The Best Fanny Packs in 2022

Whether worn as a fashion statement, used as a handy outdoor/travel companion, or both, there’s no denying a fanny pack can be quite cool. Not only due to their practicality, but also because of their versatility.

Our wilderness experts, travel reviewers and urban warriors looked at the most popular models, brands of renown and the hip bag that just looked really useful.

We continue to update the list, testing a new pack for camping or cycling or improved crossbody friendly bags. Some fanny packs on this list are budget models, while some are sustainably produced.

Whether you’re looking to get your very first fanny pack, or getting a new one to add to your ever-growing collection, we’ve got you covered with our list of 10 best fanny packs in 2021!

Everyday Use Fanny Packs | Buying Guide

There’s no two ways about it. Getting a fanny pack is a big decision. Probably one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your life. Okay, I exaggerate, but getting a fanny pack is a big deal, regardless of its intended purpose.

While fanny pack manufacturers aren’t necessarily out there actively trying to rip you off, if you just go and buy a fanny pack without doing the proper research, chances are, you’ll end up getting a fanny pack that doesn’t suit your needs.

What it really all boils down to is this: what is the right fanny pack for you? Do you want a fashionable, designer fanny pack? Or do you want something tough that’s suitable for the most unforgiving of outdoor adventures? Or do you want something that just does what it’s supposed to?

Regardless of your answers to the questions above, there are some key factors you have to consider when buying a fanny pack. We’ve listed  down these key factors below.

Design and Dimensions

Like all other accessories, fanny packs are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. While there’s no hard and fast rule, certain shapes and designs can cater more to women, while others are more suited for men.

Obviously, different sizes will also suit different body types. You need something that’ll carry your essentials, without being too bulky or too small.

If you get something that’s a size too big or too small, this can significantly affect mobility and comfort—and you’ll definitely look like you ordered the wrong size.

There is also a question of finding the best fanny pack brand. That implies a company profile with all its characteristics. While a Lululemon fanny pack might carry prestige, it’s not going to carry your items any better in our experience. A Patagonia Black Hole Mini compared to a Herschel fanny pack will be a more relevant set of candidates. Throw in Champion and Nike and you have brands that are doing things uniquely, even if they end in a similar result.

The Champion Signal is a smaller hip pack with two compartments of equal size. Good for organization, but not able to hold bigger, bulkier items.

Size also determines a fanny pack’s utility. If you just need something to hold your phone and keys at a concert or on your daily jog, a more compact fanny pack would be ideal. Conversely, a bigger fanny pack is ideal if you need something to hold your essentials for extended outdoor adventures.

Another thing to consider is the length of the fanny pack’s strap, as straps are only adjustable to a certain extent, and some straps just aren’t meant for certain body types. While this is easily fixed by buying a replacement strap, no one wants that kind of hassle.

Last but not least, you have to consider the colors that your fanny pack of choice can come in. If your fanny pack doesn’t match your personal style, you’ll stick out like a sore thumb, and people will look at you like you’re some kind of savage (unless that’s your goal; in which case, go right ahead).

The Cotopaxi Bataan is a very comfortable and colorful fanny pack. High quality yet sustainable materials make this pack a favorite.

Comfort

This is probably a no-brainer, and you’ve probably heard this more than once, but it bears repeating. Comfort is paramount when choosing a fanny pack. You’re going to wear it for long periods of time. Depending on your body type, some fanny packs can be more comfortable for you than other fanny packs.

Comfort goes hand in hand with a fanny pack’s design and dimensions, as well as the material it’s made out of.

Even if you have one of the most plush fanny pack in the market, you’re going to end up returning it if you’re allergic to the material it’s made out of.

Conversely, even if your skin loves the fanny pack, if it’s too big or too bulky, it’ll most definitely ruin an otherwise perfectly enjoyable outdoor trip. What’s the point of getting a fanny pack if you can’t move freely with it?

Material

Fanny packs are made out of a wide variety of materials—from nylon, to polyester, to canvas, to leather/faux leather, or a combination of these.

The material used in manufacturing the fanny pack, as well as how you intend on using your fanny pack, will determine how long it lasts.

Ideally, you’d want your fanny pack to last you more than you’d care to use it. You’re storing your essentials in it, so if it’s prone to tears and punctures, you might as well consider your valuables as good as gone.

The Nike Fanny Pack called Heritage is a great example of plenty of compartments, good security in a reasonably sized hip pouch that wears very nicely as a crossbody bag.

The type of material used in making the fanny pack will also affect how comfortable it is.

Some people might be allergic to certain materials, or some materials might be too heavy, or some materials might make an annoying sound as you move.

The kind of material used in making the fanny pack can also determine its stylishness, and will also determine if it’s washable or not.

Compartments and Security Features

Multiple compartments are kind of the whole point of fanny packs. Sure, you can use them in a variety of different situations, but at the end of the day, fanny packs are defined by the hassle-free storage that they offer.

While the number and size of compartments may vary, most fanny packs have multiple compartments to store all your essentials conveniently.

That said, as convenient as having multiple compartments is, one of the major concerns of both long-time and would-be fanny pack-wearers is how secure the fanny pack is.

You can’t put your valuables in a small bag (that, if worn properly and with the right fit, you’ll most likely forget you’re wearing) and not worry about said valuables getting stolen.

If you intend on regularly using a fanny pack, especially during your travels, it’s important to check for security features such as RFID protection, ripstop fabric, and premium zippers.