Fashion

10 Gym Bag Essentials For Summer

by Emily McClure

Love to workout, but never know what you should bring with you to the gym? I think we are all in the same boat. However, there are a few gym bag essentials that you should definitely pack with you this summer besides your gym clothes (obviously). It's ridiculously hot outside right now, so this definitely factors into what you pack for the gym. Try packing things that promise cooling effects or factor in to your time at the gym.

From running and biking to squats and pushups, you need to be prepared for your summertime individual workout. This doesn't mean to pack everything you own, but you will need a few essentials in order to exercise stress-free.

For me, I like to keep my gym bag light. I prefer to workout after I get off work, so I don't want to carry around a lot of unnecessary junk. One of my favorite tricks is to make everything travel size. Whether it's deodorant, toothpaste, or face wash, try to buy the travel size option in order to keep your gym bag light weight. It really makes a difference. Just thinking about what you'll actually use versus what you may need will give you a world of insight into packing your gym bag. Wondering what few things I take with me to the gym? Here are a few gym bag essentials that are perfect for the summer.

1. Deodorant

B.O. is never sexy. Block any odors by swiping on deodorant before and after you workout. Your gym mates will thank you for it.

Secret Clinical Strength Deodorant, $6, Walmart

2. Workout Wipes

Banish post-workout pimples by cleansing your skin after a workout. I'm a fan of all-in-one wipes, so I can get out of the locker room fast. Look for wipes that can remove makeup, and refresh your skin.

Mio Clean Slate Workout Wipes, $29, Mio Skincare

3. Pain-Relieving Gel

Did you happen to stretch a muscle a little too far at the gym? Apply a pain-relief gel to relieve the tension. This is one of my favorite things to do after leg day.

Jack Black Dragon Ice Relief And Recovery Balm, $23, Amazon

4. Flip Flops

Whether you are changing in the bathroom or hitting the showers, plastic flip flops are essential for anyone at the gym.

Old Navy Flip Flops, $2, Old Navy

5. Water Bottle

The line for the water foundation can be ridiculous. Skip the line by bringing your own bottle. By keeping your water bottle with you, you'll be more likely to sip on it as you work out.

Kate Spade Water Bottle, $30, Kate Spade

6. Sunscreen

Working out outside? Slather on sunscreen at least a half hour before you get in the summer sun's hash rays. Sweaty and sunburned doesn't sound like a fun combination.

Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen, $6, Amazon

7. Hair Ties

I can't tell you the amount of times that I have shown up to the gym without a hair tie. Keep a few in your gym bag just in case!

Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics, $3, Amazon

8. Dry Shampoo

For anyone who doesn't have time to shower after the gym needs to pack a bottle of dry shampoo. The spray soaks up any sweat and oil leaving your hair looking good as new. Choose a spray that has a light scent to it as well to cover up any potential odors.

Batiste Dry Shampoo, $8, Amazon

9. Headphones

This is just a personally preference, but I hate working out without listening to music. Something about listening to a fun song gets my heart rate going. I like to use headphones that can sync to my phone's Bluetooth, so I don't have to cling to my phone the whole time.

iWorld High Performance Sport Wireless Headphones, $35, Academy

10. Bandages

Whether your shoes are rubbing against your ankles (ouch) or you slip and fall of the treadmill (double ouch), it's a good idea to keep a few bandages in your gym bag. Obviously, I prefer mine to display the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Band-Aid Bandages, $5, Amazon

Now you're ready for a killer workout!

Images: Pixabay (1); Giphy (1); Courtesy Brands (10)