WHAT'S IN MY GYM BAG

(aka proof that I absolutely do not travel light, ever)

I wish I could say I roll light to the gym… but I absolutely do not.

I’m lucky enough to train at a gym with incredible facilities — sauna, steam room, proper changing areas.

And because I’m very consistent with my routine, I like to fully make the most of everything available to support my overall fitness, recovery and wellness.

For me, the gym isn’t just about the workout. It’s part movement, part self-care ritual, part reset for the day.

So here’s everything that permanently lives inside my gym bag — all packed up in my cute lil Space NK travel case — the essentials that make sure I have everything I need from workout to wind-down…

Silicone Dry Brush

One of my non-negotiables before using the sauna.

I dry brush quite vigorously before going in, always brushing towards the heart, which helps encourage lymphatic drainage and circulation. This can support detoxification, reduce fluid retention and temporarily smooth the appearance of skin.

I specifically use a silicone dry brush rather than traditional bristles because it’s far more hygienic for a shared gym environment — easier to clean and less likely to harbour bacteria.

Naturium 3% Cleansing Gelée

A staple in my at-home routine too, and it’s featured in my 'December Beauty Favourites' here.

It’s simple, fuss-free, non-drying and never leaves my skin feeling stripped. I keep the mini travel size in my bag and it doubles perfectly as a face cleanser and body wash, which saves space (even though clearly I’m not short on items).

Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50

I rotate through a lot of SPFs because I’m constantly trying new ones, but this is my current gym-bag resident.

It’s lightweight, silky, slightly tinted and layers beautifully post-workout without feeling heavy. Before this I was using the Augustinus Bader SPF, which I also really enjoyed — but this one feels especially effortless for everyday wear.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + Phytoceramides

This genuinely saved my skin during the cold January and February mornings.

It’s a proper barrier-supporting moisturiser — rich, comforting and reliably gives that hydrated glass-skin finish. Without fail, this goes straight onto my face after every workout and shower.

L’Oréal Elvive Extraordinary Oil Nourishing Conditioner

My current conditioner of choice.

I always keep one in my bag because sometimes I like to apply conditioner and sit in the sauna to let the heat act like a mini deep-conditioning treatment.

Other times I’ll use a small amount to slick my hair back into a bun.

This one is thick, nourishing and comes in a perfect small size for gym life.

Simple Water Boost Micellar Wipes

Probably the best make-up wipes I’ve ever used.

They’re alcohol-free, non-drying and actually feel hydrating on the skin.

I generally avoid wipes unless absolutely necessary, but these are perfect for removing skincare or SPF before the sauna or steam room — because nobody wants melted sunscreen sweating into their eyes.

Mitchum Women Powder Fresh Advanced Power Deodorant

A lifelong staple.

It never lets me down, lasts all day and the scent is clean without being overpowering. I’ve yet to fully commit to natural deodorant because honestly… the purge phase scares me.

If you’ve successfully made the switch, please leave recommendations below because I’m intrigued but cautious...

JVN Perfect Style Fix Stick

I love this so much.

Perfect for slicking down edges post-workout because there is absolutely no way I’m leaving the gym looking chaotic.

It’s slightly oily and nourishing, so it actually feels conditioning rather than stiff or crunchy.

Laneige Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask

I have a mini of this that I was kindly gifted… but truthfully, it does absolutely nothing for me and I wouldn’t repurchase.

Just keeping it real!

Denman Boar Bristle Hairbrush

A classic.

Perfect for smoothing the hair and redoing my bun properly after showering. If my hair looks put together, I instantly feel put together.

Cantu Updo Brush

Yes, another brush — because apparently I’m extra.

This one has firmer bristles, so I use it to really smooth my edges and secure everything into place.

Claw Clip

Simple but essential.

I try to use claw clips wherever possible instead of hair ties to reduce tension and prevent breakage — especially as someone permanently living in buns.

NYX Brow Glue

Another absolute gym bag essential for me.

If I’m training make-up free (which I usually am), having my brows brushed up instantly makes me feel more put together.

This one is perfect because it gives that lifted, laminated effect without feeling crunchy or flaky.

I’ll quickly run this through my brows before leaving the gym so even if everything else is minimal, I still feel polished.

Zara Ebony Wood - Eau de Parfum

Does anyone else have a gym fragrance, or is that just me?

I think of it like people choosing a wedding fragrance — a scent tied to a specific era.

Every time I smell this, it reminds me of consistency, routine and becoming stronger.

So in my mind… it smells like progress.

Lip Balm

Currently rotating between:

• Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm - Pink Guava

• Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Lip Treatment - Vanilla Bonbon

• Byoma Liptide pH Lip Oil

Realistically, I never have fewer than one lip balm on me — two or three is far more accurate...

Vital Baby Hygiene Cleansing Water

This is essentially a hypochlorous acid spray, and it’s one of the most underrated gym essentials.

Hypochlorous acid helps reduce bacteria, calm irritation and support the skin barrier — ideal when you’re sweating or touching shared gym equipment.

I’ll sometimes spritz during workouts or post-session for a quick skin refresh.

Anti-Bac Gel

A non-negotiable hygiene staple around shared equipment.

Anti-Bac Wipes

I never rely solely on gym spray bottles — these are quicker, easier and mean I can wipe equipment down immediately after use.

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My gym bag is how I like to think I approach life — intentional, prepared and slightly extra.

Because for me, showing up consistently isn’t about forcing motivation, it’s about building routines and micro-habits that make you genuinely want to.

And if that means carrying half my bathroom with me… so be it!!

Will you be adding any of these into your own gym bag?