The 9 Best Lunchboxes for Kids of 2020

This lunchbox from Omie tops our list for its functionality, durability and versatility. It can be used by kids of all ages, even adults. It has three separate compartments with dividers to create more sections. One of the compartments holds a thermos insert so you can pack hot foods like soup and mac and cheese, but the cold food in the other compartments will still stay cold, making this a safe lunchbox for your child. It comes apart for easy cleaning, and it can even fit a drink.

While it’s pricier than some other lunchboxes, it may save money in the long run if you’re used to buying plastic sandwich bags or frequently buying plastic containers when they and/or their lids disappear in the great abyss of your kitchen cabinets.

For a lunchbox that won’t break the bank, hundreds of parents say this one from Wildkin is a great choice. It comes in a variety of fun patterns, and it’s durable and easy to clean. Insulation helps food maintain its temperature, and there’s a zippered pocket, inner elastic tabs to hold a water bottle or ice pack, and an inner mesh pouch for better organization. It measures 9.75 x 7 x 3.25 inches, and it’s recommended for kids ages 3-15.

When it comes to packed lunches, finding the right plastic containers and their matching lids is more than half the battle. That’s why bento boxes, like this one from Bentgo, are such a hit with parents. The box is already sectioned off—all you have to do is fill them with food, then shut the lid. This one is portioned into five spaces, one of which is perfect for holding snacks. Recommended for kids ages 3-7, the compartment tray is removable and safe for both the microwave and dishwasher. It comes in three different colors and with a two-year warranty.

When it comes to keeping your kids’ lunch cold, you can use individual ice packs and hope that they make their way back home, or you can just freeze this whole lunchbox, which has freezable gel built right into it. To use, you fold it up, stick it in the freezer, and the next day, it’s ready to keep fruit, yogurt, lunchmeat and other foods cool. It comes in a ton of fun patterns and colors, and the handle can clip onto backpacks and strollers.

For those days when a cold sandwich just won’t do (which can happen if you have a picky eater on your hands), there’s this thermos from Foogoo. Made of stainless steel with vacuum insulation, food stays warm for up to five hours. It will also keep foods cold up to seven hours if you want to send fruit, yogurt, or other foods that are best when chilled. It can hold up to 10 ounces, and it can be safely washed in the top rack of your dishwasher.

This insulated lunchbox from Opux checks all the boxes when it comes to what you want it in a lunchbox. It has plenty of room, and the insulation helps foods retain their temperature, whether they’re hot or cold. While the inside is big enough to hold six cans of soda (not that you would want to, of course), there’s also a mesh pocket on the outside and a zippered pocket for silverware, napkins, or other items. Simple and straightforward in solid colors (16 different colors to choose from), it’s a great choice for kids who don’t want a lot of cutesy patterns and designs.

For older kids who like to think outside the box (the lunchbox, that is), there’s this lunch bag from Pottery Barn Teen. It holds plenty of food for those growing appetites, and the look is nothing but cool. It has two zippered compartments—on top and one on the bottom—and it’s insulated to keep cold foods cold and warm foods warm. It comes with an adjustable carrying strap, which is removable in case they’d rather just carry it by the handle.

There are also other matching accessories, like a water bottle, bento box and backpack, which can be purchased separately, for an entire cool, coordinated look.

For the toddler set, it’s hard to find a cuter lunchbox than the Zoo Kids collection from Skip Hop. This one is shaped like a unicorn, complete with horn, ears, and a rainbow zipper, but it also comes as a leopard or a narwhal. The bag is functional too, with an insulated interior and a mesh pocket perfect for holding a napkin, utensils, and other gear. It’s machine washable, which is great for keeping it looking (and smelling) fresh. It measures 7.5 x 3.25 x 9 inches, and parents say it’s a great size for toddlers.

For grade schoolers who want a bit more of a grown-up lunch box look, there’s this one from Lands’ End. Durable and roomy, it features an insulated lining that keeps food cold for up to five hours with an ice pack. It measures 9 x 8 x 4 inches, and the entire top zips open for easy access to food and drink.

It can be personalized with their name, monogram, and/or a fun embroidered design. They cost extra, but they can choose from anything from lacrosse sticks to a bunny rabbit to a slice of pizza for a personalized touch.