A swim bag lives a damp life, so we build ours to drain and breathe rather than seal everything in. Our 27 litre backpack splits into five compartments so a wet towel isn't sitting against dry clothes, mesh bags let water and chlorine run straight out, and a roll-top dry bag keeps splashes and spray off a phone or a wallet. None of it needs to smell like a locker.
A compact bag suits solo swimmers carrying just swimwear and a towel for quick pool trips. A medium bag works for regular swimmers needing space for clothes and toiletries. A large bag suits families or multi-day trips with multiple items. Pick a size that fits your typical usage without being wastefully oversized or cramped.
Water-resistant material
Polyester with water-resistant coating resists chlorine and salt water damage over time. Mesh panels help wet gear drain and dry instead of pooling inside. Neoprene offers extra protection but adds weight. Most swim bags use polyester blends that balance durability, quick-drying and value. Quality material lasts seasons instead of falling apart after one summer.
Wet and dry compartments
Separate compartments keep wet swimwear from damaging dry clothes and personal items. Ventilated sections let wet gear breathe and dry instead of creating mildew and odour. Side pockets organise goggles, caps and small accessories. Quality zippers and reinforced seams handle regular weekly use without falling apart.
Portability
Lighter bags make a real difference when carrying regularly to pools, beaches or gyms. Look for padded handles and adjustable straps that are comfortable to hold and don't cut into shoulders. A bag that's heavy when empty becomes exhausting over time. Consider your typical carrying routine when choosing between weight and capacity.
Casual swimmers with minimal gear. A compact swim bag for swimmers who need to stash swimmers, goggles and a towel without bulk. Simple, lightweight and easy to clean between pool visits.
Individual swimmers needing organisation. A swim bag with organised compartments to keep goggles, caps, towels and gear separated and easy to find. Water-resistant material protects contents through frequent pool sessions.
Parents managing multiple swimmers. A large swim bag with spacious compartments and ventilated sections to handle multiple children's gear, towels and extras. Built tough for regular use, competitions and trips away.
Looking after your swim bag
Leave all zips and pockets open immediately after every pool visit to air dry completely. Trapped moisture causes odour and mildew development. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth to remove chlorine and salt residue, which can damage the water-resistant coating over time. Empty any debris or standing water from the bottom. Once dry, store with zips partially open to allow airflow. Zip durability depends on keeping them clean and functioning smoothly. If a zip begins to feel stiff, gentle care now can prevent further damage.
Swim bags by type
Type
Best for
Mesh Swim Bags
Carrying wet gear with improved airflow and faster drying.
Keeping clothing and valuables dry around the pool or beach.
Waterproof Swim Bags
Organising swim gear for lessons, training and travel.
Choose a swim bag based on how much gear you carry. A compact bag is ideal for swimwear, goggles and a towel, while a larger bag offers extra space for training equipment, spare clothes or family swimming trips. If you pack for multiple people, a larger capacity can help keep everything organised.
Will a regular backpack work instead of a swim bag?
A regular backpack can carry your swimming gear, but it isn't designed for wet environments. Swim bags often feature water-resistant materials, drainage panels or separate compartments that make carrying damp gear more practical.
Do I need compartments in my swim bag?
Are swim bags waterproof?
Can I use a swim bag for activities other than swimming?
Separate compartments help keep wet swimwear away from dry clothes, towels and personal items. They also make it easier to organise goggles, toiletries and other swimming essentials so everything is easier to find.
Not all swim bags are fully waterproof. Many are made from water-resistant materials or include waterproof compartments to help separate wet gear from dry belongings, while dry bags provide greater protection from water.
Yes. Swim bags are also great for trips to the beach, water parks, the gym and other outdoor activities. Their practical storage and lightweight design make them a versatile option wherever you need to carry wet or active gear.
Smart Storage That Simplifies Your Swimming Routine
A good swim bag organises your gear so efficiently that you look forward to swimming trips instead of dreading the logistics. When everything drains properly and compartments keep wet items from touching dry ones, the whole experience feels less messy and more manageable. Beyond practicality, a durable bag that lasts through seasons of chlorine and salt water represents better value than replacing cheaper alternatives.