Every ambitious woman knows the importance of having the perfect work bag—one that’s intentionally stocked so you have all your essential items right by your side.

But with the hustle and bustle of everyday life, between quick breakfasts and hurried commutes, some important items can be forgotten. So before you leave for work, check this ultimate list of work bag essentials to make sure you have everything you need to conquer the day.

How many times have you caught yourself searching for your keys? Whether you can’t remember where you set them down or lost them in the depths of your pocket or purse, your keys are one of the most important items in your work bag.

Clipping a keychain onto your bag’s straps or handle provides easy access to them so you don’t have to spend any more time searching.

Of course, you can’t leave home without your wallet. Just like your keys, your wallet is one of your most essential items and is often lost at the bottom of a purse or even worse, forgotten.

Find a wallet that’s right for you—the right size and capacity to hold all of your necessities, cards, cash, etc.—and then make sure it’s always right there in your work bag. You may even want to dedicate a specific compartment to it.

Most of our lives revolve around the small, electronic devices in our bags. But what good are they if they run out of battery? Keeping a charger in your work bag ensures you always have access to your phone so you can stay connected to your family, friends, and work throughout the day.

A portable charger can also be a lifesaver if an emergency happens, like if you get lost or miss your bus on the way home and don’t have access to an outlet. Just make sure your portable charger is also charged before you leave the house.

Even though we’ve come out on the other side of a global pandemic, there’s still the chance of contracting COVID-19, as well as the common cold, flu, and various other illnesses.

Keeping a little bottle of hand sanitiser in your work bag can help ensure you’re practicing good hygiene and keeping your hands clean throughout the day.

It’s recommended that we drink about 11.5 cups of water every day, but living a fast-paced lifestyle can mean this detail gets overlooked. Staying hydrated can help you look and feel good by preventing headaches, hydrating your skin, and keeping you energised throughout the day.

For this reason, consider keeping a water bottle in your bag so you can stay hydrated and thrive during your work day.

The word “snack” can sometimes have a negative connotation, but just like water, snacking is important for replenishing nutrients that keep you focused and energised. The key is to prioritise healthy snacks.

Some convenient, nutritious snacks that can hold up well in your bag include:

• Nuts

• Pretzels

• Granola

• Protein bars

• Trail mix

Make sure to replenish your snacks regularly so you always have an emergency boost of energy before/after your lunch breaks and important meetings.

The temperature in your office can often be unpredictable, but why let the cold affect your productivity? Instead, pack a jacket in your work bag so your progress isn’t ruined by discomfort.

Versatile jackets like our Shelter Jacket and Captivate Bomber are perfect for both leisure and recreational activities. Even better, they’ll elevate your office outfit any day.  

Dressing for the office doesn’t mean you have to feel constricted. Case in point: you can be office-appropriate, comfortable, and fashion-forward with our Preview Legging in Black or our Signature Full Length Legging, both of which feature a sleek silhouette and minimal branding.

No matter which style you choose, pack a pair of leggings in your work bag so you’re prepared to tackle the work day in true comfort.

It’s not every day that you need an umbrella, but when it rains, you'll be glad to have one ready to use. Instead of running through a downpour and shivering through a soggy commute home, always keep an umbrella in your work bag so it’s there when you need it most.

Pack these work bag essentials, and the next time you find yourself rushing out the door, you can feel confident that everything you need is right there with you. Whether it’s healthy snacks keeping you energised throughout the day or a charger in case of emergencies, you’ll be prepared for whatever the day holds. If you’re also planning a workout, explore our gym bag essentials guide. It's perfect for those who want to seamlessly transition from the office to the gym without missing a beat.

And to complete your outfit, there’s P.E Nation.

With P.E Nation, you can dive into an extensive collection of performancewear that can elevate your office outfits with style and comfort. Explore a variety of fashion-forward women’s leggings, versatile women’s jackets, and much more. If you’re wondering how to wear leggings to work, be sure to explore our other article, ensuring you step into your workday with comfort that commands the boardroom. Join Our Nation today.

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Sources:  

Healthline. How Much Water Should You Drink Per Day?

Medline Plus. Snacks for adults.

WebMD. 6 Reasons to Drink Water.