When shopping for rear racks, the most important starting point is compatibility. Not every rack fits every bike, so check that your frame has the necessary mounting points, such as eyelets on the seatstays and chainstays, before buying. If your bike lacks these, there are clamp-on options designed to work without them. Next, consider your load requirements. Commuters carrying a laptop bag or groceries have different needs to long-distance tourers hauling fully loaded panniers, so look at the weight rating of any rack you consider. Material is also worth thinking about, with aluminium offering a good balance of strength and weight for most riders, while steel suits those prioritising durability for heavy loads. Finally, think about whether you need a rack that is compatible with a specific pannier system, as some racks and bags are designed to work together.