Riding a bike is an excellent alternative to driving a motor vehicle for a number of reasons including personal well-being (great exercise!), community health (less traffic!), and the welfare of our planet (reduced emissions!).

Cycling has also become a popular alternative to using public transportation and ridesharing (Uber and Lyft) amid concerns about COVID-19.

If you, too, are interested in getting around by bike, you may be wondering how to carry your essentials. For example, how do you haul groceries home, bring your laptop and lunch to work, or even take your cat to the vet?

The good news is there are lots of options — read on to discover the best option for your needs.

Pannier

We’re giving the pannier the spotlight in this post because it’s an incredibly versatile option for carrying your things, with an extensive range of styles to choose from. It’s hands down the most popular choice among experienced bicycle commuters.

The pannier is a bag that attaches to a rear rack on your bike, securely hanging alongside the rear wheel. It’s roomy, stylish, and easy to pack … you can carry just about anything in a pannier!

Many cyclists opt for a pair of panniers which distributes weight more evenly and offers added storage. That said, even a single pannier keeps weight distributed more efficiently and allows for much easier steering than is the case with a heavy front basket or bag.

Fun fact: the word pannier derives from a Middle English borrowing of the Old French panier, meaning “bread basket.” (Electra Rattan Pannier Basket)

Some panniers are even designed with a rear trunk for optimal carrying capacity. Scroll down for more information on rear trunks.

Pannier styles range considerably to suit just about any situation or budget. From simple grocery bags to elaborate set ups with compartments designed to hold specific items such as laptops and other essentials, the ideal pannier is out there for you.

The Ortleib Back-Roller Classic (shown above in yellow-black) and Sport-Roller Classic panniers are a crew favorite. Also available in Ortleib’s High Visibility Line (HVL) in which the entire bodies of the bike bags are manufactured to reflect … — The Ortleib Back-Roller Classic (shown above in yellow-black) and Sport-Roller Classic panniers are a crew favorite. Also available in Ortleib’s High Visibility Line (HVL) in which the entire bodies of the bike bags are manufactured to reflect light.

As would be expected, panniers come in a wide variety of sizes and are constructed from a myriad of durable materials. For example, if you’re planning to use your bike as transportation during the rainy season, a waterproof pannier or one that comes with a built-in rain cover is clearly a must. For a romantic picnic at the beach, a rattan basket pannier perfectly serves mood and purpose.

Most panniers are designed to be easily removed once you arrive at your destination and park your bike. Some feature a haul handle or shoulder strap; others can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag.

Other features to look for in a pannier are reflective and hi-vis materials that increase visibility, quick release systems, and add-on accessories.

Tips for using panniers:

For best balance while riding, choose a pair of panniers and try to keep the weight even on both sides
Choose the appropriate size for what you’re using them for
Pack the heavier cargo at the bottom of the bag to keep your center of gravity low
Pack the items you need fast access to (such as rain jacket or wallet) at the top.

Bring your feathered friend or other small pal along for your two-wheeled ride with Electra’s Basil Pet Carrier.

Rear Rack

A rear rack can accommodate a number of storage/carrying alternatives. Your setup can be as simple as a crate, basket, tray or pet carrier secured to the rack with cargo netting or bungees. Of course, there are racks that securely accommodate a child seat, as well.

The next level up would be a crate, basket, tray or pet carrier designed to work specifically with a particular rack. This type of set up offers superior security and is designed with a quick release that makes it super easy to attach and remove.

The ultimate set up for getting around by bike is a rear trunk or trunk/panniers combo designed specifically for a specific rack with quick release and other convenient features.

A roomy front basket is just the thing for carrying your yoga props.

Front baskets, trays and bags

The Bontrager Interchange Handlebar Basket features mesh construction, a padded handle and easy installation/removal.

Front baskets, trays and bags are all great options for carrying lightweight items such as towels, snacks, and sunscreen for a morning at the beach.

You can choose from a wide range of styles and materials from the classic basket to a modern bag. There are styles that are secured to the bike in a more permanent manner (i.e. needing tools to remove) and others that feature a quick release to make it easy to attach and remove.

Keep in mind that the heavier the front load, the harder it is to steer your bike; opt for rear storage if you’re regularly carrying heavier loads.

The durable Bontrager Adventure Frame Bag is made with water resistant construction that’s ready to add versatility and adventure to your bike.

Frame, Handlebar and Seat Bags

The Bontrager Hilo Speed Box is one of our best selling frame packs.

Frame, handlebar and seat bags are usually used for bikepacking, but bicycle commuters and find them useful as well.

As their names suggest, these bags secure to the bike frame, handlebars, and back of the saddle.

Some of these bags are designed with a quick-release system, but most are secured by straps that take a little time to fuss with.

The OG way to schlep your things … a good ole backpack.

Backpack / Messenger Bag, Hip Pack, Hydration bags

When you need to bring just a few essentials, the Bontrager Rapid Pack does the trick.

Of course, there’s the OG method of schlepping your stuff: a backpack, messenger bag, or hip pack works just fine for the basics. Choose from a wide range of styles and sizes, with or without hydration bladders included.

The downside to carrying your stuff on your person is, well, you’re carrying it on your person. (Hello sweaty back or wonky balance.) The upside, though, is the sheer simplicity: get to where you’re going, hop off the bike, lock it up, and off you go.

Bontrager’s Integrated Tool Storage (BITS) is the easiest and cleanest way to carry a flat kit, and it tucks right into the in-frame storage of select Trek bikes.

Other handy accessories

Securely mount your phone to your handlebar or stem cap with the Delta Smartphone Holder and easily access apps and maps while riding.

Let’s not overlook some small but mighty storage accessories such as drink holders for that coffee on the go and phone/cycling commuter holders to track your ride or provide navigation.

For the smallest of essentials, consider a storage bottle designed to slip into the bottle cage on your bike frame. This is ideal for your flat repair kit, snacks, even an emergency rain poncho.

Similarly, some higher-end bikes now feature in-frame storage for these smaller items.

The Xtracycle Edgerunner Swoop electric cargo bike lets you carry virtually anything … only with superhuman strength.

bike Trailer / cargo bike

The Burley Travoy trailer is the perfect tool for nimbly hauling the day’s groceries, luggage, or gear by bike.

Finally, for the ultimate hauling capability, consider a bike trailer or even a cargo bike.

Trailers range from simple designs built for securely transporting your most precious cargo (kids and/or pets) to more elaborate set-ups constructed to accommodate specific styles of bags and boxes.

Cargo bikes come in both traditional and electric styles, and can “haul it all” including groceries, kids, sports equipment and more.

#GOBYBIKE

Now matter how you decide to schlep your stuff, now that you’re getting out by bike so much more, inspire a cultural movement by tagging a photo of your ride on social with #GoByBike. Plus, have some added fun by playing #GoByBike Bingo by downloading your free bingo card here!

“Carrying Your Stuff” is part of a series of blog posts designed to help you get the most out of riding a bike as an alternative to driving. Check out our first post “Route Planning” here, and stay tuned for posts on bicycling laws, safety, what to wear, and more.

Getting Around by Bike: Carrying Your Stuff