Gym Bag Essentials For Every Workout

In the workout world, gym bags are picked and packed to perfection because your workout is only as good as the bag you carry and what’s in it. Packing a gym bag allows you to prepare appropriately for your workout and whatever may occur afterward. Gym bag essentials vary from person to person, but there are a few staple items everyone should have.

 

 

The first thing on your gym bag checklist should be your gym bag! Your gym bag must fit all your needs, be comfortable, and easy to carry. Finding the perfect gym bag is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—very dependent on where you are going and what you are doing. Thankfully, there are several types of gym bags to choose from as you embark into the workout world.

 

The good ole’ duffle bag is what most people think of when they hear the word “gym bag.” Duffle bags are spacious, durable and are perfect for lots of gear and those going to the gym before or after work or school.

 

Consider the gym sack if you head to your workout fully dressed and are more of an “in and out” gym-goer. They are lightweight and easy to travel with, and they typically have a front storage pocket and are waterproof.

 

Consider the training backpack if you’re going into the gym and preparing to go beast mode. They can carry heavy loads, have several pockets for organization, and are great for back and shoulder health by evenly distributing weight. This gym bag has a pocket for your laptop, making it perfect for those who work out after school or work.

 

This one goes out to all the yogis. The yoga duffle is the perfect gym bag to hold all your yoga essentials in one place. A big central compartment has pockets for essentials, plus inner straps to keep foam bricks and towels in place. Strap your mat on the bottom and head out.

 

 

Once you find your gym bag then it’s time for the fun part: finding what to put in your gym bag! Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or a newbie, there are certain gym bag essentials everyone should always have on them.

 

Hydration is always key, especially when you’re sweating! Always have a reusable water bottle in your gym bag.

 

Headphones allow you to block out distractions and get in the zone while working out.

 

It’s always nice to track how fast you’re walking or running on the treadmill and how many steps you’ve taken after your workout. Because does the workout even count if you didn’t track it?

 

Protect your personal items when you go work out with a gym lock.

 

After-care is just as important as your workout. Whether you’re heading into the office or meeting a friend after you leave the gym, your toiletry bag will help you stay fresh. Pack items like antiperspirant wipes and deodorant, face wash, tampons, face masks, a razor and hand sanitizer.

 

Always pack a towel in your gym bag to wick the sweat off your body during or after your workout. If you plan on showering at the gym and they don’t provide towels, you’ll need a bath towel too.

 

Keep your hair out of your face so you can work out with ease and focus.

 

Put your sweaty clothes in a separate bag so they don’t mix with your other essentials. Having a laundry bag also makes it easier to drop dirty items in the washer when you get home.

 

If you’re headed to the gym from work, school, or a social event, you always want to have a pair of workout clothes in your bag. Don’t forget your sports bra, sneakers, socks, and slides if you go to the shower or sauna after your workout.

 

Including the right pair of gym shoes in your bag is a certified way to ensure you are heading into your workout prepared. The type of gym shoes you wear to powerlift will differ from those you wear to spin class or on the treadmill. Check out our guide on what shoes to wear to the gym to ensure you pack the right sneakers for your workout.

 

 

Remember, not all workouts are made the same, so the items you pack in your gym bag may change. If you aren’t swimming or going to the sauna, you can leave the slides at home. If you go to a yoga class, your gym bag essentials may look slightly different than if you’re doing a 15-minute bodyweight workout.

 

Packing your gym bag will help you feel prepared and optimize your time at the gym. Gym bag essentials for beginners primarily look the same as gym bag essentials for gym buffs—what matters is that you’re packing what you need to get your best workout in. Regardless of your experience level or the frequency you travel to the gym, now you know what to pack for your next sweat session.

 

Illustrations by Emma Erickson