Fanny packs are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay organized while on the trail. They offer plenty of storage space for your gear. Moreover, they keep your hands free, so you can focus on your hike. One of the best things about the best hiking fanny pack is that they help to reduce strain and discomfort on your back. A fanny pack, also known as a waist bag or belt bag, is a small bag worn around the waist and typically used to carry personal items while you are hiking.
There are a few things you should always bring with you on a hike, regardless of the length or difficulty of the trail. Of course, water, snacks, and a map are essential, but you must pack some basic first-aid supplies and safety gear. And while you could stuff all of this into a backpack, sometimes it’s just more convenient (and comfortable) to use a fanny pack. In addition, by distributing the weight of your gear around your waist, you can avoid putting additional pressure on your spine, which can cause pain and discomfort over time.
Additionally, waist packs are often more comfortable to wear than backpacks, as they don’t put as much weight on your shoulders. We also reviewed rain poncho, insulated tents and water purification tablets which are essentials for outdoor adventure.
Best Overall Hiking Fanny Pack
1. JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack
JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack is well made, durable and versatile fanny back. This fanny pack comes with various eye catchy colors and patterns with a monochrome strap which is very appreciated. The versatile style allows you to wear it as a sling bag or around the waist. When worn the standard way, the JanSport is low-profile and doesn’t influence around. If you are looking for a very lightweight and spacious fanny pack, then it’s absolutely a good option.
Furthermore, this is an excellent option for hikers who want easy access to their belongings while on the trail. The pack is lightweight and comfortable to wear and has plenty of room for all essentials. The main compartment is large enough to fit a camera, phone, and snacks, and the two side pockets are perfect for holding keys and a map. The waist strap is adjustable to find the perfect fit, and the padded back panel ensures that your back will stay comfortable even when the pack is full.
The size is large enough to hold all the essentials but not so large that it becomes cumbersome. The two pockets are plenty of room to organize your belongings, and the straps are adjustable so you can get the perfect fit. The only downside is that it can get a bit sweaty in hot weather, but overall the JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack is a great choice for hikers of all levels.
Best Budget Friendly
2. Tinyat Travel Waist Pack
This pack is made of high-quality scratch-resistant and waterproof nylon. It’s very much made with a strong, flexible adjustable belt that gives you a sturdy vibe. With such aesthetic qualities, we thought that it could be expensive, but we got surprised because the price cost nothing in front of this overall inventive backpack. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a slim, lightweight pack that doesn’t sacrifice features or style.
The pack comes in various unique colors and patterns, so you’re sure to find one that goes well with your hiking adventure. We like the inward compress pocket and the outer safety pocket on the back of the pack – they add an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
The pack features an inner pocket perfect for holding credit cards, ID, and other small items, and the waterproof design can withstand even wet and rainy conditions.
The adjustable waist strap ensures a comfortable fit, and the reflective strip helps you stay visible in low-light conditions. The only thing which can cause problems for hikers is Tinyat’s size because it is narrow and slim, which is very good for holding for long and fitting best for overall comfort. Still, it can also minimize the carrying capacity of the bag.
Best For Women
3. WATERFLY Slim Fanny Pack
If you need a bag pack with multiple pockets, then the Waterfly slim is all you need. This pack consists of 4 pockets. A hidden pocket is designed to store your cash, passport, card, and so on. There is one main pouch and two small outer pockets. We liked small outer pockets for small items like tickets and keys, and it allowed us to keep items separate. It looks stylish and cute and frees up your hands, so you don’t have to carry anything or have the feel of a bulky purse.
Furthermore, It is made from thin nylon material, but it is sewn well, durable, and waterproof. The buckle and strap both feel very sturdy. The zippers and Velcro are sturdy, and you don’t have to fight with the zippers. We also liked how this pack fits comfortably and lays flat against the waist. We found this bag is so awesome! Very convenient for all purposes. Great for hiking, running, or any outdoor activity. The price is also very reasonable compared to other packs on our list.
The only disadvantage to this backpack is that it doesn’t fit a vast assortment of things. Indeed, even our standard leather wallet was excessively wide to fit easily into this pack. Furthermore, this pack has a general little carrying limit, which restricts its utilization too. Overall, This is an excellent waterproof and ultralight pack. We were stuck in the rain while hiking, but it kept our valuable safe and dry.
4. SoJourner Fanny pack
SoJourner is a brand that produces high-quality fanny packs. The SoJourner Fanny Pack is an excellent choice for hikers who need extra capacity to store snacks, phones, keys, and other small items. The waist strap is neither too thick nor thin and fits nicely on the hiking waist. This pack is sturdy, and you can adjust the straps easily. For us, the sojourner has become our favorite because of its carrying capacity. This fanny more than fit our standardized hip pack “kit,” with room to spare. We loved it because it was incredibly sturdy, and I felt like the inside was deceivingly spacious.
Additionally, The three zippered solid pockets of varying sizes won us to keep everything organized. It is made of a durable poly with an adjustable belt and premium zippers to last the test of time. This bag pack’s fantastic print and funky colors are also highly appreciated. And almost like additional features, it is affordable. Now you are not worried while partying on the beach, enjoying any hike, or at any outdoor activity for your essentials because a sojourner is the only solution for all. The one drawback of this fanny pack is it can bounce if you walk quickly on the trail. We think it’s because of its extra “belly” type shape. However, if adjusted properly, you won’t feel it bouncing.
Best With Water Bottle Holder
5. WATERFLY Hiking Waist Bag
WATERFLY Hiking Waist Bag is another excellent waist pack for the price. The bag is made of water-resistant nylon material, so you never have to worry about your belongings getting wet or moist in the rain. The water bottle holder is also very stable and efficient, keeping your bottle safe and secure while running or jogging.
Furthermore, It has multiple pockets, which are convenient for holding iPhones, keys, cards, wallets, and cash. The adjustable strap fits comfortably around my waist, and the buckle closure makes it easy to take on and off. The reflective strips on the storage bag make it easy to see in the dark, and the back mesh pad keeps the waist dry and fresh while running. It comes in a variety of colors to choose from. It’s lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down on your hike.
We were excited to try out the WATERFLY Hiking Waist Bag, mainly because of its affordable price point. We were not disappointed! The materials used were durable, and the construction was solid. We did notice that it didn’t sit as comfortably as a sling bag, but the overall functionality is excellent. The bottle holder was also a great feature. We loved that it didn’t fall out when we were hiking or moving around. Overall, we were pleased with the WATERFLY Hiking Waist Bag.
Pros:
Extremely lightweight
Durable, high-quality materials
Available in multi-colors
Big space for your essential gear and supplies
Cons:
A bit big and bulky
Best Durable Waist Pack
6. Adidas National Waist Bag
Adidas National Waist Pack is a stylish waist pack option. Made by one of the most reputable names in the business, this waist pack is both comfortable and durable. It’s also very portable, making it perfect for taking hikes or other outdoor activities with you. Even though it looks small, the National Waist Pack provides plenty of room for your essentials, including a water bottle.
It features a versatile design that makes it comfortable to wear in various ways. It had more padding on the back and was delighted to wear for a long time. It also had a durable waist belt. The large bag allowed snacks, phones, and a lightweight cloth for hikes. The additional padding made it pleasant for all hours of daylight use, whether worn on the shoulder or the assertion. The Adidas waist pack is under-land pleasurable as soon as worn, either sophisticated on the shoulder or the waist. We then liked that the excess webbing is kept in place and also a sleek, elastic keeper as down a plastic buckle.
However, the straps look a little bit small and might not fit well if you are bulky. For those looking for more pockets, the two pockets don’t suit as we listed in our list. This could minimize the organizational capabilities of the pack too. But for hiking, people need large compartments more than pockets. However, some customers found that the shape of the backpack was not particularly flattering.
Pros:
Made from high-quality materials
Unique design
Easy to match most kinds of clothes
Lightweight and portable
Affordable product
Cons:
Not large enough
Best Of The Rest
7. Veckle Clear Waterproof Waist Bag
This waist bag is perfect for taking you to hikes and other events where you’ll need to be more concerned about your essentials. This unique transparent design makes it easy to see what’s inside without any hustle. The Fickle Clear Waterproof Waist Bag is an excellent product for anyone who wants to be able to carry their belongings with them without worrying about them getting wet or dirty. The transparent plastic material is also conveniently very waterproof, for the unlikely event that a rainstorm catches you or someone spills a drink on you during hiking.
We were excited to try out the Veckle Clear Waterproof Waist Bag and were not disappointed! It’s perfect for hikes, beach trips, or any time you need to be hands-free while carrying your essentials. The bag is made of high-quality, durable material and super easy to clean – wipe it down with a wet cloth. We love the transparent design because it means we can always see where our belongings are. The bag has three pockets which are perfect for holding a phone, keys, and other small items. The large capacity is great for carrying everything we need without feeling weighed down.
However, we found that the plastic materials can start to feel uncomfortable against bare skin after a while, especially if you’re sweating. Additionally, the buckle is placed right in front of the hip bone, which can be uncomfortable if you’re on long hikes.
8. evoc Hip Hydration Waist Pack
We have used a lot of different hydration waist packs over the years, and the EVOC Hip Pack Pro 3L is my favorite. The hydraulic bladder system with a quick-connect system makes filling and cleaning the bladder a breeze. The 3L size is just right – it’s not too big or too small. And the waist strap is very comfortable, even when the pack is fully loaded. We appreciate the attention to detail that EVOC has put into this pack.
If you’re always looking for new ways to carry water and snacks on your rides, then you’ll love the evoc Hip Pack 3L Hydration Waist Pack. This pack has room for a bladder AND two water bottles, so you can load up on hydration if you need to. I also like that it has plenty of space for snacks and tools. I’ve used it on rides up to 4 hours, and it’s been great. The comfort and fit are outstanding, and the waist system with the two wide overlapping elasticized bands conforms to the body exceptionally well and keeps it stable through rough terrain. The dialed ventilation system helps you stay cool.
It’s one of the most expensive hip packs but also the heaviest model. The storage capacity is also moderate, so if you need a pack for huge rides and want to be able to carry a couple of extra layers of clothing, you might want to look elsewhere.
9. KAVU Spectator Hip Fanny Pack
The KAVU Spectator is a great hip fanny pack! It’s made from high-quality materials, 11 oz 600D polyester, and is very roomy while staying sleek and retro. We love that it has a waist strap up to 50 inches long, so you can wear it comfortably around the waist. We love two main zipper compartments that provide space for smartphones, keys, and wallets and are also great for makeup, passports, or boarding. The clasp and belt are different from anything we have seen but in a good way. A lot of bags have straps that loosen as you move. This one stays precisely where you set the adjustment. The colors are vibrant. We are very impressed with the purchase of the KAVU Spectator Hip Fanny Pack. The material is durable, and the stitching seems well done.
We also appreciate that the back of the pack is padded, which helps prevent objects inside from poking your waist. Overall, this is a great product. The only downside is that the metal tabs on the straps are very lightweight and tend to flop around, making a repetitive clinking sound while walking. Also, the straps tend to loosen slightly every time you take the pack off or put it on, so you need to tighten them up each time you put the pack on.
10.VISCNE Outdoor Lumbar Pack
The VISINE Outdoor Lumbar Pack is a versatile and lightweight pack that is perfect for a day on the trail. It features various carrying options, including a waist belt, shoulder sling, or chest strap, making it comfortable and easy to carry. In addition, the bottle holder is easy to reach on the go, and the pack holds more than it looks.
This lumbar pack is well-made and has tons of compartments to store everything you need while hiking or camping. The VISCNE is a perfect choice. Made from high-quality materials, it’s ideal for carrying your water, food, and mobile phone while hiking, traveling, or doing other outdoor activities. We love the breathable mesh lumbar padding that ensures you stay comfortable even when wearing the pack for long periods.
The two extra shoulder straps and three carrying options make it even more versatile. We got surprised the large pocket contains the aforementioned internal divider and zippered pocket; the lumbar slip is excellent when paired with a zip lock or other bag to keep this from getting wet from sweat. This is a great bag for anyone who loves to hike. We’ve taken it on many hikes, and it’s been incredibly versatile and comfortable every time. The lumbar pack design is excellent for evenly distributing weight, and the padded straps make it comfortable to wear for long periods. The only drawback we see is the bottle holder could be deeper.
11. Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack
The Carhartt Waist Pack is the perfect solution for keeping all the essentials close at hand when out on the trail or sightseeing in the city. Made from heavy-duty poly with Rain Defender durable water repellent, the contents are protected when wet weather rolls in. The adjustable waist strap ensures a comfortable, custom fit, while the multiple compartments and zippered pockets keep everything organized and within reach. We are impressed with the Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack, especially the design. The zippers are top quality, and the size is suitable for carrying the essentials without being too bulky.
Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack is an excellent product for the money. The strap is long and adjustable and holds a lot inside the bag. The zippers feel flimsy, but the size is perfect for carrying essentials. You can even fit a 10-oz water bottle for kids in it. It is an overall perfect backpack, but a bit overpriced than others on our list, and some of the testers found that the material used is very thin. In addition, the two grippers of the two belt parts do NOT stay tight and their position but slip, so whenever I put the item, we need to re-adjust them.
Comparison Table: Fanny, Waist And Lumbar Packs
| Name | Price | Weight | Dimension | Capacity | Material | Pockets |
| JanSport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack | $19.97 | 100 Grams | 6 x 12.5 x 4 inches | 2.5L | 600 Denier Polyester | Two Zippered Pockets |
| Tinyat Travel Waist Pack | $10.59 | 119.7 Grams | 12.2×4.7×4.7 inches | Small | Quality scratch-resistant and waterproof nylon | Three |
| WATERFLY slim Fanny Pack | $12.97 | 5 Oz | 8″x2.5″x4.3 inches | Good | Nylon | Four |
| SoJourner Fanny Pack | $14.99 | 6 Oz | 11.5 x 7 x 4 inches | Huge | Polyester | Three |
| Adidas National Waist Pack | $22.75 | 0.3 pounds | 11.5 x 3.25 x 4.25 inches | 700 ml | 100% polyester | One |
| Veckle Clear Waterproof Waist Bag | $14.99 | 175.77 Grams | 11 x 6 x 3 inch | Good | 0.6MM PVC & WATERPROOF | Two |
| evoc Hip Pack 3L Hydration Waist Pack | $100 | 1.15 Pounds | ‎12.2 x 8 x 3.2 inches | Stores the included 1.5L Bladder with space for your belongings in the 3L bag | Air Mesh. Darington Mesh | Four |
| KAVU Spectator Hip Fanny Pack | $25.00 | 4.8 Oz | 5 x 9 | Good | 600D polyester | Two |
| VISCNE Outdoor Lumbar Pack | $23.99 | 1.2 Pounds | 11 x 5 x 6 Inch | 25 Oz Bottle | Wear-resistant nylon, breathable mesh lumbar, | Five |
| Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack | $29.99 | 200 Grams | 11.5 x 6 x 4.5 | Good | Polyester | Two |
| WATERFLY Hiking Waist Bag | $24.79 | 172 Grams | 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.1 inches | 450 ML | Water-resistant nylon material | Three |
How To Choose Fanny Pack For Hiking
Fit
There’s no doubt about it; the fit of any piece of gear can make or break how much you enjoy using it. While some hikers may prefer a bag that fits closely around their body, others may prefer the freedom offered by a bag that comfortably hangs off the waist. Regardless of your style, ensure that your bag provides enough room to carry your essentials while keeping your back free of discomfort.
Durability
The only thing worse than having a bag that doesn’t fit properly is having a bag that doesn’t last long after being purchased. So whether you’re buying a backpack, messenger bag, or fanny pack, choosing a durable model is essential. Look for features that provide extra padding and protection for your belongings. Also, look for features that increase durability, including zippers that won’t tear easily, sturdy handles for carrying, and stitching that holds tight over time.
Waterproofing
It may seem like overkill, but waterproofing is critical if you plan on using your fanny pack in wet environments. Water leaks inside your bag could compromise the contents and ruin them. So make sure to buy a bag rated to keep out moisture.
Accessibility
Whether you’re looking for quick access to snacks or tools or simply want easy access to your phone, make sure that the pocket design works well for you. For example, when selecting a fanny pack for hiking, look for pockets that allow easy access to items such as keys, cash, sunglasses, etc. You will also need to consider how accessible your backpack is; do you need to reach inside to get something? If so, look for a bag that allows easy access without wasting valuable space.
Storage
If you plan on bringing food on the trail, ensure that the fanny pack has ample storage options. You may consider using a separate lunch bag if you don’t already own one. Alternatively, look for a bag with mesh compartments to help store smaller snacks and utensils.
Comfort
While comfort isn’t necessarily a factor in deciding on a fanny pack, it’s still worth mentioning. After all, no amount of packing will work if you end up uncomfortable all day! In addition to ensuring that your bag fits snugly on your hips, select a style that feels comfortable and balanced on your back.
Price
Finally, make sure that the price of your fanny pack matches your budget. Your bag should not only offer convenience and functionality but affordability as well. Buying a decent quality bag at a reasonable price means that you’ll always have the necessary equipment, regardless of whether you’re going on a short hike or an extended camping trip. Here is the performance comparison based on the price:
Summary
In sum, we believe that the hiking waist pack is an excellent piece of gear to have while hiking and can make your hike much more enjoyable. We reviewed the top 11 fanny packs available in the market. If you are still undecided, check out our comparison table and buying guide to decide.