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12-hour shift bag checklist

Pack once, check once. Tick these off the night before so the morning is just picking the bag up.

Every shift

• Badge and keys
• Phone and charger (a long cable helps)
• Water bottle
• Lunch, snacks and an ice pack
• Pens, a small notepad, a highlighter
• Any work tools you carry
• Wallet or card for the cafeteria

Comfort items

• Spare socks
• Lip balm and hand cream
• Hair ties or clips
• A layer for cold rooms
• Gum or mints
• Small toiletries bag: deodorant, toothbrush, tissues

Add for night shifts

• Night meal plus an extra snack
• A warmer layer
• Sunglasses for the drive home
• Eye mask and earplugs for after

Locker backup kit

Keep these at work so a forgotten item doesn't ruin a shift: a spare phone charger, a set of scrubs or a spare top, socks, a snack bar, basic toiletries and a reusable cup.

Make it automatic

• Pack the bag as soon as you're home, not the next morning. You know what ran out while it's fresh.
• Keep the bag, keys and shoes in one spot by the door.
• Restock the snack and toiletry pouch on your first day off.

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