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What To Pack In Your Gym Bag

New year, new me? If you’re heading out to the gym to work on you, make sure you have everything you need in your gym bag. Our What To Pack In Your Gym Bag post will help.

For more help, check out all of our fitness posts.

A gym back packed with a towel, flip flops, shampoo, and clothes with the words "What To Pack In Your Gym Bag" digitally written above it.

I used to go to the gym at night, after work. It would be about midnight or so, and I would meet my friends there. I worked my mouth chatting more than I worked my body on the machines, but still, at least I was there.

Pete is completely different. He goes first thing in the morning, before work. He then showers at the gym. Of course, we have to pack very different gym bags.

If you’re one of the shower-at-the-gym people, this what to pack in your gym bag list is for you.

A suitcase on a porch with the words "The Ultimate List Of Packing Lists" digitally written on top.

Speaking of packing, this is just one of the packing lists we have on the site. For more, check out The Ultimate List Of Packing Lists.

What To Pack In Your Gym Bag

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Two bottles of Suave products.

Shampoo and conditioner

After working out, you definitely want to wash your hair, especially if you’re heading to work after. Pack a bottle of shampoo and conditioner in your gym bag. Personally, I would pack a pair that you got a good deal on. That way, if you accidentally leave it behind, you won’t feel too bad.

Soap

Of course, you’ll need soap to wash your body. Personally, I like body wash, but packing three large bottles will make your gym bag really heavy. So, either take your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash and put it in three small trial-size containers, or pack bar soap since it’s lighter.

Wash cloth

You’ll need a wash cloth for your shower. Don’t pack your favorite one, just in case it gets left behind. 

Bath towel

Just like your wash cloth, don’t pack a great bath towel. Pack one that will dry you completely, of course, but not one of your favorite towels. 

A woman's feet in flip flops.

Flip flops

Gym showers are cleaned by the staff, but any time there’s a public shower, I always wear flip flops in it. You don’t want to worry about athlete’s foot.

Change of clothes

If you’re heading to work after, you’ll want to pack your work clothes. If you’re headed out for the day, just pack a regular outfit. But whatever you do, the last thing you want is to change into your sweaty gym clothes.

What else do you pack in your gym bag? Let us know in the comments.