What To Pack in Your Purse to Be Perpetually Prepared for Anything

I have always like being prepared for anything. As a result, my handbags are usually the best stocked purses in the room. There was a time in college where my friends would jokingly refer to my handbag as a 7-11 because I almost always had everything in it but the kitchen sink. I became so obsessed about being prepared all the time that I ditched conventional handbags for a roomy and durable Drawstring Bag that became my carry-all. There’s a fine line between normal and insane when one is lugging around 20 pounds every single day in the name of preparedness.

That was a long time ago. I have since streamlined the contents of my bag and have prioritized what needs to be in there and what doesn’t. I still maintain that my handbags are better stocked than anyone else’s, I have just limited the contents to essential items that are compact and versatile in their uses. Here are some items you should keep in your purse that allow you to handle any unexpected surprises during your day without overloading your shoulders.

1. Travel pack of Wipes or Tissues
A small pack of tissues will be indispensible if you spill something, get something on your hands, have allergies, or have a young child.

2. Mini Tube of Moisturizer
In addition to taking care of dryness, moisturiser has many other uses as well. It can help tame frizzy hair, act as lip balm, be used to remove makeup, and even soothe a rash.

3. Hand sanitizer
With CoVid running rampant, this one is an obvious choice since germs can be anywhere, but you may not have the opportunity to wash your hands everywhere. Germs are lurking everywhere and while hand sanitizer is not a replacement for washing your hands, but it is essential when you don’t have access to soap and a sink right away.

4. Hair Brush, Hair Ties and Elastics
To make sure you keep looking groomed and neat all day, these are an essential addition to your purse. If your hair is short, you can replace the ties with a few bobby pins or clips.

5. Breath Mints, Sprays, or Gum
Halitosis can ruin your impression on anyone. Imagine that you eat a large serving of garlic fries for lunch, and then have to go to an unplanned meeting with the boss, breath mints, breath spray or even gum can be a lifesaver.

6. Essential Medicines
In addition to any prescription medication you may be on, it is a good idea to keep a few basics in your purse like OTC anti-inflammatory or pain medicine in case of an emergency.

7. Headphones and Phone Charger or Battery Pack
You never know when you might need these, so always carry them on you. There’s nothing worse than having your phone die out in the middle of the day.

8. Bandaids
Be prepared for the worst and keep a few assorted Bandaids in your purse at all times, they are also great for blisters caused by new shoes, and emergency repair jobs.

This list could potentially be endless, what are your essentials that you never leave home without?