As women, we have so much to juggle in our personal and professional lives. Your trip to the gym should be a break from all that—a time to put energy back into yourself. Stressing over what to put in your gym bag should never be part of the gig.
Women need gym bags that can take us seamlessly from home to work, to the gym, and back. We might need to tote multiple outfits, shoes, makeup, hair tools, and more.
To simplify your gym experience, we’ve consolidated a list of gym bag essentials for women. Let’s explore everything you need for when you tackle your next workout.
What to Look for in a Women’s Gym Bag
Before we dive into the contents of your gym bag, let’s talk about the bag itself!
Women, in particular, need well-designed gym bags that can safely carry clothes, an extra pair of shoes, hair products, makeup, and anything else you may need. Your bag might also need to look work-appropriate and be easy to carry throughout the day.
Here are the key features to consider regarding your bag:
Gym Bag Essentials for Women
Okay, so you have the perfect bag – now what do you need to pack in it? The answer depends somewhat on when you exercise and what type of workout you prefer. But there are plenty of basics most of us share.
Let’s walk through each category of gym bag necessities and dig into the details of what you’ll need.
Apparel and Workout Clothes
Wearing proper attire during your workouts can make a huge difference in your performance and your comfort. Some psychologists say that wearing clothes that make you feel confident and athletic can help your performance.
Since gyms are a community experience, you also want to be sure you have fresh clothes for your workout and post-workout.
Don’t forget to bring these clothing essentials with you:
Nothing is worse than getting to the gym and realizing you didn’t bring a pair of extra socks or a pair of sandals for the shower! Make sure you think ahead and check everything off of your list before you leave home.
Hygiene Items
A well-packed gym bag will ensure you’re ready for the gym and whatever comes next. Hygiene items are essential for your gym bag, so you can leave your workout feeling refreshed and prepared for the rest of your day. These items are crucial if you plan to work or meet up with friends right after you exercise.
As you pack your hygiene items, think through each step of your workout from the moment you walk in the gym to the moment you walk out. Some gyms will have essentials like hairdryers, but you may be on your own.
Do you prefer to work out fresh-faced? Pack some makeup wipes. What do you usually need before, during, and after a shower? Do you plan just to towel off? Remember that a post-workout shower can dry your skin, so it’s important to have the proper moisturizers with you. If you plan to go out after the gym, think through your regular beauty or “getting ready” routine.
Of course, everyone’s list will be unique, but here are some essential items you might want to consider bringing along:
You can also keep a list of “must-haves” and “nice-to-have” if you find yourself running low on space.
Fitness Gear
Unless you plan to use the gym equipment exclusively, you may need to pack a few extra items to get the most out of your workout.
Be extra prepared by bringing your workout gear for specific workouts like yoga, strength training, or Pilates. Depending on your gym and the type of workout, some fitness equipment may or may not be available. You also may need equipment customized to your size and needs.
Here are a few examples of fitness gear you may need in your gym bag:
You can buy these items online or in stores. We have several recommendations for yoga mats and blocks here on our blog, as well.
Portable Tech
We’re in a connected world, and even when you’re at the gym, you probably want to bring your technology with you.
You should have your phone with you in case of emergencies and a pair of earbuds so you can enjoy music during your workout. Studies have shown that upbeat music can improve your mood during exercise and increase your peak performance levels.
Consider packing the following portable tech:
Fuel for Your Workout
After a workout, your body needs to replace the nutrients your muscles expended during exercise. Keeping a nutrient-dense and protein-rich snack in your gym bag can help your body recover and improve.
While you can always pick up a snack on your way out of the gym, it’s a good idea to have a few in your bag.
Here are some examples of high-protein snacks to carry in your bag:
Other Gym Essentials
Staying hydrated throughout the day keeps your body operating well and prevents severe conditions like dehydration and fainting. Most gyms will have a water fountain, but water bottles allow you to keep water next to you as you perform sets.
For safety, you’ll also want to be sure you have a lock for the gym lockers or for the zippers of your bag.
Keeping things clean and sanitary is another high priority. Make sure to carry hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands after touching communal equipment and machines. It is also helpful to bring a shoe bag, so your dirty shoes don’t contaminate the other things in your gym bag.
Gym Bag Packing Tips
Packing a gym bag eventually becomes second nature. As you make a habit of exercise, you’ll be more prepared for everything you need.
To make sure you’re ready for your next workout, try these two tips:
These tips help to minimize those stressful moments when you’re running late, or when you’ve forgotten something but just can’t remember what it is.
Conclusion
Having the right supplies in your gym bag makes all the difference between a stressful experience and an invigorating workout. With a bit of thought and planning, you can be sure you have the right bag for you and the right essentials packed to maximize your exercise.
If you’re looking for more recommendations for gym bags and other gym essentials, check out our other articles!
FAQ: What To Pack in a Gym Bag for Women
- What do you usually put in a gym bag?
- A gym bag typically contains essential items such as workout clothes, athletic shoes, a towel, a water bottle, toiletries, and any personal items you may need during or after your workout.
- How do you fill a gym bag?
- Start by organizing your gym bag with compartments or smaller pouches to keep things organized. Pack your workout clothes, including a sports bra, leggings or shorts, and a comfortable top. Add a clean pair of socks and gym shoes. Include a small towel for wiping sweat and a larger towel if you plan to shower at the gym. Place your toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, and any other personal care items in a separate plastic bag. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle, headphones, and any additional items you may need, like a lock for the locker.
- What shoes to wear to the gym?
- It’s recommended to wear athletic shoes that provide good support and stability during various exercises. Choose shoes specifically designed for the type of activity you plan to engage in at the gym. For example, running shoes are suitable for cardio exercises, while cross-training shoes are versatile and work well for different activities.
- What is the difference between a duffle bag and a gym bag?
- The main difference between a duffle bag and a gym bag lies in the design and functionality. A duffle bag is generally larger and more spacious, useful for carrying a variety of items for travel or sports activities. On the other hand, a gym bag is typically smaller and more compact, specifically designed to carry gym essentials like workout clothes, shoes, towels, and toiletries.
- Do you put shoes in a gym bag?
- Yes, it is common to put your shoes in a gym bag. It helps keep your shoes separate from your other belongings and prevents dirt or odors from spreading inside the bag. There are a lot of gym bags that come with a separate compartment for storing your shoes which is highly recommended.
- What can I put in my gym bag for smell?
- To eliminate any unpleasant odors in your gym bag, include items such as odor-absorbing sachets, freshening sprays, or scented dryer sheets. Additionally, bringing a small zip-lock bag with baking soda or activated charcoal can help absorb any lingering smells.
- What should I bring on my first day of the gym?
- On your first day at the gym, it’s important to have the essentials: comfortable workout clothes, athletic shoes, a towel, a water bottle, and any necessary toiletries. Additionally, bring your ID or membership card, any necessary medical information or ID tags, and a positive attitude!
- Can I use a backpack as a gym bag?
- Yes, using a backpack as a gym bag is a convenient option. Make sure it has enough compartments to keep your belongings organized. Look for features like separate shoe compartments or waterproof sections to protect your items from sweat or spills. Choose a backpack with padded straps for added comfort while carrying heavier items.
