by Heather Cone

Created on: April 27, 2009

So, you are going out on the town for the night! It's a great way to spend time with friends, let loose and maybe even meet someone new. But what do you need in your handbag to be prepared for your night out? Here is a list of the five most important items a woman should keep with her.

Chances are that you will carry a small clutch for your evening out, so these are the items that will fit comfortably inside.

1. Cell phone - This is probably the most important item to keep with you. First for safety and secondly just in case you get lost or are running late. It's also a great a way to pass the time if you arrived a little early and feel a bit awkward or bored drinking that glass of wine all alone. It also almost entirely eliminates you need for pen, as most cell phones now have a notepad function.

2. Identification - If you want to sip on that glass of wine, you will need your ID. Some places will ask for this regardless of how old you think you look, so it is best just to be prepared. And even though you are out to have a good time, you never know what events or problems you may encounter and having your identification handy could be critical.

3. Compressed Powder - This is especially important now that it is getting warmer out. Crowded places tend to get hot anyway and you certainly don't want your shiny face to outshine your personality. Keep a little compact in your handbag for touch ups throughout the night and just sweep a bit over your face each time you go to the bathroom.

4. Lip gloss/Lipstick - Facebook, Myspace and the litany of other social networking sites have made looking good all night a must. Too often pictures show up on these sites that are less than flattering. A lipstick or gloss will keep you looking alive and camera ready. Just remember to reapply every so often.

5. Business Cards - Going out, often creates encounters for networking. If the restaurant or bar is crowded it can be difficult to really hear and having your card on you will give you an advantage. Too often you can loose an opportunity just by writing your info on the nearest napkin, that later could be mistaken for trash and just thrown away. Be prepared by always throwing a few business cards into your bag.

These five items are your staples and should get you through your night on the town. It will also leave a little room in your bag for your items of the moment. So go out, have fun and know that whatever you need is just snap away!

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