Imagine this: You’re rushing to the gym, your sweaty towel is sticking out, and your water bottle is about to spill. Sound familiar? Choosing the right gym holdall can feel like a workout itself! There are so many bags out there, it’s tough to know which one is best for you. You want something that fits all your gear, looks good, and is easy to carry, but finding that perfect bag can be a real challenge.
We’ve all been there, staring at a pile of gym clothes, shoes, and other essentials, wondering how it will all fit into one bag. The wrong holdall can mean a messy bag, things getting lost, or even just an uncomfortable trip to your workout. But don’t worry! In this post, we’re going to break down exactly what makes a great gym holdall.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know what to look for, what features are important, and how to pick a holdall that will make your gym trips smoother and more organized. We’ll cover everything from size and material to pockets and style, so you can finally find the gym bag of your dreams. Let’s dive in and find the perfect companion for all your fitness adventures!
Our Top 5 Gym Holdall Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gym Holdall Detailed Reviews
1. ETRONIK Gym Bags for Men Women
Rating: 9.1/10
The ETRONIK Gym Bag is a seriously versatile piece of gear for anyone on the go. Whether you’re hitting the gym, heading out for a weekend trip, or even going on a tactical adventure, this bag is built to handle it all. It’s designed for both men and women and offers a ton of ways to carry your stuff.
What We Like:
- It has 8 pockets to keep everything organized.
- There’s a special shoe compartment that fits big shoes (up to size 12 men’s).
- You can carry it three different ways: as a tote bag, a shoulder bag, or a backpack.
- The straps have padding to make carrying more comfortable.
- It’s the right size for carry-on luggage on planes.
- The bag is made from tough, waterproof material that won’t easily rip.
- It has MOLLE webbing, which is cool for attaching extra gear like a water bottle holder.
- There’s a special pocket for wet items to keep other things dry.
- It looks good and works for many different activities, from the gym to hiking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many pockets, some might find the organization a bit overwhelming at first.
- The “tactical” look might not be for everyone if you’re just looking for a casual gym bag.
This ETRONIK bag truly offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and adaptable bag for workouts and travel.
2. RDX 50L Gym Bag with Ventilated Shoes Compartment
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to conquer your workouts and adventures with the RDX 50L Gym Bag! This all-in-one bag is designed to carry everything you need, from gym clothes and boxing gear to weekend travel essentials. It’s built tough and smart, making it your perfect partner for any activity.
What We Like:
- Huge 50-liter space holds all your gear.
- Super strong 1200D Cordura fabric is water-resistant and lasts a long time.
- You can carry it in many ways with comfortable, adjustable straps.
- Padded shoulder straps and back make it comfy, even on long trips.
- Special mesh pocket keeps wet stuff separate from your dry gear.
- Smart design includes lockable zippers for extra security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “ventilated shoes compartment” isn’t explicitly detailed, leaving some room for interpretation on its specific design and effectiveness.
- While durable, the 1200D Cordura might feel a bit stiff to some users initially.
This RDX gym bag truly offers a lot of bang for your buck, blending durability with clever features. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and versatile bag for sports, travel, or everyday life.
3. Gym Bag Womens Mens with Shoes Compartment and Wet Pocket Travel Duffel Bag for Women for Plane Sport Gym Tote Bags Swimming Yoga Waterproof Weekend Overnight Carry on Bag Hospital Holdalls
Rating: 9.5/10
Tired of juggling multiple bags for your gym sessions, weekend getaways, and plane trips? This versatile duffel bag is designed to solve all your packing problems. It’s the perfect carry-on size and packed with smart features to keep your belongings organized and protected.
What We Like:
- This bag is airplane friendly, measuring 30x19x45CM, so it fits perfectly in overhead compartments.
- It has a special shoe compartment to keep your shoes separate from your clean clothes.
- A waterproof wet pocket lets you store damp items like swimsuits or sweaty gym clothes without soaking everything else.
- The durable, tear-resistant fabric keeps your belongings safe and dry.
- It features a trolley sleeve, making it super easy to slide over the handle of your rolling luggage at the airport.
- Multiple pockets help you store all your essentials neatly.
- The adjustable shoulder straps offer a comfortable fit for everyone.
- This bag works great for the gym, travel, sports, yoga, camping, and many other activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a great carry-on, some travelers might prefer a slightly larger option for longer trips.
This duffel bag is a fantastic all-around choice for anyone who needs a reliable and organized way to carry their gear. It makes packing and traveling much simpler.
4. Maelstrom Gym Bag for Women
Rating: 9.1/10
The Maelstrom Gym Bag for Women in pink is a super handy 40L travel duffel bag. It’s designed to make your trips and gym sessions a breeze. This bag is perfect for carrying everything you need for a weekend getaway or your daily workout.
What We Like:
- It’s really big! You can fit clothes for 5-7 days.
- It has a special spot for your shoes to keep them separate and clean.
- There’s a wet pocket to keep damp things away from dry stuff.
- The bag is made of strong, waterproof material, so your things stay dry.
- It’s lightweight and comfortable to carry, even when full.
- You can slide it onto your luggage handle, which is great for airports.
- It’s super versatile and can be used for the gym, yoga, swimming, or as a carry-on.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a cosmetic bag, it might not be big enough for everyone’s makeup.
- The “pink” color might be a bit too bright for some people.
This Maelstrom gym bag is a fantastic all-around choice for anyone needing a reliable and spacious bag. It easily handles travel and workouts with its smart design and durable build.
5. Roamlite Extra Large Size X-L 26″ Duffel Bag – Very Big Sports
Rating: 9.4/10
Need a bag that can handle it all? The Roamlite Extra Large Size X-L 26″ Duffel Bag is your new go-to for sports, gym sessions, training, and even big trips. This gray holdall, measuring 26 inches long, offers a massive 70-litre capacity, making it perfect for hauling all your gear.
What We Like:
- It has one huge main pocket, giving you tons of space for clothes and equipment.
- A handy front zipped pocket keeps your phone, wallet, and travel documents safe and easy to grab.
- This bag is super lightweight, weighing only 950 grams, so you won’t be weighed down.
- It’s perfect for week-long holidays or even longer trips, and it folds flat for easy storage when you’re not using it.
- You can carry it comfortably with the long adjustable shoulder strap or the two top handles.
- The double zips open a full 270 degrees, making it super easy to pack and unpack.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for storage, it might be a bit too big for some as a carry-on flight bag.
- The single main compartment, while huge, could benefit from a few smaller internal pockets for better organization.
This Roamlite duffel bag is a fantastic option for anyone needing serious space without the extra weight. It’s a versatile and practical choice for travel and sports alike.
The Ultimate Gym Holdall Buying Guide
Choosing the right gym holdall makes a big difference. It keeps your gear organized and protected. This guide helps you find the perfect bag for your workouts.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a gym holdall, keep these features in mind.
1. Size and Capacity
- What to look for: Does it fit all your gym clothes, shoes, water bottle, and towel? Some bags are small for quick trips. Others are large enough for a week’s worth of gear.
- Think about: How often do you go to the gym? What do you usually bring? A 30-50 liter bag is good for most people.
2. Compartments and Pockets
- What to look for: Lots of pockets help you stay organized. Look for a separate shoe compartment. This keeps your dirty shoes away from clean clothes. A wet pocket is great for sweaty gym clothes or a wet towel.
- Think about: Do you need a special spot for your phone or keys? Extra pockets make finding things easier.
3. Straps and Handles
- What to look for: Comfortable shoulder straps are important, especially if you carry a lot. Padded straps reduce pressure. Strong handles are also a must.
- Think about: Do you prefer carrying it over your shoulder or by the handles? Some bags have both options.
4. Durability and Construction
- What to look for: A well-made bag lasts longer. Check the stitching and zippers. They should feel strong and smooth.
- Think about: Will the bag hold up to daily use and being thrown around?
5. Water Resistance
- What to look for: Some bags are made with water-resistant materials. This protects your belongings from rain or spills.
- Think about: Do you often walk or bike to the gym? Is your gym in a humid place?
Important Materials
The material of your gym holdall affects its durability and how it feels.
- Nylon: This is a popular choice. It’s strong and lightweight. It also resists water and tears. Many good gym bags use nylon.
- Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester is durable and can be water-resistant. It’s a good, affordable option.
- Canvas: Canvas bags look classic and are very strong. However, they can be heavier and might not resist water as well as synthetic materials.
- Leather: Leather holdalls look stylish and are very durable. They are usually more expensive. They might need special care to stay in good condition.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters when you buy a gym bag.
- Strong Stitching: Good stitching means the bag won’t fall apart easily. Loose threads or weak seams are bad signs.
- Sturdy Zippers: Zippers should open and close smoothly. Cheap zippers can break quickly.
- Reinforced Bottom: A reinforced bottom protects your gear from rough surfaces. It also helps the bag keep its shape.
- Padding: Padded straps and bottoms add comfort. They also protect your items.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make better quality products. They stand behind their bags.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your gym holdall affects what you need.
- Daily Gym Goers: You need a bag that’s easy to open and close. It should be durable for everyday use. A shoe compartment is very helpful.
- Weekend Warriors: If you go to the gym a few times a week, a medium-sized bag is usually enough. Look for enough space for your essentials.
- Travelers: Some gym holdalls double as travel bags. Look for larger sizes and comfortable straps for carrying longer distances.
- Specific Sports: Athletes might need extra space for specialized gear. For example, a swimmer might need a larger wet bag for swimsuits.
Gym Holdall FAQ
Here are some common questions about gym holdalls.
Q: What is the most important feature of a gym holdall?
A: The most important feature depends on your needs. However, good organization with enough compartments is usually key. This helps you find what you need quickly.
Q: How big should a gym holdall be?
A: For most people, a holdall between 30 and 50 liters is a good size. This fits gym clothes, shoes, a water bottle, and a towel. If you carry a lot or travel, you might need a larger one.
Q: Is a shoe compartment really necessary?
A: A shoe compartment is very helpful. It keeps your dirty gym shoes separate from your clean clothes and other items. This helps keep your bag smelling fresh.
Q: How do I clean my gym holdall?
A: Most gym holdalls can be cleaned with a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, check the care label. Some can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle. Always air dry them.
Q: What is the best material for a gym holdall?
A: Nylon and polyester are excellent choices. They are durable, lightweight, and often water-resistant. Canvas is strong but can be heavier.
Q: Can I use a gym holdall for travel?
A: Yes, many gym holdalls work well as travel bags. Their size and compartments are useful for short trips. Look for comfortable straps for easy carrying.
Q: How can I tell if a gym holdall is good quality?
A: Check the stitching and zippers. They should feel strong and work smoothly. A reinforced bottom also shows good quality construction.
Q: What if I need to carry a lot of gear?
A: If you carry a lot, look for a larger holdall, perhaps 50 liters or more. Also, choose one with padded shoulder straps for comfort.
Q: Are waterproof gym holdalls worth the extra cost?
A: If you often face rain or carry items that might leak, a water-resistant or waterproof bag is a good investment. It protects your belongings.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a gym holdall?
A: You can find gym holdalls at sporting goods stores, department stores, and online retailers. Reading reviews online can help you make a choice.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.