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By Kim Vij

The Best Kids Lunch Boxes for School

Learn about your options as a parent to buy your child one of the best kid’s lunch boxes for school. Discover why size, insulation, seal, durability, and how easy to clean can make a world of difference for easy school lunch packing.

The best lunch boxes for kids at school

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The Best Kids Lunch Boxes for School

It’s time for the kids to go Back to School which means it’s time to take a look at what you’re bringing to school for your lunch box this year. Lunch box companies have started to provide some pretty awesome options, especially when it comes to lunch box containers!

Have you made the switch from plastic bags to eco-friendly containers? We’ve had such a big change in our house since using our Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes. I adore them and find I’m packing healthier food for my kids because of them.

There are a few main points to keep in mind as you choose a school lunch box…

  • Size
  • Insulation
  • Seal
  • Durability
  • Easy to Open
  • Easy to Clean

A lunch box is an essential school supply your kid will use every day, so it’s important to make sure they’re equipped with the right one for them.

Here are our top picks of lunch boxes for kids!

PlanetBox Rover Class Stainless Steel Bento Lunch Box with 5 Compartments

PlanetBox ROVER Classic Stainless Steel Bento Lunch Box with 5 Compartments

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planetbox Tutti Frutti Insulated Lunch Bag

PlanetBox Tutti Frutti Insulated Lunch Bag

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Bentgo Fresh Leak-Proof Versatile 4-Compartment Bento-Style Lunch Box

Bentgo Fresh – Leak-Proof, Versatile 4-Compartment Bento-Style Lunch Box

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Bentgo Kids Stainless Steel Leak Resistant Lunch Box

Bentgo® Kids Stainless Steel Leak-Resistant Lunch Box – Bento-Style Redesigned in 2022 w/Upgraded Latches

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Bentgo® Kids Lunch Bag - Durable Double Insulated Water-Resistant Fabric Interior Exterior Zippered Pockets Water Bottle Holder

Bentgo® Kids Lunch Bag – Durable, Double Insulated, Water-Resistant Fabric, Interior & Exterior Zippered Pockets, Water Bottle Holder

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How to Choose a Lunch Box for Your Child

  • Consider your child’s age and needs. If your child is young, you may want to choose a lunch box with a built-in thermos or insulated pockets to keep food cold or hot. If your child is older, they may prefer a lunch box with more compartments or a cooler backpack.
  • Choose a lunch box that is durable and easy to clean. Look for a lunch box that is made from high-quality materials that will last for years. It should also be easy to wipe down or wash in the dishwasher.
  • Choose a lunch box that is the right size. Make sure the lunch box is big enough to fit all of your child’s food and drinks. You may also want to consider a lunch box with a separate compartment for snacks.
  • Let your child help choose their lunch box. This will help them feel more invested in their lunch and make them more likely to eat it. Choose a lunch box that is fun and stylish. There are many different lunch boxes available, so you can find one that your child will love.
  • Choose a lunch box that is affordable. Lunch boxes can range in price from a few dollars to over $100. Choose a lunch box that fits your budget and your child’s needs.

Here are some additional tips:

  • Look for a lunch box with a variety of compartments. This will help your child keep their food organized and prevent it from getting soggy.
  • Choose a lunch box with a leak-proof seal. This will help prevent spills and keep your child’s food fresh.
LunchBots Large Trio Stainless Steel Lunch Container -Three Section Design

LunchBots Large Trio Stainless Steel Lunch Container

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ecozoi Stainless Steel Lunch Box 3-Tier Leak Proof Stackable Lunch Container Convertible

ecozoi Stainless Steel Lunch Box, 3-Tier Leak Proof Stackable Lunch Container

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ecozoi Stainless Steel Lunch Box 3-in-1 Eco Friendly Stackable Bento Box

ecozoi Stainless Steel Lunch Box, 3-in-1 Eco Friendly Stackable Bento Box

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FlowFly Kids Lunch Box

FlowFly Kids Lunch box Insulated 

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Tips for choosing a lunch box for your child that’s eco-friendly…

Consider choosing a lunch box that is made from recycled materials. This is a great way to reduce your environmental impact.

  1. Look for a lunch box made from sustainable materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or silicone.
  2. Choose a lunch box that is BPA-free and PVC-free.
  3. Make sure the lunch box is leak-proof and easy to clean.
  4. Consider a lunch box with multiple compartments to keep food separate.
  5. Choose a lunch box that is fun and colorful to appeal to your child.

The Best Water Bottles for Kids at School

THERMOS FUNTAINER 12 Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Kids Straw Bottle

THERMOS FUNTAINER 12 Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Kids Straw Bottle

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Hydro Flask 12 oz Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid and Boot

Hydro Flask 12 oz Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid and Boot

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koodee Kids Water Bottle 2 Pack 12 oz Stainless Steel Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for School

koodee Kids Water Bottle 2 Pack 12 oz Stainless Steel Double Wall Vacuum Insulated

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Here are some additional tips for packing an eco-friendly lunch:

  1. Use reusable utensils and napkins.
  2. Pack food in glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic bags.
  3. Pack fruits and vegetables that don’t need to be refrigerated.
  4. Send your child with a water bottle instead of juice boxes or soda.

By following these tips, you can help your child reduce their environmental impact and eat a healthy lunch at the same time.

Top Picks for Lunch Box Ice Pack Coolers

One thing living that’s a top priority is keeping your child’s lunch food stored at the right temperature. These have been our favorites to pack inside the lunch box to keep their food cold when needed.

fit and fresh xl slim ice pack for lunch box

Fit & Fresh XL Cool Coolers Freezer Slim Ice Pack for Lunch Box, Set of 4

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fit and fresh penguin lunch box ice packs

Fit & Fresh, Penguins Cool Coolers Lunch Ice Packs, Set of 4, Multicolored

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The best school lunch box is the one that you use easily. I hope you’ve found the recommendations helpful as you decide which is best for your child.

Let me know if you have any questions, I’ve been packing a school lunch for 30 years for my kids. Yeap I have 3 kids and their ages are spread way far apart, plus I’ve been packing my lunch for school as a teacher too. Wishing you the best of luck as your child heads back to school.

PS: If it’s their very first day of school with a lunch box, be sure to do this magic dust poem with them.

You may also find these guides helpful for your child…

  • 100+ Lunch Box Ideas for Kids
  • Kindergarten Supply List
  • Teaching Kids How to Be Responsible for Their Backpack
  • Ways to Keep Kids Hydrated
  • Effective Morning Routines for School
  • How to Stop Losing Things at School
Kindergarten Supply List with items highlighted for a child's backpack
Lunch Box Ideas for Kids for Back to School curated by The Educators' Spin On It
Teaching Children How to be Responsible for their Own Backpack

Like this idea? Pin for later or share now with a friend!

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Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: Back to School, First Day of School, grade school, Lunch Box, Preschool

About Kim Vij

Early childhood teacher, author, speaker and mom of 3. Kim shares ways to make learning fun and parenting an adventure by sharing developmentally appropriate activities.

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Early childhood teacher, author, speaker and mom of 3. Kim Vij shares ways to make learning fun and parenting an adventure by sharing all kinds of easy kid crafts, activities, recipes and even travel ideas for families!
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