The 10 Best Fanny Packs for Carrying All the Necessities
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Few accessories carry the controversy and the strong cultural imprint of the belt bag—also known as the bum bag, waist bag, fanny pack, or hip pouch. From its origins in the ’80s, when it was largely associated with mainstream Japanese and middle-American tourists, to its rise in the early ’90s, when its popularity peaked, worn by the likes of George Constanza and the Fresh Prince, the belt bag has defined and transcended practicality.
Fanny packs rose in popularity when portable tech gadgets were introduced—think: the Walkman and original Gameboy. A tote bag was too large and pants pockets too small. The belt bag became the happy medium. In fact, if you go back far enough, before pockets altogether, there are depictions of men sporting versions of belt bags in the Middle Ages. The style is utilitarian at its core, but it also makes a bold statement.
By the late ’90s, belt bags drifted out of favor, only to return in the late 2010s, first as an ironic gesture. In 2017, Louis Vuitton joined forces with Supreme, releasing monogrammed denim bowler shirts, denim jackets, and, yes, cherry-red fanny packs. It became the ultimate hypebeast collection, and the belt bag, this time worn across the chest, started to make its way into accessories lineups of both high-street brands and luxury labels. Today, you’re just as likely to see it on a magazine editors entering the latest Jil Sander show as you are at skateparks across the globe. The belt bag defies stereotypes. It is categorically cool across a spectrum of people.
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Indeed, fanny packs are back in a big way, and the options are more wide-ranging than ever before. This is why we’ve sifted through the many, many belt bags available to give you the best for every kind of scenario and personality type.
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Fanny Packs:
Before examining the top belt bags, you need to know what to look for and which elements best suit your needs and lifestyle. You’re going to want to take into the following key attributes.
Material: Like all bags, fanny packs are made of all kinds of materials. But the most common are nylon, ripstop, and canvas, all of which are known for their ability to withstand a good beating. The former two are also water-resistant, making them ideal for rainy days. For more professional settings, refined leathers are the best options. They’re a real style flex. And for long-distance flights, some of the best travel accessories brands offer exteriors made of ballistic nylon or aluminum, the same kinds used on their celebrated suitcases.
Intended Use: As is often the case, form and function should go hand-in-hand when it comes to fanny packs. Is this an everyday bag meant to withstand wear, tear, and effects time? Or is it something you intend to bring on the plane or train, built to keep your documents safe and handy? Or are you looking for a statement piece? In which case, practicality can go out the window; go ahead, pick the belt bag with a single pocket or brightly hued calf leather exterior. Looking for something that can go to the office? Consider a tasteful genuine leather option with secure storage for both your personal and work cell. Use matters. Always start from there.
Pockets: How much storage are you looking for? Do you leave the house with keys, phone, and wallet, or are you looking for something that can store eyewear and small travel accessories, and keep you streamlined while doing so? How organized are you? Be honest. You want to pick the bag that is the most practical for your needs, something that can separate your most used items in easy-to-access, secure spots. This is why it’s crucial to consider the number of pockets in a fanny pack.
The Best Fanny Packs to Buy Now:
Best Fanny Pack for Traveling: Tumi Alpha Bravo Classified Belt Bag
Best Fanny Pack for the Office: Montblanc Meisterstück Selection Soft Belt Bag
Best Fanny Pack for Hiking: And Wander x Maison Kitsune Logo-Appliquéd Ripstop Belt Bag
Best Everyday Fanny Pack: Lululemon Clean Lines Belt Bag
Best High-Fashion Fanny Pack: Comme des Garçons Homme Two-Way Zip Belt Bag
Best Cult-Classic Fanny Pack: Prada Re-Nylon and Saffiano Leather Belt Bag
Best Statement-Making Fanny Pack: Loewe Puzzle Small Leather Belt Bag
Best Streetwear Fanny Pack: Off-White Arrow Buckle Tie-Dye Nylon Belt Bag
Best Heavy-Duty Fanny Pack: Rimowa Aluminium Swing Clutch
Best Vintage-Inspired Fanny Pack: Ghurka No.114 Chestnut Leather Belt Bag
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