Briefcase Contents: How to Organize Your Work Bag

Learn to make the most of your briefcase's sections and pockets.

The following guide will help you organize your briefcase so you never again feel flustered or embarrassed in a meeting when you can’t find that important document or your pen.

Briefcase looking old fashioned? Discover how good a Von Baer briefcase is here.

1. Prioritize Your Contents

Begin by removing all of the contents in your briefcase.

Lay all of the items on a clean surface.

Begin by discarding anything you don’t need anymore, old papers, garbage, that old Starbucks receipt.

Now take everything that remains, and decide whether it is something that:

1. You use each and every day (such as your laptop, smartphone or your wallet).
2. An item that you only need once in a while (such as a reference book or meeting note).

2. Utilize Compartments

Your briefcase should be organized similarly to your desk at the office, with items you use regularly easier to access then items you use more rarely.

Analyze your briefcase compartments to determine whether it's an easy access pocket, or one that requires more effort to open.

Then, allocate the items based on that logic.

We suggest keeping personal items (such as keys) in the internal zipped pocket, documents in the back section, a laptop in the padded laptop area, and communicative tools such as your phone and personal diary in the easily accessible external front pocket.

Here's a video example of us packing the Von Baer No.1 Briefcase:

• Highlight: Keep frequently used items in the most accessible spots.

Takeaway: Streamlined access saves time and reduces stress during critical moments.

3. Remove Clutter

Ensure that you are not toting around many extra items you don’t need.

Take careful stock and get rid of anything you don’t use.

For instance, the granola bar sitting in there for a month or the book you never get around to reading should be removed.

Your briefcase should be clean and tidy and hold only the essentials.

This way, it will be easy to find things when you need them.

• Key Benefit: Lighter bag, clearer mind.

Summary: A minimalist approach leads to a lighter bag and a more focused day.

4. Keep Rubbish Out

It may be tempting to quickly toss a wrapper or a few coins into your briefcase at times, but remember, a briefcase should be an extension of your office.

A briefcase is no place for garbage.

Your briefcase will quickly become disorganized if you allow yourself to throw loose change, receipts, and food wrappers in it.

Take the time to keep it clean; you will only benefit from keeping your briefcase consistently tidy and garbage-free.

• Critical: Regularly declutter and reorganize your bag.

Essence: Consistent upkeep is fundamental to maintaining optimal organization and efficiency.

5. Avoid Sharp Objects with Tech

Your laptop or phone's screens are sensitive and can be easily scratched by sharp objects.

To prevent accidental damage, pack tech into pockets that don't contain keys or pens.

If you don't have a briefcase with a laptop compartment, see our range of laptop briefcases here.

6. Personal Items & Hygiene

Having a small pouch with personal items can help refresh you between meetings and keep you working at your best.

Take hand sanitizer, a small grooming kit, and an emergency snack - to keep yourself prepared and promote your mental and physical well-being throughout the day.

• Focus: A dedicated space for personal care items ensures you're always at your best.

Insight: Preparedness for personal needs is as crucial as professional preparedness.

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• What bag goes with a suit?
• Best travel bags for short trips
• How to choose a messenger bag
• Briefcase history