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Need a new waist pack

peregrina2000

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Staff member
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Arc'Teryx, makes a Maka 1 & 2 Wast pack, bumbag or Fa____ y pack ………or what ever you want to call it.
They are $$$$ but they make very good quality items guarantied ot life.
 
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
I see you are from the US -- I always use a waist pack and my trusty one gave out last year. I found one that matches your description (it's even better than my old one) at Walmart in the outdoor/camping section. The brand is Outdoor Products, and it was a bank-breaking $6.

Hope this helps...
 
Well, it's not a waist pack, but you know how fond I am of my Salomon front pack. it would be the perfect place for that GPS! There may be something similar (or the perfect waist pack) in a Decathlon near you - a fun way to spend a rainy day in Lisbon!
Maybe look in the trail running section; you might find something perfect there.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Well, it's not a waist pack, but you know how fond I am of my Salomon front pack. it would be the perfect place for that GPS! There may be something similar (or the perfect waist pack) in a Decathlon near you - a fun way to spend a rainy day in Lisbon!
Maybe look in the trail running section; you might find something perfect there.
VNM, can you provide a link to that Salomon front pack? Sounds intriguing.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Hi Laurie, I can't help out with a particular brand, but I, too, require all the special compartments you are mentioning in my waist/fanny/bum bag. ;)
Reason being is I love resale shops and pick one up for approximately $1 whenever I see a good one, so have about a dozen of them in my Camino "shrine" area stored in my basement...lol. I do have a couple of favorites that I've used repeatedly. Fanny packs are one of my favorite pieces of gear. No shoulder strap purses or sweaty hidden waist belts for me!
 
Fanny packs are one of my favorite pieces of gear. No shoulder strap purses or sweaty hidden waist belts for me!

I have to admit that, in addition to my beloved waist pack, I do wear one of those RFID flat inner waist belts. I keep passport and larger denominations of Euros there, smaller amounts handy in my outer waist pack.

My rationale is that the waist pack would be easy for someone to rip off, and if they do, I have the important stuff on my body.

Probably a bit *anal* of me?? (ducking and running)
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
OMM Ultra Waist Pouch
I've just bought this one, I admit I have an OMM bag that it can attach to but feel that is irrelevant, it has all the bells and a "whistle", great weight, volume and quality.
 
I have to admit that, in addition to my beloved waist pack, I do wear one of those RFID flat inner waist belts. I keep passport and larger denominations of Euros there, smaller amounts handy in my outer waist pack.

My rationale is that the waist pack would be easy for someone to rip off, and if they do, I have the important stuff on my body.

Probably a bit *anal* of me?? (ducking and running)
No, you are not anal. We are all entitled to whatever makes us feel comfortable with our valuables. My waist pack has a flat hidden zipper in the very back for my passport, credit/debit cards and majority of cash. When walking at the airports since I'm also wearing my backpack, it covers the belt and a thief would not be able to get in there without my awareness to "slash and grab". I think they would go looking for an easier target. I do bring it in the shower with me and stuff it in the bottom of my sleeping bag each night for added peace of mind.
 
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).
I like a waist pack to augment my backpack or use by itself. I have become a big fan of the Osprey brand backpacks, and have come to love their camera bag and waist packs, also. They have an ultralight waist pack that sounds like it meets your needs, and I used this one every day on a recent month-long visit to Chiang Mai, Thailand, Osprey Ultra light Grab Bag. Osprey also has more substantial waist packs: Osprey Talon 6L waist pack.

Buen Camino!
--jim--
 
My wife uses finis made Marimekko product. Two or three compartments. there are two sizes, she has the smaller one. Not too big, but enough. The speciality is the very strong stribes. Former, don’ t remember trademark broke just at stribes. I carry german made Deuter one, even smaller one.
Cheers and happy planning.
 
I like a waist pack to augment my backpack or use by itself. I have become a big fan of the Osprey brand backpacks, and have come to love their camera bag and waist packs, also. They have an ultralight waist pack that sounds like it meets your needs, and I used this one every day on a recent month-long visit to Chiang Mai, Thailand, Osprey Ultra light Grab Bag.

I’ve had my eye on that Osprey Ultra Light Grab Bag, which can be worn around the waist or on the front of your backpack with some kind of quick (?) release that I don’t quite understand. Jim, have you used it that way or just as a waist pack?

It’s carried at REI but it’s never in stock at my store so I haven’t seen it myself.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Glad to see this thread because I'm debating. I've been a fan of Be Safe Bags (https://besafebags.com) for years - have all three sizes of their waist packs.

But I've never worn one under a backpack with a hip belt, and I just don't see how that would work. I think it would rest in the same place. I have a money belt that I've tested under my backpack and that works well.

But I love the convenience of having my most important stuff right in front of me - sunscreen, lip balm, my cell phone, some money. . . and the bags are well-organized enough that I can open one compartment while keeping the others securely closed (mainly to prevent me from dropping something when I reapply sun protection).

So - waist pack fans: how do you handle the backpack's hip belt? And do you think there's value in keeping the most valuable stuff (passport, backup debit/credit cards) in a separate money belt that's completely concealed?
 
I did get mine at REI (San Diego, CA) and I have not quite figured out the quick release, but it is interesting. One of these days when I'm going to be close to REI, I'll take it with me and have them explain it. The staff at that store are very good. when I was shopping for a backpack for my most recent Camino Frances, I had the good fortune to be at that REI store at the same time as representatives from Osprey and Dueter, so I was fit well.

I used the Ultra Light Grab Bag by itself every day on my recent yoga-trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, but seldom used my backpack there as I was basically in one place in Chiang Mai for a month where I was doing yoga every day, then walking around the old city visiting temples and/or hiking up into the jungle to more remote temples. Only took a small backpack when I was going to be out in more remote areas for more than a couple of hours to carry water, snacks, camera, lenses, etc.
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old and has developed a few holes. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
Hi Laurie, just reading your post just now. I’ve just taken receipt of the Maka 2 waistpack, it can also be. Used as a body crossover bag. It’s excellent what you have described that you are looking for. ARCTERYX.COM. I understand they are Canadian company, total cost £35.00 including delivery. I’m pleased with my purchase. Hope this is useful. Lucy
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Glad to see this thread because I'm debating. I've been a fan of Be Safe Bags (https://besafebags.com) for years - have all three sizes of their waist packs.

But I've never worn one under a backpack with a hip belt, and I just don't see how that would work. I think it would rest in the same place. I have a money belt that I've tested under my backpack and that works well.

But I love the convenience of having my most important stuff right in front of me - sunscreen, lip balm, my cell phone, some money. . . and the bags are well-organized enough that I can open one compartment while keeping the others securely closed (mainly to prevent me from dropping something when I reapply sun protection).

So - waist pack fans: how do you handle the backpack's hip belt? And do you think there's value in keeping the most valuable stuff (passport, backup debit/credit cards) in a separate money belt that's completely concealed?
Hi Katherine... first, tell me where your avatar is. Beautiful church.

Next, I have walked with a backpack that clips in the front and a fanny pack that clicks in the back for 18 Caminos now, and it has never been a problem. The belts don’t cross the same parts of the back. The only thing you have to remember is to put the fanny pack on before the backpack. Buen camino, Laurie
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
So I gather that the front pack clips to your shoulder straps in front? Is it a hassle to unclip it every time you take off your backpack?
Yes, there are 2 clips that attach to the shoulder straps, and then the waist belt of the main pack goes through some big loops at the back of the front pack (too keep it from swinging). It's a little bit of a routine when putting everything on and taking it off, but once you get the hang of it, it's easy. You just have to do things in the right order.
 
I have to admit that, in addition to my beloved waist pack, I do wear one of those RFID flat inner waist belts. I keep passport and larger denominations of Euros there, smaller amounts handy in my outer waist pack.

My rationale is that the waist pack would be easy for someone to rip off, and if they do, I have the important stuff on my body.

Probably a bit *anal* of me?? (ducking and running)
Totally agree - I do exactly the same....OCD??? No...definitely cautious:)
 
Hi Laurie, just reading your post just now. I’ve just taken receipt of the Maka 2 waistpack, it can also be. Used as a body crossover bag. It’s excellent what you have described that you are looking for. ARCTERYX.COM. I understand they are Canadian company, total cost £35.00 including delivery. I’m pleased with my purchase. Hope this is useful. Lucy
Lucy, thanks for pointing out the Arcteryx Maka. It seems to be highly reviewed. I like the fact that it can work as a waist pack or as a cross-body bag — my wife has threatened to divorce me if she catches me wearing a waist pack! (Same thing for wearing Crocs, or for flip-flops with toe socks.)

I see that there are two sizes of Maka, the Maka 2 which is described as 2.5 to 3 liters (depending on the site) and the Maka 1 which is smaller. I have yet to find a site which does a good job of actually showing what it will hold. Can you give us some idea of the internal dimensions of the Maka 2?

This being a very international crowd, perhaps instead of cm or inches you can measure it in the truly universal unit of Brierleys. :)
 
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€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
On my camino I had this one, purchased from Amazon, this is great! Had the Brierly guide, our US passports, our credencial de peregrinos, our euros for the day, knife, first aid, and my cell phone, toilet paper, and I had space left, you can do a search for:

Huntvp Tactical Waist Pack Bag Military Fanny Packs WR Hip Belt Bag Pouch for Hiking Climbing Outdoor Bumbag

Good luck, y que la luz de Dios alumbre su camino.
1519871748110.webp
 
So - waist pack fans: how do you handle the backpack's hip belt? And do you think there's value in keeping the most valuable stuff (passport, backup debit/credit cards) in a separate money belt that's completely concealed?

I used the "PacSafe Metrosafe LS 120 anti-theft hip pack" which was on my body at all times, even while sleeping. It has several safety features that not only prevent theft but also any accidental opening of the zippers. The waist belt closes directly on one side of the pack which I find a lot more practical and safer than those closing in your back.
Using it while carrying my backpack was no problem at all: I just buckled my backpack's hipbelt under the waist pack and fastened the straps. The hipbelt pocket of my backpack was still accessible.
You can see for yourself on the attached photo.
 

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Using it while carrying my backpack was no problem at all: I just buckled my backpack's hipbelt under the waist pack and fastened the straps. The hipbelt pocket of my backpack was still accessible.
You can see for yourself on the attached photo.

Thanks for the picture. That helped. The Be Safe waist packs are similar in that they have ways to secure the zippers so that they can't unzip until I want them to unzip, and the waste belt clips in front instead of in the back. It also has a fabric covering over the waistbelt clasp so that someone can't just walk up to me and undo it.

I'll have to try that on my next walk to see how it goes.
 
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).
Cammino di Francesco is on my bucket list but the Camino is calling me first.
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

We're okay with fanny pack. Bumbag is also okay. :-)

Fanny may be slightly eyebrow-raising here in Oz but 'OBSCENE' never. We like fannies!
 
3rd Edition. More content, training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Lucy, thanks for pointing out the Arcteryx Maka. It seems to be highly reviewed. I like the fact that it can work as a waist pack or as a cross-body bag — my wife has threatened to divorce me if she catches me wearing a waist pack! (Same thing for wearing Crocs, or for flip-flops with toe socks.)

I see that there are two sizes of Maka, the Maka 2 which is described as 2.5 to 3 liters (depending on the site) and the Maka 1 which is smaller. I have yet to find a site which does a good job of actually showing what it will hold. Can you give us some idea of the internal dimensions of the Maka 2?

This being a very international crowd, perhaps instead of cm or inches you can measure it in the truly universal unit of Brierleys. :)
 

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Hope this is useful.
Lucy
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
This is the perfectly timed thread for me -- thank you! I hope to return to the Camino in June to walk in the weeks leading to my 50th birthday. I walked half the Frances in 2014. But I'm coming off a year of frozen shoulder and don't think I'll be ready to carry a backpack all day. I have no problem with sending it ahead, but even a day pack may be problematic. I'm trying to find a waist pack that could hold my essentials for a day -- water, snacks, a spare pair of socks, critical documents. So these are great suggestions. Has anyone ever walked with just a waist pack?
 
This is the perfectly timed thread for me -- thank you! I hope to return to the Camino in June to walk in the weeks leading to my 50th birthday. I walked half the Frances in 2014. But I'm coming off a year of frozen shoulder and don't think I'll be ready to carry a backpack all day. I have no problem with sending it ahead, but even a day pack may be problematic. I'm trying to find a waist pack that could hold my essentials for a day -- water, snacks, a spare pair of socks, critical documents. So these are great suggestions. Has anyone ever walked with just a waist pack?
There was a thread a couple of years ago by a member that carries everything in just a waist pack.
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/super-light-camino-gear.41075/#post-416791
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
I've always used a waist pack. I was shocked when I actually weighed my go-to empty waist pack to find that it weighed a kilo! Picked this one up for my last trip. I like that it's lightweight and stretches to accommodate various objects, but they must be in a plastic ziplock if they're paper: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071G3NKG4/?tag=casaivar02-20
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old and has developed a few holes. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
Check out Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-theft hip pack.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Check out Pacsafe Vibe 100 Anti-theft hip pack.
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old and has developed a few holes. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
I bought one with 3 compartments and a bottle holder on each side on AliExpress. Wanted a bag with different sized compartments to also be big enough to hold the Camino guide n paper docs plus some bottles as I don’t want to add too much weight to the backpack. Was cheap. Only abt NZ$15
 
Hi Laurie,

I recently bought this one, because of its versatility.. It may be available in Amazon in other countries. I bought a black one on sale a couple of weeks ago for C$16.99

Hope this helps.
 
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
Arc'Teryx, makes a Maka 1 & 2 Wast pack, bumbag or Fa____ y pack ………or what ever you want to call it.
They are $$$$ but they make very good quality items guarantied ot life.
Agree .. I used an Arc'Teryx waist pack, 2 pockets, big enough for my small camera and documents, could also be configured to sling over my shoulder. Worth the money.
 
I bought one with 3 compartments and a bottle holder on each side on AliExpress. Wanted a bag with different sized compartments to also be big enough to hold the Camino guide n paper docs plus some bottles as I don’t want to add too much weight to the backpack. Was cheap. Only abt NZ$15
One of my fanny packs has two bottle holders, one on each side. I was pretty excited about that until when I tried it out first at home on a local trail, it was so wide that my swinging arms hit the bottle holders. I ended up cutting one of the bottle holders off and now it's fine. I'm still not sure if I'll bring it or stick with my old favorite.
 
I discovered that the weight is too much for my lower back. Will try walking with bottles in my backpack pockets and/or a shoulder bottle pouch
 
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
I take a small handbag that has metal attachments for the shoulder strap that i attach carabiners to and then pass the hip/waist straps of my backpack thru the carabiners. I then have a handbag for evenings/days off and for pre and post camino travel that doesn't look too 'touristy'.
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old and has developed a few holes. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
I used an Osprey Ultra Light fanny pack. 2 pockets and stretchy. It worked great!
 
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old and has developed a few holes. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie
Oh, Laurie - After all the good advice I've gleaned from your postings, I do hope this one will help you. After much trial and error, I settled on, and am so grateful for, the Osprey Toiletry Kit:

https://www.rei.com/product/879819/osprey-ultralight-zip-travel-organizer

Here is what I did:
1) unsnapped the zipper compartment with the clear window and used it separately for my first aid gear,
2) attached the bag to my backpack waistband through the two loops on the back of the bag,
3) carried my passport/credential in a zip-lock in the back zipper compartment,
3) carried euros and bankcards in separate compartments,
4) carried pen, sun lotion, chapstick, phone (on a leash), etc in the main compartment.

THEN, I attached two tiny "D" rings to the back of the bag and, once in the alburgue, attached a small web belt and wore it as a cross-over bag! Tres chic!
1520892177753.webp 1520892250836.webp
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I just wanted to reiterate my thanks to everyone who took time to give me a suggestion. I now have a page of notes and am hoping to get one of these on Friday when I make a pre-camino pilgrimage to REI to buy new shoes, new toiletries kit, and new waist pack. Unfortunately, I am about 2.5 hours from the nearest REI, but oh well. I will report back.
 
Oh, Laurie - After all the good advice I've gleaned from your postings, I do hope this one will help you. After much trial and error, I settled on, and am so grateful for, the Osprey Toiletry Kit:

https://www.rei.com/product/879819/osprey-ultralight-zip-travel-organizer

Here is what I did:
1) unsnapped the zipper compartment with the clear window and used it separately for my first aid gear,
2) attached the bag to my backpack waistband through the two loops on the back of the bag,
3) carried my passport/credential in a zip-lock in the back zipper compartment,
3) carried euros and bankcards in separate compartments,
4) carried pen, sun lotion, chapstick, phone (on a leash), etc in the main compartment.

THEN, I attached two tiny "D" rings to the back of the bag and, once in the alburgue, attached a small web belt and wore it as a cross-over bag! Tres chic!
View attachment 40144 View attachment 40145
Very clever!
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
@peregrina2000 - Laurie, you know what I will say.... Get an Aarn pack with front balance packs, and a Macabi skirt with deep pockets! All done.

PS. And give up all idea of glamour.
Yes I did just that with my investment in an Aarn pack and front balance pockets to get away from the bum bag which drove me crazy last time!!! Can't wait to use them in 7 weeks - great for training, so comfy!
 
I take a small handbag that has metal attachments for the shoulder strap that i attach carabiners to and then pass the hip/waist straps of my backpack thru the carabiners. I then have a handbag for evenings/days off and for pre and post camino travel that doesn't look too 'touristy'.
I like your idea, but I take my backpack off quite a few times while walking for coffee breaks, lunch breaks and bathroom breaks. What happens to your purse bag when taking off your pack? Don't the carabiners slide off and disconnect the purse?
 
Very clever!
Of course, once again, an incredibly timely thread! Curious how this Osprey Ultralight toiletry kit would compare to the Osprey Ultralight Grab Bag Backpack Pocket? Would they both hold my iPhone 6?

And I'm curious how the trip to REI went for Peregrina2000 :)
 
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).
I like your idea, but I take my backpack off quite a few times while walking for coffee breaks, lunch breaks and bathroom breaks. What happens to your purse bag when taking off your pack? Don't the carabiners slide off and disconnect the purse?
Yes, it does come off, which mostly is fine because if you are at a bar/cafe you would want to take it in with you anyway. My friend who also had the same system learnt the balancing act of 'bushstops' keeping her pack on but i always took mine off as i was afraid of falling over backwards 'midstream' Sometimes i would have my pack on and done up and realise i'd left my purse off so a quick unclip of the waist strap was needed! Soon got into the habit tho.
 
Of course, once again, an incredibly timely thread! Curious how this Osprey Ultralight toiletry kit would compare to the Osprey Ultralight Grab Bag Backpack Pocket? Would they both hold my iPhone 6?

And I'm curious how the trip to REI went for Peregrina2000 :)

Back from REI with a new pair of shoes, which I am a bit nervous about and have posted about.

The fanny pack hunt was a dud. I had a list of recommendations from this thread, but REI had none of them. I think it is safe to say, based on the looks and comments I got from employees, that they are not much in style with the REI crowd. I think I will either just try to repair my old one, or try to find one in a place like Dick's Sporting Goods, which is the only game in my town when it comes to this kind of equipment.

I did get a new very lightweight toiletries kit though. :)
 
Back from REI with a new pair of shoes, which I am a bit nervous about and have posted about.

The fanny pack hunt was a dud. I had a list of recommendations from this thread, but REI had none of them. I think it is safe to say, based on the looks and comments I got from employees, that they are not much in style with the REI crowd. I think I will either just try to repair my old one, or try to find one in a place like Dick's Sporting Goods, which is the only game in my town when it comes to this kind of equipment.

I did get a new very lightweight toiletries kit though. :)
Although a little more pricy $56 get this from amazon https://www.amazon.com/s/?tag=casaivar02-20. The straps waist straps can be tucked in to use the shoulder straps ...fits my cannon but still not oversized.
 
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
I have to admit that, in addition to my beloved waist pack, I do wear one of those RFID flat inner waist belts. I keep passport and larger denominations of Euros there, smaller amounts handy in my outer waist pack.

My rationale is that the waist pack would be easy for someone to rip off, and if they do, I have the important stuff on my body.

Probably a bit *anal* of me?? (ducking and running)

I agree! I put Passport and big $ in the flat "money bag"next to my skin, larger,waist/fanny pack outside. Works well.
 
As I was just unpacking my camino gear, I thought I'd write a follow-up on my waist pack saga. When I went to REI the week before my departure, I couldn't find anything suitable, and then a quick glance at my old pack made me ask why I was going to replace it since it was obviously fine. Well, about two days in, I realized that yes indeed there was a problem -- one of the zippers kept popping open. Not a good feature.

In Granada, I went to some outdoor stores to try to replace it. In one of them, the guy I talked to said, why don't you just take it to my pal the upholstery man. He repairs zippers in backpacks for me all the time. I found the store, and the very nice man took out some strange tool that looked like a pair of pliers with teeth, and with four or five quick moves fixed the pack's zipper. Made me realize how quick we are to throw away things here in the US, and how I could never have found someone to fix the zipper at home. Nice little detail -- when I asked him how much I owed him, he just smiled and told me he was having a sale today.

Lesson of the story -- bring all your broken zippers to the camino and they can be fixed!
 
yay! That´s two things I love about Spain, the shoe repair shops and upholsterers! They can also do wonders for tents, and anything that is made of leather. (I took a beat-up suede handbag to the shoe repairman to be cleaned... I did not recognize it when I picked it up, it was like new! And for 10 euro!)
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
yay! That´s two things I love about Spain, the shoe repair shops and upholsterers! They can also do wonders for tents, and anything that is made of leather. (I took a beat-up suede handbag to the shoe repairman to be cleaned... I did not recognize it when I picked it up, it was like new! And for 10 euro!)
Yeah to small shops in Spain! Bought a new lock today, was told it was easy to change and I didn't need a locksmith.... Went back and said 'I can't do it, it's stuck, I NEED a locksmith.... Guy from shop came when he closed up and did it. (It was indeed stuck). LOVE this country :-)
 
As I was just unpacking my camino gear, I thought I'd write a follow-up on my waist pack saga. When I went to REI the week before my departure, I couldn't find anything suitable, and then a quick glance at my old pack made me ask why I was going to replace it since it was obviously fine. Well, about two days in, I realized that yes indeed there was a problem -- one of the zippers kept popping open. Not a good feature.

In Granada, I went to some outdoor stores to try to replace it. In one of them, the guy I talked to said, why don't you just take it to my pal the upholstery man. He repairs zippers in backpacks for me all the time. I found the store, and the very nice man took out some strange tool that looked like a pair of pliers with teeth, and with four or five quick moves fixed the pack's zipper. Made me realize how quick we are to throw away things here in the US, and how I could never have found someone to fix the zipper at home. Nice little detail -- when I asked him how much I owed him, he just smiled and told me he was having a sale today.

Lesson of the story -- bring all your broken zippers to the camino and they can be fixed!
I think there's a bigger lesson -- bring all of yourself that is broken to the camino and it can be fixed!

I ended up getting the Osprey and attached with S clip. Worked great.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Hi Lucy, what I'd like to know about the Maka 2 is how the waist strap is attached to the bag. I've looked at all the photos, but can only see the left (if you are wearing it) side is attached by what I presume is a metal ring? But cant see how the other side is attached. I'm hoping it's attached to a ring also, rather than being 'sewn' into the bag. The waist strap is too short for me, but if it has rings both sides I can replace it with something more suitable.
 
Hi Lucy, what I'd like to know about the Maka 2 is how the waist strap is attached to the bag. I've looked at all the photos, but can only see the left (if you are wearing it) side is attached by what I presume is a metal ring? But cant see how the other side is attached. I'm hoping it's attached to a ring also, rather than being 'sewn' into the bag. The waist strap is too short for me, but if it has rings both sides I can replace it with something more suitable.
Kerrie, I’m using the Maka 2 and enjoying it. I use it as a cross-body bag rather than a waist bag.

To answer your question, the straps are sewn in. I suspect that the clip is a standard size so it shouldn’t be hard to make an extender if you want it longer.
 
Kerrie, I’m using the Maka 2 and enjoying it. I use it as a cross-body bag rather than a waist bag.

To answer your question, the straps are sewn in. I suspect that the clip is a standard size so it shouldn’t be hard to make an extender if you want it longer.
Thank you! I hadn't thought of that, yes I could extend it!
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I’ve had my eye on that Osprey Ultra Light Grab Bag, which can be worn around the waist or on the front of your backpack with some kind of quick (?) release that I don’t quite understand. Jim, have you used it that way or just as a waist pack?

It’s carried at REI but it’s never in stock at my store so I haven’t seen it myself.


I use the Osprey waist pack and it works great! Mostly because it stretches!
 
I used the Osprey waist pack on my Camino in 2017 and it works great! It's lightweight, it stretches, you can adjust the strap to carry over your shoulder for nights. If you can't find it at REI store, just order it on line. You won't be disappointed!
 
Hi Lucy, what I'd like to know about the Maka 2 is how the waist strap is attached to the bag. I've looked at all the photos, but can only see the left (if you are wearing it) side is attached by what I presume is a metal ring? But cant see how the other side is attached. I'm hoping it's attached to a ring also, rather than being 'sewn' into the bag. The waist strap is too short for me, but if it has rings both sides I can replace it with something more suitable.
Hi KerrieG, just got back from my very first Camino Sarria to Santiago de Compostela today sorry for the delay in responding. Each side is secured with the same material as the strap but I would say stronger, I’ve loved using this bag, useful for keeping passport, purse, mobile and all other things,that you carry on a day to day basis. I used is as a cross body bag, and a bum bag,at different times, im 5’7” and found the strap extended really well to use as cross over, and so simple to reduce it to wear around my body. I’m certainly glad I had it for sure. Hope this is useful. Beun
Camino
 

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3rd Edition. More content, training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Arc'Teryx, makes a Maka 1 & 2 Wast pack, bumbag or Fa____ y pack ………or what ever you want to call it.
They are $$$$ but they make very good quality items guarantied ot life.
My Maka 2 buckle system broke on the first extended usage. The local place I bought it from said Arc'teryx
would only repair it, not replace. He put a new buckle on it for me. Not happy.
 
Long way home, I’m thinking perhaps this may have been an unfortunate experience with your Makka, sorry you did not have a good experience as they are not cheap, you may have been better sending it ha k, but in hindsight we’ve all got 20/20 vision. Beun Camino
 
Hi KerrieG, just got back from my very first Camino Sarria to Santiago de Compostela today sorry for the delay in responding. Each side is secured with the same material as the strap but I would say stronger, I’ve loved using this bag, useful for keeping passport, purse, mobile and all other things,that you carry on a day to day basis. I used is as a cross body bag, and a bum bag,at different times, im 5’7” and found the strap extended really well to use as cross over, and so simple to reduce it to wear around my body. I’m certainly glad I had it for sure. Hope this is useful. Beun
Camino
Thanks Lucy and Congratulations to you and Matt for completing your Camino!
From the specs. on the site, the maximum length of the strap is too short for me, but as mentioned above, I could probably add an extender piece.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Thanks Lucy and Congratulations to you and Matt for completing your Camino!
From the specs. on the site, the maximum length of the strap is too short for me, but as mentioned above, I could probably add an extender piece.
Thank you so much, we had such a wonderful experience we are both home and feeling pretty tired but hey it was magnificent
 
Long way home, I’m thinking perhaps this may have been an unfortunate experience with your Makka, sorry you did not have a good experience as they are not cheap, you may have been better sending it ha k, but in hindsight we’ve all got 20/20 vision. Beun Camino
You are totally Correct. I should have sent it back not gone to the store. However . I may still take it along with me.I have a tiny Patagonia one that I really like for weekend use but i think its not big enough . The Maka 2 is about right. I will look at some others.
 
So, time to resurrect this thread. I have made it through two more caminos with my old pack. Both years the zipper gave out while I was walking. Both years I was able to get it repaired, once in Granada, and once in O Barco de Valdeorras. But this summer the zapatero told me the zipper is unlikely to last much longer. So I am back looking for a replacement.

I wonder if anyone knows whose logo is on my pack, since that company seems like a good place to start looking for a replacement. It is such a perfect pack for me and I would love to find an identical one but I know the odds of that are slim to none.

Buen camino, Laurie

image.webp
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Hi laurie,
I searched quite awhile for a new waist bag that had three compartments (large enough to easily hold my phone), including a zippered hidden 3rd one inside. I needed a water bottle holder as when I walked the Le Puy with friends instead of family, I was not wanting to need help retrieving my water bottle, but when not needing the water bottle holder it cinches tight. I really do love it, is very sturdy and the price is awesome for the quality! It's from Amazon and it has great reviews.
 
Last edited:
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I was going to use the more common US term, but I remember that it has a bad/obscene connotation for the down under crowd.

My waist pack is now 18 years old. It is also a bit too big for me, since I bought it in the days when I was carrying a camera. REI and other sites have millions to look at, but if anyone has a great recommendation, I'd love it.

My ideal pack would have two pockets, a flatter one for documents, money, credit cards, etc, and a baggier one for eyeglasses/sunglasses, chapstick, sun lotion, phone, and sometimes GPS, if the camino is solitary/remote. Probably a few little odds and ends in addition, like a spoon, but that list should give a good idea of the size needed. Any recommendations? Thanks, peregrinos.

Buen camino, Laurie

I apologize if I am repeating what has already been posted, but I did not read through this thread, yet. :)

I have used the Gossamer Gear 'Bumster' which matches what I think you are looking for, Laurie. I can recommend it as something to try.

I really liked the Trail 5 from REI. The back lumbar pad was very breathable and it collapses down to fit the amount of stuff carried.

This waist pack from Patagonia might be a candidate as well.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I apologize if I am repeating what has already been posted, but I did not read through this thread, yet. :)

I have used the Gossamer Gear 'Bumster' which matches what I think you are looking for, Laurie. I can recommend it as something to try.

I really liked the Trail 5 from REI. The back lumbar pad was very breathable and it collapses down to fit the amount of stuff carried.

This waist pack from Patagonia might be a candidate as well.

Hi, Dave, Thanks! I resurrected an old thread, because believe it or not, my waist pack made it through two more caminos after that original post, with magic performed by an upholsterer (in Granada in 2018) and a shoemaker (in Barco de Valdeorras in 2019). But now I think I do need a new one. The shoemaker in Barco told me that these zippers can only take a few of these quick fixes before they give out completely.

I have a lot of good ideas now, thanks to you and Chris. But I am holding out hope that maybe you, as our gear guru, will recognize the logo on my old beloved pack (pictured in post 81 of this thread). It looks like I have a lot of good substitutes, but just like I would prefer to walk in the Lone Peak 3.0 rather than move on up to newer models, I would love to find the same old waist pack that has served me so well for so many caminos.

Thanks much, buen camino, Laurie
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Hi, Dave, Thanks! I resurrected an old thread, because believe it or not, my waist pack made it through two more caminos after that original post, with magic performed by an upholsterer (in Granada in 2018) and a shoemaker (in Barco de Valdeorras in 2019). But now I think I do need a new one. The shoemaker in Barco told me that these zippers can only take a few of these quick fixes before they give out completely.

I have a lot of good ideas now, thanks to you and Chris. But I am holding out hope that maybe you, as our gear guru, will recognize the logo on my old beloved pack (pictured in post 81 of this thread). It looks like I have a lot of good substitutes, but just like I would prefer to walk in the Lone Peak 3.0 rather than move on up to newer models, I would love to find the same old waist pack that has served me so well for so many caminos.

Thanks much, buen camino, Laurie

Hi, Laurie. . . as others have stated, that is the logo for the High Sierra Sport Company.

Your waistpack looks like it was one of those that High Sierra called a Trail Runner pack. I don't think they make that same model anymore, Laurie, but I would be surprised if they don't make waistpacks that are available.

If you haven't already, take a look at the High Sierra website and see if you find something that matches your faithful friend. :-)
 
Well, I see on amazon that there are two nearly identical models available. And they look identical, both to each other and to my old pack.



Since these are not on the High Sierra website, I am guessing that they are no longer being made and will soon be out of stock, so I need to move!

The only differences I see between the $22 one and the $49 one are that the more expensive model includes a water bottle, and also has a hole for threading a headphone so you can listen to your phone while walking. If anyone wants to play that school-age game of seeing what is different between the two pictures, I would really appreciate it if you see some differences that I am not seeing. :-)
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Well, I see on amazon that there are two nearly identical models available. And they look identical, both to each other and to my old pack.



Since these are not on the High Sierra website, I am guessing that they are no longer being made and will soon be out of stock, so I need to move!

The only differences I see between the $22 one and the $49 one are that the more expensive model includes a water bottle, and also has a hole for threading a headphone so you can listen to your phone while walking. If anyone wants to play that school-age game of seeing what is different between the two pictures, I would really appreciate it if you see some differences that I am not seeing. :)
The $22 one also has a hole for a headphone wire, but in a different style. The detail is in the 2nd to the last picture for each model.
 
Looks great ., I can’t see anything missing on the $22.99 model.
I really like that it has mesh holder on both sides to accommodate 2 water bottles if necessary. Although there are many available with bottles holders ., some of them are as large as backpacks ! This one is a good size.
Trade off for me though is that when bottles are not necessary... it doesn’t look like a normal cross body handbag. (Like my Arcteryx)
I have so many of them !(we call them ‘bumbags’ here in Oz) ! But I hate trying to attach a holster for a small ‘at the ready water bottle ‘ to my arcterx when on camino.
I’ll give a little thought to another bag with bottle holders.

Good luck choosing Laurie.
Annie
 
Looks great ., I can’t see anything missing on the $22.99 model.
I really like that it has mesh holder on both sides to accommodate 2 water bottles if necessary. Although there are many available with bottles holders ., some of them are as large as backpacks ! This one is a good size.
Trade off for me though is that when bottles are not necessary... it doesn’t look like a normal cross body handbag. (Like my Arcteryx)
I have so many of them !(we call them ‘bumbags’ here in Oz) ! But I hate trying to attach a holster for a small ‘at the ready water bottle ‘ to my arcterx when on camino.
I’ll give a little thought to another bag with bottle holders.

Good luck choosing Laurie.
Annie
Hi Annie,
You are right that the pack is quite inelegant as a shoulder bag, though it is perfectly functional that way as long as you don’t put a water bottle in the side pocket, since it will just fall out. :) And elegance is really not the look I am going for anyway. :-)

I have ordered the cheaper version since I couldn’t see any advantages to the more expensive one, and I will report back!
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I agree with you Laurie &. 99% of the time on the camino ., the function is what you’re after... / having the water bottle in front.. . The side pockets of my backpack aren’t easy enough to reach with a sore shoulder and I don’t want the water in a bladder.
What colour did you order ?
Re elegance ... because the arcteryx is so neat (sort of)... I end up using it is as a shoulder bag for months after I return home (lol). I feel like ., why fluff about with pretty handbags when this does the trick. I’m not really into elegance either.

Happy you’ve found ‘yourself’ a nice Christmas gift ..
And a buen camino 2020
Annie
 
Back from REI with a new pair of shoes, which I am a bit nervous about and have posted about.

The fanny pack hunt was a dud. I had a list of recommendations from this thread, but REI had none of them. I think it is safe to say, based on the looks and comments I got from employees, that they are not much in style with the REI crowd. I think I will either just try to repair my old one, or try to find one in a place like Dick's Sporting Goods, which is the only game in my town when it comes to this kind of equipment.

I did get a new very lightweight toiletries kit though. :)
I'm only just seeing this thread now and, apologies if it's too late, but I've used and like this one from Lululemon. My mum comandeered it on her first Camino and she liked it so much, she's claimed it on her own. It's a good size and scrubs up nicely.

This is the Australian website, but hopefully there'll be one available locally. Or you might be able to get it delivered overseas. Unfortunately, they only seem to release them once every few years.

 

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