Finding Solace in Faraday Bags

It’s kind of odd, isn’t it? People often say things like, “I really want to minimize my screen time,” yet it seems no one really listens. In this digital age, we spend an increasing amount of time glued to screens, and naturally, we’re all seeking ways to disconnect. This has led to a surge in products and services aimed at helping us unplug.

Faraday bags, for instance, have gained traction for their multiple uses, like protecting against EMP attacks, thwarting eavesdropping, and blocking GPS tracking.

There’s actually a myriad of apps out there targeting this need to disconnect. Yet, isn’t it funny that these tools are all found on the devices we’re trying to escape? While apps can be helpful, they require a certain level of willpower that, frankly, I often lack. So, I’ve started to turn to a simpler, low-tech solution: Faraday bags.

Secure the Bag

So, what’s a Faraday bag? At its core, it’s a bag that prevents electromagnetic fields from entering or exiting. That’s the gist of it. It can completely block calls, texts, and emails while disabling GPS and Bluetooth. It’s like a complete lockdown for your device.

When I finally retrieve my phone from the bag, all those missed notifications come flooding back as if I just turned my device off for a bit and then powered it back on. It does raise an interesting point, though: why not just switch off your phone to save some cash?

Well, the bag does offer a certain convenience — you won’t have to wait for your phone to boot up before diving back into its abyss. Plus, there’s a psychological edge to it; out of sight, out of mind. Personally, I find it much easier to avoid social media in the evenings when my phone isn’t right in front of me.

Sliding my phone and laptop into a Faraday bag and sealing it has really changed my mindset about minimizing distractions. It’s almost as if the bag says, “I can’t see it, so I don’t need to care.”

Set It and Forget It

Faraday bags can truly be multifunctional, safeguarding against EMPs, wiretaps, and potential NSA interference. While those uses are critical for some, I’ve found that simply keeping my devices locked away for a while is a blessing. It can be quite a mental investment that pays off.

Now, regarding the cost of these bags, you might be curious. You can find one at MOS Equipment for around $23, or if you want something that fits a laptop, it could run up to $90. Another option I’ve checked out is Godark, where a phone bag is about $55 and a laptop version is around $130. Sure, their products are pricier, but they come with features like waterproofing and sturdier materials — both of which I’ve found make no difference in EMF blocking.

A One-Time Investment

I’ve heard warnings about the cheaper bags available on Amazon and other sites. If reliability is key, it’s smart to stick with a reputable brand. Yes, the price does matter, but for many of us, a one-time investment that helps save time and focus is probably worth it.

If you’re trying to push through some writing but can’t concentrate, try placing your phone in the bag and tucking it away for an hour or two. Or, if you struggle with sleep, stowing your device away can enhance your nightly routine. I like to put mine in the bag as part of my pre-sleep checklist. And if you’re unsure about alarms, picking up a simple watch can do the trick — they’re affordable and come in various styles.

Give it a shot for a week. You might thank yourself later. I’ve experimented with a variety of screen time management apps and timers, but honestly, I’ve found that keeping it low-tech and straightforward works best. Plus, if you ever feel like evading the NSA, that Faraday bag might just equip you for a life away from prying eyes.