What to look for

MATERIAL

Most waterproof luggage is made from PVC tarpaulin, where the water simply runs off. Others use an outer in Cordura, canvas or waxed cotton with a waterproof internal liner. Pvc-type products will not take on water but the canvas or waxed cotton ones probably will – worth considering to prevent dripping at your destination

FEATURES

Some roll-bags may include additional features, such as easily-accessible external pockets for gloves or other essential kit or ways to join more than one together to expand the capacity

CARRYING

Inevitably, you’ll have to carry your bag to and from the bike, whether at home, a hotel or work. So you’ll need some way to do that. You’ll need at least a carry handle while a shoulder strap is also useful if you’ve also got your hands full of helmet, gloves, keys and other bits and bobs

DESIGN

The most basic design for a roll-bag is a cylinder with closure at one end. While this makes the bag low and wide on the bike, it can make loading and unloading trickier, particularly if you want to get to the contents. The look and feel may also suit different types of bike; a waxed-cotton roll-bag, for example, would suit a retro

STABILITY

Taller, narrower bags will be less stable than lower and wider ones. In addition, a low and wide bag that is fixed with bungee straps or cord over the top is likely to be the most stable of all

CLOSURE

Most will feature a roll-top, with folds designed to keep water out. Buckles should secure the ends of the roll-closure to prevent them from unravelling and there may be some rigid plastic or Velcro closing to help. Others may add zips in conjunction with roll-closures or straps that run over the top to secure the rolled-up opening

FIXING METHOD

There are various ways to fix to the bike. Some feature straps that pass under the seat pad while some use bungee straps over the top — check there are loops to prevent the straps spreading and coming off the bag. Quick release fixings that stay on the bike when the luggage is removed make things easier, especially if it’s raining and you either want to get indoors or loaded-up and on your way