The Best Gym Bags to Keep Your Training Goals In-Tote
Not all gym bags are created equal. Here are our favorites for all kinds of people and uses.
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Going to the gym or studio for a workout can be a great way to break up your day, and with gym attendance continuing to rise, it seems that more and more athletes are getting back to the brick-and-mortar facilities we once called home. But with all the gear you need for a proper training session — including your shoes, shorts, water bottle and beyond — you need a proper bag to house all those must-haves.
Now, you can probably get by in a pinch with just a random duffel or backpack, but a dedicated workout tote can help keep your interest and motivation in training with conveniences like water bottle holders, shoe compartments, spacious pockets and more. Plus, having a gym bag solely for your training schedule can help keep your accessories more organized with less of a worry about forgetting your must-haves in-between changing out packs. beBefore we get into some of our favorite picks for premier training performance, let’s take a closer look at what you should consider when finding one for your needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Gym Bag
Just like picking out a new pair of gym shoes, you want to look at how you plan to use your gym bag before making a decision. Maybe you’re just looking for a durable tote to get your gear from the car to the training center without any hassle. Perhaps you need a bag that’s stylish enough to sit for a few hours in your office without drawing a lot of attention. Your gym bag might even need to pull double duty from time to time as a trustworthy carry-on luggage. Below are some key factors to consider as you think through your ideal setup.
Volume
Your gym bag should naturally be large enough to house all your workout essentials. For most athletes, a medium-sized duffel anywhere from 30–40 liters should provide enough internal space for your shoes, accessories and a spare change of clothes. If you often carry more gear, like a weightlifting belt or separate pairs of CrossFit shoes and running shoes, consider sizing up. If you’re looking for a more versatile pack for outdoor excursions or travel, you might need a more spacious interior as well. Be mindful, though, that if you want to use a duffel or pack as a carry-on for flying, some airlines restrict bag sizes, so bigger is not always better for these scenarios (as we’ve learned through multiple instances at boarding gates).
Material
Most gym totes are made from leather, canvas, polyester or nylon due to the durable nature of each textile. It’s also key to look for hearty zippers or hook-and-loop components that will hold up through countless opening and closing. Additionally, more durable duffels and packs can be better equipped for multiple uses, which can save you money in the long run.
Storage Compartments
This next factor often depends on your packing style. While some might not mind just throwing everything in one open compartment, other athletes might prefer to keep everything organized in individual pockets. To achieve this neat and tidy setup, though, you need a bag that includes multiple storage areas. This can also be a good option for those wanting to keep their sweat-riddled garments and footwear separate from their other gear (which is a particularly good habit to develop to maintain a clean bag setup). Some premium gym bags can come equipped with separate shoe compartments and smaller side pockets to match these needs.
Ventilation
To go along with keeping your gym bag fresh and clean, you might want to opt for setups that feature some form of ventilation. This can allow your stinky gym gear to breathe more, creating an environment that gives a solid pathway for funky fumes to disperse before getting trapped in fabrics and textiles. If your bag doesn’t offer solid breathability, we recommend opening up the various pockets and zippers once you get home to create better airways. Also, don’t keep your used shaker bottles or dirty fitness apparel in your bag for too long, as these scents can easily penetrate your setup and linger longer than a nagging injury. And once that funk develops, cleaning your bag can be as hard as an RPE 9 deadlift.
What to Put in a Gym Bag
While your gym bag’s gear should cater to your specific fitness discipline, and there’s plenty of ways to keep your tote well-packed, there are a few items we recommend to help cover all bases and scenarios. A change of clothes is always great to have on-hand, especially a pair of socks for those quick post-workout wardrobe changes. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to have an extra water bottle or shaker bottle in your tote, if your pack grants you the space. This helps eliminate the chances of you being parched mid-set after leaving your go-to bottle on the counter or in the car. Other small items like a phone charger, gym towel and other small items can also be handy additions to your setup along with your other training accessories.
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