"Updated: 7/18/2025"
The fanny pack goes in and out of fashion regularly. A staple of the 80s and 90s, the fanny pack, came back with a vengeance on this season’s runways. While some consider it a relic of the past, others treat it like the ultimate functional and trendy fashion accessory. It even changed its name, lately. Now known as a “waist bag” or a “belt bag,” the fanny pack is more than just a throwback to the past.
Coming in a wide range of models and colors, fanny packs for men and fanny packs for women account now for nearly a quarter of all U.S. accessories’ sales. Present on fashion shows and athleisure streetwear, this comfortable bag is all the rage. Again.
So let’s see today why the fanny pack is the perfect travel companion and why you should get one right now!
What features should a travel fanny pack have?
Tactical fanny packs are accessories that stand out mainly for their practical use. That’s why, when designing these bags, it’s better to focus on functional additions like compartments and pockets rather than overloading them with too many details. Remember, the main purpose of a fanny pack is to keep your small belongings conveniently organized not to confuse you with dozens of tiny pockets. So, three to four compartments at most should be enough to keep things tidy. These compartments are usually added as internal pockets, but exterior zippered sections can also be helpful just make sure the opening is wide enough to be practical, yet secure enough to protect your items.
Another key feature of an ideal fanny pack is that it should be ergonomic enough not to cause back or neck pain. After all, no one wants to sacrifice comfort just to carry their essentials. Considering that fanny packs are often lifesavers during long walks or outdoor activities, it’s essential that the bag is comfortable to wear all day long. If possible, go for ones with padded straps. You can wear it across your shoulder, but also around your waist. In that case, fanny packs made from breathable, organic-based, or cotton-blend fabrics would be the ideal choice.
1. Not too big, not too small… perfect
This year is a strange one, and many people postponed their holiday plans. However, this doesn’t mean we don’t travel or move around.
- The fanny pack can now hold not only your wallet and phone but that small bottle of disinfectant that became a universal “out of the house” companion, a spare facemask, a pair of gloves perhaps, papers, etc.
You might wonder why you would choose the new three-pocketed fanny pack to travel on short distances or during your touristic activities instead of a large backpack. The answer is simple: style mixed with functionality. You don’t need to carry the entire house on your back just to visit your parents across town.
Well, so how much can a travel fanny pack hold? A travel fanny pack can surprisingly hold more than you’d expect but the key is smart packing, not stuffing. Most quality travel fanny packs have a capacity of around 2 to 5 liters, which is perfect for essentials like your phone, passport, wallet, keys, a power bank, hand sanitizer, lip balm, and maybe even a foldable tote or snack.
Some even come with expandable compartments or hidden pockets for extra security and storage. The goal isn’t to carry everything just the must-haves you want close and safe. So when choosing one, think: “What do I need within arm’s reach while exploring?” If it covers that, it holds exactly enough.
2. It is the perfect sightseeing partner
Going on a city-break is something we all look forward to this year. But, by definition, city breaks are short trips dedicated mostly to sightseeing. Sure, you pack a backpack or a duffle bag for two-three nights, but where are you going to keep your minimum-required items while you use your hands to snap pictures and enjoy the local street food?
In a colorful trendy fanny pack, of course! As advice, keep the fanny pack in front of you at waist level at all times, pickpockets are everywhere.
- Other than that, a fanny pack for a day or two of tourism is the perfect travel accessory for summer and winter getaways.
- Pack your ID, phone, power bank, tickets, local transportation travel cards, sunglasses, masks, lip balm, and sunscreen and visit those museums you always wanted to see!
3. It is a versatile accessory for the sporty types
As we said, the fanny pack is an essential element of the athleisure style. But some waist bags took functionality a step forward. For instance, a sports dual outdoor travel fanny waist pack is a perfect solution when you want more storage when hiking, running, walking, etc.
- The zippered pouch with an insulated bottle holder ensures you stay hydrated no matter how many hours you spend hiking or sightseeing.
- Such fanny packs are some of the best accessories when you want to move light and freely for a full day outside, in nature, or a big city you are visiting.
As long as you have comfortable walking shoes on, the fanny pack will provide you with anything you need, from refreshing water to snacks. Such models are large enough to carry the souvenirs you buy for your friends and family back home.
4. It adapts to all your family’s travel needs
Do you want a heavy-duty waist pack with two insulated bottle holders for your family for a short trip to another city or a welcomed weekend getaway in nature? No problem!
- Dad can comfortably wear a utility waist bag with multiple zippered pockets, adjustable compression straps, and pull zippers to easily hand out water, snacks, tickets, hand disinfectant, and IDs to all the family members.
Such highly-utility fanny packs work great for a family day in an amusement park, a hiking day in a gorgeous landscape, or a city break to another city.
5. It makes some types of travel smoother
The ubiquitous transparent three-zippered pocket fanny pack is a staple of stadium events. However, it makes a reliable travel companion when you need to board a plane for a trip for business or pleasure.
- A clear fanny pack, tote bag, or backpack makes travel by plane a breeze, with no concerns related to keeping your items close and passing through security with no delays or issues.
Not so long ago, we offered you a guide on how to pack a transparent bag. Those tips and safety measures apply to fill fanny packs as well. Transparent fanny packs – just like the tote bags and the backpacks – are fantastic fashion accessories because they match almost all types of outfits you consider to wear.
If you travel with the specific purpose of attending an event in another city/country, your transparent fanny pack will take you through stadium/venue security smoothly.
6. It helps you travel light by unconventional urban means of transport
Do you want to know which the perfect compact, small but fitting, lightweight, and practical accessory when you travel by bike, an electric scooter, a Vespa, a skateboard, or a pair of roller skates is? The fanny pack, naturally.
- By keeping it in front of you at all times, you have direct and easy access to your belongings even if you have to use only one hand.
Since bicycles, scooters, and even skates are all the rage right now as eco-friendly means of urban transportation, bringing a fanny pack to the party is the best alternative to traveling light and fast.
Moreover, if you are supporting the global trend of using alternative transport to roam the city without adding to the environmental footprint, why don’t you take things a step further and get an eco-friendly fanny pack too? We recommend you use an ecological 100% post-consumer recycled polyester to accompany that bike or scooter of yours!
Bottom Line
Do you consider the fanny pack a relic of the past, or are you embracing its revival, wearing it everywhere you go? Let us know in the comments sections what you think about fanny packs and whether you would wear one this year or not!
Your Questions Answered
Can a fanny pack count as a personal item on a flight?
Yes, a fanny pack can count as a personal item but it depends on the airline’s policy. Some airlines consider it part of your outfit if it's worn on your body, while others may require you to count it as your one allowed personal item (like a purse or small backpack). To be safe, pack light in your fanny pack and slip it into your carry-on during boarding if needed. It’s a great way to keep travel essentials accessible through security and boarding.
What's the best way to wear a fanny pack for travel?
The most versatile way is across your chest in a sling style this keeps it secure, easy to access, and deters pickpockets. For comfort or when sitting, you can switch it to your waist or hip. Choose a crossbody fanny pack with an adjustable strap so you can change up the position based on your activity (airport, hiking, exploring). The key is balance: keep it snug, but not too tight.
Are fanny packs still in style for travelers?
Fanny packs made a strong comeback and are now both functional and fashionable. Modern fanny packs come in sleek, minimalist designs or bold, sporty styles, fitting all types of travelers. They're often spotted on influencers, hikers, and city explorers alike. It’s the kind of trend that sticks because it’s actually useful.
Are fanny packs comfortable for long periods of travel?
No doubt that fanny packs are one of the most comfortable items especially if you choose one with padded straps and lightweight material. A well-designed fanny pack won’t dig into your shoulders or waist, even after hours of wear. Make sure you don’t overload it carrying just the essentials will help keep it comfortable. Switching how you wear it throughout the day can also prevent fatigue.
Can fanny packs be used for different types of trips?
Fanny packs are great for urban sightseeing, airport travel, theme parks, hiking, and even beach days. You can find waterproof versions for outdoor adventures, stylish leather ones for city strolling, or compact options for minimalist packing. Their hands-free design and versatility make them a top pick for nearly any type of trip.
