Are you looking for a backpack that'll carry everything you need for a pickleball session, day out, or even a weekend away? These days, pickleheads are spoiled for choice—new backpacks with lots of neat, pickleball-specific features seem to come out every month.
So, to help you make the right choice, I've put together a list of the best pickleball backpacks I could find on the market today, scoring each across various criteria. Check out my top picks below.
Quick list
Best overall
Our Rating:
1. CRBN Pro Team Backpack
The CRBN Pro Team bag takes the #1 spot as it's been carefully designed to hold everything you need for pickleball trips or tournament days. Plus, it looks great.
A previous winner of the best overall pickleball bag, the Mangrove continues to impress as a versatile and compact pickleball sling with a budget price tag.
This Franklin backpack is an old favorite among pickleball players, offering a surprising amount of space and pockets for all your pickleball essentials.
A comfortable, hard-wearing pickleball backpack with a ton of space for all your gear
8/10
Durability
8/10
Comfort
9/10
Storage
7/10
Adjustability
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.
CRBN
Save 10% with code PICKLEHEADS10
Amazon
Weight
3.5 lbs
Pockets
9–10
Straps
Backpack straps
Dimensions
21.5" x 12.5" x 8"
Color Options
One
Paddle Space
3 to 4
Fence Hook
None
The CRBN Pro Team Backpack took the slot as best overall as I think it's the perfect travel companion for any serious pickleball player. It can store all your gear (plus plenty of extras), protects your paddles from the elements, and is sturdily built while still looking great.
Who it's for
This bag is ideal if you play pickleball regularly or travel to tournament days and clinics. It'll also work for players who travel straight to the courts from work and who need to carry a change of clothes.
Features
This bag has been specifically designed to offer everything a devoted pickleball player could need.
To start, the main thermal-lined compartment is designed to accommodate up to four paddles, ensuring they're protected from heat and making this bag particularly great in warmer climates. It even boasts a laptop sleeve, perfect for those balancing work and leisure.
Next, the dedicated shoe compartment keeps your sweaty footwear separate, preventing bad odors from getting into the rest of the bag. That said, this compartment does lack the same ventilation you'll find in some other pickleball bags.
The central compartment has plenty of room for clothing and a towel, despite the shoe compartment occupying the lower section. It has three transparent zip pockets, great for storing your phone. There are also inner side pockets lining each edge for added organization.
Another clever feature is the bonus front zip opening, which gives you easy access to the spacious central pocket. It means you can lay the bag flat on its back and open it like a suitcase, giving you access to items buried at the bottom.
On the bag's exterior are thermal-lined water bottle pockets on each side, designed to keep your drinks cool.
Design and feel
I love the look of the CRBN bag, with its rough-and-ready yet stylish design. It's built for heavy use with strong YKK zips, a durable nylon upper, and a waterproof tarpaulin lower. It feels like you could take it on a round-the-world pickleball backpacking trip.
Performance
This backpack was designed specifically for pickleball players. The thermal-lined pockets maintain a stable temperature to prevent warping of your paddles and keep your balls playing at their best. The paddle pocket is also padded to keep everything safe.
The straps and back are well cushioned, so even when fully loaded it's comfortable to wear. The bottom of the bag is waterproof for those wet courtside conditions, and your shoes have their own isolation chamber to stop them from stinking up the rest of your gear.
Value for money
While $110 isn't cheap, this bag offers great value for money considering its excellent quality of materials, clever design, and protection of your cherished gear.
My verdict
CRBN really hit the mark with this backpack. It's got a ton of space that's cleverly divided for maximum usability, it's built to withstand plenty of use, and it's sold at a budget-friendly price point.
Get low-cost versatility from this compact sling bag
7/10
Durability
8/10
Comfort
7/10
Storage
8/10
Adjustability
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.
Amazon
Weight
1.1 lbs
Pockets
5
Straps
Adjustable/reversible sling
Dimensions
19.3" x 15" x 7.7"
Color Options
Black/white, black/green, gray/pink
Color Options
2–4
Fence Hook
Yes
Why I picked it
I picked the Mangrove as I'm really impressed with how many excellent features it manages to pack in while keeping the price tag so budget-friendly.
Who it's for
This is a great option for players who want a lightweight, compact, and highly functional pickleball sling bag. It's ideal if you cycle to the courts and don't need too many extras like shoes and a change of clothes.
Features
For a compact, affordable bag, the Mangrove has plenty of useful storage space. The five pockets all provide optimal usability for pickleball players. The spacious main compartment easily holds two paddles and a few balls, with enough room for a 15" laptop if necessary.
The secondary pocket offers space for a light change of clothing or a towel. At the front, the felt-lined pocket is ideal for keeping your valuables safe. The mesh divider even stops your phone screen from getting scratched by your keys.
On the bag's right-hand side, there's an elasticated mesh pocket that's big enough to hold a water bottle up to 40 oz. Lastly, the security pocket at the back of the bag is the perfect place to store your wallet.
Design and feel
The Mangrove comes in three color options, each of which uses bold, thick zip openings as a neat design feature. The design is minimalistic and understated, with a hexagon textured finish and a simple logo.
The wide strap is filled with air mesh padding to avoid sweaty shoulders, while the back is padded for extra comfort.
Performance
This bag has ample storage for all the gear you'll need for a session at the courts. It also boasts a water-resistant, scratch-proof outer and a built-in fence hook, so you can store it off the ground while you're playing.
The clever strap system features a left and right clip that allows you to change which shoulder you sling the bag over.
I also love the quick-release buckle, so you can wear it as a cross-body bag and then unclip without having to pull it over your head. This is especially useful if you cycle to the courts and don't want to take off your helmet each time you want to access your bag.
Value for money
For $30, you won't find a pickleball backpack that's better value for money. While there are cheaper options out there, the price-to-quality ratio of the Mangrove is unbeatable.
Pros
✔️ Easy on the wallet
✔️ Holds a large water bottle securely
✔️ Wide, adjustable strap with quick-release buckle
Cons
❌ No space for shoes or bulky extras
❌ Only one strap
My verdict
It's easy to see why the Mangrove bag is so popular with pickleheads. It offers everything you need for a session at the courts, with plenty of pickleball-specific features and a durable build for an unbeatable price.
A pro-level tour bag for devoted pickleball players
8/10
Durability
7/10
Comfort
9/10
Storage
9/10
Adjustability
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.
JOOLA
Save 10% with code PICKLEHEADS10
PB Central
Amazon
Weight
3.25 lbs
Pockets
12
Straps
Hide-away backpack straps and duffel-style carry straps
Dimensions
15" x 22" x 10"
Color Options
Seven
Paddle Space
4+
Fence Hook
Tough plastic, hide-away hook
Why I picked it
I love JOOLA's paddles, particularly the Ben Johns Perseus, and the pickleball accessories they make are equally impressive, as I've found with this awesome tour bag.
Who it's for
This bag is for players who want all the bells and whistles from a large pickleball bag. While it won't suit beginners or occasional players, it's ideal if you carry around lots of gear and want to avoid any damage.
Thanks to its clever strap system, it can quickly convert from a duffel-style bag into a backpack.
Features
The JOOLA Tour Elite Pro bag is built to hold your pickleball gear, like paddles and balls, while also acting as a general backpack for anything else you need for a day or night away from home.
The spacious main compartment holds your change of clothes, towel, and packed lunch. It also contains four smaller pockets to keep your personal items secure, including one with a car key tether. The section opens with two zips on either side, attached to a neat central handle.
On either side of the main compartment, two thermal-lined pockets can each store two paddles, including wide and elongated models. For any extra items, like sunglasses or spare balls, there are four more outer pockets with zippers.
Finally, there's a dedicated compartment for storing your sweaty shoes after a long tournament day—ventilated to keep the rest of the bag from smelling.
Design and feel
This is a premium bag, and it feels really solid and well built. The zips are strong, the material used is tough and durable, and the straps are reinforced. Any edges that can get damaged over time are also strengthened with pipe seams.
The bag also looks very professional, with its pickleball paddle shape and simple JOOLA branding. I love that it comes in so many color options too.
Performance
This bag was clearly designed with a lot of input from serious pickleball players. Firstly, the paddle compartments are padded and thermal lined, which protects your gear from getting knocked about or warping. Intermediate to advanced players will really appreciate this.
All of the extra pockets, including the shoe compartment, are cleverly designed to give you maximum usability.
The strap system is also super versatile. Converting it from a backpack to a duffel bag is a breeze too—just tuck away the backpack straps into dedicated sleeves and use the front carry straps.
Despite the bag's significant weight when fully loaded, it still offers a fence hook. Just make sure the fence you hang it on is strong enough!
Value for money
This bag comes in at under $110, which given its quality of materials, clever design, and durability, is a very reasonable price tag.
Pros
✔️ Tons of space and compartments for all your gear
✔️ Thermal insulation to protect expensive paddles
✔️ Ventilated pocket for sweaty sneakers
Cons
❌ No dedicated water bottle holder
My verdict
JOOLA are constantly innovating in the pickleball space, and this bag truly showcases their player-driven design. It doesn't come cheap, but this bag is sure to impress.
A high-performance court companion that looks great on your back
9/10
Durability
8/10
Comfort
8/10
Storage
8/10
Adjustability
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.
CRBN
Save 10% with code PICKLEHEADS10
Amazon
Weight
1.9 lb
Pockets
6
Straps
Adjustable sling
Dimensions
20" x 11" x 2"
Color Options
Black
Paddle Space
2–3
Fence Hook
Heavy-duty coated metal
This is the slimline version of our top pick, the CRBN Pro Team Backpack. Despite its compact size, this sling offers excellent pickleball-specific features and first-rate materials.
Who it's for
This one is perfect for anyone who wants to carry all the necessary gear for a casual pickleball session in a neat and durable sling bag. It would suit cyclists, anyone who walks to and from the courts, or those who play pickleball straight after work.
Features
The large main pocket has plenty of space for a few paddles, a laptop, and your lunch. You can even fit a pair of court shoes in there if you're only carrying one or two paddles.
The two side pockets are large enough to hold 24 oz bottles when zipped closed, or 40oz bottles if you leave the tops open. At the front are two more pockets for storing any small bits. Lastly, there's a hidden valuables pocket built into the back lining for keeping your phone and keys safe.
Design and feel
I love the modern look of this bag with its simple black styling and slick CRBN branding.
Most sling bags are triangular, which takes away a significant amount of potential space. However, this bag's slender, rectangular shape adds a surprising amount of extra storage space.
Performance
The thermal-lined side pockets are ideal for keeping large water bottles cool, but also double up as storage for your pickleballs on hot days, so you can keep them bouncing at their best.
The main pocket is also thermal-lined to keep your paddles from warping in the heat. It features dividers and an elasticated mesh lining to hold your paddles and laptop snugly so they don't move around too much and damage each other.
The single strap is wide and padded for comfort and can be clipped to either side of the bottom, so you can hang it over either shoulder.
This also makes it excellent as a crossbody bag—perfect if you cycle or take a scooter to the courts. The strap features a quick-release buckle, so you don't have to pull it over your head to remove it.
The fence hook is made from heavy-duty metal, which is unique to this bag (others are all plastic) and super durable. It even has its own hide-away pouch to tuck it into when not in use.
Value for money
At just under $60, this isn't exactly a cheap bag. However, for the level of workmanship and durability you get from CRBN products, I think it's well worth the price tag.
My verdict
I love CRBN products, and this slender, sleek bag is another beautifully designed offering that delivers high performance and comfort.
An ergonomically designed backpack to protect your back and shoulders
8/10
Durability
10/10
Comfort
8/10
Storage
7/10
Adjustability
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.
Amazon
Weight
1.8 lbs
Pockets
4, plus an exterior paddle holder
Straps
Standard backpack straps
Dimensions
20" x 13" x 9"
Color Options
One (black and green)
Paddle Space
3–4, plus one on the outside
Fence Hook
Built in with a zipper
Why I picked it
I picked the Franklin Sports Premium backpack as the best for comfort because of its extra thick padding and air channels on the back section. These help keep you sweat-free and comfortable on your way to and from the courts.
Who it's for
This bag is ideal for anyone who commutes to the courts and wants to ensure they have as much comfort and protection for their back and shoulders as possible. Players who use motorbikes, scooters, and bicycles also love this bag.
Features
One feature that immediately jumps out at you is the neat paddle holder on the outside. This consists of a pouch, which holds the paddle handle, and an elasticated strap to wrap around the paddle face.
This is an awesome feature if you need quick access to your paddle. Plus, it lets you show off your fancy new paddle, though I don't advise using it for traveling as it can leave the paddle vulnerable to damage.
The huge main compartment has plenty of space for 4–5 paddles, with extra room for either spare balls, a couple of paddles, or a change of clothes.
Inside is a smaller, lined pocket for your keys and phone or sunglasses. Then, at the bottom of the compartment is a separate, zippered section for dirty clothes or sweaty sneakers.
Next to the paddle holder is a mesh pocket big enough for a large water bottle. Finally, there's a heavy-duty fence hook with its own small zip at the top of the bag.
Design and feel
This backpack feels thick, padded, and built to last. It features extra thick padding on the back, with built-in pressure-reducing back support pads made from breathable mesh foam to reduce hot spots. These have air channels separating them to let air flow up your back and keep you cool.
Despite the extra padding and durable materials, the Franklin Sports backpack is lightweight when empty and comfortable to carry when loaded thanks to the adjustable, padded shoulder straps.
Performance
This backpack is designed to hold a lot of gear while still being comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. It certainly achieves this, and users praise it for its comfort.
The main pocket is huge—great for carrying lots of gear, but it can be tricky when you're trying to find a lost pickleball or root around for your phone. While there is one small interior pocket, the bag could do with at least one more medium-sized pocket with exterior access.
That said, this backpack certainly delivers plenty of usability. It's built from a waterproof PVC to protect your gear from rain. Plus, the neat fence hook keeps it off the ground while you're dinking your way to victory.
Value for money
For just under $50, this bag offers decent value for money—especially if comfort is a priority for you. The Franklin name means you can trust the materials and quality of build and your back will thank you for all the extra padding.
Pros
✔️ Thick, breathable support pads on the back
✔️ Adjustable, padded straps
✔️ Huge main pocket
✔️ Separate dirty clothes compartment
Cons
❌ Lack of smaller extra pockets
❌ No valuables pocket
My verdict
The Franklin Premium Backpack is a tried-and-tested pickleball companion. It's got a massive main compartment, a neat outer holder to show off your latest paddle purchase, and offers the best padding of any on my list.
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.
Selkirk
Weight
1 lb
Pockets
3 (+ a separate laptop sleeve)
Straps
Adjustable backpack straps
Dimensions
13" x 5" x 16"
Color Options
5
Paddle Space
4–5
Fence Hook
None
Why I picked it
I chose this Selkirk offering as it's a solidly built backpack that's perfect for a day out on the courts. Also, I love the bright colors and minimalist styling.
Who it's for
This is ideal for any pickleheads wanting to spend the day out in the park or local court facility and have everything they'll need packed into one neat backpack. It's also super versatile, so it can double as a school bag or be used for other sports when necessary.
Features
Simply put, this is a fairly standard backpack. There's nothing pickleball-specific about it other than the fact it's made by Selkirk, one of the biggest names in pickleball gear.
The bag has one large main compartment, with space to fit up to five paddles comfortably. Otherwise, you can easily fit a couple of paddles, a change of shoes and clothes, a towel, and a packed lunch inside. Plus, there's an inner sleeve to hold a laptop up to 15" snugly in place.
There's also a padded pocket at the front for your personal items, but your phone will have to sit alongside your keys, as there's no divider. Finally, there's a simple mesh water bottle pocket on the left-hand side.
Design and feel
The bag's high visibility design makes this ideal for those who take a scooter or cycle to and from the courts. The design overall is minimalist—a bold, bright color with a simple Selkirk logo print.
Performance
The whole outer is made from Selkirk's +V11 Max Polyfiber Performance material: a super strong but lightweight material that protects your paddles from the elements.
Despite its relatively compact size, this bag can easily hold all you need for a day out at the courts, including spare shoes and a change of clothes.
Selkirk decided not to install a dedicated fence hook, which is a shame. That said, the upper strap is more than strong enough to carry the bag and hang it on an existing hook.
Value for money
For just $40, you get a hard-wearing simple backpack from trusted pickleball innovators at Selkirk.
Pros
✔️ Can be used for other sports or as a school bag
✔️ Great looking color options
✔️ Affordable price tag
Cons
❌ No fence hook
❌ No hidden valuables pocket
My verdict
This no-frills, sturdily-built daypack is a great all-rounder—especially for younger players.
A lightweight, compact, and comfortable multi-use backpack with easy access paddle storage
8/10
Durability
7/10
Comfort
7/10
Storage
7/10
Adjustability
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.
Amazon
Weight
1.3 lbs
Pockets
7
Straps
Adjustable backpack
Dimensions
18.5" x 9" x 12"
Color Options
Blue/gray or red/pink
Number Of Paddles
2
Fence Hook
Yes (durable plastic)
Why I picked it
I chose the Himal backpack for its appealing design, affordability, and the fact that it can be used for other sports, making it a great option for multi-use.
Who it's for
The Himal backpack is cleverly designed to suit various racket and paddle sports. The paddle pouch is large enough to hold two full-size tennis rackets, but it's a perfect fit for pickleball paddles too.
It also works perfectly as a school bag or as an all-purpose backpack. Lots of Amazon reviewers say they purchased it for their kids because of its lightweight and back-friendly design.
Features
Despite its relatively compact size, the Himal backpack offers plenty of storage space. The large main compartment is designed to hold your shoes, clothing, and a towel, with an inner elasticated sleeve for securing a laptop.
Next is the middle racket/paddle compartment, featuring a unique open-top design. A long side zipper allows for easy access to the deep, padded pocket, making it convenient to retrieve paddles when your bag is hanging on the fence beside the courts.
There are two more front pockets: a lower one spacious enough for several pickleballs and an upper pocket designed for valuables like keys and phones.
Elasticated mesh water bottle pockets sit on both sides of the bag, suitable for slim water bottles. Lastly, there's a concealed back pocket for your wallet.
Design and feel
The entire back of the backpack, including the straps, is padded. However, it lacks an air channel which might lead to sweaty patches on the back in hot conditions.
Despite the limited color options, both options look great. The wide, horizontal zippers and matching water bottle pockets create a minimalist, symmetrical look that I really like.
Performance
This backpack is highly functional and a perfect pack to sling on your back for a sporty day out at the park. The exterior is constructed from 600D polyester, known for its thickness and durability.
This material makes it able to withstand heavy use both on and off the courts. It's even water-resistant and easy to clean.
The Himal backpack features fully adjustable straps, making it comfortable for users of various ages. It also includes a strong fence hook at the top, which you can neatly stow away in its dedicated compartment.
Value for money
Priced at just $32.99, this backpack offers excellent value for money and even comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Pros
✔️ Versatile, easy-access paddle pouch
✔️ Hardwearing, water-resistant material
✔️ Affordable price tag
✔️ One-year warranty
Cons
❌ Water bottle pockets are small
❌ Can get a little hot against the back in warm conditions
My verdict
The Himal is popular for a reason—it can be used for a whole range of paddle sports or as a day-to-day backpack. I like the look of it and love the affordable price tag.
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How to choose the best pickleball backpack
There are several important factors to consider when looking for the best pickleball backpacks. I've narrowed down the main features to consider:
Compartments
A good pickleball backpack should have multiple compartments to store your items. It should have a main compartment for the bulk of your gear and several smaller ones for extra balls, smaller pieces of equipment, and other accessories.
Weight
The weight of the bag is important, as you don't want it to be too heavy when loaded up with all your gear. Look for bags made from lightweight yet durable materials, such as ripstop nylon or polyester.
Durability
It's not just the material of the bag that matters—it's also the construction quality. Make sure all of the seams are double-stitched for added strength and durability. Look for bags with reinforced bottom panels, and check the zipper quality to ensure it won't break easily.
Protection
Pickleball bags should provide some level of protection for your gear. Look for padded compartments and panels to protect your paddles and balls from damage, as well as waterproofing or water-resistant materials to keep everything dry in the rain.
Find the perfect paddle
I've personally tested over 80 paddles. Take the quiz to see which ones fit your game best.
A good pickleball backpack should be comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded with your gear. Look for bags with adjustable shoulder straps and back panels with breathable materials, such as mesh or foam.
Reviews are a great way to get a feel for how comfortable the bag is.
Adjustability
Do you play other racket sports or just pickleball? An adjustable bag that can accommodate different sizes of paddles and other sports gear is helpful for players who have varied interests.
Price
If you're a serious player (or maybe even ready to go pro in pickleball), it's worth splashing out on a premium backpack. Otherwise, a mid-range bag might suit your needs.
You can find high-quality bags for under $100, but if you want something extra special, expect to pay more. For the casual player, you'll find some budget-friendly options for under $20.
Does the brand name matter?
While any brand can provide a quality backpack, there are some better-known names in the pickleball bag industry. Franklin, Selkirk, and JOOLA are just a few of the brands that make excellent pickleball backpacks.
These companies have years of experience in designing and manufacturing sports gear—and their pickleball backpacks are no different. Going with a trusted brand is usually a safe bet when it comes to quality and durability, but always still check reviews before buying.
Duffle bags vs sling bags vs backpacks
When it comes to pickleball bags, there are three main types:
Duffle: these are great for carrying and storing all kinds of gear, including paddles, balls, and other accessories. They're usually large enough to fit everything you need in one bag. However, they can be bulky and difficult to carry around for long periods.
Sling: these offer easy access to your items with the added benefit of being easier to move around than a duffle bag. The downside is that they don't have as much room or as many compartments as a regular backpack.
Backpack: the traditional backpack has plenty of space and compartments, is easy to carry around, and provides lots of protection for your gear.
What to pack in your pickleball backpack
Your pickleball backpack will be your main source of storage, so it's important to make sure you have all the essentials.
Start with the basics: two paddles and at least one can of balls. You can also pack an extra pair of clothes, a water bottle, hats or visors for sun protection, and some snacks to keep your energy levels up during long games.
If you're playing in cold weather or rain, consider packing a waterproof jacket or poncho as well.
A pickleball bag on a court, with two paddles, three balls, and a water bottle
Bottom line
So folks, that concludes my deep dive into the world of pickleball backpacks. I hope it's helped you to choose the perfect one for your needs.
The CRBN Pro Team Backpack stands out for me as it's just so well built and clear that genuine pickleheads have designed it. Why not try it out for yourself?
I updated many of the products in this article, including giving the CRBN Pro Team Backpack the #1 spot. New products are being released constantly, so I want to keep this list up-to-date with the very best on the market.
I added more elements to the article features, such as the 'Buy if' and 'Pass if' sections, to help you decide if a backpack is right for you.
This article contains affiliate links from which we receive a small commission from sales of certain items. As a brand associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
FAQs
Pickleball bags don't have to be waterproof, but if there's a risk of surprise showers where you play, it's always best to err on the side of caution.
Tennis bags often have larger compartments for rackets and sometimes have openings to allow the handles to protrude—like the Himal backpack.
A great way to calculate this is to lay out all of the gear you usually need for a session at the courts. Then, consider each product in this list carefully to decide which bag suits you best.
Some pickleball bags have built-in padded compartments to protect your paddles—others don't. If you have an expensive paddle and your bag doesn't have a padded paddle pocket, I'd recommend using a paddle cover.
Brandon is an avid writer and co-founder of Pickleheads™. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can now be found these days honing his dinks on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.
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Browse games and open play sessions anywhere you go.
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locations
Find every place to play pickleball in your local area.
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cities
Now available worldwide. Find courts & games anywhere!
