Fanny pack

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For the hip-hop group, see Fannypack.

The fanny pack (US), belt pack (US), hip pack (UK), bum bag (UK,Oceania), or belt bag (US) is a small fabric pouch secured with a zipper and worn at the waist by a strap around the hips. Today Fanny Packs are often worn by hikers and bicycle riders. Fanny packs are used by travelers and were more popular during the early and mid 1990s. They can be slung either forward, side or to the rear of the wearer. One of the primary advantages of fanny packs is that they are hands free. This makes them great choices over purses not only for travelers, but also some people with disabilities, and those who have mobile professions.

The name Fanny Pack is derived from the fact that they were worn on the gluteus muscle also known as the "butt" or "fanny" in the US. Many do not wear fanny packs on their rear because they are easier to pick pocket. "Bum bag" or "belt bag" is used in the United Kingdom and Anglophone Oceania as "fanny" is used as a colloquialism for vagina in those territories. The irony in this is often noted, since 'fanny packs' are generally worn at the front.

Fanny packs are today considered unfashionable by most people. Weird Al Yankovic, for instance, mocks the wearing of fanny packs in his song "White & Nerdy." For some, their resurrection is a form of ironic retro fashion. The fanny pack has made a huge comeback among youth in recent years, this time termed a pouch. Hence, many top designers such as The North Face, Gucci, Prada, Coach, Marc Jacobs, The Good Witch Closet, and Louis Vuitton have taken the opportunity to resurrect and redesign the fanny pack.

Many consider the fanny pack a sure mark for an out of place tourist, invoking the traditional tourist stereotypes known around the world.