Originally Posted by
cacibi
The biggest question I'm wrestling with is whether I should get side bags/panniers or a backpack to haul stuff back and forth to the office. Waterproof is really my only requirement (no other option in this weather). I have an Ortlieb shoulder/messenger bag that I used to use on my motorcycle, and I may start with that.
Pannier. It's much more comfortable.
I used back packs (and a BOB Yak for really big loads) for years and am so much happier after changing.
It seems like the pannier option offers a lot more space for less money than some of the high-priced Ortlieb backpacks I've looked at. But - when using the bike for things other than the commute - it would be nice to have the backpack and not have to worry about people messing with or stealing the pannier bags.
Panniers are detachable. With something like the Arkel commuter you pull one handle and the pannier comes off. There's another handle for carrying, and if you really want there are hooks for shoulder straps.
A single pannier also works great for a lot of purposes - you don't need more for a laptop, work clothes, rain gear, lock, etc.