They are known by many names: hip packs, sling bags, crossbody bags, bum bags, and Fanny packs. Not long ago, they were considered antiquated but now, fanny packs are gaining new fans day after day. In addition to its usefulness, they become a trendsetting accessory that can be worn on various occasions.
In today’s article, we are going to go over 10 of the most popular fanny packs in the market and see which can be the best fanny pack for you.
The Breakdown:
L.L.Bean Stowaway Hip Pack
Flowfold Explorer Fanny Pack
US Navy Fanny Pack
JanSport Fifth Avenue
Ododos Unisex Mini Belt Bag
Witroman Belt bag Fanny Pack
Telena Small Sling Fanny Pack
ZPN Mini Fanny Pack
Pander Cross Body Fanny Pack
Lululemon Athletica Fanny Pack
Why Do You Need A Fanny Pack In 2024?
Back in the day, fanny packs were used almost exclusively by tourists and travelers. But things have changed for the better! Now people use these functional small bags in their daily lives to carry around their essential items without being worried that they might get lost or stolen out of their pockets.
It’s more convenient than a handbag since you don’t need to hold it by hand as it is a wearable accessory that sits on your chest using a long strap going around your waist.
Fashion companies also had a huge impact on the fanny pack’s comeback as they tried creative designs and various materials to produce bags that not only look better than their ancestors but also are more durable and practical.
If you never had a fanny pack before, the L.L.Bean stowaway hip pack can be a good starting point for you. It is not the biggest bag on our shortlist, but it has enough space for storing your daily essentials. It is a decent option for light outdoor activities such as daily running, going for a walk, or carrying your stuff to work.
It is quite an eco-friendly product as L.L.Bean used polyester recycled from soda/water bottles as the main ingredient for this fanny pack. It has a 1 L capacity which is not enormous, but is enough to store a smartphone along with a small wallet and glasses.
There is some additional storage space on the outside as well. A zipped front pocket is suitable for tiny items such as credit cards, pens, or a pack of gums. There is also a key holder located at the edge of the fanny pack that you can hang your keys in.
With only 4 oz weight and 60 cubic inches dimensions, it is a rather lightweight and small fanny pack that you might even don’t feel its presence while wearing it. It is also a versatile option since it can be adjusted both as a hip pack or crossbody pack.
The mesh design at the back ensures breathability and prevents sweating even on hot days. It is available in pewter, bright navy, and currant colors so you can choose your preferred option depending on your style.
Pros
- Mesh back panel: Helps with breathability and prevents sweating. Especially useful while doing rather heavy activities like biking, running, etc.
- Versatile: Can be used both as a hip pack or crossbody pack just by adjusting the strap.
- Space: It only offers 1 L of storage space, which is not enough if you have more than a handful of items to carry in a fanny pack.
- Not waterproof: During heavy rain, your stuff inside the fanny pack can get wet since it’s not water-resistant.
Flowfold is an American brand that started its work by designing and producing wallets. After a while, they added fanny packs, backpacks, pouches, and even dog gear to their product categories and became a well-known brand in the industry.
Their explorer fanny pack is an ideal option for those who care about fanny packs’ stylishness as much as their functionality. It is made from EcoPak fabric which is 100% recycled polyester fiber and film. EcoPak fabric is a durable material and does not let water inside the fanny pack thanks to its waterproof properties.
In terms of storing space, you have two options here. If you tend to travel light, there is a smaller and cheaper model of this fanny pack that measures 5“ H x 7-1/2” W x 2-1/2“ D and has an adjustable strap with 28” - 49” length.
For 10 more dollars, you get your hands on the large model that measures 7-3/4“ H x 10” W x 2-1/2“ D and has a longer strap adjustable between 34” and 49". Both small and large models have the same design: two zipper packs with the main pack having internal organization for convenient storage.
It is large enough to fit a smartphone, passport, and even snacks in it comfortably. Inside the main pocket, there is an additional hidden zipper pack made for the valuable items that you might not need frequently. It can be set to stay around the waist or be used as a crossbody bag depending on your preferences.
Pros
- Design and colors: It benefits from a minimal-looking design and comes in a wide range of color options.
- Water-resistant: Made from recycled EkoPak material that ensures both durability and water resistance. It also helps with the sustainability.
- Price: Compared to other products on our shortlist, this fanny pack is considered one of the pricey items.
If you are a fan of military aesthetics and want to show your support for the US Army, you might enjoy this fanny pack. It is an American-made product and as the name suggests, comes with a 3D digital camo design that represents military gears.
To make this adjustable fanny pack, they have used 100% polyester. Some so many manufacturers use polyester as their main material for fanny packs since it’s less expensive and durable. But there is a downside to it as it is not completely water resistant and stuff inside it is vulnerable against rainy days.
The 3DMilitaryWear fanny pack is a rather small bag that only has one zipper pack on it. In this solo pack, you can fit a smartphone, hand sanitizer, credit cards, and some other tiny items.
As mentioned it does not provide much space to carry many items but since it is one of the cheapest options out there, you can say you get what you are paying for.
In terms of designs, this fanny pack comes in four US military-themed designs which are the following: US Army, US Navy, US Air Force, and US Marines. Each of these versions is decorated with the respective logos and camo colors.
All in all, if you are looking for a light and small fanny pack that represents the US Army with its camo pattern and logos, this can be a good option for you. It does not offer much storage space or various features, but that should not be a problem if you don’t expect much from a daily fanny pack.
Pros
- Lightweight: Made from 100% polyester it is a lightweight and minimalistic fanny pack suitable for daily use or traveling.
- Price: If you are looking for a simple fanny pack and don’t want to spend much, it is a considerable option.
- Only one pocket: Doesn’t have much space for large items and only has one pocket. If you need multiple pockets for organized storage, this fanny pack doesn’t work for you.
JanSport is a reliable brand with more than half a century of experience in the industry. Their Fifth Avenue fanny pack has managed to gain popularity among customers due to its budget-friendly price and high quality.
With 2.5 L of storage capacity, it is a spacious fanny pack that can be used both as a daily bag or during a trip around the world when you need to carry lots of items. It is equipped with two zipper pockets which are placed at the top and front of the pack.
The main pocket offers enough room for most of your essential items easily. But it lacks any internal organization which is a drawback for many. The second pocket also has plenty of space that can be used to store a smartphone, a notebook, and some smaller items.
It is made from 100% polyester enhanced with waterproof properties that keep its containing completely dry even during heavy rain. A well-taught design helps the bag to stay secure and comfortable even while fully loaded.
The strap is quite adjustable which makes it a versatile fanny pack for all types of body shapes. The strap can be set anywhere between 14 to 51 inches and the excessive strap will be gathered in a designated fabric ring to maintain a stylish look at all times by preventing a flapping strap.
There is a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from for this particular model. No matter what your desired style and favorite outfit is, you will most probably find a suitable design for JanSport’s Fifth Avenue fanny pack.
Pros
- Big space: With 2.5 L of storage space divided between two pockets, it’s an ideal option for those who seek large fanny packs.
- Functional and well-designed: A fully waterproof fanny pack designed to feel comfortable and available in lots of colors and patterns.
- Lack of internal organization: With its huge storage capacity, an internal organization could be a lot useful and somewhat necessary.
- Narrow strap: Some users may prefer a wider strap that feels more secure and comfortable while wearing the fanny pack.
Just like fanny packs mentioned so far in our article, the Ododos mini belt bag is also a unisex product you can set with various outfits. As the name suggests, it is a small bag meant to be used for everyday life.
Thanks to its secure strap and compact design, this fanny pack doesn’t bother you even during a morning run, hiking, or a light outdoor workout. The strap’s length ranges from 31 to 48 therefore it can be utilized in different settings.
Whether you like to use it as a classic crossbody bag, hang it around your waist, or a shoulder bag. You can also detach its buckle and carry it as a handbag. The fabric is highly waterproof and benefits from tear-resistant properties for extra durability.
The space capacity is not bigger than 1 L which should be enough for daily use if you are not accustomed to carrying a lot of items and gadgets with you. The main pocket has numerous tiny interior pockets which are perfect for organizing your stuff and holding them stable even during heavy activities like biking on a bumpy road.
It also has a special place for your phone separated from the rest of the bag with a mesh panel. But that’s not all, there is also an additional back zipper pocket ideal for smaller items like credit cards, lip balms, etc. The simple and minimalistic design available in 45 solid colors makes it a great option for almost every taste in fashion.
Pros
- Interior pockets: These little pockets alongside a mesh panel to isolate your phone inside the bag, make it a truly useful bag for everyday life.
- Material: The fabric has waterproof and tear-resistant properties which adds to the durability and also protects the stuff inside.
- Affordable: It is fairly priced considering the high-quality materials used in it and worth the value.
- Low space: If you are looking for a spacious fanny pack to carry lots of things in it, this one will not satisfy you.
Another affordable and well-designed fanny pack in our pursuit of the best fanny pack on the market. This product from Witroman measures 8 inches x 2 inches x 5.5 inches which makes it noticeably wider than the Ododos mini bag.
The simplicity and compactness of this fanny pack is a selling point for sure. Even when loaded to its maximum capacity, it doesn’t limit your movement and can be a part of your outfit even during highly energetic activities. Store all of your stuff in this fanny pack and enjoy an adventurous hike!
Similar to the majority of fanny packs, this one also offers a couple of zipper pockets. The main one is accessible through the top of the fanny pack. The secondary one is faced toward you on the rear side of the bag.
Since its zipper is not exposed like the main pocket, this is a secure place for your valuable items that no thief can get their hands on.
But let’s get back to the main pocket and analyze the interior design. If you enjoy putting things in an orderly manner, we have some good news for you. There are multiple interior pockets and two separate mesh panels that help you organize all of your little items in the bag and keep them safe and secure.
The material’s quality is also acceptable as it’s waterproof and ensures durability thanks to its resistance to wear and tear. It’s mostly available in solid colors, but there are also two leopard patterns to choose from if you are looking for a more exquisite option.
Pros
- Versatile: Can be worn as a crossbody bag, waist bag, shoulder bag, or handbag when the strap is disassembled.
- Capacity: It offers a lot of storage room and helps you with organizations with its interior pockets.
- Zipper’s quality: After some time, zippers might not work as properly as the first day and move slowly.
The first gender-specific fanny pack on our list is a feminine sling bag from Telena. It is a multi-functional bag that can be worn in numerous ways depending on your style and occasion. This fancy-looking sling bag is made from faux leather which not only looks good and natural, but it’s also quite durable.
And if you are not a fan of leather smell, don’t be worried since this faux leather is completely odorless. Don’t let the relatively huge size deceive you, this sling bag weighs only 0.66 pounds and you can hang it all day long without feeling bothered by its weight.
It measures 11 x 2.16 x 7.48 inches and has two large pockets at the front in addition to a theft-proof rear packet. Inside the main pocket, there is a separate place for your phone or even tablet and then there is a huge room for almost all kinds of items that you might need during the day.
In the front pocket, 5 card slots make it easy to access your cards when needed. There is also some extra space in here that can be used to store hand sanitizers, wallets, notebooks, etc.
For your sensitive items, you can use the rear pocket which is not exposed. As mentioned earlier, it’s a multi-functional sling bag which means you can switch from side to side only by replacing the hook that holds the strap. It’s also possible to adjust the strap’s hide to your liking.
Pros
- Elegant: A chic sling bag made from faux leather which is odorless and available in 34 different colors
- Spacious: Two extremely large zipper pockets on the front and one secure rear pocket for valuables.
- Too large: For those who prefer a compact and easy-to-grab fanny pack, this one might feel overwhelming.
With 7 x 1 x 5 inches dimensions, this ZPN fanny pack is yet another small but capable bag to protect your belongings. You can use this pack almost in any situation during your everyday life thanks to its modern and unisex design.
Available in 15 solid colors, it must be easy to find an ideal ZPN mini fanny pack that can be thrown on with all kinds of daily outfits
As you would expect from a durable fanny pack, it is water resistant and while the zipper is closed-up, you can be sure that the bag’s containings will not get wet even during extreme rain.
A notable perk of compact design for fanny packs is that it will not be bothersome no matter in what position you are. Whether sitting or running, you can have this mini pack on and it won’t distract you from what you’re doing. That’s because it has a long strap ranging from 29 to 47 inches.
Therefore it’s suitable for all types of body shapes with a little adjustment and finding one’s perfect spot. This adjustability also comes in handy when you want to use this product as a waist bag and hang it like a belt.
The main pocket curves along from side to side and provides a large room for storing stuff. Three mesh slots are perfect for putting everything in a designated place and preventing any inconvenience. A back zipper pocket is also there for you in case of need and separate space for smaller items.
Pros
- Comfortable: A cozy fanny pack with a simple design ideal for everyday use and even during workouts.
- Adjustable strap: Helps to fit around almost any chest size and is also convertible to a waist bag.
- Stains: It tends to absorb stains, especially in light-colored versions. So you might need to wash it frequently.
For those who put durability and firmness above anything else, this cross-body fanny pack from Pander is the answer to your prayers. Pander is focused on designing and manufacturing all kinds of bags including laptop, duffle, and belt bags, also known as fanny packs.
With 7.5” X 2” X 5” dimensions it’s slightly wider than previous mini fanny packs but it still has a storage capacity of 1 L. Pander also contributes to building a better environment by using recycled materials for its products; this fanny pack is one of them. Made from recycled nylon fabric it’s a truly durable fanny pack.
For extra protection, there is cushioning on the back and bottom of the bag to absorb the shock impact; preventing items inside the bag from getting damaged. To keep your miscellaneous well organized, there are two separate mesh slots and one interior pouch inside the main zipper pocket.
In addition to at least one phone and credit card, you can store cosmetics, sunglasses, a wallet, and even a tiny snack in this well-built fanny pack. And let’s not forget about the secondary pocket at the backside that can be used for keys, pens, valuables, etc.
The minimum length for its adjustable strap is 32 inches and it can be expanded as long as 51.25 inches. So you shouldn’t have a problem setting it up to your desired sizing. Pander made it possible to order this fanny pack in 13 different color options suitable for both men and women.
Pros
- Shock absorption cushioning: In case of falling off, it offers extra protection to take care of your delicate and fragile belongings.
- Lightweight: It is a well-made fanny pack made from recycled nylon fabric with extra protection, and at the same time doesn’t feel heavy or bulky at all.
- Zipper: After some time, zippers may get sluggish. It is a common problem for fanny packs in this price range.
It’s one of the priciest and yet best-seller fanny packs on the market. Lululemon is dedicated to producing sports wearables and their fanny packs are among their most successful products. This Athletica fanny pack measures 7.5 x 5 x 2 inches and offers a storage capacity of 1 L which is not massive, but will do the job for casual use.
Thanks to its adjustable strap which can be extended to 41.7 inches, the fanny pack can be worn any way you like. Whether as a cross-body bag or a waist bag. It’s also easy to pair it with various outfits due to its simplicity and solid color design.
Similar to many fanny packs with 1 L capacity, this one also has two main zipper pockets. The bigger one which is located at the top, curves along the bag, and when completely unzipped, it’s quite easy to check out what’s inside of it.
There are three mesh slots inside this pocket. On one side, there is a bigger mesh slot ideal for longer items and on the other side, there are two similar-sized mesh slots for better organization.
To store frequently used items like cell phones, there is a rear zipper pocket that faces you while wearing the fanny pack. The fabric is made from durable polyester and is fully waterproof. All things considered, this is a versatile option both for casual and athletic use. It’s lightweight and convenient, offers enough space for essentials, has a wide variety of colors to choose from, and is built to last.
Pros
- Spacious: It can accommodate most of your daily needed items such as phone, cards, sunscreen, keys, and wallet easily.
- Comfortable: The adjustable strap and well-crafted materials led to a comfortable fanny pack that can be used both as a cross-body and waist bag.
- Price: Although it is a high-quality fanny pack, it sits on the pricier side compared to other options.
Fanny Pack Reviews
There is no better tool than real user experience to judge a product. With that being said, we are going to take a look at fanny pack reviews gathered from verified customers who have tried these fanny packs in real life.L.L.Bean Stowaway Hip Pack
A breathable and compact fanny pack that satisfied many customers, especially those who needed a multifunctional fanny pack that can be used both as a cross-body and waist bag. If you feel okay with its capacity, then the only downside with this fanny pack from L.L.Bean is that it’s not waterproof and the stuff inside can get wet rather easily.Flowfold Explorer Fanny Pack
What most people like about this fanny pack from Flowfold, is that it’s available in two small and large sizes to choose from. The top-notch craftsmanship is another advantage of this product. However, some users believe they can get what they need for a considerably lower price tag.3DMilitaryWear US Navy Fanny Pack
The digital camo design is what customers find attractive about this fanny pack designed and manufactured by 3DMilitaryWear. But for some other users that’s not enough as they need a fack with more storage space that’s not limited to a single zipper pocket.JanSport Fifth Avenue
The lifetime warranty offered by JanSport and a massive storage capacity of 2.5 L are certainly some remarkable advantages of this product and users agree with that. But there is one aspect that JanSport could do better in that and that’s the interior design.Users suggest that it could be the best fanny pack only if it had some tiny pouches or mesh slots inside the main zipper pocket to organize the items.
Ododos Unisex Mini Belt Bag with Adjustable Strap
Ododos has managed to produce one of the most affordable options in the market without sacrificing quality. Users are delighted with the quality of materials and also the interior pockets that help in organizing stuff. What will make some users to hesitate purchase this fanny pack, is its 1 L capacity which is not that much.Witroman Belt Bag Fanny Pack
A likable mini fanny pack ideal for both women and men. Users are happy with its minimalistic modern design and how comfortable it feels while wearing it. The only issue with this fanny pack from Witroman is that the zippers tend to get sluggish after some time. However, that seems to be the case for a lot of fanny packs and not only this one.Telena Small Sling Fanny Pack
If you don’t mind a relatively bigger sling bag, this can be the best fanny pack for you at this price range. Telena has created a delightful product both in terms of appearance and functionality.Users are more than happy with its enormous storage room divided between three zipper pockets. It’s safe to say that there is nothing to dislike about this sling bag other than its large size which some users may not find cozy enough.
ZPN Mini Fanny Pack
Users believe that the ZPN Mini fanny pack is worth the value since it offers sufficient storage capacity for casual use, has two zipper pockets with interior pouches, and has plenty of colors to choose from.But remember what we mentioned earlier about the fanny pack’s zippers? This one also suffers from a weak zipper specifically on the rear pocket and users have submitted complaints about that. It also tends to get dirty rather frequently.
Pander Cross Body Fanny Pack
This adjustable fanny pack from Pander benefits from shock absorption cushioning and users find it quite useful since most of them store their expensive mobile phones in these bags. Stylish appearance, well-designed pockets, and high-quality materials are among other advantages of this product.The only downside with this durable fanny pack is that water stains it quite easily and it needs frequent wiping to keep it clean.
Lululemon Athletica Fanny Pack
The Lululemon Athletica fanny pack has been the go-to option for many people since its introduction. It’s a durable bag made from nylon and polyester fabric which offers enough capacity for your most needed items. However, some users prefer less pricey options that offer the same storage capacity.The Fanny Pack Industry: A Brief Overview
Not long ago, fanny packs were used by tourists only due to their functionality. But now they have been reborn with modern and stylish designs and gained popularity among celebrities and everyday people alike.In addition to their incredible usefulness, their wide range of styles and colors had a huge influence on fanny packs’ comeback to the fashion world. Speaking of functionality, fanny packs are made for various purposes. Most of the packs that we reviewed today are suitable for casual use in everyday life.
But there are also some models specialized for particular outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing. The material to make fanny packs also differs depending on its purpose. The majority of these packs are made from nylon and polyester fabrics due to their lightweight, water-resistant, and tear-resistant properties.
Who Invented Fanny Packs?
The concept of using bags hanging from your shoulder or waist has existed since ancient civilizations. Romans and Greeks used a similar kind of bag called belt pouches. The buffalo pouches are another example of it that was used by Native Americans.But the most recent innovation in the fanny packs niche goes back to 1962 when an Australian woman named Melba Stone invented what we today know as fanny packs.
Are Fanny Packs Still Stylish?
Absolutely. As we mentioned several times in this very article, fanny packs came back to life in recent years as a stylish and highly functional accessory. Their minimalistic design and wide variety of colors have made it easy to find a perfect fanny pack that matches your favorite outfit.They are also quite versatile as you can easily change it from a cross-body bag to a waist bag only by adjusting the strap length.
Why Are Fanny Packs The Best?
Certainly, at least once in your life, you feel that your pockets or purses do not provide enough storage space for your belongings but you also don’t want to carry a rather huge backpack with you. That’s when a fanny pack can be a lifesaver.They are lightweight, easy to carry, safe, and even the smallest models offer a significant amount of storage room for your stuff. With a fanny pack, you don’t need to constantly make sure you’re belongings are still in your pockets as they are all safe and secured inside your pack and you can access them only by unzipping a pocket.
Are Fanny Packs Good For Travel?
Considering that they were made to be used by tourists and travelers initially, they must be good for travel. You just need to find the right option for your personal preferences as fanny packs come in all sorts of sizes and with various features.If you tend to travel light, choose a low-capacity fanny pack that provides enough space for your most essential items. But if you need to carry lots of stuff with you, a high-capacity fanny pack with multiple pockets and organized interior design is the best fanny pack for you.
Are Fanny Packs Unisex?
In terms of overall design, you can say that most fanny packs are meant to be used by women and men equally and are not gender-specific. But generally speaking, when it comes to color choice in fanny packs, women tend to purchase more colorful models while men prefer darker colors.Also, there are some gender-specific models out there in the market. For instance, the Telena small sling fanny pack that we reviewed in this article is more feminine looking.
Is Fanny Pack Safe?
Fanny packs are not 100% theft-proof but they will make the job harder for pickpockets. That’s because contrary to a backpack, the fanny pack is in front of you at all times and nobody can touch it without you seeing them first.And if you have some highly valuable items, you can use a fanny pack that has an anti-theft pocket, These pockets are placed at the rear side of the pack that is close to your body and no one but you can reach it. So to answer your question, yes fanny packs are quite safe against pickpockets.
Conclusion
Fanny packs are one of the best things that you can get for yourself or loved ones. They make your everyday life more convenient and also add something extra to your style. Considering fanny pack reviews and comparing these 10 products, here is our conclusion:If you seek an elegant and practical option, the Telena small sling fanny pack with its beautiful design and huge zipper pockets is a perfect option.
But if you need a more versatile and unisex fanny pack with maximum durability, the Lululemon Athletica fanny pack will provide everything you need. It can be used both as a cross-body and waist bag thanks to its adjustable strap.
FAQ
Are fanny packs expensive?Generally speaking, they are not considered luxurious accessories as you can buy some decent models for less than 20$.
What is the best fanny pack?
There is no single best fanny pack as they vary in size and features. Articles like this one will help you find the fanny pack that fits your preferences the best.
Can I wear a fanny pack on a plane?
Just like purses and normal-sized backpacks, fanny packs are considered a passenger personal item by most airlines hence you can carry them with you on a plane without any problem. Unless you pack an illegal item in it, it shouldn’t be a problem to wear a fanny pack on a plane.
