18 Best Yoga Mat Carriers and Bags for Easy Transport 2022: Lululemon, Gaiam, Manduka

By Sara Coughlin

When we think of the best gym bags, tactical or functional gear comes to mind, but when we think of the best yoga mat carriers, options feel a little more limited. Where the former is likely weather- and sweat-proof—with roughly one million pockets for your keys, water bottle, change of clothes, laptop, shower supplies, and firstborn child—the latter may be as simple as a strap that loops around either end of a rolled-up mat. Not only does this sling configuration leave your trusty mat exposed to the elements, but you also have to pack another bag for anything else you want to bring to class.

Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to the humble yoga sling.

Specifically, the best yoga mat carriers and bags you can find are more protective, more spacious, and won't loosen or let your mat unfurl on the ground while you're trying to lug it through a crowd of commuters (this can't just be a "me" problem, right?). A high-quality yoga mat carrier should be easy to carry over your shoulder or across your body—without causing fatigue if your trip to the yoga studio takes a while. For extra points, your yoga mat carrier of choice can be water-resistant or, better yet, machine-washable (for those particularly sweaty hot yoga classes).

For an activity as physically and mentally restorative as yoga, you shouldn't have to stress about how you're going to get your gear to practice safely—save that mental energy on remembering to clean your mat on a regular basis. Below, we’ve selected some of the best yoga mat carriers 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 while you enjoy some sun salutations in the park.

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Don't let the drawstring design fool you—Lululemon's yoga mat bag opens wide enough to accommodate the brand's iconic Big Mat without requiring any wrestling or wriggling from you.

You don't get much more streamlined than this simple, highly functional tote. Free of zippers, strings, or clasps, this bag was made for anyone who just wants something to hold their mat and any other must-haves on the way to the studio.

Made to be worn over your right shoulder, this cross-body bag distributes the weight of your mat, yoga accessories, and valuables. Its versatile, sporty backpack design makes it a great multi-purpose bag too, seamlessly carrying your belonging from the studio to the gym to work.

With three exterior pockets plus another on the inside, this streamlined mat bag from Alo is a low-key storage star, maintaining a low profile while ensuring there's a place for all of your vinyasa essentials. Plus, its front panel is made of neoprene, one of our favorite bag materials.

This tote from Nike was made for hectic days when you go straight from yoga class to work: Its external front pocket holds your mat, while the main interior has enough room to fit your laptop, curling iron or straightener, and extra clothes. If you need even more space, don't sweat it—the expandable side panels will free some up.

By Jenny McCoy