Carrying just the essentials shouldn’t mean compromising on convenience or style. The REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack is a sleek, lightweight, and eco-friendly solution for everyday adventures, quick travel outings, and spontaneous walks. Designed to carry your phone, wallet, keys, and other small necessities, this waist pack combines versatility, comfort, and sustainability—all for an affordable price of $24.95.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore why the REI Stuff Travel Waist Pack has become a top-rated choice among adventurers and casual travelers, what makes it unique, and how it balances practical design with responsible manufacturing.
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Compact Design, Big Functionality
At first glance, the REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack looks minimalistic, but it is far from basic. With a 1.5-liter gear capacity (about 91.5 cubic inches), this small bag has enough space to hold essentials while staying lightweight and comfortable.
It features:
- Main compartment with generous storage space.
- Interior zippered pocket to secure smaller valuables like keys, coins, or cards.
- Exterior zippered pocket for quick-access items such as headphones or boarding passes.
Despite its compact footprint—7.5 x 4 x 1.75 inches—the waist pack offers excellent organization for those who value efficiency without bulk.
Multiple Ways to Wear
One of the highlights of the Stuff Travel Waist Pack is its versatile design. It can be worn in two ways:
- Classic waist pack: Secured around the waist or hips, leaving your hands completely free.
- Crossbody sling: Worn over one shoulder and across the chest or back for a modern, casual look.
This adaptability means the pack fits seamlessly into different lifestyles—whether you’re strolling through the city, hiking, biking, or navigating a crowded airport.
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Comfort and Inclusive Fit
The adjustable waistbelt is designed for inclusivity. It accommodates waist and hip sizes from 28 inches to 58 inches (XS up to 4XL/4X). This wide range ensures that the pack can be comfortably worn by virtually anyone, eliminating the struggle of finding gear that fits properly.
Lightweight at just 3.4 ounces, the pack won’t add unnecessary weight, making it easy to wear for long stretches of time.
Sustainable and Durable Materials
The REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack is built with sustainability in mind:
- Recycled ripstop nylon: Solid colorways are made from 100% recycled, bluesign®-approved nylon, reducing environmental impact.
- Durable water repellent (DWR) finish: Made without PFAS chemicals, the DWR coating helps moisture bead up on the surface, protecting your belongings from unexpected drizzles.
- Print colorways use standard ripstop nylon but remain lightweight and durable.
These materials make the pack not only reliable but also part of REI’s broader commitment to climate-conscious gear.
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Packable Convenience
True to its name, the Stuff Travel Waist Pack stuffs down into its own pocket for easy storage. When packed, it measures just 6.5 x 3.75 inches, making it a perfect travel companion. You can toss it into a larger backpack, carry-on, or suitcase and pull it out when needed—ideal for day trips or excursions during longer travels.
Stylish Color Options
This pack comes in several modern and versatile colorways, allowing you to choose one that best matches your style:
- Black
- Rockwall
- Desert Moss
- Glacier Peak Jasper Green
These neutral and nature-inspired tones make the pack easy to pair with everyday outfits, whether urban or outdoorsy.
Built to Last: REI Co-op Quality
The REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack carries the reputation of the REI brand, backed by rigorous testing and customer feedback. As part of the REI Climate Label Certified collection, it meets high sustainability standards and comes with REI’s 100% satisfaction guarantee.
The company’s co-op model ensures that products are constantly improved through real member experiences, meaning the waist pack’s design is informed by outdoor users who understand the importance of durability and function.
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Technical Specs at a Glance
- Best Use: Casual, everyday, light travel
- Style: Waist pack / crossbody sling
- Gear Capacity: 1.5 liters (91.5 cu. in.)
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 4 x 1.75 in.
- Weight: 3.4 oz.
- Waist/Hip Fit Range: 28–58 in.
- Pockets: 1 main, 1 interior zip, 1 exterior zip
- Material: 100% recycled ripstop nylon (solid colors); standard ripstop nylon (prints)
- Water Resistance: DWR finish (PFAS-free)
- Packable Size: 6.5 x 3.75 in.
- Gender: Unisex
- Sustainability: Climate Label Certified
Everyday Scenarios Where It Shines
The REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack is ideal for countless daily and travel situations.
- City exploration: Carry your phone, wallet, and headphones while keeping your hands free.
- Traveling: Perfect for passports, boarding passes, and snacks without carrying a larger bag.
- Day hikes: Enough space for keys, sunscreen, energy gels, and a map.
- Cycling: Wear it crossbody to store essentials without bulky pockets.
- Festivals and events: Keep valuables secure and accessible in crowded places.
Its adaptability makes it one of the most practical small bags for those who value function over flash.
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Sustainability Commitment
This waist pack embodies REI’s commitment to responsible gear. The Climate Label certification indicates REI is actively working to reduce carbon emissions and fund global climate projects. By choosing this product, customers directly support sustainable practices and eco-conscious design.
For environmentally aware travelers, this bag represents more than convenience—it’s a step toward greener adventures.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 38 reviews, the Stuff Travel Waist Pack has already built a reputation for dependability. Customers frequently highlight:
- Lightweight feel that makes it barely noticeable when worn.
- Smart pocket design for organization despite the compact size.
- Packability, which is especially popular among frequent flyers and hikers.
- Inclusive fit, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
Most buyers agree that at $24.95, the waist pack offers excellent value compared to other premium travel accessories.
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Why the REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack Stands Out
The waist pack category is crowded, but the Stuff Travel Waist Pack rises above the competition thanks to its blend of function, sustainability, and affordability. While some travel waist packs prioritize fashion over durability or eco-friendly practices, this one finds the perfect balance between minimalist design and long-lasting performance.
Its ability to compress into its own pocket makes it especially appealing for travelers who want gear that won’t clutter their luggage. Combined with its water-resistant coating and recycled materials, the pack is both practical and responsible.
Final Verdict
For those seeking a lightweight, versatile, and eco-conscious waist pack, the REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack is a fantastic choice. It’s not overloaded with unnecessary features—it’s designed to do one thing exceptionally well: carry your essentials with comfort and style.
At just $24.95, it’s an affordable investment for everyday adventures, city exploring, or global travel. Add to that REI’s sustainability mission and satisfaction guarantee, and you have a waist pack that delivers much more value than its price suggests.
FAQ
- How much can the REI Stuff Travel Waist Pack hold?
It has a 1.5-liter capacity, which is enough for essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, small snacks, and travel documents. - Can this waist pack be worn as a crossbody bag?
Yes. Its versatile design allows you to wear it both around the waist and as a sling across your chest or back. - Is the waist pack waterproof?
It is not fully waterproof but is treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that helps protect your belongings from light rain and splashes. - What makes it eco-friendly?
The solid color versions are made with 100% recycled ripstop nylon and the pack is Climate Label Certified, meaning REI funds climate projects and works to reduce emissions. - How small does it pack down?
It folds into its own pocket, measuring just 6.5 x 3.75 inches, making it easy to stash inside a larger bag. - Is it unisex?
Yes, the pack is designed as a unisex accessory, suitable for all genders and available in several neutral colors. - What sizes does it fit?
The adjustable waistbelt fits waist/hip sizes from 28 inches to 58 inches, accommodating most body types. - Is it backed by REI’s guarantee?
Yes, it comes with REI’s 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring confidence in your purchase.
