Best pickleball backpacks for 2025 - top 8 compared

Buy if:

• You're heading straight to the courts after work.

  This backpack has enough space for spare clothes, shoes, and even a towel.

• You travel for days away at tournaments or clinics.

  This bag can carry everything you need for a short trip.

• You live and play in warm conditions.

  The CRBN's thermal-lined pockets protect your gear from the heat, and keep your water cool.

Pass if:

• You're a beginner, or casual player.

  This bag will be overkill unless you're a serious picklehead.

• You're looking for something lightweight.

  If weight is an issue, try something like the Selkirk Core Line daypack.

Buy if:

• You're on a budget.

  This is a functional, well-built bag that won't break the bank.

• You want a compact yet versatile pickleball backpack.

  This bag has space for everything you need for a session on the courts.

• You cycle or take a scooter to the courts.

  This works perfectly as a secure cross-body sling.

Pass if:

• You need a bag for traveling to tournaments or away days.

  This is a compact bag, with no space for bulky extras.

• You prefer two shoulder straps.

  This has a single, sling-style strap, which can fit over either side.

Buy if:

• You need a bag for days away like tournaments or camps.

  This bag has space for everything.

• You want to protect your prized paddles.

  The thermal-lined pocket keeps up to four paddles at a stable temperature to prevent warping.

• You're an intermediate or advanced player.

  This is for those with a lot of premium gear.

Pass if:

• You're a beginner picklehead.

  This is designed for more experienced players with expensive gear.

• You're on a budget.

  This is the joint most expensive bag on my list, tied with the #1 pick.

Buy if:

• You have fancy paddles that you want to keep in pristine condition.

  The paddle pocket is thermal lined and cushioned.

• You travel from work to the courts.

  The padded paddle pocket has space for a 14" laptop.

• You want to keep your drinks cool.

  This bag features expandable thermal-lined side pockets.

Pass if:

• You need space for shoes.

  This is a slim bag that won't hold bulky items.

• You prefer a strap over each shoulder.

  This is a single strap bag, so you might prefer the CRBN Pro Team Backpack instead.

Buy if:

• You find standard backpacks too uncomfortable.

  This one is designed with extra support for your back and shoulders.

• You commute to the courts in hot conditions.

  The air mesh padding with ventilation channels helps keep your back dry and comfortable.

• You want to keep your paddle to hand during days at the courts.

  The neat exterior paddle holder means easy access to your weapon of choice.

Pass if:

• You like lots of compartments.

  This one only has three pockets to speak of.

• You're looking for a compact bag for casual play.

  This is a large backpack with lots of room.

Buy if:

• You're buying for a younger picklehead.

  This one is great for young players and teenagers.

• You want a bag that'll last.

  This bag is tough enough to withstand countless trips to and from the court.

• You want a lightweight bag.

  At just 1 lb, this is the lightest bag on my list.

Pass if:

• You want the convenience of a fence hook.

  Unfortunately, this one lacks that handy feature.

• You like lots of pockets.

  This has a simple 3-pocket design.

• You like to stash away your valuables.

  This doesn't have a hidden security pocket.

Buy if:

• You travel with your pickleball paddles.

  This one is designed to be a perfect travel companion.

• You'll use it as a carry-on bag on an aircraft.

  The Neonic fits neatly under the seat in front.

• You like to keep hydrated on the go.

  The bottle pockets can hold an 80 oz water bottle.

Pass if:

• You plan to carry more than three paddles.

  Despite lots of pockets, this only comfortably holds three paddles.

• You want lots of color options.

  This only comes in white or pink.

Buy if:

• You want a backpack for more than just pickleball.

  The Himal is designed to hold tennis rackets and other sports equipment too.

• You want easy access to your paddles.

  The open-top paddle compartment allows for quick paddle retrieval.

• You're budget-conscious.

  This backpack offers excellent value for your money.

Pass if:

• You're looking for a range of colors.

  There are only two options here.

• You plan to carry lots of gear.

  This is a compact backpack—try the JOOLA Tour Elite Bag instead.

• You plan to use the bag in hot weather.

  No air channels in this one. Consider the Franklin Sports Premium Backpack instead.