Best Lunch Boxes of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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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 icon 9.8
TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box 1.5L Cover #TOP 2
TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box 1.5L
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SOHIDA Electric Lunch Box Heater Cover #TOP 3
SOHIDA Electric Lunch Box Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.5

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

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
Heats food evenly
Easy to clean
Portable and compact
Keeps food warm for hours
Leak-proof lid
What We Don't Like
Small capacity
Slow heating time

TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box 1.5L

Bari Bag
Black
23x16x11cm
TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box 1.5L Cover
TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box for Adults 100W Heated Lunch Box For Men 1.5L Stainless Steel Portable Food Warmer, 12/24/110V Electric Food Warmers for Travel & Work Loncheras Para Hombres de Trabajo

The TRAVELISIMO Heated Lunch Box is perfect for enjoying hot, homemade meals wherever you are. With its versatile voltage settings, you can easily use it in your car, truck, or at your office. This lunch box heats your food quickly, taking just 20-30 minutes, so you can satisfy your hunger without waiting long. Made from stainless steel, it prioritizes food hygiene, ensuring that your meals are safe and healthy. You’ll also appreciate its generous 1.5L capacity and dishwasher-safe design, making cleanup simple and hassle-free.

What We Like
Fast, even heating
Portable and compact design
Easy to clean stainless steel bowl
Leak proof and well-sealed lid
Works with wall and car plugs
What We Don't Like
Short power cord
Indicator light may malfunction

SOHIDA Electric Lunch Box Heater

DFH-001
Green
1.5L
SOHIDA Electric Lunch Box Heater Cover
SOHIDA Electric Lunch Box Food Heater, 80W Portable Warmer for Car Truck Work with 304 Stainless Steel Container, 12V/24V/110V Green Heated Lunch Box Suitable for Ideal Driver/Work/Gift

The SOHIDA Lunch Box is designed to make your meals enjoyable, no matter where you are. With universal voltage compatibility, you can easily heat your food at home, in the office, or while driving. Its large 1.5L stainless steel container ensures your meals stay fresh and flavorful, while the 80W rapid heating capability warms your food in just 25-40 minutes. Additionally, the functional fusion design includes a utensil compartment that doubles as a smartphone stand, allowing you to enjoy your meals hands-free while catching up on your favorite shows or videos.

What We Like
Even, reliable food heating
Portable and lightweight design
Easy to clean and use
Secure, leak-resistant lid
Multiple compartments for meal variety
What We Don't Like
Heating cold food takes longer
A bit bulky when fully packed

Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler

B0000543
4 Can (Black)
One Size
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler Cover
Carhartt Insulated Lunch Cooler For Men and Women, Fully Insulated Lunch Pale for Everyday Use, 4 Can (Black)

The Carhartt Lunch Cooler is designed to keep your meals fresh and cold until you're ready to eat. Its fully insulated interior ensures that your food and drinks stay at the right temperature, making it perfect for long workdays or outdoor adventures. The large zippered opening allows for easy packing, so you can quickly load up your lunch without hassle. Plus, with a convenient mesh pocket inside, you can easily store utensils or condiments separately. This cooler is not only functional but also stylish, making it a great choice for both men and women who need a reliable lunch option.

What We Like
Excellent insulation performance
Durable and rugged build
Spacious yet compact design
Easy to clean interior
High-quality zipper
#TOP 5

OmieBox Bento Box for Kids - Insulated Lunch Box with Leak Proof Thermos Food Jar

B9000
Blue Sky
8.5 Ounces
OmieBox Bento Box for Kids - Insulated Lunch Box with Leak Proof Thermos Food Jar Cover
OmieBox Bento Box for Kids - Insulated Bento Lunch Box with Leak Proof Vacuum Insulated Food Jar - 3 Compartments, Two Temperature Zones (Blue Sky)

The OmieBox Bento Box for Kids is a high-quality, insulated container that lets you pack hot and cold food together. With a leak-proof thermos insert, you can easily send your child's favorite pasta, soup, or leftovers. The box is durable and built to last, weighing in at 1.7lbs and made of 18/8, 304 grade stainless steel. It's also easy to clean with removable rubber seals. The box is multi-functional and versatile, with customizable compartments and the ability to fit a drink and snacks.

What We Like
Excellent insulation performance
Leakproof and durable design
Easy to clean
Spacious compartments
All-in-one convenience
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavier than standard lunchboxes
International customer support limitations

Crock-Pot 28-Ounce Mini Electric Heated Lunch Box

2177693
Grey
3.5 Cups
Crock-Pot 28-Ounce Mini Electric Heated Lunch Box Cover
Crock-Pot 28-Ounce Mini Electric Heated Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer, Perfect for Travel, Car, On-the-Go, Keeps Food Warm, Spill-Free, Dishwasher-Safe, Ideal Gift for Men and Women, Gray

The Crock-Pot Mini Food Warmer is a compact and portable solution perfect for enjoying your homemade meals wherever you go. Its 28-ounce capacity fits over 3.5 cups, making it ideal for leftovers, soups, and salads, so you can easily bring your favorite dishes to work or on trips. The device heats food quickly, reaching 195°F within two hours, ensuring your lunch is warm and ready when you want it. Plus, its thermal insulation keeps your food hot for up to two hours or cold for up to three, making it great for outdoor events. The tight-seal lid with a steam-release valve prevents spills, so you can carry your meals mess-free.

What We Like
Even heating without cold spots
Portable and convenient size
No food smells escape
Works without microwave access
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Hard-to-open container latches
Incorrect voltage listing

DUPASU Electric Lunch Box Food Warmer

ML-1801
Extra Large
DUPASU Electric Lunch Box Food Warmer Cover
DUPASU Electric Lunch Box Food Warmer: 100W Heated Lunch Box for Adults, 1.8L Portable Fast Heating Lunchbox Food Heater for Car, Truck, Work, Travel, Lonchera Elctrica Porttil 12/24V/110-230V

The DUPASU Electric Lunch Box is designed for those who enjoy warm meals on the go. With its rapid 100W heating feature, you can say goodbye to cold leftovers and enjoy hot meals in just 20-30 minutes. Its generous 1.8L capacity allows you to carry a substantial amount of food, while the 3-in-1 functionality makes it compatible with various power sources, perfect for home, office, or travel. Cleaning is a breeze as the stainless steel components are dishwasher-safe, saving you time and effort in your busy schedule.

What We Like
Even heating performance
Portable and compact design
Easy to clean
Works with car and wall outlet
Large food container capacity
What We Don't Like
Heating takes some time

HorizonNest 34 oz Sugarcane Pulp Food Containers with Lids, Pack of 50

HN-LB24
Light Gray
34 OZ
HorizonNest 34 oz Sugarcane Pulp Food Containers with Lids, Pack of 50 Cover
[100% Eco-Friendly] 34 oz Disposable Food Containers with Lids – Sugarcane Pulp Take Out Containers, Biodegradable Lunch Box, Compostable and Microwave Safe To-Go Boxes for Meal Prep – Pack of 50

The HorizonNest Eco Food Containers are made from sugarcane pulp, making them fully biodegradable and compostable. This means you can use them without worrying about plastic waste harming the environment. They are safe to use in the microwave and freezer, so you can easily reheat or store your meals without any damage or harmful chemicals. These containers are built strong to resist leaks and grease, so your food stays secure whether you’re meal prepping, delivering food, or enjoying a meal at home. With a large 34 oz capacity, they fit generous portions, perfect for salads, entrees, or fruits.

What We Like
Eco-friendly material
Microwave and freezer safe
Good for meal prep
Leak-resistant design
Writable lids
What We Don't Like
Lids not tightly sealed
Slightly flimsy when filled
#TOP 9

COZYEXPERT Electric Heated Lunch Box 1.8L

1801
Black
large
COZYEXPERT Electric Heated Lunch Box 1.8L Cover
COZYEXPERT Electric-Lunch-Box-Heated-Food-Warmer 100W Heating Lunchbox for Adults 1.8L Portable Food Heater for Work/Car, 12V/24V/110-230V Lonchera Eléctrica Portátil with Fork Spoon (Black)

The COZYEXPERT Heated Lunchbox is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, warm meal on the go. Its 100W power heats your food in just 20-30 minutes, saving you time during busy workdays or outdoor trips. With a large 1.8L stainless steel container and an extra 0.45L plastic snack holder, you can carry a variety of dishes and sides easily. The lunchbox works both in your car and at home, compatible with multiple power outlets, so you can enjoy hot meals anywhere. Plus, its leakproof design and included insulated bag keep your food secure and warm while you travel.

What We Like
Fast heating performance
Even heat distribution
Easy cleaning design
Versatile power compatibility
Sturdy and lightweight build
What We Don't Like
Food may get too hot
Basic quality carrying case

Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box

BGOCHL-VO
Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box Cover
Bentgo Chill Kids Leak-Proof Lunch Box - 4-Compartment Bento Box with Built-In Ice Pack, 3.3 Cup Capacity, PFAS & BPA-Free, Microwave & Dishwasher Safe, Ideal Size for Ages 3 to 7 (Vivid Orchid)

The Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box is a convenient and versatile lunch box for kids. It features a unique, patented design with a removable ice pack that keeps food cool longer, eliminating the need for extra ice packs. The leak-proof technology ensures that meals and snacks stay fresh and mess-free, making it perfect for school, camp, or daycare. The 4-compartment tray is ideal for picky eaters as it keeps food separate and allows parents to pack a variety of options. The durable outer shell with a rubberized edge resists drops and cracks, making it suitable for active kids on the go. This lunch box is made of BPA-free materials and is easy to clean, making it a favorite among both parents and kids. For every purchase, Bentgo supports Feed the Children, a nonprofit organization fighting against hunger.

What We Like
Durable high-quality materials
Leak-proof compartments
Built-in ice pack
Easy for kids to open
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavy with ice pack
Small compartment sizes for some
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 406,145 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 $28.44.

The lunch boxes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lunch boxes, including Crock-Pot, TRAVELISIMO, SOHIDA, Carhartt, Omie. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Crock-Pot TRAVELISIMO SOHIDA Carhartt Omie Crock-Pot DUPASU HorizonNest COZYEXPERT Bentgo
Color Blush Pink Black Green 4 Can (Black) Blue Sky Grey Light grey+Charcoal grey Light Gray Black Confetti Edition - Vivid Orchid
Material Metal, Plastic Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Polyester Plastic, Silicone, Stainless Steel Plastic, Stainless Steel Plastic, Stainless Steel Bagasse Plastic, Stainless Steel Food-safe materials (No BPA, Vinyl, Lead, or PVC)
Capacity 20 Fluid Ounces 1.5 Liters 1.5 Liters 1400 Milliliters 8.5 Fluid Ounces 28 Fluid Ounces 1.8 Liters 1.5 Pounds 1.8 Liters 3.33 Cups
Recommended Uses For Product warming food Home, Office, Travel Heating Food Camping, Fishing, Picnic, Hiking, Work, School, Travel, Everyday Use Hot Food Office, School Home, Office, School - Home, Office, car, truck School, Daycare, Sports, Outdoors, On the Go
Special Feature Manual Food Warmer Lunch Box, High Power 80W, Portable Food Warmer Dishwasher Safe Insulated, Weather Resistant Leak Resistant Dishwasher Safe Airtight, Dishwasher Safe, Easy to clean, Heat Resistant, Leak Resistant - Airtight, Dishwasher Safe, Electric, Leak Resistant, Portable Leak-Proof, Drop-Proof, Dishwasher Safe, Microwave Safe
Item Weight 20 Ounces 2 Pounds 1.54 Pounds 0.56 Pounds 1.8 Pounds 2 Pounds 2.51 pounds - 1.14 Kilograms 1.74 Pounds
Item Form Canister Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Lunch Box Multi-compartment with separate sections Box Box - Box Box
Product Care Instructions Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Only Dishwasher Safe Dishwasher Safe Wipe with Damp Cloth - Dishwasher Safe Dishwasher Safe - Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Only Dishwasher Safe
Unit Count 20.0 Ounce 1.0 Count 1.5 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count 3.5 Count - - 1.0 Count 1.0 Count
Age Range (Description) Kid Adult Adult All Kid - All - Adult -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy