Paparazzi sit outside the fitness clubs that celebrities frequent in hopes to capture a ‘not so glamorous picture.’ Although paparazzi may not be of concern, you never know who you will see directly after your workout. You can avoid being caught off guard by packing the perfect gym bag. A well-packed gym bag can eliminate your need to return home before heading off to start your workday.

Choosing a Bag for the Gym

The gym bag you choose should be waterproof, must be able to carry all your workout necessities, be strong enough to handle being shoved in a locker and hold everything you need to transition from the gym to the office. Of course, your gym bag should also be stylish.

Hair Ties and Bobby Pins

It is difficult to work out when you begin to sweat and your hair begins sticking to your neck and face. Therefore, if your hair length is medium to long, place several extra hair ties and bobby pins in a zip lock baggie.

A Brush and Comb

You cannot create a great hairstyle to head off to work if you do not have a comb and a brush.

Dry Shampoo

Just in case you do not have time to take a shower, keep some dry shampoo in your bag. A few spritzes and your hair will go from greasy to chic.

Deodorant

Using a long-lasting antiperspirant and deodorant is especially important if you will not have time to shower before going to work.

Facial Wipes

Using facial wipes directly following your workout will help you feel refreshed and prevent your pores from becoming clogged.

Travel Versions of Your Toiletries and Hair Care Products

Travel versions of your shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, mousse, gel and/or hairspray are ideal for use at the gym. Keeping your toiletries and hair care products in a resealable bag ensures that in the event of a leak, your other items remain untouched.

Mini Versions of Your Daily Beauty Items

You cannot head off to work without ‘putting on your face;’ therefore, you should place travel-size versions of your daily beauty items in your gym bag. Remember to include foundation, eyeliner, blush, mascara, pressed powder, eyeshadow, lip liner, lipstick and perfume. Ideally, for the sake of convenience, keep your beauty items together in a fashionable makeup bag.

A Bag for Your Soiled Clothing and Shoes

Since you are heading directly to work, you need a bag that you can seal to store your soiled clothes in. Consider purchasing a reusable zip lock bag specifically designed for clothing. If you choose to place your work clothes in a reusable zip lock bag as well, make sure you label the bags ‘soiled’ and ‘clean’ with a permanent marker. You can use smaller zip lock bags for your shoes. Again, be sure to label these bags as well (‘workout shoes’ and ‘work shoes’). The bags you are using for your soiled clothes and shoes must be sealable, otherwise you are risking tainting your gym bag with undesirable odors.

Toothpaste, Floss and a Toothbrush

A trial-size toothpaste, travel toothbrush and container of floss ensure that you can keep up with your oral hygiene.

There you have it…now, you can head to the gym with everything you need in your gym bag before starting your workday. Just think, once your workday is done, you can be home in time for dinner!