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I think I have more stuff in mine. Source: Shutterstock
I don’t care if my bag is really heavy and has weighed down one side of my body to the point my shoulders are a little off-balance. I’m the go-to friend if anyone needs something because I probably have it in my handbag. Maybe it’s excessive, but I call it good planning.
Aside from having your wallet and keys, I’ve picked out some absolute essentials for your purse/backpack/messenger bag/whatever you use to transport stuff.
Aspirin, Advil, Pain Reliever Of Choice
You never know when you're going to get a headache or bump your elbow. Always have some kind of pain reliever just in case. I carry Excedrin on me at all times since I get terrible migraines at random.
Band Aids
Because you could get a blister, papercut or heaven forbid a more serious cut.
Mirror
Get a small handheld one or use an old compact so you can check if you have something stuck in your teeth, a lash in your eye or just want to primp.
Hand Sanitizer
You never know when you'll need it, and you might not always be near a bathroom to wash your hands. Keep those germs away!
Bobby Pins
Your bangs might get all up in your face or you might have an impromptu date to switch your hair style for. Bobby pins are always essential.
Deodorant
Grab a travel sized one and throw it in your bag. What if you take an unexpected trip to the gym or you forgot to put yours on?
Sunglasses
I never go anywhere without sunglasses, even if it's raining. You don't want to all of a sudden be blinded by the light! Plus, it's a good way to avoid eye contact with strangers.
Period Supplies
Do I even need to explain this one? Always be ready for Mother Nature. Throw some condoms in there while you're at it.
Hair Ties
Wear one on your wrist and throw a few in your bag. If your hair decides to take on a mind of its own or you decide to work out, you'll want to put it up.
Toothbrush, Floss, Toothpaste
Maybe I'm a freak about my teeth, but I always want the option to brush and floss. I have a little travel set just in case. You might have to spend the night somewhere and what if they don't have an extra for you? Or what if you stay at a guy's place?
Gum
Preferably minty. Great for after meals if you're not around a sink to use your toothbrush or need to freshen up quickly.
Headphones
So you can plug up and ignore everyone around you. Or if you need to work on a public computer and want to listen to some music.
Lotion
I actually have an assortment of lotions: hand, face and body. Especially in the winter, you might suffer from dry, flaking skin. Nip that in the bud by having lotion around.
Pens
It's always the worst feeling when you really need a pen and can't find one. I have like 6 in my bag. Throw a few in there so you always have one handy.
Candy
Because your sweet tooth might hit you all of a sudden. I don't recommend chocolate or something that melts. I currently have a stash of root beer flavored candies from Cracker Barrel.
What are your handbag must-haves? Anything unusual in yours? Tell me in the comments!
Barbie gave us some cute handbag inspiration!
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I have the hand sanitizer, sunglasses, pens, gum, and headphones, however I take the band aids a step further: I have a mini first aid kit. I made it using small snack container and it has tweezers, gauze pads, band aids, and spray disinfectant. It has come in handy a number of times, not just for myself but for friends too!
I also carry a schedule/planner, so I can always check my availability and write down plans with my friends before I forget them. Also, chapstick!
I’ll definitely clean out my handbag of the useless junk I have and replace it with these awesome, necessary things!