Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,760
Likes: 2,114
From: Madison, WI
Bikes: 1961 Ideor, 1966 Perfekt 3 Speed AB Hub, 1994 Bridgestone MB-6, 2006 Airnimal Joey, 2009 Thorn Sherpa, 2013 Thorn Nomad MkII, 2015 VO Pass Hunter, 2017 Lynskey Backroad, 2017 Raleigh Gran Prix, 1980s Bianchi Mixte on a trainer. Others are now gone.
Several years ago I considered a Toppeak handlebar bag. I do not recall why I chose to buy something else. But their price is closer to what you want. If you see any in local stores, give them a look.
A good handlebar bag has a quick release system that allows you to detach it in seconds and take into a store or restaurant with you, when touring that is where my valuables are. But much weight in them can impair bike handling a bit, that is something I got used to quickly.
I bought a Louis Garneau bag several years ago, they no longer make them. The box stiffeners were quite weak and it badly sagged. I eventually had to reinforce it with two aluminum bars that I cut and drilled for the purpose, if they were still making them I would not recommend that one. My point is that a cheaper one is less likely to have adequate structure.
I have a waterproof cover for mine. You should think about what you will do if you are caught in a downpour.