The Easy (& Stylish!) Way to Carry Your Yoga Mat with Just a Strap

Hey yogi friend! 🌿 Ever struggled to juggle your yoga mat, water bottle, and keys while rushing to class? I’ve been there—fumbling at the studio door, trying not to drop everything. But here’s a little secret: your yoga strap can double as the perfect mat carrier!

No need to buy a separate mat sling or bulky bag. With a few simple tricks, you can turn that trusty strap into a hands-free, secure, and even stylish way to tote your mat. Let me show you how!

Table of Contents

Why Your Yoga Strap is the Best Mat Carrier?

Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about why this works so well:
✅ Lightweight & simple – No extra gear needed.
✅ Adjustable fit – Tighten or loosen for comfort.
✅ No slipping – Keeps your mat snugly rolled.
✅ Doubles as a prop – Need a strap for stretches? Just unwrap and use it!

Plus, it looks kinda cool—like you’ve got that effortless yogi vibe going on. 😉

3 Easy Ways to Carry Your Mat with a Strap

1. The Classic Shoulder Sling (Quick & Easy)

Best for: Short walks, when you want to keep it simple.

Roll your mat tightly (the tighter, the better it stays!).
Fold your strap in half to make a loop at one end.
Wrap it around the top third of your mat (near where your hands naturally hold it).
Thread the loose ends through the loop and pull snug.
Slip the long end over your shoulder—voilà, hands-free carrying!

Pro Tip: If your strap slides, wrap it twice before looping for extra security.

2. The Backpack Hack (For Ultimate Freedom)

Best for: Longer walks, biking, or when you need both hands free.

Roll your mat as usual.
Loop the strap around the mat twice, creating two parallel bands.
Cross the straps behind the mat (like an “X”).
Slip your arms through the loops—now it’s a yoga mat backpack!

This is my go-to when I’m biking to the studio or running errands afterward.

3. The Buckle Strap Method (For Adjustable Comfort)

Best for: Thicker mats or straps with metal buckles (like most yoga straps).

Roll your mat tightly.
Wrap the strap around the middle and thread it through the buckle.
Tighten until secure, then adjust the length to wear crossbody or over one shoulder.

This one feels the most polished—like you’ve got a custom-made mat sling!

Yoga Strap Mat-Carrying Methods Comparison

Method	Best For	How to Do It	Pro Tip
Classic Shoulder Sling	Quick trips, simplicity	1. Roll mat tightly. 2. Fold strap in half, loop around top third of mat. 3. Thread ends through loop, pull snug. 4. Slip over shoulder.	Wrap strap twice for extra security.
Backpack Hack	Hands-free carrying (long walks, biking)	1. Roll mat. 2. Loop strap around mat twice (parallel bands). 3. Cross straps behind mat (“X” shape). 4. Wear like a backpack.	Great for heavier mats!
Buckle Strap Method	Adjustable fit (thicker mats)	1. Roll mat. 2. Wrap strap around middle, thread through buckle. 3. Tighten, adjust length.	Wear crossbody for even weight distribution.

Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Carry

✨ Prevent unrolling – If your mat loosens mid-walk, try a quick extra loop or tuck the end under the strap.
✨ Add a carabiner – Clip your keys or water bottle to the strap for extra convenience.
✨ Get creative with colors – Match your strap to your mat for a cute, coordinated look.

Final Thought: Less Stuff, More Flow

One of my favorite parts of yoga is how it teaches us to simplify. Why buy a separate mat carrier when your strap can do the job just as well? Plus, it’s one less thing to forget at home!

Next time you roll up your mat, try this trick—you might never go back to awkward arm-carrying again.

Do you have a favorite way to carry your mat? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear!

FAQs

1. Will any yoga strap work for carrying a mat?

Yes! Most standard yoga straps (6–8 feet long) work well. Buckle straps offer adjustability, while D-ring straps can be tightened securely. Avoid very short straps (under 4 feet) for comfort.

2. Can I use this method with a thick or heavy mat?

Absolutely! For thicker mats:

Use the Backpack Hack for even weight distribution.
Wrap the strap twice around the mat for extra security.
Opt for a wide, sturdy strap (1.5–2 inches wide) to prevent digging into your shoulder.

3. My mat keeps unrolling—how do I fix this?

Try these tricks:

Roll the mat tightly before securing the strap.
Tuck the loose end of the mat under the strap before carrying.
Use a rubber band or Velcro strap at the top/bottom for added hold.

4. Is this method comfortable for long walks?

Yes, but adjust for comfort:

For shoulder carry, pad the strap with a scarf if it digs in.
For crossbody or backpack style, adjust the strap so the mat rests snugly against your back.

5. Can I attach other items (like a water bottle) to the strap?

Definitely! Clip a carabiner to the strap’s loop or buckle to hang:

Water bottles
Small pouches (for keys/wallet)
Sandals (if your strap is long enough)

6. What if my strap slides off my shoulder?

Shorten the strap so the mat sits higher (near your armpit).
Try the crossbody method (diagonal across your torso) for stability.

7. How do I clean my strap if it gets dirty from carrying my mat?

Machine washable straps: Use cold water, gentle cycle, air dry.
Non-machine washable: Spot-clean with mild soap and water.
Quick refresh: Spritz with a mix of water + essential oils (e.g., tea tree for freshness).

8. Can I use a belt or scarf instead of a yoga strap?

Yes, in a pinch! A long belt, scarf, or even a robe tie can work. Just ensure:

It’s strong enough to hold the mat’s weight.
You can tie it tightly (double knots help!).

9. Will this damage my yoga strap over time?

Not usually! Yoga straps are designed for tension. To prolong its life:

Avoid over-tightening the buckle.
Rotate straps if you use them daily.

10. What’s the most stylish way to carry my mat with a strap?

For aesthetic points:

Match your strap color to your mat or outfit.
Try the crossbody sling for a chic, effortless look.
Add a tassel or charm to the strap’s loop!

Shineoria