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Your rainy season survival kit starts with what’s already in your handbag.
We’re officially in July, which means the rainy season is only getting more intense. Water levels are rising in many areas; some roads are becoming difficult to walk through, and getting from one place to another can feel like a challenge.
Your July handbag probably weighs twice as much as it did in February because you’re preparing for every version of the weather. Sun at 9 a.m., flooding by noon, and traffic by 5 p.m. Somewhere along the line, your handbag slowly becomes a survival kit.
Last time, we talked about the style tips you need to survive the rainy season. This time, we’re taking a look inside your bag.
I know you’ve been eyeing those aesthetic “What’s in My Bag?” videos, but you’ll have to look away for a second because, as much as it hurts to say this, this isn’t the season for aesthetics. Your lip gloss, sunscreen, deodorant, and other everyday essentials can absolutely stay. But that flower hair clip? Please take it out.
If you want a bag that’s actually going to save you this rainy season, stay with me. Here’s everything that deserves a spot in your “What’s in My Bag?” rainy-season edition.
Read also: The fantasy of summer vs the rainy reality — how to dress for the weather and still look chic
A compact umbrella
A girl in the rain via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit Starting with the basics, you definitely need a mini umbrella. Not those that turn inside out before you’ve even managed to open them. I mean a sturdy umbrella made with reliable, durable materials that can actually keep you dry when the rain starts pouring.
Honestly, with the kind of rainfall we’ve been having, I’d recommend carrying a regular-sized umbrella whenever you can for much better coverage. But since we’re talking about what fits inside your bag, a good-quality mini umbrella is the next best thing. Better yet, who says you can’t have both? Keep the compact one in your bag for emergencies and a full-sized one within reach when you know you’ll be out for longer.
Nylon bags
A black nylon bag via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit At this point, you’ve probably realised we’re far beyond aesthetics and straight into survival mode. A few nylon bags are one of those things you’ll never regret carrying. If your shoes get soaked and you don’t want the rest of your bag getting wet or dirty, simply slip them into a nylon bag before packing them away. Or, if you can, carry them separately.
Now, for more desperate situations, like when you’re faced with a slightly flooded street and have no choice but to cross, you can wrap the nylon bags around your feet and walk across in them. It might not be glamorous, but it’ll help keep your feet dry for a little longer. A girl’s got to do what a girl’s got to do.
Waterproof pouch/ziplock bag
Items in a waterproof pouch via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit If your bag isn’t waterproof and you get caught in the rain, water can easily seep through and soak everything inside. Your phone, charger, earphones, notebook, and even your makeup could all get wet.
That’s why a waterproof pouch is a rainy season essential. It adds an extra layer of protection for your valuables without taking up much space, giving you peace of mind even if your bag gets drenched.
Read also: The rainy season skin reset: Everything you need to know as the weather shifts
Hand sanitiser
Hand sanitisers via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit There really isn’t any season when you shouldn’t be carrying a hand sanitiser, but it’s especially important during the rainy season. Throughout the day, you’ll find yourself touching umbrellas, railings, gates, public transport handles, and plenty of other wet, frequently used surfaces.
Keeping a hand sanitiser in your bag makes it easy to clean your hands when soap and water aren’t available. It’s simply good hygiene, but it will go a long way.
Tissues
A pack of tissues via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit Tissues are one of those everyday essentials that should already be in your bag, but they become even more useful during the rainy season. You’ll find yourself reaching for them far more often than you expect.
Rain doesn’t just leave you wet; it leaves public benches, chairs, tables, and even your own hands damp, too. A pack of tissues comes in handy for wiping down wet surfaces before you sit, drying your hands or face, cleaning your phone screen, or even dabbing your clothes if you get caught in a sudden downpour. Trust me, you’ll be glad you packed them.
A mini makeup bag
Mini makeup bag via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit Keeping your beauty products together not only makes them easier to find but also helps protect the rest of your bag from leaks or spills if anything gets wet.
We have a separate piece that covers rainy-day makeup in detail, but the basics include blotting papers, waterproof mascara, lip balm, sunscreen, a mini perfume or body mist, and wet wipes. These touch-up essentials should be kept in your bag to help you stay fresh throughout the day.
Read also: Foolproof makeup looks that actually survive wet-weather days
Power bank and cable
Power bank and cord via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit Everyone knows that the rainy season in Nigeria, especially in Lagos, means one thing: traffic and longer hours on the road. A charged power bank is very necessary to have in your bag, along with your charging cable, for those moments when you find yourself stuck in traffic or dealing with a longer journey home.
Surviving the rainy season, one bag essential at a time
These bag essentials are practical must-haves you actually need to get through the weather and those unexpected moments when you find yourself caught in the rain.
Hopefully, this helps anyone trying to figure out what truly deserves a place in their bag this season. Soon enough, we can all go right back to aesthetic bag items, but for now, it’s all about being prepared.
Read more: Elevate & Illuminate: This July, we welcome the second half, rains and all
React to this post!The post Don’t step out this rainy season without these handbag essentials appeared first on Marie Claire Nigeria.
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