The 9 Best Gym Bags for Stashing Your Kit

This new active backpack from Stubble & Co stands out as one of the best options for wearing on-the-move. Designed with running and cycling in mind, it sits securely against your back, with no bounce. It’s impressively comfortable, even over longer efforts, and has plenty of ventilation through the shoulder straps and back panel for breathability.

The MH Verdict: With a 20L capacity, there’s enough room for a change of clothes, shoes, toiletries and a laptop, while an external kangaroo pouch, shoulder pocket and top pocket make it easy to grab essentials on the go. It also performs well in bad weather: during testing in torrential rain, the inside kept dry, with water beading off the exterior. It’s not perfect for trail races or ultras, as there’s no storage for soft flasks. But for gym-goers who run or cycle to work, or anyone who's after a practical, lightweight and waterproof backpack that works just as well for commuting as it does for hiking, this is an excellent choice.

Read More: Stubble & Co Motion Backpack Review

There are few gym bags of this quality at this price. It's made from a rip resistant, heavy-duty polyester, so it's super durable. Inside, there's a main compartment for storing the bulk of your kit, as well as a smaller, full-length sleeve with internal organisers – both of which open flat, which makes locating specific items easy. There's also a padded laptop sleeve at the back, where you could slot in a plate for rucking. Then at front, the two external organisers are ideal for stashing your keys, wallet, headphones and other essentials.

MH Verdict: This bag is our go-to for when we're training during the working week. It fits heaps of stuff in and the choice of pockets means you can keep all your kit well organised. When packed full, the adjustable straps on the exterior prevent it from becoming overly bulky – ideal on busy trains. The durable exterior also means you can chuck it into a car boot or overhead compartment and not worry about rips or scratches. Our only gripe? The lack of water bottle holders.

This weight-defying rucksack can be packed heavy without holding you back. Utilising Under Armour’s in-house Suspension™ technology, the shoulder straps absorb impact and reduce pressure on your upper body by balancing the load evenly across your back. For extra comfort, the back panel and straps are padded in a ribbed pattern to promote breathability.

The MH Verdict: It may be light, but don’t be fooled – this bag is roomy. The sleeve at the back is big enough to stash up to a 16” laptop, the main compartment has a separate kit pocket, while three spacious, easy-access pockets adorn the exterior – along with two extra-long, 1L bottle carriers, which sit on either side.

This commuter-friendly gym bag is reserved for those who take the scenic route. Whether you journey to work on two feet or two wheels, it has a water-resistant outer, power stitching and high-quality zippers to ensure it holds up to repeated wear and tear, while also keeping your stuff dry when you get caught in a downpour.

The MH Verdict: The Alpha Backpack hits the sweet spot between comfort and storage. Despite its 20L capacity, it’s perfect for running, sitting flush against your back, without bouncing or riding up when you’re on the move – while hideaway waist straps provide extra support and a secure fit under heavier loads. It opens up flat and fits all you need for a day in the office – including a laptop, change of shoes and even your gym kit.

The Elite version of Built For Athletes’ cult gym bag adapts to any scenario. The perfect companion for work days, race days or weekends away, three large compartments adorn the front: a hard case for stashing valuables, a wet pocket for dirty kit, and a thermo-lined compartment for storing meal-prep and shakes.

The MH Verdict: This 35L Elite version is more refined and practical than the larger, more rugged OG Built For Athletes Pro Series Backpack. It’s still big, strong and durable. It still looks cool and like you mean business. But with those new, thoughtfully placed compartments on the exterior, it’s even better placed to support your nutrition goals and organise your gym gear day-to-day.

There’s more than one way you can wear this 3-in-1 gym bag, which functions as a duffle, crossbody and backpack. With a generous 30L capacity, it’s plenty spacious for everyday use or to pack up for a weekend away, with separate pockets and compartments for organising your clean and dirty gym wear, bottles and cross-trainers.

The MH Verdict: For the sartorially-minded, this is the most stylish bag here, with a high-quality nylon outer material, three muted colourways and a sleek shape. But it’s not a case of style over substance. This 3-in-1 is plenty durable – with a water-resistant exterior capable of standing up to rain, dirt and general wear – and equally practical: see the removable shoulder strap that doubles as a stretching band.

This bag opens flat, with three zipped compartment that help you to keep your gear neatly organised and easily accessible. The bottom pocket is waterproof for storing damp clothing and outdoor shoes. Up top, there's a zipped, weatherproof pocket, great for stashing your wallet, key and headphones – and there's extra padding on the back panel to protect laptops and other tech. On each side, spacious compartments are handy for carrying a water bottle and shaker.

The MH Verdict: If you're prone to misplacing your kit, this backpack from BLOXX is a game-changer. With eight thoughtfully located compartments that make arranging and finding your belongings quick and effortless, it’s ideal training around the 9-5. But if you plan on using this as a weekend bag or carry a lot of kit, consider getting the larger version as the 28L option is a little on the small side.