Carry A Raincoat With 3 Simple Bike Tricks

You want to carry a raincoat on your bike without any fuss. Staying dry can be tough when rain hits and you’re pedaling through slippery streets. Riders often deal with problems like wet gear that doesn’t keep them comfortable, poor visibility, cold temperatures, chafing, and tricky braking. Lightweight, packable raincoats make it easier to stay safe and comfortable. Let’s find simple ways to keep your raincoat handy so you can focus on your ride.

Key Takeaways

• Use sturdy straps or bungee cords to secure your raincoat on a bike rack. This keeps it safe and prevents it from slipping during your ride.
• Consider using a bike basket for quick access to your raincoat. It allows you to store other items too, but be cautious of heavy loads that can affect steering.
• Wrap your raincoat in a plastic bag to protect it from dirt and water. This simple step ensures your raincoat stays clean and dry until you need it.
• Pack your raincoat tightly in a saddlebag or frame bag. This saves space for other essentials and keeps your gear organized.
• Utilize jersey pockets for easy access to your raincoat. This method works best with lightweight raincoats, allowing you to grab it quickly when needed.

Carry a raincoat with a bike rack

A bike rack gives you a simple way to carry a raincoat on your ride. You can use straps, a basket, or even a plastic bag to keep your gear safe and dry. Let’s look at three easy tricks you can try.

Secure with straps or bungee cords

You can strap your raincoat right onto the rack. Many riders use Voile Rack Straps because they grip tight and do not slip, even on bumpy roads. These straps use tough polyurethane and a secure mounting system. They hold your raincoat in place much better than regular bungee cords. Bungee cords can stretch out over time and may not keep your raincoat secure, especially if you ride on rough paths. If you want a worry-free way to carry a raincoat, go for sturdy straps.

Tip: Roll your raincoat tightly before strapping it down. This keeps it compact and less likely to flap in the wind.

Use a basket for quick access

A bike basket makes it easy to toss in your raincoat and grab it fast when the rain starts. Here are some pros and cons:

• Pros:
  • You get more space for other items, not just your raincoat.
  • You can quickly put things in or take them out.
• Cons:
  • The basket size and style stay the same, so you cannot change how you carry things.
  • Heavy loads can make your bike harder to steer.
  • Open baskets do not protect your raincoat from rain or falling out.

Protect with a plastic bag

If you want to keep your raincoat clean and dry, wrap it in a plastic bag before putting it on your rack or in your basket. Check out this table for what a good protective bag offers:

A plastic bag shields your raincoat from dirt, water, and scratches. This simple step helps you carry a raincoat without worry, even on wet days.

Pack in a saddlebag or frame bag

Fold and store compactly

You want to carry a raincoat without it taking up too much space. Start by folding your raincoat as small as possible. Lay it flat, fold the sleeves in, and roll it tightly from the bottom up. This method keeps your raincoat compact and easy to fit into a saddlebag or frame bag. Many raincoats come with their own stuff sack, which makes packing even easier. If yours doesn’t, use a small zip bag to keep it neat. When you pack your raincoat this way, you save space for snacks, tools, or your phone.

Tip: Choose rain gear that is packable and breathable. This makes it easier to store and more comfortable to wear when you need it.

Choose the right bag

Not all bags work the same for every rider. You want a bag that fits your bike and holds your raincoat securely. Here’s a quick look at some popular saddlebag and frame bag models:

When you pick a bag, look for these features:

Keep it dry

You want your raincoat to stay dry until you need it. Many bags, like the Arkel Dry-Lite Saddle Bags, use roll-top closures and taped seams to block out moisture. Corsino’s waterproof bags also keep your gear safe from rain. These features matter because a wet raincoat won’t help you when the weather turns. Always check that your bag closes tightly and has waterproof lining.

• Invest in quality gear that is packable and breathable.
• Choose rain gear that is easy to access and quick to put on.

If you follow these steps, you can carry a raincoat on every ride and stay ready for sudden showers.

Use jersey pockets or under-saddle straps

Rear pocket storage

You want a quick way to grab your raincoat when the sky turns gray. Jersey rear pockets give you easy access. Most cycling jerseys have three pockets on the back. You can roll up your raincoat and slide it into one of these pockets. This trick works best with lightweight, packable raincoats. You keep your hands free and your gear close. If you choose a raincoat like the Aero Tech Lightweight Pack-able Cycling Rain Jacket, you get a jacket that fits right into your pocket. It packs down small, stays light, and does not weigh you down. You can reach back and pull out your raincoat in seconds.

Tip: Practice rolling your raincoat at home. You want it to fit snugly in your pocket without bulging or slipping out.

Toe strap under saddle

You can also carry a raincoat under your bike saddle. Use a toe strap or a small buckle to secure it. This method keeps your raincoat out of the way but still easy to reach. Many riders use a sturdy strap and a roll-top design, like the Day Tripper Saddle Bag. Here’s why this works well:

• Rip-stop nylon keeps your raincoat safe from tears.
• A hearty flap and buckle hold your raincoat tight, even on bumpy roads.
• You do not need a big bag or extra gear.

You can ride over rough terrain and your raincoat stays put. This trick works for road bikes, gravel bikes, and mountain bikes.

Lightweight raincoat options

You want a raincoat that packs down small and feels light. Many cycling raincoats weigh less than 200 grams. Some popular choices include:

• Gabba R: 186g, packs down to the size of an orange
• Santini Magic: 170g, comes in many colors and sizes
• Castelli Aria Shell: lightweight and easy to pack
• Sportful Hot Pack No Rain: fits into its own pocket

These jackets use thin, water-resistant fabric. You can carry a raincoat without feeling weighed down. Look for features like ventilation, reinforced seams, and reflective details. You stay dry, safe, and comfortable on every ride.

Quick comparison

You want a raincoat that’s easy to grab and keeps you dry. Let’s see how the three tricks stack up. Here’s a simple table to help you choose:

Ease of use

You want a method that doesn’t slow you down. Bike racks and baskets let you toss your raincoat in and go. Saddlebags and frame bags need a bit more folding and packing, but you get a neat setup. Jersey pockets work best with lightweight raincoats. Under-saddle straps take a minute to set up, but you don’t need extra bags.

Tip: For city rides, waterproof bags make things easier. You can protect your laptop or camera while keeping your raincoat handy.

Speed of access

Rain can surprise you. You need to grab your raincoat fast. Jersey pockets win for speed. You reach back and pull out your jacket in seconds. Bike baskets also give quick access. Saddlebags and under-saddle straps take a little longer, but you still get your raincoat before you get soaked.

• Urban routes often need quick access because shelter is not always close.
• Rural rides give you more open space, so you might have time to stop and unpack.

Security

You want your raincoat to stay put. Straps on a bike rack hold tight, even on bumpy roads. Saddlebags and frame bags keep your gear safe from rain and theft. Jersey pockets work well if you pack your raincoat snugly. Under-saddle straps need a good buckle or toe strap to keep things secure.

• In cities, rain can hit often. Protect your saddle with a cover if you use under-saddle storage.
• Always check your straps and zippers before you ride.

Choosing the right trick depends on your route and what you carry. Try each method and see which one fits your style best!

You have three easy ways to carry a raincoat on your bike. Pick the trick that matches your ride:

• Commuters often choose bigger raincoats with hoods.
• Road and mountain bikers like close-fitting, packable jackets.
• Packable raincoats fit right in your jersey pocket.

Staying dry is simple if you follow these tips:

1. Always keep a waterproof jacket handy.
2. Protect your valuables in a waterproof bag.
3. Wait out heavy rain if you can.

Choose what works for you and stay ready for any weather!

FAQ

How do you keep your raincoat from falling off your bike?

You should roll your raincoat tightly and use strong straps or a secure bag. Double-check the straps before you ride. If you use a basket, place heavier items on top to hold it down.

Can you fit a raincoat in any bike bag?

Most lightweight, packable raincoats fit in small bike bags. If your bag feels too tight, try folding the raincoat differently or use a stuff sack. Always check the bag size before you buy.

What if your raincoat gets wet before you need it?

Store your raincoat in a waterproof bag or wrap it in a plastic bag. This keeps it dry until you need it. Wet raincoats do not protect you as well, so always check your storage before you ride.

Is it safe to ride with a raincoat in your jersey pocket?

Yes, as long as you pack it snugly. Make sure the raincoat does not stick out or bounce around. Practice reaching for it while stopped so you can grab it quickly when rain starts.

Do you need a special raincoat for biking?

You do not need a special one, but cycling raincoats work best. They pack small, feel light, and let you move easily. Look for jackets with vents and reflective strips for extra comfort and safety.

See also

The Load-Bearing Capacity of A Waterproof Bicycle Bag

How to Safely Transport Large Loads on a Bike with Waterproof Bags

How Mountain Bike Riders Carry Water

Emerging Innovations in Bicycle Bags for 2025