Best Off-Body Carry Bags & Fanny Packs for Concealed Carry

Carrying a concealed firearm doesn't always mean it has to be on your hip. For many people, traditional holsters might not fit their body type, clothing choices, or activity level. That's where off-body carry options come into play—specifically bags and fanny packs designed to safely hold your firearm.

The right carry bag does more than just store your gun. It keeps it secure, accessible, and hidden from public view. But not all bags are created equal. Some sacrifice security for style, others are so obviously "tactical" that they defeat the purpose of concealed carry altogether.

Let's dive into the world of off-body carry options based on thorough testing and research. We've gathered information on the most effective bags and fanny packs that balance security, accessibility, and style—without broadcasting to everyone that you're carrying.

What Is Off-Body Carry?

Off-body carry means keeping your firearm in something other than a holster attached to your body. This could be a bag, backpack, purse, fanny pack, or sling designed specifically for concealed carry purposes.

Unlike traditional on-body methods where the gun stays directly attached to you via a holster, off-body options create separation between you and your firearm. They're housed in a dedicated compartment within the bag and should be ready for access when needed.

People choose this method for numerous reasons. Maybe tight-fitting clothes make traditional holsters uncomfortable or obvious. Perhaps physical limitations make drawing from certain positions difficult. Or you might need to carry additional gear that won't fit in pockets. Off-body options solve these problems by creating a dedicated space for your firearm and other essential items.

Benefits of Off-Body Carry

The appeal of carrying in a dedicated bag isn't hard to understand. For starters, you can pack larger firearms that might be uncomfortable in a traditional holster. That compact 9mm pinching your side? It fits comfortably in a dedicated carry bag with room to spare.

Comfort ranks high on the list of advantages. No more readjusting holsters or dealing with a gun digging into your side when you sit down. The weight distributed across your shoulder or waist instead of concentrated at a single point on your body.

Storage capacity gives off-body options another edge. Beyond just your firearm, most bags include space for everyday essentials: keys, wallet, phone, flashlight, medical supplies, and more. Everything stays organized in one place rather than stuffed into various pockets.

Fanny packs and sling bags have made a major comeback, especially among younger and urban demographics. 

Risks of Off-Body Carry

The convenience of bag carry comes with important tradeoffs. First and foremost: your firearm isn't physically attached to you. This creates opportunities for theft through bag-snatching—a common crime in urban areas.

Access speed suffers too. Drawing from a bag will never be as quick as from a quality holster. Those extra seconds matter in emergency situations.

Another significant concern is unauthorized access. When a gun rides in a holster under your shirt, it stays under your direct control. Once it's in a bag, the possibility exists for someone else to access it—especially if you set it down or hand it off momentarily. This risk is especially critical in public places like restaurants or gyms where bags are commonly set down.

Responsibility increases exponentially with off-body carry. You must maintain constant awareness of your bag's location. There's no setting it down "just for a second" or asking someone to watch it for you. The bag becomes an extension of yourself that requires continuous attention.

Off-body carry methods like fanny packs and sling bags are growing in popularity, but they’re only one piece of the concealed carry puzzle. To get a broader look at all the options available, check out our guide to the best concealed carry holster styles.

What to Look for in a Concealed Carry Bag or Fanny Pack

Not all bags work for off-body carry. Several key features separate purpose-built options from regular bags:

First, look for a dedicated firearm compartment with a retention system. This keeps your gun in a consistent position for easier draws and prevents it from moving around inside the bag.

Quick access is non-negotiable. The best bags feature specialized zippers, pulls, or hook-and-loop openings designed for rapid retrieval under stress.

Discretion matters—avoid bags screaming "tactical" with MOLLE webbing, camouflage patterns, or gun-related logos plastered across them. The best options look like normal everyday bags to casual observers.

Construction quality makes a difference too. Reinforced stitching, quality zippers, and durable materials ensure the bag won't fail when you need it most.

Comfort comes from adjustable straps that distribute weight properly across your body. A bag that digs in or bounces around defeats the purpose of comfortable carry.

Finally, smart organization keeps your gear accessible without interfering with your firearm. The best designs separate everyday items from your gun, so you don't expose your firearm every time you grab your keys.

How These Bags & Packs Were Tested

Our evaluations were based on theoretical testing, research, and user feedback, combined with extensive firsthand experience in firearms handling, retail, and tactical use. 

Safety: Each bag needed to securely hold a pistol in condition one—loaded magazine, round in the chamber, safety on (if applicable). No risk of accidental discharge or shifting during movement.

Security: Bags needed to resist snatching attempts through secure attachment methods, strategic buckle placement, and designs that keep the bag close to the body.

Discretion: The less a bag advertises "gun inside," the better. Options that blend with everyday fashion earned higher marks than overtly tactical designs.

Some carriers prefer to avoid bags altogether, opting instead for solutions that stay directly on the body. Belly band holsters, for example, are popular for workouts and casual wear where belts and traditional holsters don’t work well. You can see our top recommendations in the best belly band holsters guide.

Our team drew from extensive experience gained through time in the military, competitive shooting, working in gun shops, and thorough online research. We used this background to evaluate these criteria theoretically across typical activities like daily errands to active pursuits like hiking and running. We have also considered comfort and security during these movements.

Best Off-Body Carry Bags & Fanny Packs for Concealed Carry

Nutsac Sling

A rugged, discreet sling bag crafted from waxed canvas. The Nutsac Sling blends seamlessly into urban environments, avoiding tactical giveaways that might attract unwanted attention. Its design flies under the radar so effectively that people see just another trendy bag—not a concealed carry option.

The quality of construction stands out immediately. Heavy-duty waxed canvas offers natural water resistance without looking like technical material. The minimalist exterior with only a small acorn logo gives nothing away about its true purpose.

Testing revealed a surprising amount of interior space despite the compact footprint. The main compartment accommodates full-size pistols with room for additional gear, and everything stays bone dry even in heavy rain thanks to that waxed canvas.

Price: $189

Features

• Exterior pocket for wallet and phone
• Spacious main compartment with open pocket and MOLLE webbing
• Dual zipper access for the main compartment and front pocket, but not optimized for rapid or ambidextrous CCW access. 

Pros

• Extremely discreet appearance
• Water-resistant for adverse weather
• High-quality materials and craftsmanship

Cons

• Firearm stored in main compartment—exposes gun when accessing other items
• Higher price point than many alternatives

Eberlestock Bando Bag

A minimalist fanny pack designed for ultra-compact EDC setups. The Eberlestock Bando Bag keeps your essentials organized and separates your CCW compartment for added safety.

Two main compartments help separate gear and firearm, though compact pistols may require a retention insert for optimal positioning. 

The side-mounted buckle placement shows thoughtful design—it prevents someone from easily unclipping your bag from behind, adding an extra layer of security without complicating the clean aesthetic.

Price: $49

Features

• Small front pocket for keys
• Main compartment with zippered mesh pouch and open pockets
• Adjustable waist strap for a snug fit

Pros

• Disappears easily under clothing
• Lightweight and comfortable for daily use
• Affordable option for CCW beginners

Cons

• Limited to compact pistols
• Minimal storage space for larger EDC kits

Vertx SOCP Tactical Fanny Pack

Feature-rich fanny pack loaded with smart design elements. The Vertx SOCP excels in organization, offering innovative storage options and quick-access solutions.

The more you use this pack, the more clever features you discover. Hidden compartments, specialized storage areas, and thoughtful touches make it clear this was designed by people who actually carry gear daily.

One standout feature is the external phone case that flips down, letting you record video hands-free or check your screen without removing your phone completely. It's these kinds of practical innovations that set the SOCP apart from standard fanny packs.

Price: $86

Features

• Large CCW pocket for full-size pistols
• Rapid Access Tabs for faster draws
• Fold-in panels for discreet video recording

Pros

• Exceptional organization capabilities
• Clever, tactical features without an overt tactical look
• Comfortable belt adjustment for different body sizes

Cons

• Bulky size can overwhelm minimalist users
• Belt buckle may sit awkwardly on slimmer waists

Viktos Upscale 3

A tactical sling that finds the sweet spot between fanny pack and full sling bag. The Viktos Upscale 3 offers modularity, comfort, and enough capacity for a full-size pistol plus essential EDC items.

The CCW compartment spans the entire footprint of the bag. It provides ample space for pistols with mounted optics. The hook-and-loop holster system can be positioned however works best for your draw. It can be accommodating for both right and left-handed users.

An often overlooked benefit is that this bag accepts ballistic armor inserts from Premier Body Armor and Spartan Armor Systems. For this reason it adds protection beyond just carrying your defensive tool.

Price: $85

Features

• Full-length CCW sleeve with double zippers
• Padded sunglasses compartment
• Water-resistant exterior

Pros

• Compact but accommodates larger pistols with optics
• Flexible sling mounting options
• Additional EDC pockets keep gear organized

Cons

• Branding might draw unwanted attention
• Small capacity compared to larger sling bags

Tactical LV8 Sling

A spacious sling bag built for those who demand organization, modular storage, and the ability to carry a full-size pistol comfortably. The 5.11 Tactical LV8 is ideal for active lifestyles like hiking to commuting.

Three well-designed compartments—main, CCW, and top utility—keep gear sorted and accessible. The dedicated CCW compartment includes a hook-and-loop retention strap, the main area offers customizable organization with MOLLE webbing, and smaller internal pockets protect items like sunglasses and phones. 

The secondary stabilizing strap sets this bag apart from many slings. It secures the bag close to your body during running or other activities, preventing bouncing and shifting that plague lesser bags.

Price: $50

Features

• Dedicated fleece-lined sunglasses sleeve
• Large main area with zippered mesh and open pockets
• Adjustable sling for multiple carry positions

Pros

• Superb organizational capacity
• Comfortable for long-term wear
• Durable build to handle extra weight

Cons

• Bulkier than some users prefer
• Might stand out in certain casual or formal settings

Comparison Table of Our Picks

Bag	Price	Size	CCW Capacity	Best For
Nutsac Sling	$189	Medium	Full-size pistol	Urban everyday carry
Eberlestock Bando Bag	$49	Compact	Compact pistols (G19 or smaller)	Minimalist EDC
Vertx SOCP Fanny Pack	$86	Medium-Large	Full-size pistol	Feature-rich organization
Viktos Upscale 3	$85	Medium	Full-size pistol with optic	Active carry with armor option
5.11 Tactical LV8	$95	Large	Full-size pistol	Maximum gear capacity

What to Keep in Mind Before Off-Body Carry

Beyond selecting the right bag, several practices can help you carry more safely and discreetly.

First, be cautious about overtly tactical-looking bags. That MOLLE-covered bag might look cool to you, but it also screams "check me out" to anyone familiar with tactical gear. Opt for subdued colors and designs that blend with civilian fashion.

Branding can give you away too. If the manufacturer's name includes terms like "tactical," "firearms," or similar words, a quick web search by a curious onlooker could reveal more than you intended. Consider removing or covering obvious logos.

Have a plan for how to handle situations where someone wants to access your bag. This happens more often than you might expect—a friend asking to grab something from your bag or someone offering to carry it for you. Practice polite refusals: "I've got it, thanks" or "Let me get that for you."

Remember that all four firearm safety rules still apply with off-body carry. The gun is always loaded, never point it at anything you don't intend to destroy, finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be sure of your target and what's beyond it. These principles don't change just because your firearm is in a bag.

How to Train for Off-Body Carry

If off-body carry becomes your primary method, it must also become your primary training focus. Drawing from a bag requires different skills than drawing from a holster.

Start by practicing your draw from your specific bag at home (with an unloaded firearm). Learn which zippers to grab first, how to position the bag for the fastest access, and how to establish a firing grip as the gun clears the bag.

When you visit the range you can incorporate bag draws into your practice. Start slowly and focus on safety and consistency before working on speed. Draw, fire two rounds, and reholster. Repeat until the motion becomes second nature.

Practice in different positions too. Can you access your firearm if you're seated? What about if you're lying on your back? The more scenarios you practice, the better prepared you'll be.

Off-body carry offers comfort and flexibility, but some carriers still prefer the security and speed of direct on-body setups. Appendix carry in particular remains one of the most popular methods today. If you’d like to explore this option, see our best appendix holsters for concealed carry.

Final Thoughts

Off-body carry offers valid solutions for those who can't or prefer not to carry on their person. When done responsibly, with proper equipment and training, it can be an effective self-defense option.

The key is selecting a bag that matches your specific needs, lifestyle, and the environments you frequent. A massive tactical sling might work great for hiking but look completely out of place at a business lunch. On the other hand, a minimalist fanny pack can be perfect for urban environments but might lack the capacity for extended outdoor activities.

No matter which option you choose, the critical factor remains your commitment to safety and responsibility. The best bag in the world can't replace proper training and constant awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is off-body carry legal everywhere that concealed carry is legal?

Generally yes, but laws vary by state. Some jurisdictions have specific requirements about how firearms must be carried or stored in bags. Check your local regulations before choosing this method.

2. Can I use any bag for concealed carry?

You can, but it's not recommended. Purpose-built bags include features like dedicated gun compartments, retention systems, and reinforced materials that regular bags lack. These features help prevent accidental discharges and keep your firearm positioned correctly for drawing.

3. How do I practice drawing from my concealed carry bag?

Start with an unloaded firearm at home. Practice accessing your bag, opening the correct compartment, establishing a proper grip, and drawing smoothly. Once comfortable, progress to live-fire practice at a range that allows drawing from bags.

4. What's the biggest mistake people make with off-body carry?

Setting the bag down and walking away—even briefly. Your firearm should never leave your immediate control. Treating your carry bag like any other bag is a dangerous habit that can lead to lost or stolen firearms.

5. Can I carry a larger gun in an off-body bag?

Yes! One advantage of off-body carry is accommodating larger firearms. Just ensure the bag is sized appropriately and includes proper retention to keep the firearm from shifting around.

6. How do I deal with children who might try to look in my bag?

Never allow children access to your carry bag. Establish clear boundaries and treat the bag as an extension of your firearm. If you have young children, consider adding locking mechanisms to critical zippers as an extra precaution, but remember these aren't substitutes for proper supervision.