Herschel vs. Lululemon Belt Bag: Which one should you buy?

The Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag and the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag are two of the most popular hands-free options, but they serve different needs. Herschel's bag has a larger, 2-liter capacity and a classic, vintage-inspired style perfect for casual everyday use, while the Lululemon bag offers a more compact 1-liter capacity with a sleek, technical design and water-repellent fabric suited for an active lifestyle.

Here's everything you need to know to decide which of these popular belt bags is the right accessory for you.

Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag

The Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag is a stylish and straightforward accessory designed with a classic, vintage aesthetic. It prioritizes simplicity and a relaxed look over technical features, making it a go-to for casual outings, city strolls, and everyday errands where style and functionality are equally important.

• What it is: A versatile and minimalist hip pack with a single main compartment, designed to be worn at the waist or over the shoulder.
• Key features: One main zippered compartment, exposed zipper with knotted leather pull, signature striped fabric liner, and adjustable clip-fastened strap.
• Price: $30 - $50
• Capacity & Dimensions: 2L capacity, Measures 6.5" (H) x 7.75" (W) x 2" (D).
• Materials/Construction: Made from durable polyester fabric with a sturdy build designed for daily wear.
• Pros: Affordable price point, larger 2L capacity holds more items, timeless design that pairs well with casual streetwear, durable construction for everyday use.
• Cons: Lacks interior organization (just one big pocket), fabric is not water-resistant, less suited for intense physical activity or bad weather.

This belt bag is perfect for someone seeking a simple, stylish, and budget-friendly option with enough room for everyday essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and sunglasses.

Shop this product: herschel.ca/shop/hip-packs/fifteen-hip-pack

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

An icon in the world of athleisure, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is engineered for life on the move. Its thoughtful design combines a sleek, modern aesthetic with technical, performance-driven features to create a versatile bag that transitions seamlessly from a morning run to afternoon errands.

• What it is: A compact, technical belt bag made from water-repellent fabric, featuring multiple pockets for organized storage.
• Key features: Water-repellent nylon fabric, exterior zippered pocket for valuables, interior mesh pockets for separating items, and an easy-to-adjust strap.
• Price: $38 - $70
• Capacity & Dimensions: 1L capacity, Measures 7.5" x 2" x 5".
• Materials/Construction: Lightweight and durable water-repellent polyester and nylon blend, designed to protect contents from light rain and sweat.
• Pros: Excellent interior organization, water-repellent material provides weather protection, sleek and modern aesthetic, lightweight design is comfortable for active use.
• Cons: Smaller 1L capacity holds less than the Herschel, higher price point, sporty look may not fit all personal styles, often sold out due to high demand.

Its thoughtful organization and performance fabric make it the practical choice for active individuals, commuters, and busy parents who need essentials organized and protected from the elements.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/bags/Everywhere-Belt-Bag

Herschel vs. Lululemon Belt Bag Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The core difference between these two bags is their look. The Herschel Fifteen leans into a classic, retro-inspired aesthetic with its clean lines, iconic striped lining, and simple hardware. It’s a stylish casual accessory that complements everyday outfits like jeans and a t-shirt, working as a fashionable piece rather than a performance item.

In contrast, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is all about modern, sporty minimalism. Its design is sleek, functional, and aligns with athleisure trends. The hardware is subtle, and the focus is on a streamlined silhouette that sits close to the body, making it the perfect match for leggings, workout gear, or any activewear-inspired look.

Functionality & Organization

Lululemon has a clear advantage when it comes to organization. The Everywhere Belt Bag is designed with purpose, featuring an exterior zip pocket perfect for quick access to a phone or keys, along with interior mesh slots that keep items like cards, lip balm, and earbuds neatly separated. This makes grabbing what you need quick and efficient.

Herschel keeps it simple with one large main compartment. While its 2L capacity is double that of Lululemon's 1L bag, a phone, wallet, and keys swim together in the same space. This approach is fine for those who don’t carry much or prefer to use their own small pouches for organization, but it can feel less practical for those who like everything to have its place.

Materials & Durability

Both bags are well-made, but their materials are suited for different environments. Herschel uses a standard, durable polyester that holds its shape well and withstands the rigors of daily use. It's a reliable workhorse for everyday life but offers no protection from the elements.

Lululemon opts for a technical, water-repellent nylon blend. This gives it a serious edge for active use or unpredictable weather, as it can handle light rain, sweat, or accidental spills, keeping your belongings dry. It's built for performance and movement, which is reflected in its durable and lightweight feel.

Price & Value

Herschel offers excellent value with a price typically ranging from $30 to $50. For this, you get a stylish, durable, and spacious bag perfect for daily casual wear. It’s an accessible choice that doesn’t compromise on classic style or build quality for its price point.

Lululemon’s bag is a higher-priced item, starting around $38 and going up for special editions. The value here comes from its technical features - the water-repellent fabric, superior organization, and sleek design built for an active lifestyle. If you need a bag that can keep up with workouts, hikes, and rainy city days, the extra cost is justified.

Which One Should You Choose?

While both bags are great hands-free options, they cater to different priorities and lifestyles.

Choose the Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag if:

• You prioritize carrying capacity and need the extra room of a 2L bag.
• Your style is more classic, casual, or vintage-inspired.
• You want a stylish everyday bag for a more affordable price.
• You prefer one single-compartment and don’t need built-in organization.

Choose the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag if:

• You need a weather-resistant bag that can handle light rain or sweat.
• Organization is a top priority, you like having dedicated pockets for your things.
• Your lifestyle is active, and you need a bag for workouts, travel, or commuting.
• You prefer a sleek, modern, athleisure aesthetic and are willing to pay a premium for performance features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Herschel and Lululemon belt bags?

The main difference is style and function. The Herschel bag has a larger 2L capacity, a classic vintage look, and a simple one-compartment design. The Lululemon bag has a smaller 1L capacity but features a sleek, technical design with water-repellent fabric and multiple pockets for organization, making it ideal for active use.

Which belt bag is bigger?

The Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag is significantly larger with a 2-liter capacity. The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag has a 1-liter capacity. If you need to carry more than just your absolute essentials (e.g., a phone, wallet, keys, and a few small items), the Herschel offers more space.

Is the Lululemon belt bag worth the price?

For many, yes. Its higher price reflects its technical water-repellent fabric, thoughtful interior organization, and durable construction designed for an on-the-go lifestyle. If these features align with your needs, it is a worthwhile investment.

Can you wear both belt bags crossbody?

Yes, both the Herschel Fifteen and the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag are designed to be worn both across the chest (crossbody) and around the waist. Their adjustable straps make them versatile for different carrying styles.

Which one is better for travel?

The Lululemon belt bag is often preferred for travel due to its superior organization and exterior security pocket, which is great for keeping a passport or phone secure. Its water-repellent material also provides peace of mind in changing weather.

Is the Herschel belt bag waterproof?

No, the Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag is generally made of polyester and is not water-resistant or waterproof. The Lululemon bag is not fully waterproof either but is made from water-repellent material that can withstand light moisture.

How do you clean these belt bags?

For both bags, spot cleaning is recommended. Use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap and gently wipe the affected area. Avoid machine washing or fully immersing either bag in water to preserve the fabric and hardware.

Where can I buy them?

The Herschel Fifteen Belt Bag is widely available on the official Herschel website, Amazon, and in department stores like Nordstrom. The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sold almost exclusively through Lululemon's official website and in its retail stores.