As a professional model, it is important that you are always well prepared when you go on an appointment or to an audition or viewing.

A good model is a prepared model. Imagine how good you will look when you can tell your client: "Don't worry, I've got this with me!" Your client and modeling agents will love you and you'll be booked again and again. Here are the basics you should have in your modeling bag or kit:

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Your book (modeling portfolio)
Professionals in the industry use the term "book" to describe your modeling portfolio. So when someone asks for your book, that's what they're asking for.

Always bring your book to viewings, interviews and bookings, even if you have already been hired for the job. Your book should ONLY contain your photos and business cards, no contact sheets, negatives, notes or other junk. Your book should be neat and tidy, not a hodgepodge of things.

If you don't have a book yet, that's fine too. Take some good snapshots with you and make sure you have copies to give to the client or agent. Don't forget to write your contact information on the back of each photo in case your photos get separated from your other information.

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Make-up kit or palettes
Female models should always have a basic makeup kit or palette with foundation or BB cream, concealer, blush, bronzer, translucent powder, eye shadow, liner and mascara.

Male models do not need all the items that women need, but they should also have a good concealer, bronzer and translucent powder. Male models may also need a touch-up from time to time.

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Skin-colored and black underwear
Women should have a range of underwear in their model bag, such as a regular and a push-up bra, a strapless bra, a one-piece bodysuit, briefs, a thong, boys' underwear, stockings and socks. Just in case the customer wants you to wear their underwear, you should have some panty liners with you. It is polite to use a panty liner if you are wearing garments that are not your own. Also remember to have other feminine hygiene products with you at all times.

Male models should have a selection of underwear items such as plain boxers, boxer shorts and low cut briefs that fit the body. Men should also carry clean white and black t-shirts and tank tops.

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Flat shoes, sneakers and heels
You should have a small selection of flats and heels in different heights in your bag. Often you'll know in advance what type of job you're going to, so you can ask your agent or booking agent what type of shoes to bring so you don't have to lug around heavy shoes. However, it is very important for models traveling to Asian countries to bring a good selection of shoes. It can be difficult to find shoes in American or European sizes, as most Asians wear smaller shoe sizes than Americans or Europeans.

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Hairspray, gel and other products
Brush, comb, bobby pins, clips, hair elastics, hairspray, gel and other hair products are very important to have in your bag.

If you have a hairstyle that hair extensions are suitable for, you should also have a few clip-in hair extensions with you. Imagine how great it would be if you could change your hair from short to long in just a few minutes! Your customers will be impressed!

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Deodorant and body care products
Deodorant, moisturizer, makeup remover, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, mouthwash, floss and breath mints are an absolute must in a model's bag. But not chewing gum. Chewing gum at a job or casting can be considered distasteful.

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Small sewing kit
A small sewing kit with a needle, thread, extra buttons, pins and double-sided tape can be a real lifesaver when needed.

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Healthy snacks and bottled water
Always plan for a casting, photo shoot, fitting or booking to take much longer than planned. Try not to work when you're hungry; besides, no one wants to work with a hungry grumpy model. Be sure to bring bottled water or juice and some healthy snacks. Your snacks shouldn't stink, shouldn't be sticky and shouldn't require a lot of utensils. Sliced fruit, plain yogurt and nuts can be the perfect snack to get you to your next meal.

Remember, a professional model will never eat while wearing the client's clothes! If it is absolutely necessary for you to eat or drink in the client's clothes, make sure they are covered with a towel or something else to protect them.

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Charger for cell phones
We know you're thinking about your cell phone, but don't forget to take your charger with you or have a second charger in your bag that you always have handy. Remember to put your phone on silent or turn it off when you're working.

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Map or cell phone with GPS
Always plan your route and where you need to be in advance. A cell phone with GPS (Google Maps) or a city map is essential. With today's technology, there's no excuse if you're late because you couldn't find the location of your casting or booking.

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Notepad, pen and paper
Most likely you'll be typing notes and other information directly into your phone or tablet, but sometimes you just need a pen and paper. It's good to always have a small notepad with a pen with you.

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Invoices
When you make a booking with a customer, you need to take your invoices with you so that the customer can sign them. Without a signed receipt documenting the time you have worked, you may not get paid. Your modeling agency will make sure you have receipts or another way to document your work.

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Something to keep you on your toes
A lot of time often passes during a casting or booking, waiting for the photographers to set up the lights, the make-up artists to finish with the other models, etc. So make sure you take something with you to keep you occupied so that you're not just standing around bored. Listening to music, playing a game or reading a book on your phone or tablet is a great way to pass the time.

Being prepared for the unexpected is what makes the difference between an amateur and a professional model. Remember that it's not always the prettiest or most attractive model that gets the job, but the most professional and best prepared model. Modeling agencies and clients want to work with models who take their careers seriously, and one way to show them that you do is to always be prepared.