If you’re stuffing your gym clothes into your purse along with the rest of your essentials, you’re doing it wrong. The same goes if you’re using the same ratty bag you’ve had since college, or the free tote you got from who-knows-where. A good gym bag is worth investing in, in the same way you shell out for fancy workout leggings and pricey sneakers — and a great one looks just as good on your way into the office in the a.m. as it does when you’re leaving the gym with that post-workout glow.
Size: Think about your go-to gym activity before determining what size gym bag you’ll need. If, for instance, you’re packing work stuff, sneakers, a change of clothes, a water bottle, a yoga mat, and the like, you’re going to want a bigger bag. Stick to the basics, though, if you’re more of a “water bottle, deodorant, and fresh tee” kind of gymgoer.
Pockets: Considering how much you bring, you'll also want to figure out the type of storage your gym bag will need. A spot for your phone, wallet, and water bottle are especially important things to consider. If you're a super sweater, or your activity of choice requires returning home with wet clothes, i.e. spending time in the pool or sauna, you also may want to consider a bag with a separate waterproof pocket. Another option? A compartment made specifically for your sneakers.
Purpose: Before choosing a bag, decide whether you'll use it solely for the gym or if you have other purposes in mind. Of course, travel bags, carry-ons, and the like will require a bit more space than your gym bag may, so if you plan to give it multiple purposes, go big or go home go to the gym only.
Today’s gym bags for women can handle everything from your laptop to your yoga mat, with plenty of room for a change of clothes. Streamline your commute with one of these multitasking totes, duffels, and backpacks.
For under $20, this adorable, budget-friendly gym bag comes with everything you'll need — along with over 6,000 5-star ratings. Inside you'll find plenty of space for all of your needs, along with a spacious, waterproof PVC zip compartment for any wet items. Outside, you'll find several pockets, including one for your shoes, two for a couple of water bottles, and then some.
Having racked up over 19,000 5-star ratings, it's no wonder this Puma gym duffel is a bestseller. Check off spacious interior, exterior pockets, and shoe compartment from your must-have list when you grab this athletic bag. It comes in three different color variations in case this light pink isn't your style!
This super versatile duffel — made from water-resistant and hand-washable neoprene — nearly doubles its size with just a snap of the tabs on the side. Either way, you fit a change of clothes, a pair of sneakers, your laptop, a water bottle, and more (all with separate compartments to prevent any mishaps).
4
Best Duffel
Under Armour Women's Undeniable Signature Duffel Bag
Can you ever go wrong with a classic duffel? (Hint: No, you cannot.) This Under Armour option will have you looking — and feeling — like the fitness buff you are while offering all of the gym bag must-haves.
It has a water-resistant finish so you can get going rain or shine (a blessing and a curse), a large vented pocket on one side for the items you'll toss straight into the laundry once you get home, and a mesh pocket on the other side.
Perhaps the best part, though, is the zipper pull on the front pocket that, wait for it ... doubles as a hair tie. Genius!
Looking for a quality tote to use for class, work, and/or the gym? Look no further than the Lululemon Go Getter tote decked out with an interior pocket for storing your "items of importance," a separate one for zipping away your "sweaty unmentionables" post-workout, and several other mesh compartments for Type A-level organization.
The exterior, of course, has a zip pocket as well, and an easily reachable water bottle slot. Oh, and did we mention how chic it looks?
Don't be fooled: This classic gym duffel offers more than meets the eye. On one side you'll find a ventilated compartment for your sweaty sneakers and on the other, there's a waterproof, insulated pocket ideal for any wet post-workout items or keeping your water bottle cold pre-workout. Plus, there's plenty of space inside for all of your needs — it makes a great travel carry-on, too.
Gear up for an adventure with this sleek backpack from adidas. It’s stylish enough that it doesn’t scream “I’m about to work out,” so it can work perfectly as a versatile backpack for traveling and weekend trips.
It features not one, but two water bottle pockets, an easy-to-access exterior compartment for your phone or wallet, interior pockets for organization, and plenty of room for a change of clothes, sneaks, and other belongings.
When in doubt, Nike fitness items will never let you down. This quick, grab-and-go drawstring sack is the perfect option for any gym-goer who sticks to the basics. Perfect for a water bottle, your sneakers, and other small necessities, it's a simple option that gets the job done so you can get to the gym and just do it.
The limit does not exist when it comes to the uses for this large Lululemon duffel. Aside from making a stellar gym bag thanks to its waterproof material and spacious interior, it can also double as a travel bag. It flaunts an exterior water bottle pocket as well as a padded one to hold the valuable items you may need in a jiffy (large enough to hold a 15-inch laptop).
Inside there are several pockets for optimal organization and a separate compartment so your sweaty gear will never touch your clean goods. It's truly a bag that does it all.
No more worrying about lugging your mat to the yoga studio thanks to this brilliant and stylish tote by Aruna Project. At first glance, of course, the star of the show is the large front exterior pocket made for your yoga mat (or towel, since it also makes the perfect beach bag).
When you look even further, though, you'll learn its exterior is also made of water-repelling, abrasion-resisting, and recycled materials. What's more? 100% of profits made through Aruna go to empowering and employing artisans who are freed victims of human trafficking (their names are even printed on the inside of the bag).
Ashley MateoAshley Mateo is a writer, editor, and UESCA- and RRCA-certified running coach who has contributed to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Women's Health, Health, Shape, Self, and more.
Taylor MeadTaylor is a freelance writer, editor, and social media manager for beauty, wellness, and lifestyle brands and publications.
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