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What to Put in an Analog Bag/Box for Screen Free Moments

I think the entire world is taking a more critical eye at how much time they spend on their phones. With endless doomscrolling (especially with the overwhelming news recently) and how everything somehow needs an app these days, it feels like we are on our phones all the time. Enter: the analog bag. An alternative to being on your phone. Now you ask, what is the analog bag? And what can I put in an analog bag?

For mine, I found the most charming blue metal antique tackle box on Facebook Marketplace. I was instantly drawn to it because of all the compartments, just begging to be filled with small, interesting things. An analog bag (or box) doesn’t need to be fancy, and it definitely doesn’t mean buying a bunch of new supplies. It’s simply a designated place to keep activities that are already in your life, ready for when you want to unplug.

If you’ve ever wondered what to put in an analog bag, the answer is: things you already own, things that invite curiosity, and things that don’t involve a screen.

What Is an Analog Bag? (Or box, or basket?)

An analog bag (or box, basket, or tin) is a screen-free grab-and-go container. It’s something you can open when you’re bored, overstimulated, or just craving a slower moment. Instead of opening an app, you open a lid.

The beauty of this idea is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it. You don’t have to be suddenly become crafty or need to buy new things.

What to Put in an Analog Bag

Here are some ideas to get you started if you’re thinking about what to put in an analog bag. Use this as inspiration, not a checklist.

  • Small notebook or stack of scrap paper
  • Pencil pouch with pencils, colored pencils, or a pen you love
  • Travel watercolor palette
  • Deck of cards or a few favorite card games
  • Embroidery/cross stitch project or a small hand-sewing project
  • Knitting/Crochet project
  • Puzzle booklet: sudoku, crossword, or word search
  • Washi tape and a journal
  • Book (bonus points if it’s from the library!)
    • Books can be fiction or non-fiction. Sometimes it’s fun to leaf through a new cookbook, a drawing book, interior design, gardening, or architecture book!
  • Timer for meditation

When deciding what to put in an analog bag, think about activities that can be picked up and put down easily. Things that don’t require a big setup, instructions, or perfection.

You Don’t Need to Buy Anything

It’s worth repeating: figuring out what to put in an analog bag does NOT mean buying new things or supplies for hobbies. This is about gathering what’s already scattered around your home and giving it a dedicated place. That antique tackle box works for me, but a shoebox, tote bag, basket, or drawer works just as well.

I love adding library books to mine. Library books don’t just have to be novels! You can also throw in crafting books, cook books to leaf through, or books for inspiration! (Like architecture or gardening books!)

Why It Works

Having a physical place to turn to makes all the difference. When your hands are busy, your mind often follows. An analog bag gives you an intentional pause, a gentle alternative to screens rather than a rigid replacement.

So if you’re thinking about what to put in an analog bag, start small. Add a few items you already enjoy. Over time, you’ll notice which things you reach for most and your analog bag will naturally evolve into something that truly supports slower, more intentional moments. It will also probably fluctuate with the seasons, which is completely normal and encouraged!

Sometimes all it takes to unplug is a box with a lid and something interesting inside.

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