Today I am sharing The 3 Best Preschool Lunchboxes have tried more than a handful of lunchboxes over the past few years, and here are my faves. These brands are the absolute best on the market IMO. But check out these stats for yourself...
My 3 Favorite Preschool Lunchboxes:
Let's check them out!...
The Best Lunchboxes for Preschoolers
When it comes to packing lunch for preschoolers, finding the perfect lunchbox can make all the difference. A good lunchbox should be easy for little hands to open, durable enough to withstand daily use, and, of course, cute enough to make your kiddo excited about lunchtime. After trying out several options, I’ve narrowed it down to my top three favorites: YUMBOX, Bentgo, and PlanetBox. Each of these lunchboxes has unique features that make them stand out, and I’m excited to share why they’re the best on the market, in my opinion.
Let’s dive into what makes these lunchboxes so special!
And then later, you can fill these boxes up with some kid recipes.)
YUMBOX
First up is the YUMBOX, a favorite among parents and kids alike. This bento-style lunchbox is perfect for preschoolers because it’s designed to make healthy eating fun and easy. The YUMBOX has a variety of compartments, which are just the right size for packing a balanced meal, including fruits, veggies, proteins, and snacks.
Features:
- Portion Control: One of the standout features of the YUMBOX is its built-in portion control. The compartments are labeled with food groups, helping you ensure that your child is getting a well-rounded meal. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to encourage healthy eating habits early on.
- Leakproof: The YUMBOX has a silicone-lined lid that makes it completely leakproof, so you don’t have to worry about spills or leaks, even with liquids like yogurt or applesauce.
- Easy to Open: Preschoolers will have no trouble opening and closing the YUMBOX on their own, thanks to its simple, child-friendly latch. This independence is a big win for both kids and parents.
- Durable and Safe: Made from high-quality, BPA-free materials, the YUMBOX is built to last. It’s also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Why It’s Great for Preschoolers: The YUMBOX is perfect for preschoolers because it encourages variety in their meals. The small, divided compartments are ideal for packing different foods without them touching (a common concern for little ones). Plus, the colorful designs and fun themes make lunchtime exciting, which can be especially helpful for picky eaters.
Choose a YUMBOX color on Amazon
BENTGO
Next on the list is the Bentgo Kids lunchbox, another fantastic option that’s perfect for preschoolers. Bentgo is known for its thoughtful design and kid-friendly features, making it a popular choice among parents.
Favorite Pick!
Bentgo is our favorite lunchbox this year. It has just enough space for lots of options, but not too much space, which is my complaint with the PlanetBox for tiny kiddos. We just love this one this year!
Features:
- Five Compartments: The Bentgo Kids lunchbox has five compartments in varying sizes, allowing you to pack a variety of foods. The large compartment is perfect for a sandwich or main dish, while the smaller compartments are great for sides and snacks.
- Leakproof Technology: Like the YUMBOX, Bentgo Kids lunchboxes are also leakproof, thanks to their rubberized seal. You can confidently pack liquids or foods with sauces without worrying about spills.
- Microwave and Dishwasher Safe: Bentgo Kids lunchboxes are both microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them incredibly convenient for busy parents. You can easily heat up meals and then toss the lunchbox in the dishwasher for quick cleanup.
- Durable and Drop-Proof: Bentgo lunchboxes are built to withstand rough handling, which is important when dealing with preschoolers. The sturdy design and rubber edges help protect the lunchbox from drops and bumps.
Why It’s Great for Preschoolers: The Bentgo Kids lunchbox is perfect for preschoolers who like a bit of variety in their meals. The different compartment sizes allow you to get creative with what you pack, from sandwiches and wraps to fruits, veggies, and dips. The easy-to-open latch and durable design make it ideal for little ones who are still getting the hang of handling their lunchboxes.
PLANETBOX
Last but certainly not least in my Best Preschool Lunchboxes list, is the PlanetBox Rover, a stainless steel lunchbox that’s as stylish as it is functional. PlanetBox is known for its eco-friendly design, making it a great choice for parents who want to reduce their environmental impact.
My only complaint about this ROVER size is that it is pretty huge. I started preschool by packing all my 2-3 year-old's lunches and this and quickly realized it was just too massive for her. That being said, the ONE PIECE wonder part of it is pretty amazing. And I love stainless steel anything for kiddos.
planet box Features:
- Eco-Friendly: The PlanetBox Rover is made from high-quality stainless steel, making it a durable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic lunchboxes. It’s built to last for years, which means less waste and more sustainability.
- Customizable: One of the unique features of the PlanetBox is its customizable design. You can choose from a variety of fun magnets that stick to the outside of the lunchbox, allowing your child to personalize their lunchbox and make it their own.
- Divided Compartments: The PlanetBox Rover has five compartments, including a large main section and smaller sections for sides and snacks. The compartments are perfectly sized to keep foods separate and fresh, without the need for disposable plastic bags or containers.
- Dishwasher Safe: Cleaning the PlanetBox Rover is a breeze, as it’s completely dishwasher safe. The stainless steel design means no worrying about stains or odors, and the materials are completely safe for your child’s food.
Why It’s Great for Preschoolers: The PlanetBox Rover is perfect for preschoolers who enjoy variety in their meals and appreciate a bit of independence in customizing their lunchbox. The sturdy, eco-friendly design is ideal for parents who are conscious of sustainability, and the fun magnets add a personalized touch that kids love. Plus, the stainless steel construction ensures that the lunchbox will last for years, making it a great investment.
Which Lunchbox is Right for Your Child?
Choosing the right lunchbox for your preschooler can depend on a few factors, such as their eating habits, how much variety they like in their meals, and how independent they are with opening and closing their lunchbox. Here’s a quick summary of my Best Preschool Lunchboxes, to help you decide:
- YUMBOX is great for kids who need a bit of guidance in portion control and enjoy a colorful, playful design.
- Bentgo is perfect for kids who like a variety of foods and need a lunchbox that can handle the occasional drop or spill.
- PlanetBox is ideal for eco-conscious families who want a durable, customizable lunchbox that will last for years.
No matter which lunchbox you choose, the most important thing is that it works for your child and makes lunchtime enjoyable. These three options are all fantastic choices that offer unique benefits, so you can’t go wrong!
Other Lunchbox Brands People Love...
A few others to browse that just might be amazing enough for this Best Preschool Lunchboxes list. I have not tried all of these, but my reviews below.
OMNIBOX
OmieBox
The OmieBox is a fantastic choice for parents who want to pack both hot and cold items in one lunchbox. It features an insulated thermos insert that can keep food warm, making it ideal for soups, pasta, or other hot meals. The rest of the compartments stay cool, perfect for fresh fruits, veggies, or sandwiches. This versatile design is a game-changer for busy mornings when you want to pack a variety of foods that need different temperatures.
REVIEW: I did not love this one. The elastic strap/waterguard component just really bothers me.
LUNCHBOTS
LunchBots
LunchBots are known for their simple, stainless steel designs that are both durable and eco-friendly. They offer various compartment options, which makes it easy to pack a balanced meal with different food groups. The sleek, minimalist design is perfect for parents who prefer a no-fuss, easy-to-clean lunchbox. Plus, the stainless steel material ensures that the food stays fresh without absorbing odors or stains over time.
BENTOLOGY
Bentology
Formerly known as Laptop Lunches, Bentology offers bento-style lunchboxes that are perfect for portion control and variety. The boxes come with multiple containers that fit snugly into the larger box, allowing you to pack a wide range of foods without them mixing. Bentology lunchboxes are also known for their vibrant colors and fun patterns, making them a hit with kids. They’re easy to clean, dishwasher-safe, and durable enough to withstand daily use.
SKIP HOP
Skip Hop
Skip Hop’s lunchboxes are particularly popular among younger kids due to their adorable animal-themed designs. These lunchboxes are the perfect size for preschoolers, offering just enough space for a sandwich, a small snack, and a drink. They come with an easy-to-use zipper and a comfortable handle, making them a breeze for little hands to carry. The designs are not only cute but also functional, with insulated interiors to keep food fresh throughout the day.
MUNCHKIN
Munchkin Lunchbox
This popular brand carries a lesser known lunchbox that is pretty amazing. It contains a built-in fork that snaps in magically. I actually discovered this lunchbox while researching this post and purchased one to try out! Will update this post as needed..
Conclusion
Finding the perfect lunchbox for your preschooler doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With options like the YUMBOX, Bentgo, and PlanetBox, you can feel confident that you’re choosing a lunchbox that’s durable, easy to use, and fun for your child. Whether your little one is a picky eater or loves trying new foods, these lunchboxes make it easy to pack a nutritious and appealing lunch every day. So, go ahead and pick the one that best suits your child’s needs—lunchtime just got a whole lot more exciting!
