Lululemon Belt Bag 1 vs. 2: What's the difference?

The Lululemon Belt Bag 1 is the classic, minimalist original, designed with one main compartment for just the essentials, while the updated Lululemon Belt Bag 2 offers a slightly larger size, better interior organization, and a quick-access exterior pocket. The Belt Bag 2 costs about $10 more but provides more function and a more premium feel, making it the better choice for those who carry more than just keys and a cardholder.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right Lululemon bag for your daily needs.

Lululemon Belt Bag 1

The Belt Bag 1 is the original that started it all - a sleek, streamlined pouch designed for carrying core essentials hands-free. Praised for its simplicity and lightweight design, it serves as the perfect grab-and-go accessory for running errands, walks, or workouts when you only need your phone, wallet, and keys. Its minimalist aesthetic and wide range of color options have made it a go-to for shoppers who value function without fuss.

• What it is: A compact, hands-free bag with a single main compartment designed to be worn across the body or around the waist.
• Key features: A single zippered main compartment, adjustable quick-release strap, subtle Lululemon branding, and a lightweight design.
• Price: Around $38–$48, depending on color and style variations.
• Materials/Construction: Made from a durable, water-resistant nylon or polyester blend, designed for daily wear.
• Sizing/Fit: Approximately 7.5" x 2" x 5" - compact enough to be unobtrusive while fitting most standard smartphones.
• Pros: Lightweight and very compact, affordable price point, simple and clean design, and easy to wear.
• Cons: Limited capacity, lacks internal organization pockets, can feel cramped if you try to overstuff it.

This is the ideal option for minimalists who need a simple, no-frills bag for only the bare necessities.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/products/belt-bag-1

Lululemon Belt Bag 2

The Lululemon Belt Bag 2 is the evolution of the original, built with user feedback in mind to offer greater capacity and function. It's slightly larger than the Belt Bag 1 and features enhanced organizational details, including interior mesh pockets and a convenient exterior zip pocket for quick access to items like keys or lip balm. This version is designed for those who loved the original but needed just a bit more space and structure for their daily essentials.

• What it is: An updated, slightly larger belt bag with multiple compartments for better organization.
• Key features: Zippered main compartment with interior organization pockets, an exterior zippered slip pocket, and a refined, adjustable strap.
• Price: Around $48–$58.
• Materials/Construction: Uses upgraded water-resistant fabrics with reinforced stitching for improved durability and a more premium feel.
• Sizing/Fit: Larger dimensions at approximately 8" x 2.5" x 5" - providing more room for larger phones, a small wallet, and other extras.
• Pros: More storage space, excellent organization with dedicated pockets, durable construction, and more versatile for longer outings.
• Cons: Slightly bulkier than the original, higher price point, may be more than what true minimalists need.

Perfect for those who carry more than the basics and prioritize organization to keep everything in its place.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/products/belt-bag-2

Lululemon Belt Bag 1 vs. Belt Bag 2 Comparison

Size & Dimensions

The most noticeable difference is size. The original Belt Bag 1 measures about 7 inches in length, just big enough for a standard smartphone, a card case, and keys. It's designed to be sleek and sit flat against the body.

In contrast, the Belt Bag 2 is visibly larger at around 8 inches long and slightly deeper. This extra space makes a difference - it more comfortably fits larger smartphones, a small wallet, sunglasses, and other small items without feeling strained or overstuffed. While still compact, it offers more practical everyday capacity.

Features & Organization

Functionality is the biggest differentiator. The Belt Bag 1 is as simple as it gets: one single zippered compartment. Everything goes into one central space, which is fine for two or three items but can become a jumble if you carry more.

The Belt Bag 2 is built for organization. It features a main compartment with interior mesh pockets that help separate your belongings, plus a separate exterior zippered pocket on the back. This back pocket is ideal for small items you need to access quickly and securely, like a phone or transit pass, preventing cluttered digging.

Design & Aesthetics

Both bags share Lululemon's clean, modern aesthetic, but with subtle differences. The Belt Bag 1 has a classic, minimalist look with a simple silhouette and logo placement. It is straightforward and timeless.

The Belt Bag 2 often features more refined details, like an upgraded strap, slightly more structured shape, and modernized logo placement. While the changes are minor, they give the bag a slightly more contemporary and polished appearance that transitions easily from a workout to a casual outing.

Price & Value

The Belt Bag 1 typically retails for around $38–$48, making it an accessible entry point into Lululemon's accessory line. Its value lies in its simplicity and affordability for basic hands-free needs.

The Belt Bag 2 is priced higher at around $48–$58. The approximately $10 difference pays for the larger size, premium materials, and superior organizational features. If you plan to use your belt bag as a primary daily carrier, the added functionality of the Belt Bag 2 offers substantially better value for the small price increase.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Lululemon belt bags are excellent choices, but they cater to different needs based on what you carry and how you value organization.

Choose the Lululemon Belt Bag 1 if:

• You are a true minimalist and only carry a phone, keys, and a single card holder.
• You want the most lightweight, compact option available that sits flat against your body.
• You are using it primarily for quick errands, light workouts, or walks.
• You prioritize a lower price point over added features and space.

Choose the Lululemon Belt Bag 2 if:

• You need more space for a larger smartphone, sunglasses, wallet, and other essentials.
• You value organization and want designated pockets to keep items separated and easy to find.
• You want a more versatile bag that works for daily errands, travel, and longer outings.
• You don't mind a slightly higher price for significantly improved functionality and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Lululemon Belt Bag 1 and 2?

The main difference is capacity and organization. The Belt Bag 2 is slightly larger than the Belt Bag 1 and includes interior organization pockets and a convenient exterior zip pocket, while the Belt Bag 1 has just a single main compartment.

Which Lululemon Belt Bag is bigger?

The Belt Bag 2 is bigger. It offers more length and depth, allowing it to comfortably hold more items compared to the more compact Belt Bag 1.

Is the Lululemon Belt Bag 2 worth the extra money?

For most people, yes. The extra $10 typically gets you more space, better organization, and slightly more durable materials, making it a more versatile and functional everyday bag. If you are a strict minimalist, the original might be sufficient.

Can a large phone fit in both bags?

Both bags can fit most standard smartphones. However, larger models (like an iPhone Pro Max) fit much more comfortably in the Belt Bag 2, especially if you have a protective case and other items in the bag.

Are both belt bags water-resistant?

Yes, both bags are made from water-resistant materials designed to protect your belongings from light rain or splashes. The fabric on the Belt Bag 2 is sometimes an upgraded version which can offer slightly better performance.

How do you wear the Lululemon Belt Bag?

Both versions are designed to be worn either clipped around your waist like a traditional fanny pack or slung across your body as a crossbody bag for a more modern look.

Which version is better for travel?

The Belt Bag 2 is generally better for travel due to its larger capacity and organizational pockets. The secure exterior pocket is perfect for holding a passport or boarding pass for quick access, while the main compartment can store other travel essentials.

How do you clean the Lululemon Belt Bag?

Lululemon recommends spot cleaning for both bags. Use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap to gently clean any dirty areas and allow the bag to air dry completely. Avoid machine washing, which can damage the fabric and hardware.