‘Analog bags’ explained as trend takes over Gen Z

First we had 'bathroom camping' and 'raw-dogging,' now, we want to turn your attention to 'analog bags'.

That's right, Gen Z have mustered up yet another way to battle against the never-ending need to doom scroll and consume brain rot on TikTok.

Growing up in the era of technology, phones and social media has its perks but it also has its issues - the most notable one being just how addictive it all can be.

The compulsive usage means that our attention spans are getting shorter and we're looking for new ways to stay off our devices and do something other than scrolling.

'Bathroom camping', for example, sees people shut themselves away in either a public or private toilet and staying in there for hours to deal with stress.

It's been compared to 'raw dogging' which is where people abstain from looking at their devices, reading books or listening to music while travelling.

Instead, they simply sit with their thoughts with no distractions, in an attempt to do some self-reflection.

What is the 'analog bags' trend?

Anyway, the newest trend of this nature is all about 'Analog bags'.

It simply means carrying around a bag full of portable activities like crossword puzzles, books, colouring books and knitting needles, with the hopes you'll turn to these instead of your phone while out and about.

TikTokers have been dishing out advice on what to put in your 'analog bag' to liven up those in-between moments and stop you from scrolling.

As reported by Business Insider, studies have found that heavy consumption of short-form media is bad for your brain - it's been linked to anxiety, depression, and shorter attention spans.

So, Gen Z are trying to switch this up and create new healthier habits and at the same time, learn a new skill or do something that stimulates your mind a little bit more. And it doesn't have to mean bringing out a full set of watercolour paints and a canvas everywhere you go, it can be as simple as keeping a crossword book in your bag.

It also doesn't need to be limited to when you're out and about - while at home, you can set your phone aside and spend a few hours with your analog bag instead.

How did the 'analog bag' trend start

Influencer Sierra Campbell (@siececampbell on TikTok) is the person who's credited with coming up with the analog bag trend.

She first made a video explaining the concept in August, and it led to a spike in views and likes, with many people then rushing to recreate their own.

One TikToker, who posts under the handle @pagerspage, showed off her haul on the social media platform, which included a needlepointing kit, polymer clay to make fridge magnets, and a colouring book.

Sierra told Business Insider: "I firmly believe you cannot live a full life while unknowingly addicted to your phone. You might be missing really wonderful opportunities to have a fun and deep life. The analog piece is such a cornerstone of that."

She also credits Campbell cites the self-help book The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg as a major inspiration for her idea, as it argues that replacing one habit with another is more effective than quitting completely.

Well, I'm convinced - off to make my own analog bag!