According to the Adventure Cycling Guide, the best bike panniers are durable, waterproof, roomy, lightweight and easy to use. Panniers have a range of sizes, fabrics and features. There are also different panniers for front racks and for rear racks, so be sure to choose the right pannier type when you make your purchase.
Size
Panniers are available in volumes ranging from 800 cubic inches to 3200 cubic inches for a pair, reports REI, though most riders will want something in the mid-to-upper end of this range for versatility. The best bike panniers adjust to handle different loads. If you are carrying a small load, you don't want a big saddle bag shifting around, and if you have to carry a big load, you want a bag that is up to the challenge. Expandable sections and compression straps make larger panniers useful for loads of a range of sizes.
Accessibility
If you want to access your bags frequently during your rides, REI suggests you look for dividers and pockets in your chosen pannier. You may also buy smaller bags to put inside panniers with fewer compartments to keep things organized, or get an additional handlebar bag to hold frequently needed items like snacks and maps. The Adventure Cycling Guide describes the variety of closures on panniers, including roll-tops, zippers and straps. Roll-tops are more water resistant and may allow you to stuff more things into your bags; zippers are more accessible but may break. Strap-down closures are accessible and may be more water resistant than zippers.
Water Resistance
No matter what climate you ride in, you should prepare for the possibility of rain. An ideal bike pannier is waterproof. Ken Kifer, an experienced touring cyclist, notes that this does not mean your items won't get wet; condensation inside a waterproof bag can still dampen your belongings. Some riders prefer using rain covers on non-waterproof bike bags during rain, but it's easier to buy waterproof panniers in the first place. REI reports that most modern bags are made of coated nylon for water resistance and protection, but some are made of waxed canvas; check panniers for rain flaps over external zippers and make sure all openings close completely and securely.
Attachments
The best panniers will fit with the bike rack you want to use; check that the pannier fits or is adjustable to fit your rack securely before you buy. Panniers typically attach to the rack with vertical clips and have a lateral mechanism that keeps it from swinging off the rack, either a plastic hanger or a bungee cord. The Adventure Cycling Guide states that lateral plastic hangers are sturdier than bungee cords.
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