22 fanny packs that might make you ditch the diaper bag

We’ve never met a Quince product we didn’t love, and currently this one is at the top of the list. First of all, it’s classy and looks expensive AF. BUT IT’S NOT. For less than $70 bucks, this gorgeous number doesn’t skimp on materials (Italian pebbled leather and just-chunky-enough gold hardware), space (roomy but not too big), or ethics (it’s produced in a factory that treats workers fairly). It comes in five different colors and we’re obsessed with all of them.

We’ve always loved Béis for travel so it’s no surprise their pandemic close-to-home creation hits all the marks as well. (One reviewer called it the “holy grail of fanny packs,” so you know it’s good!)  The main compartment, which is easily large enough for a spare diaper and some wipes, features two zippers, conveniently allowing it to open from either side. (This is so handy to me because it means I can wear on either shoulder.) Inside you’ll find card slots and a key fob to keep the important things easy to access. There’s a separate zip pocket at the back which is large enough to accommodate my giant iPhone Pro Max. And because there’s no firm structure to it, it’s super lightweight and perfect for travel. But can I be super honest with you for a sec? It’s really that cool paracord strap that makes it one of my favorites.

From the gold hardware to the metallic cloud-like nylon, we’re totally gaga for this gilded beauty from Caraa. The scoop-style zippered top makes it easy to access your must-haves and an internal key fob keeps keys handy. (It also comes in a ton of other fun neons and neutrals.)

–S.G.

Fanny pack, but make it fashion. This leather stunner from State Bags is deceptively roomy but still compact. Available in two different strap lengths, it’s a favorite for its versatility and ability to dress up or down. And not only does this sophisticated stunner carry all your essentials—it also gives back to families in need. Since their launch in 2013, State Bags has used the power of the brand to support causes all around the world in the ways they need it most. Refreshing, isn’t it?

We love Dagne Dover’s neoprene bags with their chunky zippers and spot-on details. Available in sixteen fun colors (including the brand new for summer “Heatwave” hue which is a total show stopper), it boasts a slew of convenient features like a handy key clip, card slot and elastic loop inside (perfect for hugging your chapstick!) and even a credit card pocket on the back for easy access.

Designed by mamas, for mamas, this stylish pack from Freshly Picked can hold diapers and wipes along with the essentials. Access is easy thanks to a magnetic clasp (because how many hands do you really have when there are kids involved?) and both the inside and outside are completely wipeable. Inside you’ll find four card slots along with a zip pocket at the back to keep you organized.

Yes, another pick from State Bags because it’s too hard to choose. (#NotSorry) Not only did this bad boy rack up at 5,000 person waitlist, it also relaunched with a longer strap option due to popular demand. It’s roomy, durable and features two separate main pockets to keep things organized. There’s a bunch of great colors to choose from as well!

How about a fanny back that also saves your back? The raved-about Tushbaby offers comfort for both parent and kiddo with a memory foam-lined seat that promotes hip health and a seriously supportive padded belt which evenly distributes baby weight. It even provides ample storage for diapers, wipes and essentials, eliminating the need for an additional diaper bag. You’re freeeee!

Perfect for just the essentials, this no-frills option from Herschel Supply comes in a ton of colors and patterns. And their warranty program is 🙌!

As a mom who crammed a diaper and a couple of wipes into my coat pocket and hoped for the best, I really wish Kibou had been around when I was slinging babies. Dubbed “The Deliberately Minimal Diaper Bag” this brilliant mama-made design has thought of everything. It’s got plenty of space for snacks and diapers, a built-in waterproof pocket for wipes or blowout soaked onesies and—get this!—a detachable changing pad that unfolds from the back flap. Smell ya later, giant diaper bag. –S.G.

And! You can feel good knowing your purchase gives back, too. Kibou gives 1% of every sale to mothers and children affected by incarceration via Hour Children.

Between the price point, cheery color and rave reviews, this one from Target is a no-brainer.

One of the most coveted fanny packs is the $38 Everywhere Belt Bag from Lululemon. The problem? It sells out within 30 minutes every time they drop a new batch. Stop chasing it! You’ve got better things to do. Instead, be the cool label-eschewing mama and snatch up this bargain spot on dupe instead. It’s $20 cheaper and comes in a bazillion colors to go with everything. It’s perfect for Saturday morning pilates!

From the brand that’s synonymous with diaper bags, Petunia Pickle Bottom’s on-trend belt bags are made of a mom-friendly faux leather that can be wiped down and easily cleaned up when handled by sticky fingers. Also, bonus points for leopard.

The durable, made-to-last leather goods from Parker Clay seem to get better with age. (Just like you, right?) All their styles are timeless and versatile–including this beauty that can be worn around your waist or over the shoulder with the addition of a shoulder strap. (There’s loops flush against the back to add it to!)

Want more to love? In addition to sustainably sourcing their leather from local Ethiopian providers, Parker Clay’s Ethiopian factories employ at-risk women and provide them a safe work environment and livable wage. Through their employment, they’re also given opportunities to learn and develop new skills and advance their careers.

Designed for outdoor adventures, this is one bag you can easily hand off to dad when it’s his turn to fly solo. The pack itself is super roomy and waterproof with straps at the bottom that can be used to secure a coat or even a water bottle. We also love the curved opening which makes it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Moms everywhere love MZ Wallace for their crazy parenting-friendly totes, and turns out they make an equally utilitarian belt bag that can go from playdate to brunch date no problem.

Whether you’re carting kids or sipping cocktails kid-free, the gorgeous handmade hip bags from Atlanta-based Glad & Young Studios are totally on point. Choose from three different marbled leather base colors and a variety of strap colors to match or contrast. And just like you, this one gets better with age, mama.–S.G.

The epitome of cool-girl bag brands, Clare V. also brings its chic aesthetic to the fanny pack category, and we couldn’t be happier about that. I splurged on this one last summer after agonizing over such a pricey investment for ages. But it checked all the boxes! Roomy enough to easily carry the essentials, trendy but timeless, and both day/night appropriate. Basically, the bag to end all bags. So I pulled the trigger. And I was soooo right. (And I get asked where it’s from like once a week.)

Baggu doesn’t just make the perfect reusable shopping bag—they also crush it in the fanny pack department. This durable pack is made from the same recycled nylon the brand is known for which is (blessedly) totally machine washable when an inevitable disaster occurs.–S.G.

If you want the look of leather without the investment, the faux leather slings from luggage experts Monos are totally mom-friendly. One big pocket and three internal sleeve pockets keep you organized while a full length zip pocket across the back which is large enough for an iPhone Pro Max keeps your most important essentials safe and secure. (And I love the way it keeps its shape without being rigid.) They’re sizable enough for the must-haves, super duper durable and sustainably made to boot. Go ahead, jelly-fingered toddler, do your worst.

If we’re going to go the fanny pack route, we might as well go the whole way, right? Right. And nothing screams “90s!” like a Jansport bag. The good news is they haven’t raised their prices too much in the past three decades.

OK, we spoke too soon. This is the 90’s throwback we didn’t know we needed. Igloo has brought back their Full House era color palettes and logo to create the coolest fanny pack ever. No, literally. This insulated pack keeps three cans (er, um, baby bottles) cold when you’re on-the-go.–S.G.