We’ve all been there – sitting at a party or gathering when someone suggests playing a game and everyone scrambles to think of something fun. That’s where the “What’s in Your Purse” game comes to the rescue! This hilarious party favorite turns everyone’s everyday carry items into entertainment gold.
The beauty of this game lies in its simplicity and universal appeal. Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, bachelorette party, or just want to break the ice at any social gathering, this game works every time. All you need are willing participants with purses and a good sense of humor about what treasures (or embarrassing items) might be lurking in those depths.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to host this crowd-pleaser successfully. From setting up the scoring system to creating the perfect item list that’ll have everyone laughing, you’ll be ready to turn any ordinary gathering into an unforgettable experience.
What Is the What’s in Your Purse Game?
The What’s in Your Purse game transforms ordinary handbag contents into entertainment by challenging participants to find exact items from a predetermined list. Players earn points based on the rarity and humor of items they discover in their purses, bags, or wallets during the activity.
This party game operates on a simple point system where common items like keys or lip balm score 1-2 points, while unusual items such as hot sauce packets or band aids can earn 5-10 points. Game hosts prepare a master list of 20-50 items ranging from everyday essentials to quirky surprises that guests might carry.
Participants receive the item list simultaneously and search through their personal belongings within a designated time frame, typically 3-5 minutes. Each person announces their findings and tallies their score based on the predetermined point values. Winners receive small prizes or recognition for having the highest scores or most unusual items.
The game format adapts easily to different group sizes, from intimate gatherings of 6-8 people to larger parties with 20-30 participants. Social events like bridal showers, birthday parties, and office celebrations frequently feature this icebreaker activity because it requires no special equipment or advance preparation from guests.
Scoring variations include bonus points for expired items, duplicate items found by multiple players, or items that spark interesting stories. Some hosts create themed versions focusing on exact categories like beauty products, snacks, or emergency supplies to match their event’s atmosphere.
Materials Needed for the Game
Playing the What’s in Your Purse game requires only a few basic supplies that we can easily gather before our party begins.
Creating the Point List
Assigning point values based on item rarity makes the game exciting and competitive. We start by categorizing items into different point tiers to create a balanced scoring system.
1-Point Items include everyday essentials that most participants carry:
- Lip balm
- Hair tie
- Tissues
- Pen
- Receipt
- Keys
5-Point Items represent moderately common accessories:
- Mirror
- Gum
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunglasses
- Membership card
10-Point Items feature less common but still reasonable finds:
- Nail clippers
- Spare earring
- Handwritten note
- Snack
20-Point Items showcase truly unusual discoveries:
- Tiny screwdriver
- Photo of someone not at the party
- Hot sauce
- Small toy
- Foreign currency
Creating our master list with 20-50 total items ensures sufficient variety without overwhelming participants. We balance common items with quirky surprises to generate laughter and maintain engagement throughout the game.
Preparing Score Sheets
Printing individual score sheets for each player streamlines the scoring process and eliminates confusion during gameplay. We list all items with corresponding point values clearly marked beside each entry.
Team formation works as an alternative approach where 2-3 participants share one score sheet. This variation encourages collaboration and works particularly well for larger groups where individual sheets might become unwieldy.
Digital alternatives include creating simple mobile-friendly lists that participants can access on their phones. But, physical sheets remain more practical since participants focus on searching through their belongings rather than managing devices.
Each score sheet includes space for participant names, item checkboxes, and a total score calculation area at the bottom.
Setting Up the Game
Creating the perfect environment for the What’s in Your Purse game requires careful organization and clear communication. We establish these foundation elements to ensure smooth gameplay and maximum enjoyment for everyone involved.
Choosing a Host
Select one person to help the entire game experience. The host takes responsibility for explaining rules clearly and maintaining game momentum throughout the activity. This designated person controls timing using a stopwatch or phone timer to enforce the 2-5 minute search period. Managing disputes about questionable items becomes part of the host’s duties during scoring discussions. The host also announces when time begins and ends to keep all participants synchronized.
Our host distributes the item list and ensures every player understands the point values before starting. Reading items aloud during scoring helps verify player findings and prevents confusion about acceptable answers.
Gathering Players
Assemble 6-20 participants for optimal group dynamics and engagement levels. Individual competition works best with smaller groups of 6-10 people where everyone can easily hear announcements. Team formations accommodate larger gatherings by creating groups of 2-4 players who combine their purse contents for collective searching.
Mixed age groups enhance the entertainment value since different generations carry varying items in their bags. Wedding showers typically feature 8-15 guests while birthday parties might include 12-20 participants depending on venue capacity.
Circle seating arrangements allow participants to see each other during item announcements and create natural conversation opportunities. Standing room setups work equally well for more casual gatherings where movement adds energy to the experience.
Distributing Materials
Provide printed item lists to each player or team before beginning the search phase. Individual score sheets streamline the tallying process and eliminate confusion during point calculations. We recommend preparing 25% extra copies to account for last minute additions or damaged sheets.
Pens or pencils become essential tools for marking discovered items on the provided lists. Clipboards offer stable writing surfaces when tables are unavailable or limited in the playing area.
Digital alternatives using smartphones or tablets work for tech-savvy groups but physical sheets prevent technology distractions during gameplay. Large display boards showing the complete item list help groups without individual copies while maintaining visibility for all participants.
How to Create Your Purse Item Point List
Creating an effective point system determines the game’s excitement level and competitive balance. We organize items into four distinct categories based on their rarity and likelihood of discovery.
Common High-Point Items
Rare personal documents earn the highest scores due to their infrequent presence in everyday purses. Passports receive 20 points since most people carry them only during travel periods. Foreign coins from international trips score 10 points because they represent memorable experiences and adventures.
Wedding rings removed temporarily earn 15 points when discovered loose in purse compartments. Birth certificates or social security cards found during purse searches receive 12 points for their unexpected appearance. Expired driver’s licenses from previous states merit 8 points as nostalgic reminders of past relocations.
Medium-Point Items
Professional and membership cards occupy the middle scoring tier with moderate discovery rates. Business cards from recent networking events earn 5 points for their temporary presence in purses. Library cards receive 4 points since many people maintain active reading memberships.
Prescription medications in original bottles score 6 points due to privacy considerations around medical needs. Concert or movie ticket stubs from recent entertainment events merit 3 points as keepsakes. Store loyalty cards from exact retailers earn 4 points when participants can produce the exact requested brand.
Low-Point Items
Essential everyday items form the foundation scoring category with universal availability. Keys receive 1 point as the most common purse contents across all participants. Pens or writing instruments earn 1 point due to their practical necessity in daily activities.
Chewing gum packages score 2 points for their frequent presence in personal bags. Lip balm or chapstick receives 1 point as a beauty essential most people carry. Hair ties or bobby pins merit 2 points for their small size and universal utility among participants.
Bonus Items and Categories
Special themed categories create additional scoring opportunities beyond standard item lists. Family photos in wallet compartments earn 5 points for their sentimental value and personal significance. Small toys or children’s items discovered in purses receive 3 points as evidence of parenting responsibilities.
Hand sanitizer bottles score 4 points particularly after health awareness periods increased their popularity. Unusual snacks or candy types merit 6 points when they represent unique taste preferences. Emergency contact cards written by hand earn 7 points for their thoughtful preparation and rarity in digital communication eras.
Step-by-Step Game Instructions
Now that we have our materials ready and groups organized, we can begin the actual gameplay process. These detailed instructions ensure everyone understands the rules and enjoys a smooth gaming experience.
Explaining the Rules to Players
Clear rule explanation prevents confusion and keeps the game moving at an entertaining pace. We gather all participants in a circle and designate our chosen host to deliver the instructions. The host explains that players search their purses or bags for items matching the predetermined list within the allocated time frame.
Points work on a simple system where each discovered item grants the listed point value from our prepared scoring sheet. Common items such as keys or pens typically earn 1-2 points, while rare discoveries like passports or unusual collectibles can score 5-20 points. We emphasize the 5-minute time limit that creates excitement and prevents the game from dragging on too long.
Players mark off items they find rather than removing them from their bags. We clarify that borrowing items between participants is either allowed or prohibited based on our predetermined house rules. The host addresses any questions before starting to ensure everyone feels confident about the gameplay process.
Starting the Game
Proper game initiation sets the competitive tone and gets everyone engaged immediately. We ensure every participant has their purse ready along with a pen and their individual score sheet. The host performs a final check that all players understand the rules and have the necessary materials within reach.
Starting requires a clear countdown from the host who announces “Ready, set, go!” while simultaneously starting the timer. We recommend using a phone timer with an audible alarm to mark the end of the searching period. Players begin frantically searching through their belongings the moment the timer starts.
Energy builds quickly as participants discover unexpected items and share surprised reactions with the group. We encourage light banter during the searching phase to maintain the fun atmosphere without creating major distractions.
Searching Through Purses
Strategic searching maximizes point collection during the limited time frame. Players systematically go through each compartment of their purse rather than randomly digging through contents. We suggest starting with the main compartment before moving to smaller pockets and zipper sections.
Participants check off items on their list as they discover matches in their belongings. Players often share funny discoveries or unusual items with the group, which adds entertainment value beyond the competitive aspect. We encourage this social interaction since it enhances the overall party atmosphere.
Time pressure creates excitement as players race to find as many items as possible before the 5-minute limit expires. The host provides time updates at the halfway point and with 1 minute remaining to maintain momentum throughout the searching phase.
Calculating Scores
Accurate scoring determines the winner and provides closure to the competitive element. When time expires, players stop searching and begin totaling their individual point values. We have each participant add up the points for every checked item on their list.
Players announce their final scores in turn, often sharing their most valuable or amusing discoveries with the group. The host keeps track of announced scores to identify the highest total and declare the winner. We recommend having players double-check their math to ensure accuracy in the final tallies.
| Scoring Categories | Point Values | Example Items |
|---|---|---|
| Common Items | 1-2 points | Keys, pens, receipts |
| Medium Items | 3-5 points | Business cards, medications |
| Rare Items | 6-10 points | Foreign currency, tools |
| Unique Items | 15-20 points | Passports, collectibles |
The player with the highest score wins and typically receives recognition or a small prize if we have prepared one. We often ask the winner to share their highest-scoring item discovery to end the game on an entertaining note.
Scoring and Point System
The point system creates the competitive element that makes this game exciting. Understanding how to assign values ensures fair play and keeps participants engaged throughout the activity.
Standard Point Values
Common everyday items earn 1-2 points because most participants carry these essentials. Keys, cell phones, wallet items, and basic makeup products fall into this category since nearly everyone has them in their purse.
Moderately rare items receive 3-5 points for being less universal but still reasonably common. Items like hand sanitizer, breath mints, hair ties, and receipts qualify for this tier because roughly half the participants typically possess them.
Unusual items command 6-10 points due to their infrequent appearance in purses. Examples include nail files, safety pins, bandages, or small snacks since these items appear in only 20-30% of participants’ bags.
Extremely rare discoveries earn 15-20 points for their scarcity value. A passport scores the maximum 20 points because very few people carry this document daily. Other high value items include measuring tape, rubber bands, or business cards from exact industries.
Bonus Point Opportunities
Double points apply to expired items when participants find outdated coupons, expired cards, or old receipts. This twist adds humor while rewarding those who rarely clean out their purses.
Theme bonuses award extra points for items matching the party’s occasion. Baby shower games might offer bonus points for diaper pins or pacifiers, while bridal parties could reward wedding planning items like venue cards or fabric samples.
Speed bonuses reward quick discoveries by giving 2 extra points to the first person who finds exact challenging items. This creates excitement and encourages active participation from all players.
Quantity multipliers increase scores when participants have multiple versions of bonus items. Finding three different lip products might triple the base point value instead of simply adding individual scores.
Tie-Breaking Rules
Sudden death rounds resolve tied scores by announcing one final mystery item that tied players must locate. The first person to produce the item wins the entire game regardless of previous point totals.
Item rarity determines winners when participants have identical scores. The person whose collection contains the rarest single item breaks the tie and claims victory.
Total item count serves as the secondary tie breaker if rarity methods fail. The participant who found the most individual items from the list wins when all other metrics remain equal.
Random selection finalizes unresolved ties through drawing names from a container. This method ensures every game concludes with a clear winner even when multiple tie breaking attempts produce identical results.
Popular Variations of the Game
Adapting the basic rules creates exciting new experiences that keep players engaged across different occasions. These variations transform the standard format into customized entertainment perfect for exact events or group preferences.
Themed Versions
Bridal shower versions focus on wedding-related items like engagement rings, wedding magazines, or thank you cards. Players at bridal showers particularly enjoy this variation because it encourages interaction and creates natural conversation starters about the upcoming wedding. The themed approach adds 2-5 bonus points for bride-exact items such as wedding planning notebooks or bridal magazines.
Baby shower adaptations feature parenting essentials and baby-related products in the scoring list. Common baby shower items include pacifiers, baby photos, or prenatal vitamins, with expectant mothers often scoring highest due to their recent shopping habits. These themed versions typically award 3-7 points for baby-exact discoveries.
Holiday-themed games incorporate seasonal items during Christmas parties, Halloween gatherings, or summer celebrations. Halloween versions might include costume accessories or candy, while Christmas editions feature gift receipts or holiday decorations worth premium points.
Team Play Options
Dividing players into teams creates collaborative gameplay where members work together to maximize their collective score. Teams of 3-4 participants combine their purse contents and strategize about which items to claim for optimal point totals.
Relay-style team competition has team members take turns searching through a shared collection of purses. One team member searches for 60 seconds before passing the list to the next teammate, creating urgency and requiring quick decision making.
Head-to-head team battles pit teams against each other in direct competition to find exact items as they are announced. Teams earn points only when they locate items that opposing teams cannot find, adding strategic elements to the gameplay.
Time-Limited Rounds
Speed round challenges reduce the standard 5-minute timeframe to 2 minutes, creating intense pressure as players race to identify valuable items quickly. These rapid rounds work particularly well with experienced players who know the scoring system.
Extended exploration rounds provide 7-10 minutes for thorough searching, allowing participants to discover hidden treasures in purse compartments and pockets. Longer timeframes benefit players with larger bags or multiple compartments.
Progressive timing rounds start with 3 minutes for common items, then 2 additional minutes for rare discoveries, and finally 1 minute for bonus point opportunities. This variation builds excitement as players realize they might find unexpected high-value items in the final moments.
Tips for Hosting a Successful Game
Creating an enjoyable atmosphere transforms the “What’s in Your Purse” game into an unforgettable experience that keeps participants entertained and engaged throughout.
Making It Fun for Everyone
Encourage laughter and interaction by highlighting unusual items found during the search. We celebrate each quirky discovery by asking players to share stories behind their most interesting finds. Players often carry surprising items like tiny screwdrivers or miniature sewing kits that spark conversations and create memorable moments.
Create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable participating regardless of their purse contents. We remind players that winning comes secondary to enjoying the shared experience together. Some participants may feel self-conscious about their bag organization or unusual items, so we maintain a positive tone throughout the game.
Award special recognition categories beyond just the highest score. We announce prizes for “Most Creative Item,” “Funniest Discovery,” or “Most Prepared Player” to ensure multiple winners. These additional categories give everyone a chance to be celebrated for their unique contributions.
Keeping Players Engaged
Encourage competition by offering small prizes for the winners to maintain excitement levels throughout the game. We prepare inexpensive rewards like gift cards, beauty samples, or themed trinkets that match the event’s occasion. Competition naturally intensifies when tangible rewards await the top performers.
Build suspense during the scoring phase by announcing points dramatically. We call out each category starting with lower point values and working up to the rare 20-point items. This approach creates anticipation as players calculate their potential scores and wonder about their competition.
Introduce surprise bonus rounds for expired items or exact brands to add unexpected twists. We award extra points for items past their expiration dates or particular product categories like lip products from exact manufacturers. These impromptu additions keep players alert and engaged beyond the standard list.
Managing Different Group Sizes
Consider team play for larger groups to keep everyone involved when hosting events with more than 15 participants. We divide players into teams of 3-4 members who combine their purse contents for a collective score. Team formation prevents individual players from feeling overwhelmed or left out in crowded settings.
Adjust time limits based on group size to ensure fair gameplay opportunities. We allow 3 minutes for smaller groups of 6-10 players but extend to 7 minutes for larger gatherings of 20+ participants. Larger groups require additional time for organization and coordination during the search phase.
Designate assistant hosts for groups exceeding 20 people to maintain game flow and prevent chaos. We assign helpers to monitor different sections of players and assist with scoring calculations. Multiple hosts ensure every participant receives attention and support throughout the game duration.
Modify seating arrangements according to group dimensions for optimal interaction. We arrange smaller groups in tight circles for intimate conversations while organizing larger groups in concentric circles or theater-style rows. Strategic positioning allows all players to hear announcements clearly and participate fully in the shared experience.
Common Issues and Solutions
Even the most organized purse game can encounter unexpected challenges. Proactive preparation and clear guidelines help us address these situations smoothly.
What to Do If Someone Doesn’t Have a Purse
Alternative containers work perfectly when players arrive without traditional purses. Backpacks, laptop bags, gym bags, and even coat pockets can serve as valid substitutes for the game.
Wallets and phone cases count as acceptable alternatives for players who carry minimal items. Men frequently participate using their wallet contents, searching for receipts, business cards, and membership cards.
Borrowed items create another option when players lack any personal containers. We can pair participants who have substantial purse contents with those who need alternatives, creating temporary teams for the duration of the game.
Adjusted scoring accommodates players with limited item access. We can provide bonus points to participants using smaller containers or create separate scoring categories for different container types to maintain fairness.
Handling Disputes Over Items
Host authority resolves questionable items quickly and maintains game momentum. The designated game leader makes final decisions about whether items qualify for exact categories on the list.
Clear definitions prevent most disputes from occurring during gameplay. We can specify that lip products include lip balm, lipstick, and lip gloss, while hair accessories cover hair ties, clips, and bobby pins.
Group consensus works well for borderline cases when the host feels uncertain. Players can vote on whether unusual items qualify for exact point categories, creating engagement while resolving disputes.
Documentation examples help clarify confusing items before gameplay begins. We can provide exact examples for each category: tissues include travel packs and individual packets, while snacks cover granola bars, mints, and crackers.
Dealing with Uncomfortable Personal Items
Privacy boundaries must be respected throughout the entire game experience. Players can mark items on their lists without displaying them publicly, maintaining personal comfort while participating fully.
Discretionary participation allows individuals to skip items they prefer keeping private. We can announce that players can claim points for personal items without showing them to the group, trusting their honesty.
Alternative verification works for sensitive situations involving prescription medications or intimate items. Players can show items to the host privately or describe them without physical display to earn their points.
Supportive atmosphere encourages comfortable participation for all players. We can establish ground rules that no one faces pressure to share items they consider too personal, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.
Alternative Ways to Play
Modern game adaptations expand beyond traditional party settings to accommodate diverse groups and occasions.
Virtual or Online Versions
Video conferencing platforms transform the purse game into a digital experience for remote participants. Hosts create shared screens displaying the item list while players search their bags on camera during the designated time frame. Digital scoring apps or shared spreadsheets track points in real time across multiple locations.
Chat based versions work effectively through messaging platforms where participants photograph discovered items and submit them through group chats. Hosts distribute digital game cards via email or messaging apps 24 hours before the event to ensure accessibility. Online timer tools maintain the 5 minute search limit while participants mark their findings on downloadable score sheets.
Hybrid gameplay combines in person and virtual participants through simultaneous video calls. Remote players receive identical item lists and follow standard scoring rules while communicating discoveries through their devices. This format accommodates guests who cannot attend physical gatherings while maintaining group interaction.
Wallet Version for Mixed Groups
Gender inclusive adaptations modify the traditional purse format to include wallets, backpacks, and everyday carry items. Participants search through their primary carrying method whether that includes briefcases, gym bags, or jacket pockets. The item list expands to feature universal objects like business cards, loyalty cards, and phone chargers that appeal to all players.
Workplace friendly versions incorporate professional items such as ID badges, office supplies, and work related accessories into the scoring system. Conference attendees or office parties benefit from lists featuring items like name tags worth 3 points or promotional materials worth 5 points. Corporate events often award higher values to industry exact tools or branded merchandise.
Expanded search zones allow participants to include items from multiple personal accessories simultaneously. Players combine findings from wallets, bags, and pockets to maximize their scoring potential during the allotted time frame.
Holiday Themed Adaptations
Seasonal item integration customizes standard lists with holiday exact objects that guests might carry during festive periods. Christmas versions include candy canes worth 8 points, holiday gift cards worth 6 points, and miniature ornaments worth 12 points. Halloween adaptations feature costume accessories, candy, and themed decorations in the scoring matrix.
Event exact modifications align game content with particular celebrations through targeted item selection. Valentine’s Day parties incorporate heart shaped items, red lipstick, and romantic themed accessories into the point system. Birthday celebrations might include party favors, candles, or age related items as bonus point opportunities.
Cultural celebration versions adapt lists to reflect exact traditions and customs during religious or cultural holidays. Thanksgiving games include gratitude notes or fall themed items while Easter versions feature pastel colored objects or spring related accessories. These adaptations create deeper connections between the game experience and the underlying celebration.
Conclusion
The “What’s in Your Purse” game proves that the best entertainment often comes from the simplest ideas. We’ve shown you how this versatile activity can transform any gathering into a memorable experience filled with laughter and unexpected discoveries.
What makes this game truly special is its adaptability. Whether you’re hosting an intimate bridal shower or managing a large corporate event you can easily customize the rules and scoring to fit your needs perfectly.
The beauty lies in its accessibility – no expensive equipment or complicated setup required. Armed with just a list of items and some basic supplies you’re ready to create moments that your guests will talk about long after the party ends.
So grab those scorecards and get ready to discover what treasures are hiding in your group’s everyday carry items. You might be surprised by what you find!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “What’s in Your Purse” game?
The “What’s in Your Purse” game is a popular party activity where participants search through their handbags to find items from a predetermined list. Players earn points based on the rarity of items they discover, with common items worth 1-2 points and unusual items earning up to 20 points. It’s perfect for baby showers, bachelorette parties, and other social gatherings.
How many people can play this game?
The ideal group size is between 6-20 participants. Smaller groups work well for individual competition, while larger groups benefit from team formations. The game easily adapts to different group sizes, making it versatile for various party settings and social events.
What materials do I need to play?
You only need basic supplies: a master list of 20-50 items, individual score sheets for each player, pens, and optionally clipboards. No special equipment or advance preparation is required, making it an accessible game for any host to organize quickly.
How long does the game take?
The standard game takes about 10-15 minutes total. Players have a 5-minute time limit to search their bags, followed by a few minutes for scoring and declaring the winner. The host can adjust timing based on group size and preference.
How does the scoring system work?
Items are categorized into point tiers: common everyday items (1-2 points), moderately rare items (3-5 points), unusual items (6-10 points), and extremely rare items (15-20 points). The player with the highest total score wins. Bonus points may be awarded for expired items or themed discoveries.
Can the game be played virtually?
Yes, the game adapts well to virtual formats using video conferencing platforms. Participants can show items to their cameras, and scoring can be managed through messaging apps or digital tools. This makes it perfect for remote celebrations and online gatherings.
What if someone doesn’t have a purse?
The game is gender-inclusive and allows participants to use wallets, backpacks, pockets, or any everyday carry items. Players without traditional purses can be paired with others to create temporary teams, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.
Are there different versions of the game?
Yes, there are many themed variations including bridal shower versions, baby shower adaptations, holiday-themed games, and workplace-friendly versions. Each variation customizes the item list to match the event’s theme while maintaining the core gameplay mechanics.
How do you handle disputes during the game?
The host has final authority on item eligibility and should provide clear definitions to prevent confusion. It’s important to establish ground rules before starting and maintain a supportive atmosphere where all players feel comfortable and respected throughout the game.
What makes a good host for this game?
A good host explains rules clearly, manages timing, resolves disputes fairly, and creates an inclusive atmosphere. They should encourage laughter and interaction, celebrate unusual discoveries, and consider appointing assistant hosts for larger groups to maintain smooth gameplay flow.
