Cycling Rack Bags - Panniers, Trunk Bags, and More

If you're a bike commuter or going on a bike tour than you'll need a set of bike panniers, and maybe a bike trunk bags. Either one will work, but often times you may need both because they serve different purposes. Like the photo above has a set of bags for both the front and rear racks.  You don't always need all of that, but for a bike tour you may.

As a bike commuter just one or 2 bike panniers, and maybe just one trunk bag can do.

If you're choosing between a backpack, or a messenger bag and a cycling rack bag, then consider these things:

Panniers, backpacks or messenger bags?

1. Put the brunt of the weight on your back - especially for long rides, keeping the weight off of your back can be very helpful.
2. Don't get your back wet- don't get us wrong, we LOVE backpacks and messenger bags, but especially on long rides or hot days, keeping less on your back will give more breathability and mean less sweating.  In the winter a backpack can even be nice :)
3. You can keep more in a set of panniers, it's like TWO BACKPACKS! - with 2 panniers and a trunk bag, and a backpack or messenger bag, you'll be set for anything you need.  Make that big trip to target, or the grocery store, and don't worry about getting it all home!

Those are the main pluses of using a bag on your rack vs carrying it on your back.  You can of course also try to use handlebar or saddlebags, but that's for another time!

The point really is that you can take the weight off of your shoulders and make the bike do the work for you.

Here are some ideas on what you may like for yourself.  Either a trunk bag, set of commuter panniers, touring panniers, a bicycle backpack and pannier trunk bag or more.  Of course you can always go handmade, quality and cared for.  Or just pick something that will get your things too and fro safely!

1. Bicycle Commuter Panniers

Perfect for any bike commuter, they can easily secure to your bike rack and can be easily removed as well. Waterproof cordura fabric, a carrying strap, and j-hooks to attach do the trick!

2. Bike Trunk Bag

This trunk bag is extremely useful for riding in the city, or off on a biking vacation! This one in particular which is beautifully handmade by Ironweed Panniers, is made with water-resistant canvas and can fit a change of clothes for work, a 6-pack of beers or a few delicious bottles of wine with lunch!

3. Bicycle Pannier and Backpack 

Something that's fully waterproof, fashionable, and easy to carry around either on your rack or on your back, this is the way to do it!  This Pannier and Backpack combo can hook on to your rack, but also has backpack straps to easily carry off of your bike when you get to your destination!

4. Handmade Cycling Panniers

Handmade cycling panniers can be a great way to go if you need something a bit different.  These can be more unique and more beautiful than you standard ortliebs or synthetic panniers. Find these types of things and more at http://nymb.co.

Do you take any extended bike trips over the summer or winter time?  Do you bike to work or to the grocery story year round?  What types of bags do you use in this case?