Gym Bag Essentials

It happens to the best of us. You get to the gym, only to discover you’ve forgotten your shoes, water bottle, fill-in-the-blank. But never fear! We’ve got you covered with our list of gym bag essentials.

• Shoes: No kidding, right? But you’d be surprised how easy it is to overlook key footwear. Store shoes in a plastic bag to keep the grime off your other goodies.

• Water bottle: This goes without saying. Hydration is super important to getting an awesome workout and having your own bottle means you can fill up as many times as you like, while helping the planet by avoiding plastic.

• Towel: Because sometimes you have to get on a mat. Also: sweat.

• High-protein snack: Be happy, not hangry! An energy bar or apple with nuts will curb hunger and boost energy post-workout.

• Dry shampoo: Go from gym to work without stepping into the shower thanks to the wonder that is dry shampoo. Just a few sprits, a quick brush through, and that Meghan Markle messy bun is all yours.

• Deodorant: Because, um, sometimes that glow can get stinky.

• To-go makeup kit: Get your glam on in seconds flat! The basics include a BB cream, mascara and lip gloss. Essential - but often overlooked - tools include Q-tips (for freshening up your eye makeup) and blotting sheets.

• Fresh clothes: You could stay in your workout gear all day (and there are some seriously cute options out there), but when your schedule demands adulting, an easy-change dress or fave top and jeans is key. Just don’t forget your shoes.

And here’s our bonus tip: pack your gym back the night before. Trust us. Mornings are crazy busy enough, and that’s when those essentials get left behind. What’s in your gym bag?