Top 5 Yoga Mat Bags: Essential Carrying Guide

Ever finished a wonderful yoga session, only to face the awkward struggle of carrying your rolled-up mat? You try to tuck it under your arm, but it keeps slipping. Maybe you toss it in a regular backpack, but then your keys and sweaty clothes mix with your clean mat. It’s a small annoyance, but it happens every time you leave the studio or head to the park.

Finding the perfect yoga mat bag feels like another chore after you’ve already found your perfect mat. You need something strong, comfortable to carry, and big enough for your water bottle and phone. Too many bags are flimsy, look boring, or just don’t fit your specific mat size. This search can feel frustrating when all you want is simple convenience.

This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore what truly makes a great yoga mat bag, focusing on features like durability, style, and smart storage. By the end, you will know exactly what to look for so you can confidently choose a bag that makes carrying your gear easy and stylish. Let’s dive into finding the perfect carrier for your essential yoga companion.

Top Yoga Mat Bags Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1
Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag, Full-Zipper Yoga Mat Carrier with Adjustable Strap, Front & Exterior Phone Pocket with Earbuds Slit, Stylish & Functional Fitness Mat Holder for Women & Men
  • A CONVENIENT YOGA MAT BAG: Whether you're walking, cycling, hiking or going to your class, carry your exercise mat effortlessly with the Gaiam Yoga Mat Bag. This upgraded version of our classic mat bag keeps your yoga mat clean, dry and ready to use
  • QUICK & EASY ACCESS: This bag features a full-length zipper for easy access to your yoga mat and other belongings. Packing or unpacking, simply slide your workout mat in or out quickly. Arrive for your sessions organized and in style!
  • AMPLE STORAGE: The front cargo pocket in this yoga mat carrier is big enough to keep your yoga essentials organized, while the exterior back pocket holds your keys, hair ties, phone & also comes with a slit to keep your earphone wires tanglefree
  • CUSTOMIZABLE STRAP: For more flexibility on the go, this yoga mat holder comes with an adjustable shoulder strap to easily customize the length so you can carry the mat your way. Head to the gym, studio or meditation centre completely hands-free
  • YOUR FITNESS GUIDE: We at Gaiam try to embrace every part of our perfectly imperfect selves—especially when it comes to yoga. That’s why we make yoga, fitness & wellness products for you, just as you are—from the beginner in you to the expert in you!
SaleBestseller No. 2
ELENTURE Canvas Yoga Mat Bag with Adjustable Strap & Pockets, Full-Zip Travel Gym Tote for Women & Men, Fits 1/4" & 1/3" Thick Mats, Lightweight Carrier for Yoga, Workout, Outdoor Use
  • Comfortable Portability with Adjustable Strap: Designed with a cylindrical shape and adjustable shoulder strap, our yoga mat bag ensures effortless portability for yoga classes, gym sessions, travel, or commuting on foot, by bike, or public transport
  • Perfect Fit for Standard Yoga Mats: Measuring 26" x 6.5", this full-zip tote easily fits standard mats up to 1/4" or 1/3" thick when rolled. (Note: Not compatible with 1/2" thick mats. Yoga mat not included.)
  • Durable Canvas Construction with Secure Zippers: Made of high-quality canvas fabric, featuring reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers, this yoga mat carrier offers long-lasting protection for your exercise gear
  • Spacious Pocket Design for Essentials: Store all your essentials with a large expandable pocket — perfect for yoga straps, towels, socks, water bottles, phones, books, and wallets, keeping everything organized on the go.
  • Stylish, Versatile & Perfect Gift Choice: Elegant and functional, this lightweight yoga mat bag is ideal for women and men alike. A thoughtful gift for yoga lovers, fitness enthusiasts, students, travelers, or special occasions like birthdays and holidays.
Bestseller No. 3
FLOCURE Yoga Mat Bag, Yoga Gym Tote Bag with Shoe Compartment, Gym Bag with Multi Pockets & Yoga Mat Buckle, Yoga Mat Carrier for Pilates Travel Workout Office for Women & Men (Gray)
  • 【Breathable Shoe Compartment & Zippered Wet Pocket】Features a smartly-designed shoe compartment with dual vents to keep your shoes fresh and dry during workouts. The separate PVC wet pocket makes it easy to store damp items like swimsuits or towels, protecting the rest of your belongings from moisture
  • 【Ample Organized Storage】In addition to the main compartment, this tote includes an interior zippered pocket, two mesh slip pockets, four evenly sized front and back pockets, and side bottle holders—helping you stay perfectly organized while carrying essentials like chargers, passports, wallets, keys, and earphones
  • 【Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap】Designed with an external adjustable strap that securely accommodates most yoga and pilates mats. Inside the main compartment, a handy key leash offers added convenience for organizing small accessories
  • 【Size & Materials】Measures 18.2" x 8.3" x 10.6" and weighs only 1.2 lbs. Constructed from durable, water-resistant ripstop nylon that is both long-lasting and easy to wipe clean
  • 【Versatile for Every Occasion】With its sleek, curved design, this bag doubles as a stylish companion for the gym, yoga, swimming, or other outdoor activities. It also works perfectly as a compact travel duffle for weekend getaways
Bestseller No. 4
Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier - Lightweight, Breathable Mesh with Zipper Closure, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, Black, 1 EA, 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5”
  • YOGA MAT BAG: Portable meets breathable. Lightweight mat bag features a slim, sleek, minimalist design to take your fitness practice on the go
  • FITNESS ON THE GO: Breathable mat bag made specifically for those looking to streamline their practice. Take your routine on the go, great for yoga, pilates, fitness and exercise classes
  • EASE OF USE: Comfortably fits any small to medium sized yoga mats—Including Manduka PROlite, eKO Lite or eKO SuperLite yoga mats
  • PREMIUM MATERIAL: Breathable synthetic mesh promotes air flow and contoured zipped allows for easy ins and outs. Made with minimal products to reduce waste and durable enough to last long, and keep product out of landfill for as long as possible
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5” Hand wash cold, rinse thoroughly. Do not bleach. Line dye, do not iron
Bestseller No. 5
IwIeIaIrI Yoga Mat Bag Gym Accessories Gifts for Women,Large Exercise Mat Straps Yoga Bags and Carriers Fits Most Your Workout Stuff
  • 【Dimensions】35 inch X 13.5 inch (Yoga Mat Not Included). Yoga mat bag with water bottle pocket is shoulder strap tote bag form, no more hassle packing and carrying your yoga gear to and from the studio. and the strap is wide enough to not hurt your shoulder.
  • 【Quality Material】Yoga mat strap is made of high quality oxford fabric (100% polyester), which is proved to be highly sturdy and durable.Tips:This yoga mat bag without adjustable strap and zipper pockets.It's a simple but excellent yoga accessories for women.
  • 【Multi-Purpose】Whether you are looking for specialized yoga bags, yoga mat carrier bag or just a simple gym bag, we have got everything you want! The main pocket of the yoga bag can be used to store yoga mats or other things. The outer patch pocket can be used to store common items, such as water cups, towels, sunglasses, etc., and the inner patch pocket can be used to store keys, wallet,phone.
  • 【Perfect Gift】This yoga accessories for women is very stylish and beautiful. Yoga gifts for women who love yoga and fitness, this is undoubtedly a perfect and caring gift. You can give this yoga mat holder as a gift to your friends, family, or lover. I believe they will love it.
  • 【After Sale】Our yoga mat straps for carrying can double as sports bags, shopping bags, beach totes and even diaper bags.It only can hand or gentle machine wash, Air Dry, Do Not Iron, Do Not Bleach.If you have any question about our product,just contact us to get refund or replacement.
Bestseller No. 6
ESVAN Yoga Mat Bag with Multi Pockets Drawstring Yoga Mat Carrier Pilates Exercise Multi-Functional Storage Bag
  • ❤ Three Premium Material Choices – Made from high-quality canvas, linen, and nylon, this yoga carrier is water-resistant, lightweight, and easy to clean. Weighing only 330g, it can be effortlessly rolled up and folded for compact storage.
  • ❤ Perfect Dimensions – Measuring 30" in length and 7.9" in diameter, this carrier comfortably fits yoga mats up to 69" L x 23" W x 10mm (2/5") thick. When rolled up, the bag measures 23" wide and 7" in diameter. Featuring a quick-open drawstring, it allows easy access to your mat, whether you're heading to class or on a yoga retreat. (Yoga mat not included)
  • ❤ Bottom Storage Pocket – Designed with a 3.2-inch high zippered pocket at the bottom, this bag provides extra space for essentials like a sports bra, leggings, yoga straps, towels, or a travel-size kit.
  • ❤ Multiple External Pockets – The exterior is equipped with several convenient storage options: a spacious front drawstring pocket for water bottles, umbrellas, small dumbbells, or other sports accessories; a large front zippered pocket for electronic devices like an iPad; and a side zip pocket (7.8" in length) for quick access to your phone, keys, wallet, and IDs, keeping your valuables secure and within reach.
  • ❤ Comfortable to Carry – The adjustable shoulder strap (max length 47") ensures a comfortable fit for both men and women of varying heights. Carry it across your body or over your shoulder for hands-free convenience.
Bestseller No. 7
ELENTURE Canvas Yoga Mat Bag with Adjustable Strap & Pockets, Full-Zip Travel Gym Tote for Women & Men, Fits 1/4" & 1/3" Thick Mats, Lightweight Carrier for Yoga, Workout, Outdoor Use
  • Comfortable Portability with Adjustable Strap: Designed with a cylindrical shape and adjustable shoulder strap, our yoga mat bag ensures effortless portability for yoga classes, gym sessions, travel, or commuting on foot, by bike, or public transport
  • Perfect Fit for Standard Yoga Mats: Measuring 26" x 6.5", this full-zip tote easily fits standard mats up to 1/4" or 1/3" thick when rolled. (Note: Not compatible with 1/2" thick mats. Yoga mat not included.)
  • Durable Canvas Construction with Secure Zippers: Made of high-quality canvas fabric, featuring reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers, this yoga mat carrier offers long-lasting protection for your exercise gear
  • Spacious Pocket Design for Essentials: Store all your essentials with a large expandable pocket — perfect for yoga straps, towels, socks, water bottles, phones, books, and wallets, keeping everything organized on the go.
  • Stylish, Versatile & Perfect Gift Choice: Elegant and functional, this lightweight yoga mat bag is ideal for women and men alike. A thoughtful gift for yoga lovers, fitness enthusiasts, students, travelers, or special occasions like birthdays and holidays.
Bestseller No. 8
sportsnew Yoga Mat Bag with Water Bottle Pocket and Bottom Wet Pocket, Exercise Yoga Mat Carrier Multi-Functional Storage Bag, Green,Patent pending
  • 【0.8-inch Diameter Larger】 Our updated sport bag is 0.8-inch diameter larger than others’. Full dimensions: 31"L x 7.5" Diameter,which can hold yoga mat size up to 69"L x 23"W x 2/5"(10mm)Th (23" wide and 7" in diameter when rolled up). And the quick-open drawstring make you grab your mat in a flash whether you’re carrying your mat & essentials to class, or a yoga training trip (YOGA MAT NOT INCLUDED)
  • 【1 Bottom Separate Wet Pocket】This yoga bag is the ideal of thoughtful design with 1 zip waterproof wet pocket which height 3.2-inch on bottom. It can hold one sports bra and one pair of full-length legging together, or other personal essentials like yoga straps, towels, travel-size convenience kit etc.
  • 【2 Exterior Side Pockets】Exterior features 1 front drawstring roomy pocket for water bottles, umbrella, small dumbbell, rope skipping or other sports accessories. And, 1 exterior side zip small pocket (length 7.8-inch) for quick storage of your phone, keys, wallet, IDs, essentials, keeps your valuables close & secure
  • 【Premium Quality】This yoga carrier is made of reliable & smooth sliver-tone SBS zippers and sturdy polyester material featuring a water-resistant coating. It is easy to clean and weights only 330g, can be rolled up and folded easily
  • 【Easy to Carry】 Comfortable & Easy adjustable shoulder strap(max length 47-inch) design is suitable for different heights of women and men. It can be carried across your body or over-the-shoulder. Free your hand and be more convenient

Choosing Your Perfect Yoga Mat Bag: A Complete Buying Guide

Finding the right yoga mat bag makes carrying your gear easy. A good bag protects your mat. It also keeps your keys and phone safe. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

Several features make a yoga mat bag great. Think about how you will use the bag most often.

1. Carrying Style

  • Shoulder Strap: This is common. Look for a wide, padded strap. It feels better on your shoulder, especially for long walks.
  • Backpack Style: These bags spread the weight evenly. They are best if you bike or walk far to class.
  • Handle Only: Simple bags often just have a top handle. These work well if you drive directly to the studio.

2. Storage and Pockets

Your mat is not the only thing you carry. Check for extra pockets. You need a place for your water bottle, keys, phone, and wallet. Zippered pockets keep small items secure. Mesh pockets are good for wet items, like a sweaty towel.

3. Closure System

How does the bag close around your mat? Most bags use buckles or drawstrings. Make sure the closure is easy to use. You should be able to secure your mat quickly after class.

Important Materials Matter

The material affects how long the bag lasts and how easy it is to clean. Quality materials mean a better bag.

  • Canvas and Cotton: These are natural and breathable. They look stylish. However, they might get heavy when wet.
  • Nylon and Polyester: These synthetic fabrics are very popular. They are lightweight and highly water-resistant. Spills wipe off easily.
  • Mesh: Sometimes used for ventilation. Mesh panels help a sweaty mat air out.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details often show the quality of a yoga mat bag.

Quality Boosters:

  • Strong Stitching: Double-stitched seams prevent tearing, especially where the strap connects to the bag.
  • Durable Zippers: Metal zippers usually last longer than plastic ones.
  • Waterproofing: A water-resistant lining protects your mat from rain or spills.

Quality Reducers:

Cheap, thin fabric wears out fast. Flimsy plastic buckles break easily. If the bag feels too flimsy when empty, it probably will not hold up under use.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about your daily routine. This helps you choose the right bag.

The Commuter:

If you take public transport, you need a backpack style. It keeps your hands free for holding railings or checking your phone. Look for a bag that fits snugly against your back.

The Quick Trip:

If you only drive a short distance, a simple sling bag works well. It is light and easy to grab. Focus on easy access to the main compartment.

The Gear Lover:

If you bring a lot of props (blocks, straps, or a big towel), choose a full-sized tote or a bag with expandable sides. These offer more space than a basic mat carrier.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Yoga Mat Bags

Q: Do I need a bag if I have a sticky mat?

A: Yes. Even sticky mats need protection from dirt, dust, and UV rays when you are not using them. A bag keeps your mat clean until your next practice.

Q: Can I fit a thick, extra-long mat in a standard bag?

A: Maybe not. Thicker or extra-long mats need larger, specialized bags. Always check the dimensions listed by the seller to ensure a good fit.

Q: Are yoga mat bags machine washable?

A: Some are, but many are not. Always check the care label. Often, spot cleaning with mild soap and water works best, especially for bags with leather or special linings.

Q: What is the difference between a mat carrier and a mat bag?

A: A carrier is usually a simple sling or strap just for the mat. A bag is a full enclosure with pockets for accessories.

Q: Should my bag be waterproof?

A: Waterproofing is a bonus. It is very helpful if you live in a rainy area or tend to sweat heavily and need to carry a damp mat home.

Q: How important are adjustable straps?

A: Adjustable straps are very important. They allow you to customize the length so the bag sits comfortably on your body, whether you are short or tall.

Q: Can I carry my shoes in the mat bag?

A: Only if the bag is a full tote or backpack style with dedicated compartments. Carrying dirty shoes next to your clean mat is usually not recommended.

Q: Do I need a bag with ventilation?

A: Ventilation is helpful if you always put your mat away right after a hot yoga class. It lets moisture escape and prevents mildew.

Q: Are expensive bags really better?

A: Sometimes, yes. Higher prices often reflect better quality materials like stronger zippers and thicker, more durable fabric that lasts longer.

Q: Should the bag close fully around the mat?

A: For the best protection, yes. Bags that fully enclose the mat keep dirt out entirely. Open-ended carriers leave the ends exposed.