6 Ways to Wear a Fanny Pack: Stylish & Practical Belt Bag Ideas for Travel and Everyday Life

By Margaret Sullivan for Hi Love Travel

Two women walking on a beach, one using a phone and the other holding a water bottle, both wearing fanny pack belt bags.

Once considered just a practical accessory, the fanny pack (now more popularly known as the belt bag) has officially become a travel and everyday style staple. Lightweight, hands-free, and endlessly versatile, today’s crossbody belt bags and fanny packs are designed for everything from airport days to workouts, festivals, errands, weekend adventures, and more.

Hi Love Travel’s fanny packs combine fashion and function with lightweight, water-resistant materials and versatile styling options. Whether you love a sleek lay-flat silhouette or prefer the sporty look of a puffer style, there are countless ways to wear one depending on your day (and your destination!)

Here are six ways to wear your fanny pack: 

1. Around the Waist

The original way to wear a fanny pack is still one of the best. Worn around the waist, this look keeps your essentials secure and accessible while staying completely hands-free.

Perfect for:

  • Walking tours
  • Theme parks
  • Exercising
  • Running errands
  • Festivals and concerts
Person in white outfit and gray belt bag with city skyline and river in background
Women hiking in nature carry puffer crossbody fanny pack belt bag in gold

2. Crossbody

One of the most popular ways to wear a fanny pack today is as a crossbody belt bag. Worn across the chest, this style feels modern, elevated, and incredibly functional to reach all of your essentials.

Perfect for:

  • Airport travel
  • Hiking
  • City exploring
  • Everyday wear
  • Keeping valuables close

3. Worn in the Back

For a more understated look, wear your fanny pack crossbody but positioned toward your back. This styling option feels casual, cool, and comfortable  especially for active days. 

Perfect for:

  • Beach day
  • Bike rides
  • Long walks
  • Outdoor events
  • Casual days on the go
Girl on beach wearing Puffer Crossbody Fanny Pack Belt Bag in Watercolor Tie Dye
Lay Flat belt bag in black worn over the shoulder by a man on a boat.

4. Slung Over the Shoulder

The shoulder-slung fanny pack look has become a go-to style for both men and women. Worn loosely over one shoulder, it gives a relaxed, effortless vibe while still being practical.

Perfect for:

  • Boating
  • Coffee runs
  • Sporting events
  • Weekend travel
  • Athleisure outfits

5. Clipped to Another Bag

One of the most functional ways to use a fanny pack? Clip it directly onto another bag handle. This makes staying organized during travel easier while remaining hands free and keeping your most important items within reach. 

Attach it to:

Person sitting on a couch with a cityscape view, holding a white tote bag with gray belt bag clipped on it.
Woman in a pink dress and white hat standing by a waterfront with city skyline in the background

6. Belt to a Dress

Who says a fanny pack has to be worn casually? One of the most unexpected ways to style a belt bag is by using it as a statement belt over a dress.

Perfect for:

  • Vacation outfits
  • Brunch dates
  • Summer events
  • Sightseeing days when you don't want to carry a purse

Why Use a Fanny Pack?

Fanny packs have become popular again for one reason: they make life easier!

Today’s best belt bags have:

  • Lightweight comfort
  • Hands-free convenience
  • Secure storage
  • Versatile styling
  • Travel-friendly organization

At Hi Love, our fanny packs are designed with water-resistant, lightweight materials made for active lifestyles and travel.

Whether you choose the sleek compact lay-flat style or the sportier puffer fanny pack, they’re designed to move effortlessly from workouts to travel days to every moment in between. 

Black belt bag with passport and ticket on a white background