Your purse often holds everything you need for the day, from your essentials to a few “just-in-case” items.
However, some things are better left out of your bag for security reasons, personal safety, or simply to keep your purse organized.
Carrying certain items can make you a target for theft, lead to potential loss, or result in an overly cluttered purse. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are 15 items you should never keep in your purse.
1. Social Security Card
Your Social Security card is one of the most sensitive pieces of information you own. If lost or stolen, it can easily lead to identity theft or fraud.
It’s best to keep your Social Security card in a secure place at home and only carry it when absolutely necessary.
2. Checkbook
Carrying a checkbook in your purse increases the risk of theft or fraud. If your purse is stolen, someone could easily forge your signature and withdraw funds from your account.
Instead, use online banking or carry a small number of checks when needed.
3. Multiple Credit Cards
While it may seem convenient to carry multiple credit cards, doing so increases the risk of losing them all at once. If your purse is stolen or lost, replacing multiple cards becomes a hassle, and you may be more vulnerable to fraudulent charges.
Stick to one or two essential cards to minimize risk.
4. Passport
Your passport is a valuable document that should not be carried with you on a daily basis.
It contains personal information and can be difficult to replace if lost or stolen. Keep your passport in a secure location at home, unless you’re traveling internationally.
5. Jewelry
Carrying expensive jewelry in your purse puts it at risk of being lost, damaged, or stolen.
Not only can it be costly to replace, but it also makes your purse a more tempting target for thieves. If you’re not wearing it, leave your jewelry at home in a safe place.
6. Spare House Keys
While it may seem like a good idea to carry a spare key, keeping one in your purse can lead to serious security risks.
If your purse is stolen, the thief could gain easy access to your home. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member.
7. Large Amounts of Cash
Carrying large amounts of cash makes you more vulnerable to theft. If your purse is lost or stolen, cash is difficult to recover and offers no protection like credit or debit cards.
Stick to carrying smaller amounts of cash and use cards for larger purchases.
8. Unprotected Medication
Loose medication in your purse can easily spill or become lost, potentially leading to missed doses.
It can also be dangerous if others accidentally access your medication. Always carry prescription drugs in their original labeled containers or a travel-friendly pill organizer.
9. Receipts with Personal Information
Some receipts contain sensitive information like your name, card details, or even your address.
Carrying these in your purse increases the risk of identity theft. Shred or securely store receipts that contain personal information, and avoid keeping them in your purse for long periods.
10. Gift Cards with Large Balances
Gift cards with high balances are essentially like cash. If your purse is stolen, the thief can easily use the gift card without needing personal identification.
It’s better to store gift cards in a safe place and only carry them when you plan to use them.
11. Unnecessary Store Loyalty Cards
Many people carry a large number of store loyalty cards, but these can add unnecessary clutter to your purse. Most stores now offer digital versions of their loyalty programs, allowing you to access your points without carrying the physical card.
Use a mobile app to store your loyalty cards and free up space in your purse.
12. Personal Information Documents
Documents like insurance policies, birth certificates, or utility bills contain sensitive information that should not be kept in your purse. If these documents are lost or stolen, they can be used for identity theft or fraud.
Keep important documents securely stored at home and only carry them when needed.
13. Passwords or PIN Numbers
Writing down passwords or PIN numbers and keeping them in your purse can be a major security risk.
If your purse is stolen, thieves will have direct access to your accounts. Use a password manager app to securely store login details rather than carrying them in physical form.
14. Food or Snacks
Keeping food or snacks in your purse can lead to spills, crumbs, and an overall messy bag.
Food can also attract insects or rodents if left in your purse for too long. Stick to small, non-perishable snacks in sealed containers if you must carry food.
15. Valuable Electronics
Carrying expensive electronics like tablets, cameras, or even multiple phones in your purse increases the risk of loss or theft. These items are often targeted by thieves and can be costly to replace.
Only carry the electronics you need for the day and leave the rest at home.
