What’s in the Bag? Summer Edition

I love a good small handbag.

They’re convenient, easy to carry and perfect when I only need the essentials. But there are also days—especially during the summer—when nothing beats a nice oversized bag that can actually carry some things for us ladies.

Because summer has a way of requiring a little extra preparation.

One minute you’re headed out for a quick errand, and the next thing you know, the temperature is climbing, the sun is blazing, a storm is rolling in and something is buzzing around your ankles. 😂

And with social media constantly introducing us to new gadgets, beauty hacks and “must-have” accessories, I started thinking about the things I would actually want in my own summer bag. Definitely, not everything being advertised.

Just the things that are practical, useful and can make being out and about a little more comfortable.

So, What’s in My Summer Bag?

A small misting fan
These little rechargeable fans have definitely caught my attention. On an extremely hot day, having a little breeze and cool mist right in your bag sounds like a win to me.

Sunscreen
Sunscreen is worth keeping nearby, especially when you’re spending time outdoors and may need to reapply. And for those of us with darker skin tones, having more melanin does not mean we should automatically skip sun protection.

A moisturizing lip balm
Summer heat and air conditioning can both leave lips feeling dry, so I like having something moisturizing within reach. A lip balm with SPF is an added bonus.

A great pair of shades
Now this one is a given.

I’m a shades girl. 😎

Besides being practical on a sunny day, a great pair of sunglasses can instantly pull an outfit together. Functional and stylish? Yes, please.

A small umbrella
Useful for an unexpected summer shower, but also helpful when you need a little extra shade from the sun.

A plant-based insect repellent
Mosquitoes apparently enjoy summer just as much as we do, so having insect repellent nearby—especially for outdoor events, parks or evenings outside—is always a good idea.

Water
Whether it’s a reusable water bottle or something you grab before leaving home, staying hydrated is one summer essential I don’t want to overlook.

A quick snack
A granola bar, piece of fruit, nuts or another simple snack can come in handy when you’re out longer than expected and need something to hold you over until your next meal.

Something to keep your breath fresh
Chewing gum, mints or another small breath freshener takes up almost no room and is always nice to have nearby.

A comfortable pair of shoes
Sometimes the cute shoes need a backup plan.

Keeping a comfortable pair of flats, slides or sneakers nearby can save the day if you end up doing more walking than expected. I also think it’s wise to keep worn shoes inside a separate plastic or washable shoe bag before placing them inside your handbag. Think about everywhere the bottoms of our shoes have been—we don’t want all of that coming into contact with everything else we’re carrying.

A good book
There is nothing like having a good magazine or book nearby when you find yourself with a little unexpected downtime—whether you’re sitting by the pool, waiting at the airport, standing in line at the DMV, relaxing at the park or simply enjoying a quiet moment outside.

And of course, I just happen to know a good one: Over It, But Still In It™. 😏

Throw it in the bag. You never know when you may have a few minutes to read, reflect and enjoy a little time to yourself.

A portable phone charger
Between taking pictures, checking directions, answering messages and scrolling while waiting somewhere, that battery can disappear quickly. A small portable charger can save the day.

Hand wipes or sanitizer
Because sometimes you just need them. Enough said.

And depending on where I’m headed, I may throw in a small foldable tote, a light scarf or whatever else makes sense for the day.

The point isn’t to carry your entire house around with you.

It’s simply about having a few things nearby that help you stay comfortable, prepared and still looking put together while enjoying the rest of summer.

So tell me…

What’s one thing you always keep in your summer bag?