The Best Yoga Mat Bags for Every Type of Practice

For an activity as physically and mentally restorative as yoga, it can raise some stressful questions—namely, how are you supposed to lug all your gear (not only your mat but potentially a towel, water bottle, and change of clothes) to the studio? Before you shove everything into an old tote bag and hope for the best, consider investing in a dedicated yoga mat bag. There are tons on the market that are protective, spacious, cute, and make hauling your stuff less of a strain on your body. Check out our favorites here, and save the energy you would have spent Tetris-ing all your things in a regular bag on cleaning your mat regularly.

Our top picks

Best Overall: Manduka Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier
Best Budget: Yogiii Yoga Mat Bag
Best Strap: Lululemon Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap
Best Backpack: Aurorae Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Backpack
Best for Hot Yoga: Hugger Mugger Uinta Yoga Mat Bag
Best for Large Mats: Kuak Large Yoga Bag

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What should you look for in a yoga mat bag?

Like any good gym bag, a high-quality yoga mat holder should be easy to carry over your shoulder or wear across your body without digging in or causing chaffing. It should also be roomy enough to hold all of your belongings (bonus points if it has pockets or internal compartments to organize everything). And if you regularly attend hot yoga classes, you should look for one that’s made with water-resistant materials, so you can keep your sweaty gear contained post-practice. If you’re a minimalist who prefers a humble yoga mat strap, look for one that won’t loosen at a moment’s notice. An adjustable length, buckles, and other types of fasteners will help the strap fit securely around your mat for your whole commute.

The best yoga mat bags

Below, we’ve selected some of the best yoga bags you can purchase now, whether you’re looking for one that will do double-duty as your main gym bag, or just something that can hold your mat plus your phone and keys.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

1

Manduka

GO Steady Mat Carrier
Best Overall

Pros: Internal organization, breathable interior, water-resistant

Cons: Can be difficult to fit bulkier gear like yoga blocks

Naturally, Manduka, the maker of our favorite yoga mat, also makes a top-notch mat bag. The water-resistant Go Steady 3.0 carrier fits a standard yoga mat in its main compartment, which is perforated to encourage airflow (a major plus when you’re heading home from a sweaty practice). It also has a few internal pockets for your towel, extra clothes, and other essentials. And, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap, you can wear it like a crossbody or tote bag.
2

Yogiii

Yoga Mat Bag
Best Budget

Pros: Affordable, available in several colors and prints, machine washable

Cons: Not as protective or structured as other options on this list

Whether you’re a beginner who doesn’t want to commit to a pricey bag right away or just someone who prefers a simple mat carrier, this yoga tote is a great choice. The main compartment is deep, the outer pocket can fit a water bottle or towel, and the thick strap is comfortable and easy to sling over your shoulder. One thing to note is the Yogiii bag doesn’t have any zippers, snaps, or clasps, so be mindful of where you put any valuables.