What's In Your Purse?

A recent challenge on my web site was to 'weed out your purse or briefcase.' It's amazing how many items, one may be carrying around day-to-day, that never get used.

According to Kelley Styring, author of 'In Your Purse', the average bag weighs 3.4 pounds and contains 67 objects.

One of the first things I consider when purchasing a new purse, is the weight of the bag itself. I tend to gravitate towards lighter cloth purses (rather than leather) that do not have chain straps, metal hardware or otherwise heavy components. In addition, my wallet is small, cloth and lightweight.

To determine what you are using, insert a transparent plastic bag inside your purse. For two weeks, whatever you use gets inserted into the plastic bag. Whatever you don't use, just remains inside your purse outside of the plastic bag.

At the end of the two-week period, whatever is in your plastic bag should remain in your purse. The rest should be removed.

This list will give you an idea of the essentials for a typical purse:

--Your wallet (1 or 2 credit cards, ATM card, IDs, money and a few important photos if you wish)

--Your checkbook (only if you use it regularly)

--Your keys (I also have a few common store savings cards attached to my key chain)

--Eyeglasses, Sunglasses

--Cell Phone and/or PDA

--Lipstick and a small compact

--A hairbrush and/or comb (if you use it regularly)

--Floss (you never know when you'll need it!)

--Breath mints

--Small package of tissues

You may have one or two unconventional items in addition. For example, I keep a few crayons and some folded paper in a Ziplock for my daughter. She likes to color when we're in restaurants, waiting rooms, etc., and many establishments don't have these available for her.

At any rate, you'll be doing your back and shoulders a favor by lightening your load. Plus, you'll be able to more easily find things in a purse that's not overstuffed and overcrowded.

Comments

[kelley styring]

Thanks for the mention, Maria. It's been my pleasure to study purses for some time now and I always like to see helpful tips published. Warm Regards, Kelley
kelley.styring@insightfarm.com

[chaotic kitten]

I must have so much in mine that I don't use - it's ridiculously heavy lately!

I like your idea of the clear plastic bag. Hopefully that will sort out what really needs to be in there.

[Linda]

After using the clear bag suggestion, I then purchased or found in my closet, several small bags (like travel bags) and I store coupons in one, lipstick, hand cleaner,bandaids & small misc stuff in one, medication in another, glasses in eyeglass case & wallet. This enables me to switch purses at a moments notice and stay organized!

[Donna]

I've found that you really don't need to carry those store savings cards around on your key chain or in your purse. You can just enter (or tell the cashier) your phone number to receive your savings. And it doesn't take any longer than the time to enter your phone number.