article – My work environment was 100% remote for the longest time, but now we go to the office a few days a week. It’s been two years, folks. I need to find my work clothes, shoes and car keys. The good news is that while it’s weird to readjust, I’m getting ready again! This is how I carry it every day.
You can also check the rest Gadgeteer Team’s Favorite Gear Articles for 2022.
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I just can’t settle for a work bag. These days I’m rocking a 16-inch MacBook Pro and need a plus-sized carry-on, but I’m still trying to minimize my gear.I usually reach for it Bellroy Classic Plus Backpack or Chrome Buran III Messenger. But recently I’m back with one of my all-time favorites: Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase. It’s in the office, doing office stuff!
I love the style and simplicity of this bag. It has a large main compartment with a laptop section and a few small gear pockets, a large front pocket, and that’s it. Briefcase style messenger function. It also has hidden backpack straps if I need it.
Next week, who knows what my bag will be? But it’s my go-to right now.
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My load is built around my 16″ MacBook Pro. Here is a photo of everyday essentials. I’ll highlight some of the projects below.
We have multiple drivers in our house, so I used a saddleback leather key ring to find mine in the crowd on the key rack. I will own this keyring forever; fans of SBL may recognize the classic logo!I also use Saddleback Boot Leather iPhone Case. Still tough as nails, both pieces have aged beautifully.
Accessories are essential to keeping my bag organized.I keep all my charger, cable and connector stuff in an oversized Topo Designs Accessory Bag I bought a matching bag. This is their largest size and is big enough to swallow all the wires and dongles.
I also keep a Topo Designs Velcro gear strap to tether bigger things to my bag if needed. Sadly, I don’t think they make that anymore.this with a Nite Ize S-Biner I use it to hang my hydration bottle (28 oz Yeti Rambler and Chug Cap) as I run back and forth. My Commuter has many different connection points, saving precious space in my bag.
This OWC USB-C Travel Dock I am the center of my commute. I love this because it has a USB-C and two USB ports to charge my stuff, and an HDMI adapter if I need to display it on a big screen.
I keep two extra long cables in my bag: a USB-C cable and a USB-to-Lightning cable.I use Marlondo Leather Cord Buckle Tame them both. Simple and effective.
My go-to wallet is the Star Wars Special Edition Harvey’s Billfold. It is made of almost indestructible seat belt material. I also have a matching messenger bag (because my wife likes me), but it’s not big enough for my 15″ laptop. Yep, that’s what Empire was designed for. Ha ha.
I always have a knife in my tool bag, my go-to is No 8 Opinel X Topo Designs Limited Edition. I love this knife. Simple, sharp and reliable. Topo carry sleeves prevent it from getting beaten up when not in use.
I brought two sets of headphones. The work-issued Jabra headset works with all office equipment. But when listening to podcasts or music, I pick up my Shokz OpenRun Pro bone conduction headphones. You’ll see comments about these soon!
After years of experimenting, I finally settled on my notebook and pen combination.
my notebook is Leuchtturm 1917 Medium A5 Dot Hardcover Notebook. This is my all-time favorite notebook for its paper quality, usability, and durable cover. I go through it every 6 months or so.
my pen is Lamy Safari Pen (17F) Amber. I bought this three years ago because I wanted to try the pen. Pens can be dangerous – they’re very collectible – but this little guy is so reliable I haven’t been moved to change it. Three years of daily use and travel with no leaks, cracks or blemishes.
Last but not least, we have coffee solutions. I’ve been an Aeropress fan for years and fell in love with the Aeropress Go when it came out. It’s basically classic Aeropress reconfigured in a packable unit. In my opinion this is the best and easiest coffee solution for bad office coffee beans (I grind it myself at home). But don’t take my word for it! Check out my Gadgeteer Andy Jacobs’ excellent review of the Aeropress Go.
That’s the gear load for now, but going back to the office means I’ll keep testing and tweaking! I’ll update my review as I make changes and additions to my kit!
Don’t forget to check out the rest Gadgeteer Team’s Favorite Gear Articles for 2022.
