12 Best Gym Bags for Powerlifting, Swimming, and More

A gym bag is an important piece of equipment that most of us will use at one point or another in our fitness journeys. Gym bags can range greatly in both their cost and their utility in the gym. 

In this article, I’ll go over some of the best and most practical choices out there and hopefully give you a better idea of what to look for when shopping for your own gym bag.

Below, you will find a list of the 12 best gym bags:

1. Rogue Gym Bag – Best Overall
2. Rogue Kit Bag – Best for Traveling and Limited Space
3. Rogue Old School Gym Bag – Most Unique-Looking Gym Bag
4. King Kong CORE Duffel – Best for Powerlifters
5. King Kong Heritage Leather Duffel – Best Leather Gym Bag
6. King Kong CORE Backpack – Best Gym Backpack
7. King Kong PLUS63 Giant Kong Duffel – Best for Lifters With a Lot of Gear
8. Lifting Large OGIO Transition Gym Bag – Best Bargain
9. Gymreapers Tombstone Gym Bag – Khaki – Best Backpack for Extra Storage
10. Virus International Highlander Backpack – Best for Everyday Use
11. Aokelato Gym Bag – Best Gym Bag for Beginners
12. Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0 – Best for Swimmers

My goal is to break down each of these bags and provide you with all the information you need to make the best possible choice. I’ll discuss price ranges and individual characteristics. So whether you are looking for the best bag out there or just something to help you get from point A to B, I got you. 

The bags I will cover can be separated into two categories:

• The ones that are built with training in mind. These types of bags will usually offer a level of quality and utility not found in other bags.
• Bargain bags can be found in most department stores or online. These bags may be relatively simple, but they’ll still do the job.

I promise you that there is not a single bag on this list that I would not use myself. 

Featured Gym Bags

• Rogue Gym Bag – Best Overall
• King Kong CORE Duffel – Best for Powerlifters
• Lifting Large OGIO Gym Bag – Best Budget Gym Bag

12 Best Gyms Bags

1. Rogue Gym Bag – Best Overall

Rating: 5/5

Key Specifications

• Comes in both black and gray
• Standard duffel bag design
• Made in the USA
• Dimensions: 24” L x 10” W x 10” H

Pros

• Very durable bag that will stand the test of time 
• Holds just about everything you could ever need, whether you’re an elite powerlifter or an average gym-goer
• Looks great and is made by Rogue Fitness (probably one of my favorite fitness brands out there).

Cons

• Only a single compartment for equipment
• Other than a small pocket, there is no built-in storage on the outside of the bag

This is my top pick and one of the best workout bags for overall use, both in and outside the gym. I currently use this bag myself and have been using it for over six years. Over that time, it has never failed me, and it is going strong today. 

As a powerlifter, I can hold just about everything I need for a workout. I typically carry a belt, lifting shoes (or trainers), sleeves, wraps, and resistance bands. 

I sometimes prefer simplicity regarding gym equipment, and I think the Rogue Gym Bag is a perfect example of this. However, the simple design can be a downside when it comes to organization. You will need to get creative when storing your equipment. 

But unless you prefer more compartments for organization or outgrow this bag, you’ll probably never need another gym bag again. 

2. Rogue Kit Bag – Best for Traveling and Limited Space

Rating: 3/5

Key Specifications

• Very compact
• Weighs a pound
• Made in the USA
• Dimensions: 12” L x 3” W x 10” H

Pros

• Very compact design and easy to take just about anywhere
• Has enough room to carry all of the training essentials despite its small size
• Features multiple compartments
• Constructed and tested by Rogue Fitness in the USA, so you know it will last

Cons

• It is small, so it cannot carry everything
• No room for larger pieces of equipment like lifting belts or training shoes

This bag is by far the most compact bag on this list (and arguably just about anywhere else). It is a perfect bag for someone who is traveling or might not have enough room to pack a full-size duffel bag. It is also the best small gym bag for athletes who already have a larger bag full of other equipment because it can help keep things organized.

This bag is made of 1000D Kordura, a durable material commonly used to make outdoor gear. It will hold up well, even if you frequently throw it in another bag with a bunch of other equipment. I also like that it has ventilated mesh pockets — they are great for storing knee sleeves or other sweaty items after a workout.

If you are short on space or travel often, you can’t really go wrong with this bag. If you have a lot of equipment you take to the gym, this probably won’t be your everyday carry bag. 

3. Rogue Old School Gym Bag – Most Unique-Looking Gym Bag 

Rating: 4/5

Key Specifications

• Classic retro look
• Standard duffel bag design
• Colorful interior

• Made in the USA
• Dimensions: 24” L x 9” W x 10” H

Pros

• Classic duffel bag design 
• Colorful interior makes it easier to sort through darker clothing and accessories
• High-quality, made in the USA by Rogue Fitness

Cons

• Limited storage options for lifting belts and other equipment 

I have always been a sucker for Rogue products, and like the Rogue Gym Bag, I think their classic duffel is an excellent option for gym bags. It is the best gym duffel bag for anyone looking for a more classic or retro look in their gym attire.

The bag acts as a normal duffel bag, so organization can be an issue. Unlike the standard bag from Rogue, this classic bag has a separate pocket for your shoes. There’s also a ventilated mesh pocket on the inside. But beyond that, there are no small pockets for car keys, your phone, lifting tape, protein bars, or other small items you may carry to the gym.

This bag might not be for everyone, but if you are old school and looking for a gym bag to reflect that, the Rogue Old School Gym Bag is the right choice for you. 

4. King Kong CORE Duffel – Best for Powerlifters 

Rating: 5/5

Key Specifications

• Best powerlifting gym bag
• Comes in different colors and two sizes (medium and large)
• Lifting belt attaches to the outside
• Very durable
• Dimensions: 35L – 18” L x 11” W x 11” H; 51L – 20” L x 12.6” W x 12.6” H

Pros

• Lets you store your lifting belt on the outside, saving A LOT of space on the inside
• Has multiple compartments to organize smaller gym items
• Has a separate pocket for your shoes

Cons

• Compared to other standard duffel bags, it is usually more expensive 

This is probably the best gym bag for powerlifting both on this list and anywhere else on the internet. You can never really go wrong with any product from King Kong. The CORE Duffel remains one of its best-selling items, and for good reason.

This bag does it all. It has enough room for all of your powerlifting needs and is durable enough to hold up to frequent use, thanks to the sturdy YKK zippers and high-quality 600D polyester.

It lets you store your lifting belt on the outside, saving you a ton of space on the inside for other equipment. It even has a separate compartment for a laptop, which is great if you go to the gym right after work. A separate shoe compartment ensures your dirty shoes won’t come in contact with the rest of your equipment.

If you are a powerlifter looking to make an upgrade or just someone looking for a solid bag, look no further. 

Not sure if this King Kong duffel is right for you? You may be interested in one of our other top picks for the best powerlifting gym bag.

5. King Kong Heritage Leather Duffel – Best Leather Gym Bag

Rating: 4/5

Key Specifications 

• Made to order
• Full-grain American leather
• Vintage look
• Similar to the CORE Duffel
• Dimensions: 26.6” L x 11” W x 11.8” H

Pros

• Made from full-grain leather and comes in three different shades: tan, cognac, and black
• Has an internal compartment for your shoes and plenty of space for other pieces of equipment
• Can be used for other purposes if needed 

Cons

• Pricey compared to the other bags on this list 
• Can not store your belt on the outside of the bag 

By looks alone, this is one of the coolest gym bags on the market.

The bag itself holds everything you need for powerlifting and training in general, including a change of clothes, knee sleeves, snacks, a water bottle, lifting straps, and wrist wraps. It has seven interior pockets to keep everything organized and comes with a shoe bag to separate your shoes from the rest of your equipment.

I wish there was a way to store a lifting belt outside the bag, but there’s plenty of room for it inside. 

This bag is made to order, so it is easily the highest-quality bag on this list. The only reason it does not get a 5 out of 5 is the cost, though that’s to be expected for a leather gym bag. And because it’s leather and doesn’t look like a typical gym bag on the outside, it’s also great for travel, making the cost more justifiable.

If you are a fan of leather, looking for something more vintage in appearance, and comfortable with spending a bit extra, I think you have found your perfect bag.

Looking for a bag that also has a water bottle holder? Check out our favorite gym bags with water bottle holders. 

6. King Kong CORE Backpack – Best Gym Backpack

Rating: 5/5

Specifications

• Comes in multiple colors
• Sealed shoe compartment
• Lifting belt attaches to the outside
• Dimensions: 25L – 12” L x 6.7” W x 20” H; 33L – 12.2” L x 7.9” W x 21” H

Pros

• Very versatile bag that can be used to carry your gym equipment or just as a normal backpack
• Like the CORE Duffel, this backpack lets you attach your lifting belt to the outside
• Looks great and is built extremely well (like all of King Kong's products)
• Comes in a few different colors

Cons

• More expensive than other backpacks
• Space may be more limited when compared to a duffel bag

There is a reason this top-rated gym bag is King Kong’s number-one bestseller, and that is saying a lot since King Kong does not make bad products. 

Even though it is a backpack, it offers much of the same storage as your typical duffel bag. You can attach your belt to the outside, there is a separate compartment for your shoes, and there is plenty of space in the main compartment for all of your training essentials.

Also, because it is a backpack, it is easier to transport. It’s a good gym bag for anyone who goes to the gym right before or after work and must carry a laptop, books, or other non-fitness items. The straps are padded, making the bag comfortable to carry when walking, riding a bike, or taking public transportation.

I would put this on equal ground with King Kong’s CORE Duffel, so in the end, it really comes down to you and one simple question: do you prefer a backpack or a duffel bag? Regardless of your answer, you can’t go wrong with either.

Looking for other gym bags you can carry a laptop in? Check out our favorite gym bags with laptop compartments.

7. King Kong PLUS63 Giant Kong Duffel – Best for Lifters With a Lot of Gear 

Rating: 4/5

Specifications

• Upgraded version of the CORE Duffel
• Comes in multiple colors
• One of the best large gym bags
• Can hold just about everything, and then some
• Dimensions: 22” L x 13” W x 13” H

Pros

• Holds various small and large items for powerlifting and has plenty of room for a lifting belt
• Durable and should last a lifetime
• Multiple pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized

Cons

• May be too big for the average gym-goer 
• More expensive compared to other duffel bags

If you are a serious powerlifter and feel like you do not have enough room for all of your lifting gear (I certainly feel this way sometimes), this oversized duffel bag is for you. When it comes to storage space, this gym bag is the gold standard. This thing can practically carry anything short of a full-size barbell.  

On top of the massive primary compartment, you have access to multiple exterior pockets for your equipment or other essentials, like liquid chalk, straps, or wrist wraps. You can also use these pockets to store protein bars or your phone.

Plus, the bag comes with two individual compartments for shoes. If you are anything like me, you like carrying around your training shoes and lifting shoes, so you’ll appreciate having two shoe compartments. 

You can never go wrong with King Kong products — they are built to last and come with a warranty in case there are any defects.

If you need to carry a lot of equipment to the gym, you may also want to consider a gym bag with wheels.

8. Lifting Large OGIO Transition Gym Bag – Best Bargain

Rating: 3/5

Specifications

• Comes in black and gray
• Great bargain 
• Protective compartment for fragile items 
• Multi-use
• Dimensions: 27” L x 14.5” W x 12” H

Pros

• One of the cheaper bags on the list
• Plenty of space for all your lifting needs
• Simple and practical design

Cons

• Lacks additional storage compartments (there is plenty of space, just can’t organize as much)
• The logo on the bag is large, which may be an issue if you like things with simpler designs

This is a very straightforward and functional duffel bag and a great choice for someone on a budget or just someone looking for a basic solid gym bag. For the price, you really cannot go wrong here. 

This would also be ideal for someone just getting started. This bag gives you everything you need for a decent price. The bag features multiple compartments for all of your training essentials. There is also a protective compartment for a pair of glasses or other valuables.  

The bag is constructed out of 420D poly double ripstop, a strong, tear-resistant material. The bag also features a water-resistant coating, making it ideal for different environments, like the pool or spa or if it is raining outside. 

This is a perfect example of a bag that will get the job done at a reasonable price. 

9. Gymreapers Tombstone Gym Bag – Khaki – Best Backpack for Extra Storage

Rating: 4/5

Specifications

• Very durable 
• Belt attaches to the outside
• Great for hikes because it is water repellent
• Built like a backpack, but you can carry it like a duffel
• Dimensions: 11.5” L x 7” W x 21” H

Pros

• Heavy-duty duffel bag built to be carried like a backpack
• Offers the ability to carry your lifting belt on the outside.
• Has three separate compartments to carry all of your essential training gear. 

Cons

• Expensive

This would have to be the bag that surprised me the most and one of my favorites on this list. The Tombstone Bag has almost everything you could ever need in a gym bag. It is a duffel bag built like a backpack that can store your lifting belt on the outside — what more could you ask for?

I had this bag while in school. I carry a lot of equipment to the gym (belts, lifting shoes, sleeves, wraps, bands, and so on). I hated carrying around a duffel the entire time, so having the capacity of a duffel in a backpack format was perfect for me as both a student and an athlete.

The main compartment is built similarly to that of a traditional duffel bag, but it is designed to be carried like a normal backpack. On top of the single large compartment are two additional compartments and three separate mesh pockets on the outside for storing equipment and other essentials. 

My favorite feature of the bag is the ability to store your lifting belt on the outside. The pockets on the outside allow you to wrap the belt around the backpack's main body. The bottom of the bag also features a separate compartment for your shoes, making it one of the best gym bags with a shoe compartment. 

The price is higher than most other backpacks, but this is a great option if you are serious about lifting. It is built out of nylon material called 1000D Cordura, so it is durable and will last you years, and I think the price is justified. 

10. Virus International Highlander Backpack – Best for Everyday Use

Rating: 3/5

Specifications

• Multi-use (perfect for the gym or everyday use)
• Great bargain for a backpack
• Spacious inner compartment
• Multiple compartments
• Dimensions: 11.8” L x 5.5” W x 18.5” H 

Pros

• Great backpack for everyday use
• Pretty good bargain when it comes to other similar gym backpacks
• Has eight separate compartments 

Cons

• Does not have space on the outside for a lifting belt 
• Despite having a lot of compartments, space is limited

This backpack received a 3 out of 5 because it isn’t necessarily built to be just a gym bag alone. But this is a perfect option if you are looking for something with a dual purpose or maybe do not have a lot of gear to bring to the gym. Plus, it is a pretty good bargain as well.

Despite being a backpack, it has a single large compartment like a duffel. Unlike most backpacks, this one opens up entirely, so you can easily store all of your training equipment. It also features a total of eight separate compartments. Even though it is a backpack, there is plenty of space for a change of clothes, an extra pair of shoes, and other training essentials. 

Sometimes a backpack is all you need. If you are working or are going to school, carrying around a big duffel can be annoying (trust me, I used to do that). This backpack can be perfect in those situations because it’s easy to carry and doesn’t take up quite as much space.

Plus, you can use it for other things outside of the gym. I was just in the market for a new backpack and picked up the black version (I am like Christian Bale in Batman Begins: “Does it come in black?) of the Highlander. I primarily use it for training, work, and going on hikes.  

11. Aokelato Gym Bag 2.0 – Best Gym Bag for Beginners 

Rating: 3/5

Specifications

• Small and compact
• Multiple pockets and storage areas
• Great bargain 
• Water-resistant 
• Dimensions: 17.7” L x 9.1” W x 9.1” H

Pros

• This a great bargain for a solid gym bag
• Gets the job done and has multiple pockets for storage
• Multiple size and color options
• Waterproof pocket and shoe storage

Cons

• The quality may not be up to the same standards as some of the other gym bags on this list
• May not last as long as some of the others

I always recommend not breaking the bank when you first get started. This is a nice gym bag for beginners who don’t yet need a lot of equipment like knee sleeves or wrist wraps. It provides everything you need to carry extra clothing, headphones, and other small items, but it is far less expensive than the other bags on this list. 

The bag features one large main compartment for most of your gear. It also includes a single waterproof pocket and a separate pocket for a pair of shoes, so you can keep sweaty clothes or dirty shoes from coming into contact with your other gear. It comes in several different colors (black, blue, gray, green, pink, and red) and can be ordered in a small, medium, or large size. 

This gym bag can easily last a long time for the average person and might be all you ever need. But if you start to dedicate more time to training and need to carry more equipment, I would recommend making an upgrade. 

12. Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0 – Best for Swimmers

Rating: 3/5

Specifications

• 10 total compartments 
• Shoe storage 
• Great bargain
• Water-resistant pocket
• Dimensions: 20” L x 11” W x 10.5” H

Pros

• Great bang for your buck
• Tons of storage options
• There are currently eight color options available
• Waterproof pocket and shoe storage

Cons

• It is a cheaper bag, so it might not last as long as some others on this list 
• The quality and construction may not be to the same standards as the others 

This is a perfect example of a bag that can help you get from point A to point B. It is by far one of the cheapest bags on this list and will not break the bank. Storage will never be a problem since you can access 10 different compartments. 

The bag includes a full-size shoe compartment to keep your shoes separate from the rest of your gear. There is a wet pocket for storing a swimsuit or dirty clothing. There is also a phone pocket inside, a loop for your keys, and two pockets outside to store smaller items. 

If you are a casual gym-goer and just looking for some basics to help get you by, this is one of the best sport bags you can buy. But if you dedicate a lot of their time to training, you should look at some of the other options on this list. 

For other bags that are good for swimmers or just for storing sweaty clothes, check out our favorite gym bags with wet compartments.

Why You Should Trust PowerliftingTechnique

Our team comprises powerlifting coaches and fitness professionals who have competed and worked with athletes at the highest levels. Everyone here at PowerliftingTechnique understands the importance of investing in the right gear, and our recommendations are based on our experience with what works.

Based on our collective experience, there really isn’t any type of gym bag we haven’t used personally. This means we have done the homework for you so you can determine the best workout bag for your own needs.

How We Chose the Best Gym Bags

When it comes to any product, I look for practicality, quality, and price. I know I found a solid product if these three things match up. Or I look for a combination of these key characteristics. For example, something might be a bit cheaper but lacks quality. 

For the best gym bag, my primary goal was to find only the top-rated gym bags for all kinds of gym scenarios. There really isn’t a bad bag on this list, so it really comes down to personal preference. 

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Gym Bag

In my opinion, buying your first gym bag is a right of passage when you’re in the early stages of your fitness journey. It comes at a time (especially for beginners) when you acquire too much training gear and nowhere to put it all. 

Whether you are just starting or looking to upgrade, always check the practicality of your preferred gym bag and how much gear you need to pack away.

Below are a few things to consider before making your purchase.

Storage 

Right off the bat, the most important thing to consider is how much space you will need. Most gym bags will cover the basics and probably have more than enough space if you are new to the gym. 

Another thing to consider with storage is how it is all organized. Some gym bags have a single large compartment, while others offer additional pockets and areas to store unique pieces of equipment, such as a lifting belt.

Quality 

When it comes to any piece of fitness equipment, quality is very important. I would rather spend more money on something one time than have to replace a cheaper product in the future. Whether you are just looking for something to help you get by or something to help carry bulky powerlifting equipment, it is important to select something that will last. 

Quality can also have an effect on the overall price. Typically, the better the bag, the more money it is. This does not mean you have to spend a lot to buy a bag (or any fitness equipment) — you just have to identify what is reasonable and work within that range. 

Purpose and Practicality

I mentioned this earlier, but all gym bags can be separated into two major categories.

The first category is your training bags. These bags are typically built to a higher standard and last a lifetime. The second category is your standard gym bag or bargain bag. This bag is much cheaper but does the job for those who don’t need to carry much equipment to the gym. 

Identifying the bags in these categories can help define the purpose and practicality of your choice. These simple breakdowns can easily be applied to make decisions on any piece of gym equipment.

It is important to understand where you stand before making a purchase. Ask yourself if the gym bag fits your goals and is practical.

Once you can identify these key characteristics, it becomes much easier to make the right choice. If there is any doubt, I always recommend buying something that you know will last a long time and is something you can grow into. Nothing is worse than buying a gym bag and realizing months later you can’t fit all your gear. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Final Verdict

When it comes to basic duffels, I would have to recommend the Rogue Gym Bag. It is overall one of the best gym bags on this list. It is simple, well crafted, and will last a lifetime (plus, it looks pretty cool). 

Regarding powerlifting, the best gym bag of 2024 on this list has to be the King Kong CORE Duffel. It is perfect for powerlifters and casual gym-goers alike and sits right in the middle regarding price. And if you buy it once, you will not have to buy it again. 

About The Author

Jace Fuchs has his MS in kinesiology and sports performance and is currently in the process of getting his Ph.D. in exercise and sports science. Jace has worked within the fitness industry for the better part of a decade now, and before his time in fitness, served in the US Army Infantry. When not writing for Powerlifting Techniques, Jace works as a content developer for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and as a part-time exercise science professor. Outside of work, Jace is an avid powerlifter and strength-training enthusiast.