10 Best Motorcycle Backpacks

The best backpack for motorcycle riding keeps its load stable in a leaned-forward position, protects gear from changing weather and gives you a practical way to carry a helmet, laptop, clothing or hydration equipment. The right choice depends less on the largest capacity than on how the compartments, harness, weather protection and included helmet system match your ride. This shortlist covers dedicated helmet packs, hardshell designs, high-visibility commuter bags and tactical-style options for longer or more equipment-heavy trips.

I ranked these backpacks by motorcycle-specific usefulness first: harness stability, helmet handling, usable capacity, weather protection, organization, visibility and the practical tradeoffs of soft-shell versus hardshell construction. A USB port counts as an access point for the rider’s own power source, not as a built-in battery. Hydration compatibility is separated from bladder inclusion, and water-resistant fabric or a rain cover is not treated as equivalent to an immersion-rated waterproof compartment. Products with no documented helmet carrier are positioned for riders who prioritize general cargo or hydration rather than hands-free helmet transport.

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Top-rated Comparison

Our Top 10 Picks

2
KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L Motorcycle Backpack
Best high-capacity lightweight pick

KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L Motorcycle Backpack

For riders carrying a helmet, laptop and clothing who want unusually low listed weight, with less complete weather protection than a pack that includes a rain cover.

  • 40L capacity, a listed 15.6-inch laptop fit and a soft cotton-lined helmet compartment.
  • PVC-film-laminated fabric is described as water-resistant, while manufacturer information markets waterproofing without stating an immersion rating.
  • The listed 1.4-pound construction and sternum strap favor lighter commuting loads and highway stability.
9.3
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3
Hutigertech C050005302 30L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack
Best laptop-and-helmet commuter

Hutigertech C050005302 30L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack

For riders who need a large laptop compartment and a secured helmet carrier, with weather protection described broadly rather than supported by a specified rain-cover system.

  • The listing states room for a 17-inch laptop, full-face or modular helmet, riding jacket and personal gear.
  • Adjustable chest and waist straps are intended to keep the pack stable at speed, while the ventilated back panel supports extended wear.
  • Water-resistant high-density nylon, reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers are listed; no specific waterproof rating is provided.
9.1
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4
Rhinowalk YMJX2005BK Motorcycle Backpack
Best hydration-ready utility pack

Rhinowalk YMJX2005BK Motorcycle Backpack

For riders combining helmet transport, hydration and outdoor equipment, with the tradeoff of a listed 3.66-pound weight and a 14-inch laptop compartment that is smaller than several commuter-focused alternatives.

  • Helmet buckles, an attached rain cover, a water-bladder compartment for a stated 2L bladder and an opening for the drinking tube.
  • Includes a 14-inch laptop compartment, repair-tool organization and front MOLLE expansion.
  • The ventilated back system is substantial, but the listed weight makes it less appealing for minimalist daily commuting.
9.0
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5
Mardingtop M5962II 35L Tactical Backpack
Best for hydration and modular gear

Mardingtop M5962II 35L Tactical Backpack

For touring, camping and off-road riders who value a 2.5L hydration compartment and MOLLE attachment points, but not for buyers who require a documented helmet carrier.

  • Manufacturer information specifies a 2.5L hydration compartment; the bladder is not included.
  • 600D polyester, YKK buckles and zippers, MOLLE webbing and bottom compression straps support equipment-heavy use.
  • A stowable waist belt and chest strap improve load control, while the supplied variant is listed at 2.6 pounds.
8.9
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6
Goldfire HD01-HBP Motorcycle Backpack
Best expandable helmet carrier

Goldfire HD01-HBP Motorcycle Backpack

For riders who want a flexible helmet holder with reflective details and MOLLE attachment options, with less precise laptop and weather information than the leading commuter packs.

  • Expandable helmet carrier is designed to hold a full-size helmet and can be adjusted for off-bike carrying.
  • Reflective strips, a shoulder-strap whistle and MOLLE webbing add visibility and accessory-carry options.
  • High-density nylon is described as water-resistant and wear-resistant; the listing does not specify a rain cover or device-size limit.
8.8
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7
Sresk YK-HMBK-003 26L Motorcycle Backpack
Best compact convertible pack

Sresk YK-HMBK-003 26L Motorcycle Backpack

For shorter rides and riders who want a smaller pack that can hide its helmet straps, with less capacity and less clearly documented hydration or rain protection.

  • 26L capacity with a main compartment, multiple pockets and an expansion range described as 90 to 180 degrees.
  • Helmet-carry straps can be stored when not needed, allowing the bag to function as a conventional outdoor backpack.
  • USB access, reflective strips, an emergency whistle and chest support are included; the power source and hydration bladder are not identified as included.
8.7
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8
KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 22L Hardshell Backpack
Best aerodynamic hardshell

KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 22L Hardshell Backpack

For riders who prefer a structured shell that resists deformation and expands for helmet carry, with less flexible packing space and a smaller base capacity than soft-shell alternatives.

  • Streamlined hardshell construction is designed to reduce the pack’s tendency to catch wind while riding.
  • The expandable lower section creates additional room for a helmet, and the main compartment includes laptop organization.
  • Reflective strips improve visibility; the listing uses waterproof language but does not state a test standard or include a rain cover.
8.6
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9
JFG RACING Model 5 30L Hardshell Motorcycle Backpack
Best structured daily pack

JFG RACING Model 5 30L Hardshell Motorcycle Backpack

For riders who want a hard exterior, reflective details and organized storage for a smaller computer, with a documented 14-inch laptop compartment and less adaptable structure.

  • 30L hardshell design includes helmet storage, reflective patches and internal mesh organization.
  • The padded computer compartment is specified for a 14-inch device and can also carry tools, gloves or small electronics.
  • PVC and 1680D Oxford construction is listed, while waterproof wording is not accompanied by a stated rating or included cover.
8.5
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10
riderbag REFLEKTOR 35 Motorcycle Backpack
Best visibility-focused commuter

riderbag REFLEKTOR 35 Motorcycle Backpack

For city and bicycle-to-motorcycle commuters who prioritize high-visibility panels and a lightweight helmet net, with less defined heavy-weather and load-transfer protection.

  • Hi-vis reflective panels, a built-in helmet net and two side water pockets suit everyday commuting.
  • 35L capacity includes laptop and gear storage, ventilated back padding and adjustable straps.
  • Weather-resistant materials are listed, but the product does not document a dedicated rain cover, waist belt or exact laptop-size limit.
8.4
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Comparison Summary

The KEMIMOTO 37L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack is the strongest all-around choice because it combines a dedicated helmet compartment, rain cover, chest and waist support, USB access and stated 2L hydration compatibility. Its main tradeoff is weight: the listed 3.22-pound construction is heavier than several soft-shell alternatives, and the mobile power source is not included.

The KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L is the better choice when capacity and low listed weight matter most. It lists a 15.6-inch laptop compartment, helmet protection, a sternum strap and a 1.4-pound construction, but its shell is described as water-resistant and its waterproof marketing claim does not include an immersion rating or an included rain cover.

For more specialized needs, the Hutigertech 30L is a strong laptop-and-helmet commuter option, the Rhinowalk YMJX2005BK is well equipped for hydration and wet-weather riding, and the Mardingtop M5962II is the best fit for riders who want MOLLE expansion and a 2.5L hydration compartment rather than a documented helmet carrier.

Buying Guide

Sizing and Capacity

Motorcycle backpack capacity is useful only when the helmet system leaves enough room for the rest of your load. A 22L or 26L pack can suit short rides, light clothing and daily essentials, while 30L to 35L designs provide more room for a laptop, tools, a jacket and personal items. The 37L and 40L KEMIMOTO packs are better for commuting or touring loads, but a helmet still consumes meaningful space even when the advertised volume looks generous.

Check the actual helmet method before choosing by liters. The KEMIMOTO 37L, Hutigertech 30L, Rhinowalk and JFG RACING models identify dedicated helmet storage or attachment systems. The Mardingtop M5962II is better understood as a general cargo and hydration pack because a helmet carrier is not documented. Full-face, modular and dual-sport helmets vary in shell size, so a listing’s helmet claim should be confirmed against your exact helmet before purchase.

Feature Tradeoffs

Soft-shell packs are easier to compress around clothing and usually offer more flexible access. The KEMIMOTO 40L, Hutigertech, Goldfire, Sresk and riderbag designs are practical when the contents change from ride to ride. Hardshell models such as the KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 and JFG RACING Model 5 provide a more structured exterior and may resist deformation better, but they are less forgiving when fully packed and can feel bulkier off the bike. A hardshell backpack should not be treated as certified back armor.

Weather protection also varies. The KEMIMOTO 37L and Rhinowalk include rain covers, which add a useful layer during showers but require an extra step and do not make every zipper or seam permanently waterproof. The KEMIMOTO 40L uses water-resistant laminated fabric, while several other listings use water-resistant or waterproof marketing language without providing an immersion rating. For electronics, use a separate protective sleeve when the listing does not identify a sealed compartment.

Best For, Avoid If

Profile Recommended Product Why It Fits Avoid If
Urban commuter or weekend tourer carrying a helmet and electronics KEMIMOTO 37L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack The dedicated helmet compartment, rain cover, chest and waist support, USB access and stated 2L hydration compatibility cover the main needs of mixed-use riding. Avoid if you want the lightest possible bag or expect the USB system to include a power bank.
High-capacity commuter carrying a 15.6-inch laptop and clothing KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L Motorcycle Backpack The 40L layout, listed laptop fit, helmet compartment and 1.4-pound listed weight favor a large but comparatively light load. Avoid if you need a supplied rain cover or require a documented waterproof rating rather than water-resistant fabric.
Touring, camping or off-road rider carrying hydration and modular gear Mardingtop M5962II 35L Tactical Backpack The 2.5L hydration compartment, MOLLE webbing, compression straps and stowable waist belt support equipment-heavy outdoor use. Avoid if hands-free helmet storage is a primary requirement because a helmet carrier is not documented.
Commuter carrying a large laptop, full-face helmet and riding jacket Hutigertech C050005302 30L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack The listing identifies a 17-inch laptop compartment, helmet holder, chest and waist straps and a ventilated back panel. Avoid if you need a specified rain-cover system or an immersion-rated waterproof compartment.
Rider who prefers a structured, aerodynamic pack with expandable helmet space KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 22L Hardshell Backpack The hardshell, expandable lower section, laptop organization and reflective strips suit organized daily riding. Avoid if you need soft-sided flexibility, maximum base capacity or a documented rain cover.

Key Specs to Compare

Model Best documented use Key advantage Important limitation
KEMIMOTO 37L Commuting and touring Helmet compartment, rain cover, USB access, 2L bladder compatibility Heavy listed construction; power bank not included
KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L High-cargo commuting 40L capacity, 15.6-inch laptop fit, 1.4-pound listed weight Water-resistant shell and no listed rain cover
Hutigertech C050005302 30L Laptop and helmet carry 17-inch laptop claim, chest and waist straps No stated waterproof rating or cover
Rhinowalk YMJX2005BK Hydration and outdoor riding Rain cover, helmet buckles, 2L bladder compartment 3.66-pound listed weight
Mardingtop M5962II 35L Hydration and modular gear 2.5L bladder compartment and MOLLE Bladder excluded; helmet carrier not documented
Goldfire HD01-HBP Expandable helmet carry Helmet carrier, reflective strips, MOLLE No exact laptop size or rain-cover detail
Sresk YK-HMBK-003 26L Shorter rides Hideable helmet straps and compact capacity Less documented weather and hydration support
KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 22L Structured riding Hardshell, expandable helmet space, laptop compartment Smaller base capacity and no stated rain cover
JFG RACING Model 5 30L Structured daily carry Hardshell, helmet storage, 14-inch laptop compartment Less flexible than a soft-shell pack
riderbag REFLEKTOR 35 Low-light commuting Hi-vis panels and helmet net No exact laptop limit or waist-belt detail

Setup and Handling Considerations

Adjust the sternum strap and any waist or hip belt while wearing the jacket you normally ride in. The KEMIMOTO 37L, Hutigertech, Mardingtop and Sresk provide useful chest or waist adjustment for keeping the load from shifting. The riderbag relies more on shoulder straps and back padding, so it is better suited to moderate commuter loads than heavily packed touring gear.

Place dense items close to your back and keep loose accessories from occupying the helmet compartment. On packs with an external helmet net or buckles, check that the helmet does not interfere with your neck, mirrors or riding posture. USB-equipped models require your own power bank or other compatible power source; route the cable so it cannot snag on the handlebar or jacket.

Maintenance and Longevity

Use the fabric and closure system as the maintenance guide. After wet rides, open the main compartments and allow the pack and rain cover to dry fully before storage. Wipe road grime from zippers, reflective panels and helmet-contact areas rather than storing the bag damp. A soft cotton-lined helmet compartment, such as the one listed for the KEMIMOTO 40L, should be kept free of grit to reduce visor scratching.

Hardshell packs need checks around the shell, zipper tracks and attachment points after a fall or heavy impact. For MOLLE and external helmet systems, inspect stitching, buckles and compression straps when the pack is frequently loaded with tools or outdoor equipment. Do not assume a water-resistant fabric or rain cover protects electronics indefinitely in standing water.

Reliability Signals

Useful construction signals include reinforced stitching, durable zipper hardware, abrasion-resistant fabric, stable harness geometry and a clearly described helmet attachment system. The Mardingtop M5962II lists 600D polyester and YKK hardware; the Hutigertech listing identifies reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers; and the KEMIMOTO 40L identifies reinforced load-bearing areas and Oxford cloth. These details support a durability-oriented choice, but they do not establish a guaranteed service life.

Treat product claims according to their conditions. A rain cover is a separate protective layer, water-resistant fabric is not the same as a sealed waterproof compartment, and a USB port does not establish charging capacity. A listed laptop size is also a compartment claim, so compare it with your computer’s complete dimensions rather than relying on screen size alone.

How to Compare Reviews

When reading reviews for a specific model, separate comments about the exact size and variant from comments about similar-looking bags. Prioritize reports that identify the helmet type, whether the helmet is carried inside or externally, and whether the pack remains comfortable over a motorcycle jacket. For the KEMIMOTO 37L and Rhinowalk, look for practical comments about rain-cover coverage and helmet-buckle access. For the KEMIMOTO 40L and Hutigertech, check whether the stated laptop compartment leaves enough usable room for clothing after the helmet is packed.

Also look for conditions rather than broad praise. USB feedback is useful only when it explains the rider’s power bank and cable arrangement. Hydration feedback should identify the bladder size and whether the tube opening is convenient. A comment that a pack is comfortable when lightly loaded does not establish comfort with a full helmet, laptop and riding gear.

Common Mistakes

Do not choose by liter rating alone: helmet storage can consume much of the usable space. Do not assume a “waterproof” title means immersion protection when the listing provides no rating, and do not confuse an included rain cover with a permanently sealed bag. The KEMIMOTO 37L and Rhinowalk have a documented cover, while the KEMIMOTO 40L emphasizes water resistance instead.

Do not assume a USB port includes a battery. The KEMIMOTO 37L requires the rider’s own power source, and the same check is sensible for any pack whose listing does not explicitly include one. Do not buy the Mardingtop M5962II expecting a documented helmet carrier, and do not assume a 14-inch, 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptop claim guarantees room for a protective case. Finally, test the harness over your riding jacket and confirm that the packed helmet does not interfere with your neck or riding position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the USB port on a motorcycle backpack include a battery?

Usually it should be treated as a pass-through or charging interface unless the listing explicitly includes a battery. The KEMIMOTO 37L product information states that the mobile power supply is not included, so you must provide your own compatible power source.

Can these backpacks carry a full-face helmet and laptop at the same time?

Several are designed for that combination, including the KEMIMOTO 37L, KEMIMOTO 40L and Hutigertech 30L. Capacity remains limited after the helmet is packed, so compare your helmet shell size and laptop dimensions with the stated compartments rather than assuming the maximum liter rating leaves room for clothing.

Is a motorcycle backpack with a rain cover waterproof?

Not necessarily. A rain cover adds protection during showers, but it is not the same as an immersion rating or sealed construction. The KEMIMOTO 37L and Rhinowalk include rain covers, while the KEMIMOTO 40L is described as water-resistant and does not list a cover.

Which backpack is best for hydration?

The Mardingtop M5962II has the clearest hydration specification: a 2.5L compartment, with the bladder excluded. The Rhinowalk lists a compartment for a 2L bladder and a tube opening. Confirm the bladder’s dimensions and included contents before ordering.

Are hardshell motorcycle backpacks better than soft-shell packs?

They are better when you want a structured exterior and resistance to deformation, as with the KEMIMOTO STMFF1111-00501 and JFG RACING Model 5. Soft-shell packs are generally more flexible for clothing and changing loads. Neither construction should be treated as certified back protection unless the product explicitly states that certification.

Final Recommendation

The KEMIMOTO 37L Motorcycle Helmet Backpack is the best overall choice for most riders because it combines dedicated helmet storage, a rain cover, chest and waist support, USB access and stated 2L hydration compatibility. Choose the KEMIMOTO F1111-00602-BK 40L instead if your priority is maximum cargo room with a very low listed pack weight and a 15.6-inch laptop compartment. Choose the Mardingtop M5962II when hydration, MOLLE expansion and camping gear matter more than a documented helmet carrier.