What's In My Briefcase

Whether I’m packing for a business or leisure trip, my soft-sided briefcase is always close by. Different from my carry-on (roller) and my checked luggage, my briefcase is essentially my man-purse and an extension of what I keep literally on my person (in my pockets). I’m not the most organized person in the world, but I have learned (over time and through trial and error), these are the items most-needed on my travels. 

The bag itself. My briefcase is black, soft faux leather. I travel a lot so my luggage gets used and I usually go through about one briefcase every two to three years. I do not use expensive luggage when I travel (or in my personal life for that matter). My briefcase has a strap on the exterior so it can slip over the handle of my carry-on roller. Attached to the handle is an “Erik The Travel Guy” luggage tag. 
  
Regardless of where I’m going, these are essentially what you will find in my briefcase: 

Relevant file folders from my office
Laptop with my travel power supply and a wireless mouse (I’m a little old school) 
iPhone (when going through airport security)
iPad (long haul flights) with downloaded books and movies
Earbuds
Sunglasses in case with alcohol wipes
Wallet (when going through security) 
Passport (international travel and some domestic)
Boarding pass (if applicable...I usually use an airline app)  
iPhone charging cable
Portable power supply (emergencies) 
Pens, sharpie and business cards
Pad of paper
One magazine
Breath mints
Chewing gum
Raw almonds
Two organic tea bags
Hand Sanitizer and travel antibacterial wipes
Travel-size Advil, Rolaids & Cough drops

So there you have it. The idea here is to spark thought on what works for you, but that’s what I’m working with…

Happy Travels!