7 Best Backpacks for Motorcycle Passengers to Hold On Safely

I’ve spent years riding two-up with different passengers, and one question always comes up: what should they hold onto? While some riders prefer the traditional hug or prefer passengers to use the grab rails, I’ve found that wearing a backpack with a proper grab handle offers the perfect compromise. It gives my passenger something secure to grip without them having to wrap their arms around me the entire ride, making longer trips way more comfortable for everyone.

The challenge is finding a backpack that’s actually built for this purpose. Not every backpack can handle the constant pulling force, the weather exposure, and the need to stay stable at highway speeds. After testing dozens of options and riding with various passengers on everything from quick city runs to multi-day tours, I’ve narrowed down the backpacks that actually deliver on durability, comfort, and functionality.

1. Kriega R30 — Best Overall Passenger Backpack

The Kriega R30 has been my go-to recommendation for years, and for good reason. This 30-liter backpack features Kriega’s signature Quadloc harness system that distributes weight across your shoulders and chest, keeping the bag rock-solid even when a passenger is gripping the top handle. I’ve had passengers hold onto mine for 8-hour riding days, and the reinforced handle shows zero signs of wear.

What sets the Kriega R30 apart is its completely waterproof construction. The roll-top closure with RF-welded seams means I’ve ridden through torrential downpours without a single drop reaching my gear inside. The bag’s tapered design sits flush against my back, which prevents it from catching wind or throwing off my balance during aggressive cornering.

The top handle itself is built like a tank—thick webbing with bar-tack reinforcement at every stress point. My passenger can pull hard during acceleration or braking without the handle deforming. At around $230, it’s not cheap, but the lifetime warranty and bombproof construction make it worth every penny. If you’re serious about long motorcycle trips, this bag won’t let you down.

Key Features

The Quadloc harness is adjustable for riders from 5’4″ to 6’4″, and the bag includes multiple mounting points for Kriega’s modular accessories. I’ve attached extra pockets and even a hydration bladder using their system. The reflective details are subtle but effective for nighttime visibility.

2. OGIO No Drag Mach 5 — Best for Sport Bike Riders

If you ride a sport bike and tuck in frequently, the OGIO No Drag Mach 5 is engineered specifically for aerodynamics. I tested this 20-liter pack on my CBR during a track day where my girlfriend rode pillion for parade laps, and the bag’s sleek profile created noticeably less drag than my usual setup. The molded back panel channels airflow and prevents the bag from ballooning at speed.

The grab handle on the Mach 5 is positioned perfectly for passenger use—it sits high enough that even shorter passengers can reach it comfortably without straining. OGIO reinforced this handle with their proprietary webbing that feels slightly padded, which my passenger appreciated during longer highway stretches. The bag stays put thanks to a combination of sternum strap, waist belt, and compression straps.

Inside, you’ll find a dedicated laptop compartment that fits up to a 15-inch machine, making this ideal if you’re commuting or need to bring tech along. I’ve used this setup for work trips where I needed my laptop bag for motorcycle adventures, and the padded sleeve kept everything secure. At roughly $140, it’s a solid mid-range option that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Ventilation and Comfort

The mesh back panel actually works—I’ve worn this in 95°F heat and my back wasn’t a swamp by the time I arrived. The shoulder straps are wider than most backpacks, distributing pressure more evenly during extended rides.

3. Biltwell Exfil-115 — Best Budget-Friendly Option

Not everyone wants to drop $200+ on a backpack, and that’s where the Biltwell Exfil-115 comes in. I picked this up for around $100 as a backup bag and was genuinely surprised by its quality. The 28-liter capacity handles a full day’s worth of gear, and the water-resistant canvas construction has held up through multiple seasons of riding.

Biltwell reinforced the top haul handle with double stitching and thick nylon webbing. While it’s not quite as burly as the Kriega’s handle, it’s held up fine for my passenger over thousands of miles. The bag uses a simple top-loading design with a drawstring and fold-over flap secured by quick-release buckles—no fancy closures to fail.

What I appreciate about the Exfil-115 is its straightforward design. There aren’t a million pockets to keep track of, just one main compartment and a few external attachment points. The shoulder straps are padded adequately, and there’s a removable waist belt that I actually use to keep the bag from shifting. For riders on a budget who still want a passenger-friendly carry option, this delivers solid value.

Durability Concerns

The canvas will show wear faster than fully waterproof materials, and you’ll want to treat it with a water-repellent spray for better rain protection. I’ve noticed some fraying on the bottom corners after a year of regular use, but nothing structural.

4. Alpinestars Tech Aero Backpack — Best for Hot Weather Riding

Summer riding with a passenger means both of you are dealing with heat, and the Alpinestars Tech Aero addresses this head-on. This 25-liter backpack features an open mesh back panel with a suspended harness system that creates actual airflow between the bag and your back. I’ve used this extensively during Arizona summers, and the ventilation is legitimately impressive.

The grab handle is integrated into the top of the bag with reinforced stitching that extends down into the bag’s structure for added strength. Alpinestars designed this for motorcycle use specifically, so every stress point is overbuilt. My passenger found the handle easy to grip even with gloves on, and the bag never shifted or pulled awkwardly during spirited riding.

The Tech Aero includes a removable rain cover stored in a bottom pocket, which I’ve used more times than I’d like to admit when afternoon storms rolled in. The main compartment opens clamshell-style, making it easy to access gear without dumping everything out. Internal organization includes a laptop sleeve and multiple mesh pockets. At around $170, it’s positioned between budget and premium options.

Reflective Safety Features

Alpinestars added reflective piping across the shoulder straps and back panel. During night rides, this extra visibility is reassuring, especially when my passenger is holding the bag and their body position makes them less visible to traffic behind us.

5. Mosko Moto Backcountry 35L — Best for Adventure Touring

When I’m heading off-pavement or embarking on multi-day adventure tours with a passenger, the Mosko Moto Backcountry 35L is what I reach for. This pack is built for abuse—I’ve dropped it, dragged it through mud, and stuffed it far beyond its rated capacity, and it still looks ready for more. The 35-liter main compartment swallows an impressive amount of gear.

Mosko Moto reinforced every handle on this bag, not just the top grab handle. There are side handles, bottom handles, and multiple lash points for attaching extra gear. My passenger can grab the top handle from various angles depending on riding position, which is helpful during technical off-road sections where body position changes frequently.

The waterproofing is absolutely bomber—fully welded seams and a roll-top closure with a waterproof zipper on the front access pocket. I’ve ridden through river crossings where water splashed over my shoulders, and everything inside stayed bone dry. The bag’s mounting system includes both backpack straps and the ability to convert to pannier-style mounting, though I primarily use it as a backpack. At $360, it’s expensive, but adventure riders will appreciate the overbuilt nature. This is the kind of bag you’ll use for the best motorcycle bag for long trips.

Modular Expansion

Mosko’s system allows you to attach additional pockets and bags using their proprietary mounting points. I’ve added a 5L accessory pocket for quick-access items like snacks and a first aid kit, keeping the main compartment organized.

6. REV’IT! Connecter Backpack — Best Integrated Storage Solution

REV’IT! took a different approach with the Connecter Backpack by designing it to zip directly into their riding jackets, but it works brilliantly as a standalone bag too. I tested this 18-liter pack with several passengers who appreciated how the bag’s low-profile design doesn’t push them too far back on the pillion seat. The shape is optimized to sit higher on the back, keeping weight centered.

The grab handle on the Connecter is rubber-coated, which gives passengers a more comfortable grip compared to bare webbing. After several hours of riding, my passenger mentioned that their hands weren’t as fatigued as with other bags. The bag includes a rain cover and is made from weather-resistant materials with taped seams for added protection.

What makes this bag interesting is the laptop compartment with TSA-friendly opening, which means I can go through airport security without completely unpacking. I’ve used this for fly-and-ride trips where I needed to bring electronics along. The price sits around $180, and build quality is excellent—REV’IT! is known for durability, and this bag maintains that reputation.

Jacket Integration Feature

If you own a compatible REV’IT! jacket, the bag zips in securely and becomes virtually one piece with your jacket. The weight distribution improves significantly in this configuration, though I use it successfully as a regular backpack 90% of the time.

7. SW-MOTECH Legend Gear Backpack LR2 — Best Value for Features

The SW-MOTECH Legend Gear LR2 might be the most underrated backpack on this list. This German-made 24-liter pack combines premium features with a reasonable $150 price point. The waterproof construction uses a roll-top design with welded seams, and I’ve tested its claims in serious rain with zero leaks. The materials feel substantial without being overly heavy.

SW-MOTECH reinforced the top carry handle with thick padding and multiple bar-tack stitching points. My passenger has used this handle extensively, and it shows no signs of stress or deformation. The bag includes both chest and waist straps with quick-release buckles, making it easy to secure properly before each ride. The waist strap particularly helps with stability during aggressive riding.

Inside, you’ll find a floating laptop sleeve that protects up to a 15-inch computer, plus several organizational pockets. The main compartment is just a big open space, which I prefer—easier to pack irregular items like camera gear or extra riding gear. External attachment points let you strap additional items to the outside, though I try to keep weight inside the bag for better balance.

One clever feature is the included rain cover that deploys from a dedicated pocket. Even though the bag is already waterproof, the cover adds an extra layer of security and protects zippers from direct water exposure. It’s a nice touch that shows SW-MOTECH understands real-world riding conditions.

Build Quality Notes

The zippers are YKK, which is always a good sign, and the buckles are high-quality plastic that hasn’t broken despite frequent use. The only minor complaint is that the shoulder straps could use slightly more padding for all-day comfort, but they’re adequate for most riding.

What to Consider When Choosing a Passenger Backpack

After riding with all these backpacks and different passengers, I’ve learned that certain features matter more than others. The most critical element is handle reinforcement—you need bar-tack stitching at minimum, ideally with the handle integrated into the bag’s structural seams. I’ve seen cheap backpacks fail catastrophically when the handle tore away mid-ride.

Stabilization is equally important. Even the best handle won’t help if the bag is swinging around or throwing off your balance. Look for backpacks with both chest and waist straps, and actually use them. I tighten these straps before every ride to keep the bag centered on my back. Compression straps also help prevent contents from shifting around during cornering.

Weather Protection Matters

I learned this lesson the hard way when a cheap backpack soaked through during an unexpected storm, ruining electronics inside. Fully waterproof bags are worth the premium if you ride year-round or can’t avoid rain. At minimum, get something water-resistant with a rain cover. If you’re carrying tech equipment like E-ZPass tags or electronics, waterproofing becomes even more critical.

Capacity Needs

For day rides and commuting, 20-25 liters is plenty. I use smaller bags for these situations because they’re lighter and less bulky. For weekend trips or touring, 30-40 liters gives you room for extra layers, rain gear, and supplies. Anything bigger than 40 liters starts affecting aerodynamics and can feel unwieldy at highway speeds.

Final Thoughts on Passenger Safety

While these backpacks provide excellent grab points for passengers, I always remind riders that backpacks shouldn’t be the only safety consideration. Your passenger still needs proper footwear, protective gear, and understanding of how to lean with you through turns. The backpack handle is a comfort feature that happens to work well for stability, but it doesn’t replace good riding technique.

I’ve found that passengers who use the backpack handle tend to grip less tightly than those hugging the rider directly, which actually helps with rider fatigue on longer trips. There’s less pulling on my shoulders and more distributed weight transfer. Just make sure your passenger knows to still use their legs to brace against the tank and footpegs—the handle supplements their position, it doesn’t define it.

Each of these seven backpacks has proven itself in real-world riding conditions with actual passengers. Whether you’re commuting daily, touring on weekends, or tackling adventure routes, there’s an option here that will serve you well. The investment in a quality backpack pays off in comfort, durability, and peace of mind knowing your passenger has something secure to hold onto.

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