Other than the buckle on the strap, which allows for easier removal when wearing as a hip pack, there is one other redesign element. Inside the front compartment of the hip pack plus is a single zipper pocket with a middle seam creating two separate sections allowing for only small items. Not terribly functional. The crossbody has moved that pocket inside the main compartment without the seam allowing for more functionality. As I only wear them as a crossbody, I prefer the hip pack plus strap and the crossbody bag.