Best Fanny Packs for Women: Top Picks and Styling Tips
For an accessory once deemed outdated, unfashionable, and even downright tacky, the fanny pack has made quite a spectacular comeback. These highly practical and versatile bags are no longer solely associated with the oh-so-undesirable “suburban dad” or “lost tourist” looks. Now, they've been reimagined by some of the leading brands and individuals in the fashion world.
The result? You can now see fanny packs on the likes of Hailey Bieber and Beyoncé. If you want to join these elite ranks but are unsure where to start, this guide has got you covered. By the end of it, you should have no trouble identifying the best fanny pack for women and learning just how to style it.
Top Picks for Best Fanny Packs for Women
In the ‘90s, fanny packs might’ve been all about functionality. Now, they're just as much about fashion. With this in mind, here are our choices for the best fanny pack for women, each combining style and practicality.
Canvelle Fanny Pack
There's no better way to introduce fanny packs into your wardrobe than with a black fanny pack. And one from Canvelle, no less! Why? Because this simple fanny pack combines timeless sophistication and modern functionality.
On the one hand, it offers a sleek, minimalist design that seamlessly complements any outfit, whether sporty or elegant. On the other hand, its practical features, such as a key clip, an inner mesh pocket, a zippered pocket on the back for your cell phone, and an adjustable strap, ensure you stay organized and comfortable on the go. If you plan to make this fanny pack a travel companion, you'll also be happy to hear that it features an easy-to-clean, water-resistant lining that will protect your belongings from spills and splashes.
The original version of the Canvelle Fanny Pack is the perfect size for those who prefer to travel light while keeping their essentials close. However, if you need more space and additional pockets, the oversized variant might be a better choice. Go with this variant, and you'll be able to fit virtually anything in your fanny pack, from small items like your credit card to larger items like a water bottle or a tablet.
Lo & Sons Bond Belt Bag
From its name alone, you can probably guess that this Lo & Sons fanny pack – or belt bag, as the brand calls it – is elegance personified. Made with the luxurious sheepskin leather, the Bond Belt Bag offers both durability and a touch of luxury to your everyday outfits. But the sleek, minimalist design isn't the only positive thing about this waist pack. It also brings functionality to the table.
So, there's the convertible and adjustable belt that allows you to choose the ideal fit and style for the day. A trendy black sling bag or a traditional fanny pack? It's up to you! On the inside, you'll find plenty of separate compartments to store trinkets like lip balms and necessities like credit cards. As a bonus, the interior is made of easy-to-clean nylon and comes in a soft gray color, allowing you to easily locate (and access) your items. The only downside? The price point. This Lo & Sons beauty comes with quite a hefty price tag, which might make it a splurge for many.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
Introducing the bag that many claim has singlehandedly brought back the fanny pack – the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. These highly sought-after colorful fanny packs are recognizable for their compact size, making them perfect companions for your everyday adventures. But don't let the size fool you. This belt bag can still fit all your essentials. Your cell phone, keys, and wallet can all find their way into the bag's exterior zipper pocket or one of the spacious interior pockets. Still, if you tend to overpack everything, from your toiletry pouch to your carry-on bag, you might find this Lululemon beauty lacking in space.
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack is what most people picture when thinking of a classic fanny pack. This fanny pack checks all the boxes for the perfect everyday companion – it's incredibly lightweight, packable, and durable. Thanks to an adjustable hip belt and a soft, padded back, this bag also excels in the comfort department. This makes it ideal for travel and a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or walking your dog. But beware. Many users report that the waist strap might be on the shorter side (up to 36 inches), so it's a good idea to try it on first if you have a wider waist.
Cotopaxi Kapai 3L Hip Pack
If you love the fun design of the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack but aren't a fan of its petite design, the Cotopaxi Kapai 3L hip pack might be the way to go. On the one hand, the unique color blocking and vibrant patterns that Cotopaxi is known for are perfect for fashion-forward individuals looking for a statement bag. On the other, the three-liter capacity is more than enough to accommodate both your must-haves and nice-to-haves.
You'll also enjoy the padded, fleece-lined sleeve that allows you to store your cell phone or sunglasses safely, as well as the top grab handle for easy carrying when you need a break from waist bags. The only major disadvantage is that this model doesn't come with any secret or discreet pockets, which might deter those who prefer to keep their valuables like cash, credit, or debit cards hidden.
Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Hip Pack
Are you an outdoorsy person who doesn't particularly care about fashion? If so, we've got just the fanny pack for you! The Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Hip Pack simply screams functionality and ruggedness.
Camping, rock climbing, backpacking—these are just some of the activities this bag is perfect for, thanks to its roomy interior and durable, weather-resistant construction. With a spacious two-way zip main compartment and five-liter capacity, you'll have plenty of space to stash all your adventure-ready essentials.
Everlane The Renew Transit Fanny Pack
Though Everlane markets this bag as a fanny pack, its design looks more like a sling bag. Of course, this is in no way a bad thing, as sling bags are known for their functionality, versatility, and modern aesthetic. And these three characteristics are precisely what you receive with the Everlane The Renew Transit Fanny Pack.
But as appealing as ample storage space and thoughtful compartments throughout the bag are, these aren't the key selling points for this bag. No, this honor belongs to the bag's construction. You see, this fanny pack is made with recycled polyester, which makes it the ideal choice for the more environmentally conscious customers.
Nathan Limitless 2 Liter Sling
Another fanny pack that prioritizes functionality over style, the Nathan Limitless 2 Liter Sling is the ultimate companion for numerous outdoor activities. While you're running or hiking mile after mile, all your essentials will be securely stored, thanks to a bounce-free design and a sturdy and durable nylon outer shell. If you consider water to be essential while spending time outdoors, you'll be thrilled to learn this bag also comes with a built-in 14-ounce soft flask and the capacity to hold another 25-ounce one. Now, if the crossover between your essentials and liquids worries you, there's no need for this. The Nathan Limitless 2 Liter Sling is made of moisture-wicking fabric and features a water-resistant zippered phone pocket on the back.
What to Look For in a Fanny Pack
Do you want to do more research on the best fanny pack for women? No problem. Here's what to pay attention to.
Capacity and Size
As you can see, our list of the best fanny packs for women contained a wide range of capacities, from something as tiny as one liter to something bulkier like five liters. This means that there's no ideal size or capacity for a fanny pack. It all depends on your specific needs. Fanny packs typically come in four different sizes – mini, small, medium, and large. The “formula” for choosing the right size is quite simple. The more you tend to pack and the longer your trip or activity is, the larger the fanny pack should be.
Material and Durability
Fanny packs might've gotten a stylish makeover in the past few years. However, at their core, they're still all about functionality. That's why you should always opt for a durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean material, as these features ensure that your bag can withstand everyday wear and various weather conditions. In this regard, nylon and polyester might be the best choices. Genuine or vegan leather is another option to consider, but this fabric typically requires more maintenance. Of course, given the elevated look that comes with leather, this small “sacrifice” will be well worth it for many!
Design and Style
A fanny pack is designed to be an everyday bag. As such, it should complement your personal style while offering practical functionality. Luckily, with the number of styles available, you'll have no issue finding one that fits both your aesthetic and practical needs. From sleek, minimalist designs that seamlessly blend with any outfit to elegant and fashion-forward models that make your outfit pop, there's a fanny pack for every taste.
Styling Tips for Fanny Packs
Are you still on the fence about fanny packs? That's perfectly understandable. After all, these bags have been considered “uncool” longer than they've been trendy. To help you see their potential and truly embrace them, here are some styling tips to help you incorporate the best fanny pack for women into your wardrobe.
Casual Outfits
Most fanny packs will fit right in with a casual and laid-back outfit. Pair a classic fanny pack in a neutral color with jeans, a cute T-shirt, and sneakers, and you get the effortless yet endlessly chic model-off-duty look. With this combination, casual meet-ups or weekend outings (or even running errands) become a chance to showcase your sense of style.
Business and Formal Attire
Despite a popular misconception, fanny packs aren't just for casual wear. When chosen thoughtfully, they can also complement business and formal outfits. In this case, the thoughtful choice entails going for a sleek, minimalist fanny pack in a premium and modern material like leather or high-quality nylon. It also entails selecting a design that maintains that refined and sophisticated look. With both boxes checked, pairing a fanny pack with a blazer or a dress will be a match made in heaven.
Travel and Outdoor Activities
If you're looking for a fanny pack for traveling or outdoor activities, styling will probably be the last thing on your mind. You'll probably focus on finding the most practical, durable, and water-resistant model for your outdoor adventures. However, you can still go for a sporty or stylish design (depending on the bag's purpose) that reflects your taste and enhances your overall look.
Choosing the Right Fanny Pack for Your Needs
With all the information from this guide, you can quickly choose the right fanny pack for your needs. Here's how.
Assessing Your Lifestyle
Do you lead a particularly active lifestyle and need a fanny pack that can keep up? Or is a fanny pack more of a fashion statement to you? The answers to these questions will help you weigh the importance of style vs. functionality when making the final decision. For example, if you're already packing a black toiletry pouch in the luggage, you might not need a larger fanny pack for longer journeys.
Evaluating Comfort and Fit
You can't go wrong with an adjustable strap that offers a customized fit. Thanks to this handy feature, you'll be able to determine the most comfortable placement for you – above your hips, across your chest, or around your waist.
Matching with Your Wardrobe
Many people's go-to accessory is a fanny pack. As such, it should match your wardrobe and seamlessly integrate with your personal style. Otherwise, it will be just another bag you reserve for special occasions.
Pack It With Style
As you can see, a fanny pack can be much more than just an outdated accessory. It can also be a fashion statement. A lifesaver during traveling. A reliable companion for outdoor adventures. You just need to choose the best fanny pack for women, and this guide should help you do just that. Remember – it's all about your personal style and needs!
For this reason, we'd also like to hear about your personal preferences and experiences with fanny packs so far in the comments section below. In exchange, we offer our incredible newsletter for more fashion tips, product recommendations, and similar helpful articles on fashion accessories and styling. Check them all out now!
FAQs
What is the best material for a fanny pack?
The best material for a fanny pack largely depends on its intended use. However, the most popular choices include nylon, polyester, and canvas.
What is a fanny pack called now?
A fanny pack is now called a “belt bag,” “waist pack,” or “hip pack.”
How do I choose a fanny pack?
Choosing a fanny pack is simple. Just let your personal needs and preferences guide you.
How do you look cute with a fanny pack?
You can look cute with a fanny pack hassle-free! Just choose the right style and incorporate it thoughtfully into your outfit.