15 Things You Should Always Carry in Your Purse

Whether big or small, a purse can carry it all — or at least carry your essentials.

For instance, bringing along your top rewards credit cards is a great way to ensure you make the most of any daily purchases. But there might be some things you overlook that can prove to be incredibly valuable at the right moment, like a portable charger.

Before you leave your house next time, make sure you have these items tucked away so you can easily reach them.

1. Wallet

A wallet or card holder is essential even if you don’t plan to go shopping and spend money.

A credit or debit card is something you should always have with you in case of an emergency or just for unexpected everyday purchases in addition to things you expect to spend money on.

2. Cash

While plastic is a great payment method for most items, keeping a small amount of cash in your purse could come in handy.

Try to carry at least $20 in cash for things like tips and garage sales. Some places may even offer a discount if you pay in cash.

3. A quarter

Speaking of physical money, if you’re a fan of Aldi, make sure to carry a quarter in your purse to pay for your shopping cart.

Aldi is a great grocery store to save money, but you’ll need a quarter to rent a shopping cart.

4. Snacks

Snacks are essential for parents with kids who get a little hungry and need a bite, but they’re also important for adults.

Toss in a small bag of nuts, granola, or dried fruit so you always have something on hand when you need a small bite to keep you going.

5. Adhesive bandages

It’s always good to have some first aid essentials in your bag, starting with adhesive bandages.

You can grab some for scrapes and scratches or have a few on hand if you’re worried your new shoes will give you blisters.

6. Phone

There used to be a time when you didn’t even have the option of a smartphone, but they’re now essential for keeping you connected.

Make sure you have your phone with you to look up information, such as directions to a new restaurant, or compare prices online with an item you find in a store.

7. Hand sanitizer

The COVID-19 pandemic may have made you extra aware of carrying hand sanitizer, but it’s still a great option today.

Carry a small container of hand sanitizer to clean off your hands after touching things or to give your hands a quick clean before eating.

8. Keys

You’ll be thankful you double-checked your bank for your keys so you don’t lock yourself out of your house.

Keys are also essential for your car, and don’t forget any keys you may need for your job.

9. Portable charger

Some items in your bag, like your phone or tablet, may need a recharge. A portable charger can recharge them to 100%.

Keep an eye on your charger to ensure it’s fully charged before you head out so it’s ready if you need to plug in and charge up.

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10. Sunscreen

You never know when you may end up sitting outside in between appointments. Or you may snag a great table with your friend on the patio of your favorite restaurant.

Keep a little sunscreen in your bag to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun when you’re outside.

11. Breath mints

That pasta dish was a great option for lunch with coworkers, but now your breath probably smells garlicky.

It’s OK if you have some breath mints on hand to keep your breath fresh throughout the day. They also last longer than gum, which can get sticky and gross in a hot purse.

12. Medication

Don’t forget to keep some medications like ibuprofen in your purse so you always have some on hand.

You’ll also want to make sure you have emergency medications you need like an inhaler or something to counteract an allergic reaction.

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13. Sunglasses

A pair of classic sunglasses is the perfect fashion accessory for any outfit, but it can also be essential for healthy eyes.

Sunglasses can protect the sun’s harmful rays from your eyes and prevent eye strain by blocking out the bright sun while you’re walking or driving.

Bottom line

Carrying items in your purse is a great way to have everything you need on hand whenever you’re out.

You can save money by keeping items close to you instead of needing to buy them when you’re out.

It’s also a good idea to dump your purse out occasionally to throw away any clutter, clean the inside of your purse, and reassess what you want to carry and what should stay at home.

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