![\"Fanny](\"http:\/\/setupjunkie.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/BestFannyPack_PCMattGranger_CampPhotos2021-700x467-1.jpg\")
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All the rage in the \u201990s and the topic of much ridicule in the decades since, hip\/waist\/fanny packs are almost certainly here to stay<\/strong>. Heck, more than that \u2014 they\u2019re making a strong comeback. From fishing to trail running and travel to bike commuting, fanny packs prove endlessly versatile and useful.<\/p>\n Our expert gear testers have been reviewing fanny packs since 2021, carefully researching dozens of models before choosing 20 of the best on the market to put to the test. Five new fanny packs have been added to the lineup for 2024, and each pack in this review has been carried around over the course of several weeks and over dozens of miles by our testers \u2014 from the Sierra mountaintops to the Washington coast, to the local dog park and farmer\u2019s market. <\/p>\n Even the skeptics among us have to admit fanny packs are pretty great. Whether you want to carry a snack, pack your phone, stash hydration, or speed through airport security, a fanny pack helps you do it all without the hassle of slipping shoulder straps or unreachable zippers.<\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re looking for a technical pack to fit all the essentials on your next hike, or you\u2019re looking for a more basic model to tote around town, our selection covers it all. And each model has been measured in categories such as capacity, carry, and comfort. <\/p>\n At the end of our comprehensive review, you\u2019ll find our buyer\u2019s guide<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>with helpful tips on how to find the best fanny pack to fit your needs. We\u2019ve also included a specs chart<\/strong><\/a> for comparing bags and an FAQ<\/strong><\/a> section.<\/p>\n Editor’s Note: We updated our Fanny Packs guide on March 13, 2024, to add a new selection of bum bags, including the versatile REI Co-op Trail 2, the trail-run-ready Black Diamond Pursuit 6, and the do-it-all Gregory Nano Waist Pack.<\/em><\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMade from recycled materials with a DWR finish<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBack stash pocket for valuables<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSimple and versatile for town-to-trail<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDWR coating but no waterproof zippers<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOn the small side<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n The REI Co-op Trail 2<\/a><\/strong> ($30) is a great little fanny pack that not only provides high value for its low price tag, but also works for a variety of activities and is subtle enough in its design to appeal to different styles. Choosing the best overall fanny pack is a difficult task, but this pack from REI strikes the best balance between being functional for the outdoors, while also being great for casual use.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n A small, 2L capacity is enough for small accessories on your next-day hike or dog walk. A DWR coating keeps the elements at bay, and a spacious back stash pocket keeps your valuables close. Though the capacity is on the smaller side compared to some of the other fanny packs we tested, it keeps the weight manageable, and the pack never felt too heavy. Additionally, the Trail 2 lays flat and isn’t bulky in any way, and doesn\u2019t sag down over your hips.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, always appreciates a back pocket to keep valuable items close and secure. The back pocket on this waist pack has a zipper and is quite spacious, increasing the appeal of the pack.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Miya often found it nice to wear as a shoulder bag while biking, and the slim profile ensured that it didn\u2019t get in the way too much while riding. The REI Co-op Trail 2\u2019s<\/a><\/strong> utility, sustainable materials, and affordable price make this our choice for the best overall fanny pack.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLightweight<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tComes in many different colors and patterns<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAffordable<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo inner security pocket<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo breathable mesh back<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n This simple Fifth Avenue<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>fanny pack from Jansport ($20) is an excellent budget option. An affordable price, simple yet functional design, and many different colors and patterns to choose from make it a great choice for everyday carry. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n The adjustable waist belt allows you to wear this pack comfortably as a crossbody bag. And the Fifth Avenue’s small size prevents it from getting too heavy and having the strap dig into your shoulder. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n Throughout use, the fabric was robust, being made with a strong, 600-denier ripstop polyester. We also loved that the textile is constructed from 100% recycled materials.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n There are some features on our top-rated fanny packs that are lacking in this simple bag. Our lead tester tends to prefer fanny packs to have a security pocket, which is a small interior pocket where your valuables are more tucked away. She also likes bags with mesh backs for breathability, which she finds becomes especially noticeable on hikes, bike rides, or long dog walks.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Other than these missing attributes, the Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack from Jansport<\/strong><\/a> is a great, fun choice for those with a tight purse.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimalist running pack for water and essentials<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLight<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tComfortable and ergonomic fit with minimal bounce<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIncludes a water flask<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAngled bottle holder allows for one-handed access<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVery small capacity<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo pocket for storing a jacket<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tExpect some bounce while running<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSpecialized, sporty look<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Trail runners and endurance athletes rejoice! The Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack<\/strong><\/a> ($40) was meant for you. The streamlined design keeps it light and comfortable while still having enough space to hold a snack, the included 18-ounce water bottle, keys, and phone.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n The extended side panels hug the body securely, and the expandable zippered pocket keeps essentials at hand. We especially like the included SpeedDraw Flask and the angle of the bottle pocket, which makes it easy to grab and stash your water on the go.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n While the Hydration Waist Pack<\/strong><\/a> does a great job at staying close to your body and keeps the water bottle small enough that it doesn\u2019t feel like a huge encumbrance while you run, it\u2019s hard to make a fanny pack that is absolutely bounce-free. So expect some bounce in this waist pack on your runs.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n This waist pack is best suited for runners, hikers, or dog walkers who want a fanny pack that can carry some water as well, and don\u2019t mind a very specialized, sporty look.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Best Fanny Packs of 2024<\/h2>\n
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\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\tBest Overall Fanny Pack\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tREI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\t\tSpecs\t<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2 L<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t11.5\u201d x 5\u201d x 2\u201d<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4.3 oz.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTwo plus main compartment<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/setupjunkie.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/trail-waist.png\")
<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\tPros\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\n\t\t\tCons\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\tMallory Paige<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t$21 at REI<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\tBest Budget Fanny Pack\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tJansport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\t\tSpecs\t<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2.5 L<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6\u201d x 12.5\u201d x 4\u201d<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4 oz.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOne main zippered, one front<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/setupjunkie.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Jansport-Fifth-Avenue-Fanny-Pack.jpg\")
<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\tPros\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\n\t\t\tCons\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\tMallory Paige<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t$16 at Amazon<\/a>Check Price at Jansport<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\tBest Running Fanny Pack\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tNathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\t\tSpecs\t<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t0.25 L<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t12" x 6" x 5"<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6 oz.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOne zippered stretch, one water bottle<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/setupjunkie.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nathan-Peak-Hydration-Waist-Pack.jpg\")
<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\tPros\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\n\t\t\tCons\t\t<\/h4>\n
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\n\tMallory Paige<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t$40 at REI<\/a>$40 at Amazon<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\tBest Everyday Lightweight Fanny Pack\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPatagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\t\tSpecs\t<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t1 L<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t8" x 4.75" x 2"<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t3.5 oz.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTwo zippered<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"The](\"http:\/\/setupjunkie.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Patagonia-Ultralight-Black-Hole-Mini-Hip-Pack.jpg\")
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