Commuting - Big, waterproof backpack?

Only two "waterproof" backpacks I can think of are the Chrome and Ortlieb packs. What else is there? I like the roll-top design as I can see a flap design having water issues in a downpour. I need something big for commuting to work and for getting groceries. Suggestions?

The Ortleib is great. It really is waterproof and holds a LOT of stuff. My only complaint is it can be hard to see around when doing a head check. I had to reinforce where the straps bolt on with nylon washers, but I have had no problems since with the straps trying to pull out.

Vaude was making one that is similar to the Ortleib. I haven't tried it so I can't speak to the design or the fit but they make good quality bags.

if you don't mind sporting 'old' USPS stuff, get a USPS Pro Cycling team backpack. It has a stowed raincover, but most of it is waterproof anyway. http://www.postalbags.com/source/2.htm
its even got a hydration option, helmet holder, 2 bottle holders, holds drafting tubes, lightweight, the list goes on. this bag has been a true gem compared to all the other overpriced crap, but i don't beleive they make them anymore. you could check around though. oh and i am hauling at least 15 pounds of books daily for 15+ miles at a time and it remains comfortable.

The Ortleib is great. It really is waterproof and holds a LOT of stuff. My only complaint is it can be hard to see around when doing a head check. I had to reinforce where the straps bolt on with nylon washers, but I have had no problems since with the straps trying to pull out.
Which bag do you have? There's the Velocity, Messenger Classic, and Messenger Pro (http://www.ortliebusa.com/cartgenie/prodList.asp?scat=11). The Messener Classic is the one I'm looking at. Seems like it'd be big enough for what I'd need, but I've been told to buy a bigger bag than I think I'd need...

I didn;t bring it today, but Delta (or something close to that) makes a pannier which converts to a back pack which is waterproof. I do not have the back-pack add-on, but it would seem to make a much better pannier than a backpack IMHO.

Just an option.

Which bag do you have? There's the Velocity, Messenger Classic, and Messenger Pro (http://www.ortliebusa.com/cartgenie/prodList.asp?scat=11). The Messener Classic is the one I'm looking at. Seems like it'd be big enough for what I'd need, but I've been told to buy a bigger bag than I think I'd need...

I have the Messenger Classic. It's plenty big. The Classic and the Pro are the same size according to the specs.

I've carried 2 sleeping bags, 2 thermarest pads, a pair of shoes and a few days worth of clothing and a bunch of other stuff in mine. The craziest load I ever carried in it was my guitar pedal board, a few groceries and a 12 pack of toilet paper lashed to the back with the waist strap. I got some funny looks from drivers.

The document holder is very handy too. I usually use it to keep my u-lock from shifting around, but it's great for keeping paper stuff from getting messed up.

As far as getting a bag bigger than you think you'd need, getting a bigger bag can mean you end up carrying around a bunch of stuff you don't need to if you're as lazy about cleaning out your bag as me. ;)

dank will make you anything ya want. gotta love that dank! dank dank dank.... i just like saying dank.... dank it!

dana designs, crag hoppers, arcteryx all make roll top waterproof bags of various sizes

I know you were asking for other suggestions but thought that I'd add that I have the mid-sized Chrome rolltop and have had a good experience with it. It does not block my over the shoulder "look backs" except for when its packed totally full. I went to the LBS, brought as much stuff as I expected a heavy commute would be, and test rode the messenger bags/packs. Look for a suspension system (pack straps not bike forks) that works well for you. Anything can have a water proof cover put over it.

http://www.nashbar.com/profi... (http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=&subcategory=&brand=&sku=9036&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=)


I have this pack and I love it. It can be used as a rear pannier, or zipped off and carried as a backpack.

http://www.wingnutgear.com