Handbag Essentials for a 30-something Momma

In a previous post I took a trip down memory lane – handbag style – and shared my current favorite bag: a Stella and Dot tote bag. What I didn’t go into great detail on was just how hard I am on bags. I have So. Much. Stuff. in my bag. It’s actually a little embarrassing. I know this. And so I have tried switching to a smaller bag/purse. It just didn’t work. It always ends up looking even more ridiculous because I try and cram the same amount of stuff in a smaller space and can't even get them closed.

So, it got me thinking about what all I put in my bag and I thought I'd share! 

Here are my handbag essentials as a 35-year-old momma of 3:

At least one book I’m reading for pleasure because especially during the work day, it’s nice to have an escape. I’m typically reading more than one book at a time, though, so you may find 2-3 in my bag. If you peeked in my bag right now you’d find: The 52 Lists project, The Other Side of Beauty and Perfectly Yourself

Facial tissues, hand lotion, lip balm, pain reliever and hand sanitizer because these are items you'll use at least one of per day... for yourself or for your kids

Feminine items this one is pretty self-explanatory. No surprises :)

Cell phone and charger because nothing is scarier in this day and age than a dying cell phone since we treat it like a lifeline. Along those same lines, ear buds! I love using one for a hands-free option if I need to make a call in the car and for listening to music/podcasts at work.

Ponytail holder because even when I wear my hair down, at some point it annoys me and I have to pull it up. I typically have one on my wrist as well which I’ve heard bad things about, but eh.

Wallet and keys because duh.

Shakeology or a Beachbar because it makes for a great, healthy snack or lunch in a pinch if I am running late and forgot my lunch or have to work late.

Gum, mints or a travel toothbrush and toothpaste because if you’re anything like me, you chew gum after every meal throughout the day. Probably not the best habit but I can think of worse, and if you eat anything with strong flavors throughout the day, you’ll need to combat that somehow!

Some things that I DON'T have in my bag that I probably should - and I know my own mom does because she has EVERYTHING ;):

1. Cash - at least a quarter for Aldi :)
2. Travel wet wipes
3. Small mirror
4. Band-Aids
5. Nail clippers/nail file
6. Small brush

Oh, man! I think I need a bigger bag LOL

What’s in your bag? What are your must-carry items?