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25 Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags for Travel in 2024

Written by Becca

Updated on March 14th, 2024

What are the best fanny packs and belt bags for travel? Check this list of the best waist bags and hip packs for women travelers, before you book your next trip.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Fanny Packs

• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L / 2L

Canvelle Fanny Pack

Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag

• Moment Fanny Sling & Mini Fanny Sling

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa

Kibou Vegan Leather Bag

• Quince All-Day Neoprene Belt Bag
• Nike Elemental Premium 8L

Lux & Nyx Origami Belt Bag

SPI Crossbody Pouch

Kibou Mini Vegan Leather Fanny Pack

• WANDRD All-New D1 Fanny Pack

Vessi Shoreline Belt Bag

• Tortuga Travel Sling

TOPO Designs Mountain Waist Pack

Tom Bihn Side Effect Bag

REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack

Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack

• Osprey Daylite Waist Pack

JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack

Kånken Hip Pack

Herschel Settlement Hip Pack

Everlane Renew Transit Fanny Pack

LeSportSac Everyday Belt Bag

Call them what you want — fanny packs, waist bags, waist pouches, belt bags or hip packs — these types of travel bags that get slung around your hips are crucial, in my opinion, to convenience during a trip!

Wearing a fanny pack or waist pack during travel gives you a more hands-free flexibility than using a tote bag. It allows you to not have to flip your backpack to the front or take it off, if you just want to grab something quickly, like a phone or passport.

Having a bag around your waist is also a great way to keep lots of valuables in check, right in front of you, whether sightseeing, hiking or in the airport. I’ve really enjoyed keeping my passport, phone, wallet and headphones in a waist bag while flying, rather than having any of them in my personal item that gets stowed under a seat.

Browse our 5 favorite picks

• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Check Availability
• Canvelle Fanny Pack Check Availability
• Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag Check Availability
• Moment Fanny Sling Check Availability
• Quince All-Day Neoprene Belt Bag Check Availability

If you’re looking into a new waist pouch, belt bag or hip pack this season, why not check out the list below, which we’ve curated from the best travel brands? Read on, to see which fanny pack or waist pack is best for your upcoming trip.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L / 2L

I tried out this sleek and stylish belt bag from lululemon that can be worn as a waist pack or cross-body sling. Great for stylish women travelers (or men travelers!), it can be worn in a cute “waist” location rather than at your hip.

Turning into a belt bag, it can be worn close to the shoulder and across your front. The strap adjusts all the way to 41.7”. I like the big buckle that makes a “snap” sound when you close it, and I also like the two elastics that hold the strap as it is adjusted into its different lengths.

Since getting this belt bag, we’ve seen so many people wearing this product as we’re walking around where we live, and when we’re out and about. It seems it’s super popular and we’ve even had some friends buy it since we wrote about it here. For these reasons, we’re naming it the #1 best belt bag in this list that you’ll want to consider for your travels.

It has zippered pockets and an easy-access exterior pocket, along with one interior pocket for stashing valuables. I tried out the 2L version, and it holds a dab more than the 1L. It fits my wallet, my phone and my keys, and has space for a bunch of other daily essentials. Either one also makes a really nice gift for someone who’s always on the go.

You can see more photos at my lululemon belt bag review .

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Keep your essentials close with the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L, a perfect companion for the urban explorer.

Canvelle Fanny Pack

I became introduced to the Canvelle machine-washable fanny pack that comes in two convenient sizes, Oversized and Original. It’s a hands-free purse that I wear on my front and also on my back, and I like the gold zipper accents. When I mentioned my big fanny pack to my mom recently, she said, “Oh, you love that bag. You take it everywhere.” It’s true!

I turned the Canvelle fanny pack into my default day cross-body bag, and I like that it’s bigger, but it’s lightweight. It fits all my daily “stuff” from hand cream, hand sanitizer, keys, cards, wallet and phone, to more random items like even an entire water bottle.

Canvelle’s fanny pack has several cool features, including numerous pockets. It has a secure zipper pocket inside the main compartment and a mesh pocket in front of it.

The front of the bag itself (in the “Oversized” size choice) has a second zipper pocket for things like keys, cards or tissues, and there’s a zipper pocket on the back as well, for whatever you please (it’s intended to be a water-resistant phone pouch!). There’s an interior key clip additionally that I use for my Canvelle flat wallet.

As for sustainability, Canvelle’s fanny pack is made from 16 recycled plastic bottles as well as high-performing fabrics. I find it to be a nice shape, and it’s so easy to sling over your shoulder when you are leaving the house or getting out of the car. If you’re looking for an even lighter-weight hands-free travel bag, check out the Canvelle Belt Bag , which is minimalist, simple and barely weighs anything at all!

For fanny pack colors, there’s Grey, Olive, Terracotta, Black and Quilted Black. I also have some of the patterned crossbody straps that you can purchase as add-ons. I have Black Jacquard for my Quilted Black fanny pack, and “Boho” for my Olive fanny pack.

Use code HALFHALF15 to get 15% off your order.

Maintain your chic style on the move with the Canvelle Fanny Pack, combining fashion with function.

Photo via Canvelle

Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag

Are you new to the Public Rec brand ? The Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag is my favorite minimal and slim crossbody and waist bag that I cover in my Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag review .

What I like about this belt bag is that it’s sleek and has lots of pockets. It’s also expandable. I like the shiny silver buckle that gives it a bit of pizzazz. I use this belt bag as my day-to-day bag for when I leave the house and all I need are my phone, wallet and keys, in a simple bag that I can throw into another larger tote or purse.

In its fanny pack form, the Public Rec belt bag was a great thing to bring as a waist pack on my and Dan’s trip to the Berkshires . I liked that I could easily and quickly convert it from a waist bag to a cross-body belt bag, whether we were hiking, shopping, walking or getting out of the car quickly at a rest stop during our road trip.

Stay organized on the go with the Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag, a sleek and practical accessory.

Photo via Public Rec

Moment Fanny Sling & Mini Fanny Sling

I like the down-to-earth and timeless look of these “fanny slings” from Moment. Coming in both 2-liter and 1-liter varieties, you can choose either, depending on how much you think you need to carry (or how big you like your sling bags to be). I liked trying out the Moment sling because I wanted to see how the materials felt, and they’re very lightweight with a very satisfying zipper.

The 2L Moment Fanny Sling can be worn on either your shoulder or your hips like a hip pack, and it’s a great size overall. It can fit a small camera, or even a windbreaker, if folded up. It’s got a soft inner lining to keep everything safe, and rainstorm-proof construction. I liked checking out all the cool photo-savvy details like a little cleaning cloth on an elastic.

Then, even smaller, is the cute 1L Mini Fanny Sling . It’s similar to its 2L big sibling, but even lower-profile and could be hid under your shirt or jacket if you’re in a scenario in which you want to hide your valuables (La Rambla in Barcelona , perhaps?). It still fits compact cameras and large phones, and is completely vegan, with no leather composition. I listed it as one of the best accessories for backpackers .

If you like Moment, and you’re hunting for a new backpack as well, I recommend checking out our Moment Everything Backpack review .

Moment Fanny Sling

Embrace the convenience of the Moment Fanny Sling, a minimalist and functional solution for on-the-go storage.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa

Hyperlite Mountain Gear is a company that makes camping backpacks, tents, camping sleep systems, apparel and outdoorsy accessories, so they know what’s up when it comes to adventure gear. Their Versa waist pack was designed to be a timeless type of fanny pack with ultimate versatility. This one’s a bit wide, so note the size: it measures 6 inches by 9 inches, but weighs in at only 5 ounces (wow?!).

When I’m wearing it, it’s hard to even tell I have it around my waist. It’s that level of weightless.

So, it’s a super lightweight option for a travel waist bag and it has a waterproof construction meant to get you through hikes and any type of weather while on the road. That’s why I tried it out on a rainy day near home! What I like is the paper-like material with the crinkle effect that it’s made of. It kind of made me say, “Oh wow, I didn’t expect it to feel like this!”

Standout features include a back slide-in phone pocket, front zipper pocket and space enough to even potentially fit a small water bottle. I also like the double zippers in the main pocket, and the petite buckle and thin strap. I prefer to wear this one as a fanny pack rather than a sling bag.

See why this ultra-lightweight waist bag is awesome for travel.

Kibou Vegan Leather Bag

Attention traveling moms (and dads): if you haven’t heard of the Kibou fanny pack sling bag, allow me to introduce it to you.

For a limited time: Join the list for 15% off your first order + get free shipping on orders $75+!

Shop the deal

Kibou was started by two cool moms who invented the first-ever diaper bag fanny pack, which is an incredible little belt bag to have on travel days, road trips and while changing a diaper on a plane . It’s a perfect little bag with a great design, and comes in a Mini version made of nylon , too.

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a Kibou vegan leather crossbody pack to see what it was all about. Basically, it’s a place to put all your baby and child essentials, with bonus compartments of a waterproof zippered wipes sleeve and a fold-out changing pad that stashes into the backside.

The design is minimal, and the colors are bold and classy, like Blush, Olive, Charcoal, Smoky Indigo, Midnight and Jade. In the main compartment, I can fit sunglasses, my phone, a few diapers, a pacifier, diaper cream, hand sanitizer, keys, a slim wallet and a snack bar.

I’m looking forward to using my Kibou as a travel day fanny pack that I can go into a rest area with when we’re traveling with our baby , rather than my entire Deuter Up Seoul daypack that I use as a diaper bag right now. Check out the review of the Kibou that I posted, with even more photos.

Embrace style with the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag, a chic choice for the traveling parent.

Quince All-Day Neoprene Belt Bag

How adorable is Quince’s new neoprene belt bag? I tried out this waist bag and styled it both as a crossbody belt bag, as well as a snug hip pack around my middle. I have to say, it looks absolutely fantastic.

What I like, personally, about this travel fanny pack is that it’s lightweight, bold and comfortable. It’s fully adjustable, going from snug belt bag across my torso to a fanny pack on my waist or hips. There’s a zippered front pocket and a zippered main compartment that has a flap to protect your stuff from rain or elements.

Is it sustainable? It’s made from 100% recycled nylon, and recycled water-resistant neoprene materials. And price-wise, this belt bag is priced competitively for what it is. At under $40, it’s almost a no-brainer when compared to more expensive options for a travel fanny pack that hold the same amount of stuff in 1 liter of volume.

I like this travel belt bag from Quince and I think it’s going to be an essential part of future day trips and excursions.

Quince Neoprene Belt Bag

This cute waist bag and adjustable belt bag is minimal, cute and functional with its bold zippers and recycled materials.

Nike Elemental Premium 8L

This belt bag is the biggest one by volume in my list, and it’s big ! It’s also very affordable and often goes on sale (thanks, Nike!). As a highlight, it’s made from sustainable materials (recycled polyester fibers) and it’s sleek, modern and sporty.

If you’re on an active trip, or if you plan to be between hiking, activities and the hotel pool, I recommend the versatility of this bag.

The bag has a large double zipper compartment, front zipper pocket and two mesh inner pockets (with zippers). Honestly, this belt bag is so big that you could fit a sports water bottle, an extra shirt and maybe even a hiking shoe (just kidding).

It’s lightweight and comes in neutral colors, so it’s easily sharable with a sibling, friend or partner if you’re traveling together!

As a short disclaimer, Nike gave me this product to try, and the opinions above are completely my own.

Nike Elemental Premium 8L Belt Bag

Gender-neutral and full of zippers, this sporty belt bag is spacious and sustainable.

Lux & Nyx Origami Belt Bag

I first noticed woman- and minority-owned brand Lux & Nyx for its satiny products that have the design theme of sleek “origami.” I was curious about the brand’s functional bags that are elevated for the stylish traveling woman.

The company is an online-only seller of clutches, backpacks, handbags, crossbody bags and weekenders. Lux & Nyx aims to “keep the woman holding them confident and clutter-free.” I think the Lux & Nyx products work well for business travel, or for when you have semi-formal and formal (weddings!) occasions during a trip.

I tested the signature Origami Belt Bag , which looks cute as both a waist pack and crossbody sling. It’s refined, with a “victory sleeve” and interior zipper pocket hidden into the inner fabric. That’s a travel-forward feature that keeps things safe while in transit.

Inside, it has a D-ring for keys, and credit card slots, with a mesh pocket. I like the smooth adjustable strap, and the interesting magnetic buckle that I haven’t seen in other belt bags of this type. Some highlights are the upcycled leather trims, water-resistant interior and bold color choices like Crimson and Cardinal Red , which will add a pop of color to any outfit during travel.

A sleek and satiny belt bag with a hidden zipper pocket in origami-style design.

SPI Crossbody Pouch

The new SPI Crossbody Pouch came to me first as a cross-body tiny sling bag, and then I found out that it could double as a tiny waist bag.

SPI is a running company, and all their products are made for the outdoors and for convenience during workouts on the go . Last year though, when I got to try the SPI Crossbody Pouch for the first time, I started using it as a convenient sling pouch I could throw on as I was walking out the door to grab mail, take a walk around the block or go grab coffee.

I also used it as my #1 go-to pouch while going out bike riding, because I could have my phone and keys safely in there.

As a bonus, and according to the product page on the SPI website , if you simply adjust it by double-wrapping it around your waist at the right length, it becomes a waist pack for running! Try that during your next trip when you want to work out during travels .

Stay organized on the go with the SPI Crossbody Pouch, a compact and savvy solution for carrying your essentials.

Kibou Mini Vegan Leather Fanny Pack

This mini fanny pack and belt bag ) from Kibou is such a cutie. Coming from one of my favorite brands ( Kibou ), the mini version of the original fanny pack is a compact “fit only what you need” waist pack that can be worn several ways.

Among its cool features are the inner elastic pouch for protecting your phone’s screen, a key hook to keep keys in place, a waterproof “wet pocket” to hold wet wipes or sanitizing wipes and stain-resistant nylon lining. The nice exterior is vegan leather made from recycled textiles. It’s perfect for traveling parents who want to branch out from the full-size Kibou fanny .

Not a fan of vegan leather? Try the Kibou Mini in black nylon , a please-all color and style.

This perfectly-sized mini fanny pack can be worn as a belt bag, and comes in both vegan leather and nylon.

WANDRD All-New D1 Fanny Pack

The WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack is a modern and bold fanny pack that makes all other fanny packs look old-fashioned. Like the others we’ve mentioned, it can be worn cross-body, or at the hip like a hip pack.

I think one of the best features is the waterproof YKK zippers, along with the magnetic buckle that’s just a step above the competition.

You can fit a lot in this hip pack, which is meant to please anyone into photography. You’ll be able to fit a compact camera in here, along with your phone, wallet and keys (the big “don’t-leave-home-without-these” trifecta).

WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack

Experience hands-free convenience with the WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack, built for the essentials.

Vessi Shoreline Belt Bag

If you’ve seen our Vessi waterproof shoes review , you may have seen how this company has made revolutionary all-weather gear that’s great for travel to rainy destinations. If you plan to be on a trip that involves potentially stormy weather, waterfalls or other opportunities to get soaked, consider a waterproof belt bag.

Vessi’s Shoreline Belt Bag is a travel waist pack that also converts into a crossbody bag. It has a key loop, pockets and an adjustable strap. It’s a simple product, but made from Vessi’s epic waterproof tech fabric. I tried it out in a rainstorm and everything stayed dry!

A waterproof belt bag made from incredible all-weather fabric.

Tortuga Travel Sling

The Tortuga Travel Sling comes from the Tortuga Backpacks family of products and you may know some of their bags from my Tortuga Laptop Backpack review . This adjustable sling bag can be worn “however you want,” from a tight belt bag across your chest to a waist bag or hip pack on travel days.

It’s versatile, just like all of Tortuga’s products. It’s not surprising that the quality is outstanding. With a 2.5-liter capacity and a weight of only 0.5 lbs when empty, it has cool build features like a magnetic buckle, YKK zipper hardware and weather-resistant waterproof fabric. All of these come in handy if you’re caught in a storm while sightseeing.

True to what I like about Tortuga’s backpacks, the interior is smart: it has mesh organization pockets, a key ring and an interior zipper mesh pocket for my coins, cards and packets of sanitizing wipes for on the go.

You can get $20 off when you purchase it with a Tortuga travel backpack .

Tortuga Travel Sling Bag

A smart and strong belt bag for travel with mesh pockets, strong zippers and versatile ways to wear.

TOPO Designs Mountain Waist Pack

We’ve liked TOPO Designs products, and the Mountain Waist Pack is a 2L outdoorsy bum bag for travelers.

TOPO Designs calls it the ideal adventure companion, to wear any way you want: over the shoulder or at your waist. This is a great hip bag for hiking and biking, with its big YKK zipper pulls and lightweight recycled nylon build.

Get outdoorsy with the TOPO Designs Mountain Waist Pack, a perfect carry-all hip bag.

Tom Bihn Side Effect Bag

I wouldn’t necessarily call this a fanny pack, but it does have the same effect. If you’re looking for a small bag to take with you while you travel, and want something that will absolutely last forever, check out the Side Effect from Tom Bihn.

I like this option because Tom Bihn products truly do last forever. The minute you feel the material, you’ll know that it’s superior quality and won’t break down over time. We wrote all about Tom Bihn and what to know before you buy, in this brand guide .

As a functional bag, though, I think the Side Effect Bag great. You can use this as your small travel companion, to hold your passport, phone, charger, headphones and a book.

You can use this as a travel organizer and purpose this bag for some of your small camera equipment. You can use this as a craft bag, reading bag, really anything that you can imagine, and it easily becomes a petite cross-body purse too!

Embrace minimalism with the Tom Bihn Side Effect Bag, a versatile, compact accessory for your essentials.

REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack

The waist pack from REI won’t win any high fashion awards, but it will be highly functional and act as a great little travel tool for you.

The body and lining of this waist pack are made from recycled material, and the outside is water-repellent. If you get caught in bad weather while traveling, you will be covered, and the things that you need available at a moment’s notice won’t get soaked!

I like this option for a travel waist pack because it has a secret stash pocket in which you can keep your “super valuable items,” like cash, keys or passport.

Stash your essentials close with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack, a hands-free travel solution.

Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

Patagonia’s products always feel fun and fresh, even with their slight throwback designs that remind me a little bit of the 90s. The Mini Hip Pack is an ultralight fanny pack bag for travel that clocks in at 1 liter of volume! Does it remind you of a mini version of Dan’s Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ?

It’s not a big fanny pack at all, so it looks good on women, especially anyone who is petite. Much like the other hip packs and waist bags in this list, it easily extends with its adjustable strap and turns into a cross-body sling bag, just like that!

Other cool call-out features are that it is one-size-fits-all, and is crafted with 100% recycled body fabric, lining and webbing.

Compact and versatile, the Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack is perfect for your essentials on the go.

Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack

Leave it to Cotopaxi to make a cool hip pack type of fanny pack for the modern and rugged traveler. Of course, the Coso 2L Hip Pack - Cada Día comes in funky color combinations that will turn heads.

This waist bag also converts into a cross-body sling, and is great for both men and women. You could even use one among the entire family (or share it with a friend).

This hip pack has multiple grab handles, a back zippered pocket for security, and an interior fleece-lined pocket for a phone. Check out the innovative design at the Coso 2L product page .

Keep your essentials close with the Coso 2L Hip Pack, perfect for hands-free convenience.

Osprey Daylite Waist Pack

This waist pack from Osprey is for the hiker and adventurer. If you’re familiar with the Osprey brand, you may know we also recommend their backpacking backpacks in our list of the best travel backpacks for women !

This waist bag is not a fashion statement, but it will certainly be your chosen hip pack for hiking, backpacking and long-term travel. It also comes at an affordable price point for the budget-minded backpacker.

Osprey Daylite Hip Pack

Perfect for quick outings or festivals, the Daylite Waist Pack offers compact storage for your essentials without sacrificing style.

JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack

JanSport has never been the fashion-forward style choice for travelers, but (!) JanSport is a brand that has stood the test of time and is trusted by anyone into a quality backpack or waistpack.

The JanSport fanny pack is lightweight and spacious, and converts to an over-the-shoulder cross-body belt bag, too. It’s ideal for camping and hiking, but could be your sling bag companion on your next city trip, too.

Carry your essentials in style with the JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack, combining classic design and practicality.

Kånken Hip Pack

As you could’ve guessed, the Kånken Hip Pack from Fjallraven is pretty adorable! Just like the backpacks from Fjallraven, this waist pack comes in more colors than you could dream of. One of the benefits of buying from this brand is that Fjallraven offers lifetime repairs!

This hip pack is unisex, so don’t be surprised if someone else in your hiking group asks to borrow it! At its petite size, it’s only 135 g (0.29 lb) before you put anything in it, and it’ll fit your essentials.

The Kånken Hip Pack provides stylish, compact storage for your essentials, a perfect companion for city exploration or outdoor adventures.

Herschel Settlement Hip Pack

Herschel has made an on-trend hip pack that’ll serve as a cool and timeless fanny pack for travelers. The Settlement Hip Pack is specifically designed to fit your essentials (phone-wallet-keys). It comes in a very nice assortment of colors that’ll stand the test of time, like Ash Rose and Ivy Green.

I like that this one also converts to a cross-body sling pack. If you’re itching to see the other fanny packs that Herschel makes, check out the Settlement Hip Pack Quilted version , which is like “carrying your essentials on a cloud.”

Compact yet spacious, the Herschel Settlement Hip Pack provides on-the-go storage without weighing you down.

Everlane Renew Transit Fanny Pack

I really like look of this minimalist and modern fanny pack from Everlane, which they call The Renew Transit Fanny Pack . It has a wide build, so it’s not a snug and compact waist bag like some of the others in this list. It won’t be going out of style anytime soon.

Fun fact: this product is made from recycled bottles! It also comes in fresh colors, and you can definitely wear it in a waist pack fashion or a cross-body sling style.

Get the Everlane Renew Transit Fanny Pack, a stylish and minimal belt bag for travel.

LeSportSac Everyday Belt Bag

I have worn my LeSportSac fanny pack all over the world! I got it in 2019 and it has come with me on all my trips since then. What I like about it is that it has two separate pockets, has a thick adjustable strap and that it is super lightweight.

It’s a classic style from LeSportSac, which is a classic brand. When I’m not wearing this belt bag, I just empty it and toss it in my backpack or other bag that’s with me on a trip.

I’ve even tried maxing out the adjustment of the strap to make it into a cross-body sling bag while biking in NYC.

Check out these photos of how I used this fanny pack during my trips to both Antigua, Guatemala and Merida, Mexico .

Keep your essentials close with the LeSportSac Everyday Belt Bag, a stylish and convenient solution for on-the-go storage.

Why should you trust me?

I’ve personally tested a large number of the fanny packs and belt bags you see here, and I’ve tested them during my travels, both at home and abroad!

I’ve been traveling for years, for all sorts of purposes, from backpacking Southeast Asia in my 20s to traveling for business in my 30s. Having a trusty and convenient pack around my waist is crucial, whether I’m traveling on a babymoon with Dan or flying for a one-day business trip .

I’ve looked for belt bags and waist packs that have great features like expandability, pockets, great styles, sustainable factors and affordable prices. I hope you trust my choices on this list so that you find the travel bag that is right for your next trip!

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The 15 best fanny packs and belt bags for travel.

Find the perfect hands-free style for your on-the-go essentials.

The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

There's no disputing that fanny packs are a useful accessory. They free up your hands while keeping everything at your fingertips. Plus, you don't have to suffer the excess heat on your back that often plagues backpack users, nor will you have to switch the strap to avoid shoulder pain (looking at you, tote bags).

Thankfully, fanny packs of the 21st century have gotten a makeover since their popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. Yes, you can still find packs adorned with wild shapes, in Outrun color schemes or made with iridescent material, but many of them are more fashion-forward. They come in neutral tones, classic designs and have unique features to keep you organized.

In the market for a fanny pack? Based on consumer reviews and travel expert insights, these are the best fanny packs for travelers. Whether you're vacationing solo , heading out on a hike or taking the kids to Walt Disney World , there's something on this list for you.

The Top Fanny Packs and Belt Bags for Travel in 2023

Best overall: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best overall (at a lower price point): jansport fifth avenue fanny pack, best budget: waterfly slim fanny pack.

• Best Crossbody: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Belt Bag: Lo & Sons Waverly 2

Best Waterproof: AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap

• Best Plus Size: Olimpiafit Fanny Pack

Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack

Best for parents: kibou bag, best for kids: everest junior waist pack, best leather: genius leather shop leather fanny pack, best for festivals: sojourner holographic rave fanny pack, best for theme parks: baboon to the moon fannypack, best for hiking: cotopaxi bataan fanny pack.

• Best for Skiing: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

What sets this pack apart: Dagne Dover's fanny pack is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it an appealing option for eco-conscious travelers . The bag features three different sections: a front zip area, the main zippered compartment and a card slot on the back. Inside the main pocket, you'll find slots for both lip balm and cards or cash, plus a key clip. The fanny pack's neoprene material is also water-resistant and has an adjustable waist strap. This pack comes in classic colors, including blush, olive, camel, black and gray. Special seasonal colors may also be available.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the bag is excellent for everyday use and they love being hands-free while traveling or running errands. Others note that the bag can be small if you have a large phone plus other items inside.

Price: $95 or less Shop now: Dagne Dover

What sets this pack apart: This bag holds all your travel essentials in a main zippered compartment with a small zip pouch on the front and a fully adjustable waist. When empty, the pack weighs just 4.5 ounces, and it is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including lilac, camouflage, floral and black.

Travelers appreciate: Users of this bag praise the variety of colors and patterns, noting it's best for those traveling light (think: a few credit cards, phone and lip balm).

Price: $22 or less Shop now: JanSport | Amazon

Courtesy of Waterfly

What sets this pack apart: This budget-friendly and compact design measures 8 x 2.5 x 4.3 inches, making it an excellent size to store your keys, cards and a smartphone (note that the bag can only accommodate phones measuring less than 6.5 inches). The front has three separate compartments: one large zippered section, a small zippered pouch and a covered pocket; there is also a zippered back pocket. The Waterfly bag is constructed with a water-resistant fabric in a variety of colors and patterns, and the adjustable belt can accommodate 20- to 50-inch waists.

Travelers appreciate: Though some reviewers note this pack is too small to use as an everyday bag, active travelers say it is a perfect size for stowing essentials during a bike ride, kayaking trip or hike. Others note that it makes a comfortable sling bag, too.

Price: $19.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Crossbody: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

What sets the pack apart: The bag features a water-repellent fabric with two zipper compartments: one main section (which includes a mesh pouch inside) and one along the back exterior. This crossbody comes in multiple colors, including gray, black, silver and white. Select colors feature fabric made from recycled materials.

Travelers appreciate: "I started using the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag when I would take my son to a park or playground because it allowed me to keep my hands free and also kept all my essentials at my fingertips (without being bulky)," says Ann Henson , assistant managing editor of travel at U.S. News. "Now I use this as my everyday bag. It's easy to wipe clean and the interior pockets keep everything organized." Reviewers also like the extendable strap, which reaches 41.7 inches at its full extension.

Price: $48 or less Shop now: Lululemon

Best Belt Bag: Lo & Sons Waverley 2

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

What sets the pack apart: If flexibility is your main requirement of a fanny pack, consider the Waverley 2 from Lo & Sons, a business founded by Chinese immigrant Helen Lo and her sons. Not only can the Waverley be worn as a belt bag, but it can also be worn as a crossbody purse, carried as a wristlet or clutch, or used as a shoulder bag. You can select from two different sizes (small and large) and three different kinds of leather, one of which is plant-based. Bags come in an assortment of colors and silver, gunmetal, gold or brass hardware.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the bag is perfect for carrying essentials on the go and compliment the bag's construction.

Price: $210 or less Shop now: Lo & Sons

Courtesy of AiRunTech

What sets this pack apart: This waterproof hip pack protects belongings from getting wet up to 32 feet underwater. There are three different zip locks to keep valuables safe, plus each bag is see-through and touch-screen friendly (except the black version) to access devices while keeping them stowed. Another bonus? Bags come in sets of two.

Travelers appreciate: The bag really works. For everything from embarking on cruises to snorkeling in Costa Rica 's waters, users tout how easy the bags are to use. Plus, travelers like that bags can be worn as a waist pack or over the shoulder.

Price: $16.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Plus Size: OlimpiaFit Fanny Pack

What sets this pack apart: The OlimpiaFit bag fits waists up to 44 inches and comes with an extender that provides another 18 inches. Two large compartments fit everything from wallets to small water bottles, while the two front pouches keep necessities like keys and hand sanitizer in easy reach. There are also two hidden pockets for keeping valuables safe from pickpockets. A small opening at the side of this fanny pack allows headphone cords through. You can get yours in navy, gray, purple or black.

Travelers appreciate: The bag has plenty of room to store belongings, and users rave about the length of the belt. Others wish the bag was better quality, saying the pack can be pretty quick to fray.

Price: $22 or less Shop now: Amazon

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Courtesy of Travelon

What sets this pack apart: Thanks to RFID-blocking technology, locking waist straps, locking zippers and slash-resistant material, this Travelon fanny pack is ideal for travelers who want some extra security during their vacations. The bag features front and rear zippered pockets and the interior has a key clip plus a small light. The strap can accommodate waists up to 46 inches.

Travelers appreciate: The security features, plus the bag's classic style, appeal to reviewers. Some travelers say the bag was too small for their needs, while others say it was just the right size for essentials (like a passport, credit cards and a phone). Keep in mind: To take full advantage of the security features, you'll have to relock the bag each time you get something out.

Price: $50 or less Shop now: Amazon | Travelon Bags

Courtesy of Kibou

What sets this pack apart: This hybrid bag combines everything travelers love about fanny packs with the necessities of a diaper bag. The pack has a main zippered compartment – complete with key hook – as well as a front zippered pocket with slots for cash and credit cards. At the back, there's a waterproof compartment perfect for wet wipes or soiled baby clothes. The second back compartment contains a removable changing pad. You can get a belt extender (for free!) to extend the length of the belt to 66 inches; the attached belt has a maximum of 48 inches. Bags come in either vegan leather or canvas. Color options include blush, jade and black.

Travelers appreciate: While some parents note the bag is a little small to carry all the essentials (spare diapers, a bottle, snacks, etc.), most parents love its convenience. They also appreciate that it's easily wiped clean.

Price: $98 or less Shop now: Kibou

What sets this pack apart: From snacks to fidget spinners, children have their own necessities during a trip. Everest's kid-sized waist pack could fit the bill. The pack itself measures approximately 8.3 x 2.8 x 3.5 inches and weighs just over 3 ounces when empty. The pack has two front-access zippered compartments. There are several kid-friendly color options, such as coral, purple, hot pink and turquoise.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers say the pack is perfect for small children, noting it fits their kids well and gives them space to keep small objects (such as rocks and seashells) safe as they explore. Nevertheless, parents do warn the buckle can be finicky and that the excess strap is long after adjusting.

Price: $21 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Genius Leather Shop

What sets this pack apart: This genuine leather fanny pack comes not only in your standard black and brown hues; it's also available in burgundy, mustard and cognac. The bag has a zippered pocket on the backside. The main zippered compartment on the front features a pocket ideal for cards and cash. The strap is adjustable from 33.5 to 52 inches. For an additional fee, the company will engrave the buckle or emboss a leather tag for the front of the pack.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers point out the fine quality and beauty of the leather. Many report using it for day-to-day activities, though some report minor issues with the hardware.

Price: $82 or less Shop now: Etsy

Courtesy of SoJourner

What sets this pack apart: SoJourner's fanny pack comes in brightly colored geometric prints, galaxy prints, holographic gold or silver, glitter, sequins, and colorful transparent – along with a clear option if you're looking for a stadium-compliant bag . To sum up: These bags aren't for fashion conservatives. The packs have three pockets, with two on the front and one along the back. Plus, the material is water-resistant. While the strap adjusts to fit waists up to 48 inches, you can also purchase an extender to add another 13 inches (including the buckles).

Travelers appreciate: Most reviewers love the fanny pack, noting it's particularly great for concerts and events. A few reviewers mention some issues with quality.

Price: $17.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Baboon to the Moon

What sets this pack apart: The bag comes in a variety of colors like yellow and lavender, as well as a choice of a 3-liter and 1.5-liter sizes. The Cordura nylon shell is water-resistant, and the main compartment is equipped with mesh pockets and a key hook. Two additional zippered compartments (one on the front and one on the back) allow for additional storage as you pack your belongings for a day at an amusement park .

Travelers appreciate: Those who use this fanny park praise the color selection and the fact that the bag holds a lot. Some note issues with the straps, saying the belts are shorter than anticipated.

Price: $65 or less Shop now: Baboon to the Moon

What sets this pack apart: Each multicolor Cotopaxi fanny pack is one-of-a-kind. Possible color options include everything from bright green or orange to neon yellow or soft gray. Purchasers have the option to select their own bag or can save a few dollars by receiving a mystery bag (and have no control over the colors). What's more, its materials are sustainably sourced: Packs are made from surplus nylon fabric that otherwise would've ended up in a landfill. The single zip compartment has two internal mesh pockets to help keep belongings organized.

Travelers appreciate: "Besides being fun to look at and wear, this durable fanny pack really packs a punch when it comes to outdoor activities," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "In addition to my phone, wallet and keys, I'm able to fit other hiking must-haves like snacks, first aid supplies and even a small water bottle. Plus, with two mesh pockets inside, it's easy to keep things organized."

Price: $37.50 or less Shop now: Cotopaxi | REI

Best for Skiing: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L

Courtesy of Patagonia

What sets this pack apart: Patagonia's pack has a classic style, with one large zip pouch and a smaller zippered enclosure on the front. It comes in multiple colors from basic black to slate blue to muted purple. What's more, the pack stows away into a stuff sack for easy portability on your ski trip and weighs less than 4 ounces. It's also made with 100% recycled materials.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers agree this fanny pack is an excellent purchase, saying it holds everything they need for running errands or schussing down the slopes. However, some do wish there was more interior organization. Patagonia also makes a larger version of this pack.

Price: $35 or less Shop now: Patagonia | REI

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Marisa Méndez is an avid gear connoisseur who's constantly on the hunt for her next perfect travel item, which must always have ample organization options. Current favorites are a large L.L. Bean toiletry kit , a Scout bag (which is her beach tote) and her trusty Samsonite carry-on . She used her love of organization and painstaking research to come up with this list of fanny packs. Méndez is currently deciding which color of the Waterfly pack to purchase for her trail runs.

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The 14 Best Travel Fanny Packs and Waist Packs [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

758 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3049 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

The Benefits of Fanny Packs

Things to consider with travel fanny packs, 1. the everyday fanny pack, 2. top-of-the-range adventure lumbar pack, 3. the multiple carry options fanny pack, 4. great fanny pack for runners and active users, 5. fanny pack for the organized traveler, 6. fanny pack for fashionistas, 7. the classic canvas fanny pack, 8. the festival fanny pack, 9. compact and lightweight waist pack, 10. extremely slim and minimalist waist pack, 11. giant waist pack for those who need lots of space, 12. the statement fanny pack from jansport, 13. the budget double-water-bottle-holding waist pack, 14. the fanny pack for hikers, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

A fanny pack may bring back memories of the 1980s and some of the fashion disasters that went with the era, but owning one of these much-maligned sling-style bags will completely transform the way you carry your personal belongings with you.

Sling it over your shoulder or tie it around your waist, and you’ll soon see why the fanny pack is back and is a favorite of fashionistas all over the world.

If you’re thinking of investing in your first-ever fanny pack or simply looking to reignite your love, remember that there are many great reasons to wear your belongings around your waist:

• A fanny pack leaves your hands free to concentrate on the more important things in life. Without handles, you can slip it around your waist or over your shoulder, and off you go.
• Anyone can wear a fanny pack. The style itself is unisex, meaning that the whole family can wear one if they want to. There are also thousands of styles to choose from, available in colors and sizes to suit every fanny pack fan.
• These types of bags are lightweight and durable and will help keep you better balanced than a shoulder or tote bag. Because of this, fanny packs are perfect for outdoor activities, sports, and other adventures where you don’t want your travel bag to hold you back.
• A fanny pack is spacious without being bulky . With several different compartments, you can easily keep your keys, wallet, phone, and other small essentials about your person without weighing yourself down.

Fanny packs are back in fashion! From music festivals to the beach and everywhere in between, fashion-focused travelers once again love the look of the waist bag.

Before you buy a fanny pack for your next trip, be sure to take into account the following:

Belt Length

Fanny packs aren’t one size fits all. Some will have longer belt straps than others, and depending on the size of your waist, you’ll need to investigate whether it will fit before you purchase.

Also, if you’re planning on wearing it across your body or over your shoulder, it will need to be adjustable to be able to hang properly.

Your fanny pack will be going on plenty of adventures with you. For this reason, it will need to be lightweight yet strong and durable, and you’ll want to ensure that you can wipe or wash it as often as you need to.

Leather, PU, nylon, or even cotton fanny packs are all good choices, but you’ll need to choose a fabric that’s robust enough to hold your belongings without tearing.

Anti-Theft and Slash-Proof

Many travel bags offer anti-theft protection and slash-proof straps and material. Just because your fanny pack is small doesn’t make it any less vulnerable to criminals eager to access your belongings.

RFID lining helps to protect the data held on your contactless credit cards while slash-proof material stops pickpockets with flick knives from stealing your stuff.

Organization, Pockets, and Water Bottle Holder

Not all fanny packs are equal as some offer more benefits than others.

A basic pack may have room to hold your essentials, while larger packs can provide a variety of slots or zippered compartments and may even have a mesh holder for your water bottle . These are great for longer adventures, hiking trips, or days at the beach.

The 14 Best Travel Fanny Packs

Everest signature waist pack in jade.

Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, this cute little fanny pack is perfect for everyday use. With a 46-inch waist strap, a zippered compartment, and a front hanging key chain, this small bag will keep your essentials safe, whatever you’re doing.

The Everest Signature Waist Pack is made from polyester fabric and has a unique slim and sporty design . The adjustable waist belt can be made small enough to fit around your waist or lengthened to wear across your body.

The main compartment is large enough to hold your wallet , coins, and even your cell phone, while the zippered front pocket and key holder will keep everything else safe.

Designed with practicality in mind, this fanny pack can be wiped down or washed to ensure it looks good and lasts through many adventures.

What We Like

• Made from water-resistant material

What We Don’t Like

• No dual-opening zippers

Osprey Packs Talon 6 Lumbar Pack

Travel giant Osprey is famous for its incredibly durable and long-lasting travel accessories, and the Talon 6 Lumbar Pack is certainly no exception. Made from mesh-covered AirScape ridge foam to keep your load secure, this fanny pack allows you to be as sporty or adventurous as you want to be.

Much more than just a travel pouch, this large, secure, and stable lumber pack will keep your belongings safe and your posture grounded. This is a superb fanny pack for the serious traveler, with the ability to carry 2 water bottles in the padded bottle sleeves that stay upright even when you don’t.

You can pack plenty of essentials, including money, keys, your phone, and even your passport or ID in the large, zippered compartment, while the horizontal, straightjacket compression straps ensure that the pack never gets bent out of shape.

As with all Osprey products, the Talon 6 Lumbar Pack comes with Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee. This is a serious pack for serious travelers.

• Holds 2 water bottles
• Might be too bulky for some people

VISCNE Outdoor Fanny Pack

This is a monster of a fanny pack, designed with seriously exciting adventures in mind. Made from wear-resistant nylon with a breathable mesh lumbar, this is the perfect pack to take with you on your next hiking, fishing, cycling, or camping trip.

Additional shoulder straps mean that you can carry this pack 3 ways: around your waist, across 1 shoulder, or over 2 shoulders like a backpack. The adjustable belt means you can make it long or short enough to fit almost anyone, while the 2 side zipper pockets will keep your stuff organized.

Dual water bottle holders will ensure you stay hydrated whatever you’re doing, while various compartments will easily hold your phone, wallet, keys, coins, and everything else you need.

• Comes in a range of colors
• Water bottle pockets are quite shallow

Waterfly Hiking Waist Bag Fanny Pack

Made from water-resistant nylon, this fanny pack is perfect for long hikes or outdoor adventures in any kind of weather. Large enough to fit your keys, your coins, and even your phone, this fanny pack will protect your precious belongings from the elements.

With the addition of a stable water bottle holder, your favorite drinking vessel will remain upright while you run, hike or climb. The 2 separate zipper pockets and an additional small front pocket are perfect for keeping your stuff organized and together, while the adjustable strap fits nicely around your waist.

Designed with sports fanatics in mind , the back mesh pad allows the straps to breathe, keeping your waist dry and fresh, no matter how much you sweat.

For your own added security this bag comes complete with reflective strips , making it an excellent choice for anyone who is active or runs near cars or other vehicles.

• Breathable mesh back pad
• Compartments are quite small

FREETOO Waist Pack Bag Fanny Pack for Men and Women

This traditional-style fanny pack offers you all the space you need across 5 zippered pockets. The largest is big enough to hold your water bottle, while the smallest will keep all those little bits like keys and hair ties safe and organized.

Made from strong 1000D polyester , this bag is easy to clean and built to last. An excellent addition to your everyday travel baggage, this useful little pack has sturdy zippers, an adjustable strap with a secure waist buckle, and the option to be worn either around your waist or across your shoulders.

Just as useful for outdoor activities as it is for festivals and having fun, this is a great option for anyone.

• Lots of pockets to keep organized
• The waist strap is quite short

Badiya Women’s Mini Crocodile Leather Waist Bag

This fabulous little fanny pack is just the right size for keeping your phone, credit card, money, and ID safe while you enjoy the finer things in life. With an on-trend leather look, this beauty is an excellent choice for festivals, parties, and shopping.

Made from high-quality faux crocodile material, the pack has 2 pockets and an adjustable strap that reaches up to 39 inches, making it easy for you to wear around your waist or to carry over your shoulder.

With a look and feel that takes you back to the belt bags of the 1970s, this is an up-to-date way to keep your personal belongings close to you at all times, while still looking fashionable.

• Practical and stylish
• Difficult to close if overfilled

LemonGirl Unisex Waist Bag

Modern convenience with a stylish look, this fanny pack is made of durable canvas with plenty of room to carry all your personal belongings.

With 1 large zippered pocket and 1 small pocket, this canvas fanny pack is large enough to carry your cash, cards, cell phone, and your keys. It can be hand-washed or popped in the washing machine to keep it looking as fresh as you do on every outing.

The adjustable waist bag can be worn around your waist or slung over your shoulder for a real old-school feel. Great for festivals, beach parties, and gatherings, you can keep everything close with this epic little fanny pack.

• Stylish, muted colors that go with everything
• Too slim to carry anything bulkier than a cell phone

SoJourner Black Rose Fanny Pack

A gorgeous 90s-style fanny pack with plenty of space to keep your belongings safe, this bag comes in a variety of prints including flowers, stripes, polka dots, and even the American flag. Perfect for trendy fashionistas and festival lovers, these bags are adorable and super useful.

The 2 main zippered pockets will keep your water bottle , money, keys, cards, and cell phone all close to hand, while the back pocket is perfect for loose change and hair ties. The adjustable nylon waistband fits a 15- to 48-inch waist.

These bags are suitable for both men and women, and the durable nylon construction will ensure that your SoJourner fanny pack will last you over many great adventures.

• Available in a range of colors and designs
• Zippers are quite fragile

Tinyat Travel Fanny Bag Waist Pack

Cute and compact, this basic little fanny pack is perfect for keeping your most important pieces close to you. Made from durable, washable nylon, you can rely on this bag over and over again.

The zippered front accessory pocket is great for storing your keys, your ID card, your credit and debit cards, your cell phone, and even your coin purse. You can also stay looking good from the word go, with enough room to stash your favorite lipstick, perfume, or comb.

The discreet back pocket will keep notes or valuables hidden out of sight, and the lightweight, fashionable design means this little beauty can be worn with a wide variety of outfits . The waist belt is adjustable to fit waist sizes from 16 to 40 inches, so you can throw it around your waist or sling it over your shoulder.

• Hidden zipper pocket at the back
• Doesn’t hold a great deal

Waterfly Slim Fanny Pack

This weather-resistant fanny pack will keep your belongings safe from a damp day or a little bit of drizzle. Designed to fit men, women, and even children, it has a highly adjustable waistband that can accommodate all sizes. The Waterfly brand also offers extendable band straps for extra-large waists, that can be purchased separately.

This fanny pack is well-made, yet lightweight and extremely durable. The slim, elongated design of this waist bag keeps it compact and discreet.

The main double-zippered compartment is perfect for housing your keys, phone, wallet, and credit cards, while the 2 extra front pockets and hidden rear pocket are great for smaller valuables and loose change.

Available in a variety of different colors, the slim design of this bag makes it just right for cyclists, runners, climbers, or campers.

• Can be worn in multiple ways
• Only has very light water-resistance

Mountainsmith Tour Lumbar Pack

This giant of a fanny pack is a favorite with hikers and outdoor-minded travelers. Large enough to be used as a hiking pack, a golfing bag, or even for carrying spare diapers, this Tour Lumbar pack will keep your going on many adventures.

Made from durable and high-quality CORDURA fabric, this pack can be carried in a variety of ways.

The pack comes complete with a removable shoulder strap, traditional front panel bungee, an interior tablet sleeve, a smartphone-compatible waist belt pocket, ridged EVA back panel padding with stash pocket, side water bottle holders, hanging inner sanctum, zippered front panel pocket with key clip, and even a headphone port.

This pack can fit in everything you need, and then some.

Despite its enormous size, it remains reasonably lightweight and easy to carry, making its hefty price tag worth the investment if you’re planning to get a lot of use out of your new compact carrier.

• Front panel to stash additional items
• Straps are difficult to tighten on smaller people

JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack

A favorite with hipsters and high schoolers all over the world, the JanSport brand is as popular as ever . The Fifth Avenue fanny pack is available in a variety of colors and prints and can be worn on your waist or across your body.

Made from durable, wipeable fabric, this fanny pack has a large main compartment that can keep your keys, coins, credit cards, and even your cell phone safe while you’re on the move. The smaller zipper pocket is perfect for quick and easy access to your loose change or small valuables.

A usefully-sized pouch with a cool logo, the JanSport fanny pouch is one of the most fashionable on the market.

• Simple and stylish design
• Zippers are a bit fragile

Everest Lumbar Waist Pack

This fanny pack from Everest can be worn as a lumbar pack, a fanny pack, or even as a side hip pack, depending on your preference.

With 3 good-sized pockets, you’ll be able to carry everything you need with you, including your keys, wallet, credit cards, coins, cell phone, and even your passport.

It also comes with the addition of 2 water bottle pockets that are insulated to keep your refreshments cool, even on the move. The tie-down straps keep your bottle upright, even when you’re not, while the nylon waist strap will accommodate up to a 46-inch waist.

Padded back panels make this super comfy to wear, and the breathable fabric wicks away moisture to prevent sweaty patches when you’re wearing it.

• Adjustable load compression straps
• Water bottles can leak

EGOGO Travel Sport Waist Pack Fanny Pack

Designed to be worn on the side of your hip , this water-resistant waist pack is a unique way to keep your belongings close by your side at all times.

A little on the small side, this cute little bag is big enough to carry your water bottle, wallet, phone, and perhaps even your travel camera in the main compartment. Your keys and loose change can be stored in the smaller zippered compartment.

With a padded back and side panel, it will rest gently against your hip, and stay there comfortably for as long as you need it.

Available in a variety of colors, this is a nice little bag for adventurers of all kinds.

• Air mesh back pocket
• The buckle is a little fiddly to clasp

What was once a laughable accessory reserved only for elderly tourists or old men in Lycra is now back in fashion in a massive way.

Fanny packs are popular from the beaches of Miami to the dance floors of NYC, taking in Coachella and a host of different sporting events and activities along the way.

So what are you waiting for? Wear your stuff where you can see it and keep your hands free to bike or climb with a fanny pack.

Interested in some additional travel accessories to make your adventures easier? Check out some of our other reviews:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Carry-On Travel Garment Bags [Suits, Dresses, Shirts & More]
• The Best Travel Wallets and Organizers [For Men & Women]

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new fanny packs called.

Fanny packs are now also called waist packs. These have always been popular but never considered fashionable until recently. Fanny packs are back in style!

Are fanny packs good for travel?

Fanny packs are lightweight and durable and will help keep you better balanced than a shoulder or tote bag. Because of this, fanny packs are perfect for outdoor activities, sports, and other adventures where you don’t want your travel bag to hold you back.

Are fanny packs out of style?

Can you wear a fanny pack on a plane.

If you’re wearing a fanny pack on an airplane, this would count towards your carry-on allowance. Many airlines allow you to bring a carry-on and a personal item, and fanny packs are generally small enough to be considered as your personal item.

How do I choose a fanny pack?

• Belt length
• Anti-theft and slash-proof
• Organization, pockets, and water bottle holder

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Utility Pack by Wilderdog is designed for pet owners with a special pocket for a roll of poop bags.

Courtesy of Wilderdog

Acid-washed denim, hair scrunchies, even near-identical remakes of Toto’s chart-topper “Africa": These vestiges of the ’80s and ’90s—all mocked good-naturedly for decades—are now just as fly as Marty and his DeLorean. But they aren’t the only dusted-off remnants of yesteryear now visible. The fanny pack—updated with sleeker style and even some high-tech materials—is back.

Once the pariah of packs, the hip belt has rejoined the mainstream for good reason. “Fanny packs stay in place, and they’re accessible,” says Darlene Fiske, who’s worked with style-forward, luxury travel brands for decades as founder of the Fiske Group . She’s also been wearing a fanny pack for years. (AFAR’s senior commerce editor was another early adopter.) “It’s easy to grab what I need—my car keys, my phone, my money—and I have two hands to multitask.”

Indeed, fanny packs are arguably a near-ideal travel companion for many reasons.

• They facilitate freedom of movement. “Hands-free convenience can be pretty essential at times,” says Jan Lo, cofounder and CEO of accessory (and fanny pack) brand Lo & Sons . “Nobody has time to fumble for their passport in the airport security line!”
• They’re versatile. No longer is the fanny pack relegated to one’s hind-quarters, note our experts. These days, fashionistas wear them as cross-body slings and on different points around the waist. For that reason (and likely because brands are still leery of association with the original moniker), expect to see a range of alternative names on store shelves from hip pack, hip belt, and belt bag to waist pack, bum bag, and even lumbar satchel. But don’t fret; a fanny pack by any other name is just as versatile.
• They keep items within view. After Lo’s mother had items stolen from her backpack, “she wanted to keep her passport and valuables within eyesight, not on her backside,” Lo says. Thus, the fanny pack is a core item in their travel bag lineup—and it should be in yours.
• They force minimalism. While brands make fanny packs in different sizes, they all grant the wearer permission to bring the basics but not much more. “Sometimes you just want to take one or two items when you’re exploring a new town or just running out to grab a quick coffee,” Fiske says. “It’s liberating!”
• They’re gender-neutral. It’s not only those who identify as women or who are built like a boulder (and refer to themselves as its synonym) who can rock the fanny pack . “Men are liking them not just for hiking and other outdoor rec,” says Dan Swansinger, who, along with his wife Grace, owns boutique and sundries supply store Scout’s General in Crested Butte, Colorado. “We are seeing more guys wearing them around town for everyday use and for carrying around essentials when the back pocket of their jeans just doesn’t work to fit everything they need.”
• They’re packable. While bum bags are excellent for hands-free airport navigation, they also take up minimal space in a carry-on or checked bag, Fiske points out. That’s why she always packs a few.

Ready to embrace the fanny pack? Here are 11 of our favorites.

This fanny pack comes in five colors, including Vinson Blue seen here.

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

Field Day Hip Pack by Mountain Hardwear

Best overall fanny pack

• Buy now: $35, mountainhardwear.com ; backcountry.com
• Pros: Versatile style, heavy-duty fabric, recycled materials
• Cons: Doesn’t fit the kitchen sink (though that’s kind of the point)

Our top pick for packs to wear on your, well you know, is Mountain Hardwear’s Field Day Hip Pack. It offers the big-enough-but-not-excessive sizing that our experts love. “We don’t have to pack every little thing with us when we go out on an adventure or we’re going shopping,” Grace Swansinger reminds us. “With a fanny pack, I’ve only got this much space. So what do I actually need?”

At four liters (roughly the size of a Chipotle burrito), the Field Day has plenty of room for must-have items like your ID, keys, and a credit card (shove those in the hidden-away interior pocket), as well as a few snacks and even a thin extra layer of clothing. This option also ticks the boxes for comfort (thanks to a padded back panel) and versatility, since it wears well in front, in back, or as a cross-body sling. Mother Nature also approves: The Field Day is made entirely of recycled materials, namely 210-denier ripstop nylon, which is lightweight yet still durable enough to handle the rigors of navigating through TSA or rubbing against rocks on a midtrip hike. As for style, the Field Day keeps things simple with monochromatic offerings like Bright Copper, Vinson Blue, or a straightforward black that allow it to work just as well on a scouting mission to see the Northern Lights as it does flavor-hopping around the Big Apple .

The Waverley 2 hip belt is seen in cognac colored cactus leather here.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

The Waverley 2 from Lo & Sons

Most versatile hip belt

• Buy now: $126–$176 (was $210–$220), loandsons.com
• Pros: Wearable four ways, urban chic aesthetic, vegan leather option
• Cons: Leather exterior isn’t for rugged pursuits

Fiske recommends choosing a bag in a neutral color to go with multiple outfits. Elevate the look even further with an elegant leather exterior, and you’ve got a hands-free hauler that works well on any occasion. The Waverley 2 from family-first , Asian-owned accessories brand Lo & Sons comes in textured Saffiano leather, buttery smooth Napa leather, and (our favorite) a durable, scratch-resistant vegan leather made from Nopal cactus. The versatile pack comes in a range of Fiske-approved colorways (black, navy, graphite, sienna) with multiple hardware and interior options to mix and match.

Thanks to its two-part adjustable strap, the Waverley 2 can be worn four different ways: from the more casual belt bag and cross-body bag silhouettes to a gala-ready wristlet or shoulder bag. Available in two sizes—8 inches by 5.6 inches and 8.3 inches by 5.9 inches—the bag features an interior zip pocket for can’t-lose items, a handy slip pocket for little must-haves, and an exterior card slot perfect for stashing a hotel key.

This hip pack expands into a backpack when you need even more space.

Courtesy of Fjällräven

S/F Expandable Hip Pack by Fjällräven

Best hip pack for travelers who need extra space

• Buy now: $120, fjallraven.com ; specialized.com
• Pros: Expands to fit even large items, made with ecofriendly fabrics
• Cons: Bulkier size

Planning to hit the trail on your next trip? Fanny packs excel there too. “They are a great option for hikers so that you get to spend your energy on the hike and not lugging around too much weight from a backpack,” Grace Swansinger says. “Larger fanny packs on the market even have room to store a light jacket and have water bottle holders so you know you’ll still be well-prepared for your hike.”

The S/F Expandable Hip Pack by Swedish outdoor brand Fjällräven, a collaboration with the bike gurus at Specialized , is a winner in this realm. Technically, it’s designed for bikepacking (expeditions where you bike from point to point and camp in between), but this 4.5-liter pack works well for bipedal outings too with its two slim water bottle holders, a central compartment big enough to house plenty of snacks, and two slip pockets. It’s also water-resistant, a boon for any unexpected showers, and produced without environmentally detrimental PFCs. But just like Clark Kent, this hip pack has a hidden superpower: A discreet back panel unfolds to create a backpack. So while there are certainly times when a minimal, rugged stuff-hauler fits the bill, if you do need to tote a few extras—a cape and full-body skinsuit, perhaps—the S/F Expandable Hip Pack is ready.

If you run every day—even when you travel—then this fitness-minded hip belt is for you.

Courtesy of Lululemon

Fast and Free Running Belt by Lululemon

Best hip belt for runners

• Buy now: $38, shop.lululemon.com
• Pros: Slim, no-bounce design holds the essentials
• Cons: Only holds the essentials

“As a runner, you don’t want your phone or your keys to fall out of your pocket or get misplaced,” Fiske says. “Having something tight around your waist is helpful. For running, it’s got to be something small.” The Fast and Free Running Belt by Lululemon sits snug against your backside, but it’s made from the brand’s lightweight and fast-drying Nulux fabric, so it won’t feel sticky against your skin.

Since this cummerbund-inspired stuff sack wicks sweat but doesn’t prevent it, Lululemon made sure the Fast and Free Running Belt is machine washable. Reflective hits along the zipper strap keep you visible on predawn and postsunset jogs, while three different sizes ensure you get the perfect, bounce-free fit. Although the belt isn’t made with recycled materials, Lululemon overall is committed to reducing its average freshwater use by 2025 and decarbonizing its value chain by 2030, as outlined in its sustainability initiatives .

The Mountain Waist Pack comes in a variety of fun retro colors.

Courtesy of Topo Designs

Mountain Waist Pack by Topo Designs

Best fanny pack for throwback style

• Buy now: $49, topodesigns.com
• Pros: Retro aesthetic, recycled materials, inclusive brand ethos
• Cons: Long zipper straps create a less streamlined look

Retro style, from neon colors to acid-washed jeans, is cool again. Own it with a two-liter Mountain Waist Pack from Topo Designs—preferably in its hot pink, neon yellow, and black colorway. This everyday carrier features burly YKK zippers, seatbelt webbing strap, and a durable, recycled nylon exterior, ready for rugged outings in the woods and hills—or not. The Denver-based brand champions what it calls the New Outdoor, “an inclusive place that allows us, regardless of who we are, to be both the outsider and the insider, the novice and the pro.” So, whether you wear the Mountain Waist Pack literally on a mountain or just for a postschool hang at The Max, it’s got you covered.

Diaper bags don’t have to be big and bulky.

Courtesy of No Reception Club

The Sidekick by No Reception Club

Best hip pack for parents

• Buy now: $85, noreceptionclub.com
• Pros: Comes with a changing pad, made with recycled materials
• Cons: On the expensive side

With kids aged two years and two weeks, the Swansingers are in the thick of hand-holding across parking lots, dishing out Goldfish at a moment’s notice, and diapers ( so many diapers). “There are definitely times you need the diaper bag, when you need all of the things,” Grace Swansinger says, “but then there are times when you want to go a little bit lighter and you just want to bring the basics like a diaper, some wipes, and a couple snacks. That’s the benefit of a fanny pack.”

New-in-2022 family travel brand No Reception Club heard parents like Swansinger loud and clear. So while its 24-liter Getaway Bag is an innovative backpack with dual entry points and a unique, interior shelf system, the brand also offers the aptly named Sidekick (three-liter capacity) to accompany it. Minimalist in its size, aesthetic, and environmental impact, the recycled polyester Sidekick is thoughtfully designed to hold everything your baby needs to stay fresh and dry. The changing pad is included, and it has enough space to stuff up to a half-dozen diapers, along with some ointment and hand sanitizer. Stick the wipes in the back exterior pocket—we love its magnetic flap closure—and it’s a breeze to swipe and wipe. Don’t stress if a little mess ends up on the fanny pack. Just toss it into the washing machine.

For those not ready to commit to the hip belt, a sling is a close cousin.

Courtesy of Patagonia

Atom Sling Bag 8L by Patagonia

Best overall sling

• Buy now: $65, patagonia.com
• Pros: Ideal for travelers averse to carrying a pack around their waist, thoughtful design, made with sustainable materials
• Cons: Bigger size means it takes up more room in your luggage

Travelers who aren’t quite ready to embrace a true fanny pack can ease into the throwback-turned-comeback trend with the cross-body carry system of a sling. This silhouette also tends to have more storage capacity, something Fiske appreciates on longer outdoor outings near her home in Austin. “Depending on your activity and what you’re doing, you need to upsize from belt to fanny to sling,” she says. “I wear a sling on simple, longer hikes where I might need to carry a pair of binoculars or a birding book or something a little more substantial.”

The Atom Sling Bag 8L from certified B Corp Patagonia has proven to be a favorite among travelers thanks to its trio of pockets—one large central compartment, a second stash pocket, and a stretchy, phone-ready pocket on the strap—and ability to swing smoothly from a back carry system to a more secure front carry system. “It was comfortable, had enough room for a water bottle, and the pockets were easy to access,” says one reviewer who used it on a two-week excursion to New Zealand. “I liked being able to have my hands free and had confidence no one would be grabbing the bag off my shoulder.” Another customer who bought the pack for a European vacation calls it simply “a dream.”

Made with recycled polyester, finished with a PFC-free durable water-repellent coating, and Fair Trade Certified sewn, the Atom comes in a range of colors from sure-to-make-you-smile Shine Yellow to a more refined Sequoia Red.

This sling looks good during the day and night.

Courtesy of Kedzie

Sunset Sling by Kedzie

Best sling with budget-friendly style

• Buy now: $50, kedzie.com
• Pros: Dressy exterior, interchangeable straps go with different outfits and occasions
• Cons: Vegan leather isn’t made with sustainable materials

For long days wandering through the City of Light or window shopping in Milan , you need a pack with slick, urban styling. Yet you still want enough storage capacity to avoid having to backtrack to the hotel. The Sunset Sling by Kedzie—with its leather-esque exterior, hits of gold hardware, and 6-inch-by-9.2-inch sizing—is just the thing.

Equipped with two primary pockets, plus interior and exterior slip pockets, the Sunset has space for the essentials plus room for a small souvenir or two. And while it comes with a simple black strap (55 inches when fully extended), users can let their personality shine with alternate options like a bold cheetah print or flowery pattern (sold separately).

With separate pockets for treats and poop bags, this fanny pack is a must for dog parents.

Utility Pack by Wilderdog

Best hip pack for dog owners

• Buy now: $36, wilderdog.com
• Pros: Thoughtful design, help a shelter dog with purchase
• Cons: Need to pack doggie treats in a separate baggie to prevent odors

With a pair of pups joining the Swansinger’s happy mountain household, they also know a thing or two about dog walking—and dog running and hiking. “When you take them out, you’ve got to have your hands free,” Grace Swansinger says. “This option from Wilderdog would be useful for the poop bag dispenser and stasher bag that is included to store treats.”

Indeed, the canine-focused brand’s 2.5-liter Utility Pack features three separate compartments: one for Fido’s snacks, a second for yours (along with your wallet and phone), and a third ready to fit a roll of poop bags. Stitched webbing along the front of this lifetime-warrantied mini hauler provides attachment points from which to hang your best friend’s additional accouterments (maybe a bowl or pull toy). Best of all, Wilderdog sends a pound of kibble to a rescue shelter in need with every purchase.

The Highwater Hitchhiker fanny pack is completely waterproof and comes in five colors and patterns.

Courtesy of Bote

Highwater Hitchhiker by Bote

Best waterproof fanny pack

• Buy now: $70, boteboard.com
• Pros: Completely waterproof, fun color options
• Cons: Expensive (for its size)

As a brand that specializes in paddleboards , kayaks, and floats like this sweet inflatable chair , Bote (pronounced “boat”) knows a thing or two about beach life, including the age-old conundrum of what to do with can’t-get-wet items like phones and wallets that you likewise don’t want to leave unprotected by your beach bag . That’s why it introduced the Highwater Hitchhiker, a fully waterproof (even when submerged), two-pocket (one primary compartment, plus a small interior mesh pocket) fanny pack. Seven inches by four inches in size, it’s “perfect for keeping all your smaller items safe and dry,” according to one reviewer.

The Twelve Hip Pack is so popular it’s sold out in many colors already.

Courtesy of Herschel

Twelve Hip Pack by Herschel

Best hip pack for kids

• Buy now: $17 (was $25), herschel.com
• Pros: Kid-focused prints, affordable
• Cons: Selling out quickly

Fiske remembers her first encounter with a stylish hip pack was with a pale pink Herschel version. “That brand is very hip,” she says, “So I thought, ‘If they’re making a fanny pack, then it’s got to be in style.’” We love Herschel’s Twelve Hip Pack, a 6.75-inch-by-4-inch carrier that’s just right for pint-sized travelers. Its simple, one-pocket design makes it perfect for pinecones, rhinestones, and any other treasures your little traveler comes across. Though many kid-approved designs like sharks, surfers, and boats have sold out already, it’s still on sale in a graphic floral print.

The 9 Best Fanny Packs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your hands free and your belongings close with these minimalist bags

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The ultimate accessory for hands-free convenience, fanny packs are loved by travelers who want to keep their essentials easily accessible and always in sight. The best options offer multiple carrying methods (as a waist or hip pack, and as a crossbody sling), good internal and external organization pockets, and a versatile aesthetic that can transition easily from one activity to another. Durable materials and easy, one-handed access are key, while concealed anti-theft pockets and integrated key clips are examples of nice-to-have extras.

To help you find the right fanny pack for you, our team of travel experts put 36 popular options to the test in a range of real-life scenarios. We scored each bag for quality, capacity, ease of use, fit, and value. From luxury leather choices that double as fashion accessories to fanny packs designed especially for new parents with built-in diaper changing facilities, here are the best from our tests.

Others We Liked

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, alo explorer fanny pack.

Amazingly soft yet durable fabrics

Double zipper on the main compartment

Incredible capacity

Perfectly sized interior and exterior pockets

Color options are limited

The Alo Explorer Fanny Pack was a firm favorite for our team, scoring perfect fives across the board during testing and easily justifying its considerable price tag. It’s made of nylon fabric with gunmetal hardware and we felt that the quality of both was evident from first glance. The material is soft with a satin-like feel, yet insanely durable and scratch-resistant. And the zippers pull effortlessly, especially on the main compartment where there are two pulls for easy opening in either direction. The fanny pack offers a 3-liter capacity and we were astonished by what we could fit inside.

We packed everything from a card holder wallet and phone to an AirPods case, keys, makeup, pills, sunglasses, a tote bag, and gum just in the main compartment, which is RFID protected. We also loved that we could fit our phone into both of the zippered exterior pockets, one of which is cleverly concealed on the pack’s back panel as a deterrent to thieves . Even when the main compartment was full, this back pocket’s capacity was not affected. The adjustable, clip-on waist strap is super smooth and long enough to be truly inclusive, while color choices include chic black or espresso, both with the distinctive rubber patch Alo logo.

Dimensions: 4.75 x 10.75 x 4.5 inches (packed) | Volume: 3 liters | Materials: Nylon

Best for Parents

No reception the sidekick.

No Reception Club

Magnetic wipe-dispensing section

Impressive capacity

Unisex aesthetic suits moms and dads

Lacks a waterproof section for soiled clothes

If you have a child in diapers, The Sidekick from No Reception Club may just be your new best friend. It’s expressly designed to facilitate one-handed diaper changes on the go and pairs a water-resistant, recycled nylon shell with a cute printed lining. We found that everything except the brand tag (which started to fray) held up well during our test period and appreciated that the fanny pack was easy to wipe clean. We were surprised by how much we could fit inside: a few diapers, a onesie, diaper rash cream, sunscreen, sanitizer, and wet wipes. There’s even an interior slip pocket for separating your things from baby’s.

Innovations that make this fanny pack different from regular ones include a padded, wipeable changing mat that folds away into its own zippered compartment for seamless ease of use. And our favorite feature: a magnetic flap on the back panel that reveals space for a wet wipes dispenser so you can grab one whenever you need to, single-handedly. The fanny pack looks good on both men and women and can be worn around the waist or slung across the torso. Either way, your hands are kept free for toddler-wrangling. The only downside? The adjustable strap is not particularly inclusive in its sizing.

Dimensions: 6 x 11 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 8 ounces | Volume: 3 liters | Materials: Recycled nylon shell, polyester and nylon interior

Most Stylish

Dagne dover ace fanny pack.

Dagne Dover

Stain-resistant neoprene in a choice of gorgeous colors

Material stretches to increase capacity

Can be worn in multiple ways

Exterior pockets are too small

Dagne Dover has a reputation for quality and style, and the Ace Neoprene Fanny Pack is no exception. We love the water-resistant neoprene shell for its amazing durability and the fact that spills roll right off without staining. This keeps whichever beautiful color you choose (from camel to dark moss) looking great for longer. We took ours camping and on trips to LA, Denver, and Seattle, and it still looks brand new. We also loved feeling that our belongings were well protected. The pack features a recycled polyester lining and is 100 percent vegan, with a tapered profile that makes for a flattering silhouette.

The adjustable strap lets you switch between a range of carrying styles. And although the pack’s 1-liter capacity is smaller than others on this list, we didn’t really feel the loss because of the amount of stretch in the material. We were able to fit a wallet, passport, sunglasses, a phone charger, and AirPods with plenty of room to spare. The interior also features a slip pocket for your cards and/or cash, a key clip, and an elastic lipstick holder (no more rummaging around every time you want to reapply!). The only downside for us was the exterior zippered pocket, which we found too small to be useful.

Dimensions: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 9 ounces | Volume: 1 liter | Materials: Neoprene shell, recycled polyester lining

Best Compact

Patagonia ultralight black hole mini hip pack.

Packs away into an ultralight carry pouch

Tough, weather-resistant construction

Ethical and sustainable materials

May be too small for some

The Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack from Patagonia scores major sustainability points with 100 percent recycled materials put together in a Fair Trade Certified factory. It’s made from weather-resistant nylon ripstop and is also eminently packable—even stowing away into its own pocket for added compactness. It’s ultralight at just 3.5 ounces, but despite its relative thinness we felt confident in its quality (thanks in part to Patagonia’s well-deserved reputation for making products that last). It offers one liter of packing space and we were able to fit a lot, including a wallet, keys, sanitizer, lip balm, perfume, and medication.

We found that contents were super easy to access on the go. There’s also a zippered front pocket for keeping smaller items separate. Adjust the herringbone-webbing strap to wear the fanny pack around the waist or across your chest (the latter was our preferred carrying method). We found it very comfortable and loved that the pack’s combination of lightness and balance made it easy to wear for extended periods of time. When it comes to colors, choose a single shade like black or passage blue, or opt for a patchwork design featuring colors ranging from burl red to obsidian plum.

Dimensions: 4.75 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 3.5 ounces | Volume: 1 liter | Materials: Recycled ripstop nylon

Best for Running

Aikendo slim running belt.

Amazingly good value

Comfortable fit stays securely in place

Keeps essentials easily accessible

Headphone outlet could be wider

The Aikendo Slim Running Belt is the perfect accessory for those that like to run. It’s designed for a snug, extra secure fit with a wide strap that doesn’t dig in or ride up when you move. After trying this out, we can confirm that there’s no annoying bouncing, either, and we liked that the strap is adjustable to fit almost any waist. The pack is made from sweat- and water-resistant neoprene that feels soft against the skin. It’s lightweight and well constructed, with reflective accents on the front pocket to increase visibility when running in the dark.

We found that we were able to fit a phone, cash, and a chapstick in the main zippered compartment, and we loved how easy it was to access these essentials on the go. The main compartment also features a hole for your headphones (although we found this a bit tight), while other storage options include two smaller side pockets and a key clip. There are also elastic bands that can hold a water bottle securely in place. Finally, all hardware from the premium plastic buckle to the smooth-running zipper seem to be of good quality. Given the pack’s performance, we were shocked by its very affordable price tag!

Dimensions: 7.9 x 4 inches | Weight: 3.9 ounces | Volume: Not published | Materials: Neoprene

Best for Hiking

Jansport fanny pack.

Plenty of space for all the essentials

Extra durable with a great warranty

Machine washable

Not especially fashionable

If you’re looking for a fanny pack capable of standing up well to long days out on the trail, the JanSport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack is a solid choice. It’s lightweight yet durable, with premium 600-denier polyester construction and the peace of mind that comes with the brand’s guarantee to replace or repair any defective products. We used ours virtually nonstop throughout the testing period, including on a week-long hiking vacation to Oregon. Afterward, there were no visible signs of wear and tear. We also like that the pack is easy to spot clean and machine washable in case of any major dirt.

Both the main compartment and the zippered stash pocket are relatively spacious. We were able to fit a whole host of items including a wallet, phone, headphones, keys, sunscreen, and a snack. The adjustable strap is long enough to accommodate larger sizes and allows you to easily switch between wearing the pack around the hips or across the chest. We’d recommend wearing it over clothes, though, because the strap material isn’t the softest. The two-way zipper on the main compartment makes it easy to access contents on the go. Colors range from conservative black to pastel lilac or surplus camo.

Dimensions: 6 x 10 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 3.5 ounces | Materials: Recycled polyester

Best Water Resistant

Eddie bauer skylar waist pack.

Eddie Bauer

Secret pocket for securing valuables

Great organization features

Soft straps are very comfortable

Would prefer a larger main compartment

Expensive considering limited use

Eddie Bauer’s Skylar Waist Pack is made from 100 percent recycled nylon for the perfect combination of sustainability, lightness, and water resistance. The latter attribute makes it ideal for outings in changeable weather, though we felt it was better suited to athletic/outdoors use than as a fashion accessory in the city. We also found the pack to be a high-quality, well-made product and liked that it held its shape when empty. And, although it was perhaps a little smaller than others on this list, we were able to fit sunglasses, a card holder, a phone, keys, and lip balm in the zippered main compartment.

What this fanny pack lacks in terms of space, it makes up for in organization. It boasts zippered front and back exterior pockets, two internal mesh pockets, and a dedicated key fob section. Everything was easy to access on the go, except for the back pocket that is specifically designed to sit flush against your body as a deterrent to thieves. The adjustable belt extends from 5 to 46 inches for a super-inclusive fit. We liked the soft material and found the pack so comfortable it was easy to forget we were wearing it. Choose yours in black, antique pine, or dusty violet.

Dimensions: 9 x 5 x 3 inches | Materials: Recycled nylon

Best Leather

Quince italian pebbled leather sling bag.

Timeless style in a choice of colors

Slim yet surprisingly spacious

Easy to access everything one-handed

Clasp may be tricky for those with limited dexterity

With its 100 percent top-grain Italian leather exterior and cotton canvas lining, this Quince fanny pack is an elevated option for those that want something that can transition easily from day to evening wear. It comes in three colors: mink with silver hardware, black with gunmetal hardware, or cognac with gold hardware. All three offer a timeless aesthetic and are gorgeously soft to the touch. The leather is thick and durable without being stiff, while the pebbled texture hides any signs of wear and tear. Use the included dust bag to keep it looking pristine when not in use.

You can wear the fanny pack around the waist or as a crossbody sling using the adjustable nylon webbed strap to make fine adjustments for a customized fit. We found that the pack’s lightness, balance, smooth strap, and slim profile combined to make it barely noticeable, with very little movement no matter how active we were. Organization includes an interior card holder and a zippered back pocket. The main compartment is surprisingly spacious: we fit a card holder, phone, AirPods case, keys, makeup, sunglasses, and various beauty accessories. We liked how easy access was and that we could operate the zipper one-handed.

Dimensions: 5.75 x 11 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 10.8 ounces | Materials: Italian leather shell, cotton canvas lining

Best Budget

Maxtop crossbody fanny pack.

Flattering, streamlined shape

High-quality, water-resistant material

Multiple organization options

Can be difficult to access items on the go

Not as capacious as it looks

Retailing for almost a quarter of the price of our overall winner, the Maxtop Large Fanny Pack is a worthy budget alternative to some of the more expensive bags on this list. We liked the thick, durable feel of the material and appreciated that it’s water-resistant and easy to clean. The hardware is sturdy and the strap is nice and thick—suggesting that saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. This fanny pack adjusts to fit waists of up to 50 inches and can also function as a crossbody sling or shoulder bag. We found it comfortable in all configurations.

Organization options abound with zippered front and back pockets and another zippered pocket inside the main compartment. The pack is streamlined, which while good from an aesthetic point of view, means that it’s not as capacious as it looks. We found that we could fit a wallet, keys, mints, sanitizer, and sunglasses, but not a sunglasses case. The fit was slightly more forgiving when we wore it as a sling, although we found access to be a bit tight either way. Plus points include a headphone hole, a reflective strap loop, and a whole host of color choices ranging from army green to bright pink.

Dimensions: 14.3 x 5.9 x 3.5 inches

After testing so many fanny packs, we thought there were a few more worth mentioning, although we found some minor issues that kept them off our main list.

Calpak Luka Belt Bag : We loved this fanny pack’s quality construction and super smooth zipper, as well as its large capacity and secret, anti-theft pocket. The only reason it didn’t make our main list was its bulkiness, which we felt detracted from its overall aesthetic.

Quince All-Day Neoprene Belt Bag : We found this fanny pack simple to use and easily accessible. We liked the neoprene material and thought it was very comfortable. However, we disliked the lack of a zipper on the back pocket and the fact that the front pocket was too small to be particularly functional.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L : This fanny pack stood out for its sturdy construction and thoughtful organization features. We found it comfortable to wear in multiple positions. It’s not especially stylish or luxurious, but makes for a simple, effective pick for those with a lower-end budget.

Our team of travel experts tested a total of 36 fanny packs. Each test began with an initial assessment of the pack’s material and construction quality. Then, we checked whether the pack’s straps were adjustable and, if so, how inclusive the size range was. Next, we loaded the fanny pack with our regular everyday essentials including a phone, keys, and a wallet. We evaluated each bag’s capacity and the effectiveness of any organization features, such as internal and external pockets, slots, and dividers.

We tried wearing the fanny pack in several different ways, including around the waist both forward and backward, and across the chest and back as an over-the-shoulder crossbody. We also tested how easy it was to switch between carrying styles for any packs that claimed to be convertible. Finally, we wore the pack at least three times throughout the two-week testing period in a range of scenarios from running errands to dining out. We evaluated how comfortable the pack was, how much it moved about, and how easy it was to access contents on the go.

Each pack was scored from one to five for quality, capacity, ease of use, fit, and value, with overall scores used to determine our category winners.

What to Look for in a Fanny Pack

Fanny packs can be made from a number of different materials, with the right one for you depending on what you’ll be using it for, your budget, and your chosen aesthetic. For hiking and other activities where weight is a priority, look for light yet durable materials such as ripstop polyester or nylon. Canvas and neoprene are a little heavier, but offer added sturdiness and structure. Neoprene is also soft to the touch with excellent water resistance. For a more luxe look that transitions seamlessly to the city streets and looks just as good on an evening out, opt for a leather fanny pack with polished hardware.

While fanny pack sizes don’t vary as much as some other bag styles, there are super compact versions out there for those that have only the most basic essentials to carry, as well as ones with dimensions to suit a slightly larger load. In terms of volume, the typical range is around one to three liters. Carefully consider what you’re likely to need on your average day out and choose a fanny pack that can accommodate it all with enough space leftover to make finding and accessing your belongings easy. Sometimes when it comes to fitting a lot of items, the dimensions and volume are less important than the amount of stretch in the material.

You can use fanny packs for almost any activity, from hitting the trails at your local park to touring Europe’s ancient cities. Durability and water resistance are always important, but especially so if you’re likely to be spending an extended amount of time outside in unreliable weather. What you’ll use the fanny pack for also determines what you need to carry and which size you should go for. Those who plan on wearing their pack as urbanwear will likely place a higher priority on brand name and a fashionable design, while those who plan to hike with it will want something more rugged and durable. Some fanny packs, like The Sidekick with its integrated baby changing mat, are intended for a very specific purpose.

There are lots of ways to wear a fanny pack and the right one for you depends on your outfit and personal style, the situation, and the shape and size of the fanny pack in question. The classic way to wear a fanny pack is around the hips. If you’re traveling to an area where theft is a concern, we recommend slipping the strap through your belt loops as an extra precaution against it being unclipped without you noticing. You can also wear your fanny pack around your waist for a more cinched-in look or score extra style points by using it as a crossbody sling. Whether you wear it backward or forward is up to you.

Opinions differ among travel experts as to whether a fanny pack counts as a personal item or not, with some arguing that since you wear it, it could be classified as attire rather than luggage. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) offers no confirmation either way. But unless your fanny pack is slim enough to be considered a concealed money belt, we think there’s every chance that airline staff could count it as a personal item, especially on a busy flight. We recommend including it in your luggage calculations just to be safe and either allocating it as your only personal item or packing it inside your larger carry-on.

No bag is completely theft-proof, but fanny packs can reduce the likelihood of becoming a target—if you use them correctly. The main advantage of a fanny pack versus a regular bag or backpack is the ability to wear it on the front of your body. Keeping your fanny pack (and therefore your valuables) in your direct line of sight at all times is a great way to deter would-be pickpockets. The fact that a fanny pack is typically worn close to your body also makes it more difficult for a thief to tamper with it without detection. Some slimline versions may even be worn under your clothing to reduce visibility and, therefore, temptation.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and Commerce Updates Editor. She’s traveled to over 50 countries on six continents and has often used a fanny pack to keep her valuables safe on the go. Products in this article were selected from a longlist of more than 35 different fanny pack brands, according to the results of real-life tests carried out by TripSavvy’s team of travel experts.

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The 10 Best Fanny Packs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These fanny packs are ideal for hands-free travel.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Fanny packs were once the surefire way to spot a tourist in a crowd, but in recent years, the iconic fanny pack underwent a revolutionary rebranding to become a travel staple for even the most stylish adventurers.

Since we love a versatile travel accessory at Travel + Leisure , we got our hands on 36 fanny packs to test out for activities like traveling, hiking, jogging, sightseeing, running errands, and more. We styled the bags in various ways, such as the popular crossbody style or as shoulder and waist bags, too. Apart from style and functionality, we evaluated the fanny packs based on capacity, quality, and fit to find the best options on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best overall: dagne dover ace fanny pack, best large: calpak luka belt bag.

• Most Durable: Jansport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack
• Most Versatile: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L
• Best Hydration Pack: Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack

Best for Parents: No Reception The Sidekick

• Best Lightweight: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini 1L Hip Pack

Best Convertible: Senreve Belt Bag

Best rfid-blocking: alo explorer fanny pack, best for runners: aikendo slim running belt.

Dagne Dover

The neoprene material provides protection and cushioning to the items packed inside.

The strap could be longer to be more inclusive.

The perfect wear-everywhere for any occasion belt bag, the Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack is the ultimate travel accessory. Made out of thick neoprene material — a signature of Dagne Dover bags — this fanny pack proved to be protective and durable during testing, while still feeling lightweight and comfortable to wear. After we accidentally spilled coffee on the bag and wore it in a surprise rain storm, there wasn’t a drop of water that seeped into the bag, and most of the liquid rolled right off without leaving a trace.

While neoprene material has a somewhat sporty look to it, this bag looks just as stylish as it is functional. We love the just-right size for storing essentials like a phone, passport, wallet, and headphones, but it’s small enough to wear as a crossbody bag comfortably. There are several discrete interior and exterior pockets for organizing and the stap is easy to adjust. And the bag comes in seven color options in neoprene and air mesh material.

The Details: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Neoprene | 1 liter | Adjustable, 36-inch strap

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

The smooth zipper and opening flap makes it easy to access items.

The puffy design adds a bit of bulkiness.

Calpak’s Luka Belt Bag can pretty much fit all of your travel essentials that are smaller than a laptop. Passports, wallets, phones, earbuds, snacks, and more can easily fit in the interior of this spacious sling bag. Whether dashing through a busy airport security line or paying for a meal, the fanny pack has a smooth zipper and wide opening so you can easily reach in and grab a wallet, passport, or keys without having to dig around. Although spacious bags can sometimes swallow smaller items, this one has various pockets for organization so you’ll never have to worry about things getting lost in the void. We love the puffer material of this bag, but the puffiness does add some extra bulk to the already large bag. It also comes in a whopping 19 color options and makes an excellent gift for travelers.

The Details: 11 x 5.5 x 3.5 inches | Polyester | Adjustable, 55-inch strap

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Calta

Most Durable: JanSport Fanny Pack

The 600D ripstop polyester material is built to last.

The best color options are on the Jansport website.

Jansport is an industry leader in making bags designed to last basically forever, so we aren’t surprised that it earned top testing scores for durability. This belt bag is made with recycled 600D ripstop polyester, which basically means the fabric is reinforced to withstand extreme conditions and prevent a tear from escalating if one does occur. We also love the inclusive size of the strap that can extend to 50 inches long so you can wear the bag across the body or on the waist comfortably, and we found that it doesn’t move around while out and about. Plus, the 2.5-liter capacity is big enough to fit the essentials without feeling cumbersome to carry. One thing to note is that the Jansport website has more color options to choose from compared to other retailers.

The Details: ‎6 x 12.5 x 4 inches | Recycled polyester | Adjustable, 50-inch strap

Travel + Leisure / Elizabeth Theriot

Most Versatile: lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

It has a sporty and stylish design that makes it versatile for traveling, outdoor activities, festivals, and more.

The capacity is on the smaller end.

If you pay attention while walking down any busy street, you’re bound to see at least one Lululemon belt bag. Travelers especially can’t get enough of this bag, so we had to get our hands on it, which was no small feat since it’s often sold out due to popularity. Once we tested it out during a hike, multiple walks, and for running errands, we understood the hype around the versatile bag. You can use it for a variety of scenarios, and the combination of the sporty and stylish design means that it can go with any outfit. The 1-liter capacity is too small for bulky items like a larger wallet, but the lightweight fabric and small size renders the bag nearly weightless when we wore it around the waist or across the chest. If you can get your hands on one of these iconic belt bags, it’s worth every penny.

The Details: 7.5 x 5 x 2 inches | Polyester, nylon | 1 liter | Adjustable, 41.7-inch strap

Travel + Leisure / Elizabeth Rhodes

Best Hydration Pack: Nathan Hydration Waist Pack

It has a built-in water bottle holder and comes with a lightweight bottle.

The pack can’t fit more than a phone or keys.

This Nathan Peak fanny pack is designed to keep runners, hikers, or walkers hydrated while on the go. It comes with an ultra-lightweight plastic water bottle that securely fastens to its designated pocket so you can always have up to 18 ounces of water on you at all times. The polyester pack has a small zippered pocket to store the bare essentials like a phone or keys, but it can’t fit much more than that. It also features an adjustable strap to fit the bag snug to the waist so it doesn’t jostle around when you’re running. During testing, it never felt heavy for long runs, and we found that it’s most comfortable to wear with the pack resting on the lower back.

The Details: Polyester, nylon | Adjustable, 44-inch strap | Insulated bottle holder

Travel + Leisure / John Somerall

No Reception Club

It has tons of thoughtful features for parents, like the convenient wipe pocket in the back.

Some parents may need a bigger diaper bag for longer excursions.

Parents, rejoice: we’ve found the best fanny pack to keep your hands free when you’re out and about with little ones. This spacious fanny pack is designed for traveling with kids, and it’s equipped with thoughtful features like a removable changing pad, a main compartment that can fit diaper sizes 4 x 6 inches, and a diaper wipe pocket (our personal favorite pocket). The bag can fit all the grab-and-go essentials like diapers, wipes, rash cream, a onesie, and smaller items like sunscreen or hand sanitizer. Traveling parent-approved, this fanny pack proved to be particularly useful for day trips with a baby or toddler during testing, but if you’re planning an overnight trip or a longer day trip, it might not be big enough to accommodate more items like toys or clothing.

The Details: 11 x 6 x 2.75 inches | Recycled nylon | 3 liters | Adjustable, 41-inch strap | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Best Lightweight: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

It’s packable and can fold into a fraction of the already compact size.

We found it most comfortable to wear as a crossbody bag.

The ability to pack a bag within a larger bag can be a game-changer for traveling, so we love that this Patagonia belt bag is packable. While the 1-liter bag is already quite small, it folds into a small carrying case and can fit in a bigger personal item or carry-on without taking up any space. Packable bags can sometimes be flimsy, but this one offers just the right amount of structure and flexibility thanks to the soft recycled nylon fabric and padded back panel for support. It can fit everyday essentials like a small wallet, phone, or keys, or travel items like a passport and boarding pass. You can wear the compact pouch as either a waist or a crossbody bag. We thought it was more comfortable to wear across the body, but the versatility in styling the bag is helpful.

The Details: 8 x 4.75 x 2 inches | Recycled nylon | 1 liter | Adjustable, 36-inch strap | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Vadillo

This premium leather bag can be worn as a fanny pack, crossbody, or shoulder bag.

It’s better for more leisurely activities.

This Senreve belt bag offers peak quiet luxury thanks to the sleek leather material and elegant gold hardware. And the best part is that it has a convertible design, so although the belt bag comes at a premium price, you can wear it three different ways — meaning you’re essentially getting multiple stunning styles in one. The leather strap can be adjusted like a traditional belt for a shorter or longer fit to accommodate all of the different ways you can wear it. The bag has two loops to accommodate a separate chain strap and, while it doesn’t come with one, we bought one from Amazon and it worked perfectly. It also features multiple pockets to store credit cards, sunglasses, keys, passports, or a small e-reader since the capacity is larger. We tested the cream color and the leather held up perfectly with lots of use on a trip, and there are no signs of scratches or damage, so we’re confident it’s worth the investment for a durable and stylish fanny pack.

The Details: 8 x 5 inches | Leather | Adjustable, 59.5-inch strap | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

The main compartment features RFID-blocking fabric.

Color options are limited.

Travelers, gym-goers, and errand runners will appreciate the versatile design of this larger fanny pack. The beloved yoga clothing brand nailed it with this minimalist bag that can easily be worn around the waist or across the body to fit a range of style preferences. The main compartment is made with RFID-blocking nylon material to offer travelers peace of mind while traveling with chipped documents like a passport and credit cards — a valuable feature when it comes to travel products . And if you’re not traveling, the 3-liter bag can fit a multitude of essentials like a phone, keys, and earbuds in multiple compartments. While the bag only comes in black, there are two limited edition colors (fog and brown) that you might be able to snag if stock is available.

The Details: 10.75 x 4.75 x 4.5 inches | Nylon | 3 liters

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

It stays in place and doesn’t move around while running.

It was difficult to snake wired headphones through the hole.

Runners, hikers, and travelers alike will find the thoughtful features of this slim belt helpful for a multitude of activities. Of course, the belt is designed to aid runners in storing belongings on a jog, but the discrete and lightweight design of the bag makes it an excellent accessory for travelers since it can double as a money belt. Our favorite part of the belt is that it doesn’t ride up onto the stomach or fall below the waist while running, and it stays in place without feeling cumbersome to carry around. We were able to fit a phone, lip balm, cash, and keys inside the pouch and it still felt feather-light, and the bottle strap securely fastened water to the pack. The bag is made with water- and sweat-resistant fabric that is very comfortable against the skin, and the adjustable strap provides a custom fit for all types of activities.

The Details: 7.9 x 4 inches | Adjustable 44-inch strap | Water- and sweat-resistant

Other Fanny Packs We Liked

Although these fanny packs didn’t make it onto our main list, they still scored well during testing and would make great options for some travelers.

Eddie Bauer Skylar Waist Pack : This fanny pack comes in gorgeous neutral colors and has excellent organizational features. It’s geared toward outdoor enthusiasts, so we think it’s best for hiking or biking.

Athleta All About Belt Bag : A Lululemon dupe, this similar bag has enough room for the essentials, but the wide nylon strap wasn’t as comfortable to wear and didn’t secure the bag to the waist when it was packed full.

Quince All-Day Neoprene Belt Bag : Similar to our overall pick, this neoprene bag is durable and protective, but it’s fairly small and doesn’t offer as good pockets and organizational features.

Our Testing Process

There are tons of fanny packs on the market, so we thoroughly researched popular and trusted options to try out in day-to-day life. From the constantly sold-out Lululemon belt bag to Dagne Dover’s iconic neoprene bag, we tested 36 fanny packs designed to fit the needs of travelers, parents, outdoor enthusiasts, and more.

For two weeks, T+L editors and other members of our product testing team wore the fanny packs for activities ranging from air travel, jogging, going out to dinner, hiking, shopping, and more scenarios in which a belt bag could be helpful. We concentrated on the capacity, fit, and quality of the pack to ensure we only gave top scores to durable, comfortable, and functional fanny packs.

Tips for Buying a Fanny Pack

Consider the intended use.

A fanny pack is an accessory first and foremost, so you’ll want to get the right bag for the activity it will be used for most. Anyone spending time outdoors will want to invest in a lightweight fanny pack made with durable, water-resistant material like ripstop nylon and polyester to protect your belongings from Mother Nature. For more leisurely activities, there are tons of fanny packs offering a balance of sporty and stylish that you can use for various activities opposed to a sleek leather belt bag that might be best for going out to dinner or sightseeing.

Look at sizes

The size of a fanny pack can be deceptive, as even smaller ones can offer much more space than what meets the eye. To gauge the size of a belt bag, we recommend looking at the specifications section on the website to find out the dimensions of the bag, length of the strap, and the capacity in liters. Most belt bags are around one to three liters in capacity with 1-liter bags offering enough storage for a phone, small wallet, keys, and other small items. Larger bags with two or three liters of room can fit bigger items like an e-reader, headphones, or a larger wallet.

The beauty of a fanny pack is that it can usually be worn in several different ways. Of course, the bags are designed to be worn around the waist and sit right on the hip, which is the original use of the classic fanny pack. However, in recent years, it’s become wildly popular to wear a fanny pack as a crossbody bag with the pouch in the front of the body or as a shoulder bag. Thanks to the adjustable strap on fanny packs, you can wear them in whatever way is most comfortable and stylish to you.

The two different names mean the same thing. Both refer to a bag designed to be worn around the waist with a pouch that can rest in the front or back of the body.

A fanny pack can certainly count as a personal item if it’s being worn while traveling by air. Since every airline has different luggage restrictions, we always recommend checking with your carrier before arriving at the airport to ensure that your luggage meets requirements.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna participated in this test and used her fanny pack to travel and run errands around the city. She sifted through testing notes of all 36 products tested to summarize the reasoning behind our recommendations for the best fanny packs.

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The Fanny Packs We Never Travel Without

By Meaghan Kenny and Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Like many trends we thought we’d lost to the ’90s, fanny packs are back in style, and for travelers, that's a great thing. The best fanny packs have always been the most practical way to tote your essentials around—be it your phone, hotel key, or wallet—with quick, hands-free access. And thanks to the resurgence in popularity over the last few years, there are now designs made specifically for everything from the trail to the city. Whether you want to elevate your summer outfits with an upscale leather piece or are looking for a tough, minimal belt bag for your next hike, there are styles here for you. And as we're transitioning out of summer and into fall, you'll find a mix of vibrant and light colors that will brighten your look as well as classic black options that we’re sure will become old reliables. 

Read on for the 19 best fanny packs to wear on all your upcoming trips—they'll make reaching for your passport , wallet, and sunglasses a breeze.

Top fanny packs for travelers

• Best running and hiking waist packs

Best designer fanny packs

• Best waterproof fanny packs

How do I choose a good fanny pack?

The best fanny packs are versatile, durable, and stylish. With these qualities in mind, we looked for various high-quality options that varied in material, size, adjustability, and price. We found fanny packs that can be worn for multiple occasions, are comfortable on your waist, and offer plenty of space for carrying your must-haves—and look good, too.

What is the difference between a sling bag and a fanny pack?

They're very similar—a fanny pack is usually worn around the waist like a belt while a sling bag lays higher across the shoulder and chest. Both offer hands-free comfort, just at different sizes. Fanny packs are often smaller, and have one main compartment pocket, while sling bags can have the bandwidth to hold as much as a backpack or purse.

Are fanny packs ideal for travel?

The short answer—yes. Fanny packs have gone in and out of style but the practical use has always made it a popular accessory among travelers. Fanny packs are ideal for occasions where you want to be hands-free, and find more comfort carrying a bag around your waist rather than your shoulder, chest, or back. A large purse or bulky backpack can be burdensome on long travel days.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Kristi Kellogg and Megan Spurrell.

Leave it to Lululemon to create a versatile waist pack that's designed for an active lifestyle. The water-repellent fabric and lightweight material makes it a comfortable bag to carry around all day, no matter what the weather throws at you. In addition to the zippered compartment, there's an easy-access exterior pocket that can fit cards, cash, or sunglasses (if you slip them in without a case).

Dimensions:  7.5"H x 2"W x 5"D Material: Polyester, nylon

Sleek, soft, and durable, neoprene is one of our favorite fabrics, whether it's a zip-up jacket or a fanny pack, like this one from Dagne Dover. The half-pound, eco-friendly bag is lined with Repreve (a fabric made of recycled plastic bottles) and has color-plated hardware. The strap is adjustable and the interior features a handy slot for credit cards. Shop the bag in colors like heather gray, onyx, navy, and dark moss. 

Dimensions:  9.25H” x 5.5W” x 2.75D” Weight:  8 ouches Material: Neoprene with recycled repreve lining

This quilted nylon belt bag is among the most versatile on this list—it works as well in the city as it does on a day hike. And if it suddenly becomes your go-to bag for weekends at home, we don’t blame you. Shop the bag in black, navy blue, or pearl white.

Dimensions:  4.5"H x 1.1"W x 7.2"D  Weight:  7 ouches Material: Leather

For people who aren’t looking to spend a lot, but still want to try out the trend—this is a reliable starter bag. The recycled polyester is easy to clean and the large pocket is a simple design while; the compact size means there won’t be much rummaging on your part. Stash keys or a lip balm in the exterior zippered pocket and you’re prepared for anything from a simple stroll to a day out at the beach.

Dimensions: 6"H x 10"W x 4"D Material: 100 percent recycled denier polyester

This bag’s adjustable strap is made to be worn around the waist but is long enough to be worn along the shoulders, too—making it perfect for those who are curious about fanny packs but still want versatility. Longchamp’s totes and crossbody bags have long been a Traveler team favorite, so it's not surprising to see the lightweight canvas belt bag on the list.

Dimensions:  10"H x 6"W x 2"D Material: Canvas, nylon, cowhide

Logo lettering over a solid background makes for a fresh, sporty option that's a perennial bestseller on Amazon. The competitively-priced bag has two zip pockets and an adjustable strap. It's available in several colors, including red, navy, and white.

Dimensions:  5"H x 12"W x 3"D Material: 100 percent woven nylon

The ultimate packable fanny pack—this one from Paravel folds up into a small pouch and can be quickly expanded. It can be worn multiple ways, is so lightweight, and has multiple compartments to keep everything organized. Bonus: This one can be personalized with custom embroidery. 

Dimensions:  5"H x 2"W x 8"D  Weight:  4.96 ouches Material: Negative nylon made from plastic bottles

Organization is a cinch with this multi-compartment sling bag. There's a quick-access back pocket, and the zippered front compartment reveals two additional pockets within. The bag (which is big enough to hold a standard water bottle) is made of water-resistant nylon and features leather trim. 

Dimensions:  11"H x 2.6"W x 6.5"D  Weight:  11.2 ouches

Possibly the most versatile bag on the list is The Expandable Pouch from Béis. It easily transforms from a fanny pack into a sleek backpack, with plenty of space to fit must-haves for a whole day. Wear it on your waist on days when you need to carry just a few items, then wear it on your back when you need more space—or expand it in the middle of the day if you pick up a souvenir. If you only have room to pack one day bag in your carry-on, let it be this. 

Dimensions as a pouch:  5.1"H x 8.6"W x 3.1"D  Dimensions as a backpack:  15.4"H x 8.6"W x 8.3"D Weight: 1 pound Material: Polyester

This belt bag is on the larger side, so it's best for day trips when you might need to carry some extras like snacks, a water bottle, or even a bathing suit. It is made of scratch-resistant nylon and has an adjustable strap that lets you wear it as a crossbody if you prefer.  

Dimensions:  11"H x 5.5"W x 3.5"D  Weight:  8 ouches Material: Polyester

Best fanny packs for hiking and camping

For those days when you need to carry a few extra items, the Carharrt waist pack is a reliable option. It's slightly larger, offering enough room to keep a few snacks with you for a long day of hiking. There's a large main compartment, a front zippered compartment to store smaller items, and two exterior loops that allow you to attach additional gear.

Dimensions:  11.5"H x 6"W x 4.5"D Material: 600 denier polyester with rain defender durable water repellent

This top-rated Amazon find from Herschel features a clip-fastened adjustable strap, zipper closure, and fully-lined interior. It's available in more than 10 colors and patterns, including rose (pictured), light gray, navy, and goes-with-everything black.

Dimensions:  7.75"H x 6.25"W x 2'"D Material: Canvas

This sporty fanny pack is perfect for active travelers—it's lightweight, compact, and features the Adidas logo on the front. There's a main compartment for your phone, wallet, keys, and a smaller front zippered compartment for items like lip balm or Airpods. 

Dimensions:  29"H x 8"W x 10"D  Weight:  4.8 ouches Material: Polyester

Moncler has intricately crafted a belt bag for those who are looking for an ultra-casual yet chic alternative to the common fanny pack. Made from nylon, the belt bag has been quilted with diamond-shaped padding with a pin that features Moncler’s recognizable logo.

Dimensions:  6"H x 9"W x 3"D Material: Nylon, leather, and polyester

For a belt bag that is as fabulous as the pied-à-terre you’re renting in Paris (IRL or in your dreams), look to Prada. Made of a decadent calfskin, the bag loops through a gorgeous leather belt. It zips open along the top and feels like a purse more than a fanny pack—yet its belt means you can cinch it around a flowing dress or loop it through structured pants for a day of hitting the museums in style.

Dimensions:  4.3"H x 18.5"W x 2.4"D  Material: Calf leather body with recycled nylon lining

If you're looking to splurge on a more elevated bag that's still casual enough to wear during the day, this leather YSL belt bag is a great pick. The gold detail and iconic YSL logo will never go out of style, and give the bag a chic, polished look that means you can confidently pair it with fancier outfits at night, too.

Dimensions:  9.8"H x 5.5"W x 1.3"D Material: Calfskin leather

Best waterproof and water-resistant fanny packs

Ideal for travel days with unpredictable weather, this belt bag from The North Face has a fully water-repellent coating and is durable enough to withstand some wear and tear. Inside, there are small mesh and closed pockets for organizing like keys and cash easily. 

Dimensions:  6"H x 75"W x 2"D Material: Recycled nylon

Swedish brand Fjällräven unsurprisingly nailed an effortlessly chic pack. The super-light bag—it weighs less than five ounces—is great for hikes, and has three zippered compartments that can fit small items like sunscreen and power bars. Seen here in pink, it's also available in corn yellow, black, royal purple, and arctic green. 

Dimensions:  4.7"H x 7"W x 3.5"D Weight:  4.7 ouches Material: Vinyl

It’s no secret that we’re fans of cult luggage brand Baboon . From their duffels to the totes, everything they make comes in bright, eye-popping colors and unisex shapes that are easy to wear. Their three-liter fanny pack is no exception. The water-repellent nylon is durable without looking too sporty, and the mix of colors to choose from is anything but boring. Even better, this medium-sized bag has plenty of compartments, including a backside zipper for keeping valuables safe, and an interior clip to grab hold of your keys or wallet . Because of the size, it's also super versatile, and can hold its own whether you’re hitting the streets of Seoul or hiking in Oregon .

Dimensions:  5"H x 10"W x 2.5"D Weight:  6.8 ouches Material:  Nylon, polyester

These are the 11 best travel fanny packs for easy, hands-free travel

• If you want to keep your hands (and pockets) free but need a place for keys, credit cards, your phone, etc. then modern-day fanny packs are a fabulous option when you're traveling or even running around town.
• Available at a variety of price points, with most falling in the $30-$100 range, these bags can be an affordable addition to your luggage line-up.
• The best sling bags can be worn in a variety of ways, match your style and are made of a comfortable and durable material that won't irritate you after several hours on the go.

I lived through the first fanny pack era. In the '80s, parents wore them when we were out and about as a family on busy vacation days, meaning that many of us from that generation — myself included ‚ grew up avoiding them like an uncool plague ... at least, until recently. The '80s are apparently once again cool, meaning even fanny packs are back in style.

Unlike the fanny packs of yesteryear, today's travel fanny packs have taken on a new identity.

Also referred to as sling bags, crossbody bags and belt bags, this latest iteration of the classic accessory is now most commonly slung across the chest with the pack part in either the front or back instead of across the waist.

Whether this is your first (or second) era with the fanny pack, they are undeniably handy — so here are our top picks for travel.

• Best for active use: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag .
• Best for budget-conscious travelers : Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack .
• Best for storage space: Fjällräven Ulvo Belt Bag Large .
• Best for hidden pockets: Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag .
• Best for an '80s throwback look: Cotopaxi Bataan Del Día 3L Fanny Pack .
• Best for an elevated look: Clare V. Fanny Pack .
• Best for customizing: Stoney Clover Women's Fanny Pack .
• Best for extended sizing: Calpak Luka Belt Bag .
• Best for a rugged appearance: Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L .
• Best for a minimalist design: Walker Goods Louie Sling .
• Best as a diaper bag replacement: Kibou Diaper Belt Bag .

What to look for in fanny packs

The best fanny packs are the ones that are comfortable to wear all day, can hold up to some elements and have enough nooks and crannies to keep your goodies safe and organized.

Additionally, the best fanny pack for you will be the one that aligns with your style and needs, whether that's a leather ensemble you can wear while out to dinner, something themed and personalized for theme park visits or the most rugged and utilitarian option to withstand anything you may encounter while on the go.

Related: The best travel backpacks

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Purchase link: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Why we love it

As the OG belt bag, we would be remiss not to include the Everywhere Belt Bag from the omnipresent athleisure brand, Lululemon.

Since its introduction in the summer of 2020 (and subsequent presence all over TikTok), there's a good chance you've seen countless urban millennials — and then some — sporting Lulu's Everywhere Belt Bag, including TPG news reporter Caroline Tanner.

A personal favorite of Caroline, who swears by the bag, this Lulu option earns heaps of praise for its chic yet effortless look. Caroline loves that it's small enough to remain comfortable while wearing it for hours at a time as she walks around the city yet large enough to hold essential items she never leaves home without, such as sunscreen, headphones and sunglasses.

With a large interior pocket and a second pocket of the same size divided in half, you can safely store smaller items like earrings, medicine or keys while on the go without the risk of losing them. There's also an exterior pocket that zips for easy access to your key essentials.

As with most Lulu items, the Everywhere Belt Bag is designed for those on the move. It features a water-repellent fabric and an adjustable belt strap that fully extends to nearly 42 inches so it stays dry and in place no matter how long you have it on.

How it measures up

• Price: $38 and up from Lululemon; often $55 to $68 from Amazon.
• Weight: 6.7 ounces.
• Size: 7.5 by 2 by 5 inches.
• Volume: 1 liter.
• Strap length: 41.7 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: 100% polyester (mesh and liner), 100% recycled nylon (body).

Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack

Purchase link: Herschel Seventeen Waist Pack

If you want a great balance of style, form, function and budget, then Herschel is a top choice. As one of the most affordable fanny packs in the bunch, the Herschel Waist Pack has hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon — and it's easy to see why. To make it a cinch to find your most important items fast, this pack has a front pocket with a waterproof zipper and key clip.

Available in an array of color combinations and holding up to 3.5 liters of contents (one of the higher quantities of all the bags on this list), this is a fanny pack made to hit the road and come back for more.

• Price: $40 to $45 from Herschel; $32 to $50 from Amazon.
• Weight: 8.8 ounces.
• Size: 6.5 by 13 by 3.5 inches.
• Volume: 3.5 liters.
• Strap length: 16.5-inch shoulder drop.
• Materials: Polyester with nylon lining.

Fjällräven Ulvo Large Belt Bag

Purchase link: Fjällräven Large Belt Bag

The Swedish brand behind cute and trendy backpacks all over the world also offers an eye-catching belt bag for those looking for a stylish take on the classic fanny pack.

Fjällräven sells several types of these packs, but this larger option is our top pick of the bunch, as it can hold more of your goodies. We like the chic but minimal on-trend style, plus the fact that it's waterproof.

• Price $65 from Fjällräven and Nordstrom.
• Weight: 7.1 ounces.
• Size: 14 by 6.5 by 4 inches.
• Volume: 4 liters.
• Material: Nylon.

Dagne Dover Ace Belt Bag

Purchase link: Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag

If we were handing out a "Best Overall Fanny Pack" trophy, this one would be a top contender. The Dagne Dover Ace Water Resistant Belt Bag is strong in virtually every category, making it a fabulous all-around pick.

Made of extremely comfortable, soft (but also durable) and water-resistant neoprene, this Dagne Dover bag is useable in a variety of real-world environments involving rain, sweat and more. Additionally, it has numerous useful loops and pockets while keeping the overt branding to a minimum.

There are little non-zippered pouches both on the outside and inside of the pouch, plus a small zippered pouch on the front. A clip is available inside, too, so you can attach your keys (or another similar item) for super quick and easy access.

The strap is wide, very adjustable and extra comfortable, making this bag one you can wear all day.

• Price: $95 from Dagne Dover and Nordstrom.
• Weight: 8 ounces.
• Size: 9.25 by 5.5 by 2.75 inches at the top and 0.5 inches at the bottom.
• Strap length: 36 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: Premium neoprene exterior, Repreve lining made of recycled plastic bottles and zinc-alloy hardware.

Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack

Not only does this fanny pack stand out in a crowd, but it holds just about everything you could need when you leave the house.

The Cotopaxi Del Día Bataan 3L Fanny Pack is perfect for adventurous travelers frequently roughing it outside. Made completely from sustainable materials and adhering to fair labor practices, this colorful bag has adjustable straps with a zipper-closed front pocket, which make wearing it on your back, front or hips completely comfortable. Plus, there are two mesh pockets inside the pack that expand to handle anything from a pack of gum to an AirPods case with a small charger.

The only downside? The bag is made with nylon (think: windbreaker material), so it's not completely waterproof.

• Price: $30 to $35 from Cotopaxi; $30 from Amazon.
• Weight: 4 ounces.
• Size: 9 inches by 5 inches by 4 inches.
• Volume: 3 liters.
• Material: Repurposed nylon.

Clare V. Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Clare V. Fanny Pack

This is the fanny pack for those in search of an elevated leather look. The bag comes in a variety of color options, including black, tan and a fun 1980s, punk-inspired checkered pattern. It's not cheap, but it's stylish enough to use at fancier museums, upscale restaurants and when a bold fanny pack just isn't right for the occasion.

Additionally, it's made in the USA and comes with a two-year warranty, should anything go wrong.

• Price: $285 from Clare V.
• Size: 9 by 6.5 inches.
• Strap length: 29 to 41 inches, though you can add a longer belt to your order at checkout, if desired.
• Materials: Leather with a chambray liner.

Stoney Clover Lane Fanny Pack

Purchase link: Stoney Clover Lane Women's Fanny Pack

If you want a cute, customizable fanny pack that's ideal for special outings like Disney trips, Stoney Clover Lane might be the best pick for you.

TPG contributor and theme park expert Brooke McDonald is a big fan of this brand — and, as you can see, even managed to pick a style featuring her initials and a fun Disney design. Brooke loves how she can fit all of her theme park gear in the bag.

While you don't have to get your pack personalized or with characters on it, the ability to customize it is a big part of what makes this option appealing.

• Price: $95 from Stoney Clover Lane (extra charges apply for larger sizes, themed offerings and patches for personalizing); $95 to $98 from Amazon.
• Size: 6 by 11 by 3 inches.
• Strap length: 20 to 38 inches.
• Materials: Nylon with gold metal hardware.

Calpak Luka Belt Bag

Purchase link: Calpak Luka Belt Bag

TPG director of content Andrea Rotondo has avoided belt bags in the past because the ones she tried never accommodated her. The strap didn't extend enough for a comfortable fit as a crossbody bag or while worn cinched around the waist, so she wrote off the trendy bags until recently.

For Andrea, the Calpak Luka Belt Bag was a game-changer. With an adjustable nylon belt that expands to 55 inches, she can wear this cute bag either across her body or around her waist.

The Luka Belt Bag has a puffy, quilted look with three zippered pockets: one on the exterior that runs the length of the bag and is perfect for storing a cellphone, a few bucks, a miniature notebook and a pen; and two interior pockets (one with a mesh lining) that are accessible via a zipper that goes around the top of the bag.

A favorite element of the bag — which is made with water-resistant polyester and comes in a variety of colors, including rose quartz and kale — is how quiet the bag is. Nothing rustles around while walking. Andrea also loves how slimming the bag looks even when it's packed with her go-to essentials: two pairs of glasses, a wallet and an iPhone.

• Price: $58 from Calpak and Nordstrom.
• Size: 11 by 5.5 by 3.5 inches.
• Strap length: 55 inches when fully extended.
• Materials: Polyester with an adjustable nylon strap.

Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L

Purchase link: Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L

If you love small bags made from some of the highest quality materials around, look no further than the Evergoods Civic Access Sling 2L, which is owned and recommended by TPG's senior photo editor, Wyatt Smith.

From the material choices to the hardware to the internal pocket layout, this sling punches above its weight and has a sleek and stylish aesthetic to match. Evergoods stresses the ergonomics of its products when worn, and it's noticeable when you wear it across your chest or waist. The breathable back panel makes the bag incredibly comfortable.

Along with a large central pocket for general organization, there is a zippered mesh pocket and a key leash to keep smaller items organized. Evergoods also designed the bag to be customizable thanks to its loop logo patch, so you can choose which high-visibility patch you prefer.

• Price: $99 from Evergoods.
• Weight: 13.1 ounces.
• Size: 11 by 5.5 by 3 inches (not including the waist belt wings).
• Volume: 2 liters.
• Strap Length: 47.25 inches.
• Materials: Solution-dyed balanced ballistic nylon.

Walker Goods Louie Sling

Purchase link: Walker Goods Louie Sling

When the pandemic started, TPG's newsletter editor, Becky Blaine, immediately stopped using a purse and switched over to a Louie Sling from Walker Goods. Some of her other pandemic purchases didn't stand the test of time, but she calls this item her best pandemic purchase. It's become her go-to bag for both travel and everyday life.

Made for those on the go, the Louie Sling has ripstop nylon on the inside and durable water-repellent nylon on the outside. It's available in 10 bold, outdoorsy colors and features a wide, adjustable strap that's comfortable enough to wear for hours as a sling or around the waist.

This bag is outfitted with a whopping five zipper pouches. The front fleece-lined pocket is cushy enough for cellphones, while the back pocket is large enough to fit a passport. A hidden zipper on the end of the pouch is great for stashing cash, and the main zipper pouch offers enough space to fit sunglasses, a wallet, a miniature bottle of hand sanitizer, a roll of doggie poo bags, a granola bar and more. The interior's main zipper pouch also has a smaller zippered pocket that you can use for items like keys.

• Price: $48 from Walker Goods.
• Size: 12 by 6 by 2.5 inches at the top and 0.5 inches at the bottom.
• Strap length: 32 to 44.5 inches.
• Materials: Cordura with YKK zippers.

Kibou Diaper Belt Bag

Purchase link: Kibou Faux Leather Diaper Belt Bag

Once TPG's director of marketing, Caroline English, became a parent, she said that she finally understood why her friends with babies took forever to leave the house. Having to tote along all the items you need to care for another human on the go really affects your day.

Is it possible to tend to a young child without a traditional diaper bag? Caroline tested the Faux Leather Diaper Belt Bag from Kibou to see if it could stand the test on a busy day out with a 6-month-old.

Luckily for Caroline, the Kibou bag proved a stylish, comfortable way to take on motherhood. Given its compact size, the bag fit more items than she expected, including two diapers, two bottles, a onesie and a burp cloth. It also has a built-in changing pad and a waterproof pocket full of wipes.

While the bag technically held all kinds of items, it did require some careful packing to fit everything in. As a result, it's not as convenient for fast grabs. Additionally, Caroline wished there were two defined waterproof compartments (one for soiled onesies and another for wipes) instead of one larger pocket so dirty items could be stored separately. Still, she found the bag to be a solid option for short activities outside the house.

• Price: $98 from Kibou.
• Size: 11 by 6 by 4 inches.
• Strap length: 33 to 49 inches.
• Materials: Vegan leather exterior with nylon canvas interior.

Read on for more TPG best-of-gear reviews and round-ups:

• Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 review
• 13 must-have items the TPG team won't travel without
• I fly 100,000 miles per year and these packing cubes make it easier
• Baby gear items that make travel easier

Inspiring better, kinder luxury travel.

• Eat & Drink
• Do & Explore
• Travel Essentials

Are These Ultra-Wearable Belt Bags The Ultimate Travel Accessory?

— Buckle up.

by Cora Harrison

Are fanny packs the most unfairly vilified fashion items of all time? We think so. When did an accessory that was so practical and so wearable become associated with middle-aged tourists and aerobics instructors? Thank goodness, then, that the fanny pack has made its much-deserved come-back . We welcome it with open arms. 

As far as we’re concerned, fanny packs are a top choice, whatever the occasion. But they really come into their own when we’re travelling. Being able to go hands-free means more opportunities for licking ice-creams, snapping photos, and trying to work out brain-boggling foreign currency. 

And, unlike a backpack, they don’t leave us with sweat patches, nor do they strain our backs. Plus, with all our valuables readily accessible and safely within sight —either round our waist or across our chest—there’s no chance of anything getting stolen.

Most belt bags also come with multiple pockets, some of them hidden, so you can stay organised and on top of all your travel essentials. Some are sleek and grown-up designer creations, making serious fashion statements in any language . Others offer an inconspicuous low-profile for busy cities or unfussy practicality for off-road adventure addicts.

Whatever the trip you’ve got planned, whether it’s a beach holiday, around-the-world tour, or just a staycation, we’ve found the dream belt bag for you. We’re confident you’re gonna love these travelling fanny packs so much that you’ll refuse to retire them once the plane lands.

The 17 best fanny packs for travel 

Away: best overall fanny pack.

The all-time front-runner out of all the travelling fanny packs on our list? The Sling Bag by Away. There’s nothing not to like about this understated bum bag—and lots to love. 

First, it’s made of hard-wearing and water-resistant nylon for practicality, while a leather trim adds a touch of luxury. Then there’s the organisation system inside, featuring a zipper and slip pockets as well as a detachable key clip so you can keep all your necessities nicely under control. 

There’s also a back pocket where you can store your phone or passport for easy access (no more holding everyone up at Departures). There’s even a compartment that would fit your water bottle in it. 

All that in a nifty 3-litre package that’s only 11 x 6.5 inches (28 x 16.5 cm) big and weighs just 0.7 lbs (317g). Wear the Sling Bag across your chest for a comfortable hands-free fit. And Away even offers the option of customising the bag with personalised embroidery. 

Saint Laurent: Best designer hip pack

If only the crème de la crème will do (you do deserve it, after all), then you need a designer belt bag. Our top choice is this minimalist masterpiece by Saint Laurent. 

Despite hailing from one from one of the most renowned high-fashion houses, this sleek designer fanny pack remains a practical choice, made from durable nylon that won’t get scratched or stained. 

But it’s still undeniably high-end, traced with leather and debossed with oh-so-subtle gold-tone branding. Inside, you’ve got a main compartment that’s spacious enough for all your valuables while a zippered pocket keeps everything safe and secure. 

As this Saint Laurent fanny pack is on the larger size at 30 x 15 cm , we recommend wearing it across your body rather than around your waist.

Herschel: Best value belt bag

For the cost-conscious traveller on a strict budget, splashing out on an everyday carry-all is hard to justify. Luckily, you can get all the functionality of more exclusive belt bags at a fraction of the cost with this Herschel hip pack.

Everyone’s obsessed with Herschel backpacks but it’s the brand’s fanny packs that have really stolen our hearts. With heaps of colour options to choose from, you can pick one according to your favourite on-the-road outfit. 

This Herschel belt bag also features an adjustable strap so you can wear it either around your waist (ideal when juggling a gelato and/or street map) or chest, and has a zippered closure with a leather pull . Its 1-litre capacity is plenty for everyday travel antics while the compact size (20 x 14 cm) makes for minimal bulk. 

Senreve: Best belt bag for women

If your idea of a vacation involves swanky restaurants and Instagrammable infinity pools, then you need a waist bag that’s as elegant as the rest of your holiday. Get an eyeful of this Senreve fanny pack. 

This sophisticated take on the classic fanny pack nails the relaxed and refined vibe . Made from genuine Italian leather ( scratch, stain, and water-resistant ), it’s got a soft and supple suede interior and comes in so many colours you’ll be hard-pressed to pick. There’s also the option to swap the strap for a metal chain if you fancy more bling. 

The Aria belt bag by Senreve also features three interior pockets where you can keep important travel valuables and can even be customised with your initials thanks to the brand’s personalised hand-painting service. 

Oh, and for all you eco-warriors out there, there’s a vegan version too. Definitely one of the best fanny packs for women around. 

Bellroy: Best crossbody hip pack

Still struggling to get over your associations of bum bags with sunburned tourists? This Bellroy crossbody fanny pack can be worn across your chest rather than around your waist, banishing all images of bumbling holidaymakers for good. 

The aptly named Sling Mini is, indeed, pretty small, at 12 x 25 cm. This makes it a great unobtrusive travel carry that won’t get in the way or draw unwanted attention. Yet it still has a 4-litre capacity, with both a front zip compartment and two mesh slip pockets. 

The main compartment has a soft-lined sunglasses pouch so your new shades don’t get scratched and a built-in key clip so you won’t have to rummage at the door. 

The Sling Mini also features a padded back panel for extra comfort. Plus, the water-resistant woven fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles . A top choice when it comes to fanny packs for men. 

Patagonia: Best bum bag for hiking

Looking for a bag that’s not scared of adventure? Something that can survive the elements? This hiking fanny pack by the geniuses at Patagonia should be your number one choice. 

Not only is anything made by Patagonia optimised for the great outdoors but the brand also does it all it can to protect nature. This belt bag, for example, is made from bluesign® approved fabric, which means it was made according to the highest environmental standards . 

Specifically, it’s made from recycled polyester ripstop. Eco-friendly, super-resilient, and water-tight thanks to its TPU-film and DWR finish. 

There’s a mesh panel across the back for enhanced breathability plus stretchy pockets for a water bottle so you can stay prepared on the trail. The compression strap means no awkward bouncing or jiggling as you race your way to the summit.

Enjoy the wilderness while simultaneously safeguarding nature with this Patagonia belt bag .

Karl Lagerfeld: Best small hip pack

Here to redefine the meaning of travelling light , this Karl Lagerfield bum bag is the best small fanny pack on our list. And when we say small, we mean it. 

But its diminutive size doesn’t make this little hip pack any less practical. It may only be 7 cm tall but it’s 31 cm wide, so you can still fit quite a lot of things inside without it feeling too bulky as the weight spreads across your whole waist or chest. 

There’s no denying that this Karl Lagerfeld waist bag also looks incredibly alluring, made from 100% calf leather in enduringly stylish black. We’d wear it with a matching all-black outfit on a night out on the town.  

Alo Yoga: Best fanny pack with pockets

Staying organised on the road is essential if you don’t want to suddenly find yourself without your passport, trying to board a plane. Keep track of all your belongings with effortless ease thanks to this organisation-optimised fanny pack by Alo Yoga. 

Named the Seeker Fanny Pack (for all you soul-searching travellers out there), this waist bag features two zipper pockets outside and one inside so you can keep essentials, valuables, and those just-in-case items all neatly organised. And the main compartment also has RFID protection. 

Practical nylon with edgy gunmetal hardware completes the street-savvy aesthetic in this Alo Yoga belt bag that would look just as good on a camping trip as it would at the cocktail bar. 100% one of the best unisex fanny packs we’ve seen.

The North Face: Best waterproof belt bag

Whether you’re a daytripper or seasoned traveller, unexpected drizzle can ruin everything. So grab yourself this waterproof fanny pack by iconic outdoor brand, The North Face, and when storm clouds threaten, you can hold your ground.   

Totally waterproof, this bag is perfect for all-weather adventurers . It also has an adjustable webbing strap so you can modify it according to your size and chosen wearing style. Across your body, slung over one shoulder, around your waist—the choice is yours. 

This North Face belt bag also features a top zip closure to keep all your valuables safe as you head off exploring while the mesh front pocket i s great for easy access to essentials. Plus, you’ll be able to check what’s in there without emptying the whole bag.

Calpak: Best large fanny pack

Are you the kind of traveller who likes to pack for every possibility? An everything-but-the-kitchen-sink kind of holidaymaker? Then you need a big bum bag like this one by Calpak. 

At 28 x 14 cm , it’s on the chunkier size—but you’ll appreciate that when it comes to squeezing in your phone, wallet, charger, keys, sunglasses, hand sanitiser, suncream, passport, and whatever else you might need. 

Hard-wearing and practical, it’s got a scratch-resistant exterior while the main compartment has pockets for organisation. There’s also an exterior pocket for easy access and an adjustable nylon strap for comfortable carrying. 

This Calpak belt bag comes in a range of understated neutral colours , all of which are versatile enough to go with almost any outfit, whether it’s your aeroplane get-up or shorts and t-shirt for the beach.

Travelon: Best fanny pack with RFID technology

Whether you’re venturing off-the-beaten-path or are on a staycation, exploring your home city, RFID identity theft is always a possibility . Eliminate the risk with this Travelon bum bag, featuring RFID-blocking technology. 

And it’s not just identity theft that this belt bag protects against. It’s also got a cut-proof strap and body to protect against slash-and-grab theft as well as locking zippers for additional security for your valuables. 

Then there are the lockdown straps that allow you to secure the bag to an object or chair—when you’re having dinner alfresco on a busy thoroughfare, for example. 

This Travelon fanny pack is also a generous size with an internal organising system to keep everything orderly so you’ll be able to tell quickly if anything’s missing.

Waterfly: Best belt bag with water bottle holder

When the sun’s out and we’re constantly on the move, staying hydrated is essential. This is why the Waterfly bum bag is such a travel asset, with its double water-bottle carrier.

Gauze pockets on both sides allow you to carry two water bottles with you wherever you go—or perhaps one bottle and some snacks. 

And this fanny pack with a bottle holder is not just a bonus when it comes to keeping thirst at bay. It’s also super durable and has a fully adjustable strap to minimise any pressure on your waist and a breathable back pad to reduce sweating. 

This Waterfly belt bag can also be converted into a shoulder or sling bag so when you’re not using it hiking or biking, you can take it into town too.

Carhartt: Best tactical bum bag

Carhartt has become a real cult-favourite in the last few years with its unique brand of utilitarian chic . We love this tactical fanny pack in particular. With its durable construction , it’s the ultimate travel-friendly trooper. 

This belt bag is made from Cordura nylon—ten times stronger than your average cotton canvas, long-lasting, and water-repellent , so it will survive the occasional shower or accidental splash. The hip pack has also got various pockets so you can stay organised—our favourite being the little drawstring pouch, ideal for storing keys. 

In understated black, this Carhatt waist bag is minimalist and no-frills . The Carhartt logo is the only embellishment, serving to tell any style-savvy individuals nearby that you know exactly what’s hot and what’s not. Easily one of the top fanny packs for men. 

Ganni: Best black fanny pack

Endlessly versatile, infinitely flattering, doesn’t show up stains, and appropriately discreet for travel—these are just some of the reasons why black should be your colour of choice when it comes to a fanny pack. 

This black fanny pack from Ganni is our fave. One of the best things about it? It’s made from 100% recycled polyester for extra planet-friendly appeal. The aesthetic is outdoorsy yet stylish with a low-key profile that definitely won’t mark you out as a tourist . 

This black fanny pack has an adjustable belt with a pin-buckle fastening and there’s a zippered pocket at the front and the back, as well as a zippered main compartment. We’d store our passport close to our chest and any less valuable essentials in the front pocket. 

With its no-nonsense vibe, this waist bag by Ganni is most definitely open road-ready . The question is, are you? 

Cuyana: Best leather belt bag for women

We can’t get enough of Cuyana, with its collection of high quality, ridiculously refined, and sustainable leather goods. And this leather fanny pack is top on our to-buy list. 

Elevating the 90s staple to something worthy of the catwalk, or at least a very fancy cocktail bar, go for this belt bag if your idea of travelling is lounging poolside, then spending the evening at the hottest fine dining establishment in the vicinity. 

Made of sustainably certified leather , this waist bag has got all the necessary eco-credentials. We also love how slim the belt is. It’s incredibly flattering and elegant enough to be worn with an evening dress for something a little different.

With a small rectangular compartment that’s ideal for your phone and wallet, this Cuyana belt bag can also be paired with the brand’s circular pouch add-on if you need extra functionality.

Nike: Best sporty bum bag

Rocking athleisure wear casually is totally acceptable these days. So if you want to add a bit of sporty chic to your everyday get-up, then check out this Nike hip pack. 

Whether or not you wear this fanny pack when exercising, it offers a comfortable carry solution with ample room for all your essentials at 41 x 10 x 15 cm. The polyester material is lightweight and hard-wearing while the adjustable strap allows you to modify the fit as necessary. 

Use the zip pockets to secure smaller items , such as your keys or gym card. Wear this Nike belt bag across your body, over your shoulder, around your waist, with a hoodie, jacket, or t-shirt—the options are endless.

JanSport: Best budget fanny pack

At heart, a fanny pack is about functionality—not spending a fortune on something that you’ll be too nervous to use in case you break or stain it. So bag yourself a bargain with this JanSport hip pack—an absolute steal at under $20. 

Available in a range of colours, from versatile black to old-school denim blue, this Fifth Ave fanny pack is fun and functional. It’s durable, adjustable, and has a zip closure for security. With a 2.5 litre capacity , it’s not the largest fanny pack on our list but it’s a decent size for all your everyday basics. 

JanSport has been delivering quality outdoor gear since 1967 so they know what makes a good travel accessory. This belt bag is our number one choice for cost-conscious nomads everywhere. 

Frequently asked questions about travelling fanny packs

The best fanny pack brand is Away with its simple, versatile, and high-quality belt bags. Other top fanny pack brands include Herschel and Bellroy. Check out our list of the best travel fanny packs for more inspiration. 

You can wear a fanny pack on a plane, no problem. In fact, for some airlines, it counts as personal attire rather than carry-on baggage, which is a bonus. However, you’ll still have to put it through the scanner at airport security. 

Fanny packs are certainly still in style. The iconic 90s staple has made a definite comeback and many brands and designers are now offering their own unique take on the classic belt bag, offering fashion-savvy customers a range to choose from. 

Fanny packs are a great choice for travelling because they allow you to go hands-free. Because you wear them at the front of your body, they offer easy access to essentials and are a safe option because you can keep a close eye on your valuables. 

Fanny packs have a number of different names, including bum bag, waist bag, hip pack, and belt bag. A fanny pack is defined as a small pouch that is worn around the waist or hips—although most can be worn across the body too. 

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Best Fanny Packs of 2024

From minimalist belt bags to feature-rich designs for hitting the trail, we pick the year's top fanny packs.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Once considered an unfashionable fad of the '90s, fanny packs—also known as waist, lumbar, and hip packs—are making a serious comeback in 2024. From replacing a purse while running errands around town to keeping the essentials handy on the trail, many of today’s designs are impressively versatile and offer unmatched on-the-go access. Below we break down our favorite fanny packs of 2024, from stylish, everyday-friendly options to high-capacity and durable models built for hiking. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Fanny Pack Picks

• Best Overall Fanny Pack: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Budget Fanny Pack: JanSport Fifth Avenue
• Best Small Pack for Carrying the Essentials: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini
• Best High-Capacity Lumbar Pack for Hiking: Osprey Talon 6 / Osprey Tempest 6
• Fashionable Belt Bag for Urban Use: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L
• Pack Designed in Collaboration with Artists: Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny
• Best Supplemental Waist Pack for Backpackers: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa

Best Overall Fanny Pack

1. cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack ($60).

Fanny packs can serve a wide range of purposes, from replacing a purse to carrying the essentials on commutes or short day hikes. For all-around use, we love versatile designs like Cotopaxi’s Coso 2L Hip Pack. The 2-liter capacity is perfect for stashing must-have items and a few extras without feeling overly bulky or cumbersome (you can adjust the capacity with convenient G-hooks at the sides), the exterior is both durable and water-resistant, and the adjustable waist strap makes it easy to alternate between hip and cross-body carry. The storage layout is also very well executed: You get a fleece-lined pocket on the inside for your phone, a zippered pocket at the back for keeping cash or documents handy but hidden, and an exterior flap pocket that’s perfect for stashing a light layer. Finally, as we’ve come to expect from Cotopaxi, the Coso is sustainably built with 100% recycled nylon and has that playful, colorful styling that the brand is known for.

Another popular Cotopaxi design to consider is their Bataan , which offers an additional liter of storage space for around $28 less. Both fanny packs boast the brand’s trademark multi-toned styling and strong sustainability slant, but we think most will find the Coso worth the extra cash and 7-ounce weight penalty. Specifically, the Bataan’s flexible build caused it to feel droopy and unwieldy when stuffed full, the 3-liter capacity is on the bigger end for everyday use, and the lack of organization—including just two non-zippered mesh pockets in the main compartment—is undeniably limiting. City dwellers looking for a sleek, polished design might not love the flashy look (if that’s the case, check out Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag below), but the Coso checks all the boxes for most daily wear, travel, and light outdoors use, earning it our top spot this season. If you prefer something a little smaller, Cotopaxi’s 1.5-liter Kapai is another versatile and well-built option at a good price. See the Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack

Best Budget Fanny Pack

2. jansport fifth avenue ($22).

Fanny packs inherently are a relatively cheap bunch, but we certainly understand wanting to save a few bucks. If budget is at the top of your priority list, JanSport’s Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack checks most of the boxes for daily use at a wallet-friendly $22 (colorways vary on Amazon). The design is decidedly basic with a pocket-free interior and single zippered pouch on the front, but the 2.5-liter capacity fits day-to-day essentials with room to spare. You don’t have to skimp on style, either: The Fifth Avenue is pretty low-profile and comes in a nice selection of bright colorways and fun patterns.

Who is the JanSport Fifth Avenue best for? Occasional users likely won’t mind the simplistic storage layout and lack of premium touches like a padded backpanel or ergonomic zipper pulls. It’s also a viable option for minimalists who just want a no-frills design for walking the dog or running quick errands around town. For outdoor use, however, it leaves a lot to be desired—even casual hikers will appreciate the bump in quality, durability, and organization that come with stepping up to a design like Cotopaxi’s Coso above or Gregory’s Nano below. But if you’re just looking for a cheap but functional day-to-day waist pack that covers the basics, the Fifth Avenue is a fine choice. See the JanSport Fifth Avenue

Best Small Pack for Carrying the Essentials

3. patagonia ultralight black hole mini ($35).

Most people don’t leave the house without their phone, wallet, and keys, and a streamlined design like Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini is perfect for minimalists who just want to keep track of the essentials. At just 1 liter, the Black Hole is tied for the second-smallest design on our list (along with Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag below) but packs a solid punch for its diminutive size. Highlights include a nicely sized zippered pocket at the front, soft padding along the backpanel, and silicone/PU coatings for added assurance in wet weather. The Black Hole Mini also stuffs down into its own pocket for storage, making it a no-brainer to throw in a duffel for travel or a backpack for short outings from camp. Finally, as we’ve come to expect from Patagonia, the Black Hole has a nice sustainability slant with recycled and bluesign-approved materials that are certified to the Fair Trade standard.

We love the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini as a substitute for a purse or carrying your phone and treats while walking the dog. It’s also low-profile enough to wear under a rain shell or insulated jacket and doesn’t bounce around too much on short runs or bike rides. But there’s no denying the Black Hole’s small size and limited organization—for anything more than a quick after-work jaunt or ride, you’ll almost certainly want something larger and with more pockets. For a small boost in capacity, Osprey’s Ultralight Stuff Waist Pack is similarly light (2.9 oz.) and packable with an additional liter of space. But the Black Hole Mini is all most people need for day-to-day use and nothing they don’t, and the retro styling is the cherry on top. Note: The Black Hole’s waist strap maxes out at 36 inches, which is less than many competitors and may not work for some. See the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini

Best High-Capacity Lumbar Pack for Hiking

4. osprey talon 6 ($90).

The options above are great for around-town and even light outdoor use, but hikers looking to replace their daypack will likely want to step up to a larger and more purpose-built design. Enter Osprey’s Talon 6, which takes design cues from their Talon daypack collection that’s been a favorite of ours for years. As expected from Osprey, carrying comfort is excellent thanks to the Talon 6’s cushy padding along the hipbelt, and the AirScape backpanel—shared with the daypacks—breathes well and provides great support and structure. Storage also abounds with two large hipbelt pockets, a generous zippered compartment at the front, dual water bottle sleeves (perfect for 16 oz. Nalgene bottles), and compression straps for securing a lightweight jacket. Finally, the Talon is well built with thick fabrics that will stand up to long-term outdoor use and is the only design here to be offered in a women’s-specific model (the Tempest 6).

The Osprey Talon 6 is a great choice for outings when you just want to carry water, a light layer, and snacks, but it’s far from a featherweight at 14.4 ounces. It does undercut the Talon 11—the smallest daypack in the collection—by around 14 ounces, but you can certainly go lighter with more streamlined daypacks like REI’s Flash 18 (9.5 oz.) or Cotopaxi’s Batac 16L (12 oz.). On a related note, the Talon 6 is decidedly bulky and can feel unwieldy when loaded down with heavier items like water and electronics (some users report lower back pain after long days on the trail). But if you pack strategically, the Talon stands out as one of the most well-executed hiking designs on the market and can easily substitute a daypack on most done-in-a-day adventures. For $15 less, it’s also worth checking out Black Diamond’s Pursuit 6 , which shaves off 6.4 ounces and is noticeably lower-profile but with thinner padding and fewer features. See the Osprey Talon 6   See the Women's Osprey Tempest 6

Fashionable Belt Bag for Urban Use

5. lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l ($38).

Many of the picks here are made by outdoor brands and have a slightly technical look as a result, but athleisure giant Lululemon has filled a nice niche in the market with their Everywhere Belt Bag. Offered in 1- and 2-liter capacities (we’ve included the former here), this fanny pack is high on style with a sleek look, subdued branding, and classy colorway selection. We also like the thick, seatbelt-like strap that’s comfortable to wear all day and effectively keeps the bag in place while walking. The storage layout isn’t anything to write home about, but the small zippered pocket on the back, interior mesh divider, and generous opening to the main compartment (plus the big zipper) make organization and access quick and easy. In fact, one editor’s wife described it as “the ultimate everyday bag,” and we think the praise is well deserved.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L is a more urban-friendly alternative to Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini above and one of the closest purse substitutes on our list. In other words, it’s a great option for city dwellers and other fashion-forward shoppers who value the added on-the-go convenience but without the polarizing looks. Again, it’s important to take the storage constraints into account—those looking to carry more than just their phone, wallet, keys, and a couple small extras will likely want to step up to the 2-liter model for $10 more (the two packs are otherwise identical). Lululemon also offers the pack in a smaller, 0.7-liter version called the Mini Belt Bag, although it won’t save you any cash over the 1-liter model here. Regardless of which capacity you choose, the Everywhere Belt Bag stands out as a very chic and trendy design that fits right in on city streets. See the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Pack Designed in Collaboration with Artists

6. free range equipment canvas phanny ($59).

Style is largely subjective, but Free Range Equipment’s Canvas Phanny collection was quick to win us over. A small brand based out of Bend, Ore., FRE works with outdoor artists to create unique, outdoors-inspired designs—at the time of publishing, you can choose from five different styles including colorful mountain landscapes, wildlife-centric designs, and more. Overall quality is excellent thanks to the abrasion-resistant canvas exterior and premium touches like thick zipper pulls, a nicely padded backpanel, and a leather logo patch on the front. Two of our editors recently adopted the Canvas Phanny as their go-to waist pack, and we’ve found it useful for everything from running errands around town to shuttling the essentials —including a 500-milliliter soft flask, phone, snacks, a headlamp, and even a wind shirt—while Nordic skiing.

What’s not to like with Free Range Equipment’s Canvas Phanny? The most glaring downside is the barebones storage layout: The interior features a stretchy sleeve at the back with a clip for securing keys, but there are no zippered compartments. This hasn’t been a dealbreaker for us but can make organization tough—we often find ourselves rifling through the main compartment in checkout lines to find our credit card, for example. If you tend to carry a lot of smaller items, it may be worth opting for a design like Cotopaxi’s Coso above or Arc’teryx’s Mantis below, the latter of which includes two zippered pockets (one inside and one at the front) as well as an interior stash pocket and a sleeve along the backpanel for securing a phone. But there’s a reason we keep using the Canvas Phanny: It’s nicely sized for a variety of uses, has a premium feel, and looks great to boot. See the Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny

Best Supplemental Waist Pack for Backpackers

7. hyperlite mountain gear versa ($79).

Hyperlite Mountain Gear specializes in ultralight backpacking gear made with Dyneema, which is known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio and inherent waterproofing abilities. Their Versa is no exception, combining a competitive 4.3-ounce weight and reliable protection in a durable and outdoor-ready package. Despite its unassuming appearance, the Versa comes nicely equipped with three total pockets: one massive zippered pocket at the front, a mesh divider inside the main compartment for separating a wallet or map, and a stash pocket along the back for keeping your phone handy. Hyperlite didn’t skimp on the smaller details, either: The Versa boasts bound seams for added strength, quality YKK zippers to seal out moisture and keep your belongings protected, and long zipper pulls that are glove-friendly.

Who should buy the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa? Thru-hikers and minimalist backpackers looking for supplemental storage space will appreciate the ability to attach it to their backpack via the hipbelt or sternum strap—simply thread either strap through the pass-through sleeve at the back of the Versa (where the aforementioned stash pocket is located). Photographers, guides, and other outdoor-goers with specialized gear needs will also benefit from the ability to keep certain items (e.g., camera lenses or first aid supplies) close at hand without worrying about them getting wet. The Versa is no small investment at $79 and weighs a little more than competitors like the Thrupack Summit Bum Classic (3.5 oz.) and LiteAF Feather Weight Standard (2.3 oz.) below, but it’s the only fully waterproof design of the trio (joining Matador's Freerain below) and a very appealing backcountry companion. For a smaller and lighter (2.7 oz.) option from Hyperlite, their 1.3-liter Vice Versa is similarly built but forgoes zippered storage for $20 less.  See the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa

Best of the Rest

8. rei co-op trail 2 ($30).

We often turn to REI for affordable but well-made gear, and the Trail 2 Waist Pack fits the bill nicely. For just $30 and a respectable 4.3 ounces, you get a versatile 2 liters of capacity with a practical storage layout that comprises a zippered pouch at the front for separating small items and a sleeve at the back for keeping your phone or wallet handy but hidden. The Trail is also noticeably slim and low-profile, which translates to an unobtrusive and barely-there feel (it’s one of the best options here for wearing under a jacket in inclement weather). And while fairly common, the dual zippers for the main compartment make access quick and easy—you don’t have to unzip them all the way unless you’re removing a large item like a smartphone. Finally, the latest Trail 2 uses recycled materials for both the body and lining fabrics, which only add to its all-around appeal.

In addition to the standard Trail 2 here, REI also offers the design in “Print” and Pride” models with more vibrant styling (the regular version is a little dated). There’s also a larger 5-liter variation that tacks on daisy chain webbing, dual water bottle pockets, and a padded mesh backpanel for $20 more. If you’re on the fence about which option is best for you, we’d break it down as follows: The Trail 2 is the more versatile and everyday-friendly design, while the Trail 5 is the better hiking/outdoors companion that’s noticeably lighter (9 oz.) and less bulky than competitors like the Osprey Talon above (i.e., it has more crossover appeal). Both Trails are excellent values for what you get, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better balance of price and performance. See the REI Co-op Trail 2

9. Arc'teryx Mantis 2 ($50)

Arc’teryx is known for their premium craftsmanship and attention to detail, and the Mantis 2—which is a part of its namesake daypack collection—carries the torch. What immediately stood out to us was the Mantis’ generous storage layout, which consists of a large front zippered pocket with a key clip and two pockets in the main compartment (one open stash pocket and one zippered security pocket). We’re also big fans of the sleeve along the backpanel that offers quick and easy access to a phone, transit pass, or travel documents. The downside to all of these separate spaces is that they eat into the Mantis’ interior—the pack doesn’t fit a 500-milliliter soft flask as easily as the Free Range Phanny above, for instance—but we personally love the boost in convenience for day-to-day use.

Why didn’t we rank the Arc’teryx Mantis higher? While overall capacity is pretty middle-of-the-road at 2.5 liters, the Mantis’ square shape gives it a bit of an awkward look and feel when worn on the waist. Arc’teryx does make the Mantis in a 1.5-liter version for $10 less that’s a little more hip-friendly, but both options strike us as better suited for cross-body carry (in terms of both function and fit). The branding is also a little loud on both versions with the Arc’teryx logo front and center, although this is largely a matter of personal preference. These small complaints aside, the Mantis is a well-made and thoughtfully built design at an approachable price point—especially for Arc’teryx. For a more hiking-focused design from the brand, check out their new 2.5-liter Arro Waist Pack ($80), which tacks on water-resistant zippers and breathable mesh around the hipbelt and backpanel. See the Arc'teryx Mantis 2

10. Matador Freerain ($60)

Matador is a travel-focused brand and relatively new to the outdoor space, but they’ve wasted no time in assembling a quality lineup of light but dependable packs for both casual and technical use. One of their leading packs is the Freerain, which is fully waterproof and compresses down impressively small for travel. The Freerain Hip Pack sticks to a similar formula, including a tough and tear-resistant Robic nylon build with reinforced panels in high-wear areas, a UTS coating and sealed seams for reliable wet-weather protection, and the ability to pack down for storage or travel—simply turn the Freerain inside out and stuff it into its front pocket. Matador also includes a mesh compression sack for getting it even smaller.

How does the Matador Freerain compare to the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa above? Both designs are waterproof, weigh around the same (the Versa is 0.3 oz. heavier), and are purpose-built for backcountry use. The Freerain will save you around $20 and packs down much smaller, but not everyone will love the backpanel-free build—it can feel a little floppy when hiking—and roll-top closure, which helps with waterproofing but makes it harder to access the interior. The Versa is also a little bigger with 2.5 liters of capacity and wins out in storage with three pockets (compared to just one for the Matador), and we appreciate the ability to attach it to our pack’s hipbelt or sternum strap for a boost in organization on the trail. The Hyperlite’s better organization, structure, and versatility earn it a higher spot on our list, but the Freerain nevertheless is a solid performer for its weight and size. For a cheaper and more everyday-friendly option from Matador, check out their $40 ReFraction Packable Sling . See the Matador Freerain

11. Gregory Nano ($40)

Like Osprey’s Talon 6 above, Gregory’s Nano Waistpack is a well-executed take on its namesake daypack collection. However, unlike the high-capacity Talon, the Nano is an approachable option that’s built for the trail but still looks the part around town. While too big to serve as a dedicated daily companion, the 3.5-liter capacity is just about perfect for short day hikes—it's generous without feeling overly cumbersome on the trail—and the backpanel is sufficiently padded for all-day comfort. Most of the smaller details are equally well sorted, including a wider-than-average waist strap for distributing the load and molded zipper pulls that are very easy to operate, even with gloves on. Added up, the Nano strikes a nice middle ground between smaller and more casual designs like the REI Trail 2 above and massive, hiking-focused options like Osprey’s Talon.

It's worth noting that Gregory’s Nano collection also includes the Nano Waistpack Mini and Nano Shoulder Bag. Stacked up against the standard Nano here, the Nano Mini checks in an ounce lighter, boasts a 2.5-liter capacity, swaps the mesh backpanel for padded nylon, and forgoes the top zippered pocket. The Nano Shoulder Bag weighs the same as the Nano Mini but with 3.5 liters of capacity (the same as the standard Nano) and a thinner strap for cross-body carry. In the end, all are well-executed additions to the popular Nano line, but the standard Nano Waistpack here stands out as the most trail-ready of the bunch. We do wish it came with a belt keeper to secure the excess webbing when cinched tight, but it’s a small gripe and a quick DIY fix. For $5 less, we also like Osprey’s similarly built Daylight Waist Pack , although the 2-liter capacity is more limiting than the Nano’s 3.5-liter size. See the Gregory Nano

12. Thrupack Summit Bum Classic ($50)

Thrupack is a cottage brand that specializes in fanny packs purpose-built for thru-hikers (hence their name). Their flagship model is the Summit Bum Classic, which goes head-to-head with designs like Hyperlite’s Versa above and LiteAF’s Feather Weight below. Like those packs, the Summit Bum is tough and fully trail-worthy with high-end, tear-resistant materials and the ability to attach to your pack’s hipbelt or sternum strap for added organization (Thrupack has some helpful videos showing all the possible configurations). The Thrupack isn’t fully waterproof like the Hyperlite, although the YKK zipper and buckle are trustworthy enough to rely on in most conditions. And a fun twist: The Summit Bum is fully customizable —choices include desired capacity, pocket layout and pattern, material and colorway, type of waist belt (standard or “Comfy”), and more—which is great news for experienced thru-hikers looking to perfect their kit and those who like to geek out on gear.

As we mentioned, the Thrupack Summit Bum Classic isn’t fully waterproof, which may or may not be a dealbreaker depending on expected trail conditions. The Summit Bum does get the edge in weight over the Versa by an ounce—and you can save another by ditching the waist strap and connecting it directly to your pack—but true ounce-counters will likely prefer the LiteAF Feather Weight below (2.3-2.7 oz. depending on capacity and colorway). Some folks will also be disappointed by the lack of zippered storage, although the two interior pouches, key clip, and rear sleeve should cover the basics. In the end, the Summit Bum Classic is undeniably specialized and lacking in everyday appeal, but it’s a fun and tailor-made option for creative ULers. See the Thrupack Summit Bum Classic

13. Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack ($49)

Topo Designs is a travel-focused brand with a wide selection of packs, duffels, roller bags, and organizational accessories for globetrotters and commuters alike. From their hip pack collection, the Mini Quick Pack stands out for its versatile (1.7L) size, playful styling, and thoughtfully executed feature set. Like the Cotopaxi Coso above, the Mini Quick Pack is offered in several multi-toned colorways for a nice dose of flair, and the nylon pack cloth exterior is noticeably thick and stands up well to long-term use (bonus: It’s 100% recycled). The smaller details are equally well sorted, including a handy loop at the front corner for attaching a bike light, bottom compression straps for securing an extra layer, grab handles at the top for carrying by hand, and proven YKK zippers for sealing out moisture. Added up, it’s a durable and good-looking option that’s a little more urban-friendly than Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini above.

What pushes the Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack down our list? In this case, the devil is in the details: The diagonal zipper on the front pocket limits what you can store inside—it can’t fit a smartphone, for instance—and the thick waist strap is noticeably long (which could be a pro or con) but lacks an elastic keeper to secure any excess material out of the way (similar to the Gregory Nano above). While largely subjective, some folks also won’t love the fairly flashy and busy exterior—if you like the design but prefer more subdued styling, check out Fjallraven’s similarly durable Kanken Hip Pack . We personally love the playful look and think it helps the Mini Quick Pack stand out in the market, but the lack of functional phone storage and excessively long waist strap are notable drawbacks. Of note: Topo Designs also offers the pack in a larger (7.3L) version that’s well suited for travel or commuting (it also makes for a nice tech case for camera gear).  See the Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack

14. Janji Multipass Sling Bag ($56)

Janji is a running brand that offers a competitive selection of comfortable, moisture-wicking apparel. While also designed for runners, their Multipass Sling Bag strikes us as equally great for travel and hiking. Comfort is a clear strong suit: The pack boasts a flexible, mesh-heavy backpanel that nicely balances breathability and support; the hipbelt is wide and does a great job distributing weight; and it’s easy to dial in a close fit with good adjustability and an exterior bungee cord to snug down a half-full load. Despite its technical intentions, the Multipass also comes well equipped in the storage department with a generously sized main compartment that includes a key clip and a separate space for cards, a zippered pocket at the back for securely stashing valuables, and a pass-through sleeve between the pack body and hipbelt for securing an extra layer or even a small water bottle. And we love the addition of the crossbody strap, which helps minimize unwanted movement and tucks neatly away when not in use.

Why do we have the Janji Multipass Sling Bag ranked here? First, the pack’s running focus results in a fairly technical look and feel that’s noticeably less everyday-friendly than designs like the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag or even Cotopaxi’s flashy Coso above. Fit is another potential issue: While highly adjustable, the positioning of the hipbelt and cross-body strap may cause discomfort for those with broader builds and bigger chests. Finally, we wish the bag featured a better way to stash a water bottle—the pass-through sleeve is workable most of the time, but runners will likely find it lacking in security. Of note: Despite its “sling bag” designation, we consider the Janji more of a fanny pack. For a more detailed breakdown on the former, see our section “ What About Sling Bags? ” in the buying advice below.  See the Janji Multipass Sling Bag

15. LiteAF Feather Weight Standard ($50)

Like Thrupack, LiteAF specializes in ultralight gear tailor-made for thru-hikers and other weight-conscious adventurers. At a scant 2.3 ounces for the 1.4-liter version, their aptly named Feather Weight is the lightest design on our list and an easy sell for dedicated ULers. Like the Summit Bum, the Feather Weight is highly customizable: You can choose between 1.4- and 2-liter capacities, a detachable versus fixed hipbelt, and “Ultra PE” (high-strength polyethylene) or Dyneema fabrics. Regardless of your selections, all Feather Weight packs feature a waterproof YKK zipper, a stretchy mesh front pocket, seams sealed with Dyneema tape, and a 1-inch webbing hipbelt with a 1-inch buckle. The pack also comes in a wide selection of eye-catching designs—two personal favorites are the Tropic Sunset and Liquid Candy (shown here)—that pump some serious flavor and personality into the market.

All of LiteAF’s Feather Weight Standard Fanny Packs are made to order, which has its pros and cons. For reference, lead time at the time of publishing is listed at a very reasonable 2 weeks, but you can almost certainty expect a longer turnaround during peak season. We also wish LiteAF included a pass-through point at the back for attaching to a pack. Opting for the clip-equipped detachable waist belt (a $2 add-on) is a viable solution for those who own a backpack with a removable hipbelt, but that’s realistically a limited subset of backpackers. A final omission is zippered storage, although the mesh pocket at the front is taut enough to dependably stow your phone while hiking. In the end, the Feather Weight won’t be a top pick among casual users but is another feathery and fun option for avid backcountry-goers. For an even lighter (1.8 oz.) design with more subdued but classy styling, check out High Tail Designs’ Ultralight Fanny Pack . See the LiteAF Feather Weight Standard

16. Kavu Spectator ($25)

Kavu's Spectator goes head-to-head with Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini above as a small but practical waist pack for carrying the essentials. Right away, we’ll note that the 0.5-liter capacity is the smallest on our list and a little undersized for most uses—it can accommodate a phone, wallet, keys, and a couple small extras but not much more. The rest of the design is similarly basic with a single zippered pocket and a thick nylon waist strap, although we appreciate that Kavu included a padded backpanel. Combined with the approachable $25 price tag and wide selection of bright patterns and colorways, the Spectator is a nice value for minimalists who want to keep weight and bulk to a minimum while running errands, walking the dog, or taking a short walk.

Most fanny packs here come with a sleeve or additional pocket inside the main compartment for separating items like your wallet, cards, or documents, but not the Kavu Spectator. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker given the Spectator’s small size (you won’t have to rifle around for very long if items shift during transport), but it does detract from overall convenience. That said, we personally prefer more space for day-to-day use—there’s a reason that the 2-liter Cotopaxi Coso and Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny are our go-to fanny packs. But if you’re in the market for a low-profile and unadorned waist pack that won’t break the bank, the Spectator certainly fits the bill. See the Kavu Spectator

17. Mountainsmith Tour ($90)

The 6-liter Osprey Talon above is plenty of fanny pack for most day hikers, but those with more specialized gear needs may want to step up to an even larger option like Mountainsmith’s 9-liter Tour. As expected for its size, the Tour leaves little to be desired in terms of organization: Storage abounds both inside and out, including smartphone-compatible hipbelt pockets, a mesh shove-it pocket at the front, side water bottle pockets that can each fit a 32-ounce Nalgene, a hidden stash pocket along the backpanel for keeping your phone or passport handy, and ample compression straps for securing extra layers. There’s even a headphone port and tablet-friendly sleeve on the inside that’s padded with foam for added protection. Taken together, the Tour is an intriguing daypack alternative for photographers, fly fishermen, mountain bikers, and maximalist hikers who prioritize easy on-the-go access to equipment, snacks, and other necessities.

Realistically, the Mountainsmith Tour is far too large and bulky for most. At 1 pound 9 ounces, it’s a significant 10.6 ounces heavier than Osprey’s 3-liter-smaller Talon above and looks comically big, especially on those with smaller frames. On the bright side, the Tour does come with a removable shoulder strap for cross-body carry, or you can pick up Mountainsmith’s Strapettes for wearing the pack backpacking-style (a really innovative option, in our opinion). That said, most hikers will still prefer a lightweight daypack—it will distribute the load much better, feel more natural over long distances, and likely come with a bump in capacity for little to no weight penalty. But if you’re prone to neck or back pain or prefer to keep certain equipment close at hand, the Tour will surely get the job done. Of note: Mountainsmith claims that the waist belt extends to 48 inches, but some users report it’s around 10 inches shorter. See the Mountainsmith Tour

Fanny Pack Comparison Table

*Editor's note: "Waist" refers to the adjustability range of the hipbelt.

Fanny Pack Buying Advice

Fanny pack utility and best uses, capacity and dimensions, carry styles, weight and packability, pockets and organization, padding and support, hipbelt and waist strap design.

• Waterproof Fanny Packs

Fit and Sizing

Sustainability, what about sling bags, activity-specific fanny packs.

Also known as waist packs, lumbar packs, hip packs, and sometimes belt bags, fanny packs come in a variety of styles and capacities and serve many purposes. Starting at the casual end, many of the designs above can be a viable substitute for carrying the essentials (e.g., a phone, wallet, and keys) in a purse or stuffing them in your jacket or pant pockets. Our go-to everyday options are typically on the smaller side—we’ve found the sweet spot to be between 1 and 2.5 liters for our day-to-day needs—and a few of our favorites include the Cotopaxi Coso (2L), Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini (1L), and Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny. Many of these designs also cross over well for travel—it’s a nice dose of confidence being able to keep our documents and valuables close to our body while navigating through security checkpoints and exploring around town when we arrive at our destination.

At the other end of the spectrum are hiking-focused fanny packs like Osprey’s Talon 6 and Mountainsmith’s Tour, which are much larger and more feature-rich. These are essentially pared-down daypacks and come with all the requisite features for done-in-a-day adventures, including dedicated water bottle storage, ample pockets for stashing the essentials and plenty of snacks and extras, and compression straps for securing a light layer or two. Like daypacks, they also boast well-padded hipbelts and breathable mesh backpanels for good all-day comfort. Weight and bulk are the two biggest downsides: The Talon checks in at 14.4 ounces, while the Tour is a whopping 1 pound 9 ounces (most casual waist packs weigh around 8 oz. or less). In our opinion, most folks would be better served by a lightweight daypack, but hiking-focused waist packs do have their place for photographers, fly fishermen, and other outdoor-goers who want to keep certain equipment close at hand.

A third and final category is ultralight, thru-hike-friendly fanny packs like Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Versa , Matador's Freerain, Thrupack’s Summit Bum Classic, and LiteAF’s Feather Weight Standard. Commonalities include high-end fabrics that are thin but impressively tear-resistant (Dyneema leads the pack here), streamlined feature sets that just cover the basics, and—of course—low weights (the Versa is the heaviest of the trio at 4.3 oz.). Oftentimes, UL models also allow you to remove certain components (like the hipbelt) to shave off another ounce or two, and many can be connected to your backpack's hipbelt or sternum strap for added on-trail storage. Finally, customization is popular among cottage brands, and both Thrupack and LiteAF offer the ability to hand-pick materials, colorways, and more. For those with more specialized gear needs, there are also plenty of purpose-built designs for activities like running, fishing, biking, and more (we break these down further in our section on “ Activity-Specific Fanny Packs ” below). 

Fanny packs come in a wide variety of capacities, with the picks above ranging from just 0.5 liters for the Kavu Spectator to a whopping 9 liters for the Mountainsmith Tour . In general, capacity correlates closely to a waist pack’s intended use: Casual, everyday-friendly designs tend to be smaller, while hiking-specific models are larger to accommodate a day’s worth of gear, water, and snacks. Ultralight, thru-hiking-friendly waist packs fall closer to the former end, ranging from 1.4 liters for the LiteAF Feather Weight (it also comes in a 2L version) to 2.5 liters for the Hyperlite Versa and Thrupack Summit Bum Classic. As we mentioned above, we’ve found the 1- to 2.5-liter range to be just about perfect for day-to-day use. As an example, our 2-liter Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny easily accommodates our plus-sized iPhone, wallet, keys, an epi pen, lip balm, and a small e-reader with room to spare.

Dimensions go hand in hand with capacity but can be a helpful indicator of overall heft and bulk. For example, Mountainsmith’s 9-liter Tour measures 11.5 inches long, 10 inches tall, and 5 inches deep, while Patagonia’s 1-liter Ultralight Black Hole Mini is just 8 inches long, 4.8 inches tall, and 2 inches deep. Most designs hover somewhere in the middle, but lower-profile options like the Black Hole and REI Co-op’s Trail 2 (also 2 in. deep) make it incredibly easy to throw an outer layer on overtop in cold or inclement conditions. By comparison, those with a wider profile—like Free Range’s 3.5-in.-deep Canvas Phanny—look and feel noticeably bulkier and more awkward under a jacket (especially one with a trim fit). In the end, capacity will be the more important spec for most, but dimensions can help paint a clearer picture. 

Fanny packs are a pretty versatile bunch, and a lot of that stems from the ability to wear them different ways, including on your hips, over one shoulder, or across your body. Most of the options above can be worn multiple ways, so your carry choice will largely depend on your objective. For example, securing your fanny pack around your waist is the best option for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities that involve a lot of movement since you can cinch it tight to minimize bouncing. Over-the-shoulder and cross-body carry are more common for casual use and around-town wear—it’s much easier to get your pack on and off when sitting down for a meal, for instance. Mountainsmith’s Tour also comes with a removable shoulder strap and is compatible with their Strappettes (sold separately) for backpack-style carry.

Many targeted ultralight designs—including the Hyperlite Versa and Thrupack Summit Bum Classic—are also made to attach to your backpack’s hipbelt or sternum strap for added on-trail storage. The process is quick and easy: Simply thread your pack’s strap through the pass-through sleeve at the back of the fanny pack. LiteAF’s Feather Weight Standard notably omits a sleeve, although opting for the detachable strap allows it to connect to backpacks with removable hipbelts. If you’re curious about all the possible configurations, Thrupack has a few videos showcasing the various carry options for their Summit Bum Classic.

Most casual users won’t likely pay much attention to weight or packability since fanny packs are a pretty lightweight category in general. That said, there’s still a decent spread in the market, and backcountry users in particular will benefit from keeping weight to a minimum. For reference, the lightest design on our list is LiteAF’s aptly named Feather Weight Standard at just 2.3 ounces, while the heaviest is Mountainsmith’s Tour at 1 pound 9 ounces. Most options fall somewhere in the middle, with the majority hovering in the 3- to 8-ounce range. From our experience, this is plenty light for day-to-day use, and most people likely won’t notice a few extra (or fewer) ounces when running errands, walking the dog, or even embarking on a short bike ride or day hike.

On a similar note, packability is a feature that’s nice to have but far from necessary. From our list above, only two designs are made to pack down into one of their pockets when not in use: the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini and Matador Freerain , the latter of which also comes with a separate compression sack for stuffing down even further. However, while we always appreciate minimizing bulk for storage and travel, these fanny packs are already pretty small and streamlined to begin with. In other words, being able to pack them down doesn’t provide a huge benefit, but it may help keep them in better shape over the long term (there’s a lower risk of punctures when stored with sharp gear, for instance).

The organizational layout of a fanny pack can have a major impact on overall convenience and accessibility. When starting your search, you’ll want to look closely at the number of pockets, their size and location, and how many (if any) are zippered. If we had to design our ideal fanny pack, it would have a zippered front pocket that’s smartphone-compatible, a rear sleeve for securely and discreetly storing a phone or passport, and a non-zippered pocket along the back of the interior for separating a wallet or cards from the rest of our belongings in the main compartment (plus a key clip, which is very common). This is one of our biggest gripes with Free Range Equipment’s Canvas Phanny: With just one non-zippered pocket inside and no exterior storage, we often find ourselves rummaging through the pack to find what we’re looking for. On the flip side, Arc’teryx’s Mantis 2 checks all of the boxes above and tacks on an additional zippered security pocket in the main compartment, which is pretty ideal for everyday use.

Pocket layout and design don’t vary too heavily, but there are a few outliers worth calling out. One is Janji’s Multipass Sling Bag , which features a pass-through sleeve between the pack body and hipbelt that’s great for stashing a thin layer or a small water bottle. Hiking-specific designs like the Osprey Talon 6 and Mountainsmith Tour also come with hipbelt pockets, dedicated water bottle storage, and compression straps for securing extra layers. Speaking of layers, the front pouch on Cotopaxi's Coso 2L Hip Pack is perfect for stashing a light windbreaker or shell. Finally, LiteAF’s Feather Weight has a generous mesh pocket at the front that’s taut enough to stow your phone, although we think it’s better suited for a thin beanie or liner gloves. In the end, only you can decide how many pockets you need (more aren’t always better), but laying out your belongings can be a good place to start.

In general, fanny packs fall into one of three buckets: Those with no padding, those with lightly padded backpanels (oftentimes all foam), and hiking-specific designs with mesh-heavy, backpack-like cushioning along the backpanel and hipbelt. Since most fanny packs are relatively small and light, most folks won’t be too deterred by a basic, backpanel-free design like the Matador Freerain. The Freerain does feel a little floppy and unsupportive while hiking, and it’ll likely grow a little clammy in mid-summer temperatures, but it’s perfectly serviceable for trail outings and bike rides in most conditions.

At the other end of the spectrum are hiking-focused models like the Osprey Talon and Mountainsmith Tour that boast thickly padded, mesh-heavy backpanels and hipbelts. In general, these designs offer great all-around cushioning and support for long days on the trail, and the boost in breathability is a boon in hot weather. However, not everyone will love the rigidity—flexible alternatives like the aforementioned Freerain pack down much smaller for stuffing into a pack or duffel. Those looking for a versatile option for around-town and light outdoor use will likely prefer a middle-of-the-road fanny pack with a lightly padded backpanel. A few of our favorite crossover options include the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini, Arc’teryx Mantis 2, and Gregory Nano . In our experience, these provide the best balance of comfort and bulk.

Like "Padding and Support" above, waist strap design can be broken into three categories: standard webbing, thicker seat belt-style straps, and well-cushioned, backpack-like hipbelts. Most picks above fall into the first grouping with relatively thin, low-profile webbing straps that get the job done for day-to-day and light outdoor use but don’t stand out from a comfort or support perspective. For a step up in both of those areas, seat belt-style waist straps are popular among casual designs—like the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L —and excel for cross-body carry in particular (a wide strap will distribute the weight better and dig in less than a webbing strap). Finally, hiking-specific models like the Osprey Talon 6 and Mountainsmith Tour take cues from daypacks with thickly cushioned hipbelts for shuttling a day’s worth of water, snacks, and gear, although you’ll still want to be conscious of weight (too much resting on your hips can result in lower back pain).  

Materials and Durability

Most fanny packs are plenty durable for their intended uses, but material type and thickness do vary considerably and will be an important consideration for some. For reference, “denier” (D) is used to denote fabric thickness, with a higher number indicating beefier materials (note: Not all manufacturers provide this spec, but most do). To highlight the spread, minimalist designs like the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini (70D body) and Matador Freerain (50 and 70D) use relatively thin fabrics, while hiking-specific models like the Mountainsmith Tour (420D) and Osprey Talon (100 x 210D with 420D in high-wear areas) are much thicker. This isn’t too surprising—we expect hiking-focused packs to hold up well around sharp equipment like trekking poles , tent stakes, etc.—but does have implications for those who plan to wear their fanny pack mainly for outdoor activities.

Regardless of denier, the type of material used can have a significant impact on long-term durability. For example, the Free Range Equipment Canvas Phanny and Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack (which uses canvas-like nylon pack cloth) both have thick, abrasion-resistant exteriors that stand up well to long-term use. While thin, Dyneema is also known to be impressively tear-resistant for its weight (as seen in the Hyperlite Versa and some versions of the LiteAF Feather Weight). UHMWPE, or ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene, is another material used to boost strength while keeping weight to a minimum, and we’ve had positive experiences thus far with the Matador Freerain, which uses a mix of Robic nylon and gridded UHMWPE in high-wear areas. In other words, denier is certainly a part of the equation, but it’s just one piece in the larger durability puzzle.

Waterproof Fanny Packs Most fanny packs can fend off light moisture with durable water repellent (DWR) coatings or other water-resistant treatments. Some, like Thrupack’s Summit Bum Classic , take it a step further with YKK zippers and/or buckles, which we’ve come to trust even in sustained rain. However, while these measures will be fully sufficient for most, those who live in notoriously wet climates or who don’t mind getting out in inclement weather may want to consider a fully waterproof design. Matador’s Freerain is one option, combining PU and UTS waterproof coatings with full seam sealing, YKK zippers and buckles, and a roll-top closure for the utmost in wet-weather assurance. Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Versa is also fully waterproof thanks to its Dyneema fabrics, YKK zippers, and bound seams. In the end, most people will be perfectly fine with a standard DWR-equipped fanny pack, but the Matador and Hyperlite add a nice dose of security for getting out in places like the Pacific Northwest.

All of the fanny packs above only come in one size, but the good news is that most designs feature highly adjustable hipbelts that can accommodate a wide range of waist sizes. Thankfully, some manufacturers provide that range on their product page, although many do not (we’ve listed the spec when available in our comparison table above). For reference, Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini will fit waists from 8 to 36 inches, while many competitors—including the Osprey Talon 6, REI Trail 2, Matador Freerain, and Gregory’s Nano—max out closer to 50 inches. This likely won’t pose an issue for most but is worth considering if you have wider hips or plan to layer heavily underneath. Finally, it’s worth noting that Osprey makes a women’s-specific version of the Talon called the Tempest 6 , which fits waists from 24-44 inches (compared to 25-50 in. for the Talon). This is pretty typical of women’s designs, but don’t be afraid to go with the unisex/men’s model if it fits you better. 

Our impact on the environment has never been of greater concern, and we appreciate when brands go the extra mile toward minimizing their impact. The use of recycled fabrics has increased considerably over the past few years and is now fairly common in the fanny pack market. More recently, manufacturers have turned to PFC-free DWR coatings (traditional coatings use per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment). We also keep an eye out for bluesign-approved and Fair Trade Certified fabrics, which forgo harmful chemicals and ensure workers are compensated fairly and have access to safe working conditions (respectively). A couple standouts above include Cotopaxi's Coso 2L Hip Pack , which is made with 100% recycled nylon, and Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Mini, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics that are certified to the Fair Trade standard.

We exclusively cover fanny packs above, but we’d be remiss not to mention sling bags, which are another popular style that typically come with a single shoulder strap for cross-body carry. Importantly, many fanny packs can be worn either on your waist or over one shoulder (and many folks will opt for the latter the majority of the time), but wearing a fanny pack across the body usually results in a slight drop in convenience due to the way the pockets are positioned. By contrast, dedicated sling bags like Patagonia’s Atom and Kavu’s Rope Sling boast vertically oriented pockets and zippers that make cross-body access easier. Sling bags also generally offer more capacity than waist packs due to their more ergonomic shape—the Atom and Kavu are 8 and 10 liters respectively—but there are plenty of smaller designs available, too. In the end, we consider fanny packs the more versatile choice due to their multiple carry options, but sling bags are a nice alternative for those who don’t plan to wear their pack around their waist.

The fanny packs above are built for everyday and light outdoor use, but there are also plenty of more specialized designs made for running, fishing, biking, and more. Dakine is a longstanding leader in the mountain biking realm with a wide selection of packs that are purpose-built for cyclists, including their popular Hot Laps collection. Runners typically opt for minimalist, belt-style designs like the Amphipod AirFlow MicroStretch Plus or FlipBelt Classic to keep weight and bulk to a minimum while logging miles. Finally, Patagonia’s Guidewater Hip Pack 9L is a popular option among fly fishermen for its fully waterproof and submersible design, external lash points for securing extra gear, and pass-through sleeve that can fit a net.

A final category worth having on your radar is hydration-equipped fanny packs, which are typically aimed at hikers, mountain bikers, and trail or mountain runners. Osprey has a healthy selection of singletrack-ready designs, including the reservoir-equipped Seral 4 . Alternatively, many running-focused designs include small bottles rather than bladders, including Nathan’s Peak Hydration Waist Pack and UltrAspire’s Speedgoat 3.0. Finally, there are several larger and more feature-rich options for all-day adventures—from long bike rides to ultralight mountain missions—like Ultimate Direction’s Mountain Belt 5.0 and Mountainsmith’s Cona 4. None of these cross over particularly well for daily wear but make a lot of sense for athletes looking for a vest or pack alternative. Back to Our Top Fanny Pack Picks   Back to Our Fanny Pack Comparison Table

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The Best Fanny Packs

Once the (ahem) butt of many jokes, fanny packs—also known as hip packs, sling bags, crossbody bags, or bum bags—have made a major comeback in recent years. They’re now a fully accepted and celebrated wardrobe staple, and with good reason: These compact, hands-free bags are pretty darn useful. Plus, they’re cute. We researched 47 bags and tested 22, ultimately landing on five favorites that suit a wide variety of tastes and situations.

The research

A stylish and roomy fanny pack: dagne dover ace fanny pack, a cheap and cute fanny pack: jansport fifth avenue fanny pack, a petite, outdoorsy fanny pack: patagonia ultralight black hole mini hip pack 1l, a fanny pack for cyclists (and minimalists): road runner bags lil guy fanny pack, a spacious fanny pack: herschel seventeen hip pack, how we picked and tested, the competition.

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Roomy and style-forward.

This spacious neoprene pack is a true blend of fashion and function—you can stash plenty of stuff in it (a large wallet, makeup kit, phone) and still have room to spare. But its puffy shape isn’t for everyone.

Buying Options

The Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack is just right for people who want an accessory that’s as much a fashion flex as it is a useful carry pack. We were won over by its charming, bulbous style—though it’s not everyone’s taste—and roominess. It’s the priciest fanny pack of any of our picks, but—for less than $100—it’s a decent value, especially compared with the price of traditional handbags.

It’s as stylish as it is practical. “It’s kind of cartoony, in a fun way,” said staff writer Dorie Chevlen of the fanny pack’s distinctive, padded look. The neoprene (think: wetsuit) material helps prevent any water from getting inside and adds to the pack’s snazzy, modern vibe.

It has oversize hardware. The Dagne Dover fanny pack has a chunky, large-tooth zipper that runs across the top. It can be visually jarring at first, but it keeps the bag secure and works without much fuss. The buckle on the Dagne Dover fanny pack is also oversize, which is an odd choice in terms of form and function; it’s distractingly large and a bit clunky to operate, though it does emit a satisfying click when fastened.

It’s spacious. Without looking or feeling overly big or bulky, the Dagne Dover fanny pack has enough storage to carry a big phone, an overstuffed wallet, a travel pack of tissues, and even a spare sippy cup for the little one. (Note: This pack is wider at the top and tapers towards the bottom.) Plus, it has a few extras to help keep your belongings organized: a cardholder-size pocket up front, a slot to hold a pen inside, and a handy little clip for house keys.

It’s comfy to carry. The Dagne Dover fanny pack is sturdy and well constructed; it doesn’t start bulging when it’s stuffed full, and it keeps its contents nicely cushioned and protected. The strap is unusually thick for a fanny pack, which our panel of testers liked—they said it felt more pleasant and secure. The bag rests comfortably on your waist when you’re standing and moves a little higher when you sit, but it doesn’t shift enough to be painful or ill fitting. The strap isn’t as long as some of our other picks, such as the Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack, but it still fits a wide range of waist and chest sizes.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• It’s the priciest fanny pack of our picks.
• The cartoonish design can be polarizing.
• The buckle on the strap is overly large and bold, making it distracting and hard to operate.
• Warranty: one-year limited warranty
• Dimensions and capacity: 9.25 by 2.75 by 5.5 inches; around 2.3 liters
• Strap length: 29 to 48 inches long
• Weight: 8.3 ounces
• Colors: around seven, change seasonally

JanSport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack

Cheap, good-looking, and reliable.

For people who are curious about fanny packs or don’t want to spend a lot, this is a great starter bag. It’s sturdy, well sized, and comes in plenty of colors and patterns—but the main compartment lacks organization.

Commuter on a budget? Just looking to dip your toe into the world of fanny packs? Both are solid reasons to consider the JanSport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack . But this midsize polyester bag could be for anyone, really, who doesn’t want to sacrifice quality for price: It’s a simple, functional, and well-constructed pack.

It’s a nice in-between size. With its 2.5-liter capacity, the JanSport fanny pack falls in the middle of the range, dimensions-wise, among our picks. It’s smaller than the Road Runner Bags Lil Guy Fanny Pack and Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack, similar in size to the (shorter but fatter) Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack, and larger than the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L. The main compartment of the bag lacks any internal pockets or organization, which is a bummer. The outside pocket is unusually large; it can accommodate a small notebook, a phone, and other loose items like pens and lip balm.

It’s well made. In our testing, the JanSport fanny pack’s sturdy polyester fabric was able to easily fend off water, even after 10 seconds under a running faucet. The pack’s strap is sturdy and stays put even when it’s carrying a heavy load. We also liked that the strap is highly adjustable—from 14 to 51 inches long—enabling this pack to fit a wide range of body types. (A fabric ring helps keep any excess strap material from flapping about.) But the strap is a bit on the narrow side, and it dug into the waists of some of our panelists.

It’s wearable. Our panelists appreciated the JanSport fanny pack’s mixture of simplicity and style. This is a pack that can be easily thrown on with all kinds of casual outfits—it blends in with an outfit rather than upstaging it. And it comes in over a dozen colors and prints to suit a wide range of tastes.

• We’d prefer if this bag had some internal organization in its main compartment.
• The strap is a bit too narrow and dug into the waists of some of our panelists.
• Warranty: limited lifetime warranty
• Dimensions and capacity: 6 by 12.5 by 4 inches; 2.5 liters
• Strap length: 14 to 51 inches long
• Weight: 4 ounces
• Colors: over a dozen colors and prints

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L

Lightweight and adventure-ready.

This light, nylon pack is great for shorter hikes or tossing into your vacation suitcase, since it takes up barely any space. But it doesn’t have room to hold all that much.

For active types in search of a lightweight, compact pack to bring along on hikes, dog walks, or bike rides, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L —made from recycled ripstop nylon—fits the bill. It’s also well suited for travelers, since it packs down to practically nothing and leaves your hands unencumbered while sightseeing. Wherever you find yourself, the Patagonia Ultralight is a pleasure to wear: It has a soft, padded back that makes it feel cozy around the waist, and the pack sits comfortably against your body.

It’s made to withstand the elements. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L is a slight redesign of one of the original picks in this guide, the Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini Hip Pack. Unlike the previous model, this newer one is, per Patagonia, “highly water resistant,” and its body fabric, lining, and webbing are made of recycled materials. (We have not retested this pack since the redesign.)

It’s pint size. The Patagonia fanny pack is the smallest pack we recommend, with a capacity of just 1 liter. The main compartment has room for a smartphone and a few additional items, like a bottle of sunscreen or a small makeup kit; it doesn’t have organization, but given the capacity, you won’t have many contents to organize anyway. This pack has a front pocket with a key clip that can house a few more small items. Our panelists gave this pack the thumbs-up for dog walks or short bike rides, but you’ll probably need something larger for more serious treks. This pack also has the shortest strap of any of our picks (by far), with a maximum length of 36 inches, so it may not fit people with larger waists—a complaint that users mention multiple times over on the Patagonia website.

It’s packable. This oval-shape Patagonia fanny pack can be folded up into its own front pocket and easily tossed into a suitcase for getaways. But if you’re planning to use this as your primary day bag once you reach your destination, just keep in mind the limited capacity—beyond the essentials, you won’t have much room for toting things like guidebooks and souvenirs.

• This pack’s petite size allows room for only the true essentials.
• The unusually short strap (with a 36-inch maximum length) may not fit many people’s waists.
• The strap of this pack must be adjusted from both sides (unlike with most other packs), which is a nuisance.
• Warranty: Patagonia gear is covered by an open-ended guarantee that covers defects, returns (for any reason) and repairs; damage caused by usual wear and tear is subject to a repair charge
• Dimensions and capacity: 4.75 by 8 by 2 inches; 1 liter
• Strap length: 8 to 36 inches long
• Weight: 3.5 ounces
• Colors: seven, including color block and solid

Road Runner Bags Lil Guy Fanny Pack

Utilitarian bike bag.

Though this roomy nylon pack is designed for urban cyclists—it even has a U-lock holster—its minimalist style appeals beyond the biking demo. But some may find it too no-frills for everyday use.

Don’t let the name fool you: The Road Runner Bags Lil Guy Fanny Pack is a surprisingly roomy—if decidedly no-frills—nylon fanny pack. And since it was originally designed with city cyclists in mind, it’s extremely durable, as well.

It’s built tough. The Road Runner Bags fanny pack is made from 1,000-denier Cordura fabric, which is scuff resistant and water resistant; in our tests, no water leaked in. Its zipper is covered by a layer of waterproof fabric to prevent moisture from seeping in through the crevices; the extra material did not get in the way of operating the zipper. This is a pack that was made to last, which is only appropriate, given its eye-raising price tag.

It packs a lot in. In terms of its specs, the Road Runner Bags fanny pack isn’t all that big: 10 by 5 by 2 inches, with a capacity of 1.6 liters. But because of its rectangular shape, thin material, and basic main compartment, which has just one internal flap pocket, it can hold about the same amount of stuff as the physically larger and trapezoidal Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack (13 by 6.5 by 3.5 inches). During testing, the Road Runner Bags fanny pack had enough space for a small paperback, a wallet, a smartphone, keys, and a snack-size bag of chips. Some testers found it bulky to wear, especially when seated. And since the heavy-duty Cordura material isn’t very pliable, it can feel uncomfortable when the pack is full.

It has some cyclist-centric features. The exterior of the Road Runner Bags fanny pack is wrapped in a strap of nylon webbing, which has four MOLLE (modular lightweight load-carrying equipment) loops built into the webbing for attaching things such as key rings, carabiner clips, or lights. On the back of the pack, you’ll find a 5-inch-wide U-lock holster that holds most bike locks, including Wirecutter’s top pick, the Kryptonite New-U Evolution Mini-7 .

• For such a simple bag, the price is surprisingly steep.
• We wish the main compartment, which has a solitary internal pocket, had more dividers.
• Some testers found the pack bulky to wear, especially when seated.
• The bag’s Cordura material can feel stiff and uncomfortable when full.
• The waist strap requires adjusting on both sides, like a backpack, which can be bothersome.
• Warranty: “ 30 days to life warranty ,” meaning that 30 days after purchase, the customer is responsible for shipping costs and some repair fees
• Dimensions and capacity: 10 by 5 by 2 inches; 1.6 liters
• Strap length: 33 to 47 inches long
• Colors: seven

Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack

Big and durable.

This polyester pack is the same size as a standard purse or tote, and it allows you to go hands free. But its large capacity means it can get uncomfortable when fully loaded.

Understandably, not everyone is willing to make the transition from a regular handbag to a fanny pack if it means leaving some of their beloved gear behind in the process. (Hello, all five lip balms!) But with the Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack , you don’t need to make that sacrifice: At 3.5 liters, it’s the roomiest of any of our picks. It also has the longest, most accommodating strap—it can be adjusted from 21 to 52 inches long—so it fits a wider range of waist and chest sizes than our other picks.

It lives large. This is the bag to get if you don’t travel light. “I could easily leave another bag at home in some scenarios and pack everything in it,” said Makula Dunbar, associate manager of commerce partnerships. The main compartment fits a small paperback, a clutch wallet, a smartphone, a phone charger, and car keys. This model also has a front zip pocket (with a key hook) that’s large enough for a smartphone, travel tissues, a work badge, and a pack of gum. But that spaciousness can be a blessing and a curse: When it’s full of gear, the Herschel fanny pack feels heavy if carried centered at the waist; sliding the bag around to the hip helps ease the load.

It’s durable. This Herschel fanny pack is made of thick, scuff-resistant 600-denier polyester. The buckle on the waist strap is sturdy and unusually large; people with limited hand strength may need two hands to unbuckle it. The front pocket’s zipper teeth are cloaked in a waterproof seam, which keeps spills or a surprise rainstorm from damaging the contents within (and also, annoyingly, makes the pack harder to open and close). Water didn’t penetrate the bag during our tests, although it did take hours for the exterior fabric to dry.

Note: A fully weather-resistant version of this bag is also available, which we have not tested. It has a matte, weatherproof coating and only one main zippered compartment. But at 1.8 liters, it’s quite a bit smaller than the standard 3.5 liter Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack.

It doesn’t try too hard. The Herschel Seventeen Hip Pack gives off classic (if basic) fanny pack vibes. “It’s not particularly cute, but it’s somehow lovable in its unabashed dorkiness,” said staff writer Dorie Chevlen. It’s structured and trapezoidal; some fanny packs are oblong-shaped and can press against your midsection, like the Tinyat Small Fanny Pack, featured in the Competition section.

• The waterproof material around the front-pocket zipper teeth makes this pack harder to open and close than most bags we tested.
• The buckle on the strap is large, and people with limited hand strength may need two hands to unbuckle it.
• When it’s packed full of gear, the Herschel fanny pack feels heavy to carry centrally at the waist. (Shift the bag around to your hip to ease the burden.)
• Dimensions and capacity: 6.5 by 13 by 3.5 inches; 3.5 liters
• Strap length: 21 to 52 inches long
• Weight: 7 ounces
• Colors: over 30 colors and prints

We started out with a list of 47 fanny packs in a variety of sizes and designs. By narrowing in on the key criteria of aesthetics, strap length and adjustability, and price, we were able to whittle that list down to 22 models for in-person testing. The finalists were broken down by small, medium, large, budget, and leather.

We checked each pack for defects and evaluated the quality of the buckles, seams, and zippers. Then we supplied a testing panel with items such as a wallet, keys, tampons, lotion, a smartphone, lip balm, and wet wipes, and we filled each fanny pack with our essential gear to assess the storage capacity. With the bags loaded up, we paid attention to how comfortable they were to wear at the waist and across the shoulder, and how secure the buckles and straps were while worn.

We also ran the bags under a kitchen faucet to test their water resistance.

Finally, we had 10 Wirecutter staffers, with heights ranging from 5-foot-2 to 6-foot-2 and weights ranging from 105 to 200 pounds (and with differing preferences for wearing the packs crossbody or around the waist), take the packs home for continued testing. They used them for daily commutes and weekend excursions, then shared their feedback on the bags’ overall fit, quality, and style.

We tried the small Fila Fanny Pack , the Herschel Fifteen Hip Pack , and the KAVU Spectator , but they weren’t as stylish and comfortable as our picks. The Tom Bihn Side Effect has a detachable strap; unfortunately, that strap detached itself constantly.

The medium Adidas Originals National Waist Pack didn’t expand, and the Big Bud Press Fanny Pack had a wonky strap. The Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack 5L was the largest pack we tested, and it was too big to feel comfortable.

We tested multiple budget packs, including the  Everest Signature Waist Pack , the  Tinyat Small Fanny Pack , the  Waterfly Fanny Pack With One Water Bottle Holder , and the  Waterfly Lightweight Water-Resistant Fanny Pack 1L . None of them matched our low-cost  JanSport pick’s style and utility.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guides

Jordan McMahon

Kaitlyn Wells

Kaitlyn Wells is a senior staff writer who advocates for greater work flexibility by showing you how to work smarter remotely without losing yourself. Previously, she covered pets and style for Wirecutter. She's never met a pet she didn’t like, although she can’t say the same thing about productivity apps. Her first picture book, A Family Looks Like Love , follows a pup who learns that love, rather than how you look, is what makes a family.

Further reading

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A fanny pack isn’t just an accessory. It’s a state of mind. Author, journalist, and fanny pack aficionado Judith Newman explains why.

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Pink Fanny Pack Belt Bag I Mens Fanny Packs for Women Fashionable - Crossbody Bag Bum bag Waist Bag Waist Pack - Hands Free for Hiking, Running, Travel, Waterproof and more

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• SPACIOUS AND ORGANIZED - Our belt bag for women and men 3-pocket design fits all your necessities in a well organized system for easy access, including hidden thief-proof back pocket. The perfect waist bag for women and men.
• DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Our fanny pack crossbody bags for women is made from a durable poly with enhanced stitching, adjustable belt and premium zippers to last the test of time
• SIZE - "11.5 x 7 x 4 - Our fanny pack is a larger size and makes a great fanny pack for men, women or kids.
• ADJUSTABLE & COMFORTABLE - Our adjustable strap allows you to change the size of our crossbody fanny packs for women from as small as 15" to as large as 48". Multiple styles of wear and fits any person.
• READY FOR ADVENTURE - Our mens fanny pack are built to hike the trail, go on your next run or just help you train your pup. Grab our fashion waist packs for your next Disneyland adventure or day at the park.
• WHO? fanny pack for men, use it as a belt bag for women, or crossbody fanny packs for women & men! Options are endless, gender, and age neutral

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Sojourner Brands is a festival, rave, party, and holiday accessories brand based out of Houston, TX.

We are once of the online brands for hydration packs, fanny packs, festival glitter, hand fans, hats, neck gaiters, and more.

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Customers say

Customers like the fit, quality and appearance of the waist pack. For example, they mention it's very roomy, holds all their everyday goodies and is well made. That said, they're happy with the pattern and find it very functional. Opinions are mixed on the zipper.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the fit of the waist pack. They mention that it is very roomy, has different pockets, and holds all their everyday goodies. The small and hidden pockets are great for keeping small items like a note book and phone. The large interior pocket is great for holding larger items like wallets and air pods. The strap is easy to adjust and should fit just fine.

"...THE QUALITY IS GREAT, it has plenty of storage , and has a cute design...." Read more

"...Can get into easily & holds just what was neede !" Read more

"The fanny pack is adequate to hold items needed but not too large. Made well, zippers good. Material looks good, light weight." Read more

"It’s got plenty of room . I love the pattern, I even got one of the skeleton ones too. I use these all the time...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the waist pack. They mention that it is well-made, sturdy, and has a nice buckle. The material inside is also excellent, and there are no rips or signs of wear. Overall, customers find the product to be a good product that is durable and easy to travel with.

"...We are very happy with this item.This rainbow bag is great quality would definitely buy another if we need an additional one." Read more

"The fanny pack is adequate to hold items needed but not too large. Made well , zippers good. Material looks good, light weight." Read more

"This is a well made pack and the flamingo pattern makes me happy. Check out Waterfly too, they make good everyday packa" Read more

"...their Fanny packs, they offer so many colors & designs & they are well made & sturdy. They have one loyal customer in me. Thank you SoJourner!" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the waist pack. They mention that it is very pretty, has great colors, and the flamingo pattern makes them happy. Some say that it's the cutest fanny pack they have ever used.

"...THE QUALITY IS GREAT, it has plenty of storage, and has a cute design ...." Read more

"It’s got plenty of room. I love the pattern , I even got one of the skeleton ones too. I use these all the time...." Read more

"This is a well made pack and the flamingo pattern makes me happy . Check out Waterfly too, they make good everyday packa" Read more

"The red Fanny pack is really bright & beautiful , it’s just that the seams are coming out of the pack where the main zipper is located...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the waist pack. They mention that it is very functional, useful, and comfortable to wear while working in the medical field. The compartments are super helpful, and the waist strap works great. The pack is also practical and handy for everyday use.

"This is spacious and amazing ! Plenty of room and stylish!!" Read more

"...The zippers are nice and work great . The material is flexible so it lays really nice. Multiple comparator different sizes." Read more

"This is one of the best fanny packs I have purchased. I waited a long time to submit this review because I wanted to see if it would hold up...." Read more

"...in it, but I am happy to say all zippers are still intact and working great !" Read more

Customers find the adjustability of the waist pack to be great. They mention that the strap is easily adjustable, and the waistband adjusts to many different sizes. Customers also appreciate the roomy pockets and the ability to accommodate different body types.

"... Nicely adjustable around the waist . Great for hands free grocery shopping & walking the dog, also very roomy inside. Great price!..." Read more

"...I have around a 30 inch waist and the strap adjusted perfectly and the pouch was not cumbersome even when filled to capacity...." Read more

"...strap that will fit the largest person and it adjusts downward to accommodate the smallest frame ...." Read more

"...The strap was easy to adjust and should fit just fine for anyone interested in a fanny pack. The designs are a plus, considering I found it real cute." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the waist pack. They say it's well worth the price, a great buy, and a basic item. Customers also mention that the secret zipper pocket is great for keeping their cash.

"... Great price ! Happy with my purchase." Read more

"...fanny pack that you like it don't hesitate get it.very good investment for the price . I personally will be ordering a couple of more for myself." Read more

"... Great value !" Read more

"...Great little bag at a very reasonable price ." Read more

Customers like the pockets in the fanny pack. They mention it has one main pocket and two smaller ones. They also appreciate the third pocket that is completely hidden when won. The bag has three great compartments, with one of them designed so that it's so close to the main compartment. Customers also love the different pocketed sections, including the little pocket in front that's great for keys. Overall, most are happy with the pockets and compartments in the bag.

"... 3 perfect pockets : small and hidden, large interior, and outside medium sized one. Expanded to fit so many items including iPhone with a large case...." Read more

"Cute and has three pockets " Read more

"Great size, love the different pockets /zippers it has!" Read more

"...It has 3 great compartments with one of them designed so that it's so close to one's body that it would be awfully difficult for anyone to open it..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the zipper. Some mention that the zippers are great, heavy duty, and work smoothly. However, others say that the quality of the zipper could be a little better, and that the small opening makes it hard to put in things like hand pockets.

"...to have waterproof& this fit the bill along with a “hidden” back zipper for valuables . Can get into easily & holds just what was neede!" Read more

"...I ordered mine and the back zipper was completely unusable because it was missing the zipper and zipped shut...." Read more

"...Made well, zippers good . Material looks good, light weight." Read more

"...The stitching is precise, and zippers move freely as there is nothing to get snagged on and I haven't had any issues with any zipper malfunction..." Read more

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• Independent Trave...

Independent Travel to Moscow and St. Petersburg

My wife and I have traveled independently to many European countries and, after reading many of the comments in this forum, feel like we may be able to do so in Moscow and St. Petersburg as well, although we feel somewhat less comfortable than the other countries where we have traveled in Europe.

My biggest question is how much we will miss by visiting the main sites without a tour guide. In the other European countries we have visited on our own we have been comfortable and satisfied with the level of knowledge we have gained by studying and visiting on our own, although we believe a tour guide or tour company in any country would normally be able to provide greater insight than visiting a site on our own, but about in Moscow and St. Petersburg?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Unless you speak at least some Russian and read the alphabet it would be difficult without a guide. Very few signs in English especially in Moscow. Also not too many people speak English there.

I visited St Petersburg last Autumn for a protracted period , and did not find it anymore daunting than any other European city . As Ilja says , learning the Cyrillic alphabet is a big plus . I also found that it was fairly easy to grasp . It will , among other things , enable you to read signs with relative ease . I would answer the main part or your question ( about tour guides ) thus - I am not enamored of tour guides or tours. While I only use a tour under duress ( A sites rules prohibiting an independent visit - ie Glasgow School of Art , Municipal House in Prague , etc ) . Doing your own preparation and homework is the best way , in my opinion . My wife and I ventured through St Petersburg with nary a concern ,and made two day trips outside of the central district ( one was twenty five miles away , and no English speakers in sight ) Figuring out the logistical details , did not present any difficulties . While I never use tours , I am an inveterate eavesdropper , have done so many times , and find , that on balance , the information that they impart is fairly elementary . If you want greater detail , they are unlikely to supply it . I also prefer to go at my own pace , not being rushed and being able to dwell on things that most other visitors barely give a passing glance . If you are interested , let me know . I would be happy to provide you with information that will enable you to travel independently

Thank you, Steven. I am encouraged by your comments and feel the same way you do about tour groups. We are very much willing to prepare in advance and learn the basics of the Cyrillic alphabet to help us have a better experience.

I would be very interested in learning more about your experience in Russia and receiving any additional information you can provide on independent travel there, starting perhaps with obtaining the visa.

I am not opposed to hiring a private or small group guide for a specific site or for a day trip outside St Petersburg and Moscow, but, like you said, I much prefer the freedom of staying at places as long or short as I want and seeing the sites that interest me most. For example, neither my wife nor I are big into shopping, yet most tour itineraries leave afternoon time for just that. Not interested!

Please provide whatever you may feel would be helpful for us.

Russ , I see you are quite near San Francisco - you can start by looking at the VISA procedure , it's fairly straightforward . Since there is a consulate in San Francisco - look here http://www.consulrussia.org/eng/visa-sub1.html

And here - http://ils-usa.com/main.php

Having always traveled independently, we thought we could do a better job than any tour. How misguided (pun intended) we were. Now that we have had the experience of having someone native to the area walk us around and explain things through a personal perspective we realize how much we missed. For St. Petersburg I highly recommend http://www.peterswalk.com/tours.html . This is not a traditional guided tour, but an opportunity to receive some orientation to the area as well as insight into the "Russian soul". I think if you did this upon arrival the rest of your time would be much more meaningful. We really liked the http://www.pushka-inn.com . The location is superb (just around the corner from the Hermitage square), the rooms lovely, the included breakfast at the restaurant next door ample and overall an excellent value. We used this company to get our visa: https://www.passportvisasexpress.com/site/san_francisco_customer_service Note that it costs about the same for a 3-year visa as a one-year, and you never know if you might want to return within that more extended window of time. It is not cheap, so factor that into your planning.

If you like traveling without a guide in other countries and find this satisfying, the same will be true in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Of course it's not either/or - you can certainly take a guided walk or boat tour, for instance.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of learning Cyrillic if you're going on your own. The book I used was Teach Yourself Beginner's Russian Script, which was great. It breaks down the alphabet into letters that are the same as English, letters that look the same but are pronounced differently, etc. It's out of print, but you can get used copies on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Teach-Yourself-Beginners-Russian-Script/dp/0071419861/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459701143&sr=8-2&keywords=teach+yourself+russian+script

Russia is indeed a bit more "foreign" than say, Italy. However, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, I found enough English to be able to get by. Many restaurants had English menus and/or English speaking staff, for instance. This was most emphatically not true in Vladimir and Suzdal (two cities in the Golden Ring outside Moscow). I went with my sister, a Russian speaker, and if she hadn't been there, I would have been in big trouble. So, if you want to see places outside these two big cities, use a guided tour (even if just for that part). Also, Moscow and St. Petersburg are huge cities. Coming from New York, I wasn't intimidated, but those not used to a megacity may not be so cavalier (even I found them overwhelming at times, especially Moscow).

I found both Lonely Planet and Rough Guide to be helpful, and both to have various errors. Look at both, buy whichever one has a more recent edition, and then be prepared to have to discard some of the advice therein. Also, these places change more quickly than places in Western Europe. Be very careful of outdated advice. For instance, I was there in 2001 and 2010, so I won't give you any specifics on getting a visa - that changes constantly.

Just as a teaser, two things I saw and loved that I doubt would be included in any escorted tour are the Gorky House in Moscow (an Art Nouveau wonder) and the Sheremyetov Palace in St. Petersburg (it's now a museum of musical instruments, and the decor is amazing, particularly in the Etruscan Room).

Thanks for all the good advice. Any additional thoughts are welcomed.

One of history's seminal works pertaining to Russian history and culture and a MUST for anyone contemplating a visit or simply interested , is this fine work from 1980 - http://www.amazon.com/Land-Firebird-The-Beauty-Russia/dp/096441841X

This is about you and not about Petersburg. Do you like guided tours? We don't and didn't find that a guide added to our experience in China where we did hire private guides mostly for the logistics; it was easy to have someone drive us places. But once at a site, we didn't need the guide. I felt the same way about our 9 nights in Petersburg. We did hire a guide for the trip to the Catherine Palace again for the ease of logistics for us Olds. Here is our visit: https://janettravels.wordpress.com/2016/01/23/an-easy-trip-to-the-catherine-palace/ There are also snapshots of the Church on Spilled Blood in this photo journal. Having someone pick us up at the apartment and get us in without line ups and shepherd us through the palace steering clear of the tour groups was lovely. But we didn't need commentary because we can read and prepare.

You certainly don't need a guide for the Hermitage (we spent 4 days there), the Russian Museum, the Kazan Cathedral or Church on Spilled Blood or the Faberge Museum. We enjoyed a number of self guided walking tours including a couple from Rick Steves guidebooks. We took the canal cruise suggested by RS that had an English commentator. I would not take one without that as you will be totally clueless. The commentator was not all that good but at least we had some idea what we were seeing. So for people like us who like to do our own thing and can read a guidebook and don't particularly like to be led about, a tour is not needed. If you enjoy tour groups, then go for it. Petersburg is easy to negotiate. It helps if you can read the cyrillic alphabet and it is also useful to have the google translate ap on your phone. We found ourselves translating packages in grocery stores with it and the occasional museum sign or menu. I have one food I need to avoid and so it was handy to have the translator to talk with waiters (I could either show them the sentence, or play it for them or play it to myself and then repeat it to the waiter -- that all worked well)

Dear Russ, I cannot help you with Moscow, but about four years ago, my husband and I went to St Petersburg on our own. But, we did use a private guide for 4 half days. We both feel that our guide absolutely made our trip (we stayed 6 or 7 nights). We used a company owned by Tatyana Chiurikova, www.tour-stpetersburg.com I cannot say enough good things about her and our experience. I emailed her and we worked out a schedule/ sights that was tailored to our interests. She also offered some recommendations, which we took. The guide will meet you at your hotel. And frequently, at certain places, with the guide, we were able to skip the long entrance lines. We had an half day driving tour of the city (car, driver, & guide). You are taken to & go in places such as Peter & Paul Fortress, some of the cathedrals, etc. We had a half day with the guide at the Hermitage which ensured that we would see the major sights there. And, of course, you can stay after your guide leaves or return another day. Also, we had the guide for Peterhof (a must & go by boat) and Catherine's Palace. I hope that you will go to the website. As I said, our guide made our trip. I am positive that we would have missed quite a bit on our own everyday. And I'm sure we would have wasted a lot of time trying to get to various place.This was the best of both worlds, a guide where needed and plenty of time on our own. Whatever you do, I'm sure that you will love St Petersburg! Ashley

I am curious about the lines as we encountered no lines on our trip -- but it was in September. We got tickets for the Hermitage at machines and skipped those lines and our guide for the Catherine Palace which was our only guided experience (as noted before, chosen for the logistics of getting there) had arranged tickets and we didn't have a line, but then we also didn't see lines. We did not find lines at any other site.

Both Moscow and St Petersburg I've done on my own, that is together with the Dear Partner. I can't remember any problem getting where we wanted to go. The Metro systems are well signed, and with a little exercise and patience you can recognize the station names. With a good map and a good guide - we had the Rough Guides - that part of the logistics is solved. The language is a major problem, but the usual tricks of pointing, looking helpless, and making a joke of it all do wonders. I would hate to be led by a guide, but for others it is a comfortable thought.

We also did both cities on our own. I found the DK Eyewitness guide for Moscow has the best map. I used the one from our library (kept the book at home). Took the smaller RS book for St. Petersburg ( his book on northern cities). His map and restaurant ideas were all good. We also downloaded the Google maps in our Android Samsung tablets/phones for both cities and then could get directions to any place we typed in. The blue ball guided us everywhere. I'm sure we missed somethings by not having a guide, but we just enjoy walking around and getting a sense of a place. If you like art, The Hermitage is great. We went 3 times and still missed alot. In St. Peterburg we stayed at the 3 Mosta which we loved (quite and not far from the Church of Spilled Blood.) We also loved the Georgian food in both cities. There's a great Georgian restaurant near the 3 Mosta hotel. We're now in Belarus- very scenic. Enjoy your trip!!

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