Other Storage Bags

Bikepacking bag makers offer many creative ways for storing gear beyond the standard options above. There are bags, pouches and cages that attach to just about any little nook on your bike. If you're struggling to pack a particular item or just need a little more storage space, search around for what's out there and you just might find the exact thing to solve all your storage troubles.

Common Additional Storage Options for Bikepacking

• Stem bags: These small pouches attach behind your handlebar, usually to the handlebar and/or stem with a couple hook-and-loop strips. Most bikepackers use one or more stem bags to keep small, frequently used items nearby. Things like snacks, water, a map, a phone or sunglasses are good items to stash in there. Some riders choose to keep their camera and extra lenses here.
• Top tube bags: Usually a tad bigger than stem bags, top tube bags attach to the top of your top tube, behind your head tube. There are also top tube bags that attach just in front of your seat post. Top tube bags are often the easiest bags to get in and out of while you're riding, so they're great for holding small items that you use frequently, like energy bars, sunscreen, lip balm and a phone. You might also keep a small multi-tool in here for quick repairs.
• Bottle cages: Standard bottle cages are key for carrying water while bikepacking. They attach to threaded fittings (a.k.a. braze-ons) on the seat tube and/or down tube on most bikes, giving you a place to put standard-size bike bottles. Some bikes designed specifically for bikepacking have braze-ons on the fork and/or underside of the down tube as well. These are nice to have if you plan on using a frame pack, which will likely interfere with standard bottle-cage braze-ons. If your bike doesn't have braze-ons on the fork or underside of the down tube, you can secure a cage with hose clamps from a hardware store.
• Cargo cages: These look a lot like bottle cages, but are designed to carry gear or larger water bottles instead of standard bike bottles. They are often meant to go on your bike's fork, but some can go on the down tube and/or seat tube. You'll want to check how the cage attaches and make sure it will work with your bike. Some cargo cages require a 3-hole mounting pattern, which you can find on some forks designed for bikepacking.
• Backpacks: Many bikepackers try to not wear a backpack because it can be cumbersome and tiring to have weight on your back while riding. But, for longer trips that require more food and gear, it can be unavoidable. If you do ride with a pack, try to keep it as light as possible. Some riders will only carry water in a pack with a hydration reservoir, making sipping while riding simple. If you stow other gear in there, try to put any lightweight, odd-shaped items that don't fit well in other places. As a general rule, use a lightweight hiking or biking pack that is 20-liters or smaller; anything bigger will likely be uncomfortable.