Best saddlebags and top tube bags 2026: pack tools, snacks, and extra kit for everything from short spins to multi-day rides

If you’re after a saddle bag for tools and spares, our reviewer Jez Ash recommends the Topeak Sidekick Wedge Pack. It uses a clever clip system for quick attachment, offers good weather resistance, and is built to last.

Available in small (0.5 L) and medium (0.75 L) sizes, we tested the medium, which combines the clip with Velcro. The smaller version relies solely on the clip, avoiding a potential failure point.

The Sidekick is structured a bit differently to most saddle packs – the sides are made of semi-rigid moulded EVA foam. The top is made from a Cordura-type of fabric, and the underside has a plasticised coating. The zipped opening allows the whole of one side to open, giving great access to the contents.

The Oxford Aqua Evo Adventure Seat Pack is dependable, impressively waterproof and has a large 10-litre capacity for bikepacking, adventure cycling and more.

Oxford has used a super-light 400D Ripstop TPU for the bag’s construction, and it’s impressively waterproof as a result. Its IPX6 rating means it’ll withstand water ingress even from powerful jets from any direction.

Reviewer Josh Price found it a breeze to attach to his gravel bike with a strap that passes through the saddle rails and clips in either side, and two big Velcro straps around the seatpost, before cinching down tight. 

Saddle bags obviously sit directly in the line of fire from your rear wheel, yet many aren’t waterproof. The Apidura Expedition Tool Pack (1L) however, is built from a tough, smooth fabric that’s seam welded, and keeps all water out.

This pack uses a roll closure with a magnetic catch instead, and it’s both extremely easy to use and dependably waterproof.

We tested the 1 litre version which has enough space for a tube, levers, multi-tool and one or two CO2 cylinders, plus maybe a Buff and/or a snack. There’s also a 0.5L version if you travel very light.

The Fidlock Pinclip Saddle Bag M is a high-quality choice with excellent waterproofing and a rock-solid fixing system.

The medium-sized bag has a 0.7-litre capacity, enough for a couple of inner tubes, a multi-tool, tyre levers and an electric mini pump. If you don’t need the extra space, the roll-top closure lets you compress it down, and our reviewer Becky noted it looks sleeker than its capacity suggests.

It’s pricier than most rivals, but if you value easy access, security and durability, you won’t be disappointed.

Previously known as the AeroPack, Tailfin’s CargoPack System is a rack and bag system combined into one unit. It’s very well thought out, incredibly well made, and extremely functional.

It has an 18-litre waterproof main compartment and a further 1.5 litres of mesh cargo pockets either side, giving you a total of 21 litres.

Reviewer Josh Price says, “On the bike, it’s an impressively solid experience. Unlike some bikepacking saddlebags, there’s no swaying around at all – it’s a super sturdy solution.” Yes, it’s expensive, but if it suits your needs, it’s well worth the cost.

The first thing to note about the Topeak Elementa GearBag is its size – it’s small, with a 0.3-litre capacity. There’s just enough room for a 700c tube and a couple of tyre levers, while CO2 canisters can be strapped to the outside.

A standout feature is Topeak’s Rail Wing system, which uses additional Velcro straps to keep the bag securely in place, even when opened.

Despite its compact size, it includes a built-in ratchet tool set with its own storage tray. Well made and thoughtfully designed, it does exactly what it’s meant to – carry the essentials without fuss.

This single-compartment pack offers an impressive 11-litre capacity, easily accommodating reviewer Matt’s overnight setup: a lightweight sleeping bag, Gore-Tex bivvy, inflatable mat, and a few essentials.

If you’re carrying less, the roll-top closure lets you compress it down to around 5 litres, with reinforced panels on the top and sides providing extra protection.

The Zefal Z Adventure R11 works well for long road rides, especially when paired with a bar bag and rear pockets for items you need to access quickly. Overall, it’s a durable, waterproof pack that’s easy to load and stays stable on the bike.

Scoring a perfect 10/10 from our reviewer Ty, the Tailfin Top Tube bag 1.1L flip-lid is an on-frame storage option which keeps hold of items you’d want close to hand whilst on a ride.

The Tailfin Top Tube bag is available in two distinct styles, the usual zipped variety or the flip-lid. The flip-lid version we tested offers easy access on the move, whilst remaining secure thanks to a satisfyingly positive magnetically aided clip.

The mounting options are secure and with an ergonomic shape, it’ll sit on the top-tube quietly out of the way. Its on the pricier side but the quality and performance on offer is top notch.

To help maximise storage space, Tailfin also offers a rear top tube bag, available in 0.8 L and 0.9 L sizes. The larger option is designed for road and gravel bikes, featuring a narrower profile and a 100-degree mounting angle.

It has a tapered shape – wider at the base and narrower at the top – to minimise knee and thigh rub while pedalling.

While relatively simple, it’s thoughtfully designed and well executed, with a secure fit and a notably smooth zip that makes it easy to use on the move.

The Restrap Race top tube bag might look quite small but it has a capacity of 1.2-litres. For storing stuff, you get one large internal compartment with a foam base to add structure and prevent rattling, and two mesh side pockets outside for quick access items or storing empty wrappers and such.

Attaching the bag to the top tube is simple. It can be either bolted onto the top tube if your bike can do so or be held securely in place with an adjustable panel and strap system.

The £60 price tag is not cheap for a top tube bag but Restrap also offers a lifetime warranty and repairs.

The Cycology Top Tube Bag is a simple, lightweight and waterproof top tube bag with bold artwork on the outside that’s sure to catch plenty of attention.

Coming in at just 70g and 0.65 litres and measuring 18 x 9 x 4cm – it’s not the biggest or most spacious bag you’ll have on your bike, but it’s great for when you wish you’d just had that little extra storage.

The variant of the top tube bag we reviewed is called 8 Days which is no longer available, but the company produces other top tube bags as well, which are similar to this in every aspect but the illustrations.

Ortlieb’s Fuel-Pack is a clever take on quick-fitting and quick access, while being light, quiet and dry inside, and fittable to any bike. With a 1-litre capacity, it offers more space than most, and its tapered shape helps reduce knee rub.

It’s available in black or the as-tested dark sand, and the fabric is totally waterproof with welded seams. The cover falls into place under its own weight and the powerful magnets snap it shut.

The Fuel-Pack has two holes in the bottom with plates that screws go through to hold it tight against either your frame or the base of the included straps. Overall, it’s a very good choice if you have the money: a premium item of small luggage that works extremely well.

For more storage, Tailfin’s Long Top Tube Bag is tapered across the whole length of your top tube and is available in three different sizes – 1.6L, 2.2L and 3L.

The shape remains unobtrusive while riding, the double zip is easy to open and provides options for organising your gear. The fabric is waterproof and has proven, through testing, to be highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.

While more expensive than some rivals, the premium price is justified by the exceptional construction quality and materials.