At first glance, it may just look like a basic HP backpack. Slim. Grey. Slightly unimpressive. But unzip it, and boom! You’ve entered a different dimension. One where any minor inconvenience has already been anticipated and packed for.
Survival? Not Without This
Call it what you want; a real-life Doraemon pocket, a Mary Poppins bag, or even a TARDIS in backpack form.
To me, this is my multipurpose, go-everywhere (and sometimes emotional support) bag. It has been with me through airport lines, beach days, café work sessions, and random road trips. One time, we even got stuck in LRT Kelana Jaya together! It’s not packed with just “stuff”—it’s a toolkit for life.
What Does My Backpack Make? Magic, Mostly
The Main Diva
First off, I’d like to introduce my MacBook Air AKA my ride-or die for assignments, work, play, streaming music and shows I’ve rewatched way too many times. People around me can tell it is mine by the confused dog sticker on it. I was told that it looks like a dog version of me whenever someone asks me an uncomfortable question. I guess I see it.
Low Battery? Not on My Watch!
My MacBook charger is right inside there with it, because I simply hate seeing the “10% battery left” warning. And yes, that applies to my phone battery as well. That’s why I always carry a fully charged power bank with me. Fun fact: My power bank is equipped with all types of cables and wireless charging too!
There’s Layers to My Baggage
Inside my bag hides a Christmas-themed tote bag given to me by my friend as part of a gift exchange. This is my eco-friendly, “just-in-case-I-buy-something” sidekick. It is usually neatly folded inside my bag, but sometimes the closeted shopaholic in me will accidentally enter a shop or pop-up store and suddenly, the tote’s on active duty, stuffed with items I definitely did not plan to buy. It’s festive, functional, and has seen more impulse buys than I’d like to admit.
For When Typing Feels Wrong
Before you peg me as the environmentally-conscious type (which I try to be), you need to know that I also believe that a notebook and pen are essentials, because sometimes you just need to write things down the old-fashioned way.
I’m Not Type A But…
Need to use a public bathroom without committing emotionally? Tissues and flushable seat covers—I got you. Feeling vulnerable and need a face mask? I have that too. I’ve also got a raincoat stuffed in there, because I do not trust Malaysian weather.
The Hot Mess Prevention Pack
In the “self-care but make it compact” category, we have: soap, lip balm, a tiny bottle of perfume, a Vicks inhaler (classic), and a scrunchie that’s saved my life more than once. Add in some Kopiko coffee candy, and suddenly I’m alert, fresh, and semi-put-together, especially after a long commute.
Drowning Out The World
Speaking of commutes, I only survive the long journey to and from work thanks to my favourite wireless earphones. With them on, it’s just me and my divorced dad rock playlist against the world. These guys create a little sonic bubble that lets me romanticise my life just enough to make me forget that I’m wedged between strangers on a packed train.
I have been asked, “Isn’t it troublesome to carry so much with you all the time?” Honestly, it doesn’t feel like a lot. It’s not about the number of things, but rather, it’s about being oddly, instinctively prepared for whatever chaos life throws at me. And somehow, it all fits. Neatly. Like a puzzle. Like a magic trick.
Because this bag isn’t just what I carry. It’s how I move through the world. Caffeinated, organised, moisturised, and always ready. A little chaotic, very helpful, and unapologetically me.