I know there have been more than a few threads started about messenger bags, backpacks, panniers, rear racks, for taking your "stuff" with you on your commute to work. I own my fair share of backpacks, saddle bags, and a porteur bag for my front rack. Anyway, what's the best backpack in your opinion to commute with based off size, features, etc?

I would suggest anyone looking for a new backpack to check out www.velotransit.com. I just happened to come across their website on a bike blog which led me to do some research on them. I have to say the bag I was interested in had a lot to offer, especially to someone that commutes a few times a week in the rainy northwest (hasn't been raining as of late though). The pics on the website only do so much. I was on a trip to Seattle a couple weeks ago and I had the opportunity to check the bags out in person. The guy that owns it is a stand up guy. I talked to him, he dialed me in on the right size because he believes in his product. I knew I was going to buy one regardless but just the experience while I was there just sold it even more for me. In short, check the bags out and the video also posted on the website. I really wish Paul and Bobby the best because they are genuine nice people with a great product.

Arc'teryx spear 20 in black.

The rolltop is wonderful and is the durability

Jandd Tozi Kletter. Been using the same backpack for commuting since 1994. Very tough, rides well.

The one you put in a basket and dont have to wear , summer , especially..

oh Portland.. how about Ortlieb's backpack drybag , ask jyl about his.. he is in town there..

^^^^Forever this.^^^^

I got the Chrome Industries Sentinel model because it was the perfect size and had enough features and pockets. It's on the smaller end of backpacks, but holds enough for a day's commute--I specifically didn't want something so large I could fill it with too much stuff. Flapped, not roll-top, because I valued ease of access over ultimate waterproofness. Only downside is the squared off top, which interferes slightly with peripheral vision in situations when I'm looking over my right shoulder, scanning traffic.

I use an REI Flash 18 on days that I don't need to carry much and a Timbuk2 messenger bag when I have a little more to carry. Some people say don't use a backpack because you'll sweat, I say bring another shirt and change. You're riding a bike, sweat in inevitable.

Any of the Deuter running backpacks will work great, I think they come in 3 different sizes. I use the middle size, 15 IIRC. Works great for my modest daily commuting needs. Hold a bunch, lightweight, well made.

This!! ferrino zephyr 15+3**

There is no "best" backpack, there is only best if the pack fits you comfortably, will handle what you carry without problems, will allow air to pass between the pack and the back. Personally I don't like backpacks, but for short commutes their fine. Bike shops sometimes sell backpacks for cycling but unless they have some sort of system for raising the pack off the back a bit for air to get between the pack and your back then it doesn't matter if you get it from a cycling store or a camping store.

Timely thread. I'm starting to look for a new backpack because my sling bag is a bit too small at times and my mess bag isn't the most comfortable walking around with (depending on load). The one Ogio backpack I have was bought for the organization (it was my school bag), but it has one of those integrated yolk carry handles and that thing isn't that comfortable while wearing for any extended amount of time.

IMHO, the best backpack is a woven wicker pack pack. Don' t laugh, until after you try one.

I am partial to my Mission Workshop. Waterproof, very lightweight, quality workmanship, made in USA and lifetime warranty. I have the VX Sanction. Fits my needs in size for my 33 mi RT commute. Only cons are it is a bit pricey, and doesn't have a loop for a taillight.

https://missionworkshop.com/products/...x-rucksack.php

Disclaimer: I don't mind my back getting sweaty and I have a shower at work.

I'm really impressed with my Seal Line Urban Backpack (I have the large size in grey).

I absolutely love my Ortlieb Packman Pro2. It doesn't have much organizational room, but is wickedly waterproof. It's even reasonably comfortable on long hot rides. Built to outlive me, and has optional accessories from Ortlieb that can be mounted onto it. Pretty cool.

I've been commuting with a camelbak (without the water bladder) for over a year and I really like it. The key for using a backpack while commuting is to make it as small, light and comfortable as possible. I keep shoes and sweaters at work, so I usually just have some light clothing items, tools, lights, lunch, etc. in my camelbak. The pack is lighter on the way home because it is without the lunch and lights are on my bike/helmet.

I have a kriega. It was bought for using on my motorbike, but the strapping takes the weight off your shoulders so its nice to cycle in, plus it has a pocket for a bladder. Be warned the smaller ones are only water resistant, not proof.

My messenger service loaned me a Chrome Berlin and I'm buying one as soon as it gets off of backorder. It's huge, but has a lot of room and is waterproof. I can't complain, it's pretty amazing.

Arc'teryx Arro 22

Gonna have to go with this, I have the fitzroy and absolutely no complaints so far.

Osprey-Momentum is a really nice commuter backpack and it comes in 3 sizes. The quality is good, also. Check it out.

https://www.rei.com/product/813370/os...muter-backpack

my ortlieb messenger backpack is 11 years old and still completely water proof.

Sort of on-topic . . .
I prefer backpacks for a few borish reasons not worth mentioning here.
For summertime use, I stick a frozen bag of peas or one of those blue, injury ice packs in it, up against my back, to keep me a little cooler.

This is brilliant! I have a camelbak sleeve in my backpack that I don't use. I'm going to pop a freezer pack in there and try this out ASAP!

+1. I have the Momentum 34 and it's perfect for my commute. They also have a lifetime warranty.