Heavy may receive a commission if you purchase a product through a link on this page.

21 Best Lunch Boxes for Adults (Updated!)

lunch boxes for adults

Amazon

Maybe you remember that big metal lunch box and thermos your grandpa used to carry to work, with sandwiches carefully wrapped in wax paper. We still have one at my house because it is kitschy, retro cool and functional. But today, lunch boxes for adults have come a long way from those days, even though we love that classic Stanley, big time.

Now, they’re amazingly diverse, and custom designed to exactly fit your lunch needs. So whether you’re taking lunch from home to save money, because it tastes so much better, or because you’re on a very specific meal plan, there’s a grown-up insulated lunch bag or box for you.

Check out these Best Lunch Boxes for Adults.

What Are the Best Lunch Boxes for Adults Available in 2020?

Stanley black metal lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Lasts a lifetime
  • Virtually bomb proof
  • Retro cool design
Price: $50.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Gold carhartt double compartment insulated lunch cooler Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Sturdy and water-resistant
  • Big and roomy
  • Dual compartments
Price: $29.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
brown and white striped insulated lunch tote Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Cute and sassy
  • Waterproof exterior
  • Versatile for cold and hot foods
Price: $9.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
insulated adult lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Big and beefy
  • Two bottle holders
  • Comfy shoulder strap
Price: $18.97 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
lunch box, adult lunch boxes, lunch boxes for adults, best lunch box, insulated lunch box, lunch boxes for men Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Cool double decker style
  • Room to carry a six pack
  • Lots of additional storage spaces
Price: $19.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
set of two insulated lunchboxes Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Set of two at affordable price
  • Extra-sturdy
  • Two different size options
Price: $17.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
blue polka dot adult cooler lunch bag Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Opens easily with one hand
  • Efficient mid-sized storage
  • Cool colors and patterns
Price: $19.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
gray thermal lunchbox for adults Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Large capacity
  • Leak proof
  • Stain and dirt resistant
Price: $19.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
blue upright lunch pack with hard liner Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Narrow profile
  • Hard liner
  • Durable exterior
Price: $44.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
red adidas lunch bag Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Looks sporty
  • Durable canvas exterior
  • Deep main pouch
Price: $38.77 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
lunch box, adult lunch boxes, lunch boxes for adults, best lunch box, insulated lunch box, bento lunch box, bento box, Zojirushi Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Gasket seal prevents leakage
  • Tons of storage
  • Keeps hot and cold food separate
Price: $45.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
pink polka dot insulated bento lunch jar Amazon Customer Reviews
  • BPA free
  • Insulated to keep foods hot or cold
  • Leakproof seals
Price: $39.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
pink and green leakproof bento lunch box two pack Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Leak proof
  • Compartments are fun
  • Two-pack is convenient
Price: $29.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
GRUB2GO plastic and wood two tier bento lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Freezer, dishwasher and microwave safe
  • Leak-proof
  • Convenient design
Price: $14.88 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
lunch box, adult lunch boxes, lunch boxes for adults, best lunch box, insulated lunch box, meal prep bags Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Big enough for lots of meals
  • Insulated well
  • Comfy shoulder strap
Price: $44.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
fit & Fresh meal prep lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Great for specialized meal planning
  • Assists with portion control
  • Comes with a blender bottle
Price: $45.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
lunch box, adult lunch boxes, lunch boxes for adults, best lunch box, insulated lunch box, meal prep bags Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Tons of storage
  • Super sturdy
  • Efficiently keeps foods cool
Price: $69.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
gray meal prep lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Includes meal prep containers
  • Comes with two ice packs
  • Super sturdy
Price: $27.15 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
black & red insulated meal prep lunch box Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Come with six containers
  • Includes a shaker bottle
  • Double insulated
Price: $34.95 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
7 quart lunch cooler with vacuum bottle Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Super tough exterior
  • Huge cooler space
  • Snap on vacuum seal bottle
Price: $94.58 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
gray and orange hard side lunch cooler Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Huge capacity
  • Rugged enough for job sites
  • Lid stays open to access food easily
Price: $56.36 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Our Unbiased Reviews
  1. 1. Stanley Classic Large Capacity Steel Lunch Box

    Pros:
    • Big and roomy enough to hold lunch and more
    • Top bracket securely holds and insulated bottle
    • Virtually bomb proof metal exterior looks better with use
    • Retro cool styling with a lifetime guarantee
    Cons:
    • Too big for some
    • Thermos bracket is a bit flimsy
    • Need to get the large capacity to fit an insulated bottle
    • More spendy than many

    Isn’t it funny how sometimes the old school lunch box can come back into vogue after decades of being somewhat off most consumers’ radar? This big and beefy metal lunch box is totally retro cool, and similar to the ones your dad and grandpa probably used to take to work. Mine sure did. The durable metal exterior means this lunch box can take a beating in the rugged outdoors, so the occasional bump or drop is only going to give it more character.

    It secures with sturdy metal latches in front, and when opened features a huge roomy main compartment on the bottom that can easily hold multiple sandwiches or food containers as well as fruit, veggies and more. The domed top has a metal bracket that secures a Stanley insulated bottle, or your own water bottle. 

    These adult lunch boxes are virtually bomb-proof, and my evidence for that is a husband who is still using one from the 50s – a gift from our daughter who found it at the thrift store about 15 years ago.

  2. 2. Carhartt Deluxe Dual Compartment Insulated Lunch Cooler

    Pros:
    • Heavy fabric outside is water-repellant and durable
    • Super sturdy zippers and hardware
    • Large size with dual storage compartments
    • Keeps foods cool for the day
    Cons:
    • So big it takes more than one ice pack
    • Doesn't stay cool as long as some others
    • Rounded top isn't preferred by all users

    Of course, Carhartt is well known for their rugged work wear for men and women, and this insulated lunch box meets up to the same demanding standards as their clothes. The durable water-repellant fabric exterior is made to handle rigorous treatment on the job site while keeping a large lunch cool throughout the day.

    Dual compartments, one in the main bag and one in the lid, allow for storage of up to six cans of soda, or several food containers and blue ice as well. The rounded top is reminscent of an old school metal lunch box and is large enough to hold fruit, chips or a water bottle and has a mesh bottom so it’s easy to see what you’ve stowed up there. 

    The front zipper pocket is perfect for utensils and a few paper towels or wet wipes for post-meal cleanup. This insulated lunch box comes with an easy carry handle as well as a convenient shoulder strap. The sturdy YKK zippers will easily hold up to the rugged use this cooler will likely endure. 

    For those who prefer a more moderately sized adult lunch box in a tradition rectangle shape, Carhartt makes a popular one of those as well.

  3. 3. BALORAY Insulated Lunch Tote Bag

    Pros:
    • Upgraded insulation keeps foods hot or cold
    • Clever design looks more stylish than most
    • Roomy interior holds lunch and snacks
    • Comfortable and sturdy sewn in handles
    Cons:
    • Fabric exterior can fray with heavy use
    • Zipper quality is questionable
    • Doesn't open wide enough for easily storing larger containers

    Is it a purse or is it a grown up lunch box? This clever insulated bag can do double duty as either, but of course it’s designed to keep your lunch either cool or hot, depending on what you decide to take. While it looks smallish, it’s actually got tons of storage inside – plenty for both lunch and a day’s worth of snacks.

    The striped exterior is waterproof, so leakage isn’t a worry, and the upgraded insulated liner will keep foods hot or cold for about four hours. An added ice pack can extend the time even longer. The wide zipper makes it easy to pack, and snack, and the sewn in woven handles make for a comfy carry. 

    The large front pocket is plenty roomy for napkins and utensils as well as your smartphone and car keys. So snag it when you head out for a lunchtime walk and picnic. If you prefer the look of a tote over this purse style bag, this insulated tote easily carries two full meals and more.

  4. 4. Best Buy: InsigniaX Adult Lunch Box

    Pros:
    • Rated four out of five stars by users
    • Big enough to carry an ample lunch, plus snacks
    • Two mesh bottle holders on the sides
    • Two carrying options – shoulder strap and top handle
    Cons:
    • Insulation can tear
    • Zipper doesn’t always glide smoothly
    • Not leak-proof
    • Too small for some

    This big, beefy insulated lunch box is the perfect choice for adults. With an adjustable shoulder strap, zip front pocket and mesh side pockets, there’s abundant room to pack a substantial lunch for even the hungriest luncher on your list. The detachable strap allows you to carry it with the attached top handle as well.

    Made with highly durable 600D polyester, this adult lunch box is built to last. The aluminum foil liner provides great insulation and preserves your food, so it stays cooler, longer. The elastic mesh side pockets easily fit drinks and water bottles, and hold them securely.

    This great insulated adult lunch box comes in five awesome colors – red, blue, navy, black and purple. InsigniaX also makes a highly rated neoprene insulated lunch bag

  5. 5. MIER Double Deck Adult Insulated Lunch Box

    Pros:
    • Rated 4.4 out of five stars by users
    • Dual compartments allow you to separate hot from cold, or crushables from containers
    • Big and roomy
    • Leak-proof
    Cons:
    • More expensive than some
    • Too large for most office refrigerators
    • Can be a bit top heavy depending on what you pack
    • Fabric can tear with heavy use

    This cool Mier double-decker insulated lunch box has two separate section to keep cold and warm foods apart. On top, a roomy pouch is perfect for packing chips, fruit, snacks and cookies. It features a two-way dual zipper for convenient opening.

    The square bottom compartment can easily accommodate your lunch containers, sandwiches, salads or whatever else you want to store. The front zipper pocket gives you space to put utensils and napkins, or use it to stow your keys, and cell phone. This sizeable adult lunchbox also has two small side pockets, for any additional storage you might need.

    It has two easy carry options – a soft polyurethane handle strap, as well as a detachable shoulder strap. The huge Mier Picnic Cooler Bag can easily accommodate a six pack of drinks along with enough food for several people. They also make a cool dual compartment insulated lunch bag for carrying a slightly smaller load of lunch items.

  6. 6. Hango Insulated Lunch Box Cooler Bag – Set of Two

    Pros:
    • Rated 4.3 out of five stars by users
    • Dual size options let you pack as much or as little as you’d like
    • Very well made
    • Lifetime warranty
    Cons:
    • Smaller bag is really small
    • Lining can tear of machine washed
    • No extra pockets
    • Unstructured style can feel a bit flimsy

    When you can get two adult lunch boxes for just a few bucks more than the price of a single, it’s a deal worth considering. But when they both come with a lifetime warranty, they’re an even more compelling option.

    This set features two different sized lunch boxes. The large insulated lunch box can carry up to a six pack of soda plus some food, or, if you’re the person who likes to pack multiple days worth of food, it’s big enough to store it. The second, smaller tote is a perfect insulated lunch box for a single meal plus a snack.

    These bags have a high quality thermal insulation system to keep your food colder, longer. And, since zippers are usually the first thing to wear out on many insulated lunch boxes, the stainless steel zippers promise long and smooth zipping.

    Keep your packing efficient and your food from getting crushed with the Rubbermaid LunchBlox Sandwich Kit. It includes containers for lunch items large and small. Don’t forget to grab some Fit & Fresh Cool Coolers Slim Lunch Ice Packs if you don’t have access to store your food in a work refrigerator. These awesome chillers will keep your foods nice and cool until you’re ready to eat them.

  7. 7. Everest Cooler Lunch Bag

    Pros:
    • Rated four out of five stars by users
    • Perfect for small and medium sized lunches
    • Well insulated
    • Lots of fun colors and patterns to choose from
    Cons:
    • Mesh pockets don’t accommodate most water bottles
    • Too small for some
    • You need to purchase ice packs separately
    • Inside liner is prone to tearing

    Sometimes the simplest design is best, and the Everest Cooler Lunch Box is a classic example. Props to this company for making cute lunch boxes for adults that come in tons of fun colors and patterns, from camo, to plaid to polka dots.

    With more than 300 cubic inches of storage, you can fit a standard adult lunch in this insulated box, along with a blue ice pack. The front features a zip pocket big enough for a variety of things, from utensils and napkins, to snack bars and nuts.

    The side mesh pockets can carry your can of soda, a drink pouch or snacks. An adjustable shoulder strap means it’s easy to carry, and the two-way zipper top means it’s easy to open with one hand, just in case you’re inclined to nibble while you’re working.

  8. 8. Lifewit Insulated Lunch Box for Adults

    Pros:
    • This big bag can handle a half rack of cans or up to nine liters of food
    • Made with seamless hot press technology so it's virtually leakproof
    • Easy carry handle and detachable shoulder strap
    • Keeps food cold without an ice pack
    Cons:
    • Some zipper malfunctions reported
    • Shoulder strap isn't always included
    • Insulation not as durable as some

    For the eater on your lunch list, this adult sized lunch box is a super affordable option with lots of space. Big enough to hold up to 12 cans of soda, or six long neck bottles, or up to nine liters of food (think about five containers of different sizes) it can accommodate a day’s lunch plus snacks and fruit with no problem.

    This insulated lunch bag is water and dirt resistant on the outside, while the inside as an easy to wipe out liner that insulates to keep foods hot, or cold without ice packs, for hours. And because it was made with seamless hot press technology, it’s virtually leakproof, which your personal food containers might not be.

    It features a mesh bottle holder on the side as well as a front pouch pocket for silverware and more. The double zip top means it’s easy to get into if you’re snacking while you drive, and it comes with an easy carry handle as well as a removable shoulder strap. Get it four colors. 

    If you prefer divided compartments in your lunch box, this Lifewit model might be ideal for you. For slim spaces in the office fridge, snag this lunch bag with an adjustable divider.

  9. 9. Columbia Northern Trek Upright Lunch Pack with Hardbody Liner

    Pros:
    • Durable and rugged like Columbia sports gear
    • Hard liner with divider keeps food from getting mashed
    • High density thermal insulation keeps food cold
    • Narrow profile fits in tight spaces
    Cons:
    • Not as roomy as some
    • Handles could be secured better
    • Some zipper issues reported

    So many soft-sided lunch boxes for adults simply don’t cut it when it comes to protecting your food. That’s why we think you’ll love this upright lunch box from Columbia. Of course, it’s made to be super tough, just like all of Columbia’s rugged outdoor gear, but this lunch box has a hidden secret inside – a hard liner that keeps your food from ending up like a mashed up mess.

    This removable liner has an adjustable divider so you can fit things individually depending on what you want to pack each day. Because of its narrower upright profile, you can slide it into a cramped office fridge or add an ice pack and slip it right under your desk, thanks to the high density thermal insulation. 

    The zippered lid features a mesh pocket to store your smalls, and it features a super comfy padded handle for easy carrying, as well as an adjustable shoulder strap. If you need an even larger space for food storage the Columbia Grid Line Expandable Lunch Pack might be a better option. The Columbia Superior Summit Expandable Lunch Pack gives you a few more insulated storage pouches as well as a mesh bottle holder.

  10. 10. adidas Santiago Lunch Kit

    Pros:
    • Roomy main pouch holds tall bottles and lots of food
    • Front zipper pouch is useful for snacks and chips
    • Sporty design doesn't look like your parents' lunch bags
    Cons:
    • It's very basic
    • No shoulder strap option
    • Logo can peel off

    When you don’t want anything fancy, but you do want a lunch bag that looks super sporty and gets the job done, this sturdy canvas bag from adidas is a smart choice. The large main pocket is super deep so you can stack whatever you want in it with no worries. From big drinks to multiple sandwiches and sides, the insulation keeps things nice and cold, especially if you add an ice pack or two.

    This sporty bag is a great choice for younger adults who don’t like to look like their parents when packing their homemade lunch to the office. The front zippered pouch offers lots of room for dry snacks and the back mesh pouch can easily accommodate cutlery and napkins.

  11. 11. Zojirushi Mr. Bento Stainless Steel Lunch Jar

    Pros:
    • Rated 4.2 out of five stars by users
    • Unique and fun design
    • Easily separates hot and cold foods
    • Vacuum insulated bottle thwarts leaks
    Cons:
    • Expensive compared to other bento boxes
    • Carrying bag wears quickly
    • Container lids can be difficult to open
    • Doesn’t keep hot foods hot long enough

    Who says bento has to come in a box? Now you can pack a delicious lunch in the Zojirushi bento jar. A versatile and fun lunch box for adults, the Mr. Bento lunch jar comes with four different containers that allow you to pack a multi-course lunch of both hot and cold items, and keep them all safely separated and secure.

    The jar itself is made of stainless steel, and it’s vacuum-insulated. Four containers, each with lids, simply stack inside. The large soup bowl comes with gasket-sealed lid to prevent any messy spillage, and is specially insulated to keep your hot foods toasty hot.

    The parts and pieces can all be washed by hand, with soapy water, and that will ensure their long life. All the inner bowls are microwave-safe, plus this cool bento jar comes with a spork, that has its own protective cover and attaches right to the Mr. Bento lunch jar.

    The jar itself has its own lid with a lock, and comes in a cool zippered carry bag with a strap so you can just grab your lunch and go. This unique bento jar is so portable, it’s a great option to fit into tight quarters or a shared office refrigerator. But since it’s insulated, refrigeration simply isn’t necessary.

    This cool lunch carrier also comes in brilliant red and bright yellow, but you’ll have to shell out a few extra bucks for those fun colors. But isn’t it worth it to get one of these awesome lunch boxes for adults?

  12. 12. Mr.Dakai Bento Lunch Box

    Pros:
    • Easy to carry and comes in two sizes depending on your appetite
    • Made with BPA free plastic and food grade stainless steel
    • Locking containers prevent leaks and food cross-contamination
    • Darned cute
    Cons:
    • Doesn't keep foods hot as long as others
    • Can become difficult to unscrew the sections over time
    • Can be a bit heavy without the additional carrier

    It doesn’t matter whether you’re an adult or a kid, having a fun and interesting lunch container makes the meal a ton more enjoyable. This bento lunch jar is a great option for an adult who prefers smaller portions sizes. With two insulated and sealed containers, one that measures about 1.25 cups, and one that measures about 2.5 cups, this bento jar can store soups, stews or pasta in the bottom, and a cool crunchy salad or fruit in the top.

    With each section screwing into the next, this insulated jar keeps foods from spilling and contaminating one another. The convenient carry handle is a total bonus and this cutie comes with two fruit forks that can be used for any main dish or side that’s not too liquid. Made with BPA free plastic and food grade stainless steel, this durable option is also quite a bit more affordable than the other bento jar we reviewed here.

    For larger lunchables, consider the three container bento jar that offers two 1.25 cup sections along with the 2.5 cup container. You can also get a padded carrying case with a shoulder strap to leave your hands free if you happen to use mass transit for your commute.

  13. 13. PlusPoint Leakproof Bento Lunch Box Set (2 Pack)

    Pros:
    • Well rated by users
    • Food container is generous and mircrowaves well
    • Leak and spill proof
    • Slim design is great for shared refrigerator space
    Cons:
    • Can be a little slippery and difficult to open
    • Container can pick up food stains
    • Frequent microwaving may impact lid fit
    • Not large enough for bigger eaters

    Ah, the simplicity of a lunch container that divides and conquers the lunch you bring from home. Even more satisfying, is when you can get two for the price of many singles. These slim bento lunch boxes hit on all the most important points.

    Three divided containers keep your fave lunch stuff separate, because the top tightly seals the individual compartments. Another advantage is the slim design, which allows you to easily slip it into your briefcase or messenger bag. Because your foods stay spill free, you can safely slide it into the work fridge, with no worries about leakage. And there’s no searching for a spoon to fit, because one is included with each box.

    Endlessly versatile, these bento boxes are both freezable and microwaveable, so you can prep and freeze ahead, and then nuke your lunch at the office. We also think you’ll be happy knowing they are BPA free and food safe.

    If you’re looking for a bento box with even greater versatility in terms of lunch items, the Skater Japanese Compartmental Bento Box delivers a slim design but features six separate compartments and comes with chopsticks.

  14. 14. Bento Box by GRUB2GO

    Pros:
    • Highly rated by users
    • Totally leak-proof
    • Traditional Japanese styling
    • Microwave and freezer safe, plus it comes with utensils
    Cons:
    • Elastic strap is easy to lose or misplace
    • Kind of spendy for a simple design
    • Not insulated
    • Too small for bigger eaters

    This super-cool, dual-layer, eco-friendly food container is set to serve your lunchtime needs, because it’s ideal for packing everything, from fruit and vegetables, to pasta, meat, snacks and sauces. It’s airtight, with tightly fitting lids help you store your food without worry of leakage.

    This bento lunch box for adults is made of high quality, durable materials. Made from 100% food safe plastics that are BPA free, you can safely put it in the microwave, dishwasher and freezer, allowing you to reheat or preserve your food without worry of spoilage.

    With simple utensil storage on top, and an elastic band to hold your containers together, this simple bento box is fun and still carries the tradition Japanese bento box look, with a wood top reminiscent of centuries-old Japanese tradition.

    The BentoHeaven bento lunchbox features a similar design and is also well rated, and it comes with a bonus – a pack of fun lunch box notes included. The Monbento MB Original Bento Box is another similar choice, although it offers divided containers versus the single large compartments in the other choices.

  15. 15. EDC Meal Prep Bag by Evolutionize

    Pros:
    • Big and roomy
    • Well insulated
    • High quality construction
    • Nicely designed to look good and perform well
    Cons:
    • Quite spendy
    • Zippers have a tendency to catch on the lining
    • Container lids can crack
    • Side walls of the bag need more support

    A EDC Meal Prep Bag is much more than an ordinary adult lunch box. It’s a complete meal management system that also includes three lightweight, BPA free, reusable containers made in Canada, plus a large non-toxic freezable gel pack made in the USA.

    This lunchbox features three separate insulated compartments to keep your meals, fruits, shaker cups, water bottles, and snacks organized, and individually temperature controlled. This meal prep bag is designed for daily use, to keep you and your food plan, perfectly organized.

    It’s made with heavy duty materials, a super thick PEVA inner lining, EPA foam, metal hardware, and it’s all wrapped in a thick ultra-strong polyester cover. With a compact design, and high versatility, this lunch box is made to keep your diet on point.

    Easy to carry, it comes with a padded handle and shoulder strap. Want a bit of a color lift? You can get a similar meal prep lunch box in mint green as well. Keep your week, and your meal planning easy with extra meal prep containers.

  16. 16. Fit & Fresh Jaxx FitPak Meal Prep Bag + Container Set

    Pros:
    • Rated 4.2 out of five stars by users
    • Terrific for those who are doing portion control or specialized meal planning
    • Comes with everything you need, including an ice pack
    • Cool shaker bottle perfectly blends supplement drinks and protein shakes
    Cons:
    • Super spendy
    • Might be a bit much for the average lunch user
    • Included ice pack melts too quickly
    • Logos everywhere make it seem gimmicky

    The Jaxx FitPak by Fit & Fresh is one of the most convenient meal prep bags for men and women who are trying to eat a little healthier. It’s also great for those who are dieting and trying to lose weight, serious athletes who are training for a competition or race, and others who need to pack their own food because of food sensitivities or allergies.

    No matter your reason, the Jaxx FitPak has everything you need to fuel your day. The FitPak includes an insulated bag, six leak-proof containers (two one-cup containers and four two-cup containers), a patented 28-ounce Jaxx Shaker bottle, a pocket pack for vitamins, supplements or medications, and a large reusable ice pack.

    The bag is large enough to pack a whole day’s worth of portion controlled meals, a protein shake or smoothie and your daily dose of supplements. It’s compact enough for the office or job site. It has a gray PEVA lining that is easy to wipe clean, and it’s PVC and BPA-free. Using the non-toxic reusable ice pack, your contents will stay chilled all day.

    The 28-ounce Jaxx Shaker cup and agitator breaks up and mixes protein powder and drink mixes with ease. This bag zips fully closed and has an interior mesh pocket. The container set also includes a vitamin pack, and a small pill container with five compartments, that easily slips into the inner mesh pocket or into your pocket to take on-the-go.

    For even more versatility, and an even bigger size, the Deluxe Jaxx FitPack Meal Prep bag makes a great construction worker lunchbox. Fit & Fresh makes a wide array of lunch boxes, insulated bags and containers. Find more selections here.

  17. 17. Isolator Fitness Meal Prep Bag

    Pros:
    • Rated 4.2 out of five stars by users
    • Very sturdy and durable
    • Fits more containers than most others
    • Lightweight but durable, and easy to carry
    Cons:
    • Most expensive of those reviewed
    • Ice bricks don’t stay frozen long enough
    • Too small for some people’s needs
    • Containers don’t hold up well to microwave use

    The ISOBAG® is a beefy meal prep bag well suited to people who work and play hard. It uses top quality YKK zippers, heavy insulation and top of the line chilling ISOBRICKS™, that go in an “out of the way” pocket in the main compartment, to keep foods cool.

    Durable and versatile, this bag will fit three 38 ounce containers, or four or more 28 ounce containers, depending on your preferences, and diet needs and restrictions. Smaller and lighter than many lunch boxes in this category, this bag allows you to pack more meals at a fraction of the weight, and size.

    This specialized adult lunch box comes with double the amount of containers, providing additional convenience when planning out your meals for the week. It features an easy access front loading compartment that stores the stackable food containers, two insulated side pockets, and two outside mesh pockets for quick access to nonperishable items such water and shaker bottles, your phone, keys or headphones.

    The top of this lunch bag features an additional storage compartment that’s great for stashing non-perishable items like protein bars, vitamins, supplements, utensils and more. This bag includes a comfy padded shoulder strap, and it’s made in the USA.

    Isolator Fitness makes different sized meal prep bags, from two meals to six meals. Check them out here.

  18. 18. ZUZURO Meal Prep Lunch Box

    Pros:
    • Three separate storage compartments
    • Includes two ice packs and three meal prep containers
    • Super sturdy zippers and comfy shoulder strap
    • Huge capacity to pack many meals at once
    Cons:
    • Lining could be more durable
    • Strap swivel breaks too easily
    • Bottle compartment needs to be sized up

    No doubt about it, meal prep lunch boxes for adults are a bit more of an investment that your ordinary insulated bag, but they’re totally worth it – especially if you’re following a specific meal plan and you need the discipline to stay on track. When you pack up this meal prep box from ZUZURO, you’re ensuring you can quash your hunger without hitting the candy machine or nearest deli.

    This insulated lunch box comes with three meal prep containers, that slide into a bottom compartment. It also features a compartment on top of that area that’s easy to slip a sandwich, some veggies and fruit into for quick meal options. The back of the bag offers a zip up bottle compartment that can carry at least a couple beverages, and perhaps more, depending on their sizes.

    Inside the lid you’ll find a mesh pocket that’s perfect for smaller snacks, while the outside has another two mesh pockets for napkins, utensils and whatever else you might need. Since you’re packing so much food at once, the comfy wide shoulder strap makes for easy carrying, even when full. 

    This big insulated bag also comes with two ice packs, and the included meal containers are microwave and dishwasher safe.

  19. 19. ThinkFit Insulated Lunch Boxes with Six Portion Control Containers

    Pros:
    • Made of rugged material and double insulated for food freshness
    • Comes with a shaker bottle along with detachable containers
    • Includes a pill box for vitamins and supplements
    • Includes six meal prep containers in two sizes
    Cons:
    • Shoulder strap could be longer
    • Doesn't keep things cold as long as some
    • Blender bottle lids can leak

    When you want a meal prep lunch box that delivers practically everything you need to succeed with your meal plan, it’s a slam dunk. This insulated meal prep box comes with six snap top food storage containers in two different sizes, ready to keep your lunchables separate. Their easy to secure and remove, unlike other flimsier styles, plus they’re microwave and dishwasher safe. Bonus.

    This big bag also comes with a 20 ounce BPA free shaker cup with three storage containers that connect to the bottom of the cup. You can pack supplements, protein powder and whatever else you’ll need. It also comes with a big blue ice pack to keep all your foods fresh and cold. Made with heavy duty materials, and double insulated, it has a front zipper for easy access to your food containers, as well as a size zip pouch for snacks. 

    The shaker bottle has its own holder on the opposite side, and the top features a wide padded handle plus a shoulder strap. This bag even comes with its own vitamin container.

  20. 20. Stanley Heritage Cooler with Classic Vacuum Bottle

    Pros:
    • Hard plastic exterior means this cooler can take a beating
    • Interior divider makes usable spaces to keep food and drinks separate
    • Comes with a snap on stainless steel vacuum seal bottle
    • Lid acts like a mini tabletop
    Cons:
    • Pretty darned spendy
    • Larger than most people need
    • Lunch box doesn't hold the cold as well as some

    If you’re serious when it comes to packing a lunch box that can carry enough food to last from morning until night, this seven quart Stanley cooler is meant for you. With hard sides, you don’t have to worry about tossing it in your work truck or patrol car, and the divided interior gives you tons of room for ice, drinks, sandwiches and more.

    The foam insulation keeps foods cool all day long, and the removable lid can be used like a portable table to set your drinks and food on top of. The biggie here is that this substantial lunch cooler comes with the classic Stanley 1.1 quart vacuum seal bottle. The screw off lid can be used as an eight ounce cup, and it’ll keep coffee hot or ice water cold for a whopping 24 hours.

    Double insulated and made of durable stainless steel, the bottle locks in place on the top of the cooler to be sure both your food and your drinks arrive safely at the same time.

  21. 21. Klein Tools Hard Side Lunch Cooler

    Pros:
    • Super rugged exterior can handle tough work and job sites
    • Keeps food and drinks cold up to 30 hours
    • Huge nine quart capacity lets you carry what you need
    • Acts as a stool that can accommodate up to 300 pounds.
    Cons:
    • Too big for most people's lunch needs
    • Some reports of strap breakage
    • Isn't sized well for standard food containers

    When you’re headed to any outdoor job site, you’ve got to have a lunch cooler you can count on like this nine quart hard side cooler from Klein Tools. The beefy lunch buddy will handle enough food and drinks for an 18 hour workday and more – in fact, it’s guaranteed to keep things cool for up to 30 hours. The top features a loop through which you can secure a lock to be sure nobody is snitching your snacks during the day.

    If you’ve ever had a cooler lid come crashing down on your hand, you’ll love the fact that this one stays open when you’re accessing your food and drinks. The lid features an interior compartment for stowing smaller food items. It features rust-free stainless steel hinges, so this heavy duty lunch box is in it for the long haul.

    One sweet feature we haven’t yet mentioned – this lunch box gives you the opportunity to get off your feed because it also acts as a stool that can accommodate up to 300 pounds of weight. Now that’s a sweet idea. If you need to transport lunch to your crew, you can get this cooler in a huge 17 quart size. And if you don’t need the rugged range and durability of this lunch box, you can get a 12 quart Klein soft side lunch box with a stable plastic base that’s also awesome.

    They get automatic props from men and women who work outdoors for the Klein Tools name. We get it.

If you're more interested in insulated lunch bags, or simply want to carry a super cute tote to work, we get it. I love carrying anything adorable, and there are tons of cute lunch bags that fit the bill. There are even bento boxes and lunch backpacks for the little kids on your list, but this group of lunch boxes is all about you serious lunch takers who plan ahead and need something super functional.

Insulated lunch boxes are a great fit for any adult and, if you use a blue ice pack, you don't have to fight for fridge space at work or deal with someone quietly snatching your snacks when you're not looking. We'll also look at some cool bento lunch boxes for those of you who love to have everything perfectly compartmentalized.

We'll check out an emerging lunch box trend - meal prep lunch boxes. These come with very specific components allowing you to prep, measure and eat exactly what's on your meal plan. These specialty boxes can even be ordered with the specific number of containers you need - get one with three or one with eight. Count these as one step closer to diet success.

And we'll finish with a couple of extra job site style lunch boxes that can stand up to the tough wear and tear they're going to get outdoors.

Adult lunch boxes have to do serious work. They need to keep things cold and hot. They need to stand up to daily use. And they need to be space efficient so you can pack as many containers and extras as you'll need, along with water bottles, or shaker bottles for smoothies and protein shakes. Need some good reasons to pack lunch for yourself? Check out this article.

Whether you're a teacher headed back to school, a CEO being mindful of your health, or you need something that's jobsite worthy and can take a beating, being prepared with a great adult lunch box, and a delicious meal, will leave you more time to take a walk, smell the fresh air and get your daily dose of sunshine.

See Also: