We've found 15 of the best gym bags that are both stylish and practical
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Whether you're a pre- or post-office workout type or you prefer to do your exercise sessions on the weekends, there's no denying you need a gym bag. What else would you use to haul all your fit kit around? Those old, sweaty and stained tote bags don't quite cut it, let's be honest – especially if you're the kind of person who likes to be decked out in the best hi-tech trainers, funkiest leggings and most stylish bras to get your exercise in.
Luckily, there are *so* many stylish options around at the moment. Gone are the days of having to pick from a few bland, basic options that look like something your dad used to carry back in the day. (Sure, dad trainers may have had a fashion overhaul, but dad backpacks belong in the past for good reason...) Now, you can take your pick from minimal totes to sporty backpacks, feminine shoulder bags and cool duffels that work just as well on the street as they do in the studio.
There really is something for everyone's taste – and budget. While we've made sure to include the extremely practical styles from our fave dedicated athleisure brands, they do tend to err on the pricier side. But worry not: our roundup also has you covered with some on-sale steals as well as picks from the good old high street. You're welcome.
How to clean your gym bag
If you're splashing out on a new gym bag, you're going to want to keep it looking as good as new for as long as possible. Over time, it can become as smelly as your sports bra after a gruelling circuit workout. But fear not, keeping it fresh and funk-free is a breeze.
Most styles have been designed to make cleaning as easy as a regular once-over wipe with a damp cloth. Or try our top tip – mix warm water, white vinegar and essential oil for an odour-busting boost.
Certain fabrics will require a tiny bit more TLC. If you're opting for canvas, you'll want to spot clean the areas in need, and machine-washable bags usually recommend a cold cycle.
There are also things you can do to keep your gym bag cleaner for longer. Removing any sweaty or wet gear as soon as possible helps with the smell, and the same can be said of airing it out after each use.
Gym bag smell hack
If you don't quite manage to prevent the stench, dropping a few dry tea bags in overnight or adding dryer sheets to the bottom of your gym bag are clever tricks that kill unwanted odours.
Or, if you have any essential oils to hand, why not add a few drops to a spray bottle and spritz to your heart's content? Don't forget to let it dry out afterwards, though.
Essentials for every gym bag
Gym bags are a valuable bit of kit, but packed with the right goodies you can take them to the next level.
Activewear, trainers and water bottle aside, we picked out the essentials you'll want at your fingertips to make your trip to the gym as easy-going as you deserve it to be after putting in as many reps as possible on the floor.
Face wipes
Hairbrush
Hair ties
Tissues
Towel
Flip flops
Extra briefs
Extra socks
Menstrual products
Lock
Once packed, they can stay put, and you won't have to worry about morning brain sabotaging your session.
So, whether you're looking for a backpack that'll do for both the gym and work, a holdall that can seamlessly transition into a weekend bag, a tote stylish enough to double as a handbag or a duffel big enough to store everything but the kitchen sink, we've got you covered in our edit of the best gym bags available now. Look no further for the perfect solution to your packing woes.
The best gym bags to shop in 2025
Nylon-Luxe Everyday Holdall
A new launch from Katie Loxton, the Nylon-Luxe holdall is the ultimate modern gym bag. It's water-resistant and thoughtfully designed with a front pass-through slot for your yoga mat or towel, as well as external water bottle holders and D-ring attachments for all the accessories. You can even have it personalised to ensure no gym mix-ups.
Trail Gym Bag
Having set out to design the perfect gym bag, we think Rains may have succeeded. Simple, sleek and oh-so-good to look at, it is suitable for both your gym ventures and weekend getaways.
With a waterproof rating of 8000mm, you needn't worry if the rain catches you out sans umbrella, and your valuables will be just as safe in the waterproof front pocket as the rest of your kit is - sitting dry in the main compartment.
SB Canvas Duffel Bag
Made from 100% cotton this is the perfect casual gym bag that you lug around without forgetting a thing. The material means you can give it a wash if it gets a bit grubby but it still looks well pulled together and chic.
Tote Bag
Our fashion editor has been testing this gym bag out recently and is already a big fan. The puffy material adds a fun touch but its the organisation and space inside that really sets it apart. The size allows for you to throw your laptop, drink bottle, beauty products and trainers in with room to spare whilst keeping it all expertly organised and separate.
Carryall Tote Bag
If it's versatility and max space you're after, this enormous Carryall Tote Bag is the perfect tote to use for the shops, the gym, for work and even trips away. It includes plenty of internal pockets to keep all of the essentials like keys and jewellery. Available in five bright and bold colours it adds a pop to your day.
Traverse Duffle
Cult LA brand Alo Yoga's branded duffle is as much a status symbol as it is a genuinely useful everyday gym bag, tbh. The big shiny silver logo lets everyone know you're in the same gymwear league as all the Hollywood cool girls, while the detachable strap lets you carry it crossbody for added convenience.
Ego Boost Mega Bucket Bag
A slightly different look, this stylish bucket bag/backpack makes a bold chilli red pop with a utilitarian look to it. Not just great for the gym but you can take this on trail walks, or running errands and it can fit all of your bits and pieces and look good doing it.
Gym Bag
Could this be the most decked-out gym bag we've seen? It definitely comes close! You'll find ample pockets, a removable trainer bag, cable organiser, cosmetic mirror and pouch, jewellery pouch, yoga mat straps, bottle holders and more in this sleek and stylish duffle. Not to mention the gorg sage colour.
V1 Convertible Tote
Is it a tote bag or is it a backpack? Well, it's technically both thanks to its top handle *and* back straps. This Vuori design is ideal for court sports and your office-to-gym commute, while if you cycle to and from work as your daily exercise, the water-repellent functional fabric is also great for wet conditions. When you want to switch it up, you can tuck the back straps away for a cleaner aesthetic.
£130.00 at vuoriclothing.co.uk
Borealis Tote Bag
This is probably the most useful, multi-functional bag we've come across. You can carry it either as a backpack or a tote, which is *ideal* for commuters squeezing onto packed morning trains. The stand-up design means it will perch sturdily on the locker room bench without toppling over. Plus, it's got all manner of water bottle pockets, bungee cords, and zips to store and secure your things. Available in grey, black or fiery red.
Apex Everyday Duffle
Great for versatility, you can use this stylish duffle for the gym or short weekend trips away - keeping your belongings well-organised and safely packed. It's lightweight to carry around and has all of the bells and whistles–like tech organisers, bottle holders, shoe compartments and even a luggage sleeve–housed in a durable, rain-resistant and tidy outer.
£245.00 at troubadourgoods.com
Duffle Bag
Word on the street is that this barrel duffel bag is the perfect size for carrying allllll your gym equipment and gear – and by word on the street, we mean the tonnes of happy customers who have deemed this baby five-star worthy online. It has a side zip compartment for dirty shoes, plus comfy padded shoulder straps for when you're lugging your kit – whether that's to and from the gym or packing for a 48-hour city break.
The GAIA Bag
For a bougie-r option, something that effortlessly takes you from the gym to the office to after-work drinks without missing a thing, the Gaia tote is the perfect option. Made with bio-based vegan leather it looks elevated and stylish but remains durable and can hold a surprising amount on the inside.
Quilted Nylon Tote Bag
We love Adanola for its epic leggings and cult, logo-ed sweatshirts. Now, we're adding this quilted nylon tote to our wish lists too – and not just because it would double up as a makeshift pillow on the post-gym commute...
The Fraser Holdall
Super spacious, this large duffle bag is ideal for those who don't pack light. The internal organisation is unmatched, with five water resistant compartments for your laptop, shoes, clothes and toiletries or you can remove this and throw everything in a bit more laissez-faire. It also offers 99% protection against bacteria and viruses and is an approved cabin size for most major airlines.
More gym accessories to shop...
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