The Ultimate Long-Distance Bike Travel Luggage Guide
When you’re living on two wheels, your bags become your home. After travelling tens of thousands of kilometres across Europe, Central Asia, and the Indian Himalayas, I’ve dialled in a setup that’s rock-solid, waterproof, and built to last.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my current bike touring luggage system and compare the best panniers and bike bags available today for cycle touring.
My Current Touring Setup
Over the years, I’ve refined my bike touring rig to be lean, comfortable and fun. My bicycle touring philosophy is bootsrapped.
This is the gear I use regularly and trust on long-distance bicycle tours:
| Item | Brand & Model | Volume | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Panniers | Ortlieb Back-Roller Plus | 40L (pair) | 1680g | Buy Now |
| Front Panniers | Ortlieb Front-Roller Plus | 25L (pair) | 1440g | Buy Now |
| Rear Rack | Tubus Logo Classic | – | 710g | Buy Now |
| Front Rack | Tubus Tara Lowrider | – | 470g | Buy Now |
| Bar Bag | Altura Bar Bag | 7L | 450g | Buy Now |
| Day Pack / Overflow | Ortlieb Messenger Bag | 30L | 1000g | Buy Now |
Ortlieb Roller Plus Front & Rear Pannier Review
The Ortlieb Roller Plus panniers have been my go-to bags for over ten years and tens of thousands of kilometres. Through tropical downpours, desert dust, Himalayan switchbacks and everything in between. These panniers are built from abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric with fully welded seams, which makes them lighter and more flexible than the Classic version, without sacrificing waterproofing.
The QL2.1 mounting system is rock solid. I’ve never lost a bag but on rough tracks and broken roads expect a rattle and carry spare clips. The roll-top closure seals tight and allows you to compress your gear down low for better weight distribution.
A Balanced Touring Rig
Each rear pannier bag holds 20 litres, which I use for clothing, shoes, medical kit and spares. The logic is that the least used stuff can stay in the bottom of the bags with the lightweight but bilky clothing accessible at the top.
In the front pair, with a combined load of 25l, I carry tools, stove, dry food and kitch kit. These small but heavy items help balance the bulky but light gear on the back of the bike.
They’re not the cheapest option, but after years of abuse, mine still look and perform like new. If you’re planning a long-distance tour and want total peace of mind, this is the bag to trust.
Buy: Ortlieb Roller Plus Rear Panniers on Amazon UK
Top Touring Panniers and Bike Bags (Alternatives & Comparisons)
If you’re building your setup or looking to upgrade, here are the best cycle touring panniers and bike bags on the market right now. I’ve selected these based on durability, waterproof performance, attachment systems and long-term touring suitability.
| Product | Brand | Type | Volume | Waterproof | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqua V20 | Oxford | Rear Pannier (Pair) | 40L | Yes | Buy Now |
| Aqua Back Plus | Vaude | Rear Pannier (Pair) | 48L | Yes | Buy Now |
| GT-54 | Arkel | Rear Pannier (Pair) | 54L | Yes | Buy Now |
| 27L Waterproof Panniers | RockBros | Rear Pannier (Pair) | 27L | Yes | Buy Now |
| Universal Bar Bag | Topeak TourGuide | Handlebar Bag | 5L | Water-resistant | Buy Now |
| Shield Pannier | Thule | Rear Pannier (Pair) | 50L | Yes | Buy Now |
Read my Top Cycle Touring Tips to get your trip started
Tubus Tara Front Rack Review
The Tubus Tara is the gold standard of low-rider front racks for cycle touring. It’s light, stiff and minimalist — everything you want when carrying front panniers over long distances. At just 470g, it’s one of the lightest steel racks available, but don’t let the weight fool you — it’s a tank in terms of durability.
I’ve used the Tara in Ladakh, Spiti and the Pamir Mountains, fully loaded, without a single issue. It mounts to low-rider bosses and keeps your gear low to the ground, improving bike handling even when you’re rolling heavy. It’s compatible with Ortlieb Front-Roller panniers, with no rattle or bounce thanks to the precise tubing diameter.
Whether you’re on asphalt or washboard trails, the Tubus Tara performs without fuss. For long-term reliability, it’s a no-brainer.
Buy: Tubus Tara Lowrider Rack
Tubus Logo Classic Rear Rack Review
The Tubus Logo Classic is a rear rack built for world travel. With a low pannier rail and top platform, it allows you to carry panniers and strap a dry bag or tent up top — without crowding your heel clearance. It’s made from chromoly steel, which means it’s incredibly strong yet easy to repair if something ever goes wrong — a rare combination.
It pairs perfectly with Ortlieb Back-Rollers and Arkel GT-54s, keeping them stable on rough terrain. The welds are precise, the finish is clean, and the rack holds up to 40kg of luggage with ease. I’ve used it fully loaded on everything from smooth tarmac to goat tracks and never once doubted its strength.
If you’re building a serious expedition setup, the Tubus Logo Classic should be on your shortlist.
Buy: Tubus Logo Classic Rear Rack
Altura Bar Bag Review
The Altura bar bag is a practical, no-nonsense handlebar bag that keeps your essentials within easy reach. I’ve used it for years to carry my camera, snacks, maps, and power bank — all the little bits you want on hand without diving into a pannier.
It comes with a solid quick-release mount, a clear map case on top, and a decent 7-litre capacity. While it’s not fully waterproof like Ortlieb’s offering, the water-resistant fabric holds up well in showers. Add a dry bag liner and you’re good for most conditions.
For under £50, it’s one of the best value bar bags around — especially for riders who want function over fancy branding.
Buy: Altura Bar Bag on Amazon UK
Ortlieb Messenger Bag for Cycle Touring
The Ortlieb Messenger Bag wasn’t designed for bicycle touring but it’s become one of my favourite wildcard pieces of kit. At 30 litres, it’s spacious enough for food hauls, overflow gear or carrying electronics when I’m off the bike exploring a city or crossing borders on foot.
On a long tour, I have tent, sleeping bag and Thermarest with Trekker chair inside. I often lash it on top of my rear rack with a pair of bungee cords when I need extra carrying capacity.
I’ve had mine for 15 years and it’s still my go to travel bag. It meets most airline cabin bag requirements for the overhead compartment. It’s 100% waterproof, tough as nails, and slings comfortably over the shoulder.
Once I’m off the road, it becomes my daypack or airline carry-on. No faff, no compromise.
For riders who tour full-time or travel overland with flights and buses in the mix, the Ortlieb Messenger is a smart, multi-use addition to the luggage setup.
Final Thoughts
Getting your luggage system right can make or break your trip. Whether you’re riding across continents or weekend touring, investing in solid panniers and bags is a game-changer. I’ve tested most of what’s on this list — what works is what lasts.
If you’re building a complete setup, check out my Cycle Touring Kit List where you can download the free PDF checklist.
FAQs: Panniers and Bags For Cycle Touring
Can I use dry bags instead of panniers for bike touring?
Yes, many cyclists use dry bags that are strapped to their racks or frames. They’re lightweight and waterproof but require extra straps or cages to secure properly.
What size panniers do I need for long-distance touring?
Most long-distance riders use 40L rear panniers and 20–25L front panniers. Combined with a bar bag or top bag, that’s enough for gear, food and clothes.
You’ll probably cook on a long tour, so better read this: Camp Cookware For Bike Travel That Doesn’t Suck
Are Ortlieb panniers worth the money?
Absolutely. They’re waterproof, bombproof, and built to last. I’ve used Ortlieb Roller Plus panniers for years — no failures, no drama.
What’s the difference between bikepacking bags and panniers?
Panniers attach to racks and offer more volume. Bikepacking bags are rackless, designed for off-road and lightweight setups, but they have less space and are more challenging to pack. I’ve written about What Bikepacking Is and How to Get Started
Can I fit panniers to any bike?
You’ll need a bike with mounting eyelets for racks, or use adapters like P-clamps or rackless systems like Old Man Mountain racks in the US or shop from Ghyllside Cycles in the UK.
Questions? Drop them in the comments or get in touch — I’m always happy to help other riders hit the road prepared.