Crossbody Bag or Fanny Pack for Travel? (the choice is EASY!)

[@PortableProfessional]

*ExpressVPN: Get 3 months FREE* ➔ www.expressvpn.com/portableprofessional

[@rowanmulvey8632]

Keep in mind that a hip back/bumbag/fanny pack is classsified as personal apparel by the airlines, while a sling bag is considered a personal item. This may or may not be a consideration, depending on which airline you are flying with.

[@srp01983]

Yes. On Emirates you are allowed one carry-on bag. A cross-body sling is therefore not an option. Thats fine for us blokes - a travel money belt (we don’t call them fanny packs in the U.K. for obvious reasons 😂) containing just a passport, paper boarding pass, wallet/card holder and phone is all we need. That way I can get through the airport knowing that all the important stuff is secure and conveniently to hand. Everything else is in one carry-on bag (in my case a rucksack style with wheels and handle) that is small enough to fit under the seat and not in the overhead locker so it’s accessible during the flight. As soon as I get to my (pre-booked) aisle seat I get out my headphones, iPad, small pack of anti-bacterial wipes and maybe a stick of chewing gum and stuff the bag under the seat. Sometimes I will take my travel belt off at this point and put it in my bag, putting it back on just before landing. I know it’s a bit OCD to have a routine but I live in fear of losing my passport/wallet etc!

[@thanhiclez]

Slings/bumbags are concealed under a jacket when checking in. That way you only are only weighed/judged on your carryon/personal bag. Depending on your size of sling/bum bag, you can easily shuffle 2-4kg around that will not be weighed.

[@RiverRatWA57]

@@srp01983 Both my fanny pack and sling pack will easily conceal my full sized .45, and my larger slingbag will accommodate my KelTec SU-16 rifle. Oh, did I forget to mention that I'm Not TSA compliant 👍👍👊👊 I have no passport to lose either.

[@viviandibrell849]

I used a sling on my trip, and it was great. It stood in for a hand bag for me. I wore it under my coat and kept it on the flight the whole time and felt completely safe. In addition, I used a backpack that I put under the seat in front of me and I had a carry-on that I put in the overhead bin. Because the sling was under my coat it wasn’t really counted as anything. I found it very accessible to hold all my stuff and I will definitely be using it again. In addition, I had bought myself a very slim wallet so that I could keep the sling as flat as possible.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I think the key point is whatever you use, make sure the bag is to your front.

[@chezellis]

Since 1987, I am a fanny pack (now hip pack) person. I've never felt uncomfortable wearing it and I have them in several sizes and styles and even a waterproof one that I can use while swimming so I never need to leave my valuables on the beach. It also does not count on United as a carry on or personal item; it's considered clothing. So for a flight, I combine the fanny/hip pack with a Magellan Travel Vest (2 'clothings') that hold everything I need constant access to, my crossbody personal item with the larger electronics, plane snacks and other needs and my rolling backpack carry on. I also get another bag free, but it's my CPAP machine. Not so much fun to have to need.

[@dorcasowens8521]

I quit carrying a purse or sling. I bought the Ex-Officio 12 pocket vest for warm weather, and the Scott EVest for cold weather. I have traveled to 9 countries, and found the vests perfect and had no problems going thru TSA or Customs. I also bought Stashbanz on Amazon. A waist band with 4 pockets and 1 zippered pocket. It comfortably holds my keys, wallet, phone, tissues, glasses etc. I wear this under my jacket or blazer to dinner, especially in the hotel. It is practically undetectable. I bought black, navy and light gray. I completely quit carrying a purse! Completely freedom! It is wonderful to have both hands free and no worries about my purse being stolen. Happy Trails!

[@PaulaScardamalia]

Just bought a new hip pack that has several zip pockets and can be worn around the waist or as a sling. I'm very happy with it. Wearing a sling that has a lot of stuff in it can hurt my shoulders so I'm glad to have the pack to wear as a sling or around the waist.

[@LucasWorldTravel]

I tried a fanny pack for the first time because of your recommendation and I loved it. It was super comfortable to me. I forget it was there. It's definitely replacing my sling bag with always eventually hurt my shoulder. Thanks for the tips!

[@missmissy2490]

My daughter bought a Travelon Anti-theft classic slim double zip cross body bag. It’s not too heavy and well made. She has a Lululemon Fanny pack as well. Great travel items. Thank you for your recommendations! We’ve learned so much from you!

[@hill77276]

YEARS ago I found a Fantastic black 9x7 Travelon cross body bag for $5 at Goodwill. On front, the 9x7 flip-open-flap has 5" horizontal zipper. On back, a very secure 6" vertical zippered pocket. But, once open, the front flap has More storage! A generous 4.5 x 5.5 zippered mesh. Body of bag has two pouches, each with side zipper expansions and great variety of built-in organization to keep everything I might need handy (including an Opolar fan). It is such an old design that it has secure external place for a Small flip phone - which I use to hold my keys instead. Best $5 purchase in my Life! If you can find one, Buy It!

[@phkodial]

Planning on getting one myself. It also has RFID safe pockets.

[@margaretmathis4775]

I fly with a carry-on bag and a backpack (as my personal item). Every time I’ve used a cross-body bag (and I’m talking about one about the same size or smaller than a “fanny” pack - nothing like the one you show here), I am asked to remove it because it’s technically a 3rd bag. My hubby wears a “fanny” pack and is never questioned. So, I’ve started using a “fanny” pack instead of the cross-body. No problems at all. I don’t understand why a “fanny”pack is allowed, but a small cross-body bag is not. Maybe, it’s not as obvious so they don’t notice it…..? I have wanted to ask so many times, but can’t think of a way to bring it up that won’t get me removed from the plane, LOL.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I have a chest pouch I use with a rucksack. I’m never questioned on it - I think they think it’s part of the rucksack

[@aminor7476]

I have used both, the hip pack and sling. Between the two I like the sling because I can fit everything that I would normally carry in my pockets in the sling. This makes it easy going through airport security. Currently, however, I use a “man bag” everywhere I go to include my daily life. Thanks for the tips!

[@MultiShahina]

I have the same “hip pack” and couldn’t have lived without it in Brazil last week. Even holds my collapsable water bottle!

[@nadine6518]

Hip bag/belt bag/fanny pack works very well for me. I tried a sling very similar to yours. I found it to be a little uncomfortable and somewhat awkward. Probably too much stuff I really didn't need. Plus I could not remember which pocket had what.

[@AusNetFan13]

You’re definitely my travel tips advisor. 👍. Yes, we have to be light for our travels. Another unmentioned point is that fewer things the traveler has to worry about for security reasons.

[@clairedriscoll8628]

On an recent long haul trip I found the belt bag around my waist irritating and I got in a pickle at security. I would prefer a flat rectangular cross body bag (not the camera style bags) to hold wipes tissues my passport boarding pass and phone. It can then be slipped into my personal item bag to go through security. I have the Mia Tui travel bags. Something unrelated I found having to get my phone out to show my boarding pass several times was a real pain so in future I'm going to print it on paper and slip it in my passport. Love all your tips x

[@reneeburich9497]

I use my slash resistant crossbody bag. It hold more than a sling. I pack it in my personal bag or carry-on and then just take it out when we reach the destination.

[@sunnyscott4876]

I have literally found several different Travelon and Baggalini bags at my local Goodwill Stores and purchased them at pennies on the dollar. Some are brand new. I have only ordered two new items. One was a messenger bag for my husband, and the other was a small cross body bag for myself. You just have to be in the right place at the right time.

[@Mickeyliera]

I have found Bagalini at TJ MAXX as well!

[@carlroberts1172]

I have the very same sling bag and recently used it on a trip to Tokyo. It is slim enough to fit under a shirt or jacket and with the multiple zippers and compartments, is easily and conveniently accessible. I shortened the straps to wear closer to the chest and it worked very well to carry a phone, passport, wallet and portable wifi device. I'm very happy with my purchase.

[@PortableProfessional]

Nice, Carl! Always great to find something that works well!

[@Secretsquirrel121]

I have now purchased a holster type carrier. It can be treaded to the belt or hooked to the belt. It has several pockets; 2 for large phones , inner pocket with zip for passport/documents, another for sunglasses and reading glasses, also for a wallet. Additional you have a choice of adding a strap to go cross body. Brilliant! My trip to my birth place Singapore from London England will be so much better this time, instead of the limited space of a fanny bag. In London we call it the bum bag :-)

[@Rye_Toast]

I'm always chuckling at how opposite our preferences always seem to be, yet I still enjoy the tips in your videos! I have that exact sling and I love it, I still pack minimally so it doesn't bother me but I've never needed to remove it to get into any of the pockets, I did buy one for my dominant hand though because I saw they had left handed and right handed bags. I like the option of having a little more room just in case, usually that's for my kindle. I needed to bring my work ipad with me and it fit in there, I would've had to bring a larger bag otherwise. Once I check my bags I like to be hands free and I don't even remove the sling when I'm seated on the plane. It's all preference, really!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing that! Always great to get your comments!

[@buffalogirl1961]

Another advantage of the belt bag is because it’s just that- a belt and does not count as a personal item since you are wearing it. You can wear it in addition to a personal item and carry on. It’s great for holding your phone, credit cards, cash, and ID easily accessible.

[@thanhiclez]

you can easily conceal a sling while worn under a jacket hiding between 2-4kgs depending on your bag size and still have a carry on and a personal item.

[@lynnbrady4193]

I love how fanny packs have been rebranded as “crossbody bags.” I used a Travelon anti theft fanny pack (crossbody) for a recent trip. Worked well. I prefer the smaller bag for a flight.

[@PortableProfessional]

Right?! It's genius marketing.

[@oldandbankrupt]

​@@PortableProfessional You missed your calling as a model. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this video (creeper alert). 😋 I have a good video idea; recommendations for the new backpacks that can't be opened from behind while being worn. They can only be opened when they're off the body. Because the openings are facing your back while being worn. You could do a 3 tier ranking; Most expensive, least expensive, and best one for the money. 🤗

[@roberttrinies7698]

Fanny packs have been rebranded as hip packs ,and purses have been rebranded as cross body bags.

[@happycruiser]

I used a hip pack as a sling when in Europe, holding my valuables. Then I wore a backpack with things like water and jacket.

[@LePédantSémantique]

As a guy who tends to carry fewer items. (Yours is stuffed!) The Fanny Pack feels more awkward. I’m now hooked on my sling (the same you show here) which fits closer to my body.

[@randalmacnair1500]

Another excellent video, thank you! I travel with a small backpack for when I am out and about during the day. I've considered a sling or a "hip pack" so this was helpful. Cheers!

[@rcboatnut]

My Go To is a Mountain Smith Fanny Pack,-Day Pack model, I have been using it for about 25 years and it is perfect for my Travels. It does all three, it can be warn as hip pack, cross body and day pack over both shoulders.

[@letter203ify]

Since I only have a fanny pack I'll use that especially after you said 90%. I like the cooler name "hip pack".

[@907T]

Hello Megan! It's funny to see all the ads for sling bags. I have a small Maxpedtion pack that I bought about ten years ago. It slides around nicely and works well for city touring, but a backpack is preferable for hiking. However, I plan to use my flip belt on our next trip. Safe travels everyone!

[@RonaldKaylorPhoto]

I like how you added the light on the plant and also the lighting in the kitchen for aesthetics, like the decor :) Also like the videos, thanks for the work you do!

[@rosannemunt5074]

I bought a theft resistance relatively large capacity hip pack (it can hold my phone, all my credit cards, keys, sunglasses w/case) for use on an upcoming trip and decided to try it out locally. I found the ability to be totally hands free so convenient that it's all I use now - with the exception of special occasions such as a wedding and a funeral.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great for more than just travel! Thanks for watching, Rosanne!

[@joydawg]

A sling I love is by Eddie Bauer, it folds into a pouch and has a side mesh place for a water bottle. How are you walking all day long without a water bottle?

[@rogerbarth3774]

I have carried a fanny pack since the 80s. On a flight I hang my fanny pack from the seat pocket as it contains all my small needed items and does not take away from my leg space. While in the airport the fanny pack is usually in my backpack. When I am sightseeing, the fanny pack is usually on my hip and covered by a jacket. I have never heard you mention Kleenex in your presentations, but to me these are a necessity. So many travelers have nothing to cover their mouth or nose when they sneeze.

[@OkaayYall]

I’m a fanny pack girl. I have a rather large one that I use for flights as I have become a queen of carry-on only. A fanny pack is a tricky way I have 3 bags instead of 2.

[@davidingle5545]

I definitely prefer the hip pack. I have a leather one with locking zippers. It works well for international travel.

[@PortableProfessional]

Lots of hip pack fans here! Ditto!

[@howcotube]

On my last trip to London in December I for the first time tried a sling bag. It is the very same one you showed us Megan. I had my cell and other items for my video equipment. I thought it worked fine but it did mess me up one time. I always kept passports in my video bag and when we came back to customs I searched my video bag for the passports but couldn't find them, I panicked and the staff put us aside and were eager to help as I still looked for them in my bag pulling everything out. Then it occurred to I had them in my sling bag (under my coat) as it was so comfortable and not used to having one it was there all along! What a relief - but after all that I will still wear one for my next trip !

[@roberttrinies7698]

I like a small waist pack for my very important/ valuable items ,and a small backpack for less valuable and bulkier items. An ultralight 3oz stowable backpack can be carried in the larger carry-on bag ,and used after reaching your destination. ✌🏼

[@thanhiclez]

I used a 4.5 litre sling. The way the straps were positioned on the pack, it put it in a position of a back pack when worn behind you, but when rotated to the from it opened like a bum bag without having to take it off. Slim enough to conceal under jackets to not be counted for weight easily allowing me to shift weight out of my back pack/carry on when I needed to on flights where the max weight was lower than my last flight.

[@denismoreau3646]

I like a sling it Carrie’s more and is more versatile. But I also have a hip belt so might think of that on my next trip. Good tips. 😊

[@travel734]

I used to have a fanny pack to carry wax and a spare ski tip when I was back country cross country skiing!

[@mrdude369]

I had the question and this is the only video on the subject and very well done. Thanks

[@PortableProfessional]

Awesome, thank you!

[@denisenoble4010]

I brought a sling and although it sugest you could carry alot of stuff, I just didn't get on with it if you fill the big pocket the front pockets were almost impossible to use. I've recently brought myself a fanny pack, it's strap extends to wear it over you shoulder. I much prefer it and use it all the time, it fits all the stuff I need on a daily basis so the one I got in a bogof advert means I got 2 for the price of one. I will use the second bag of holidays😊

[@Stormbrise]

Yes but one is a personal item bag on an airplane the other is clothing as you told us in a recent video. I would rather pack the sling as a pouch in my backpack or Personal Item bag, and wear a small waist pack for that bit of extra storage I need on my travels across the pond to my family home in the PNW and DK

[@fancynancy2870]

Can you do a video for your favourite personal item (or tote) bag and what you pack in it? Thanks.

[@zoepetra]

I have a small shoulder bag that I use for personal item, it fits all I need on the flight so I don’t have to lug around a giant bag. have a good day

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing, Zoe!

[@pepelemoko01]

I worry about the quick-release buckle on most sling bags, in high-crime pickpocket areas . It would only be a matter of a bump by a theft, and a handoff to another passing by. In areas like this, I put a keyring split ring, though the buckle stoping the release.

[@jillhough3088]

I bought a sling for N overseas trip and it worked great and felt comfortable.

[@PortableProfessional]

Super to hear, Jill!

[@jayewilliams7749]

I often use a fanny pack for hands-free access to my important items, even when I’m not traveling. When I am traveling I leave space in my backpack to stash the fanny pack when boarding, creating only one personal item. That’s the only time it matters.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Hands free access? I’d love to know how you manage that :)

[@christybolagner8712]

Thanks for the helpful video. I have both and don't really wear them. I'm good w/ a crossbody. I'm heading to SE Asia in July so I'm bringing both and use it when I get there.

[@DrJon-zf2xo]

Another benefit of a sling carrier. I wear it on the plane under my shirt or jacket so it neither a personal item or a carry on bag.

[@reneemitchell5325]

I wear a hip bag or Fannie pack as I call it, everyday. Will consider buying a sling after seeing your video.

[@CyberMercy]

Certain Hip Pouch/Pac - the Square ones with 2 front pockrts, can 3rd duty as a cluth. You wrap the belt around creating an over under X in the back. Slip your hand under the X and you have a secure Grip. You also have a hanging point for the bath stall & can easily & quickly fasten to achair back but have it right at your side. Also the strap wrapping around the front pockets make the zipped one difficult to get into but the flapped one still easy access. Clutch style can act as an essentials organiser in a larger bag as well. Over stuffing mine destroyed the zipper so Essentials - not: I'm sure I can fit a full size of SPF in it If I try.😎☕💋

[@MsMorganGirls]

Have you looked at a UKoala bag? I love mine. It goes around your waist and has a strap to go around your leg (or can be pinned out of the way). It can also be carried as a sling.

[@abigailgerlach5443]

I prefer a sling every time. If your backside is generous, it is not at all attractive to add bulk to your frame. A sling also seems to carry more of what I consider essentials such as packets of tissues, chapstick, wipes, mask, keys, passport, maps, mints, and reading glasses.

[@jimmijames1]

Thank you mz Megan, love all you videos. I’ll be trying a sling pack for the first and will let you know

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad you enjoy watching! Hope the sling pack works out for you!

[@Holdmymawashi]

In Australia, it is most definitely a “bumbag” 😂😂😂

[@RodSwansmad]

2nd that ! We call it a Bumbag !

[@srp01983]

@@RodSwansmad Yes, in the U.K. a fanny pack would be something quite different 😂😂

[@jodpigbass5904]

Yep - well it was designed in australia originally... inspired by a kangaroo no less!!

[@chrisf1881]

Just bought a new leather fanny pack in Florence. I wear it both ways, hip and crossbody. I really like having a crossbody in Rome. I felt I had more control of keeping my stuff safe.

[@coolstuff0825]

I plan on taking both on my next trip.

[@PortableProfessional]

That works! Great to have you on the channel!

[@P0WSEETr]

The fanny pack can be wore as a crossbody bag as well

[@graemegalley400]

Sensible comments. Perhaps it's best to work out what you are going to need/carry for that day & that will decide for you if you use 1 or the other.

[@thegeneral123]

I wear a small travel sling under a jacket/hoodie as a storage place for my phone, passport etc. It's small enough that it does not attract attention and get pegged as a personal item. I have a camera bag as my personal item. It's more like a 'fanny pack' in size.

[@zzkeokizz]

I have a Packsafe backpack and I wear it like a sling. I’m thinking about another sling for the small bag in the big bag.

[@moiraw1111]

Good tip about wearing the fanny pack as a sling - will be doing that on my upcoming trip 👍

[@madhealerofwindurst807]

I personally prefer the crossbody bag. It is thinner so it fits under a jacket or sweater better, still hold more than a hip pack, and distributes the weight more.

[@myras2blessed2beestressed32]

So i can have a personal items bag, a carry on and a hip bag?

[@EricOnYouTube]

Sling for sure.

[@marciaricksgers2018]

Off-topic, can you share the name of that jacket in the video? It’s perfect!

[@michelepineau9657]

Manufacturers generally don't design fanny (hip) packs for us larger people so I'll stick with the cross bag.

[@kathrynhelm4176]

I’m with you Michele . I wonder why they don’t allow for us? Happy travels.

[@dawnliphard9591]

I usually prefer a sling style as I’m bigger, so waist size can sometimes be an issue. I do however prefer the size of the hip pack over the sling. I generally use the hip pack as a sling.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great idea! Happy travels!

[@VB-by2cg]

Do you have affiliate links for the bags you're wearing? Pretty sure I have the same sling in my cart and have been on the fence about a hip pack.

[@jazzbob7]

I use a hip pack all the time when I travel. I can get quite a lot in mine.

[@PortableProfessional]

Nice, thanks for sharing!

[@Dedaskitchen]

Would love to know the brand of the plum colored jacket you are wearing about middle of video!

[@alouis0317]

I totally judge fanny packs, but have recently gotten over this because they are easier to hide under clothes than my crossbody bags LOL I'll have to try it out on my next flight. I LOVE the bookbag I always see in your videos. I'm looking for a good one for travel....is it a Nobleman men's backpack or some other brand? Thanks for the tips! 😊

[@wandaroberts2674]

I have to much Fanny for a pack so I prefer the sling much better.

[@arare5678]

Hi, would you mind sharing the brand and model number of the sling you are wearing in the video? Thanks!

[@vanessabanyas164]

You haven’t posted what fanny pack you are wearing and how to purchase or the sling. I would like to know.

[@CynymonGirl]

What does Southwest consider the fanny and sling to be?

[@DrJon-zf2xo]

I use a travel slings because I can wear under my shirt and access the items I need but especially do not want to lose. I do not keep a lot of items, passport, credit cards back up document and some cash as well as my encrypted memory stick with other essentail information. Each item is in a separate area. The key is to wear under a layer of clothing a button front shirt or jacket, which does not work for a fanny pack. I use it instead of a hotel safe too. Travel slings are a lot newer than fanny packs so professional pick pockets are not as well trained on these.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing!

[@boomertuber8878]

Good stuff!

[@e815usa]

Can you provide the link to the crossbody bag you showed? I like it! Also if you have a link to the hip pack……

[@banjetta]

Hi, where did you purchase the exact sling bag shown in your video, as the material is a nice black nylon that glides across clothing and is not like the fabric on the link you attached? I ordered a similar inexpensive one online and the fabric is awful … so looking for the exact one in your video. Thanks.

[@VisitorsWelcome]

No matter which one I wear, I rotate it in front of me for security in subways and crowded areas, and rotate it behind me when entering museums and attractions where it might be questioned. My passport and credit cards stay in a money belt, which attaches to a belt loop and flips inside my pants.

[@qdyuqgwdhiqwduyqw]

I've never been disappointed with a H Q D U P S handbag. The leather is buttery soft, the hardware is durable, and the design is timeless.♥

[@adeliaperez8270]

For me I like the sling bag.

[@vickiesmith3021]

Thank you so very much 💟.

[@PortableProfessional]

You are so welcome, Vickie! Pleasure to have you on the channel.

[@shayedkarim7656]

thank you , very useful video .

[@PortableProfessional]

So nice of you! Glad it was helpful!

[@JohnSmith-bz9be]

I would go for a hip pack and have little flight essentials in their like my Kindle, sweets, ID and hand sanitisers

[@PortableProfessional]

Yes, perfect size for those!

[@supericeman1]

if you wear a small sling or a fanny pack with your personal backpack, in my travel experience they didn't even ask me question me when boarding the plane, when I had a small sling bag in worn facing front with my backpack personal item the lady holding her purse, the gate agent told her needs to be combined with her other bag so it's 1 personal item

[@PortableProfessional]

I have done the same without any issues! Thanks for being on the channel!

[@nybsbfan18]

It also depends on what wallet style u carry.

[@yaowsers77]

I wear my anti theft hip bag as a sling

[@u_t_d_s_h-1_a]

Crossbody bags present amiable imagery of one, fanny packs? ---in contrast, those are for people still stranded in exhibiting mannerisms of earlier times.

[@jonitagonsalves9177]

Nice backpack🎒

[@OhShunz]

"fanny pack".... no no no....."waist utility wallet"... yaasssss!!!!! :D

[@tw9535]

Nice video! Seems like an easy decision if one of them can be worn either way. Especially if it's also less bulky.

[@tasfiakabir75]

Hello Megan ❤

[@LizA-xh9jp]

Hi, I'm so curious on your accent....I can't place it...where is it from?

[@kimgrod]

Hip pack, fanny pac, bum bag … thy’re all good

[@Niknak1234]

Links to these bags ? Please

[@mr.mrs.darling6001]

I’m frustrated that there is no info on her bags 😢

[@garywhittaker6575]

Fanny pack seems better for beach activities.

[@priscillajacko7577]

Sling is more comfortable