Intrepid Bicycle Commuter
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 819
Likes: 95
From: Upstate New York
Bikes: 1976 Motobecane Grand Jubile, Austro Daimler 'Ultima', 2012 Salsa Vaya, 2009 Trek 4300, Fyxation Eastside, State Matte Black 6, '97 Trek 930 SHX, '93 Specialized Rockhopper, 1990 Trek 950
Definitely a backpack.
Messenger bags hurt too much when lugging heavier loads, and I carry a lot to work.
Panniers just don't agree with me for everyday commuting. The rack adds weight. The bike doesn't feel as nimble with all of that stuff attached to the bike. And panniers are a pain to carry around if I want to make some stops along the way.
Some people are bothered by the weight of a backpack when riding. I've been doing 30 mile round trip commutes for years. The backpack isn't so bad as long as you keep yourself in good physical shape.