Which saddle bag do you need?

From a tool roll for a multi-tool and levers to 4 litres for a long day out: what each size carries and how it mounts.

For most road and gravel rides a small saddle bag is enough: it carries a spare tube, tyre levers and a multi-tool, so a puncture does not end your ride. Choose a tool roll if you only carry tools, a compact waterproof saddle bag if you ride in any weather, and a 4-litre bag if you also want to bring an extra layer on long days.

We make all three. Below you can see what each one carries and how it attaches. To see them side by side, go to all saddle bags.

This guide is written by Maikel, founder of The Pack and a rider himself. Last updated on 11 November 2026.

Our saddle bags compared

Saddle Bag Tool Roll, from €19.99: three compartments of 11 by 13 cm, the last one closed with a zipper, in weather-resistant fabric. For a multi-tool, tyre levers, a patch kit and spare links.
AWG Saddle Bag, from €27.99: waterproof material with taped seams and a waterproof, reflective zipper. It attaches with one large elastic Velcro strap. For spares that have to stay dry on every ride.
Saddle Bag 4L, from €39.99: 4 litres, waterproof with airtight seals, attached with two clips for a stable fit under the saddle. For longer rides with a repair kit, an extra layer and electronics.

What do you put in a saddle bag?

The basics are the same for almost every rider:

a spare inner tube that fits your tyres;
two tyre levers;
a multi-tool;
a patch kit, and a spare chain link if you ride far from home.

That fits in a tool roll or a compact saddle bag. A pump or CO2 inflator goes in a jersey pocket or on the frame.

A 4-litre bag is for the days when the weather can change: it adds room for an extra layer, more food or a power bank. If you would rather keep the phone and cards on you, an Essentials Case in the jersey pocket does that.

Does it stay dry, and does it sway?

A saddle bag sits right in the spray of the rear wheel, so water matters more here than anywhere else on the bike. The AWG Saddle Bag and the Saddle Bag 4L are both waterproof. The Tool Roll is weather-resistant, which is enough for tools.

Sway comes from a loose mount or a bag that is too big for what is in it. The AWG Saddle Bag is held by a large elastic Velcro strap. The 4L uses two clips for a stable fit that keeps sway and bouncing to a minimum. In both cases: pack the bag full enough that nothing moves inside.

Which one for which ride?

Short road rides and races: the Tool Roll, with a tube in your pocket.
Training rides in any weather: the AWG Saddle Bag.
Long days and bikepacking: the Saddle Bag 4L, combined with a frame bag or a handlebar bag if you need more room.
Riding in the rain most of the year: look at the whole AWG collection.

Frequently asked questions

What size saddle bag do I need for a road bike?

A small one. A spare tube, tyre levers and a multi-tool fit in a tool roll or a compact saddle bag. Choose 4 litres only if you also want to carry an extra layer or more food.

Is the saddle bag waterproof?

The AWG Saddle Bag and the Saddle Bag 4L are waterproof. The Tool Roll is made of weather-resistant fabric.

How does the saddle bag attach?

The AWG Saddle Bag attaches with a large elastic Velcro strap. The Saddle Bag 4L uses two clips. Neither needs tools.

What fits in the tool roll?

The Tool Roll has three compartments of 11 by 13 cm each, for a multi-tool, tyre levers, patch kits or spare links. The last compartment closes with a zipper.