It has happened to all of us: riding your motorcycle or scooter in city traffic or on an open road, and the ordinary everyday backpack you’re wearing slips off your shoulder, flaps uncontrollably in the wind, or causes you unbearable lower back pain. 

You definitely need a Rider Backpack. But how do you choose the right one? In this detailed buying guide, we’ll go step by step through all the important features so you can choose the right product for you!

⚠️ Why won’t a simple backpack do?

Before analyzing the features, it’s crucial to understand the difference. A conventional gym or school bag is not designed for speeds above 40 km/h. Specialized backpacks offer:

1. Aerodynamic stability: They do not create air resistance (reducing drag).
2. Weight distribution: They transfer the load from the shoulders to the chest and torso.
3. Safety in the event of a fall: They feature reinforced, abrasion-resistant materials that won’t tear at the first touch on asphalt.
4. Protection from weather conditions.

➡ Type

When you enter the category filters, you will see three main subcategories. The choice depends exclusively on what you carry in your daily life:

A. Backpack: The ultimate all-in-one choice.

• Ideal for: Those of you who go to the office with a laptop, lunch box, rain gear, gym clothes, or are getting ready for a weekend trip.
• The big advantage: Huge capacity and excellent internal organization.

B. Thigh / Leg Bag: The favorite gadget of motorcyclists.

• Ideal for: Everyday short trips where you want immediate access with one hand. It is worn with a strap around the waist and fastens securely around your thigh.
• The big advantage: You keep everything (phone, wallet, keys, cards, loose change for tolls) right at hand level, without taking off your gloves and without burdening your back. It does not interfere at all while riding.

Γ. Waist Bag: The classic, minimalist solution.

• Ideal for: Short trips around the city. You can wear it either traditionally around the waist or crossbody on the chest.
• The big advantage: Lightweight feel and low purchase cost.

➡ Extra Features

Once you’ve settled on the type, it’s time to filter products based on their technical specifications. 

① Aerodynamic shape & shell

If you ride a large-displacement motorcycle or often travel on highways, choose a Hardshell Backpack.

• What it is: Backpacks with a rigid outer shell (usually made of semi-rigid EVA or polycarbonate plastic with a carbon-look finish).
• Why you want it: It keeps its shape even when empty, cuts through the air without creating turbulence behind your helmet, and doesn’t flap at high speeds. In addition, it acts as extra protection for your spine.

② Ergonomics & strap system (The most important!)

A good rider backpack must necessarily have:

• Chest strap: Keeps the shoulder straps connected at the front, preventing the bag from sliding backward during acceleration.
• Waist strap: Transfers 70% of the weight from your shoulders to your pelvis, eliminating lower-back strain.
• Ergonomic back with 3D Mesh: Look for bags with back padding that leaves an air gap in the middle (between the spine and the bag), so you don’t arrive at your destination with a sweat-soaked back in the summer.

③ Capacity in Liters (L)

Don’t overdo it. Bigger is not always better on two wheels:

• 1.5L to 3L: Refers exclusively to thigh and waist bags (fits a phone, keys, sunglasses, wallet).
• 10L to 15L: Small, aerodynamic backpacks. Perfect size for a quick ride or a change of clothes.
• 18L to 25L (The Sweet Spot): The ideal size for everyday urban commuting. Easily fits a 15.6" laptop, chargers, A4 documents, and a light waterproof jacket.
• 30L to 48L: Large travel bags. Intended for multi-day trips or for riders who want to store their helmet inside when parked.

④ Waterproofing: "Waterproof" or "Rain Cover"?

In Skroutz filters you will find the selectable box «Waterproof». However, pay attention to the detail in each product description:

• 100% Waterproof (Tarpaulin / PVC): Bags made from tarpaulin with heat-sealed (not sewn) seams and a "roll-top" closure (rolled at the top). They can withstand even being submerged in water. Perfect for couriers and all-weather travelers.
• Water-resistant with Rain Cover: Backpacks made of durable Cordura or Polyester fabric that can handle drizzle, but for heavy rain they include a hidden pocket at the bottom with a waterproof cover (hood) that you pull out and wraps around the bag. It is the most practical solution for most riders.

⑤ Smart features

Give extra points to models that offer:

• Built-in net / helmet straps: Frees your hands when you get off the bike and walk around the city.
• Reflective elements: Strips or logos that reflect car headlights at night, dramatically increasing your passive safety.
• Hydration bladder compatibility: If you do Enduro, Adventure rides in the mountains, or long summer trips, the ability to drink water from a tube without stopping is a lifesaver.

➡ Brands

In the Greek market, certain manufacturers stand out:

• Dainese & Alpinestars: The "kings" of Sport / Supersport style. Legendary models such as the Dainese D-Mach series or the Alpinestars Charger offer top-tier aerodynamic hardshell design, aggressive styling, and excellent durability, at the corresponding premium cost (€100 - €200+).
• Givi & Shad: The ultimate choice for Touring and Adventure riders. They focus on practicality, complete waterproofing, and long-distance ergonomics.
• Acerbis & Nordcode: Excellent price-performance balance (VFM). Acerbis also excels in Enduro/Off-road backpacks, while the Greek Nordcode offers very high-quality solutions for everyday urban use at €40 - €60.
• Polo, Colori & AGVpro: They dominate thigh and waist bags. With a budget from €12 to €35, you can buy an exceptionally honest Cordura bag that will keep your waist well covered for years.

✅ Pro-Tips Safety for the end:

• The golden rule of packing: The heaviest items (e.g. laptop, books, tools) should always be placed in the inner compartment that rests against your back and as low as possible toward the pelvis. If the weight leans outward, it will affect your balance in turns.
• NEVER loose hard objects: Do not throw disc locks, tools, or glass bottles into the backpack without protective padding. In a possible (even low-speed) fall, a hard metal object can cause a very serious spinal injury.
• Adjust the straps in riding position: Do not adjust the bag straps while standing in front of your home mirror. Put on your motorcycle jacket, sit on the seat, hold the handlebars in your natural riding position, and then tighten the chest and waist straps.

Have safe, dry, and secure rides!