Fanny packs or waist bags for sports and travel have a long and rich history. Much as they only started resurfacing recently and some people may think of them as a current trend, they were popular since the 60s. Melba Stone, an Australian woman, is said to have invented the first bum bag – as they were called in some parts of the world – in 1962. Her inspiration? Kangaroo pouches, which makes sense given their design.
They made rounds for well over 20 years before fading into obscurity until fashion week made them popular again a few years ago. Today, the best waist bags for sports and travel are a show of fashion upward mobility.
What do you look for when shopping for one? We discuss that in this article, review the best waist bags for sports and travel on the market, as well as answer a few of the most frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
- Waist Bags for Sports and Travel – Review & Buyer’s Guide
- 1. SPIbelt Running Belt Original Pocket
- 2. SoJourner Holographic Rave Fanny Pack
- 3. Waterfly Fanny Pack
- 4. Waterfly Fanny Pack
- 5. Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack
- 6. Fanny Pack for Men and Women – Yome
- 7. Piscifun Fishing Bag
- 8. Tinyat Travel Fanny Bag
- 9. EOTW Fanny Pack Waist Bag
- Waist Bags for Sports and Travel – Buyer’s Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Waist Bags for Sports and Travel – Review & Buyer’s Guide
1. SPIbelt Running Belt Original Pocket
This running belt is simply designed with the sole purpose of giving you space for the most essential features when working out or running errands. It is quite small – 6.5 x 3 x 2 inches – and so the only that that fit besides the phone will be keys and a credit card or two. It will not be in the way when you run or walk, thanks to its size.
Besides, it has a sturdy strap that fits sizes 24 through 47 inches, and it is flexible to sling across the shoulder should you prefer this. Because it is elastic, it will not shift as you run and especially as long as you fasten it properly. The buckle is sturdy and will not be unclipped easily. The one zipper on the pack is metal and sturdy enough to protect your stuff. It is easy to clean by hand and if there are any stains, a mild detergent will do. These SPI belts come in several colors.
- Lightweight and expandable.
- Sturdy buckle
- Adjustable strap.
- Material is water-resistant and durable.
- Quite small.
- No holes for headphones.
2. SoJourner Holographic Rave Fanny Pack
The Sojourner waist bag is a little bigger than most as it is meant to handle more items, and for that, we recommend it for walks. Perfectly stitched and made of strong vinyl, 900d high-end poly with a strong liner, this pouch can sure handle little more than just keys and the phone. They are available in many exciting colors too. The zippers are premium and durable.
Measuring 10.4 x 5 x 1.7 inches and weighing 3 ounces, this waist bag carries quite a lot in each of the three pockets. The strap is made of the same material as the rest of the bag and is flexible enough to be slung across the back. If this bag is a little distracting when carried from the front as should, you can sling it on the side where it won’t come into contact with the feet. The inside of all three pockets is made of holographic material.
- Three pockets.
- Colorful choices.
- Quite cheap.
- Sturdy material and strap.
- It can be a little distracting when running thanks to its size.
- No mention of RFID blocking pockets.
3. Waterfly Fanny Pack
The Waterfly Fanny Pack is the ideal pack for day travel. It has side pockets for a water bottle and an umbrella. That said, it is not ideal for sports because it is a little too big. Made of nylon for longevity this waist pack is made even better by the high-grade PV valentine breathable pads inside that ensure your stuff stays aerated. The thick strap for the waist is adjustable to handle between 22” and 52” waistlines. It is also breathable and comfortable even when kept on the waist for long hours. Being that flexible in size, you can sling it across the shoulder too.
The compartments in this bag make it ideal for those with lots of little things to bring on a day trip. The main compartment fits a phone, small book, 7.9” iPad mini, some snacks, and identification documents. Compartment dimensions: 9.4*2.7*7 inches for the largest, 9.4*1.3*7 inches for the second, and 6.6*0.78*5.9 inches for the third.
- Has water bottle and umbrella holders.
- Adjustable strap – 22”~52”
- Main compartment and two other pockets.
- Reflective stripe for night visibility.
- Not waterproof.
- Too big for sports.
4. Waterfly Fanny Pack
This Waterfly Fanny Pack is slim, reasonably sized for running and sturdy. Made of soft polyester, this waist bag can handle a bit of water as it is resistant, but a downpour will drench everything inside. Its adjustable strap accommodates up to 50 inches and so it is ideal for both big and small-waisted people. It is available in so many colors and ideal for outdoor activities, thanks to its size.
The main pocket is 7.8 inches, and so it will fit large phones. An inside pocket that is hidden within the pack’s walls is 6.4 inches and will fit a smaller phone, credit cards, passports, and other personal effects. Another pouter pocket will handle keys.
The zippers for the two outer compartments are sturdy, made of metal and will not be opened easily by a pickpocket. You can sling this bag any way you like since the strap is versatile. While the material is not waterproof, it is water-resistant.
- Many color choices.
- Compartmentalized.
- Adjustable waist belt.
- Snug fit for safety.
- Water-resistant, not waterproof.
- Quite small.
5. Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack
The Nathan Peak waist pack is meant to help you stay hydrated when you participate in sporting activities and so a water bottle pocket is prominently at the front. A compartment that handles an 18 oz. /535 ml flask at the front is designed to make it easy to pull the bottle out when one is engaged in activity. An expandable zippered stretch pocket is the only other compartment on this bag and it fits a 7-inch phone as well as a passport and cards easily. Not much else will fit because it was designed to hold only what is essential.
The strap is elastic and so it stays in place as long as you fasten it right. It has a sturdy buckle that is not easily unclipped and it can be adjusted to fit a 40-inch waistline. It is multi-purpose if you would rather sling it across the shoulder.
- Fit a water flask easily.
- Material is water-resistant.
- Velcro strap that stays in place.
- According to some reviewers, the waist pack bounces up and down uncomfortably.
6. Fanny Pack for Men and Women – Yome
Yome’s fanny pack with three pockets is quite cheap, yet large at the same time and ideal for travel. The first compartment is large enough to handle a water bottle – 550ml, and an iPhone 10. The second internal pocket is within the pack’s walls and it is hidden perfectly for cards, passports, and other personal effects that you want to protect yet access easily. The third pocket is on the outer part of the waist pack and ha a key ring attached to it.
It is made of 900D Oxford material that is water-resistant and not so hard to clean. Available in five colors, this waist pack is well-stitched and has a water-resistant lining to keep your items dry under light showers. Measuring 12.8” L x 7.08” W x 5.2” H, it is not so large that it could overwhelm you, but we would recommend it for travel more than sporting activities. The zippers are sturdy and the waist belt adjustable. It has an opening for earbuds. It fits up to 49 inches in the waist.
- Three compartments.
- Sturdy material.
- Has an opening for earbuds.
- 2-year warranty.
- It bounces up and down.
7. Piscifun Fishing Bag
The first thing you notice about the Piscifun Fishing Bag is its design. It is unique both in color and material, and you can also tell it handles extreme weather quite well. Available in Khaki, army green, and camouflage, this waist bag is multi-functional, thanks to the fact that you can sling it anyhow you wish. Weighing 10.50oz and measuring 12.2 inches (L) x 4.7 inches (W) x 5.3 inches (H), it has three pockets. The main one measures 9″x 3.4″ x 5.3″ and is ideal for your licenses, cards, and other documents. On the side is a mesh pocket that handles a water bottle or other thing you many prefer there.
The belt on this bag is unique, thanks to the fact that it can be adjusted two-ways. It is sturdy and thick to reduce the pressure on the waist when the pack is filled. The strap fits up to 56″ and has a quick-release buckle. A hook and loop fastener on the exterior part of the belt is for holding the extra part of the belt.
- Durable buckle.
- Premium SBS zippers.
- Has a hidden anti-theft pocket.
- Quite cheap.
- Some parts are flimsy – such as the belt.
- Not waterproof.
8. Tinyat Travel Fanny Bag
The Tinyat Fanny Bag coms in many colors and is ideal for light travel. This waist bag that has a simple design measures 12.2×4.7×4.7 inches and weighs 4 ounces. It is made of nylon that is not only water-resistant and light but is also easy to care for. An inner lining further acts as a barrier for water and is also soft to protect your phone and other items that are easy to scratch. Though the material is water-resistant, it will not protect your phone in the event of heavy rains or submersion in water.
It has two main compartments and an inner pocket. The larger compartment will handle a big-screened smartphone while the others will hold your keys, cash, and cards safely. Inside is a hidden pocket for your confidential items.
The strap is made of the same material as the pack and is sturdy just as would be expected. It can be multi-purposed to sling across the shoulder if that is your preference or on the waist, as far as adjustment, it fits waist sizes 24”-50” for both men and women.
- Light and compact.
- Two main compartments that are the ideal size for their purpose.
- The material is easy to clean.
- Not fully waterproof.
- The minimum waist size is 24 inches.
9. EOTW Fanny Pack Waist Bag
For the price of two buggers, you can get this trendy fanny pack from EOTW. It is quite simple in design with its adjustable waistband, four compartments and laid-back colors that make it ideal for all genders. The main compartment is large enough to hold a cellphone, passport, and tickets or cards while the other smaller ones will take care of the rest.
It is made of nylon, which is durable and light, and inside a lining prevents water from damaging your items. That said, this product is not waterproof and so it will not handle submersion in water. It is easy to clean as all that is needed is a piece of clothing and warm, soapy water. The zippers are sturdy and smooth-flowing to open without any issue. The waist belt is Velcro and so it fits snugly when fastened and it fits 19-47 inches.
This product is super light and ideal for a host of activities whether hiking, cycling, traveling, camping, or even fishing. It will protect your personal effects without you having to keep a constant eye on them every second.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Water-resistant and easy-to-clean material.
- Sturdy premium zippers and buckle.
- Adjustable strap.
- Bounces up and down when you run.
Waist Bags for Sports and Travel – Buyer’s Guide
Waist bags for sports and travel come in different shapes and sizes and they also have all sorts of designs. These are some of the most essential on our shopping list.
Robust Material and Slash-resistance
Nylon, polyester, and leather are three of the most popular materials used for these bags because they are durable. They are not tough to the touch but at the same time, will protect your stuff from slight showers. You want to check whether the fanny pack has slash-resistant panels that are enforced with a steel mesh to prevent petty thieves from gaining access into your bag. Few of them will be fully slash-proof, but it is okay as long as the pockets are protected.
Organizational Pockets and Sections
You want a pack that has as many inner pockets as possible to accommodate all your personal effects, being as the main reason behind carrying a waist bag – besides looking fashionable – is to keep your stuff in one place. You want an outer pocket that is large enough to hold your phone and inner pockets inside the pack for keys, papers and other things that you don’t need to access at a second’s notice.
If you can find a waist bag with an RFID blocking pocket, then that would be even better because your cards will be safe from any likely identity theft.
Adjustable Straps
A strap is one of the most important features of a waist bag because it will determine how flexible it can be and how well it will fit any part that you prefer to sling it. It is even better when it is multi-purpose because then you can sling the bag across your shoulder and not have to worry about anything. Most of the time, they are made from the same material as the bag, and so they are sturdy. You also want to look out for a reasonably thick strap that will stay comfortably wrapped on your waist without any strains.
Size of the Waist Bag
This is mostly determined by how you intend to use your waist bag. If you are primarily buying it for sports activities, then you may want one that will not curtail your movements but at the same time hold everything in one place. So, while it should at least hold a 500ml water bottle, it shouldn’t be so long that your upper thighs knock it all the time as you run. You also want to ensure that the pack is lightweight not to weigh you down.
Other Features
Sporting activities will mostly take you out of your comfort zone and you will likely find yourself running in the rain. You may want to think of waterproof or resistance for your waist bag depending on what you will be carrying.
You may also want to consider the price of your waist bag. Naturally, most of the cheapest items in the market are not long-lasting and so pinching pennies isn’t the best policy as far as buying a good product goes. The cost will be pegged on the material and features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion – Wrapping Up
Waist bags have been trending for a while now and judging from their popularity in the early years, it is safe to say they will be around for much longer this time. While they may be a fashion and style statement, we find them quite handy for people that want their hands free and all personal effects in one safe place.
We reviewed our favorite items based on what we thought was best for you in terms of features and prices. We hope you find one that is just right for your needs. The buying guide is also thorough and we hope it makes the shopping experience easier and fruitful.
As usual, we have based all our research on products and information available online and will keep updating it to match any new information. When are you buying a new waist bag?
Leave a Reply