Tote Bag

I usually bring a black Uniqlo tote bag to the coffee shop, packed with my journal, a small sketchbook, a pen case, a tablet, and a camera. I bought this tote almost ten years ago, and it’s still my favorite to carry. I like its simple shape, sturdy build, and quality, but what really makes it the best is the number of interior pockets. They help me keep my journal, stationery, and gadgets organized, so nothing gets lost at the bottom. Since it has lasted so long and works so well, it remains the most practical bag for my creative café sessions.

Although my bag already has pockets, I also added a separate organizer in the middle for my camera and tablet. The padded organizer protects my gadgets, while the tote pockets store all my stationery.

Here are a few of my must-haves stationery I have in my bag:

• Precision Pens: I love Sakura Pigma Microns because their waterproof, archival ink won’t smudge, even if you spill coffee. And for a smoother and color-coding, I carry Pilot Hi-Tec-C Coleto Multi-pen.

• Highlighters: I use Zebra Mildliners. They give soft, pretty highlights and won’t bleed through thin journal pages.

• Post-its and Stickers: These help me stay organized while adding a bit of creativity and fun to my notes.

• Calligraphy Felt Pens: Easy-of-use calligraphy felt pens from Kuretake.

Oh yes, I carry a tote bag to the coffee shop instead of the backpack I use for work. I feel more relaxed with a tote bag, and it acts as a "psychological switch", signaling my mind to shift from productivity to leisure. While a backpack is for utility, a tote bag represents a more casual and lighter experience.

Walking to a coffee shop with my tote bag, I usually find a cozy corner, hopefully away from the line and people talking loudly on video calls. Once I sit down, I take out my tablet, browse online magazines, and write down notes on interesting things I find or during a chat with people I know, all while drinking my soy latte. The background noise, music, and the smell of fresh coffee make it the perfect place to think about my writing and drawing in my journal.