You’ll actually want to be seen carrying them.
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Maybe it's just us, but have you ever felt embarrassed about carrying your lunch? (TikTok says yes.) Silliness and potential embarrassment aside, it's hard to look past the economic, environmental, and culinary benefits of packing your own lunch. So whether yours has seen better (and cleaner) days or you simply need a stylish lunch bag for picnics, beach days, or school lunches, the best lunch bags will come in handy.
What exactly makes a lunch bag the best? We considered three big things to be on the lookout for when you do your shopping. One, you want to look for a vessel that is actually stylish, so you can stop packing your cold items in your New Yorker tote bag. Two, the lunch bag should be well-insulated, with a leak- and water-resistant lining that's easy to wipe clean. Three, it should be spacious, to fit your big sandwich, a hearty salad, or containers of various snacks (à la Girl Dinner).
To find the lunch bags worth your money, we looked to our aforementioned considerations: style, insulation, and space. We looked for different kinds of lunch bags, from traditional, single-compartment zippered options to bento-box style choices, to suit a variety of lunchers. We also chose lunch bags that had a variety of on-trend colors and patterns to choose from. We looked for wipe-clean interiors that won't build up bacteria, plus thick insulation for people without access to a fridge.
Ahead, we've rounded up the best lunch bags that are utilitarian and functional, yes, but also a delight to the eye. So much so that we know your coworkers will definitely be asking where you found it. We curated a handful of options from brands like Yeti, Modern Picnic, Hydro Flask, Baggu, and more. Here's to packing your lunch with pride.
You know Hydroflask for its cult-favorite water bottles, but we enthusiastically recommend this lunch bag, too. It has hundreds of five-star reviews touting its durability and spaciousness, and also noting that it doesn't feel bulky. The wipe-clean, insulated interior will keep your food chilled for hours, and the water-resistant shell (and zippers) keep everything clean and dry. It works for everyday lunches, but it's also spacious enough to bring with you for a beach day or picnic.
Product Specs: 8L capacity, 4 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 external pocket, 1 internal compartment
Here's another budget-friendly pick you can find on Amazon. It has a sleek, rose gold hue (but you can choose from nine other colors if that's not your style), plus spacious internal compartments for all your snacks, and an external pocket for your napkins and cutlery, Reviewers note that it stands the test of time and is a solid option for kids and adults alike.
Product Specs: 3.5L capacity, 10 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 external pocket, 2 internal compartments
When looking for a lunch bag that will stand the test of time, a simple, sleek design will take you far. This one is timeless and decidedly capital-A Adult, with a roll-top design and insulated lining. Capacity-wise, it'll fit 12 cans, which means it'll stash your salad, seltzer, and grilled chicken without a hitch. We also appreciate the lower price point on this pick.
Product Specs: 8L capacity, 12 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 external pocket, 1 internal compartment
You trust Corkcicle with your chilled wines and hot coffee; now trust it with your lunch, too. The Baldwin Boxer lunch bag has a nice structure to it, without looking too much like a classic lunch box. It has a double-zipper main compartment with plush insulation, plus a loop for a canteen, and a front pocket on the outside. Choose from four colors, including a new collaboration with everyone's favorite floral brand, Rifle Paper Co.
Product Specs: 4 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 external pocket, 2 internal compartments
On the quirkier side of the spectrum, you'll find Calpak's lunch bags, which have lots of personality. Choose from an array of solid colors or trendy prints like checkerboard, terrazzo, and floral. It has an insulated, water-resistant lining, several pockets to keep your stuff organized, and a stylish drawstring closure that makes it look more like a purse than a cooler.
Product Specs: 10.3L capacity, 18 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 4 external pockets, 2 internal compartments
Yeti's popular lunch bag has a classic design and comes in a handful of solid colors. Though it has a higher price point than some others on this list, it's made with a water-resistant shell and the same insulation technology Yeti is known for, making it a great option for folks with a long commute, no fridge access, or for stashing snacks for a beach day or hike.
Product Specs: 8 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 internal compartment
Stoney Clover Lane's cult following of girls, teens, and full-fledged preppy adults fawn over the brand's kitschy, colorful offerings—and we totally get the hype. Whether you're shlepping to work or packing up for a solo picnic, this insulated lunch bag is equal parts functional and fun. Keep the solid color or add patches for a monogram, name, or icon (like a heart, tennis ball canister, or city skyline).
Product Specs: 15 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 internal compartment
Meet the classic Boat 'N Tote's stylish younger sister, the Nor'easter Insulated Tote. She's small, she's got a classic silhouette, and she's absolutely perfect for your lunch. We appreciate the outer pocket for napkins and cutlery, while the internal compartment has a wipe-clean and spacious design. Like many L.L.Bean products, you can add a stitched monogram or name, making this a nice gift, too.
Product Specs: 5L capacity, 2 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 external pocket, 1 internal compartment
Modern Picnic's Lunchers bear a striking resemblance to your favorite purse, it's no wonder why they're so popular. Though this product has the highest price point, reviewers tout the functionality and sleek fabric options (like wicker, crocodile, and bamboo) that make it totally worth it. There are elasticated holders for cutlery, multiple pockets, and a thin insulated lining that keeps food cool for a surprising amount of time.
Product Specs: 3.5L capacity, 8 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 2 internal compartments
Bellroy, known for its sleek tech accessories, also knows its way around durable, stylish bags. We're partial to this copper-colored, puffy lunch bag, which will attach to a backpack or large tote for easy carrying and rolls up nicely when you're not using it. The thin (but powerful) insulation is made from recycled materials, and it has a few water-resistant components.
Product Specs: 6L capacity, 3 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 internal compartment
For the trendsetters, we found this simple, stylish lunch bag from Gen-Z favorite brand Baggu. Just like its popular grocery bags, the Puffy Lunch Bag is sprinkled with fun patterns and made from recycled materials. The interior has an insulated lining and plenty of space for a sandwich, cut fruit and veggies, and an ice pack. While Urban Outfitters carries only two patterns, you can find many more on the brand's website.
Product Specs: 2 colorways, insulated, wipe-clean interior, 1 internal compartment
If you prefer a bento box instead of a traditional lunch bag, look to French brand Monbento. Each box consists of two main compartments and a small internal food cup that's ideal for sauces, toppings, or other sides. It's very lightweight and small, making it easy to stash in your work bag. Each compartment has a lid with a silicone seal to ensure that nothing leaks.
Product Specs: 1L capacity, 10 colorways, not insulated, easy-clean plastic, 2 compartments
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