Best Waterproof Fanny Pack: Top 8 Options To Keep Your Essentials Safe & Dry

Fanny packs are back – and they’re back with a bang, might I add. I’m not here to talk about the “fashion statement” aspects of wearing one, though. Instead, I’d like to talk about the practicality and versatility of this little accessory:  Fanny packs are nothing if not convenient and ...
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Sam OBrien

Founder, Kayaking & Paddle Boarding Expert

Sam is the founder and editor of WaterSportsWhiz. With over 20 years of experience across various water sports, he provides trusted reviews and expert advice to help others pursue their passion for getting out on the water. When not working, you can find him kayaking, paddle boarding, or planning his next water-based adventure with family and friends.

Fanny packs are back – and they’re back with a bang, might I add. I’m not here to talk about the “fashion statement” aspects of wearing one, though. Instead, I’d like to talk about the practicality and versatility of this little accessory: 

Fanny packs are nothing if not convenient and practical. You get quick access to essential items – smartphone, keys, and wallet, among other things – and you don’t have to carry around a large dry bag or a full-sized backpack every time you hit the water. 

Of course, as a paddler, you can’t just grab the first bag you can get your hands on. You need to get yourself the best waterproof fanny pack. These are designed to keep your stuff dry, even if you end up in the water – which, by the way, happens quite often when you’re a paddler. 

I’ve compiled a list of my favorite waterproof waist packs and shared some tips on how to choose one based on your needs and preferences. So, be sure to stick around! 

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At A Glance – Here Are Our Picks For Top Waterproof Fanny Packs

  • Overall Winner:  YETI Sidekick Dry
    “SideKick Dry doesn’t come cheap. However, the quality is everything you’d expect from YETI – and given its heavy-duty construction, capacity, and versatility, it’s worth it.”
  • Runner-Up:  SealLine Seal Pak Waterproof Hip Pack
    “If you’re looking for a dry-bag-inspired fanny pack, SealLine’s Seal Pak is a great choice – even if it’s the second most expensive bag on the list.”
  • Best Water-Resistant Bag:  Aquapac Waterproof Waist Pack
    “While Aquapac’s bag is not technically waterproof, it is still tough enough to survive your outdoor adventures – both on land and in water.”
  • Best For Smartphones:  AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap
    “The AiRunTech waterproof pouch is the most affordable option, and it’s a decent choice if you typically don’t carry more than your smartphone, ID, and some cash.”
  • Best For Everyday Wear:  Skog Å Kust FannySåk Airtight & Waterproof Floating Dry Waist Bag
    “The FannySåk’s classic design and all-weather protection fit right in with your lifestyle – from outdoor adventures to everyday use.”
  • Best Money Belt:  Aqua Quest AquaRoo Money Waterproof Fanny Pack
    “It’s a low-profile, lightweight, easy-to-conceal money belt, and a great choice if you’re on a tight budget – as long as you don’t mind the limited capacity.”
  • Super Lightweight Option:  Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Fanny Pack
    “If you are hoping to keep things ultralight, the Hyperlite Versa is, hands down, your best bet.”
  • High-Capacity Pick:  Patagonia Guidewater Fanny Pack Waterproof
    “The build quality and the capacity of Patagonia’s Guidewater Hip Pack is insane – but so is the price tag.”

In A Rush? The Winner After 36 Hours Of Research: 

Winner

YETI Sidekick Dry

Why is it better?

  • The HydroShield Magnetic Closure uses magnets to create a waterproof seal 
  • Constructed out of heavy-duty DryHide Shell that is resistant to punctures and UV rays
  • Can be worn on its own, attached to the belt, or paired with YETI’s soft-sided coolers 
  • Compatible with all YETI products that feature the HitchPoint Grid 
  • The two pass-through loops allow you to add a belt of up to two inches wide 
  • Offers plenty of storage space thanks to the four-liter capacity 
  • Large and spacious main compartment with interior mesh pockets for better organization
  • Remains completely waterproof, even when the bag is fully submerged in water

How To Choose A Waterproof Fanny Pack

best waterproof fanny packs - camo bum bag on dirt backdrop

A high-quality, waterproof fanny pack will give you peace of mind and ensure that your valuables – keys, wallet, and smartphone – are safe from water damage and any other potential hazards. It allows you to worry less about your personal items getting wet – and enjoy your adventure more. 

And in that sense, any waterproof hip pack would do. 

But here’s the thing: 

With so many options available on the market, it is easy to end up with a fanny pack that doesn’t quite meet your expectations. As worn out as this phrase may sound – not all products are made equal. 

So, to help you avoid that – and make an informed decision – I would like to walk you through the main features you should consider when shopping for waterproof fanny bags. 

Materials & Water Protection 

Generally speaking, most waist bags are made of water-repellent, synthetic materials – namely, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU). However, other materials, such as neoprene and leather (with a water-resistant coating, of course), can be used, too. 

When checking the construction of a waterproof fanny pack, the most important thing to look for, obviously, will be the Ingress Protection (IP) rating

  • IPX6 – A bag with this IP rating will provide protection against strong sprays of water but is not designed to withstand total immersion, meaning it is actually water-resistant rather than waterproof. 
  • IPX7 – A bag with this IP rating can tolerate submersion in up to one meter of water for a limited time – half an hour, to be more specific. 
  • IPX8 – A bag with this IP rating is considered fully waterproof. It is designed to withstand total submersion for an indefinite amount of time and at a depth of more than one meter.

Beyond water-repelling properties, you also want the bag to be made of a material that is easy to clean and durable enough to hold up in harsh conditions and withstand daily use without breaking or ripping – all while being lightweight and breathable. 

Capacity & Number Of Compartments 

The basics of storage space you get in a fanny pack are pretty much the same across the board – most of these bags feature a large main compartment, typically paired with at least one smaller internal pocket. 

But, again, not all waist bags are made equal. 

Some models may feature more pockets – instead of a single compartment – which allows you to organize your valuables and ensures that everything is easy to reach. On that note, I’d generally recommend aiming for at least three to four separate compartments, preferably with zippers and other means of “protection,” to ensure that nothing falls out. 

As for the bag’s overall capacity, you can’t really expect them to fit more than the basics – wallet, keys, and smartphone. That said, some models also have “sleeves” designed to fit a water bottle – and may even feature additional loops for accessories. 

Your requirements depend on what you plan to carry – but generally speaking, most fanny packs have a capacity of around three to four liters

Adjustable Straps & Comfort 

The straps are what makes a fanny pack – a fanny pack. Without these straps, it is nothing more than a pouch. So, obviously, this is something you’ll need to consider before getting one. 

Any strap is better than no strap at all. But if you want maximum comfort and flexibility, your best bet would be adjustable straps

You should be able to adjust the length and fit of the bag’s straps however you want – depending on your outfit and whether you prefer to wear it on the hips or across the body, for example. 

Speaking of comfort, these bags rarely have large, padded straps. In most cases, the strap is a simple webbing belt held together with a single buckle – nothing too fancy. That said, some bags – especially larger, high-capacity models – may offer a bit more padding. 

Sizing 

Obviously, a quality fanny pack will feature adjustable straps, allowing you to customize the fit to your liking. And generally speaking, most models will fit a wide range of people and body types – but not all of them will:

Some bags might have straps that are too long and cannot be cinched down to fit smaller waists – while others may run small, which would make them unsuitable for bigger individuals. 

So, it doesn’t hurt to check the actual sizing

You want to make sure that the belt can actually reach around your hips or stomach and that the buckle can be closed comfortably. And if you prefer to wear it as a shoulder bag? Then the strap needs to be even longer. 

I recommend taking your measurements – namely, waist and/or hip circumference – just to be on the safe side. If you want to wear the bag across your body, measure the distance between your hip bone and the opposite shoulder – right hip bone and left shoulder, and vice versa. 

It’s easier to choose the right waist bag for your body type when you know your measurements – and it makes wearing one a lot more comfortable, too. 

Design & Color 

I initially didn’t intend to include design and color as essential factors to consider when choosing a waist bag. Considering that it is mainly a matter of personal style and preference, I didn’t think it was as important as the factors covered above – but my wife convinced me otherwise. 

So, if you want the color of your new bag to match your wetsuit, dry suit, bathing suit – and even the color of your kayak or SUP – add “design and color” to your list of considerations. 

There are plenty of options color-wise – from simple black-and-white to red, orange, neon green, blue, and more. 

Don’t get too focused on the design and overlook more important things, though. It’s fine if you’d like to get a waist bag that will match your personal style – but make sure it’s functional, too. 

Frequently Asked Questions on Fanny Packs

Why is it called a fanny pack?

The fanny pack – or a bum bag, as it’s more commonly known in the UK – gets its name from the way it was designed to be worn. While many prefer to wear it with the pouch in the front – mainly because it’s easier to access that way – the bag could also be worn above your backside. That’s where the name of the bag comes from; “fanny” and “bum” are slang terms that mean “buttocks” in American and British English, respectively. 


What are the other names for a fanny pack?

The UK equivalent of the fanny pack is actually called a “bum bag” because they were originally designed to be carried above the buttocks. The term was apparently coined in the 1950s. These days, however, people commonly refer to these as waist bags, hip packs, belt bags, moon bags, and belly bags, too. 


Are all fanny packs waterproof?

No, not all fanny packs are waterproof by default. The level of water resistance the bag provides actually depends on several factors – including the type of materials used in its construction, the seams, waterproof coating, and whether it features waterproof zippers (YKK, for example). So, it is best not to assume that a bag’s waterproof; check the manufacturer-specified water protection rating to be sure. 


Best Waterproof Fanny Packs Reviewed & Rated

How We Tested & Rated Our Top Picks

Each product was tested and rated according to the following set of criteria: 

  • Build Quality – This score is based on how well the bag is constructed, the quality of the materials used, and how it will hold up in the long run. 
  • Water Protection – This score is based on the level of water protection the bag offers, as indicated by the manufacturer-specified Ingress Protection (IP) rating. 
  • Capacity – This score is based on the bag’s capacity, measured in liters, and the number of pockets it features. 
  • Comfort – This score is based on the comfort-oriented features of the bag, including the adjustability of the waist strap, padding, breathability, and how comfortable it feels during prolonged wear. 
  • Value for Money – This score is based on an assessment of how well the bag’s features and value align with the actual RRP (Recommended Retail Price). 

Each waist bag then received a rating on a scale of 1 to 10. The scores earned in each of these categories are based on how well a particular bag met – and in the case of a “10/10” rating, even exceeded – the expectations. 

Best Dry-Bag-Style Hip Pack

SealLine Seal Pak Waterproof Hip Pack 

Is it a belt bag? Is it a dry bag? Or is it a little bit of both? 

SealLine’s Seal Pak features roll-down closure technology to achieve a water-tight seal, which is something you’d typically see in a dry bag. But at the same time, it boasts a wide and adjustable waist belt that can be removed depending on how you use the bag. 

Speaking of the belt, I like that it’s placed near the top of the bag. That way, when you load it up, the bag leans into you – rather than away from the body – making it more comfortable. 

The Seal Pak has a four-liter capacity and features a single large compartment, plus an external zip pocket that provides splashproof protection to smaller items. The roll-top closure makes your items in the main compartment less accessible, though – you need to unroll and then re-roll your bag every time you need something. 

But I guess that’s a fair compromise for ensuring that your essentials will stay protected from the elements. 

On that note, keep in mind that the bag is designed to withstand rain, splashes – and even quick submersion – thanks to the PVC-free waterproof materials and the RF welded seams. Oh, and it will float if dropped in the water, too. 

I should add that it’s the second most expensive waterproof waist bag featured in this round-up – with Patagonia’s Guidewater leading as a high-end choice. I have no doubts about the quality of SealLine’s Seal Pak, though – and it comes with a lifetime warranty. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: 250D PVC-free fabric 
  • Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 3 inches 
  • Weight: 0.4 pounds 
  • Capacity: 4 liters 

Pros

  • Uses a dry-bag-style roll-top closure to create a water-tight seal 
  • Designed to withstand quick submersions and will float in the water 
  • Comes with a wide, adjustable, and removable waist belt 
  • There’s an external zippered pocket for quick access 
  • The bag is backed by a lifetime warranty 

Cons

  • One of the more expensive options featured in the round-up 
  • The roll-top closure makes it harder to access the main compartment 

There’s no denying that the SealLine Seal Pak is a high-quality option, but keep in mind that the quality comes at a higher price tag. Anyway, if you want a dry-bag-fanny-pack hybrid, this one is the way to go. 

Overall Best Waterproof Fanny Pack

YETI Sidekick Dry

The YETI SideKick Dry was designed to be used on its own, attached to your belt, or paired with YETI’s soft-sided coolers – if you happen to own one already. In fact, it fits all YETI products that feature the HitchPoint Grid. Plus, thanks to the two pass-through loops, you can add a belt up to two inches wide and transform it into a waist bag. 

In that sense, it is a pretty versatile option – even if it isn’t technically a fanny pack. The SideKick Dry is actually a waterproof gear case. It’s constructed out of a tough, heavy-duty DryHide Shell, which is not only waterproof but resistant to UV rays and punctures, too. 

Construction-wise, it’s similar to the materials used for making whitewater rafts, which tells you a lot about the bag’s quality. Plus, it features RF welded seams for additional protection. 

The quality is everything you’d expect from YETI’s products. 

Another unique thing about it is that it does not rely on a zip closure or a roll-top design. Instead, it features YETI’s HydroShield Magnetic Closure – a set of magnets powerful enough to create a waterproof seal while still allowing easy access. 

The bag measures 11.3 x 3.3 x 7.1 inches and boasts a four-liter capacity, but at 0.8 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than the SealLine model. I’ll leave you to decide if that’s really a downside or just something to keep in mind, though. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: DryHide Shell
  • Dimensions: 11.3 x 3.3 x 7.1 inches
  • Weight: 0.8 pounds
  • Capacity: 4 liters 

Pros

  • The unique closure uses magnets to create a waterproof seal 
  • The heavy-duty DryHide Shell is also resistant to punctures, and UV rays
  • Can be attached to YETI’s soft-sided coolers 
  • Completely waterproof, even when it’s submerged in water 
  • The main compartment features a single mesh pocket 

Cons

  • It’s a bit bulky and may get in the way
  • It doesn’t have any external, quick-access pockets

YETI’s SideKick Dry isn’t the most conventional-looking fanny pack – and it doesn’t come cheap. However, given its heavy-duty construction, capacity, and versatility, I’d say it’s worthy of its best fanny packs crown!

Best Water-Resistant Fanny Pack

Aquapac Waterproof Waist Pack

The previous two picks didn’t exactly look like your typical “fanny pack.” That’s where Aquapac’s Waterproof Waist Pack – from the brand’s TrailProof range – comes in: 

Constructed out of a 500D polyester-reinforced PVC material – with welded seams for protection – it’s tough and rugged enough to survive your outdoor adventures both on land and in water. 

It features a three-step roll-top closure – as in, you should roll the top three times to seal it – with an additional Velcro strip that helps to ensure that it remains tightly rolled. There is also a clip on each end – something you’ll also find on the SealLine Seal Pak – keeping the top secured to the sides of the bag. 

Another thing I like about it is the strap. Besides being adjustable, the wider, padded sections of the belt also make it more comfortable around the hips – which is a plus for longer trips. 

It does have a slightly lower capacity compared to the SealLine and YETI models, but I wouldn’t consider that an issue. The bag’s three-liter capacity is still more than enough to fit the essential items in there. 

Plus, besides the main compartment, it also features an external, quick-access pocket. The rest of the bag boasts an IPX6 rating – but the zippered pocket is rated at IPX4. 

Also, keep in mind that the bag isn’t designed to handle prolonged immersion. You can get it wet – if you happen to capsize, for example – but it’s not supposed to be submerged for long. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: 500D polyester-reinforced PVC
  • Dimensions: 6.7 x 13.8 x 3.2 inches
  • Weight: 0.8 pounds 
  • Capacity: 3 liters 

Pros

  • It uses a roll-top-style closure with a Velcro strip and two clips 
  • The straps have wide, padded sections for improved comfort 
  • It has an external quick-access zippered pocket 

Cons

  • It was not designed to handle prolonged immersion 
  • The three-step roll-top closure makes it less accessible 

Aquapac’s bag is not technically waterproof, considering that it has an IPX6 rating – but that may not be a deal-breaker for everyone. If all you need is basic protection from the waves and rain, it can be a great choice.

Best Waterproof Pouch For Smartphones

AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap

The AiRunTech waterproof pouch is actually the most affordable option I’ve reviewed so far. So, if you’re on a tight budget and generally don’t carry more than your smartphone, ID, and some cash, this could be a more than decent choice. 

The pouch is made of soft PVC material and has an IPX8 rating, meaning it’s completely waterproof and fully submersible. Plus, it is designed to float in the water, so there is virtually no risk of losing it if you capsize. 

Also, the bag’s transparent and touch-screen-friendly. You can actually check your messages or make phone calls on the go without having to take your phone out of the bag every time. 

There are a couple of things I should warn you about, though: 

One, the included waist strap is pretty short, meaning it likely won’t fit you if you’re on the bigger side. The best you can hope for is a snug – and potentially uncomfortable – fit. 

Two, the way you open and close the bag is rather inconvenient. I get that AiRunTech wanted to make it as waterproof as possible with its triple seal protection, but having to deal with three separate ziplock-style seals and a fold-over Velcro top every time is a bit of a hassle – especially with wet hands.

Technical Specs 

  • Material: PVC 
  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.8 inches 
  • Weight: 0.4 pounds 
  • Capacity: N/A 

Pros

  • The pouch is waterproof, submersible, and floats in the water 
  • The transparent panel is touch-screen-friendly 
  • An affordable solution for keeping your valuables dry

Cons

  • The strap is rather short and won’t fit people with bigger waists 
  • Accessing your things is inconvenient due to the closure style 
  • It barely even fits a large smartphone

Honestly, I have mixed feelings about AiRunTech’s pouch. I like that it boasts an IPX8 rating and floats in the water, and I appreciate the budget-friendly price. However, I wasn’t impressed by its overall practicality, comfort, or durability. 

Best Waist Bag For Everyday Use

Skog Å Kust FannySåk Airtight & Waterproof Floating Dry Waist Bag

The FannySåk is your classic, recreational, reasonably priced waterproof waist bag. There’s not much to make it stand out from the crowd – but that doesn’t make it any less convenient or worth considering. 

If anything, this Skog Å Kust bag would be the perfect choice for paddlers who prefer simple but functional designs. 

The bag’s constructed out of 420-denier Rip-Stop nylon fabric with a TPU coating. And to add to it, it also features heat-taped seams designed to lock out not just water but mud, dust, and sand, too. 

The capacity is in line with YETI’s and SealLine’s models, clocking in at four liters. That said, the way the internal compartments are set up makes it easier to stay organized: 

The main compartment features a mesh pocket and a dedicated key clip – with a white-colored TPU coating that improves the visibility inside the bag. Plus, there is an external pocket on the back of the bag, complete with a water-resistant zipper. 

On that note, the zipper pocket was the one thing that bugged me. It’s surprisingly hard to zip and unzip the bag – especially if you’re trying to do it with one hand. 

The nylon webbing strap can be adjusted to fit a 46-inch belt size; it is safe to say that the bag is suitable for paddlers of most ages, shapes, and sizes. 

Oh, and the bag weighs a mere 6.5 ounces – which is pretty impressive. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: 420D TPU-coated Rip-Stop nylon 
  • Dimensions: 6 x 10 x 5 inches 
  • Weight: 0.4 pounds 
  • Capacity: 4 liters

Pros

  • The highly adjustable straps can accommodate up to 46-inch belt sizes 
  • Has an elastic diving pocket and a key clip for better organization 
  • Features an additional quick-access zippered pocket on the back panel 
  • Floats when dropped in the water

Cons

  • It’s somewhat hard to zip and unzip the bag with one hand 
  • May leak water if the zipper isn’t closed all the way

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a classic waist bag that will look just as good during everyday wear as it does on your adventures, the FannySåk might be it!

Best Waterproof Money Belt

Aqua Quest AquaRoo Money Waterproof Fanny Pack

Okay, this one is technically a “money belt.” However, if you want something low-profile and light and don’t plan on carrying much more than an ID and some cash, there is hardly a better choice than the Aqua Quest’s AquaRoo. 

With it being a money belt and not an actual fanny pack, it feels unfair to compare it to the other, bigger bags featured in this round-up – especially when it comes to size and capacity. This one’s designed to be as slim and low-profile as possible – to the point where you forget you’re wearing it at all – and it does that very well. 

I mean, it weighs as little as three ounces. That’s lighter than the Hyperlite Versa! 

The Cambrelle mesh – which ensures that the back panel is soft and breathable against the skin – and the adjustable waist strap that fits waists of up to 52 inches add to the comfort. 

The construction is a combination of 70D Rip-Stop material, TPU lamination, and welded seams – which all work together to make the bag waterproof, even in cases of temporary submersion. 

It also includes a removable pouch that adds another layer of protection. You’re going to need it because, in my experience, the bag alone is not 100% waterproof. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: 70D Rip-Stop fabric with TPU coating 
  • Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
  • Weight: 0.2 pounds 
  • Capacity: N/A 

Pros

  • One of the most low-profile and lightweight bags I’ve tried 
  • Easy to conceal under your clothing 
  • Includes a removable pouch as an added layer of protection 
  • The extra-long belt accommodates waists of up to 52 inches 
  • You get a lifetime warranty 

Cons

  • Not big enough to fit more than a phone and some cash 
  • The inner pouch has an even smaller capacity 
  • Not fully waterproof if you don’t use the ziplock pouch

The AquaRoo is a low-profile, lightweight, and easy-to-conceal money belt and a great choice if you’re on a budget. Don’t expect it to fit much more than your phone and spare change, though.

Best Ultralight Hip Pack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Fanny Pack

If you’re hoping to keep things ultralight, the Hyperlite Versa is, hands down, your best bet. This minimalist fanny pack is a simple and lightweight yet highly functional and versatile option – and, might I add, a great choice for day trips. 

The bag is constructed out of Dyneema composite fabrics – DCH50, to be more specific – known for exceptional strength and water resistance. One thing that bugged me about this fabric is how crinkly it can be; it has a plastic bag feel to it. 

That’s far from a deal-breaker, especially with all the beneficial properties of the material in mind – but it’s something I felt should be mentioned. 

The bag has a slightly lower 2.5-liter capacity and boasts a simple but functional layout: 

The top-loading design gives you quick access to the main compartment, complete with a mesh sleeve and key clip. That’s not all, though. It also features a second zippered pocket in the front, big enough to store your phone, for example, and a hidden “stash pocket” in the back. 

The back panel also features foam padding, which adds to the overall comfort, and a hidden slot where you can tuck away the removable strap and wings. 

The Hyperlite Versa also gets bonus points for its versatility in terms of how it can be worn. With the adjustable straps and backpack attachment options, you can wear it around your waist (as a waist bag), across your body, or fastened to your backpack. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: Dyneema composite fabrics (DCH50) 
  • Dimensions: 2.25 x 6 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 0.27 pounds 
  • Capacity: 2.5 liters 

Pros

  • The wide, clamshell-style opening allows for quick and easy access 
  • The two separate zippered compartments provide ample space for your personal belongings 
  • There’s a slot for tucking in the strap when it’s not in use 
  • Exceptionally lightweight and minimalist yet functional design 
  • Can be attached to a backpack 

Cons

  • The fabric is crinkly and feels a bit like a plastic bag 
  • The capacity is slightly lower compared to most bags I’ve reviewed

I’m actually amazed by how versatile and functional the Hyperlite Versa is, considering how light it is. Plus, if you want a bag that can be worn in different ways, this one’s hard to beat. 

Best High-Capacity Fanny Pack 

Patagonia Guidewater Fanny Pack Waterproof

It’s no surprise that Patagonia’s hip pack made it to this round-up; the brand’s a well-established leader in the outdoor gear space. One thing I can confidently tell you right off the bat is that their Guidewater pack is arguably one of the best on the market. 

Conscious consumers will appreciate the fact that it was made entirely out of recycled materials. The polyester was sourced from plastic bottles, while the nylon was sourced from post-industrial waste fiber and leftover materials from fishing nets. To top it off, it was sewn in certified fair trade factories. 

Plus, the bag boasts an IPX7 rating and is designed to withstand complete submersion for up to half an hour. 

Patagonia’s Guidewater Hip Pack boasts a massive nine-liter capacity, which is impressive, and, to be quite honest, insane for a fanny pack. But it kind of makes you wonder if you should have gone with a smaller backpack instead. 

It weighs 1.3 pounds, too, making it one of the heaviest bags on the list – which, I guess, is to be expected from a bag with such a high capacity. It remains pretty comfortable, despite the weight, thanks to the thick foam padding on the straps.  

That said, it’s easy to keep your belongings organized. Besides the roomy main compartment, it has a separate “organizer” pocket for smaller items that can also be attached to an external lash point for quick access. 

On a related note, there are multiple loops on the outside of the bag – which allows you to attach additional accessories – and a sleeve that can hold your beverage of choice. 

One thing’s certain: 

This bag is not something you’d get if you prefer to pack light. 

Technical Specs 

  • Material: Recycled nylon and 200D polyester with PU coating 
  • Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 9 inches 
  • Weight: 1.3 pounds 
  • Capacity: 9 liters 

Pros

  • Has the highest capacity of all the bags I’ve tested 
  • Can withstand up to half an hour of complete submersion 
  • Made entirely out of recycled materials 
  • Thick, comfortable padding on the waist strap 
  • Has webbing loops for attaching accessories on the outside 
  • Features an internal “organizer” pocket for smaller items 

Cons

  • It is one of the bulkiest and heaviest bags on the list 
  • It costs several times as much as the other models 

If it weren’t for the high price tag, I’d wholeheartedly recommend the Patagonia Guidewater to – well, pretty much everyone. But considering how expensive it is, I know that it’s definitely overkill for most paddlers. 

A Quick Side-By-Side Comparison 

Choosing a fanny pack – or any sort of bag, really – seems like a simple enough task until you’re faced with the sheer number of different models available on the market. And once you go down this rabbit hole of comparing the materials, sizes, capacities, and designs, that’s when it hits you – it’s not a simple choice to make at all. 

So, to help you out, I’d like to sum up the most notable features and advantages – as well as the downsides, of course – of the waterproof waist bags featured in this round-up: 

Winner
YETI Sidekick Dry
Runner-Up
SealLine Seal Pak Waterproof Hip Pack
Best Water-Resistant Bag
Aquapac Waterproof Waist Pack
Best For Smartphones
AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap
Best For Everyday Wear
Skog Å Kust FannySåk Airtight & Waterproof Floating Waist Bag
Best Money Belt
AquaQuest AquaRoo Money Waterproof Fanny Pack
Super Lightweight Option
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Fanny Pack
High-Capacity Pick
Patagonia Guidewater Fanny Pack Waterproof
Model
Model
YETI Sidekick Dry
SealLine Seal Pak Waterproof Hip Pack
Aquapac Waterproof Waist Pack
AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap
Skog Å Kust FannySåk Airtight & Waterproof Floating Waist Bag
AquaQuest AquaRoo Money Waterproof Fanny Pack
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Fanny Pack
Patagonia Guidewater Fanny Pack Waterproof
Our Rating
Our Rating
9.4/10
9.4/10
8.9/10
8.8/10
9.4/10
8.8/10
8.9/10
9.1/10
Build Quality
Build Quality
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Water Protection
Water Protection
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Capacity
Capacity
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Comfort
Comfort
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Value For Money
Value For Money
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Material
Material
DryHide Shell
250D PVC-free fabric 
500D polyester-reinforced PVC
PVC
420D TPU-coated Rip-Stop nylon
70D Rip-Stop fabric with TPU coating
Dyneema composite fabrics (DCH50)
11 x 2.6 feet
Dimensions
Dimensions
11.3 x 3.3 x 7.1 inches
8 x 8 x 3 inches
6.7 x 13.8 x 3.2 inches
8.5 x 5.8 inches
6 x 10 x 5 inches
9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
2.25 x 6 x 9 inches
13 x 9 x 9 inches
Weight
Weight
0.8 pounds
0.4 pounds 
0.8 pounds 
0.4 pounds
0.4 pounds
0.2 pounds
0.27 pounds
Single-layer polyethylene construction 
Capacity
Capacity
4 liters 
4 liters
3 liters
N/A
4 liters
N/A
2.5 liters
44 pounds 

Quick Summary 

We’ve made it to the end of our favorite waterproof fanny packs roundup – which means it is time to decide which of these waist bags would be the best fit for you. 

Now, I’m confident you’ll be amazed by the convenience and practicality that these bum bags have to offer. However, if you ask me, the title of the best waterproof fanny pack should go to the YETI Sidekick Dry

But, as always, I encourage you to weigh your options carefully and choose a bag that’s right for you. You’ll be the one wearing it, after all. 

Feature image source; AquaPac

Photo of author

Sam OBrien

Sam is the founder and editor of WaterSportsWhiz. With over 20 years of experience across various water sports, he provides trusted reviews and expert advice to help others pursue their passion for getting out on the water. When not working, you can find him kayaking, paddle boarding, or planning his next water-based adventure with family and friends.

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