As we ease into the new normal (for real this time — hopefully), employees are heading back to offices while students gear up for face-to-face classes. That’s why you’ve got to be prepared to adjust to new routines. If you’re readying your back-to-work checklist, don’t forget to include these essentials in your bag:

Face masks, alcohol, and wipes

As we adjust to the new normal, face masks, including alcohol and wipes should always be in your bag. By keeping your hands and things properly sanitized, you’re not just protecting yourself, but also everyone you’ll interact with throughout the day.

Umbrella and windbreaker

Our weather here in the Philippines is often unpredictable, so you’re going to need an umbrella — either to keep you dry from heavy downpours or shielded from the harsh sun. Invest in a good quality umbrella — one that has UV protection and wouldn’t turn inside out when the wind is too harsh.

And let’s be real, one of the things we missed the most about working in the office is the all-day air conditioning. But we know sometimes it can go overboard, so keep a windbreaker in your office bag — it’s enough to keep you warm in the office without making your bag bulky. 

Snacks

Whether you need a quick pick-me-up during work breaks or your pre-dinner snack while commuting, no one wants to be hangry at any part of the day. That’s why keeping a fun and filling snack will always be handy, just like Gardenia’s Fun Bun! This sweet bun is filled with a rich and jam-like filling that is available in two indulgent flavors — Chocolate and Ube.

Gardenia Fun Bun is available for Php16.00 each in leading supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. If you prefer shopping online, you can easily add-to-cart via Gardenia’s flagship stores on Lazada and Shopee. 

Power bank and chargers

While you should always leave the house with fully-charged gadgets, bringing extra batteries and your chargers is still a good idea, especially now that you might spend longer hours on the road due to traffic. Having that backup power source will give you peace of mind, and you could also end up helping a colleague or friend!

Wallet

Sure, a lot of services have gone online and cashless over the past two years but many services and establishments still require cash. From commuting to vending machine runs, cash or some spare change will save the day.

Apart from cash, don’t forget other wallet essentials such as your government and company IDs, debit and/or credit cards, and vaccination cards. With ever-changing restrictions, it’s important to bring your vaxx cards as public establishments still require them. You might also get discounts when shopping and dining when you present your vaxx card!

Tumbler or reusable cup

Keep yourself hydrated while reducing waste; invest in a quality insulated tumbler or reusable cup to keep your beverage hot or cold for hours. You might even get discounts when you get your coffee-to-go when you bring your own container!

Going on coffee breaks is one thing we miss about office life, and pairing your favorite drink with Gardenia Fun Bun is a great pick-me-up in between work. If you want to mix things up a bit, try filling your tumbler with a cold brew or black coffee — the sweetness of Gardenia’s Fun Bun will pair well with the bitter taste.

Earphones

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These days, leaving your earphones at home is almost as bad as forgetting your wallet or phone. How would you endure the hours on the road without your favorite pump-me-up playlist or podcast playing in the background? Getting things done at work also feels easier when you have some music playing. To make your commute more comfortable, try switching to wireless earphones – Bluetooth is the way to go! 

Reusable Utensils and Drinking Straw

To reduce single-use plastic consumption during your lunch break, it’s wise to have in your bag a set of reusable spoons and forks stored in a slim container. Don’t forget the reusable straws for your drinks as well. 

Aside from knowing that your utensils have been properly cleaned and sanitized at home, having cutleries on standby will surely come in handy when you want to share your Gardenia Fun Bun with an officemate who needs a quick break from work. Gardenia Fun Bun will definitely bring an instant fun feeling because of its yummy filling! With a bun so soft and a filling so sweet, who could resist such a delightful treat?

Gardenia Fun Bun is also available online via LazMall and Shopee Mall.