Top Swim Bag Features to Look For: Pockets, Ventilation & More

When it comes to competitive swimming, having the right gear is about more than just the suit and goggles. A dependable swim bag is just as important—especially when you're juggling towels, tech suits, goggles, caps, snacks, and dry clothes. At Elsmore Swim Shop, we know how much a well-designed bag can make a difference on deck, at practice, and on race day. 

In this guide, we’ll walk through the top features to look for when choosing your next swim bag—so you can spend less time digging for your gear and more time focusing on your performance. 

1. Multiple Compartments for Better Organization 

One of the most important features of a great swim bag is the ability to keep your items separated. Look for bags with: 

• A large main compartment for towels, parkas, or warm-up gear
• Smaller side pockets for keys, ID, snacks, and personal items
• Dedicated compartments for wet vs. dry items

This level of organization helps prevent water damage to electronics, keeps your post-practice snack dry, and makes it easier to locate items quickly. 

Pro Tip: The Speedo Teamster 2.0 Backpack is a favorite among competitive swimmers for its smart layout and roomy design. 

2. Ventilated Wet Zones 

Swimmers constantly deal with wet gear, which makes ventilation a must-have. Look for bags with mesh compartments or grommeted pockets designed to let water drain and air circulate. This helps reduce the build-up of mildew and keeps your bag smelling fresh, even after double practice days. 

Bags like the Arena Fastpack 3.0 offer ventilated compartments and water-resistant bottom panels—ideal for swimmers who need gear that stands up to heavy use. 

3. Durable, Water-Resistant Materials 

Swim bags are exposed to a lot: wet pool decks, chlorine splashes, and even cold bleachers. That’s why material matters. Choose a swim bag made from: 

• Heavy-duty polyester or nylon
• Water-resistant coatings or PU-treated fabrics

• Reinforced stitching for added longevity

These details make the difference between a bag that lasts a season and one that lasts several years. 

You’ll find these features in bags like the TYR Alliance 45L Backpack, built to withstand the demands of year-round swim schedules. 

4. Comfortable Straps and Support 

Swim bags get heavy—especially after practice when you’re carrying wet towels, suits, and maybe even a tech suit or two. Look for: 

• Padded shoulder straps that reduce strain
• Adjustable straps to fit different body types
• Chest or waist clips for added support during travel

Whether you’re walking into the pool or traveling to a weekend-long swim meet, comfort is key. 

5. Dedicated Space for Goggles and Caps 

Nothing is worse than digging through a soaked towel to find your goggles. Many top-tier swim bags now include: 

• Fleece-lined goggle pockets
• Small top compartments for quick access to caps and goggles
• External loops to hang wet gear

To keep your tech protected and easy to reach, check out the layout of the Speedo Teamster Backpack, which includes smart compartments for delicate gear. 

Need new goggles to go with that bag? Browse our full selection of Speedo goggles. 

6. External Mesh Pockets for Water Bottles 

Hydration is often overlooked in swim prep, but it’s critical. A good swim bag will have at least one external mesh pocket that holds a standard water bottle (or even a shaker for recovery drinks). Mesh allows airflow and prevents water from pooling around your drink container. 

Looking for a bottle that holds up in and out of the pool? Check out our water bottle collection to pair with your bag. 

7. Compact Enough for Travel, Large Enough for Meets 

Your swim bag should be big enough to hold all your gear—but not so oversized that it’s a pain to carry. Competitive swimmers should aim for bags between 35L–45L, depending on their gear load. 

• Smaller swimmers or younger athletes may prefer the 35L range
• Older or high-volume swimmers may need a full 45L capacity

Browse our Swim Bag Collection to find the right fit by volume, brand, or color. 

8. Bonus Features That Make Life Easier 

Once you’ve covered the essentials, look for these extras that add even more function: 

• Laptop sleeves for swimmers balancing academics and athletics
• ID holders for easy bag identification
• Hook loops so you can hang your bag on a fence or locker
• Reflective accents for early morning or evening travel

These features might seem minor, but they can be incredibly useful for daily swimmers and those who travel frequently for meets. 

Find Your Perfect Swim Bag at Elsmore Swim Shop 

At Elsmore Swim Shop, we stock the best swim bags from trusted brands like Speedo, TYR, Arena, and more. Whether you're a club swimmer, a high school competitor, or heading to nationals, we have the gear that fits your routine and supports your goals. 

Browse our complete collection of swim bags to find the right style, size, and features for your needs. And while you’re at it, stock up on swim practice gear, goggles, kickboards, and more.