When you don't need the capacity of a full-sized backpack but still need to carry a few bits and pieces, lumbar packs are the ideal answer. The smaller ones are ideal for your keys, wallet, and cell phone (which will be easy to access when you carry it on your hip), and the larger ones work well for water bottles, camera equipment, snacks, maps, and first aid kits.
SORT:
Patagonia Lightweight Travel Hip Pack 48450
Nathan Trail Mix Hydration Belt 4625N
Nathan Speed 2 Hydration Belt 4619N
Mountainsmith Vibe TLS Lumbar Pack 12-10040R
$39.00
$44.95
$49.95
$29.95
Nathan Speed 2 Hydration Pack 4611NGY
Nathan Speed 2 Hydration Pack 4611NEU
Nathan Triangle Hydration Belt 4882N
Nathan SPEED 2 - Hydration 4611N
$44.95
$44.95
$29.95
$44.95
Nathan Trail Mix 4618NG
Camelbak Arc 2 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle 62013
Camelbak Arc 2 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle 62012
Camelbak Arc 1 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle 62009
$44.95
$44.95
$44.95
$34.95
Nathan Elite Surge Bottle 4493N
Camelbak Arc 2 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle 62011
Nathan Trail Mix 4 - Hydration 4624NG
Nathan Speed 4R - Hydration 4622NG
$44.95
$44.95
$49.95
$49.95
Nathan Speed 2R Auto-Cant 4611NG
Camelbak Arc 1 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle 62010
Camelbak Delaney 20oz Podium Chill Bottle 62036
Camelbak Delaney Plus Hydration Pack 61856
$49.95
$34.95
$34.95
$39.95
The more generous lumbar bags are popular with off-road runners. When you want to run fast and light with the minimum of gear, putting it into a backpack usually means it'll bounce around. That's unstable and uncomfortable where a smaller hip pouch is perfectly stable. The items inside won't be shaken up too much and there won't be any chafing from a shifting load. The best choices are those than include a water bottle or two- if you get a dual bottle version, try filling one with water and the other with an electrolyte replacement drink. Just make sure to remember which is which or you might surprise yourself!