You may have the best bike and all the latest kit, but if you don’t have somewhere to store the essentials, you could find yourself stranded in the middle of a ride. Thankfully there’s a very simple solution for that: grab yourself one of the best saddle bags for cycling so you can keep those must-have spares and tools close by.
From quick local jaunts to more ambitious days out on the bike, having space to store an inner tube, patch kit, tyre levers and some form of inflator (mini pump or CO2) is a must. And sure, you may have ample pocket space, but a saddle bag that tucks neatly out of the way is a much better option.
Like any piece of cycling gear, saddle bags come in all shapes and sizes. There’s something to suit every need, whether you prefer a minimalist design to store just the essentials – an inner tube, CO2 kit and tyre levers – or need a little extra room for a multitool, tubeless plugs and emergency snacks.
If you’re after more substantial storage for multi-day adventures, check out our guide to the best bikepacking bags. For this round-up, we’re focusing on compact saddle bags perfect for day-to-day rides and keeping the small essentials easily to hand.
Here are our recommendations for the best saddle bags for cycling, handpicked by the Cyclist team.
Cyclist’s pick of the best saddle bags
- Zefal Z Road Pack
- Birzman Roadster E
- Fizik Saddle Bag
- Restrap Tool Pouch
- Silca Mattone
- Altura Nightvision Saddlebag
- Castelli Undersaddle Mini
- Brooks Scape Saddle Pocket Bag
- Topeak Elementa
- Wizard Works Teeny Houdini
- Wizard Works Mag-Neato Tool Roll
Related questions you can explore with Ask Cyclist, our new AI search engine.
Why can you trust our advice?
Whether it’s for quick commutes or all-day road rides, having the right saddle bag can make all the difference when you find yourself with a mechanical. At Cyclist, we’ve tested a wide variety of saddle bags across all types of conditions to narrow the options down to those that meet the demands of real-world cycling.
With years of combined experience, our team has tried everything from ultra-compact options coveted by the most minimalist riders to roomier bags that can carry more on longer outings. We’ve based our recommendations on both performance and practicality, so you can trust that each bag listed here has been vetted by the team.
Best saddle bags reviewed 2025
Zefal Z Road Pack
£24.00 | View offer
- Compact and minimalistic design with 0.35L capacity.
- Hook-and-loop strap attachment, with internal divider to protect against abrasion.
- Fits an inner tube, CO2 cartridge and tyre levers, with an elastic strap to prevent rattling.
The Zefal Z Road Pack is a compact and smartly designed saddle bag with a 0.35L capacity that fits snugly under a saddle with its wide, secure hook-and-loop strap. Although you’ll need to remove it from the saddle rails for full access, the interior is thoughtfully arranged with a space divider to organise its contents and prevent any damage to the inner tube. It comfortably fits an inner tube, two tyre levers, and a 16g CO2 cartridge, and there’s potential to add a multitool as well, but it may be tight unless it’s particularly small.
Inside, there’s an elasticated strap that secures smaller items in place, keeping them from rattling while riding. With a weight of 81g, the bag is near the upper end of the weight spectrum among the group of bags tested, though it’s still pretty lightweight in the grand scheme of things. There’s a reflective logo on the underside, angled for rear visibility, which adds a touch of safety on dimly lit roads. When open, it lays flat, providing easy access to everything inside, and making it simple to pack and unpack quickly.
Verdict: Small, secure, and easy to organise, the Z Road Pack can carry the essentials without extra bulk.
Birzman Roadster E
£21.99 | View offer
- Slim, compact design with a 0.4L capacity and outer-end zip for easy access on the bike.
- Velcro strap attachment keeps it secure under the saddle.
- Fits an inner tube, mini pump, multitool, and other small items like tubeless plugs and tyre levers.
The Birzman Roadster E is a sleek, unobtrusive saddle bag with a 0.4L capacity that makes optimal use of space. Despite its compact design it fits a surprising amount, including an inner tube, two tyre levers, multitool, Dynaplug, and a mini pump. Its long Velcro strap loops securely around the saddle rails, with an additional seatpost strap to keep it firmly in place.
The outer-end zipper opening offers easy access to contents without removing it from the bike, while the pliable fabric lets you cinch everything tight when packing light, to reduce any rattling. It’s really lightweight at just 41g, half of what the Zefal weighs. It also features a fully reflective rear panel and logos on each side, meaning you’ll be visible from all angles. If you’re looking for decent storage space with minimal bulk and easy access, the Roadster E is a great choice.
Verdict: Spacious and lightweight with easy access on the bike, the Roadster E carries a lot while maintaining a slim profile.
Fizik Saddle Bag
£24.99 | View offer
- Compact and sleek design with 0.4L storage capacity.
- Wide velcro attachment and a water-repellent zip closure for security.
- Holds an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, and CO2 kit.
The Fizik Saddle Bag is compact and durable, made from PU-coated polyester and providing 0.4L of storage capacity. It’s sealed with a water-repellent zip to keep your essentials dry, and does a great job of keeping moisture out in light showers. Weighing 67g, it sits firmly in the middle of the weight spectrum compared to other bags on test, and can happily store an inner tube, multitool, two tyre levers and a 16g CO2 cartridge kit.
Similarly to the Zefal, it attaches securely to saddle rails with a wide hook-and-loop strap, and can also be mounted to other parts of the bike frame if preferred. A small mesh pocket inside offers space for patches, although it may be too snug for larger items, and its reflective rear logo helps to keep you visible to rear traffic in low-light conditions. For full access, you need to remove it from the bike, which can be a pain, and the zip placement means that the bag can’t lay open on its own. This does mean it’s less easy to access quickly, but it also keeps your belongings from accidentally falling out.
Verdict: A smart, compact and durable saddle bag with a weather-resistant design.
Restrap Tool Pouch
£32.99 | View offer
- Spacious 0.6L capacity with a secure Velcro flap and buckle attachment.
- Internal mesh pocket for organising your belongings, plus reflective stitching for visibility.
- Fits an inner tube, multitool, CO2, tyre levers and a snack bar.
With a generous 0.6L capacity, the Restrap Tool Pouch offers ample storage for essentials like an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, CO2 cartridge and even a snack bar if you need emergency fuel on hand. Its roomy interior can be well-organised, thanks to a large internal mesh pocket that prevents smaller items from rattling around while you’re riding. It’s also available in black and green, though the vibrant orange colourway stands out in daylight and looks really good. Meanwhile, reflective stitching along the Velcro strap helps you to be more visible in low light.
Constructed from 1000D textured nylon with a foam-cushioned lining, it feels robust and has proven to be water-resistant enough to handle light rain, though the flap closure can allow moisture in during heavy downpours, so be careful. The Velcro-and-buckle attachment system secures it well to the saddle rails, and you’ll need to remove it to access its contents. Once off, the pouch opens flat, giving easy access for packing or sorting. Weighing in at 74g, it’s on the heavier side but feels solid and durable, making it a quality, handmade option.
Verdict: Sturdy, spacious, and handmade from durable fabric, the Restrap Tool Pouch offers ample storage and visibility.
Silca Mattone
£50.00 | View offer
- A smart, minimalistic design with 0.4L capacity.
- BOA dial closure and Hypalon strap attachment.
- Roomy enough for an inner tube, multitool, and CO2 kit, with internal pockets to prevent rattling.
The Silca Mattone is a slick, compact bag with the refined aesthetic that the brand is known for. With a 0.4L capacity, it has room for an inner tube, multitool, two tyre levers, and a 16g CO2 kit. Inside, there are two compartments to keep smaller items from rattling around and potentially damaging the inner tube. It attaches via a wide hook-and-loop Hypalon strap, and the whole thing feels really sturdy and durable. However, the BOA dial, while great for securely fastening and quick access, can be tricky to loop over the saddle rails, so that’s something to consider. This setup might require a bit of patience, as you have to remove it to access the contents.
The placement of the zip underneath the bag might feel unintuitive for some, but once you’re used to the closure system, everything stays snug. With the welded seams and sealed YKK zipper, the bag does a good job of keeping water out in most rain showers. Reflective logos on the underside and on the strap add a bit of visibility for riding after dark. At 84g it sits on the heavier end of the scale, but it’s a robust and premium product that looks and feels really good, with a BOA dial closure system that makes it stand out.
Verdict: A sleek, compact bag that feels premium built and comes with a BOA dial closure, though it's slightly fiddly to use.
Altura Nightvision Saddlebag
£20.00 | View offer
- Reflective details and light loop make it ideal for visibility in low-light conditions.
- Offers easy access via a rear zipper, without needing to detach it from the bike.
- 0.6L capacity comfortably stores an inner tube, mini pump and multitool, with added internal pocket for smaller items.
Designed for night rides, the Altura Nightvision Saddlebag features significant reflective details across the rear and sides for visibility at night time. Made from durable polyester, the bag has a water-resistant coating that handles light rain well, though the seams and zip aren’t 100% waterproof in heavy downpours.
Its 0.6L capacity is roomy enough for an inner tube, mini pump, multitool, and two tyre levers, while the rear zip panel allows you easy access to your belongings without having to remove the bag from the bike, making it ideal for quick stops. It secures to the saddle rails via two Hypalon Velcro straps, and has an additional strap to wrap around the seatpost, which helps it to stay in place even on rough terrain, like most of the UK’s potholed roads. Inside, a stretchy neoprene pocket in the flap helps to keep smaller items organised. Meanwhile, at 80g, it’s relatively light and robust, and perfect for long winter rides or after-dark commutes.
Verdict: Lots of visibility at night, and has generous amounts of space and easy access, making it a good option for urban cyclists.
Castelli Undersaddle Mini
£39.00 | View offer
- Ultra-compact design that weighs only 37g, perfect for minimalists and weight weenies.
- Deceptively spacious and fits an inner tube, multitool, CO2 kit, and tyre levers.
- Water-resistant zip closure and reflective branding on both sides.
The Castelli Undersaddle Mini is a super-compact saddle bag that punches well above its weight. It’s deceptively spacious despite its super-small appearance, and can cram in essentials like an inner tube, CO2 kit, two tyre levers and a multitool, all packed into a slim, aerodynamic shape. While it’s the tiniest saddle bag in this group at only 37g, it’s still really practical and especially well suited to minimalist riders.
The water-resistant zip closure wraps around one end, meaning you’ll need to remove the bag from the bike to access its contents, but this design also prevents it from splaying open, keeping everything inside secure. It’s attached with a long Velcro strap that loops through the saddle rails, like many other bags on this list, and fits securely without wobbling or rattling while you’re riding. Inside, there’s a small mesh pocket to help keep smaller items contained, though it’s very tight and probably only good for storing patches. On the outside it has reflective logos on each side and at the back, helping to keep you visible to traffic from various angles.
Verdict: A super-compact, lightweight saddle bag that’s surprisingly spacious, perfect for minimalists who only need to carry the essentials.
Brooks Scape Saddle Pocket Bag
£40.00 | View offer
- Durable Nylon with 0.7L capacity, reinforced for weather resistance.
- Adjustable Velcro strap attachment system for full control over bag placement.
- Spacious and easily fits an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers and CO2 kit.
The Brooks Scape Saddle Pocket Bag is a rugged and stylish option that feels as good as it looks, thanks to the durable nylon fabric reinforced with welded Hypalon panels on each side. It boasts solid, weather-resistant construction, with seams designed to hold up against rainy conditions. It comes with a 0.7L capacity, which easily fits an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, CO2 cartridge and a Dynaplug. The bag is attached via a wide Velcro strap, and comes with three loops to choose from, allowing you to adjust the fitment to suit your needs, whether you prefer to place it centrally under the saddle, or choose a more fore or aft position.
It does need to be removed from the bike in order to access its contents, and, much like other similarly designed bags on this list, it holds its shape whether open or closed, meaning it won’t lay open for easy access, but it does keep everything contained. Reflective branding on the rear provides some added visibility to rearward traffic, and although it’s on the mid-to-heavy side at 69g, its solid construction and classic look make it a really good quality option.
Verdict: A durable, weather-resistant saddle bag with ample storage and the classic Brooks styling.
Topeak Elementa
£20.00 | View offer
- Available in multiple size options (M size tested), offering up to 0.5L capacity.
- Unique Rail Wing System for secure attachment to saddle rails for extra stability.
- Fits an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, CO2 kit, and snack bar.
The Topeak Elementa Saddle Bag comes in three sizes – XS at 0.2L, Small at 0.3L, and Medium at 0.5L – so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. We tested the medium size and found it to be surprisingly spacious, fitting an inner tube, multitool, two tyre levers, Dynaplug, CO2 kit and even a snack bar. At just 50g on our scales, it’s on the lighter end of the spectrum, but still feels really durable. Constructed from 1000D polyester, it’s designed to withstand light rain, thanks to its water-repellent fabric and sealed zip.
One of its more innovative features is Topeak’s Rail Wing System, consisting of two extra Velcro straps that keep the bag stable while attached to the saddle rails. While we found it fiddly to set up at first, once it’s in place, the Rail Wing System does hold the bag firmly in place, making it a reliable option if you’re headed off-road or tackling varied road surface quality. The bag opens wide, allowing for full access to contents without needing to be removed from the bike, making it a really practical option. Meanwhile the reflective logo on the rear provides some peace of mind while riding after dark.
Verdict: Versatile and well-designed with multiple sizes and an innovative Rail Wing System for secure attachment off-road.
Wizard Works Teeny Houdini
£42.00 | View offer
- Handmade from durable Cordura fabric, with 0.4-0.5L capacity
- Fidlock magnetic buckle and flap design provides easy access with one-handed operation.
- Space enough to store an inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, and snack bar.
Handmade in London, the Wizard Works Teeny Houdini Saddle Bag is a charming and versatile pouch with a spacious 0.4-0.5L capacity. There’s room enough to store a mini pump, inner tube, multitool, tyre levers, and even some extra snacks, making it ideal for longer rides. Its durable Cordura outer fabric is water-resistant, though much like the Restrap, the flap closure design comes with some risk of water ingress in heavy rain, so it can’t be 100% waterproof. Still, it’s thoughtfully designed and can be easily accessed while attached to the saddle rails.
It uses a Fidlock magnetic buckle for quick, one-handed access to essentials, which feels really high quality and is satisfying to snap into place. The brand has recently introduced this colourway – Wiz Viz – that features a reflective dot pattern for discreet aesthetics by day, and high visibility by night. The main wraparound strap holds the bag securely to the saddle rails, while an optional additional strap can be fastened around the seatpost. At 71g, it’s not the lightest, but it’s stylish and practical, and sure to turn a few heads.
Verdict: Handmade and stylish with quick-access functionality, including a magnetic buckle for one-handed operation.
- Buy now from Wizard Works (£42)
Wizard Works Mag-Neato Tool Roll
£33.00 | View offer
- Durable 1000D Cordura fabric folding tool roll with four stretchy pockets for organising its contents.
- Holds an inner tube, tyre levers, multitool, and CO2 kit, and lays out flat when open for easy access.
- Fidlock magnetic buckle keeps it secure and offers one-handed operation.
Another entry for Wizard Works, the Mag-Neato Tool Roll shares many features with the Teeny Houdini listed above, like its durable Cordura fabric construction, Fidlock magnetic buckle that allows you to operate it one-handed, and choice of excellent colourways, including the new winter reflective Wiz Viz. Technically it’s a tool roll rather than a saddle bag, but we felt it deserved to be included, seeing as it’s attachable to the saddle rails like any of the other options listed here.
The Mag-Neato is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, given its fold-up design. It unfolds completely flat, revealing four stretch cordura pockets ideal for carrying an inner tube, tyre levers, multitool and CO2 kit, and can also fit a Dynaplug if you double up. The tool roll holds everything in place with zero chance of rattling, and makes for a satisfying way to store your tools. Weighing 84g, the Mag-Neato Tool Roll feels sturdy and solid, and looks excellent in the brand’s iconic Splatter colourway.
Verdict: A practical, well-organised tool roll that lays flat for easy access, ideal if you like to keep your tools separate and secure.
- Buy now from Wizard Works (£33)
How to choose the best saddle bag for you
Here are a few key things to consider when choosing the right saddle bag for your ride:
Size and capacity: Think about how much you need to carry. A smaller bag (around 0.3-0.4L) is great for the absolute essentials like a spare inner tube, tyre levers, and a mini pump or CO2 inflator. If you plan to go on longer rides, look for a slightly larger bag with a capacity over 0.5L that can fit extras like a second tube, snacks, or a multitool for on-the-fly adjustments.
Attachment system: Most saddle bags attach to the saddle rails via Velcro straps, buckles or in some cases, magnetic clips. Velcro is quick and simple, while clip-on systems tend to be more secure and streamlined. Many bags will combine the two. All the bags we’ve recommended in this list have proven to attach securely and not wobble or rattle around while riding.
Water resistance: If you’re riding year-round in the UK, you’re going to hit your fair share of rain showers, so it’s important to consider whether you need a saddle bag that’s water resistant. Sealed zips and seams are a good thing to look out for, and check for waterproof materials that will keep your essentials dry in a heavy downpour.
Durability: Saddle bags should be tough enough to withstand the elements and regular use. We recommend bags made from durable, abrasion-resistant materials like nylon, Cordura or polyester, ideally with reinforced stitching around the attachment points. Again, all the bags we’ve recommended are plenty durable and come with our stamp of approval.
Weight and aerodynamics: These saddle bags are naturally small, but some on this list are incredibly tiny. Casual riders probably won’t be too fussed about this, but if you’re racing, or you’re a proud weight weenie, then size, weight and aerodynamics could be worth considering. We’ve listed the weights of all the bags we recommend, so if saving some grams is important to you, it should be easy to pick out the lighter options on the list.
As for aerodynamics, generally all the saddle bags we’ve listed sit neatly beneath the saddle and behind the seatpost, so they’re unlikely to create a lot of drag. That said, some are definitely wider than others, so opt for a narrow model if being as aero as possible is important to you.
Internal organisation: While most saddlebags tend to comprise a single compartment, there are options that come with internal pockets or elasticated straps to hold things in place. These can be really handy for keeping small items like patches, keys or bank cards organised and easy to find, and prevent loose items from rattling around and driving you up the wall.
Reflective elements: If you’re riding in the dark, then reflective detailing or light loops can be invaluable in helping you stay visible on the roads.
What size saddle bag do I need?
Which size you go for depends on how much you plan to carry, which depends on the kind of ride you’re doing. If you’re just out on a quick jolly in the local area, you could get away with packing very light, whereas if you’re heading much further afield, you may want to carry some extra tools in case you have mechanical issues.
A small size saddle bag should be enough to fit an inner tube, some tyre levers, and a CO2 inflator. If you opt for a medium or large size saddle bag, then you’ve got the option to pack extras, like a mini pump, multi tool, a second spare inner tube, or emergency snacks. If you’re looking to pack larger stuff like extra layers, then you’d be better off with the other, larger kind of saddle bag, covered in our roundup of the best bikepacking bags.
