9 best belt bags and fanny packs for travel
Belt bags, fanny packs, slings. Whatever you call them, all we know is that they are a must for any and all adventures.
Belt bags are just that — a pouch that is attached to an adjustable belt, usually with a clip closure that can easily be worn around your waist (above your fanny, so to speak) or draped over your chest, which is the new, trendy way to wear them. They’re available in plenty of shapes, sizes, and colors — even clear for those who dare bring a bag to festivals or travel!
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Speaking of trendy, it seems like everyone is rocking the retro belt bags these days. Beyonce, Kristen Bell and Hailey Bieber are just a few of the famous faces who’ve been spotted wearing one.
From the infamous lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag to designer renditions, there’s no shortage of styles, price points, and storage capabilities to choose from.
If you want to join celebrity ranks and rock a belt bag, now is the perfect time, especially with any final summer travel plans and a few more beach days ahead. We rounded up our favorites, from classic and casual sling packs, those perfect for a fun festival or approved for a stadium, and even some designer options that will elevate any look.
Click to go straight to our FAQs for answers on all things fanny pack or shop our winners of the best belt bags by category below.
Best Belt Bags and Fanny Packs
Pros:
- Popular choice with a secure strap and spacious mesh-style interior pockets
- Versatile and comfortable for various activities
- Clear belt bag available (perfect for sporting events or festivals)
Cons:
- May not offer as much luxury or high-end appeal as designer or leather options
Chances are, you’ve seen this belt bag everywhere. The lululemon bag is so popular that it even has its own dedicated review, to be sure every Post reader has the chance to get their hands on one.
“The lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L has the perfect name — you’ll seriously want to take it everywhere,” said Commerce Reporter Victoria Giardina. “Its mesh-style interior pockets have a soft feel, making whatever I placed in them (a hand sanitizer, hygiene products, what have you) well-spaced and easy to grab. Plus, the strap is so secure that felt comfortable hiking to the top of a mountain in Arizona without a worry in the world.”
Although we think it’s the perfect size, there is also a mini belt bag version ($38), which is a fun option, especially if you’re seeking a travel purse or bag.
Size: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Strap: 106 centimeters | Material: Nylon, Recycled Polyester | Color options: 15
Pros:
- Crafted with premium materials for durability and sophistication
- Versatile design suitable for various occasions, from day adventures to date nights
- Sheepskin leather offers a luxurious and soft feel
- Easy-to-clean nylon interior with a soft gray color for better visibility
- Reinforced zipper ensures security and longevity
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other options
The Lo & Sons Bond Belt Bag emerges as the undisputed champion, combining style, functionality, and versatility in one sleek package. Crafted with the finest materials and attention to detail, the Bond Belt Bag exudes sophistication, durability, and elevates an ensemble, regardless if worn around the waist or as a crossbody belt bag. Its minimalist design seamlessly transitions from day to night, making it a versatile accessory for any occasion.
“This Lo & Sons belt bag has carried me through years of day adventures, office visits, date nights, and dancing,” Kendall Cornish, associate commerce editor stated. “The sheepskin leather is as luxe as it gets — ultra-soft and flexible for a relaxed yet elevated look and feel. The nylon interior is easy to clean and a soft medium gray, so you can actually see what you have inside. The zipper is reinforced and the piece overall feels like one of the nicest, most versatile things I own.”
Size: 9.3 x 2.5 x 4.5 inches | Strap: 29.5 – 40.3 inches | Material: Sheepskin leather, Recycled Polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 4
Pros:
- Interior organizational pockets
- Designed to be worn close to the body
- Key leash
- TSA-approved
Cons:
- Strap is on the shorter side
- Does not have buckle that the original version of this belt bag had
With its compact size and adjustable strap, this sling bag offers easy access to your essentials while keeping your hands free. Crafted from premium materials and featuring thoughtful organization pockets, it’s the perfect blend of style and functionality for everyday use.
Size: 6.7 H x 16.5 W x 4 inches | Material: 100% nylon body, Vegan leather trim | Closure: Zip | Color options: 3
Pros:
- Sleek construction
- Heavily discounted
- Zip closure to keep things secure
- Back credit card pockets
Cons:
- The strap is not removable
Built for everyday wear, the lovely Chelsea Bag by Kate Spade is simple enough to pair with a variety of outfits and practical enough to bring on any adventure. A thoughtfully-placed credit card pocket keeps all your cards safe, and the top zip closure ensures security. Features include shiny gold hardware and a metal pin mount with the iconic Spade logo.
Size: 12.2 x 5.1 x 3.2 inches | Strap: n/a | Material: Recycled Nylon, Smooth PVC Trim, Recycled Polyester Lining | Closure: Zip | Color options: 1
Pros:
- Designed with a modern aesthetic and sustainability in mind
- Constructed from recycled polyester, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendliness
- Ample storage space and thoughtful compartments throughout
Cons:
- May not offer the same luxurious feel as leather options
Everlane’s The Renew Transit Fanny Pack emerges as the top choice for men seeking both style and functionality in their accessories. Designed with a keen eye for modern aesthetics, this fanny pack offers a sleek and versatile look that complements any outfit. Constructed from recycled polyester, it underscores Everlane’s commitment to sustainability without compromising on durability.
“This belt bag boasts ample storage space and thoughtful compartments, making it perfect for carrying essentials on the go wherever that may be,” Cornish said. “Whether navigating city streets or embarking on outdoor adventures, my partner can rely on this fanny pack for its practicality, comfort, and contemporary design.”
Size: 15 x 6.3 x 2.5 inches | Strap: 36.25 inches | Material: Recycled nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 2
Pros:
- Detachable shoulder strap
- Exterior zip pocket
- Smaller pocket within main compartment
- Water-repellent fabric
An iteration of the lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag, the Everywhere Belt Bag Mini. Designed for those can’t-leave-home without essentials, it’s like a stylish heavy-duty wallet with straps. It has an interior pocket, ideal for your ID and credit cards, while the zippered exterior pocket works for keys. The main compartment is large enough for your phone, and depending on what model you’re using, you may be able to squeeze in a pair of sunnies.
Size: 7 x 1.5 x 4 inches | Strap:42 inches | Material: 100% polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 4
Pros:
- Wide range of diverse and vibrant color options
- Comfortable strap length
- Perfect size for carrying essentials like phone, keys, wallet, and lip balm
Cons:
- May not offer the same level of sophistication as leather or designer options
The Stoney Clover Classic Fanny Pack takes the crown for offering the most diverse and vibrant color options, catering to every taste and style preference. With an extensive palette ranging from classic neutrals to bold and playful hues, this fanny pack allows you to express your personality and accessorize according to any mood or occasion.
“Trust me, I’ve tried the ultra-viral lululemon belt bag, but for me, nothing compares to Stoney Clover Lane’s classic fanny pack,” raved Commerce Reporter Angela Tricarico. “As someone who pretty much only wears fanny packs as a crossbody bag, the length of the waistband/strap is important to me as someone who is plus size, and Stoney Clover’s fanny pack is the first I’ve tried where I don’t feel like the bag strap is uncomfortably tight around my chest. I also find that it’s always the perfect size for everything I typically carry with me when I go out — phone, keys, small card wallet, AirPods, and a lip balm all fit comfortably inside. And how cute are all of those colors?!”
Size: 6 x 11 x 3 inches | Strap: 22.9 – 38.5 inches | Material: Nylon, gold metal hardware | Closure: Zip | Color options: 20 (and monogramming available)
Pros:
- Back-panel padding provides a comfortable carrying experience (ideal for long walks and hikes)
- Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish
- Vintage design
Cons:
- The strap and outer material are a bit rough to the touch (if lying on the skin)
Built with rugged materials and featuring multiple pockets for organization, this waist pack is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor exploration. The adjustable waist belt ensures a comfortable fit, while the iconic THE NORTH FACE logo adds a touch of style to your outdoor gear.
Size: 11.8 x 2.8 x 5.7 inches | Strap: 54 inches | Material: Fleece | Closure: Zip | Color options: 6
Pros:
- Lightweight construction (yet durable)
- Vibrant colors and on-trend design
- Front zip pocket for additional quick storage
- Zip security pocket placed at the back to keep items secure
Cons:
- More of a casual style/design
- Reviewers say it’s a bit on the small side
Crafted with the signature durability of Fjallraven, this hip pack offers a compact yet spacious design to keep your essentials organized on the go. With its adjustable strap and stylish design, it’s perfect for urban adventures and outdoor excursions.
Size: 7.1 x 4.7 x 3.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 12
FAQs
Are fanny packs out of style in 2025?
If you’re a member of Generation X, you probably remember wearing a belt bag or fanny pack as part of your daily ensemble. The accessory has been around since the 1950s (they were called day bags or bum-bags in those days), and were a favorite way to carry around small essentials, like a wallet, house key, or tube of lipstick.
After disappearing from the fashion scene in the early 1990s, they are now back on everyone’s radar — and hips! We’ve seen them on celebs like Kendall Jenner and Sarah Jessica Parker, and there are more than 900k posts for the term #fannypack on Instagram.
Unlike their clunky predecessors, the belt bags of today can be sleek and made from a variety of materials, ranging from polyester to genuine leather. They are also no longer only worn at the hip, but can be carried like a crossbody or worn with the pack across the bum.
What is the difference between a belt bag and a fanny pack?
Well, it depends on who you ask!
Some people say there is no difference: belt bags and fanny packs are essentially the same thing. The names can be used interchangeably to describe any sort of purse or bag that is worn around the waist or against the chest. Typically, they’re secured with a buckle.
Other people argue that the difference between belt bags and fanny packs lies in how low the bag sits. Belt bags are worn around the waist or slightly above the waist, while fanny packs are placed a bit lower, below the waist.
How do I choose a belt bag?
When shopping for a belt bag, there are a variety of things to consider to choose the best one for you.
Purpose
Consider what you want to use a belt bag for. For some folks, they’re ideal for fitness or outdoor activities where keys and I.D. need to be carried safely. In these cases, it’s best to choose something lightweight with secure zippered pockets. Waterproof and weather-resistant materials are optimal.
If you need something with more capacity but still want to go hands-free, there are plenty of stylish fanny packs and belt bags available, too. These tend to be larger and come in a variety of materials, like leather. They’re not as lightweight but can still be worn like a crossbody or around the waist.
Size and Capacity
Consider what items you’d like to carry when selecting a belt bag. Compact designs are better for those who need to carry small items, such as keys or credit cards. For those needing to carry a smartphone and a few more items, too, look at larger designs with ample pocket space.
Material and Design
Allow what activities you need your belt bag for to dictate the type you choose. For dressier occasions or work, a bag in leather or vegan leather can work nicely. If the primary function of the bag is to carry essentials while performing a sport, like running or biking, look for waterproof materials like nylon.
Which lululemon belt bag is best?
If you’re familiar with lululemon, you’re also probably familiar with the brand’s famous fanny pack called the Everywhere Belt Bag. Since its debut in 2020, it’s been a favorite of trendsetters and those who rock athleisure on the regular.
Today, it’s available in a wide (and we mean wide) selection of sizes and colors. And recently, lululemon dropped the Everywhere Belt Bag in fleece ($68), making it a fun option for fall and winter. It has lots of pocket space like the other models, but features the soft texture of the textile fiber, as well as eye-catching hardware.
Other belt bags from lululemon that are worth checking out include:
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