When I did a few multi-night camping trips last year I found that I preferred to cycle a day then stay a couple of nights. That way I could explore and see more of the places rather than just pass through. I would walk places but found that carrying things like my lunch, camera equipment and spare waterproofs could be a pain. I used my handlebar bag which was large enough, with its shoulder strap. This was fine for taking necessities when I used trains, ferries of for short shopping trips. But it was just not comfortable for longer walks or shopping trips, so I decided to look for a back-pack I could carry on the bike which wasn’t too bulky or heavy.
I came across the deuter speed lite purely by accident. It was a special offer I recieved from a shopping site I use regularly. I already have a deuter cycle pack I bought before I started using panniers. This pack is reliable, well made and has lasted years. The problem is that it is rather big and bulky having additional features like a helmet cradle, extra pockets and integrated hi-viz vest.
The bag is straightforward, comfortable and 13 litres is big enough for my needs. It has a single compartment with an elasticated section inside. There is also a small pocket accessed from the top which is enough to take keys and a wallet. There are external loops which would allow me to fit the helmet crade from my other pack but so far I haven’t tried this. I have removed the waist belt and the sternum strap, both to reduce some weight and to stop these straps from getting in the way when I pack the bag on the bike. I usually slip the bag under my tent on the rear rack as I only use it when I’m settled and the tent pitched.
Deuter do the speed lite in several sizes and colours but I’m happy with the smallest as I don’t need to carry much on my day trips. It seems to be as well made as other deuter items and I’m sure it will last just as long.
Just Me - On my bike 