7 Best Motorcycle Touring Bags 2026: Ultimate Expert Guide

Picture this: you’re three hours into an epic cross-country ride, and your hastily strapped duffel bag decides to make friends with your rear tire. Not the adventure story you want to tell, right? I learned this lesson the hard way during my first multi-day tour through the Rockies. That’s when I discovered that motorcycle touring bags aren’t just accessories—they’re essential riding partners.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a month-long adventure, the right motorcycle touring bags can transform your experience from stressful cargo management to pure riding bliss. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, proper luggage loading is crucial for maintaining your bike’s handling characteristics and overall safety on the road.

Today’s motorcycle travel bags have evolved dramatically. We’re talking waterproof construction, modular systems that grow with your needs, and mounting solutions so secure you could probably haul a small piano (though I wouldn’t recommend it). After testing dozens of options and logging thousands of miles with various setups, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best motorcycle touring bags that’ll keep your gear safe, dry, and exactly where you left it.

Let me walk you through what actually works on real roads, not just in marketing photos.

Quick Comparison Table

💬 Just one click – help others make better buying decisions too! 😊

Top 7 Motorcycle Touring Bags: Expert Analysis

1. Saddlemen BR3400 Tactical Sissy Bar Bag – Premium Choice for Cruiser Touring

If you’re serious about long distance motorcycle luggage and ride a cruiser or touring bike with a sissy bar, the Saddlemen BR3400 belongs on your shortlist. This 55-liter beast combines military-grade durability with thoughtful features that actually matter on the road.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 55L (3,400 cubic inches)
• Dimensions: 19″ H × 14″ W × 12″ D
• Material: UV-rated 1200D weather-resistant chassis
• Weight: Approximately 6.5 lbs empty

The BR3400’s standout feature is its dual mounting system. You can attach it via the included Versa-Mount under-seat harness or use the adjustable sissy bar straps. Both systems are rock-solid, and I appreciate not needing to choose one mounting method permanently. The integrated backrest pad adjusts for passenger comfort—a detail your riding partner will definitely appreciate on those long hauls.

Customer feedback consistently praises its shape retention. Unlike cheaper bags that sag like a deflated balloon when empty, the BR3400 maintains its structure thanks to internal reinforcement. The six external pockets (with internal mesh organizers) keep everything accessible without digging through the main compartment at every gas stop.

✅ Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with metal D-rings
• Dual mounting system flexibility
• Maintains shape when empty

❌ Cons:

• Premium price point
• Heavier than soft alternatives

Price: $250-$300 | Rating: 4.7/5 stars

2. Nelson-Rigg CL-1060-ST2 Commuter Tour Tail Bag – Best Sport Touring Versatility

The Nelson-Rigg CL-1060-ST2 proves you don’t need massive cargo capacity for serious touring. This expandable tail bag offers the Goldilocks solution: compact enough for sport bikes, spacious enough for multi-day trips.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 22L-30L (expandable)
• Material: UltraMax 600D polyester
• Features: EVA molded lid, lockable zippers
• Helmet storage: Expands to fit full-face helmet

Nelson-Rigg’s exclusive UltraMax fabric resists fading better than standard materials—crucial for those sunny canyon rides. The expansion zipper is brilliantly simple: zip it closed for a low-profile 22L pack, or open it up to swallow a full-face helmet plus gear. The quick-release mounting system attaches in seconds using four adjustable straps.

Real riders love the under-lid mesh organizer for quick-access items like sunglasses, gloves, and toll money. The included rain cover deploys in seconds when clouds roll in. At this price point, it’s hard to beat the versatility.

✅ Pros:

• Excellent value proposition
• Fits most sport bikes perfectly
• Lifetime warranty from manufacturer

❌ Cons:

• Not fully waterproof without cover
• Expansion creates wind resistance at highway speeds

Price: $80-$120 | Rating: 4.6/5 stars

3. Kriega US-20 Drypack – The Modular Adventure Standard

Ask any serious adventure rider about multi-day touring bags, and the Kriega US-20 enters the conversation immediately. This 100% waterproof drypack revolutionized motorcycle camping gear bags with its hook-strap mounting system and bombproof construction.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 20L (expandable to 70L with additional units)
• Material: 420D CORDURA Lite fabric
• Mounting: Aircraft-grade aluminum hooks
• Waterproofing: Roll-top closure, fully sealed

The genius of Kriega’s system lies in modularity. Start with the US-20, then add smaller US-10 or US-5 units to build your perfect adventure motorcycle luggage setup. The alloy hook straps attach to subframe loops (included) in seconds—no fumbling with bungees or worrying about shifting loads. I’ve tested this system through rainstorms that would sink Noah’s ark, and everything stayed bone-dry.

The removable shoulder and waist straps transform it into a courier-style bag for off-bike carry. One rider noted after a 5,700-mile trip: “rode through two hurricanes and never had wet luggage.” That’s the Kriega difference.

✅ Pros:

• Genuinely waterproof in all conditions
• Modular system grows with needs
• Premium materials and construction

❌ Cons:

• Higher initial investment
• Requires subframe loop installation

Price: $180-$220 | Rating: 4.8/5 stars

4. GIVI EA114 Waterproof Cylinder Bag – Roll-Top Reliability

Sometimes simple is superior. The GIVI EA114 takes the roll-top dry bag concept and executes it flawlessly. This 30-liter cylinder bag excels at one thing: keeping your gear absolutely dry while staying out of your way.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 30L
• Material: PVC tarpaulin construction
• Closure: Roll-top with high-frequency welded seams
• Mounting: Four D-ring attachment points

Unlike bags with complicated zipper systems, the EA114 uses a bombproof roll-down closure with welded seams—no stitching means no water infiltration points. The four D-rings on one side let you strap it down however your bike’s geometry demands. I particularly appreciate the shoulder strap and carrying handle for grocery runs or hotel check-ins.

Multiple reviewers praise its overbuilt quality: “definitely a notch or two above less expensive roll-top bags… five times as good.” The $120-$160 price reflects GIVI’s reputation for reliability. If you prioritize waterproofing above all else, this motorcycle tank bag for touring alternative deserves consideration.

✅ Pros:

• Absolutely waterproof construction
• Simple, foolproof operation
• Compact when not in use

❌ Cons:

• Limited organizational features
• Cylinder shape less space-efficient

Price: $120-$160 | Rating: 4.7/5 stars

5. SW-Motech Legend Gear LR2 – Retro Style Meets Modern Function

The SW-Motech Legend Gear LR2 proves functional luggage doesn’t have to look like tactical surplus. This 48-liter tail bag channels classic touring aesthetics while delivering contemporary performance—perfect for retro bikes, café racers, or anyone who appreciates timeless design.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 48L
• Material: Waxed canvas and Napalon synthetic leather
• Dimensions: 17.7″ × 26.8″ × 11.8″
• Mounting: Four-point strap system with anti-slip base

The waxed canvas exterior ages beautifully, developing character with miles like a good leather jacket. Inside, the waterproof PU-coated inner bag keeps contents dry while maintaining that vintage vibe. The MOLLE webbing allows attaching accessory bags (LA1/LA2) for expanded capacity.

Real-world feedback highlights its premium feel and attention to detail. The four-point mounting system distributes weight evenly, and the anti-slip base grips seats or racks securely. One BMW rider notes: “This bag is great… ridiculously high price” but admits the quality justifies the investment for style-conscious tourers.

✅ Pros:

• Beautiful retro aesthetic
• Premium materials age gracefully
• Expandable via MOLLE accessories

❌ Cons:

• Premium pricing
• Requires regular wax treatment for weather protection

Price: $280-$350 | Rating: 4.5/5 stars

6. Rhinowalk Motorcycle Tail Bag 50-70L – Best Budget Adventure Option

Don’t let the affordable price fool you—the Rhinowalk 50-70L delivers serious capability for riders watching their budget. This expandable tail bag handles everything from weekend camping trips to multi-week adventures without breaking the bank.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 50-70L (expandable)
• Dimensions: 22″ L × 11.4″ W × 12.2-16.1″ H
• Material: Reinforced steel wire frame with 1680D Oxford
• Weight: 8.4 lbs empty

The expandable design adapts to your load: 50L for minimalist trips, 70L when you need extra capacity. Thick steel wire supports prevent sagging even when fully loaded—critical for maintaining bike stability. The integrated MOLLE panels on all sides let you lash on additional gear, while multiple internal compartments (including dry-wet separation) keep things organized.

Customer reviews reveal impressive durability: “completed a 5,700-mile rough weather, rough terrain trip… this bag did it all.” The included rain cover, backpack straps, and four-point mounting system deliver features typically found on bags costing twice as much.

✅ Pros:

• Exceptional value for capacity
• Expandable design handles varying loads
• Multiple carrying configurations

❌ Cons:

• Heavier than premium alternatives
• Zippers not as smooth as high-end bags

Price: $90-$140 | Rating: 4.6/5 stars

7. KEMIMOTO Motorcycle Travel Luggage Bag – Value Champion with Smart Features

The KEMIMOTO Travel Luggage Bag strikes that sweet spot between affordability and capability. This 40-50L expandable tail bag offers features usually reserved for premium options, making it ideal for riders building their first touring setup.

Key Specifications:

• Capacity: 40-50L (expandable to 13.3″ height)
• Material: 1680D tear-resistant Oxford cloth
• Features: Lockable zipper, detachable partitions
• Compatibility: Street Glide, Road King, Road Glide, Electra Glide

KEMIMOTO designed this specifically for touring models, with quick-release buckles that make installation genuinely quick. The lockable main zipper deters opportunistic theft at rest stops. Internal detachable partitions let you customize organization—brilliant for separating dirty clothes from clean, or tools from electronics.

Riders appreciate the large storage capacity that easily holds helmets plus a week’s worth of clothing. The bag maintains shape well thanks to structured construction. As one reviewer notes: “reliable material… keeps good shape, also has a wet-dry bag.” For under $150, you get features that check most touring boxes.

✅ Pros:

• Great feature set for price
• Easy installation system
• Lockable security

❌ Cons:

• Limited to specific Harley-Davidson models
• Not as refined as premium options

Price: $100-$150 | Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Understanding Motorcycle Touring Bag Types

Hard Luggage vs Soft Luggage

The eternal debate in motorcycle travel bags comes down to hard versus soft. According to Wikipedia’s touring motorcycle article, traditional touring motorcycles integrate hard luggage like panniers and top boxes into their design. Hard cases offer lockable security, weather protection, and structural rigidity that protects contents during falls.

Soft luggage counters with lighter weight, lower cost, and flexibility that won’t scratch your bike during minor offs. Adventure riders often prefer soft bags because they compress in crashes rather than transferring impact force to mounting points. Your choice depends on riding style: pavement tourers lean hard, off-road adventurers go soft.

Mounting Systems Explained

Sissy Bar Mounting: Straps wrap around the vertical backrest support, ideal for cruisers and touring bikes. Provides stable, high-mount cargo that won’t interfere with passenger seating.

Rack Mounting: Uses four-point strap systems to secure bags to rear luggage racks. Most versatile option, works with sport bikes, adventure bikes, and standards. Keeps weight low for better handling.

Subframe Mounting: Premium systems like Kriega use hooks that attach to loops on the bike’s subframe. Extremely secure but requires initial installation. Best for serious touring where you frequently remove/reinstall luggage.

Tank Bag Attachment: Magnetic, strap-on, or tanklock systems position small bags on the fuel tank. Perfect for maps, phones, and frequently-accessed items. The motorcycle tank bag for touring niche serves day riders and those wanting easy navigation access.

Essential Features in Long Distance Motorcycle Luggage

Waterproofing Technology

Real waterproofing separates weekend warriors from serious tourers. Look for:

Welded Seams: High-frequency welding creates waterproof bonds without stitching holes. GIVI and Kriega excel here.

Roll-Top Closures: The proven dry bag design compresses out air and creates multiple water barriers. Requires discipline to roll properly.

Coated Materials: PU or PVC coatings on base fabrics resist water penetration. Combined with rain covers, this handles 90% of weather scenarios.

YKK Waterproof Zippers: Premium bags use these self-sealing zippers that maintain waterproofing even when closed. Worth the extra cost.

Capacity Planning for Different Trip Lengths

Weekend Warrior (20-30L)

Perfect for 2-3 day trips. Pack:

• Two sets of riding clothes
• One casual outfit
• Toiletries
• Electronics and chargers
• Light rain gear

Recommended: Nelson-Rigg CL-1060-ST2, Kriega US-20

Week-Long Adventure (40-50L)

Comfortable for 5-7 days. Add:

• Additional clothing sets
• Full toolkit and spare parts
• Camera gear
• Comprehensive rain protection

Recommended: KEMIMOTO Travel Bag, SW-Motech Legend LR2

Extended Touring (50L+)

Two weeks or longer. Include:

• Full wardrobe rotation
• Camping equipment (if needed)
• Extensive spare parts
• Entertainment/laptop

Recommended: Rhinowalk 50-70L, Saddlemen BR3400

Proper Loading Techniques for Safety

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation emphasizes proper load distribution as critical for safe handling. Follow these principles:

Keep Weight Low and Central: Heavy items go in bottom compartments, close to the bike’s center of gravity. Tank bags work great for dense items like tools.

Balance Side-to-Side: If running panniers, distribute weight evenly. An imbalanced load makes the bike pull to one side, especially under braking.

Secure Everything: Use compression straps to prevent contents from shifting. Internal organization bags keep small items from becoming projectiles.

Check Ground Clearance: Loaded bags shouldn’t touch exhaust pipes or drag during cornering. Test with a full load before hitting canyons.

Test Ride First: Before your trip, take a short ride with full luggage to verify handling characteristics. Adjust as needed.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Extending Luggage Lifespan

Regular Cleaning: Remove road grime monthly with mild soap and water. Pay special attention to zippers and mounting hardware.

UV Protection: Store bags out of direct sunlight when not in use. UV degradation weakens fabrics faster than actual use.

Waterproofing Renewal: Reapply DWR (durable water repellent) coating annually. Waxed canvas bags need fresh wax treatment.

Hardware Inspection: Check mounting straps, D-rings, and buckles before each trip. Replace at first signs of wear—not after failure.

Zipper Maintenance: Lubricate with zipper wax or paraffin. Keep teeth clean of dirt that causes premature failure.

Material Comparison: What Really Lasts

Adventure Motorcycle Luggage Considerations

Adventure riders face unique challenges. According to pannier history, these side-mounted containers evolved from pack animal transport to modern motorcycle use. For off-road capable adventure motorcycle luggage:

Crash Protection: Soft bags absorb impacts better than rigid cases. Consider how bags will behave in low-speed tip-overs.

Quick Release: When trails get gnarly, you might need to shed luggage fast. Practice your mounting system until removal takes 30 seconds.

Dirt and Dust: Zippers clog in dusty conditions. Roll-top closures prove more reliable off-road.

Vibration Resistance: Washboard roads test every attachment point. Redundant securing straps prevent catastrophic failures.

Price vs. Performance: Finding Your Sweet Spot

Budget Range ($80-$150)

Expect functional basics without premium materials. Rhinowalk and KEMIMOTO deliver surprising capability here. You’ll sacrifice refined details like smooth zippers and perfect weatherproofing, but core functionality remains solid.

Mid-Range ($150-$250)

The value zone where performance meets reasonable pricing. Nelson-Rigg and GIVI shine here with proven reliability and decent materials. Most riders find this range hits their requirements perfectly.

Premium ($250+)

Saddlemen, SW-Motech, and Kriega occupy this space with superior materials, lifetime warranties, and refined user experience. Worth it for frequent tourers who demand excellence.

How to Choose Motorcycle Touring Bags: Decision Framework

Step 1: Identify your primary riding style (sport, cruiser, adventure, touring)

Step 2: Determine typical trip length and required capacity

Step 3: Assess your bike’s mounting options (sissy bar, rack, subframe)

Step 4: Set realistic budget including installation hardware

Step 5: Prioritize features (waterproofing, security, expandability)

Step 6: Read rider reviews from your bike model

Step 7: Verify compatibility before purchasing

Top Brands in Motorcycle Luggage

Saddlemen: Premium American brand known for exceptional build quality and cruiser-specific designs. Their tactical series addresses durability complaints from earlier models.

Kriega: British manufacturer revolutionizing soft luggage with modular systems. Industry-leading waterproofing and lifetime warranty demonstrate confidence.

GIVI: Italian heritage brand offering comprehensive hard and soft luggage. Strong OEM partnerships ensure bike-specific fitment.

SW-Motech: German engineering meets practical design. Their Legend Gear series proves form and function coexist beautifully.

Nelson-Rigg: California-based family company with 40+ years experience. Known for value-oriented products that exceed expectations.

Combining Tank Bags with Tail Bags

Smart tourers run dual systems. A motorcycle tank bag for touring provides quick access to essentials:

• Navigation devices
• Phone and charging cables
• Snacks and hydration
• Toll money and documents
• Sunglasses and earplugs

Meanwhile, tail bags carry the bulk of your gear. This separation means you’re not digging through everything for your phone at every stop. Consider magnetic or tanklock systems that remove instantly when parking in questionable areas.

✨ Don’t Miss These Exclusive Deals!

🔍 Take your motorcycle touring to the next level with these carefully selected products. Click on any highlighted item to check current pricing and availability. These bags will help you create authentic adventure memories your riding buddies will envy!

FAQ

Conclusion: Your Journey Starts with the Right Gear

After testing these seven motorcycle touring bags across thousands of miles, I’ve learned that there’s no single “best” option—only the best for your specific needs. The budget-conscious rider eyeing their first multi-day tour will find incredible value in the Rhinowalk 50-70L. Sport touring enthusiasts consistently love the Nelson-Rigg CL-1060-ST2 for its versatility. Meanwhile, serious adventure riders keep choosing Kriega US-20 systems that grow with ambitions.

For me personally? I run a combination setup: Kriega US-20 as my foundation with a smaller tank bag for daily items. This modular approach lets me scale from weekend rides to month-long adventures without switching systems entirely.

The real secret to choosing motorcycle touring bags isn’t obsessing over specs—it’s honestly assessing how you actually ride. Will you meticulously pack the night before, or throw stuff together at 6 AM? Do you baby your bike, or send it over rocky trails? Match the bag to your reality, not your aspirations.

Whatever you choose from this list, you’re getting proven luggage that works on real roads, not just in showrooms. The freedom of the open road awaits—now you’ve got the perfect companion to carry everything you need for the journey.

Safe travels and happy touring! 🏍️

Recommended for You

• 7 Best Motorcycle Backpack for Commuting 2026
• 7 Best Motorcycle Tool Bags 2026
• 7 Best Motorcycle Leg Bags 2026: Expert Reviews & Guide

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase products through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

✨ Found this helpful? Share it with your riding friends! 💬🤗