Types of Swim Bags Compared
A swim bag seems simple until you've carried a soggy towel, a kickboard and a packed lunch in the wrong one. Club swimmers, parents and lane swimmers all need something slightly different. This comparison sits within our guide to choosing swimwear.
What are the main types of swim bag?
Swim Bags Compared
| Type | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack | Club swimmers, school, commuting to the pool | Check the wet compartment is big enough for a towel. |
| Holdall | Galas, swim camps, kit for the whole day | Bulky on public transport. |
| Mesh bag | Training aids, wet kit, poolside | Not for dry clothes or valuables. |
| Drawstring bag | Quick lane swims, lessons | Little structure or protection. |
Who should use a swim backpack?
Club swimmers and anyone travelling to the pool on foot, by bike or by bus. Swim backpacks usually have a separate wet compartment, a padded section for clothes and space for a water bottle. Larger club backpacks fit a kickboard. Our swimming backpacks range from small junior bags to large squad bags.
What is a mesh swim bag for?
Mesh bags let air through, so wet kit and training aids dry instead of festering. Club swimmers often carry a mesh bag of kickboard, pull buoy and fins onto poolside, with a backpack for everything else. Our mesh swim bags are a cheap way to stop your main bag smelling.
When do you need a holdall?
For long days: galas, swim camps and open water events, where you need spare suits, several towels, food, warm layers and more. A holdall with a wet compartment is ideal. Our gala packing checklist shows how much kit a gala day can involve.
The mistake: Carrying wet kit home in the same compartment as dry clothes and a packed lunch.
What happens: Everything gets damp, the bag smells by midweek, and chlorine left in the suit wears it out faster.
How to avoid it: Use a bag with a separate wet compartment or a mesh bag for wet kit, and empty it as soon as you get home.
What swim bag suits children?
Something light enough for them to carry, with room for their kit list. Junior swimmers in lessons need little more than a drawstring or small backpack; club swimmers need space for training aids. Our guide to your child's first swimming club covers the full list.
WHICH BAG FOR WHICH SWIMMER?
WHICH BAG FOR WHICH SWIMMER?Lane swimmer
Lane swimmerA small backpack or drawstring bag, plus a wet bag or pouch for your costume.
Club swimmer
Club swimmerA squad backpack for dry kit and a mesh bag for training aids.
Gala and camp
Gala and campA holdall with a wet compartment and room for spares.
How do you stop a swim bag smelling?
Empty it as soon as you get home, hang wet kit to dry and leave the bag open to air. Wash it occasionally according to its label. Our swim kit care guide has more tips, and our swimwear experts can help you choose the right size bag for your kit. You'll find every type in our swimming bags.
Why Buy Swim Bags From Allens Swimwear
We've been helping swimmers carry their kit for 50 years.
Written by a swimwear specialist at Allens Swimwear, 50 years of expert fitting. Updated 6 October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bag for swimming?
It depends on your kit. Club swimmers usually want a backpack with a wet compartment plus a mesh bag for training aids; lane swimmers can manage with a small backpack or drawstring bag.
What is a mesh swim bag used for?
Carrying wet kit and training aids so they can dry. The mesh lets air through and stops damp smells building up.
Does a swim bag need a wet compartment?
It's very useful. A separate wet compartment keeps damp kit away from dry clothes and valuables.
What size swim bag does a club swimmer need?
One big enough for a kickboard, or a backpack plus a mesh bag for training aids. Check your club's kit list for what you'll carry.
How do I clean a swim bag?
Empty it after every swim, let it air out and wash it occasionally following the care label. Dry it fully before reuse.