Best Lunch Boxes of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Lunch boxes are a convenient and practical way to transport food and drinks for school, work, or outdoor activities. They come in a variety of materials such as plastic, metal, or fabric, and can be insulated to keep food fresh and at the right temperature. Some lunch boxes also feature compartments or dividers to separate different types of food, and come with utensils, napkins, or reusable containers. Lunch boxes are not only eco-friendly and cost-effective, but also allow for personalized style and expression with fun designs and colors.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box Cover#TOP 1
Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box
ftb score rating icon9.8
PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box Cover#TOP 2
PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box
ftb score rating icon9.7
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover#TOP 3
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 Lunch Boxes

Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box

2158951
Blush Pink
20 Ounce
Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box Cover
Crock-Pot 20-Ounce Electric Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer, Blush Pink | Perfect for Travel, Car, On-the-Go | Spill-Free, Dishwasher-Safe
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The Crock-Pot Lunch Box is designed for those who enjoy hot meals on the go. Its 20-ounce capacity is ideal for transporting and warming leftovers, soups, and chili, making it perfect for travel or work. The detachable cord allows for easy storage, keeping your space tidy. You can travel with confidence thanks to the seal and store lid, which prevents any spills during transport. Plus, its stylish blush pink design adds a modern touch to your lunch experience, ensuring you eat in style wherever you are.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe
Heats food evenly and thoroughly
Durable construction
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Difficulty opening when hot
No on/off switch

PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box

PKT-CB-BLA
Black
PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box Cover
PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box, Black, Built with EcoFreeze® Technology, Collapsible, Reusable, Zip Closure With Zip Front Pocket and Buckle Handle, Designed for Fresh Lunches
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

PackIt's Freezable Classic Lunch Box is a great way to keep food and drinks chilled for hours. It features a large zip opening that locks in cool, dry air and a buckle handle to attach to backpacks, messenger bags, and more. The nontoxic gel and gel liner make it safe and easy to clean, and the exterior zip pocket is perfect for lunchbox notes, ID cards, and more. With its convenient size and features, this lunch box is perfect for packing healthier foods that would spoil in other lunch boxes.

What We Like
Keeps food cold for hours
Easy to clean and store
Built-in freezing capability
Durable and cost-effective
Ideal for school lunches
What We Don't Like
Heavier than standard lunchboxes
Reduced storage space

Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler

B0000543
One Size
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover
Carhartt Insulated 4-Can Lunch Cooler for Men and Women, Fully Insulated and Water Resistant, Essential Lunch Cooler (Carhartt Brown)
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

The Carhartt Lunch Cooler is your go-to solution for keeping meals fresh and cold. With a fully insulated interior, it ensures your food and drinks stay at the right temperature until you're ready to eat. The cooler features a zippered mesh pocket for storing utensils and snacks, making it easy to stay organized. Made from durable 600-Denier Polyester, it's designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Plus, the large zip opening allows for quick and convenient packing, so you can grab your lunch and go without hassle.

What We Like
Durable construction
Insulated interior
Spacious design
Easy to clean
Stylish appearance
What We Don't Like
May get dirty quickly
Lacks a top handle

Sunhanny 3-Layer Bento Box

Green
Sunhanny 3-Layer Bento Box Cover
Bento Box Adult Lunch Box, Stackable Lunch Container for Adults Men Women Kids, 63oz 3 Layer Large Lunch Box Container with Utensil Set, Sauce Container, Muffin Cups, Green
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Sunhanny Bento Box is your ultimate meal companion, offering a generous 63 oz capacity across three spacious compartments. This means you can pack a variety of foods for lunch, making it ideal for both adults and kids. Each layer is equipped with silicone seals to prevent leaks, so you can confidently carry sauces and liquids without worry. Made from BPA-free materials, this lunchbox prioritizes safety for your family. Plus, it's microwave, dishwasher, and fridge safe, making meal prep and clean-up simple and convenient, allowing you to enjoy your meals anywhere with ease.

What We Like
Great color options
Secure and leakproof design
Multiple compartments
Easy to clean
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Lid doesn't close properly
Doesn't keep food hot long

Arctic Zone Titan High Performance Insulated Expandable Lunch Pack

5-54135-01-0E
Black
Arctic Zone Titan High Performance Insulated Expandable Lunch Pack Cover
Titan High Performance Fridge Cold Expandable Insulated Lunch Box - Black/Silver
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Arctic Zone Titan High Performance Insulated Expandable Lunch Pack is a great choice for those looking for a reliable lunch box. It features SuperFoam insulation and an innovative Therma-Flect interior radiant barrier that reflects heat rather than absorbing it. The exterior is made of Rhino-Tech material, which is stain and water resistant and easy to clean. It also includes two high performance Ice Walls that fit into two exterior pockets and two padded handles and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap. Customers have praised its ability to keep food and drinks cold for hours and its expandable feature for fitting more items inside.

What We Like
Excellent insulation performance
Durable and high-quality materials
Expandable for extra space
Easy to clean
Ideal for outdoor events
What We Don't Like
Expanding zipper is unnecessary

Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler

B000030400399
Gray
One Size
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover
Carhartt Camping Cooler, Worksite Lunchbox, Soft Shell Cooler for Construction Sites, Work and Everyday Use Cooler, Gray
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Carhartt Deluxe Dual Compartment Insulated Lunch Cooler Bag is the perfect size lunch box to bring to work at the office or the job site. The main compartment is insulated to keep meals or snacks cold and is large enough to hold a 6-pack. The top dome includes a separate insulated compartment to keep food organized and fruits and veggies protected. This soft-sided lunch box with top handle and shoulder strap is constructed of heavy duty Rain Defender water-repellent material and features YKK zippers, metal hardware, triple-needle stitching, an ID tag, and the Carhartt logo patch.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable construction
Spacious with multiple compartments
Effectively keeps food cold
Easy to clean
Stylish and rugged design
What We Don't Like
Shoulder strap not adjustable
Somewhat large size
#TOP 7

Stanley Classic Lunch Box Large Lunchbox - Fits Meals, Containers, Thermos - Easy to Carry, Built to Last,10 QT / 9.5 L

10-01625-001
Hammertone Green
10-Quart
Stanley Classic Lunch Box Large Lunchbox - Fits Meals, Containers, Thermos - Easy to Carry, Built to Last,10 QT / 9.5 L Cover
Stanley Classic Lunch Box Large Lunchbox - Fits Meals, Containers, Thermos - Easy to Carry, Built to Last,10 QT / 9.5 L
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Stanley Classic 10qt Lunch Box is a classic 1950s-style lunch box that is manufactured with 0.6mm SPCD steel for superior durability with single wall insulation. It has a large capacity of 10qts and features a top-handle for easy carrying. It is a great lunch box for those who work in tough environments, however, it is not insulated and the back of the lid does not cover the seam, leaving it vulnerable to dust and rain.

What We Like
Durable construction
Spacious interior
Classic design
High-quality materials
Great for outdoor meals
What We Don't Like
Pricey
Some fit issues

Jelife Bento Box Adult Lunch Box

Jalife100-Green
2-Green
Jelife Bento Box Adult Lunch Box Cover
Jelife Bento Box Adult Lunch Box - 72oz Stackable Bento Lunch Box for Adults, 3 Layers All-in-One Large Bento Box Leak-Proof Lunchbox with Utensil Sauce Dressing Containers for Dining Out,Work, Green
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

Jelife Bento Box is a 3-layer 72oz stackable lunch box ideal for adults. Its leak-proof design keeps food fresh and mess-free, while the BPA-free material ensures safety. With 5 compartments and 2 sauce containers, it's perfect for a well-balanced meal on the go. The included utensils make it convenient to enjoy your favorite dishes wherever you are. Plus, the after-sales service ensures any concerns are promptly addressed, enhancing your overall shopping experience.

What We Like
Attractive pink color option
Good value for money
Deep bottom container
Includes utensils and condiment containers
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Limited separate usage
Fragile top condiment container
#TOP 9

Carhartt Insulated 4 Can Lunch Cooler

B0000286BLK-OFA
Black
One Size
Carhartt Insulated 4 Can Lunch Cooler Cover
Carhartt Gear B0000286 Insulated 4 Can Lunch Cooler - One Size Fits All - Black
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The Carhartt Insulated 4 Can Lunch Cooler, also known as the Carhartt Lunch Cooler, is a durable and reliable lunch box option. Made from 500-Denier Polyester with Rain Defender durable water repellent, this lunch cooler is built to withstand tough conditions. The fully insulated main compartment can keep your food and drinks cold for 8+ hours, ensuring that your lunch stays fresh throughout the day. The interior mesh pocket provides additional storage space for utensils or small snacks. With its sturdy top haul handle, you can easily carry this lunch cooler wherever you go. Whether you're heading to work, school, or a picnic, the Carhartt Lunch Cooler is a versatile and convenient choice.

What We Like
Dependable quality
Durable construction
Well insulated
Easy to clean
Perfect size for lunches
What We Don't Like
Limited space when fully packed

Bentgo Fresh Bento Lunch Box

2PK-BGOFR-2M1
Green
Medium
Bentgo Fresh Bento Lunch Box Cover
Bentgo Fresh (Blue/Green 2 PACK) - New & Improved Leak-Proof, Versatile 4-Compartment Bento-Style Lunch Box
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

The Bentgo Fresh Lunch Box is designed with your convenience in mind. Its leak-resistant feature ensures that your meals stay contained, preventing messy spills in your bag. With four separate compartments, you can easily pack a variety of foods, making it perfect for balanced lunches. Additionally, the versatile design allows you to mix and match your meals, accommodating different dietary preferences. This lunch box is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, homemade meals on the go without worrying about leaks or food mixing.

What We Like
Leak-proof design
Easy to clean
Good size for meals
Durable materials
Vibrant colors
What We Don't Like
Alignment needed for proper closure
Some leaks reported
Best Lunch Boxes Feature Image

Deciding which Lunch Boxes is Best for Your House

Things need to consider before buying lunch boxes

Size

When it comes to choosing the right size lunch box, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the amount of food you will need to pack. If you plan on packing a lot of food, you will need a larger lunch box or some stackable lunch boxes. However, if you only need to pack a light snack or meal, a smaller lunch box will suffice. Second, consider how much space you have in your backpack or purse. If you have a lot of other things to carry, you may want to choose a smaller lunch box so that it doesn't take up too much space. Finally, think about how long you will be away from home. If you will be gone for several hours, you will need a lunch box that can keep your food fresh and cool.

Ease of Cleaning

Any parent knows that packing a healthy, nutritious lunch for their child is only half the battle. The other half is making sure that the lunch box comes home clean so it can be reused the next day. Fortunately, there are a few easy tips that can help make cleaning a lunch box a breeze. First, choose a lunch box with smooth, rounded corners and edges. These are much easier to clean than boxes with sharp angles and crevices. Second, opt for a lunch box with removable partitions. This way, food debris can be quickly and easily removed without having to scrub the entire box. Finally, choose a lunch box made from durable dishwasher-safe materials that can withstand multiple washes.

Materials

When choosing a lunch box, there are many materials to consider. Stainless steel is a popular choice, as it is durable and impermeable, meaning that food items will stay fresh for longer. Additionally, stainless steel is easy to clean and can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or breaking. Another option is silicone, which has a flexible structure and is unbreakable which makes it ideal for squeezing in new food items to carry to school for kids. However, some people prefer ceramic or glass, which are often microwavable and are also durable enough for daily use.

Insulation

At first glance, an insulated lunch box may seem like a fairly simple product. However, it actually requires a great deal of engineering and design to create the optimal balance of insulation, layers, and material composition. These factors can vary greatly depending on the type of food being stored. For example, a cold drink will typically require less insulation than a hot bowl of soup or stew. Additionally, different materials will be better suited to insulate certain foods and drinks. A lunch box made from plastic might not be ideal for keeping hot food warm for long periods of time, whereas stainless steel would be much more effective in this regard. Of course, the lunch box cooler can ensure longer insulation time.

Different Needs

There are many different types of lunch boxes on the market, each designed for different needs and circumstances. For both men and women who are looking for a convenient option for packing their lunch for work, there are simple sandwich containers and thermos bottles suitable for storing both hot and cold foods. For those who need to pack breakfasts or snacks on the go, there are versatile containers with multiple compartments for holding different food items separately. And for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, there are durable lunch boxes designed for use while camping or for bringing along to work on a construction site. What's more, many lunch boxes include some useful parts such as shoulder straps and dressing containers to meet people's various needs.

Themes

When it comes to finding the perfect lunch box, there are a variety of different themes that people may be drawn to. Some may love the classic superhero characters like Spiderman or Superman, while others prefer pop culture icons like Hello Kitty or Star Wars. Others still might be more obsessed with books and movies, such as the Harry Potter series or the hit teen drama Riverdale. And for those who prefer something a little more out of the ordinary, perhaps a flamingo-themed lunch box would better suit their style. Regardless of which theme you choose, having a fun and unique lunch box can make packing your lunch more enjoyable and can also help to add some personality to your daily routine.

Conclusion

Now that you have considered all the factors involved in choosing a lunch box, it is time to make your decision. If you are looking for a durable and eco-friendly option, then stainless steel or glass might be the best choice for you. If ease of use is your top priority, then a plastic lunch box might be the way to go. And if you are looking for something with a bit of personality, then there are plenty of fun and stylish options available. Whichever lunch box you choose, make sure that it is leakproof or you will suffer from the leaking disaster. With so many great options on the market, there is sure to be the perfect lunch box out there for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which lunch box keeps food the coldest longest?

The FineDine Insulated Lunch Box is known for keeping food fresh and cold for the entire day. It features a durable, insulated bag with two spacious compartments, three locking glass containers, and an ice pack for optimal cooling.

2. What is the cheapest packed lunch?

There are several affordable options for packed lunches that don't break the bank. Some examples include apple sandwiches with almond butter and granola, avocado tea sandwiches, crunchy peanut butter wraps, hummus and veggie sandwiches, and more. These options provide a variety of flavors while being cost-effective.

3. Are metal lunch boxes better than plastic?

Metal lunch boxes are considered more environmentally friendly compared to plastic ones. They are reusable, have a longer lifespan, and help reduce waste generated by disposable plastic lunch boxes. If sustainability is a priority for you, choosing a metal lunch box would align better with your values.

4. What can you put in a lunch box instead of a sandwich?

There are numerous alternatives to sandwiches that you can pack in a lunch box. Some options include chicken meatballs with carrots, quinoa salad and drinkable yogurt, hummus and pita, chicken salad with crackers, pizza bites, hummus wraps, pizza lunchables, and pizza muffins. These options provide variety and are delicious alternatives to traditional sandwiches.

5. What lunch box stays cold for 10 hours?

The Igloo Hard-Top Playmate Gripper lunch box is designed to keep food cold for up to 10 hours. It features foam-based MaxCold insulation and an antimicrobial lining to prevent bacterial build-up. Additionally, it is an affordable option for those looking for a lunch box that provides long-lasting cooling.

Editor's Notes

During our lunch boxes research, we found 24 lunch boxes products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 123,747 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lunch boxes list. We found that most customers choose lunch boxes with an average price of $18.57.

The lunch boxes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lunch boxes, including Crock-Pot, PackIt, Carhartt, Sunhanny, Titan by Arctic Zone. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Lunch Boxes Comparison Table

#TOP1
Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box Cover
#TOP2
PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box Cover
#TOP3
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover
#TOP4
Sunhanny 3-Layer Bento Box Cover
#TOP5
Arctic Zone Titan High Performance Insulated Expandable Lunch Pack Cover
#TOP6
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover
#TOP7
Stanley Classic Lunch Box Large Lunchbox - Fits Meals, Containers, Thermos - Easy to Carry, Built to Last,10 QT / 9.5 L Cover
#TOP8
Jelife Bento Box Adult Lunch Box Cover
#TOP9
Carhartt Insulated 4 Can Lunch Cooler Cover
#TOP10
Bentgo Fresh Bento Lunch Box Cover
BrandCrock-PotPackItCarharttSunhannyTitan by Arctic ZoneCarharttSTANLEYJelifeCarharttBentgo
ColorBlush PinkBlackEssential Lunch Cooler (Carhartt Brown)GreenBlackGrayHammertone Green2-GreenBlackBlue, Green
MaterialPlastic, MetalPoly CanvasNylonPlasticPolyesterPolyester, MetalStainless SteelPolypropylenePolyesterAcrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene,Polypropylene,Thermoplastic Elastomer
Recommended Uses For Productwarming foodfreeze food,packing foodLeisureOffice, School, PicnicSchoolPicnic, Travel, Office, SchoolSchoolOffice, work, to go, cycling, gymPicnic, Fishing, HikingSchool
Special FeatureManualfreeze food,packing foodThermal Insulated, Lightweight, Water resistenceLeak ResistantLeak Proof, Spacious, InsulatedThermal Insulated, Adjustable Shoulder StrapThermal InsulatedAirtight, Leak Resistant, Stackable, Freezer SafeInsulatedLeak Resistant
Capacity20 Fluid Ounces340 Milliliters10 Liters1900 Milliliters8.2 Pounds8 Liters10 Quarts2130 Milliliters300 Cubic Inches4.9 Cups
PatternFood WarmerSolidSolid-SolidSolidSolidSolidSolid-
Product Care InstructionsHand Wash Only, Dishwasher SafeMicrowave Safe-Dishwasher Safe, Hand WashHand WashHand Wash-Microwave Safe, Dishwasher SafeHand wash or gentle machine wash, avoid bleach and high heat when drying, store in a cool, dry place.Inner Tray is Dishwasher Safe, Outer Shell is Handwash Only
Age Range (Description)KidAllAdultAdult-AdultAdultAdult--
ThemeCarmetal lunch box set, built in ice pack lunch bag, steel lunch box men, freezable lunch boxFoodDance-FoodGreenFood--
Item Weight0.72 Kilograms1.5 Pounds-1.23 pounds1.9 Pounds12 ounces-0.6 Kilograms-2.77 pounds
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.7
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.0
Where to Buy