How to Organize a Shoulder Bag

The bigger the bag, the harder it may be to organize.

Shoulder bags are convenient because they can hold just about everything. However, they're also inconvenient because they can hold just about everything -- which sometimes makes it impossible to find what you need. The right organization system can help keep everything straight.

Things You'll Need

• Shoulder bag Contents of a shoulder bag

Instructions

How to Organize a Shoulder Bag

1. Decide what size bag you really need. You may need to carry only keys, a wallet and a cell phone. Others may need a larger bag to accommodate a bottle of water, a hair brush, cosmetic case, mp3 player or camera.

2. Select a shoulder bag with several compartments. Put the items you use multiple times daily (car keys, for instance) in one pocket that is easily accessible. Put items you use only occasionally (like a subway map) in another pocket.

3. If your bag has built-in "sleeve organizers" in the lining, use them for your larger items such as sunglasses and pens.

4. Never keep your wallet in an external pocket or near the top of an unclasped bag. Instead, keep it in a pocket that has its own zipper, and wear your bag in a fashion that keeps that pocket close to your body.

5. Keep your camera, cell phone and other electronic devices with sensitive screens in a place free from keys and other hard metal objects, which could damage them. It's best to keep each of those items in its own protective case.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to throw away or organize receipts each night to keep paper from cluttering the bottom of your bag.

References

• Buxton Bag
• Overstock Shoulder Bags