• Use any pockets that are already included as part of the bag – most have at least one or two interior pockets, and one on the outside.

• Try to use an interior pocket for your cell phone, for easy access.

• Keep a wallet for your credit cards and identification – limit the amount of credit cards to one or two. Keep any gift cards there so you use them first.

• Use a small pouch for loose change, instead for fishing around for it and wasting time at the register. If there is an extra interior pocket you can use exclusively for change – that works great too.

• A small cosmetic bag should always be used for your lipstick or any make-up items that could open or leak, and potentially cause damage your purse or other items inside.

• Use an eyeglass case to protect your sunglasses or reading glasses from scratches.

• If your bag does not have many pockets, buy a few inexpensive zippered pouches to organize supplies you need. pouches work well. You can find these type of pouches everywhere in all types of sizes, colors and transparencies. Organize them according to category (makeup, medical, etc)

• Don’t carry more than you really need. Look at the stuff inside your handbag and think about when you used each item last. If there are items inside that you have rarely used, or never used, then you really don’t need them.

• Downsize items to fit in the zippered pouches. For example if you need pain-reliever or other medication, don’t pack the entire bottle. Put some into a small pill case – very inexpensive and found at most pharmacies.

• Use travel-sized items for things like tissues, contact lens drops, hair brush, etc.

• A poly-envelope (sold at any office supply store) can be a great way to temporarily store receipts or coupons, along with a pen.

• Arrange all of your zippered pouches/containers in a manner that fits well and works for you.

 
If this seems like too much work for you, there are a number of all-in-one organizers that you can purchase and insert into your handbag.