Best cycling saddle bags 2025: On-bike storage for your tools and spares
Use one of the best cycling saddle bags to easily and safely transport your tools and spares on the bike
A flat tyre or mechanical issue can happen anytime—so it's always a good idea to carry spares and tools. There are several ways to store your spares, such as a saddle bag, frame bag, jersey pockets, or a storage bottle in a bottle cage.
I think a saddle bag is the best option. The best cycling saddle bags keep all your essential tools and spares neatly stored under your seat, look good, and stay securely attached to your bike. It's a comforting feeling knowing you are carrying exactly what you need to fix the usual roadside mechanicals and get yourself out of trouble. Choosing the right saddle bag is just one part of the equation; pair it with the best saddle for comfort and a reliable multi-tool for quick fixes, and you're ready for anything.
Ultimately, the best cycling saddle bag depends on your riding style. That's why I've tested a range of saddle bags and have come up with a solid selection which should feature something for every rider, whether you're looking for a smaller, neat unit or a large bag to carry the works in.
The Blackburn Grid saddlebag takes the top spot for me as my best overall option. I've used it for the Paris-Roubaix Challenge and my 311km epic in the Swiss mountains this summer. It's deceptively roomy which is why I rate it, but it still looks neat and tidy on the bike; another key concern for me.
Keep reading to see my pick of the best cycling saddle bags or head down to the bottom of the page for more advice and pictures on what to carry and how to choose the right saddlebag.
Quick list
The Blackburn Grid gets the nod as as best overall because it looks neat and tidy on the bike, but can crucially hold just that bit more than its rivals, which I've found valuable this year. The Velcro loop also fits aero seatposts which is handy these days.
The Silca Mattone seat pack is a premium cycling saddle bag that uses a BOA dial for retention. It's well-made and is deceptively roomy. The BOA dial and pack strap itself can be used separately.
The Elementa saddleback from Topeak is a compact, stylish saddlebag. It uses the Topeal Rail wing system which means it can stay mounted in place whilst you open it up and get your spares out.
The Topeak Aero Wedge Pack is something of a classic and you see it on plenty of bikes. The saddle bag itself is extendable meaning it's useful if you like to do longer trips or find what you carry changes from ride to ride.
The Lezyne M Caddy is a fully loaded saddlebag that comes with multi-tool, tyre levers, pre-glued patches, two CO2 cartridges and a CO2 inflator. If you are buying your first cycling saddle bag this will take care of a lot of the tool requirements you may have at first.
The Burrito Pack from Topeak takes the form of a fold-out tool roll. It would be at home on road, gravel or MTB and offers an alternate way to store and access your tools.
Last updated on 14th of February 2025
The guide was updated ensuring that all the saddle bags featured are current and available. "Buy if/Don't buy if" sections were added to offer pros and cons of each product. A "How to choose" section was also added to provide readers with more information helping them choose the right saddle bags for their needs.
Best cycling saddle bags available today
Best Overall
1. Blackburn Grid Seatbag
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You still want a neat yet spacious saddle bag: The Grid offers impressive capacity while maintaining a sleek, compact look. An excellent option for riders who need to carry extra spares without sacrificing style or space.
✅ You participate in longer events and require extra storage for convenience: This saddlebag comfortably fits all your essentials plus some extras like neoprene toe covers —without moving an inch, even on tougher terrains.
❌ You want the smallest possible bag: The Grid is compact, but if you’re after an ultra-minimalist saddlebag for just the bare essentials, this isn’t the best choice.
The Grid takes my best overall spot this year, primarily for its neat yet surprisingly roomy capacity.
I tested the size Medium and could fit everything I needed in well. There's also a small internal pocket for emergency money or patches which is useful. It's worth noting that the Velcro straps are not attached to the bag, so you'll need to ensure they don't come off at the side of the ride. On the plus side, this makes them replaceable if the Velcro wears out over time. Crucially, the seatpost strap is compatible with many aero seatposts which feature on lots of newer road bikes.
I rode the Paris-Roubaix challenge using this saddlebag and the Chasing Cancellara sportive and chose it because it's tough and a bit roomier but still looks compact and neat on a road bike. I fitted all my usual spares plus extras in and it didn't move an inch over 146km of rough cobblestones. You won't be disappointed if you go for one of these. During my 311km Swiss adventure, I was able to stash some neoprene toe covers in the bag as extra security for when it rained.
The bag is really sleek and has a quality construction. There's a lifetime guarantee, and it's constructed from 210T nylon ripstop material and uses nylon zipper pull loops which are easy to pull.
Premium option
2. Silca Mattone Seat Pack
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a luxury saddle bag, with a unique closure system: The Silca Mattone has a premium feel and features a high-end BOA closure that cinches the bag down securely while adding a sleek, techy look.
✅ You like a smaller, neater saddle bag: Its 0.4-litre capacity fits all your essentials in a stylish, compact design.
❌ You're looking for a budget-friendly saddlebag: The Silca Mattone is definitely a more premium option with high-end features. If you're on a budget, there's definitely more affordable alternatives available.
Silca is renowned for making high-end tools and accessories and its Mattone seat pack is in line with its other offerings. It's a stylish saddlebag and features a Silca logo on top and the side of the strap.
The Mattone is available in one single size which is listed as having a 0.4-litre capacity, Silca says it can hold a tube, tyre levers, CO2 regulator and canisters. That said, I found it offered more space than I expected and easily fit everything I needed. With official dimensions of 120mm x 85mm x 40mm, it's certainly roomier than the smallest saddlebags.
I have to be honest, before testing the saddlebag I thought the BOA closure system was a little silly. What's wrong with a strong velcro strap? However, the BOA seems to work well in use and cinches the tough Hypalon strap of the bag down tight. It also brings a premium, techy look to the table and if you want to pay top dollar for a saddlebag and treat yourself—why not?
The Mattone has a quality feel and as mentioned is stylish to boot, You can also use the strap with BOA on its own to maybe carry just a tube, pump and levers, giving you a bit more versatility.
The smallest
3. Topeak Elementa
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You don't need to carry lots of spares: While there are three size options, the Elementa is designed for riders who are packing light with only the essentials.
✅ You want a hassle-free attachment system: The Elementa's 'wing rail' Velcro design keeps the bag secure and firmly in place, allowing you to open it without removing it from the bike.
❌ You require a larger, more versatile saddlebag: While the Elementa has Velcro loops for CO2 canisters, it lacks the capacity to carry bulkier items or multiple spares.
If you are looking for a small saddlebag to carry the essentials but that doesn't size up too big, the Elementa is a solid choice. It comes in three size options but all are compact, neat and small.
I tested the green version of the bag which looks smart in a size small and it was still big enough for a butyl tube, comprehensive multi-tool, patches, CO2 inflator—everything I would normally carry.
The bag also uses what Topeak calls the 'wing rail' system, which is just extra velcro straps to go over the seat rails meaning the bag can stay in place whilst you open it and doesn't need to come off the bike, saving time and effort. There are also two external velcro loops for CO2 canisters or whatever extra spares you fancy.
The biggest
4. Topeak Aero Wedge seatpack
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You require a spacious saddlebag for extra gear: The Aero Wedge is one of the largest options available and therefore is a fantastic option for riders who want to pack more for longer rides or events.
✅ You want versatile mounting options: Available in both a Velcro and QuickClick version, the Aero Wedge gives you the choice between a traditional strap system or a convenient plastic clip mount.
❌ You have a smaller seatpost and want a perfect fit: The Velcro strap on the standard model can feel a bit short on a 27.2mm seatpost, so some riders may need to trim or shim it for a better fit.
❌ You don't have a lot of seatpost showing: The lower velcro strap sits quite low on the seatpost which may limit fitting on some bikes.
The Aero Wedge from Topeak is something of a classic and you often see them in bike shops or mounted underneath riders' saddles. It's one of the largest bags in the guide and is definitely worth considering if you're looking to pack more in.
It comes in four different size options and, unique to the saddlebags in this guide, the Aero Wedge can extend its overall length by a few centimetres with an additional built-in zippered section. A trump card if you're doing longer rides or events or just like to carry that little bit more in your bag.
I tested the regular velcro-mounted option, but Topeak also makes another version that mounts using a plastic clip that the brand calls the QuickClick system to the saddle rails. There is also a light clip on the front to mount a rear light and reflective band, as well as an internal mesh pocket for small items.
Mounting is done via a velcro seatpost strap and two buckled straps on either saddle rail. I found the velcro strap to come up a little short on a 27.2mm seatpost, trimming it or shimming it out would probably improve the fit.
Best value
5. Lezyne M - Caddy Co2 kit
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You're buying your first saddle bag: The M Caddy CO2 Kit comes pre-filled with CO2 cartridges, tyre levers, a multi-tool, and patches. You get a solid starter setup without having to purchase everything separately.
✅ You have an Aero or D-shaped seat post The bag fits well on larger seatposts, providing a more secure attachment compared to smaller, round 27.2mm posts
❌ You prefer to customise your own repair kit: If you've already got tools and spares then this pre-filled bag might not be the best option for you, unless you're looking to double up on equipment.
I think the Lezyne M Caddy CO2 Kit is an excellent choice if you're buying your first saddlebag and need essential tools and spares. A pre-filled saddlebag is a convenient solution that covers both your storage and spares needs in a single purchase.
The M Caddy CO2 comes with; a Twin Speed Drive CO2 Head, 2x 16g CO2 Cartridges, RAP II-6 Multi-Tool, Smart Kit pre-glued patches and double-ended tyre levers. Aside from a spare inner tube, which is easy to find, this kit provides a great foundation to get started or refresh your gear if you're looking for a new saddlebag. Lezyne also makes some other pre-filled seat bag options.
I did find it wasn't the tightest fit on my 27.2mm round seatpost, the Velcro straps could be better at securing the bag, but for aero or d-shaped seat posts that are a little larger, it will fit nicely.
Fold out tool roll
6. Topeak Burrito
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want something that looks unique: The Topeak Burrito's stylish, fold-up design stands out from the traditional zippered saddlebags.
✅ You need a bag that's easy to work out of or travel with: The bag has plenty of compartments and elastic holders to keep everything organised and accessible wherever you are.
❌ You're looking for a compact or aerodynamic saddlebag: Depending on what you're carrying, this bag can be on the bulkier side—not the best fit for riders looking for an aero-friendly option
Looking for something more unique from the standard zippered bag? I think the Burrito roll from Topeak is another saddlebag worth considering.
When unfolded there are three compartments to stow spares in one of which has internal elastic holders. It's nice to work out of at home or roadside should you need it. I particularly liked the two elastic straps at either end that help keep everything neat and organised.
Although it may appear a little bit bulkier on the bike, depending on what you pack, a well-organised setup will ensure a neat fold and a sleek, stylish bag. Construction feels quality and the material which Topeak says has a durable water-repellent and stain-resistant coating. Water just runs off the surface which is nice as this bag will suit gravel and MTB's too.
Also Consider
7. Pro Performance saddle bag
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You prioritise a small, stylish and functional saddle bag: The Pro Performance saddle bag looks sleek and has thoughtful design features like a rubber flap to protect your carbon seatpost from the strap buckle.
✅ You don't need to carry too many spares: The Pro Performance saddle bag is compact and has a handy mesh internal storage pocket too, perfect for carrying just the essentials.
❌ You have a wider, aero seatpost: The Velcro straps are strong and secure on standard seatposts but they may struggle to fit wider seatposts
I think the Pro Performance saddle bag is a quality bag that does a lot of things really well. It uses strong, sturdy velcro straps that aren't too long to affix to the seatpost and saddle rails. I also enjoyed some thoughtful design features such as the extra rubber flap to protect your carbon seatpost from the strap buckle.
You can also leave the bag in place and easily open it to access spares which is always useful thanks to its design. Like some of the other bags here, there's a mesh internal pocket and reflective panel on the rear.
I tested the Medium bag and found it to be big enough to fit my spares in whilst still looking stylish and fitting in visually on the bike. It's become one of my go-to bags and is one of the sleekest looking here.
8. Zefal Z Light Pack
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a large saddle bag with a more defined shape: The Zefal Z Light Pack features a built-in plastic insert for a sturdier, more robust build that also maximises storage space.
✅ You like to carry lots of spares: Its generous storage capacity is a fantastic option for riders who like to be safe and carry all their essentials plus more.
❌ You prioritise sleek aesthetics: If you're after a streamlined, less boxy design then the Zefal Z Light Pack might not be the best option for you
The Zefal Z light bag takes a slightly different approach in its design than most of the bags here. The main difference is that fact it uses a large, thin plastic insert inside to give shape to the bag. This makes it sturdier gives it shape when mounted on the bike, and probably maximises space a bit too.
The bag also uses one long velcro strap to go around both rails and under the bag. Unlike the Blackburn bag, the straps are sewn on so you don't have to worry about losing them.
I tested the Medium size again, and it's on the larger side for me. When mounted, it looks neat and boxy, sitting a bit higher than some bags, just behind the saddle, which makes it easy to access.
Speaking of access, the plastic insert extends to the rear flap which means when the bag is unzipped you do have to hold it open a bit to access spares, no big deal but just something to note. It might make life a bit trickier on a cold winter day with gloves on for instance. If you carry a lot regularly and want a bigger bag then the Zefal along with the Topeak Aero Wedge are probably the bags to look at.
9. Bontrager Pro Quick Cleat seat pack
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to swap saddle bags between bikes regularly: The Bontrager Pro features a saddle-mounted clamp system that lets you quickly transfer your pre-packed bag between different bikes.
✅You're happy to invest in a few other clamps: Of course, this system does mean you'll have to purchase additional clamps for each bike—it's a small price to pay for convenience and time saved when switching setups.
❌ You want your bag to sit a bit closer to the seatpost: The design prioritises convenience over a snug fit against the seatpost. If a tight, compact look is your preference then this might not be the best choice for you
The Bontrager Pro Quick Cleat seat pack provides a useful solution if you often swap saddle bags between different bikes, which can be a bit of a faff at times, and always seems to catch me out when I'm heading out of the door.
I tend to use the same saddle bag and swap between bikes, mainly because I have one packed exactly how I want it. The Bontrager system uses a saddle-mounted clamp that clips to the top of the saddle bag. If you purchase a few clamps and fit them to your bikes you can then effortlessly swap the saddle bag to the bike you need it on in seconds. I've found this to be a great timesaver when going from road to gravel bike for example.
There are two sizes of bags available 0.65 and 0.93 litres. I've tested the smaller of the two and can fit all my usual spares in easily. The bag itself is nicely made with a sealed zipper, grippy PU rubber centre section and nylon main body. There is also a small pocket inside and a loop at the rear to mount a light if you want to do that.
Bontrager states the saddle bag is compatible with carbon saddle rails, no tightening torque is given but use some common sense here, don't overtighten the clamp bolts or check with your saddle manufacturer if you aren't sure. I tightened my bag up until it wouldn't move on the rails and checked it after the first few rides.
How to choose
How much do you need to carry?
It's good to be prepared and self-sufficient. You won't make many friends on rides if you never turn up with any spares and expect other people to lend or give you theirs. My advice would be to first work out what you think you want to carry in your saddle bag, choose a bag that looks to be the right size in a style you like and go from there.
If you make sure you carry what you need to at the very least be able to resolve a puncture and make adjustments to your bike with some sort of multi-tool, then that's a good place to start. You can add to your kit from there as you collect spares or work out what works best for you.
As an example, I used to like to get away with the smallest possible saddle bag I could because I liked the look. I'd fit a tube, instant patches, a small tyre lever and perhaps a little multi-tool and that would be it. These days I like to go for a slightly bigger that holds a few more spares and gives a bit more security.
If you're going long, check out our guide to the best bikepacking bags for some high-volume options.
How do you want to store your tools?
Do you want a single compartment or would you prefer pockets to give a little more organisation? Most saddle bags have a zipped main compartment which may have some internal compartments. Alternatively, you could opt for a tool roll style which gives easy access to all your items but must be fully removed from the bike to use.
How do you want to attach the saddle bag to your bike?
Saddlebags use a variety of methods to attach to the saddle rails, whether it's velcro straps, Boa's, buckles or a proprietary mounting system. Velcro is most common although Boa's and buckles will provide a little more security but can be a bit fiddlier. Mounting systems usually offer a very secure fitment but often add weight and may not be compatible with your saddle rails.
What materials should I look for?
Most saddlebags will be made from a reasonably durable and water-resistant material like nylon or Codura. If you frequently ride in the wet then look for a saddle bag that states it's fully waterproof. Gravel or MTBing is a dirty business so avoid delicate zips or lots of velcro if you're frequently riding in muddy conditions.
Everything you need to know
Do I need a saddlebag?
A saddle bag certainly isn't necessary for cycling. It is however one of the most useful and popular accessories you can fit to your bike.
As mentioned in the introduction there are other ways to carry your spares. But it will only take one experience of being stranded on the side of the road with no way of riding your bike home or fixing it to make you wish you were carrying the relevant spares. A saddle bag is an easy way to ensure you have what you need to get you home.
If you don't have any spares or tools yet and want to get set up straight away then I'd recommend going for the Lezyne Caddy, it's a good starting point and you can go from there.
What do I carry in my saddlebag?
A well-maintained bike should behave out on the road. However, I always want to know that I have the right spares with me. I also don't want to carry a huge saddlebag as I'm not keen on the aesthetics so cap my spares at a certain point.
I choose to carry a small mini pump in my jersey pocket and keep everything else in my bag. In my own, I have:
- Inner tube, CO2 canisters, CO2 inflator, instant tube patches, multi-tool with a chain breaker, valve core tool, tyre levers, tyre boot in case my tyre rips badly, chain quick link.
Extra tips and tricks on what to carry
There are some handy, everyday items that are sometimes a good idea to put in your saddlebag if you have space that can help get you out of trouble.
- Spare cash, just in case.
- Contact lenses case filled with grease
- A few zip / cable ties
- Chain lubricant
- Latex gloves
- Electrical tape - wrap around pump or tyre levers
- Use sections of cut up old tyre as tyre boots to fit in your tyre in case you slash it.
Can you cut down on stuff?
Plenty of riders want to carry the smallest, lightweight bag and range of spares they can get away with and like lots of things, there are smaller, lighter-weight options you can go for.
There are options to reduce the size and weight of items you're carrying. Superlight and small inner tubes, referred to most commonly as TPU tubes these days are one of the biggest space savers in a saddle bag. They're a bit more expensive, but you're probably only ever going to need one or two and if you do have to use them, you can swap them back when you get home, particularly if you're running tubeless tyres.
Likewise, you can shed some weight by opting for a more compact multitool. The best bike multitools can pack a lot of tools into a compact device. It's worth doing an inventory of the bolts on your bike; there's no point in carrying a tool with Torx heads if you don't have any Torx bolts on your bike. Don't go too small though or you might not have enough leverage for some bolts.
Do you need a chain breaker on your tool? Chain problems are rare, so you might be prepared to risk not having one or if you usually ride with mates, you may only need one between you. Some seat packs have tyre levers built into them, so you may not need to carry separate items.
How do you want to attach your saddle bag to your bike?
Many saddlebags use basic velcro straps attached to your saddle. This is the lightest weight and arguably the most secure option - just make sure to watch where the loop goes around your seatpost and where the rough side of the hook and loop ends. If it's in a bad spot or peels up a bit you may wear a hole through your shorts, or an expensive carbon seatpost.
Of course, every brand in the bike industry is continually searching for a point of difference, and thus seat packs that use a bracket on the seat post or saddle rails also exist. These are often a bit heavier, and we have seen a few hit the eject button over rough sections of the road.
Often, they'll have a quick-release system though, making it easy to take your bag and its (often pricey) contents with you when you leave your bike. Get a second clip and you can quickly swap your bag between bikes.
Regardless of how they attach to your bike, most bags will utilise a zip to keep everything inside, while strap-on tool rolls may use buckles or even Boa dials.
How weather-proof do you want your bag to be?
With the best will in the world, sometimes water will just get into saddlebags over time. If you've been riding off-road or in the rain without full-length mudguards I'd recommend opening up your bag once you get home and checking things and or drying them iff.
Put key essentials in a plastic bag if you prefer and it never hurts to give metal tools a light spray with WD-40 or similar to keep rust at bay.
How we test
Testing is the backbone of the tech department at Cyclingnews and how we test is taken seriously, so read on to find out more.
I started by weighing and photographing each saddle bag as well as visually inspecting it for any defects or flaws.
I tested how easily and quickly each bag was to install underneath my saddle and then filled them with all of my usual spares, ensuring each bag had enough space to allow me to carry at a minimum all the spares I needed.
I tested each bag for at least several hours and regularly checked the mounting systems' effectiveness.
I also tested waterproofing by removing each bag after a wet ride and seeing how much water had made its way inside.
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Tom joined the Cyclingnews team in late 2022 as a tech writer. Despite having a degree in English Literature he has spent his entire working life in the cycling industry in one form or another. He has over 10 years of experience as a qualified mechanic, with the last five years before joining Cyclingnews being spent running an independent workshop. This means he is just as happy tinkering away in the garage as he is out on the road bike, and he isn’t afraid to pull a bike apart or get hands-on with it when testing to really see what it’s made of.
He has ridden and raced bikes from an early age up to a national level on the road and track, and has ridden and competed in most disciplines. He has a keen eye for pro-team tech and enjoys spotting new or interesting components in the wild. During his time at Cyclingnews, Tom has already interviewed some of the sport's biggest names including Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogačar and Alberto Contador. He's also covered various launches from brands such as Pinarello, Ridley, Specialized and more, tackled the Roubaix Challenge sportive aboard his own rim-brake Cannondale SuperSix Evo, tested over 20 aero helmets in the wind tunnel, and has created helpful in-depth buying advice relating to countless categories from torque wrenches to winter clothing.