What everyone is packing in their 'grab bag', and why you need one

Have you ever found yourself rummaging through your handbag to find something you swore you had, only to realise you've left it at home?

We all know life can be a little unpredictable sometimes, but no matter what the day holds, being prepared for every occasion is key, which is why you need a 'grab bag' – AKA, your all-in-one emergency toolkit.

Your grab bag should move with you daily and contain all of the essentials so you can have them at hand whenever life strikes.

The concept is so simple, yet absolutely genius, which naturally prompted us to think about what the ultimate grab bag looked like, and before we knew it, we had a long list of must-haves that would undoubtedly make the day easier for everyone.

From mini concealers to a sewing kit, slowly but surely, we have pulled together the perfect checklist, with everything you need to put one together, too.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

Kate Spade Carter Nylon Cosmetic Pouch

Here for $87.60

For starters, you're going to need a bag to house everything in. The criteria for this bag are simple: it needs to be small enough to fit in a handbag, but big enough to house all your essentials. It also would preferably be an easy-to-maintain colour and fabric, like this one from Kate Spade, so that if it gets thrashed around a little, you don't have to worry about it looking dirty.

Aesop Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash

Here for $17

If you also catch a lot of public transport, then you'll know that, as much as you try to avoid touching all the many surfaces, sometimes it's just impossible to avoid. A lovely hand sanitiser that is gentle on your skin and effective at cleaning bacteria is essential, and we love this Aesop Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash.

Mvhlot 2-Pack Mini Travel Sewing Kit

Here for $9.99

Don't let a loose thread or missing button ruin your day, because with this mini sewing kit, you're set for just about any minor wardrobe malfunction.

Bonus points because this set actually comes with two, so you can keep one at home and one in your grab bag.

Oroton Indi Crackle Padded Mirror

Here for $69

A mini mirror needs no explanation, especially when it's as pretty as this one from Oroton.

Conserving Beauty Gentle Oil Cleansing Cloths: 30 Sachets

Here for $39

Whether you're spending an impromptu night away from home or need to freshen up on the go, you'll need some makeup wipes.

These makeup wipes from Conserving Beauty are an absolute game-changer, and every single sachet is plastic-free and compostable, so you can chuck a few into your grab bag and rest assured knowing you are making the eco-conscious choice.

UltraViolette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ Mini

Here for $20

Forgot to put your SPF on in the morning? No worries, because with this adorable pocket-sized SPF, you can reapply throughout the day as and when you need.

Gem Skin-Loving Deodorant Roll-On

Here for $5.50

This is another product that really needs no explanation because it won't ever hurt to have a dedicated grab bag deodorant.

This one from Gem is affordable and compact, plus it smells absolutely delicious.

Benefit Lil Lash Icons Mini Mascara Set

Here for $52.50

If your makeup is feeling a little flat or you didn't have time to apply any at all, a quick coat of mascara can do the trick.

And what's better than one mini mascara? Four! This Benefit set includes all of the best-sellers in the cutest mini size, so you can keep your grab bag stocked up all the time.

Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Instant Setting and Blotting Powder

Here for $27

For those moments when you are feeling a little shiny, you'll be so thankful you have this mini Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Powder in your kit.

Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer Mini

Here for $35

If you spend the majority of your week in the office, then you'll know how creative you have to get with scheduling exercise, doctor's appointments and everything else.

More often than not, you'll have to squeeze it in pre-work or during your lunch break, which means having a few key makeup products on hand, like this mini concealer from Hourglass.

Becanno Folding Boar Bristle Hair Brush

Here for $10.50

Go through the day knot-free with this pocket-sized hairbrush that folds down perfectly for on-the-go.

evo Water Killer Dry Shampoo

Here for $17

If you like to work out in and amongst your work schedule, then a mini dry shampoo like this evo Water Killer is going to be your hair saviour because it is small but mighty.

ProSuites 735 Piece Black Hair Ties and Bobby Pins Set

Here for $16.10

Have you ever tried to do your hair and realised that you don't have any of the right tools? You won't ever get caught out again if you have this handy 735-piece set ready to go!

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