For many of us, accurately predicting what we might need in our purse every day is practically impossible. While most magazine editors and beauty bloggers love to preach about the kind of mascara or lipstick all women should have in their bags, there are other important items that no one really talks about. So aside from the cosmetics or makeup that you carry with you whenever you’re on the go.
Here are some essentials we believe every woman should have in her purse:
Pepper Spray
Many women live in fear of assault every day, frantically looking over their shoulders and tightly clinging to their belongings whenever they have to walk alone at night. Fortunately, carrying pepper spray is a reliable and foolproof way to protect yourself. As you can see on tbotech.com, pepper spray comes in a variety of sizes that you can easily fit in any of your bags. In addition to being compact and portable, it is also easy to use; all you have to do is point and spray, and your attacker will be rendered powerless in an instant.
Band-Aids
What happens if you have to sign a document at work, but your hand is bleeding because you accidentally give yourself a papercut? This is where the Band-Aids come in handy. They’re not just for cuts and scrapes, though. Band-Aids will also save you from the pain that your new shoes are inflicting on your heels and the best part is, they take virtually no space at all so even if you don’t end up using them, there’s really no harm in throwing a couple of bandages in there anyway.
A Portable Charger
Having your phone die is the worst, especially if you’re on the go. Don’t be a victim of technology loss and invest in a decent portable cellphone charger that will allow you to charge your battery no matter where you are. This way, you won’t have to worry about missing that important call or running out of digital entertainment as you commute to and from work.
A Healthy Snack
Whether you had to work through lunch or you were stuck in traffic for longer than you had anticipated, having a healthy snack in your purse can be a lifesaver. Plus, if you’re one of the many women that are always on the move, satisfying your sudden hunger urges and cravings will be much easier when you have a protein bar, some almonds, or any other healthy snack in your purse. We recommend carrying a leak-proof, reusable water bottle as well. Staying hydrated throughout the day will help you stay focused and energized, and it will also help keep the headaches at bay.
A Travel Size Moisturizer
Your skin needs hydration too, which is why you should always pack a travel size moisturizer in your bag. Choose one that’s suitable for your particular skin type and make sure that it has at least 30 SPF. This way, you can keep your skin soft, protect it from the harmful UV rays, reduce wrinkles, prevent dryness and itchiness, and maintain a healthy glow throughout the day. Don’t forget about your lips; before you head off for the day, be sure to throw an SPF-rated lip balm in your purse, even if you’re wearing lipstick that day.
Headphones / Earphones
Whether you’re having a tough time at work, you’re looking for a way to make the subway ride less boring, or you want to tune out that loud coworker who just won’t get off the phone, there are plenty of reasons to carry a good pair of headphones or earphones with you at all times. Plus, being able to listen to your favorite music or watch those cute cat videos can effectively turn any bad day around.
Safety Pins
These are a lifesaver if you experience a wardrobe malfunction. Fashion emergencies happen every now and then, and you need to be prepared in case they happen. Safety pins are a quick and effective fix if you accidentally pop a seam or a button. These tiny items that barely take any space will also save the day if you had a bra strap snap for you— we all know how annoying and uncomfortable that can be.
A Small Pack of Tissues
You never want to be without one of these if you accidentally spill your drink or if you feel a sneeze coming on. Besides the tissues, you might also want to pack some blotting paper. These absorbent sheets are perfect for the days when you don’t have time to touch up your makeup. With blotting paper, you can wipe away any excess oil or sweat on your forehead, cheeks, and upper lip without having to run to the bathroom.
Over-The-Counter Pain Reliever
You ever know when a headache or cramps will hit, which is why having a couple of over-the-counter pain-relieving pills in your purse is a great precautionary measure to take. Just take 3 or 4 of these, put them in a small pill case, and you’ll be ready to face the day!
Hand Sanitizer
Let’s face it, many of the outdoor places we often find ourselves in are dirty. Whether you live in the city or the suburbs, and especially if you take public transit to get around, you need to have hand sanitizer on you at all times. Keep in mind that it can make your hands dry so choose one with a moisturizing agent such as vitamin E to keep your skin from losing too much moisture.
Breath Freshener
Whether it’s an early coffee date or a post-work dinner, bad breath is always a turnoff, regardless of the situation. So always keep breath mints or chewing gum in your bag, your future self will definitely thank you for it.
So there you have it. These are the essentials of a well-packed purse. Not only will the above-mentioned items come in handy in everyday situations, but they can also help prepare you for any surprises that might come up. Of course, the contents of a purse will vary from woman to another, depending on their daily schedule and needs, so feel free to add to the above list as you see fit.
