11 Gym Bags That Can Store All Your Workout Essentials
Gym bags may seem unessential — until you ruin your favorite tote by stuffing it with sweaty workout clothes or having your water bottle leak all over it. When that happens, you start to see the advantages of having a designated gym bag. Plus, have a pre-packed gym duffel or gym backpack can make getting ready for your workout much less chaotic, especially if you exercise in the mornings or immediately after work, and need to bring your gym must-haves like cycling shoes, a sweat towel, and your workout clothes with you during the start of your day. Even if you work out from home, having a gym bag gives you a place to stash home gym essentials like resistance bands or ankle weights.
These are the 11 gym bags worth purchasing right now. Whether you like a tote bag or duffel, there's a silhouette everyone will love, and a price point that works for every budget. These bags are must haves for the active person who's always on the go. Keep on reading to shop our top picks.
— Additional reporting by Mirel Zaman
An Affordable Gym Bag
Sports Tote Gym Bag ($22, originally $30)
Not only is this pretty bag super affordable, it's also so cute. We love the fun pink hue, but it comes in dozens of colors, so you've got plenty of options to choose from. It has lots of internal pockets, so you can stay organized, and also doubles as an overnighter or weekend bag.
A Highly-Rated Gym Duffel
Gymshark Everyday Holdall ($34, originally $42)
This duffel has over 100 positive reviews and for good reason. It is not too big or small, has pockets for shoes and wet clothes, and fits well in a standard locker. Plus, it's lightweight, so it's easy to carry around all day long.
A Gym Bag That Doubles as a Tote
Béis Sport Carryall ($88)
If you know about Béis, you know — people love the line's products because they're so smartly designed. Their bags always have a compartment for every item you're looking to stash, plus dozens of other thoughtful features that make using them a pleasure. The Sport Carryall is no exception. It's got a padded laptop sleeve, key leash, water bottle holder, a tennis racket slip, and front pockets for weights or tennis balls.
A Classic Gym Duffel
Want something classic and iconic? This duffel is your best bet. We love the big check mark and that it comes with both interior and exterior pockets. There are two shorter straps, as well as a removable shoulder strap, so you can wear this bag any which way.
A Mini Gym Bag
Athleta Excursion Waistbag ($66, originally $88)
If you're always on the go, grab this waistbag. Not only is the silhouette very on-trend right now, but this particular bag is also big enough to actually be useful. It's got plenty of pockets, as well as comfortable straps that won't dig in to your shoulder.
A Quilted Gym Bag
MZ Wallace Metro Quatro Tote ($325)
When you're on the go, you need a bag with lots of pockets. That's why we like this tote. It zips at the top, which is essential, and plus, it has plenty of pockets. You can store a change of clothes, a sweaty towel, your valuables, and even extra shoes.
A Versatile Gym Duffel
Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Duffle Mini ($169)
If you're looking for a bag that can do it all, you need this mini duffel. It has plenty of pockets, can be held as a duffel or backpack, and comes in a ton of colors. It's also a great weekender or carry-on travel bag. Everyone will be asking where you got it.
A Gym Backpack
Lululemon Wonderpuff Backpack ($79, was $148)
If you love a backpack, this Lulu one is one to check out. It's ultra-wide, cushy straps stay comfortable no matter how heavy a load you're carrying, and it has a ton of pockets, including an expandable, sweat-proof one for post-gym gear, and a sneaky zippered side pocket for a water bottle. It can also hold a 16" laptop and has a trolly sleeve for travel days.
A Tennis Gym Bag
Tory Sport Convertible Stripe Tennis Tote ($398)
Getting on the court this year? You need a great bag that can hold your racket. This tennis tote is adorable and has the perfect pocket, so you can get ready for your match in style.
A Colorful Duffel Bag
Dagne Dover Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall ($185)
If you want a bag that everyone will know is yours, grab something colorful. This neoprene bag is an editor favorite. It's an expandable bag, so it can fit all your essentials, and it has both an exterior slip pocket for your phone and interior pockets for your laptop, water bottle, and extra clothes. It also has a removable shoe bag, which is so essential for gym workouts.
A Super-Durable Gym Bag
Away Outdoor Duffle ($170)
If you're someone who loves to work out outside, pick up this bag. It was created with Away's unique compression system, so it enables you to pack more using less space. It's both weather and abrasion resistant, making this a high-quality, durable choice.