Best Gyms for Travelers 2023: Top 5 Gyms at Any Location

Benefits of a Gym Membership for Travelers

Just because you’re traveling doesn't mean you need to give up on your workout routine. After all, sticking to a consistent exercise schedule can benefit both your mind and body.

But how much time do you need to commit while traveling to reap these benefits?

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should do at least 150 to 300 minutes a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise spread throughout the week.

Examples include walking, running, cycling, swimming, hiking, or cardio fitness classes. You should also do muscle-strengthening activities involving major muscle groups on two or more days a week. This may include strength training machines, circuit training, resistance bands, kettlebells, or boot camp classes.

In addition to the general health perks of exercise, finding time for fitness while traveling helps you stay on track, stick to a schedule, and break up the day. It also gives your body a break from sitting, which can wreak havoc on low back muscles.

Plus, a gym membership allows you to interact with other people, use a shower (if needed!), and even take a dip in the pool, hot tub, or sit in the sauna.

And finally, having a gym membership means you don’t have to rely on hotel gyms, which are often non-existent, closed, crowded, or lack enough equipment for an effective workout.

Since the gyms in this roundup have locations nationwide, you can book hotels based on the location of a fitness facility. That way, you’re within walking distance to your preferred gym.

How to Choose a Gym for Travelers

If you want a gym that works for you at home and on the go, you might be wondering what features to consider and where to start. While not an exhaustive list, these tips can help narrow your search and make the process of finding the right gym quicker, allowing you more time to plan for your trip.

Here are some things to consider when looking for the best gyms for travelers.

Hours

Traveling sometimes means working out during off-hours. If you need early morning or late night access, consider a 24/7 facility.

These gyms are staffed during certain hours of the day but remain open for use all the time. Members use a special key card to get in when no one is on duty.

Otherwise, look for a gym that is open from 5:00am to 10:00pm, most days of the week.

Showers and Locker Rooms

Showers, locker rooms, changing areas, and lockers are must-have features for many travelers. Some gyms have elaborate locker rooms with towels, toiletries, and spacious showers, while others stick to the basics of a few shower stalls, small changing area, and a row of lockers (you bring a lock, towels, and toiletries).

You’ll need to decide your preferences before choosing a gym, and then inquire about these amenities.

At a minimum, the best gyms for travelers should have a designated place for changing clothes, at least one shower, and somewhere to lock up your personal items (you’ll likely need to supply the lock).

Locations

The number of locations and which states they’re in play a significant role in choosing the best gyms for travelers.

All of the companies in this list have a location finder tool on their website that allows you to search based on zip code, city, state, or worldwide if they have facilities outside of the United States.

We recommend using this tool to search for all the possible destinations on your travel list to see which one best matches your plans.

Equipment and Amenities

Whether you want a premium facility with all the perks or a gym with the basics, at a minimum, the best gyms for travelers will have cardio machines such as treadmills, ellipticals, stair climbers, bikes, and rowing machines and resistance equipment, free weights, and stretching areas.

Beyond the cardio and strength training equipment, amenities like sports courts, a swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, massage tables, specialized classes, indoor tracks, are also features to consider.

Contract Requirements

Understanding contract requirements is a key factor when choosing a gym. In general, many gyms offer a month-to-month membership that allows you to cancel without penalty.

These monthly fees are often higher than if you opt to sign a contract. However, a contract locks you into a specified time period. For example, to access the lowest rate, you may need to sign a 3, 6, or 12-month contract, requiring you to pay each month until the time period is up.

If you want the freedom to cancel at any time, ask about month-to-month pricing.

You may pay a few dollars more each month, but you’ll have the option to cancel without a penalty.

What to Pack for the Gym While Traveling

Efficient packing is a priority, especially if your travel plans involve a plane, train, or bus. But bringing an extra bag with your gym necessities shouldn’t add too much bulk to your load, if you do it right. Here are some ideas on what to pack for the gym while traveling.

• Grab a gym bag. A multi-functional gym bag with zippered pockets and plenty of storage is a must-have item for travelers. Look for a durable material that is also machine washable and easy to spot clean. Also, consider size, especially if you need a large bag for clothes, shoes, a yoga mat, and other accessories.
  
• Take your toiletries. Bath towels, washcloths, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and other daily toiletries may not be available in your gym. It’s always a good idea to pack a small bag with the necessities just in case. Also, pack a few plastic bags to store dirty clothes and towels. If possible, bring shower sandals or flip flops. You never know the cleanliness of each facility.
  
• Get the right gear to wear. Lightweight shorts, shirts, sports bras, socks, and workout pants are easy to pack and wash while on the go. Properly fitting cross-training or running shoes are another must-have item for the gym. If you use a fitness watch, heart rate monitor, or other device while exercising, make sure it's got a spot in your bag. More than likely, you’ll be able to change clothes at the gym, even if it’s in a bathroom. All gyms on this list have locker rooms and changing areas available to members.
• Lock it up. A lot of gyms have lockers available to members while working out. That said, you’ll likely need to provide your own lock. For convenience, we recommend a combination lock instead of a key lock, so you don’t risk losing the key while traveling. Some gyms rent locks to members, but you should check before heading out.
• Pack some snacks and a water bottle. Fueling up before you head to the gym is critical. You’ll also want to invest in a leak-proof water bottle so you can sip on fluids while working out. Most facilities have water fountains available to members. Packable snacks like meal replacement bars, energy chews, granola bars, and nuts fit in most gym bags and last for a while.
• Bring your ID. Find a small pocket in your gym bag to stash your photo ID. Not all gyms will ask for this, but you’ll have it just in case. If you have a membership card or key tag, place that in your bag too. And, check to see if your gym has an app you can download with a barcode to scan when you enter the facility.

The Bottom Line

Sticking to your fitness routine while traveling is much easier if you have a gym membership with multiple locations.

Our number one pick is Anytime Fitness for its number of locations, 24/7 hours, and many options for equipment and amenities.

However, there are many great options on this list, and choosing the right gym for you will depend on locations, amenities, equipment, and monthly fees.

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