Pannier bags

Pannier bags for everyday use, commuting and bike touring

Whether you're commuting to work, shopping or heading out on a multi-day bike tour, pannier bags provide additional storage space directly on your bike. Depending on the model, VAUDE pannier bags offer space for a laptop, a change of clothes, food or travel gear. Options include single panniers, double panniers and bike bags with a backpack function.

Which pannier bag is right for your needs?

The right pannier bag depends on how much gear you want to carry and how you plan to use the bag away from your bike. For daily commuting, a single pannier with compartments for a laptop and documents is often a practical choice. For larger shopping trips or bike tours, double panniers and spacious single panniers provide more storage space.

Single panniers for commuting and everyday use

Single panniers attach to one side of the rear rack. They are suitable for commuting, smaller shopping trips and day rides. Depending on the model, they feature organiser compartments, a shoulder strap or a carrying handle. You can find information about capacity and internal organisation on the respective product page.

Double panniers for shopping and longer rides

Double panniers provide storage space on both sides of the rear rack. This makes them suitable for larger shopping trips, family outings or travel gear. Distributing the load as evenly as possible can help achieve balanced weight distribution on the bike.

Bike bag and backpack in one

Depending on the model, pannier bags with a backpack function can be attached to the bike and then carried on your back. They are particularly suitable for commuters who also want to use their bag on the way to the office, on public transport or while shopping. The product description specifies which carrying options and compartments are available for each model.

What size pannier bag do I need?

The capacity you need depends on how you plan to use the bag:

• Up to approx. 15 litres: for valuables, smaller shopping trips or short rides
• Approx. 15 to 25 litres: for commuting, a laptop, a change of clothes or day rides
• More than 25 litres: for larger shopping trips or multi-day bike tours

These capacities are intended as a guide. What matters is what you want to carry and whether you use one pannier or combine two bags.

Does every pannier bag fit every rear rack?

Not every bag is compatible with every rear rack. Pay attention to the attachment system, tube diameter and maximum load of the rack. Side rails can also be important to prevent the bag from coming into contact with the wheel or spokes. You can find information about compatibility and installation on the respective product page.

The VAUDE QMR attachment system

Many VAUDE pannier bags feature a QMR hook system. Depending on the model, it allows the bag to be attached to and removed from the rear rack and adjusted to different tube diameters. The product description specifies which QMR version is used and which racks it is suitable for.

Are VAUDE pannier bags waterproof?

Depending on the model, VAUDE pannier bags feature a waterproof construction, water-repellent materials or an additional rain cover. You can find out whether a particular bag is waterproof or water-repellent on the respective product page. When carrying a laptop, camera or documents, pay particular attention to the properties specified there.

What should you look for when buying a pannier bag?

In addition to capacity and the attachment system, internal organisation, closure and carrying options are important. Separate laptop and document compartments can be useful for commuting. On bike tours, roll closures and easily accessible compartments can make packing easier. Depending on the model, reflective elements can help make the bag more visible in the dark, but they do not replace the bicycle lighting required by law.

Why choose VAUDE pannier bags?

VAUDE develops pannier bags for a range of everyday and travel requirements. Depending on the model, they offer functional internal organisation, different attachment and carrying options, as well as repair solutions or available spare parts.

Many models feature a No PFAS Finish that allows water to bead off the outer material – without the intentional use of PFAS in the finish. Depending on the product, certified renewable or recycled materials are also used. Selected products meet the criteria of the Green Shape Standard. Information about the materials, features and standards applicable to a specific model can be found on the respective product page.

Frequently asked questions about pannier bags

Which is better: a single or double pannier?

A single pannier is often suitable for commuting, smaller shopping trips and day rides. A double pannier provides more storage space and can be useful for larger shopping trips or bike tours. The right option depends on the amount of gear, your bike and your tour.

Which pannier bag is suitable for commuting?

Single panniers or models with a backpack function are often suitable for commuting. Separate compartments for a laptop, documents and personal belongings can make organisation easier.

Can I use a pannier bag on an e-bike?

This depends on the rear rack and the specific bag model. Before purchasing, check the attachment system, tube diameter, side rails and maximum load of the rear rack.

How should I load pannier bags?

Heavy items should be packed as low and as close to the bike as possible. When using two bags, distributing the weight as evenly as possible is recommended. Also observe the maximum load of the rear rack and the specifications provided by the bicycle manufacturer.

How do I attach a VAUDE pannier bag?

Installation depends on the respective attachment system. Information about attachment, adjustment and compatibility can be found in the product description and the corresponding user manual.