When paddle boarding, you’ll want to keep your valuables dry (such as your phone, wallet and keys) and within reach. Paddle boards don’t have an enclosed cockpit so water will splash on anything you place on the deck. Even if you put your valuables in a dry bag to store on deck, accessibility may still be a problem.
Can you imagine having to kneel to reach your bag every time you need a snack, or every time you want to pick up your phone to take a picture? Thankfully, you can get yourself a waterproof waist pack and avoid the trouble. Your valuables will stay dry and easily accessible, all without interfering with your paddling movement.
There are tons of waterproof fanny pack pouches on the market, and finding the right one can be harder than it needs to be.
As an outdoor enthusiast myself, I know that not every waist bag is ideal for outdoor use. So here, I discuss my top 11 suggestions for the best fanny packs and include a buyer’s guide to help you pick the perfect one for your needs.
The overall best waterproof fanny pack, in my opinion, is the Atoll Overkill waist pouch. It’s one of the best fanny packs available for anyone wanting a totally waterproof bag that’s comfortable and looks stylish too!
However, if you need other options, read on for more waterproof waist packs that I think are worth your consideration.
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The Best Waterproof Fanny Packs Compared
Most Pockets
Geckobrands Water-Resistant Waist Pouch
Water-Resistant Fanny Pack with Multiple Pockets
The 11 Best Waterproof Fanny Packs to Keep Your Valuables Dry and Accessible
To spare you the trouble of sifting through hundreds of options, here are 11 carefully selected waterproof fanny packs, ideal for all outdoor activities.
1. Atoll Overkill Dry Bag Waist Pouch – Best Waterproof Pouch
Atoll recently released their own waterproof fanny pack, the Overkill. Like many of Atoll’s other products, it did not disappoint.
This waist pouch is made using thermoplastic polyurethane. It’s a tough material that is abrasion- and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for all kinds of SUP adventures. It’s also resistant to grease, so you don’t have to worry about unsightly stains (especially from things like sunscreen).
Even better, the TU material doesn’t have the weird smell that most bags have, especially when they’re new.
Another great thing about the Atoll Overkill bag is that it is truly waterproof, not just water-resistant. If you happen to fall in, (which is normal with SUP), your phone and other valuables will stay dry. So that’s awesome!
I love the general design of this fanny pack. It features mesh material and an adjustable waist strap that makes it comfortable to wear around your waist. You can have it on you all day long under the hot sun and you won’t be sweaty and uncomfortable.
In addition to the main compartment, there’s an exterior pocket for anything you want to be able to reach for quickly and frequently.
- Truly waterproof: I love that the Atoll Overkill is fully waterproof, as it gives me much more peace of mind, knowing that my belongings won’t get ruined! You can keep your phone in this bag and it will remain dry even when you take an unplanned swim.
- No horrible smell: This might seem like an odd thing to point out, but it’s actually pretty great that the Overkill doesn’t have the weird smell that I’ve experienced with some other bags, mostly PVC bags. It just makes for a nicer product overall
- Grease-resistant: The Overkill is durable and tough, but the grease-resistance element sets it apart from other, similar bags. The material is resistant to oil and grease so it won’t get any annoying stains.
- Nice design: Function is one thing, but when it’s coupled with decent designit makes a big difference. The Atoll Overkill looks stylish and it’s so comfortable to wear, even on long SUP trips.
- Only two color options: While I like the sleek and understated design, it’s a little bit disappointing that it is only available in black and gray. However, both options still look amazing.
2. Geckobrands Waterproof Tarpaulin Dry Bag Waist Pouch – Best Durable Fanny Pack
So, why is the Geckobrands waist pouch second on my list?
First, it is durable. Anything that is designed for outdoor use should be able to take a beating. The Geckobrands bag is built using high-strength 250D tarpaulin that will handle pretty much anything without coming apart.
This material is also waterproof so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting wet. There’s an inside mesh zip pocket and an exterior water-resistant zip pocket. They help you organize your small items for easy access.
The adjustable waist strap is comfortable, which is important. It makes paddling and hiking much more pleasant if you are keeping the bag around your waist.
Lastly, the Geckobrands waist pouch is available at a reasonable price.
You might want to consider this waist bag if you’re looking for a good-looking, quality fanny pack for your adventures.
- Sleek and lightweight: This Geckobrands waist pouch has a sleek design that not only looks good but also doesn’t get in the way when you’re having fun. It’s lightweight too so you won’t get tired of carrying it around.
- Super tough and durable: Despite being lightweight, the waist pouch feels tough and ideal for outdoor use. It can withstand rough conditions without getting damaged.
- Comfortable waist strap: I love how comfortable the strap feels, and you can wear it all day long.
- Affordable: The Geckobrands fanny pack is fantastic but it doesn’t cost much. So you can still enjoy premium quality even with a small budget.
- Not completely waterproof: It will keep your stuff dry even in heavy rain, but not so much when submerged. So be sure not to drop it overboard!
3. Geckobrands Water-Resistant Waist Pouch – Best Fanny Pack with Multiple Pockets
Another water-resistant fanny pack from Geckobrands, this water-resistant pouch has three sections; two pockets and a large dry section.
They make it easy for you to organize small stuff like car keys, credit cards, phones, money, etc.
It’s a well-built pack, made using tough nylon material. It is durable enough for all kinds of outdoor activities. I also love that it’s lightweight so it won’t be weighing you down.
The Geckobrands water-resistant pouch is available in two colors: black and ocean camouflage.
If you want a fanny pack with pockets, and not just one large section, check out this Geckobrands dry fanny pack.
- Multiple pockets: This dry waist pouch has three sections which make it easy for you to organize your small valuables.
- High-quality materials: The nylon material used to make the Geckobrands dry fanny pack is rugged. You can go anywhere with it without having to worry about tears or any kind of damage.
- Lightweight: You can easily forget that this waist pouch is there because of how lightweight it is.
- Water-resistant: The Geckobrands fanny pack is water-resistant, not waterproof. But you can use it for SUP, surfing, skiing, kayaking, etc.
Check Price of the Geckobrands Waist Pouch
4. YETI Sidekick Dry – Best Quality Waterproof Pouch
The YETI Sidekick, like all the other YETI products, is built to last. Its dry hide shell is made using the same materials you’ll find in whitewater rafts – so you know it’s durable! The waterproof fabric is extremely durable. Your valuables will remain dry and safe, regardless of the conditions or wherever you go.
This high-strength material, plus the hydroshield closure and RF-welded seams, result in a 100% waterproof bag. There’s no way for water to get in which makes it great for watersports and activities like SUP and kayaking.
The YETI Sidekick is available in seven beautiful colors. They are not bright–just what many outdoor enthusiasts prefer. This bag attaches to other YETI dry bags.
So if you have a YETI dry bag and you’d like a durable waterproof pack for your personal items, consider the YETI Sidekick.
- Completely waterproof: The material used to make the YETI Sidekick plus its hydroshield closure make it fully waterproof. Your valuables will stay dry no matter what.
- Virtually indestructible: Like all the other YETI products, the Sidekick is virtually indestructible! It’s made from the same materials used to make whitewater rafts so you know it can take anything.
- Color options: I love that this dry pouch comes in eight colors so you can pick the one that best suits you.
- Only attaches to YETI dry bags: The Sidekick is designed to attach to specific YETI dry bags.
Check Price of the YETI Sidekick Dry
5. SealLine Seal Pak – Fanny Pack with Best Warranty Period
SealLine is another name that needs no introduction. Their waterproof bags are popular in the paddling community and beyond–all thanks to their quality and reliability.
The SealLine Seal waterproof waist bag is made with PVC-free material that is remarkably durable. It also has RF-welded seams for added strength. The company originally developed their bags for the maritime industry so you know this one will last.
This waterproof fanny pack, in addition to the RF-welded seams and waterproof fabric, has a roll-top closure system. The contents will stay protected and dry in rain and when briefly submerged. There’s an external zip pocket that is splash-proof for items that you need quick access to.
The waist belt is wide, adjustable, and removable. It is comfortable enough to carry for a whole day.
The bag comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
If you’re looking for a waterproof hip pack that is guaranteed to last, the SealLine Seal might be perfect for you.
- Unmatched quality: The SealLine Pak features strong PVC-free materials and RF-welded seams. It feels as tough as it looks and you can count on it to last years.
- Lifetime warranty: This fanny pack comes with a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty which assures you that this is one of the most durable bags you can get.
- Quick-access external pocket: I love the splash-proof outer zip pocket as it comes in handy when you want to access something quickly.
- No compartments in the main area: With just one big compartment, organizing and accessing small items can be tricky.
Check Price of the SealLine Seal Pak
6. Aquapac Waist Pack – Best Large Pouch for Longer Trips
With the Aquapac, you don’t have to leave any essentials behind. It’s big enough to fit your phone, sunscreen, money, keys, and a few other items. But the size is still practical so it’s not too big to carry around your waist while hiking or paddling.
The belt pack is made using heavy-duty 500D tarpaulin that can handle any rough conditions you might find yourself in during your adventures. And once you properly close the three-roll seal, the bag will be waterproof and keep your belongings dry.
The main compartment has a waterproof rating of IPX6 while the smaller pocket has a rating of IPX4. The bag will protect your items from splashes, powerful water jets, and quick submersions.
This larger capacity fanny pack is available in three colors: green, black, and blue. It has breathable mesh padding for all-day comfort.
If you’re in the market for a waist bag that is rugged, waterproof, and big enough for all your valuables, the Aquapac is a solid choice.
- Large but practical: The Aquapac waist pack is large enough to fit all your small essentials but not too large for you to comfortably carry it around your waist or shoulder.
- Comfortable breathable mesh padding: The breathable mesh padding ensures that you’re comfortable with the pouch around your waist, even when it’s hot.
- High-quality material: The 500D tarpaulin material is military-grade. It’s suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities, even the extreme ones.
- Completely waterproof: The bag is completely waterproof, so it wouldn’t be disastrous if you were to accidentally drop it overboard
- Can’t handle long immersions: The Aquapac dry waist pouch will only keep your stuff dry in case of splashes, water jets, and quick submersions. You can’t keep it under water for long.
Check Price of the Aquapac Waist Pack
7. Blue Sky Basics Waterproof Pouch
The Blue Sky Basics is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who like to spend a lot of time on (and in)the water.
It is made from PVC material that is completely waterproof and has three zip lock seals. The triple seal protection ensures that not even a drop of water will get in the bag.
This is one of the few fanny packs that are actually waterproof. It is fully submersible, making it ideal even for snorkeling and swimming. It also floats on water so it won’t get lost if it falls while you’re paddle boarding.
While this bag is super lightweight, the material is tough and can handle the outdoors.
The adjustable waist strap is made of nylon and is sturdy.
The Blue Sky Basics waterproof pouch would be ideal for the adventure seekers who always find themselves in the water.
- Waterproof and fully submersible: The Blue Sky Basics pouch is completely waterproof and your items will stay dry even under water.
- Two packs in the package: You’ll get two dry packs, a black one and a transparent one–which is a good deal considering the price.
- Great size: I love that it’s big enough to fit your phone, passport, money, and other valuables, but also small enough for you to swim or go snorkeling with it around your waist.
- Gets hot in the sun: The Blue Sky waist pack can get uncomfortably hot in the sun.
Check Price of the Blue Sky Basics Pouch
8. Portzon Waterproof Fanny Pack
The Portzon fanny pack is another great option for people who want to keep their valuables safe underwater.
It is made from strong but soft PVC, a material that is both durable and waterproof. It also has seamless triple-seal protection to keep water, sand, and dirt out. The pack has a waterproof rating of IPX8.
This bag has an adjustable waist strap that offers different ways of carrying it. You can use it as a waist pack, shoulder bag, or cross-body bag. This is great because sometimes you may have to carry it around for a whole day.
One awesome feature of the Portzon fanny pack is that it is touch-friendly. You can use your cell phone without taking it out of the bag.
I would recommend this waist pack to any person looking for a completely waterproof pouch that is touch-friendly.
- Touch-friendly material: You can operate your phone while it’s still in the pouch so you don’t risk it falling into the water.
- You get two pouches: You’ll receive two waterproof and durable pouches in the package.
- Completely waterproof: The Porzton features soft but durable PVC material and a triple seal closure system. Water can’t get in even when the bag is submerged.
- Waist strap is a little small: While the waist strap is adjustable, it’s a little small an
Check Price of the Portzon Fanny Pack
9. Waterfly Slim Water-Resistant Waist Pouch – Best Color Variety
This classic fanny pack is available in 17 colors for you to choose from. There’s something for everyone–whether you like camo, fun colors, or chill colors. The Waterfly waist pouch has a nice slim design. It is not bulky and you can easily forget it’s there.
This hip bag is made using soft nylon fabric that is breathable and great for hot weather. The material is water-resistant and will protect your stuff from getting wet. It’s not waterproof, so you should be careful not to immerse it in water.
The strap is fully adjustable and can be used by anybody, from kids to adults. You can also wear it in different styles.
I love that the bag has four pockets. There’s a hidden pocket for things like money or your passport.
If you want a stylish, high-quality, water-resistant bag, then the Waterfly waist pouch may be the right pack for you.
- Multiple pockets: Small items can be a pain to organize and access while out in the water. I love the pockets because they make things so much easier.
- Nice slim design: The Waterfly fanny pack looks amazing and it’s small so it doesn’t get in the way of paddling or any other activity.
- Lots of color options: You have 17 colors to choose from and you can pick the color that best suits your style.
- Water-resistant: This fanny pack is not waterproof so it won’t keep contents dry when submerged.
Check Price of the Waterfly Slim Waist Pouch
10. JOTO Waterproof Waist Pouch – Best Budget Fanny Pack
With the JOTO waterproof waist pack, you get quality on a budget.
Despite being low-priced, the JOTO pack is built using PVC material that is quite durable and ideal for use during outdoor adventures. The material also makes this fanny pack waterproof, along with the zipper lock closure.
The bag is lightweight and reasonably sized–not too big and not too small–and will fit all your valuables. It also has an adjustable waist strap that you can adjust and wear the bag as a shoulder bag.
The JOTO waterproof fanny pack would be great for anyone on a tight budget.
- Affordable waist pouch: The JOTO waist pouch is affordable and a great option if you want a quality fanny pack on a budget.
- Lightweight and great size: This dry pack is lightweight and not too big. You can do all kinds of activities with it around your waist and it won’t bother you.
- Durable: Although it’s cheap, this JOTO pack is made using tough PVC material and it won’t get damaged easily.
- It floats: This is great for activities like paddle boarding but it can be annoying when you’re swimming or snorkeling. Fortunately, you can suck out the air to prevent it from floating.
Check Price of the JOTO Waist Pouch
11. AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap
Lastly, we have the AiRunTech pouch.
Like many other fanny packs, this one is made from PVC. It also has a triple-zip lock system, making it completely waterproof.
You’ll love the AiRunTech pouch if you want to go swimming, whitewater rafting, or snorkeling with your phone. It has a waterproof rating of IPX8. It will keep everything in it dry even when submerged in water (up to 10 meters underwater)
I like the fact that it is touch-friendly too, so you don’t have to take your phone out of the bag in order to use it. You can simply operate your touchscreen through the material.
The waist strap is adjustable and will fit most waist sizes. You can also use it as a shoulder bag or cross-body bag.
If you’re looking for a waterproof fanny pack that’s touch-friendly, you should check out the AiRunTech waist pouch.
- Comes as a two-pack: I love that you get two packs when you buy the AiRunTech pouch for the same price you’d get for one. It’s a fantastic deal.
- Multiple color options: There are several color options and you can choose the colors that appeal to you.
- Totally waterproof: This pouch doesn’t let any water in, thanks to its waterproof material and triple zip lock system. You can go swimming with it.
- Touch-friendly material: You can operate your smartphone while it’s still in the pouch which is pretty cool.
- Small waist fit: The waist strap can be a little too small for people on the bigger side.
Check Price of the AiRun Tech Pouch
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Fanny Pack for Your Needs
So now you have 11 options to choose from or a list of your own that you came up with: how do you narrow down to one waist pack?
Factors to Consider When Picking Out a Waterproof Fanny Pack
While I’ve reviewed the top ten best waterproof fanny packs out there, you’ll still need to make a distinction between what suits your needs and what doesn’t. To help you pick the fanny pack that would be best for you, here are some of the things you should consider.
1. Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Fanny Pack
You’ll notice that some fanny packs here are waterproof while others are water-resistant.
Water-resistant pouches will keep your items dry but only to an extent. For instance, they won’t let water in case of a splash, water jets, and rain. But when submerged, water will get in.
Waterproof fanny packs keep your contents dry no matter what–even when submerged in water. You can go swimming and the inside will stay dry.
If a dry pouch is waterproof, be sure to check the waterproof rating (IPX4, IPX6, IPX8, etc. as you can see above). Depending on the material and design, these pouches can stay dry inside but only when submerged up to a certain depth. So if you expect to go swimming or snorkeling, you should pay attention to the rating.
2. Material Used
The material used to make your fanny pack or hip pack will determine its waterproof capability (i.e. how well the bag keeps your belongings dry) and overall quality (how durable, comfortable and well made the bag is).
You want a bag that will last, even when constantly exposed to the elements. The material should also be waterproof or at least water-resistant for hikes and other on-land activities.
You should check for high-frequency welded seams too. Poorly sealed seams can easily come apart or let water in.
3. Number of Pockets
Pockets help with organizing. Most bags have the main compartment which is waterproof and a splash-proof external pocket. Small items can be a pain to organize so these pockets come in handy.
Why You Need a Good Waterproof Waist Pouch
When paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, and doing pretty much anything outdoors, you want to make sure that your valuables are safe. It is also important to keep them accessible and dry during water activities.
A waist pouch allows you to have them close to you at all times without holding them in your hands. If you fall into the water, the items will remain dry (as long as the bag is waterproof and not just water resistant).
Are Fanny Packs Really Waterproof?
Some waist or hip packs are completely waterproof while others are water-resistant. Most fanny packs will do a fantastic job of keeping water and dirt out, but they can’t handle prolonged immersion under water.
Always check the waterproof rating and, if you’re not sure, don’t risk it. It’s better to put your items in a ziploc bag before storing them in the waist pouch.
Most manufacturers indicate whether or not the bags are immersible–either briefly or for a long period.
Final Thoughts
It might still seem surprising, but fanny packs are cool again. They’re also a necessary accessory for adventure seekers.
The Atoll Overkill waist pouch is my top pick for the best waterproof fanny pack. It has a nice design and its quality makes it suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities, plus it’s also comfortable enough to carry, even for an entire day.
The JOTO waist pack is a great budget option for those wanting to spend less. It’s made using a tough material that is both long-lasting and waterproof.
If you prefer a high-end option, the YETI Sidekick would be right for you. It is 100% waterproof and attaches to the YETI dry bags.
Don’t be left behind. Pick your favorite waterproof fanny pack and join in the fun!
