
The Viking Odyssey ADV Touring Tailpack 8L is a compact, waterproof bag that’s tough enough for outdoor adventures but flexible enough for city life. While it’s marketed as a motorcycle tail bag, the craftsmanship and design make it appealing for anyone—cyclists, commuters, hikers, and even parents who want a weatherproof duffel or backpack.
Here’s why this 8-liter pack deserves a spot in your daily routine, whether or not you own a motorcycle.
VikingBags Review: What Makes the Odyssey ADV Tailpack Stand Out?
The Odyssey ADV Tailpack is compact, waterproof bag that features a roll-top design, flexible mounting options, and durable TPU fabric.
Key Features at a Glance
- Capacity: 8 liters (about 11 cans)
- Material: 100% waterproof TPU fabric
- Dimensions: 15″ x 9″ x 7″ (unrolled); 11″ x 9″ x 7″ (rolled)
- Mounting: Four secure straps (included), stowable when not in use
- Configurations: Duffel or backpack (with stowable backpack straps)
- Price: $84.99
- Warranty: 1 year
- Returns: 45-day return policy
How Is the Craftsmanship?

TPU Fabric: Built to Last and Stay Dry
The Odyssey ADV Tailpack uses TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) fabric—a material known for its combination of flexibility, durability, and true waterproofing. TPU is a favorite in high-end outdoor gear because it resists punctures, abrasions, and tears, while still being lightweight and flexible. That means the bag won’t crack or stiffen in cold weather, and it stands up to rough handling, whether you’re tossing it in the trunk, strapping it to a bike rack, or dragging it through the rain.
Waterproofing:
TPU’s molecular structure blocks water from seeping in, so your gear stays dry even in heavy rain or accidental spills. Unlike coated canvas or nylon, TPU doesn’t absorb moisture, and it’s easy to wipe clean—no musty smells after a wet day out.
Environmental Impact:
TPU is also less harmful to the environment than PVC, as it’s recyclable and doesn’t use toxic plasticizers.
Roll-Top Closure: Flexible and Secure
The roll-top design is more than just a style choice—it’s a proven way to keep water out and adjust the bag’s size based on what you’re carrying. Need to pack a bulky jacket? Unroll the top for extra space. Only carrying a few essentials? Roll it down tight for a compact, streamlined profile. The closure is quick to use and forms a tight seal, protecting your belongings from rain and dust.
Mounting and Carry Options: Not Just for Motorcycles
While the Odyssey ADV Tailpack is designed to strap onto a motorcycle tail, its mounting system is surprisingly versatile. Four integrated straps thread through webbing loops, letting you attach the bag to almost anything: a bicycle rack, stroller, kayak, or even a luggage cart. When you don’t need the straps, they tuck away neatly in a rear pocket, so the bag looks clean and uncluttered.
Works as a Duffel or Backpack:
Backpack straps are hidden in the bottom and attach via D-rings. Pull them out when you want to carry the bag on your back, then stow them away when you want a classic duffel. This dual-carry system makes the bag useful for everything from grocery runs to day hikes.

Can You Use the Odyssey ADV Tailpack Without a Motorcycle?
Yes! The Viking Odyssey Tailpack works for a wide range of activities:
Daily Commuting
- Waterproofing keeps your laptop, lunch, and gym clothes dry on rainy days.
- Compact size fits easily in a bus or train seat, or under a desk.
- Duffel/backpack conversion means you can switch up your carrying style—grab the handles for a quick commute, or wear it as a backpack for longer walks.
Cycling and Outdoor Sports
- Secure straps let you attach the bag to a bike rack, keeping weight off your back.
- TPU durability repels mud, rain, and road grit.
- Roll-top closure lets you adjust the capacity for a change of clothes, snacks, or tools.
Travel and Urban Use
- Fits under airplane seats as a personal item.
- Easy to clean after a spill or a dusty trip.
- Discreet looks—no flashy logos or colors—blend in at the office, gym, or airport.
Parenting and Errands
- Waterproof construction means no worries about spilled milk or juice.
- Multiple carry options make it easy to juggle kids and groceries.
- Sturdy build handles heavy loads like diapers, snacks, or toys.
Hiking and Camping
- Weatherproofing protects gear from sudden storms.
- Expandable storage for jackets, food, or emergency supplies.
- Lightweight—won’t slow you down on long trails.
How Does It Compare to Other Waterproof Bags?

Feature | Odyssey ADV Tailpack 8L | Typical Roll-Top Backpack | Standard Duffel Bag |
---|---|---|---|
Waterproofing | 100% (TPU fabric) | Varies (often coated) | Rarely waterproof |
Carry Options | Duffel & Backpack | Usually backpack only | Duffel only |
Mounting Flexibility | Straps for racks, etc. | Limited | None |
Expandable Storage | Yes (roll-top) | Yes (roll-top) | No |
Durability | High (TPU, welded seams) | Varies | Varies |
Price | $84.99 | $60–$150 | $30–$100 |
The Odyssey ADV stands out for its combination of waterproofing, flexibility, and ruggedness at a mid-range price. Most roll-top backpacks offer similar weather protection, but few convert to a duffel, and most duffels aren’t truly waterproof. The included mounting straps add a level of versatility you won’t find in standard bags.
What Are the Downsides?
- Size: At 8 liters, it’s best for day trips or minimalist packing. If you need to carry a laptop, check the dimensions (15″ x 9″ x 7″ unrolled; 11″ x 9″ x 7″ rolled) to make sure your device fits.
- No internal organization: The main compartment is a single space. You’ll need to use pouches or organizers if you want to separate items.
- Motorcycle branding: Some may find the “motorcycle” marketing off-putting, but the bag’s features are universal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TPU really waterproof?
Yes. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is inherently waterproof and forms a reliable barrier against rain, snow, and spills. It’s used in high-end outdoor gear for its durability and water resistance.
How do roll-top closures compare to zippers?
Roll-tops offer superior waterproofing and let you adjust the bag’s size. Zippers can leak if not sealed, and they limit how much you can expand the bag.
Can I use this bag for air travel?
Yes. At 8 liters, it fits easily under airplane seats and works well as a personal item or secondary carry-on.
Are the straps comfortable for long walks?
The backpack straps are basic but functional. For short to medium walks, they’re comfortable. For long hikes, you might want extra padding or a larger bag.
What’s the return and warranty policy?
You get a 45-day hassle-free return window and a one-year warranty against defects.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Odyssey ADV Touring Tailpack 8L?
If you want a compact, waterproof bag that’s tough enough for the outdoors but flexible enough for daily life, the Odyssey ADV Touring Tailpack 8L is a smart buy. Its craftsmanship—especially the TPU fabric and roll-top design—puts it ahead of most bags in this price range. The ability to switch between duffel and backpack, plus the included mounting straps, make it a versatile choice for commuters, cyclists, parents, and anyone who faces unpredictable weather.
If you value flexibility and weatherproofing in a bag, the Viking Odyssey ADV Touring Tailpack 8L is worth a close look.
Check it out here: Viking Odyssey 8L Adventure Touring Tailpack2.
Browse our motorcycle backpack collection.
Related Articles:
- Urban Budget Camping: Gear & Tips to Supercharge City Camping
- Best-Selling Inflatable Camping Tents: Top Choices for 2025
- VikingBags Review: Viking Odyssey ADV Touring Tailpack 8L
- Solar Powered Fan: How They Work, Top Picks, and Key Benefits
- Viking Bags Explorer Adventure Touring Chest Harness for Hiking, Climbing & Travel
- The Hidden Dangers of Toxic Camping Tents
- Affordable Eco-Friendly Tents Under $300
- Is Your Camping Gear Safe? How to Check for Asbestos in Camping Gear
- Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Nemo Dagger: Choosing Your Backpacking Shelter
- Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall
Citations:
- https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/collection_ba0d45e7-4185-409f-b191-3462b73eb57a/42cbeeac-1543-419d-9dbd-94d472b6fa55/paste.txt
- https://www.vikingbags.com/products/viking-odyssey-8-litres-adventure-touring-motorcycle-tailpack
- https://www.flw-bag.com/info/what-is-tpu-waterproof-coating-100783979.html
- https://www.stubbleandco.com/en-us/blogs/travel-with-stubble-co/why-is-a-roll-top-so-good
- https://www.angreen.com/news/what-is-tpu-waterproof-material-what-is-tpu-vs-pvc.html
- https://backpackies.com/blog/rolltop-vs-zipper
- https://www.carsikiebag.com/a-the-ultimate-waterproof-protection-tpu-backpacks-for-your-outdoor-adventures.html
- https://www.reddit.com/r/advrider/comments/1asrhbb/viking_bags_adventure_line/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxGeLhAuodI
- https://www.revzilla.com/adv-touring-luggage
- https://www.leelinebags.com/pvc-vs-tpu-bag/
- http://www.monstarbags.com/What-Is-The-Advantages-Of-TPU-Material-n.html
- https://www.vikingbags.com/products/viking-odyssey-8-litres-yamaha-adventure-touring-motorcycle-tailpack
- https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2024/12/08/viking-bags-odyssey-80l-adv-touring-luggage-system-first-look/
- https://www.driftlessroadsusa.com/general-9
- https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2025/03/10/viking-odyssey-72l-adventure-touring-luggage-system-review/
- https://kronoxpowersports.com/products/kerman-motorcycle-tail-bag
- https://sw-motech.com/en/products/luggage/tail+bags/
- https://www.jltarpaulin.com/news/industry-news/tpu-fabric-waterproof-and-wearresistant.html
- https://erez-therm.com/most-common-uses-of-waterproof-tpu-fabric/
- https://layeredblankets.com/blogs/articles/understanding-tpu-the-technology-inside-waterproof-blankets