13 stylish gym bags that will motivate you to exercise

Lugging multiple bags to work can be quite a hassle sometimes. One is for your work essentials, while the other is for the gym. But before you start hunting for a run-of-the-mill backpack that can carry all your must-haves in one, you might want to consider investing in a proper gym bag.

They are usually designed to be versatile and hard-wearing so you can chuck all your essentials and whatnots into one bag. But that's not all. In this edit, we've gathered the best gym bags that are not only functional but also stylish – they'll be the only thing that you'll be carrying around every day. With that being said, here are some of our top picks:

Adidas Training Defender Duffle Bag, $59, Adidas from JD Sports

The adidas Training Defender Duffle Bag is a no-fuss gym essential built for everyday use, combining a spacious main compartment with durable, lightweight construction that holds up to regular training. It easily fits your workout gear, shoes, and essentials, while the multiple pockets help keep smaller items organised. With its detachable strap and easy-carry handles, it’s designed for versatility—whether you’re heading to the gym, class, or a quick weekend trip—making it a reliable, functional bag for daily movement.

Classic Duffel 35L, $249, Bellroy

A sleek, elevated gym bag option for those who want something more refined than a typical sports duffel. Its 35L capacity easily fits your training essentials—workout set, shoes, towel, and post-gym extras—while the wide-opening main compartment makes packing and unpacking quick and fuss-free. Thoughtful internal pockets help keep smaller items like keys, headphones, and toiletries organised, so nothing gets lost at the bottom of your bag. With its structured silhouette, water-resistant recycled fabric, and comfortable shoulder strap, it moves seamlessly from gym sessions to the rest of your day without looking out of place.

Everyday Mini Holdall, US$40, Gymshark

Compact, fuss-free, and effortlessly chic, this bag is made for those quick moments on the move, from a speedy gym sesh to a last-minute errand run.

It comes with a snap fastener that allows you to carry your bag comfortably, and a handy rope loop where you can hook your adorable bag charms to give it more personality.

MP Mini Gym Bag, $109.99, My Protein

A simple and straightforward option that isn’t too bulky? This bag from My Protein is a great must-have for days when you’re packing light but also want to keep things organised. It comes with a secure zip closure and internal pockets that allow you to organise your belongings, like your phone and your protein shaker into different compartments, so you won’t have to worry about it getting jumbled up in your bag. Carry it over your shoulder with the longer straps, or carry it by hand on the shorter straps.

UA Essential Waist Bag Crossbody, $45, Under Armour

Sometimes big isn’t always better. For the sessions where you need to bring your keys, earbuds, and phone, a small bag like this does the job. This bag features is made with water-resistant UA Storm technology keeps your essentials dry

Adjustable strap with buckle closure can be worn as a waist bag or a crossbody

That’s not all, thanks to its compact size, you can also carry it around for your walks or even double it up for festivals. 

Curved Crossbody Bag 3L, $128, Lululemon

This has to be one of our absolute favourite bags. It may look small, but don’t be fooled, it’s surprisingly roomy and fits all your everyday essentials. The best part? There’s a hidden compartment at the bottom designed to hold your bottle, so you can stay hands-free and hydrated without juggling anything extra.

Everywhere Belt Bag, $78, Lululemon

You can’t talk Lululemon staples without mentioning the Everywhere Belt Bag. It’s sleek, compact, and keeps all your must-haves in one place. Bonus: it’s available in plenty of colours to suit your vibe.

Essential Gym Bag, $65, Lorna Jane

Keep things simple and functional with the Essential Gym Bag. It’s roomy enough for your daily essentials, and the padded, adjustable strap makes it a dream to carry. Thanks to its solid base and sturdy feet, the bag keeps its shape and stays off the ground, and the secure zip pockets make stashing valuables a breeze.

Nike Gym Club Duffel Bag (24L), $59, Nike

Looking for a lightweight option that looks as stylish as it is functional? Enter Nike’s Training Duffel Bag. Made with at least 65% recycled polyester fibres is not only light but also keeps all your belongings secure when you’re on the go. While we do love this piece for its sustainability factor, we can definitely see ourselves carrying it to the gym on the regular.

adidas Training Yoga Duffel Bag Women Brown, $79, adidas

Spacious enough for your outfits, yoga strap and all the extras, this bag also comes with a clever cording system to hold your mat securely. Plus, with pockets inside and out, you’ll never lose track of your smaller essentials.

Trail Gym Bag, $170, Rains

Yes, this bag is a bit of an investment—but its material and craftsmanship make it worth every dollar. The Trail Gym Bag is built for active days, yet versatile enough to moonlight as a compact travel bag. Its structured silhouette and sporty touches keep it looking sharp.

Made from waterproof material, it opens into a generous main compartment with a coated zip, plus a front zip pocket and side mesh pocket for external storage. True to the Trail family’s sports-utility vibe, it’s finished with sturdy webbing handles and a detachable shoulder strap so you can carry it however you like.

Duffel Pack 3, $240, Aer

You don’t need a separate bag to store your gym gear if you’re heading to the office with this backpack. The Duffel Pack 3 otherwise known as the ultimate gym/work backpack is specifically designed for the gym and office. Perfect for work and play, this bag allows you to fit your work essentials in the main section, clean clothes in another and even has a compartment for your trainers.

Wunderlust Backpack 25L, $238, Lululemon

Whether you’re going for your next adventure or just heading to the gym, this Wunderlust backpack from Lululemon is a great staple to have in your collection. Designed for those who are always on the move, we love this bag because it’s large enough to fit a 16” laptop as well as exterior straps to secure your yoga mat and jacket.