Every time we go to a trade show or convention, one of the first things I do is set up the Bags-O'lution display. Mostly, because that's the easiest part of the prep: I just grab my own purse insert out of my handbag and put it out for viewing.

A lot of people ask if the bag's really mine, and it really is. Keeping my stuff organized is cinch, so I'm not embarrassed to show the contents of my purse to any one.

Of course, after years on the road, I've also learned how to pack my purse to be ready for any situation. So, for those of you who can't be at the trade shows, I'm going to share its content with you.

• The basics -- my wallet, keys, mobile phone, and the like -- are always tucked away in their permanent spots, the pouches of my Bags-O'lution.
  
• The most useful item I carry: A small notebook with attached pen, which you can find at Barnes & Noble or most stationary stores. Even though I always carry my iPhone with me, sometimes pen and paper is the most useful thing you can own.
• Make-up bag with comb, of course, and pain relievers and gum or mints; the most important thing is knowing I can reach into my bag to find everything I need to freshen up and repair the damage of the day.
• Everyone who knows me well knows about "The Little Pink Bag": an emergency kit for a modern woman. Although the bag is small, it's filled with everything I could unexpectedly need at a moments notice: toothbrush with paste, eye drops and nose spray, extra contacts, nail file and tweezers, safety pins, perfumed lotion and small deodorant. 
  

Everything that goes into my purse is miniature in size, so I don't feel like a pack mule when I pick up my bag. But everything I do carry is designed to make me feel totally confident that I can get through even the worst day. I know if I lose a contact, I won't be stuck somewhere half-blind. If a button falls  off or a hem rips, I can make a light repair until I can get back home. And if I want to have onion soup with lunch, I won't offend my neighbors in my afternoon meeting.

When packing your own purse, think about what you might need if you end up working late into the night, or if a surprise rainstorm catches you in the middle of the day. Then stow it away in a Bags-O'lution, so you'll never have to worry about which purse you left your make up in  or whether you remembered to pack your contact solution in your suitcase: You'll know you always have everything you need right at your fingertips.