The Best Lunch Containers for Packing Healthy Lunches

August 9, 2018
updated Aug 18, 2023

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Packing healthy school lunches is a breeze when you have the right lunch box for the job!

And while lunch boxes can be made of plastic or stainless steel; all parents agree that having multiple compartments in one lunch box is key for packing lunches fast!

The list of recommended lunch boxes below is updated yearly -and I’ve tested a lot since I’ve been sharing fresh school lunch ideas on this website since 2010!

The Ultimate Lunch Box for Kids

The Easy Lunchbox is the all-around pick to pack any type of lunch for school for kids of all ages.

From bento-style lunches, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and leftovers, there's nothing this container can't take to school.

The 4-packs come in a variety of fun colors, they're dishwasher safe, they last, and they're affordable.

Get them on Amazon

Compartmentalized lunch boxes are perfect for packing multiple ingredients while minimizing the number of containers in the lunch bag. Some are fully leak-proof, others are not, it just depends on the ingredients you add to the bento lunch.

Most Versatile LunchBox

Consider it the "LEGO" of lunch containers. You get a multi-pack in various shapes and sizes that fit, like a puzzle, into a blue ice pakc.

They are leak-proof and fit great in taller and narrow lunchboxes. You can send all or just a few of the blox.

Check it out

Best Leak-Proof Lunchbox for Younger Kids

This Yumbox lunch box is perfect for younger kids that love a variety of ingredients in their lunch. It's also leak-proof and there's a fun variety of colors.

The single, removable tray is top-rack dishwasher safe and the base and top are hand-wash only.

Grab one on Amazon

Need an ice pack for your lunchbox? Read about my top picks here!

Best Stainless Steel Lunch Box

The Lunchbots brand will withstand the test of time since they're practically indestructible.

They come in a variety of compartments and colors so you'll be able to pack bento-style lunches and snacks for many years to come.

All the Colors and Sizes Here

Stainless steel lunch boxes are great for separating foods but are not leak-proof. While they’re a bit more expensive than their plastic counterparts, they’re built to last.

If you have multiple kids, pick a different one for each kid for longevity and flexibility.

Best for Hot + Cold Foods

The Omie Box has a built-in insulated container so you can pack hot or cold foods and other items in the same lunch box.

When you don't need it, simply use the space to pack a sandwich, a wrap, or other foods instead. I recommended it for Kindergarteners to 8-year-olds.

Find it on Amazon

More lunchboxes for Kindergarteners here!