This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at West Chester chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Going out is a serious topic, so it’s very important to know what to bring in case of emergencies. Whether it’s your one of many totebags, a clutch purse, or your favorite crossbody bag, each item is an irreplaceable need inside your bag. You always need to think a step ahead, so listen to this well curated list of essentials when leaving your house.

Hand sanitizer.

This is one of the most essential items on this list. If you don’t have one of these, you should get one immediately. Not only is this just a good sanitary need, but there are so many different smells to choose from. I always love a good hand sanitizer from bath and body works, especially switching them up in your bag to go with the different seasons. That can make it more unique and personal as well. I really do love using my hand sanitizers, and I actually end up going through them so fast.

Gift cards.

You truly never know where you’re gonna stop. So you might as well bring every one you own because you don’t know when one is going to come in handy. There are so many times I’ve wished I brought a random gift card because I actually ended up stopping at that store.

Lip gloss.

There is just something about bringing a good juicy lip gloss on a night out. Each girl has their signature gloss, and touching up in the bathroom mirror really just hits different. I feel like it not only adds a little pop to your look, but it just gives a better confidence boost when putting gloss on.

Vaseline.

This needs a separate part from lip gloss since it’s essential in its own unique way. Hydrate your lips before putting on anything else. This will remove any and all dry lips or skin in an instant. I always, and I actually mean always never leave the house without one. I love to carry the different scented ones, especially the christmas marshmallow flavor.

Tissues.

What if someone’s crying? Maybe they’re sick? They need to get lip-stick out of their teeth or smudge some make up? Tissues are here to solve your problems, trust me. Bring a pack and it’ll change your life.

Pen + sticky notes.

I cannot tell you the amount of times someone has needed to either write something down or draw something up. What if you want a fun way to give someone your number? All I’m saying is bring the pen, you never know when it’s going to come in handy.

Hair ties/claw clip.

Wind blowing in your hair? Unexpected bad hair day? A friend needs to get their hair up real quick? This is the mother of the group’s starter kit for things needed in their bag. Everyone eventually needs to use a hair tie, even if it’s for a split second, so it really is something you shouldn’t forget to bring on a day out. I know personally I need to use them whenever it’s a windy day or even a day at the beach.

Perfume.

You never know when you need a little touch up spritz. Or if someone else needs an extra spritz too. Bringing a little travel sized one is the perfect touch to add to your bag.

Portable charger.

Taking so many amazing pictures? But oh no your battery is getting low. Don’t worry, a portable charger always saves the day, so continue posing for that camera. Especially on days when you know you’re going to be out all day, it’s really important to pack. You never realise just how fast your battery can plummet until you’re stuck at four percent.

Book.

This one is for my book girlies! If you’re going out alone to a coffee shop or out in town and find a nice quiet spot, that’s the perfect time to pull out a book. Also I find just bringing a book I’m currently reading just adds an extra happiness to my life. There is just something about it that makes me more excited when I’m looking through my bag and come across my book.

Jellycat.

Okay, a small little jellycat on your bag just adds such a cute little piece of you that’s so fun and creative. This is a cute way to add a little personality to your bag.

Lotion.

My hands typically get dry after washing them, so bring your favorite scented lotion. I love a good EOS vanilla cashmere hand lotion to brighten my day. The smell is also just a nice clean scent to freshen up.

Airpods.

You need background music wherever you go, so these are an essential in your bag. Music just adds such an extra pinch of whimsy in your life and really just brightens the entire day. Just imagine having the perfect vibe of music when you’re out by yourself walking home. It just truly hits different.

Bandaids.

You honestly never know when you’re going to accidentally cut yourself or get a scratch somewhere. The amount of times my clumsy self has done this is the reason this is getting added to the list. Having these in your bag is just a real need, especially if you’re going out with friends too.

Advil.

You never really know if someone’s stomach is going to hurt, or they have a headache. I’ve always found bringing a little case of Advil can really save a good night and make sure it stays a good night.

Digi Camera.

This really sets your photos apart from the phone and adds such a unique vibe. Looking back at all the photos taken from the day or night out truly hits different once your home. Also you just get amazing photos that are 100% post worthy for the next day.

Your bag is never full enough. Now you’re able to go out and not have to worry about forgetting anything vital. With the help of these amazing well needed items, you should be all set to have everything you need for the perfect day ahead of you.

What’s In My Bag, As The Mom Of The Group