If you’ve ever wrestled a bulky rolling suitcase into the trunk of your car or dragged it up a flight of stairs, you’ll understand why I’ve been searching for a better way to travel. On a recent road trip to Kansas, I swapped my usual luggage for two motorcycle backpacks from Viking Bags—the Voyage Large Sissy Bar Backpack and the Trident Extra Large Backpack.
Here’s the twist: I don’t ride a motorcycle.
But these bags turned out to be some of the best travel gear I’ve used. Built to withstand high winds, rain, and long miles on the road, they’re just as perfect for car trips, motorcycle rides, flights, and even hiking.
Why Viking Bags for Motorcycles Work for Road Travel Too
What surprised me most is how much sense these bags make for travelers of all kinds, not just bikers.
- Built to last: Sturdy fabric, reinforced stitching, and weather-resistant zippers mean these bags can take a beating and keep going.
- Organized packing: With so many compartments and pockets, everything has its place—chargers, notebooks, snacks, even shoes.
- Comfortable carry: Padded straps and chest clips keep the bags steady and easy to haul.
- Versatile design: Both bags can strap onto roller suitcases, so if you do travel with wheels, you’ve got options.
For me, the biggest win was not having to deal with a heavy rolling suitcase. I could just toss the backpack into the car, carry it easily, and know everything inside was secure.
Who These Backpacks Are Great For (Even If You’re Not a Biker)
These bags may be marketed toward motorcycle riders, but after using them on the road, I’m convinced they’re perfect for anyone who values durability and versatility in their luggage. Here are a few types of travelers who would love them:
- Road Trippers: Toss one in the backseat and you’ve got organized storage for snacks, clothes, and gear without dealing with bulky suitcases.
- Digital Nomads: With padded laptop sleeves and secure compartments, these are made for carrying tech safely from one destination to the next.
- Weekend Adventurers: Perfect for cabins, hot spring getaways, or quick trips where you need a lot of gear packed into one reliable bag.
- Hikers & Campers: The Trident especially works as a utility bag, with space for shoes, water bottles, and outdoor essentials.
- Frequent Flyers: Both bags fit under airplane seats, making them smart carry-ons for anyone who wants hands-free travel through airports.
So even if you’ve never been on a motorcycle, these backpacks can simplify and upgrade the way you travel.
Viking Voyage Large Motorcycle Sissy Bar Backpack: In-Depth Look
The first bag I tried was the Viking Voyage Large Sissy Bar Backpack, and my immediate reaction was: wow, this thing is big and sturdy. It’s heavier than a typical backpack, but that’s because it’s built tough—made to handle the elements on a motorcycle.
On my Kansas road trip, I fit four to five days’ worth of clothes inside with no problem. It’s honestly one of the most durable bags I’ve ever used, and while it’s a bit heavy for air travel, it’s unbeatable for road trips.
Backpack Specs
Here’s what you can expect out of this backpack.
Storage & Size
At about 30 liters (1,800 cubic inches), it’s big enough for weekend trips but compact enough to throw in a car trunk or fit under an airplane seat. The main opening is a wide 18 by 14 inches, making it easy to pack bulkier items.
Organization
If you love pockets, this bag is a dream.
- Two top compartments for quick-grab items like a passport, charger, or wallet
- Four side pockets that easily fit supplements, cords, or even a phone
- A massive front pocket perfect for an iPad or tablet
Inside, there’s also a laptop sleeve (up to 13”), plus extra compartments for notebooks, pens, or cords.
Durability
Made from Cordura fabric, this bag is designed to last. The water-resistant zippers and rugged exterior mean you don’t have to worry about sudden downpours. I loved knowing my laptop and clothes were safe even if the weather turned.
What I Loved Most
- So many pockets: Two top pockets for small essentials, four side pockets for chargers or supplements, and a huge front pocket that could even fit an iPad
- Laptop storage: I kept my laptop and cords secure in the inner flap, which made me feel organized and prepared
- Smart opening system: The flap has straps that keep it from falling open completely, which is handy when you just need to grab something quickly
- Roller suitcase compatibility: Straps on the back let me secure it to rolling luggage if I ever want to pair it with a suitcase
- On-the-Go Versatility: What makes this backpack even better is that it’s not just for bikers. The padded straps make it comfortable to wear, and there’s even a sleeve that slides right onto a roller suitcase handle. For road trips, it meant I could just toss it into the car, but for air travel, it could just as easily sit on top of a suitcase in the airport.
Overall, the Voyage feels like a road-trip warrior. It’s tough, secure, and gives you the peace of mind that nothing inside is getting damaged. Yes, it’s heavier than a regular travel backpack, but the durability makes it worth the trade-off.
Viking Trident Extra Large Motorcycle Backpack: In-Depth Look
The second bag I tested was the Viking Trident Extra Large Motorcycle Backpack, and it quickly became my boyfriend’s favorite. My first impression? It felt lighter than the Voyage, more flexible, and closer to a traditional backpack—but still massive in size and capacity.
On our trip, it proved incredibly versatile. I could see it working not just for road trips but also for flights, hiking, or even camping. It has just as many pockets and storage options as the Voyage, but the lighter weight made it easier to carry for longer stretches.
Backpack Specs
Here’s what you can expect from the Trident.
Storage & Size
With a capacity of 32 liters (over 1,900 cubic inches), the Trident actually holds more than the Voyage. It fits easily under an airplane seat but has enough space for long weekend getaways or gear-heavy travel.
Organization
Like the Voyage, it’s packed with thoughtful compartments.
- Laptop sleeve fits laptops up to 14 inches
- Fleece-lined top pocket protects fragile items like sunglasses or your phone
- Shoe compartment keeps dirty shoes separate from clean clothes
- Mesh side pockets fit a standard 17oz water bottle, sunscreen, or quick-grab snacks.
Durability
Made from Cordura fabric with rugged zippers and easy-to-clean lining. I loved that the shoe compartment could be wiped down after stashing dusty boots—perfect for hikers or campers.
What I Loved Most
- Lightweight but huge: Despite being larger than the Voyage, it feels easier to carry for longer periods
- Shoe compartment: A game-changer for keeping dirty shoes or boots away from clean clothes
- Fleece-lined pocket: Kept sunglasses safe and scratch-free during travel
- Versatile design: The padding and mesh details made it feel just as good for a road trip as for hiking or even flying internationally
The Trident feels like the more “everyday traveler” option compared to the Voyage. It’s durable enough for road trips, but its lighter weight makes it ideal for airports, city travel, or even outdoor adventures. It’s the kind of bag I’d trust for a cross-country trip as much as a weekend in the mountains.
Overall, the Trident is a do-it-all backpack. It offers slightly more capacity than the Voyage, but without the same heaviness. If you want one bag that can move seamlessly between road trips, hikes, and international flights, this is the one.
Side-by-Side: Which One Fits Your Travel Style?
Both the Viking Voyage and the Viking Trident are excellent choices, but they shine in slightly different ways.
For the Road Trip Warrior, Choose the Voyage
The Voyage is built like a tank. It’s heavier, sturdier, and feels indestructible. It easily fits a lot of gear, making it the perfect choice for long drives, cabin stays, or rugged getaways where durability matters more than weight.
For the Versatile Traveler, Choose the Trident
The Trident is lighter, more flexible and offers even more capacity. It’s ideal if you need a bag that works everywhere—on a road trip, in an airport, or even on a hike. The shoe compartment and fleece-lined pocket add thoughtful touches that make it especially good for people who travel with tech, shoes, or fragile items.
Where They Overlap
Both bags share Viking’s signature toughness. They’re water-resistant, packed with smart pockets, and designed to carry far more than your standard backpack. No matter which one you pick, you’ll end up with luggage that’s built to last for years of adventures.
Viking Bags: A Utility Backpack For Any Road
I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. Why would I, someone who doesn’t ride a motorcycle, need a motorcycle backpack? But after testing both the Viking Voyage and the Viking Trident, I can confidently say they’re some of the most practical travel bags I’ve used.
Whether you’re road tripping across state lines, flying overseas, or just looking for a backpack that can survive years of use, these bags deliver. They’re tough, organized, and surprisingly stylish.
For me, the Voyage was perfect for my Kansas road trip, while the Trident won over my boyfriend for its versatility. Either way, I’m officially converted—I’ll never look at rolling suitcases the same way again.
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