Abstract: A portable work area apparatus and method of use that creates a work area on top of a container having a container body defining a cavity for receiving storable items through an opening defined by a top end of the container body, with the portable work area apparatus having a body with a top portion, an opposing bottom portion, and the top portion having an outer edge and a top surface that defines a substantially flat working surface, and a downward extending attachment feature with downward extending attachment features for selective engagement with a portion or all of the top end of the container body when the apparatus is selectively placed onto the container for use of the apparatus and its working surface by a user.