Reviews In 2021
Let’s get into the main part of this article, the detailed and in-depth review of the top 11 best bike panniers. All of this review is unbiased and truthfully, from the real experience of other users and myself. Are you ready to discover these interesting and top-quality items?
Best Overall: Roswheel 14892 Bike Panniers
Pros
- Reasonable priced and durable panniers
- Huge capacity helps to carry things efficiently
- Three bags included helping organize belongings betters
Cons
- Water-resistant, not totally water-proof
At the lower end, this pannier is such a good deal regarding quality and capacity. The Roswheel 14892 Bike Panniers have three separate bags, so you can pack everything into it! Moreover, the thick and strong materials of this pannier are also water-resistant, no need to worry about bad weather anymore.
The design of this pannier is special too, the angle design that can fit various shapes in, as well as protect them from the outside force. Furthermore, the total volume of this model is 37 liters enough for you to carry belongings for a few day’s trips.
The fabric of this one is to reinforce polyesters with PU coating, so for durability, I can say that this one is better than average. But you should mind that even if it is water-resistant, it can not cope with the downpour, so you may want to get an extra rain cover.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Roswheel |
| Product Dimensions | 13 x 12 x 5 inches (top bag), 12 x 12 x 5 inches (side bag) |
| Item Weight | 2.3 pounds |
| Capacity | 37L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
See also:
- Top 14 Best Mountain Bikes Under 500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 20 Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500 Reviews In 2021
- Top 19 Best Cruiser Bikes Review In 2021
- Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2021
Best For Camping: BV Bike Panniers
Pros
- Large capacity and a rectangular design to carry and protect things better
- Reliable strap and hook to keep it in place
- Reflective trim prevent accidents and easy finding at night
Cons
- It is not waterproof, but still durable for all-weather
This BV Bike pannier is my favorite choice when it comes to going for a picnic or going camping. It is a dual-compartment one, with an adjustable hook, carrying handle as well as a large zippered pocket.
This pannier is on the square side, its form allows me to stuff more things in and don’t have to worry about stuff getting squashed inside it. Besides, this model has 4 shelf straps and 2 hooks for mounting, so you can secure it neatly and safely.
Not only have a large capacity of 26 liters, but this pannier is also great for traveling and using at night. The 3M ScotchLite reflective patch helps to avoid an accident at night, and signals its place so I can find it easily even in dark.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | BV Bike |
| Product Dimensions | 34 x 20 x 28 cm |
| Item Weight | 1.5 lbs. |
| Capacity | 26 L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best Waterproof: Ibera Bike Panniers
Pros
- Totally waterproof to keep your stuff safe
- Widely compatible with different types of carriers
- Can be opened and closed easily thanks to the quick-release system
Cons
- Higher price for better quality
In case you need to make sure that your stuff won’t be wet even under the downpour, you can check out this Ibera Bike Panniers. The fabric of this pannier is 100% waterproof, so the content will always be dry and nice.
Moreover, this model has a decent capacity of two separate bags, you can even fit a small-size laptop in it. It is compatible with a wide range of carriers too, you just need to make do with the hook a bit to get this pannier on the road with you.
Putting on and taking off this bag is also easy, the quick release mechanism is built-in for this purpose. Although the price for this pannier is not so cheap, this is a worthy and long-lasting investment that you should consider.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Ibera |
| Product Dimensions | 15.7 in x 11.8 in x 5.9 in. |
| Item Weight | 4 lbs. |
| Capacity | 30 L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best Lightweight: Roswheel Essential Bike Panniers
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, suitable for a short trip
- Durable and well-padded design to keep your stuff safe
- Well-designed compartment to keep things organized
Cons
- Small capacity but can store a lot of things
The Roswheel Essential Bike Panniers will always be my choice when talking about the lightweight and compact line of panniers. Although this one can not compete with other huge models on capacity, if you just need a bit of extra storage on the move, you will love this.
Not only made from durable materials, but the EVA foam padding also increases the shock-absorbing effect to ensure the highest level of safety. Moreover, this one can be mounted easily on a wide variety of bikes.
It’s true that the capacity of these panniers is just around 7L, but it is logically structured to help optimize the storage you have. You can carry most of the basic necessities and tools with it.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Roswheel |
| Product Dimensions | 14.25 x 7.56 x 5.91 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.41 Kilograms |
| Capacity | 7L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best Cheap Price: COFIT Bike Panniers
Pros
- Compact but with large capacity for storing stuff
- Convenient design with handle for easy carrying
- Safety feature ensures night riding
- Cheap price and will last for a long time
Cons
- Not the biggest capacity, but still adequate for a day ride
Although this one looks small, COFIT Bike Panniers can actually carry more than you expected. The total storage of this model is up to 25 liters, quite decent for a single bag. You can attach this on your bike through velcro straps, no mounting work needed.
For riders who like to travel at night, these panniers are beneficial for its reflective tap running along with the bag. It acts as a signal for other people to avoid you. Another great thing about this bag is that it has a handle, so it is convenient to carry around.
The fabric of this one is oxford baric with all the wear-and-tear resistance, I will not let you down on durability. For such a cheap price, this pannier performance is nothing to complain about.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | COFIT Bike Panniers |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 7 x 4 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.43lb |
| Capacity | 25L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best For Commuting: ROCKBROS Bike Panniers
Pros
- Compact and decent-storage, best for commuting
- Well-padded work to cushion any outside impact
- Compartments and a lot of pockets to keep things neat
Cons
- Not the biggest capacity, but it is good for a day ride
For people who commute daily on the bike, I would suggest these ROCKBROS Bike Panniers. This model sits nicely on your bike, won’t take much place, and can carry the basic need for a day.
The bottom of these panniers is padded with foam, so even in case of falling, your fragile stuff in the bag would not shatter. Moreover, it has the rain cover and carrying strap goes along in the package, you can make use of them to secure the panniers on bay-weathered days.
The inner compartment of this model is diverse, you will see the pockets and mesh storages are distributed to make sure that everything is organized. Outside of these panniers, are even more pocket to count!
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | ROCKBROS |
| Product Dimensions | 13.9 x 7.9 x 6.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.55 Pounds |
| Capacity | 13L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best For The Money: Lixada Bike Panniers
Pros
- Affordable price and still offers the best quality
- Good compartments to sort things out
- Easy installation and mobility, increasing its versatility
Cons
- Ordinary-looking design, but it is practical
If you have a limited amount to spend on bike panniers, this Lixada Bike Panniers will be the best choice. It is a sweet-to-the-wallet, reliable piece that you can count on for years.
The design of this pannier is quite simple, even ordinary in my opinion, but a single bag can carry up to 13 liters, which is quite great. Moreover, the compartment is decent too, you don’t need to worry about your things getting mixed up after a bumpy ride.
The best thing about this model is the installation. As long as your bike has a rear seat, it can be fastened on with just a few straps, and you can also take it off and carry like a normal luggage bag.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Lixada |
| Product Dimensions | 15.75×7.87×6.3in |
| Item Weight | 13.93oz |
| Capacity | 13L |
Best For Groceries: Bushwhacker Bike Panniers
Pros
- Best for carrying groceries
- Open-type panniers to carry extra-large objects
- Good materials to lessen the damage on stuff
Cons
- A bit expensive, but it performs well
Carrying groceries is always a pain, and I just happen to know a way to soothe it out. Bushwhacker Bike Panniers is an open-type pannier that is extremely suited for transporting groceries.
The materials of this model are mainly high-quality mesh, it won’t do damage to the delicate vegetables and food ingredients. Moreover, since groceries are bulky in size, these panniers can freely carry them with this spectacular design.
The only thing about this pannier is, it is quite expensive. But if you appreciated the large capacity and safe carrying of your household’s groceries, this is just the right one.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Bushwhacker |
| Product Dimensions | 16 x 16 x 3.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.7 Pounds |
| Capacity |
Best For Commuting Laptop: Rhinowalk Bike Panniers
Pros
- Good at carrying the laptop
- Can use with straps to carry like a separated bike
- Totally waterproof and durable materials to last long
Cons
- Price is not that cheap, but the design is great and durable
For students with a lot of pieces of stuff, a bike pannier that can help carry laptops would be a great help. The Rhinowalk Bike Panniers is large enough to do that and also specialized in shock-proofing to protect your treasured items.
The materials of this model are totally waterproof too, so the highest safety is promised. The total capacity of these panniers is around 27 liters, quite decent for a single person’s belongings.
And for mobility, this one is great too. There is a removable shoulder strap, so you can detach the panniers from your bike and throw it on your shoulders like a normal bag too.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Rhinowalk |
| Product Dimensions | 8.3″×5.5″×4.3″ |
| Item Weight | 1050g |
| Capacity | 27L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best High-End: ArcEnCiel Bike Panniers
Pros
- Huge capacity and durable materials for the best performance
- Easy installation and carrying around with straps and handle
- Heavy-duty design that offers safety at most
Cons
- High price but the quality surpasses
On the high-end range, the ArcEnCiel Bike Panniers offers both quality and capacity. It has a distinctive earthy green color, with double side bags that carry a huge load of belongings. The maximum storage of this model would be 50 liters.
These panniers can be attached with a few knots and taps, quick but also firm holding. The belts loops over the bag to provide extra safety. Moreover, the design with the handle allows you to carry it off the bike at ease too.
The materials of this pannier are quite special, it is made from water-resistant retro canvas, no doubt about its durability and strength for enduring hazardous conditions. Therefore, I believe that the price you pay is worth every penny.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | ArcEnCiel |
| Product Dimensions | 16.8 x 16.5 x 3.1 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.85 Pounds |
| Capacity | 50L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
Best For Touring: WATERFLY Bike Panniers
Pros
- Great design for attaching and removing, can be used as normal bags
- Good compartments to organize things for touring
- Great capacity and materials, durable and strong under all cases
Cons
- Quite expensive but it will last for a long time with you
astly, for the professional racers, I would like to recommend the WATERFLY Bike Panniers. For carrying personal stuff and tools for touring, the extended capacity of 29 liters is more than enough.
Its compartment is well divided, with the main pouch, internal and external pockets as well as fleece division to sort out the things better. You can also store expensive items like a camera, electronic device safely in it.
The design of these panniers resembles a normal backpack, and with the removable shoulder strap, you can really get it on your back quickly. The model is the materials: non-tearing, non-wearing, completely waterproof, allowing it to proudly withstand all types of harsh conditions.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | WATERFLY |
| Product Dimensions | 7.5″ x 3.9″ x 4.3″ |
| Item Weight | 0.3lb |
| Capacity | 25L |
To learn more about this bike panniers, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Bike Panniers In 2021
Have you got dizzy with all the choices I have presented? Are you still confused about which one suits you most? Well, if you are still not sure about which one is the best bike panniers that you should purchase, you can consider some of the criteria below:
Types
Not all the bike panniers are the same, you may see a lot of different kinds and models on the market. Two of the most popular types are the top bag and side bag, which are placed differently.
The top bag is often smaller and more compact, it can be attached quite easy too. Meanwhile, side bags boast their large capacity, can be quite bulky and sometimes you need to get racks or eyelets to install them on.
Materials
The materials of the bike panniers decide the majority of their quality. Bike panniers can be made from polyester, canvas, etc. You should choose a pannier with thick fabrics, waterproof, and shock-absorbing ability as much as possible to prevent your stuff from getting ruined if accidents or clashing happen.
Capacity
Not the bigger capacity is better, you should choose the storage according to your need. Bike panniers normally can carry up to 50 liters each bag, though it would be quite bulky to carry a few bags like that on the road. If you just need to carry a small number of belongings, choosing a compact one would be advantageous.
Feature
The extra feature is what you should consider too. Bike panniers with handles or shoulder straps will be much more versatile, you can carry it just like an ordinary bag. Besides, if you travel a lot at night, you should choose panniers with reflective patches to help signal in the dark.
FAQs
What are the best bike panniers?
The best bike panniers are:
- Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic
- Thule Pack ‘n’ Pedal Shield
- Elops 500 Waterproof Bike Bag
Do panniers fit all bikes?
Bike panniers can fit most types of bikes, but you may need a tool to adapt them on.
Are panniers worth it?
They are worth it, especially if you don’t want to carry a lot of luggage on your back.
Can I put panniers on a road bike?
Yes, you can.
How do you attach panniers?
Depending on the models of bike panniers, typically you install it on the rear seat or bike rack.
My Top Pick
Personally, I love the Roswheel 14892 Bike Panniers with all of its superior qualities. Not only is it a budget-friendly model, but it protects my stuff without fault. Moreover, it has been my buddy throughout all kinds of weather and all types of terrains, and haven’t scratched anything in my belongings.
And that’s all I want to tell you about the best bike panniers in 2021. Have you found your most desirable pannier for your bike? Or do you want further information on bike panniers? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment down below, I will be replying right away! See you again, soon!