11 Best Lunch Boxes for Women in 2024 (Stylish & Functional)
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A few years ago, I realized I had yet to find the perfect lunch bag. Some days I would wind up at work extra hours and would wind up needing lunch and snacks…most lunch boxes for women just didn’t hold all the food I needed. But I didn’t want to carry a large manly lunch box either. So needless to say, I dove headfirst into the realm of lunch boxes for women, because let’s face it, your midday meal should be an experience, not a chore.
Today, I’m sharing some of the best lunchboxes for women. Whether you are a mom home with kids looking for the perfect lunch box on days out (this is me now!) or you need a lunch box for a busy day in the office, today I’m sharing the best lunch boxes for women!
BEST Lunch Bags for Women (QUICK LINKS)
- Best Overall Lunch Box: Weitars Lunch Box
- Best Freezable Lunch Box: PackIt Lunch Bag
- Best Value: VLM Lunch Bag
- Best Insulated Lunch Bag: Hydroflask Bag
- Best Backpack Lunch Box: Carhartt Insulated Lunchbox Backpack
- Most Stylish/Designer: BeautyGoodies Lunch Bag
- Best for Busy Moms: Kavu Insulated Crossbody Bag
- Most Versatile: Scorlia Insulated Bag <–I love this one! Maybe tied for best all-around
What to Consider When Choosing a Lunch Bag for Ladies
When it comes to selecting the ideal lunch box, there are a few key factors that deserve your attention. Consider these aspects to ensure you find a lunch bag that caters to your specific needs:
- Size and Capacity: Make sure your lunch bag can hold all your favorite meals and snacks without feeling cramped.
- Insulation: Keep your food at the perfect temperature with insulation or a freezable lunch pack.
- Material and Durability: Choose materials that can withstand daily wear and tear while remaining easy to clean.
- Style and Design: There are so many lunch box options these days, making it easier to choose a style and design that fits your taste and your lifestyle.
- Carrying Options: Whether you prefer a tote, crossbody, or backpack style, choose a bag that suits your comfort and convenience.
- Organizational Features: Things like extra pockets inside or out of the bag can help you to keep your lunch organized and together.
11 Best Lunch Boxes for Women
1. Pack It Freezable Lunch Box
This is definitely my favorite lunch bag for women (and also men and kids!) We have three different PackIts and love them! We often use our lunch boxes outside and need them to stay cold for long periods, and these do.
PROS:
- Freezable lunch box stays cold for long periods of time.
- Many colors and styles are available.
- The inside lining wipes down easily.
- Fabric is sturdy and holds up well.
- A large base allows for bigger containers.
CONS:
- This version does not have additional pockets, but it does have a large main compartment. (see here for large PackIt with pocket)
- Because these lunch boxes are freezable they do tend to be a bit heavier.
- Takes up space in freezer.
2. Hydro Flask Tote Reusable Lunch Cooler
This Hydroflask lunch cooler and tote comes in various colors and sizes, making a perfect adult lunch box. Of course, with a brand like Hydroflask, you know it will keep your food cold all day (especially paired with the Hydroflask ice pack.)
PROS:
- Easy to clean with a wipeable interior and smooth shell on the outside.
- Water-resistant fabric, including waterproof zippers.
- Various colors and sizes available.
- Zipper pocket on the outside.
CONS:
- Some reviewers were disappointed with how the vegan leather held up.
- Some reviewers felt the handle straps weren’t long enough to put over the shoulder.
3. Weitars Lunch Bag for Women
This adorable lunch bag is not only stylish but incredibly functional. It has a large capacity main compartment, a water bottle pocket, and a front pocket, making it the perfect size for just about any situation.
NOTE: Weitars has a dual-compartment lunchbox available as well!
PROS:
- Large capacity main compartment
- Comes with an adjustable, removable shoulder strap
- Has a water bottle side pocket
CONS:
- Some reviewers were disappointed with how the strap held up.
- Does not keep food cold as well as some other options. Multiple ice packs are needed.
4. BeautyGoodies Lunch Bag
This is easily one of the most stylish lunch bags you could buy! It looks like a purse or designer tote and would be perfect to take to an office job.
PROS:
- Two sizes available. A water bottle will fit inside.
- Comes in tan, black, and pink.
- Waterproof and leakproof lining
- Looks just like a purse!
- Insulated
CONS:
- Some reviewers were disappointed with how it held up.
- Some reviewers expected it to be larger.
5. Scorlia Insulated Lunch Bag
This lunch tote is the perfect convertible 3 in 1 option. With a shoulder strap that can double as a backpack or tote handles and pockets galore this lunch bag is easily the most versatile option while still looking stylish.
PROS:
- Convertible 3 in 1 can be a backpack or shoulder strap
- Multiple pockets – including 2 side pockets, 2 front pockets, 1 back pocket
- Looks stylish
- Larger bag made of water-resistant material.
CONS:
- Some reviewers complain that the inside falls apart quickly
- The backpack feature is not as comfortable as a full-on backpack lunch box with dedicated straps.
6. Weitars Lunch Backpack
This unconventional backpack/lunchbox is perfect for consolidating down to 1 bag. A separate detachable lunchbox that fits inside the backpack allows you to carry all your gear on your back easily.
CONS:
- The lunch box part is not as large as some dedicated lunch bags if you need to carry more food.
7. Carhartt 2 Compartment Insulated Backpack Lunch Box
Another cooler backpack, this backpack actually has an attached cooler on the bottom. This would be a great lunch bag for any mom on the go with kids. If you routinely go on day trips or to the park for a picnic, this bag would be super handy!
PROS:
- The backpack design is comfortable and allows for easy carrying.
- The bottom compartment is insulated for your lunch/food.
- Water repellent fabric
- Different colors available
CONS:
- The backpack can pull in at the bottom when the cooler is empty since the shoulder straps are attached to this portion.
7. Kate Spade New York Lunch Tote
If designer bags are your thing, the Kate Spade Lunch tote is probably the way to go. This polka-dot lunch box is no doubt adorable. However, it is very simple and does not offer as much in terms of pockets or storage capacity.
Note: This other Kate Spade style is available in a variety of prints as well.
PROS:
- Designer lunch bag
- Wipeable inside liner
CONS:
- Small capacity – will not hold large bento box or food storage containers.
8. Vera Bradley Expandable Cooler
This Vera Bradley expandable cooler is a great lunch bag for women who love prints. It can be expanded by 2 inches with a zipper and features interior and exterior pockets.
While this option is easy to wipe, if you love the look of quilted Vera Bradley bags, they have cotton quilted lunch boxes; however, they are not as wipeable on the outside.
PROS:
- The expandable lunch box can be unzipped for an additional 2 inches of space.
- Wipeable and water-repellent fabric
- 2 exterior pockets, 1 interior pocket
- Various colors available
CONS:
- Some reviewers noted that the interior broke down quicker than expected.
9. Fit & Fresh Lunchbag
This spacious lunch bag even comes with containers for lunch. If meal prep and portions is your thing, this would be handy and allows for plenty of space for lunch and snacks.
PROS:
- Cute prints and designs are available.
- Includes food storage containers.
- Leakproof and water-resistant liner.
- Unzips to a large opening, making it easy to use the storage.
CONS:
- No water bottle holder or outside pockets.
10. Kavu Insulated Crossbody Cooler
I have been a long-time fan of Kavu crossbody bags, so when I saw they had an Insulated Cooler I was really excited!
Perfect for taking to work, the park, or a day trip, this cooler can make the perfect lunch bag for many women – whether headed to work or a day out with kids.
PROS:
- Cute prints and designs are available.
- Insulated and padded
- Larger bag to hold more food.
- Has an interior mesh pocket.
CONS:
- Ice packs are recommended, as well as additional insulation, if in a particularly hot spot.
11. VLM Lunch Bag for Women
This lunch bag is the most budget-friendly option for women. However, you are not sacrificing style or function for the affordable price!
PROS:
- Budget-friendly and affordable price.
- Multiple prints and colors available.
- Adjustable shoulder strap or short handle.
- Includes back zipper and 3 mesh pockets.
CONS:
- No water bottle pocket.
- Insulation is thin.
How to Maintain and Clean Your Lunch Bag
Keeping your lunch bag in top shape is easier than you think. Here’s how:
Regular Cleaning: Wipe down fabric bags with a damp cloth and follow care instructions before storing away.
Longevity: Avoid overstuffing to prevent strain or broken zippers.
FAQ About Finding The Best Lunch Boxes for Women
Time for some answers to those burning questions you might have about lunch bags. Let’s clear up the confusion and make your decision-making process a breeze:
1. Are these lunch bags machine washable? Good news! Many lunch bags are machine washable, but it’s crucial to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some might recommend spot cleaning or hand washing to maintain their shape and integrity.
2. Can I use these lunch bags for hot and cold foods? Most lunch bags are designed with insulation to keep your food at the right temperature. I definitely recommend using cold/ice packs or a food thermos to help assist in keeping your food at the correct temperature.
3. How do I choose the right size for my needs? Think about your typical lunch routine. Do you pack a full meal with multiple containers or opt for a light snack? Choose a size that accommodates your needs without feeling too bulky or too small.
4. Are there lunch bags that can double as a purse? You bet! Many lunch bags are designed with versatility in mind. Look for those with sleek designs and extra compartments – perfect for stashing your essentials and snacks all in one stylish package.
Now that we’ve covered these FAQs, you’re armed with the knowledge to choose the perfect lunch bag that suits your style, needs, and daily adventures. Happy lunching!
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