Sling Bags Are a Surprisingly Helpful Accessory During the Pandemic — Here Are 8 We Love

Say "hello" to your new favorite accessory.

By Madeline Diamond

Updated March 11, 2021

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Credit: Courtesy of of Caraa

From wearing face coverings in public to keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer nearby at all times, there are many ways we've adjusted to life amid the pandemic over the course of the last year. One of the adjustments I've made in my everyday life is changing the type of bag I carry while doing everyday tasks. I've long been a fan of the canvas tote, but after realizing how easily these bags get dirty, I've become an unsuspecting fan of the sling bag. Other variations include belt bags, fanny packs, and waist packs, but these bags all serve one main purpose: they're designed for close-to-the-body, hands-free carrying.

Related: More must-have bags

I realized recently just how much sense sling bags make for everyday life in the midst of a pandemic, as well as how functional they'll be for future travel. Whether I'm doing errands around my neighborhood or going for a bike ride, a sling (in particular, the Small Sling from Caraa) has been my go-to bag recently. It keeps my essentials close, and, most importantly, prevents me from having to set my bag down anywhere, whether I'm on the subway or sitting in the park. There are a ton of options when it comes to these bags, from sporty packs that avid hikers will love to modern, stylish options that beg to be worn with a pair of chic bike shorts or thrown over a stylish puffer coat, so we rounded up a variety of sling bags to showcase how versatile they are.

Keep reading for my favorite sling bag, and seven other stylish options that will become your go-to.

Caraa Small Sling

Credit: Courtesy of Caraa

Caraa offers a sling bag in two sizes, although I prefer the convenience of the smaller one. It has a total of six pockets, including four on the exterior that keep essentials within close reach. The adjustable strap allows you to wear the bag three ways — on your chest, on your back, or around your waist. Plus, it's made from water-repellant nylon, so I know my belongings are safe and sound while I'm out and about, no matter what the weather throws at me.

To buy: caraasport.com, $95