*Collaborative post.

That’s a great bag—is so much more than just an accessory. It’s your daily sidekick, a style statement, and sometimes even your portable home. Anyone who is always on the go knows how important it is to have everything you need in your bag. From your receipts to your snacks, to even an extra change of clothes, your bag needs to be your all-in-one go-to place.

However, as most people know, bags are hardly cheap—especially if you’re buying a reputable brand. Make the wrong choice, and you could not only find yourself with buyer’s remorse, but you could even end up with holes in your bag. To help you, here are some of the most important tips to keep in mind when purchasing a new bag.

Function Over Flashiness

We get it—that fabulous tiny sequin clutch may be stunning, but is it really going to suit your lifestyle? Will it really hold your phone, wallet, keys, and whatever else you want to squeeze in there? 

Before you get swept away by how something looks, ask yourself what you need. Is it simply a going-out bag? Or is it something you’re going to use every day for work, travel, and errands? If a bag can’t comfortably carry what you need to carry in it, then it’s probably not the right one for you—no matter how cute it may be.

Materials

The materials that your bag is made of are going to make a big difference in its overall durability. Look for sturdy zippers, reinforced stitching, and ideally, quality leather. You don’t want to worry about your bag having to be replaced every few months—or even once a year. 

A good bag should last several years, even up to a decade. A general rule of thumb is: if it feels flimsy when you first buy it, then it’s probably only going to get worse. Choose something that feels sturdy and will stand the test of time.

Versatility

Unless you have the budget to buy several different bags for each outfit you wear, chances are you probably want something that is versatile and will go with many different looks. Stick to a neutral or classic color that will work with a wide variety of outfits.

A neon bag or something patterned may be cute on its own, but when you try to pair it with an outfit, it may look downright gaudy. Instead, choose something that’s neutral and versatile, and you’re much less likely to experience buyer’s remorse.

While you’re at it, consider buying a bag that can be worn in several different ways. Something that can be worn as a crossbody or handheld will give you even more value for your purchase.