A Designer’s Backpack

I lug around a hefty backpack every day–it probably weighs upward of 20lbs. Sometimes I even wonder why it’s that heavy, but then I remember it’s because of all my random designer nick-nacks that I can’t live without! Let’s dive into the contents of my backpack–WARNING–it may be terrifying…

1) Laptop

The absolute necessity for any graphic designer: a laptop. I use a 16in MacBook Pro with 32GB of storage. It’s important to have a lot of storage as a designer, not only to keep all your files, but also to load and run your applications.

2) External Storage

Although my computer has loads of storage, I always additionally save my files on an external drive so that there is little to no chance of losing my files forever in the case of a computer crash. I also make a point to go through and delete old or unnecessary files off my computer about twice a year. I will transfer them over to two external drives (having a main and backup drive is ideal) and delete them off my computer to open up more storage for future projects.

3) Sketchbook

While I love my laptop, I must always have a sketchbook to work out ideas physically too (rather than only digitally). I don’t have a go-to brand when it comes to sketchbooks; usually they are just random blank journals I can get for cheap or were gifted to me (they make for great Christmas/Birthday gifts).

4) Pencils

I always have around 4 to 5 pencils in my backpack, and they are nothing fancy at all! I simply use the good ole’ BIC mechanical pencils that you can get at any office supply store or even a Walmart! I love the fine tip of a mechanical pencil and the convenience of being able to replace lead and erasers.

5) Pens

Along with my pencils, I also carry an assortment of pens. Unlike my pencils, I’m not as particular with my pens. Typically, I just collect a variety of pens and markers that write/mark in different ways. Some of my favorites I have collected are Pilot Pens, Sharpie Ultra