An “Analog Bag” Might Be the Key to Finally Getting Off Your Phone

If you’ve ever opened your phone to check one notification and suddenly found yourself scrolling through Instagram an hour later, you’re not alone. Most of us have the best intentions to spend less time on social media or our phones in general, only to fall right back into the habit of doomscrolling while sitting on the couch at night.

Enter the analog bag: a surprisingly simple, screen-free boredom solution that’s taking over TikTok (ironically enough). Think tote bags filled with activities like books, crossword puzzles, crafts, and other offline activities to reach for instead of your phone. The result? Fewer mindless scroll sessions and more intentional downtime—all without deleting apps or bricking your phone.

If you’re looking for a new way to unwind after work, have a screen-free weekend, or simply break the habit of reaching for your phone all the time, the analog bag trend might be the digital reset you need. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

What is an analog bag?

An analog bag is basically just a bag filled with non-digital, hands-on activities you can grab whenever you feel the urge to scroll. The trend gained traction when creator Siece Campbell posted a video sharing the items she keeps in her analog bag, explaining that it’s her way of replacing a bad habit (being on her phone) with a good habit (reaching for phone-free activities).

Instead of relying on willpower alone, the analog bag works by removing friction. When your phone isn’t the most convenient option within reach, you’re more likely to pick up a book, solve a puzzle, or work on a creative project instead. Keep one handy in your living room or by your bed to avoid scrolling while watching TV or before going to sleep. You can also take your analog bag to a coffee shop, the park, or on the train for your morning commute so you have phone-free activities to reach for while you’re on the go, too.

Source: Amanda Youmans | Dupe

Source: Emily Andie | Dupe

Source: Ula Kaniuch | Dupe

How to create your own analog bag

It’s easy to hop on the analog bag trend and create one that works for you and your interests. You’ll want to use a bag that’s easy to grab and has plenty of room, so reach for a medium- or large-sized tote. No need to buy anything new—an old tote bag you have lying around the house works perfectly fine! Separating items into different pockets or individual zip pouches can help keep things organized within your bag.

There’s no limit on the number or type of items you can keep in your analog bag. Activity books filled with crossword puzzles or word searches are a great analog alternative to using the NYT app. If you prefer crafting, fill your bag with a watercolor set, a sketchbook and pens, coloring books and colored pencils, or a needlepoint project. Books, magazines, or newspapers are also good items to keep on hand to occupy your mind. If you’re looking to replace some of your phone’s capabilities, include a notebook and planner in your bag so you can avoid checking your notes app and calendar. You could even include a Polaroid camera in case you want to snap a photo.

You don’t have to overhaul your whole life or daily routine to spend less time scrolling. Sometimes it’s as simple as having something cozy, creative, or calming within arm’s reach.

L.L. Bean

Open-Top Boat and Tote

6 colors available

Shop now

Land’s End

5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag

10+ colors available

Shop now

Emily Lex Studio

Flowers Watercolor Workbook

Shop now

Amazon

Easy-Medium Crossword Puzzle Book

Shop now

Etsy | ThreadedAndTipsy

Dirty Martini Needlepoint Canvas

Shop now

Amazon

Sketch Book Drawing Paper Pad

Shop now

Amazon

Premier Colored Pencils Set

Shop now

The Everygirl x Day Designer

2026 Monthly Wellness Planner

Shop now

Amazon

Black Ink Gel Pens

Shop now

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christine Winder, Contributing Wellness Writer

Christine is a long-time reader turned contributing writer for the Everygirl. She has a BA in Communications from Roanoke College and lives with her two cats in Richmond, VA where she writes for several local publications.

READ CHRISTINE’S FULL BIO

The post An “Analog Bag” Might Be the Key to Finally Getting Off Your Phone appeared first on The Everygirl.