Ultimate Gym Bag Guide: All to Know Before Buying
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
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Why would you ever care about a gym bag? Can’t you just stick your equipment/items in a random bag and simply carry it around with you? Well… Technically, you could do that, sure. But a gym bag is more than a random bag to throw your stuff into – it’s a very important piece of your fitness gear.
Each of us has different preferences and priorities. Some like tote bags, some think drawstring bags are the most practical, some will even carry backpacks. Regardless of what you like, your gym bag should be good quality, it should fit your stuff nicely and protect it from damage. And if you’re someone that values aesthetics – then it should look nice, too.
As far as gym bags go, you’ll find everything you want in this article – what the main types are, what to look for in a gym bag, and we’ll even share the one we recommend.
Let’s pack those bags and learn how to find the perfect one!
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7 Types of Gym Bags
A lot of times, people don’t think about the type of gym bag that would suit them. They will just pick up what looks functional and that’s that. With so many styles available, that can be a big mistake because a gym bag is an important part of your fitness equipment. Let’s see what the most common types are.
1. Backpacks
These are super versatile and have the weight distributed evenly. They usually come with a lot of compartments and have ergonomic designs.
Obviously, the main difference between a backpack and a traditional gym bag is that you wear the gym bag on your shoulder via a strap, while the backpack is designed to sit securely and comfortably on your back, leaving your hands free. This is especially important if you plan on traveling to the gym via bike or motorcycle.
It’s easy to travel with them, and they’re comfortable to wear even if it’s for prolonged periods. Still, they may not be the best for people with back issues, and they rarely come with specialized compartments.
2. Duffel Bags
Duffle bags for gym have a recognizable cylindrical shape and a very spacious main compartment. The handles are robust, and the bag will usually come with detachable shoulder straps. It’s perfect for gym and travel because of its generous storage space, but it becomes pretty bulky if you pack it fully.
Some duffle bags have designs that enable them to be worn like backpacks. If that is the case, then the same advantage applies to them as with backpacks — if you’re going to the gym by using a motorcycle or a bike, they are a must in order to ensure the safety of travel.
3. Tote Bags
A tote is one of the most stylish bags due to its minimal design and it’s great for transitioning from the gym to running errands and regular daily activities.
It’s a lightweight, versatile bag, but has limited storage space compared to the duffel, so it’s not ideal for travel.
4. Sling Bags
If you want a very compact bag – this is it. It’s worn diagonally across your body and it’s very easy and comfortable to carry. It’s good for short workouts, but since it’s so compact, it won’t be able to carry any bulky or heavy equipment.
5. Sack-Style Gym Bags
This is a super straightforward type of bag that has a drawstring closure for easy use. It’s lightweight and good for outdoor activities. This one is also one that won’t hold anything bulky because that’s not its purpose.
6. Tactical Bags
The epitome of durability – a tactical bag. It’s rugged, sturdy, and often made from military-grade materials. Its primary use is for outdoor and adventure sports and the bag is usually waterproof. It’s not the most stylish bag, however, and it’s quite bulky.
7. Luxury Gym Bags
A luxury bag is never a necessity, but if you want to be fashionable, you may want to consider splurging on one of these. It’s made of high-end materials, looks fantastic and it’s designer. It’s a statement piece for sure, but like many luxury bags in general, it may not be the most functional and durable.
Our expert Tanya Shaiko went straight to the point:
“When it comes to gym bags – size does matter!” — she paused to laugh😀 — “Well, it does, what can I say? But seriously, I always go for larger gym bag variants. These are made with the goal to perfectly accommodate the multitude of various accessories and gear that I’ll bring to my workouts. Because, you see, sometimes you just won’t have the time to go home and pack your bag just for the gym.
Life is life and there will be days when you have to plan your whole day ahead. This means that your gym bag will carry much more than gym-related items. You’re carrying your whole day in that thing. This is why you NEED the extra space. Also, a pro tip, multiple compartments are a life saver when trying to look for that one specific thing in a hurry! It’s all about ensuring you have everything you need, without compromise.“
How to Choose a Proper Gym Bag Type?
You may not think training bags can have any influence on your fitness journey, but they can. A bag that suits you needs to be able to comfortably carry all of your essentials and it should suit your lifestyle.
Say you’re into weightlifting or have bulky equipment – a tote or a backpack wouldn’t be as useful to you as a duffel would. You would need something spacious that can handle everything you want to throw in it.
On the other hand, a gym backpack is perfect for someone who travels a lot because it can be both a carry-on and a gym bag.
A tote is a great choice if you want to hit the gym in the morning and then go grocery shopping immediately after because it transitions easily from one thing to the other.
The right gym bag needs to align with your lifestyle, the sports you do, and if aesthetics are important to you, it should also look stylish. And don’t forget that gym bag reviews are also a great source of information.
Pros and Cons of Various Gym Bag Types
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Gym Bag?
Before you choose your next gym bag, keep in mind that it’s far more than just a stylish accessory. There are things you need to pay attention to to make sure you’re not wasting your money on a bag that doesn’t have the right features, isn’t good quality, or ends up being uncomfortable.
1. Material Quality
A good gym bag is made of durable material that can withstand frequent use and that you don’t need to look after too much. Look for bags made of polyester, Cordura nylon, and waterproof materials.
2. Capacity and Storage
Think about how much equipment you want to carry and how much space you need the bag to have. A compact bag is good for essentials, but if you want to carry clothes, shoes, and equipment, you’ll need one with more space.
Criteria | Description | Suggestion |
---|---|---|
Material Quality | Durable materials will ensure product longevity | Polyester, Cordura nylon, waterproof materials |
Capacity/ Storage | Choose bag size according to the equipment that you’ll carry most frequently | Compact bag for essentials / Larger bag for clothes, shoes, and equipment |
Compartments | Multiple compartments help organize items more efficiently | Separate shoe compartment, wet clothes pocket, safety compartment for valuables (phone, wallet, etc.) |
Ventilation | Helps prevent odor, mold, mildew from sweat/humidity | Crucial after a long or hard workout |
Water Resistance | Waterproof, or at least water resistant bag protect your items during rain or accidental spills | Waterproof material |
Security | Keep valuables safe during workouts | Lockable zippers, hidden pockets |
Usage Purpose | Define the primary use of the bag for best selection | Gym, travel, shopping, camping |
Comfort | Ensures comfort during transport | Padded/adjustable shoulder straps, even weight distribution, comfy handles, back/bottom pannels |
Additional Features | Modern features that enhance the bags overall functionality | USB charging ports, headphone ports, reflective strips |
3. Compartment Availability
The more compartments you have, the better you can organize your bag. Look for a bag that has a separate shoe compartment, a compartment for wet clothes, electronics, and a water bottle. A gym bag with a shoe compartment will make your life a lot easier because you don’t want to put your phone and shoes in the same place, so think about how many compartments you need.
4. Ventilation
You’re likely sweaty after your workout and you also probably want to take your wet clothes and dirty shoes off and change into something clean. If you put the dirty clothes and shoes in a bag that has no ventilation, there’s a good chance they will develop an odor and possibly even mold or mildew.
5. Water Resistance
If you get caught in the rain, you want your things to be protected. This is why your bag should be waterproof, so it can protect everything you want to carry with you.
6. Security Features
Look for a bag that has lockable zippers or hidden pockets, so your wallet, keys, and phone are safe while you work out.
7. Purpose of Use
Think about the way you want to use the bag. Will you use it only for the gym or do you want to travel with it, go grocery shopping, go camping, etc.?
Make sure to choose the bag that’s designed for what you plan to use it for.
8. Comfort
You want adjustable padded shoulder straps and handles and back panels, so the bag feels comfortable when you carry it. Also, make sure the bag’s weight distribution is even.
Our sport scientist Sergiy Putsov strongly recommends:
“If you want a optimal gym experience, then look for a gym bag with individual compartments dedicated to gear, shoes, a water bottle, and a protein shaker. You might think that this might be a bit of an overkill, but trust me. You’ll thank me later. Also, keep in mind the bag’s durability! From my personal experience, I’d recommend the Runner-Up Under Armour Duffle Bag.“
9. Additional Features
Some gym bags come with really neat features, like USB charging ports, headphone ports, or reflective strips.
Rogue Gym Bag
Basically, this is a modern twist on the timeless, all-purpose carryall. It’s compact so it’s perfect to take with you to a gym and it will do everything comfortably. The bag looks much bigger in photos than it actually is, at least as far as travel bags go, so this one is best to use as a gym bag only.
It’s made from 1000D Cordura nylon, which is known for its durability and resistance to abrasions, fading and mildew.
It has a single spacious main compartment, external pockets for quick access, and an internal zippered pocket (this one is perfect for your phone or wallet). The bag also has 2 grippy nylon handles and a removable shoulder strap.
You’ll also find metal D rings on the bag and all the straps and handles are reinforced, so the bag will last you a long time. If, however, you want something even more durable, this bag also comes in a Ripstop version that has Cordura fabric on the interior as well.
6 Tips for Packing a Gym Bag
The best bag in the world won’t be as usable as it could be if you don’t pack it right – we all want an organized gym bag. There’s no crazy science behind the organization, just a few things to keep in mind.
1. Choose the Ideal Bag
First, you need to start with choosing the correct bag. Go over things like size, compartments, features, etc., and choose one that’s right for you.
2. Get Your Workout Essentials
Once you start packing the bag, begin with essentials – workout clothes, socks, shoes, and gym towel. Don’t forget things like headphones, a heart rate monitor or a fitness tracker.
3. Toiletries & Post-Workout Needs
Your toiletries should be in a separate pouch (waterproof would be ideal) so that, if anything leaks, it doesn’t get on your clothes. Also, make sure to pack things you’ll need after your workout, like a change of clothes, a spare pair of socks, deodorant, and a towel.
4. Sweaty/Damp/Wet Clothes or Towels
Since we’re mentioning ‘after the workout’, also consider where and how you’ll store sweaty clothes.
5. Odor Management
And speaking of odor – if you’re worried about how you’re going to keep your bag smelling fresh, you can get some odor-absorbing pouches and/or, even more importantly, get a bag that has vented compartments so anything damp can air out.
6. Don’t Forget Security
If you’re carrying a wallet or a phone with you, put those in a separate, more secure compartment (it would be ideal if it’s lockable) so you know they’re safe.
How to Clean a Gym Bag in 9 Steps?
There are two types of bags when it comes to cleaning – those that can be machine-washed and those that can’t. Of course, those that can be just thrown in a washer are much more convenient. For those, look for instructions on the label to check the temperature you can wash the bag on.
The ones that can’t be machine-washed are more frequent, but the good news is, there are ways of keeping them fresh and clean.
1. Pre-cleaning
First, empty the bag completely. Check all the pockets and compartments and take everything out.
2. Spot Clean (Optional)
You can now spot clean the bag with a damp cloth and a mild detergent.
3. Deep Cleaning With Natural Solutions
If you want deeper cleaning, you can use a mixture of water and white vinegar (50-50), which will not only clean the bag, but it will also get rid of any odors. White vinegar might have a strong scent, but once it evaporates during air-drying (a couple of hours; also depending on the temperature, wind, etc.), the scent will be completely gone. And as a plus – white vinegar is a natural disinfectant.
Tips From the Champ
Leaving wet/sweaty gym clothes/towels in the bag overnight might seem like it isn’t a big deal, but keep in mind that this way you’re creating an optimal breeding ground for bacteria and mold. This will inevitably help produce bad odors. What it can also do is degrade the material of your bag and gym gear. This time-saving ‘technique’ of not dealing with your wet clothes straight away will only create a scenario where you’ll need to exert more time to deal with the issue.
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
4. Machine Washing
If your bag is fabric, it can probably be machine-washed (check the label to be sure) on a gentle cycle.
5. Odor Control
No matter what type of cleaning you go for, make sure to rinse the bag thoroughly once you finish with it. If you’re struggling with stubborn odors that refuse to go away, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the bag and let it sit overnight.
6. Consider Sensitive Materials
Be careful if the bag is leather-trimmed or full leather because they may need specialized cleaning products. Again, checking the label is your best bet.
7. Zippers; Don’t Forget the Zippers!
Don’t forget about the zippers and hardware – they need cleaning, too! Use a small brush or a toothbrush to gently clean any dust or buildup. If you have a sturdy bag with a hard bottom, vacuuming can also help in the cleaning process.
8. Let the Bag Dry
Your best bet is to let the bag air-dry. But during colder months, leaving it close to a heat source such as a radiator is also fine (don’t leave it too close if the temperature is too high).
Leaving the bag in the sun is also okay, but keep in mind that while the Sun’s UV rays work as a disinfectant (to some extent), they also degrade the bag’s color pigment via photodegradation. If you have a waterproof bag, make sure to leave all the compartments opened and facing upwards – so that there is no humidity buildup.
9. Freshening Up!
Once your bag is dry and clean, put some dryer sheets or odor-absorbing pouches to keep it smelling fresh.
Our performance architect Jacek Szymanowski said this:
“Look, if you don’t want a messy bag, then make waterproofing and easy-to-clean materials your priority. Not that other things aren’t important. But this one tops the charts for me. Avoiding an unnecessary headache is underrated. My choice is the Cordura-crafted Rogue Gym Bag — it’s quite spacious to pack all the essentials that are important. If you plan on carrying bigger equipment, then first – make sure it’ll fit. The Rogue bag is also very durable. It can really take a punch to the chin without flinching. With minimal effort, that bag will last you years. Easy!”
FAQ
Can You Put Shoes in a Gym Bag?
Yes, you can. A lot of gym bags have separate shoe compartments, and some also come with additional shoe covers. If your bag doesn’t have a shoe compartment, you can still put your shoes in it, but make sure to use a bag or a shoe bag over them to keep them from getting in contact with the rest of your things.
What Makes a Good Gym Bag?
A good gym bag is made of quality, durable materials, has enough space, pockets, and compartments, and it’s also ventilated to keep any odors at bay. It should also have lockable zippers and, if you plan on being outdoors, a waterproof gym bag is the most convenient way to go.
Can I Use a Backpack as a Gym Bag?
Of course you can! A lot of backpacks have more than enough space and pockets, which makes them suitable for a lot of different things, gym included. Just make sure it’s somewhat breathable and made of durable materials.
Conclusion
Now you’re armed with more than enough information to be able to successfully choose a new gym bag that’s going to fit all your needs!
The Rogue Gym Bag is one that you can’t go wrong with and it’s currently the best gym bag you can buy. But if that’s not quite what you want, no worries – dig a little, read some user reviews and you’ll be able to find one yourself!
What do you have to say? Do you have a favorite gym bag? Which type suits your needs best? Have you tried the one we recommend? Do you use your gym bag for something else, other than for workouts?
Share your thoughts and comments with us, we’d love to hear them.
Bagging out!
Experts Who Contributed To This Article
6 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience
20 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience
M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology, Sports Nutritionist
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Also Read:
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- Photos are made by Torokhtiy Media Team, by Rogue Fitness, by Nobull.
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Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
Still have questions after reading our article? Unlock your full potential by engaging with our experts and community! Don’t hesitate — leave a comment below and Ihor Shymechko will provide a personalized answer and insights to help you reach your goals.