What to Bring to the Gym: The Ultimate Gym Bag Checklist for a Powerful Workout

Fitness

Jun. 2, 2025 / Trent Howard

What to Bring to the Gym: The Ultimate Gym Bag Checklist for a Powerful Workout

Starting a new fitness routine? Returning after a break? Either way, walking into the gym prepared sets the tone for a great workout. But if you’ve ever stood by your locker thinking, “Wait… what did I forget?” You’re not alone.

That’s why we put together the ultimate list of what to bring to the gym. We want to make sure you are confident when you walk into the gym so you stay motivated and crush your goals. Leave your excuses at the door: From gym bag essentials to post-workout snacks, we’ve got you covered.

First Things First: Choose the Right Gym Bag

Before we get into your gym bag checklist, let’s talk about the bag itself. Look for something durable with compartments to keep your gear organized and easily accessible. Bonus points if it has a ventilated section for gym shoes or sweaty workout clothes. The right bag makes all the difference. It keeps you moving from work to workout without missing a beat.

Gym Bag Essentials: Don’t Sweat It, Pack It

Let’s break down exactly what to bring to the gym so your next gym session is a total win:

1. Workout Clothes That Move With You

Whether you show up in your workout attire or change at the gym, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics are a must. Think: t-shirt, leggings, or shorts that support movement and keep you cool.

Pro tip: Always pack breathable options and a backup t-shirt or extra clothes just in case.

2. Supportive Sports Bra & Gym Shoes

Your feet and chest need the right gear for any workout. Choose comfortable shoes that match your routine (like running shoes for cardio or workout shoes for strength days) and a supportive sports bra that won’t hold you back.

3. Water Bottle

Staying hydrated helps you push through longer sets and recover faster. Toss a reusable water bottle in your gym bag so you can sip between sets and stay cool.

Hydration = performance = energy = results. We love that math.

The Hygiene Side of the Gym Bag Checklist

Whether you’re fitting in a session before work or right after, having gym essentials for hygiene keeps you feeling fresh.

4. Clean Gym Towel

Use a gym towel on equipment to keep the gym floor clean and dry or to wipe off sweat mid-session. Many gyms appreciate the courtesy, and your fellow lifters will too.

5. Body Wash, Face Wash & Deodorant

Nothing beats a post-workout shower. Keep travel-sized body wash, face wash, and body lotion in your bag so you can clean up quickly before heading to your next stop.

Don’t forget shower shoes or flip flops for the locker room!

Secure & Ready: Gym Accessories You’ll Thank Yourself For

6. Gym Lock or Own Lock

Keep your stuff secure with a sturdy gym lock or bring your own lock if you prefer. Many gyms provide gym lockers, but it’s always smart to lock them up while you train.

7. Hair Ties & Headbands

This one’s small but mighty. A hair tie (or five) in your bag can save the day. Headbands also help manage sweat and keep your focus on your workout.

Next-Level Gym Bag Add-Ons

Ready to upgrade your game? These gym accessories help take your workouts to the next level.

8. Resistance Bands

Light, portable, and super effective. Resistance bands are a smart addition to any workout routine, whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or adding intensity to your lifts.

9. Weightlifting Gloves

Want to lift heavier, improve grip, and avoid calluses? Weightlifting gloves can help you focus on proper form and power through your workout sessions.

10. Fitness Tracker or Key Fob

Bring your fitness tracker to monitor heart rate, track calories burned, and stay motivated by seeing your progress in real time. Don’t forget your key fob or app access to scan in at the front desk!

Fuel Up: Post-Workout Snacks & Essentials

You’ve crushed your workout; now it’s time to refuel.

11. Post-Workout Snacks

Refill those energy tanks! Keep energy bars, trail mix, or a protein shake in your bag for a quick post-workout bite. You’ll help restore energy levels and support recovery.

Snacking smart helps you build muscle, stay focused, and bounce back for your next workout.

Optional (But Awesome) Gym Bag Additions

These aren’t must-haves, but they definitely make your fitness routine smoother:

Odor balls to keep your bag fresh
A pump cover or light hoodie to stay warm pre-lift
A small towel for drying off in the steam room or sauna
A swim cap if you’re headed for a water workout

Ready to Pack Like a Pro?

Here’s your quick-hit gym bag checklist:

Breathable workout clothes
Supportive sports bra and gym shoes
Clean t-shirt or extra clothes
Water bottle or reusable water bottle
Gym towel
Travel-sized body wash, face wash, and deodorant
Shower shoes or flip flops
Gym lock or own lock
Hair ties
Resistance bands
Weightlifting gloves
Fitness tracker or key fob
Post-workout snacks
Optional: odor balls, pump cover, swim cap

Make Every Gym Session Count at VASA

Now that you know what to bring to the gym, the only thing left to do is show up and get after it. At VASA, we’re here to support every step of your fitness journey, from your first visit to your 100th gym workout.

With premium amenities, tons of classes, and a welcoming community, you’ll find everything you need to hit your fitness goals and have fun doing it. Whether you’re packing your gym bag for STUDIO RED, lifting on the turf, or jumping into a group cycle class, we’ve got your back.

Join Today — and bring your best self to every session
Try It Free — and see how fitness can feel better than ever
Stay Fresh — because post-workout vibes should always feel this good

I, an adult Guest or parent (agreeing on behalf of a minor child or ward who is a Guest) expressly accept and assume all risk of injury, illness, damages or death, known and unknown, inherent or not, for my use of and participation in any and all services, amenities, facilities, machinery, equipment, locker rooms, parking lot, lobby, and any other area located in and around the Club facility, regardless of whether such injury or damage arises out of or during physical activity, including, without limitation, any loss or theft of any personal property. I am fully aware that operation of gym facilities and participation in physical activity may be dangerous and involves risk of injury to my person. I agree that I have a duty to examine each piece of equipment or facility prior to use, and refrain from use and report the same to the Club if there is any indication that such equipment or facility has been subjected to abuse, is damaged, or is in an unsafe or potentially dangerous condition. If I am the parent of a minor Guest, I have discussed the activities, responsibilities and risks with the minor child who understands and accepts them, and I, to the fullest extent permitted by law, accept them on behalf of such minor child.

I agree, on behalf of myself (or minor child or ward), my spouse, children, heirs and personal representatives, to forever waive, release and discharge the Club and its owners, employees, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of any and all injury or damage caused by the ordinary negligence of the Club or its employees, owners or affiliates, including without limitation, any claim, damage or injury which may occur as a result of any malfunction or breakage of equipment, the Club’s improper maintenance of any machinery, equipment or facilities, the Club’s negligent instruction or supervision, and any injury from slipping or falling while in the Club facility or any portion of the premises for any reason. I expressly agree to indemnify and hold the Club harmless from any loss, liability, damage, or cost the Club may incur due to my presence at the Club facility.

BY COMPLETING THIS FORM AND SIGNING/INITIALING BELOW, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT I AM SURRENDERING MY RIGHT TO MAKE A CLAIM OR FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE CLUB FOR PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, WRONGFUL DEATH, PRODUCTS LIABILITY OR UNDER ANY OTHER THEORY, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW.

Accept & Get Pass

GUEST PASS TERMS & CONDITIONS

By accepting the guest pass, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions:

ACCESS AND USAGE:
a. The guest pass is valid for one-time use during the specified duration indicated on the pass.
b. Access to the club is limited to designated hours and facilities specified by the club.
c. The guest pass allows the guest to utilize the club’s equipment, amenities, and services available during their visit.
d. All guests must be accompanied by an active VASA member at the time of check-in.

ELIGIBILITY AND REGISTRATION:
a. Guests must be at least 12 years of age. Guests ages 12-17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when using the club.
b. The guest pass is non-transferable and can only be used by the individual named on the pass.
c. All guests ages 18+ will be required to show a local government-issued ID upon check in.

WAIVER AND RELEASE:
a. Guests acknowledge and understand the risks associated with physical activity and exercise, and agree to participate at their own risk. Guests release the club, its staff, and affiliates from any liability for injuries, accidents, or damages that may occur during their visit.

CLUB POLICIES:
a. Guests must adhere to the club’s code of conduct and policies, including proper attire (closed toed shoes must be worn at all times in addition to shorts or pants and a shirt or sports bra), cleanliness, and respectful behavior towards other members and staff.
b. Guests are responsible for any damages caused to the club’s property or equipment due to negligence or misuse.
c. Harassment, foul language, threats, fights, and disruptive or threatening conduct will not be tolerated and will be grounds for removal from the club.
d. The club reserves the right to revoke or terminate a guest pass at any time due to violation of club policies or misconduct at the discretion of club staff.

MODIFICATIONS TO TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
a. The club reserves the right to modify or update the terms and conditions for the guest pass.

GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION:
a. Any disputes arising from the guest pass or the club’s facilities and services will be governed by the laws of the jurisdiction where the club is located.

GUEST PASS LIABILITY WAIVER

What to Bring to the Gym: The Ultimate Gym Bag Checklist for a Powerful Workout

First Things First: Choose the Right Gym Bag