The 16 Best Lunch Boxes for Kids of 2022

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Remember how cool you felt walking into the school cafeteria with your favorite superhero lunch box? You can replicate that same feeling and get your kids excited about eating their meal with the right gear—and we’re here to help. In addition to the “cool” factor, we’ve taken into account important features such as insulation, how easy they are to clean, and durability to create our list of the bestlunch boxesfor kids.

Reviewed & Approved

TheBentgo Kids Lunch Bag Setcomes with a lunch container, lunch bag, and four ice packs to keep lunch fresh all morning long. For a budget-friendly option, we recommend theOpux Premium Insulated Lunch Box.

“As with most products geared towards kids, lunch boxes should be durable, easy to clean and easy to transport,” saysCristie Besu, a certified sports nutritionist and founder of Eat Me Guilt Free. Our list includes a variety of designs and features to guarantee that your child will want to carry their lunch box around proudly and that its contents will stay fresh and safe throughout the day. We carefully considered design, material, ease of use, size, ease of cleaning, and value when reviewing products.

From the cutest school bus lunch box for toddlers to teenage-approved designs, here are the best lunch boxes for kids of all ages.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Bentgo Kids Lunch Bag Set at Amazon

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Best for Toddlers:

Bluboon Insulated Lunch Bag at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Opux Premium Insulated Lunch Box at Amazon

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Best Bento Box:

Omie Bento Box at Amazon

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Best for Big Kids:

Art of Lunch Insulated Lunch Bag at Amazon

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Best Tote:

Hydro Flask Insulated Lunch Tote at Amazon

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Best for Cold Food:

PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag at Amazon

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Best for Elementary School:

Pottery Barn Kids Glow in the Dark Lunch Box at Potterybarnkids.com

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Best for Teens:

CZYY Waxed Canvas Lunch Bags at Amazon

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Best Thermos:

Thermos Foogo Food Jar at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected the Best Lunch Boxes for Kids
What to Look For
Why Trust Verywell Family

4.7

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Lunch container, bag, and ice packs included
Adjustable buckle handle and carrying strap
2 D-hooks on front of bag

Cons

Can be heavier than other options (all 3 together)

This six-piece set from Bentgo earns our top spot because it includes essential items for lunchtime: a multi-compartment lunch container, lunch bag, and four matching ice packs. Available in a variety of stylish designs, like unicorns and rocket ships, the Bentgo lunch bag is lightweight and doubly insulated, so lunches stay fresh all day long. An exterior zippered pocket holds napkins or utensils, while ice packs fit inside the interior mesh pocket.

For a hands-free option, the lunch bag also features an adjustable carrying strap for crossbody or shoulder portability. Plus, two D-hooks on the front of the lunch bag allow it to attach to a backpack with ease.

材料:Stainless steel, plastic, and silicone |Cleaning instructions:Hand-wash only, dishwasher not recommended

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Adorable design options
Two-way zipper
Inner mesh pocket

Cons

Dirties easily

This lunch box will be the talk of the lunch table thanks to its adorable designs, including school bus and police car options. A two-way zipper makes it easier and faster to pack and take out food, and a zippered front pocket keeps other items safe and sound. There is a side pocket on the exterior, while an interior mesh pocket is an ideal place for ice packs. Plus, the interior aluminum lining is easy to clean, BPA-free, and allows food to stay cold or hot until it’s time for lunch.

材料:Polyester |Cleaning instructions:Hand washing preferred

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Adjustable clip-on buckle
Variety of patterns/colors
Front and side pockets

Cons

No interior pocket
No protection for delicate items (outside is soft)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly lunch box without skimping on quality, you’ll love this insulated lunch box from Opux. It features a front pocket to hold utensils or snacks, and a side pocket provides a spot to keep beverages. There’s also a detachable hand strap so the lunch box clips to a backpack for easier portability.

The lunch box is made with polyester and nylon, and it features reinforced zippers to ensure durability. A thermal leak-proof lining on the inside keeps food and drinks hot or cold.

材料:Polyester and nylon |Cleaning instructions:Wipe inside down with damp cloth

4.2

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Stores hot and cold food
Leak-proof

Cons

Thermos may make other food warm

The OmieBox comes with a removable thermos compartment that can be used to keep foods like pasta and soup warm for up to six hours. For cool foods like sandwiches, you can remove the leak-proof bowl and use the removable rectangular compartment. It also has three other divided sections that can house fruit, crackers, and other snacks.

The box completely disassembles for easy cleaning. It is top-rack dishwasher-safe, but the brand recommends hand washing. It's made of stainless steel and food-safe plastic and silicone that's free of BPA, phthalates, vinyl, lead, and PVC.

材料:Stainless steel, plastic, and silicone |Cleaning instructions:Hand-wash only, dishwasher not recommended

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Insulated
Machine washable

Cons

Small interior

The maker of these fun neoprene lunch bags partners with artists around the world to create unique, stylish designs. The thick neoprene material keeps food fresh and insulated for up to four hours, and they’re easy to store at home or in your bag after lunch.

They lay flat and can be thrown into the washing machine to clean. Also, while these bags are on the smaller side, they still have enough room to hold a water bottle along with lunch.

材料:Neoprene |Cleaning instructions:Machine washable

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Coated fabric is waterproof
Zippers are water-resistant
Insulated interior

Cons

Opening on the smaller side
Bag is small for larger tupperware

Kids who like a tote-style lunch box will love this pick from Hydro Flask. It features waterproof coated fabric and water-resistant zippers, so it will last through multiple grades. A collapsible exterior allows for easy storage when not in use, and an insulated lining keeps lunches fresh all day long. And, parents, caregivers, and kids will all appreciate the free-standing base for easy packing and unpacking.

材料:Coated fabric (specific fabric not listed) |Cleaning instructions:Wipe clean

PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag with Zip Closure

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Keeps food cold
Roomy

Cons

Not ideal for hot food

This lunch bag keeps food cold for up to 10 hours. Instead of worrying about ice packs, simply fold the bag up and put it in the freezer overnight. The patented freezable gel is built right into the bag. The zip closure ensures it keeps all contents inside cold. This bag is large enough to hold a sandwich, a drink, andsome snacks.

材料:Polyester and polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) |Cleaning instructions:Thoroughly wipe or hand-wash the interior, spot clean the exterior, and dry completely before freezing

Mackenzie Blue Dino Glow-In-The-Dark Lunch Boxes

Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Pros

Can be personalized
Organized compartments

Cons

Not machine washable

Toddlers will love the cool designs on this lunch bag. It glows in the dark and you can even get their name embroidered on it. It has a fun pattern and features a water-resistant exterior and an interior that is easy to clean.

To save space inside, the water bottle holder is on the outside. The bag also includes a removable ice pack that fastens inside. Even better, Pottery Barn has a full collection of lunch boxes and accessories to complete the lineup.

材料:Polyester |Cleaning instructions:Spot clean with damp, white cloth

Waxed Canvas Lunch Bags Brown Paper Bag Styled

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Simple design
Adjustable size

Cons

No handle

Getting a teenager to take alunch box to schoolcan be a challenge. We like these waxed canvas lunch bags because they have the look of a brown bag, but are durable enough to withstand spills. They can be cleaned with a damp cloth or rinsed with water.

The height can be adjusted and the bag is quite roomy—it can fit a water bottle and lunch with snacks at its tallest point.

材料:Cotton, paraffin wax, all-natural beeswax |Cleaning instructions:Hand wash with damp cloth, but do not soak or use soap

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Small enough for lunch box
Good for hot and cold food

Cons

Only for single food item

大多数孩子没有微波炉或耐火材料igerator while at school, so having a reliable thermos can be a make-or-break at lunchtime. The insulation technology in this thermos keeps contents cool for up to seven hours and warm for up to five hours.

The 10-ounce capacity is a good size for children and the rubber lid is easy for little hands to open and close. To maximize heat retention, warm the thermos withhot tap wateror boiling water before putting your lunch entree in it.

材料:Stainless steel|Cleaning instructions:Hand wash (preferred), or top-rack dishwasher safe

Landsâ End Kids Insulated Soft Sided Lunch Box

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Keeps lunches cold for five hours
Can be customized
Leak-resistant interior

Cons

Only one zipper
Short handle

When you send your kiddo off to school with their lunch box, you want the food inside to stay fresh until lunchtime. This lunch box from Lands’ End keeps lunches cold for five hours with an ice pack (not included) thanks to an insulated, leak-proof interior. An elastic mesh pocket on the side holds water bottles, and a webbed clip handle attaches to backpacks for easier transportation.

The lightweight lunch box is made from durable polyester that’s safe for spot cleaning only. You can choose from 13 different colors and designs, and you can also personalize the lunch box with a name, monogram, initials, or embroidery with the thread color of your choice.

材料:Polyester |Cleaning instructions:Spot clean only

Courtesy of Etsy

Pros

Lightweight
Insulated interior
Handmade

Cons

Too small for some containers

If you’re not a fan of zippers, you’ll love this lunch bag that opens and closes via a drawstring. The lunch bag is lightweight, handmade with canvas, and available in four color options, like peach, orange, lemon, and avocado. The interior of the lunch bag is insulated with aluminum, so you don’t have to worry about food going bad before lunch.

材料:Canvas |Cleaning instructions:Not listed

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Zippered front pocket
Clip-on buckle handle
Insulated interior

Cons

Mesh side pocket is small
Difficult to unzip around corners

This lunch box has dozens of stylish and unique patterns for kiddos to choose from, like colorful macarons or an under-the-sea theme. It is made from durable polyester and features an insulated lining to protect food.

A zippered front pocket provides space for a sweet note or surprise treat, while a mesh pocket on the outside is a handy spot for water bottles. Plus, a clip-on buckle handle allows for no-hands carrying through the hallways.

材料:Polyester |Cleaning Instructions:Spot clean

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Easy-to-clean liner
Padded handle
Both compartments are insulated

Cons

Zippers could be stronger

顶部和底部隔间午餐盒from Thermos provide plenty of space for lunches and other treats. Both compartments are insulated to keep food and drinks fresh until the bell rings for lunch. A padded handle makes holding and carrying the lunch box more comfortable. To clean the lunch box, simply hand wash it.

材料:Polyester |Cleaning instructions:Wipe clean interior, hand wash exterior

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Two compartments
Insulation in both compartments
Front pocket

Cons

On the smaller side

With two compartments, the Kinsho insulated lunch bag provides plenty of space for snacks, drinks, and lunch. An upper level holds snacks and drinks, like the included 16-ounce water bottle, while the bottom section is ideal for lunches and other goodies. A pocket on the front provides a space to pack utensils, and there are five cute designs to select from.

材料:Stain-resistant fabric (not specified) |Cleaning Instructions:Not listed

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Expands 2 extra inches
Zippered outside pocket
Easy-to-clean interior lining

Cons

L.L. Bean monogram is small
Zipper catches corner when expanding

This insulated lunch box from L.L. Bean is durable enough to last for many years, even in the hands of a child. We love the expandable option that gives you 2 inches of extra room when you need it. The internal mesh pocket fits an ice pack and the smooth plastic interior is easy to clean.

材料:Pack cloth |Cleaning instructions:Not listed

Final Verdict

There aren't many options on the market that can really compete with the flexibility of the Bentgo Kids lunch box (view on Amazon). Your child can enjoy snacks and a main course all in one place without worrying about their food mixing into a mess.

For a simple option that can store all of your child's food while keeping it cool throughout the day, the L.L. Bean Expandable (view on L.L. Bean) is durable and will last throughout the school year.

How We Selected the Best Lunch Boxes for Kids

We chose the best lunch boxes for kids by researching reviews from customers and competitors, and studying the features of more than 30 products on the market. We considered design, size, features, ease of cleaning, ease of use, age recommendations, and type of lunch box when deciding our picks.

我们也征询了Cristie Besu, a certified sports nutritionist and founder of Eat Me Guilt Free, andDJ Mazzoni RD, MS, CDN, CSCS, a New York-based registered dietician, for more information. Additionally, we reviewed guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on food safety basics, including best food storage practices.

What to Look for in Lunch Boxes for Kids

Size

Before buying, think about how much room you’ll need for your child’s food items. If you want to be able to fit a bento box, an ice pack, and a water bottle inside a lunch box or bag, you will need a larger option.

However, a larger lunch box may be too bulky for kids to carry and tough to fit inside a backpack or locker. Typically, older kids can get by with a smaller lunch box as they don't need to pack several snacks for the entire day, while toddlers may need an option that can hold breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

“Ultimately you want to get something that caters to your child’s eating habits while also making your life simpler,” explains Besu. “I like theLunchBotsbrand, which has different size options that can be easily tucked into your child’s current favorite themed/color lunch box. Those tend to be changed out yearly but these containers will last for a while.Bentgois another popular brand. They are made from BPA-free plastic and come in fun colors.”

Functionality

为别人工作可能不适合你family, depending on what you typically pack for your child’s lunch. A bento box style gives your child lots of snack options, but doesn't work well for perishable foods. An insulated box with room for an ice pack is better if temperature is a high priority for you.

It's also important that your child can open and close all their lunch and snack containers independently. Be sure to show them how, and practice at home before they bring the lunch box to school.

Cost

A single lunch box that can last a whole school year is important for some families, whereas others may prefer to have a few reusable boxes. Most options are priced between $20 and $25, but there are a few great budget-friendly choices available as well.

Material

Mazzoni recommends a plastic-free lunch box if possible, adding that there are other options for families who want to go plastic-free. “Silicone, stainless steel, and aluminum are all safe options. The chemicals that make plastics soft, called plasticizers, can leach into food and developing bodies are especially sensitive to them,” he says.

You’ll also want to make sure that the lunch box is easy to clean. “While food doesn't typically interact with the inner lining of a lunch box, kids are messy, so it's best to assume it will,” Mazzoni says. Additionally, he recommends avoiding a glass-style lunch container. “While this is an eco-friendly option, it presents too much of an injury risk were the child to drop it.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to sanitize a lunch box?

A lunch box can be sanitized by taking out all the food and wrappers, and then wiping it clean with warm, soapy water. Let air dry before filling it again. Some lunch boxes can also go in the dishwasher or even be laundered in the washing machine. Check the label for washing instructions, as ideal cleaning methods vary among products.
How often should I replace a lunch box?

You may want to replace a lunch box when it begins to look dingy and/or shows signs of wear and tear. Additionally, if you see signs of mold or rips in the lining, It's time to toss that box and get a new one.
What are the best things to pack in a lunch box?

The best things to pack in a lunch box are those that can sit out for several hours without spoiling. Insulated lunch boxes are especially helpful because they can extend the time food can stay fresh inside. “Insulation is always a plus, because it can be hours between the time lunch is packed and when your child will be eating it,” Mazzoni says. “Insulated lunch boxes reduce the risk of food-borne illness due to bacterial overgrowth.” Be sure to read the lunch box label to confirm how long it will keep food warm or cold.

Besu is also in favor of insulated lunch boxes. “I personally like to have the option to keep things warm or cool, so I would opt for one with insulation.” As for storing her lunches, she opts for specific containers. “I am a big fan of the bento box style containers with dividers because it’s an easy way for me to portion out food. There are several on the market made from different materials. I tend to gravitate towards the ones made from metal as they do a better job of insulating, are easier to clean, and last longer—not to mention it’s one less piece of plastic.”

Items like fruit, nut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, pretzels, crackers, dried fruit, and jerky all keep well.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Deanna McCormackis a writer, copywriter, and creative consultant who specializes in beauty, parenting, and lifestyle products.

Additional reporting by

Katrina Cosseyis a commerce writer for Verywell Family with nearly eight years of experience under her belt. Katrina’s background in journalism began at an Emmy Award-winning news station in Oklahoma before she obtained her B.A. in professional media. Her love for service journalism and helping others led to her commerce writing role, which allows her to research and recommend the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. When she’s not writing and researching, you’ll likely find her outdoors with her husband and their thrill-seeking toddler son.

Best Overall: Bentgo Kids Lunch Bag Set

Best for Toddlers: Bluboon Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Budget: Opux Premium Insulated Lunch Box

Best Bento Box: Omie Bento Box

Best for Big Kids: Art of Lunch Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Tote: Hydro Flask Insulated Lunch Tote

Best for Cold Food: PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag

Best for Elementary School: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Glow in the Dark Lunch Box

Best for Teens: CZYY Waxed Canvas Lunch Bags

Best Thermos: Thermos Foogo Food Jar

Best Insulated: Lands’ End Kids Insulated Soft Sided Lunch Box

Best Drawstring: DreamStudioNewYork Drawstring Tote Bag

Best Vertical: FlowFly Kids Insulated Lunch Box

Best Double Decker: Thermos Kids Dual Lunch Box

Best for Preschoolers: Kinsho Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Expandable: L.L. Bean Expandable Lunch Box

The 16 Best Kids’ Lunch Boxes for Fun and Nutritious Meals on the Go

The Bentgo Lunch Bag set is our top pick for lunches anywhere

Reviewed & Approved

Best Overall: Bentgo Kids Lunch Bag Set

Best for Toddlers: Bluboon Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Budget: Opux Premium Insulated Lunch Box

Best Bento Box: Omie Bento Box

Best for Big Kids: Art of Lunch Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Tote: Hydro Flask Insulated Lunch Tote

Best for Cold Food: PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag

Best for Elementary School: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Glow in the Dark Lunch Box

Best for Teens: CZYY Waxed Canvas Lunch Bags

Best Thermos: Thermos Foogo Food Jar

Best Insulated: Lands’ End Kids Insulated Soft Sided Lunch Box

Best Drawstring: DreamStudioNewYork Drawstring Tote Bag

Best Vertical: FlowFly Kids Insulated Lunch Box

Best Double Decker: Thermos Kids Dual Lunch Box

Best for Preschoolers: Kinsho Insulated Lunch Bag

Best Expandable: L.L. Bean Expandable Lunch Box

Final Verdict

How We Selected the Best Lunch Boxes for Kids

What to Look for in Lunch Boxes for Kids

Size

Functionality

Cost

Material

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Verywell Family