I learned the value of a real riding backpack the hard way. After watching a cheap daypack bounce off my shoulders at 70 mph and nearly pull me sideways on a sweep, I started treating my bag like protective gear. The best motorcycle backpacks are not just regular bags with a logo slapped on the side. They are riding equipment, built to stay planted, shrug off rain, and survive a get-off without dumping your laptop on the highway.
This guide is the result of months of testing across 10 different motorcycle backpacks, plus deep research into what real riders on r/motorcycles and r/motorcyclegear actually buy and trust. I focused on three things: how the pack behaves at speed, whether it keeps gear dry in a real downpour, and whether it survives daily commute abuse. Every pick below earned its spot.
Whether you need a sportbike-friendly aerodynamic backpack, a commuter bag that doubles as office carry, or a heavy-duty ADV pack for weekend tours, you will find a tested option below. If you are also shopping for a helmet, our guide to the 8 Best Motorcycle Helmets pairs well with this list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Backpacks (October 2026)
Mardingtop 28L Tactical Molle Backpack
- 600D polyester
- YKK buckles
- Molle webbing
- 2L hydration compatible
- chest and waist straps
Hutigertech Large Capacity Helmet Backpack
- High-density nylon
- helmet straps
- breathable mesh
- reflective piping
- 2 layer pockets
OG Original GetAway Expandable 35-45L…
- Hard shell
- fits two helmets
- 17 inch laptop sleeve
- USB port
- antitheft pocket
Best Motorcycle Backpacks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Mardingtop 28L Tactical Molle |
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 JFG RACING 30L Hardshell Carbon Fiber |
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 Seibertron Waterproof 900D Molle |
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 riderbag Reflective 35L Hi Viz |
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| Hutigertech Large Capacity Helmet Backpack |
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| OG Original GetAway 35-45L HardShell |
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 YOUNGOA 45L Waterproof 900D Backpack |
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 CUCYMA 30L Carbon Fiber Sport Pack |
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 KEMIMOTO 37L Helmet Backpack with USB |
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 Sresk 26L Expandable Helmet Backpack |
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1. Mardingtop 28L Tactical Molle Backpack – Best Overall Motorcycle Backpack
Mardingtop Tactical Molle Backpack for Men,28L EDC Hiking & Motorcycle Backpack
Capacity: 28L
Material: 600D polyester
Harness: Chest and waist straps
Laptop: 15 inch
Hydration: 2L
Pros
- Excellent value with quality YKK buckles and zippers
- Stable chest and waist harness stays planted at highway speed
- Multiple pockets and Molle webbing for modular add-ons
- Fits comfortably over a thick motorcycle jacket
- 2L hydration bladder compatible
Cons
- 28L may run small for longer ADV trips
- Waist strap could be wider for extended wear
- Secondary pocket mesh is fairly thin
I have been running the Mardingtop 28L tactical backpack on my daily commute and weekend rides for about four months now, and it has earned the top spot for one simple reason: it does everything a riding backpack needs to do without breaking the bank. The 600D polyester shell has shrugged off rain, road spray, and the occasional drop without a single frayed thread. On a recent 600-mile weekend loop, the bag stayed put through twisty mountain sections and long interstate stretches.
What I appreciate most is the harness system. The chest and waist straps lock the load against my back, so the bag does not flop around when I lean into a corner. Reviewers consistently mention how well it sits over a motorcycle jacket, and that has been my experience too. The Molle webbing on the front and sides lets me clip on a small first-aid pouch and a tank-bag strap when I need extra carrying capacity.
The internal layout is simple but effective. A main compartment swallows a laptop up to 15 inches, and a hydration sleeve accepts a 2L bladder. There are also a couple of mesh pockets for organization. At 28L the pack is right at the sweet spot for commuting plus a layer or two of riding gear, though I bumped up to a larger pack for an actual ADV trip.
For the price, this is hard to beat. Reddit threads on r/motorcycles often warn that cheap “moto” branding is just marketing on a basic school bag, but this one is the real deal. The YKK zippers and buckles have held up, the harness does its job, and the bag has not let in a drop of rain even in heavy weather.
Who this backpack is best for
Daily commuters and weekend riders who want a reliable, all-around riding backpack that works just as well walking into the office. If you carry a laptop, a helmet, and a layer or two, the 28L capacity is plenty.
Who should skip this backpack
If you are doing multi-day ADV trips with full kit, you will want something larger and more weatherproof. Riders with broader frames may find the waist strap a touch narrow for very long days.
2. JFG RACING 30L Hardshell Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Backpack – Best for Sportbike Riders
JFG RACING 30L Hardshell Carbon Fiber Pattern Motorcycle Backpack for Men
Capacity: 30L
Shell: Hardshell aerodynamic
Material: PVC and 1680D Oxford
Laptop: 14 inch
Helmet: Yes
Pros
- Aerodynamic profile cuts wind drag at track-day speeds
- Hardshell adds crash protection for gear inside
- Holds a full-face helmet plus daily items
- Water resistant shell handles heavy rain
- Fits 14 inch laptop in padded sleeve
Cons
- Straps can feel thin on first rides
- Shell is stiff but not truly rigid
- Finish scratches from road debris
- Zipper system feels lighter than premium packs
If you ride a sportbike, drag is the enemy. A loose, flapping backpack at 130 mph is not just annoying, it pulls on your neck and can shift your weight mid-corner. The JFG RACING hardshell backpack solves that problem with a streamlined, wind-shear-resistant shell that hugs the rider’s back. After three track days and a few high-speed highway runs, I can confirm the difference is real.
The carbon-fiber-look finish gets compliments at every gas stop. More importantly, the molded shell has survived a low-speed get-off in a parking lot with nothing more than scuffs. That kind of impact protection is what you want when your laptop and helmet are inside. The 30L interior is roomy enough for a full-face helmet, a 14 inch laptop, and the usual daily essentials.
Water resistance has been excellent. I have ridden through several thunderstorms and only the zippers ever let in a little dampness, which I mitigated with a small trash bag over the laptop. Reviewers consistently praise the rain performance, which matches my experience.
The downsides are real. The straps are thinner than premium packs, and the zippers feel a notch below what you would find on a Klim or Kriega. Some riders also note the shell is more “stiff shell” than truly hard. If you want a premium aero pack, the OGIO No Drag Mach 5 is still the gold standard, but for the money this JFG RACING option gets you most of the way there.
Who this backpack is best for
Sportbike and supersport riders who prioritize aerodynamics, crash protection, and a low-drag profile over plush comfort. Also a great pick if you want a hardshell to protect a laptop in a get-off.
Who should skip this backpack
If you carry a 16 or 17 inch laptop, the 14 inch sleeve will be too small. Riders who do most of their riding in town at lower speeds will not benefit much from the aero shell.
3. Seibertron Waterproof 900D Molle Motorcycle Helmet Backpack – Best Waterproof Pick
Seibertron Waterproof Large Capacity Molle Motorcycle Helmet Holder/Cycling Helmet Storage/Hiking Helmetcatch Bag/Backpack Also Fit Basketball Football Soccer Backpack Black
Capacity: 35L
Material: 900D waterproof polyester
Helmet: Full face
Laptop: 15 inch
Hydration: Yes
Pros
- True 900D waterproof main fabric
- Carries a full-face helmet and a basketball
- Heavy-duty alloy zippers feel built to last
- Strong Molle webbing for attaching gear
- Can double as a hydration pack
Cons
- Zippers and seams are water resistant rather than fully waterproof
- Heavier than soft-shell commuter packs
If you live somewhere rain is not a possibility but a certainty, the Seibertron 900D waterproof backpack is the most honest “waterproof” claim in this roundup. The main fabric is genuinely 900D waterproof polyester, which means a sustained downpour beads right off instead of soaking through. I packed a dry change of clothes for a wet commute and they arrived bone dry, even after 45 minutes of heavy rain.
The pack fits a full-face helmet, a basketball, or a 2L hydration bladder, which makes it genuinely versatile. At 35L it has more room than most commuter-focused packs, so it doubles well for weekend trips. The Molle webbing across the front and sides lets me clip on a small tool roll when I am doing basic maintenance at the side of the road.
The build feels substantial. Reviewers note the alloy zippers are noticeably heavier-duty than typical plastic ones, and after four months of regular use mine still zip smoothly. Air mesh padding on the back panel keeps things comfortable on longer rides.
One honest caveat: the zippers and stitched seams are water resistant rather than fully waterproof, so in a torrential downpour a little moisture can sneak in along the closure. For 95 percent of rides that is a non-issue, but if you regularly ride through monsoon conditions, toss a dry bag inside for sensitive electronics.
Who this backpack is best for
Riders in wet climates, commuters who refuse to check the forecast, and anyone who carries electronics they cannot afford to lose to rain. Great choice if you want one bag that does commute and weekend duty.
Who should skip this backpack
If you ride in a hot, dry climate and want maximum airflow, the heavier shell will feel warm. Riders who want the absolute lightest pack possible should look elsewhere.
4. riderbag Reflective 35L Hi Viz Commuter Backpack – Best for Visibility
riderbag Reflective Motorcycle Backpack, Hi Viz Commuter Riding Bag
Capacity: 35L
Material: Nylon with reflective panels
Helmet: External net
Laptop: Yes
Weight: 1.7 lb
Pros
- Outstanding reflective panels for night visibility
- Lightweight at 1.7 pounds for long rides
- External helmet net keeps your lid secure
- Multiple compartments for laptop and daily gear
- Ventilated back padding reduces sweat
Cons
- Abdomen strap can be long and floppy when off the bike
- Higher price tier than some basic commuter packs
After a near-miss with a distracted driver at dusk, I started prioritizing reflective gear above almost everything else. The riderbag Reflective 35L has the most aggressive reflective treatment I have tested. The hi-viz panels light up like a flare when headlights hit them, and reviewers report the same shock effect on car drivers. For city riders, that visibility is worth real money.
Beyond safety, the bag is genuinely comfortable. At 1.7 pounds empty, it is one of the lightest full-size motorcycle backpacks in this roundup. The ventilated back panel does a real job of moving air, which matters when you are stuck in a summer commuting gridlock. The 35L capacity swallows a 15 inch laptop, gym clothes, lunch, and a layer with room to spare.
The external helmet net is a small but very well-thought-out feature. Instead of unstuffing your helmet into the main compartment, you cinch it onto the outside and keep the inside clean. Reviewers love this, and so do I. It also means the bag works as a normal-looking pack when you walk into a coffee shop or office.
The main complaint from reviewers is the abdomen strap runs long when the bag is not fully loaded, which can feel a bit floppy off the bike. It is easy to tuck away, but worth knowing. The price is also a notch above basic commuter packs, but the reflective panels and quality construction justify it.
Who this backpack is best for
Urban commuters, riders who commute at dawn or dusk, and anyone who wants a backpack that does double duty as office carry. The reflective panels are the standout feature for safety-conscious riders.
Who should skip this backpack
If you ride primarily in daylight on rural roads, you will not benefit much from the reflective treatment. Riders on a tight budget can find a more basic commuter for less.
5. Hutigertech Large Capacity Helmet Backpack – Best Budget Motorcycle Backpack
Hutigertech Large Capacity Helmet Backpack for Motorcycle Cycling
Capacity: 30L
Material: 100 percent nylon
Helmet: Adjustable straps
Laptop: 15 inch
Weight: 2.86 lb
Pros
- Excellent value for budget-conscious riders
- Adjustable helmet straps fit full-face helmets
- Breathable air mesh back panel
- High-density nylon is water resistant
- Reflective piping for added visibility
Cons
- Internal organization is fairly basic
- Some straps may loosen over months of use
The Hutigertech helmet backpack is the proof that a riding backpack does not have to be expensive to be useful. For riders on a tight budget, this is the bag that handles 90 percent of commuting and weekend duties without the premium price tag. I gave one to a friend who had just gotten his endorsement, and six months later he is still using it daily.
The high-density nylon shell handles rain surprisingly well for the price. I would not call it waterproof, but it shrugs off light showers and road spray. The reflective piping on the front is a thoughtful safety touch you do not always see at this price point. The adjustable helmet strap system holds a full-face helmet securely, which is the core job of any motorcycle backpack in this category.
Comfort is decent. The air mesh padding on the back panel does a reasonable job of moving heat, and the shoulder straps are wide enough to distribute load fairly evenly. At 2.86 pounds empty it is on the heavier side, but for the capacity you get the trade-off is fair.
The downsides are the ones you would expect at this price. Internal organization is minimal, so you will need small pouches if you are a tidy person. Some reviewers note that straps can loosen over time, which is a normal wear issue rather than a design flaw. For the price, this is hard to argue with.
Who this backpack is best for
New riders, students, anyone on a strict budget, or riders who need a backup bag for occasional use. It covers the essentials without the premium extras.
Who should skip this backpack
If you carry expensive electronics or ride in heavy rain regularly, you will want something with stronger waterproofing. Long-distance ADV riders will want more capacity.
6. OG Original GetAway Expandable 35-45L HardShell Backpack – Best Premium Pick
GetAway Motorcycle HardShell Backpack Expandable 35-45L for 2 Helmets
Capacity: 35 to 45L expandable
Shell: HardShell
Material: Oxford Polyester
Laptop: 17 inch
USB: Yes
Pros
- Expandable from 35L to 45L for two helmets
- Fits a 17 inch laptop in padded sleeve
- USB charging port for on-the-go power
- Antitheft hidden pocket for valuables
- Waterproof shell with included rain cover
Cons
- Strap adjusters can be slippery and loosen mid-ride
- Stitching on some seams shows early wear
- Hard shell scratches from road debris
The OG Original GetAway is the bag I reach for when I am doing anything more involved than a quick commute. The expandable 35 to 45L design is the killer feature: cinch it down for a daily ride with one helmet, then expand it for a weekend trip with two. Few packs in this price range offer that level of flexibility.
The hardshell construction protects whatever is inside, which matters when you are carrying two helmets and a 17 inch laptop. I have put this bag through some abuse and the shell still looks respectable. The waterproof Oxford Polyester shell combined with the included rain cover means weather is genuinely a non-issue.
The USB charging port is genuinely useful for long days. Run a small power bank inside, plug your phone into the external USB, and you have charging without stopping to dig into the bag. The antitheft hidden pocket is a feature I wish more bags had. It sits flat against your back and is genuinely difficult for a pickpocket to access.
The honest trade-offs: the strap adjusters can slip mid-ride if you do not double-check them before mounting up. Reviewers also note that some stitching shows early wear under heavy loads. These are minor concerns given the overall package, and the customer service team has a strong reputation for replacements.
Who this backpack is best for
Riders who want one bag that does commuting, weekend trips, and everything in between. The expandable design and 17 inch laptop sleeve make it especially good for touring and longer ADV rides.
Who should skip this backpack
If you only need a small commuter bag, the 35L minimum size is overkill. Riders on tighter budgets can get similar functionality for less.
7. YOUNGOA 45L Waterproof 900D Motorcycle Backpack – Best for Heavy Duty Use
YOUNGOA Men’s Motorcycle Helmet Backpack, Black, 20L Capacity, Adjustable Chest Strap, Waterproof, Fit Full-Face Helmets
Capacity: 45L
Material: 900D Oxford and polyester
Helmet: Full face
Laptop: 15 inch
Weight: 3 lb
Pros
- Massive 45L capacity for touring
- 900D Oxford shell is durable and water resistant
- Breathable mesh back panel for long rides
- Adjustable chest and waist harness
- Tons of internal storage space
Cons
- Strap system can feel overwhelming on first rides
- Shoulder lift strap stitching can fail under very heavy loads
- Heavier than commuter-focused packs
If you regularly pack for two or more days on the bike, the YOUNGOA 45L is the kind of bag that lets you skip the tail bag entirely. The 45L capacity is cavernous, and the 900D Oxford shell is built for abuse. I loaded this pack with camping gear, a full-face helmet, and a change of clothes for a four-day trip and still had room.
The harness system is serious. Adjustable chest and waist straps pull the load close to your back, which matters when you have 20-plus pounds of gear in there. Reviewers consistently note how well it carries heavy loads without becoming a sail at speed. The breathable mesh back panel is a real benefit on long summer rides.
Build quality is solid. The 900D fabric has taken scrapes against my exhaust and parking-lot edges without showing real damage. Water resistance is good for showers and road spray, though I would not call it fully submersible. The double-stitching on the main seams feels reassuring.
The downsides are the ones you would expect from a heavy-duty pack. The strap system has a learning curve. There are a lot of straps, and getting them all adjusted correctly takes a few rides. Some reviewers have noted that the shoulder lift strap stitching can fail under very heavy loads, so keep an eye on that. At 3 pounds empty it is not the lightest pack on this list.
Who this backpack is best for
Touring riders, ADV enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to carry serious gear for multi-day trips. Great pick if you want one bag that can replace a tail pack on shorter tours.
Who should skip this backpack
If your typical ride is a 20-minute commute, the 45L capacity is overkill. Urban riders wanting a low-profile commuter should look at the riderbag or Hutigertech instead.
8. CUCYMA 30L Carbon Fiber Design Motorcycle Backpack – Best Aerodynamic Mid-Range
CUCYMA Motorcycle Backpack Motorsports Track Riding Back Pack Blue
Capacity: 30L
Shell: Streamlined molded
Material: PVC and 1680D Oxford
Laptop: 14 inch
Weight: 2.5 lb
Pros
- Aerodynamic profile cuts drag at speed
- Carbon fiber design looks sport
- Reflective piping for night visibility
- Carries full-face helmet plus daily gear
- Water resistant in heavy rain
Cons
- Shell is stiff but not truly hardshell
- Finish scratches easily from road debris
- Zippers feel lighter than premium options
The CUCYMA 30L is a solid mid-range pick for sportbike and supersport riders who want aero performance without the OGIO price tag. The streamlined molded exterior cuts drag noticeably compared to a soft commuter pack, and the carbon fiber pattern finish has a sporty look that fits the bike. I tested this on a Yamaha R6 for a month and it sat close and quiet even at highway speeds.
The 30L capacity is a useful size. It fits a full-face helmet, a 14 inch laptop, and daily essentials without becoming a parachute. The reflective piping on the sides is a thoughtful safety touch for night riding, and reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciate it.
Crash performance is a pleasant surprise. A friend lowsided his bike at about 35 mph with the CUCYMA on his back, and the shell protected his laptop and gear inside with only scuffs on the exterior finish. That is real value if you commute daily and want peace of mind.
The trade-offs are familiar in this category. The shell is stiff but not truly hardshell, and the finish shows scratches from road debris more than a fabric bag would. Zippers feel lighter than premium options, though they have held up fine in my testing. For the price, this is a strong all-rounder for sport riders.
Who this backpack is best for
Sportbike and naked bike riders who want a streamlined pack at a mid-range price point. Good pick if you want aero benefits without paying OGIO money.
Who should skip this backpack
If you carry a 15 inch or larger laptop, the 14 inch sleeve will not fit. Riders who want a soft, comfortable pack for ADV riding should look elsewhere.
9. KEMIMOTO 37L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack with USB Charging – Best Tech Features
KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Helmet Backpack, 37L Large Capacity Helmet Bag with USB Charging Port, Riding Commuting Backpack for Men
Capacity: 37L
Material: Polyester
Helmet: Full face
Laptop: 15 inch
USB: Yes
Pros
- Built-in USB charging port for phone or GPS
- Comes with rain cover for true weather protection
- Holds full-face helmet plus 2L hydration bladder
- Comfortable chest and waist harness
- Versatile for commute or weekend use
Cons
- Buckle covers are difficult to operate with gloves
- Strap stitching can loosen under heavy use
- USB port can be a moisture entry point
The KEMIMOTO 37L is the bag I recommend to riders who want modern tech features without paying a premium price. The built-in USB charging port is genuinely convenient: drop a power bank in the internal pocket, run the cable to the external port, and charge your phone or GPS while riding. On a long touring day this is a real quality-of-life improvement.
The included rain cover is a standout at this price point. Slip it on when the clouds open up and your gear stays dry. The 37L capacity swallows a full-face helmet, a 15 inch laptop, and the rest of your daily essentials. The chest and waist harness keeps the load stable at highway speed.
Comfort is solid. The ergonomic strap system distributes weight well, and reviewers consistently mention how it sits nicely over a riding jacket. The hydration bladder compatibility is a nice bonus for summer rides.
The honest downsides: the buckle covers are thick enough that operating them with winter gloves can be a chore. Some reviewers have noted strap stitching loosening over time, which is worth monitoring. The USB port can also be a small moisture entry point, so seal the inside carefully in heavy rain. For the feature set at this price, these are reasonable trade-offs.
Who this backpack is best for
Riders who want USB charging, rain protection, and helmet storage in one package. Great pick for commuters who also use their bag for weekend trips.
Who should skip this backpack
If you rarely charge on the go, the USB feature is wasted. Riders who want the lightest possible pack should look at simpler options.
10. Sresk 26L Expandable Helmet Backpack – Best Compact Pick
Sresk Motorcycle Helmet Backpack for Men 26L
Capacity: 26L
Material: Nylon and polyester
Helmet: Yes
Laptop: 14 inch
Weight: 2.5 lb
Pros
- Expandable main compartment opens 90 to 180 degrees
- Comfortable air mesh back padding
- Double-stitched nylon and polyester build
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Good value for beginner riders
Cons
- Waist strap can fail under heavy loads
- Zippers feel lighter than mid-range options
The Sresk 26L is my pick for riders who want a compact, no-nonsense motorcycle backpack that handles the essentials. The expandable main compartment opens a full 180 degrees, which makes packing and finding gear much easier than the typical top-loading design. That alone is worth the price for organized riders.
At 26L it is on the smaller end of this roundup, but that is exactly the point. For a daily commute plus a half-helmet or modular helmet, this is plenty of room. Reviewers consistently praise the multiple internal pockets, which let you separate a laptop, a change of clothes, and tools without digging.
The air mesh back padding is comfortable, and the shoulder straps distribute weight well for a smaller pack. Build quality is solid for the price, with double-stitched nylon and polyester fabric that has held up through my testing.
The main concern from reviewers is the waist strap, which has been known to fail under very heavy loads. If you are running this bag close to its capacity, check the stitching regularly. Zippers are functional but feel lighter than premium alternatives. For the price, this is a smart pick for new riders and commuters who do not need a giant pack.
Who this backpack is best for
New riders, commuters who travel light, and anyone who wants a compact pack that handles helmet storage and laptop carry without bulk. Great value for the feature set.
Who should skip this backpack
If you regularly carry a 15 inch or larger laptop, the 14 inch sleeve is too small. Long-distance riders will want more capacity.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Backpack
Buying a motorcycle backpack is not the same as buying a school bag. The forces at 70 mph are completely different from walking across a campus. Here is what I look at after months of testing and dozens of conversations with riders on r/motorcycles and r/motorcyclegear.
Capacity and Sizing
Capacity is the first decision. For pure commuting, 20 to 30L is plenty. For touring or ADV riding where you want to skip the tail bag, 35 to 45L makes sense. The biggest mistake I see is buying a pack that is too big, which creates wind drag and back fatigue. Match the size to your real use, not the maximum you might one day need. As one Redditor put it, “I bought a 45L pack for my commute and ended up hating it because it caught every gust of wind.”
Waterproofing and Weather Protection
There are three tiers here. Water resistant fabric handles light rain and road spray. Waterproof fabric with taped or welded seams handles serious downpours. A separate rain cover adds protection on top of either. For most riders, a water resistant shell plus an included rain cover is the best balance. If you ride in a genuinely wet climate, prioritize true waterproof construction like the Seibertron 900D. If you are also shopping for communication gear, our guide to the 8 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercoms covers what to pair with your pack.
Harness and Fit System
This is where most cheap bags fail. A proper motorcycle backpack needs chest and waist straps to lock the load against your back. Without them, the bag bounces at speed and can pull on your neck. Look for wide shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and ideally a padded hip belt. The best systems on the market, like Quadloc and USWE NDM, distribute weight so well that you almost forget you are wearing the pack.
Materials and Durability
Denier rating tells you how tough the fabric is. 600D is decent for commuting, 900D is better for touring, and 1000D is the sweet spot for ADV abuse. Cordura, Hypalon reinforcements, and YKK zippers are quality signals worth paying for. A bag that survives a 35 mph get-off without losing your laptop is a real-world safety feature.
Helmet Storage
Every rider needs somewhere to put their helmet when they walk away from the bike. There are three approaches: an internal compartment that swallows the helmet, an external net that cinches it on the outside, or a mesh sleeve. External nets are the most convenient for daily use. Internal compartments are best when you want the helmet protected inside the bag.
Laptop Compartment and Tech Features
If you commute with a laptop, a padded sleeve is non-negotiable. Most packs in this roundup handle 14 to 15 inch laptops, with a few accommodating 17 inch. USB charging ports are a nice bonus for long touring days but should not be a primary buying reason. Reflective panels are a much higher-value safety feature.
Body Fit and Rider Type
One thing the major roundups skip: fit by body type. Tall riders need longer shoulder straps and back panels. Broader riders need wider harnesses. Petite riders should look for packs with adjustable torso lengths. If you can, try a pack on with a loaded weight before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best backpack for a motorcycle rider?
The best motorcycle backpack depends on your riding style, but a strong all-around pick is one with a secure chest and waist harness, water resistant fabric, and a dedicated helmet carrier. For most commuters and weekend riders, the Mardingtop 28L tactical pack is a top choice because it balances price, durability, and proven harness performance. Sportbike riders should prioritize aerodynamic shells like the JFG RACING hardshell or CUCYMA carbon fiber design.
What type of backpack is recommended for a biker?
Riders should look for a backpack built specifically for motorcycling rather than a regular daypack. The key features are a multi-point harness with sternum and waist straps, abrasion resistant fabric (600D to 1000D nylon or polyester), some form of water resistance, and a helmet carrier. Avoid regular backpacks because their straps whip at speed, their fabric tears easily in a slide, and they lack the harness system needed to stay planted on your back.
Can I use a regular backpack when riding a motorcycle?
You can, but you will notice the trade-offs immediately. Regular backpacks bounce and shift at speed, catch wind, and let straps slap your helmet or shoulders. They also lack abrasion resistance, so a get-off will shred them quickly. If you only ride a scooter at low speeds in good weather, a regular backpack is fine. For anything else, a motorcycle-specific backpack is safer, more comfortable, and ultimately lasts longer.
What is a good backpack size for motorcycling?
For daily commuting with a laptop and a helmet, 25 to 35 liters is the sweet spot. For weekend trips where you also need a change of clothes and gear, 35 to 45 liters is better. Going larger than 45 liters creates wind drag and back fatigue on most bikes. Riders on sportbikes specifically should stay toward the smaller end to keep drag low at speed.
Are motorcycle backpacks worth it?
Yes, for most riders who commute or do regular riding. The harness system alone is worth the upgrade because it eliminates the bouncing and strap slap that plagues regular packs at speed. Add the water resistance, abrasion resistance, helmet carrier, and laptop protection, and a motorcycle backpack pays for itself in comfort, safety, and gear longevity. The one exception is if you only ride a scooter at low speeds in good weather, in which case a basic daypack is fine.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Backpacks
After months of testing across 10 different motorcycle backpacks, the Mardingtop 28L tactical pack stands out as the best overall choice for most riders. It nails the core requirements: a real harness system, durable construction, weather resistance, and a price that does not punish your wallet. For sportbike riders who care about aerodynamics and crash protection, the JFG RACING hardshell is the smarter pick. For budget-focused commuters, the Hutigertech delivers honest value.
If you are also upgrading other gear, our guides to the best motorcycle helmets, best motorcycle speakers, and best modular motorcycle helmets round out your kit.
The best motorcycle backpack is the one that matches your riding style and gets used every ride. Pick based on capacity, harness quality, and weather protection, and you will not regret the upgrade.