Duffels.com

Choosing a gym bag doesn’t have to be a big ordeal, but taking a few minutes to think through what you need it to do for you can make all the difference in the world. Save yourself the trouble of wishing you had a particular feature by knowing what you’d like ahead of time. Here are some factors to consider prior to making the purchase:

• How much gear do you need to transport? Do you find yourself bringing just a towel and your lock to the health club? If so, a small bag will do. Do you go to the gym before work and shower there? You’ll need a larger bag with a separate pouch for your sweaty clothes. Look at your current habits to see what size is best for you.
• Are you a pocket freak? Some of us like to have a place for everything, and if this sounds like you–get a lot of pockets in your bag. You’ll be feeling satisfied and organized.
• Know the details. If you lose your keys often, make sure the bag has a key clip. If you are a swimmer, make sure the bag has an area to stash your wet suit. If you don’t leave home without your water bottle, invest in a bag that can hold one for you. Personalize your bag in features so that you have less to deal with. Save that mental energy for something useful.
• What’s your locker size? If you have a locker, think about whether your stuffed bag will fit inside before you buy. This happens more often than one might think.

Gym bags can be a great thing to have, but you’ll want to be sure that the one you select fits your lifestyle and meets your needs.