The idea is to use a canvas bag with hobbies that replace what you do on your cell phone, such as buying the newspaper instead of reading the news online or doing crosswords instead of playing a mobile game.
A new lifestyle trend is gaining traction among Gen Z, and it has nothing to do with luxury brands or the latest tech gadgets. Known as “analog bags”, the concept encourages people to carry canvas bags filled with offline activitiesdesigned to reduce time spent on smartphones.
The term was popularized by the content creator Sierra Campbellwho shared a video explaining how he put together a suitcase with non-digital alternatives to his cell phone. Inside the bag were items such as crossword, knitting needlesa watercolor kit and a paper diary. Campbell said the idea came from a desire to avoid spending excessive time scrolling on a cell phone screen.
“My biggest fear is be on my deathbed and regret the time I spent on my phone,” he said in the video, which helped spark a lot of interest in the concept. One viewer described the analog bag as a “toy box for your ability to concentrate.”
@siececampbell Negative Nancy’s are always blocked bc the patriarchy haaaates to see women honor their successes #analogbag #whimsicallife #whimsywithsiece #analogbagideas ♬ original sound – SIECE CAMPBELL
Campbell, 31, argues that reducing screen time is not about eliminating technology completely, but rather about replacing digital habits with engaging offline activities. She attributes the idea to ideas from the book “The Power of Habit”, by Charles Duhigg, which emphasizes the habit replacement rather than trying to eliminate them completely.
“If you use your cell phone to read the news, put a newspaper in your bag,” explained Campbell. “If it’s for entertainment, try a book. If it’s for creative inspiration, add drawing or knitting materials.”
The trend spread quickly on social media, with users often ironically using their cell phones to share videos of what they include in their own “analog” or “to stop scrolling” bags. The movement coincides with a broader cultural trend toward offline pastimes, from reading and crafts to journaling and puzzles, as people seek out balance in an increasingly digital world.
To create an analog suitcase, advocates suggest starting with a sturdy bag, with classic canvas bags being particularly popular. Content can be personalized and changed according to personal interests.
Common items include books or magazines, crossword puzzles, knitting or embroidery kits, diaries, sketchbooks, watercolor sets, origami paper, pocket games, decks of cards, and even digital cameras. Some parents adapted the idea for children, filling bags with coloring books, crayons, anti-stress toys and educational games.
Proponents of the idea emphasize that participating in this trend does not require the purchase of new items. Many suggest simply reusing books, craft materials and games that are already unused at home.
