Best bum bags to keep the essentials handy that are ideal for festivals or travelling
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The bumbag has had a major rebrand.
We may think of it as a throwback from the late 80s, but the pouch-like bag has actually been around for a lot longer than that.
The world has one Melba Stone to thank for the accessory; an Australian woman who could have been inspired by kangaroo pouches when she developed the design way back in the early 60s.
The handy bag, which sits on the hips and keeps your essentials to hand - without actually being in your hands - took the world by storm and has returned for another moment in the spotlight in 2023.
As well as sleeker and chicer options, the way we wear it has changed too. Instead of neatly and obediently clipped in around the waist, Gen Z wears it crossbody, slung around a shoulder with access to the pocket up by the chest.
It’s destined to be this year’s top festival accessory, freeing hands to clap along to acts, navigate the loos, and take fresh pints of cider back to your mates.
But it has uses beyond the festival field; a bumbag is a great way to store essential things like bank cards and house keys when you’re going for a jog or off on the slopes, skiing.
Some are more form than function, while others are all about the looks. Every one of them offers storage; how much depends on your needs.
Whatever your style or budget, our edit has the best bags to suit.
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AWAY The Sling Bag by Ashish
Better known for smart, hard-wearing travel luggage, AWAY has three styles of bumbag to swoon over. Our pick is the graphic floral one made in collaboration with lauded fashion designer Ashish. Printed on 100 per cent recycled polyester, it also has plenty of pockets and clips to keep your most precious things close. A limited edition, this design won’t stick around for long, so if you want one - well, you know what to do.
Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Intrecciato green leather belt bag
While bumbags are largely affordable things, there are a few elite options out there - with RRPs to match. Bottega Veneta's bottle green version is made with premium leather and comes with an internal slip pocket that you'll find under the magnetic closure.
ASOS DESIGN front pocket bum bag in silver
On boots and hats, silver is the hue to know. Coordinate your bag to your space cowgirl aesthetic with ASOS's front pocket bum bag, offered in a gleaming, magpie-pleasing silver. The adjustable strap offers a secure fit and there are plenty of pockets to stash your valuables.
TINYAT Insulated Fanny Pack Cooler
Whether you're off on a hike, having a picnic or want to keep chilled bevs to hand without lugging around a great big cooler, this genius bumbag raises the stakes for a must-have summer accessory. The larger of the two compartments is insulated, which means you can sneak in a few cans for drinks on the go.
Anya Hindmarch Ski recycled-nylon belt bag
From the luxury designer's labelled accessories comes this ski-focused belt bag armed to the teeth with compartments and zippers. Made from recycled nylon, the gold hot-stamped details make it stand out as well as make it much easier to find where everything is.
Polo Ralph Lauren bum bag in tie dye with pony logo
Go full retro with a bumbag sporting an acid tie-dye wash pattern. Ralph Lauren's large capacity design closes with a zip for quick and easy access and is spacious enough for the day's essentials.
Ugg Nasha Clear Belt Bag
A bag made to be seen, Ugg's design comes with an adjustable and removable strap so you can wear it how you like. Made with a mix of clear plastic and faux fur, the inside is made from ripstop nylon, so should stop tears in their tracks. Comes with a dustbag.
Eastpak Bumbag Double Calm Green
A bumper bumbag with a separate compartment not only makes organisation a breeze but means it has space for practically anything you might need for a full day out and about. Eastpak's design is available in a range of colours to coordinate with your style and is made from hard-wearing, easy-clean polyester.
ASOS DESIGN 90s monogram bum bag in brown
A designer look without the price tag, the subtle monogram pattern on this brown bumbag is all about quiet luxury. One zip fastening leads you inside to your bag of tricks.
Paul Smith 'Happy' Belt Bag
There may not be stripes, but Paul Smith's characteristic playfulness endures in this simple but fun bum bag. With two separate compartments, the all-black nylon look is lifted with a smiley-style logo on the front. Currently on sale from £150.
The North Face Jester bum bag in orange and black
This rugged, hard-wearing design comes from none other than The North Face - so you know it can join you on any adventure. As well as a large compartment, there's elastic lacing on the front to hold water bottles or hang sunglasses.
Kipling Yasemina XL
It's fully back to the 80s with Kipling's retro design, covered with MTV's famous logo. The two-compartment design is lightweight and water-repellent, making it ideal for the great British summer.
New Look checked bum bag in khaki
A classic check is perfect for every day wear, adding pattern to your carefully put-together outfit. New Look’s design is on the verge of being ‘ludicrously capacious’, but in a good way.
Seletti wears TOILETPAPER Snakes faux-leather belt bag
The Italian design house is famous for making fun prints, and this bumbag is no exception. Decorated with coloured snakes, the oval-shaped purse sits on a slim buckled belt that needs to be worn around the waist.
Lululemon All Night Festival Bag Micro 2L
Available in three neutral shades so as to go with everything, this streamlined bumbag offers all of the storage without the bulk.
Damson Madder exclusive bum bag in purple and green stripe
An eye-catching unisex design from Damson Madder, there's no losing this bag in a crowd. The XL compartment closes securely with a zip fastening.
FENDI Monogram-print recycled-nylon bumbag
Label lovers will adore Fendi's loud and proud design, covered in not only the brand's famous interlocking logo, but with its name in canary yellow for good measure too. One for travelling rather than spoiling in a festival field. You can't miss it.
ASOS Design Smiley Collab bumbag crossbody
With an adjustable strap, you can wear this bumbag in the trad way, but we think it looks better slung over a shoulder. The smiley print is perfect for easy festival style.
Tommy Jeans colour block cross body waist bag in multi
The fresh prep of Tommy Hilfiger but in a belt bag, this colour-block design has twin compartments to keep your valuables.
Herschel Supply Co Fifteen Bumbag
Playground favourite Herschel does a nifty line of robust bumbags. Set on an adjustable belt and with one roomy pocket, the bag is easy to clean and will go the distance. Perfect for outdoor adventures and day trips.