Best motorcycle waistbags

We all sniggered when we realised that Americans called waistbags (or bumbags, as they are better known this side of the pond) ‘fanny packs’ but a waistbag can be a really useful bit of riding kit. If you need to carry too many bits and bobs with you on your ride to comfortably go in your pockets but don’t want to go the whole hog with a rucksack, then a waistbag is just the ticket.

The market is full of waistbags but one designed specifically for motorcyclists will be narrow so it doesn’t get in the way and flexible, so that it moves as you do on the bike. You probably won’t want to be wearing it in front of you, unless you’re on an upright tourer, as it will get in the way, particularly if you have to lean forward at all, but behind you (assuming you don’t have a pillion) may be best.

Although, of course, that depends on the shape of your seat. If you have a deeply sculpted main seat with a significantly higher pillion seat, then a waistbag may not sit comfortably to the rear, so you may need to wear it to the side to give you room.

Also consider your use and what you may need to get to. For example, if it’s just a single compartment, it might mean fumbling around to get to your phone, for example or your wallet for motorway tolls or to pay for fuel. But if it has multiple compartments, you can access essentials quickly and easily without disturbing other items, such as get to your wallet while your passport remains safely tucked away.

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Weatherproofing may also be important, particularly if you have important documents or smartphones inside, for example. And also consider the size – don’t go too big for the sake of it but you might want one that will house, among other things, a spare visor for your helmet, if you use light and tinted, for example.

Finally, think about what you’re going to be using it for. You may not need a full-on adventure utility-belt style waistbag with drink holders and tool attachments if you are going on a Continental tour, so choose your bag to suit.

We've tested this bag and while it has a lot of pockets, the main internal one isn't exactly huge, and those on the outside left and right taper around your hips. Good for comfort, but not great for storing square items.

It's a good bad for a few basics - your phone, keys, wallet and maybe a small toolkit, but you won't get a change of clothes in it.

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