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Oct 14, 2024

The 26 best belt bags and fanny packs we love for 2024

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 sporting events!

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 fanny packs, those perfect for a fun festival, and even some designer options that will elevate any look.

Click to go straight to our FAQs or our winners of the best belt bags by category:

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

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,” Commerce Editor Kendall Cornish 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

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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

Prada once again proves its prowess in the fashion realm with the Re-Nylon and Saffiano Leather Belt Bag. This designer belt bag seamlessly blends functionality and luxury. Crafted with Prada’s signature Saffiano leather, the bag exudes sophistication and durability.

“The incorporation of Re-Nylon, a sustainable and eco-friendly material, showcases the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility,” something important to Cornish. “With its sleek design, ample storage space, and iconic Prada logo, this investment belt bag is the epitome of high-end fashion and practicality at the same time.”

Size: 21 x 12.5 x 4.5 cm | Material: Leather, nylon, metal | Closure: Zip | Color options: 3

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Crafted from luxurious materials and featuring the iconic Coach logo, this belt bag exudes sophistication and elegance. With its adjustable strap and multiple compartments, it offers both fashion and function for your everyday needs. Whether you’re running errands or heading out for a night on the town, the Coach Belt Bag is the perfect accessory to complete your look.

Size: 9.75 x 5 x .75 inches | Material: Leather, Metal Hardware | Closure: Zip | Color options: 3

For those who appreciate the timeless elegance of leather, the COS Swing Crossbody Bag stands out as the best in its class. Meticulously crafted from high-quality leather, this belt bag exudes a sense of understated luxury.

“The minimalist design and clean lines make it a versatile accessory for various occasions,” Cornish stated. “It doesn’t compromise on functionality either, offering a well-thought-out layout to keep your essentials organized.” Elevate your style with this leather belt bag that effortlessly combines classic aesthetics with modern convenience.”

Size: N/A | Material: Leather, cotton | Closure: Zip | Color options: 1

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)

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While not technically a “fanny pack” or “belt bag,” this sling-back option still does the job for those looking for a more stylish option that still allows you to go hands-free. We love the interchangeable straps that allow for the bag to be worn in more ways than one.

“I received the Liberty Sling Bag as a Christmas gift a year or two ago after eyeing it on the website for months,” said Giardina. “It seemed like the ideal hybrid of a crossbody and a belt bag with a stunning leather exterior that I thought would serve me well while running errands — and I was right. It’s one of the most well-made styles I own with quality zippers and interior pockets to stash just the right amount of essentials. Not to mention, it’s fairly priced for the make.”

Size: 12 x 5 x 3 inches | Material: Polyurethane | Closure: Zip | Color options: 2

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Meet the Lole. If you’re not too concerned about brand names and are more interested in finding a budget-friendly option, this is the belt bag for you. The minimalistic, understated design features an adjustable waist strap that sits comfortably at the hips while you’re moving.

Size: 7.5 x 5 x 2 inches | Material: N/A | Closure: Zip | Color options: 5

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Looking for a cute, little bum bag? This fanny pack is much smaller than some of the others you’ll find on this list, but it still can hold all the essentials like a phone, wallet, and keys. Customization is also available, so you can add a cute patch with initials to make it your own. Reviewers love the vibrant colors, especially the hot pink shade pictured above.

Size: 5.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Strap: 31 – 47 inches| Material: Nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 16

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Chances are you’ve heard all about the coveted lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. If you’re looking for something with the same sleek, understated, sporty style but a bit more storage space and varied pocket sizes, you can try the City Adventurer. It’s designed for casual wear, and made with gentle lululemon signature nylon. We just wish it came in a few more colors.

“Beleive me when I say this belt bag was made for the city-dwellers,” said commerce reporter, Miska Salemann. “In New York, you’re always hopping between errands, on and off the subway, and you just want something that will fit everything and doesn’t require carrying. The City Adventurer is that. It’s a generous size, and still shockingly light. I like wearing my belt bags lower on my hips so I always look for something with a wide extendable belt. This one has never bothered me.”

Size: 11 x 3 x 6.7 inches, strap — 39.4 inches | Material: Polyester, recycled polyester, nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 2

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Belt bags are great for people who are always on the go, but the straps aren’t always as comfortable as you’d like them — which can be even more frustrating when you’re wearing them against your chest or shoulder. Athleta has come up with a solution. Its super-soft belt bag is velvety to the touch and doesn’t irritate the skin, so you can feel great while taking your belongings along for the ride. It’s available in a variety of colors, too.

Size: 7 x 2 x 4.5 inches, strap — 34 – 50 inches | Material: Polyester, recycled polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 17

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Reviewers are exceptionally impressed with this tough little fanny pack. Many love that it comes with a separate cardholder, which is great for those who lose their things easily or are seeking some added organization. The vegan leather is durable while still being soft to the touch, making it much more comfortable while you’re walking around all day with this on your hip or chest. Although the straps are not adjustable, we still love it.

Size: 8.6 x 7.2 x 0.8 inches | Strap: n/a | Material: Vegan leather | Closure: Zip | Color options: 4

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

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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

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Some might want a belt bag that blends in, but this one is for the people looking to stand out. Sprayground has designed this crossbody with no shortage of character. It’s not too surprising that it was made in New York City. The whirlwind of colors and narrow shape blend an edgy vibe that could elevate any look. The material is tough, but it might be a little bit on the narrow side for heavy-packers.

“I almost feel like calling this a fanny pack is an insult,” shared commerce reporter, Miska Salemann. “It’s a work of art. Sprayground has some of the boldest designs I’ve ever seen on bags, and this crossbody is no exception. I love the combination of hot colors and the overlapping graffiti. The material is also much sturdier than some of the other belt bags I’ve tried — but also a bit less forgiving. So, if you’re going for the it factor, but also want something practical, this is it.”

Size: 5.5 x 15 x 2.5 inches | Strap: n/a | Material: PVC, polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 1

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Brought to you by iFLY luggage brand, this simple cross-body belt bag is made for all your adventures. It has all the essential features for traveling: a discreet interior passport pocket, a wide adjustable strap and lightweight build, making it a dream for long-term journeys and weekend getaways alike.

Size: 7.5 x 5 x 2 inches | Strap: n/a | Material: Polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 3

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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

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Those seeking a sustainable belt bag may want to consider this attractive option by Patagonia. The gear brand has perfected this 100-gram bag, and it’s evident in the details; a soft, herringbone belt, color black style for easy spotting, and a generous main compartment for your essentials. A few reviewers mention the strap is a bit shorter than they’d like — but other than that, it’s hard to find anything wrong with this fair-trade belt bag.

Size: 1-liter capacity, strap — 8 – 36 inches | Material: Nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 12

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Bags that come with you everywhere are bound to get a little bit dirty, so it’s important to pick one that is easy to clean. The POPSUGAR waist pack fits the mark. The water-repellent material wipes in seconds — all you have to do is spot-clean as needed — which means you can keep the belt bag looking fresh day in and day out.

Size: 2 x 7 x 5.5 Inches | Strap: n/a | Material: N/A | Closure: Zip | Color options: 1

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Described as something between a fanny pack and a backpack, this large-capacity sporty option from Nike makes a wonderful option for commuters and students. The smooth, modern material is made from recycled plastic water bottles — though you could never tell! Reviewers say it holds up fantastic and isn’t flimsy at all.

Size: 8 liters | Material: Recycled polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 5

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Designed for versatility, this belt bag features multiple compartments and pockets to keep your essentials organized. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or running errands in the city, its durable construction and adjustable strap ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

Size: 8.5 x 5 x 1.5 inches | Strap: 11 – 21 inches | Material: Recycled polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 3

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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: 120 x 260 x 120 millimeters | Material: Nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 9

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Give some magic to your Disney kid (or adult) with this adorable Minnie Mouse and Daisey Duck bag by Lily Pulitzer. No need to worry about finding your kiddo. The bright, floral design is easy to spot in a crowd. There are also multiple pockets to keep their essentials (including snacks) safely stowed. A striped adjustable belt lets you find the perfect fit, and stunning simulated gold leather adds a flair of elegance.

Size: 7.8 x 5.3 x 2 inches | Strap: 43 inches | Material: Polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 1

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Designed for the urban commuter, this sleek sling bag combines minimalist aesthetics with practical features. With its lightweight construction and ergonomic design, it offers comfort and convenience on the move. Whether you’re navigating city streets or traveling light, the Monos Metro Sling is the perfect companion for your daily excursions.

Size: 10.2 x 5.5 x 2 inches | Strap: 61.5 inches | Material: Vegan Leather, Nylon | Closure: Zip | Color options: 8

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Designed for the urban explorer, this belt bag features a modern, minimalist design and durable construction. With its adjustable strap and multiple pockets, it offers convenient storage for your essentials while keeping your hands free. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the city, the Timbuk2 Rascal Belt Bag is the perfect companion for your daily adventures.

Size: N/A | Material: Polyester | Closure: Zip | Color options: 5

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.

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.

Similar to finding the right purse or wallet, it all comes down to what you need from a belt bag. Do you want something to replace your tote? Will it be for every day or are you looking for a fun way to edge up a basic or conservative ensemble?

One fanny pack we like for daily use is the Bellroy Sling Mini ($90 $55). It has four compartments for storage, is made of water-resistant fabric and has a slim build. It comes in a variety of bright colors and looks very rad slung across one’s back.

Another fanny pack we like is the Fjällräven Kånken Water Resistant Belt Bag ($55). It’s compact, has a top carry handle and a two-way zip-around closure to make it simpler to retrieve items inside. We really like this for weekends, sightseeing or any other occasion we’ll need to carry some things but want to avoid lugging around a backpack. It also doesn’t hurt that it comes in four different colors.

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:

For more content, check out the New York Post Shopping section.

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