Am only a month away from our attempt of the South Downs Way double and conscious that I want to get as much weight off my back and onto the frame.

any recommendations for an inexpensive but decent frame bag? Am thinking the Alpkit possum…but it is £70 and realistically I am going to use it infrequently, if at all after the SDW!

Second hand options would also be ideal if anyone has anything they’re looking to let go!

Thanks

Not sure if ‘core’ enough for you, but I’ve found the bar bag and rack bag I bought BTR to be great value and decent quality.

Maybe give them a look? https://btrsports.co.uk/

Good luck with the ride!

Not used it yet, but I’ve just bought a Restrap frame bag which appears to be nicely thought out and good quality. Sign up to their newsletter for an extra 10% off (covers postage).

I’ve got a Blackburn outpost. Works well and comes in 3 sizes.

https://www.merlincycles.com/blackburn-outpost-frame-bag-98985.html

Blackburn outpost is good. Can unzip/expand. Fully waterproof.

Also look at Madison Caribou. Lighter/less rigid. Not waterproof.

Both around £30

Planet X for value

I’d look at the Planet-X stuff too.

brilliant….thanks everyone – looks to be some decent options there.

How best to fit these? should I use electric tape (or an alternative) to ensure the paintwork doesn’t rub away?

+1 for restrap kit. Really good, well made British bags.
As for protecting paint, yes use something electrical tape/heli tape etc as I’ve not found a bag that doesn’t rub a little. Thing is you’d need to cover every where…..

Lomo.

Bombproof. Waterproof. £23

https://www.lomo.co.uk/acatalog/bike-frame-dry-bag.html

I bought the alp kit waterproof one.

It’s pretty much replaced my back pack for almost all rides.

You might get more use than you expect

Buggybags / bike bags custom made. Cheaper than most rivals, custom made to fit your frame. Quick service

https://www.bike-bag.co.uk/

Just got a planet X one, small but seems sturdy, they do a good sized top tube bag too

The Lomo ones are decent quality, uk made, cheap and waterproof

I have a planet x job. Not really waterproof but you can use a plastic bag to put anything in that must be dry. Has survived a few trips well enough. Not pretty but does the job and only £25.

https://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/CCPDWFB/podsacs-waterproof-frame-bag