I don't think I've ever been without one. My mom and grandma always carried a small sewing kit in their purses and I picked up the tradition. I also have one in the glove box of my car. And if we're going on a trip I pack a more extensive one. Everyone that knows me knows I do this. I've done more emergency sewing in bathrooms than some doctors in ER's. LOL Okay maybe not but it seems like I'm constantly sewing a broken bra strap, a ripped seam, or broken zipper. I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've sewn someone into their clothes to get them by until they get home. To me they're far more useful than a Visa so I never leave home without them.