Photo: Getty ImagesThere's a certain mystery that surrounds a woman's handbag and its content. And trust us when we say this: if you dug around your sister’s favorite leather tote, you'd probably discover a few things that you never knew about her (a weird obsession for broken nails, perhaps). While a bag and its content vary from one person to another, there are a few handbag essentials every woman should always carry. Onmanorama Women lists that out for you.
1. Wallet/Cash
Photo: Getty ImagesOkay, that doesn’t mean you have to carry around wads of cash, the emphasis is definitely on paper money, not plastic.
2. Phone and charger
Photo: Getty ImagesWell, this one needs no explanation. Cellphones have become such a major part of our lives that it’s impossible to even imagine a life without it.
3. Power-bank
Photo: Getty ImagesIf you don’t have it already, buy one. Power banks will come to your rescue in case of emergencies (yes, they happen to the best of us!).
4. Headphones
Photo: Getty ImagesWe all have those days when we feel like not waking up or showing up at work. Your headphones are for such days. A quick jam session on your way to work will definitely energize you and get you ready to take on the day.
5. Hand sanitizer
Photo: Getty ImagesHaving a hand sanitizer in your bag doesn’t mean you’re a neatness freak, it just means you value good hygiene.
6. Wet wipes
Photo: Getty ImagesKeep both dry and wet face tissues handy to feel fresh on those hot and sunny days. And you know you don’t want to be without one of these if you feel a sneeze coming on.
7. Notepad and pen
Photo: Getty ImagesGuess what, the best employees are always ready to take on any task at a moment’s notice. Being able to pull out a notepad and pen will not only show your boss that you are on top of things, but it will guarantee that you get the job done correctly.
8. Safety pins
Photo: Getty ImagesWardrobe malfunction and clothing catastrophes can happen to anyone. So, keeping a few safety pins with you can definitely save your blushes when you pop a button or seam.
9. Pepper spray
Photo: Getty ImagesLet’s face it ladies, the day and age in which we live warrant us to carry some form of protection, and pepper spray very much fits the bill as it’s very effective in stopping bad guys in their tracks.
10. Lip balm
Photo: Getty ImagesChapped lips can make your overall appearance look untidy. So make sure you have this ‘baby’ with you all the time. Your lips will thank you for it!
11. Band-aid
Photo: Getty ImagesNot just for cuts and scrapes, band-aids will save your heels from painful shoe bites. You can also use them to hide a nail with chipped polish.
12. A small bottle of water
Photo: Getty ImagesAlthough it can make your bag a bit heavy and burdensome, carrying a small water bottle will help you stay hydrated while traveling.
13. Sanitary pads/ tampons
Photo: Getty ImagesKeep one or two tampons/pads in your bag's hideaway. Not only would these be helpful in an emergency, you can also be a 'period fairy' to someone else.
14. A hairband and comb
Photo: Getty ImagesThese come to your rescue when you just want to keep your hair off your face. And we all know the struggle that comes along with not having a hairband when you desperately need one. Always keep a few extra in your purse. You’ll be super glad you did next time you’re looking for one!
16. Medicines
Photo: Getty ImagesAlways carry some essential medicines like Dart for a headache, Ondem to stop vomiting, Dolo 650 for fever, etc., in your bag.
17. Healthy snacks
Photo: Getty ImagesNo matter what you call it, we’ve all experienced it: an overwhelming irritability that takes over when we’ve gone too long without food. So, always keep some healthy snacks in your bag.
18. Mouth fresheners
Photo: Getty ImagesBad breath is a turnoff in any situation. So, be wise and keep some mints or gum in your purse.
19. Perfume
Photo: Getty ImagesWhy smell good when you can smell great? So, having a little perfume in your bag to help keep you smelling good and fresh at all times of the day is essential. Also, don’t forget to treat your bag to a few spritzes so that your bag keeps smelling great just like you
20. An umbrella
Photo: Getty ImagesGetting wet in the rain looks pretty cute in movies, but it’s not so amusing in real life. Hence, an umbrella should always be your perfect companion. And you know how likely are the rains when you have a good hair day.
21. Identification
Photo: Getty ImagesYou must always have some form of identification on you for a host of reasons. So, always ensure that you keep a photocopy of your Aadhar card or passport in your bag.
