Almost all backpack manufacturers now offer good cycling backpacks. However, not every model will meet your personal requirements.

In this article, we'll show you which features your cycling backpack should possess.

Indispensable standard features

A good backpack takes the different postures of the cyclist into account, has sufficient ventilation for the back, and can be fastened onto the body.

The absolute standard features should include:

- enough storage compartments to avoid clutter

- easily accessible outer pockets (e.g. for energy gels)

- Stowage option for a hydration bladder and holders for the drinking tube

- helmet holder

- integrated rain cover

Of course, wearing comfort is also important as is the weight.

You should think about this prior to renting a backpack

Before you rent a backpack, you should know which tour you want to use the backpack for. Each cyclist has his or her own requirements and preferences that the rented rucksack should fulfill.

Depending on the tour, you will need storage space of five to 15 liters.

With some backpack models, a full hydration bladder will significantly reduce the stowage volume. However, a hydration bladder is indispensable, especially on long tours where few stops are possible.

Weight distribution for a cycling backpack

It should be possible for most of the weight to be distributed to the hips to take the burden off the previously strained shoulders. However, this is only possible if the rented backpack has wide and well-padded hip fins. We advise against using backpacks without hip fins, especially on longer tours which last for several hours or days.

Ventilation and back protection with a cycling backpack

Riding a bike will quickly make you perspire. Therefore, your cycling backpack should have good ventilation.

Most backpacks have a net, which forms a gap between the back and the backpack. The back will be well ventilated thanks to such a net. Other models, on the other hand, are equipped with structural padding that sits on the body relatively free of pressure.

We can recommend backpacks with built-in back protection, especially for cyclists who are often far from the road.

Storage compartments on the cycling backpack

A good backpack has sufficient storage compartments. Light nets, in particular, make it easier to find equipment pieces and tools during the tour. Above all, if cycling is a sporting activity for you, the backpack should also have compartments that you can reach while you’re on the move. You can pack provisions and supplements in these compartments.

Rain cover for the cycling backpack

Only a few cycling backpacks are completely waterproof. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that the backpack you rent has a rain cover that you can easily pull over the entire backpack. Good cycling backpacks will already have an integrated rain cover.

This was a small summary about cycling backpacks.

We at Gearrilla hope you have a lot of fun on your next tour and wish you lots of success in choosing the right cycling backpack.