Picture this: you've just signed up for a membership at a local coworking space—perhaps a well-known one like WeWork, or maybe a smaller boutique venue. It's your first day, and as you stand in front of your closet or desk, you might wonder, "What exactly should I bring?" Lucky for you, this blog post unpacks the essentials you need to make the most of your coworking experience and helps you decide between a light or fully equipped setup.
Overview of Option A: Light and Minimalist
First up, we have the "Light and Minimalist" approach. This is the choice for those who want to travel light and keep things simple. With the rise in hybrid work patterns, many people are adept at adapting to different work environments without hauling their entire home office with them. In Q2 2025, the U.S. flexible workspace market recorded a 0.4% increase in total inventory, up to approximately 141.29 million square feet. This indicates that coworking spaces are accommodating various work styles.
Key Items to Consider:
- Laptop and Charger: The core of your portable office.
- Notebook and Pen: Sometimes, writing by hand can spark creativity.
- Headphones: Vital for concentrating, especially in shared spaces.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key to maintaining energy levels.
The goal here is to keep your essentials straightforward, similar to how many coworking spaces are simplifying their amenities. For example, WeWork locations in Chicago have adapted by providing more communal resources, reducing the need to bring a lot from home.
Overview of Option B: Fully Equipped
On the flip side, there's the "Fully Equipped" option. This approach is for those who prefer having everything they might need within reach. Coworking spaces like Regus and HQ focus on larger, high-end venues, allowing ample room to spread out and create a personalized workspace.
Key Items to Consider:
- Extended Monitor: For those who need more screen real estate.
- Portable Desk Organizer: Maintain a tidy and efficient workspace.
- Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse: For ergonomic comfort throughout the day.
- Snacks and Coffee Thermos: Keep energy levels up without needing to leave your desk.
While this might sound like a lot, it’s ideal for professionals who often work on complex projects requiring multiple tools and resources close at hand.
Key Differences
Let's break down the key differences between these two approaches:
- Portability vs. Stability: Light and Minimalist emphasizes portability and easy movement, while Fully Equipped focuses on creating a stable workspace.
- Setup Time: A minimalist setup can get you started quickly, whereas a fully equipped workspace might take longer to arrange.
- Resource Dependence: Minimalists rely more on coworking space resources, while the fully prepared bring their own.
In secondary markets like Long Island and Birmingham, which are gaining momentum, you might find different amenities that could influence your decision.
Pros & Cons
Light and Minimalist
Pros:
- Easy to move and adapt to different spaces.
- Less to carry means less stress.
Cons:
- May lack certain tools you need.
- Dependence on coworking space amenities, which can vary.
Fully Equipped
Pros:
- Comprehensive setup for all work scenarios.
- Greater customization of your workspace.
Cons:
- More items to transport daily.
- Setup and teardown can take extra time.
With the coworking footprint in places like Manhattan shrinking by 4%, finding a space that fits your needs may require more flexibility—a trait best suited for minimalists.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between these two options really boils down to your work style and the specific environment of your coworking space. If you’re frequently on the go or work from multiple locations, the Light and Minimalist approach might suit you best. However, if consistency and control over your workspace are paramount, going Fully Equipped could boost your productivity.
Conclusion
Deciding what to bring to a coworking space involves balancing the convenience of minimalism with the preparedness of a fully equipped setup. Whether you’re leveraging the communal resources of a WeWork in San Francisco or spreading out at a boutique space in West Palm Beach, aligning your setup with your work habits is essential.
Next Steps
- Assess Your Needs: Evaluate your daily tasks and determine which tools are indispensable.
- Test Both Approaches: Spend a few days with each setup to see which feels more comfortable.
- Visit the Space: Take a tour of your coworking space to understand the available amenities.
- Adjust Accordingly: Based on your experience, tweak your setup for optimal efficiency.
Remember, the best setup is the one that enhances your productivity while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle. Happy coworking!