Hip Packs & Waist Packs
A hip pack is a practical alternative to a backpack when you need to keep your essentials close at hand without carrying extra weight on your back. Choose from compact waist packs for small items or larger models designed for cycling, hiking and running. When selecting a hip pack, consider its capacity, pocket organisation, stability during movement and compatibility with a hydration bladder.
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How to Choose a Hip Pack for Sports and Hiking
Sports hip packs are ideal for hiking, cycling and running when you need easy access to your phone, keys, snacks or tools. Compared to a backpack, they leave your back free and stay securely in place when properly adjusted. The most important factors are capacity, pocket organisation and comfort during movement.
Small or Large Hip Pack?
Smaller hip packs with a capacity of around 2 litres are suitable for personal essentials and small items. They're a good choice for short rides, running or walking. If you need to carry an extra layer, snacks or more tools, consider a larger hip pack with a capacity of around 5 litres.
The Acepac Onyx 2 MKIII is an example of a compact hip pack. For longer trips, larger models such as the Acepac Onyx 5 MKIII or Pinguin Drift 5 offer more storage space. When choosing a model, look beyond capacity and consider the pocket layout and options for attaching additional equipment.
Cycling Hip Packs and Hydration Systems
When cycling, a secure fit and easy access to your gear are essential. A properly adjusted waist belt helps prevent the pack from bouncing on rough terrain and lets you ride comfortably without a backpack.
Some sports hip packs can accommodate a hydration bladder or carry a water bottle. If you're looking for a hip pack for longer cycling trips, check compatibility with the specific hydration system and the available options for routing the drinking tube. Not every hip pack is designed to carry a hydration bladder.
What to Look for When Choosing a Hip Pack
- Capacity: choose based on the amount of equipment you need to carry.
- Stability: an adjustable waist belt should keep the pack securely in place, even during more intense activity.
- Organisation: separate pockets make it easier to access your phone, keys and other small essentials.
- Ventilation: a breathable back panel is particularly useful for sports activities.
- Water protection: coated fabric provides some protection against light rain, but standard zippers and seams are not waterproof.
If you need to carry more equipment, explore our range of cycling backpacks or hiking backpacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fit a hydration bladder in my backpack or hip pack, and what size?
The suitable hydration bladder capacity depends on the specific model. Send us the name of your backpack or hip pack and we'll check which bladder fits. For hip packs, we recommend hydration bladders specifically designed for waist packs. Standard backpack bladders may fit, but their functionality will be limited.
Is my backpack or hip pack waterproof?
Pinguin and Acepac backpacks and hip packs are not fully waterproof. Their fabrics have an internal coating that can withstand a short rain shower, but the seams and zippers are not waterproof. Use a rain cover in wet weather and pack moisture-sensitive items in a waterproof dry bag.
Can I wash my backpack in a washing machine?
We don't recommend it. Clean your backpack by hand using a sponge and mild hand soap. Never use dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents or similar cleaning products, as they may damage the water-resistant coating. Backpacks contain numerous plastic and metal components that could be damaged during machine washing or even damage the washing machine itself.
For answers about orders, shipping and returns, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.



