Sometime between the '90s and the 2010's, fanny packs became extremely unpopular. What was once a cool, "hip" accessory became indicative of tourists (or worse).
However, in 2016, the joke is on the haters of all fanny packs, hip packs, hands-less handbags and waste wallets alike. I was casually shopping online one day when I came across a fanny pack for sale on Zumiez. I couldn't believe it. Were they for real? Was this some kind of crazy, short-lived trend inspired by a celebrity?
So, I did a quick search for fanny packs and all sorts of trendy stores came up. Zumiez, Vans, PacSun, Tilly's, Forever 21. They all sell fanny packs. I went to the mall to see just how far this trend reached. I found fanny packs at several stores in my local mall, but the Vans store had the cutest one.
This thing had it all: a little '90s print going on, super comfy waistband and a ton of space. I saw some pretty small packs at the mall, but this one was like opening Mary Poppin's purse. Even better, I got it just days before a Disney trip. If you ask me, then there's no better place to try something like this out! Here are some reasons why a fanny pack may be your next favorite bag.
Hands-Free
I went to Disney World and if you've been there during the summer, then you know the heat struggle. The last thing I want is a heavy backpack sticking to my shoulders. The fanny pack solved that problem. Plus, I didn't have to take it off for any of the rides. It stayed buckled around my waist with no problems.
Everyone Had One
You can ask my boyfriend; I was a little self-conscious putting it on in the parking lot. It sounds stupid, but when you think about the bad rap fanny packs get all the time... After five minutes debating every pro and every con, I resolved to wear it and wear it all day.
We hadn't even gotten on the ferry when I looked around and noticed at least 10 girls wearing them. They were "cute" ones like mine, too. It was a really good reminder that we shouldn't care about appearance so much. My pack is totally cool and you won't catch me hesitating to wear it again.
There Are Plenty Of Designs
Because they're gaining popularity, fanny packs are coming back with a lot of options. If you browse the sites above, then you can see they come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. I compared a few different styles before I got mine. It helps if you have the items you want to put in it when you shop. I was able to get my sunglasses, wallet and phone to fit with room to spare.
Bring Only What You Need
Wearing a fanny pack will make you a minimalist. I brought my sunglasses, wallet, phone and a stick of lip gloss. I was also able to fit a few tiny bags of gummy snacks.
That's the only downside of the fanny pack: you do have limited space. Depending on what kind of environment you'll be in, you might need someone with a bigger bag for back up. Those Disney rain ponchos weren't going in my bag even if I tried, so I was glad my boyfriend brought his regular-sized backpack.
If you're still in doubt about the hip pack comeback, then you should probably go try one out and see for yourself if it works for you. If you ask me, it's the best and most functional buy I've made in a while.
