Picking the right lunch box for a middle schooler is no easy task since characters are no longer a thing and need more food for school.
Below are our top picks for packing bento-style lunches, sandwiches, wraps, salads, dips, and sauces in simple containers that work!
What to Look For
Middle schoolers tend to want simpler, colorful containers -without characters- that are functional and sturdy.
Below, you’ll find lunch boxes I’ve tested over the years that check the boxes, fit enough food for growing appetite, and will last! I’ve included both plastic and stainless steel options.
The Best Middle School Lunch Boxes
These will hold your middle schooler’s lunch, which you’ll add inside a lunch bag, along with any snacks, dips, and possibly a drink too! The top middle-schooler picks for different packing needs are:
Most Versatile: Easy Lunchboxes
Choose from classic, brightly colored, and neutral sets. These simple lunch containers are a long-standing favorite for families with kids of all ages. The 3 compartments allow you to pack a variety of foods under one lid. Dishwasher safe.
Check them out on Amazon
Classic 2 Compartment (5pk)
These are perfect for growing kids who don't want to call attention to their lunch.In the 2 compartment base you can fit anything from sandwiches to wraps plus their favorite side or build a bento-like lunch. They're microwave and dishwasher safe.Make sure to select the 2.85 cup.
Check it out on Amazon
Best for Bentos & Snacks: Lunchbots
This 4-compartment shape is perfect for adding variety and keeping things separate.Pack bento-style lunches or healthy snack boxes inside. For kids of all ages.The stainless steel material is made to last -I've owned it since 2007! And while it's not leakproof (no yogurts or apple sauce), I highly recommend it!Available in 5 colors.
Check it out on Amazon
All-Day Food + Ice-Pack!
The Lunchblox makes packing food for the day easy.One large compartment at the bottom for sandwiches, wraps, salads, and more and multiple containers for snacks and sides on top.The locking, built-in ice pack keeps everything in place inside a lunch bag. Great for bigger kids, 11 and up!
Check it out on Amazon
Best for Multiple Meals: Bentgo Stackable
With 8 different colors to choose from, these stackable containers fit in taller and narrower lunch bags well.The built-in utensil storage compartment ensures they have what they need to eat! -Let's hope.
Check it out on Amazon
Most Affordable Stainless
5 color options. This set is sturdy and can pack everything from salads to sandwiches and last night's leftovers. The large container has a 20-ounce capacity, while the smaller containers hold up to 6 ounces, making them perfect for sauces, dips, and snacks.
Check them out on Amazon
Screw-Cap Dip & Sauces
No spills, ever. The easiest way to pack salad dressings and dips without the mess!They fit inside all bento boxes, it's dishwasher-safe, and hold 2 tablespoons inside. I recommend these to everyone. One color option.
I Need These!
Stainless Dips (6 or 8pack)
A durable and affordable option to pack salad dressings and dips.Fits inside all bento boxes, dishwasher-safe, and holds 2 tablespoons inside.I recommend these to everyone.
Grab yours Here!
Best for Long Days: Stanley Classic Food Jar
This epic option holds up to 18 ounces and keeps food hot or cold for up to 12 hours. The Thermos that will grow with your child makes it easy to pack leftovers. Has a lifetime warranty assures you are getting the most bang for your buck!
Grab one on Amazon
Middle Schooler Fav Thermos Container
With 5 sleek brushed steel colors (like an iPhone) to choose from, this triple-layer food container holds 2.4 cups (20oz) of food. The lid design makes it really easy to open and keeps foods hot for up to 6 hours, and cold 8 hours.
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Best Overall Lunch Bag
The ice packs are built into the inner lining of this lunch bag making this a one-and-done solution.It folds neatly in the freezer; in the morning, you simply fill it with lunch and snacks. I bought this for my kids and never looked back!If you're packing hot food in a thermos, it can be used as is, without it being frozen.Available in 10+ colors and various sizes.
Grab one on Amazon
Got older kids too? Try one of these lunch bags for teens!
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