I'm a shopping editor, and I tested out belt bags from Lululemon and Aritzia — here's my honest review (plus which one is better)
Both the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag and Aritizia's On-The-Way Bag are under $50, but some key differences put one on top.
I can shamelessly say that ever since I started using a belt bag, I can't seem to reach for anything else (unless an event calls for it, of course). The convenience of just slinging it across my chest is unmatched — hands-free, baby! Now, a fun fact about me: When I love something, I tend to buy different variations of it. It's no shock that I own the viral Everywhere Belt Bag from Lululemon, but when I saw that Aritzia had a similar On-The-Way Bag, I had to give it a shot, naturally. Curious to see which one I prefer? Keep scrolling to dive into my honest review.
- Long enough strap
- Durable material
- Smooth zipper
- Comfortable around waist and slung across chest
- Many colour options
- Interior mesh pockets
- Not super spacious
- Can get bulky
Details: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag review, pros and cons
The Everywhere Belt Bag has been super popular for a couple of years now after going viral on social media. IMO, it's what brought back the "fanny pack."
The bag's dimensions are 7.5" x 2" x 5", with a one-litre volume. It can hold everything you need and perhaps a little bit more.
I find it fits just enough for every day, but when I'm going on a day trip, I need a tad more space — which is when the large version comes in handy.
It has one zippered exterior pocket, which I appreciate for keeping my essentials separated — but I do wish there was a zippered interior pocket, too.
The strap (41.7 inches) is perfect for wearing across my chest or across my waist; I've personally never had an issue with it. However, there's also an extended strap version for those who wish to have more length.
What others are saying
According to other Lululemon shoppers, this bag is "handy for everyday use."
"I like everything about this bag!" said one reviewer, adding that they "appreciate the extra compartment on the back."
Another person said they use it for all kinds of occasions, stating it's "super adjustable" and "worth every penny."
One customer pointed out that it's "especially useful on travel days" and that it "fits passports easily."
Someone said that "it's lightweight and has plenty of space!" They also stated that "it can stain[,] but nothing a good wash can't fix!" So, keep that in mind when purchasing lighter colours.
There are a couple of reviews that reported inaccurate colours compared to photos, and some people also noted a "faulty zipper" that seems to get stuck.
Also available in mini and bigger sizes and a hidden zip style.
- Cute colour
- Durable material
- Smooth zipper
- Interior mesh pockets
- Strap is stiff
- Not super spacious
- Can get bulky
- Stiff fabric
- Not a fan of the obvious branding
Details: TnAction On-The-Way Exposed Bag review, pros and cons
Similar to the Lululemon version, this TNA multi-way bag can be worn around the waist or across the body. It has similar features, too, including a zippered exterior pocket, interior mesh pockets and a speed clip with an adjustable strap. It's also made of a water-repellent nylon fabric.
The bag's dimensions are 7.5" x x 1 15/16" x 5 1/8", which is comparable to the Lulu version. However, I noticed the material feels very stiff, which makes it difficult to fit everything I need without the bag starting to look bulky.
Another noteworthy mention is that the strap (44.9 inches) is kind of stiff and thick, making it harder to adjust — but that could change over time with consistent use. It also feels shorter than the dimensions state.
I do love the colour options for this bag and the exposed zipper detail, but I don't love the TNA symbol on both the speed clip and the front of the bag.
What others are saying
One Aritzia reviewer said they "love this bag" and claimed it's "super high-quality!"
Another person stated it's the "perfect size" for them, adding that it fits everything they need for the day.
On the other hand, a third shopper said it's "way too small" and that the band doesn't "expand as far" as they'd prefer.
One person echoed that it's "small" and complained that the strap hurts their shoulder, which is something to keep in mind.
The final verdict
So, which one do I prefer? I won't lie; I tend to reach for my Lululemon belt bag more often — which I have in multiple colours. It fits slightly more, and I find my items lay more comfortably inside of it. Although they're both made of nylon fabric, I notice that Lululemon's is a bit more malleable, whereas the TNA one is a tad stiff.
However, they're both incredibly similar in size, style and function, so I can confidently recommend either. When it comes down to it, the colour and brand might be your only deciding factor. And to that, I say, do you!
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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