19 Best Fanny Packs 2023: Top Picks From MZ Wallace, Lululemon, & Prada

07.08.2023 - 18:15 / cntraveler.com / Megan Spurrell

Like many trends we thought we’d lost to the ’90s, fanny packs are back in style, and for travelers, that's a great thing. The best fanny packs have always been the most practical way to tote your essentials around—be it your phone, hotel key, or wallet—with quick, hands-free access. And thanks to the resurgence in popularity over the last few years, there are now designs made specifically for everything from the trail to the city. Whether you want to elevate your summer outfits with an upscale leather piece or are looking for a tough, minimal belt bag for your next hike, there are styles here for you. And as we're transitioning out of summer and into fall, you'll find a mix of vibrant and light colors that will brighten your look as well as classic black options that we’re sure will become old reliables. 

Read on for the 19 best fanny packs to wear on all your upcoming trips—they'll make reaching for your passport, wallet, and sunglasses a breeze.

The best fanny packs are versatile, durable, and stylish. With these qualities in mind, we looked for various high-quality options that varied in material, size, adjustability, and price. We found fanny packs that can be worn for multiple occasions, are comfortable on your waist, and offer plenty of space for carrying your must-haves—and look good, too.

They're very similar—a fanny pack is usually worn around the waist like a belt while a sling bag lays higher across the shoulder and chest. Both offer hands-free comfort, just at different sizes. Fanny packs are often smaller, and have one main compartment pocket, while sling bags can have the bandwidth to hold as much as a backpack or purse.

The short answer—yes. Fanny packs have gone in and out of style but the practical use has always made it a popular accessory among travelers. Fanny packs are ideal for occasions where you want to be hands-free, and find more comfort carrying a bag around your waist rather than your shoulder, chest, or back. A large purse or bulky backpack can be burdensome on long travel days.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Kristi Kellogg and Megan Spurrell.

Leave it to Lululemon to create a versatile waist pack that's designed for an active lifestyle. The water-repellent fabric and lightweight material makes it a comfortable bag to carry around all day, no matter what the weather throws at you. In addition to the zippered compartment, there's an easy-access exterior pocket that can fit cards, cash, or sunglasses (if you slip them in without a case).

Dimensions: 7.5"H x 2"W x 5"DMaterial: Polyester, nylon

Sleek, soft, and durable, neoprene is one of our favorite fabrics, whether it's a zip-up jacket or a