Cycling is a very healthy and beneficial exercise to perform. It helps you go outdoors and breathe fresh air while training your body and gaining fitness.
When you’re cycling, there are certain little things you want to carry like your water, your phone, etc. And a good small cycling backpack is just the perfect item for that job.
Here are the best small cycling backpacks (Apr 2024 Update):
- Best Overall: sunhiker Small Cycling Hiking Backpack
- Best Hydration Backpack: TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0
- Best Sling Backpack: Lecxci Outdoor Chest Sling Bag
- Best for Minimalist Cyclers: G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack
- Lightweight: Arvano Mountain Bike Backpack
- Durable: Lixada Cycling Backpack 18L Bicycle
| 6 Best Small Cycling Backpacks | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | sunhiker Small Cycling Hiking Backpack | |
Best Hydration Backpack | TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0 | |
Best Sling Backpack | Lecxci Outdoor Chest Sling Bag | |
Best for Minimalist Cyclers | G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack | |
Lightweight | Arvano Mountain Bike Backpack | |
Durable | Lixada Cycling Backpack 18L Bicycle | |
Best Overall: sunhiker Small Cycling Hiking Backpack
- Ideal for small stature – lightweight and compact design
- Able to keep and arranges lots of stuff – multiple compartments & capacity of 20-25L
- Breathable - mesh shoulder straps
- Too small front zippered pocket
Due to its size, straps, weight, and ability to appropriately position for back safety in the user, we greatly suggest this cycling backpack for people of smaller stature.
What impressed us the most was its incredibly lightweight, portable yet spacious design that you can pack everything needed for the trip with comfort and ease of carrying. Besides, it allows for arranging your stuff more neatly by providing multiple compartments.
There is even a bottle holder on both sides.
The breathable mesh shoulder straps are considered the biggest bonus for cyclers as it keeps your body from sweating less as well as avoids feeling unpleasantly damped on the back or around the shoulders.
| sunhiker Small Cycling Hiking Backpack Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 12.3oz. |
Dimension | 15.8H x 9.4L x 5.9W inches/ 40 x 24 x 15 cm. |
Fabric | Highly tear-resistant Nylon |
Highlight Features | lightweight and compact design; multiple compartments & capacity of 20-25L; mesh shoulder straps |
All-in-all, the sunhiker Small Cycling Hiking Backpack stands out for its best overall performance.
Best Hydration Backpack: TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0
- Allow to carry large amount of water – 2-liter capacity with durable design
- Easy to drink and more - a push-lock cushioned bite valve, kink-free sip tube, and two-inch opening for ice
- Versatile – adjustable straps to fit all frames
- Feel cooler – mesh shoulder straps
- The hose is a bit long and hangs down kind of low.
- Water doesn't come pouring out
- The liquid does taste like plastic at first
The TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0 is probably one of the most compact cycling backpacks we have in this list.
It is measured only by 16.5-Inch x 10.5-Inch x .7-Inch with the main purpose of carrying water.
In fact, it can hold up to 2 liters of water securely and also feature a push-lock cushioned bite valve and kink-free sip tube for ease of drinking. The best part is it has a two-inch opening for ice and all are very simple to clean.
Despite of its small design, the adjustable straps allow this bag to fit all body frames while the netting parts on the shoulder straps will help you feel cooler while cycling for hours.
| TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 9 pounds (.4 kg) |
Dimension | 16.5-Inch x 10.5-Inch x .7-Inch |
Fabric | Double-Line Ripstop / Oxford |
Highlight Features | 2-liter water capacity with a push-lock cushioned bite valve, kink-free sip tube, and two-inch opening for ice |
Add in a super-small construction, durable design, and two-liter water storage with lots of practical add-ons, the TETON Sports TrailRunner 2.0 is truly a good hydration backpack.
Best Sling Backpack: Lecxci Outdoor Chest Sling Bag
- No water bottle holder
- A bit thin material
For the price, you can’t beat this sling backpack.
Although you wouldn't be able to fit a jacket in here, it does hold a lot, such as credit cards, wallets, keys, 7.9-inch iPad mini, all kinds of cell phone models, and other essentials.
There’s only one cross shoulder straps but as reasonably padded, it is very comfortable. The best thing is you can switch the strap - perfect for when one shoulder gets sore.
Another compliment for its well-made and durable design. Although the material is quite thin, it shows hardly wears after 8 months’ test, which is also incredible for the price.
| Lecxci Outdoor Chest Sling Bag Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 0.351 pounds |
Dimension | 6.5"×2.98"×13.17" |
Fabric | recycled polyester lining 100% Waterproof nylon |
Highlight Features | padded shoulder strap and it’s able to be switched; made of 100% Waterproof nylon |
The Lecxci Outdoor Chest Sling Bag is an excellent choice for those whose one shoulder gets sore.
Best for Minimalist Cyclers: G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack
- Easy to slip it right off and on – lightweight design, ergonomic straps, and reasonable compartment arrangement
- Compact for storing – foldable construction
- Heavy-duty and long-lasting - made of abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers and water- & tear-resistant nylon material
- Wish it was waterproof
- There is no tab in the top
Our testers really like how easy to use of this minimal backpack. No require to stop moving, you’re still able to slip it right off and on to access anything needed.
The lightness, ergonomic strap design, and reasonable compartment arrangement allows you to reach whether a water bottle, keys, or headphones with no mess like some other bags we’ve tested.
The biggest selling point is it can fold up into itself in a little pouch, and open into a passable (small) backpack. Perfect to be used as an additional backpack during a camping, cycling, or hiking trip.
Don’t worry about its durability as this bag is made of abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers and water- & tear-resistant nylon material.
| G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 8.27x6.30x13 inches |
Dimension | 13" high x 6.3" wide |
Fabric | Resistant nylon material & SBS Metal Zipper |
Highlight Features | foldable construction; made of abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers and water- & tear-resistant nylon material |
Built with durability, compactness, and simplicity in mind, the G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack receives our endorsement as the best choice for minimal cyclers.
Lightweight: Arvano Mountain Bike Backpack
- Able to carry a 6-liter loading weight - durable zippers, rip-stop material, and well-organized pockets
- Comfortable and good at fitting - adjustable waist straps, chest, and shoulders
- Easy to reach your headphones - headphone output
- Allow for drinking water with ease - a bladder compartment with a top hole for putting a drinking tube into
- The front pocket doesn't have two zippers to modify where the opening is
Superbly lightweight, comfortable, and sturdy, it’s hard to believe that this cycling backpack is just priced under $35. Without looking at the price tag, we would think it is a $100 bag.
What satisfied us the most is its quality.
Made of durable zippers, rip-stop material, and well-organized pockets, it’s not hard for this compact 18” x 8.6” x 1.5” backpack to carry a 6-liter loading weight at a time. The bag itself weighs only 1.1 pounds – too lightweight to add any heavy burden to your cycling load.
Additionally, the adjustable waist straps, chest, and shoulders ensure your comfort during the ride, eliminating fatigue or pain after hours of carrying it.
Two big bonuses we’d like to talk about are the headphone output design and a bladder compartment with a top hole for ease of drinking.
| Arvano Mountain Bike Backpack Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 15.2 ounces |
Dimension | 18*8.6*1.5 inches |
Fabric | high quality, durable ripstop material |
Highlight Features | headphone output; a bladder compartment with a top hole for putting a drinking tube into; weight of 15.2 ounces |
For those cyclers who want to cut off as much weight as possible while carrying their essentials, we greatly suggest checking out the Arvano Mountain Bike Backpack.
Durable: Lixada Cycling Backpack 18L Bicycle
- Resist water and tears effectively – made of durable nylon material
- Not bounce when you are cycling – adjustable waist/chest/shoulder straps
- Compact yet spacious – give an 18-liter capacity
- No adjustable chest strap
- The back padding isn't real thick
We love this backpack for how durable it is.
One of those rare counterparts that features WATERPROOF nylon that’s not just protection for your essentials but also allows the bag to stand the test of time.
It also gives a very generous storing space – up to 18 liters – with an emphasis on special interior layer and double-layer design, all is tied in a modest silhouette of H 18 in. X W 10 in. X D up to 6 in.
Regardless, the helmet net is admittedly very useful and the waist strap plays a huge role in taking the pressure off your shoulders. This helps make cycling long distances into an office environment much easier.
| Lixada Cycling Backpack 18L Bicycle Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 1.54 pounds |
Dimension | H 18 in. X W 10 in. X D up to 6 in. |
Fabric | Highly tear-resistant nylon |
Highlight Features | an 18-liter capacity; adjustable waist/chest/shoulder straps; durable nylon material |
There are a handful of very lightweight yet sturdy cycling backpacks, the best of which is the Lixada Cycling Backpack 18L, which we recognize as our Best Buy for Durable.
How To Choose The Best Small Cycling Backpack?
Size
Size is the first and most important variable to take into account when you choose a cycling backpack.
When cycling, you need to feel comfortable, and the backpack that’s too big will likely rub on the back tire or push on your back.
There are a few ranges of sizes for you to look at. A small, compact backpack is from 10 to 15 liters. A medium backpack is from 16 to 20 liters, a large one is from 20 to 30 liter. Don’t go for anything bigger than 30 litters to save your shoulders.
Waterproof
A backpack that’s waterproof would be wonderful and this variable is measured in IP rating. A waterproof backpack can survive light rain, able to keep your things dry for a short time.
Meanwhile, a fully waterproof backpack often comes with welded liners, synthetic fabrics, and coated zippers that make sure no water can get inside the backpack.
Comfort
If you’re cycling on a long track, the comfort for carrying can be a dealmaker or a deal-breaker. You shouldn’t choose a backpack that feels too tight around your neck or digs into your shoulders. Also, don’t choose a backpack that swings back and forth when you pedal.
Instead, choose a backpack that features extra padding in the straps, adjustable chest and waist straps.
Which Brands Make The Best Small Cycling Backpack?
Sunhiker
This brand offers a wide range of backpacks for travel purposes. There are a bunch of colors and designs, so you can freely choose the one perfect for you.
TETON
TETON makes its products with the aim of making it possible for everyone to get outside and enjoy life. It offers a range of products including backpacks, hammocks, cots, tents, and sleeping bags.
G4Free
This brand is specialized in sports and outdoors products, distributing its items on Amazon. So you can go there and freely browse to pick out the perfect backpack for you. Its products excel in several areas like cycling, skiing and snowboarding, camping and hiking, etc., so you will get a reliable backpack for your trip.
Arvano
Starting in 2016, this brand offers products for hikers and campers around the world. It takes the products seriously so you can trust to bring its backpacks on your cycling trips. The brand promises high-quality cycling, climbing, camping, backpacking, watersports, skiing, and fitness products.
Lixada
This brand has a dedicated section for sports and outdoor products, including various backpack models that you can bring along when cycling.
FAQs
What is a cycling backpack?
A cycling backpack, or a cycling rucksack, is the luggage used by riders to carry stuff for short distances when they cycle. A good cycling backpack should be convenient, requires no extra equipment, and offers features to keep your things dry and organized.
What material is the best for cycling backpacks?
The best materials for cycling backpacks are water-resistant tarpaulin, water-resistant nylon, and treated cotton duck fabric like that used on sails.
Which capacity cycling backpack is right for me?
As we mentioned above, a cycling backpack must not be too big so it won’t scrub your back or your back tire. But it must have enough capacity to carry your stuff too, so we suggest you look at 10-15 liters of capacity. This size seems adequate to hold essential stuff while being compact on the body.
How to maintain a cycling backpack?
You should clean your cycling backpack regularly to keep it in good conditions, here’s how:
Step 1: clean the hydration bladder.
Step 2: empty and wash the exterior.
Step 3: remove stains.
Step 4: organize your items in the backpack.
Should I spend a lot on a cycling backpack?
This should depend on your budget. Of course, there are countless options and more expensive backpacks tend to provide higher quality. However, you can still get a decent backpack on the market for an affordable price.
Conclusion
Apart from key factors like capacity, material, and so on, you may also want to think of pricing when choosing the best small cycling backpack for yourself.
Don’t worry about having to pay a hefty price! If you know exactly what you need and take some extra time to look at lower-end brands and their products, you can still get a good, cheap cycling backpack for yourself.
Bryan Listor
