People always ask why my bag is so heavy. The answer is I’m a “just in case” girl through and through…journals (yes, plural), a camera or two, a book I might not even read, and every little ritual item that makes a coffee shop feel like home. I’ve be...
Sections
4
The Bag
The Writing Essentials
Reading + Capturing
The Little Extras
The Bag
The vessel matters. I’ve tried the trendy ones and the practical ones, and these are the two I actually reach for. Both leather, both age beautifully, both forgive me for carrying way more than I should.
The one I keep coming back to. Fits two journals, a book, a camera, and still closes. Soft leather, ages beautifully, has lived through a lot with me.
Gather Collection - Songmont
My smaller carry for solo dates when I want to pack lighter. Still fits a journal and pen because, well, non-negotiables.
Luna Bag | Full-Grain Leather Crescent Shoulder Bag - Songmont
The non-negotiables. If I leave the house without a pen and something to write in, I genuinely feel off all day. I keep one “real” journal for the big stuff and one scrappy notebook for the half-thoughts — both earn their weight.
The sentimental journal. Where the real writing happens.
Wilde House Paper Open Journal
My “dump journal.” For grocery lists, half-formed thoughts, things I’ll transfer later (or won’t).
Muji High Quality Paper Open-Flat Notebook A6 Black x5
Lives in every bag I own. Cheap, smooth, perfect.
Muji Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen 10-Pack 0.38mm
For when the moment calls for it. Yes, I know which moments call for it.
Kaweco Classic Sport Bordeaux Fountain Pen M
Keeps the pens from rolling around and stabbing me when I dig for keys.
Lightweight Cute Slim Cotton Canvas Pencil Case
Reading + Capturing
A bag without a book feels incomplete to me, even on days I don’t crack it open. The camera is the same…most days I won’t use it, but the days I do are the ones I’m grateful for years later.
A Book I’m Currently Reading. Currently rotating through Letters to a Young Poet. Always at least one in the bag.
Letters to a Young Poet (Penguin Classics)
Tiny, instant, the photos go straight into my journal.
Polaroid Go Gen 2 Mini Instant Camera + Film
Backup pack always, because running out mid-day is a tragedy.
Fujifilm Instax Mini Film Twin Pack 40EXP
Bringing them back. Better for journaling sessions, no charging anxiety.
Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug, Wired Earbuds
The Little Extras
The ritual stuff. The pieces that turn a coffee shop into a writing desk and a long errand into a solo date. None of these are “necessary” but they’re the ones I’d miss most if my bag got stolen.
Where I stash ticket stubs, pressed flowers, notes from friends. Empties into my journal at the end of the week.
PAZIMIIK Large Cotton Makeup Bag Red Stripe
The one that’s been in every bag I’ve owned since I was 16.
Burt's Bees 100% Natural Lip Balm
For long days when I need to feel human again. Heritage Store is my go-to.
HERITAGE STORE Rosewater Face Mist 4oz
My signature. Dab on wrists before walking into a coffee shop, instant ritual.
Replica By The Fireplace EDT Spray 3.4 oz
For when the wind wins.
2PCS Tortoise & Leopard Hair Claw Clips
I stopped carrying a full wallet years ago. Cards, ID, one folded twenty.
Vaultskin MOORGATE Slim RFID Leather Card Holder
Coffee shops dry my hands out and I’m not above being dramatic about it.
