Lugging your load

[Ganymede]

I can't tick any of the options... I use a clip-on briefcase-type arrangement for work stuff, and when going out shopping I bungee a cardboard box or large wicker basket (with handle) to the rack.

 

[slowmotion]

Always a backpack but looking to change to panniers soon.
Pannier aficionados what's best/to be avoided?

The best panniers are Ortlieb. I have some and they are completely waterproof and tough as old boots. Why buy some panniers that are almost waterproof? Plenty of people on this forum will tell you the same.

 

[IncoherentJeff]

Thanks Slowmotion, I'll research the Ortlieb range & see what suits

 

[classic33]

If we're including carry shopping then this, now with a flatbed on the back.

 

[slowmotion]

Thanks Slowmotion, I'll research the Ortlieb range & see what suits

They are not cheap, alas, but they really are worth every penny. You will not regret buying them. Plenty of people round here think so too.

 

[paul04]

I did use a rucksack for my commute to work for about a year. Now swapped to panniers, so much better. Wet weather gear in 1 side, work clothes in the other side.

 

[donnydave]

I also used to use a rucksack, sweaty back, achy neck now cured by going to single pannier. Very rarely I have to take a laptop home from work and it fits (just). I'd never be able to carry that weight in a rucksack. I've had fun amazing my workmates at the various things I've carried home on my bike. Full set of brake discs for a jag XJ6 was a good one, or 10kg of classic carburettor and associated spare parts was also quite amusing.

 

[Brad123]

I also gone from rucksack to panniers. Wish I had done it years ago. It feels strange not having anything on my back. Can now bring more lunch to work.

 

[jowwy]

none of the above - take all kit into work on a monday in big sports bag - commute the rest of the week in knowledge i'm ready a laden free bike, cause lugging my HUGE ass is hard enough

 

[Simontm]

Attm, I bungee my knapsack to the rack with optional bin bag as rain cover

 

[Keith Oates]

I always use a backpack and I do get a wet back but I would get one even if I didn't have the back pack as I sweat very easily. I think it is a good option as I keep the tools, spare tube, etc in it as well as the wallet, phone, money etc. These items don't fill the back pack but there is always plenty of room if I have to carry anything else such as shopping, laptop, wet weather gear, etc. Of course using panniers if you have really heavy or bulky loads makes sense as well.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[confusedcyclist]

Do use Panniers for shopping light loads, and have a trailer that I use for the weekly family food shop.

Would love to see a photo of that setup!

 

[confusedcyclist]

I have a 5 litre running backpack from Lidl which just about fits my waterproof altura evo nightvision jacket (so bulky!), rolled up shirt, trousers, underwear and lunch. If I stop by the shops I have to wear the rain jacket (sweaty!) to fit about one carrier bags worth of food in. The bag also has a helmet net which can be used for additional light items too.

I get sweaty back, but can shower at work anyway.

 

[boydj]

Rack bag or saddlebag, depending on the bike. Having a rack gives the option of panniers for larger loads, but normally a rack bag has plenty of space for a change of clothes and other essentials.

 

[classic33]

I also used to use a rucksack, sweaty back, achy neck now cured by going to single pannier. Very rarely I have to take a laptop home from work and it fits (just). I'd never be able to carry that weight in a rucksack. I've had fun amazing my workmates at the various things I've carried home on my bike. Full set of brake discs for a jag XJ6 was a good one, or 10kg of classic carburettor and associated spare parts was also quite amusing.

Found on the way there.

No Entry sign, still in the shed. Rode to work with it on my back. Also had to ride home with it though.