If you are switching bags or starting a new job, here are some work bag essentials you’ll want to have with you as you navigate the work day. They’re all about helping you feel prepared, comfy and a little extra confident when you’re at work.
If I’ve missed anything, do let me know! I’ll update the list to add more of your favorite essentials.
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Work bag essentials: practical must-haves
Work ID
With most offices, work ID doubles as a key card to get into the building. So, it’s pretty important to have in your work bag. A great way to remember it is to add it to a cute card holder, with a lanyard attached.
You can opt for the company’s badge holders or get some really aesthetic and cute ones. This is one of my favorites.
Wallet
You just can’t leave home without money and bank cards, nowadays. And, if you’re driving, having a permit on you is mandatory. So, it’s best to keep everything in a wallet. I prefer slim ones that aren’t too bulky.
If coins are part of your everyday, this cute wallet may be better suited for your needs.
Keys
House keys, car keys, office keys, they’re all pretty important. Double check that they’re in your bag before you head out the door.
Devices
The devices you use during the day at the office also count as work bag essentials. So, be sure to take your laptop and phone with you to work. Sometimes, tablets, mouse, mini keyboards and stands are necessary too.
Chargers
Don’t be the one that always has to borrow a charger. Buy a bulk set of short and long chargers online and keep a few in your bag, in the office, in your car, wherever. These USB-c fast charging cables and blocks come in a bunch of aesthetic colors and the cables are about 6 feet in length!
Glasses
It’s important to remember your glasses too! Microfiber cloths, alcohol wipes and the glasses container are all important for keeping the glasses clean and safe in your bag. If it’s super sunny, be sure to pack your shades too!
Earbuds
Do you prefer earbuds, Bluetooth headphones or corded ones? Take your preferred set to the office so you can have virtual meetings without disturbing the colleagues next to you.
The JBL vibe and Airpods are classic options and I really like the new clip-on ones too.
Feminine essentials
Whether you use pads, tampons, the cup, or period undies, pack them in your bag. I usually add mine to a mini toiletries pouch that I could take to the bathroom with me. This pouch is super cute!
Meds and first aid
Much like feminine products, you’ll definitely want to keep some painkillers in your bag. Of course, a couple plasters, alcohol wipes, allergy tablets, and your preferred meds are also important to keep handy. Pop these in your toiletries pouch to keep them all in one place.
Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
Post 2020, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes have taken a permanent spot in my work bag. It’s always important to have clean hands and a clean space, especially if you use public transport to commute to work. These Touchland sanitizer sprays are compact, sleek and adorable!
Tissue or handkerchief
For spills and sneezes, having tissues or a handkerchief on hand can feel like a lifesaver. They are so important when you need to wipe the desk you are using, fix your makeup, or if someone is upset.
Pen
You always need a pen when you’re at work. From making quick notes to remember to signing documents or a coworker’s birthday card, good quality pens are office bag essentials. I like these.
More things to have in your work bag
Power bank
If the batteries of your devices are not holding charge as well as they should, consider investing in a power bank. While not a work bag essential item, it’s still pretty handy when you are on-the-go without a wall plug in sight. This one is so tiny.
Notebook
When the devices fail, having a good notebook on hand is so important. And, if you like old-school record keeping, journaling and planning, a simple notebook is a great addition to your office bag. You never know when that brilliant idea is going to strike!
Snacks
Whether you are having a long day at the office or you’re feeling a little light-headed, snacks are work bag must-haves. Small packages of sweet or savory crisps, protein bars, nuts and anything that won’t melt or make a mess are great.
Mints
Mints, gum, mouth wash, and even floss are all helpful when you have an impromptu, in-person meeting after you had a garlicky lunch. Keep extras for your work besties too!
Makeup
Even if you’re not big on makeup, a small, simple touch-up kit is helpful to have in your bag. A little powder, oil absorbing wipes, eyeliner, lip color and gloss don’t take up much space but are useful when you need to freshen up before a big meeting.
The bareMinerals setting powder is a nice option to have.
Comb (or brush)
Wind, humidity and a long workday are not friends! A small brush or folding comb is such a bonus and saves you from a bad hair day when everything else at work is on fire.
Fragrance
Whether it’s a hot day out or you just want to smell good, a mini perfume bottle in your bag makes perfect sense. This one isn’t too small but smells great.
Lotion
Office a/c can be tough on your skin. So, a small bottle of lotion is helpful when you are battling dry skin. There are lots of tiny options available and this one is my favorite.
Essential oils
For stressful work environments, where you need a little help to relax during the day, some lavender essential oil is nice to have in your purse. Open the bottle, breathe deeply and feel your body relax. You can also add a couple drops to a tissue and keep it on your table, while you work.
Scarf
When the office feels a little chilly, having a light, cozy scarf in your bag saves you from having a chilly afternoon. And, let’s be honest, they’re never going to adjust the temperature to ‘normal!’ Get this cotton one, it is lovely.
Hair scrunchies
When you’re locked in at work and want to pull your hair back, reach for hair scrunchies in your bag! I mean I keep extra hair clips, ties and scrunchies just about everywhere – in my desk, in my bag, in the car and more. Strangely, they always keep disappearing and I’m always buying more. Ha!
Water bottle
If your bag has the space for it, an insulated water bottle would be a great addition. You can fill it with regular water or sip on warm tea. The bottle will surely keep cold drinks cold and hot ones very warm. And, it can save you from buying overpriced drinks while keeping you hydrated.
Having your bag prepped with all these work bag essentials is sure to take away some mental load. It’ll help you feel calmer and more ready to take on whatever comes your way at the office.
What are your purse essentials? I’d love to know! And, if you’re interested, check out these morning affirmations to start the day. Use them while you get ready for work.
