Best Pickleball Bag for 2023

Pickleball is getting popular in North America thanks to its social appeal, simple game rules, and fitness benefits. Although the gear required for pickleball is less than in other sports, a durable and handy bag is indispensable. The top-notch pickleball bags help players of all abilities conveniently carry their gear to the court.

Unlike usual gym bags, pickleball bags offer several compartments for carrying pickle-specific equipment like balls, paddles, water bottles, snacks, towels, and shoes. Available in different shapes and sizes—from compact slings to classic duffles—the core function of pickleball bags remains the same: to keep your essentials safe and organized, allowing you to arrive at the court in style.

With inputs from leading pickleball experts and rigorous research, we have compiled a list of the best bags available in 2023.

Our Recommended Pickleball Bags

1. Best Overall: Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag (Amazon)
2. Best Budget: LLYWCM Pickleball Bag (Amazon)
3. Best Sling Bag: Athletico Sling Bag (Amazon)
4. Best Backpack: Vulcan VPRO Pickleball Backpack (Amazon)
5. Best Duffelbag: PickleballCentral Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag (Amazon)
6. Best Compact: PickleballCentral Game On Sling Pickleball Bag (Amazon)
7. Most Spacious: Boulder Bee PickleBall Tote Bag (Amazon)
8. Best Paddle Bag: Franklin Sports Pickleball-x Single Paddle Carry Bag (Amazon)

Best All-rounder Pickleball Bag

Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag

For players who want to effortlessly carry all their essentials, the Franklin Sports’ Pickleball Bag is an excellent choice. This all-purpose tote bag comes with three zippered pockets, accommodating up to three paddles, two cans of balls, and used socks or clothes. Notably, it has a fence hook, small compartments for keys and phone, and a mesh pocket on the side for your water bottle—features highly recommended by Laurie Coyne, a certified pickleball coach.

Carrying all your gear can put pressure on your shoulders and back, but this pickleball bag features a built-in cushioning system to help relieve the strain. It also boasts an adjustable shoulder strap to ensure the perfect fit for your body. The bag is made of lightweight yet sturdy polyester fabric to endure the rigors of regular use.

Weather-resistant and designed with an inverted setup, the zippers guarantee the safety and security of your gear on the go. Even though it offers ample storage and capacity, carrying more than three or four paddles might be a bit of a squeeze. Also, there’s no dedicated shoe compartment, so be prepared if you plan to change your footwear post-arrival.

Priced at $35 at the time of writing, Franklin Sports’ Pickleball Bag is an exceptional option for safeguarding and organizing all your gear.

Pros

• Variety of pockets in different sizes
• Back support pads to alleviate pressure
• Plenty of external storage

Cons

• Lacks a dedicated shoe compartment
• Small phone pocket may not fit larger models

Key Specifications

• 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-Friendly Pickleball Bag

LLYWCM Pickleball Bag

The LLYWCM Pickleball Bag is a versatile and stylish sling backpack designed to cater to the needs of pickleball players and sports enthusiasts alike. This reversible crossbody sling backpack offers a range of features that make it a reliable companion for carrying pickleball gear, tennis rackets, and other essentials while on the go.

One of the standout features of this bag is its adjustable and reversible shoulder strap. With two D-rings on the lower part of the bag, you can easily connect the shoulder strap to the left or right D-ring, allowing for comfortable wear on either shoulder. This thoughtful design ensures convenience and ease of use for both left-handed and right-handed individuals.

The bag boasts ample storage capacity with a total of five pockets to keep your belongings organized. The main large compartment is spacious enough to hold more than six pickleball paddles, racketball equipment, or even a laptop. Inside the main compartment, there’s an additional pocket for added organization.

Plus, the bag features a deep ball pocket to carry several balls, two front zipper pockets to store items like towels, wallets, and cell phones, and a hidden back pocket for securing important items. On top of that, there’s a mesh side pocket with a cord lock, perfect for holding a water bottle securely.

Pros

• Adjustable and reversible shoulder strap for comfortable wear on either shoulder
• Five pockets, including a spacious main compartment, deep ball pocket, front zipper pockets, hidden back pocket, and a mesh side pocket
• Made from lightweight yet sturdy material
• Sleek and professional design makes it a fashionable choice, suitable for both men and women.

Cons

• Some users might not prefer the rainbow effect on the white edges of the bag, which could be a matter of personal taste.
• While the main compartment can accommodate a laptop, it might not offer dedicated padding for maximum protection, so additional caution may be needed.

Key Specifications

• Style: Sling Bag
• Size: 14” W x 6” D x 20” H
• Material: High-quality, lightweight, and sturdy
• Features: Adjustable reversible shoulder strap, multiple pockets for organization, durable zippers with cord covers, and a mesh side pocket with cord lock.

Best Sling Pickleball Bag

Athletico Sling Bag

The Athletico Sling Bag is a versatile and functional crossbody backpack designed to cater to the needs of pickleball players, tennis enthusiasts, racketball players, and travelers alike.

One of the standout features of this sling bag is its reversible shoulder straps. The comfortable, padded shoulder strap easily flips between the left and right sides, allowing you to wear the bag on your preferred shoulder. This feature ensures maximum comfort and convenience for both left-handed and right-handed users.

This bag has a total of five compartments and an external water bottle holder. The main compartment can hold up to six pickleball paddles, or two tennis or racketball rackets. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for sports enthusiasts who need to carry their gear with them wherever they go.

For added security, the Athletico Sling Bag includes a hidden anti-theft pocket on the back. This pocket is strategically placed against your back when carried as a backpack, keeping your belongings safe from pickpockets or unauthorized access. It’s perfect for safeguarding your wallet, phone, or other valuable items while you’re on the move.

Athletico stands behind the quality of their sling bag and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If, for any reason, you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you can simply return it for a full refund.

Pros

• Comfortable and padded shoulder straps
• Five pockets and an external water bottle holder
• Made from high-quality materials
• Athletico is confident in the quality of their product and offers a full refund if customers are unsatisfied for any reason.

Cons

• While the main compartment can hold up to a 15-inch laptop, additional padding may be required for optimum protection during travel.

Key Specifications

• Style: Sling Bag
• Material: Nylon with padded shoulder strap
• Size: Not specified (capable of holding up to 6 pickleball paddles, 2 tennis or racketball rackets, or a 15-inch laptop)
• Features: Reversible shoulder straps, 5 pockets, external water bottle holder with cord lock, hidden anti-theft pocket on the back.

Best Backpack Pickleball Bag

Vulcan VPRO Pickleball Backpack

The Vulcan VPRO Pickleball Backpack is designed to be the ultimate storage solution for pickleball enthusiasts, offering tons of space and a well-thought-out design. This backpack is crafted with durable ripstop nylon, ensuring it can withstand the demands of regular use and the rigors of sports activities. Available in six color combinations, it not only serves as a functional bag but also adds a touch of style to your pickleball gear.

One of the standout features of this backpack is its exceptional storage capacity. It comes equipped with four accessory pockets, each serving a specific purpose. These include a lined pocket for sunglasses, a mesh organizer for keys, an insulated pocket for snacks, and a dedicated, padded compartment for paddles. The inclusion of a vented shoe pocket is a thoughtful addition, providing a separate and breathable space to keep your court shoes.

The paddle compartment, cleverly placed behind the shoulder straps on the back side of the bag, allows for easy access to your paddles without interfering with the rest of your gear.

Overall, the Vulcan VPRO Pickleball Backpack stands out as a top-notch choice for serious pickleball players who demand a spacious and well-organized bag. With its exceptional storage capacity, intelligent design, and durable construction, this backpack delivers on its promise of accommodating everything you need for your time on the pickleball courts.

Pros

• Generous Storage Capacity
• Thoughtful Pocket Organization
• Vented Shoe Pocket
• Durable and Stylish

Cons

• Pricey

Key Specifications

• Style: Backpack
• Material: Durable ripstop nylon
• Features: Four accessory pockets (sunglass, mesh organizer, insulated snack pocket), dedicated paddle compartment, vented shoe pocket, integrated fence hook. Available in six color combinations.

Best Duffel Bag Pickleball Bag

PickleballCentral Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag

The PickleballCentral Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag is a high-quality duffel designed specifically for pickleball players, offering specialized pockets and ample room to store all your gear. This medium-large duffel bag is a practical and reliable choice for players who want a well-organized and durable bag for their pickleball adventures.

One of the standout features of this duffel bag is its thoughtful pocket design. It comes equipped with a water bottle pocket with a cinch, a zipper pocket for valuables, and a mesh pocket for small items. These specialized pockets allow you to keep your gear neatly organized and easily accessible during play.

Additionally, the bag features a shoe pocket that ensures your other gear stays clean and separate from your footwear. This convenient design element prevents any potential mess or odor from affecting the rest of your belongings, making it an ideal feature for players who need to carry both shoes and equipment.

The Pickleball Fanatic Duffel Bag offers both hand carry and a padded shoulder strap, providing versatility and comfort when transporting your gear. The padded shoulder strap ensures you can carry the bag with ease, even when it’s fully loaded with your pickleball essentials.

While the bag does not contain additional interior pockets within the main compartment, its specialized external pockets compensate for this, offering a dedicated space for all your belongings.

Pros

• Shoe pocket keeps your other gear clean and separate from your footwear
• Both a hand carry option and a padded shoulder strap, providing comfort and ease of transportation.
• Crafted from high-quality materials, this duffel bag ensures durability and longevity, even with regular use.

Cons

• While the external specialized pockets are a great addition, some users might prefer additional interior pockets within the main compartment for further organization.

Key Specifications

• Style: Duffel Bag
• Size: Medium-Large – 18 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 10.5 inches high
• Features: Water bottle pocket with cinch, zipper pocket for valuables, mesh pocket for small items, shoe pocket to keep other gear clean, hand carry, and padded shoulder strap. Drawstring closure.

Best Compact Pickleball Bag

PickleballCentral Game On Sling Pickleball Bag

The PickleballCentral Game On Sling Pickleball Bag is a stylish and functional bag that offers a convenient and comfortable way to carry your pickleball gear in style.

The bag features two zippered compartments; the large zippered main compartment is capable of holding up to four paddles and balls, and a small zippered organizational pocket in the front for smaller items like keys, wallets, phones, or accessories.

This pickleball bag comes equipped with a padded and adjustable shoulder strap, ensuring you can carry your gear comfortably even during extended walks or commutes to the court. The top loop is a handy addition, offering an alternative carrying option for those who prefer to hold the bag by hand. This loop is convenient when you need a quick and easy way to grab the bag and go.

As part of PickleballCentral’s dedication to the sport and its players, the brand’s origin story reveals a passion for pickleball’s positive impact on people’s lives. They started as a hobby in 2006 and have grown alongside the sport to become a respected superstore. PickleballCentral’s commitment to the sport’s growth and the joy it brings to players is evident in their products and services.

Pros

• The large zippered main compartment can accommodate up to four paddles and balls
• The front pocket allows easy access to smaller items like keys, wallets, phones, and accessories
• The bag’s comfortable and adjustable shoulder strap offers convenience and ease
• The top loop provides an alternative carrying option

Cons

• While the bag’s main and front compartments are spacious and practical, some users might prefer additional organizational features for further convenience.

Key Specifications

• Style: Sling Bag
• Size: 18″ tall x 13″ wide
• Features: Two zippered compartments (large main compartment and small organizational pocket), adjustable padded shoulder strap, top loop. Zipper closure.

Most Spacious Pickleball Bag

Boulder Bee PickleBall Tote Bag

The Boulder Bee PickleBall Tote Bag is a premium and stylish bag designed specifically for women pickleball players. Crafted with durable 600D oxford nylon cloth on the exterior and 210D nylon interior, this bag offers both durability and a soft, comfortable feel. The gliding smooth zippers add to the overall quality of the bag, ensuring easy access to your gear.

One of the standout features of this tote bag is its practical design, offering tons of room to hold all your pickleball equipment and personal belongings. The designated paddle holder can fit two paddles, protecting them from scratches and ensuring they remain secure during transportation. The bag also includes two side pockets, perfect for carrying a water bottle, umbrella, or other essentials.

The Macaron Color Pattern in Pink/Blue adds a touch of style to the bag, making it an attractive accessory for female pickleball players. It not only serves as a functional pickleball bag but also doubles as a fashionable accessory.

Pros

• Made of Premium Material to ensure durability and a soft feel
• Able to hold two paddles in the designated paddle holder and has enough room to carry all your pickleball equipment and personal belongings.
• The Macaron Color Pattern in Pink/Blue adds a stylish touch, making the bag a desirable accessory for female pickleball players.
• With its compact size and lightweight design, the bag is easy to carry without unnecessary bulk.

Cons

• Some users might prefer a shoulder strap option for hands-free carrying.

Key Specifications

• Style: Tote Bag
• Material: 600D oxford nylon cloth (exterior) and 210D nylon (interior)
• Size: Length: 15.8″, Width: 5.6″, Height: 12.6″
• Weight: 0.7lb
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 33lb
• Features: Two zippered compartments (main compartment and small side pocket), designated paddle holder, two side pockets for water bottle or umbrella, ergonomic straps for hand-held carrying. Macaron Color Pattern in Pink/Blue. Zipper closure.

Best Paddle Bag for Pickleball

Franklin Sports Pickleball-x Single Paddle Carry Bag

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Sling Bag Backpack is the official bag of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, making it a top choice for pickleball enthusiasts who want to carry their gear in style. Designed to meet the needs of both men and women players, this sling bag offers lots of space and organization for all your pickleball equipment and accessories.

One of the standout features of this sling bag is its ability to hold it all. With the capacity to carry up to six paddles and related accessories, it provides sufficient room for all your pickleball gear in one place.

The extra-large storage compartments make this bag a practical choice for pickleball players who want a bag specifically designed for the sport. In addition to your gear, the bag includes a dual padded cell phone pocket and key storage, keeping your personal items secure and easily reachable. Inside the largest pocket, you’ll find a built-in fence hook, allowing you to conveniently hang the bag when you’re on the court.

Back support is a priority with this pickleball bag. The adjustable shoulder strap is designed to be easy on your back and shoulders, helping prevent muscle strain and shoulder pain during extended carrying periods. This feature ensures that you can comfortably carry your gear to and from the courts without discomfort.

Pros

• As the official bag of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, this sling bag carries the endorsement of professionals, making it a trusted choice for players of all levels.
• The bag can hold up to six paddles, X-40 performance pickleballs, and related accessories, offering sufficient room for all your pickleball gear.
• The large pockets and weather-resistant zipper pulls keep your gear organized and secure during transport.
• The bag includes a dual padded cell phone pocket, key storage, and a built-in fence hook for added convenience.
• The adjustable shoulder strap is designed to prevent muscle strain and shoulder pain during extended carrying, ensuring comfort during transport.

Cons

• Some users might prefer a traditional backpack design for more evenly distributed weight on both shoulders.

Key Specifications

• Style: Sling Bag Backpack
• Features: Holds up to six paddles, X-40 performance pickleballs, and related accessories. Large pockets with inverted weather-resistant zipper pulls. Dual padded cell phone pocket and key storage. Built-in fence hook. Adjustable shoulder strap for back support.
• Official Bag: U.S. Open Pickleball Championships
• Gender: Unisex (for men and women players)