What to Look for When Shopping for a Gym Backpack

• Material: Gym backpacks can be made from a variety of materials, but no matter what, you'll want to make sure the bag is comfortable (to prevent chafing) and that it’s durable and easy to maintain. Nylon and polyester are durable, easy to clean, and water-resistant. Leather is stylish and stands up to wear and tear over time, but can fall apart when exposed to water. While canvas is often water-resistant, it can shrink when it’s not washed properly.
• Size: Choose an appropriately sized backpack for your body to avoid overloading, which can harm your back. To avoid back pain, weight should always be evenly distributed, never overloaded, and adjusted properly, says chiropractor Brad Hochstein, DC, ART. For most wearers, a medium-sized backpack (around 30 liters or less) is large enough to hold your gym essentials. Also, consider how big your gym lockers are to ensure your bag will fit.
• Fit: Your gym backpack should feel comfortable but snug. Adjustability is key, says Hochstein. When adjusted correctly, the best gym backpack should be form-fitting, without feeling too tight or painful, and it should never restrict your range of motion. The shoulder straps should also have enough padding and support for the weight you plan to carry, adds Hochstein. 
• Storage: A gym backpack with plenty of storage can help you stay organized. Smaller pockets for things like a phone, keys, wallet, or headphones are important so you don't lose them inside your bag, Teragawa says. Larger pockets help separate your workout clothes and accessories from the rest of your essentials. And don’t forget storage that supports your hydration goals: you'll definitely want at least one water bottle holder, Teragawa adds.
• Additional Features: You might need a pack with special features, like a shoe compartment, multiple interior slots, exterior ties or bungees, or a padded electronics sleeve. Teragawa prefers a backpack that has a designated area for dirty clothes or workout towels, and a separate area for clean items.

How We Tested the Gym Backpacks

To choose the best gym backpacks, we first consulted a chiropractor and fitness professional to find out which features set good bags apart. Then, we tested 12 backpacks during our daily routines around town, to the gym, and to the office over several weeks. When testing, we evaluate the backpacks based on the following criteria:

• Storage: To evaluate the storage capacity, we first stuff the bag with all of our gym bag essentials. We then consider: Is there enough room for everything we need? How many zippered pockets are there? How many exterior pockets are there? Are there specialized compartments for shoes or dirty clothes? Are there easy-access pockets for things like phones or keys? We also note if the weight is evenly distributed and if our items stay dry in rainy conditions.
• Comfort: We wear the stuffed backpacks for at least two walks of 30 minutes each to evaluate comfort. We note whether the straps are adequately padded, how breathable the pack is, and if the weight stays evenly distributed. We also consider if the backpack feels bulky or awkward to carry.
• Stability/Bounce Prevention: A backpack that bounces or shifts can be uncomfortable and cause strain. To determine how stable each full backpack is, we note how snug and secure it feels on our walks and commutes. Are there extra straps, like a waist or chest strap, to keep it in place? Do the pockets keep items from bouncing or shifting while we move?
• Fit/Adjustability: The more adjustability a backpack has, the better it will fit and prevent bouncing and discomfort. We prioritize backpacks that have adjustable shoulder, waist, and sternum straps. We also consider how easy or difficult it is to adjust the straps and if they come loose or stay snug while wearing the backpack.
• Chafing Protection: While wearing the full backpacks, we pay attention to whether we feel any irritation or rubbing from the straps or the back of the pack. We also carefully check for any rough seams or scratchy fabric that can cause chafing. Finally, we consider how breathable the fabric feels.
• Overall Value: To give each backpack a value rating, we look at its cost after we're done evaluating each of the other key attributes. We consider whether the price is fair based on the performance of the backpack. We only include backpacks we would recommend to a friend.
  

Our Experts

To curate our list of the best gym backpacks, we also consulted two experts for their input on what to look for when shopping. A chiropractor helped us understand features that support stability and reduce strain, and a fitness professional suggested specific, helpful features to look for. Although we choose and test products independently, advice from experts influences our decisions.

• Tamara Teragawa, 500 RYT-trained yoga instructor and YogaSix XPRO for Xponential+ in San Dimas, California
• Brad Hochstein, DC, ART, a chiropractor at Provision Chiropractic and Wellness in Lincoln, Nebraska

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of having a gym backpack?

Besides the convenience of hands-free hauling, a gym backpack can be better for you than a cross-body or duffel bag, Hochstein says. Backpacks distribute the weight of your items evenly across your shoulders, decreasing the pressure on one side that an over-the-shoulder bag creates.

How big should a gym backpack be?

The size of your gym backpack largely depends on how much you’ll be carrying around. Most packs have a capacity of 30 to 40 liters, but you should always make sure the bag you purchase isn’t too big for your frame.

How much should a gym backpack cost?

The price range for gym backpacks generally falls between $25 and $100. Larger, more feature-packed, and branded options typically cost more. As you shop, it's important to align your purchase with your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A lifelong athlete and certified personal trainer, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT is a Verywell Fit writer who knows her way around the gym. She regularly researches the latest and best options in fitness gear and understands how beneficial an organized and durable gym backpack can be. Jessica tested many of these gym backpacks during her daily routines and often relies on The North Face’s Never Stop Utility Pack for its excellent storage and comfort, whether she’s commuting with it to the gym or using it as an overnight or carry-on bag.