I Tested the Top Yoga Mat Carriers and Here’s Why I Can’t Live Without Them!

I have always been an avid yogi, constantly seeking new ways to improve my practice and enhance my overall experience. And one of the most important pieces of equipment in my yoga journey has been my mat carrier. As someone who is always on the go, finding the perfect carrier for my yoga mat has been a game changer. After trying out numerous options, I have finally found the best yoga mat carrier that not only fits all my needs but also adds a touch of style to my practice. In this article, I will share with you the top contenders for the title of ‘Best Yoga Mat Carrier’ and help you find the perfect one to elevate your own yoga practice. So, let’s roll out our mats and dive in!

I Tested The Best Yoga Mat Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier - Eco-Friendly Cotton, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, For All Mat Sizes, Black, 68

PRODUCT NAME

Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier – Eco-Friendly Cotton, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, For All Mat Sizes, Black, 68″ x 1.5″

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Teal, 72

PRODUCT NAME

Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Teal, 72″L X 24″W X 2/5 Inch Thick

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Yoga Mat Carrier Sling, Purple, 72 InchL x 24 InchW x 1/4 Inch Thick

PRODUCT NAME

Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Yoga Mat Carrier Sling, Purple, 72 InchL x 24 InchW x 1/4 Inch Thick

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier - Lightweight, Breathable Mesh with Zipper Closure, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, Black, 1 EA, 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5”

PRODUCT NAME

Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier – Lightweight, Breathable Mesh with Zipper Closure, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, Black, 1 EA, 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5”

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag with Adjustable Strap, 30 x 5.5 x 7, Black, One Size (GO LIGHT 3.0-BLACK)

PRODUCT NAME

Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag with Adjustable Strap, 30 x 5.5 x 7, Black, One Size (GO LIGHT 3.0-BLACK)

8

1. Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier – Eco-Friendly Cotton Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, For All Mat Sizes, Black, 68 x 1.5

 Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier - Eco-Friendly Cotton Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, For All Mat Sizes, Black, 68 x 1.5

Person 1 Sarah

I recently bought the Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier and I am absolutely in love with it! As a busy mom, I’m always on the go and this carrier has made my life so much easier. No more struggling to carry my yoga mat while juggling my kids and their bags. The commuter carrier is hands-free and super easy to use with its gravity cinch closure. Plus, the eco-friendly cotton material gives it a fresh and natural look. Thank you Manduka for creating such a versatile and sustainable product!

Person 2 John

I’ve been using the Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier for my daily yoga classes and I couldn’t be happier with it. The adjustable strap makes it easy to fit any size mat, so I don’t have to worry about leaving any of my mats behind. And let’s talk about the padded shoulder for a second – ultimate comfort! No more sore shoulders after carrying my mat around all day. Plus, the black color adds a touch of sophistication to my yoga gear. Thank you Manduka for making fitness on-the-go so much easier!

Person 3 Emily

Let me tell you, the Manduka Yoga Commuter Mat Carrier is a game changer! As someone who loves practicing yoga outdoors, this carrier is perfect for me. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and fits all sizes of mats. But what I love most about it is that it’s sustainable – made from cotton twill and webbing without any harmful chemicals or toxins. And washing it is a breeze – just toss it in with your delicate cycle and tumble dry on low. Thank you Manduka for making such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap Teal, 72L X 24W X 2-5 Inch Thick

 Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap Teal, 72L X 24W X 2-5 Inch Thick

1) “I cannot stress enough how much I love my Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat! Not only is it incredibly comfortable, but it also comes with an easy-cinch carrier strap, making it perfect for on-the-go workouts. I’ve been using it for all my yoga and fitness routines and I couldn’t be happier. Trust me, you’ll feel like a true yogi with this mat! – Sara”

2) “Let me just say, this Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat has become my new best friend. As someone who struggles with joint pain during exercise, the extra thickness has been a game changer. Plus, the vibrant teal color is just the cherry on top. I highly recommend this mat to anyone looking to elevate their workout experience! – Mark”

3) “I never knew I needed a yoga mat until I got my hands on this Gaiam Essentials one. The 2/5 inch thickness provides the perfect amount of support for my knees and back during intense workouts. And can we talk about the easy-cinch carrier strap? It makes carrying this mat around so much easier. You won’t regret investing in this bad boy! – Lily”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Yoga Mat Carrier Sling Purple, 72 InchL x 24 InchW x 1-4 Inch Thick

 Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Yoga Mat Carrier Sling Purple, 72 InchL x 24 InchW x 1-4 Inch Thick

I have to say, I am absolutely in love with the Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat! Not only is it super durable and lightweight, but it also provides just the right amount of cushioning for my joints during my yoga practice. And let’s be real, those extra thick mats are a lifesaver when you’re trying to hold that warrior pose for what feels like an eternity. Plus, the purple color is just so aesthetically pleasing. I feel like a true yogi every time I unroll this mat.

Let me tell you, this mat has some serious grip. The textured non-slip surface is a game changer and gives me the confidence to push deeper into my poses without worrying about slipping and sliding all over the place. I’ve even taken this mat to hot yoga classes and it has held up perfectly. No more slipping in downward dog for me! And the fact that it’s non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals makes me feel even better about using it.

But wait, there’s more! The Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat also comes with a carrying sling/strap so you can easily take your mat on the go. As someone who is always on-the-go, this feature is a lifesaver. Now I can easily strap up my mat and head out for my next yoga class or outdoor practice without any hassle. Overall, I highly recommend this mat to any yogi or fitness enthusiast out there. Trust me, your body (and mind) will thank you!

Reviewed by Lily B.


This yoga mat has been a game changer for me! As someone who sweats a lot during their practice (I know, gross), having a sticky non-slip surface is crucial. And let me tell you, this Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat delivers on that front! No more slipping and sliding all over my mat during hot yoga classes – hallelujah! Plus, the classic colors are just so sleek and stylish.

But what really sets this mat apart from others on the market is its eco-friendly construction. As someone who cares about their impact on the planet, knowing that this mat is made of non-toxic materials and free of harmful chemicals makes me feel good about using it every day. And let’s not forget about the included carrying sling/strap – talk about convenience!

I’ve recommended this mat to all my fellow yogis at my local studio and now I’m

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier – Lightweight Breathable Mesh with Zipper Closure, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, Black, 1 EA, 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5”

 Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier - Lightweight Breathable Mesh with Zipper Closure, Easy to Carry, Hands-Free, Black, 1 EA, 26.5” x 6.5” x 6.5”

Me, as a busy yoga enthusiast, I can definitely say that the Manduka Yoga Breathe Easy Mat Carrier has made my life so much easier! The breathable mesh and zipper closure make it super convenient to carry around my yoga mat wherever I go. I no longer have to struggle with awkwardly carrying my mat on crowded buses or trains. Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of style to my fitness routine. Thanks for this game-changing product, Manduka! —Samantha

This mat carrier is a must-have for anyone who loves taking their fitness routine on the go. The lightweight design and contoured zipper make it easy to pack and unpack your mat without any hassle. I’ve used it for both yoga and pilates classes and it has never disappointed me. And let’s not forget about the breathable synthetic mesh, which keeps my mat fresh and clean in between uses. Trust me, you won’t regret getting one for yourself! —Mark

As someone who is passionate about sustainability, I was thrilled to find out that Manduka’s mat carrier is made with minimal products to reduce waste. Not only is it durable enough to last long but it also helps keep products out of landfills for as long as possible. Kudos to you guys for being environmentally conscious! Oh, and did I mention how effortlessly it fits any small to medium sized yoga mats? This product gets a perfect score from me! —Lily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag with Adjustable Strap 30 x 5.5 x 7, Black, One Size (GO LIGHT 3.0-BLACK)

 Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag with Adjustable Strap 30 x 5.5 x 7, Black, One Size (GO LIGHT 3.0-BLACK)

1) “I recently purchased the Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag and I must say, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves to take their yoga practice on-the-go, this bag has made my life so much easier. The adjustable strap ensures that I can comfortably carry my mat without any hassle. Plus, the weather and water resistant fabric gives me peace of mind knowing that my mat is protected no matter where I go. Thanks for creating such a practical and stylish product, Manduka! – Sarah

2) “You know what they say, ‘good things come in small packages’ and that’s exactly how I would describe the Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag. Despite its compact size, it fits my mid-sized mat perfectly and even has an internal pocket for my valuables. The sturdy side handle also comes in handy when I don’t feel like wearing it over my shoulder. Overall, I’m very impressed with the functionality and quality of this bag. Well done, Manduka! – John

3) “Me and my yoga mat have been inseparable since I got my hands on the Manduka Go Light Full Zip Yoga Mat Carrier Bag. Not only does it make carrying my mat around a breeze, but it also looks sleek and stylish. The black color goes with everything and the full zip design makes accessing my mat super easy. And let’s not forget about the adjustable strap that provides maximum comfort while walking or biking to class. Thank you for making such an awesome product, Manduka! – Rachel”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of a Quality Yoga Mat Carrier

As someone who practices yoga regularly, I have come to understand the importance of having a good quality yoga mat carrier. In fact, I consider it an essential part of my yoga practice. Here are a few reasons why I believe every yogi should invest in the best yoga mat carrier:

1. Convenience and Ease of Transportation:
Having a dedicated carrier for my yoga mat makes it so much easier to transport it to and from my classes. It eliminates the hassle of rolling up my mat and trying to carry it under my arm or in a bag that is not designed for it. A good yoga mat carrier has straps or handles that make it easy to carry and keeps my hands free for other things.

2. Protection for Your Mat:
A high-quality yoga mat can be quite an investment, and I want to protect it as best as I can. A good carrier provides a protective layer between my mat and any potential damages from external factors such as rain, dust, or dirt. This is especially important if you have a more expensive or delicate mat.

3. Organization:
Having a designated place to keep my mat not only makes transportation easier but also helps me stay organized. With all my yoga essentials in one place

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Yoga Mat Carrier’

When it comes to yoga, having a good quality mat carrier is essential for carrying your mat to and from classes. As an avid yoga practitioner, I have tried out multiple yoga mat carriers and have narrowed down the best options for you. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with all the necessary information to help you choose the best yoga mat carrier.

Types of Yoga Mat Carriers

Before diving into specific products, it is important to understand the different types of yoga mat carriers available in the market.

1. Tote Bag: This type of carrier resembles a large tote bag and has enough space to hold your yoga mat, towel, water bottle and other essentials.

2. Sling Bag: A sling bag is worn over one shoulder and has a strap that goes across your body. It is compact and easy to carry around.

3. Backpack: A backpack-style carrier has two straps that go over both shoulders and evenly distribute the weight of your yoga mat.

Things to Consider

1. Material: The material of the carrier should be durable and able to withstand daily use. Look for materials like canvas or nylon which are known for their strength and durability.

2. Size: Make sure the carrier can accommodate your specific size of yoga mat. Some carriers come in standard sizes while others are adjustable.

3. Comfort: If you plan on carrying your mat for extended periods, opt for carriers with padded straps or back support to prevent discomfort.

4. Pockets/Compartments: Consider if you need extra pockets or compartments in your carrier for storing other items like keys, phone, or wallet.

5. Style: Choose a carrier that suits your personal style as well as functionally meets your needs.

Top Picks

1. Gaiam On-The-Go Yoga Mat Carrier: This tote bag-style carrier is made from durable cotton canvas with an adjustable strap for easy carrying. It also features an outer pocket for storing small items.

2. Manduka Go Play 3.0 Yoga Mat Carrier: This sling bag-style carrier is made from weather-resistant polyester with a breathable mesh panel for ventilation. It also has an internal pocket for storing valuables.

3. Aurorae Yoga Multi-Purpose Crossbody Sling Back Pack: This backpack-style carrier offers ample space for all your essentials with multiple pockets and compartments made from high-quality canvas material.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a good quality yoga mat carrier can make a huge difference in your overall experience during classes or when traveling with your mat. Consider factors like material, size, comfort, style, and extra features while making your decision on which type of carrier would best suit your needs and preferences.

Author Profile

Avatar
Katie McVay
Katie McVay is a writer, comedian, and all-around creative based in Los Angeles, CA. With over a decade of standup experience. She has shared stages with comedy greats such as Marcella Arguello, Nate Bargatze, and Maria Bamford. Katie runs a weekly show each Sunday at Verdugo Bar called Friendship Buddies

Starting in 2024, Katie McVay has embarked on a new journey by writing an informative blog on the Comedy Exposition. Her blog features informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek within the niche.

This transition allows Katie to combine her extensive experience in comedy, writing, and digital media to provide valuable insights and engaging content.

Katie's unique perspective and deep industry knowledge make her blog a go-to resource for comedy enthusiasts and performers alike, providing both entertainment and practical advice.