The Best Fanny Packs of 2024

The REI Co-op Trail 2 ($30) is a great little fanny pack that not only provides high value for its low price tag but also works for a variety of activities and is subtle enough in its design to appeal to different styles. Choosing the best overall fanny pack is a difficult task, but this pack from REI strikes the best balance between being functional for the outdoors while also being great for casual use. 

A small 2L capacity is enough for small accessories on your next-day hike or dog walk. A DWR coating keeps the elements at bay, and a spacious back stash pocket keeps your valuables close. Though the capacity is on the smaller side compared to some of the other fanny packs we tested, it keeps the weight manageable, and the pack never feels too heavy. Additionally, the Trail 2 lays flat, isn’t bulky in any way and doesn’t sag down over your hips.

Our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, always appreciates a back pocket to keep valuable items close and secure. This waist pack’s back pocket has a zipper and is quite spacious, increasing its appeal. 

Miya often found it nice to wear as a shoulder bag while biking, and the slim profile ensured that it didn’t get in the way too much while riding. The REI Co-op Trail 2’s utility, sustainable materials, and affordable price make this our choice for the best overall fanny pack.

This simple Fifth Avenue fanny pack from Jansport ($20) is an excellent budget option. An affordable price, simple yet functional design, and many different colors and patterns to choose from make it a great choice for everyday carry.

The adjustable waist belt allows you to wear this pack comfortably as a crossbody bag. And the Fifth Avenue’s small size prevents it from getting too heavy and having the strap dig into your shoulder.

The fabric was robust throughout use, made with a strong 600-denier ripstop polyester. We also loved that the textile is constructed from 100% recycled materials.

Some features on our top-rated fanny packs are lacking in this simple bag. Our lead tester tends to prefer fanny packs with a security pocket, which is a small interior pocket where valuables are tucked away. She also likes bags with mesh backs for breathability, which she finds becomes especially noticeable on hikes, bike rides, or long dog walks.

Other than these missing attributes, the Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack from Jansport is a great, fun choice for those with a tight purse.

The FlipBelt Zipper Running Belt ($42) is designed for runners and hikers who need to carry essentials without the bulk. The snug fit, lightweight design, and water resistance make it ideal for active use. One of the standout features of the FlipBelt is its unique pocket system, which allows you to store items securely without worrying about them bouncing around during your activities.

We tested the FlipBelt on various runs, and its snug fit is a game-changer. The belt hugs the waist comfortably and has enough stretch to accommodate multiple items without feeling constricting. The zipper pocket adds an extra layer of security for valuables, which is a fantastic addition for those who carry items like keys or a phone.

Without the bulk of a traditional fanny pack, you can run comfortably — though it is not meant for larger items, so if you’re looking for a fanny pack to carry your water bottle, we recommend trying the Black Diamond Pursuit 6 Waist Pack. It also is not completely waterproof, so take extra care in wet conditions.

While the FlipBelt Zipper Edition is largely used for running, a wonderful secondary usage is traveling due to its discrete, hideable design. It’s the ideal security travel belt, designed to hold passports and other necessary items while traveling. We’ll certainly be taking it with us next time we travel outside the country.

The EVOC Hip Pack Pro 3L ($135) is an excellent choice for riders looking for a pack to meet their needs on medium-to-long mountain bike rides. Utilizing an uber-adjustable elastic and Velcro waist wrap, this pack offers best-in-class comfort and a super secure fit for when the going gets rough.

The Hip Pack Pro 3 has plenty of storage for keys and smaller bits on the lumbar strap, as well as sleeves for two additional bottles. It easily carries a multitool, pump, levers, spare tube, plug kit, phone, keys, and wallet — in addition to a full reservoir. This 1.5L Hydrapak bladder rides close to the body in the Hip Pack Pro and works with a quick-release hose that can be routed out either side of the pack. Grabbing a quick sip on the go has never been easier.

Rounding out the Hip Pack Pro is a flip-out waterproof phone pouch that rides behind the front of the pack, and while the waterproof nature was assuring, we did feel a little apprehensive about the placement during some of our more rowdy descents. Many other fanny packs make space at the rear of the pack for a more protected ride, so you’ll just need to be on your game about keeping the rubber side down wearing this hip pack.

The EVOC Hip Pack Pro 3 is a great option for most riders, and from shuttle laps to all-day epics and everything in between — it’ll go the distance.

We all know minimalist travelers who pride themselves on fitting every item they need in the smallest amount of space. The REI Stuff Travel Waist Pack ($22) is an excellent budget option that doesn’t skimp on quality for those minimalist travelers. We found this is great to toss in a suitcase when space is at a premium. Despite the thin material, it is still water resistant thanks to the durable water repellent (DWR) that causes moisture to bead up on the surface.

What stood out to us is that you can pack it away to an even smaller size into its own pocket. However, when it’s in use, we can easily fit all of our essentials (phone, wallet, passport, keys, snacks) thanks to the 1.5-liter capacity. The strap is comfortable whether you wear it classically on your waist or sling it over your shoulder. Bonus points that it comes in the best multi-colored designs. Our favorite color combo is Desert Moss.

The REI Stuff Travel Waist Pack’s strengths could also be seen as its weaknesses. The minimalist design may feel like a limitation to some. There aren’t multiple compartments, so it’s not easy to stay organized within the pack. And if you do jam-pack it, wearing it all day, the heaviness may cause the straps to become uncomfortable due to the lack of padding.

This is an excellent choice for minimalist travelers who prioritize packability and lightweight compactness. It’s ideal for day trips, festivals, or any event where you just need to keep the essentials on you.

The Fjällräven High Coast Fanny Pack ($45) walks the line so well in being ideal for both urban exploration and outdoor adventure. What we like the most about this pack is the thoughtful organization. It has multiple zippered compartments, where you can easily keep everything secure. While hiking, the adjustable waist strap prevents any bouncing while moving, which, if you’re a hiker, you know is crucial for an enjoyable experience.

It’s small, but it holds a lot. It has a security pocket, a mesh ventilated backing, and the main compartment even has a key clip. And it’s made from 100% recycled waterproof polyamide.

Even though the main fanny pack is made with waterproof material, it’s important to note that the seams and zippers are not waterproof. So, if you find yourself in a heavy downpour, you may notice it is not entirely waterproof. We recommend being cautious when exposing the pack to rain and don’t submerge it.

This pack is ideal for the environmentally-minded person who loves style as much as they love functionality. Whether you’re visiting a new city or going on a hiking excursion for the weekend, the Fjällräven High Coast Hip Pack will be a welcome companion.

If you’re a Cotopaxi enthusiast like we are… you’ll love this fanny pack as much as their other products (Hello Cotopaxi Renovo Collection!). The Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack ($60) combines bold colors with sustainable materials. The 2-liter capacity hits a sweet spot for day hikes or city adventures, offering enough space for what you need while maintaining a compact form. With multiple compartments and a comfortable fit, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, though it comes at a premium price.

With a more premium price, there should be lots of unique features. Luckily, that is the case here. We found it to be comfortable for day-long wear, thanks to the adjustable waist and shoulder straps. What sets the Coso apart is its thoughtful organization — with multiple compartments that make it easy to store and access your essentials. It even has an interior pocket with fleece lining!

Overall, the Cotopaxi Coso fanny pack is best suited for adventurers who need a reliable and sustainably made pack. It’s ideal for those looking to carry more essentials — perhaps even for more than one person (whether that’s treats for your dog, snacks for your kid, or anything else).

The Black Diamond Pursuit 6 Waist Pack ($75) is another great technical fanny pack for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. At a spacious 6 L, it’s easy to fit a day’s essentials into this convenient pack. Built very similarly to the Osprey Talon 6, also in our review, it is slightly lighter and less bulky overall, making it very suitable for trail running. 

The BD Continuous Fit harness is a very comfortable waist belt that moves well with your body. Our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, took it on bike rides and mountain trails and was impressed by how well moisture wicked where it sat on her lower back, and that it never felt too heavy or uncomfortable after a long day. 

This pack is generally lighter and less bulky than the similarly designed Osprey Talon in our lineup, and Miya preferred the sleeker profile for scrambling around in the mountains of the Eastern Sierra. 

A standard 20-ounce water bottle fits into the mesh pockets, and adjustable straps tighten to keep them secure. Made with recycled materials, this pack isn’t specifically marketed as being water-repellant, but a water-resistant main zipper and a small flap covering the front zipper do a decent job of keeping out light moisture. From hiking trails to mountain bike single track, the Black Diamond Pursuit 6 will be a good companion.

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack ($35) is perfect for travel, festivals, minimalist hikes, walking the dog, or everyday use. The ripstop nylon fabric is impressively light yet strong. The strap doesn’t offer any padding, but that shouldn’t be a problem because the small nature of this 1L pack prevents heavy loads.

As an added portability bonus, the pack folds into its own pocket when not in use. It’s perfect for stashing in your carry-on just in case or keeping it as a backup in the car. It’s available in a variety of colors.

As mentioned above, this fanny pack has a 1L capacity, making it one of the smaller packs in our fleet. So, don’t expect to carry much with this everyday pack. It won’t fit a book or e-reader, but it’s perfect for a phone, wallet, keys, some chapstick, and a few other small accessories.

This is a great choice for someone who needs a small, high-quality pack made of weather-resistant nylon. It can carry the essentials for you when your pockets are not quite enough. For overall build quality, this is one of the best fanny packs you’ll find.

This spacious fanny pack from BAGGU ($52) is the best everyday, around-town fanny pack in our lineup. With two large main compartments, it can hold our wallet, keys, and phone with plenty of room for more. A small notebook, e-reader, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and some snacks also easily made their way inside. Made of durable, recycled nylon, this pack can also be worn like a crossbody bag.

However, you might want to be careful when loading it up too much. The strap has no padding and could become uncomfortable if you walk around all day with heavier items inside.

We enjoyed the spaciousness and style of this BAGGU fanny for everyday use and think its simple look, functionality, and array of colors and patterns to choose from make it the best around-town fanny pack for almost anyone.

Trail runners and endurance athletes rejoice! The Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack ($40) was meant for you. The streamlined design keeps it light and comfortable while still having enough space to hold a snack, the included 18-ounce water bottle, keys, and phone.

The extended side panels hug the body securely, and the expandable zippered pocket keeps essentials at hand. We especially like the included SpeedDraw Flask and the angle of the bottle pocket, which makes it easy to grab and stash your water on the go.

While the Hydration Waist Pack does a great job at staying close to your body and keeps the water bottle small enough that it doesn’t feel like a huge encumbrance while you run, it’s hard to make a fanny pack that is absolutely bounce-free. So expect some bounce in this waist pack on your runs.

This waist pack is best suited for runners, hikers, or dog walkers who want a fanny pack that can carry some water as well, and don’t mind a very specialized, sporty look.

Gregory, a brand known for its dependable backpacks, has ventured into the world of fanny packs with the excellent Nano Waist Pack ($40). With an incredibly spacious (for a fanny pack) 3.5L capacity, this waist pack is sure to have plenty of space for all your essentials on your next hike, bike ride, errand run, or dog walk. 

In those 3.5 L, our tester could fit a liter of water in the main compartment along with a couple of bars. In the front pocket, she fit her wallet and keys, and the back pocket was the perfect size for her phone as well as provided quick and easy access. This was the perfect amount of items to bring on a short hike out of her hometown in Bishop, Calif., And the breathable, padded back panel along with the wide waistband, made carrying the weight a comfortable affair. 

That 1.5” waistband is long enough to accommodate a range of body sizes. However, there is, unfortunately, no loop to tuck the tail of the strap into to keep it neat and out of the way after you’ve tightened it the desired amount. This leaves the extra straps dangling in the breeze, which might be annoying to some.

This pack, while made with 210-denier nylon, is not DWR-treated, leaving it susceptible to rain showers. Despite these notes, the Gregory Nano Waist Pack is a great choice for those looking for ample space for their hikes or everyday carry.

The Nathan Limitless 2 Liter Sling ($70) is a crossbody sling designed for running. While you can wear this as your standard waist pack, it transforms into a running pack when you wear it across the shoulder and deploy the torso strap to keep the bag secure and snug against your body. The sling comes with an additional 14-ounce hydration flask which gives it more bang for the buck, and its ample 2L size can fit everything else you might need on a short to medium-distance run. 

While we appreciate that this design is intended to bridge the gap between a small fanny pack and a running vest, it doesn’t quite hit the mark for comfort or utility. While the torso strap does a surprisingly good job at keeping the pack from bouncing up and down too much while running, there’s no denying that it feels and looks awkward to have an extra strap wrapped around your torso.

The shoulder strap also has the ability to chafe your neck the way it wraps around the chest and shoulder, and over long distances could become quite uncomfortable. Additionally, there is nothing convenient about this shoulder sling. If you want a sip of water from the hydration flask, you’ll have to undo the torso strap, swing the bag around to your front, unzip the main compartment, and pull out your water flask. 

As far as running hip packs go, we much prefer the design of our award-winning Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack, which keeps everything simple and around the waist for quick and easy access and limited bounce. The Nathan Limitless 2 Liter Sling is a decent hybrid waist pack and shoulder sling, but it isn’t our first choice when we lace up and head out the door.

The Osprey Talon 6 and the Osprey Tempest 6 Waistpacks ($90) are the only fanny packs in our lineup with a men’s and women’s specific model. For a more technical waist pack like this 6L, which can hold a good amount of gear, the build matters more, and the women’s version is made to fit narrower waists more comfortably. 

Our tester, Miya Tsudome, tested the Tempest, taking it out on hikes on the steep trails outside of her home in Southeastern California. Miya filled this waist pack with a 26-ounce water bottle, a light windbreaker, a couple of bars for snacks, a small tube of sunscreen and bug spray, her phone, and her car keys. She chose to put her water bottle into the main compartment of the pack itself because she did not have the small-sized water bottles that fit into bottle sleeves. Even so, there was still plenty of room for what she considers the essentials on any hike.

With a 6L capacity, it’s easy to overload this waist pack with items that make it heavy enough to be uncomfortable over longer distances. While this pack is definitely more nimble than a daypack, it’s good to keep it packed on the lighter side or opt for a daypack for a more comfortable carry. 

The Biostretch waistbelt on the Osprey Talon and Tempest Waistpacks is padded and comfortable, and this pack has more pockets than most of the models in our lineup, making it great for staying organized.

For adventurers who seek water, the Patagonia Guidewater Hip Pack ($239) may be the best option. The Guidewater is a technical, waterproof lumbar pack with a roomy interior pocket, thick, comfortable pads on the waist strap that feel great all day long, and additional features like daisy chain webbing loops on the outside to attach accessories.

This pack is designed with a large central pocket and a smaller detachable pocket inside for phones or wallets. Thanks to waterproof zippers and fabric, it’s waterproof to IPX-7.

This technical fanny pack is definitely overkill for those looking for something simple to take into the outdoors, and its high price tag reflects that. At 9 L, it can be easy to overpack with heavy items, making you wonder if a small backpack might have been the better choice.

But Patagonia markets the Guidewater Hip Pack for fishing and water-laden activities, and it’s the perfect pack for those dedicated to those pursuits.

The Cotopaxi Bataan ($33) is a fanny pack ready for a good time. The main compartment has a two-way zipper, which makes accessing gear a cinch. Two internal mesh pockets keep small items easily accessible. And in case you haven’t noticed yet, it comes in Cotopaxi’s signature bright colors.

Best of all, it’s extra versatile and quality-made with recycled materials. The 3L size holds all the necessities without weighing you down. And the single webbing waist strap is simple and comfortable.

You might not want to get attached to a specific colorway, however, because each fanny pack is designed by employees in the Philippines who control the final colors of the product. Therefore, what you receive might not look quite like what you chose.

All in all, the Bataan is a great pack for biking around town, hanging out with friends, or wearing every day to add some color and flair to your lifestyle.

Long known for making bomber lumbar packs, Mountainsmith’s Tour pack ($90) lives up to that reputation. It has plenty of features and is just the right size for a day hike. For hydration on the trail, each of the side pockets holds a 32-ounce bottle. Or you can stash one with water and one with snacks for fast access on the trail.

The bungee cord is great for storing a rain jacket, and the padded back provides plenty of comfort. The interior foam-padded pocket keeps your tablet (or beloved Kindle) safe, and the hip pocket can hold a large smartphone.

Though packed with many helpful features and a large carrying capacity for time on the trail, this lumbar pack might be a little too much for someone who is looking for something more casual to also carry around town.

The Mountainsmith Tour fanny pack wins best overall for its comfort, size, and functionality for many activities in the outdoors. It’s a great choice for hikers, dog walkers, anglers, mountain bikers, and more, with ample space for accessories. We think it’s one of the best large-capacity fanny packs available today.