If you’ve yet to invest in a proper gym bag, you’ll know the stress of squatting mid-changing room, unpacking a badly organised work backpack in the frantic search for your sports bra. Particularly if, like us, you often arrive with only minutes to spare before the start of your class.
To help solve this issue, we’ve tested the best women’s gym bags to shoulder the burden. They’re a mix of stylish and technical, but always functional. Plus many are designed to survive the commute, weekends away and poolside splashes (or UK downpours), because as we all know, a great gym bag is not simply a bag in which you carry your gym gear.
What to look for in a gym bag
The best gym bags come with pockets for everything (dream!), special straps for yoga mats, clever compartments for shoes and waterproof pouches for damp swimming costumes or sweaty kit. Not to mention there should still be plenty of space for your work gear alongside your running shoes, water bottle, toiletries and towel.
Most gym bags will also be made of toughened or durable fabrics that can tolerate being stuffed into a locker or chucked on a rough gym floor — and many have reinforced bases for this purpose. Some may also be made from waterproof or water-repellent fabrics to protect your gear from splashes round the pool.
So, instead of exposing your laptop to the perils of communal showers and (literally) airing your dirty laundry, get organised and stylishly smug with one of these purpose-built gym bags.
How we test the best gym bags for women
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Pros
- Shoe compartment
- Yoga mat strap
Cons
- Limited colours
This bag has it all: plenty of pockets (inside and out), vented laundry and shoe compartments and elastic bungee straps on the side to hold your yoga mat — genius.
The pictures really don’t do this gym bag justice; it feels luxe and expensive, the pale blue interior means you won’t waste time searching around for your belongings in the dark (ideal if most of your fitness wardrobe is black), and the size is spot on too — small enough to carry around all day but with enough space to take everything you could possibly need.
Plus it’s made from a minimum of 50% recycled fibres, and the subtle branding means it will go with any and every gym ‘fit.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 24L |
| Dimensions | 33 x 51 x 23 cm |
| Extras | Yoga mat straps, laundry compartment, shoe compartment, shoulder strap |
| Best for | Yogis and gym bunnies and overnight stays |
Pros
- Affordable and versatile
- Zip closure
Cons
- No dedicated shoe/laundry pockets
Adanola is the authority on stylish tote bags and this khaki quilted number does not disappoint.
Wide, padded straps make for comfortable carrying, while inside there’s plenty of space for all your essentials, including trainers, plus a zipped valuables pocket. There’s also a large exterior pocket for easy access to your phone and cards on the go.
And because the zip fastens all the way across the top it’s also brilliant for travel.
Also available in black and slate grey.
| Material | Recycled nylon |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Approx. 29L |
| Dimensions | 61 x 36 x 13 cm |
| Best for | Stylish gym-goers |
Pros
- Easy-access zipped flap opening
- Wet pocket
Cons
- Limited colours
Gymshark is known for its affordable yet quality range of kit, and this classic holdall-style gym bag is no exception.
With more pockets than you can shake a stick at (including a wet pocket for swimming or sweaty gear, a shoe compartment, mesh pockets for essentials and a zip pocket for valuables — see, we told you), and a durable, reinforced base, it’s ready to go as hard as you are. It’s pretty roomy too — our tester also used it for a long weekend away.
Also available in pinky brown, sage green and pebble grey, or small and large sizes.
| Material | Polyester and PVC |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 40L |
| Dimensions | 55 x 29 x 25 cm |
| Extras | Wet pocket, shoe compartment, reinforced base, shoulder strap |
| Best for | Gym-goers, swimmers, outdoor fitness and travel |
Pros
- External bottle pocket
- Laundry compartment
Cons
- No dedicated shoe storage
Smart enough for the office but with oodles of space for all your kit, there’s a lot more than meets the eye in this clean, minimalist bag from lululemon.
While the outside is all sleek and smooth, inside there’s compartments and pockets galore – we particularly liked the one labelled for ‘sweaty unmentionables’ – and there’s a camouflaged bottle holder on the outside, too.
The padded laptop compartment could moonlight as shoe storage, plus it comes with reinforced detailing on the base, an adjustable shoulder strap and padded carry straps.
| Material | Recycled polyester, nylon, polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25L |
| Dimensions | 47 x 22.5 x 32 cm |
| Extras | Trolley-compatible sleeve, removable, adjustable shoulder strap, padded laptop pocket |
| Best for | Those who hit the gym pre- or post-work and weekend getaways |
Pros
- Water-resistance keeps your kit protected from drizzle
- Packing cubes and yoga mat carrier included
Cons
- No water bottle pocket
It wasn’t so long ago the world went absolutely bananas for packing cubes — you could barley scroll your chosen social media platform without seeing a satisfyingly neat puzzle of mesh cubes fitted pleasingly into a suitcase.
Well, now Sweaty Betty has brought that meticulous magic to the gym bag world, as this sleek number comes with two packable cubes for shoes (although you can use them for anything), as well as a genius yoga mat strap at the base and plenty of other pockets.
The contrast quilted lining means you can find things easily, the bag zips all the way shut and is super lightweight for easy carrying — speaking of, the shoulder strap is adjustable and it has a top carry handle too.
| Material | Polyamide |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Approx 30L |
| Dimensions | 28cm |
| Extras | Yoga mat carrier, adjustable shoulder strap, two packing cubes |
| Best for | Yogis, swimmers, any and all gym-goers |
Pros
- Pockets for everything
- Hard-wearing
Cons
- Bulky — particularly if you size up
Few backpacks have as much thought put into their production as those crafted by the good people at Built For Athletes.
There are bottle pockets on each side, three main compartments, plus multiple interior and exterior pockets to keep everything from your laundry to your pens and protein bars organised. Thanks to all this smart organisation, there’s plenty of space for gym shoes, kit and shower essentials — plus your laptop.
The entire thing folds out flat so it’s a doddle to pack and there are a ton of clever straps to you can compress and adjust the fit of the bag exactly as you want (making it as comfortable as possible).
Choose from seven colours, plus it’s available in a larger 45L size.
| Material | Water-resistant and rip-proof fabric |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25L |
| Dimensions | 42 x 30 x 14 cm |
| Extras | 15 inch laptop pocket, laundry compartments, bottle pockets, sternum and waist straps |
| Best for | Serious gym-goers, travel (it’s cabin baggage friendly) |
Pros
- Laptop sleeve
- Bottle pocket
Cons
- No shoe compartment
A tote version of the duffel above, this Nike gym bag boasts almost all the same features — we’re taking yoga mat strap, a plethora of pockets, vented laundry compartment and handy contrasting lining — but in a cute, chuck-it-on-your-shoulder design.
The two-way zip fastens all the way across the top for peace of mind and there’s even a padded sleeve for your laptop. However, there isn’t a shoe compartment, so bear that in mind if you prefer to keep your trainers away from the rest of your gear.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 18L |
| Dimensions | 38 x 53 x 13 cm |
| Extras | Internal bottle pocket, yoga mat straps, laundry compartment, laptop sleeve |
| Best for | Commuters who prefer an easy-access tote |
Pros
- Spacious
- Full zip across the top
Cons
- No shoe compartment
This subtle blush tote bag is one of our favourite pieces from Stella McCarney’s adidas collab. It’s light, super spacious and the recycled polyester shell feels built to last, with a reinforced base.
It zips right up, has wide, comfortable straps and has pockets for your phone, keys, padlock, snacks, you name it. Plus it packs down small for storage.
Also available in black.
| Material | Recycled polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 61.5L |
| Dimensions | 25 x 70 x 45 cm |
| Best for | Going from gym to office to drinks |
Pros
- Durable
- Zipped pockets
Cons
- No shoe compartment
Make like the winged goddess of victory (aka Nike) with this cute retro gym bag. With a large interior compartment for sweaty kit, a zipped pocket for valuables and handy exterior pockets too, there’s a place for everything.
It has a reinforced base and shoulder and carry straps, but it’s worth noting the straps aren’t padded. It scores some eco points too, as it’s made from at least 65% recycled materials.
Currently available in this gorgeous vintage jade (pictured) and navy blue — but new colours are released on the reg.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 24L |
| Dimensions | 33 x 50 x 22 cm |
| Extras | Removable shoulder strap, reinforced base |
| Best for | Vintage workout vibes |
Pros
- Separate shoe and laundry compartments
- Strap detaches and doubles as a yoga mat carrier
Cons
- An investment
Another day, another lululemon gym bag we’re lusting after. This versatile number can be worn two ways (crossbody or on the shoulder, with the sides strapped down and out the way), and the removable strap doubles as a yoga mat carrier — genius!
It comes complete with separate compartments for your shoes and sweaty kit, a zipped water bottle pocket and handy valuables pockets too, plus the straps are padded for all-day comfort.
| Material | Recycled polyester and recycled nylon |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30L |
| Dimensions | 45 x 26 x 19.5 cm |
| Extras | Shoe compartment, laundry compartment, water bottle holder, cushioned straps, yoga mat strap |
| Best for | Chic gym goers who want a place for everything |
Pros
- An insane amount of pockets, including shoe storage
- Super sturdy, waterproof and durable
Cons
- An investment — but we think a worthy one
If you’re not familiar with Stubble & Co bags, jump aboard the hype, because these things are simply brilliant. Strong, sturdy and durable, we’re convinced ours will last beyond a lifetime.
Storage-wise it’s hard to beat this bag — to the point that we keep losing things in it, purely because it has so many pockets. Externally there’s a huge shoe compartment, a reinforced top section for valuables (you’ll never crush your sunglasses again), a large zipped laptop section that sits against your back, plus various zipped compartments and loops you can attach carabiner hooks or your bike lock to.
On the inside, you’ll find a large mesh section in the opening flap (great for laundry) and loads of small organisations pockets with sections for every conceivable accessory.
Thanks to a chest strap and padded straps it’s very comfortable to wear — even when we loaded up the 65L version for Glastonbury. You can use the backpack straps as carry handles if you want to convert it into a duffel, or remove them and use the four grab handles to move the bag around.
Available in three sizes, 30L, 40L and 65L.
| Material | Recycled PET and TPU |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30L |
| Dimensions | 51 x 22.5 x 31 cm |
| Extras | Laptop sleeve, mesh laundry sections, shoe compartment, bottle pocket, versatile wear |
| Best for | Serious gym goers, weighed-down commuters, plus people who want to fit everything in their carry-on (this is cabin bag approved) |
Pros
- Waterproof
- Roomy
Cons
- Few pockets
Can you truly love an inanimate object? This bag from Danish outerwear brand Rains is testing that theory hard. Simple, sleek, and silky-soft to the touch, we are in lust, at least.
But we know looks aren’t everything, and luckily this bag has more going on under the surface too, with a handy external pocket, tons of space inside and it’s made from durable material. But the best part? As you’d expect from a brand named after wet weather, it’s completely waterproof, so will keep your change of clothes splash-free at the pool.
Available in three colours.
| Material | Polyester with polyurethane coating |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 27L |
| Dimensions | 25 x 49 x 22 cm |
| Extras | Detachable shoulder strap |
| Best for | Swimming and weekends away |
Pros
- Waterproof
- Separate laundry compartment
Cons
- No dedicated shoe space
This minimalistic backpack satisfies all our nerdy organisational tendencies. Everything is neatly compartmentalised, with sturdy zippers on sections for your tech, valuables and snacks, with a large section at the bottom for laundry or your lunchbox.
There are also water bottle pockets on the side (use one for your protein shake), and the back is padded for comfortable carrying.
There isn’t a space specifically designed for shoes, but we were able to fit a pair of gym trainers in no problem. Also available in pale grey and black as well as the cement brown pictured.
| Material | Polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 23L |
| Dimensions | 35 x 55 x 20 cm |
| Extras | Wet kit pocket |
| Best for | Commuting gym-goers |
Pros
- Shoe compartment
- Comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded
Cons
- Shoulder strap isn’t removable
We’ll be honest, it was looks that attracted us to this bag initially. But then once we got to know it, we realised it actually had a lot more going on beneath the surface. Call it a love story if you will, because we’re smitten.
This bag is simply brilliant quality, it fits all your gear and has a sturdy base and interior shoe compartment to keep things organised. We’re big fans of the thoughtful details like the giant zip pull across the top, front zipped pocket for phone and keys, and adjustable shoulder strap.
The inverse shape makes it really comfortable to carry on the shoulder compared to some duffel bags, which can feel too large at the base and get in the way while walking.
| Material | Recycled polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30.5L |
| Dimensions | 23 x 54 x 27 cm |
| Extras | Adjustable shoulder strap, shoe compartment |
| Best for | Those who want their gym bag to look as god as they do |
Pros
- Made from thick cotton canvas
- Internal and external pockets
Cons
- No secure closure
Sometimes a bag looks so beautiful you simply don’t care about its performance. Luckily, in this case, this Sweaty Betty tote performs on both fronts, so there’s no fear of being hoodwinked by its tenniscore good looks.
Inside that gorg lawn green/beige shell lurks a roomy tote with space for all your kit, plus an internal valuables pocket and an external slip pocket — which just so happens to be the ideal place to stow your phone if your leggings don’t have pockets.
| Material | Cotton |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 38L |
| Dimensions | 60 x 17.5 x 36 cm |
| Best for | Those after a spacious, versatile tote to take them from supermarket to studio |
Pros
- Folds down into a pouch
- Affordable
Cons
- Few pockets
This clever bag packs down into a tiny zipped pouch, so it’s easy to store when not in use or tuck inside another bag until you need it.
It’s also an absolute bargain at just £3.99 and can comfortably fit all your gear, including trainers, towel and toiletries. To make it as lightweight and packable as possible there aren’t tons of pockets — just a zipped internal compartment for valuables.
While abrasion-resistant, it doesn’t feel as durable as some, but so long as you’re not hurling it across the gym room floor or routinely dropping weights on it, it should hold up fairly well to normal wear and tear.
The straps aren’t adjustable but we didn’t find this to be a problem, and it’s available in two other colours if black’s not your thing.
| Material | Polyester and polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30L |
| Dimensions | 48 x 30 x 25 cm |
| Extras | Folds down into included pouch |
| Best for | No-frills gym-goers |
Pros
- Separate shoe/laundry compartment
- Great organisation
Cons
- Not the largest offering
If you want a gym bag that fits all the essentials but don’t want to feel like you’re hauling Santa’s sack around, this stylish duffel from Free People Movement is the answer.
The puffer (but super hardwearing) fabric protects your hips from kit-based bruises as you rush to class and the padded straps make it comfortable to carry too.
The inside is split into helpful compartments so you can always find your gear, and there are multiple pockets (both inside and out) to help you stay organised, plus mesh bottle holders and a separate zipped compartment on the bottom to keep your shoes or laundry separate from the rest of your kit. It’s the epitome of small but perfectly formed.
Currently available in seven gorgeous colourways.
| Material | Ripstop polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Approx. 20L |
| Dimensions | 40 x 33 x 15 cm |
| Extras | Zipped shoe/laundry compartment, detachable and adjustable shoulder strap |
| Best for | Chic gym bunnies, studio workouts |
Pros
- Yoga mat strap
- Laundry and shoe compartments
Cons
- This pale colourway does show up dirt easily
This bag ticks every functional box yet manages to retain good looks — no mean feat, we can all agree. On the outside there’s a yoga mat strap (with zipped pocket on top), luggage strap, durable base with shoe compartment and an easy-access (for you, not thieves) zipped valuables pocket. Plus there are huge bottle pockets at each end — they fit a large Hydroflask or even an extra pair of shoes — with adjustable toggles to keep your belongings safe.
On the inside the positives continue, with more zipped pockets, a large laundry compartment with popper fastening and mid-grey interior so your bits are easy to find.
The whole thing looks and feels luxe, plus there’s a long strap with adjustable shoulder pad included if you’d rather not carry the bag by the handles.
Also available in black.
| Material | Recycled PET, polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 23L |
| Dimensions | 36 x 55 x 13 cm |
| Best for | Chic gym-goers and weekends away |
| Extras | Water-repellent, luggage strap, yoga mat holder |
Pros
- Durable base
- Laptop compartment
Cons
- No dedicated shoe or laundry compartment
Designed in collaboration with the great Paula Radcliffe herself, it should comes as no surprise that this gym bag will go the distance. KitBrix bags are known for their signature waterproof moulded base, which not only protects your gear from the elements, but also keeps the bag standing up (ideal when packing or when you’re trying to find a gel) and makes for a super durable piece of kit.
Extras include a zipped valuables pocket, internal bottle holder and even a zipped laptop compartment, that can double as a luggage handle sleeve when you’re on the move. The main compartment zips closed and the straps are padded to keep you comfortable.
Also available in a chic green/beige, blue/grey or bright orange and teal.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 28L |
| Dimensions | 24 x 36 x 39 cm |
| Extras | Padded shoulder strap, laptop sleeve, water bottle holder |
| Best for | Those who are tired of their cotton totes perishing |
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