8 Essentials To Keep In Your Bag

 Hello, lovelies! I know I've been quiet for a while, but that is because I started a new job! It's been great so far and I'm super grateful for the opportunity that I have to really make an impact (I work in the social services field). 

That being said, I am back with another post! These are some of the things that I can usually be found carrying around in my bag. As it turns out, most of these products are beauty related - can anyone else relate to that? Keep reading to see some of my favorite essentials to keep in my bag!

No matter what type of bag I carry, there seems to be a certain group of items that usually travel with me. As you can see above, the majority of these items are very travel-safe and can be used in a variety of bag sizes. While I know that everyone's essential bag items will be different, these are just some of the items that I find helpful!

1. Perfume/Fragrance Spray

Crème Vanille Fragrance Spray - Urban Outfitters

I love carrying a fragrance spray or perfume with me on the go! It's so nice to have an option to re-apply a scent you love when you've noticed it's start to fade. The above product is one of my favorites from Urban Outfitters. Another one from Urban Outfitters that I really love is the Lait de Coco Parfume, and there is the Indian Coconut Nectar Hair & Body Mist - Pacifica at Ulta!

2. Lip Oil/Lip Gloss

Lip Comfort Oil (Mint) - Clarins

I am definitely a person who hates having dry or un-moisturized lips. I just can't go without having a smooth, juicy pout! If you're like me, you'll definitely want to carry a lip oil or lip gloss with you in your bag. The Clarins lip oil above is definitely one of my favorite lip oils that I've tried. Plus, it looks super cute in photos! There's definitely a lot of lip oils out there (like this hydrating passion fruit lip oil from Burt's Bees), but if you prefer a more pigmented, glossy finish in addition to smooth hydration, a lip gloss (like the MAC Lipglass) will also do the trick!

3. Mattifying Face Powder

Can't Stop, Won't Stop Mattifying Powder - NYX Cosmetics

Okay, okay, so I know that this one really depends on your skin type and the weather of the area in which you live. That being said, I have to note that with my oily/combination skin AND the warm, humid nature of my environment, the above mattifying powder from NYX has truly been an amazing find. Not only does it provide the perfect matte finish without becoming cakey, it also has a sheer, buildable coverage and is very affordable ($8!) on top of that. You might also find similar results from the Prime & Fine Waterproof Mattifying Powder by Catrice or the Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Setting Powder from Tarte!

4. Powder Makeup Brush

Powder Brush (201) - Real Techniques

Of course, if you're going to be carrying a powder of any kind, you need a way to apply it! As the pictured powder brush was a gift, I'm not sure what brand it is. However, the linked Real Techniques powder brush seems like a good alternative! If you are searching of a bit more of a higher end brush, the Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush #7 from IT Cosmetics or the Powder Puff Setting Brush #170 by Fenty Beauty.

5. Mini First Aid Kit

First Aid Kit - Greenbrier International, INC.

For me, this is now an absolute must! I will never again run into a situation where I need a band aid or nail clippers without being prepared. I think that's the heart of this item - preparedness. You never know when you or someone near you might benefit from you carrying a small first aid kit around. For a first aid kit with even more supplies that is durable enough for camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities, check out this 66 piece first aid kit and mini travel bag!

6. Carmex/Chapstick/Lip Balm

3 Pack Tube Lip Balms - Carmex

I know this one seems like a copout since I already listed a lip oil, but hear me out! While lip oils and glosses are fantastic for maintaining a smooth, shiny makeup look, they don't generally do much for already chapped lips. That's where having some sort of (preferably medicated) lip balm comes in. I hate having chapped lips SO much, so this is a definite necessity. You can also try non-medicated products if you prefer a bit less of an intensity but still want the prevent chapped lips. Try the Burt's Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm or the Smith & Cult Locked & Lit CBD Lip Balm.

7. Face SPF Sunscreen

Tined Moisturizer Skin Perfecter w/ SPF 30 - Laura Mercier

It is so important to wear some form of a broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF sunscreen every day! I often find that I prefer to have this be a tinted moisturizer, like the one linked above. The reason for this is because once you start mixing your foundation or other makeup products with your SPF, the effectiveness of the ingredients in the SPF begin to change (unless it's dried down and absorbed prior to makeup application). Products like these cut out that issue because they are formulated specifically to work together and remain effective. Some other face products with SPF included are the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 and the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40.

8. Travel-Sized Journal or Notebook

Lined Composition Notebooks (3 Pack) - Denik

I feel like carrying a journal or notebook of some sort in your bag can be a really great way to inspire creativity in your everyday life. Yes, sometimes it's just practical to have an extra piece of paper or writing pad to jot down lists or directions . However, I love using travel-ready journals and notebooks to document everyday beauty. You can use them to sketch a pretty flower you saw on your way to work, or to write about your future goals while on your lunchbreak. In my opinion, it's just such a cool way to not only inspire yourself, but to keep a record of the things that have inspired you in the past. Check out a fan favorite journal brand, Field Notes, or find a journal to match your zodiac sign at Anthropologie.

And there you have it! Those are some of my favorite items to carry with me in my bag! Which items did you resonate with the most? What other items do you love to carry with you in your bag? Let me know in the comments!

(The links featured in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase an item through the links provided, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This support is greatly appreciated!)