My Setup

tl;dr - Function over form.

Every bag, gadget, and desk accessory on this page earned its spot by removing friction from something I do daily. If it doesn't make my workflow faster or my travel easier, it's not here.

Daily Carry

Aer City Pack Pro 2 replaced the Pro Pack Slim after two years. Minimal exterior, surprisingly spacious interior, and the laptop compartment fits the 16-inch MacBook perfectly.

What's in the bag:

• MacBook Pro 16" (M5 Max) - My only laptop now. Handles video editing, AI workflows, and everything in between.
• iPad Pro (12.9") - Mostly for reading and light email when I don't want to open the MacBook.
• Sony WH-1000XM6 - Third generation of these I've owned. The noise canceling on planes alone is worth it.
• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - Replaced the Insta360 GO 2. Better video quality and the rotating screen makes it easy to check framing on POV shots.

Travel Gear

Aer Travel Pack 3 - Switched from the Peak Design Travel Backpack because it's easier on the shoulders and more versatile for one-bag travel.

I've been using Delsey suitcases since my boarding school days (give or take a few decades) and they LAST. I've tried Tumi but always came back to the cheaper, sturdier Delseys.

• Delsey Alexis 29" - Check-in suitcase.
• Delsey Paris Titanium 21" - Carry-on.
• Peak Design Packing Cubes - Sleek, practical, and expandable. I have just enough to fill the 29-inch check-in completely.
• Peak Design Wash Pouch - Waterproof, separate toothbrush compartment, and the green color looks great. I buy these as gifts for friends.

Desk

• Apple Pro Display XDR - Got this second-hand. Overkill for most people, but the color accuracy matters for video editing and thumbnail work.
• CalDigit TS5 Plus - The dock that connects everything to the MacBook with a single cable. Clean desk, no cable mess.
• Logitech MX Master 4 - Fourth generation, still the best productivity mouse I've used.
• Apple Magic Trackpad 2 - Sits next to the mouse. I switch between them depending on the task.
• Herman Miller Embody - Recently tried the Steelcase Leap v2. No competition. Embody wins in every dimension.
• Blue Yeti USB Mic - Good enough for calls and casual recording. The studio mics live on the YouTube Gear page.
• Logitech Brio - Webcam. Does the job.
• Bose Companion 20 - Desk speakers. Nothing fancy, they just work.

Desk Accessories

The desk runs a black-walnut theme from Grovemade and Oakywood.

• Wooden Desk Shelf - One of my first Grovemade purchases. The space underneath is perfect for sliding the desk mat under.
• Desk Mat (wool) - Fits a Magic Trackpad, MX Keys Mini, and MX Master perfectly.
• Laptop Stand - A little overpriced but fits the black-walnut theme.
• Headphone Stand - Same deal. Expensive, looks great.
• MagSafe Charger - I bought two (desk and bedroom). Extremely well-built, never tips over.
• Wall Caddy - My favorite Grovemade product. Throw the phone on top, hang keys below. Not technically part of the desk setup but too good to leave out.
• Oakywood iPhone MagSafe Shelf Mount - I have two. One on the desk, one by the front door. Pop the phone on, it charges immediately.