This lunchbox product review is a guest post from Kiran...to learn more about Kiran check out our team page!
I've had a pit in my stomach for the past few days. I know that for many moms, back to school is a time to celebrate ... but for me, I love the ease of the days, the lack of schedules, and the absence of homework. Can't summer stay just a bit longer?
Alas, before we know it, school will be back in session. It’s high time to pick out backpacks, to select school supplies and to shop for sneakers or other suitable shoes. But let's not forget the packing of lunches. Since we’ll want to provide our kids with the tools they need to succeed, ensuring that they are equipped with real, nutritious foods tops most of our lists.
To make your job (and mine, as well!) a little bit easier, I’ve scoured the shelves to find lunchboxes … containers that will be crucial in packing for your little ones. I’ve found four that I'm fond of. All have great pluses as well as a few minuses. So without further adieu, here is my review of the latest and greatest when it comes to lunchboxes:
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| Lunch Box | Dishwasher Safe | Hot Foods? | Leak-proof? | # of Compartments | Mom Made? |
| Ziploc Divided Containers | Yes | Yes* | Yes | 3 | No |
| PlanetBox | Yes | No | Yes (with accessory - included) | 3-5 | Yes |
| EasyLunchboxes | Yes | Yes* | No | 3 | Yes |
| LunchBots | Base, yes Lids, no (unless stainless steel model) |
No | No, only leak proof models | 1-4 | Yes |
*See package for details
| Lunch Box |
Ease of Use (Scale of 1 - 5) |
Size | Price | Material |
| Ziploc Divided Containers | 4 | 9" x 6" x 2" | $5.14 for a set of 2 (Amazon.com) | Food safe polypropylene plastic (#5) |
| PlanetBox | 3.5 | 10 x 7.5 x 1.5" OR 10.25 x 7.75 x 2" | $39.99 and up | Food-grade Type 18/8 Stainless Steel |
| EasyLunchboxes | 4 | 9.38" x 6.1" x 2" | $13.95 for set of 4 | Food safe polypropylene plastic (#5) |
| LunchBots | 5 | 6" x 5" x 1.75" - additional sizes available | $14.99 and up | Food-grade Type 18/8 Stainless Steel |
Ziploc Divided Container
History:
A member of the S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. family, Ziploc has been a household name for years and years. A provider of storage solutions, their options don’t just include baggies and such; in recent years, they’ve added numerous options at reasonable price points that are offered in big box stores convenient to most and frequented by many.
The scoop:
Popular brand Ziploc’s take on the bento box in a more affordable, everyday product. Sold in packs of two, the BPA-Free containers consist of three compartments each and a secure fitting lid. The product claims to be freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe, though precautionary statements for use are included on the package. Please note that the containers are also disposable and are not intended to last as long as more expensive containers.
Ziploc Containers are readily available at most big-box stores (like Target and Supermarkets) as well as Amazon (online) and perfectly priced.
My take:
I’ve been a personal fan of the Ziploc Divided Containers after Lisa turned me on to them last year. I used them for both of my school-aged girls … and to be honest, I’m not sure who loved them more – me, or them. My personal loves are that there’s only one container to wash, each of the compartments have ample room and I love that each of the compartments are individually sealed and leak-proof. As you can see in my photo, I sent fruit, a sweet potato and oatmeal (my kids don’t seem to mind if foods are warm or cold – lucky for me, right?!) I’ve sent everything from yogurt to homemade applesauce, and nothing has ever leaked to the other side – because believe me, I’d hear about it. For more ideas on what to pack in these lunchboxes check out Lisa's School Lunch Roundup post.
The negatives, in my opinion: the size of the boxes is good for serving sizes but tough to accommodate in many lunch bags. I had to specifically outfit my girls with lunch bags that would fit the product (Lisa uses Lands End soft sided lunch bags to fit both a Ziploc Divided Container and Thermos cup). If you are concerned about using plastic, this product is not for you. And finally, while the price may be right, you may end up buying a few of these which could add up to the cost of one of the stainless steel options.
PlanetBox
History:
Caroline and Robert Miros combined their working knowledge – she, whose talents lie within children's health education and environmental programs, and he, an engineer who has designed consumer and medical products – in creating PlanetBox. The product was designed to provide an innovate solution for making lunch packing enjoyable for kids and adults alike. Their goals: flexibility, durability to withstand years of use, and ease of cleaning. After launching in the summer of 2009, their products sold out within 3 months.
The Scoop:
PlanetBoxes are available in two different “systems”: the Rover is for those who prefer a sampling of smaller servings of food, and the Launch is for those who want larger serving sizes. Each come with a colorful magnet set, perfect for personalizing with your current interests (think rockets, flowers, texting, etc.). Add-ons include Dipper sets, which are little compartments for wet/messy foods that can be placed inside the system. A Carry Bag is also an add-on that many people are fond of as the box fits securely within it and offers room for a drink, a pocket for another snack, etc.
The Rover has five compartments and has room for two Dippers. It measures 10” x 7.5” x 1.5” and weighs 20 oz.
The Launch holds 6.5 cups of food, is larger than the Rover, and is designed to hold a 3-course meal. It also comes with a Tall Dipper, which is great for dips/dressings. It’s measurements are 10.25: x 7.75” x 2”; weight is 22 oz.
PlanetBoxes can be ordered on their website.
My Take:
Take one look at the product and it’s clear to see: The PlanetBox is the crème-de-la-crème when it comes to lunchboxes. The most unique of the bunch, the boxes are a sturdy high quality stainless which just gives a great feel. If you’re looking for a solid, unique method for sending lunches, this one’s for you. The quality and durability are obvious; this will last you for years to come, and it even comes with a one-year warranty (see package for details).
A few notes to mention: the carry bag that can be purchased along with the box offers many compartments including a pocket for additional snacks/napkins and even one for a drink. For some, the ease of including the bag is great. Other kids may want to select a different bag (with a character or one that matches their backpack) and for them this may be a turnoff. There are numerous fun colors to choose from, however, and the magnets allow you to personalize it, which still makes it fun. Don’t be turned off by the price tag; if you’re looking for a box that will last for years to come and that is completely plastic-free, this is a unique alternative with lots of bells and whistles. Please note that it is not intended for kids under 3 and it also is the heaviest of the bunch. (Note from Lisa: The smoothie pop molds do not fit in the PlanetBox.)
EasyLunchboxes
History:
Multi-talented Kelly Lester is the owner and creator of EasyLunchboxes. A singer and actress, she added entrepreneurship to her impressive resume when she sought to send her (three) daughters to school with simple, healthy food with little to no extra packaging or ingredients.
The scoop:
The lunch container has three compartments and measures 9.38” x 6.1” x 2”. The large section fits 2.5 cups of food, the smaller ¾ cups and the smallest ½ cup. The containers are microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe and are made from BPA-free, FDA-approved, food-safe polypropylene plastic (#5). The containers are designed to fit into the EasyLunchboxes Lunch Bag (sold separately), a 9” x 6.5” x 6.5” bag that holds up to 3 containers/boxes.
The boxes are not designed to be leak proof, which is why it’s suggested that they be carried upright in the Lunch Bags, which are created to keep the boxes stable (hence not letting the foods spill into other compartments). The lids are not “super tight fitting” so they are easy to open by little hands, as noted on the website.
EasyLunchboxes can be ordered on Amazon.
My take:
In all honesty, I truly had a tough time deciphering the differences between the Ziploc boxes and the EasyLunchboxes initially. However, the differences that I came up with are that the EasyLunchboxes' tops are sturdier and they also come in fun colors. This may be a minor detail to some, but colors can be enticing AND helpful – especially when you are packing lunches for three of your four kids (in my case). No more hoping that you get the “right one”; it’s color-coordinating at its best.
When it comes to durability, everyone uses his or her products differently. I know that I was able to use my two Ziploc boxes for a full year without having them crack or warp, but I also know others who weren’t as lucky. The EasyLunchboxes claim to have a longer durability, but also are not meant to last years. As far as the ease of opening, my kids found both the Ziploc and EasyLunchboxes to be fairly easy to open; if I had to choose one, they favored the Ziploc product but remember that they are used to them and have used them for quite some time. A negative for me personally is that the individual compartments are not sealed and I do often send wet foods (like yogurt, dips, hummus, etc.). On the flip side, I love that this is a mom-created business and always wish to support them!
LunchBots
History:
Jacqueline Linder is like many other moms: concerned for her children and looking to feed them the best, real food that she can. An ex-Apple exec, she already had years of creating innovative products under her belt. But after her kids were born, she sought healthy containers for healthy foods. Uninterested with plastic sandwich and snack baggies, she knew stainless steel was the ideal material. When she couldn’t find exactly what she wanted, she created it. What began as a company launched in a family garage has turned into a business that is changing lunches everyday.
The scoop:
LunchBots serves up the highest quality (18/8) stainless steel containers in various sizes and styles. Choose from containers that have one, two, three or four compartments. The containers are sized 6” x 5” x 1.75” and weigh 9.6 oz; a larger one-serving unit measures 7” x 5.5” x 2”. Leak-proof containers can be added on for condiments or sauces and can fit snugly within the food containers.
The material eases fears of toxins or linings coming in contact with your food, it's 100% reusable and recyclable and the product is virtually break-free.
LunchBots can be ordered on their website, and they are offering a special offer to readers of 100 Days of Real Food: Through noon PST on August 11, take 10% off of any of the products on www.lunchbots.com with the code 100DAYS. We're so excited to be able to offer the discount as they don't offer coupon codes through their website, so this is a great time to take advantage of it! Please note that shipping is also free in the US and Canada.
My take:
I was introduced to LunchBots a few years ago and was recently anxious to try out their new and improved products. I love the look and feel of the containers. The lid comes on and off with ease; even my 3 ½ year-old can take it on and off. With different products with varying compartments, you can surely find one that fits your needs. I got the Duo, which has two compartments of similar sizes. I also got a Condiment Container, which is super cute and handy.
My concerns on the LunchBots: spillage and size. The Trio would probably work best for my situation (I always pack four things for my kids – three for lunch and one for a snack. It’s funny how they get programmed for this and I get interrogated when there are only three things). With that being said, even with the Trio, I still need to pack one other item. The Quad is not quite big enough for me to get it all in, but I can make it work by including a piece of fruit on the side/etc.
The LunchBots Bento Box Set is something I’d recommend, and I’d also recommend a Leak Proof Set to combat the spillage issue. I often times send hummus/yogurt/homemade applesauce in my kids’ lunches and find these to be a great option. With the add-ons available, the LunchBots are, in my opinion, a great option with a very reasonable price point. I love that they are stainless steel, they’ll last for years and are mom-made.
I'm curious to hear your thoughts. Do you pack your kids lunches each day? And what lunch boxes have been successful for you?
kristi says
I purchased the ziploc containers last year when I first ran across this website. Our set of 3 made it the entire school year and are just now looking to be replaced. We were able to fit ours into a Crocodile Creek lunchbox and a Disney Princess one as well...about to replace the 3-year-old CC with the LL Bean lunchbox though...just had to research which one they would it into.
Madison M. says
Are those Planetboxes big enough for me to take to work and feel full? Is there also extra room in the carrying case lunchbox to pack extra snacks in ziploc baggies or something? I work as a nurse so I'm rather active at work and I snack alot at work and I'm really hungry by lunch and want to know if I'm going to be able to pack enough before I buy it!
Kiran says
Yes and Yes! There is ample room in the box AND the bag. You can even get a water bottle in! :)
Heather H says
I choose to limit my plastic and never buy kitchen materials for food from China (Taiwan is part of China) so that really limits me and I am pretty sure all of these metal options are made in China. Generally we only use Pyrex or Anchor Hocking bowls and their lids, they are heavy and not as fun as a lot of little boxes but are made in the USA.
Jerusha says
Laptop Lunchboxes are great. The containers are plastic and they are made in California.
Soko says
I use Bento Lunch Boxes for my boys. (http://www.laptoplunches.com/) They love them as they are colorful and fun. (Made from safe plastic). I think the box is a bit too big for what they can eat so I include snack and lunch in the box. Do you or does anyone has experience with this? I am not sure about the durability of the boxes (how long they will last). Platebox seems like a great alternative.
Daryn says
We have used laptop lunches for 4 years,I have bought a second box for each of my kids and the first is still going strong! These are the best! I love them! Laptoplunches.com
Cggill says
I've been using rubbermaid's lunch blox entree dish for my 8 yr old and she loves it. It only has 2 containers but I use silicone cupcake liners to make more compartments. Not too heavy, not difficult to open and no problems yet!
krambrose says
I Just got a planetbox for my daughter's lunches - this will be her first year bringing her lunch, and I'm taking your suggestion from an earlier comment response to keep her food fresh until lunch with no refrigeration. Thank you!
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Oh good for you!! I hope you (and your daughter) love it!! :)
Rebecca Pickens says
I just bought pack its for both of my children in hopes of being able to pack healthier items that would stay colder longer at school. I worry about the freezer packs not getting the lunch boxes cold enough to keep items such as yogurt fresh. First day of school today, so we will see if they held up to their claims!
Kristianna says
We love Laptop Lunches. I've been using them for years and have NO complaints at all.
Lucy P says
Kelly -- Any luck finding lunchboxes made somewhere other than China or Taiwan???
Tamara says
Laptop lunchboxes are made in California
Blueberry says
Oh Oh Oh Perfect! Thanks for this post. I backpack. I've been looking for a nice S/S sealable box for my first aid/survival kit. I need one that could boil water if necessary. Super found it! I'm trying the LunchBots first. Then the Planet. If they work. I'll pass this along to the hiking/backing/survival community.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Oh yay! So glad you found this also, and so hope the LunchBots or the PlanetBox works for you.
Good luck!! :)
Kelly says
Does anyone have an idea where you can buy a thermos-type product for soups, etc that is not made in China and will fit in a child's lunchbox? I have searched the internet for what seems like hours and have yet to find a product.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Hi Kelly,
The LunchBots Thermals are made in Taiwan - here is more info:
http://www.lunchbots.com/learn-more/faq/
AmyH says
The Ziplock containers also fit perfectly in the LL Bean lunch bags...also, Bed, Bath & Beyond has cooler packs that are exactly the same size as the container/bag so I use one for the top & bottom of my kids bags & their lunch stays plenty cool.
Michelle says
Thanks for the post! I've spent hours researching the best bento boxes to get my boys for this year. While I love the Planetbox I knew my 7 year old would need more food than it could hold and I couldn't afford the larger model at $80. I finally settled on GoGreenLunchBox for him $40 with shipping - mom made and leak proof! For my younger son I found a steal - the Gerber Graduates Meal-Time Organizer - at just $6.99 and it fits most lunch bags. Perfect for his 5 year old appetite. I also got one for my husband as it's good for a portion controlled adult lunch!
Julie says
What do you think about the Pottery Barn kids lunch boxes and bento boxes?
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Julie,
I haven't personally tried them but I've heard from some friends that they were hard for their kids to open. HTH!
Michelle Diamond says
The Trader Joe lunch boxes also fit the 2iploc divided containers. Not sure how well-insulated the TJ boxes are, but the price was only $3.99 so we're going to give them a try.
Julia says
I use the GoodByn lunch box for my littlest who doesn't east much. It hold enough for lunch and a snack (3 compartments - largest gets ravioli, turkey meatball and carrots or peas. next is fruit, last is a snack like crackers and cheese).
My done uses a laptop lunch box, which I like - we haven't lost any of the little compartments yet.
He's got another year until kindergarden so I'm good until then.
Bobbi says
I love your blog! I am lunch packer and I would say Easylunchboxes beats Ziploc hands down. They are easier for kids to open, and hold up in the dish washer.
Keep up the good work!
Dr. Mark says
I don't have kids but I might pick up a planetbox for myself. It just looks cool :)
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Good for you; you will love it!!
Marie says
The Specer set looks nice, but my it's pricey! And I'm not clear on what you get - I think it's the large container and then the smaller divide one fits in it?
Katie says
I have ordered the Ziploc containers for myself. My kids are teenagers (17 and 14) and make their own lunches. Plus in high school, at least here, they just take a brown bag. As I am not really a sandwich person, I am really looking forward to having the compartments to take different things, as I am really trying new foods and eating healthier.
Ludicrous Mama says
I love the EasyLunchboxes. I've had mine for two years, and they can go in either rack in the dishwasher (Ziplocks top rack only, and mine only lasted a month. Handwash lasts longer.) And they are microwave safe (My Ziplocks lasted ONE time through.) I've also had the Ziplocks bend in between the compartments when I had something heavy and tried to move it without the lid on for added stability.
Yes, the ELBs will leak if they aren't carried flat, as their bag is designed to do. And the lid would probably pop off if put into a backpack loose. But the durability is worth the extra effort. I prefer to buy things that will last. Even though they're both recyclable, I prefer to teach my daughter to value her things, and take care of them, rather than just go "Eh. It warped. Let's buy another pack."
Lunchbots leak too, by the way. And are not microwave safe. And don't hold enough food to satisfy a growing Mama! Hahah :) But they're fun for Mama snacks, and preschooler meals!
Cecelia Williams says
I bought the Ziploc containers at Walmart halfway thru the year last year. My daughter had been buying her lunch and coming home hungry because she didn't like what they were having. I haven't been able to find them this year, so I'm going to have to break down and buy them. She picked out a new lunch box for this school year and I'm going to let her pick out a thermos for water. Buying her a lunch isn't an option for her any more. She's 6 and I'm lucky her favorite foods are raw broccoli and tomatoes!
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
GOOD FOR YOU for offering broccoli and tomatoes! There are so many parents who assume their kids won't like veggies so they don't even offer them. Your 6-year-old is off to a great start thanks to you:).
Stacy says
Target has them for under $3/pair, and there are coupons available at coupons. com.
Kristie says
I used the Zip loc containers off and on until I got ahold of some easy lunch boxes. My zip locs got ruined so many times in the dishwasher, and they often got cracks in them and leaked. My easy lunch boxes can go in even the bottom shelf of the dishwasher without warping. Also, the zip loc plastic couldn't take food that was too hot, but easy lunch boxes can.
I really liked reading your review - this was very thorough and helpful! I may get a lunch bot after reading your review - thanks!
Jennifer says
My kids (now 5 & 7) have been using the Planetbox for 2 yrs. I was initially upset that the metal part would not fit into a standard lunchbox, so had to go back and order their carrying case. After having spent that additional money, I now love the Planetbox!!! Because it has 4 good size compartments, it "forces" me to offer a variety of options (I try to pack at least one veggie & one fruit). It has one small 5th compartment that I sometimes add a small treat. At the end of the day, the whole metal part goes in the dishwasher. There is no waste & my girls now think its a special occasion if they have trash to throw out after lunch. They also love to pick out what magnets they use everyday.
On the downside, we use Kleen Kanteens for their drinks which does make the whole thing heavy. Also, I've tried washing the carrying case in both the dishwasher & washing machine, neither of which worked well - so I wash the case by hand on Fridays. The cases have needed replacing after each school year. There is a mesh sleeve on the inside of the carrying case that I put a napkin, fork & ice pack. I wish they would have designed a spot for an ice pack.
Despite these things, I still love it & will continue to use them as long as my kids let me. Their teachers love them & I have had several parents of friends get them after seeing ours.
Shannon says
Thanks for the reviews - they are helpful. My children are in middle school and high school. They have access to a microwave so often times they take left overs so I don't see these options working for us. Does anyone have any suggestions on other systems they are pleased with?
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
HI Shannon,
Have you tried using a thermos of some sort in the past? This way you can send the food warm and it will stay warm? Just a thought!
Amanda says
I agree with this suggestion. A thermos is a much healthier idea than radiating food. I refuse to have a microwave at home and don't want my kid using one. It would also save them time, they can just sit down, unscrew the thermos lid and eat rather than having to line up for a microwave and wait for it to heat. They do affordable thermos containers in various sizes in places like Walmart and Target. You can get character versions for young kids and cool colours for older kids.
Melissa says
My kids have been using the Planetbox and the both love it! The compartments are great. The little spill proof containers are great. Neither one of them have complained about the weight (even though they are heavy) and their lunch is still cold when they get home from school! and we live in Arizona! I use the pocket in front for their snack. I was very worried about spending the money for them, but in the end I felt they are worth it.
RevPlace says
Thanks for the reviews. I have always used a brown bag to pack my lunch for work, but I'm looking for something reusable. Your reviews are very helpful.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Good for you! I think you'll be really happy with any of the options, it just depends on what you're looking for. Good luck! :)
Ericha Kemm says
I purchased Planet Lunch boxes for myself, hubby and baby (6months!) and adore them. I took baby's food to daycare in Planet Lunch box and the caregivers loved it! It is heavy for her to carry (she's now 19 mos) but I figure she'll grow into it. The manufacturing quality of this product is excellent, I am confident it will be usable for years to come! The smaller version is just fine for adults, not sure why they came out with a larger version. Have no desire to use the larger size! The compartments have lots of headroom so you can really stuff a lot of food in there! I am so happy to banish another plastic item from my household!
Angie says
Hi,
Wondering how to keep things cold with these systems? I rely on cold packs a lot, so wonder what options you might have found to keep good safe.
Jennifer says
I've used the ziploc containers for my lunch and have had some leaking, but only a little. I will admit that my lunch bag probably tipped off the passenger seat while I was driving to work. I have a 31 lunch bag and it fits well with room for additional snacks.
Stacy says
Without reading the myriad of comments (the blessed curse of a great blog!)...we love our LLBean/Lands End lunch boxes with simple reusable sandwich and snack bags (we have several brands, lunchskins, snacktaxi, resnackit), and the occasionally small thermos for warm/liquid foods. It all fits, it doesn't leak, or get smashed or have any plastic (minus the thermos), which is something we are increasingly sensitive to (environmentally).
Charlee says
How are those re-useable sandwich bags? Do they work? I have never tried them and I have not seen any kids at my preschool with them so I can ask how they work for them.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Charlee,
I use them here and there for my kids - not as much as I'd like to. They do work but you need to clean them out/wash them so I find myself grabbing plastic baggies in a pinch ... as I said, more than I'd like. If you are good about washing them, they are a great option!
Laurie says
When my son moved toSan Fran several years ago, I got hooked on Bento boxes--and I don't have kids at home! These Japanese lunch boxes are compact and so much fun. I have several. Interesting.y, they are chosen by size according to gender and age--so many ml for your weight. Automatic portion control in our Supersize it culture :) I shop for mine at Kamei and in Japantown, but there are many available online, and the kdis' designs are adorable! Try bento for your kids AND you!
Heather Rromero says
Thanks for this great review! We have been partial to LunchBots because of their style, the stainless steel, and the various sizes you can get. (If anyone misses the discount for 100Days and lives in the Oregon area, New Seasons market has all their LunchBots on sale through Sept. 4.
Here is a new product that some of you may want to look into. We actually just bought it yesterday, so I can't attest to much. However, it has all the qualities I like. It is the Spencer Stainless Steel Bento Box Container. You can purchase it at Pottery Barn Kids. I love it because it's stainless steel and it has two levels: you can easily fit a sandwich, etc. on the big open compartment on the bottom, and the top is divided into three smaller sections.
http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/spencer-stainless-steel-bento-box-container/?pkey=cshop-all-food-storage
It fits easily into the Mackenzie Retro Lunch Bag, and you can still fit another smaller container or large piece of fruit in the bottom of the bag if you'd wish, and there is room in the top section of the bag for a water bottle, thermos, or other smaller stainless containers. I think this is a very versatile option using this bag.
http://www.potterybarnkids.com/search/results.html?words=mackenzie+retro+lunch+bags&cm_sp=OnsiteSearch-_-GlobalNav-_-Button&type-ahead-viewset=ecom
Best of luck for a successful, fun school year!
Jadah Sellner says
I love my PlanetBox!!! My daughter loves it!!! the portion sizes are perfect. It encourages you to provide a variety of food options in small portions-- and the food doesn't touch. It is heavier, but it's so simple as a one piece. Most bento box options have several lids that can be cumbersome for a five-year-old. Also so easy to wash. I didn't know you couldn't store hot food. Why not? Thanks for doing such a detailed comparison. This is a great article and review.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Thank you so much! Glad that you enjoyed it and glad that you also love your PlanetBox! :)
The info from PB simply says it's not created for hot foods ... that's the best I can tell you.
Enjoy!
maria says
We have the Ziploc containers an my mom just got them the rubbermaid lunchblox kits. I absolutely would really REALLY like to get them planetboxes, but I don't think I'll ever get my husband to agree to $200+ for 3 lunchboxes! Thermos jars get alot of use too because in the fall and winter they like hot lunches.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Hi Maria,
I completely understand ... from other posters it seems that you can plan to have them for many years, so I think that if you account for it over time it's worth it. But, the Ziplocs or the Rubbermaids are also great options! LOVE the thermoses also; my kids think it's a fun treat when they get something in them also.
Robin M says
My 3rd grader has been using the planet box for two years now and both it and the bag are holding up perfectly. I am planning to get her a new set of magnets this year. (My husband neglected to pull them off a couple of times before running it the box through the dishwasher, otherwise I think they would still be fine!) My youngest is starting Kindergarten this year and I plan to get one for her and was looking at their new larger one for myself. The basic box is not leak proof, but the smaller containers that fit in the box are. Considering we are going on year three with the first one, I think it is a good investment.
Rebekah says
We use the Laptop Lunches and I love them. It takes the guessing game out of whatto pack for lunch. My toddler loves hers. I also appreciate the website has a menu suggestions which helps my hubby when I can't make lunches....I recommend them for everyone....
http://www.laptoplunches.com/
Anne says
We use Laptop Lunches and I could not be happier with them. I love the configuration of sizes you can get, the plastics are BPA and PVC free, and they are dishwasher safe. My first grader loves her and I pack for me everyday, too. laptoplunches.com
Amy P. says
We use one from GoGreenLunchBox.com and my Kindergartner loves it! It's super easy for him to close and he loves the carrying case. It comes with a little white-board for sending notes and making silly pictures. One of the first things he talks about when I pick him up is what goofy thing mom wrote/drew in his lunchbox. I love that I don't have to wash a million containers every night. I did buy a backup box, so one is always clean, and I purchased their drink container as well. Hopefully this set will last us a while!
janene@EverydayEO says
Have you tried the Pak-its as seen on tv? My son keeps quoting, "keeps food cold for up to ten hours." He really wants one... just curious.
Kiran Dodeja Smith says
Hi Janene,
To be honest, I've never heard of them! Sounds like they do some great advertising, though. I will check them out!