From workouts to weekends away, we've found the best gym bags for women

This quilted tote from popular lifestyle brand Adanola is proof that gym bags can be stylish and practical.

The zip opening will keep your contents safe inside the extra-large main compartment, all wrapped up in a quirky padded material that will help you stand out from the crowd. It’s also priced at under £40 – which, for such a big bag, is great value for money.

If you’d rather opt for a backpack over a tote to reduce the potential of shoulder strain, may we suggest this simple but sleek option from Sweaty Betty.

The clever design features a laptop sleeve, two generous side pockets and a zipped exterior pocket, so you can comfortably fit all your work essentials and gym kit inside. It also has padded, adjustable straps for comfort, and the fabric is water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about your bits getting damaged if you get caught in the rain.

We're big fans of Antler luggage here at Good Housekeeping – the brand features in our best suitcases and best cabin bags round-ups – and its Weekender Bag proved just as popular with our editors for gym trips and staycations. It’s made from recycled ripstop fabric with a water-resistant finish, so it feels durable without added bulk and can handle rainy days.

The spacious bag has a roomy main compartment, along with multiple internal pockets and a padded laptop sleeve to keep your essentials organised. There’s a front zip pocket for easy access and a trolley sleeve – ideal if you’re heading on holiday – while the soft structure lets you pack a little more in!

Not quite a gym bag, but sometimes the essentials – your keys, card and phone – are enough, which is why this wristlet from Lululemon is a great option for the gym and workout classes that won't weigh you down.

There’s a whole range of colours to choose from and the pouches are both detachable too, so you can use them in or outside the gym.

If you’re browsing the H&M site for some new work outfits or to stock up on some homeware bits, we recommend also picking up this great value waterproof tote for carting your kit to the gym, taking on holiday or just carrying around town.

It’s on the larger side, so you can fit all your essentials inside – from gym gear and trainers to a towel and snacks – and there’s a zipped internal pocket so your keys and phone won’t get lost in the abyss and will be held safely in place. The fabric is waterproof to keep the contents protected, and it’s ultra lightweight, so you won’t feel weighed down. For under £20, it’s a reliable budget-friendly buy.

It might not be the prettiest pick in our round-up, but this backpack from viral brand Built For Athletes is super practical and well thought out. The 25L capacity offers plenty of space for everything, with separate compartments for your shoes, laptop and smaller essentials, plus two side pockets for your water bottle and protein shake.

The clever design opens flat for easy packing and there's a range of adjustable straps to tailor the fit to your body and distribute the weight evenly – particularly useful if you’re commuting or carrying it for longer periods. Made from ultra-durable, water-resistant fabric with reinforced zips, it’s robust enough to handle heavier loads without feeling flimsy.

There’s no need to sling multiple tote bags over your shoulder with this high-quality adidas by Stella McCartney design. It will easily fit all your everyday essentials, with separate compartments for stashing your laptop, shoes, clothes and toiletries.

We love that it has a range of strap options, allowing you to wear it in multiple different ways, and features a water-repellent base to keep your bits and bobs protected, whatever the weather. Overall, a reliable pick for daily activities and weekend getaways alike.

There’s lots to love about this practical backpack from Bloxx, which is large enough to fit all your workout essentials and more. It boasts eight neat compartments to keep everything organised and in place, including an accessible pocket for your valuables, stowaway sections for bottles and a dedicated sleeve for your laptop.

It also has a waterproof coating to protect your gear from rain or unexpected spillages. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down and keep clean. There’s a mesh back panel to prevent sweaty skin, and a reflective logo on the front – handy if you’re out and about in low light. A good pick for outdoorsy adventures, too.

Another stylish shopper that has enough space for your coordinating leggings and tee, as well as your post-workout snacks.

It’s great for the gym as well as work and travelling, and the bold Adanola tagline lets everyone know you’re a part of the super trendy fitness club.

Nike gets a big tick from us for this simple and sleek sports bag. It’s big, so you’ll be able to fit all your gym bits in, and the soft material means there’s no unnecessary bulk.

Use the removable strap to sling it over your shoulder, or the handles for carrying; either way, it’s a great-sized bag for getting it done, or just doing it, if you will...