---
title: "Are These Ultra-Wearable Belt Bags The Ultimate Travel Accessory?"
url: https://luxaterra.com/travel-essentials/best-fanny-packs-for-travel/
pillar: travel-essentials
published: 2021-05-04
updated: 2023-03-16
excerpt: "Buckle up."
---

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.**

## 1. Away

The all-time front-runner out of all the travelling fanny packs on our list? The Sling Bag by [Away](/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](/loves/away/) across your chest for a comfortable hands-free fit. And Away even offers the option of customising the bag with **personalised embroidery.**

## 2. Saint Laurent

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](/saint-laurent/).

Despite hailing 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](/loves/saint-laurent/) is on the larger size at **30 x 15 cm**, we recommend wearing it across your body rather than around your waist.

## 3. Herschel

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](/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](/loves/amazon-herschel-fanny-pack/) 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.

## 4. Senreve

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](/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](/loves/senreve/) 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](/loves/senreve/) too. Definitely one of the best fanny packs for women around.

## 5. Bellroy

Still struggling to get over your associations of bum bags with sunburned tourists? This [Bellroy](/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](/loves/bellroy/) 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.

## 6. Patagonia

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](/patagonia/) should be your number one choice.

Not only is anything made by Patagonia optimised for the great outdoors but the brand also does 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](/loves/patagonia/).

## 7. Karl Lagerfeld

Here to **redefine the meaning of travelling light**, this [Karl Lagerfeld](/karl-lagerfeld/) 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](/loves/karl-lagerfeld/) 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.

## 8. Alo Yoga

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](/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](/loves/alo-yoga/) 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.

## 9. The North Face

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](/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](/loves/the-north-face/) also features a top zip closure to keep all your valuables safe as you head off exploring while the **mesh front pocket** is great for easy access to essentials. Plus, you’ll be able to check what’s in there without emptying the whole bag.

## 10. Calpak

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](/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](/loves/calpak/) 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.

## 11. Travelon

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](/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](/loves/amazon-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.

## 12. Waterfly

When the sun's out and we’re constantly on the move, staying hydrated is essential. This is why the [Waterfly](/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](/loves/amazon-waterfly-fanny-pack/) 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.

## 13. Carhartt

[Carhartt](/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 [Carhartt waist bag](/loves/carhartt/) 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.

## 14. Ganni

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](/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](/loves/ganni/) is most definitely **open road-ready**. The question is, are you?

## 15. Cuyana

We can’t get enough of [Cuyana](/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](/loves/cuyana/) can also be paired with the brand’s **circular pouch add-on** if you need extra functionality.

## 16. Nike

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](/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](/loves/nike/) across your body, over your shoulder, around your waist, with a hoodie, jacket, or t-shirt—the options are endless.

## 17. JanSport

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](/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](/loves/amazon-jansport-fanny-pack/) is our number one choice for **cost-conscious** nomads everywhere.