A Super Helpful Beach Must Have for Solo Travelers: Waterproof Fannypack Review

Indonesia Lombok

The idea of taking a solo trip usually leaves people with many questions like, “How will I meet people?” “How can I keep myself safe?” and “How do I know which destinations are good for solo travel?” Thankfully, there’s an abundance of resources within the community and online – like this blog!

And thank god for that, because sometimes, there’s very niche challenges that can come with traveling alone, that you wouldn’t think of unless someone who’s done it before tells you or you’re already in that situation.

So here’s one I’d like to bring to your attention; one that I never thought of until I found myself in the scenario. 

Which is, what do you do with your phone and wallet when you go to a beach alone and want to swim?

Are you supposed to leave your valuable things unattended in the sand? Maybe ask a random person to watch your stuff? Or are you just not supposed to swim at all? 

There has to be a better solution.

And not to worry, I’ve found it…The answer is using a completely waterproof fannypack to bring your phone with you to swim.

Yes it exists, yes it works, and it’s so, so useful!

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Water_diving_bag

Whether you’re swimming, kayaking, snorkeling or doing anything in the vicinity of water, by wearing a phone pouch like this one by Rebeleen, you can keep your valuables such as your phone and credit cards with you, without risking any water damage.

Let’s breakdown how it works, which one I recommend most, and why.

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I genuinely use myself.

How does the waterproof fanny pack work?

It’s very simple. Like any crossbody or waist bag, this waterproof fannypack straps around your waist or chest. Inside the pouch, you can add your phone or other belongings like credit cards or a small wallet. 

Because it’s made with a 100% waterproof casing and has 3 waterproof impermeable seals, you’re able to put your belongings inside and do all the water activities you want while wearing the pouch and not risking water damage.

It’s really pretty ingenious, and as a solo traveler especially, it has been a lifesaver for me.

Which brand is the best for a waterproof fanny pack?

There’s a few options that exist out there which are more or less the same, just labeled differently and all made cheaply (I know, because I’ve tried them out). And while they may work, especially when it comes to my phone, I personally do not want to risk any damage because of using a low quality protective product.

The whole point of the scenario I described at the beach is to ease our mind as solo travelers. So let’s not go from the problem of worrying about what to do with our valuables while swimming, to worrying if our stuff will be ruined by swimming with them.

Therefore, I highly recommend purchasing a high-quality version of this product. 

Which is why the brand I’m personally using for my waterproof waist pack is by Rebeleen.

My Personal Review of Rebeleen’s Waterproof Phone Pouch:

Rebeleen is a small business made of passionate travelers who makes high-quality waterproof products, like the fannypack I’ve mentioned.

They reached out to me, just to try out the pouch myself and immediately I could tell the difference between theirs and others I’ve tried. Which is why I’ve written this article unsponsored to give my personal opinion on it. 

Here’s a few of the basic specs about Rebeleen’s Waterproof Phone Pouch:

  • IP68 Waterproof, 100% dry guarantee in up to 10 meters of water for one hour
  • Triple zipper seal protection
  • Crossbody strap adjustable between 29.5″ and 41.5″
  • Camara transparency minimally affected by the color of bag
  • Touchscreen compatible
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Water_bag_for_phone_and_wallet(1)

Now let’s break down this product and all its unique features, as well as what to take note of so you can make a confident purchase.

1. Durability

First, the material of the Rebeleen’s waterproof phone pouch is undecidedly the most durable waterproof phone bag I’ve seen or used.

It feels very strong, tough, and a bit thicker, whereas other fanny packs have felt thinner and more likely to tear. Something you don’t want from a product meant to protect your phone while it’s submerged under water.

2. The Waterproof Seal

Most waterproof pouches will typically have the three seal zip, this is not proprietary to Rebeleen. However, their seal system, in my opinion, seems much more secure. I also really like that the flap folds all the way across the pouch to close it, unlike the generic others I’ve seen.

3. It's way cuter than others

This may be subjective, but Rebeleen’s waterproof fannypack is definitely the cutest design I’ve come across. There are currently 3 colors available, and all are very chic. 

Just being real for a second…I don’t know why, but having one of those generic protective phone pouches hanging around my neck makes me feel like such a dweeb. But I do not have that problem with this bag. Instead, I think this waist bag is a really cute added beach accessory.

4. Supporting small responsible business

Now more than ever, I think it’s so important to support and buy from small businesses that implement ethical practices and produce with sustainability in mind. And let’s be honest, that is so far from being Amazon. It is, however, Rebeleen.

They’re a small business based in Arlington, VA – not far from where I’m from! – that prioritizes fair pay and sustainability in their production by using recyclable materials and creating bags durable enough to last, in an attempt to help reduce waste.

When it comes to finding a bag that’s going to protect your phone in the water, I think this one checks all the boxes when it comes to quality. 

There is one item though, that I feel you should note before purchasing, and that’s the sizing.

The sizing of the pouch is 4.3 in x 7.5 in. This is large enough to fit most phones. However, if you have an iPhone Max or a phone the same size, then you’ll need to remove the case if it’s thicker (like an Otterbox) in order for it to fit in the bag. 

If you’re okay with removing your case or have a very thin one, this should  not be a problem.

But for this reason, I do recommend checking the sizing of your phone (with consideration to your phone case)  to see if it’s compatible with Rebeleen’s waterproof phone pouch.

The good news though, is that a newer version may be rolling out soon providing a more spacious fit for all phone types!

Otherwise if you’re like me, and own a iPhone Pro or regular model, this is the perfect fit.

So while you prepare for your next tropical solo adventure or vacation, consider adding Rebeleen’s waterproof phone pouch to your packing list. 

I personally own the black and the blue versions and can’t wait to use them on my upcoming trips to Indonesia and elsewhere in 2025 and beyond!

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