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10 Best Yoga Mat Bags and Carriers to Take Your Practice on the Go

Whether sling, sack, or backpack, we have picks for every type of yogi.

By Kathleen Willcox, Kasey Caminiti and Mara Santilli
woman holding yoga mag and bag looking onto beach
Stocksy

We all want to head to yoga class in a pure, positive frame of mind — but that is not always an easy task for busy people. When you're headed straight from work to meetings and then to a yoga class at the end of the day, the last thing you want is to be juggling your clothes, shoes, grippies, and yoga mat the whole time, all in separate totes.

Chances are, your regular gym bag isn't wide enough to securely fit a mat inside, either, so it might be high time for you to invest in a yoga mat bag or dedicated carrier because the last thing you want is for your mat to unfurl while schlepping all around town!

The Best Yoga Mat Bags

  • 1
    Yoga Mat Bag

    Best Printed

    Yoga Mat Bag

    Shop at Amazon
    Read more
  • 2
    Yoga Mat Bag

    User-Friendly

    Yoga Mat Bag

    Read more
  • 3
    Yoga Cross-Body Sling Backpack

    Best Backpack

    Yoga Cross-Body Sling Backpack

    Read more
  • 4
    Yoga Mat Bag

    Best Minimalist

    Yoga Mat Bag

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  • 5
    Yoga Mat Tote Bag/Backpack

    Cutest Convertible

    Yoga Mat Tote Bag/Backpack

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What to Consider

Once you start getting serious about your practice, you'll find that having a yoga mat bag that not only securely tucks your mat in but also neatly stores the rest of your essentials does wonders for organization (and for peace of mind). A mat bag also helps keep your mat kink- and crease-free, leading to a safer, more even-footed practice.

From a minimalist sling to a sizable duffel bag to lug all your work gear and yoga clothes, these yoga mat bags are a must-have if you're a regular on-the-go yogi. For the best pick that you’ll love today, tomorrow, and several yoga practices down the road, keep the following in mind:

  • Type: Do you prefer to carry things over your shoulder like a backpack or are you hoping for an über-simple strap you can sling across your body? We have something for everyone.
  • Storage: Do you want to bring just your mat alone, or do you want a bag that's able to accommodate blocks, water bottles, your phone, and sweaty clothes as well? We have a range of options, including waterproof bags that you can also store a computer in (because work/life balance!).
  • Materials and Colors: We found mat carriers in a range of colors, patterns, and materials that will appeal to practical, fashion-savvy, eco-conscious, and minimalist yoginis alike.

Thankfully, there are a plethora of gorgeous, practical mat carriers that will get you not just feeling grounded, but also get you to your practice without a hitch.

1
Best Printed

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag
1
Best Printed

Yoga Mat Bag

Now 27% Off
$22 at Amazon$40 at Walmart
Pros
  • Can also carry water bottle and other gear
  • Durable
  • Zipper closure
Cons
  • Comes in only one print

This carryall is made to carry yoga mats, but the large exterior and small interior pockets will also fit water bottles, keys, your wallet, and other gear. This fun paisley print also adds a pop of color to your plain black leggings for sure.

It totes your mat upright and it also has a side pocket for towels, a water bottle, or a yoga strap. And it doesn't have to be used for just yoga! Take it to the beach to store your towel or umbrella, too. Reviewers love the yoga mat carrier’s durability, size, and quality.

More: 7 Best Yoga Blankets for a Gentle, Supportive Home and Studio Practice

Key Specs

Dimensions35x13.5 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder, with side pocket and interior zipper pocket
MaterialDurable TPE
2
User-Friendly

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag
2
User-Friendly

Yoga Mat Bag

Now 29% Off
Pros
  • Versatile
  • Comes in 11 patterns and prints
  • Durable
Cons
  • Does not fit 1/2-inch thick mats

This printed yoga mat carrier comes in 11 different patterns. The durable bag is designed for years of enthusiastic use, and the large and expandable front pocket makes it easy for you to separate your mat from other essentials. The pocket is big enough to hold a yoga strap, yoga socks, books, cell phones, your wallet, and other necessities.

This carrier is versatile and makes a great gift for the yoga lover in your life. More than 84% of users on Amazon give this yoga bag 5 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers call it an “awesome” “game changer,” allowing them to hit yoga on time, organized, and in style.

Key Specs

Dimensions26x6.5 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder/cross-body
MaterialCanvas
3
Best Backpack

Yoga Cross-Body Sling Backpack

Yoga Cross-Body Sling Backpack
3
Best Backpack

Yoga Cross-Body Sling Backpack

Pros
  • Comes in five color options
  • Carries a lot of gear
  • Comfortable to carry for long distances
Cons
  • Mats should be no thicker than 0.25 inches or longer than 72 inches

If you want a bag that carries your mat and a lot of other gear to boot, check out the cleverly engineered Aurorae. This unisex sling backpack can hold any yoga mat up to 5 pounds in its side pocket, thanks to straps that keep everything secure.

It also has a place to store your water bottle, and the shoulder strap has an easily accessible cell phone pocket. The comfortable backpack includes two large compartments for notebook computers, yoga blocks, straps, towels, and clothes. Exterior compartments fit your yoga mat.

Key Specs

Dimensions12x7x9 inches
TypeBackpack
MaterialPolyester
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4
Best Minimalist

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag
4
Best Minimalist

Yoga Mat Bag

Pros
  • Six color options
  • Can hold up to 22 pounds
  • Large capacity
Cons
  • Strap is at an awkward length for over-the-shoulder carrying

This roomy bag will hold up to two mats, blocks, bolsters, a towel, and more. This multipurpose yoga mat carrier is one of the best options for a minimalist-style yogi who still has a few items on their packing list.

The large, zippered main compartment fits a yoga mat and gear, the inner zippered pouch keeps valuables safe, and the front Velcro compartment is the perfect spot for a towel. This washable yoga bag has a spot for everything but still looks sleek. The full zipper closure is also a bonus!

Key Specs

Dimensions30x9x11 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder or hand-carry
MaterialCanvas
Pros
  • Multifunctional
  • Includes mesh pockets on both sides
  • Waterproof
Cons
  • Thick mats will be a tight squeeze

This is the Goldilocks of gym bags — not too big, not too small, but just right! If you need a bag that works for your regular gym days just as well as it does for yoga class, then this is it.

This convertible tote bag and over-the-shoulder carrier not only features straps for your yoga mat, but it also has a zippered main compartment, two open side pockets, a zippered bottom compartment for shoes or post-workout clothes, and a mesh water bottle pocket. You’ll also appreciate that it’s waterproof, which means it’s safe to carry your computer in.

Key Specs

Dimensions16.1x14.2x7 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder + backpack
MaterialPolyester
6
Most Versatile

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag
6
Most Versatile

Yoga Mat Bag

Pros
  • Comes in four colors
  • Great pack-and-go option
  • Minimalist design
Cons
  • Thick yoga mats will be a tight squeeze

This well-crafted, lightweight yoga bag fits standard yoga mats. The original mat tote, this yoga mat bag is the ultimate in versatility. Throw your bag and your towel in this bag before class and you're ready to run out the door.

Outside of the yoga studio, you can also use this tote for your grocery runs, shopping trips, or even beach days! Reviewers love this “easy pack-up-and-go” bag, which doesn’t have zippers or ties but does feature a “deep” outside pocket.

Key Specs

Dimensions25x15 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder
MaterialCotton canvas
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7
Most Spacious

Yoga Mat Bag Sling Carrier

Yoga Mat Bag Sling Carrier
7
Most Spacious

Yoga Mat Bag Sling Carrier

Pros
  • Comes in four colors
  • Includes water bottle holder and pockets
  • Roomy
Cons
  • Not the most durable

Do you have a ton of yoga gear? You can fit not just one but two yoga mats, yoga blocks, a towel, and so much more in this majorly spacious yoga mat tote.

There's a convenient water bottle holder, two zippered pockets to keep your phone and keys secure, and a yoga mat strap in case you need to save a little space in your bag but still carry your mat comfortably. The canvas material is also machine-washable, so don’t worry about throwing any sweaty clothes in.

Key Specs

Dimensions30x14 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder
MaterialCotton canvas
8
Best Simple Sling

Journey On Commuter Yoga Mat Carrier

Journey On Commuter Yoga Mat Carrier
8
Best Simple Sling

Journey On Commuter Yoga Mat Carrier

Pros
  • Easy-peasy
  • Comes in three colors
  • Fits mats of all sizes
Cons
  • Doesn’t hold anything else

Keep it simple with this sturdy yoga mat harness. Swing it over your shoulder on your way to class, then release the side metal buckles, and you're ready to go.

This is an economical, lightweight choice for the true minimalist. It even has a padded shoulder strap for carrying your bag comfortably. This hands-free carrier is comfortable and durable. More than 82% of reviewers on Amazon give this 5 out of 5 stars.

Key Specs

Dimensions68x1.5 inches
TypeStrap/sling
MaterialCotton
9
Best Duffel

Yoga Mat Duffel Bag

Yoga Mat Duffel Bag
9
Best Duffel

Yoga Mat Duffel Bag

Pros
  • Comes in seven patterns
  • Vegan and eco-friendly; synthetic leather
  • Eye-catching design
Cons
  • Material can be a bit rough

Here's a mat duffel made true to the yogi tradition of giving back. Kindfolk partnered with the non-profit group A21, and for every bag purchased they donate $1 to empower women and girls around the globe.

This duffel bag easily stores all your essentials and even comes with a matching pouch so you can keep keys and cash separate from your gear. This is a stylish and very practical option that also fits extra-thick mats up to 26 inches wide. More than 86% of all reviewers on Amazon give this bag 5 out of 5 stars.

Key Specs

Dimensions27.6x7.9x7.9 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder
MaterialCanvas, vegan leather
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10
Most Fashionable

Fashion Women Yoga Gym Bag

Fashion Women Yoga Gym Bag
10
Most Fashionable

Fashion Women Yoga Gym Bag

Pros
  • Comes in six colors
Cons
  • Not big enough to hold yoga blocks

This all-purpose waterproof yoga and gym bag is available in medium and large and looks great while also stowing a yoga mat, workout gear, extra clothes, and more. The two front pockets, large main compartment, and wet-dry pocket make stowing all of your equipment (even when it’s sweaty) a cinch.

The bag comes with a built-in yoga mat strap that will keep your mat in place. The bag comes with a 1-year warranty. Reviewers “love” the glam vibe of the bag, adding that it “fits so much!”

Key Specs

Dimensions12.2x11.2x3.9 inches
TypeOver-the-shoulder
MaterialPolyester
Headshot of Kathleen Willcox
Kathleen Willcox
Kathleen Willcox is a journalist who writes about parenting, technology, shopping, food and wine. Her work appears in a variety of publications, including Popular Mechanics, Wine Enthusiast and SevenFifty Daily. She is based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., where she lives with her husband and twins.
Headshot of Kasey Caminiti
Contributor

A self-proclaimed music junkie, Kasey enjoys festivals and concerts on the weekends but lately snuggling with her Boston Terrier, Rufio. Her words have also been featured on DuJour.com, Vogue.com, and ThePlunge.com. Follow her on Instagram at @aseykay for who she’s listening to at the moment and her latest beauty obsession.

Headshot of Mara Santilli
Mara is a freelance writer and editor specializing in culture, politics, wellness, and the intersection between them, whose print and digital work has appeared in Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Airbnb Mag, Prevention, and more. She’s a Fordham University graduate who also has a degree in Italian Studies, so naturally she’s always daydreaming about focaccia.
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