13 best belt bags that make the perfect summer travel accessory

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The '90s fanny pack is making a major comeback, but if you're hoping for the same neon, one-compartment sling you used to hide under your windbreaker, you're going to be a bit disappointed. With its resurgence, the fanny pack has undergone a modern makeover for a life on the go.

Now known as the stylish and versatile belt bag, your favorite hip accessory from yesteryear has transformed into a hands-free fashion moment that combines both form and function into one easy, sleek method of storing your essentials. 

These are the best belt bags and fanny packs for all of your travels. From hero picks like the Cairo Sling Bag, which is big enough to carry a full-size water bottle, a camera, and more, to slim leather options like the Ikon Bag, there's a belt bag for every need and outfit.

If you're torn on exactly what kind of sling bag you want, you should also check out our article on the best crossbody bags, which has more purse-like picks.

Best overall: Cotopaxi Corso

If you're in the market for a belt bag that you can take on a sightseeing trip, the Cotopaxi Corso is the perfect ultra-functional companion. It's made from ripstop polyester that's resistant to water, so you can rest easy that your valuables won't get wet. Plus, it has a zippered back pocket and an interior fleece-lined compartment for your phone in the main section.

But what makes this bag unique is the front pocket that you can adjust to fit more when you need it. The front is cleverly designed so that you can choose to keep a slim silhouette, or you can expand it outward to make space for a hat, souvenir T-shirts, a small water bottle, or even a packable rain jacket (see our best rain jackets for women piece if you're in the market for one).

Best budget: Quince Nylon Belt Bag

A reliable brand in both quality and affordability, Quince lands as the number one pick for most affordable belt bag. But beyond its reasonable price tag, the Revive Nylon Belt Bag is made from 100% recycled nylon, with four recycled bottles total going into the production of each bag.

It is extremely similar to the lululemon bag — especially in terms of capacity and material. A back slip pocket allows you to store easy-to-reach essentials like your phone, while an interior slip pocket suits all valuables you want to keep inaccessible. It's also lightweight enough to be used daily, helping you run errands more efficiently with just the essentials on you

For more of our favorite picks from the brand, see our full Quince review.

Best sling: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Looking for the ultimate throwback fanny pack with a modern twist? Dagne Dover has just the thing. The brand's beloved Ace Fanny Pack comes in its signature 100% vegan neoprene, which is both stretchy and soft-to-the-touch. The design is clever and streamlined, with the classic fanny pack's zipped pocket at the front and a wider opening featuring a card compartment, a key clip, and a lipstick compartment.

There's even a hidden card compartment on the back for cards you need ASAP. Perfect for everyday wear, this belt bag is incredibly light and looks effortlessly stylish when worn crossbody.

Best everyday: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

One belt bag easily stands above the rest when it comes to versatility, color and size options, affordability, and popularity, and that is the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. For under $40, you'll snag an excellent, water-repellent sling perfected for everyday use. 

The bag's nylon and recycled polyester fabrics make it pliable and comfortable, while the adjustable strap offers a snug fit that stays put on the move. A hidden exterior pocket allows you to keep items like your phone close to your chest, while the main compartment features a mesh pocket to better organize your items. 

With fourteen different colors to choose from including bold and bright options alongside neutrals, there's something for everyone. It's even available in large and mini sizes if you're not content with the 1 liter capacity of the original. 

Best on Amazon: Ododos Mini Belt Bag

If you're looking for a no-frills belt bag that comes in a variety of colors and gets the job done, this ODOS belt bag is a solid option.

An Amazon best seller, this simple-yet-sleek design can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody bag, waist bag, or hand bag. It's lightweight, but roomy enough to hold essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, passport, and credit cards with room to spare in hidden side compartments and a back zippered compartment. Its mostly nylon material makes it very durable, and the variety of colorways available makes it a great unisex option. The best part? Because it's so affordable, you can get it in multiple colors to match multiple outfits.

Best leather: KAAI Ikon Bag

For a belt bag that's both sophisticated and can easily be transitioned from day to night looks, try the KAAI Ikon Belt Bag. Made from 100% Italian cow leather with a sleek matte finish and supple suede interior, this is an elevated hands-free option that combines convenience with style.

The outer magnetic closure makes for easier access to your valuables, while an interior zippered compartment makes the perfect home for cash or credit cards. Unique to the KAAI Ikon Belt Bag is also a small elastic loop to hold pencils or pens, so you're never without something to write with. Choose from eight diverse colors, from cool neutrals to bold, embossed designs.

The only issue is that it's a touch narrow. But if you only carry keys, a phone, a small wallet, and a lipstick or two, then it's perfect.

KAAI's elegant Pyramid Bag also made our list of the best work bags for women.

Best for travel: Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag

If you're looking for an easier, lighter carry-on than a duffle, or simply want to win TSA's most prepared traveler award, the Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag was made for you. While a bit bigger and potentially heavier than some of the other belt bags on our list, the Cairo Sling Bag makes up for its bulk with a variety of smartly crafted compartments to keep you hyper-organized. Fit everything you need and then some in its plentiful pockets that keep your necessities easily accessible, even in a rush.

The Cairo is also made from 100% vegan, recycled materials that prove especially durable for travel, along with an adjustable strap that can transform this bag from a belt bag to a sling. When you're done using it, you can easily pack it away in your luggage once you reach your destination.

See our full Dagne Dover review to see why this fanny pack is one of our favorite picks from the brand.

Best for hiking: Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack

For days spent outdoors, look no further than the utility of the Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack.

With its five-liter capacity, it offers ample storage for snacks, base layers, and so much more while you're on the move. This belt bag is also made from cool and comfortable mesh with a breathable back panel that offers added comfort without extra heat. Stretch water bottle pockets on both sides of the bag mean you'll be able to keep yourself hydrated, while the 100% recycled polyester with a PU coating makes it durable and weather-resistant to any conditions you might face.

Best unisex: Herschel Pop Quiz Hip Pack

When it comes to durable, functional and stylish bags for travel and everyday life, Herschel always provides solid options. The Pop Quiz Hip Pack is no different, with a matte weather-resistant coating that keeps belongings dry during rainy commutes or less predictable hiking weather.

Its variety of unisex color options and sleek design make it a great option for both men and women, and the adjustable strap suits a variety of sizes. Though there's only one main compartment, an internal mesh organizer helps you to keep track of your stuff while a key ring makes sure you never lose your keys again.

Best oversized: Calpak Luka Belt Bag

On the days when you need to carry a bit more with you but still want the hands-free capabilities of a belt bag, opt for the Calpak Luka Belt Bag. Out of all the bags on our list, the Luka Belt Bag has the biggest and deepest dimensions, meaning you can squeeze in a lot more without feeling any additional weight or bulk thanks to the lightweight, flexible material. The slightly quilted design offers a bit more effortless detail than some of the other options on this list, plus it's available in 18 colors, so there's a Luka bag for just about every 'fit.

Best sporty: Athleta All About Crossbody Belt Bag

Then there are the days when all you require is your phone, keys, and a small tube of ChapStick, and for those occasions, there's the Athleta All About Crossbody Belt Bag. Though it's a bit smaller and more narrow, Athleta's belt bag is truly mighty with a zippered front pocket for smaller items and a mesh inner pocket for valuables like your phone.

The waterproof, recycled polyester makes for a softer, more pliable fabric that allows you to stretch in what you need. The strap is also adjustable and detachable, so this bag can double as a mini packing cube for when you're on-the-go. It even has a removable belt so you can wear it as a sling or on your waist.

Best machine-washable: Rothy's The Belt Bag

Sustainability meets versatility in this unique, completely machine washable belt bag by Rothy's. Like the brand's flats, Rothy's Belt Bag is knit with a combination of threads made from marine plastics collected 30 miles from waterways and plastic bottles. The secure magnetic closure allows for easy access to your valuables, while two additional pockets and an interior card slot keep you organized. The best feature, though, is the adjustable and detachable belt, which allows you to wear this bag four ways – across the body, over the shoulder, as a belt, or as a clutch.

For more of our favorite products from the brand, see our full Rothy's review.

Best splurge: Senreve Aria Belt Bag

If you're looking for a belt bag that can truly double as a fashion-forward purse, we highly recommend the Senreve Aria Belt Bag. It's masterfully designed with belt loops on both the exterior and interior of the bag so it can be worn as a belt bag, sling, crossbody bag, or clutch. The shape is also one of the more intriguing on our list, with a magnetic belt-like fastener that proves to be both stylish and secure. 

The Aria Belt Bag isn't short on storage options – the large main compartment can fit your phone, a small wallet, and your AirPods, while a hidden pocket on the front exterior underneath the closing flap fits cards easily. There's also a hidden pocket in the interior for other valuables. While available in a wide variety of vegan and Italian leathers, featuring unique colors and embossed styles, the Aria Belt Bag isn't the most pliable on our list. If you overstuff the bag, you'll have difficulties closing it, making it a better option for a light travel day.

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

This Dagne Dover fanny pack is designed with functionality in mind. Highlights include an adjustable strap, a front zipper pocket, plenty of room for cash and credit cards, and a durable lining made with recycled polyester. Best of all? It's machine-washable and available in six beautiful hues.

Herschel Supply Co. Fifteen Hip Pack

Keep all of your essentials close while remaining hands-free with this unisex pick from Herschel Supply Co. The front zippered pocket is roomy enough to store small belongings, while the adjustable strap allows for a secure fit. Choose from a whopping 23 colors and patterns.

Athleta Excursion Waistbag

Athleta's Excursion Waistband is designed with durability in mind. The recycled nylon and polyester material is both water-repellent and abrasion-resistant to withstand wear and tear. Select from three neutral hues.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L

While small in size, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack 1L — which is especially ideal for hiking, running, and other outdoor adventures — is chock-full of noteworthy features. Not only does the unisex fanny pack have an adjustable strap (extending from 8 inches to 36 inches), but it's also made with recycled fabric. Choose from over a dozen eye-catching color combos.

Clave V. Fanny Pack

This Clare V. fanny pack has beautiful cowhide leather construction, a lined interior, and a front zipper to ensure your essentials stay securely tucked away. The gold-tone hardware adds an extra-stylish touch.

MZ Wallace Metro Belt Bag

With its signature quilted fabric, the MZ Wallace Metro Belt Bag is beloved by many. In addition to its incredibly stylish construction, the bag boasts an exterior zip pocket, an interior zip pocket, and three interior slip pockets to keep all of your belongings organized.

Fjällräven Kånken Water Resistant Belt Bag

This compact belt bag from Fjällräven is unisex, water-resistant, and equipped with several pockets. In addition to an adjustable strap, it also has a top handle, which means you can carry it two ways. Choose from five shades, including hot pink, dark gray, or black.

Ted Baker Pebble Leather Bum Bag

The Ted Baker Pebble Leather Bum Bag is perfect for men seeking a stylish storage solution for everyday use. Its all-black leather exterior is sleek, while the four pockets offer optimal functionality.

Longchamp Le Foulonné Leather Belt Bag

Longchamp is renowned for its timeless, durable, and travel-friendly accessories and this leather belt bag is no exception. We'd also be remiss not to mention the exterior zip pockets, adjustable strap, and buckle closure.

Tumi Daven Waist Pack

Swing this unisex Tumi bag around your waist for easy, hands-free, on-the-go storage. Design highlights include an adjustable strap, lightweight nylon material, and compact construction.

Zorfin Crossbody Fanny Pack

Clocking in at just $20, this Zorfin fanny pack is a steal. It offers a waterproof nylon material, a protective interior lining, four pockets, three card slots, and an adjustable strap that expands up to 54 inches. It's available in more than 30 colors and patterns, too.

Banana Republic Heritage Leather Belt Bag

This structured leather belt bag from Banana Republic adds a hint of preppiness to any 'fit and it looks much more expansive than it actually is. Best of all, it's detachable, which means you can also use it as a wallet. Select from three gorgeous hues.

Isabel Marant Skano Belt Bag

The Skano Belt Bag by Isabel Marant is an eccentric pick, to say the least, and that's why we love it! While the cowhide leather construction is stunning as-is, the gold-hued studs take the bag to the next level for a look that's anything but basic.

 

Lanvin Bumpr JL Nylon Belt Bag

For a sportier look, choose this nylon number from Lanvin. Available in three colors, this men's belt bag boasts a retro '70s-inspired design, an adjustable strap, and a buckled closure.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Woven Leather Belt Bag

There is a lot to love about the Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Woven Leather Belt Bag. Its vibrant purple hue, calfskin leather construction, and signature woven design make it well worth the hefty price tag.

Saint Laurent Leopard Print Nylon Belt Bag

Take a walk on the wild side (sorry, not sorry for that one) with this leopard-printed belt bag from Saint Laurent, which adds a pop of playfulness to any look. The four exterior zip pockets are a bonus.

Balenciaga Explorer Leather Belt Bag

Get out and explore with the Balenciaga Explorer Leather Belt Bag. Featuring both leather and polyester fabrics, this sporty bag—complete with the brand's logo embossed along the front— is a true show-stopper.

Maxtop Large Crossbody Fanny Pack

For a budget-friendly pick that's oh-so versatile, look no further than this Maxtop fanny pack, which comes in over 30 colors and patterns. Its interior is large enough to store a water bottle, phone, passport, keys, cards, and more. The faux leather fabric is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to clean. It even comes complete with a key fob hook and a hidden inner pocket.

Bellroy HeiQ V-Block Water Resistant Belt Bag

Keep everything you need stowed inside this water-resistant belt bag from Bellroy, which also has an interior mesh phone pocket and a key loop. Fun fact: It's made with recycled fibers from plastic bottles.

Carhartt Jake Canvas Hip Bag

The Carhartt Jake Canvas Hip Bag is made with 100% polyester, which is lightweight and versatile. As such, it's great for days spent running, hiking, or exploring with everyone you need within arm's reach.

Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Nylon Belt Bag

Designer Rebecca Minkoff is known for her funky bags, wallets, and accessories, including this trendy quilted nylon belt bag. Thanks to its striking cobalt blue hue, this bag makes the ideal addition to your daily wardrobe.

Open Edit Bella Faux Leather Belt Bag

This chic Open Edit belt bag is made with durable faux leather. Its statement-making round buckle is oh-so-stylish, and it's sure to turn heads — in a good way, of course. Did we mention it's under $65?

Universal Thread Zip Closure Fanny Pack

At $20, you can't go wrong with this faux leather fanny pack from Universal Thread, which is both spacious and stylish. The interior pocket and zippered main compartment are great for storing your stuff and staying organized.

JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack

This under-$20 unisex pick from JanSport has two zippered pockets, making organization a breeze. Its lightweight material and compact size is convenient for daily wear. Alternatively, shell out a few extra bucks and nab one of the other colors, including pink, royal blue, or camo.

Stoney Clover Lane Classic Waist Bag

Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with this adorable Stoney Clover Lane belt bag, which is available in funky hues like bubblegum pink, lilac, periwinkle, and cotton candy. The chic gold-tone hardware is a bonus.

The North Face Mountain Lumbar Pack

This fanny pack from The North Face is small in size but roomy enough to hold your phone, water bottle, wallet, and keys. Smaller items can be stowed in the exterior zipper pocket, while the interior has two pockets, a key clip, and pen holders. Choose from seven color combinations to suit any style.