ESSENTIAL LUNCH GEAR

Rubbermaid Lunch-Blox Salad Kit The kit contains a large container for your salads or grains plus two smaller containers for dressings and anything that wouldn’t hold up sitting in a bed of greens for a long time (think tomatoes, feta, crispy noodles, nuts). An ice tray on the bottom provides some refrigeration, but add the frozen juice box for added assurance. $10.97 at Walmart

Rubbermaid 0.5 cup Easy Find Lids container Perfectly sized for salad dressings, dips, a handful of nuts and even a scoop of protein powder for the postoffice workout. $3.97 for two at Walmart

Thermos Stainless King 24-Oz food jar Keeps hot food hot and cold food cold long after the lunch hour has passed. The stainless steel exterior means it can withstand the occasional drop and its size is ideal for single servings. Pack with a fork or spoon with an extra long handle to reach the food at the bottom. $26.99 at Amazon.ca

Thermos Radiance Dual lunch kit The insulated bag is simple in design but wholly utilitarian, with a side mesh pocket for a can of pop and a front zippered pocket perfect for holding an emergency fiver for an afternoon treat at the coffee shop. The top compartment will fit the main lunch while the bottom can fit afternoon snacks. $12.97 at Walmart

Ziploc Twist ‘n Loc small round containers Ideal for the lunchers who’ve been scarred from having plastic container tops pop off in their bags. The twist seal lets you know it’s locked, great for pasta salads tossed in olive oil. $3.99 for three, at Loblaws