A bumbag keeps your phone, wallet, passport, and keys within reach without tying up your hands or leaving a bag unattended on a chair. For travel in busy markets, crowded tourist sites, and public transport, it's one of the most practical carry options available — particularly when paired with anti-theft construction that makes opportunistic theft significantly harder.
Travel Gear is an authorised Australian stockist for Pacsafe, the world's leading anti-theft travel brand. We stock the full range of travel bumbags and hip bags, shipping from our Charlestown NSW warehouse with fast delivery across Australia.
Types of Travel Bumbags & Hip Bags
Anti-Theft Hip Bags
Pacsafe's anti-theft hip bags are purpose-built for travel security. Slash-resistant eXomesh fabric panels, Carrysafe slashguard straps, lockable Roobar zippers, and built-in RFID-blocking pockets protect your cards and passport from wireless skimming. Capacity typically 1–3 litres — enough for a phone, wallet, passport, and keys. Weight from 150g empty. Worn around the waist or cross-body depending on preference.
Crossbody Hip Bags
Worn across the chest or at the hip, keeping the bag visible and in front of you at all times. The most secure wearing position for crowded environments — a bag in front of you is significantly harder to access than one behind. Most crossbody hip bags hold 2–5 litres and weigh 200–400g.
Running & Active Waist Belts
Slim, lightweight belts designed for running, cycling, and hiking. Typically waterproof or water-resistant, with a single zippered compartment for a phone, keys, and cards. Weight from 50g. Not designed for security — for active travel where you need hands-free storage without bulk.
Money Belts
Slim belts worn under clothing — completely concealed and the most secure option for passports and emergency cash. See our dedicated money belts and travel wallets range for the full selection.
What to Look for in a Travel Bumbag
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Security features: Slash-resistant fabric and straps, lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets for high-risk destinations
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Capacity: 1–3 litres for essentials only; 3–5 litres if you need to carry a small camera or snacks
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Wearing position: Waist or cross-body — cross-body in front is the most secure position in crowded areas
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Weight: Under 300g empty for all-day comfort
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Material: Nylon or polyester for durability; water-resistant coating for light rain protection
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Strap adjustment: Adjustable waist strap to fit over a jacket or directly on clothing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bumbag for travel?
For travel security in high-risk destinations, a Pacsafe anti-theft hip bag is the best choice — slash-resistant straps, lockable zippers, and RFID blocking in a compact 1–3 litre bag. For discreet money carrying, a slim travel money belt worn under clothing offers the highest level of security in crowded destinations.
Can I wear a bumbag through airport security?
Yes — simply remove it and place it in the tray like any other bag. A slim travel waist belt worn under clothing may need to be removed depending on the airport and security level. Metal-free buckles and zippers pass through scanners without triggering alerts.
Are hip bags the same as bumbags?
Essentially yes — hip bags, bum bags, waist packs, and fanny packs all refer to the same style of bag worn around the waist or hips. The terminology varies by country: Australians typically say bumbag, Americans say fanny pack, and the fashion industry often uses hip bag.
Are anti-theft bumbags worth it?
For travel to high-pickpocket destinations — Barcelona, Rome, Bangkok, Buenos Aires — yes. Slash-resistant straps prevent grab-and-run theft; lockable zippers prevent zip-pocket access in crowds; RFID blocking protects contactless cards. For low-risk destinations, a standard bumbag is fine. For more on layering travel security, see our anti-theft travel security guide.
