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The best 8 swimming backpacks in 2024?

by Laura

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Water sports are one of the most popular leisure activities for children and adults alike. But after every day at the lake or in the outdoor pool, the big question is: where to put the wet clothes?

Swimming backpacks that deliver what they promise?

High-quality swim backpacks are equipped with a ventilated wet compartment, which is ideal for wet swimwear. The compartments are organized in such a way that everything important can be stored separately.

Avoid buying mistakes:

BeyondSurfing has spent over 19 hours researching and reviewed the most popular swim backpacks 2024.

The best swimming backpack 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite swim backpack:

Special Offer
Speedo Teamster 2.0 swim backpack 35 liters*
What characterizes the offer?

  • Good compartment layout
  • Separate dirt bag
  • Removable seat mat
  • 20 different designs
  • Integrated laptop sleeve
  • Mesh compartment

Swimming backpack Checklist

  • Compartments: Swimming backpacks have a ventilated wet compartment. The wet compartment is separate from the rest of the backpack and does not soak through. There are extra compartments for keys, money and papers.
  • Size: Children must choose a model in the right size so as not to be too heavy to wear.
  • Carrying comfort: Padded straps and handles increase comfort when carrying.
  • Models: There are backpacks that can be attached to the bike’s luggage rack. There are models with printed names for swimming teams or sports lessons.

Also interesting: The most popular swim vests 2024.

The 8 best swimming backpacks in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. Speedo Teamster 2.0 swim backpack 35 liters

Advantages

  • Good compartment layout
  • Separate dirt bag
  • Removable seat mat
  • 20 different designs
  • Integrated laptop sleeve
  • Mesh compartment

Disadvantages

  • Upscale price range
  • High dead weight

Summary

The Speedo Teamster swimming backpack offers 35 liters of space for your swimming equipment. The customer can choose from 20 different designs.

Speedo is a well-known and experienced manufacturer. This experience is reflected in the design. Customers who swim before or after work can use the water-repellent and padded laptop compartment.

For wet and dirty equipment, a “Dirt Bag” offers an odorless and waterproof storage space. If there are waiting times during competitions, the extendable seat mat pays off. The padded straps with ergonomically attached straps distribute the weight comfortably. More luggage sits comfortably on your shoulders.

The model has a comparatively high price, which is justified by useful accessories and high quality.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a robust backpack for regular training or a sports and work backpack in one, this is the model for you.

The design is deliberately sporty. If you prefer a designer look, choose a different model.

Product details

Size: 35 L | Material: mesh, polyester, nylon | Weight: 885 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 97 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The padding on the straps and back makes transportation very comfortable. The material is robust and offers compartments for all purposes. A customer ordered the rucksack 12 years ago and has not noticed any decline in quality to date. Several professional swimming teams recommend this product.

Around 1% are neutral about the product, while 1% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.

Some customers complain about the colors. They differ slightly in appearance from the pictures on Amazon. In addition, not all customers like the new design and miss the previous model.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Are extra cell phone pockets built in?
Yes, there is a pocket for smartphones on the shoulder strap.
Is the dirt bag really waterproof?
Yes, even if the swimwear is completely wet, the fabric does not soak through.

2. area backpack Sport Fastpack

Advantages

  • 4 different designs
  • Chest strap
  • 2 outer compartments
  • Reflective zipper
  • Padded straps
  • Extra robust zippers
  • Free wet bag

Disadvantages

  • Very large shoe compartment
  • Only dark designs

Summary

The Arena “Fastpack” swim backpack is a well-known and highly valued model in the world of swimming. It has already been revised in several versions. The improvements were based on feedback from customers and experts.

The backpack is made of waterproof polyester with special zippers. They are particularly stable and protect against splashing water. The manufacturer supplies a separate bag for stowing wet equipment.

A large shoe compartment can be opened separately from the main compartment. There is room for large shoes or small flippers.

Conclusion

A high-quality swim backpack with practical details that make it comfortable to wear and easy to pack. The design has been appreciated by professionals for years.

If you prefer bright designs, choose a different product.

Product details

Size: 40 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 454 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 94% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The distribution of subjects is not ideal. The shoe compartment could have been much smaller. This unnecessarily reduces the volume of the main compartment.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

What are the differences to the previous model?
There have been improvements in quality and workmanship.

3. TYR Unisex Big Mesh Backpack

Advantages

  • Low dead weight
  • Mesh pocket for water bottle
  • Very good ventilation thanks to mesh
  • Adjustable opening
  • 2 different designs

Disadvantages

  • Net does not secure small objects
  • Main compartment not subdivided

Summary

The Big Mesh backpack from TYR is available in two simple and sporty designs. One in blue and the other with colorful accents.

The straps are adjustable and there is a pocket on the front for valuables. Another, smaller compartment is designed for a water bottle. The main compartment is closed with a cord and is infinitely adjustable.

The material consists of a combination of mesh for ideal ventilation and waterproof polyester. The wet swimming gear dries on the way home.

Conclusion

This model not only allows swimming gear to dry particularly quickly, the shape can also be adjusted to the size of fins or kickboard swimming.

The backpack is not suitable for other purposes as there are hardly any compartments and small items fall through the mesh.

Product details

Size: 25 L | Material: nylon and polyester | Weight: 275 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 93% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers praise the good ventilation of the backpack. The swimsuits do not start to smell even when transported for long periods. The material is very robust and lasts a long time. The size and shape of the product are ideal.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 4% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers have had problems with the durability of the seams. They describe that they cannot carry very much weight. The same applies to the closure.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the model suitable for transporting fins?
Yes, they fit in easily. The fastener can be continuously adjusted to the right size.
Is this a suitable swim backpack for a triathlon?
Yes, there is plenty of space.

4. Funkita backpack

Advantages

  • 6 Designs
  • Modern neon colors
  • Reinforced floor
  • Low dead weight
  • Low price
  • Good visibility in road traffic

Disadvantages

  • No plain designs available
  • Small wet compartment

Summary

The eye-catching swim backpack from Funkita comes in 6 different designs. All colors are very striking and radiant. This not only appeals to neon lovers, but also offers safety on the road.

A large main compartment is easily accessible via a U-shaped zipper. There are two additional compartments on the sides for valuables or water bottles.

The separate wet compartment on the underside offers enough space for wet swimming equipment. The reinforced base cushions the rucksack when it is put down and prevents a wet cabin floor from soaking the material.

Conclusion

This product is ideal for lovers of unusual designs and customers who prefer an affordable backpack.

If you prefer a simple design, choose a different model. The material and fasteners are less robust due to the low price
.

Product details

Size: 40 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 821 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

However, the manufacturer is known and loved for its varied designs. One customer writes that her daughter loves the colors.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

5. arena unisex competition swimming backpack Spiky 3

Advantages

  • Extra many compartments
  • Two designs
  • Waterproof bottom compartment
  • Side compartments with mesh insert
  • Large opening
  • Extra shoe compartment

Disadvantages

  • No chest strap
  • Back not reinforced

Summary

The Arena Spiky 2 swim backpack is a backpack with a particularly sporty design. The customer can choose between a gray and a red model. Both bear a white stamp.

A waterproof bottom compartment offers space for shoes and protects them from moisture even when the floor is wet. Two large side compartments are suitable for swimming goggles, valuables and a water bottle.

The material is a particularly robust mixture. It is durable and can carry heavy weights with ease.

Conclusion

The robust material and the many compartments are particularly suitable for
for large or heavy swimming equipment.

Customers with back problems opt for a model with a padded back area.

Product details

Size: 40 L | Material: polyamide, polyester, polyethylene, polyoxymethylene, polypropylene | Weight: 499 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 97 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The backpack is suitable for a variety of sports. It is a space saver and the compartments allow for good organization. The zippers are well made. One customer describes that he can store the swimming gear of up to 5 people in this model. The large opening makes packing easier.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The shoe compartment is a little small. There is no chest strap to balance the weight with such a high volume. The back is not padded.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

6. speedo deluxe ventilator mesh

Advantages

  • 13 different designs
  • Very good ventilation
  • Safe deposit box
  • Can be carried as a bag or backpack
  • Small pack size
  • Infinitely adjustable fastener
  • Inexpensive

Disadvantages

  • Not for high weight
  • No extra wet or shoe compartment

Summary

The Speedo equipment bag can be worn as a bag or backpack thanks to a divisible shoulder strap. The model is available in all rainbow colors.

The material is closed at the back and bottom. The rest of the rucksack is made of a mesh fabric that provides good ventilation for wet swimming gear. The opening is closed with a drawstring.

The material is lightweight, quick-drying and tear-resistant. Padding and zippers have been omitted, so the backpack can be folded up very small.

Conclusion

A swim backpack that resembles a sports bag. Ideal for those with little swimming equipment and a small budget.

If you swim regularly and want to transport a lot of material, you should opt for a padded model with more compartments.

Product details

Size: 61 x 43.2 cm | Material: Polyester | Weight: 322 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 94% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers are impressed by the quality despite the low price. The material dries very quickly and ventilates the swimwear well. This means there is no unpleasant odor. The weight is low and the backpack can be folded up very small.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

There is no separate wet compartment. There is no padding on the straps or in the back area. This means that the model is not suitable for transportation over longer distances.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

7. Patagonia Black Pack swim backpack

Advantages

  • Social and environmentally friendly production
  • Waterproof coating
  • Practical outer compartments
  • Chest strap
  • Suitable for heavy equipment

Disadvantages

  • No ventilation system
  • No separate wet compartment

Summary

The Black Pack model from Patagonia is made largely from recycled, environmentally friendly materials. Fair working conditions are important to the manufacturer.

Sustainability and durability are complemented by a free repair service.

The material is water-repellent on the outside and inside. This means that not only wet swimwear, but also rain showers cannot harm the rucksack. The weight is comfortably distributed by the shoulder straps.

Cup holders are fitted on both sides. The padded main compartment can carry either swimwear or other everyday items.

Conclusion

Customers for whom sustainable production and a modern design are important choose this model. The repair service extends the already long service life.

The backpack does not have a ventilated wet compartment and is more suitable for amateur swimmers.

Product details

Size: 25 L volume | Material: Impregnated and laminated plastic| Weight: 700 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Are different colors available?
Yes, colors such as neon blue are available from the manufacturer.

8. Osprey Travel Ultracompact

Advantages

  • Extremely compact
  • Ideal for swimming gear on vacation
  • Sustainable material
  • Low dead weight
  • Different designs

Disadvantages

  • No padding
  • Not 100 % waterproof
  • No pockets
  • No roll-top system
  • Small capacity

Summary

This ultra-compact backpack from Osprey is the ultimate all-purpose companion. It is available in 4 different colors and has a capacity of 10 liters.
When folded up, it forms a lightweight ball that fits in your pocket.

Thanks to its foldability, it can easily be used anywhere, e.g. for transporting shopping. It is also a great companion for city trips or beach days on vacation.

Short rain showers are no problem for this rucksack as the material is water-repellent.

The narrow carrying straps are adjustable and can be adapted to different body sizes. The top is closed with a zipper.

Conclusion

This everyday hero is suitable for spontaneous shopping or as a companion on vacation. It saves unnecessary plastic bags and keeps the contents dry even during short rain showers.

It is not suitable for heavy loads, hiking tours or electrical items due to the thin material and low capacity.

Product details

Size: 43.18 x 22.86 x 17.78 cm | Material: Polyester | Weight: 85.05 grams

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 76% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The backpack is surprisingly strong despite the thin material. You can fold it up particularly small and take it with you wherever you go. Even light rain is no problem. The product is visually beautiful and light as a feather.

Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 14% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

You should not overstress the seams. Heavy purchases or snorkeling equipment are too much for the material and the seams.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

What size can the backpack be folded to?
When folded particularly tightly, it measures around 09 x 04 x 05 cm.
Can you transport a DIN A4 stapler?
Yes, standard staplers fit easily.

Top swim backpack especially for children?

1. water-repellent Trunki children’s backpack

Advantages

  • Child-friendly sea animal design
  • Water repellent
  • Robust
  • Intelligent compartment layout
  • Design selection
  • Weight adapted to children

Disadvantages

  • Low capacity
  • No compartment for shoes
  • No drying compartment

Summary

The swimming backpack from the Trunki brand is adapted to the needs of children. The cute design with different sea creatures (octopus, fish, crab and frog) is age-appropriate and varied.

There is a compartment on the strap designed for children’s sunglasses. There is also space for a card (e.g. bus ticket) or small change. A large main compartment made of waterproof fabric offers enough space.

The swim backpack is lightweight and ideal for small children. It is simply closed with a click fastener. The reflective straps help to increase safety in road traffic.

Conclusion

This swim backpack not only has a well thought-out design, but is also very popular with children due to its cute design.

The volume is a little too small for older children from around 9 years of age. The backpack does not have a shoe compartment.

Product details

Size: 7.5 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 177 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 86% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The reviews are from parents or grandparents. They praise the details of the backpack. The reflectors in particular offer more safety and look good. The children really like the print with the animals. The quality is good and the product is durable. The click fastener is easy to use.

Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer finds the backpack too small. The whale is the largest of the models at the same price. This is why the price-performance ratio has been criticized several times.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can children operate the shutter on their own?
Yes. Even small children of around 3 years of age can handle the children’s swim backpack well.

Bestsellers: The most popular swim backpacks

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-09-16)

Buy swimming backpacks:
How to make the right decision

swimming_backpack_arena

The demand for bags and rucksacks for transporting swimming equipment is increasing(source). Several studies show this. Manufacturers therefore go to great lengths to develop new models.

Avoid buying mistakes:

BeyondSurfing shows you what is important when making a purchase decision and where you can find a suitable offer. With the buying guide, bad purchases are a thing of the past.

What distinguishes swim backpacks from ordinary backpacks?

  • The subjects are divided according to the requirements.
  • Wet textiles are transported after swimming.
  • The material is robust and water-repellent with good ventilation.
  • Laptop compartments, if available, are waterproof.
  • There are models specially designed for competitions: with a seat mat, race number or printed name.
  • Some models also have a shoe compartment.

What you need to consider when buying a swim backpack

When looking for the ideal swim backpack, you should pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • Size
  • Material
  • Compartment divider
  • Comfort

The size

You always have to maintain a balance when it comes to size. Although a huge rucksack offers space for lots of things, it also weighs a lot and is difficult to stow away.

Kristina Sanger ★★★★★
(Sports student from Cologne)


Swimming backpacks are often real space savers. With well thought-out compartments, even a small volume allows effective packing.

What belongs in a swimming rucksack?

  • Towel
  • Bathing suit/bathing trunks
  • Change of underwear
  • Cell phone and wallet
  • Water bottle
  • Brush
  • Swimming goggles & other equipment as required

Do you support your training with fins?

Choose a backpack model that is longer than the fins. Or a model that can be closed at the top so that the fins can protrude.

Rule of thumb: Think about what you are transporting before you buy. Then choose a model with suitable compartments and volume.

The material of swimming backpacks

Manufacturers typically use polyester, canvas or nylon for a swim backpack:

  • Nylon
    • Breathable
    • particularly light
    • available in net form
  • Polyester
    • water-repellent
    • Resistant
    • different colors
  • Linen
    • extra coated
    • more environmentally friendly than polyester
    • Pleasant to the touch

The compartment divider

More compartments don’t just offer advantages. Each subdivision increases the weight of the backpack.

That’s why you need to decide how many compartments make sense for your requirements before you buy:

SubjectIntended use
One main compartmentHere you will find towels, bathrobes
and other larger items.
One wet compartmentSpace for wet material such as swimming trunks etc.
Can also be used as a shoe compartment.
One shoe compartmentSeparate from the wet compartment on some models
with space for shoes.
A safe deposit boxA waterproof valuables compartment for cell phone, money
and other important items is essential.
A bottle holderIdeal for transporting water for longer
Tours and hard training.
The comfortComfortable upholstery can reduce the dead weight
enlarge. That is why the balance also applies here
of comfort and function:

  • If the backpack is worn for a particularly long time
    padded straps are worthwhile.
  • For regular transportation by bike
    Practical straps for the carrier.
  • A chest strap helps to carry a heavy rucksack
    balance. A large opening simplifies
    the packing.

Swimming backpack tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test

Consumer Reports and Öko Test have not yet tested any swimming backpacks.

Well-known brands and manufacturers

The best-known and most popular swimming backpack brands and manufacturers include


Arena, Speedo, Funkita, Tyr and Adidas


These manufacturers are particularly experienced and also equip top-class swimming teams. However, no-name suppliers do not necessarily have to be of inferior quality.

Pro tip: When buying from an unknown manufacturer, look at reviews and well-researched buying guides.

Swimming backpack care tips

Despite the fact that the material can usually be wiped clean, the backpack must be cleaned regularly and dried thoroughly.

Moisture in the backpack provides ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria:

Bacterial infections can be transmitted to the sensitive mucous membrane and conjunctiva of the eye, especially when you are wearing swimming goggles or similar. Cleaning is therefore also good for your health.

The most important care tips:

  • Lukewarm water, a mild detergent and a bucket. That’s all you need.
  • Wet the backpack in a bucket of lukewarm water, clean thoroughly with the cleaner and rinse with clear water.
  • Then leave to dry in the (fresh) air.
  • Dryers, hair dryers and heating are the enemy of this water-repellent material. Avoid at all costs!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about swimming backpacks

What are swimming backpacks?

Special backpacks that have a wet compartment and separate the swimwear from the other compartments. In addition, the outer material is often more robust and water-repellent.

How expensive are swimming backpacks?

Depending on the quality and extras installed, prices vary from 30 $ to 100 $ and more.

Where can you buy swimming backpacks?

You can find a particularly large selection online at Amazon, Empty or Empty. There are similar items on sale in the retail trade depending on the season.

What belongs in a swim backpack?

Everything you need for a visit to the pool. From towels and bathing suits to swimming trunks, fins and goggles. You can find a detailed Checklist here.

What to look out for in a swim backpack?

The backpack needs a wet compartment or must have water-repellent material. Good ventilation is ideal so that wet textiles do not start to smell so quickly.

Conclusion: The most popular swimming backpacks reviewed

A soggy rucksack or swimming gear laboriously rolled up in a towel are a thing of the past.

Why?

A well-divided swimming rucksack separates the wet from the dry. The product is a real all-rounder and can accompany you in everyday life or during triathlons.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

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Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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