Top gym bags for people on the go

A lot more than you'd think goes into the perfect gym bag. Sure, you can use that flimsy tote you've had for 10 years, but there's something about an indestructible gym bag that'll make you feel that your valuables (including those $300 running shoes) are well-protected.

Most people need something durable given your gym bag is probably the one being thrown around the most. From being shoved into lockers and then dragged across your commute, you'll want something that's unlikely to break.

A section for your used gym clothes is another priority, keeping any leftover sweat from transferring onto your work outfit. Also, a shoe compartment is an excellent invention – it'll stop your runners from taking up half the space available in the main compartment.

With these criteria in mind, we've picked seven gym bags that are perfect for people on the go.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Patagonia 40L Black Hole Duffle Bag

Get yours for $229.95

Measurements: H25cm x W52cm x D36cm

While this bag could be for travel, its indestructible nature has cemented its place at the top of many 'favourite gym bag' lists. The body fabric is made from 100 per cent recycled fabric, with a TPU-film laminate that makes it completely weather and abrasion-resistant.

It has an interior mesh lid pocket for storing used gym clothes, and thick 'daisy chains', which exist for you to clip things onto (think climbing shoes, wrist straps, extra scrunchies, a portable speaker). And with a 40L capacity, there's plenty of space to fold up and store your work clothes and shoes, too.

Bellroy Lite Duffle Bag

Buy yours for $199

Measurements: H42cm × W50cm × D22cm

Australian-founded company Bellroy makes bags with an ergonomic focus, meaning their Australian-founded company Bellroy weighs next to nothing. The durable ripstop fabrication is three times lighter than their other fabrics, making it ideal for use at both the gym and the office.

It has a large main compartment for managing your outfit changes, and an external zip compartment that also has an integrated key clip (never lose your keys in your bag again!). You can choose to carry it via the strap or the twin handles and trust it won't be a cumbersome addition to your day.

Ottertooth Gym Bag

Buy yours for just $45

Measurements: H26cm x W48cm X D24cm

If you're looking for an affordable option, the Ottertooth Gym Bag from Amazon ticks all the boxes for the perfect gym bag. With a 4.6 out of five rating, reviewers have praised the design of the bag and its durability. It has a wet pocket for your used gym gear and a compartment on the side that allows shoes to be slipped underneath the main compartment and out of the way.

"Excellent quality bag, well worth the price! The shoe compartment and wet pocket are surprisingly roomy, and the wet pocket can fit a standard-size towel (rolled up) quite easily. Very happy with my purchase!" one reviewer wrote.

Under Armour Undeniable Signature Duffle Bag

$65 on Rebel

Measurements: H26.7cm x W50cm x D22cm

Featuring water-resistant UA Storm technology, you can trust everything will stay dry in the Signature Duffle Bag from Under Armour. It has a vented pocket for laundry or shoes, so you can ensure no bad smells will hang around, and a mesh pocket for the things you want to keep within easy reach. One of the Signature Duffle Bag from Under Armour on the list, it has front elastic straps for carrying a yoga mat or a foam roller, plus a front-zipper pull that detaches to double as a hair tie.

Etronik Women's Gym Bag

Just $45.99 on Amazon

Measurements: H24cm x W47cm x D22cm

A gym bag that doubles as a weekender, you can pretty much take this Amazon purchase anywhere. In addition to separated wet and dry compartments and a ventilated shoe compartment, it also has a USB port you can use to charge your phone. Simply attach a power bank to the inside and use the external cord to charge your phone while also keeping it on hand. It also comes with an external toiletries bag, which is perfect for holding the makeup you might need post-workout.

Lorna Jane Essential Gym Bag

$70 on Lorna Jane

Measurements: H23cm x W41cm x D21.5cm

Featuring an adjustable padded strap, the Lorna Jane Essential Gym Bag is easy to throw over your shoulder when you're on the go. It holds shape with a solid base and durable feet that keep it up off the ground. It also has a multi-pocket design, so all your bits and pieces will stay secure.

Lululemon City Adventurer Duffle Bag

$199 on Lululemon

Measurements: H29.5cm x W46cm x D23.5cm

Featuring a roomy compartment for shoes, twin handles for easy carrying and a removable strap, the Lululemon City Adventurer Duffle Bag makes for another perfect gym bag option. While it's on the more expensive side, it's made of 100 per cent durable nylon, so you can drag it to and from work and around on the weekends with minimal wear and tear. It also has a trolley-compatible sleeve, meaning you can slide it on top of your suitcase for easy movement if you're using it as a carry-on bag.

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