Top 12 Gym Bags of 2024, Recommended by Fitness Enthusiasts

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Any bag can be a gym bag if you take it to the gym...right? Sure, you can get by using the same tote bag you use for work or that backpack you've had since college. But if you're forcing your other bags that are just bags to do double duty, you're missing out on some key features that could make packing for the gym a whole lot easier. 

'When shopping for a gym bag, there are several features that can be really helpful, such as separate shoe compartments, multiple pockets, water-resistant or waterproof, well-ventilated, adjustable straps, and durability,' explains Stephanie Mansour, TODAY Show Fitness Contributor and a contributing health and fitness writer for TODAY. Style and design, accessibility, maintenance, and cleaning are other important factors Mansour recommends considering when shopping for the best gym bag for the job. With these key factors in mind, we set out to find the best gym bags through extensive research, expert recommendations and rigorous reviewing to bring you our top picks.

This duffle bag from FocusGear features everything you could ever need in a gym bag — and nothing you don't. The oversized shoe compartment is big enough to stash any size gym sneaker. This gym bag features two outer mesh pockets to hold your water bottle and your post-workout beverage of choice. No matter what else you need to stash in this bag, you'll have no trouble finding space in any of the ten total compartments. 

This gym bag has so much more to like than its shockingly affordable price. Featuring a spacious shoe compartment, this interior lining of the gym bag is made from waterproof PVC to protect the interior from the dampness and odor of post-workout clothes. Plus, the outer compartment is perfect for easy access to your phone or keys. 

This tote from Carhartt is ideal for heading to a workout and continuing your day. The main compartment is roomy enough to stash a water bottle and other essentials, with interior pockets that keep your phone and keys protected and accessible. It comes in two neutral color options that are sure to complement your workout OOTD. 

ICEIVY's ventilated shoe compartment is just one of many things to love about this gym bag. The main compartment has storage for wet clothes and dry items. The extra storage capacity on this bag means you can fit almost anything you want to take. Headed to yoga? No problem — the outer straps on this bag will keep your yoga mat secured!

This lightweight duffel is just the right size for gym essentials but can also double as a travel bag for overnight trips. With 20 different color options, finding the right shade to pair with your favorite workout looks is easy. This bag features a separate shoe compartment with a trolley sleeve option. 

If a backpack is your ideal type of gym bag, this option from Away is durable and stylish. It features two side pocket water bottle holders, a laptop compartment, an interior pocket, plus a front pocket for easy access to any items you need to keep handy (like your heart rate monitor or favorite antiperspirant). We love that the exterior is abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for hiking and braving the elements.

If you're looking for a gym bag that doesn't necessarily scream 'gym bag,' this chic black bag from Lululemon is a fashion-forward pick. You can easily go from a day at the office to your workout of choice thanks to its sleek design and interior padded pocket to safely store your work laptop. 

MZ Wallace bags are an investment — but we think this model is worth the splurge. The bag features a whopping nine interior pockets, including one for your laptop, and seven exterior pockets for anything you need to grab while you're on the go. Though the bag is lightweight, it's also incredibly durable and will look good as new through the years. 

Breathable compartments, water-resistant lining, and a versatile strap. What more could you want in a gym bag? The Landon Carryall comes in extra small, small, medium, large, and extra large sizes, but we think the medium is just right. The snaps on the outer sides of this bag can make it even more compact if you prefer!

Whether you're commuting by train, bus, or even on a work trip, the All About Duffle features have you covered. Secure it to your luggage using the trolley strap, stash it in the overhead bin on your work flight, or take it to the gym. Made from recycled polyester, this bag is also water-repellent.

Everything about this duffel from Under Armour feels just right. It's just the right size to fit what you need, with just the right amount of pockets. Featuring a separate ventilated shoe compartment for smelly CrossFit shoes, we love how easy it is to stash this bag in a gym locker. 

Imagine buying a gym bag and not having to replace it for another 25 years. The folks at KNKG are so sure this gym bag will stand the test of time that it comes with a warranty. We love it for that reason, but we also can't get over how big this bag is without being too cumbersome. With four accessory compartments, a shoe compartment, and the capacity to hold over 30 liters, this gym bag is an overpacker's dream.

Danielle Page has spent the past 13 years writing about health, fitness, and products that help readers look and feel their best. Analyzing research and data and compiling expert commentary to find the best product for the job is what she does best. As a chronic over-packer, she's happy to help others find the best gym bag to carry all the essentials — and a few non-essentials, just in case.