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It’s time to toss those oversized totes and baggy backpacks and streamline your everyday carry with a stylish fanny pack instead. Often referred to as a “waist bag” or “belt bag,” these versatile carry-alls wrap comfortably around your waist, or can be slung over the shoulder and across the chest. Adjustable straps tighten and expand as needed, to provide the most secure fit.
Unlike backpacks, whose straps only expand a couple of inches, the best fanny packs have straps that can extend up to 50 inches — comfortably fitting most body types. Because they can be worn around the waist, they take pressure off your shoulders and back.
Of course, a waist bag won’t hold as much as a traditional backpack, but the newest fanny packs still have a surprisingly large amount of storage space. The best fanny packs will have a main compartment that can hold a phone, camera and even a mini tablet or e-reader, along with exterior pockets perfect for your keys, snacks, cash and cards.
Throw on a fanny pack the next time you’re running errands, to free up your hands say, at the grocery store or bank. A fanny pack is also ideal for athletes, who want something lightweight and unobtrusive to hold their stuff during a run or workout. And we like taking a rugged fanny pack with us on a hike, to keep energy bars and chargers on hand.
They’re great for festival and concert goers too. Most major festivals and concerts these days have limitations on the types — and sizes — of bags you can bring in. Whether for security reasons or due to lack of space, things like coolers, rolling bags and large backpacks are often turned away at the door. Your best bet: stash your stuff in one of these fashionable fanny packs instead.
Other uses for fanny packs: to hold cash and change during a bake sale or garage sale; as a portable tool kit for on-the-go repairs; or as a place to hold your treats and baggies when taking your dog(s) out for a walk. And a durable fanny pack is a vital part of any first aid or emergency kit, letting you easily grab and carry your essentials.
We’ve rounded up some popular fanny packs that offer decent storage capacity, durable construction and comfortable (lightweight) carrying options. With a ton of colors, prints and sizes to choose from, pick up one of these versatile belt bags before your next music festival, marathon, outdoor adventure or trip.
