A study by Cornhill Direct has prompted concern over whether handbags are covered by car insurance for women.
The motor insurance company's research found that the average woman's handbag and its contents are worth a staggering £300.
The cost of make up, mobile phone, MP3 player, cash and a purse as well as the handbag itself were all taken into account when reaching this figure.
A spokesman for Cornhill Direct said: "We would urge anyone carrying a handbag to be aware that they are a prime target for thieves.
"Try not to carry around important documents and take sensible precautions to minimise the risk of theft."
However, a significant number of handbag thefts occur when women have left their bags in their car and this has led women to look for car insurance for women that covers handbag loss.
Some lady car insurance companies, such as Sheilas' Wheels, are already offering this provision with every female driver policy.
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