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As the executive health and fitness director at Women's Health, you’ll never catch me without a gym tote. In fact, I’ve actually tried out dozens upon dozens—dare I say hundreds?—of gym bags for women over the years. So, you can trust I’ve figured out what the ideal internal compartments are, the best materials for a bag so that it doesn’t hold onto odor, and which bags can actually double as a stylish work tote.Related video above - Rossen Reports: 2024 Women’s Health Fitness AwardsAfter all of this research, I’ve finally narrowed it down to this highly curated list of the best gym bags for women that not only accommodate all your workout essentials but also offer versatile functionality.Best Gym Bags For WomenBest Overall - Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall BagBest Budget Choice - WillowLeaf Puffer Tote BagBest Work-to-Gym Bag - Naghedi St Barths Large ToteBest Gym Fanny Pack - lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (1L)Best Water Bottle Sling - Beis The Water Bottle SlingBest Gym Bag for Travel - Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel BagThe bags I’ve selected also serve as excellent carry-ons, weekender bags, practical bags for work, or small carriers for quickie errands—perfectly transitioning from gym use to post-workout activities, wherever the day takes you.Not all gym bags are created equal, so I urge you to think about what you'll be using your gym tote for most often. Here’s what you should keep in mind when shopping for your next gym bag.What To ConsiderMaterialWhen shopping for gym bags, Sarah Pelc Graca, a NASM-CPT, recommends looking for options made from durable and waterproof materials like nylon, polyester, or coated canvas. “Gym bags are exposed to regular wear and tear, so a strong material ensures longevity,” Graca says. A water-resistant bag will also protect your belongings from unexpected spills, rain, or sweat-soaked clothes, she adds. As a plus, these materials are generally easy to clean or wipe down to keep your bag fresh and odor-free. The eco-conscious can also opt for bags made from recycled materials, Graca says. Fun fact: Every bag on this list is actually made from recycled polyester, with the exception of one.Storage CapacityA small bag works best if you plan on just carrying the essentials, like a phone or wallet. You can consider a medium bag if you plan on carrying gym clothes, toiletries, workout shoes, or other extras, and, lastly, a large bag if you plan on using it for travel, or need to store additional items like a laptop or meal prep containers.Compartments“Having a bag with multiple pockets for organization helps to keep items separate, preventing mess or odor transfer,” Graca says. Some gym bags are designed with separate pockets for shoes, wet clothes, valuables like your phone or jewelry, or a space for your water bottle. Look for something that complements your gym routine, like a bag with a padded laptop sleeve if you plan on using it for work and the gym.How We ChoseAs the Women’s Health executive health and fitness director, I’ve researched and tested dozens of gym bags while producing the annual WH Fitness Awards for the past five years—in addition to the ones I use regularly for my personal gym routine. I’m an avid exerciser (as well as a certified trainer) who participates in a wide range of modalities—from running to Pilates to weight-lifting to cross-training classes to dance cardio—so I have a deep knowledge and passion for finding gear and apparel that functions for *all* different types of exercisers. I also tapped a certified personal trainer for their recommendations on what to look for in the best gym bags for women.There are a ton of options out there, but I’ve narrowed it down to this list. Keep reading for the six best gym bags for women you can shop today.ProsComes with a removable shoe bagAvailable in several different sizesConsCan stain if you don’t clean it in a timely mannerThis duffel bag went viral for good reason—it’s really that good when it comes to storage, durability, functionality, and style. I own it in the medium size in black, and love using it as a gym-to-work bag. I also own the large version in the limited edition heatwave (pictured), which is a stunning hot pinkish-red hue.While the neoprene design is a little bit more sporty and casual, it looks elevated and cool in the black fabric, and the medium is a perfect size to tote around day to day. The large option borders on weekender bag-size, and I find it a little bit oversized for my typical everyday needs. But it’s incredible for travel or days when I do have a ton to schlep to the office or other outings. One thing to note, though, is that the medium fits my computer in the main compartment, but not in the actual laptop sleeve. On the other hand, the large bag’s laptop sleeve does fit my 15-inch computer.But, another reason this bag rocks is because of its accessories, including a crossbody strap (excellent for heavy-load days), a zipper duster bag to hold dirty sneakers/shoes/laundry, a key leash, and a small detachable mesh pouch for small items like earbuds, chargers, etc.The designers also thought of a few handy details, like a smartphone-sized pocket on the outside of the bag that snugly cradles your gadget, and a sleeve that lets you secure the bag over a suitcase handle. Additionally, its two shoulder straps are long and clip together so you can carry the bag comfortably on your shoulder without the straps falling down. Snaps on the side of all of the Landon Carryall bags also allow you to wear it smaller and more compact, or you can unsnap the sides to make a little more room.While you’re not advised to machine-wash this bag, I’ve done it, but it has created some creases in the neoprene and pilling. Stick with hand-washing it gently instead—it does clean easily that way. Another note: The lighter colors do show spots and watermarks if you don’t remove the stains quickly. They generally wash out easily if you clean it in a timely manner though.Read more: Best Yoga TowelsProsStylish look makes it appropriate for all occasionsPlush strap makes it comfy to holdConsNot a good fit for people looking for multiple compartmentsThis quilted pick from Amazon looks more expensive than it is and doesn’t scream “gym bag,” which I appreciate. I love all three of the neutral, earthy colorways, but ultimately decided to purchase the cream to match every outfit. The gold hardware along the zipper is also dainty and delicate, and the puffer style makes the strap plush and comfortable on the shoulder.Beautiful, yes, but this bag is simple and practical, too. The strap is plenty roomy to wear it as a shoulder bag, but it also fits over the head to style it crossbody as well. Inside you’ll find a zippered pocket for small items, but other than that, it has one decent-sized internal compartment that is flexible and fairly roomy. It holds my everyday essentials and water bottle nicely. I can also fit my 15-inch laptop in it, but the computer definitely takes up most of the space so I don’t typically use it as a work tote. For $25, though, it’s a steal that always collects compliments at workout classes.ProsVery spacious interior pocketLuxurious feelComes with a matching zippered pouchConsNo interior pocketsNo zip closureI fell in love with this woven neoprene beauty after seeing Instagram ads for it (guilty)—and it has lived up to my expectations as a stylish gym bag, perfect for transitioning from the office to the gym. The neoprene feels silky and luxe to the touch and has a beautiful sheen to it, while also being thick, sturdy, and well-constructed.Sometimes I crave compartments and organization, and on other days I prefer the ease of a bucket or hobo bag where I can just dump all of my belongings into one compartment and be out the door fast. This tote is perfect for the latter. I have the large size, which easily fits a change of clothes, a pair (or two!) of shoes, a makeup and/or toiletry bag, water bottle, laptop, snacks, a hair brush, all of my usual small items, and then some. (It also comes with a matching zipper pouch inside for small stuff.)While it holds an insane amount, you do have to keep in mind that it does not have any zipper closure. I find myself being extra careful about holding it closed and tight to my body in transit, and making sure nothing is falling out. (This is less of a problem if you do not overstuff it. On days when I’m not carrying much to my workouts, it’s no problem.) I like the openness of the bag when I do have a sweaty item inside, as the bag does not hold onto odor.At first, I did find the straps a bit uncomfortable to wear on the shoulder, but they are designed to stretch the more you wear it—I can confirm that’s true. Now that I’ve been using the bag for over seven months, the handles have stretched, making the bag much more comfortable to hold.While this tote is a splurge, I absolutely recommend it given how high-quality it is. If you’re looking to spend a bit less, I also recommend sizing down to the medium or small version if you do not need to carry clothes and sneakers on the regular.As far as cleaning goes, I’ve placed the bag on the ground and gotten it dirty in spots, and I was able to wash stains away easily with soap and water and a cloth, as well as with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. It looks good as new. Now that I have a newborn, I also use this tote as a chic diaper bag. It’s basically my ‘everything bag’.ProsCan be worn around the waist or across the bodyGreat for storing the essentialsConsDoesn’t work for those who need to pack gym clothesIf I’m going to a short workout class or on a walk (meaning: I can live without water), I only want to carry a credit card and my ID, lip balm, keys, and my phone. Like many New York City girls I pass on the sidewalk, I reach for my lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag on those days. I go back and forth between wearing it around my waist and extending the strap so that it works crossbody-style over one shoulder.The pack features an outer zip pocket that works best for cards, plus a main compartment that holds the items I named (I wouldn’t try to cram in much more than that). In the main pocket, there is also a small mesh sleeve to help differentiate where different items are stored. (I often put my sunglasses in the mesh sleeve, for instance, so that there’s a fabric barrier to prevent my lenses from getting scratched.)What’s better? The bag comes in so many colorways, you can easily pair it with your activewear outfits—WH editors love wearing it with their Align leggings.Walks and hikes continue to be all the rage, and you don't always want or need a heavy load during your stroll. But when water is a must-carry, a water bottle sling is ideal.I own several Beis products and have consistently been impressed by the quality. The same goes for the Beis Water Bottle Sling. It's perfect for outings when I need to carry a water bottle, phone, and card. I always use mine to go to and from the gym and to workout classes in my neighborhood so I can be hands-free for errands after.I love the two neutral colorways since they match everything. My only complaint (that is not even a complaint, really) is that you can't expect to fit one of those massive jug-like water bottles. But this sling is perfect for water bottles up to 32-ounce bottles.This makes a great lightweight bag for when you’re packing just the necessities—like short hikes, excursions on travel days, or other times your main priority is staying hydrated.ProsOpens up like a clamshell for a better view of what you’ve got insideGreat for outdoor adventures and travel, in addition to the gymConsMay be too bulky for someI kid you not: Every time I’m at the airport someone asks me where this bag is from. I think it’s quite attention-grabbing due to the oversized nature of the backpack, as well as the gorgeous pastel color (I am such a sucker for sage green—but all of the colorways are beautiful). I end up talking to fellow travelers about this backpack as if I’m an ambassador for Calpak (which I most certainly am not—and I purchased this myself!). I can’t help but rave about it.First, it’s convertible, so you can wear it as a backpack or attach the crossbody strap so that it turns into a small duffel. The interior is also massive—it easily fits enough for an overnight or even a weekend camping or hiking trip. (For what it's worth, the shoulder straps are padded, and it also has a sternum strap, so it really is equipped for a hiking adventure. I’ve taken it on several occasions.)Both the interior and exterior feature all sorts of little zip pockets and open mesh pockets to help you stay organized. There’s a water bottle compartment externally that fits my 32-ounce reusable bottle, too. What’s more, the padded laptop compartment is external and has a zipper closure of its own. It sits right against your back, making it really easy to pull your computer out even when the bag is stuffed.Now for my favorite feature: the "clamshell" opening. While, yes, the backpack has a typical zipper opening at the top (for when the bag is sitting vertically upright), it *also* has a second zipper that runs around the edge of the pack. This allows you to lay it flat, horizontally, and open it almost like a suitcase, making it a cinch to find anything that got buried at the bottom. It also has a suitcase handle sleeve—just turn it horizontally—and fits under a plane seat.The bag has a more outdoorsy, rugged aesthetic to it, so I don’t use it as an everyday gym-to-office option, as it’s not usually the vibe I’m going for on a normal day. But it comes with me every single time I travel. I also often travel with small workout equipment, like resistance bands and ankle weights, and this is the perfect, super-sturdy pack when carrying that added weight.Meet The ExpertSarah Pelc Graca is a NASM-certified personal trainer, women's fitness specialist, and a certified Level 1 Precision Nutrition coach.Shop More Of The Best Gym EssentialsBest High-Impact Sports Bras | Best Lululemon Leggings | Best Compression Leggings | Best Workout Shoes For Women | Best Running Shoes For Wide Feet | Best Compression Shorts | Best Cross-Training Shoes | Best Butt-Lifting Leggings