In today’s world, more and more people are working long hours and eating lunch on the go. As a result, lunch boxes have become an essential part of many people’s lives. A lunch box is a small container used to hold food and beverages for consumption either at school, work, or during a midday break.
While there are a variety of different lunch boxes available on the market, there are a few things that all good lunch boxes have in common.
When you are in your office or in school, it is always good to eat home-cooked food instead of ordering outside food. A packed lunch made in home-made cookware, is much more healthier and provides better nourishment during a hectic working day.
First of all, they should be durable and easy to clean. After all, no one wants to spend their lunch break washing out a dirty lunch box. They should also be large enough to hold a substantial amount of food, yet small enough to be easily carried.
Additionally, good lunch boxes should have compartments or dividers to keep food separated and organized. Finally, they should be insulated to keep food fresh and cool. With these features in mind, it is easy to see why lunch boxes are such a popular choice for busy people on the go.
The 15 Best Lunch Boxes In 2023
Contents
Best Overall: TOMULE Insulated Cooler Tote Bag
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Best In Value: Arctic Zone Titan Lunch Pack
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Best Small: Gloppie Small Lunch Bag
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Best Vertical: Carhartt Vertical Lunch Bag
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Best Wide Open: LOKASS Lunch Bag
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Best With Large Space: Lifewit Large Lunch Bag
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Best Insulated: TOP&TOP Insulated Lunch Box
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Best In Storage: Bentgo Classic Lunch Box
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Best Freezable: PackIt Freezable Lunch Box
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Best Portable: MIER Adult Lunch Box
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Best Electric: FORABEST Electric Lunch Box
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Most Durable: OPUX Insulated Lunch Box
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Best For Outing: YETI Daytrip Lunch Bag
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Best In Look: MONBENTO Lunch Box
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Best Multi Compartments: Tiblue Insulated Lunch Box
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Best Overall: TOMULE Insulated Cooler Tote Bag
The TOMULE insulated lunch bag is made from durable, high-quality materials and features an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying. The main compartment is insulated to keep food cool.
It features a 3-layer insulation design, with a PEVA lining and thick insulating pearl foam padding. This lunch bag is also eco-friendly and features a waterproof design. This combination of materials ensures that your food will stay at the desired temperature for hours.
The bag also has a large capacity, so you can pack enough food for the whole day. There is also a front pocket for storing utensils or other items. The bag comes in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect one to match your style. Plus, the bag is easy to clean.
Pros
- Reusable Bag
- Smooth Grip
- Not So Much Heavy
Cons
- Small In Size
Best In Value: Arctic Zone Titan Lunch Pack
The Arctic Zone Titan lunch pack features an insulated compartment that is large enough to hold several items. The exterior of the lunch box is made from durable polyester, and the interior features a thermal lining that helps to keep food warm or cold. Also, the built-in ice pack ensures that your food stays cold, even in the hottest weather.
The lunch box also has an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying, and the front zip pocket is perfect for holding utensils or other small items. The exterior is both water-resistant and stain-resistant. This makes it easy to clean the bag, and it also helps to keep your food fresh and dry.
Pros
- Stretchable
- Sturdy And Lon-lasting
- Spacious
Cons
- Fabric Quality Is Poor
Best Small: Gloppie Small Lunch Bag
The Gloppie Small Lunch Bag is the perfect way to keep your lunch chilled and fresh all day long. This bag features an insulated interior that helps to keep food cold, as well as a zippered closure that helps to prevent spillage.
Its food-grade aluminum lining helps to keep foods fresh and safe from contamination. The bag’s small size makes it easy to carry. The bag also has a handy carrying strap that makes it easy to transport.
Additionally, the bag comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect one to match your style. Plus, the bag is made from durable materials that are easy to clean.
Pros
- Lot Of Colors Available
- Easy To Care
- Gives Full Value Of Your Money
Cons
- Not For Large Quantities
Best Vertical: Carhartt Vertical Lunch Bag
This bag is made from heavy-duty PVC material. It also features an insulated lining that helps to keep food hot or cold. The vertical design of the bag makes it easy to carry, and the adjustable shoulder strap ensures a comfortable fit.
Plus, the bag comes equipped with a front pocket that is perfect for storing utensils or other small items. Also, it features a waterproof lining that helps to keep food fresh.
The bag also has a large main compartment that can hold enough food for several meals, as well as a front mesh pocket that is ideal for storing a water bottle.
Pros
- WaterProof
- Gives Longer Insulation
- Easy To Carry
Cons
- Short Straps
Best Wide Open: LOKASS Lunch Bag
The bag is made of high-quality canvas fabric and features a thermal lining that helps to keep food at the right temperature. The bag also has a spacious interior that can accommodate a variety of different foods.
It features a durable zipper that ensures your food stays fresh for hours. The bag also has a front pocket for storing other small items, and it comes with a strap for easy transport.
The bag is also equipped with a leak-proof liner that prevents spills from seeping through. The bag can be easily removed and wiped clean, keeping the bag clean and dry. The Lokass lunch bag is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
Pros
- Very Light weighted
- Sturdy Product
- Easy To Use And Store
Cons
- Not So Much Durable
Best With Large Space: Lifewit Large Lunch Bag
A Lifewit lunch bag is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and spacious lunch bag. The bag is made from high-quality materials, and it features a leak-proof lining that helps to keep food fresh. The bag also has a dedicated interior compartment which is made from PEVA foil, which helps to keep food cold for hours.
In addition, the bag comes with a shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry. The bag provides long-term insulation. The bag also has a large capacity, so it can easily accommodate multiple containers.
Pros
- Cleaning Is Very Easy
- Made With Hight Quality Material
- Large Capacity
Cons
- It Leaks
Best Insulated: TOP&TOP Insulated Lunch Box
The Top&Top Insulated Lunch Box Set is a great way to keep your food fresh and cool while on the go. The set includes a lunch box, a cooler bag, and an ice pack. The lunch box is made of durable polyester and is insulated to keep your food cold. It is also leakproof, so you don’t have to worry about spills or leaks.
The bag has mesh pockets on both sides that are great for storing small items like utensils, napkins, or even a water bottle. The cooler bag features a zippered closure. The cooler bag is perfect for transporting the lunch box, and it will keep your food cold for up to 8 hours. The set also comes with a shoulder strap for easy carrying. The whole set can be easily wiped clean.
Pros
- Leakproof
- Great Value For Money
- Multi-functional
Cons
- Durability Is Questionable
Best In Storage: Bentgo Classic Lunch Box
The Bentgo Classic lunch box is a compact and convenient way to take your meals with you on the go. The lunch box has two compartments, each of which can hold a substantial amount of food. The top compartment is great for fruits and veggies, while the bottom compartment is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or other main dishes.
The box is made with food-grade, eco-friendly materials that are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. The lid has a built-in fork and spoon, so you don’t have to worry about packing utensils. The lunch box is also leak-proof, so you don’t have to worry about spills. It is available in four colors: Blue, Green, Pink, and Purple.
Pros
- Best For Daily Use
- Made With Eco Friendly Material
- Easy To Clean
Cons
- Small Capacity
Best Freezable: PackIt Freezable Lunch Box
The PackIt lunch box is a nifty invention that is sure to keep your food cold and fresh all day long. This innovative lunch box uses gel technology to keep food chilled for hours. Simply pop the lunch box in the freezer overnight, and by morning, the built-in freezable gel will have frozen solid. This means that your food will stay cold for 12 hours.
The lunch box also features a buckle handle that makes it easy to carry, and the compact size means it will fit easily into a backpack also features an exterior zip pocket, perfect for holding utensils or a small ice pack. The lunch box comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns, and it features an insulated interior that wipes clean easily.
Pros
- Gives Variety Of Colors
- Fully Freezable
- Easy To Clean
Cons
- Leakage Complaints
Best Portable: MIER Adult Lunch Box
The MIER lunch box is made from high-quality materials and features a sleek design that is sure to please. This lunch box features two compartments that are perfect for holding a variety of food items. It is also leakproof and has an insulated interior. The insulated design keeps food cold for hours.
The lunch box comes in 8 amazing colors. The bag also features a front pocket that is perfect for holding utensils, napkins, or other small items. The bag is made from high-quality materials and is built to last. The shoulder strap is adjustable so that you can find the perfect fit, and the bag also has a top handle for easy carrying.
Pros
- Qualified Product
- Gives Durability
- Portable
Cons
- Some Quality Issues
Best Electric: FORABEST Electric Lunch Box
The FORABEST lunch box features two compartments that can be used to store food and keep it warm. The top compartment can be used to store food that doesn’t need to be heated, while the bottom compartment can be used to store food that needs to be heated.
The lunch box also has a built-in heating element that can be used to heat up food in the bottom compartment. The unit is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport, and it comes with a carrying case for added convenience. The lid seals tightly to prevent leaks, and the interior is lined with a removable tray that can be washed in the dishwasher.
Pros
- Best To Gift
- Electric Lunch Box
- Convenient For Field Works
Cons
- Not So Much Sturdy
Most Durable: OPUX Insulated Lunch Box
The OPUX lunch box is a great option for those looking for an affordable, durable, and reliable lunch box. This lunch box is made with high-quality materials and construction, and it features a leak-proof design that will keep your food fresh and tasty. The insulated walls of the lunch box will also keep your food hot or cold, as desired.
The lunch box also has a spacious interior that can accommodate a variety of food items. Plus, the lunch box comes with a shoulder strap for easy transport. Plus, it’s available in a variety of colors to match your personal style.
Pros
- Large Storage Capacity
- Light Weighted
- Easy To Carry
Cons
- Not So Durable
Best For Outing: YETI Daytrip Lunch Bag
The YETI lunch bag is made from a durable, water-resistant material that will protect your belongings from the elements. The insulation is top-notch, so you can be sure that your food will stay fresh all day long. It features a convenient carrying strap, it is easy to carry wherever you go.
The bag’s magnetic closure ensures that your foot stays securely in place. The bag’s unique fold-and-go design makes it lightweight and easy to carry. The bag is also available in many colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your style.
Pros
- Easy To Handle
- Valuable
- Sturdy And Durable
Cons
- Does Not Cool For Long
Best In Look: MONBENTO Lunch Box
The MONBENTO lunch box is perfect for bringing along a healthy, satisfying meal on the go. The bento box style allows you to pack a variety of food items, and the included dividers help to keep them separate. The box is made from durable, BPA-free plastic, and the lid has a silicone seal that helps to keep the contents fresh.
The lunch box is freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe, making it easy to prepare and clean. It’s also lightweight and compact, so it fits easily into a bag or backpack. It is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your personality or style.
Pros
- French Design
- Spacious
- Quality Product
Cons
- Little Bit Small Than Others
Best Multi Compartments: Tiblue Insulated Lunch Box
The Tiblue lunch box is made out of durable materials and insulated with three layers of thermal material, so it keeps food cold for hours. The lunch box features a number of compartments to keep your food organized.
The lunch box is made from durable materials and features a leakproof and waterproof design. The lunch box also has a handy carrying handle that makes it easy to transport. The lunch box is also available in a variety of colors.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Worth The Money
- Giftable
Cons
- Material Quality Complaints
What to look for in a lunch box?
Water resistant and leak proof fabric
Always and always look out for water resistant and leakproof lunch boxes. It is very natural to carry the water bottle and lunch box in the same bag, or the same compartment of the bag. Sometimes the bottle can spill water and if the box is not leakproof, water may get inside and spoil the food. To avoid such accidents it is highly recommended to buy a lunch box which is water resistant. Another important factor is leak proof fabric. If you are someone who likes to carry soups or curries the last thing you would want is the box to spill. So a leak proof box with a tight seal should always be the need of the hour.Sections
If you are someone who likes to have multiple things during a meal, it is best to use a sectioned lunch box. Sections prevent food from getting mixed and allows you to eat small proportions of every nutrient; have a balanced diet.Insulation
Some lunch boxes have special insulation walls, to help keep the food long lasting and fresh. It also keeps the food warm for a longer time as cold food is not enjoyed by many.Style
There are multiple types of lunch boxes available which are : –Standard lunch boxes
Standard lunch boxes are the simple ones which have been used for years now. It is usually the box with 2-3 containers, one on top of the other. These are very popularly used for carrying lunch.Lunch bags
A lunch bag is a lunch box which looks like a bag, and has a handle at the top to hold it. The handle is the feature that stands out as it can be easily carried to work separately as most of the time making space to fit in your lunch is a difficult job. A lunch bag takes away the burden of making space.Workman’s Lunch boxes
Another kind of lunch box is the workman’s lunch box used by workers who work all day long. These boxes are quite huge in size.-
Kids Lunch boxes
A kids lunch box is one made of bright and colorful colors usually with cute innovative designs to attract kids. -
Bento boxes
A bento box is a special one meal lunch box, originally derived from the word southern Song Dynasty slang term “biàndāng” meaning convenient. The bento box has no partition for different food items, meaning you pack every time into one space, starting from rice to dairy.
Size
The size of the lunch box will greatly vary upon your preferences about how much food you like to carry. If you like to pack everything starting from breakfast to evening snacks for work, it is very obvious that a large lunch box is needed. On the other hand if you want to pack only a small portion, say only breakfast or snacks, boxes like bento boxes would be better. For packing the lunch we feel the 2-3 storied boxes would be the best choice.Material
Never invest in a lunch box that is made of plastic. Most plastics contain harmful toxins like BPA which are harmful for the body in the long run. It causes several diseases like gland issues and cancer. In general also, plastic is harmful and to eat in a plastic container is like a nightmare! Always go for materials other than plastic, and in plastics the one that is safe to use are the food grade ones.
FAQs
How do you keep the food hot or cold in the lunch box?
An insulated lunch box is perfect for this job as the walls are especially made to keep the food fresh and warm. Different boxes claim to keep the food warm for different periods of time. Another way to keep the food fresh is to put it in aluminum foil, it retains the temperature required.What is a bento box?
A bento box is a special one meal lunch box, originating from Japan. It is originally derived from the word southern Song Dynasty slang term “biàndāng” meaning convenient. The bento box has no partition for different food items, meaning you pack every time into one space, starting from rice to dairy.How do you wash a lunch box and how often?
It is very simple to wash a lunch box. Rinse it with water thoroughly first to remove the food particles. Use a sponge to wash the edges to clean it nicely. Keep it upside down. To remove the smell of food from the boxes, use baking soda overnight and dust it off in the morning.How does an electric lunch box work?
Electric lunch boxes come with a power cord, and it’s primary job is to heat the food without the use of a microwave oven. You can easily plug in the power cord to a nearest plug point and your food will heat up In just seconds!How to remove bad smells from your lunch boxes?
Use a towel, wet it with vinegar and keep it inside the lunch box overnight. For strong smells, you can add vinegar directly to the box and leave it like that. You can also use baking soda to remove the smell.
Conclusion
I hope you found the above list of best lunchboxes useful. I would also like to provide you with more tips to shortlist a best suitable lunch box.
These features should be kept in mind while getting a new lunchbox:
Insulation
To ensure your food to remain fresh for longer period, the insulation lining of the lunchbox should be there. They are perfect for maintaining the original temperature of the foods for longer hours.
Food Safe Material
Usually, BPA- free lunchboxes are considered safe, which means it doesn’t contain the chemical bisphenol-A. It is just to ensure that the material of the lunchbox doesn’t contaminate food items.
Leakproof Assurity
A leakproof lunchbox is essential when you don’t want your desk to get messy with your lunchbox. Leak-proof lunchbox would ensure that no mess could get spilled out.
The above list includes lunchboxes with all those useful features mentioned above. If you have any queries or suggestions for us, we would like to have them in comments section below.