It is one of the most debated questions among dog owners in the UK: should you carry your walking essentials in a bum bag or a cross body bag? Both styles promise hands-free convenience, but they go about it in very different ways. Whether you are wrangling a bouncy spaniel on a rainy morning or strolling through the park with a dignified greyhound, the bag you choose can genuinely make or break your walking experience.
In this guide, we are putting bum bags and cross body bags head to head. We will compare everything from storage capacity and hands-free performance to style versatility and price, so you can work out which option truly suits your walking routine. If you have already read our dog walking bag guide, consider this the next step: a deep dive into the two most popular bag styles for dog owners.
Full disclosure: at Bailey and Coco, we design and sell both bum bags and cross body bags specifically for dog walkers. We know these products inside and out because we built them from scratch to solve the exact frustrations dog owners told us about. That said, this comparison is honest. Neither style is perfect for everyone, and by the end of this article you will know exactly which one deserves a spot on your next walk.
The right bag makes daily walks smoother, and most UK dogs need at least one to two walks per day. If you are wondering exactly how much walking your dog needs, our guide on how often you should walk your dog has breed-specific recommendations and seasonal advice.
Quick Answer: Bum Bag or Cross Body?
If you want the short version, here it is. Bum bags are the best choice for active dog walkers who want maximum hands-free convenience, minimal bulk, and lightning-fast access to treats and essentials. Cross body bags are the better pick if you need more storage space, better organisation across multiple pockets, and a bag that transitions neatly from the park to the coffee shop. Both styles keep your hands free for holding leads, throwing balls, and giving belly rubs, but they do it differently.
Dog Walking Bum Bags: The Pros and Cons
What Is a Dog Walking Bum Bag?
A dog walking bum bag is a compact, lightweight pouch that sits snugly around your waist or, if you prefer, across your body like a sling. The key design principle is closeness: the bag hugs your frame, staying put whether you are jogging, bending to pick something up, or wrestling a lead out of a tangle. Traditional bum bags have been around for decades, of course, but purpose-built dog walking bum bags include thoughtful extras like treat compartments, poop bag dispensers, and magnetic closures for one-handed access.
The Bailey and Coco Magnetic Snap Bum Bag is a good example of what a modern dog walking bum bag looks like. It features a magnetic snap closure that lets you open and close the main compartment with one hand, which is essential when your other hand is gripping a lead. The We're Jammin' pattern is one of the most popular designs, but the real selling point is the functionality: a dedicated treat pocket, space for your phone and keys, and an adjustable strap that fits comfortably around any waist size. It is small enough to forget you are wearing it, yet large enough to hold everything a short to medium walk demands.
Pros of Bum Bags
True hands-free performance. This is the single biggest advantage of a bum bag. Because the bag sits flush against your body at waist level, it does not swing, bounce, or shift when you move. Cross body bags can slide forward when you bend down or bounce against your hip when you jog. A bum bag stays exactly where you put it, every single time. For owners of reactive dogs, strong pullers, or multiple dogs on separate leads, that stability is not a luxury; it is a necessity.
Lightweight and low profile. Most dog walking bum bags weigh very little even when loaded. You are not carrying a big slab of material across your torso, and the compact footprint means the bag does not get in the way when you crouch, stretch, or play with your dog. On warm days especially, less material against your body means less heat and less sweat.
Quick access to treats and essentials. When you are training recall or rewarding good lead behaviour, speed matters. A bum bag sits right at hand level, so reaching in for a treat is almost instant. If you have been working through our tips on dog treat pouches, you will know that fast treat delivery reinforces good behaviour far more effectively than fumbling around in a deep bag.
Stays close during active walks. If your walks involve running, hiking, or anything more energetic than a gentle stroll, a bum bag is the clear winner for comfort. It moves with your body rather than independently of it, which means no irritating slapping against your thigh and no strap digging into your shoulder after an hour.
Cons of Bum Bags
Less storage space. There is no getting around this one. A bum bag is smaller, and that means you cannot fit as much into it. Phone, keys, a handful of treats, a couple of poop bags, and perhaps a small pack of tissues: that is roughly the limit for most bum bags. If you like to carry a water bottle, an extra layer, or your full wallet, you will find a bum bag frustratingly tight.
Fewer organisational pockets. Because the bag is compact, there simply is not room for multiple compartments. Most bum bags have one or two sections, which means your phone might end up rattling against your keys. Purpose-built dog walking bum bags like ours include a separate treat pocket, but the overall organisation is never going to rival a larger cross body bag.
May not hold a water bottle. For longer walks, especially in summer, carrying water for yourself and your dog is important. Most bum bags cannot accommodate a standard water bottle. You will either need to carry it separately or leave it behind, neither of which is ideal on a warm afternoon.
Cross Body Dog Walking Bags: The Pros and Cons
What Is a Cross Body Dog Walking Bag?
A cross body dog walking bag is worn diagonally across your torso, with the strap running from one shoulder to the opposite hip. The bag itself sits at your side or slightly behind you, offering a larger carrying area than a bum bag while still leaving both hands free. The cross body style has exploded in popularity over the last few years, partly because it bridges the gap between practical dog walking gear and everyday fashion.
The Bailey and Coco Vegan Leather Cross Body Bag is designed specifically for dog owners who want generous storage without sacrificing style. Available in three colours (Hot Pink, Latte, and Black), it features multiple pockets, a dedicated phone compartment, space for treats and poop bags, and a removable strap system that lets you swap in any of our 40+ interchangeable strap designs. It is made from premium vegan leather that wipes clean easily, looks smart enough for brunch after the park, and is kinder to animals than traditional leather.
Pros of Cross Body Bags
Significantly more storage. The biggest draw of a cross body bag is capacity. You can comfortably fit your phone, keys, wallet, treats, poop bags, a collapsible water bowl, a small water bottle, and still have room for extras like hand sanitiser or a spare lead. If your walks tend to be longer or you like to be prepared for anything, the extra space is genuinely liberating. It is also worth noting that many dog owners carry items for their dogs beyond the basics; things like a favourite toy, a first aid kit, or poop bag holders clip nicely to the outside of a cross body bag.
Better organisation. More space means more pockets, and more pockets means you can actually separate your items logically. Treats in one pocket, phone in another, poop bags in a third, keys clipped to an internal hook. You are not rummaging blindly through a single compartment hoping to find the right thing. The Bailey and Coco cross body bags include multiple zip pockets and slip compartments specifically laid out for a dog walker's daily carry.
Stylish enough for beyond the walk. Let us be honest: a lot of dog walking gear looks functional at best and frumpy at worst. A well-designed cross body bag breaks that pattern. The vegan leather finish and clean lines mean you can go straight from the park to the shops or a cafe without feeling like you need to ditch your bag in the car first. Pair it with a coordinating lead from our best dog leads UK range and you have got a genuinely polished look.
Interchangeable straps for customisation. One of the standout features of the Bailey and Coco cross body bags is the interchangeable strap system. With more than 40 patterns available, you can match your bag strap to your dog's collar, your outfit, or your mood. It is a small detail that makes a big difference, turning a single bag into dozens of different looks.
Cons of Cross Body Bags
Can swing when bending or running. The laws of physics are not on your side here. A bag hanging from a single strap will swing outward when you bend to pick up after your dog, reach for a ball, or break into a jog. Most cross body bags include an adjustable strap that lets you tighten the bag closer to your body, which helps, but it will never sit as securely as a bum bag cinched around your waist.
Heavier when fully loaded. All that extra capacity comes with a trade-off: weight. Once you have filled every pocket and compartment, a cross body bag is noticeably heavier than a loaded bum bag. The weight sits on one shoulder, which can become uncomfortable on very long walks or if you have shoulder or back issues.
May need adjusting during active play. If your walk involves a lot of movement, throwing, bending, and running, you may find yourself repeatedly pushing the bag back behind your hip. It is not a dealbreaker by any means, but it is a mild annoyance that bum bag owners simply do not experience.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Numbers and features only tell part of the story, but a side-by-side comparison table is still the fastest way to see how these two bag styles stack up. Here is how the Bailey and Coco bum bag and cross body bag compare across the features that matter most to dog walkers.
| Feature | Bum Bag | Cross Body Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Compact; essentials only | Generous; room for full daily carry |
| Weight (Empty) | Very light | Light to moderate |
| Hands-Free Rating | Excellent; no movement at all | Very good; occasional swing |
| Treat Access | Instant; right at waist level | Quick; reach to hip level |
| Phone Storage | Yes; fits most smartphones | Yes; dedicated phone pocket |
| Water Bottle | Not usually; too compact | Yes; small to medium bottles |
| Poop Bag Storage | A few bags; limited space | Full roll plus holder attachment |
| Style Versatility | Casual; best for walks | Versatile; walks, errands, outings |
| Price (Bailey & Coco) | From £24 | From £23 |
| Best For | Active walks, training, short outings | Longer walks, daily carry, style-conscious owners |
As you can see, neither bag dominates every category. The bum bag wins on stability and speed; the cross body bag wins on capacity and versatility. The right choice depends entirely on how you walk, how far you go, and how much gear you like to carry.
Which Bag Is Right for You?
Still not sure? Let us break it down by walking style. The scenarios below should help you narrow things down quickly.
Choose a Bum Bag If...
Your walks are short to medium length. If you are typically out for 20 to 45 minutes, you probably do not need a large bag. A bum bag carries everything required for a quick loop around the block or a brisk trip to the local park. Treats, poop bags, phone, keys: done.
You have an active or reactive dog. Dogs that pull, lunge, or need constant management demand your full attention and both hands. A bum bag that never shifts or swings means one less thing to think about. You can focus entirely on your dog, which is exactly what trainers recommend when working on lead manners. Pairing a secure bum bag with the right dog harness gives you excellent control without any fumbling.
Browse our no-pull dog harnesses to find the right level of control for your walks.
You run or hike with your dog. Any form of high-energy movement favours a bum bag. Runners in particular find that cross body bags bounce uncomfortably at speed, while a snug bum bag feels like part of your clothing.
You prefer to travel light. Some dog owners subscribe to the minimalist philosophy: if it does not fit in your pockets, you probably do not need it. A bum bag is the natural extension of that mindset, giving you just enough extra room without encouraging overpacking.
Choose a Cross Body Bag If...
Your walks are longer or more varied. If you regularly head out for an hour or more, or if your walks include stops at different parks, coffee shops, or friend's houses, the extra capacity of a cross body bag makes a real difference. You can pack water, snacks for yourself, a toy, and still have room for everything your dog needs.
You need dedicated phone access. While both bag styles can hold a phone, cross body bags typically include a specific phone pocket that keeps your device separate from treats and other items. If you like to snap photos on your walk, check maps, or stay contactable, a cross body bag makes phone access more convenient.
You want a bag that works beyond the walk. One of the biggest advantages of a cross body bag is that it does not look like dog walking gear. The Bailey and Coco vegan leather range is designed to transition seamlessly from the park to the high street. Pop into the shops after your walk without needing to swap bags.
You carry items for multiple dogs. If you walk two or more dogs, you need more treats, more poop bags, and possibly a spare lead. A cross body bag gives you the capacity to carry gear for the whole pack without bulging at the seams.
Why Not Both?
Here is a thought that surprises some people: you do not have to choose just one. A surprising number of dog owners keep both a bum bag and a cross body bag in their rotation. The bum bag comes out for quick morning walks, training sessions, and jogs. The cross body bag gets the nod for longer weekend rambles, outings that include errands, and days when you need to carry a bit more. Having both means you always have the right tool for the job, and at Bailey and Coco's price points, owning both styles is genuinely affordable.
The Bailey and Coco Dog Walking Bag Range
We would be remiss not to give you a proper introduction to our dog walking bag collection, since we have been referencing it throughout this guide. Every bag we sell is designed from the ground up for dog walkers, not adapted from a generic fashion bag or outdoor pouch.
Bum Bags. Our Magnetic Snap Bum Bag is the hero of this category. The magnetic closure lets you open and shut the main compartment with one hand, which is invaluable when your other hand is managing a lead. The We're Jammin' pattern is a customer favourite, but we release new designs regularly. Bum bags start from just 24 pounds and are built to last through hundreds of walks in all weather conditions.
Cross Body Bags. The Vegan Leather Cross Body Bag comes in three versatile colourways: Hot Pink for a bold pop of colour, Latte for a warm neutral, and Black for classic understatement. Each bag features multiple compartments, a zip-top closure, and our signature interchangeable strap system. Cross body bags start from just 23 pounds.
Interchangeable Straps. This is where things get really fun. With more than 40 strap patterns available, you can customise your cross body bag to match your dog's collar, your coat, or the season. Swap them in seconds and enjoy a completely different look every time you head out the door.
Bundle Deals. If you are tempted by more than one item, check out our bundle deals. We regularly offer discounts when you buy a bag alongside a matching collar, lead, or harness set. It is the easiest way to get a coordinated look while saving a few pounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bum bag or cross body better for dog walking?
It depends on your walking style. Bum bags are better for active, fast-paced walks where stability matters. Cross body bags are better for longer outings where you need more storage and organisation. If you walk in a variety of situations, owning one of each gives you the most flexibility.
Can I fit my phone in a dog walking bum bag?
Yes. The Bailey and Coco Magnetic Snap Bum Bag comfortably fits most modern smartphones. However, if you use a very large phone with a bulky case, the fit may be snug. Our cross body bags include a dedicated phone pocket with a bit more breathing room.
What should I carry in my dog walking bag?
At a minimum, you will want treats, poop bags, your phone, and your keys. For longer walks, consider adding water for you and your dog, a collapsible bowl, a spare lead, hand sanitiser, and tissues. Our cross body bag has enough room for all of these items, while our bum bag covers the essentials perfectly.
Are Bailey and Coco dog walking bags waterproof?
Our vegan leather cross body bags are water-resistant and can handle light rain and splashes without any issues. They wipe clean easily with a damp cloth. For heavy, sustained rain, we would recommend tucking the bag inside your coat or using a waterproof cover. The bum bag fabric is also designed to resist light moisture.
Can I use a regular bum bag for dog walking?
You can, but a purpose-built dog walking bum bag is a much better experience. Regular bum bags lack features like magnetic closures for one-handed access, dedicated treat compartments, and clip points for poop bag dispensers. You will spend more time fumbling and less time enjoying the walk.
How do I clean a vegan leather dog walking bag?
Vegan leather is wonderfully low maintenance. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt, mud, or treat residue. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers. For the interior, brush out crumbs and debris, then let the bag air dry fully before storing it.
Do Bailey and Coco bags come with a warranty?
We stand behind the quality of every product we sell. If you experience any manufacturing defect or quality issue, get in touch with our customer service team and we will make it right. We want you and your dog to enjoy our bags on hundreds of walks, not just a handful.
