The minimalist tote set-up that allows me to work from anywhere

In the past four years, I have worked remotely as a writer, editor, and podcast producer. Not only that, but as a graduate student I often bring my assignments on the go. Because of the online nature of much of my work, I have been able to take it with me to scenic and remote locations, including Italy, England, Scotland, Florida, the Adirondack Mountains, and, of course, the all-important local coffee shop.

This is my highly refined, tried and true set up for comfortable remote work from anywhere. The best part? It all fits neatly in a medium-large tote bag. For a truly minimalist set up, ignore the optional items, but for max efficiency while traveling I recommend the complete package!

1. Tech support

This category is for all the tech that you will need when working remotely. It takes up the most space in my tote, but has the most firepower. Here is my checklist for all the tech I keep in my bag:

• Laptop: My laptop is essential to what I do; writing articles, answering emails, organizing schedules, and editing all occur on my laptop. Because of its importance, buy a compact case or sleeve that doesn’t take up too much space but will keep your device protected. 
• Phone: With the right plan you can use your phone as a hotspot to access the internet from wherever you are traveling.
• Charging cords: With electronics comes cords. I like to keep mine in a pouch so that they aren’t taking up valuable space elsewhere in my bag. This ensures that the cords last for longer, and I can immediately find what I need.
• Headphones: One of the most important parts of my remote-work bag is headphones of some kind. Because headphones are so important to my productivity, I will often pack an extra set of cheaper earbuds and some small earplugs to cover all my bases. The last two don’t take up much space, but I’ve been grateful to have them when the larger ones run out of battery or stop working. 

Optional

• Power bank: Having a compact power bank ensures that your drained electronics always have the option to charge on the go — keeping you connected no matter what the outlet situation looks like.
• International adapter: I have an adapter that includes U.K., E.U., and U.S. extensions so that whatever country or airport I find myself in, I can have access to power. 
• Mouse: Depending on your kind of work, a bluetooth mouse can be a useful tool to have with you when on the go!

2. Brain support

Sometimes, tech support is not enough. It can be helpful to get your thoughts out of the electronic ether and into the concrete. Here, therefore, are my brain support items — tools that help me overcome writer’s block and stay organized. 

• Notebook: A good slim notebook is invaluable to me while working. If I am getting distracted typing on the laptop, I will move to the notebook and write there, giving me a new perspective and keeping the creative juices flowing. 
• Planner: Having to physically write down events is a helpful tool in memorization; however, you can also save space and use your laptop instead. 
• Pen: If you have a notebook, you must also have a pen. If you are a pencil person, try using a mechanical pencil so that you don’t need to bring a sharpener as well!

Optional

• Highlighter: I find highlighters to be a useful organizational tool — especially in my planner when keeping track of deadlines.
• Sticky notes: You would be surprised how helpful sticky notes can be while working remotely! Let’s say you have something you need to remember to do during your remote work session. You write it on a sticky note and place it next to your laptop. That way, when you are going to pack up your work, you will see the sticky note and remember to do the task before you leave that space!

3. Bodily Comforts

I don’t know about you, but I find it very difficult to work well when I am uncomfortable in any way. This is a simple checklist of things you should have in your purse anyway but can make or break a work session on the go. 

• Water bottle: Depending on where you are working from, buying drinks could be very difficult and/or expensive. Keep your own water bottle on hand. It doesn’t have to be very large, it just has to be enough to keep you hydrated when you need it. 
• Chapstick and lotion: It is the little things that can draw your focus away from the present moment. Having some lotion and chapstick on hand can ensure that you are never caught without the little comforts that help you stay focused. 
• Tissues: These are helpful not just for when you have a cold, but also for any spills or other emergencies that may arise. 
• Sunglasses: One of the joys of remote work is the ability to sit outside. Sunglasses will ensure you do so comfortably; never shy away from that lovely outdoor garden cafe or a table in the piazza because you failed to pack proper eyewear!

Optional

• Pill case: Getting a headache in the noisy airport terminal? Getting motion sickness while working on a train? Keep a little medication on hand for emergencies!
• Mints or gum: Because no one wants to work with smelly breath.  
• Bluelight reading glasses: I spend a lot of time each day staring at a screen. My bluelight glasses protect my eyesight and keep me working more efficiently for longer.
• Umbrella: You have your amazing tote bag all set up — it would be a pity if it got rained on! Put a compact umbrella in your tote to keep your work station safe in damper climates.

And that’s everything! It may seem like a long list, but I promise you that with these items not only will you have everything you need to work from almost anywhere in the world, but they will also fit comfortably in your cute tote bag! Now get out there and make the most of working remotely!