Mountain bike backpacks in the test: 9 MTB backpacks for touring, trail & enduro
Stefan Frey
· 05.03.2026
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Ötzi was probably one of the first people to travel in the mountains with a rucksack. That was around 5000 years ago. He carried tools, food and equipment on a kind of wooden frame with a bag held on his back by leather straps.
When we mountain bikers roll over the trails of the Alps today, we stow our food, spare parts and tools in a bag held on our backs by shoulder straps. So we haven't come too far in the last 5000 years, have we?
Admittedly: Today's bike backpacks have little in common with the carrying frames of prehistoric man. Even the first real bike backpack - the Deuter Bike 1 from 1991 - and the nine daypacks we tested here are worlds apart.
The 9 mountain bike backpacks in the test
- Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 >> available here
- Deuter Compact 14+3 >> available here
- Evoc Stage 18 >> available here
- Osprey Raptor 14 >> available here
- Rockrider MTB 12 litre hydration pack >> available here
- Scott Trail Rocket 20 >> available here
- Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14 >> available here
- Thule Rail eMTB 18L >> available here
- Vaude Trailcontrol 20+ >> available here
Prefer airy or compact?
The most obvious difference is the carrying system: instead of leather straps and straps against the skin, there are mostly ergonomically shaped, softly padded shoulder straps. Pressure points or chafing are the absolute exception and often a question of correct adjustment.
Most manufacturers opt for a model with a so-called contact back in the test. Although little air circulates between the foam pads, the load is closer to the body - and bounces less when it gets down to business on the trail.
Tatonka is the only manufacturer to use a mesh system, giving the wearer a cooling advantage, especially on climbs. Vaude goes one step further: the Trailcontrol+ can be adjusted between mesh and contact back using a sophisticated system, thus combining the best of both worlds.
Why bike backpacks need fins
On most of the test candidates, wide hip fins enclose the wearer's torso and thus stabilise the load in the terrain - a development that we absolutely welcome.
If the fins are too small, as with Evoc and Thule, or missing completely, as with Tatonka, the rucksack slides back and forth on the hump like a nervous child in the dentist's chair.
In the worst case, it pushes itself up into the neck on steep descents. This may be acceptable on a leisurely hut tour with a gravel descent, but a no-go for real trail and enduro use.
How big is big enough?
The size of the rucksack depends very much on how much equipment you want to take with you on tour. Experience shows that the more space you have, the more unnecessary equipment you will find in the storage compartments. The motto is therefore: as big as necessary, as small as possible - this also benefits carrying comfort. Around 14 to 16 litres are ideal for a day trip, as we have put together for this test.
With Tatonka and Rockrider you should pack sparingly, especially if you also want a hydration bladder in your rucksack. Smaller people should also opt for smaller rucksacks. Not only because this means less weight on the back, but above all because the right length is decisive for whether the rucksack fits perfectly.
Tidiness is half the battle
You don't have to be a fanatic when it comes to organisation, but a certain amount of structure makes everyday touring much easier. A main compartment for rarely used items, a tool compartment with plenty of pockets and hip belt pockets for bars or mobile phones are ideal. In our opinion, a light-coloured lining for a better overview is a must, while a padded glasses compartment or an extra compartment for the hydration bladder is a "nice to have".
Dark compartments with overlapping compartments or pocket overkill like on the Rockrider are more likely to cause frustration than joy. With all the pockets and slip pockets, you end up not even knowing where you stowed the item you were looking for before the ride. And after all, we all want to enjoy the tour rather than searching for the proverbial needle in a haystack in the depths of our rucksack.
Know-how - what your rucksack should have & be able to do
Two shoulder straps on a bag and the rucksack is ready. But a good bike pack has to offer more: A touring rucksack should have these features.
1. backbone
Without a stable back plate, the rucksack bulges backwards and, in the worst case, objects press on the muscles - extremely uncomfortable in the long term.
2. ventilation
Sophisticated ventilation cools the back during the ride without compromising the secure fit. Stretched mesh systems provide particularly good ventilation.
3. wide hip wings
In technical terrain, the rucksack must sit firmly on the body. Good hip belts grip the biker like a pillion passenger on a motorbike.
4. organisational talent
It's not the number of compartments or pockets that matters, but how and where they are positioned. An extra compartment for tools is great, and a light-coloured lining also helps when searching.
5. compression
Backpacks are rarely fully loaded. To ensure that the load sits securely on the back, the compartments should be able to be compressed using lashing straps. These are also used to attach protectors and the like.
6. rain cover
Backpack materials are robust and weatherproof - but they are generally not waterproof. That's why a rain cover is part of the basic equipment and not just on the list of accessories.
Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 - Info & Price
- Price199,99 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 1182 gram / 235 gram hydration bladder
- Back systemContact back with structured padding, adjustable in length
- Equipment: hydration bladder, Recco system, Cordura fabric, adjustable back length, protector-compatible (49.99 euros), battery compartment, goggle compartment, magnetic clip for tube
- Hydration bladder: yes / 3 litres
- Volume measured / specified: 20,5 / 20 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20
Conclusion - Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20
Robust daypack for enduro and freeride use with plenty of features and well thought-out compartmentalisation. Even extensive equipment can be stored here in a sensible and organised way. Thanks to the length-adjustable back and the wide hip wings, the Camelbak sits as firmly on your back as a rodeo cowboy on a bull. No matter how bumpy the terrain - nothing wobbles here! Slight compromises have to be made in terms of weight and ventilation. No rain cover included, but the material is highly water-repellent.
Deuter Compact 14+3 - Info & Price
- Price: 120 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 902 gram
- Back systemContact back with textured upholstery
- EquipmentVolume expansion, smartphone compartment, rain cover, tool compartment, protector straps
- Hydration bladderno / 3 litres / 48 Euro
- Volume measured / specified: 20 / 14+3 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Deuter Compact 14+3
Conclusion - Deuter Compact 14+3
The lightweight Compact feels particularly comfortable on long mountain tours with relaxed trail or gravel descents. Thanks to the wide hip wings, it sits compactly and yet is surprisingly airy. Typical Deuter features: excellent workmanship and a clearly organised tool compartment that opens completely. Top features: volume expansion, rain cover and various accessory holders. The flexible fabric lacks some stability in rough terrain.
By the way: Anyone who values fair and sustainable products will now also find what they are looking for at Deuter. The Compact 14+3, for example, uses recycled materials, dispenses with the use of PFAS, is Green Button certified and produced according to bluesign criteria.
Evoc Stage 18 - Info & Price
- Price185 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 944 gram
- Back systemContact back, structured upholstery with mesh cover
- EquipmentRain cover, tool compartment, goggle compartment, stretch hip belt, retractable helmet holder
- Hydration bladderno / 3 litres / 47 Euro
- Volume measured / specified: 17 / 18 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Evoc Stage 18
Conclusion: Evoc Stage 18
The Evoc scores points with its well thought-out organisation and great handling - all compartments fold out completely. Top: extra hydration bladder compartment. However, the tool compartment is a little short. The back system provides good ventilation, but is inflexible and difficult to adjust to the bike position. In combination with the short hip wings, the Stage wobbles and slides downhill - unusual for an Evoc backpack. The Stage is therefore more suitable for moderate tours. If you are looking for a daypack for demanding terrain, the Munich-based company's Freeride or Trail Pro models are more suitable.
Osprey Raptor 14 - Info & Price
- Price175 Euro >> available here
- Weight885 grams (+162 grams hydration bladder)
- Back systemContact back with textured upholstery
- EquipmentMagnetic chest strap with tube clip, hydration bladder, tool roll, large pouch pocket, hip pockets, helmet clip
- Hydration bladderyes / 2.5 litres
- Volume measured / specified: 17 / 14 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Osprey Raptor 14
Conclusion: Osprey Raptor 14
Anatomical shoulder straps and wide hip fins ensure a secure fit and high wearing comfort, even when the going gets tough. However, the back system could be a little more stable and better ventilated. Unusual, but good: the lower tool compartment with tool roll lowers the centre of gravity and provides a clear overview in the event of a puncture. The pocket system is less intuitive than that of Deuter or Evoc, but still tidy. Large hip pockets and a drawer expand the storage space. The workmanship is excellent. Also available as a women's version under the name Raven 14.
Rockrider hydration pack MTB 12 L - Info & Price
- Price59,99 Euro >> available here
- Weight711 / 117 (hydration bladder) grams
- Back systemContact back with textured upholstery
- EquipmentRain cover, hydration bladder, tool compartment, shoulder strap pockets
- Hydration bladder: yes / 2 litres
- Volume measured / specified: 13 / 12 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Rockrider MTB 12 L hydration pack
Despite the numerous compartments and pockets, it is difficult to keep an overview in the Rockrider - also due to the black lining. The layout of the compartments is not very well thought out. At 12 litres, the storage space is limited. Thanks to the wide shoulder straps and hip wings, the MTB 12 sits firmly and wobble-free, even on technical descents, but does restrict mobility somewhat. The Rockrider lacks a real back system with a stable plate, which is why the back is somewhat unstable and bulges slightly. In addition, the backpack is rather flat and sweaty on the body.
Scott Trail Rocket 20 - Info & Price
- Price: 139,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight: 849 gram
- Back systemContact back, structured upholstery with mesh cover
- EquipmentRain cover, protector straps, full-face holder, battery compartment
- Hydration bladderno / 2 litres / 39,95 Euro
- Volume measured / specified: 18 / 20 litres
Review & Conclusion - Scott Trail Rocket 20
Conclusion: Scott Trail Rocket 20
The elongated Scott fits tall riders in particular and, thanks to its stable back system and wide hip wings, also sits firmly and securely in enduro use. The ventilation is good, but the organisation system is poor - there are no pockets or zipped compartments, so clutter is inevitable. The shoulder and hip straps are not very padded and can cause slight pressure points over time.
Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14 - Info & Price
- Price140 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 1006 gram
- Back systemstretched mesh back
- EquipmentRain cover, front drawer, full-face holder
- Hydration bladderno / not available
- Volume measured / specified: 13 / 14 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14
Conclusion: Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14
The Tatonka is a simple touring pack with a stretched back system that provides excellent ventilation, but is not very snug without hip wings and tends to sway, especially in technical terrain. Limited space, no optimal organisation and only half-opening compartments make handling difficult. The metal frame can pinch in the hip area. More suitable for smaller riders and relaxed touring. Optionally also available with 28 litres.
Thule Rail eMTB 18 - Info & Price
- Price: 229,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight951 grams (+145 / 159 grams protector / hydration bladder)
- Back systemContact back with textured upholstery
- Equipmenthydration bladder, back protector, battery compartment, tool compartment, full-face helmet holder, protector straps, rain cover
- Hydration bladderyes / 2.5 litres
- Volume measured / specified: 17 / 18 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Thule Rail eMTB 18L
Conclusion: Thule Rail eMTB 18L
The Rail eMTB 18L scores points with its independent organisation system and ample features including a back protector, hydration bladder, rain cover and battery compartment. Handling and overview are good, also because the main compartment opens wide enough and is lightly lined. The back system and padding are a little loose and don't fit the wearer perfectly, the short hip wings in combination with the narrow hip belt offer little support - not ideal for enduro missions. Properly ventilated, but the chest strap is awkward to adjust.
Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20 - Info & Price
- Price: 170 Euro
- Weight: 1202 gram
- Back systemAdjustable "on the fly" between contact and mesh backrest
- EquipmentAdjustable back length and ventilation, tool compartment, rain cover, protector straps, outer drawer
- Hydration bladderno / 3 litres / 46 Euro
- Volume measured / specified: 21,5 / 20 litres
Rating & Conclusion - Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20
Conclusion - Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20
The Vaude can be adjusted between contact and mesh back using a system of loops. This ensures top ventilation on the uphill and, in conjunction with the extended hip wings, a snug fit even on technical descents. Ergonomically shaped and adequately padded, it is also comfortable to wear. The compartments are well structured but darkly lined. Overall, the Trailcontrol is an excellent all-round backpack.
The alternatives to a mountain bike backpack
Bikers used to carry rucksacks, that's it. Today, there are numerous options for transporting tools and accessories. But not every solution is suitable for every purpose. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of the individual systems.
The hip bag - small and airy
A maximum volume of three to five litres - we can't recommend more storage space for trail use. Especially in combination with a hydration bladder, the hip bags tend to bounce. However, the Hip Bag is ideal for quick laps around the house or tours with shuttle support. The entire upper back remains free and you sweat less than with a rucksack. The shoulder area in particular remains much more flexible, which is a great advantage when riding on technical terrain.
+ light, airy feel, good freedom of movement at the back
- limited storage space, quickly overloaded with hydration bladder
The bikepacking bags - variable and backless
The handlebar bag, frame bag and saddle bag are ideal for long distances with less demanding terrain. Depending on the amount of luggage, the bags can be individually combined and adjusted in size. Advantage: The upper body remains free, does not have to carry a load and sweats less. However, even smaller bikepacking bags are less suitable for trail use because they have a negative impact on the feel of the bike - especially when fully loaded.
+ can be customised, airy driving experience, variable storage space
- not very suitable for trail use, expensive in combination
The rucksack waistcoat - lightweight and compact
Hydration waistcoats originally come from trail running and score points with their low weight and snug fit. The waistcoats fit close to the upper body and hardly wobble, even with a hydration bladder. The main compartment and pockets offer space for the most essential equipment, but are generally less well organised. In technical terrain, they can restrict mobility at the upper back. Without an elaborate ventilation system, the back can sometimes feel a little flat and sweaty, and the back can bulge if the pack is loaded incorrectly.
+ tight fit, low weight, suitable for hydration bladders
- limited storage space, somewhat confusing, sweaty on the back
Stefan Frey
Editor
