Lululemon Belt Bag Long Strap vs. Regular: Which one should you buy?
The main difference between the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag and the Extended Strap version comes down to an extra 10.6 inches of webbing. While the bag itself is identical in size, material, and capacity (1L), this seemingly small strap difference completely changes how it's worn, who it fits, and its overall versatility for crossbody wear or styling over bulky clothing.
Here's a complete guide to help you decide which Lululemon belt bag strap length is right for your needs and personal style.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (Regular Strap)
The original Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is the classic option you've likely seen everywhere. It's designed to be a compact, minimalist hands-free solution that fits securely around the waist or hips. While some can wear it crossbody, its shorter strap length is primarily optimized for a closer fit to the body, making it a favorite for errand running, walks, and workouts.
- What it is: A 1L capacity belt bag known for its clean design, durable water-repellent fabric, and convenient organizational pockets.
- Key features: Total strap length extends to 41.7 inches (106cm). Features an exterior zippered pocket for your phone or passport and an interior mesh pocket system for cards and keys.
- Price: $38
- Materials/Construction: Made from a sturdy, water-repellent fabric that is easy to spot clean.
- Sizing/Fit: Best for wearing as a traditional fanny pack around the waist. Sits high and tight when worn crossbody on most body types.
- Pros: Secure fit with minimal excess strap, classic minimalist look, perfect for light activities, compact and efficient.
- Cons: Strap is too short for a comfortable, low-slung crossbody fit on many body types, may not fit over bulky winter coats, less sizing inclusivity.
- Product dimensions: 7.5" x 2" x 5" (19cm x 5.5cm x 13cm)
- Volume: 1L
This version is ideal for those who primarily intend to wear it as a hip pack or who have a petite frame and prefer a snug-fitting crossbody style.
Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/bags/Everywhere-Belt-Bag
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag with Extended Strap
Designed to offer greater flexibility and a more inclusive fit, the Extended Strap Everywhere Belt Bag is functionally identical to the original - same 1L capacity, same pocket layout - but with a much longer strap. This makes it the go-to choice for comfortable crossbody wear, styling over thick layers like sweaters and jackets, and accommodating a wider range of body sizes.
- What it is: The same 1L Everywhere Belt Bag, but with an extended strap for more versatile wearing options.
- Key features: Total strap length extends to 52.4 inches (133cm) - a full 10.6 inches more than the regular version. Exact same pocket configuration and water-repellent fabric as the original.
- Price: $38
- Materials/Construction: Crafted from the same durable, easy-to-clean water-repellent fabric as the classic version.
- Sizing/Fit: Excellent for comfortable crossbody wear for most body sizes. Allows the bag to sit lower on the hip or chest for easier access. Great fit over thicker clothing.
- Pros: More inclusive sizing, highly versatile styling (waist, hip, crossbody, sling), comfortable fit over winter coats, better value at the same price point.
- Cons: Can have a significant amount of excess strap to manage when cinched tightly at the waist, may feel less secure for high-impact activities.
- Product dimensions: 7.5" x 2" x 5" (19cm x 5.5cm x 13cm)
- Volume: 1L
This belt bag is the perfect choice for individuals who want styling flexibility, plan to primarily wear their bag crossbody, or need the accommodation of a longer strap.
Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/bags/Everywhere-Belt-Bag-Extended-Strap
Regular vs. Extended Strap Belt Bag Comparison
Strap Length & Fit
This is the central difference. The regular Everywhere Belt Bag's strap extends to 41.7 inches, providing a snug fit around the waist or a very high, tight fit as a crossbody on most people. For individuals with larger busts, broader shoulders, or who are plus-sized, the regular strap is often too restrictive for comfortable crossbody wear.
The Extended Strap version adds a generous 10.6 inches, maxing out at 52.4 inches. This length opens up a world of comfortable styling possibilities. It allows the bag to be worn loosely across the chest or slung low over the hip, even over thick winter jackets. This makes the extended strap bag a more inclusive and adaptable option for a much wider range of body types and outfit choices.
Style & Versatility
While the bags look identical, their functionality makes them stylistically different. The Regular Strap version shines as a classic waist pack or "fanny pack." It keeps things tight, secure, and athletic, perfect for someone who uses it for workouts or values a minimalist silhouette.
The Extended Strap bag transforms into a modern crossbody sling bag. It has a more casual, streetwear-inspired look, competing more with purses and small messenger bags. Its ability to be styled in multiple ways - waist, hip, tight crossbody, loose crossbody, shoulder sling - makes it dramatically more versatile for travel and everyday fashion.
Functionality & Capacity
It's important to remember that the core bag component is exactly the same on both models. Both have a 1-liter capacity and the same interior and exterior pockets designed for your phone, keys, wallet, and a few small essentials. The choice between them has zero impact on what you can carry, it only impacts how you carry it. Accessibility can be better with the extended strap, as a looser crossbody fit allows you to pull the bag around to your front to access zippers more easily.
Price & Value
Both the regular and Extended Strap Everywhere Belt Bags are priced identically at $38. Given this, the Extended Strap version offers substantially more value for most people. At no extra cost, you get more material, more inclusivity, and far more styling options. Unless you are specifically seeking a tight, waist-only fit with minimal adjustment, the extended strap provides more for the same price.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both belt bags serve their purpose well, but your choice should be guided by how you plan to wear the bag and your body type.
Choose the Regular Strap Belt Bag if:
- You exclusively plan to wear it as a traditional waist pack or fanny pack.
- You have a petite frame and find longer straps to be cumbersome or have too much excess.
- You want the most stable and secure fit possible for activities like running or cycling.
- You prefer the bag to sit very high and tight when wearing it crossbody.
Choose the Extended Strap Belt Bag if:
- You want the flexibility to wear your bag comfortably as a crossbody sling.
- You plan to wear it over bulky sweaters, puffers, or winter coats.
- You have a larger bust, broader shoulders, or a larger frame and need the extra room.
- You value versatility and want an all-in-one bag for travel or everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the regular and Extended Strap Lululemon belt bags?
The only fundamental difference is the length of the adjustable strap. The bag itself - its dimensions, 1L capacity, materials, and pockets - is exactly the same. The regular strap's max circumference is 41.7", while the extended strap's is 52.4".
Can the regular belt bag be worn crossbody?
Yes, but it depends on your body type. For petite or smaller-framed individuals, it can work as a high and snug crossbody bag. For many others, it will be too tight to be comfortable or practical when worn this way.
Is there a price difference between the two versions?
No, both the regular strap and Extended Strap versions are priced at $38, making the extended strap version a better value for versatility.
Which version is better for plus-size individuals?
The Extended Strap version is without a doubt the better choice. Its more generous strap length provides a comfortable and secure fit for a much wider range of body sizes, both around the waist and as a crossbody bag.
Are the Lululemon belt bags waterproof?
They are water-repellent, not fully waterproof. This means the fabric will resist light rain or splashes, keeping your belongings dry in a drizzle, but it will not withstand being submerged or exposed to heavy, prolonged downpours.
Which belt bag is better for running?
The regular strap version, when cinched snugly around the waist, may offer a slightly more stable, bounce-free fit for running. However, both can work if adjusted properly.
Can men wear the Everywhere Belt Bag?
Absolutely. The bag is unisex in style. Due to frame size and shoulder width, most men will find the Extended Strap version to be a much more comfortable and functional fit, especially for crossbody wear.
How do I know which one to get?
It's simple: if you even think you'll want to wear the bag crossbody or over a jacket, get the Extended Strap bag. You lose no functionality and gain immense versatility. If you are certain you only want a classic, snug-fitting waist pack, the classic Regular Strap version is perfect.
