Gear

8 Best Bike Bags, Panniers, Saddlebags, and Totes for Commuter Dads

Get a workout while shuttling your kids around.

by Jon Gugala
Four bike bags for dads set against a multi-colored background.

Being holed up indoors for the past year has turned most of us into paunchy, soft-bellied shells of our former selves. And with the world opening up more as we near herd immunity, coupled with warmer spring and summer weather, the bike beckons commuting parents. Schlepping kids from place to place is not only a solid workout, but it’s better for the planet. But having kids means having stuff, and to tote that stuff you need a bike bag. Whether you opt for a bike saddle bag, a bike frame bag, or a bike handlebar bag, you need a bike travel bag that’s big enough to fit toys, snacks, bottles, more snacks, and all the other supplies kids require.

messenger bags still accessed while riding. Something that is impossible with higher bulk, roll closure frame bags.

Shield Bike Pannier Bag by Thule
$129.94
RC Top Tube Frame Pack Bike Bag by Ortlieb

This frame bag can carry six pounds' worth of gear. It has 3M reflectors for low visibility, and when the roll-closure is securely closed, this bag is waterproof. It's best for parents who don't have much stuff to tote, or do so on mountain bikes.

$140
Urban Ex Handlebar Bag 2.0 by Chrome

Rolltops, by design, help seal out water, making it a smart choice for a wet commute, and that goes doubly for Chrome's, which is made from a waterproof fabric. This three-to-five-liter bag, which expands based on how much you roll over, mounts to your handlebars for ease of access. It also has two mesh internal pockets for extra storage. But if you're not feeling it or want a difference center of gravity, it can also be lashed cross-body by design.

$70
Classic Messenger Bag by Timbuk2

Ubiquitous in the '90s, the messenger bag grew in popularity in part because of its function in bike commutes. Timbuk2's iconic design, which is celebrating its 30th birthday, epitomizes the style's ease and convenience. The bag has interior pockets, as we as an internal water bottle pocket. Holding nine liters, it features a waterproof liner, rugged buckles, and an air-mesh strap for summertime slogs. A carrying handle allows you to grab and go when it's quittin' time.

$79
ReNew Transit Backpack by Everlane

At first glance, Everlane's ReNew looks like any other backpack. But looks can be deceiving, and this model is tailor-made for bike commuting. Generous exterior pockets and a magnetic closure let you stow gear quickly, while two easy-access water bottle holders let you sip while on the go. We like that it's cut from a recycled plastic fabric, which ensures your greener mode of transportation isn't offset by your gear's environmental footprint. And damn, this thing is roomy: It's got an 18 liter capacity and fits a 13 inch laptop.

$69
Front-Roller City Front Pannier by Ortlieb
$134
MIK Utility Trunk Bag With Panniers by Bontrager

Nothing beats the versatility of Bontrager's MIK. Is it a trunk bag? Yes. Panniers? Yes. Easy-access storage? Most certainly. Whatever you need, the MIK has inside, quickly revealed with the pull of a zipper. Stow as much as 36 liters within its compartments, and it includes a built-in rain cover to pull out when conditions deteriorate. It has tons of internal and external pockets, along with reflective hits to keep you safe.

$160
4-in-1 Dayliner Roll Top Handlebar Trunk Bike Box Bag by Two Wheel Gear
$99

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