Packing lunchboxes for toddlers and kids can be a daily struggle for busy moms. From finding nutritious options that kids will actually eat to managing spills and keeping food fresh, it can be quite the task. But don’t worry, as a Pediatric Dietitian Mom, I’m here to help! In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the top lunchboxes that have been tried and loved by myself and countless other moms who pack lunches.
How to choose the best lunch box
With SO many options out there, selecting the lunch box that best suits your child and their needs can be quite the challenge. Let’s narrow down your selections by considering these important factors:
Age and appetite: Toddlers need lunch boxes that are easy to open, compact, and that they can carry by themselves. Your child may or may not have much of an appetite during lunch time so select the appropriate size. Child’s food preferences: Does your child prefer sandwiches, wraps, etc., or do they like a snacky lunch with a variety of options? Do they prefer fruit cut up into small pieces or like it whole? Materials: Plastic or stainless steel? While stainless steel lunch boxes are durable, plastic ones are lighter and cheaper, making them a better option if your child tends to misplace things. Leak-proof? Most definitely check for this before packing say yogurt and having it spill all over the other foods. If the lunch box isn’t leak proof but you like everything else about it, you can consider adding silicone muffin cups or other small containers. Cost: Stainless steel products last a very long time but are also more expensive. Perhaps having multiple lunch boxes is more important to you than durability and cost.
Bento Lunch Box
I recommend grabbing this style of lunch box as it is fun to pack and fun to eat from! With built-in compartments, bento boxes can help parents or caregivers get creative with what to pack as well as encourage kids to try more variety. These are great for all kinds of finger foods and snacky lunches. It may not seem like a big deal, but simply seeing all the different compartments can help packing lunches become less of a drudgery and more of a loving and creative outlet. Your child will notice it too! Listed below are my top recommendations for lunch boxes that will hold everything your child needs to stay nourished and happy while they are away from you.
Best Leak Proof Bento Box for Toddlers
Best Stainless Steel Lunch Box for Toddlers
Sustainable, non-toxic, convenient, long-lasting, and easy to clean, you can’t go wrong with these eco-friendly options. These are the top two brands. It comes with a removable inner tray, which you can purchase separately if you need to replace or want multiple. Your child may enjoy eating their meals from the tray at home as well. For toddlers, the Yumbox Original is wonderful. It has 5 main compartments and one small compartment that’s perfect for dips and sauces, eliminating the need to pack a separate container. If your child has a pretty small appetite, then consider getting the Yumbox Snack. And if you want to pack a whole sandwich, grab the Panino. They now have a stainless steel option, if interested. I haven’t tried it out yet so I’m unable to provide a honest review at this time.
LunchBots
Planet Box
Best Plastic Bento Lunch Box for Kids
Best Kids Lunch Boxes (5 Year olds and Up)
I’ve included the same brands but larger sizes to accommodate your child’s growing appetite. Of course, you can continue using any of the above options if it suits your child’s needs.
Pros:
Easy to open and close Durable Eco-friendly Easy to clean Comes with an insulated lunch bag
Cons:
Expensive Not leak proof (can use included food containers) Not microwave-safe Heavier compared to the other suggested options
If you like to meal prep several days worth of lunches, these are great for filling, assembly-line style. The 4-Compartment Snack Containers come as a set of 4 and are perfect for little hands.
Best Leak Proof Bento Lunch Box
The Yumbox Panino has four different sized compartments, including a small compartment for dip or small snacks. It can fit a whole sandwich or wrap. If your child has an especially hearty appetite, the Yumbox Tapas will be worth considering.
Best Stainless Steel Kids Bento Box
Best Kids Insulated Bento Box
OmieBox is great for kids who enjoy hot meals for lunch. It comes with a removable thermos compartment that can keep foods warm for up to 6 hours. For cold foods, simply remove the thermos bowl and pack whatever you’d like in that compartment. Sturdy construction, simple design, all around an excellent product! Be sure to use their leakproof containers or silicone liners for runny/wet foods. This is also a wonderful lunch box option for the adults. Another wonderful option that is sure to last through elementary school and beyond. You will want to get their lunch bags as it doesn’t fit in most standard bags. Note that this one is bigger and heavier than LunchBots.
Plastic Bento Lunch Box
Easy LunchBoxes 3 Compartment Containers The main compartment is large enough for sandwiches and other main items. Or you can add small containers or silicone muffin liners to hold different foods. By far the longest lasting plastic lunch boxes you will find on the market.
What to Pack in Kids Lunch Boxes
30 Easy Bento Box School Lunch Ideas Easy Toddler Lunch Ideas (for daycare or preschool) Master List of Lunch Box Ideas for Kids Best Cold Lunch Ideas for Kids Unique Sandwich ideas for Kids (without deli meat) 60 Healthy Lunch Ideas Snack Tray Lunch Ideas
