Summer is winding down and school is starting again, which means it’s time to restart the familiar—and sometimes frustrating—question: what to pack for the kids’ lunch? Choosing the right reusable lunch tools makes the routine faster, greener, and less stressful. Pick containers that match your child’s eating habits and dietary needs to cut down on waste and lunchtime frustration.
Below are three practical container options I recommend, along with balanced lunch ideas to keep kids satisfied and energized throughout the school day.
What to Pack
- One reliable protein source
- One high-quality carbohydrate (examples: brown rice, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers or bread)
- At least one fresh fruit or vegetable (including both is even better)
- One small sweet treat or drink—an occasional item with added sugar can brighten a child’s day; I aim for just one such item per lunch
1. For Kids Who Like to Snack or Don’t Want Foods Touching
1. For Kids Who Like to Snack or Don’t Want Foods TouchingThe Bentgo Kids Leakproof Lunch Box is kid-friendly and simple to use. Unlike some multi-container bento systems that require fiddly openings, this box lets you pack a variety of bite-sized items without overwhelming little hands. Use colors and textures to make lunches appealing while covering several food groups.
Lunch Idea — Nibbles & Bits
- Turkey and cheese roll-ups: place a slice of cheese on a slice of nitrate-free turkey, roll and slice into bite-size pieces
- Whole-grain crackers
- Melon balls
- Squeezable yogurt
2. For the Kid Who Likes Salads or Separate Ingredients
2. For the Kid Who Likes Salads or Separate IngredientsThe Sistema Klip It Collection Salad to Go Container is ideal for kids who prefer to keep ingredients separate—great for salads, cold pasta or grain bowls. It has a roomy main compartment plus divided lid sections for toppings and an integrated dressing pot. Snap-together utensils make it easy and fun for kids to eat independently.
Lunch Idea — Asian-Style Chicken and Rice
- Main compartment: cooked white or brown rice
- Lid compartments: sliced leftover chicken; sliced red bell peppers and edamame; a small dressing container with sesame-flavored dressing
- One or two small oranges or clementines
3. For Kids Who Prefer a Classic Lunch Bag
3. For Kids Who Prefer a Classic Lunch BagThe Lunchskins Reusable Lunch Tote is a modern, eco-friendly take on the classic sack lunch. It folds compactly, cleans easily, and has a simple Velcro closure and webbing handle. It’s a straightforward, low-bulk option if you don’t need heavy insulation.
Lunch Idea — Kid-Friendly Club Sandwich
- Two slices of whole-wheat or gluten-free bread with bacon, sliced tomato, turkey and lettuce
- A light spread such as mayonnaise or a vegan alternative for flavor
- Organic apple
- Small container of sliced cucumber and baby carrots
- Small bag of popcorn or chips for a crunchy treat
Got Milk?
A boxed milk is an easy way to add calcium to a child’s lunch. If dairy isn’t an option, single-serve soy or almond milks are widely available and fortified with calcium, making them a practical dairy-free alternative.