Ortlieb  Vario Backpack Pannier - Single

Just bought one a couple weeks ago. I've been looking for a convertible backpack/pannier, and this is the first one I've found that actually does both well. As a pannier, it hangs on the rack exactly like any other Ortlieb, and as a backpack, it's perfectly comfortable and functional. The wrapping mechanism to make the switch is easy to do. It is a little heavy, but I think that's kinda unavoidable for something that's performing two functions. If I have a concern, it's over durability; the buckles are made of nylon, and the loops they attach to appear to be the same material as the bag. So probably not going to last forever, but so far, so good.

As a female rider, I found the backpack to be incredibly uncomfortable from day 1. I carry my computer, a giant lunch, and my martial arts uniform, and there was room for more stuff, so that was nice, but it was just way to heavy (even when empty). I also did not like that there was not a good place to have keys accessible from either setting or a good place to put the helmet. At exactly one year of light use, (I usually use my 20-year old-re-patched many times paneers) the plastic on the back broke while riding and the bag fell off into the street. The fact that the bag is heavy and has the plastic bits to hold it on to the bike is a bad combo and I was glad I was just able to return it to REI and get my money back.

I picked this up at another shop last year when it first came out. This has been the absolute best backpack pannier I've ever owned. It's gone through heavy rain and kept everything dry. It's perfect for the street festivals in Chicago where you never know how much stuff you're going to buy, or to commute into the office. I've yet to hit any snag with this. The conversion from pannier to backpack is incredibly simple. Just unhook a flap, turn the bag over, and hook it back up on the other side.

I had a much earlier (unsatisfactory)version of this bag, and must say that the improvements are significant. It is the usual 'black hole' of an Ortlieb pannier, but the waterproofness, superior quality and ease of mounting out weighs this characteristic. Plus, inserts are now available to help with organization. For those having mounting problems- this bag comes standard to fit a rack with tubing diameter of 16mm. Spacers are available for other sizes. Also pay attention to how the mounting system works, which takes a little research.

I’ve been using this bag for maybe a month now but it’s so useful. This was exactly what I was looking for and it’s roomy to fit my work stuff, laptop, lunch, clothes to change in etc. feels like a great quality product

Great bag! Ive been using this for daily commuting for a few months and have been totally satisfied. I was concerned my 17" laptop wouldnt fit in the sleeve but no issues. Its kept items dry in rain. Its quick and easy to transition between backpack and pannier mode. It has been worth the money imo

I bought this Pannier for biking to work. I love how large it is, I am able to fit change of clothes and shoes plus lot of other odds and ends. I rarely utilize the backpack side of the bag but it is a nice option. Only small gripe would be on the rare occasion I use the backpack side it can be a pain to switch over depending on what’s in my bag.

I've been hunting for a pannier/backpack bag for commuting and, so far, this is great. The system to switch between pannier and backpack (by flipping the flap that covers the straps/attachments on each side) is a little clunky but it's easy to just detached one part to access a shoulder strap. The exterior pocket is only on one side of that flap so it's hard to access when the zipper is covered, but so be it.

Overall, this pannier does well with It’s convertibility. However, the lack of access to the existing pocket in the pannier format or smaller outside pocket for small item storage like wallets or ear buds is a missed opportunity. the REI’s Junction panniers did this well. A mixture of both this pannier and the Junction would be much appreciated

The highest quality backpack I've seen and also your standard Ortlieb pannier, aka the highest quality pannier available in the world. The backpack was a fantastic companion on my 8-day trip to China, purely used as a backpack and supremely comfortable. And it is equally home commuting to work on my bicycle.