Last Updated on 2 December 2025 by Cycloscope
Explore the best rear panniers for bike touring.
Large, small, waterproof, cheap, top, and budget-value cycle expedition pannier bags [updated for 2026]
Looking for the best panniers for touring? You landed on the right page. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest panniers for your first cycle touring trip, affordable/budget waterproof pannier bags that you can rely on for an extended bike trip, or the very best touring panniers on the market, here we’ve got you covered!
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How we compile our gear guides: during the almost 10 years of cycloscope.net our team personally tested dozens of similar pieces of gear. For what we can't test personally, we involve other people in the cycling community to give their feedback and opinion about gear they have used. Our decade-long experience in bicycle touring enables us to find the key cons and pros of every product we mention.
Despite the latest trends in bikepacking, touring panniers are still going strong and, in my humble opinion, remain the best option for adventurers embarking on long-distance bike touring expeditions.
Although still dominated by Ortlieb, the bike panniers market is vibrant, whether for commuting, bicycle touring, or bikepacking, with dozens of brands offering perfect alternatives to Ortlieb, most of the time for a fraction of the price.
We compiled this list of the best bike pannier bags for touring in 2026, hoping to help you figure out which pannier to buy.
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10 best touring panniers in a nutshell
5 best waterproof panniers for touring
- Topeak Drybag
- Thule Shield
- Vaude Aqua Plus
- Green Guru High Roller
- Axiom Seymour (water resistant)
3 best Ortlieb panniers for touring
2 cheap bike panniers
The 11 Best Bike Panniers For Cycle Touring
Ready? Here is our selection of the best bike panniers available with all their technical characteristics, find the model that best meets your needs and check the price. If you have other models to suggest, contribute to the comments section at the end of this article!
check also
> The best front panniers and mini pannier bagscfor bikepacking
Best Waterproof Panniers for Touring
Topeak Drybag
Specs
- Materials: 420 denier / 840 denier nylon
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 15/20L
- Attachment: Steel (adjustable)
- Reflective paint
- Weight: 1lb 11oz / 784g [20L]
- Closure: Side-lock Roll Top
- Portability: Shoulder strap
When Topeak does something, you can be sure it’s of excellent quality and meant to last.
The Topeak Pannier Drybag might not be the shiniest and most pleasant of the touring panniers, but it’s a no-nonsense piece of gear sure to last for many years and miles.
Available in 15 or 20L sizes, this waterproof pannier is made of a sonically welded and fully seam-sealed 100% polyurethane-coated polyester
A watertight roll-top closure provides maximum protection from road spray and wet weather. Its quick-release Hook-and-Lock system securely attaches the pannier to the rack and makes installation and removal quick and easy. It’s also adjustable to fit most pannier racks on the market.
It is perfect for touring in wet conditions or for daily commuting.
Thule Shield
Specs
- Materials: 100% Polyester
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 25L
- Attachments: Steel (adjustable)
- Reflectivity: Reflective stripes
- Weight: 2.5lb / 1130g [25L]
- Closure: Side-lock Roll Top
- Portability: Shoulder straps
Another brand synonymous with quality, Thule is famous for its car bike carriers, but its bikepacking bags are really standing out in the crowded market.
These 25-liter touring panniers are real bang for the buck at only 150$ per pair – they are solid, 100% waterproof, feature adjustable hooks, and a lower locking system to make them compatible with almost any bike luggage rack. An internal pocket is also available.
Thule Shield panniers come in four different sizes: 13L, 17L, 22L, and 25L.
Vaude Aqua Plus
- Materials: PVC-free tarpaulin
- 100% Polyester; 1000 D Embossed Thermoplastic Polyurethane coated
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 25.5L
- Attachments: Fully adjustable QMR 2.0 attachment system
- Reflectivity: Reflective logo
- Weight: 1060g
- Closure: Roll Top
- Features: Welded outside pocket
- Inside pocket
- Shoulder straps
In a market where prices are rising, Vaude stands out by offering the Aqua Plus waterproof rear panniers at an affordable $70 each, making a pair just $140.
Crafted at the German VAUDE headquarters near Lake Constance, these panniers are made from durable, PVC-free tarpaulin, contributing to their climate-neutral manufacturing.
The roll-closure system enables bag customization while ensuring a watertight seal. Additional practicality comes from the inside and outer welded pockets for organized storage.
Attachment is secure and hassle-free with the QMR 2.0 system, allowing easy adjustments and quick attachment and detachment from the rear gear rack.
Furthermore, the panniers can be locked directly to the QMR hook with a bike lock, making them a secure choice for cycle touring.
Reflective elements enhance visibility during low-light and nighttime rides.
Notably, the VAUDE label’s ‘PVC-free’ assurance guarantees the product is free of harmful PVC.
The panniers boast features like a spacious main compartment, a removable shoulder strap that doubles as a packing strap, and a user-friendly QMR 2.0 attachment system.
Although not the lightest option available, their optimized shape, adjustable guiding hooks, non-slip feet, and improved stability make them a reliable choice.
As a brand committed to ethical practices, VAUDE is a member of the Fair Wear Foundation, striving for good working conditions and fair wages across its production facilities.
The Aqua Plus panniers have a maximum load weight capacity of 25 kg, making them among the largest bike touring panniers available.
Green Guru High Roller
- Materials: Upcycled Bicycle Inner Tubes, 10oz Vinyl Waterproof Tarp
- Construction: Weather-resistant sewing loops
- Capacity: 28L
- Weight: 1590g
- Attachments: Metal Rack Clips (adjustable)
- Reflectivity: Reflective webbing light
- Closure: Roll Top
- Portability: Backpack straps
The Green Guru High Roller stands out as a super durable bike pannier crafted from upcycled bicycle inner tubes and recycled fabric. It doubles as a sleek backpack off the bike, offering both functionality and sustainability.
The backpack harness can be stashed conveniently within a Velcro-sealed compartment, allowing an effortless transition from pannier to backpack and vice versa. However, using it as a backpack for longer distances with heavy loads might not be the most comfortable option.
Crafted in the U.S. with durability in mind, the pannier features a ten-ounce waterproof vinyl tarp material reinforced with recycled bicycle inner tubes, contributing to environmental conservation.
Its weather-resistant envelope-top closure, secured with heavy Velcro, ensures waterproofness. Reflective elements enhance visibility, while outer side pockets hold essentials like bike locks or water bottles. It’s important to note that the pockets are not stretchy and might not securely hold larger items.
Its stormproof construction keeps the elements at bay, making it an excellent choice for various cycling journeys.
Equipped with a quick-mount system, the pannier attaches to almost any rack system; the hooks need a little caution, and the bag should be strapped on as it can come off on bumps occasionally.
The price point is relatively high, and it’s one of the heavier options on the list, weighing around 2.14 pounds (approximately 0.97 kg). The Green Guru High Roller’s capacity is advertised as 36L, but it functionally offers 28L, expanding to 36L when fully open.
While not really suited to rugged off-road expeditions, it’s well-suited to recreational touring, making it a notable inclusion among the best touring panniers for those who prefer made-in-USA and ethical products.
2 Great Water-Resistant Bike Panniers
Axiom Seymour
From 120$ (Pair)
Specs
- Materials: 600D recycled fishnet Polyester with water-resistant Polyurethane
- Ultra-stiff Polyurethane backing
- Construction: Weather-resistant needs a rain cover for 100% waterproofness
- Capacity: 17.5 L
- Weight: 770g / 1.85 lbs (pair)
- Attachments: Steel (not adjustable)
- Reflectivity: 3M reflective accents and light clip
- Features: Mesh side pockets with elastic closure; Zippered rear pocket; Daisy-chain webbing loops
Now these are some panniers I really love! Affordable, organizable, ultralight, and eco-friendly – what more would you want from a bike touring pannier?
And yet Axiom is still unknown to most, maybe because they don’t invest so much in marketing.
Every bag in the Seymour series uses a new fabric which they call Oceanweave, a material born from the repurposing of discarded fishing nets – this eco-conscious approach not only reduces ocean plastic but also paves the way for a more responsible future.
Functionality meets design in these bags, tailored to accommodate the needs of light bike touring and daily commuting.
Their robust build comprises OCEANWEAVE® 600D reclaimed fishnet polyester, fortified with a waterproof polyurethane coating.
The Rixen & Kaul® VARIO 1 hook, combined with the SLIDE-LOCK rail and FLIP-LOCK, ensures a secure and hassle-free mounting experience.
Practicality is paramount, showcased by features like the drawstring closure, mesh side pocket, zippered rear pocket, and a front mesh pocket for optimal organization. Enhanced visibility is facilitated through 3M® triangle rear logos and reflective stripes.
With a combined volume of 32.7 liters, these bags are a middle-way between small mini-panniers and large traditional rear panniers, catering to the needs of more minimalist bike tourers.
Installation is straightforward, although some rack adjustments might be necessary. The bungee pockets exhibit mixed utility based on load capacity. Although primarily designed to withstand minimal exposure to rain, these bags offer a high level of weather resistance.
Further enhancing their utility, they come equipped with external pockets and provisions for LED lights.
Priced at approximately $120, this investment aligns value with principles, catering to those with a penchant for adventure and an appreciation for ethical consumption.
3 Best Ortlieb Panniers for Touring
Ortlieb is a big name in the world of touring panniers. Because they have so many models, we decided to pick our three favorites and make them a category of their own.
All Ortlieb bags can be turned into a backpack using the Ortlieb carrying system for panniers
Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic
Specs
- Materials: Polyester single and double-coated with thermoplastic coating
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding is 100% Waterproof
- Attachments: Heavy-duty adjustable hooks clip (Plastic)
- Reflectivity: 3M Scotchlite reflectors
- Features: Integrated inner pocket, Shoulder strap
- Capacity: 20L
- Weight: 950g
Ortlieb doesn’t need any introduction. These German bike panniers have long led the market, at least for bicycle touring and bikepacking.
The Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic is probably the most-sold bike pannier in the world. They have been tested by thousands of tourers all around the world, in the most extreme conditions.
The price, though, isn’t super friendly, and there have been complaints about the quality not being the same as before. Still probably the best bikepacking panniers.
If you want an even stronger, lighter bike pannier, check out the Ortlieb Back Roller Plus, made of Cordura instead of Polyester.
Ortlieb Bike-Packer Plus
From $280 (pair)
- Materials: Abrasion-resistant PU laminated Cordura
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 21L
- Weight: 100g
- Attachments: Heavy-duty adjustable hooks clip (Plastic)
- Reflectivity: 3M Scotchlite reflectors
- Features: Outer Pocket, Bottle-Cage, Mesh-Pocket
Another Ortleb best-selling classic, these sturdy waterproof panniers also feature a front pocket.
An outstanding feature is their exceptional waterproofness. Constructed from durable, waterproof Cordura fabric and secured by a double drawstring closure and sealing flap, which guarantees a watertight seal.
The reinforced side nearest the bike enhances durability, maintaining the panniers’ shape during use. Multiple pockets, including a convenient fold-over exterior pocket, contribute to organized storage.
Inside the spacious main compartment, an internal sleeve behind a zippered pocket accommodates laptops or tablets, adding versatility to your journeys.
Compression straps further enhance utility, allowing adjustments for lighter loads or attaching extra items.
The unique design, wider at the top than the bottom, prevents interference while pedaling. A game-changer is the innovative Ortlieb QL2 mounting system, streamlining attachment and removal.
A practical handle ensures easy transport when not on the bike, while an optional shoulder strap offers hands-free convenience.
Reflective accents enhance visibility in low light, contributing to safety. Available in an array of colors, these meticulously crafted panniers reflect Germany’s commitment to quality.
For those seeking reliable, stylish, and functional panniers, the Ortlieb Bike-Packer Plus Touring Panniers are the ultimate choice, combining durability, functionality, and design to elevate your cycling adventures.
Ortlieb Back Roller Pro Plus
From $250 (pair)
- Materials: Abrasion-resistant PU laminated Cordura
- Construction: Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 21L
- Weight: 1100g
- Attachments: Heavy-duty adjustable hooks clip (Plastic)
- Reflectivity: 3M Scotchlite reflectors
- Features: Outer Pocket, Bottle-Cage, Mesh-Pocket
If you’ve ever struggled with the age-old travel dilemma of deciding whether to bring that extra T-shirt or pair of shoes, ORTLIEB comes to the rescue with the Back-Roller Pro Plus, the XL variant of the well-loved Back-Roller Plus touring pannier.
Boasting an impressive 70-liter capacity per pair, the Back-Roller Pro Plus provides nearly double the storage room of its more famous counterpart.
This version also introduces a front pocket. Although not fully waterproof, this pocket is convenient, offering 4 liters of space for damp items, sunscreen, dirty tools, or whatever.
Crafted from durable Cordura fabric, these bags showcase an upscale woven appearance and are entirely PVC-free.
The proven roll-closure system ensures that the contents remain clean and dry, no matter the conditions.
The QL2.1 system, with its self-closing hooks, facilitates easy attachment to nearly any bike rack, thanks to its tool-free adjustability (fits tubes up to 16 mm in diameter).
Additional features include an integrated interior pocket, a shoulder strap for convenient carrying, high-visibility reflectors on both sides for safety, and the flexibility of mounting on either side.
2 cheap bike panniers
RockBros Waterproof Panniers
Specs
- Materials
- 840D Nylon + Water-resistant polyester
- PP backboard
- Construction
- Radiofrequency welding
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 27L
- Weight: 885g
- Attachments: Adjustable hooks clip (Plastic) – 360 rotatable bottom hook
- Reflectivity: Reflective logo
- Features: Drawstring bag for storing wet clothes
- Rubber handle
As one of those Chinese brands that have made it into the global market with credible, durable, convenient, and great-value products, Rockbros wins the spot as the best cheap touring pannier for riders on a budget.
A good alternative to Ortleb and similarly priced bags, these waterproof panniers feature a functional drawstring bag for storing wet clothes. Priced at around 50 USD each, they have an enormous capacity of 27 liters per bag, making them second only to the king-size Ortlieb Back-Roller Pro Plus.
The Rockbros waterproof has all the features of the most expensive panniers for a fraction of the price: radiofrequency welding for 100% waterproofness, adjustable hooks, an internal pocket, plus an external cord to hang wet clothes or similar items you might not want to store inside the bag.
A large capacity touring pannier that’s really a bang for the buck.
Ibera PakRak
Specs
- Materials: 1680D nylon
- Closure: Top lid with buckles
- Construction: Water-resistant, needs rain cover to reach 100% (Provided)
- Attachment: Plastic (adjustable)
- Reflectivity: Reflective trim.
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 900g
- Features: 2 large reinforced compartments, two side pockets, Hand-carry strap, waterproof cover
The Taiwanese brand Ibera was established in 2004. As is happening a lot lately in China, Massload, the firm behind the brand, has been in business for many years, manufacturing bicycle parts under contract for major American and European companies, and has decided to establish its own brand.
The PakRak bicycle panniers feature two large reinforced compartments, two side pockets, a Hand-carry strap, and Reflective trim. They are among the cheapest bikepacking panniers, but not fully waterproof.
Nowadays, Ibera makes a bunch of different pannier bags, including a 100% waterproof model that’s slightly more expensive; you might want to check that out too.
How to choose the best rear bike pannier for touring
What is the best bike pannier for you?
When deciding which bicycle pannier to buy, there are a few factors to keep in mind. The first is for sure the use we intend to make of these panniers.
Daily groceries, commuting, and occasional short touring? You can stay cheap, maybe buying water-resistant (not 100% waterproof) low-cost panniers and using a rain cover when touring. Some prefer to use a commuter’s backpack.
Long-term bicycle expeditions? You’ll want something sturdy and 100% waterproof. You might also want to consider getting a dry bag or going with a bikepacking setup.
Then there are the different types of closure systems, which can give quicker or slower access to the gear inside the pannier (I personally prefer roll-top), the mounting system, and compatibility with your bike rack, which should be checked before purchasing a pannier.
Some prefer smaller compartments and pockets, while others prefer a single large chamber for carrying bulkier items. Then there’s the price factor.
In the end, it’s up to you and your personal tastes, except for one thing: compatibility! The only thing you should be sure of is that your pannier fits on your bike’s carrier rack!
Most racks have a tube diameter of about 10 to 15mm, and all panniers should fit there. Some racks, though, are as thin as 8 mm (weak rack, except if titanium does not tour with that) or as fat as 23mm. If your rack is of an odd size, be sure to check the manufacturer’s specs before purchasing a pannier bag.
What we’ve done here is put together some of the most interesting bike panniers on the market and created a comparison table that shows the similarities and differences between expensive and cheap bike panniers at a glance.
FAQs About Bike Panniers
Can a pannier go on any bike?
To be attached to the bike, bicycle panniers need a carrier, also known as a pannier rack.
Be sure your bike’s frame has the correct mounting points (called braze-ons) for the pannier rack you choose. Most panniers can be mounted on any rear rack, while front racks can usually support only small panniers (this depends on the pannier bags’ mounting system).
Is it OK to ride with one pannier?
Yes, it’s absolutely okay to ride with just one pannier for a short while, just be sure not to make it too heavy and compromise stability. Riding with one pannier, though, will make your bike asymmetric, so it’s not a recommended solution for extended bike touring.
It is entirely ok for short commutes, occasional leisure tours, grocery runs, and other similarly simple endeavors.