Originally Posted by
Drew Eckhardt
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.
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.
Not as convenient as having the shoulder straps already attached, and better still, - already on your back. Plus, if it's wet and/or snowy, a pannier covered with road grit isn't something I'm going to want to sling over my shoulder.
There are pros and cons to each but neither one is perfect for all riders and all commutes.