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
Best cheap
Our Rating:
2. Mangrove Pickleball Bag
Best for storage
Our Rating:
3. JOOLA Tour Elite Pickleball Bag
Best sling
Our Rating:
4. CRBN Pro Team Sling Bag
Best comfort
Our Rating:
5. Franklin Sports Premium Backpack
Best day pack
Our Rating:
6. Selkirk Core Line Day Backpack
The best pickleball backpacks in 2024
So, folks, those are the backpacks that made the cut. Let's deep dive into why I chose them.
1. CRBN Pro Team Backpack
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Today’s best deals
2. Mangrove Pickleball Bag
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deal
3. JOOLA Tour Elite Pickleball Bag
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deals
4. CRBN Pro Team Sling Bag
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Today’s best deals
5. Franklin Sports Premium Backpack
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deal
6. Selkirk Core Line Day Backpack
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
Adjustability
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deals
7. Neonic Pickleball Backpack
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
Adjustability
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.
Weight
1.8 lbs
Pockets
8
Straps
Adjustable backpack straps
Dimensions
18" x 13" x 8"
Color Options
Two - White/Black or Pink/Black
Paddle Space
2
Fence Hook
Yes
Why I picked it
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deal
8. Himal Backpack
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Durability
Comfort
Storage
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.
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
Who it's for
Features
Design and feel
Performance
Value for money
Pros
Cons
Today’s best deal
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.
Comfort
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.
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?
Just to recap, here are my top five again:
- CRBN Pro Team Backpack - Best overall
- Mangrove pickleball bag - Best cheap
- JOOLA Tour Elite Pickleball Bag - Best for storage
- CRBN Pro Team Sling Bag - Best sling
- Franklin Sports Premium Backpack - Best comfort
Update notes
October 1, 2023
- 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.
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