Briefcase Essentials: The Saddleback Leather Company Giveaway

Small kit Needle/string/button can be very minimal in weight/space but be great when really needed

I agree with the items you suggested, but would add a travel toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste. There is nothing worse than being stuck at work after lunch smelling terrible as you talk to coworkers or supervisors. Great giveaway, thanks Saddleback!

Pen, notepad, snack, water, resume and…tie?

In this day and age, any briefcase must have a computer in it. Nothing overly pretentious or heavy, but a good laptop wouldn’t go amiss. But I think that’s a no-brainer. Also on the tech front, the USB drive can carry a whole lot more than just a resume. It’s definitely a must.

In addition to the altoids survival tin (which could probably be tweaked for “urban” survival), I would suggest a normal altoids tin. You never know when you could use a quick breath-freshning – after a cup of joe, when you run into that pretty lady, or when you’re getting on the elevator with your boss’s boss.

Of course, you’re also missing a pen. I prefer fountain pens, they write better, more smoothly, and are really classy. I usually carry one of my less expensive ones, like a Lamy Safari or Vista, but a much nicer one, like a Pelikan M250 or a Lamy 2000 really are awesome, with either some old-school class, or new-school style respectively. And probably a moleskine pocket organizer as well. Mine’s a life saver.

I’m sure you could really load the briefcase down with a ton of stuff, but really, I prefer it streamlined and “high speed, low drag” as the saying goes. It’s a *brief*case, not a man-purse.

i agree, i also think a moleskin and a great pen is a good addition.

Tom:
Depending on which of these new-fangled cell phones you have now, a digital camera might be a tad redundant, but it is a good suggestion. Either as a hobby, or when you need to get a picture (fender bender?).

Matt:
I forgot the asprin/advil. And I really shouldn’t, ’cause I get migraines, and that stuff is what knocks them out.

My briefcase list:
USB Pendrive with linux and some diagnostic utilities (I’m a geek by trade).
My laptop in a neoprene sleeve.
A flashlight with spare batteries.
My multitool (leatherman wave).
Two slimfast meal bars (can get you through a whole day if you’re not gluttonous).
A bottle of water.
20 feet of paracord and two keychain carabiners (won’t be rappelling with it, but it’s come in quite handy for other things multiple times).
Digital camera with spare battery.
Cell phone charger.

That’s it because that’s all I can fit in my current bag.

Pen & Notebook, Keys, Pocket Knife/Leatherman, Business Cards, USB Flash Drive, Extra Cash/Change, Asprin, Inhaler (for us asthmatics), Book, Crosswords, iPod, Pocket Survival Kit, Mini-Flashlight, Cellphone, and…Lint Roller

Journal, Wallet, Keys, Pocket Knife, Cigar Cutter, Travel Humidor, USB Drive, Stationary Set, Nip Bottle of Whiskey, Resume, Business Card Holder w/ Calling Cards and Business Cards, Daily Newspaper, Condoms, Trail Mix and Prescriptions.

A well stocked bag is essential to get any man through his day. Though through college I was always a backpack guy, I’ve recently made the switch over to the brief case. Though certainly not as casual or comfortable, it definitely carries a certain level of class and distinction. Here are a few items I’m always sure to have on me.

- Laptop computer – work, communication and entertainment combine in one small package…kind of a no-brainer.

- Day planner – yeah, I could go digital, but old habits die hard.

- Thermos – we all have our vices, mine is coffee.

- Snacks – microwave popcorn is a big one. Its surprising how often a microwave is within reach and that makes for a pretty cheap, satisfying and healthy anytime snack.

Then there’s the obvious stuff (pens, pencils, water bottle etc) but I figured I would list the more interesting stuff I came up with.

-mac laptop
-cologne
-notebook
-planner
-wallet
-pens
-cell phone

Don’t forget advil and rolaids.

my briefcase is certainly not as nice but contains:
- a real nice pen – my uncle got me a space pen YEARS ago that i still use (bring on the seinfeld jokes)
- a large notebook AND a jotter – when you’re on the street you don’t want to fumble with a big notebook to write stuff down.
- sunglasses case/polishing cloth
- leatherman multi tool
- business cards
- a good book to read at lunch (currently Artie Lange’s: Too Fat To Fish)
- phone charger – my BBerry can’t seem to hold a charge anymore
- a nice pair of headphones (sometimes earbuds don’t do)
- small external firelite drive – takin work home – takin work back to work

i didn’t start using a briefcase until recently – now it’s as necessary as my morning coffee

I like to keep the following in my briefcase (some are duplicates):
Book
Collapsable umbrella
ruled notepad
good book
trade magazines
basic office supplies – paper clips, post-it notes, sharpie marker, 3 pens, business cards
USB card with resume (you never know who you’ll run into on life’s journeys)
extra handkerchief
Pepto Bismol Tablets
Oral B Brush Ups
ipod w/headphones
small calculator

I think the days newspaper not only keeps one up on the days events but also gives a very distinguished look. Granola bars are also a necessity

I carry a lot of odds and ends in my bag because I never know what I’ll need to do. I work in music and also in an office and I find myriad situations to use many different USB thumb drives and small hard drives with current projects. I carry USB cable chargers for my phone and iPod, because one never knows when a charge is necessary.

For audio engineering, I carry a Digidesign MBox 2 Micro and a few iLoks on a USB hub, allowing me a full-fledged Pro Tools rig in a small pocket of my bag. This has come in handy more times than I can remember and is worth every penny. I simply take the hub and iLoks out to use on my home rig but leave the Micro in my bag for emergencies. When able, I carry my Grado reference headphones in a nice carrying case, allowing me top-quality referencing and listening at a moment’s notice.

I carry a Fisher Space Pen, Sharpies and a pencil, plus a mini-Moleskine with a few post-its stuck in the back if I need to hand out a note. I also carry a vintage cigarette case with my calling cards.

As one of my most prized possessions and useful items, I carry a Leatherman Wave multi-tool everywhere I go. It’s helpful for cooking, crafting, creating, fixing, breaking, and many other random but essential situations.

I also carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer, a wheel of dental floss and a packet of mints with me because it’s important to practice good hygiene in every situation.

I’m sure this sounds like a lot but it fits neatly and compactly in a mid-sized messenger-bag style briefcase. I agree that carrying items in pockets tends to wear clothing out and appear unsightly; I’m thankful that quality bags allow for easy and attractive access to our personal effects without weighing us down.

Although I’m a pack-rat, I also subscribe to the “only what you can carry on your back at a dead run” school of thought. That being said, here would be my revisions:

- Lose the umbrella. Adult men are approx. 60% water anyway, and this is “Art of Manliness,” not “Art of Metroness.” Don’t be a pansy, if it rains, get wet!

- Also, leave the stationery and newspaper at home, unless they’re for kindling.

- Add a lighter, leatherman, and flashlight, and you’re good to go.

One thing that should definitely go in a briefcase is your wallet. Do not put this in your slacks pocket because it will add a funny lump to your bum or your thigh. Keep this in your briefcase along with a picture of your sweetheart in the wallet. You never know when you befriend a little old women on the street and get to talking. Plus- it’ll give you bonus points with the misses if she knows you keep a photo of her in with your valuables.

Band-aids. These are great for everything! Even if you don’t use them for wounds you can use the adhesive part to hold things together in a pinch, or if you need to give your heel a little extra padding from the back of your dress shoes.

Shoelaces. Two of them preferably. These will come in handy if you break one of yours, or need to tie something. I cant recall how many times I’ve needed a bit of string to tie something and my boyfriend is always prepared with an extra shoelace.

E-Book. Much more convenient than a traditional novel- lighter and more space efficient. Plus these can hold many different novels in the event that you want to read something other than what you would currently have were it a paper back.

Cell Phone- put this in the briefcase for the same reason as your wallet- no bulging!

Note pad/ mole skin- because you never know when you need to write a to-do list or jot down someones contact information.

There is always one thing to carry in bags, more bags. Nothing like having plenty of bags around.

-Cell Phone w/ charger
-Pen/pencil
-extra pair of socks (especially on rainy days)
-business cards
-Glasses/Sunglasses (I wear contacts)
-Eyedrops
-Moleskine (use as a journal, planner, notebook)
-Slim Digital Camera
-Extra Cash
-Aspirin
-Newspaper
-Mint Gum (never liked the loud clacks of Altoids/Tic Tacs)
-Small spray on deodorant
-A folder (for storing any papers/documents without it crumbling)
*Cigarettes and a zippo (for smokers)
*Netbook- though not everyone owns a small netbook

My flash drive’s on my key chain. I hate bulky pockets so I usually keep everything in a messenger bag/briefcase/backpack.

I tend to always have the following:
notepaper
pen & pencil
laptop (most of the time)
a multi-tool (one step up from the pocket knife) my preference is the Leatherman Wave)
USB drive
a book
a small first aid kit seems very appropriate
since I spend a lot of time on my bike, I carry a flat repair kit in my bag
glasses cleaning cloth
water bottle

Grant: Good point about the cell phone, but I don’t carry one. I don’t enjoy being reachable most of the time. Call me old fashioned.

My bag-carried essentials:

- Leatherman multitool
- Light My Fire polycarbonate spork (never know when you’ll be short a utensil)
- napkins (just a couple)
- pens (fountain) and pencils
- Moleskine notebook
- book
- mints (preferably Altoids)
- business cards
- Tide-to-go pen
- mini medicine kit:
band-aids
eyedrops
aspirin/ibuprofen/etc. (small vial)
eyeglass screwdriver
anti-diarrheal pills (2-4)
antacid pills (small packet)
cough drops (2-4)
hand sanitizer
lip balm
- a couple of decent quality tea bags
- water bottle (love my Sigg flask)
- retractable phone charger

That may sound like alot, but everything besides the book and water bottle fit nicely in the outer accessory pocket of my man bag.

I think that if any of you take any medications at all, you should always carry an extra night’s supply of those in a plastic baggy or a waterproof canister-key chain. You never know. And Asprin or some general pain reliever, in case you’ve got that killer headache.

Maybe an extra pair of sunglasses or readers in case you lose yours.

Thanks AoM and Saddleback.

Pen and pencil
Notepad
Business cards
Snack bar
Aleve
Planner book
Mints or gum
Reading materials – book, magazine, etc.
Multi-tool (except when flying)
Emergency phone list

I always keep handy:

A small flashlight
A half-sized notebook & stylish pen
A Swiss Army Knife
A backup USB drive
My Book of the moment
A pack of gum
And a spare cell phone charger…

Only needed it twice but both times was glad to have it

I usually bring my knitting along, as well as the scissors and tape measure that often come in handy anyway. I also find that bandaids/disinfectant, sunglasses and case, and an umbrella are essentials.

For work as a TA, I usually have several mechanical pencils and refills of graphite and erasers. I also bring loose leaf paper on a clipboard, so that after working through problems with students they can keep the paper and store it easily.

Lots of great suggestions here it’s hard to think of something original, but here’s my list anyway.

- Laptop with assorted cords/cables
- Paperback book
- Multi-tool
- Medicine (Tylenol & Immodium)
- Business Cards
- Small Flashlight
- Cell Phone with Charger
- Digital Camera
- USB Drive
- Wallet

This is the perfect set of contents, because it’s what I’m already carrying around:
-Cufflinks/tie clip set
-Pack of gum
-Passport/bankbooks
-Thermos of coffee
-Business card case
-Spare phone battery
-USB drives
-Keyring pocketknife
-Pens, drafting pencil and eraser
-Moleskine (graph paper layout; make it anything you want)
-Altoids “kit” (handywipe, chapstick, earplugs)
-Handkerchief
-Camera
-Sunglasses
-Portfolio (8×10 pad, sleeves for documents
-A few binder clips because they’re always useful for something

All good suggestions, but there’s one thing that I wouldn’t be caught without that I haven’t seen mentioned: a deck of cards. Always handy, always welcome, and I, at least, can never find them when I need them. I would also second (or third or fourth) a charge/sync cable for your media player of choice; if your iPod dies on the ride into work, what’re you going to for the ride back?

Paper and pencil in the bag.

-Notebook
-Pencil
-Swiss Army Knife
-USB Drives
-Water Bottle
-Sunglasses
-Camera
-Folder [to hold things]
-Umbrella
-FOOD!

I travel quite often and bring along in my briefcase some just incase items.
-cheap little hotel sewing kit because you never no when you lose a button.
-towelettes
-Tylenol
-TIDE PEN because everyone gets a stain occasionally.
-Chap stick
-Mints
-disposable toothbrush

These little items have saved me on more than one occasion.

All I would add to your list is a comb. I have a nifty little folding brush/comb combo, which is nice for when my hair is different lengths or different strengths of greasiness.

Survival is great, but should also include legal survival at it’s most base and fundamental: copy of the US Constitution. I have one in my car and one in my bag and one on my palm pilot.
L.

My list is on the shorter side – I tend to be of the “do more with less” school of thought, and it is always important to leave a fair amount of free space in one’s briefcase – who knows what you’ll need to stow?

Here’s what I would put in such a case:

-Cell phone
It goes without saying that a cell phone is nearly essential in modern life. Plus, it allows others to contact you, and a man should be available to help others, even if they are well out of earshot.
- Notebook
Useful for journaling, compiling to-do and shopping lists, taking notes, leaving notes, sketching, brainstorming, impromptu fire fuel (one never knows . . .)
- Pen (black ink – it’s the most formal and widely accepted, plus it always looks good) and mechanical pencil (less maintenance, carries more spare lead, no messy shavings)
- A good book or two (I would carry a Gideons Bible and something else – perhaps an appropriate reference guide when abroad or an enriching work of fiction or non-fiction)
- Multi-tool
A good multi-tool will do just about anything, and you can pack accessories like bit drivers with one in a briefcase. This may be one of the ultimate man accessories.
- Altoids Survival Kit
Useful tools like this can turn misfortune into adventure. In addition, they’re very economical as far as space goes.
- Mints (gum optional)
Important for keeping one’s breath pleasant after meals and offering to others. Can also serve to placate children – those who have found themselves unable to do so know of its import.
- Umbrella
Useful for maintaining one’s appearance even in disagreeable weather and offering to others should they lack one. Also, it’s shade with a handle.
- Optional: A small musical instrument
I’m a musician-in-training, so carrying something small would allow me to pass time developing skill and working out melodic ideas. Something simple like a harmonica or ocarina would be simple to learn and fun to play around with and entertain others.
- Optional: A weapon
Some of us prefer to exercise our right (where the government recognizes it) to carry weaponry to defend ourselves. Carrying a handgun (for example) in a briefcase is much easier than carrying it on one’s person since you don’t have to dress around the gun. My father carries a handgun, so it’s the example that comes to mind – a taser, stun gun, or chemical spray could easily be substituted for those who prefer them to firearms. A man should, in my opinion, be prepared to defend himself and others who may need defense.
Optional: Wallet
Clearly, a wallet (or at least its contents) are necessary items. However, I tend to prefer keeping my wallet in a front pants pocket (I use a Jimi {thejimi.com} to hold ID, cards, and sufficient cash in a slim, durable case that disappears into my pocket) for safety; remembering the admonition not to put all of one’s eggs in a single basket, keeping a couple necessary items on one’s person may be wise – should one’s briefcase be misplaced or stolen, one isn’t left without all of the useful things contained within. I would definitely suggest a passport be carried on one’s person religiously when abroad – there are around-the-neck pouches for this application.

Certainly, no two men’s needs are completely identical, but I feel my list is a completely workable base template to expand upon as needed. The items listed were chosen for utility and size economy – between these items, you should be reasonably prepared for just about anything while remaining unencumbered. Should I be blessed to win this beautiful case, this is exactly what I will equip it with. If not, hopefully someone finds it useful or entertaining.

A pocket knife – You never know when you’re going to need a pocket knife, but it’s always good to have one in an emergency.

I don’t have a briefcase yet, but as a student I still carry around a quality backpack.

What I usually have in a bag over my shoulder:
- School materials (textbooks, manuals, folders,binders, notebooks)
- Variety of writing utensils (pens, pencils, highlighters, a sharpie)
- USB flashdrive
- Bus schedules for the buses I ride
- Journal
- Planner
- Favorite book
- Eyeglasses + case
- Bottled water
- Calculator
- Granola bars

Not an extensive list by any means, just something that is always in my backpack. Everything else that I carry is on person in my pockets.

Well, I’ve already joined the Man Bag group and sent out the mass email so here’s my list. As a designer, I always carry the following:

- Gel pen
- Fountain pen
- Technical pen (usually a .01 or a .03 Staedtler)
- a small Moleskine for my daily ruminations
- a full page-a-day Moleskine calendar
- a large grid Moleskine
- a large blank Moleskine for sketching
- iPod Nano
- ear hooks (I can’t stand buds in my ears)
- glasses and cleaning cloths
- prescription sunglasses
- business card case
- extra cardboard coffee sleeves (I continually re-use one until it falls apart)
- a couple of those green things that Starbucks started giving out months ago that plug the drinking hold in their coffees – it’s the perfect invention cause it means no more spilage all over the car!
- several small 1GB USB drives (I inevitably wind up having to leave CAD files with a client or other designer)
- a large 8GB USB that holds my renderings and current project portfolio
- vitamins and medications
- spare change
- wallet
- keys
- Leatherman multitool
- stamps
- a cigar, cutter and butane lighter
- facial blotting papers (there’s nothing worse than going into a late afternoon meeting with a t-zone so shiny people thing they can see their reflection in your forehead)
- a small dopp kit – nail clippers, toothbrush, mini toothpaste, floss, mints, scissors
- earplugs
- small package of tissues
- collapsible wooden handled umbrella (I do live in Vancouver…)
- small sewing kit that I lifted from a hotel room in Santa Monica
- small empty Tylenol tube that I now use for Advil, Gravol, Claritin/Dimetapp (you’d be amazed how many people with allergies don’t remember to bring an anti-histamine with them)
- a Sigg bottle of water on a carabiner
- cell phone and car charger
- on some days if I know I’m going to be going from work straight to a social function, I’ll bring a sample size of my skin care and moisturizer

I think I’ll go of what I already have in my bad:
- Leather address book
- Compact umbrella
- Thankyou cards (you never know)
- Fountain pen and ink pot
- Notebook
- Lunch and snack (I’m always hungry)
- Leatherman multi tool
- 8GB USB stick
- Creative Zen MP3 player
- Stamps
- Tissues
- A book of fiction

I think that’s everything I have in there now… I should add my survival tin, but I don’t actually carry it with me anymore.

In my Manbag I have
Cellphone
Wallet
A variety of pens
Daytimer
Notebook
USB key
Bible
Another book or magazine
And while not essential I also have right now 1 soother and 1 picture drawn by my four year old daughter

I think all you guys forgot one major thing
CONDOMS
hey you never know

In my bag I carry for school I keep:

Legal Pad
Writing Utensils – Pens, Pencils, Highlighters
A good book
Daily Newspaper
A few powerbars (you never know)
Laptop
USB Stick
Belkin Powerstrip
A few other essentials

Don’t leave home without your goods…

Essentials for a briefcase:

Parker/Cross Pen and Pencil in a pencil case (cloth)
Journal
Netbook w/charger
Reading Material (Classics or school work for me!)
Ebook reader (as replacement or to supplement above)
Altoids (with mints inside!)
Spare USB stick (in addition to the one in your pencil case)
Notebook
Snack (that wont wreck your briefcase if it opens or spills)
Extra ethernet cord just in case!
Headphones.

My backpack (I need a bag)! always contains the following items:
Cellphone
Wallet
Laptop
A good book
Notebooks
Glasses
Change of clothes (generally more casual)
Calculator
Pens
Water
IPod
Headphones

For me, the essentials also include a good puzzle book (e.g. kakuro or sudoku for the numerically minded or a crossword book) and so pen/pencil also needed. My fountain pen travels with me. I also seem to carry alot of dice (but then I do do tabletop roleplays…). Mobile phone (which doubles as a reasonable camera) and ipod are the electrical gubbins.
Notepad and keys rounds things off.

I tend not to carry much else around as I’ve usually got a rucksack and don’t like to be overburdened with stuff

My moleskine, cellphine, mp3 player, pen, newspaper and a book.

Technology: laptop, including charger; flash-drive, and phone charger.

Writing: a small notebook, a pen (preferably a nice fountain pen), and a pencil.

Reading: any book that interests you. Personally, I like to keep a Bible in there too.

Medicine: anti-headache medicine and band aids.

Other things: breath mints, hand sanitizer, music device (ipod, etc.), and a yo-yo, for when you need to have some fun.

This is a sweet bag. Pricey, as some of the other folks have pointed out, but sweet nonetheless. Definitely worthy of carrying a copy of Hemingway’s Short Stories.

My current man bag most important piece is the Leatherman I carry in it. I’ve used that thing in more situations than I can count. I also have notepads of various sizes, pens, paper, laptop, iPod, and more.

Pencil, mints, book

A Moleskin notebook should be an essential for every man. It feels great to actually write down ideas or tasks without being able to just delete them if you don’t pursue or complete them. Plus you get the immense feeling of accomplishment when you finally draw that line through completed works.

When traveling, I carry:

Passport
Journal
Camera
Book
Map
Change of clothes
Personal effects/hygiene
Rain cover
Umbrella
iPod
Bandana (great for wiping your brow)
Sunglasses
Pens
Keys

When using as a book bag:
Laptop
Textbooks (damn you law school)
Pens & Highlighters
iPod
Reading Book
Sunglasses
Various files
Keys
No stabbing/cutting items. Courthouse security guards tend to frown upon that kind of stuff.

For me, I always keep an umbrella, an extra book to read, just in case, and a packet of tissues. I often keep my cell phone and my iPod in there when I know I’ll need both my brief case and those items. The other items change as needed, but those are the basics for me.

I can tell you what I carry in the bag this would replace:

( not a pocket knife, that goes in your pocket for goodness sake. Or a multi-tool on my belt maybe )

Cell phone
Correspondence just picked up or to be mailed
Wallet
PDA
Glasses
Flashlight
Aspirin
Second pen ( the first is in my shirt pocket )
USB drive
pipe and tobacco pouch on club nights
Occasionally documents in folders ( I bought a bag specifically large enough for this )

My pants often tear from what I have to wear in my pockets.

I have a very small camelskin briefcase I bought in Morocco. Its size means that I have to be quite choosy about what goes in it! Apart from the usual wallet, keys and iPod I usually carry a pen or two, sometimes some paper to write on and any book I’m reading. A pack of tissues can come in handy as well.

My thoughts *some may be repetitive:

USB
Voice Recorder
Dental Floss
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Mints
Kleenex
Small First Aid Kit
Pocket Knife
Laptop

Let’s see:

A couple copies of the CV, a generic cover letter, transcripts, etc.
A photo of the family.
A book for down time, preferably Hemingway.
A notepad and spacepen.
Several pencils.
My lucky Zippo, fueled and ready.
Skeletool or other utility knife.
Surefire tactical light.
Prepaid cell phone for emergencies.
Clif bar.
Jumpdrive with all important documents (CV, cover letter, passport scan, driver’s license scan, family photos, concealed carry license, etc)
Walther PP/K and extra clip.

The obvious has already been covered:
Knife
Cash
Lighter
USB
Mints
Water Bottle
Snacks (I like nut bars)

I definitely agree with Mr McKay, I always carry a good book with me.
The only problem is I don’t have a good brief case, so when I got to work it all goes either in my pockets or my backpack. I’m an accountant, so neither option befits my profession. (Hint, hint, Saddleback for Dion)

These bags are phenomenal as far as durability, construction and the aesthetics surpass any other maker no matter the price point.

My contents would be as follows:
-Small trekking first aid kit
-Compass (or GPS for the navigationally inept)
-Chem lights
-Pen and paper
-SIgnal mirror
-A copy of 1984 by George Orwell
-10-15 ft length Parachute (or 550) cord
-Chapstick
-SPF 30-40 sunblock
-Passport(s)
-Wallet
-Additional currency (equivalent of 100 USD) in small bills
-Surefire G2 with four back-up batteries
-Two copies of both federal and civilian resume
-Business cards (yours and others for networking)
-Additional roll of athetic tape
-Mechanix gloves (orignal black)
-Magnesium fire starter
-Sharpie marker
-Back-up pair of Rainbow sandals
-Two heavy weight carabiners
-Emerson Police Utility Knife
-”Space” blanket
-Chewing gum
-Small bottle of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce (wrapped in duct tape in case it breaks)

This might seem like an a$$load but if done right and in the correct proportions this will double as a survival kit (be it in the wilderness or from boredom).

Minature sewing kit for emergency repairs (buttons come to mind). You could keep this in the office, but you aren’t always at the office when you are at work. You are however always wearing your clothes to and from work (regardless of profession).

Pretty much carry around everything which the post tells me I should.

I also have one of these bags already, and they are truly awesome. Make me feel all important when I carry it!

In my briefcase, the key things for me to carry would be;
- Cartesio black, leather-bound notebook
- Cartridge-loaded fountain pen with two spare cartridges
- Pencil
- Copy of Esquire and The Chap magazines
- God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens
- Another quality paperback
- Apple iPhone
- House keys
- Aspinall leather card holder
- Apple iPod
- Sennheiser sound-cancelling earphones
- Umbrella
- Ray-Bans
- Cardigan / jumper
- Packet of mints
- Diary

If you have all of these, you can barter or shop your way out of almost any problem!

I usually carry in my bag to work:
umbrella
pens
notebook

beyond that I have a bottle of advil and extra pens, sunglasses (both a regular pair and a pair of clip-ons to my prescription glasses) and my keys.

Well, besides the aforementioned things, I can’t leave home without my trusted Moleskine and my Pentel mechanical pencil. Those two things are essential to me. As a musician (albeit the fact that it is just a hobby), I always like to carry a capo, a slide and some picks with me, in case of a emergency. Oh, and a swiss knife can solve a lot of problems, so I tend to carry one with me too.

Cheers!

Emergency phone charger.

Clif Bar
Umbrella
Legal Pad
Pen
Pencil
Book

I like all of the above plus a Pepcid Complete single (wrapped) for a bad chili choice and a Shout Wipe for removal of any stains from eating it.

A good pen, some chewing gum

In addition to what you’ve listed – a small Bible for daily devotions.

- Pen and Pencil
- Notebook
- Toothbrush and Dental Floss
- Small Stick of Deodorant
- Book
- A plastic bag (Use it as a rain shield or to carry extra items you might end up with in your day)

Although I would be hesitant to describe them as essential, I carry a grip strengthener. Mostly to benefit at Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but I’m sure my handshake has got firmer as well haha.

I like my man bags, but I like them to be strong and light. These heavy leather saddleback bags weight a ton! no thanks.

that briefcase is business and class in one.
i’d keep:
Resume for sure
my laptop
my notebooks
current book im reading
writing utensils
my passport
altoids
newspaper
Business cards
extra cash
camera
personal umbrella
my swiss army knife
my zippo
probably bag of m&m’s
and anything else i would need during my day.
beautiful bag. if i could efford it now i’d have one.

Without reading previous comments, so at the risk of repeating, I’d say a couple more man bag essentials would include a picture or 2 of your family, friends, relatives, etc. and some sort of tag or card that says something along the lines of “If found, please return to 1234 Main St, Anytown, USA 12345. Small reward for safe return.”

I’d be lost and late if it wasn’t for my Daytimer. Having a schedule on hand keeps my mind at ease, and my days in order. What’s that? You’d like to hook up for a working lunch? Sure, let me pencil you in.

3X5 index cards, a great fountain pen, a digital camera, and maybe an MP3 player and handheld GPS. I recently went on a trip to Chicago and I didn’t think I would need a camera — it was a business trip, I’ve been to Chicago before (although only in February), and I had just returned from vacation, so I thought I was Pic’d out. Driving to the hotel, I saw so many things that were interesting and different than where I live. My first stop after checking in, Best Buy to pick up a cheap camera so I could capture some of what I was seeing. If I had my handheld GPS, I could geotag the pics so I would remember later where I was… While roaming the city streets, I was listening to jazz, enjoying the parks, architecture, and art…

* Notebook, pen, and pencil
* Laptop with wireless mouse
* A good book
* Mouthwash, gum, and lip balm
* Water, nuts, jerky, and MRP powder
* USB stick with resume and portable apps
* Zippo lighter
* Multitool
* Glasses and a spare pair of contact lenses

In addition to your list I’d need to included my Bible, mp3 player, headphones and needle & thread. I’d also want to pick up a small camera to keep with me all the time. The laptop would be with me a fair bit of the time, but I need to be able to remove myself from it so I wouldn’t include it in the “essentials”.

Most of those ideas are wonderful, but I have a few unique restrictions due to the fact that I commute by bicycle. I usually carry acouple of Clif bars, a couple of tubes of G2 mix for my water bottle. I also carry several small(size, not capacity) USB drives one contains personal documents, one business documents, one a fully bootable Puppy Linux environment, and two are empty. Two fountain pens and a Rhodia or Clairefountaine notebook complete my bag.

I agree with your list, and would add a multi-tool, they can easily be too big/heavy for a pocket, and the belt clip look doesn’t fly at work…

Handwipes (preferably with sanitizer or failing that, baby-wipes). One never knows what will come up and a quick way to clean up is to have some wipes.

I agree especially on the notebook. I’ve been doing stand-up comedy for a few years now, and I started carrying a notebook for that, but it’s become just as much a stand-up joke book as it is a planner, quick note-taker and shopping list. I’ve been wanting to move it on to a mobile device to save pocket space but outside of an amazing touch screen application, it looks like another couple years on the notebook.

I would have to offer the suggestion of a small first aid kit, that and a small stain stick. Let’s face it, there is never one around when you need it.

My dad always had a backup of his computer data in his briefcase, going way back into the 80’s with a tape drive, eventually evolving into a Zip drive and now a USB thumb drive. Then there was the Wall Street Journal, assorted pencils and paperwork, and on the best of days, a present for me!

complementing my previous post, i forgot something which, in my opinion, every man should carry all the time: a lighter. I carry my zippo with me wherever I go.

I like a small screw driver and fingernail tools in my bag. At a minimum a finger nail clipper.

Great artical, as a officer worker this is a great guid to what every man should know.
Regards,

No man is complete without a multi-tool. Either a Swiss Army knife or a Leatherman type tool.

Other Handy Items:
Dental Floss
Lighter
Wooden Pencil and Paper
mirror
sewing kit
small 1st aid kit

Book
Wallet
Pen and Pencil
Notebook
Travel pack of tissue
iPod
Gum
Travel size umbrella
Fingernail file (as a guitarist)

On another note, is it really considered within the “art of manliness” to send out emails from a third party? It just feels like I’m abusing a friendship if I demand that he take time out of his already busy day to read an email that is designed to get me something, which may also get his email address on a general mailing list, further flooding his inbox. Just wondering…

I try to keep a “stain stick” detergent pen handy. You never know when that coffee mug could spring a leak, and they only take up as much space as a pen.

Food, beverages and pens usually just invite a mess in your bag. Kepp some extra cash and pencil or two instead. Less is more.

- My goatskin leather ESV Bible
- Gospel tracts to give to people who need a Savior from their sins
- A pen of my church (HeritageBibleChurch.org)
- Moleskin journal
- Pigma Micron pens (Black, Blue, & Red) for journal and Bible
- A good Christian living book (or two)
- Highlighters for book (yellow, blue, pink, green)
- MacBook and charger
- Keys
- Sunglasses
- Mints
- Extra USB thumb drive
- Bottle of water
- Mini-umbrella

Help out a poor seminary student — pick me

In my bag, not a briefcase per se, but whatever….I keep a small notebook, some pens, and a water bottle. I think I’ve got some ibubrofen, too, sometimes a magazine. I guess I don’t really have a job where I carry around a briefcase, it’s more of a laptop backpack. But man, would I love that Saddleback bag!

My wife got me a nice leather briefcase the first christmas we were Married, but it’s starting to show some age. These look really cool, so, here are some things that I carry in my current briefcase for my entry:

1) Not just A good book…THE Good Book (Holy Bible – mini sized)
2) Some other reading material
3) Umbrella
4) PDA, Cellphone
5) Notebook/pen or pencil
6) First aid items – band aids, pain releaver, anti-acids
7) Personal Hygiene items – (my travel deodorant has saved my bacon on more than one occassion)
Business/Calling cards
9) Breath mints/chewing gum
10) Extra set of glasses/contact lenses
11) Emergency contact information card
12) Extra pair of socks
13) Toothbrush/toothpaste

usb cable to tether my laptop to my phone (soon to be replaced with a WiMAX / WiFi router if i stay in atlanta)

If you have a laptop why carry a USB drive? I keep a netbook with me at all times so I have the docs I need on there as well as backed up with google docs.

I don’t know if it has been mentioned, but I would say you might want to carry a small stash of your prescriptions with you just in case you get stranded somewhere unexpectedly. I know that when I don’t take my allergy medicine, I’m absolutely miserable.

I like to have:
-my work!
-notecards (to write down little things like directions for driving somewhere)
-pad of paper (for longer notes)
-different colored pens and a highlighter (so I’m always ready to write)
-deodorant (in case)
-daily planner
-a good book to read if work is slow
-a subway map
-business cards

What about a comb and some deoderant. The last thing you need while in a meeting is to be distracted about how you look or smell.

I would recommend, in addition to basics, like a multitool, rations, moleskinne notebook, umbrella, newspaper, book, flash drive, sewing needle and a good pen (which I all have in my knockaround bag), that every man should carry some Dental floss. Along with a simple sewing needle, dental floss can handle basic sewing emergencies, and is great for a quick bit of hygene. Dental floss is much tidier and compact than a toothbrush and paste.
I personally carry a small bike pump in my cheap knockaround bag, because I commute to work on bike a couple of times a week. I also have a small bit of sandpaper, because you never know.

Laptop, power supply, power squid, cell phone charger, extra prescriptions, kleenex, Leatherman.

A well supplied briefcase should enable you to do your basic office work away from the office.
Writing Utensils (Nice pen, durable pencils, etc.)
High Powered Calculator
Any current copies of documents on which you are working
and
Spare Handkerchiefs- there is no reason to stuff your pockets with spares
Small Flashlight

I suggest carrying cards, minimal keys and your iPhone with you and then carry a lovely bag like this giveaway has with the following:
laptop and cord
iPhone cord
flash drive
headphones
a good book
a moleskin notebook
pens
business or calling cards (noteable area preferred)
Leatherman multitool
Altoids
tissues (or a handkerchief for a nice touch)
contact supplies and glasses with case and cleaning cloth
nail clippers
small flashlight
butane lighter
umbrella
checkboook
post it notes
extra socks

A man with these at hand is ready for most urban adventures.

The most important thing: a small portion of toilet paper. You never know when you might absolutely have to have some.

- Pen
- Paper
- USB stick with resume & contact info
- Business cards
- Passport
- Cash & Emergency credit card
- AAA card
- Phone
- Phone charger
- A good book
- A good magazine
- Swiss Army Knife
- Picture of the family

You definitely couldn’t be complete without a one pood kettlebell and a 100lb hand gripper.

A travel-sized map-book of your current surroundings, we all know it’s not very manly to ask for directions, and with this, you no longer have to!

As any cool frood would know, the manly version of a towel. A nice clean hanky or facecloth or expendable cloth which one can use to: wipe your brow; get the crud off your shoes; dry off after a surprise rainstorm; clean your hands after having to fix a laser printer (No, really, I did it on an interview!).

The other thing that no one seems to have mentioned was ….. “SPACE”. When I used to travel all the time, I found that if I left a little space in my (odious) hard-sided briefcase to fit something, it always got used, sometimes for the sheave of papers a customer would give me at the last moment or that nick-nack I’d grab at the airport to give to a friend.

Lastly, I always carry my handy-dandy cheaters, Pocket Reference http://www.amazon.com/Pocket-Ref-Thomas-J-Glover/dp/1885071000 and an Electronic Dictionary; A blank CD-RW & DVD-RW and a blank USB stick.

A compass, a knife, a moleskine and a pen are all important. A plastic poncho (one of those that can be compressed into about a 5×5 centimetre area) wouldn’t go amiss if you live in a rainy area.

I concur with all the items on the list but would like to add a few.

-calendar/day planner – while I also have my appointments listed on my blackberry, you never want to be caught with a dead battery wondering wether the interview was at 2:00 or 2:30, always have a paper back up.

-office supplies – pens, pencils and paper clips are a must, but also a mini-stapler and staple remover come in handy if your work is paper-work intense.

-breath mints – you never want to greet potential friends or employers with coffee breath.

-personal touches – these could be anything from a picture of the wife and kids to your dad’s old key ring. Basicly anything portable that reminds you of the good things in your life and can bring a smile to your face on a hectic day.

I think that every man should carry around a flashlight.

Only the essentials in my briefcase:
-laptop
-breathmints
-lunch
-reading material
-business cards
-planner
- pens
-umbrella (forthcoming)
- tissue

laptop & charger, phone charger, thank you cards, pen, pencil, calling cards, notebook, journal, book, umbrella, chap stick, change, flash drive, resume, small Bible

I carry:
- the current issue of The New Yorker (an absolute must-have)
- a good book
- spare cellphone charger
- a pair of glasses
- a day planner (moleskin of course)
- 3 good pens (one black, blue, and red)
- standard legal pad
- spare business cards

The rest of the contents vary on a day-by-day basis.

Umbrella, Laptop, Notepad

Crackers

Every man should carry a good quality flashlight in his briefcase. You never know when you might break down on the ay home from work and needsome light

It seems all avenues have been covered, but I will add this: I travel often and all over the world. My briefcase in these situations includes:
-Local maps
-Local currency
-Spare boxers (Long flights/train rides/etc. take their toll)
-Camera
-Thank you notes
-Some sort of food to fuel unexpected adventures
-Flask for that discreet nip

Good Lord… I’m glad i don’t have to haul around some the briefcases mentioned above! I have a Tumi that is well worn, but I certainly wouldn’t mind one of these beauties.

In my bag, I have the standard items, but some of the more unique ones include a Leatherman tool (although you have to remember to remove it before flying) and a headphone splitter with an extra set of (new) earbuds. This has come in really handy on more than one occassion.

Essential Items:

-Moleskine notebook
-Writing tools
-A few personal hygiene items
-Calculator
-Writing Utensils

All sizes of USB cables
Camera
Flash Drives
Couple of books (1 fiction, 1 history, 1 Bible)
Mini-sew kit for replacing buttons and such
Mini-survival kit
roll of quarters (you never know when you need change or $10)
pocket tissue package
laptop
good DVD
phone charger
multi-tool

i may have missed it. but i didn’t see anyone put condoms on they’re list. protection is essential.

I carry a Gerber Shortcut which is sort of a mini version of the Multi-Tool. Great little knife.

A swiss army knife and/or multi-tool
A personalized planner (check out diyplanner.com for great paper planning templates)
Spare pens and pencils
An unlined journal for drawing/doodling
Carmex/chapstick
Hand lotion
iPod and headphones
Camera and extra batteries
Laptop with charger
Flashlight

I also almost always carry at least two books; one fiction and one non-fiction. I hate being stuck somewhere and finish a book and have nothing else to read after that.

Two words…550 Cord

Eye glass repair kit
floss
pen
pencil
multi-tool (pocket knife goes in your pocket)
resume
jump drive
Ipod
loose change
calendar/date planner
note book
book
calling card
chewing gum/breath mints
quick shine for dress shoes
thread, needle, button
matches

I’ll add a few things that haven’t shown up yet:

1) Monster Outlets To Go Power Strip. Compact and awesome. There are never enough outlets when you need them.
2) Apple Airport Express. Turns any wired internet connection into a wireless one. Very compact.
3) Foam Earplugs.
4) Power inverter for cigarette lighter or power port in vehicles.

Of course the basics:
knife
flashlight
notebook
pens, pencils
First Aid Kit, medicine
Needles, safety pins
Gum, mints
I also carry:
Digital camera
USB Drives
Nite Ize s-biners
MP3 Player
Moleskine Calender and Address Book
Nr

I carry a man bag with me everywhere, with a smaller one inside. The main bag is a County Comm Bail Out Bag (http://countycomm.com/BAILOUTBAGGEN5.htm) in OD green.
Here are the contents:
Flashlight Pocket – Spare Laptop Battery, LED Flashlight
Long Front Pocket – Altoids, Earbuds & case, Headphone Splitter, Airplane Headphone adapter.
Pencil Slot 1 – Ink Pen
Pencil Slot 2 – Sharpie
AA Flashlight Slot – Pocket Knife
Left Radio pocket – Nalgene Bottle
Right Radio Pocket – Empty (or Tuna Salad Lunch Pack)
Back Tall Pock 1 – Laptop AC Adapter/Charger
Back Tall Pocket 2 – Belkin Travel surge protector/USB AC Adapter
Back Short Pocket – Flip Video Ultra
Back Smallest Pockets – rechargeable AA Batteries, Ear Plugs, Plastic Pill Box
Concealed Carry Pocket – Backpackers Towel, Lens Cleaning Towel, Extra Business Cards (personal and work), If traveling Passport and travel documents (Hotel Reservations, Flight Information, Map)
Main Pocket left of divider – Netbook in neoprene Sleeve, Moleskine Notebook, Aquaphor for tattoo.
Main Pocket Right of divider – 2 small snacks, small bag.
Small Bag – (pocket 1) Ethernet Cable, USB Cable, ipod Cable, Phone USB Charger, Liveboot Flashdrive, Flash drive, USB AA Charger. (pocket 2) First Aid Kit, Carmex, Multitool, Sunblock Wipes, Bug Wipes, Hand Santizer (pocket 3) Pocket Constitution/Declaration of Independence. (pcoket 4) Lighter, E-Cigs, E-Cig Charger.

Obviously, when flying I leave the multi-tool and knife at home, but I also add a toiletries kit and a clean pair of socks, underwear, and shirt. I also include some additional cash.

I take a lot of abuse at work for carrying my stuff back in forth in a small cordura tool bag, so this would be a considerable step up. Current contents are: Cell phone and charger, medications, reading glasses, lighted magnifying glass, swiss army knife, USB key, Stride mint gum, lip baum, hair brush, business cards, ipod touch, nail clippers/file, tire guage, pen, and lunch!

MP3 player with RCA connector cable, you never know when you may want to provide people with a bit of your musical taste. Headphones would also be nice for your own enjoyment.
Swiss Army knife or some sort of multi-tool.
Definitely a notepad/book and a pencil.
A sharpie.
A lint roller, since I own a malamute.

I’ve found a larger flashlight, one that accepts 3 C batteries has not only offered peace of mind for not only it’s illumination, but It’s heft.

Really like the idea of the Resume on a USB.

I’d add Snap shot of the family. Keeping what’s important in sight.

One item that seems conspicuously absent from the author’s list is work. If you’re not carrying any actual work in your briefcase (something like a brief, perhaps), you’re not carrying a briefcase, you’re carrying a purse. Purses are not manly.

Personally, I like:
– a good book
– a notebook (moleskine or the like, small, for jotting down notes to be elaborated on in the big leather bound one at home)
– a good pen
– my pipe and a good tobacco
– a pen knife
– lip balm (both for myself and the fiancee – burt’s bees if possible)
– passport
– flash drive with all essential documents and secure password file
– iphone/ipod
– headphone splitter
– water bottle
– pack of gum
– umbrella when it’s inclement
– keys to her place/my place/work

That’s plenty.

couple extra dollars, some change, a snack (granola bar, trail mix), keys, knife or multi-tool, notebook, pen, book or something to occupy your time

the usual stuff
-ipod
-small external speaker for ipod
-H20 bottle
-15′ bull whip
-snacks
-mini drop kit

I agree with the list above and think the following items should be added:
- small sewing kit, like the ones you can get at a hotel
- swiss army knife
- bottle of water
- Advil
- Sharpie
- spare house and car key
- chewing gum
- handkerchief
- a few PowerBars

That is the toughest bag I have ever seen. If the pictures are an indicator than items such as ammunition and sunscreen should also be added.

Definitely have to carry some mints!

I think a high quality pen should be right at the top of that list.
Mints,
A copy of your resume (you never know when you may need it),
Spare car/house keys,
Asprin

Kudos to Cody. Men work. Keep hard copies of your important files, projects, and portfolio close to you. Unless, of course, you have very sensitive documents.

There’s two more items that I always carry in my briefcase:

A business card book – Hold on to every business card you get. Just yesterday I had to contact an old professor of mine and the school wouldn’t give any information out. I called a friend of mine who happened to have his card and was able to get his email, phone number, and address.

Small bag of toiletries – A small set of the essentials is great for those mornings when you just don’t feel as prepared as you want. Got a dinner or lunch meeting across town with some potential clients? Brush/floss your teeth, trim your nails, and maybe throw on a quick reshave. Some times it’s important to look your absolute best.

You definitely need a knife of some kind, not a crocodile dundee mind you, but a good multi-tool would do nicely.

I would personally go Moleskine journal over notepad, it’s a really manly journal.

Business cards and a pocket knife.

K

pocket size Bible, Fisher-space bullet pen, Nitecore flashlight, sunglasses, lucky gold dollar coin, leather money clip, skeletool, and the iphone.

Things I find useful in my laptop bag (a BRIEFCASE would sound much better saying)

Multiple pens
Pencil (mechanical)
Highlighter – one that has those little sticky note tabs built in
Laptop (and dont forget the power cord)
Business Book – great for starting conversations with other business people
Graphing Paper – I’m in sales, but I like to sketch interesting buildings I see
Multi-tool – wearing it on a belt or carrying it in a pocket is intrusive and inappropriate
Carmex – the kind in the twist up tube, the best!

I should add the small umbrella and mixed nuts. Great idea! Thanks!

I would reiterate a pocketknife and add Tylenol (or other pain relief pill you prefer), a couple of wet wipes and neosporin. If you live in a city, bring change for meters or enough cash for a bus/subway trip or two, just in case.

I second the travel toothbrush/paste idea, as well as the iPhone. The pocketknife or multitool is a great one too, but with a VERY important note: Remember the TSA nazis. I carried a knife my bro-in-law gave me as a groomsmen’s gift in my laptop bag but forgot this fact when I had to go on a trip. Needless to say, TSA was not happy with me, and gave me their wonderful choice of “run all the way back, wait in line, try to check this in your normal luggage, fail, then miss your flight altogether -OR- forfeit this so we can sell it on eBay” – knife lost.

laptop, charger, Moleskine day planner and mini volants (for making lists) a couple of good pens, 4 or 5 bad pens (to be able to hand out), a few pieces of scrap paper to write informal notes(saving the environment!), envelopes, stamps, post-its. I try to have a lot of little things that people might need. The easiest way to meet new people is to give them something they need.

I carry around a shoulder pack with the following:

- Two Books: “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis and “Through the Brazilian Wilderness” by Theodore Roosevelt
- Moleskine sketchbook
- Moleskine journal
- 0.7mm Pencil
- 0.5mm G2 Pilot pen
- Mini umbrella
- New King James Bible
- Checkbook
- Business cards
- GOOD magazine
- Headphones

Other than that, I always have my wallet, keys, phone, and glasses on me:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/iamaaronmartin/2312172417/

essentials in my briefcase: laptop, zune, and bible.

I have found that I often carry too much stuff. I try to limit it to the essentials:

Notebook, pen, pencil
good book
hacked moleskine

Book
Notebook
Pen
Crossword puzzle
Altoids
Batteries
Travel razor
Spare handkerchief
Rosary
Keys
Jump drive
Flashlight

A true manli-man is alway’s prepared . . . with a condom!

Things to carry in a briefcase (or Man Bag, my favorite name is Bag Of Evil):
Multi-Tool/Pocket knife – I like Leatherman
Notebook/Index cards – for notes to yourself or others
Good writing implement – I like Zebra pens
Map of your main area of Travel (city/town) – how else do you find that hole in the wall you frined suggests?
If you have room, a change of socks – great way to “recharge”
Digital book – I use an older Palm w/ mobipocket loaded and about 200 books and reports
A small, secure bottle of smell good (after shave/cologne) – when you need to to be at your best on short notice – see also socks…
a boo/boo kit (or snivel gear) – feel better/tough it out first aid: Tylenol, Imodium, allergy meds, bandaids, etc.
mp3 player/ipod – podcast are a great way to expand your mind, also with the right music (non verbal for most people) you can create a “room of your own” anywhere.
small, durable led flash light

Additional items:
* Spyderco pocket knife
* Cell phone charger
* Extra handkerchief
* Small bottle of water
* “Inbox” envelope-style folder

Pencil, paper, breath freshener, business cards, cash, small utility tool and some golf tees are all you’ll ever need

1. Hai Karate
2. Lava Soap
3. 10w-50 motor oil
4. nail clippers
5. duct tape
6. flask

I would confirm/add a toothbrush and paste. The onion medley may taste godd at lunch, won’t be so great for the coworkers.

The 21st century priest’s briefcase might include:

1. Laptop computer, for answering a few emails or writing a homily during downtime.
2. Prayer book (breviary) so that he can do the daily prayers wherever he finds himself.
3. iPod with headphones for music or podcast
4. Umbrella … never know what the weather will be like where you’re going.
5. Sick call kit, because anointing the sick is a privilege and responsibility

My current bag, which is a simple Swiss Army messenger bag (but it’s starting to fall apart after only having it since Christmas), contains:

Several books
Notebook
Sunglasses in case
Small Umbrella
Cough Drops
Ball Point Pens
Highlighter Pen
3″x5″ cards
Stick-on index tabs for notebook
Tide To Go detergent pen
Three maps: state map, local bus route map, local bicycle route map.
Recent issues of magazines I read and enjoy
Spare envelopes and stamps
My “Success” Journal

There are a lot of great ideas listed above, that I’ll have to add to my own bag. For now, I carry:

–notebook
–2 pens (at least)
–Swiss Army knife
–USB drive
–business cards
–a few peppermints and/or other hard candies
–binder full of work papers
–my calendar/day planner
–umbrella
–a book
–mass transit system map/timetable (until recently, I took the train to work)
–pocket-size New Testament some random guy gave me (at least for me, it was nice to have on the train sometimes)

- Good multitool (leatherman, swiss army knife, etc.)
- $20 and 4 quarters
- Local map
- Poncho
- Compass
- Trail mix/Clif Bar
- Notepad with pencil and pen
- Photocopy of your drivers license and any other important ID in your wallet

I always carry an extra briefcase in my briefcase. It’s terribly embarrasing when I happen upon another gentleman with pockets bursting at the seams. I am able to help the other man avoid scouring glances from more manly men by providing him with the extra briefcase. It’s a simple way to double the manliness in any given situation, and potentially lead the other into the ways of the gentleman.

Also, I second having a great pen and some index cards. A Caran d’Ache 849 metal office pen in your chosen color is a terrific option, and the index cards allow you to jot down a note and give it to someone (rather than tearing off a corner from something, which is terribly uncouth).

This is a solid list you guys put together. And most folks have already added some great ideas in the comments. But pen/paper are a must, travel umbrella for sure and USB drive is a great addition. I come from the less-is-more camp, so yes: a Tide pen and a small sewing kit would DEFINITELY be needed, but I think some folks have gone over the top. I’m not going spelunking, I just need to cut through the urban jungle to get to work and back.

Also: I can’t describe how much I need this briefcase. Wow!

I also carry a copy of ‘Christian Prayer: The Liturgy of the Hours’ and my Knights of Columbus prayer book.

For anyone who has a laptop, especially in college where several people might head to class with one I can’t recommend a 3-Outlet Grounding Wall Tap Adapter enough. It’s come in handy for me hundreds of times back in my undergrad and now during my masters.

Since I’m still in college, I always need a pen and paper, my multi-tool, and my little netbook for fast information retrieval.

My primary bag is a Timbuk2 Messenger bag, size medium. The essentials: netbook, cell phone, gum, assorted pens and pencils, note cards, USB drives, MP3 player, ear buds, bandana, wallet, glasses/sunglasses with microfiber cleaning cloth, duct tape (rewrapped, not a whole roll), pocket knife/multi-tool, toothbrush, chapstick, keys (apartment, car, bike lock), a clif bar, and a water bottle (BPA free cameblack or nalgene). And then I usually add in situationally needed items, such as books, magazines, notebooks, rain jacket, sweatshirt/jacket, and more. I can fit my whole weekend worth of clothes and personal care products in my bag with no worries.

Tide pen for sure, but I gotta say less is more. The more stuff I bring with me, the harder is is to find anything I know I will need. It’s a fine line between being prepared & being OCD.

Although most comments are valid and some items necessary I believe a brief case is not an overnight bag. Depending on the occasion I carry two cases, often duplicating some items.
My everyday carry to the office and home is my life therefore it is a Samsonite (remember even a gorilla can’t break it commercial) that sometimes I have to sit on to close. I broke 2 of them. The one I have right now has a latch that won’t close. I have been thinking about getting a new one.
Samsonite, I really should give it a name, has all the listed items and more in it including a door latch so I remember to stop at Home Depot and replace it.
On the other hand, my business brief is a leather shoulder bag that carries only the essentials. I want to keep it light and everything a my finger tips. Papers, pen, pencil, hi-light markers,paper clips,business cards, note book, reading material, phone and Palm (I have not made the transition to the new Palm Pre. Waiting for my phone contract to terminate. I prefer gum vice a toothbrush, a tooth pick. Thinking about adding my lap top for presentations and submitting estimates on the spot but I don’t want to lose that light hands free look when walking into an office. Flash drive is a great idea for back in a pinch! Thanks.
Thomas

Things that are a must for my man bag,

Laptop
iPod touch
note cards
pen/highlighter combo
wet wipes so you hands can be ready for a good hand shake after you eat
legal pad/folder combo
calling cards
bible
gum or mint
pocketknife
a photo of my Love

I addition to the stuff you mentioned in the post, I think some essentials that should be carried in a briefcase or man bag are:

* pocket knife
* camera
* cell phone
* water bottle

Those are just a few items, of course, but they’re among the ones that I always carry.

I would add to your list; a nice pen, pocket knife, and reusable coffee thermos-saves you money at the cafe, and helps the planet too!

I’ve seen some awesome ideas here today. Thanks to all.

I ride the bus for almost an hour each way, five days a week. If, perchance, I miss my favorite bus, I carry **bus schedules** for the various routes and combos that will get me to my family as soon as possible.

Another thing I haven’t seen mentioned is a **graphing calculator**. It’s great for those little problems or questions that one encounters, when the full power of Matlab on the laptop is inconvenient or unnecessary.

Finally, **hand sanitizer**.

I’ve given business cards out to people who weren’t really business contacts and thought it wasn’t quite right. Love the idea of a calling card.

To your list, I might add an extra cell phone charger , a protein bar, and a bottle of water.

There are alot of great lists here but all seem to be lacking what I would call the most valuble thing that I need to get through each and every day…Pictures of my children (and other loved ones) would be the first thing that I would put in it. I would also put an extra key for my car and home, also never know when you might wish you had put some sunglasses and if you need them an extra set of reading glasses or your contact lenses and supplies.I also think that a small pakage of baby wipes would come in handy as they work very well for cleaning most surfaces in just a few seconds including hands and face.Also never forget your good luck charm .

I would agree with almost everything everyone has posted, though I think it helps to err on the light side – nice leather has its own weight to it, and when you start adding three kinds of water bottles, wireless routers, etc., well, it leads to unnecessary weight and wear and tear. whatever you put in the bag, keep it simple.

I carry a JW Hulme Co Document Case – http://www.jwhulmeco.com/

Sure, some of these items were listed already, but I think it bears repeating. While I’d agree with the recommendation to have the flash drive available with appropriate documents available; anyone submitting a resume might want to stop at a Kinko’s before walking into an interview.

-Pens (Black & Blue)
-Portfolio (Leather bound, not a Pee-Chee) with resume, references, cover letter & master application file (printed on resume-quality paper)
-Spot removal pen (Like one of those Tide pens)
-Sticky notes
-Notepad (I generally use the notebooks used in the federal supply system)
-Breath mints
-Air Freshener (you never know)
-Lint Brush
-Emergency toiletry kit (toothbrush, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, floss, anti-perspirant)
-Febreeze (or some other fabric freshener)
-SAS pocket survival guide (Are you really going to need this? Probably not, but you never know.)
-Something to eat
For Travel (International or otherwise)
-Area map
-Local language cheat sheet (these should have some simple phrases which should help you find someone who speaks your native language or some other kind of assistance).

A lighter.

An extra handkerchief.

self-charging flashlight! no batteries needed.

I like to travel light, but my work requires that I carry a few essential items. In my Oakley AP Sandbag laptop bag, I carry the following:

Laptop & power cord, Moleskine notebook, 2 cross pens, Swiss army pocketknife, 3 manila folders with project paperwork, Shure SE115 earbuds, and a few assorted device cables.

Things I carry with me in my pack:
1) laptop
2) moleskin note pad
3) small utility knife
4) travel mug
5) book
6) pen
7) granola bar
phone
9) small reusable grocery bag
10) toothbrush and toothpaste
11) keys

Things I sometimes carry
1) sunglasses
2) ipod
3) water bottle

Things that I should also carry but don’t:
1) wet wipes / napkin cloth
2) raincoat / umbrella
3) business cards

pen, pencil, notepad, USB drive, card reader, pocketknife(unless flying), altiods

Mechanical pencil, pad of paper, mints.

Pics of family, hard candy, and a Bible for sharing the good news with people.

I like to have a flashlight and small med kit at all times.

Hmm,

-Gotta have a book or two
-Laptop (if necessary)
-OTC meds
-Point and Shoot Camera (good use for your older digital model as you upgrade)
-Business & Calling cards
-Little snack or two
-Multiple pens/pencils
-Pocket Multi-tool
-Headphones

that’s about it… Oh and a bag to carry it it via AoM
-Any accessory cords you may need for chargers or hooking up stuff
-USB key for various data, music, movies, etc…

Things I carry in my bag:

1. Simple tools: a double-ended screwdriver small enough for glasses and computer cases. For anything larger, I use my Leatherman, which is also in the bag. Tweezers, P-38 can opener, lighter, maglight and whistle.

2. Simple first aid kit. Antibiotic cream, bandaids, aspirin, benadryl, hand sanitizing gel and a couple of days worth of my prescription meds (rotated out monthly).

3. Extra cheap pens to lend out. People don’t know how to use a fountain pen anymore. This way I avoid potential damage to my good pens.

Great post. Too much stuff in my pockets. Backpack is too school boy. Go briefcase! Essential briefcase items? Lots of these are repeats, but good is good: umbrella, mints/gum (a man does not assault others with bad breath), resume, thumb drive, nail file and trimmer, pocket knife (if you don’t have one in your pocket), note pad for ideas, calendar, gloves, a snack, extra change and some bills, a compass, emergency phone numbers (though you may have this on your cell phone, your battery may die), a fun book, a book to learn from, writing tools, a journal article or other improvement material related to your profession (keep those skills sharp).

In addition to the items listed above, every man should carry in his briefcase a pocketknife/multitool, a series of pens for different uses (i.e. fine-tip, sharpie, etc.), a pair of sunglasses, a comb/hairbrush, and a list of important phone numbers.

I think the most important thing that hasn’t been mentioned in the post above is: cologne, or perfume — the one that you wear daily. And lip balm.

x

I try to keep a pack of beef jerky in my bag. It last for awhile, and can be a quick protein burst when needed.
Great giveaway!

I am not a road warrior yet, but my father who worked as a forensic accountant carried the following:

A ruler
A pencil, and many pens
A Sharpie
A bottle of water
Calculator
Paperclips
Ministapler
Magnifying glass
Business cards
Folders
Pad of paper
Eraser
Extra Shirt
Newspaper
Tooth brush and toothpaste

In addition to what was mentioned in the article I always keep with me:
- fisher space pen, this thing ALWAYS works
- business cards, not just calling cards
- ear buds, in case I want to listen to something quickly and privately
- larger swiss army knife
- digital camera

some things not to be forgotten….sunscreen, gum or mints, digital camera, condom….hey, you never know

Things to keep in your briefcase:
Pen
Paper/Notebook for taking notes
Business and or calling cards
Stationary or Thank You cards
USB Pen Drive with important files/presentations
A calculator
Bible
Other Reading Material (Newspaper/Book/Articles)

I always make sure to have an extra pair of contacts or glasses with me.

Must-haves for me are:

- Quality pad of paper (with a cover to close for privacy)
- a small selection of pens and pencils, some suitable to lose as ‘borrowed’ pens rarely come back
- Business Cards & Calling Cards
- baby wipes (don’t make fun, they can freshen you up when there’s no convenient restroom)

Lots of good suggestions.
The altoids survival kit is a little over the top. Better to stock it with what it originally came with. Considering what most kits are stocked with (knife, razor, hooks, etc.) You can guarantee you ‘ll lose it if you go through security at any government building or court house and also guarantee unwanted delays while security looks for other contraband. Besides, most of us live and work in “urban jungles”. Save the survival kit for the car.

The USB drive is great. Keep scans of personal & family ID, medical and insurance information on hand in addition to other hard to replace info when you are on the road. This tip has helped me several times.

A small compass to orient yourself and a good compact first aid kit…. to treat paper cuts from handing out all those resume’s and treating blisters from walking from the subway to the interview site and back….

Be good, Be Safe, Be Productive,
Nick

I have been using a bag from territory ahead, it was a gift, as I would never shop that ridiculous store. I have to say it is the best briefcase/overnight bag I have ever used. http://tinyurl.com/m9y9sk

In it I carry:
Laptop
Pen, notepad
ultralight rainjacket
headlamp (I ride a bike to work)
Leatherman Wave
Nalgene
lunch
For some reason, I always carry Bills around with me

Leatherman wave and bit kit, Swiss Army Cyber-Tool, Fenix LD20 Flashlight (AA style, cause you can’t always find specialized batteries), Mini-Mag light (In a power outage a second light will make you someone’s savior), 6 AA Batteries (No charge, no light),Pocket Ref Book (If you need to know it or convert it, it’s probably in here), Moleskin Notebook, 2 pencils, 1 Bic pen (For lending), 1 Fisher space pen (NOT for lending), Breath mints (Just so you won’t knock people your breath), Sewing kit, Altoids Survival kit (stuff happens), Mylar space blanket (small and cheap), Signal mirror (you can use it to check your teeth or flash down a rescuer), A book (personally I recommend “World War Z” by Max Brooks), 1 Bag of corn chips (Improvised firestarters or snack), 1 bag of mixed nuts (just a snack), Phone charger (your phone will be with you at all times anyway).

Currently I have an old Jansport Backpack (had repaired for free multiple times.. love the lifetime warrenty!) I bring it with me to work every day, and modify it’s contents for camping, vacations, etc. It would be nice to update the look to a more adult theme.

-”Soup Mug” a wide mouth coffee mug
-2 packets of oatmeal in a ziplock bag (never know!)
-walnut/almond/cashew/dark chocolate m&M/raisin/craisin home made trail mix
-Blue/Black/Red Pens
-Mechanical Pencil
-Business binder with business card sheets (a handful of my own as well as important contacts) and blank 3 hole paper for notes, etc.
-spare phone charger
-earbuds
-travel kleenex (curse you allergies!)
-travel silverware (bought from rummages, drilled hole in the handle and clipped together)
-32oz nalgene clipped on the side
-small umbrella
-sunglasses
-spare contacts & solution (just in case)

A good pen and something to write on is a must. Actually a few good pens, in different colors, is even better. It’ll allow you to use each color differently which can help express your ideas better. The paper could just be notecards with a rubber band but I prefer using a Moleskine. This is the original Palm Pilot and will never crash or lose your data.

What a handsome looking bag. If someone had any feelings of doubt concerning their own manliness… this bag would genuinely assist in improving ones self image. The ruggedness adds to the image you see. I would use this as a bag to carry my GPS unit, and maps and essentials for Geocaching with my family. Not to mention bringing it along to complement my business casual clothing to the High School where I work as a Physics and Math Teacher. Multiple uses for this bag in my corner. My old tired brief case could use a permanent retirement.

Paperback
Penknife
Notebook
Wallet
Keys
Pencil
Multitool
Emergency needle & thread
Mints
Clif Bars

Minimalism is a manly virtue. Bring your lunch.

Here are some things I’d recommend carrying with you in addition to the above mentioned things, all of which currently live in my purse:
Sewing Kit (they can be really small and often have buttons too)
Multiple pens and small bits of paper to take/leave notes on
Asprin/Tylenol (and possibly another type of pain reliever) and bandaids, in an easy to find place (possibly a second bag)
Toothpicks/flossers (I like the combination)
Deck of cards
Eyeglass cleaner wipes
lip balm (I have a wonderful unscented one- just beeswax and oils)
A couple pills of any prescription medication you’re taking (preferably in an old pill bottle) and change out frequently. I’d recommend putting any drugs/first aid stuff into a plastic zip lock bag to keep them cleaner and visible.

Of course, I needed a big purse to hold all of this stuff; but whenever someone needed something, I usually had it. Nothing leaves a good impression of dependability as having stuff on hand to solve a problem.

yea…lunch is probably something i couldn’t go without

A true man needs all of the following in his bag:

An axe
Sports almanac (to back up any stats you mention)
Lasso
Assorted fireworks
Keys to a Ferrari 250 GTO
Beard trimmer
Plaid hat
6 pack of beer
Tackle box
2 lbs of steak for an afternoon snack

All good choices in the article, but I would add a multitool of some sort, Leatherman or Gerber. You never know when you might need to tighten a screw or bolt, and they don’t take up much room at all.

List o’ Stuff-

Looking in my bag . . .

- Altoids and gum- always good for a surprise conversation with the ladies, or an interview. A must if you drink lots of coffee.
-Leatherman tool- just plain usefull
- Keys- home keys go in, work keys come out.
- Local Emergency Medical Protocols flipbook. As a former EMT I feel kinda naked without them.
- USB with essentials
- iPod- gotta have tunes
- Book- currently Bernard Corwell’s Saxon Series
- Pencil and Sharpie
- Cell phone when at work
- Aaaand . . . a small roll of duct tape. Seriously. Don’t know how it got there, though.

- Pen, pencil, permanent marker
- Notepad
- Journal (moleskine, of course!)
- Currently-being-read book
- Laptop
- Mints or gum
- Water bottle
- Business cards
- Phone charger (phone, I keep in my pocket)
- iPod & earbuds
- Point-and-shoot digital camera

Don’t forget a small manicure set, or at least some nail clippers and file. A gentleman always has well-groomed nails.

I’d add a good flashlight to the list.

I don’t really need a comb. I guess if you have a lot of hair. I just have a buzz so I’m good. I’ll replace that with some jerky so i get some protein in there.

On Sunday mornings, other stuff gets removed, and two Holy Bibles (KJV) go in my briefcase for my wife and I. A man is responsible for the spiritual well-being of his family.

a flashlight is a good idea

For those of you putting multi-tools in your case, be sure to remove it before heading for the airport!

Things I will always have on me, either in pockets or messenger bag:

-Key chain swiss army knife
-Knife, flathead, Phillips, bottle opener
-Wallet
-iPhone
-Latest book
-handkerchief
-pocketwatch
-Map of city that I’m in. (I travel a lot and have found it to be extremely useful when in a big city that I only go to once or twice a year.
-Pens
- Calling card

i can’t really carry my laptop in my bag now. its a little too hefty and big

Essentials:
Bible
Pens/highlighters
Note cards
Business cards
Laptop

1. A pocketknife, or nice pen knife
2. A spare handkerchief
3. A small shoe polishing kit
4. A small sewing kit with needle, thread, spare buttons, and safety pins
5. Mints or gum

Essential briefcase items: Good book, breath mints, notepad, crossword puzzle, phone, apple (or other portable, non-smelly fruit), spare glasses, calendar.

Essential Items:

– A good pen, it’s a largely forgotten tradition, but every man should have a good, refillable pen.
– A lighter. I’m not a smoker myself, but you never know when you might need it.
– A spare tie. For those of us that tend to eat on the run, this is a must.
– A handkerchief.
– Contact list/small address book. Ever been caught in a pinch right when your cell phone goes dead? I have, not fun.
– Gum/Mints.
– Comb.
– A notebook/notepad.
– A good paperback. Leave the hardbacks at home and travel with something portable that you can enjoy. I recommend the Hornblower series.

I’m all about streamlining the wallet through the use of a briefcase so one un-mentioned is your metro, (subway or any kind of transportation), card. Even local time tables and routes can help in a time crunch that you might not otherwise carry.

Let’s see, what’s in my briefcase? Aside from a small computer, microphone headset, remote mouse, and chargers for the computer and my cell phone, I really don’t like to be caught without toothpaste, toothbrush, deoderant, a little money, a screwdriver for eyeglasses repairs, my notebook, a couple of teabags, paperclips (and you can use teabags and paperclips for a lot of things), pencils, pens, business cards, and whatever book I’m reading currently. Stick the contents of my pockets in there and we’re all in order.

lots of suggestions, i usually have very few things with me like pencil und paper

Toss out the umbrella ( Im in Pasadena CA, it rains four days in January ) put in a handful of rubber gloves and a face mask ( to help rescue e-quake victims ), a small powerful flashlight ( same reason ) a leash and a can of cat food..( lots of strays and runaway animals…)It also never hurts to have waterproof matches ( which hopefully are in the altoids tin ) and safety pins… I like having a few spare binder clips as well..

thanks

yea an umbrella i don’t carry around

Great looking bag!

USB drive
Bottle of mouthwash
A good pair of polarized sunglasses
Exacto knife
Headphone 3.5mm Plug To Dual RCA splitter
Rotring Pen/Pencil combo
Small flashlight with a good Lithium Ion rechargeable battery
Chargers (phone, laptop, etc)
Small (2 pounds or so) 1100 ANSI lumen projector
Disposable poncho
Matches
Journal
A handful of your business cards with the Saddleback Leather Co. web address on the back (for all those people that are going to ask you about your badass briefcase)

I’m going to have to say a Zippo is necessary. While I don’t smoke, it’s always classy to produce one should someone need to light a cigarette. In addition, I live in a natural disaster prone area, and having a way to start a fire is never a bad thing.

There are some great suggestions and I’m sure I’m going to repeat some of them.
-some meal bars that would last you a day
-definitely something to freshen up your breath, toothbrush and toothpaste as well as some mints or gum
-pocket knife
-gun (concealed carry) have to be ready to defend yourself and/or others
-some handi wipes
-notebook
-a nice pen, at least 2 of them

That is the coolest brief case every! I’d so love to win it for my man!
All your suggestions are perfect. I’d add a really nice pen and of course, a photo of your adoring wife and children

As a burgeoning young diplomat, I prefer to keep a minimalist bag. It’s important to be prepared, but it’s also important to be able to get through security screenings in less than 45 minutes!

I always keep pens in several colours — you never know when you may need to work on a document, frequently with someone else. Colours help keep markup sorted.

A Legal pad is my writing surface of choice — it keeps note organised and is appropriate in just about every situation.

My passport — some people say never to carry it, but you never know when you may need it!

Car keys, cell phone, and any other pocket material — They really do destroy the clean lines of suits.

At least two books with me at all times. Usually one is light reading and one is something to keep me motivated. It may be “The Alchemist” or a TR biography, but there are always moments when you need an extra kick!

I also keep a pack of chewing gum (usually cinnamon flavour; escape the omnipresent mint), a mini maglite (again, never know when it might come in handy). I usually forgo the pocketknife, unless I’m outside of town. The security personnel just don’t like them!

With this many comment, I can’t really add much. I do like the idea of carrying a leatherman tool, which I’m going to start doing. As an engineer, I also carry around a small scale, triangle and shape template just in case I have to make a sketch.

I think EVERY “gentleman” should have a Bible *or prefered religious text* with him, in his brief case. For the shallow, it simply looks like you are deep, for the deep, it gives you something to contemplate on the daily commuter train.

I’m a government lawyer, so at all times I have in my briefcase my planner, two black pens, two blue pens, two highlighters and a set of large & small Post-Its in case I need them.

For bad weather, I keep a collapsible umbrella so I’m never caught in the rain without one.

There’s at least one book in my briefcase at any given time. I alternate one fiction with one non-fiction. The last book was a P.G. Wodehouse collection. Right now it’s the Coldest War, a History of the Korean War.

Last, but certainly not least, I keep a small pocket Bible & monthly prayer book (Magnificat magazine) so I can take a few moments of reflection in the middle of a hectic day.

I tend to overload… although after reading some of the other comments I realize I’m not alone! I usually have a netbook, several usb sticks, notebook, books (often 2 or more), pens and pencils, ibuprofen, ipod, and often work papers of some sort.

A Bible, good pen and some dum dums for the kids

Looks like a great bag, and it was a wonderful article…sign me up!

In addition to the big list, I ove the flash drive idea. With most guys working out as much as they do we should add a couple Powerbars to the mix. Also, handi-wipes for those with kids — you always need a few.

I always keep a trusty Fenix flashlight with spare batteries in whatever bag I’m carrying. This has already come in handy numerous times during blackouts, or if we have to stop on the side of an unlit road at night for whatever reason.

Must haves:

Flashdrive
Multitool (mine’s a Gerber)
Digital camera (my old point and shoot)
Umbrella
Mints, gum, or what have you
Tylenol
Antihistamines, especially during spring
Notebook and pen(s)

multi tool
spare kerchief
book
journal
20 dollars cash
sewing kit
tums
business cards

The one thing I learned from life in the music industry: always carry a black Sharpie marker. It writes on anything, it’s the best for autographs, and is great for notes and the like that need more than a simple pen/pencil.

Things you need in your briefcase (American Version)
Copy of all relevant insurance information – health/car
Spare cash $100
Small knife serated
Small phillips/flat head screw driver tool.
Small roll duct tape.
Good quality string or line.
Breath mints
Pen
Paper
Brass knuckles
Good Book
Phone
Copy of wifes/girlfriends anniversary/b’day dates

For me:

Laptop & charger
USB thumbdrive
Cell Phone
Ear buds
Pens & Pencils
Business Cards
A book or something to read (currently the Bible and some programming books for me)
Waterbottle
Some sort of snack
Small pocketknife (I however fly a lot so this is a no go)
Sunglasses
Floss and small thing of mouthwash (always want to be fresh for the lady)
Some extra cash
Journal

I carry a briefcase that my grandparents gave me when I went off to college. That was a decade ago, and the bag is really scuffed up – but the locks work, and it holds what I need to get through the day (and then some):

-dayplanner
-Moleskinne notebook (plain)
-highlighter
-pocket dictionary
-various files
-USB drive
-pens (black and red)
-two #2 pencils (Ticonderoga)
-business card holder with business cards
-travel size bottle of mouth wash
-pocket first aid kit
-pen knife
-$50 for emergencies.
- small LED flashlight
- snack bag of trail mix
- miniature sewing kit (swiped from a hotel)
- stain remover pen thing
- small bottle of hand sanitizer
- legal pad
- whatever book I’m reading at the time (right now it’s Fabled Tribe by Clive Cowley)

That’s about it.

Terrific list. Add to your list:

A small (palmsize) lint remover brush.

I agree with everything posted in this article, but I think for the tech-savvy man, a laptop and it’s components are essential. My man-bag is laptop-centric, and here’s what it contains:

MacBook Pro 15″
Powersupply
LaptopDesk.net Laptop Desk – for ergonomics
Logitech Dinovo Edge Wireless Keyboard – for ergonomics
Bluetooth Wireless headset/headphones – for tunes and skype calls
Kensington laptop lock
Sigg water bottle
Umbrella
Business cards from Moo.com
Retro 1951 Mechanical Pencil by Toronado
Fischer Space Pen – writes upside down!
Highlighters
Note cards
Pocketknife
USB Key
Glue stick
Camping utensil kit (knife/fork/spoon)
Lightweight first aid kit by Adventure Medical Kits
Moleskine San Francisco City Notebook
Packets of Splenda

In my man-bag:

-MacBook, power cord
-3-prong to 2-prong adapter
-USB, USB 2, Firewire cables
-Belkin mini surge protector
-USB phone charger
-Microfiber cleaning cloth (laptop, glasses, lenses, etc.)
-Writing utensils (3 Pilot Precise V5s–2 black, 1 red; Pentel P205 with extra lead; eraser; Sharpie; Lamy AL-Star always on my person)
-3×5 notecards
-Stickie notes (two sizes)
-Moleskine (unruled journal)
-Pocket Moleskine Weekly Calendar
-Pocket Cahier
-Blank cds/dvds
-Miniature Umbrella
-Mini Mag-lite
-package of AA batteries
-Kobalt Utility Screw driver
-Leatherman (Kershaw OSO Sweet or Winchester pen-knife always on my person)
-Winchester ear plugs
-Tube of ChapStick
-Headphones
-Bible
-Whatever books I’m currently reading
-A camera, but only occasionally (type depends on occasion)

I usually keep flash drives on my key ring (I’m a huge fan of the LaCie iamakey).

I personally carry various small things like deodorant and nail clippers, in case something happens. Also, I try to keep most everything out of my pockets, so I keep everything in my go-bag.

The contents of it current are:
-The book I’m reading
-Moleskine journal
-Gridded cahier notebooks
-Pens/pencils
-Keys
-Handkerchief
-Pocket knife
-Deodorant
-Small grooming kit (clippers/scissors/file)
-Camera (and charger)
-Change of socks
-Exercise clothes

I’m generally prepared for anything with my bag and I have been adding things as I see fit.

If I packed my husband’s briefcase along with his lunch, I would probably include the following:

- book he’s reading
- moleskin notebook and whatever pen/pencil he adores at the moment
- small Bible (he’s a minister)
- stamps and stationery
- index cards
- business cards
- a granola bar or two
- pocket knife
- small coil of rope
- headache meds
- flash drive (genius)
- safety pins/paper clips/rubber bands
- maybe his camera

Thanks for the opportunity to win. There’s nothing like Saddleback Leather.

I would carry a laptop, a compass, and some maps

In my briefcase, I’d carry:

the book I am currently reading;
a picture of my wife;
my cell phone, keys, and chapstick, as they currently clutter my pockets;
a pocket knife;
my journal;
a pen, pencil, eraser, and highlighter (you never know when you’ll need them);
a small flashlight;
a flash drive containing important documents.

But most importantly, I hope to be carrying this briefcase! I have always wanted one, but just never had the ability to purchase it. Thanks for doing this giveaway, Brett!

-Pen, Pencil
-Notepad
-Paperback
-Newspaper
-Mints and/or Gum
-Flashdrive
-Nail clippers
-Meds (excedrin, antihistamines, etc.)
-Bottle opener
-Chap Stick
-Small Flashlight

I like to keep a bus powered hard drive in my
briefcase as well.

All good items, one I would add is an inflatable neck pillow. Small item that is great for easing neck pain on long train / plane rides.

Essential Items:
Netbook
Moleskine Journal
USB Flash Drive
Ipod
Breath Mints
Handkerchief

Let’s see…
-Pocket-sized extra toiletries (toothpaste, deodorant, etc)
-An extra cell phone charger, just in case you forgot to charge yours last night
-A multitool-not just a knife, but a minisaw, screwdriver, bottle opener…
-A small roll of duct tape
-Gold Bond talcum powder. If you’ve ever needed this stuff and been without it, you’ll find a way to have some nearby.

Hiking rain jacket (packs up nicely), laptop, book, small multi-tool, padfolio.

A couple Advil in a little ziploc (tiny ziploc.. electronics-parts-sized), a few Tums in a little ziploc, a packet of dissolving breath strips and a few of those little fingertip dispospable toothbrushes… heck, you could even probably pack your whole “3-1-1″ bag in there. The small Swiss Army Knife (the kind with the toothpick and tweezers on the sides) should pretty much cover it.

In opening with a quote on preparation from Benjamin Disraeli: “The secret of success in life is for a man to be ready for his oportunity when it comes.” Now here’s my list in no particular order:
-Newspaper/magazine -Book
-Journal -Stationery
-Compact umbrella -Extra handkerchief
-Thank you notes -Stamps
-Laptop & charger -Flash USB drive
-Breath mints -Lint roller
-Head phones -Phone charger
-Checkbook -Mini stapler
-Pens (black, blue, red) -Pencils
-Highlighter -Business cards
-Notecards -Mini sewing kit
-Daily/weekly planner -Calculator
-Notepads (yellow lined) -Copies of current resume
-Travel cologne -Toothpicks

Necessary for a briefcase: pipe, tobacco, book, magazine, writing utensil, laptop, flashlight, lighter, magnifying glass, mints and a Gideon Bible

Essential items:
Treasure map
Gummi bears
Famke Janssen

Simple and effective (for me)
1) Portfolio
2) Nice pen and pencil set
3) Calculator
4) Presentation remote
5) Black Sharpie marker
5) Deck of cards (I’ve always found these to be unbelievably useful in a tonne of situations)

Working in IT my briefcase MUST have a laptop and external hard drive (or two), iPod Classic, iPod Shuffle, sun and eye glasses….

Gum
breathmints
moleskin
small package of wet wipes

My essential items are:
2 fountain pens
3 Moleskine notebooks (1 for work items, 1 as my journal, and 1 used as a book of quotes).
United States Constitution
The Elements of Style by Strunk and White
2 Ticonderoga pencils
Ipod
Headphones (two sets you never know when one might break)
At least one magazine or newspaper
2 books (currently reading The Count of Monte Cristo and Moby Dick)

pencils and pens
date/address book
journal/notebook
business cards
utility knife
sunglasses

Didn’t Bond also have a tape of 50 1 ounce Krugerrands hidden in the lining of his for those baccarat emergencies? (the machine gun feature is always nice too or the knockout gas if you open it wrong).
Cheers,
Mitch

moleskine has to go everywhere i have to, so that would definitely be there…

and an apple. Always take an apple!

I’ve just started my 6th year of collegiate/post graduate education, and my backpack has become quite like a briefcase. Stuff I keep in it that I would likely transfer to a new bag:

- swiss army knife w/ LED flashlight
- rosary
- hand lotion (as a health care pro, I wash my hands a lot)
- pens, sharpie
- sunglass case
- chewing gum (the best stuff has Xylitol. Try Trident Ultra Care to help keep teeth healthy)
- non-sugar sweetener packets (trying to cut down sugar intake and coffee shops typically don’t have what I want)
- water bottle
- clif bar
- LASER pointer
- umbrella

While I agree that there is nothing like a good book, I disagree with the overall sentiment that to be a true man you must eschew newer technology in favor of age-old methods and materials. My bag would contain a laptop and iPhone, which is where I would probably do most of my reading. Is it any less manly? I really don’t think so. Books are heavier than cell phones unless you’re talking about a dime novel, and laptops continue to get lighter and lighter and they have multiple uses, while a book has few.

I think a key ingredient in manliness is being smart and aware of everything that is out there. When you’re at home, reading a tome from your well-stocked library is probably the best choice, but it isn’t as practical to bring the book along with you anymore, unless you’re a student.

For the NYC-dwelling man’s essential bag:

A good book (Aubrey/Maturin series is the current subway book of choice)
A good backup book (sucks getting stuck on the subway without something to read)
NYT crossword puzzle

That’s about it…

There are only two things I would add to this list; cell phone charger and a pocketknife, preferably the swiss army super tinker. We all need to remember, however, one of the most manly traits to posses is ingenuity. And that means knowing how to properly pack a briefcase with absolute essentials so it does not weigh 40lbs. ABSOLUTE ESSENTIALS.

The Wall Street Journal, cellphone, and a Leatherman

A Fisher Space Pen or two (Matte Black)
Highlighter
A couple spare business cards
Calculator
Two quarters
A few band aids
Plackers
One pack each of Dentene Fire & Ice
A couple of Power Bars
Spare key
Kendo men keychain, as zipper pull

Leatherman Juice…though I gave up after mailing it home too many times after forgetting about it until airport security!

A Flask full of Whiskey, of course.

A quality writing implement should always be included.

Aside from the standard pen/paper/flash drive/camera/business card, I spend a lot of time repairing computers. These moments always come up at the worst time when you are unprepared, so my bag includes:

Emergency boot/drive recovery Disks
Bootable flash drive
Blank CDR DVD+R DVD-R media
Network cable
Various USB cables
Screwdriver set, including mini-philips and star- bits
Tweezers
Electrical tape

A really nice pen, not necessarily an expensive one,
Spare pair of glasses, or sunglasses for those of us that need them
Small kit to fix said glasses
Something to clean your hands (wet nap/hand sanitizer/etc) – no one likes to shake a dirty hand

I don’t know why you wouldn’t carry a set of darts and a flask of scotch. Maybe a throwing knife or two.

I agree with the list, but would perhaps add a small flask.

in pockets:
keys, wallet, iPhone, optionally multi-tool, pistol, lighter, audio recorder, loose change

in Tumi briefcase (from written list):
Tom’s Main Briefcase Checklist
(circle missing items) Date Checked:___________
Large Pocket – Outer
□ ID Badges; Gift cards; coupons; thumb drive; name tags
Large Pocket – Inner
□ Spare house key; Bic lighter
□ Ibuprofen; Antihist.; inhalers
□ Stereo headphones; Lactaid; Beano
Small Pocket – Outer
□ business cards, 8, in hard case
Small Pocket – Inner
□ Voice recorder; 4 spare AA batteries
□ Checkbooks
Laptop Section
□ Small jar of Vaseline; allergy nose spray
□ Stopwatch; USB-to-mini-USB cable
□ BNI folder of referral business cards
□
Small Pocket
□ Pens, hi-lighters, Durex, lube, toothbrush
Folders Section
□ Portfolio (see its list of contents)
□ “Routing” folder; slim clipboard
□ Client work materials
□ “To be read” materials
□ Std Kit: 2x (Maslow, CMM, Flow, Praise Grid)
□
Back zippered pocket
□ Cough drops, 10+; Pepto Bismal tablets, 4+
Last edit 12-Feb-2009

There are a few necessities and a few extras that a briefcase can contain.
- pen
- notepad
- business cards
- cash
- tissues
- usb drive
- set of extra keys
- light reading material
- possibly a picture or two

~Notepad / Notebook: I like the marble cover composition books with heavy paper because they’re cheap enough to be disposable and I don’t have to worry about whether my scribblings are worthy of the notebook, but nicer and more sturdy than a spiral-bound. Also, the heavy paper holds the ink from my fountain pen without spreading or soaking through.
~Notecards: Sometimes you need to give notes for someone and notecards are classier than ripping a sheet from something else.
~Pens and Pencils: I have a nice, but inexpensive, fountain pen I carry, but sometimes one needs a pencil or a pen will run out of ink. I have a habit of picking up pens and pencils other people have dropped, so I’m never at a loss for a writing utensil.
~Calling Cards / Business Cards: Calling cards with just your name on them are rather useful in social situations because you can turn them over and write your phone number, email address, or whatever method of contact you want them to have.
~String: There are so many situations in daily life string is useful, but no one ever seems to have any.
~Several Paperclips and Safety Pins: See above.
~Book: Whatever book you happen to be reading at the time (and no, there is no time you should just not be reading something).
~Cigarette Lighter: Even if you don’t smoke, having fire at your command is always good. They can even help in social situations; I’ve met several people who became friends just because they needed a light and I happened to have one. If you don’t smoke, don’t bother with a zippo; they’re cool, but the fluid evaporates and they tend to leak a little.
~Water Bottle: I have a 27 oz stainless steel bottle and would love a Sigg flask, but a simple plastic bottle will work (just refill in instead of buying a new one whenever you empty it).
~Breath Fresheners: I prefer the Listerine PocketPaks; They are small, don’t rattle around (I hate carrying things that rattle), and plenty powerful.
~Spare Cash/Change: It’s always good to have a small supply of cash on hand. The only problem is trying not to fritter it away on things you don’t need.

I don’t have a briefcase at the moment, but when I had one, I carried:

- a couple of pens and a mechanical pencil
- eraser
- notepad
- book(s) or magazines I want to read in my spare time
- mini stapler
- extra business cards
- pocket knife (sometimes)
- work-related paperwork

That leather case sure looks nice. I hope I win it!

i’m all about being prepared for a zombie outbreak so:

-Zombie Survival Guide
-crowbar
-lighter
-hand held wind up radio
-flashlight + spare batteries
-small tool kit
-magnifying glass
-iodine tablets
-manly snacks (almonds, cashews, beef jerky)
-sketch book and pencils
-spare socks, shirt, underwear
-Predator dvd, because there’s room

Hmmm… I’d say any well-prepared man’s breifcase should always include:

Computer or at least PDA
Knife or multitool
pen/paper
mini-stapler
extra ammunition (the gun should be on your belt)
thumb drive
cash/change
an enjoyable book or magazine
the day’s newspaper until read
lighter
extra business cards
mints/gum
any necessary medications
a change of underwear and socks isn’t a bad idea…
a flashlight
a tie if you’re not wearing one
cell phone and extra battery
flask
cigarette or cigar case if you smoke – and extra gum
tea bags or coffee bags (yes, coffee bags)

The contents of my briefcase vary, but there are certain constants. I call them carryovers from my Boy Scout (“Be Prepared”) days. I always stow a flashlight, batteries (AA and AAA), pocket first aid kit, stain removing wipes, a couple of paper napkins, extra pens, and hand sanitizer. Everything else can come and go, these stay; if I change bags, these are the first items to go in.

Well, as an urbanite I’ve ditched a lot of my more trail related gear for techie crap but I still go analog for most things and try NOT to lug EVERYTHING I might need EVER:

-Laptop/power-cord
-earbuds
-thumb drive
-handkerchief
-small notebook
-pens and permanent marker
-pocket “Day-minder” calendar
-knife
-my current reading material

Wallet stays on my person

The essentials are pen/pencil, paper, gel, deoderant, + a good book!

Love the list and the bag. Could add a discrete weapon though!

Hmm, Moleskine or similar notebook, Cell phone, pen, keys, firestarter, leatherman, money, ipod, first aid kit, gorilla tape, tissues (because I don’t have any handkerchiefs yet), survival blanket, and umbrella. But there are may other things I’d like to put in it.

I have a Jansport messenger bag that I carry around college containing:

- Laptop
- Numerous textbooks for class
- One book for pleasure (currently “The Man-Eaters of Tsavo”)
- Assortment of pencils/pens
- Umbrella (you never know)
- Notebook
- USB Drive

Apart from all the others mentioned above in the article

- A pencil, both a ballpoint and a graphite pencil.

- A small extra notebook with all numbers you’ve got in your cellphone.

- Photos of your family.(It can be really nice to have some to look at while waiting for the train/bus/boat or whatever you may be doing. Just keep those a little more private photos of your wife at home

- A small camera.
Now, I don’t care whether it is a digital or analogue, but always bring a camera with you! Wherever you go!
I can’t remember how many times where I’ve blamed myself for not bringing a camera, most of those occasions have been not travelling to the awesome rock festivals or to Paris. But those occasions have been when I was on my way to school, on my way to work, hell, even at my way home to a friend.

Car accidents, the criminal that escaped from prison running 3 meters away from me, the deer that stood eye to eye with me from 2 meters, it was all those simple but special times with my friends, special times I now wish I had photos of.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re looking at those photos!

- A condom(or two, or three lucky you). A man knows how to protect himself, and he uses that knowledge everyday!

- Extra pencils should you need to give some away.

- Binoculars and a Magnifying glass! It can come handy, really it can!

- Empty lined A4 papers

- A knife, now where I live, in Sweden, you are not allowed to carry a knife with you. That’s why I don’t bring a (big)knife with me unless I’m going out in the forest.

-Identification. Let’s face the fact, accidents do happen to you, and if very serious, fatal… chances are you and your mug wont look very pretty any longer, in fact you might be impossible to identify that a simple ID card would be very helpful to a lot of people. So think of your family, friends and the hospital workers and police in this world and carry some identification on you! Both in your wallet and your briefcase cause if one gets lost you’ll still have the other!.

- A simple sewing kit for those bad days where you just can’t seem to get enough trouble, you’re in late for the office or class, your wife is mad at you, and oh look, a button on your suit has fallen off… oh man, if you only had an extra button a needle and some thread… Oh wait, you do. One trouble out of the way!

- Crosswords and the like for those longer boring trips. Or a book as mentioned, or both.

- An extra perfumed handkerchief with your favourite smell, Old Spice Original!

- Some neutral shoe polish that you quickly can put on your boots to make ‘em shine like diamonds.

- Aspirin. Once again you’ll thank yourself for bringing it along!

Well, that’s all I can think of right now, it sounds like a lot, it is a lot, but if you think about it, it’s not really something that takes up much space.

By the way, has there ever been a list on this site with this much comments? Hehehe.

/ Johan

Not too many things, but each good of its kind.
The following represents a very basic list, to be amended or added to according to the situation; the traveller would include a map of his locale and maybe eschew the laptop, the city worker a legal pad, calculator and spare tie in case of accidents, and so on and so forth.

-Wallet (must be leather and contain at least £30 in cash and £5 in coins)
-Phone/Blackberry
-Lighter (windproof)
-USB stick
-Multitool (I use a Gerber Suspension for the one-handed blade access, but anything with locking blades, screwdrivers, bottle opener and corkscrew is ideal)
-Notepad (the large lined Moleskine is among the most useful)
-Fountain pen & cartridges (Waterman or Parker are reliable and long-lasting; anything much more expensive smacks of ostentation rather than utility)
-Laptop
-Poetry (I find that a book of poems is more suited to casual reading than novels or non-fiction, which I tend to reserve for long journeys, holidays and the bedside table. Poetry need not be considered unmanly; a volume of Bukowski, say, would hardly be considered effeminate)

For the unmarried man, I think a condom, tucked out of the way, would be a wise addition. And as others have pointed out, a multi-tool or small pocket knife can be quite useful.

Hmmmm….

1) Moleskin notebook/pad
2) Chargers for gatdgets
3) Ipod
4) MiFi mobile hotspot
5) Copy of The Meditations

A man should have the following in his briefcase.
- Leatherman (I prefer skeletool, as it is a perfect blend of weight and function where I can always keep it on me. And it has a pocket clip!)
- Journal & Pen (Preferable Moleskin with a fountain pen. A pencil is also good for sketching out ideas/designs)
- Notepad/Notecards (For when you need to take notes, but stationary is too formal and a journal is too personal. If used alot, have a dedicated notes journal)
- Good Book (For when you have a bit of time)
- Laptop
- Money (Hidden under the secret flap of leather at the bottom of the briefcase)
- Matches (Less conspicuous than a lighter, and will save your life when the unexpected happens).
- Point and shoot camera (For the “Hey y’all, watch this moments” in life!)
- Aspirin (Will make that long day at work that doable…)
- Lip balm