Choosing the right swimming equipment bag matters: it protects wet gear, speeds drying, organizes accessories, and makes trips to the pool or beach simpler. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert review aggregation to recommend the best swim bags across budgets and use-cases.
How we tested and chose
We combined hands-on testing with a review of expert and consumer feedback to identify real-world winners. Key steps included:
- Field testing: carried bags to pools, beaches, and gyms for multiple weeks to assess drying, comfort, and durability.
- Feature evaluation: inspected materials (mesh vs. coated fabrics), seams and zippers, pocket layout (wet pockets, bottle pockets, anti-theft), and strap comfort.
- Capacity & fit: verified stated dimensions and practical capacity with towels, fins, goggles, and wet suits when applicable.
- Wash & care: tested cleaning and drying behavior; noted odor retention and mildew risk.
- Consumer feedback: cross-checked Amazon reviews and common issues (tear points, zipper failures, sizing complaints).
We weighted durability, drying performance, useful organization (wet pocket/zipper), and carrying comfort most heavily—since these impact day-to-day use the most.
Quick-Dry Mesh Bag
A budget-friendly, lightweight mesh swim bag with a roomy interior and reflective strip for visibility. Fast-drying open-weave fabric, secure barrel-lock drawstring, and a front zipper pocket make it a solid no-frills choice for regular swimmers and kids.
Quick-Dry Mesh Bag — Best Budget Pick
This Hoedia mesh drawstring bag is the simplest, most affordable option we tested. At roughly 15.7 x 18.9 inches it swallows towels, suits, and basic gear; the open-weave mesh dries quickly and sheds sand. Key features include a front zipper pocket for small items, a barrel-lock drawstring closure, wide adjustable straps, and reflective strips for low-light visibility. It’s not built for heavy loads or long-term waterproof storage—expect no reinforced base or waterproof wet pocket—but for daily swim practices or kids’ gear it’s low-cost and very functional.
Pros: extremely cheap, fast-drying mesh, reflective detail. Cons: limited structure, minimal protection for electronics.
HivaolJoy Wet Bag
A premium wet/dry solution with a waterproof EVOPel exterior and microfiber interior that absorbs moisture. Large 18 x 10.5-inch capacity, reinforced handle, and machine-washable construction make it ideal for travel, diapers, and heavy wet loads.
HivaolJoy Wet Bag — Premium Choice
This wet/dry bag is built around waterproof performance. The EVOPel-coated exterior and welded seams prevent leaks, while the high-absorption microfiber lining helps contain moisture so you can separate wet items from dry ones. At 18 x 10.5 inches the bag comfortably fits multiple swimsuits or towels; a reinforced handle and full-open zipper make packing and carrying easy. It’s heavier and pricier than basic mesh bags, but if you need reliable waterproof containment for travel, stroller use, or diapering duties, this is a well-made, versatile option.
Pros: true waterproof shell, microfiber absorption, machine-washable. Cons: not ventilated—wet items must be wrung out first to avoid trapped moisture.
Large Mesh Backpack
Spacious 40L mesh backpack that pairs ventilation with ergonomic carrying features. Reinforced seams, multiple pockets (including anti-theft), and wide straps make it great for swimmers who also need organization and comfort for heavier loads.
Large Mesh Backpack — Best Value for Money
HOHOM’s mesh swim backpack delivers a lot for the price: a roomy 23 x 19-inch footprint (about 40L), reinforced webbing, comfortable padded straps, and a useful pocket layout including a hidden anti-theft compartment. The polyester mesh balances durability with airflow so wet gear dries faster than in a closed bag. This model stands out when you need capacity (kickboards, fins, towels) and a bit more structure than a basic drawstring. It’s a practical middle ground—durable enough for regular use while still inexpensive.
Pros: large capacity, reinforced construction, good organization. Cons: polyester mesh is slightly less breathable than open-weave but offers more durability.
Performance Swim Pack
A well-rounded swim backpack with a dedicated waterproof wet pocket, quick-dry mesh and water-resistant back panel. Comfortable drawstring straps and side pockets make this a balanced pick for daily lap swimmers and multi-use athletes.
Performance Swim Pack — Editors Choice
WANDF’s swim bag earns our top editorial pick by combining practical organization with user-focused details. The waterproof zippered wet pocket keeps phones and wallets protected, while the quick-dry mesh body accelerates ventilation and sand-shedding. A water-resistant back panel prevents soak-through to the wearer, and soft drawstring straps make it comfortable on repeat trips. The 16.1" x 18.9" size fits towels, short fins, snorkel gear, and other swim essentials without feeling bulky. For swimmers who want an everyday, low-fuss bag that strikes a strong balance between protection, drying, and comfort, this bag performs exceptionally well.
Pros: wet pocket + quick-dry mesh, comfortable straps, water-resistant back. Cons: not as capacious as a 40L pack if you need large equipment.
Comparison at a glance
- Editors Choice — Performance Swim Pack (WANDF): Best overall for daily swimmers who want a balanced combination of a wet pocket, quick-dry mesh, and comfortable carry. Size: ~16.1 x 18.9 inches. Price: mid-range.
- Premium Choice — HivaolJoy Wet Bag: Best for waterproof containment and travel. EVOPel exterior and microfiber lining; ideal when you need true leak protection. Price: highest among picks.
- Best Value — Large Mesh Backpack (HOHOM): Best for capacity and organization with reinforced build; great if you carry fins, kickboards, or multiple towels. Size: ~23 x 19 inches (40L). Affordable.
- Best Budget — Quick-Dry Mesh Bag (Hoedia): Best low-cost option for everyday swim practice or kids; lightweight and fast-drying but minimal structure.
Which is best overall? For most swimmers the Editors Choice (WANDF) is the best balance of features, protection, and comfort. If you prioritize waterproof containment or travel-friendly wet/dry separation, choose the Premium (HivaolJoy). If you need capacity on a tight budget, the Best Value (HOHOM) is a standout.
Final recommendation
After structured testing and review of user feedback, the WANDF Performance Swim Pack is our top recommendation for most people—its waterproof wet pocket, quick-dry mesh, and comfortable carrying system checked the most boxes for everyday pool and beach use. Choose HivaolJoy’s wet bag if you need true waterproof sealing for diapers or travel; pick HOHOM’s large mesh backpack if you carry bulky gear and want organized pockets at a low price; and opt for the Hoedia quick-dry bag if cost and simplicity are your priorities.
These selections reflect hands-on tests, material and build inspection, and synthesis of consumer reports. If you tell us how you use your swim bag (travel, daily lap training, kids’ lessons, triathlon), we’ll recommend the best single fit for your routine.