Go bags and tools for reporters

Throughout my time at UCF, I learned that all journalists need what is called a go bag.

This bag should contain everything a journalist or reporter should need to cover a news or feature story.

Before I made my own go bag, I would just carry a few notepads, pens, and my phone to cover events or feature stories. I admit, I wasn't really interested in carrying around a bag all day with supplies I wouldn't need until I learned the hard way.

I was covering my first event on the UCF campus, and halfway through the coverage, my phone died, my pen bled through my notepad, which had my questions for interviewees, and I was scrambling for my other notepad mid-interview. Fortunately, I had a pencil, an extra notepad, and someone let me borrow their phone charger. So I was able to complete my coverage without further complications. These little mistakes may not seem like much to other people, but I was embarrassed that I wasn't prepared enough. That night taught me that as a journalist, you need to be prepared for anything.

To this day I carry around a reporter's go-bag and will provide a list of things any journalist should have:

• A waterproof bag

• Your press credentials and any important information

• Your business card

• Notepads

• A contact list

• Pens

• Phone and phone charger

• Audio recorder (optional: ask the interviewee if they are comfortable being recorded)

• A personal camera and charger

• SD cards and SD card reader

• A travel first aid kit

• An extra change of clothes, socks, and sneakers

• Your laptop and charger (for on-the-go writing)

• USD drives

• An umbrella

Your go bag will change depending on the type of journalism you want to be. It is also helpful to check your local weather the day you need to cover a story to prepare accordingly.

Hope this helped!