Best Convertible Pannier Backpacks for the Modern Cyclist

Ever wished your bike pannier could effortlessly switch roles once you dismount?

As a daily commuter, I had a dilemma. I didn’t want a backpack on my back while cycling as it threw my balance off and collected sweat in summer. But once I arrived at my destination, I didn’t want to carry around an awkward pannier as the rigid hooks kept knocking into my legs. So do I get the backpack or the pannier?!

Enter the convertible pannier backpack. With insights from urban cyclists and my own commutes, this guide hones in on the best convertible pannier backpacks.

Let’s get started!

In A Rush? Here Are The Best Convertible Pannier Backpacks

Choosing the perfect convertible pannier backpack isn’t easy. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide on what are, in my opinion, the best products on the market.

Reviews of the Best Bike Pannier Backpack

The Two Wheel Gear Pannier Convertible LITE is an excellent choice for mobile workers or day trips combining bikes and feet.

It’s made from 100% recycled Ripstop fabric with a waterproof coating, so you don’t have to worry about your gear getting wet in the rain. It also comes with a high-visibility rain cover for extra protection and visibility.

This is a 22-liter bag that can fit a 15-inch laptop, a change of clothes, and some essentials for your commute, tour, or bike-packing adventure. There are also smaller pockets for easy access to your sunglasses or snacks.

When converting to backpack mode, the hooks that attach the bag to your bike zip away in seconds, so they’re invisible. Not only is the attachment to your bike secure, but you can also adjust it for a few different sizes or types of racks. It attaches to your bike in two places.

What I don’t like is that the bag takes up a lot of space on the rack or your back, affecting your balance and maneuverability.

Additionally, the bag could be more breathable and ventilated. The back panel and the backpack straps are padded with closed-cell foam, which can trap heat and moisture. This can make you sweat more when carrying the bag on your back, especially in warm weather.

Overall, it’s a well-made bag that can switch from a pannier to a backpack in seconds, and it has plenty of features to make your ride easier and safer.

Suppose you’re looking for a versatile and durable pannier backpack that can handle any weather and terrain. In that case, you might want to check out the Ortlieb Vario PS.

It has the usual high-quality, waterproof construction the ORTLIEB is famous for, plus the ability to whip out a set of backpack straps that pack away when not in use.

I tested the Vario PS commuting to work, going on a weekend trip, and shopping at the farmers market. I was impressed by how easy it was to switch between modes and how comfortable it was to wear as a backpack.

The bag has a padded compartment for your laptop, a zippered outer pocket for quick access items, and a mesh side pocket for a water bottle. The roll closure ensures everything stays dry and secure inside the bag, even in rainy weather.

It also features ORTLIEB’s Quick-Lock attachment system, which allows you to attach and detach the bag from your bike rack with one hand. The system is compatible with racks with a tube diameter of up to 16mm and comes with reducers for smaller tubes.

The bag also has reflectors and reflective yarn on the shoulder straps for better visibility in traffic.

This bag has a couple of drawbacks – first, the weight. The pannier backpack weighs 1.6 kg (3.4 lbs), which is quite heavy compared to similar bags. This isn’t a problem if you’re only carrying light items, but it can be a burden if you’re loading it with shopping or riding uphill.

The second one is the price – it’s the most expensive pannier backpack in this roundup.

The Tourbon Water-Resistant Canvas Backpack has to be the trendiest-looking pannier backpack on this list.

I tested this backpack on a 10-mile bike ride through the city and was impressed. The backpack is made of high-quality water-resistant canvas, which kept my belongings dry during a light rain shower.

The backpack is designed to be attached to your bike rack using two hooks that clip onto the rack. The hooks are sturdy and keep the backpack securely in place during my ride.

One downside to this pannier backpack is that it’s only water-resistant. While it does come with a waterproof cover, it’s not as effective as a waterproof bag. 

Additionally, the bag is not spacious, so it might not fit bulky or irregular-shaped items. Use compression bags or packing cubes to maximize the space. Regarding pricing, it’s in the middle of the pack in this roundup.

I recommend this pannier backpack to anyone looking for a stylish and functional bag for their daily commute or cycling adventure.

The Rhinowalk Bike Bag is another sporty-looking addition to our list of the best convertible pannier backpacks.

The 1450 cubic inch (24 liters) capacity is impressive. Strangely, many users say the bag seems small inside; others felt there was much room.

The interior has a few pockets for gadgets but keeps ample space for clothes or shopping. One cyclist called it “super functional”. 

The manufacturer claims the bag is fully waterproof, but they don’t back it up with details about the materials. It does come with a PVC waterproof cover, though. You might not appreciate that it’s fluorescent yellow and takes up a lot of space when stored in the bag. 

The conversion to a backpack requires you to unclip the shoulder straps and zip them away, which can sometimes feel clumsy. This bag can also be attached to a suitcase. 

The mounting hardware looks standard. Metal covered with plastic. Some riders found it unhooked, while others found the hook inflexible and scratched their bike rack. 

I like the look of this pannier backpack. Sporty yet minimalist feel. There are reflective strips for safety at night, plus a life-saving sentinel. This device supposedly helps you locate and get help in an emergency.

Suppose you’re looking for an affordable, versatile, and durable pannier backpack to carry all your essentials. In that case, the HUNTVP Bike Pannier Backpack is worth considering.

It is made of waterproof fabric with a PVC layer on both sides, which makes it durable and resistant to tear, wear, and heat. It also comes with a rain cover for extra protection in heavy rain.

The bag has a large capacity of 27 liters when folded and 30 liters when unfolded, enough to carry most of your items for a long bike trip. It also has multiple compartments and pockets to organize your stuff neatly. The main compartment has a detachable inner handbag that can store a laptop up to 17 inches or other valuables.

The bag has a hidden shoulder strap and a single shoulder strap that allows you to use it as a backpack or a shoulder bag when you are not riding. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable for comfort and fit.

The top bag also has a helmet cover design that enables you to attach your helmet to the bag more easily.

It is relatively heavy compared to other bike pannier bags, weighing 2.86 pounds (1.3 kg).

The backpack does not have a horizontal adjustment/reinforcement bar, as seen in some other bags, so the spacing of the hooks might be an issue for some. Additionally, when the bag is overloaded, the alignment of the hooks can take a bowed-out shape.
Lastly, it is unstable when attached to the rear rack, especially when riding bumpy roads or trails. The hook-quick release system might loosen or detach if not tightened properly.

What Should You Be Looking For When Buying A Convertible Pannier Backpack?

With so many types of bike bags out there, what sets the convertible pannier backpack apart?

A convertible pannier backpack lets your bike carry the weight of your belongings while riding. Once you’ve stopped riding, the bag changes into backpack mode. This is a massive advantage if you combine walking and riding throughout your daily activities.

Below are some considerations you should think about when buying a pannier backpack.

Capacity

Before making your purchase, you must consider what you’ll be lugging around on a typical day of cycling.

You may only need room for an extra sweater, a water bottle, and lunch. But think again.

Sometimes, on my way home from a ride, I like to stop at the supermarket for a few groceries for dinner. It’s better than getting home and taking the car to the store.

If you want to take your pannier backpack shopping, look for around 24 liters of capacity.

Pockets

I like and want lots of pockets. However, I don’t want them to show too much on the outside. Outer pockets tend to get caught on things, and I like my pannier to look sleek. I take mine into the office from time to time!

Look for plenty of inner pockets and one hidden outer pocket for things you need to grab often, like keys, your phone, or your wallet.

Water Repellency 

I wouldn’t consider any convertible pannier backpack or pannier, period, that wasn’t at least water-resistant. There’s not much worse than soaking the contents of your bag.

If a pannier backpack isn’t waterproof, look for an included cover that neatly fits over the pannier in case of rain. 

Easy Conversion

The whole point of a convertible pannier backpack is to allow you to carry your back differently.

So, the change from pannier to backpack should be seamless and fast. You don’t want to be the guy fumbling with this transition while your buddies are already heading to the lunch spot.

Easy-to-snap clips are a must.

Secure Attachment

Having your pannier backpack fall off your bike could result in severe embarrassment or serious injury. You definitely want a secure attachment. 

A good pannier backpack will attach in more than one place.

Appearance

This is a subjective topic, but how it looks on your bike is important! The way I see it, there are two different styles in play here.

One is a super slick, athletic-looking convertible pannier backpack. It shouts: “I’m a cyclist,” as you walk down the street with it on your back. But who cares? You’re a cyclist, after all. 

The other looks surprisingly like a regular backpack. If you have any inkling of using your pannier backpack for work-related outings, this type is for you.

High Visibility

If you’re like me, you’ve already got a few methods of letting drivers know you’re on the road, especially at night. Ride safely – lights and reflective materials do a great job of this.

But some extra help here from your pannier backpack is also welcome. Look for reflective materials and places to attach lights easily.

Price

Of course, there’s a huge price range for these things. Consider how often you’re going to use it. Daily and weekly excursions mean you should spend more on a more durable product.

If you’re an every-other-week type of cyclist, you can probably afford to go a little cheaper!

Note: Don’t forget, you’re going to need a rack to attach your pannier too. If you need some help installing a rack, check out this video:

Other FAQ

How much weight can a convertible pannier backpack typically hold?

The weight capacity varies by design and brand, but most convertible pannier backpacks can comfortably hold between 15 to 30 pounds. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Are convertible pannier backpacks cost-effective compared to buying separate panniers and backpacks?

In many cases, yes. A convertible pannier backpack can be a cost-effective solution, eliminating the need for two separate bags. Additionally, they save space and offer flexibility, making them a popular choice among cycle commuters and tourers.

Final Thoughts

My top pick is the Two Wheel Gear Pannier Convertible LITE. What clinched it for me is the quick conversion in and out of backpack mode and the comfort of the backpack straps. It is secured to your rack in two places, which makes it extra safe. 

There was some fierce competition out there. I’d recommend the Ortlieb Vario PS if you live in a rainy climate. Its water repellency is impressive, but it does come at a cost.

All of the pannier backpacks on the list are great. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget, and get out there for a ride!