Apidura Expedition Tool Pack 1L

I remember well the first gear I had on my bike. A tiny saddle bag that cost next to nothing, where I stored a tube, tools and patches. Apidura has created their version of this classic bag, which you probably won't use for bikepacking, but it's perfect for day trips or commuting.

First, the basics – 1 litre volume, weight 95 grams and waterproof. Apidura offers this "Tool Pack" in their expedition series. The most striking feature is the unique closure system, developed in collaboration with Fidlock.

The obvious question arises – why pay so much for Apidura when you can buy a similar bag for a fraction of the price elsewhere... You'll find many small innovations here that extend the product's lifespan and make it easier to use.

🧲 Magnetic Closure

Let's start with the closure – zippers are often the Achilles' heel of this type of bag. Mud flies everywhere under the saddle, and that was actually why my first saddle bag didn't last. Here we have magnetic closure from Fidlock, which I appreciate. I'm not a fan of the magnetic solution on the Racing Top Tube Pack, where Apidura had their own solution, so this collaboration makes sense to me. It's a similar system to the Expedition Stem Pack – in both cases you open the "lock" by sliding it to the side.

The closure works on a roll-top principle – you need to roll it 3 times for proper waterproofing and then close it with the magnet. At the end of the bag there are magnetic cuffs that seal the space but leave room for air release. Opening with winter gloves is more challenging, but I've discovered a technique that works better – it's shown in the video at the beginning of the article.

Due to the closure design, the bag is fully rain-resistant, but if you submerge it in water, don't expect dry contents.

🧵 Durability

The velcro straps that attach the bag to the saddle and seatpost are replaceable – a good step towards repairability. The seatpost strap seems unnecessarily long to me. It's still OK for MTB, but for a road bike seatpost it's almost absurd. Fortunately, thanks to the replaceability, there's no problem using your own. In the upper part, where the bag touches the saddle, there's a reinforced section for greater durability. I would definitely be careful during installation to ensure it doesn't touch the saddle bolt.

What caught my attention is that in the front part and on the upper velcro strap there are silicone strips that prevent unnecessary bag movement. Excessive sliding could wear out the Tool Pack, and this partially prevents that.

Reflective strips on the sides are included for increased safety. At first I was disappointed that there aren't light attachments like on the Racing Saddle Pack, but I discovered that a light can be attached well to the strap for the magnetic closure – at least the Fenix BC05R sits there well. Of course, the light can also be placed under the bag, but visibility isn't as good there.

🎒 Contents

There's more than enough space for tools. I used to carry tools in a small bag on the down tube, but when I wanted to access the contents, I had to remove it, which wasn't pleasant when it was covered in mud. Everything you put in the Tool Pack stays dry and easily accessible.

I see the bag's large capacity as an opportunity to carry not only bike-related items but also personal items. Having a basic first aid kit or thermal blanket on hand if something forces you to stop unexpectedly can be a lifesaver. It even fits a packable jacket.

According to Apidura, it fits two tubes, tools, patches and a CO2 cartridge. Those two tubes probably apply more to gravel – two standard MTB tubes didn't fit for me. But it holds two lightweight ones. I'll be carrying something like Tubolito instead, to have extra space.

Example of what fit inside:

• Tubolito MTB tube
• 2 tyre levers
• Lifesystems Thermal Bag emergency bivvy
• Patches, small screws and repair bits
• Plasters
• Rab Cinder Phantom jacket

📐 Summary

As I mentioned at the beginning – you probably won't use it for bikepacking, because the space under the saddle is better suited for a larger bag where you can put a sleeping bag. You'd only use it if you're sleeping in hotels or racing and not planning to sleep, but those aren't exactly common cases.

For regular rides it's great because besides tools you can fit "something extra" – safety items primarily. It's full of small innovations that extend its lifespan, so you don't have to worry about buying a new one next year. You don't have to stuff things into your pockets – they're ready where you need them and you don't have to worry about them.

The biggest disadvantage is the price – approximately €60/£50. On the other hand, it should last you many years of use. The excessively long seatpost strap is also a drawback.