Riding in the UK means being prepared for four seasons in one day. One minute you're enjoying a sunny ride, the next you're caught in a sudden downpour. For any motorcyclist, keeping your gear, electronics and essentials dry isn't just a convenience—it's a necessity. A soggy change of clothes or a water-damaged laptop can ruin a commute or a weekend tour.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options for a reliable waterproof motorcycle tail bag. We'll break down the key features to look for and present a few standout choices to help you find the right luggage for your bike and your journey.
Selecting the right luggage involves more than just picking a size. Here are a few practical considerations to keep in mind.
The term "waterproof" can mean different things. For true all-weather protection, look for bags made from materials like high-density PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). These fabrics are inherently waterproof and highly durable.
A key feature to look for is a roll top duffel bag design. This type of closure, when rolled down several times, creates a highly effective seal against water ingress. Also, pay attention to waterproof ratings. A rating like IPX6 indicates the bag can withstand powerful jets of water from any direction, which is more than enough to handle heavy rain on the motorway.
Consider what you'll be carrying. A small 20-litre bag might be perfect for your daily commute, holding a laptop, lunch and waterproofs. For a weekend trip or a longer tour, you might need a 50-litre or larger adventure bike tail pack to accommodate clothing, camping gear and other essentials. A versatile motorcycle rear seat bag that can handle both daily use and occasional trips offers great value.
How the bag attaches to your bike is critical for safety. Most tail bags use a system of adjustable straps that loop around the rear seat or a luggage rack. Look for strong buckles and durable webbing. Some modern bags also feature magnetic systems for quick attachment to steel surfaces, but these should always be supplemented with safety straps for riding at speed. While many are designed as universal motorcycle luggage, always check the dimensions and mounting requirements to ensure a secure fit on your specific motorcycle, scooter or moped.
Here are a few recommendations that cater to different riding needs, from daily commuting to long-distance touring.
Why It Stands Out This bag’s main feature is its innovative magnetic mounting system, allowing for incredibly fast attachment and removal from any steel rear rack or pillion seat. Combined with an IPX6 waterproof rating and a roll-top closure, it offers excellent weather protection. A unique air valve lets you compress the bag after packing, saving space and ensuring a compact profile.
Why It Stands Out When capacity is your top priority, this 66L motorcycle dry bag delivers. Made from heavy-duty waterproof PVC mesh fabric, it's built to handle serious loads and harsh weather. Its versatility is a major plus; it can be used as a tail pack, a large saddlebag or carried as a backpack. Multiple reflective elements are integrated into the design, significantly enhancing visibility for safer night riding.
Why It Stands Out The Wanderer strikes an excellent balance between capacity and rugged construction. Its 50L volume is perfect for weekend getaways, while the heavy-duty TPU material offers superior abrasion resistance and waterproofing. It functions as both a motorcycle rear seat bag and a comfortable backpack thanks to the included shoulder straps, making it easy to carry your gear off the bike. The secure four-point strap system ensures it stays put on almost any rear seat or luggage rack.
If these specific models aren't quite what you're looking for, or if you'd like to see a wider range of sizes and styles, we have more to explore. Different bikes and riders have different needs and finding the perfect fit is key.
Browse our full collection of Outdoor Dry Bags to find the perfect luggage solution for your ride.
1. How do I properly secure a motorcycle tail bag? Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. For strap-based systems, ensure the straps are pulled tight with no slack and that any excess length is securely tucked away so it cannot interfere with the wheel or chain. For magnetic bags, confirm a solid, flat connection to a steel surface and always use the provided supplementary safety straps, especially for riding above 50 mph.
2. What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant? "Water-resistant" means a product can resist light splashes or brief, light rain. "Waterproof" means it is designed to provide a complete barrier against water. For motorcycle luggage, true waterproofing is achieved with materials like PVC or TPU, welded seams and a secure closure system like a roll-top, ensuring your contents stay dry even in a sustained downpour.
3. Can I use a universal motorcycle tail bag on any bike? While many bags are marketed as universal motorcycle luggage, compatibility ultimately depends on your bike's specific design. Factors like the shape of your pillion seat, the presence of a luggage rack and the position of your exhaust pipes can affect the fit. Always check the bag's dimensions and mounting system against your motorcycle before purchasing to ensure a safe and secure installation.