Let’s remind ourselves why this matters, according to Harvard business review, with demanding workloads and overly full plates, self-neglect can become a familiar pattern for many of us. As feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed increase, it becomes harder to maintain composure and say no to the daily fire drills, interruptions, and demands of others. We may end our workdays feeling completely burned out.
Using you’re work bag to pack those items that help you care for yourself wherever you are can balance this area of your life.
I am a work bag enthusiast! Due to my 💛🖤 of work bags, I’ve been asked to make this an annual post! So here it goes!
Similar to last year, I do not have any affiliation (financial or otherwise) with any of these companies. My opinions are my own. If you want more ideas, check out last year’s post “The Work Bag”.
Please know I HAVE NOT purchased every bag on this list. I 💛 canvassing friends and family for great suggestions. I also enjoy saving a list of favs ongoing so when I want to treat myself I have a mindful list ready to go. I also save favs for gift ideas as most folks know I love a good bag and I do my homework before purchases 😁. This is still exactly the same for me.
What’s Typically Inside my Work Bag?
- Includes:
- Workout sneakers
- Healthy snacks
- Lunch
- Small bluetooth speaker (I like to play LoFi music while working)
- Reusable water bottle
- My Planner/Wallet (new add combo I’m loving!!!)
- Coffee thermos (Check out this post for more info on my love of coffee)
- Contract and File Folders
- Notebook
- Variety of pens and sticky notes
- Small Self-Care kit
- Tech Bag
What I know for sure, is caring for myself no matter where I’m working increases my performance. A quick internet search provided a plethora of research to confirm this sentiment.
Which Bags Made this year’s Top 5?
In no particular order:
- CirrusLite Tote Bag
- Eddie Bauer $32.50
- Notes:
- Per the Friend sharer “very comfortable and the sale price hits”.
- Roomy and fits all the essentials for commuting
- The side pocket fits a large water bottle (hello Stanley’s) with room for other items
- Cinches shut at the top, but would be interested to see if the cinch stays shut over time.
- If you do use public transport this could be a real win for commutes.
- The water-resistant exterior will keep your items nice and dry, yes!
- I have awaited many a train during rain and snow hoping water was not seeping into my laptop 🤦🏾♀️.
- The water-resistant exterior will keep your items nice and dry, yes!
2. Denim Zippered Tote Bag
- Shop ARL $59.00
- Notes:
- Due to the shape, a purse organizer insert can be very helpful.
- The zip top is great for commuter travel and keeping your items safe.
- Handles + Crossbody strap vibes with whatever carrying methods your feeling that day.
- A front pocket for easy access to your work badge is a must for me!
- Inside pockets for easy reach pens, planner, essentials.
- The inside is wider at the bottom perfect for files, laptop, and office needs.
- Cotton makes it “lighter” so won’t weigh down while carrying.
- I sent this bag as a gift to a Friend, and she LOVED it!! Highly recommend it.
- Due to the shape, a purse organizer insert can be very helpful.
- Dooney & Burke $179.00
- Notes:
- A good friend shared this option as it is on her wish lit.
- Magnetic zip closure will make packing up after work a breeze.
- The hard angles give a great professional look if that feel is of interest.
- Comes in a variety of colors which is nice if your having a color “era” right now.
- The weight (2lbs+) could be a draw back if you have a public transportation commute.
- If you commute via car door 2 door I could see this working well.
- Handles + Crossbody strap vibes with whatever carrying methods your feeling that day.
4. Original Tote Bag
- Vera Bradley $245.00
- Notes:
- The size of this bag is deeper than normal totes with plenty of room above a standing laptop
- I utilize this bag pretty often car travel to the office.
- Although it does not keep its shape well, after stuffing it with my items + lunch bag it stands up well!
- Really enjoy the double straps as it gives a more solid carry between places.
- The leather material is surprisingly lightweight.
- I’m truly in a green era right ow and the color is hitting.
- It does come in other colors.
- I’ve carried Vera Bradley Bags for many, many years (former Hoosier!) and I’ve never had a problem with quality.
- I expect this bag will last for some time to come.
5. Lizard Structure Tote Handbag
- NOTIQ $166.00
- Notes:
- This structured tote is amazing to travel!
- Its size is super easy to carry and with sit on top of luggage.
- Because of the lack of zipper I do recommend placing important items in a zippered smaller bag.
- The items quality is also very well done.
- I’ve had this bag for a few years now and it still looks great.
- The Company Owner is Ms. Lady VJ, and incredibly talented woman whose products I adore. NOTIQ
- Its size is super easy to carry and with sit on top of luggage.
- This structured tote is amazing to travel!
BONUS: Best Road Warrior Bag!
Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle
- Dagne Dover $215.00
- The neoprene materials are very lightweight
- I do not recommend using packing cubes with this item, it is meant to pack very tightly your needed items
- I highly recommend watching the packing video on their website. Great tips to pack it tightly.
- Great for overnight work roadtrips
- Also great as a workbag when you need to pack extra clothing for an evening event
- Fits clothing and tech gear
- The material allows for easy cleaning and water resist (not water proof)
- My favorite part- it comes with a couple inserts a small pouch and laundry bag that match the duffle. Love when companies add additional items, more value for the dollar!
Whispers Book 1 is LIVE!
Self-publishing, version 1 won’t be perfect, fancy, or come with all the bells and whistles of a high -powered marketing team.
But it will be from… my … heart.
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