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  4. 10 Best School Lunchboxes for Kids in 2022 (Under Armour, Rubbermaid, and More)
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10 Best School Lunchboxes for Kids in 2022 (Under Armour, Rubbermaid, and More)

Finding the correct lunchbox for your kids is an essential task, but it can be a confusing one too! There are a lot of varieties of school lunchboxes, so finding that perfect product often involves searching through endless products online. We've got your back! We combed through the internet and pored over reviews to find the top 10 best lunchboxes for kids.


We love a good bento box, so the number one spot has to go to Bentgo's Childrens Lunch Box. It has five separate compartments, including one for sauces. Plus, it's insulated and leakproof! Keep reading to see the rest of our list and check out the buying guide for tips on how to choose the right lunchbox for your family's needs.

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose School Lunchboxes For Kids

Although aesthetics may be a significant factor in your selection, don’t forget to think about the more practical aspects of the lunch box as well. Keep these four points in mind to help you decide!

1

Pick a Material Based on Durability and Toughness

We've broken down the benefits and drawbacks of commonly used lunchbox materials so you can choose which one suits your needs! A mix of materials is often used for added functionality. 

Plastic Lunchboxes are Lightweight and Durable

Plastic Lunchboxes are Lightweight and Durable

Plastic lunchboxes are either made of polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and both are recyclable and easy to wash. They are durable and flexible too, so they can withstand regular knocks and bumps without breaking apart.


Not all plastic is microwavable or insulates food well, so make sure to double-check those points if they are important to you.


Plastic containers usually come in a variety of colors, which makes them aesthetically pleasing and appeals to kids. Customers should make sure that the box they buy is non-toxic, BPA-free, and made from food-grade materials.


BPA is an industrial chemical that has been shown to leak out of plastic and into food. The FDA says it's safe at low levels, although there are growing concerns that it can negatively impact your health if consumed. Most people agree it's best to steer clear of BPA just to be safe!

Stainless Steel Lunchboxes are Stronger, Non-Toxic, and Easy to Clean

Stainless Steel Lunchboxes are Stronger, Non-Toxic, and Easy to Clean

Stainless steel boxes have a longer shelf life and are non-toxic. These boxes are slightly heavier than plastic but are more durable and rigid when compared to other boxes. They might get dented if dropped or knocked regularly.


Steel boxes are usually housed in leak-proof containers to ensure cleanliness and the safety of other items inside a school bag. They are usually easy-to-clean and dishwasher-safe too! Food doesn’t tend to stick to the box, and it doesn’t take a lot of effort to remove any waste.

Fabric Lunch Bags are Easy to Carry, Stylish, and Functional

Fabric Lunch Bags are Easy to Carry, Stylish, and Functional

Fabric lunch bags are usually made of 420D polyester or 600D polyester, which helps to insulate food. These lunch bags come in various aesthetically pleasing varieties and are surprisingly lightweight. They're also easy to carry, even though most have a higher capacity than other boxes.


However, they may be more difficult to clean and don't always provide the same protection compared to lunchboxes made of rigid material. 

2

Pick the Right Size for Your Child

Pick the Right Size for Your Child

Picking a lunchbox size for your child can be a tricky business! There is no certainty on what amount of food they might consume. The amount of physical activity your kid has to go through the day might make a huge difference in their appetite too!


We generally advise picking a larger lunchbox. As your kid grows, their appetite will grow as well. Plus, sometimes kids like sharing food with their friends, and a smaller lunchbox might limit this social fun! 


However, getting a lunch box that is too big could be a problem. Kids might find it difficult to carry around, and it may not fit in their backpacks. Some boxes have extra pockets to store utensils, drinks, and other small items. This can add convenience and can help maximize the storage of smaller lunchboxes. 

Find a Box With the Optimal Number of Compartments

Find a Box With the Optimal Number of Compartments

Having one big section in a lunch box is convenient for a child who likes to have multiple servings of only one or two types of food per meal. This can also be good for packaged foods, as the packaging tends to take up more space. 


However, for parents who like to pack multiple things in a lunchbox per meal for your kid, having multiple compartments can be a blessing. You can pack a balanced meal and little ones don't have to stress about their food touching! 


There is much less of a chance of food getting mixed up too! Plus, for eco-conscious families, multiple leak-proof compartments can save you from using plastic baggies to store food.

3

Consider the Insulation You Require

Consider the Insulation You Require

Insulated lunch boxes are a must for parents who like to provide their kid with a hot meal or cold drinks for lunch. These lunch boxes usually have a layer of vacuum between the two walls of the box or use insulating materials to make sure that the desired temperature is maintained until lunchtime. 


This makes it super easy to carry around extremely hot or cold food. The box itself will not be affected by the temperature of the food inside due to the insulation. You don't have to worry about hot handles or freezing sides! 


Some lunchboxes come with insulated compartments inside as well. These are amazing as they allow you to store all kinds of food in the same box. This can save you from having to pack an extra thermos for hot dishes.

4

Check If It's Easy to Clean

Check If It's Easy to Clean

If you’re going to be cleaning the box, you’ll want to make sure it’s easy to clean. Along with the material, the structure is also important in determining the elbow grease required.


For example, a box with many nooks and crannies might end up taking a significant amount of time to clean, as those areas of the box might not be very accessible. Sharp corners and small grooves can be hard to get to, which means extra effort and time for you. 


If want to use a dishwasher, make sure all parts of the lunch box are dishwasher-safe or are easily removable if not. Most dish-washer safe lunchboxes are top rack only, as being exposed to hot water directly or for too long may warp plastic or other soft materials.


Fabric lunch bags are often recommended to be dry cleaned, which is usually impractical for most parents. Usually, a good wiping-down with an antibacterial cleaner is enough!


With any lunchbox, it's recommended to let it dry completely after washing to avoid mold. Moisture can easily get trapped in grooves or hinges, especially since this a product that gets used and washed almost every day. 

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10 Best School Lunchboxes For Kids Ranking

Here are the best School Lunchboxes For Kids, ranked according to 10 Best School Lunchboxes for Kids (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Bentgo

Childrens Lunch Box

Bentgo Childrens Lunch Box 1

$24.99

High Mid

Keep Each Food Item in Its Place

2

Rubbermaid

LunchBlox Lunch Bag

Rubbermaid LunchBlox Lunch Bag 1

$9.58

Low Mid

A Soft Insulated Bag With a Shoulder Strap

3

Under Armour

Scrimmage Lunch Box

Under Armour Scrimmage Lunch Box 1

$25.00

High Mid

A Lunchbox That Can Handle Rough Use

4

Kinsho

Bento Box Lunchbox

Kinsho Bento Box Lunchbox 1

$18.99

High Mid

Perfect Kid-Sized Portions Every Time

5

Lunchpets

Insulated Kids Lunch Box

Lunchpets Insulated Kids Lunch Box 1

$15.00

Mid

A Stuffed Animal Pal and Lunchbox in One

6

LunchBots

Small Protein Packer Toddler Bento Box

LunchBots Small Protein Packer Toddler Bento Box  1

$19.99

High Mid

The Perfect Size for Toddlers

7

Flowfly

Thermal Meal Tote

Flowfly Thermal Meal Tote 1

$11.59

Low Mid

A Versatile Tote for School or Travel

8

Bentology

Insulated Lunchbox Bag

Bentology Insulated Lunchbox Bag 1

$12.99

Low Mid

Extra Protection for Bento Boxes

9

Lucentee

Bento Lunch Box7 pack

Lucentee Bento Lunch Box 1

$15.89

Mid

Stackable, Heatable Bento Style Boxes

10

Thermos

Novelty Soft Lunch Kit

Thermos Novelty Soft Lunch Kit 1

$9.50

Low Mid

Fun for Kids and Convenient for Adults

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

BentgoChildrens Lunch Box

Childrens Lunch Box 1
Source:amazon.com
Childrens Lunch Box 2
Source:amazon.com
Childrens Lunch Box 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.99
High Mid
Reference price
$24.99
High Mid

Keep Each Food Item in Its Place

This is an innovative box for kids who enjoy multiple things to eat for lunch, as there are five compartments present in the box. The insulation keeps meals fresh, while the clever lid design keeps food from spilling into each other. This is perfect for picky eaters who don't like their food to touch! 


Reviewers were pleased with the seal on the box and surprised by the smart functionality. However, some users had issues with mold growing in the grooves of the seal. Others said it warped in the dishwasher. Some recommended using it for snacks rather than for an entire lunch due to its small size.


However, most reviewers found this box easy to clean and durable. Plus, the company's customer service responded quickly to the reviewer's concerns! Reviewers also liked that they could pack any kind of food, liquid or solid, without needed extra cups or compartments.

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No.2

RubbermaidLunchBlox Lunch Bag

LunchBlox Lunch Bag 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.58
Low Mid
Reference price
$9.58
Low Mid

A Soft Insulated Bag With a Shoulder Strap

This Lunch Bag is specifically made for Rubbermaid LunchBlox containers but also works well with other containers of similar size. The main compartment can fit multiple containers or bags of food. It has a mesh pocket on the inside for ice packs, napkins, and utensils, and two mesh pockets on the outside for water bottles and more. 


The insulation will make sure food stays fresher for longer. The liner of this container is 100 percent BPA-free. It comes with a handle on top as well as an adjustable, removable shoulder strap. Choose between the small or medium sizes.


Some reviewers have complained about the durability of this lunchbox, saying that the seams ripped easily or the handle tore off. On the other hand, many reviewers liked the size and design, saying it can hold plenty of food without feeling bulky. They also said it's easy to clean.

No.3

Under ArmourScrimmage Lunch Box

Scrimmage Lunch Box 1
Source:amazon.com
Scrimmage Lunch Box 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$25.00
High Mid
Reference price
$25.00
High Mid

A Lunchbox That Can Handle Rough Use

This Under Armour lunchbox is a durable product that will hold up to being knocked around! The exterior is made from soft polyester, but on the inside, there's a crush-resistant liner that will protect your child's food. Foam insulation helps maintain temperature.


There's one interior mesh pocket, one exterior zippered pocket, and a mesh water bottle pocket on the side. The adjustable, molded rubber handle looks stylish and is comfortable to use. It doesn’t contain BPA or phthalates and is 100 percent non-toxic. Choose from a range of colors and patterns.


A few reviewers said that this lunchbox wasn't the right shape for their lunch containers. Some received the wrong color. However, many user reviews said that this lunchbox has a surprisingly large capacity. They appreciate the hard shell, which keeps food protected, and like how durable it is. They also said it's easy to clean!

No.4

KinshoBento Box Lunchbox

Bento Box Lunchbox 1
Source:amazon.com
Bento Box Lunchbox 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$18.99
High Mid
Reference price
$18.99
High Mid

Perfect Kid-Sized Portions Every Time

Pack a variety of snacks and lunch items in this bento box that has six separate compartments. It's made from BPA-free double-walled plastic for insulation and can hold over four cups total. The lid snaps closed for a leakproof seal and features a rubber overlay for grip. This bento box also comes with utensils.


Some reviewers warned that the lid warps over time, leading to leakage. Others said the lid can be difficult to open, although most were able to teach their kid how to do it themselves. Many reviewers were pleased with the portion sizes of this lunchbox and said their kids liked the look of it. They found it to be easy to clean as well.

No.5

LunchpetsInsulated Kids Lunch Box

Insulated Kids Lunch Box 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.00
Mid
Reference price
$15.00
Mid

A Stuffed Animal Pal and Lunchbox in One

Kids will never forget about lunch with this huggable plush lunchbox from Lunchpets. It may look like a toy, but the insulated interior pouch is perfect for both cold and hot foods. The velcro flap makes it easy for little ones to open and the animal's paws clip together to create a handle for carrying. Plus, it's machine washable!


Reviewers warned that the inside is quite small and said it works better for snacks than for a whole lunch. Still, many reviewers found that it makes a great companion for snacking throughout the day at school or on car rides. They said the designs are super cute and that their kids loved it!

No.6

LunchBotsSmall Protein Packer Toddler Bento Box

Small Protein Packer Toddler Bento Box  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.99
High Mid
Reference price
$19.99
High Mid

The Perfect Size for Toddlers

This lunch box has an ideal portion size for toddlers in preschool or daycare. It's made from 18/8 stainless steel, so it's sleek and durable. Its compact, lightweight, and portable design makes it an amazing choice for busy parents as it slips easily into a purse, backpack, or briefcase.


Inside, it has two one-ounce compartments and one two-ounce compartment, which are perfect for nuts, veggies, cheese cubes, and other finger foods. The lid is not guaranteed to be leak-proof, so it is recommended to only store dry foods in the box. It is easy to clean and is also dishwasher-safe. 


Some reviewers have noted that they would prefer having an attached lid on the box as children tend to misplace it. Others warned that it leaks between the compartments. Still, most reviewers appreciated the sturdiness and the overall aesthetic of the box. They said it's the perfect size to carry snacks for their toddler!

No.7

FlowflyThermal Meal Tote

Thermal Meal Tote 1
Source:amazon.com
Thermal Meal Tote 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.59
Low Mid
Reference price
$11.59
Low Mid

A Versatile Tote for School or Travel

This lunchbox is the perfect fit for parents who like to travel with their kids. It can work as a picnic and school lunchbox. Plus, it's PVC-, BPA-, and phthalate-free. The insulation means it can retain freshness and maintain temperatures for up to one whole day. It's also moisture resistant and is useful if you live in a rain-prone area.


It features one main compartment as well as an interior mesh pocket that can fit an ice pack, utensils, or other flat items. There's also a zippered pocket on the outside for notes or additional snacks.


Some reviewers weren't happy with the quality, saying that the handle tore or the zipper was hard to close. However, many reviewers liked the size of this lunchbox, saying it could hold a good amount of food while still fitting into their kid's backpack. And kids loved the many color and pattern options to choose from!

No.8

BentologyInsulated Lunchbox Bag

Insulated Lunchbox Bag 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid

Extra Protection for Bento Boxes

This lunch bag comes in a lot of cute designs, meaning most kids will carry this lunch bag around happily! And for concerned parents, it's free of lead, BPA, and phthalates. The bag features a main compartment with a mesh pocket, as well as a zippered front pocket. There's a handle at the top for easy carrying.


Some reviewers warned that the water bottle pocket isn't large enough to hold a standard bottle. Others found the compartment to be too shallow. Because this lunchbox is designed to fit a bento box, it is thinner than the standard lunchbox.


However, the multiple pockets provided in this bag were a certain hit with customers! The box was also said to be very durable and sturdy. Reviewers also found it easy to clean and said the insulation worked well.

No.9

LucenteeBento Lunch Box7 pack

Bento Lunch Box 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.89
Mid
Reference price
$15.89
Mid

Stackable, Heatable Bento Style Boxes

This is a secure, convenient box that can handle temperatures up to 248 degrees Fahrenheit. These BPA-free, reusable lunch box trays include individual compartments and are made to last. There is no need to hand wash these lunchboxes because they are made for dishwashers!


Reviewers, however, have said that these boxes are best for dry lunches as inter-compartment leakage is possible. There also have been issues with lids not closing properly or popping off when the boxes are dropped, even from short heights.


Reviews said that one of the most attractive features of these boxes is their sturdiness. They said they held up well in the dishwasher and keep their food fresh. They appreciated the efficiency of the product being freezer- and microwave-safe and liked that they stack on top of each other for easy storage.

No.10

ThermosNovelty Soft Lunch Kit

Novelty Soft Lunch Kit 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.50
Low Mid
Reference price
$9.50
Low Mid

Fun for Kids and Convenient for Adults

If your kid is a Star Wars fan, they're sure to love this Darth Vader lunchbox from Thermos. It even includes a sound chip so you can hear his iconic breathing with the push of a button. The lunchbox is lined with closed cell polyethylene foam for insulation and has a leakproof lining. 


A couple of reviewers said their lunchbox didn't have a sound chip. But for the most part, both adults and kids were pleased with this product. Adults said it's well-constructed, durable, and spacious and kids loved the design. 

Lunch Ideas for Kids

Running out of lunch ideas? We don't blame you! If you're packing your kid's lunch every day it can quickly start to feel monotonous. Check out this video from The Family Fudge for some creative and delicious hot lunches that will fit perfectly into a bento box.

Help Your Kids Live a Healthy and Fun Life

For more high-quality products geared towards helping kids be happy and healthy, check out these other top ten lists!

Top 5 School Lunchboxes For Kids

No. 1: BentgoChildrens Lunch Box

No. 2: RubbermaidLunchBlox Lunch Bag

No. 3: Under ArmourScrimmage Lunch Box

No. 4: KinshoBento Box Lunchbox

No. 5: LunchpetsInsulated Kids Lunch Box

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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