The '90s fanny pack is making a major comeback, but if you're hoping for the same neon, one-compartment sling you used to hide under your windbreaker, you're going to be a bit disappointed. With its resurgence, the fanny pack has undergone a modern makeover for a life on the go.
Now known as the stylish and versatile belt bag or sling bag, your favorite hip accessory from yesteryear has transformed into a hands-free fashion moment that combines both form and function into one easy, sleek method of storing your essentials.
These are the best belt bags and fanny packs for all of your travels. From hero picks like the Cairo Sling Bag, which is big enough to carry a full-size water bottle, a camera, and more, to slim leather options like the Ikon Bag, there's a belt bag for every need and outfit.
If you're torn on exactly what kind of sling bag you want, you should also check out our article on the best crossbody bags, which has more purse-like picks.
Best budget: Quince Nylon Belt Bag
A reliable brand in both quality and affordability, Quince lands as the number one pick for most affordable belt bag. But beyond its reasonable price tag, the Revive Nylon Belt Bag is made from 100% recycled nylon, with four recycled bottles total going into the production of each bag.
It is extremely similar to the lululemon bag — especially in terms of capacity and material. A back slip pocket allows you to store easy-to-reach essentials like your phone, while an interior slip pocket suits all valuables you want to keep inaccessible. It's also lightweight enough to be used daily, helping you run errands more efficiently with just the essentials on you
For more of our favorite picks from the brand, see our full Quince review.
Best sling: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack
Looking for the ultimate throwback fanny pack with a modern twist? Dagne Dover has just the thing. The brand's beloved Ace Fanny Pack comes in its signature 100% vegan neoprene, which is both stretchy and soft-to-the-touch. The design is clever and streamlined, with the classic fanny pack's zipped pocket at the front and a wider opening featuring a card compartment, a key clip, and a lipstick compartment.
There's even a hidden card compartment on the back for cards you need ASAP. Perfect for everyday wear, this belt bag is incredibly light and looks effortlessly stylish when worn crossbody.
Best everyday: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
One belt bag easily stands above the rest when it comes to versatility, color and size options, affordability, and popularity, and that is the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. For under $40, you'll snag an excellent, water-repellent sling perfected for everyday use.
The bag's nylon and recycled polyester fabrics make it pliable and comfortable, while the adjustable strap offers a snug fit that stays put on the move. A hidden exterior pocket allows you to keep items like your phone close to your chest, while the main compartment features a mesh pocket to better organize your items.
With fourteen different colors to choose from including bold and bright options alongside neutrals, there's something for everyone. It's even available in large and mini sizes if you're not content with the 1 liter capacity of the original.
Best on Amazon: Ododos Mini Belt Bag
If you're looking for a no-frills belt bag that comes in a variety of colors and gets the job done, this ODOS belt bag is a solid option.
An Amazon best seller, this simple-yet-sleek design can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody bag, waist bag, or hand bag. It's lightweight, but roomy enough to hold essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, passport, and credit cards with room to spare in hidden side compartments and a back zippered compartment. Its mostly nylon material makes it very durable, and the variety of colorways available makes it a great unisex option. The best part? Because it's so affordable, you can get it in multiple colors to match multiple outfits.
Best for travel: Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag
If you're looking for an easier, lighter carry-on than a duffle, or simply want to win TSA's most prepared traveler award, the Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag was made for you. While a bit bigger and potentially heavier than some of the other belt bags on our list, the Cairo Sling Bag makes up for its bulk with a variety of smartly crafted compartments to keep you hyper-organized. Fit everything you need and then some in its plentiful pockets that keep your necessities easily accessible, even in a rush.
The Cairo is also made from 100% vegan, recycled materials that prove especially durable for travel, along with an adjustable strap that can transform this bag from a belt bag to a sling. When you're done using it, you can easily pack it away in your luggage once you reach your destination.
See our full Dagne Dover review to see why this fanny pack is one of our favorite picks from the brand.
Best for hiking: Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack
For days spent outdoors, look no further than the utility of the Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack.
With its five-liter capacity, it offers ample storage for snacks, base layers, and so much more while you're on the move. This belt bag is also made from cool and comfortable mesh with a breathable back panel that offers added comfort without extra heat. Stretch water bottle pockets on both sides of the bag mean you'll be able to keep yourself hydrated, while the 100% recycled polyester with a PU coating makes it durable and weather-resistant to any conditions you might face.
Best oversized: Calpak Luka Belt Bag
On days when you need to carry a bit more but still want the hands-free convenience of a belt bag, opt for the Calpak Luka Belt Bag.
Of all the bags on our list, the Luka Belt Bag has the largest and deepest dimensions, so you can fit a lot more without added weight or bulk, thanks to the lightweight, flexible material. The slightly quilted design offers a bit more effortless detail than some of the other options on this list, plus it's available in 18 colors, so there's a Luka bag for just about every 'fit.
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