With its social aspects, simple rules, and health benefits, it’s no wonder pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. While the required equipment is minimal compared to other court sports, a reliable and practical pickleball bag is essential. The best pickleball bags allow players of all skill levels to conveniently store and sport their gear to and from the court.
Unlike traditional gym bags, pickleball bags have plenty of compartments for storing pickle-specific tools, like balls, paddles, water bottles, snacks, towels, and even shoes. While they can come in different styles and sizes—from the compact sling to the classic duffle—pickleball bags share one common purpose: to keep your essentials safely together so you can hit the court in style.
We spoke to top pickleball experts to find out what they look for in a good pickleball bag. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy. Based on their recommendations and our own thorough research, we’ve rounded up the best pickleball bags that you can get your hands on today.
Best Overall
Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag
Amazon
An all-in-one tote, Franklin Sports’ Pickleball Bag is a great choice for any pickler who’s looking to easily store everything they need to hit the courts. It features three zippered pockets that can hold up to three paddles, two cans of balls, and sweaty socks or clothes. There’s also a fence hook, smaller compartments to store your keys and phone, and a mesh side pocket for your water bottle—features that Laurie Coyne, certified pickleball coach, says are essential.
Lugging all that gear around can be a strain on your shoulders and back, but this pickleball bag has a built-in cushioning system that helps reduce the pressure. Plus, the adjustable shoulder strap lets you find the perfect fit for your body type. We love that the bag is made of lightweight yet durable polyester fabric to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use—making it even more worth its already budget-friendly price. And the zippers are weather-resistant and constructed with an inverted design, so all your gear will stay safe and secure when you’re on the move.
While the multiple storage compartments and capacity make this bag a great option for most picklers, it might be a tight fit if you’re trying to carry more than three or four paddles at a time. And if you’re changing footwear after you arrive, be aware that there isn’t a specific shoe compartment. But overall, Franklin Sports’ Pickleball Bag is an excellent option for keeping all your gear protected and organized.
Price at time of publication: $35
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag | Size: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches | Weight: 0.5 pounds | Material: Polyester | Features: Multiple pockets, adjustable shoulder straps, back support pads
Best Budget
LLYWCM Pickleball Bag
Amazon
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Features multiple pockets of different sizes
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Hidden pocket for valuables
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Adjustable shoulder strap
Affordability meets functionality with LLYWCM’s Pickleball Bag. This pick is made for budget-conscious picklers looking for a reliable way to transport their gear without breaking the bank. While the price is already a selling point for this sling-style bag, its ultra-organized pockets are what set it apart from the rest.
There are five pockets in total, and each is designed for a specific purpose: from holding up to six paddles and several balls to housing your keys, phone, and other small items. The mesh side pocket is perfect for storing your water bottle, while the hidden back pocket allows you to keep valuable items safe and out of sight as you play.
Once you’ve tucked your gear away, you can adjust the reversible strap to easily switch between left and right-handed carry. Some users say that the strap occasionally slips down and doesn’t stay secured on the shoulder. But we think that the bag still offers good value for the price. We also love the top loop that allows you to securely hang it as you move about the court.
Price at time of publication: $22
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag | Size: 14 x 6 x 20 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Nylon | Features: Multiple pockets, adjustable and reversible shoulder strap
Best Sling Bag
Athletico Sling Bag
Amazon
Sling bags are a popular option for their convenience and portability, and the Athletico Sling Bag is no exception. With a strap that’s adjustable, reversible, and padded for cushioning, this bag is designed with your comfort in mind. Simply flip the strap to your preferred side and adjust the buckle until you find the perfect fit.
Along with optimal adjustability, we love that this bag provides plenty of organization for your gear. The largest compartment can store up to six paddles, while the four remaining pockets are great for carrying balls, cooling towels, and other smaller items. There’s even a felt-lined pocket specifically designed to keep your phone safe and secure, so you can bring it along without worrying about any scratches or damage.
That’s not all—the Athletico Sling Bag also comes with a one-year warranty, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected. The downside? This bag doesn’t have a designated compartment for your shoes, and it’s a little pricier than some other options on our list. But we think that the pro-grade sports polyester that’s durable and resistant to rips and tears, makes this bag well worth the cost upgrade.
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag | Size: 14 x 6 x 20 inches | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Material: Polyester and mesh | Features: Multiple pockets, adjustable and versatile shoulder strap
Best Backpack
Vulcan VPRO Pickleball Backpack
Amazon
If you prefer a two-strap backpack style, you’re in luck! Vulcan’s VPRO Pickleball Backpack offers a comfortable, hands-free way to transport your gear. Constructed with an anti-rip, waterproof nylon fabric that defends against the elements, as well as multiple size-specific pockets that give you plenty of storage, this bag is great to have for competitions or long days on the court.
The interior of the backpack can easily fit up to two paddles, with room to spare for balls or other smaller items. And the four side pockets—one of which is insulated for snacks—provide the perfect spot to store additional accessories. We also love the ventilated front pocket that not only keeps your sweaty shoes separate from the rest of your gear but also allows them to air out quickly.
Two downsides worth noting are that it’s more expensive than other options on our list and can’t hold as many paddles. But if you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable way to carry your gear from court to court—and are especially worried about airing out your smelly pickleball shoes—we think Vulcan’s VPRO Pickleball Backpack is a great buy.
Price at time of publication: $130
Key Specs:
Style: Backpack | Size: 14 x 10 x 19 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Nylon | Features: Multiple pockets, ventilated shoe compartment, adjustable shoulder straps, insulated pocket
Best Duffelbag
PickleballCentral Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag
Amazon
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Large capacity
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Shoe compartment
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Budget-friendly
Is a standard pickleball bag not cutting it for you? You may need to upgrade from that compact sling to a large-capacity duffle—like this affordable option from Pickleball Fanatic. The bag’s main, zippered compartment offers a roomy, spacious interior that’s perfect for storing all of your pickleball gear. There’s even room for additional accessories like extra clothes, towels, or your favorite protective sunscreen.
Unlike other duffle bags, the main compartment is not the only pocket you’ll find. Located on the front side of the bag are not one, but three pockets: one mesh, one drawstring, and one zippered. We also love that there’s a zippered shoe compartment on the bottom of the bag that keeps your sweaty sneakers separate from the rest of your gear.
The Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag may not be as stylish or as comfortable to carry as some other options on our list, but it definitely offers a lot of value for the price. If you’re always trying to cram extra items into your bag, the larger capacity and multiple pockets of this duffle are sure to come in handy.
Price at time of publication: $30
Key Specs:
Style: Duffle | Size: 18 x 9 x 10.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Nylon and polyester | Features: Multiple pockets, shoe compartment, large capacity
Best Tote
Tangerine Paddle Hunter Pickleball Bag
Tangerine Paddle
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Stylish
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Separated paddle pocket
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Monogramming available
If you’re looking for a pickleball bag that’s just as stylish as it is functional, Tangerine’s Hunter Pickleball Bag is your best bet. This luxurious tote bag features a chic canvas body (available in several patterns) and a water-resistant nylon interior that has a pocket for balls, a water bottle sleeve, and a zippered compartment to stow away valuables.
The exterior of the bag is just as impressive, with a top carry handle and adjustable shoulder straps for added convenience. There’s also a separate pocket to hold your paddle, complete with a protective cover to help keep it in pristine condition. And for those who want to make their pickleball bag stand out from the rest, monogramming is available for an additional $40.
This tote doesn’t offer as many storage options as a duffle or backpack would. But if you don’t need that extra space, the Hunter Pickleball Bag is an excellent pick for those who want to make a statement on the court.
Price at time of publication: $195
Key Specs:
Style: Tote | Size: 14 x 6 x 16 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Canvas and nylon | Features: Monogram options, adjustable strap, separate paddle pocket
Best With Shoe Compartment
Athletico Pickleball Backpack
Amazon
If you’re heading from the office to the pickleball court, you’ll want a bag that can accommodate a few extra items. Athletico’s Pickleball Backpack can do just that—with plenty of room for your gear, workout clothes, and pickleball shoes.
The backpack offers both interior and exterior slots for paddles, plus a separate ventilated compartment for your shoes to keep them fresh. Drawstring pockets on either side of the bag can hold a water bottle and balls, while a large zippered pocket provides an easy spot to stash your wallet and keys. There’s even a mesh storage pocket on the front of the backpack to tuck in an extra shirt or a hat.
While this backpack doesn’t have as much built-in storage as Vulcan’s VPRO Pickleball Backpack, it is cheaper and comes with a clip-on mesh drawstring bag that can hold up to 10 balls or other accessories. Just be aware that larger shoes won’t fit in the shoe compartment, so you may need to opt for a larger bag or duffle if you wear a size 13 or larger.
Price at time of publication: $45
Key Specs:
Style: Backpack | Size: 12 x 10 x 18 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Material: Polyester | Features: Ventilated shoe compartment, padded pockets, external storage, additional mesh bag
Best Compact
PickleballCentral Game On Sling Pickleball Bag
Amazon
If you prefer to travel to the courts with minimal equipment, the Game On Sling Bag is a great option. This sleek bag offers two compartments for your pickleball gear and accessories—with room for up to four paddles and a few balls in the larger pocket, as well as your phone, keys, and other accessories in the smaller one.
The sling-style bag also features an adjustable, padded shoulder strap for a comfortable carry, and a top loop for easy hanging while you hit the court. Plus, with four color options available, you can choose an option that fits your style.
You won’t find any of the added features (like a shoe compartment or water bottle holder), in this option, but we think the Game On Sling Bag is still great for those who want to keep their pickleball gear light and organized. As long as you don’t need a lot of extra pocket space, this is an excellent (and affordable!) pick for sleek and simple storage.
Price at time of publication: $20
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag | Size: 13 x 4 x 18 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Polyester | Features: Adjustable strap
Most Spacious
Boulder Bee PickleBall Tote Bag
Amazon
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Holds up to 40lbs
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Separate paddle pocket
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Stylish
Boulder Bee’s Pickleball Tote Bag is perfect for players who want extra space for their gear without the bulk of a full-sized duffle bag. It features an isolated paddle pocket on the exterior that can hold two paddles, plus a large main compartment with enough room to store up to 40 pounds of pickleball gear.
The tote also has adjustable straps for a comfortable carry and 18 stylish color and pattern options to choose from—some of which even come with their own matching paddles. We also like the two external side pockets for storing drinks or smaller accessories, like a pair of sports sunglasses.
While this pickleball tote offers plenty of room, it does lack size-specific internal pockets for organizing items like balls and any valuables. And the isolated, external paddle pocket is quite small, so you may have some difficulty fitting in two paddles. But overall, Boulder Bee’s Pickleball Tote Bag is a great choice for picklers who want spacious storage without sacrificing style.
Price at time of publication: $31
Key Specs:
Style: Tote | Size: 15.8 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Material: Polyester | Features: Separate paddle pocket, adjustable straps
Best Paddle Bag
Franklin Sports Pickleball-x Single Paddle Carry Bag
Amazon
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No additional pockets
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Minimal storage
Maybe you’re not ready to invest in a full-sized pickleball bag, but you still want to make sure your paddle stays safe while on the go. If that’s the case, this affordable single-paddle bag from Franklin Sports is the perfect pick for you.
It’s designed to provide protection for one paddle, with a durable exterior covering and padded interior walls to help keep your equipment safe while heading to the courts. We also like that the bag features an adjustable carrying strap for comfortable carrying and a built-in fence hook for easy hanging.
There are some obvious limitations with this bag: it only holds one paddle and doesn’t have additional pockets for accessories like balls, shoes, and other valuables. But at such a low price, we think Franklin Sports’ Pickleball-x Single Paddle Carry Bag is an affordable way to keep your paddle secure while on the go.
Price at time of publication: $12
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag | Size: 17 ix 10 x 11 inches | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Material: Polyester | Features: Adjustable strap, fence hook
Best Compartments
Sucipi Pickleball Bag
Amazon
If you’re a bit of a pickleball accessory fiend, you’ll love all the compartment options that Sucipi’s Pickleball Bag offers. It features five separate pockets: two large pockets for holding paddles, shoes, and other bulky items, as well as three smaller ones for additional accessories. We love that one of the smaller pockets is felt-lined to protect your phone or favorite pair of sunglasses. There’s also a mesh pouch on the side to hold your water bottle.
The straps are both adjustable and versatile, offering users the option to carry the bag like a single-strap sling or dual-strap backpack. Made with waterproof materials, this pick will keep your gear safe from rain, sweat, and water bottle spillage. Plus, there’s a top loop and fence hook for easy transport and hanging.
It’s important to note that this bag doesn’t have an isolated shoe compartment, like Athletico’s Pickleball Backpack, that will keep your sweaty sneakers separated from the rest of your gear. But for pickleball players who like to keep things organized, this pick won’t disappoint.
Price at time of publication: $32
Key Specs:
Style: Sling Bag/Backpack | Size: 14 x 10 x 19 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Nylon | Features: Multiple pockets, adjustable and versatile straps
How We Selected the Best Pickleball Bags
To find the best pickleball bags on the market, we consulted expert Laurie Coyne, a certified pickleball coach, about what makes a great pickleball bag, and conducted our own research to compare popular products against one another. We evaluated each bag based on three main criteria: capacity, compartments, and cost. To diversify our list, we selected an array of best-selling bags that met the needs of every pickler, from the brand-new player to the veteran competitor.
We also paid close attention to the bag’s materials, as well as any additional features that made it stand out—like specialized pockets or adjustable straps. Once we identified the top products on the market, we compared them against one another to decide which bags would make it onto our final list.
What to Look For in a Pickleball Bag
Cost
Prices vary greatly when it comes to pickleball bags—which is great because it means you can find one to fit almost any budget. Lower-priced options typically have fewer pockets and compartments, while higher-end bags may offer more features like adjustable straps and durable, waterproof materials.
Style and Design
There are five main types of pickleball bags: duffels, backpacks, sling bags, totes, and single-paddle bags. Each style will offer its own unique features and maximum capacity. Duffel bags and totes are great for those who need a lot of storage space, while backpacks and sling bags are lightweight and easier to carry. Single-paddle bags are best for occasional players who don’t need to bring additional gear to the courts.
Size and Capacity
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a pickleball bag is size and maximum capacity. Ask yourself: What do I plan to store in this bag?
If you’re a casual player who only needs to bring along one paddle and a couple of balls, then a compact bag, like Pickleball Central’s Game On Sling will do the trick. On the other hand, if you’re planning on carrying several paddles, balls, and spare accessories (like clothing, shoes, or towels), then it’s best to choose something with more storage space like Boulder Bee’s Pickleball Tote.
Compartments
When it comes to compartments, look for pickleball bags that have both internal and external pockets. Internal pockets are perfect for keeping items like your phone or wallet safe, while external pockets can be used to store water bottles, balls, and other quick-access items. If it’s important to you, look for a bag with an isolated shoe compartment to bring your sweaty socks and sneakers on the go without stinking up your bag.
Materials
Most pickleball bags are made with polyester, nylon, or a blend of the two. Both offer durability and flexibility, though nylon tends to be slightly stronger. Some bags, like Sucipi’s Pickleball Backpack also offer waterproofing which is especially helpful if you live in a rainy or hot climate.
According to Coyne, the only material you should avoid is cotton. Pickleball courts tend to have a rugged, rough surface, and bags made from cotton will wear quickly and won’t provide protection for the contents of the bag.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Shannon Ullman is a writer and editor with a background working on health content for MedicalNewsToday.com, Healthline.com, MindBodyGreen.com, and Insider Inc. She has recently gotten into pickleball and plays with friends on the outside courts in her city. Shannon loves a good pickleball bag that can hold her drinks and sunblock.
