9 Travel Essentials That Should Be in Your Fanny Pack — and What to Leave Behind

1. ID and Travel Documents

Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a train, it’s essential to have your ID, boarding pass, or train ticket close by. Keep these items in a safe, easily accessible pocket of your fanny pack. For international trips, include a passport and any necessary visas or travel documents.

2. Credit Card and Local Currency

Having access to both a credit card and cash (in the local currency if traveling abroad) is crucial. A fanny pack can help keep these financial items safe and within reach, especially in crowded areas or unfamiliar places. Make sure to store them in a secure compartment to avoid pickpockets.

3. Portable Phone Charger

A portable phone charger is a lifesaver when you're on the go. Keep your phone charged for emergency use, navigation, or simply for capturing memories. A compact charger won’t take up much space and will ensure you stay connected throughout the day.

4. Medication and Personal Health Items

If you take medication, always carry a few doses with you in your fanny pack. This also includes items like lip balm, hand sanitizer, or any other small health items you might need. A fanny pack provides a discrete and easy-to-reach spot to store these essentials.

5. Snacks and Water

When you’re out and about exploring, you might find yourself hungry or thirsty. Pack a small, resealable bag with some snacks like protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit, and keep a small water bottle in your fanny pack to stay hydrated. This ensures you won’t get caught off guard when you’re feeling a bit low on energy.

6. Sunscreen

Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a small bottle of sunscreen. It’s especially important if you’re traveling in sunny destinations, and a fanny pack is a convenient place to keep it handy without taking up much space.

7. Tissues and Wet Wipes

Whether it’s for a quick cleanup or a sneeze, tissues and wet wipes can be incredibly useful while traveling. These lightweight items can be packed into a small pouch inside your fanny pack, ready for when you need them most.

8. Map or Guidebook

While you can rely on your phone for directions, having a physical map or guidebook in your fanny pack can be helpful in case you lose service or don’t want to drain your phone’s battery. This is especially useful if you're traveling in remote areas or places with unreliable Wi-Fi.

9. Safety Items

For extra security, consider adding a small whistle, pepper spray, or a flashlight to your fanny pack. These items can help in an emergency, providing a sense of safety while you’re navigating unfamiliar places.

What to Leave Behind

While a fanny pack can carry a lot of essentials, there are some things you shouldn’t pack. Here’s what to leave behind:

• Heavy electronics: Tablets or large cameras are best stored in a backpack or suitcase, as they can make your fanny pack uncomfortable and heavy.
• Too many credit cards: Carry only what’s necessary. Multiple cards can clutter your pack and increase the risk of loss.
• Unnecessary makeup or toiletries: Keep it simple with essentials only. Leave behind bulky items like shampoo or large makeup bags.
• Excess clothing: You won’t need extra layers or bulky jackets in your fanny pack—opt for lightweight, practical options that can be carried elsewhere.

By carefully selecting what you pack in your fanny pack, you can make your travels more enjoyable, efficient, and secure. Remember, less is often more, and the goal is to keep your essentials handy without overloading your bag. Enjoy your adventure!