What’s in My Bag as a Site Junior Architect
One of my favorite parts of being an architect is going on site visits.
There’s something magical about watching an idea transform from lines on paper to a tangible structure.
Whether or not the design is my own, seeing progress on-site is always exciting.
That said, there were times when I’d forget something essential and wish I hadn’t.
To help you avoid those moments, I’m sharing what’s in my bag as a junior architect during site visits—tried, tested, and guaranteed to make your life easier!
When Do I Bring These Things?
In my previous job, site visits were a weekly routine. For example, if we had five projects, we’d dedicate one day per week to each site.
Some firms, however, assign stay-in architects to oversee projects daily—it varies depending on your company.
For these visits, I always used a backpack.
A backpack keeps your hands free for all the movement you’ll be doing on-site and ensures your things stay secure.
Trust me, a shoulder bag sliding off from time to time is not something you want to deal with.
What’s in My Bag?
1. Metric Tape
My metric tape became my most-used tool—though I didn’t realize it at first. It’s essential for checking dimensions, verifying plans, and making quick measurements for client requests or changes on-site.
I recommend an 8-meter tape; it’s compact yet versatile enough for most projects.
2. Site Notebook and Pen
A notebook and pen are must-haves. You’ll need them to jot down notes, sketch quick ideas, or document client feedback.
As a junior architect, I often used mine to write down valuable tips from my supervisors—knowledge that came in handy later.
3. Plans and a Folder
Even if the site already has a set of plans, always bring your own copy. In my case, we typically worked on small residential projects, so I’d carry printed plans (often on short bond paper).
I kept these in a labeled folder to stay organized. If you’re managing multiple projects, separate folders for each one will save you from any mix-ups.
4. Colored Pens and Highlighters
Changes and updates happen all the time, and marking them clearly on your plans is crucial.
Colored pens and highlighters are perfect for this—they help you and the team visualize progress and adjustments at a glance.
5. Water Bottle
Whether it’s blazing hot or surprisingly cool, staying hydrated is non-negotiable.
A filled water bottle is your best friend on-site, especially in places like the Philippines where the heat can be relentless.
6. Phone
I know, this seems obvious—but it’s easy to forget in a rush. Your phone isn’t just for communication; it’s essential for taking site photos.
Documenting progress at every visit is important for updates, records, and team reviews.
What to Wear
Now that you know what’s in my bag, let’s talk about what to wear. Spoiler alert: leave the fancy clothes at home.
On-site, comfort and practicality are key:
Clothes: Opt for simple, breathable outfits that allow easy movement. You’ll often find yourself climbing ladders or navigating uneven terrain, so you don’t want to be restricted.
Shoes: Comfortable, durable footwear is a must. Crooked paths and long-standing hours don’t mix well with heels or office shoes.
Why Simplicity Matters: Wearing fancy clothes might give the wrong impression on-site. It’s not just about respect from workers—it’s about blending in and being ready for the job at hand.
Final Thoughts
Site visits are a rewarding part of the job, but they require preparation.
With the right tools in your bag and the right clothes on your back, you’ll feel more confident and capable of handling whatever the day brings.
Here’s a quick recap of what to pack:
Metric tape
Site notebook and pen
Plans and a folder
Colored pens and highlighters
Water bottle
Phone
What’s in your site bag? Are there any essentials you swear by? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
