12 things you should always keep in your purse

Only about 8% of adults in the US has to deal with the joys of hay fever, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

But even if you don't have allergies, a small pack of tissues can be useful after a spill, during an unexpected cold, or when your kid decides to eat jelly with their hands.

Personal stylist and founder of V-Style Vanessa Valiente says that you can get many uses out of this one. Vaseline can act as lip balm, blister prevention, makeup remover, and a moisturizer all in one small container that will fit into most bags.

Just think about all of the germs you may come into contact with in a day, whether they're lurking on public transit handrails, a bathroom doorknob, or the screen of your phone. Hand sanitizer shouldn't be a replacement for washing your hands, but it's great to have when you can't get to a sink right away.

In the case of bad weather, a wardrobe malfunction, or an unexpected trip to the gym — hair bands can be a lifesaver in a pinch. Though, if you have short hair, a few bobby pins or clips may also be worth tossing into your everyday bag.

These are the essentials that will keep you from getting dehydrated or picking up an unhealthy holdover, according to clinical nutritionist Jennie Miremadi. Miremadi recommended keeping something rich in protein, like almond butter packets or beef snack sticks, in your purse.

You never know who you're going to meet on a given day, so business cards are on stylist Valiente's list of must-have items. "I have been that fumbling person searching for a business card on numerous occasions because I was out," she said.

Because you never know who you're going to run into, especially after you treated yourself to garlic-soaked pasta lunch.

These will obviously depend on your circumstances, but it's always a good idea to have a few OTC anti-inflammatory or pain meds in your bag in case of an emergency.

Whether you're using them to listen to music or as a social cue that you're not in the mood for a conversation with a stranger, these are non-negotiable.

New shoes? Accident-prone? Or just a strong believer in Murphy's Law? Be prepared for the worst by sticking a few bandages in your purse.

There's nothing worse than that lost feeling when you're out and your phone dies.

If you're someone who menstruates, it's always good to have an extra tampon in the event of hormones gone haywire. It's also nice to be the one person who can always say "yes" when someone asks if anyone has a tampon.