Off-Body Carry: Concealed Weapon Carry Without a Waist Holster

Concealed carry typically means an IWB holster paired with a sturdy belt. But what if that setup doesn’t work for you? Whether it’s due to your clothing, physical discomfort, or the need to keep gear separate from your body—off-body carry is a practical alternative.

Gone are the days when a gun in a fanny pack was just for '90s movie villains. With the right setup and smart organization, off-body carry can be a legitimate everyday carry (EDC) option—bringing both benefits and limitations that are important to understand.

When Does Off-Body Carry Make Sense?

Off-body carry isn’t for everyone, and it’s not suited to every scenario. But in some cases, it may be the only practical way to keep your weapon accessible:

• If you wear tight, athletic, or specific dress-code clothing (e.g., business attire)
• If you need to separate your firearm and gear due to work or legal restriction

• If you prioritize discretion and comfort over lightning-fast draw speed

Off-body carry is typically favored by those carrying in urban environments, while traveling, or navigating everyday civilian life. It’s all about finding a balance between accessibility, comfort, and concealment.

Quick access where it matters. The Vertx^® Commuter crossbody backpack moved to the stomach allows for easy and quick access to the main compartment. Photo: Rigad

Pros and Cons of Off-Body Carry

Advantages

✔️ Discretion – Your weapon and gear remain fully hidden
✔️ Flexibility – Compatible with virtually any clothing
✔️ Capacity – Room for more than just a firearm
✔️ Comfort – No rubbing, chafing, or movement restrictions

Risks

⚠️ Slower draw time – You’ll need to unzip and reach in
⚠️ Reduced control – You risk misplacing, forgetting, or having your gear stolen
⚠️ Not ideal for physical confrontations – Limited immediate access

Bottom line: off-body carry demands more discipline and planning. But it offers a level of comfort that IWB carry simply can’t match.

What Types of Carriers Exist?

Off-body carry isn’t just about waist packs. In fact, today’s market offers a wide range of purpose-built, sophisticated options. And this is where the difference between an everyday backpack and a tactical-ready model really shows.

🔹 Backpacks With Internal Organization

It’s not about having one extra pocket. What matters is how quickly you can access your weapon, how clearly your gear is laid out, and whether the bag holds up in a real-world emergency.

Materials like Cordura^®, reinforced stitching, ventilated back panels, and padded straps aren’t about style—they’re necessities. Your firearm, spare mags, and EDC gear all add weight, and you need a carrier that can handle that load while staying comfortable and reliable.

Whether you're after a discreet city bag or a rugged EDC backpack, the most important features are smart internal organization, solid construction, and everyday wearability. We've selected two standout models from Rigad.cz that meet these demands—and look good doing it.

🔹 EDC Crossbody Bags: Fast Access Within Reach

Crossbody bags offer one major advantage over backpacks: instant access. You can swing the bag to the front in a second and reach your firearm immediately—no need to take it off or fumble with straps. That makes them ideal for concealed carry in urban or travel scenarios.

Right-Hand Ready – But Lefty Friendly

Most models are designed for right-hand carry, but smart manufacturers haven’t forgotten about lefties. With thoughtful layouts and quality zippers, most bags can be adjusted or used ambidextrously. Worst case? Slightly change your draw stroke—but the bag remains fully functional.

Quick Draw Depends on the Right Pocket and Zipper

The firearm compartment is typically closest to your body for maximum concealment and safety. Quality bags include a Velcro panel inside this pocket for inserts like the Inverted Pistol Holder Insert. Some models include one, others let you add your own.

But above all, fast access is key. The zipper must open in a single motion, with no snagging or splitting. That’s why top-tier models use YKK zippers with oversized pull tabs or Hypalon loops. The pocket should open fully so your draw isn’t delayed or obstructed.

Concealed carry with style. The Helikon-Tex^® EDC Sling looks discreet even in nature – but it can carry everything you need. Suitable for everyday carry and weekend hikes. Photo: Helikon-Tex

Don’t Overlook the Front Pockets

Concealed carry is about more than just the firearm. You’ll want storage for magazines, knives, flashlights, gloves, or documents. A quality crossbody has front pockets with logical compartments that keep everything secure—even when the bag is rotated to your chest.

Tactical, Yet Civilian

A good carry bag doesn’t need to scream “tactical.” Civilian-style design, neutral colors, and clean lines help you blend in—without sacrificing function. Inside, you still want Cordura, reinforced stitching, padded straps, and logical layout. Everything should be in its place, ready for the moment when details matter most.

Not Every Bag Is Built for Carry

A bag designed specifically for concealed carry offers reliable access, discreet appearance, and organized space—not just for your firearm, but for your entire EDC loadout. Below, we highlight proven models from Rigad.cz that combine everyday design with tactical function and smart internal layouts.

🔹 Velcro Inserts and Organizers: Structure from the Inside Out

Already have a favorite bag that fits your style and size needs? You can easily convert it into a concealed carry platform with Velcro inserts and organizers. These accessories turn any internal space into a structured, functional system—no new bag required.

Velcro inserts are flat panels that let you secure your firearm (via universal holsters or modular pouches), spare mags, flashlight, or other gear. A major plus? You can move the insert between different bags—perfect for those who rotate carriers.

Thoughtful organization of equipment inside the Helikon-Tex^® EDC Sling. Velcro insert holds your weapon and magazines exactly where they should be. Photo: Helikon-Tex

Organizers expand your setup with elastic loops, MOLLE/PALS grids, and small compartments to keep gear from shifting around, even during dynamic movement.

Pro tip: Even the best bag is just a bulky trap without an inner system for draw speed, safe storage, and intuitive layout. A Velcro insert brings order and logic to your EDC.

How to Organize Your Off-Body Loadout

Rule #1: Clarity and Access.

If it’s off your body, you must be able to retrieve it quickly and confidently—no fumbling, no confusion. That applies to your firearm, spare mag, or multitool.

Recommended layout:

• Firearm + Magazine – In the main, most accessible compartment, ideally secured via a Velcro insert
• EDC gear – Knife, multitool, flashlight, gloves, etc. in secondary pockets
• Accessories – Power bank, med kit, documents—always stored separately from the weapon

Avoid overloading your bag: more isn’t always better. Every extra item adds weight, slows your draw, and complicates organization.

Conclusion: Off-Body Carry Is a Strategic Choice—Not a Compromise

Carrying your firearm off-body isn’t a fallback—it’s a deliberate choice. With the right gear and a few practical habits, you gain a reliable, comfortable carry method that works with your lifestyle—not against it.

✔️ No need to overhaul your wardrobe or routine
✔️ Style, function, and safety can coexist
✔️ Most importantly: you stay in control—of your weapon and the situation

Remember: a well-organized setup in the right bag beats expensive gear with no purpose. If you’ve read this far, you already know—concealed carry isn’t just about what you carry, but how you carry it.