We found the best gym bags that convert into stylish weekenders
Big enough for all your essentials
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Looking for a practical training bag equally suited to a trip to the gym or away on a mini break? These are the affordable, durable and versatile weekender gym bags you need.
A gym bag might seem like a pretty specific investment to make - surely you don't need a specific bag just for your workouts, right?
But with water-resistant finishes, breathable pockets to air out your sweaty gym gear, and even designated sneaker compartments, gym bags do include thoughtful additions that make your workout trip that little bit easier.
That said, we still think that if you're going to invest in a gym bag, you'll get the best value out of a multi-tasker: a bag that can take you to the gym or away for the weekend with ease, that won't lie around gathering dust for those days (or, let's be honest, weeks) when you "forget" to hit the gym.
So, we've done the work to find the best weekender gym bag hybrids that blend style with practicality so you get a real bang for your buck. And with prices starting from $45, there's a bag for every price point - as well as every style preference and desired capacity - so whether you're a gym shark or a newbie, you'll find something to suit your exact needs.
Reebok Women’s Essential Grip Bag, $72, at Amazon
Why we love it: Not too big, not too small.
Worth noting: Free shipping over $100.
Materials: 100% recycled polyester plain weave. Colour: Black. Dimensions: 46 cm x 25 cm x 19.5 cm.
What you need to know:
Sleek and simple, this versatile bag will become your go-to carrier for all your fitness gear. We especially love it because it’s not too big that it’ll weigh you down nor too petite that all your gear will get squished inside. Instead, its size is just right, providing the perfect amount of room for all the essentials. Plus, it’s made with at least 30 per cent recycled materials and designed with a quick-access side pocket to stash your keys, wallet, boxing gloves and small items.
Yugefom Dry Wet Separated Gym Bag, $20, Amazon
Why we love it: Easy to separate wet and dry belongings.
Worth noting: Only available in pink.
Materials: Nylon. Colour: Pink. Dimensions: 29 x 8 x 36 cm.
What you need to know:
Keep everything clean, tidy and separate with this nifty (and affordable) Yugefom bag that comes with plenty of pockets and organiser. It's made of a high-density, water-resistant material that can help you to separate dry and wet items (perfect for beach weekends away), and even has a separate shoe compartment so that you're not getting any dirt or muck all over the rest of your gear. With padded straps and a detachable shoulder strap, it's versatile for however you want to carry it - plus it comes in a dusty pink or slick black colour to suit your style.
Adidas 4THLTS Duffel Bag, $50 at Adidas
Why we love it: Ventilated shoe compartment keeps things separate and fresh.
Worth noting: Free delivery over $120.
Materials: Main: 100% nylon plain weave outer, 100% TPE plain weave inner/Base: 100% recycled polyester, 100% TPE lamination. Colour: Black. Dimensions: 58 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm.
What you need to know:
This medium-sized duffel bag is perfect for the gym or a weekend away. With a separate, ventilated shoe compartment, you can be sure your gym shoes won't stink out the rest of your clothes inside. A detachable shoulder strap means you can haul the bag over your shoulder for the gym or carry it easily to the car by smaller handles for a weekend away. Front and side zip pockets allow plenty of room for all your belongings to sit securely, and you'll be getting around in style with the sleek black and Adidas logo patterning.
Rains Hilo Weekend Bag, $160, at The Iconic
Why we love it: Super stylish.
Worth noting: No shoe compartment.
Materials: 100% polyester with polyurethane coating. Colour: Grey, Ash, Sand, Haze, Navy. Dimensions: H27 x W52 x D26cm.
What you need to know:
This super chic Rains Gym Bag blends practicality and style perfectly, and is a great choice for someone who wants a gym bag with a little more structure. It has a waterproof upper and waterproof zips to keep things dry, and comes in beige, charcoal and maroon colourways.
Under Armour Undeniable Signature Duffle, $65, at The Iconic
Why we love it: Built to battle the elements.
Worth noting: Only available here in red.
Materials: 100% polyester. Colour: Red. Dimensions: H26cm x W56cm x D23cm.
What you need to know:
Thanks to UA Storm technology, this has an element-battling, highly water-resistant finish that will keep your goods safe and dry. Plus, it has plenty of inner and outer pockets for easy organisation.
Base Camp medium 71L duffel bag, $280, The North Face
Why we love it: Converts to a backpack.
Worth noting: On the pricier side.
Materials: Recycled PVC with non-PFC durable water-repellent. Colour: Gold, tan, black, boysenberry. Dimensions: 35.56 cm x 63.5 cm x 35.56 cm.
What you need to know:
The barrel duffel shape provides ample room for whatever you need to store inside - whether it's your going-away goods or your gym kit. It has a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap plus twin handles for easy carrying. It also comes in a smaller and larger size if you need something a bit more compact or a bit roomier.
Lorna Jane All In Gym Bag, $99.99, at Lorna Jane
Why we love it: Unique and stylish.
Worth noting: Free delivery over $180.
Colour: Black. Dimensions: L 48cm, H 30cm, W 18cm.
What you need to know:
If you're a fan of a bolder print, Lorna Jane's eye-catching All In Gym Bag is a showstopper. The perfect size to carry all your gym gear with ease, it has an internal zip pocket, detachable shoulder strap and striking striped design.
Upgrade your workout with these slick gym bags
Puma Archive 30L Grip Bag, $100 from Puma
Adidas EQT Team Bag, $320 from Adidas
Gymshark Pursuit Duffel, $90 from GymShark
Stax Duffle, $100 from Stax
Nike Heritage Retro Duffel, $60 from The Iconic
Under Armour Undeniable 5.0 Medium Duffel, $60 from Under Armour
Fjällräven High Coast Duffel, $225 from Amazon
Country Road Organically Grown Cotton Heritage Duffel, $100 from Myer
How we choose products
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and looking at customer reviews. Once the list of important features is narrowed down, the search starts for the best range of products.
What we looked for in gym bags
When it comes to picking the right gym bag, it all comes down to personal preference, but there are a few features that are simply non-negotiable. Let's dive into these must-have features to help you make the best choice.
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Water bottle pocket: Staying hydrated is a must during workouts (or after booze-filled weekends away), so having a bag with a handy pocket to hold your emotional support water bottle is essential. Whether it's inside or outside, make sure you have easy access to quench your thirst.
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Shoe storage: Nobody wants their smelly sneakers mingling with the rest of their gear, right? Look for a bag that has a dedicated compartment or separate area to stash your shoes. It'll keep things so fresh and so clean, clean.
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Workout clothes compartment: You don't want your clean clothes getting mixed up with your sweaty gym clothes, right? That's where a separate compartment for your workout gear comes in handy. It helps you stay organised and keeps everything hygienic. Also, could act as a handy way to compartmentalise dirty undies while holidaying.
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Size considerations: Picture this - you've got the perfect gym bag, but it's too big to fit in the locker at your gym or Carol from accounts keeps quipping about you stealing your work's silverware (eyeroll). Talk about a buzzkill! Make sure you check the dimensions of the bag and ensure it fits into the lockers available/isn't so big Carol thinks she's capable of comedy. You don't want to be stuck carrying it around, or leaving it unattended, or committing a crime of passion against Carol and her jokes.
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Locking capability: If you plan on leaving it in a locker, or checking it on a flight, it's wise to choose a bag that can be locked. This way, you can protect your belongings from any potential mischief.
What should I put in my gym bag?
The specifics vary from person to person, but the essential items to pack in your gym bag are a small, quick-drying towel to wipe away sweat, a tube of deodorant to freshen up with, a water bottle to stay hydrated, hair ties or a headband to keep your hair out of your face, and a hairbrush to neaten up post-workout. You can also take shampoo, conditioner and soap if you want to shower there - and even a change of clothes if you need to head to work straight after your sweat sesh.
What should a beginner take to the gym?
If you want the bare minimum gym must-haves, take a towel, water bottle, and deodorant. Check with your gym, but you may also need a small padlock to keep your stuff safe in the lockers if that's how your gym works. As you get more comfortable with your new gym routine, you'll be able to work out what you personally do and don't need to take.
What is a weekender bag?
As the name implies, a weekender bag is a small-to-mid-sized bag that has just enough room to pack for a weekend away. They're usually soft, flexible bags with zippered closure, a few internal or external pockets, and a shoulder strap for easy carrying. They're generally a long duffel-shaped bag, perfect for squeezing in all the essentials.
Want more great gym buys? Here are our top picks for gym shoes, sports bras and seamless activewear.
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