What bag do you use when you're traveling for BB IB Summer Analyst interviews?

I am interviewing in LA, SF, NYC and Boston for BB IB. 

1. Are backpacks too informal for BB IB interviews?

2. Is a messenger bag better to wear in terms of appearance, than a backpack?

3. When traveling, should you also bring a carry on suitcase if you're using a messenger bag?

Context: What bags should I use when traveling to an interview via train or flying? I am planning on getting a portfolio for my resume, but after scrolling through past threads, it's suggested to get a messenger bag and a portfolio. The thing is, if you're traveling and need to bring snacks or maybe extra shoes (since dress shoes are not as comfortable as other shoes), would you need a carry on suitcase if you're using a messenger bag? 

11 Comments
 
[Comment removed by mod team]
 

travel with a carry on for your suit and clothes and a jansport or herschel backpack for laptop / school stuff. why are you reinventing the wheel

 

I'm generally hate backpacks in business settings. But for a kid traveling to interviews, any regular backpack (NF, Jansport, etc) will definitely not get you any weird looks and is completely understandable. 

No MDs/Ds/VPs with backpacks -- that shit always cracks me up.  If they are casual ok, but with a suit, I tend to cringe.  Almost as bad as the "Air MDs" (the Cole Hahns with the sneaker bottom).

 

I wouldn’t over think this, and while I personally don’t like backpacks, no one is going to care. I have seen everyone from analysts to MDs travel with them so it is a matter of personal preference.

As you travel more in your career, you will get a system down to travel as light as possible. Personally, I travel with a leather messenger bag for business documents / laptop and a Filson twill zippered tote that can easily store shirts, toiletries, workout clothes, etc. while still fitting into even the smallest regional jets. Some people use a small leather/canvas duffle bag instead. The key is to wear your suit/jacket while traveling to minimize the bag space needed.

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