At one point, I owned an entire closet full of bags. Backpacks, totes, duffels, laptop sleeves, that one canvas sack that screamed “farmer’s market but make it existential.” Each bag had a “purpose.” Each was supposed to solve a problem.
Turns out, the problem wasn’t my bags—it was the fact that I had too many of them.
Now I own one bag. And I use it for everything. Work, travel, errands, existential wanderings. One bag to rule them all. One bag to carry my stuff—and my minimalist credibility.
Here’s how I downsized to a single carry companion—and why I’ll never go back.
Step 1: Identifying the Unicorn Bag
I spent more time picking this bag than I did applying to college. It had to:
- Be carry-on sized
- Hold a laptop without looking like a middle-schooler’s backpack
- Work with every outfit (which, yes, is just neutrals and “I’m tired” tones)
- Function for planes, trains, meetings, and mid-park emotional breakdowns
What I landed on: a sleek, 25–30L backpack. Weatherproof, structured, unbranded. Understated, like me when I’m trying not to cry in public.
Step 2: Emptying the Bag Closet of Shame
I gathered every bag I owned. Lined them up like an intervention. And then I did what needed to be done:
- The tote that never zipped? Gone.
- The gym bag I never gymmed with? Bye.
- That “just in case” duffel I hadn’t used since 2018? Be free.
I donated all of them. Some of them cried. I did not.
Step 3: Making One Bag Work for Everything
Work
- Laptop sleeve inside? Check.
- Fits charger, water bottle, notebook, and a deeply suppressed sigh? Check.
- Looks like I read The New Yorker (but don’t)? Check.
Travel
- One bag = no checked luggage. Ever.
- Airport security becomes a performance piece in efficiency.
- Also works as an impromptu footrest, pillow, and emotional support object.
Daily Errands
- Enough room for groceries, a book I pretend I’m reading, and snacks I am eating.
- No need to switch bags. No forgotten wallets. Just grab and go.
What I Gained by Losing All My Other Bags
1. Simplicity
No more choosing. No more forgetting which bag has my headphones. No more “wrong bag for the wrong moment” anxiety spiral.
2. Quality over Quantity
My one bag is well-made. I invested in it. I take care of it. I know every zipper like a trusted friend.
3. Unexpected Pride
Owning one bag is a weird flex, and I’m leaning into it. People notice. They say things like “Wow, you always have that same bag.” And I nod slowly and say, “Yes. I do.”
What to Look for in Your One Bag
- Durable material – Canvas, ballistic nylon, or waxed heartbreak
- Neutral color – Matches everything. Hides everything.
- Internal organization – But not so much you need a map.
- Clean silhouette – Leave the tactical gear look to people named Chad.
Bonus if it makes you feel like a mysterious character in a European indie film.
Final Thought
You don’t need a different bag for every mood. You don’t need to accessorize your anxiety. You just need one bag that does the job—and does it well.
Simplify your carry. Lighten your load. Let the one bag life set you free.
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