15 Best Kids Lunch Containers for School to Summer Camp
Introduction
We all know how tough it can be to make a lunch for kids that they actually want to eat. Packing lunches is no easy task. From giving them something they enjoy, to making sure they get their fruits and vegetables, to keeping everything fresh and secure.
In this article, we’re going to cross one item off your list of worries when it comes to kids’ lunches. We’re going to be looking at lunch boxes and containers. We’ll run you through our picks for the 15 best lunch boxes for kids. We’ve made sure to include a wide variety of products in this list, so we are sure you will find something you enjoy. Some links in this article are affiliate links and we may receive compensation if you purchase through them.
Sistema Bento
This container is popular because it's large enough to hold a full size sandwich and larger pieces of fruit. It comes with a separate container that fits inside for yogurt or dip. My experience with Sistema has been that their boxes are great for the clever little dividers and having plenty of space, but over time the clamps which keep everything secure start to get less ‘clampy' and a bit less secure. You may find they work best with a lunch bag that fits them snuggly. Also, some people in the lunch packing group I'm in have never had a problem so, it may be a fluke.
Pack It Classic Lunch Bag
This fully freezable lunch bag is perfect for a bento lunch. Measuring 8.25 inches tall, 10 inches wide from side to side and 4.25 inches front to back/deep, it will fit the Sistema Bento mentioned above, or most other bentos boxes available. On the Bouceback Parenting Facebook page one mom said, “I use the PackIt brand lunch bags. The whole bag goes in the freezer. My older kids have a very late lunch so I also add a Bentgo flat ice pack. It keeps the lunches very cold all day.”
PackIt Lunch Containers
PackIt has also started making divided, adjustable leak resistant containers to fit into their various lunch bags. These are freezer and dishwasher safe and offer flexibility for your lunches.
Sometimes, you just want to keep it simple. If that’s your goal, these containers are for you.
EasyLunchboxes
With a mix of durability and washability these work great if you're looking for an economical option. EasyLunchboxes are made of a thick plastic and are microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. They are also extremely affordable! They are reusable, and even come divided into sections so that you can easily separate your mains from your sides. A reviewer commented that they're easy for little hands to open and she's never had a leak outside the box. The containers will leak between compartments but adding clingwrap over the compartment containing liquid can help with sealing that.
LOCK & LOCK Divided Lunch Box Container
Another no-frills choice. This is a leak-proof, microwave safe container, that has containers for a main and two sides. As it’s name implies, it locks tight to keep your food fresh and free of leaks. This is another option that won’t break the bank!
Simple Modern Bento Lunch Box for Kids
Here’s another bento lunch box, but as you can tell from it’s fun color choices, it was made specifically for kids! Not only will your kid love the fun colors (and there are several to choose from!), but you will be able to keep all the different parts of their lunch separate and fresh. No leaks to worry about, and the dividers are actually removable if you just want a simple lunch container.
DaCool Insulated Lunch Container 16oz
Here’s an option if you are looking for a lunch container for liquids, soups, stews, and the like. This thermos will keep hot meals hot throughout the day. It even has a folding spoon which fits right in the lid! If you’re planning on sending your kid to school with a hot meal, this is your best bet.
NomBox Leak Proof Stainless Steel Food Storage Container
The NomBox is a stainless steel container that is great for simple packed lunches. This is great if you are looking for an eco-friendly choice, as you can avoid the toxic materials. The NomBox also has removable mini-containers for all your sides, so you can pack your lunch how you want.
HANGO Insulated Lunch Bag
Moving on from lunch containers, here’s a great option if you want a zippable lunch bag for your kids. The HANGO bag has quality, insulated design, and is more than big enough to fit a hefty lunch. The carrying strap makes it easy for your child to lug it around all day.
OPUX Premium Lunch Box
The OPUX lunch box sure has a lot going for it. It is quite large, well-insulated, and has front and side pockets. This lunch box has everything you need to pack a hefty lunch for your child, and it will keep everything fresh and cool. It’s designed to be big enough so that you can pack individual containers into the bag, keeping everything separate.
FlowFly Kid’s Lunch Box
The FlowFly lunch box is your standard lunch box. It zips up, is well-insulated, and has a convenient carrying strap. Your kids will love the cool designs, there are over 15 to choose from! If you want to send your kid to school in style, then let them pick out their favourite.
Skip Hop Kids Insulated Lunch Box
These ones are really cool! Designed to look like different animals, your child will probably love the different varieties! As a lunch box it’s pretty standard. It zips up, keeps everything fresh, and has different compartments for different items. As a bonus, this one is highly affordable!
If your child is keen on the design, this could be a great choice.
Momcozy Kids Lunch Box
Here’s another basic zip-up lunch box. It is fully insulated, zips up, and has room for a sizable lunch. Your kids will love the cool dinopattern. At under $10, this one is very affordable also!
GoPrene Lunch Bag
Here’s a cool design for a lunch bag. This one is actually designed to be carried more like a bag than a lunch box. It still zips up and is fully insulated, but is easier and more comfortable to carry around due to its design. It also folds flat when empty, making it easier to store.
Thermos Funtainer 10 oz
Lastly, another option if you really want to keep hot food hot. The Thermos Funtainer comes from the trusted Thermos brand, and this one comes in all sorts of cool colors that your child will love. Its basic design keeps food fresh, and is small enough to fit in all sorts of lunch bags.
Alissa Zorn is an author, and founder of the website Overthought This. She's a coach and cartoonist passionate about helping people overcome perfectionism and shame to build authentic, joyful lives. Alissa is certified through the International Coach Federation and got her Trauma-Informed Coaching certification from Moving the Human Spirit. She wrote Bounceback Parenting: A Field Guide for Creating Connection, Not Perfection, and is always following curiosity to find her next creative endeavor.