Lunch Box Essentials

Grown-up Lunch Box Essentials will help you indulge in lunchtime like a kid. Find everything from adult lunch boxes to practical storage solutions.

Growing up, my mom packed my lunch for me. I realize not everyone was lucky to have a mother who did that, but I appreciate mine taking the time each morning to do so. From time to time she would tuck in little notes or surprises like a favorite candy. And on the occasion when my mom was away, my dad would pack my lunch for me — usually a Lunchable or something, but it’s the thought that counts. (Sometimes he even included a note, too. So sweet.)

Packed lunches totally aren’t just for kids! I usually eat lunch at home these days but I still think it’s a good idea to pack a lunch. Especially when I have freelance work offsite but also when I am working at home and just want to make sure I eat during a particularly busy day. Whether it’s making a sandwich with some fresh fruit or just heating up last night’s leftovers, lunches are important and are not to be skipped. Lunch can even be glamorous and make you feel indulgent, even if your mom isn’t around to sneak in an extra cookie or slip in a note.

Here are my best ideas for packing cute, grown-up lunches that might even make you feel like a kid again. These lunch box essentials include cover everything from food storage to lunch fashion. And if you need help deciding what to actually pack, well, try these adult lunchbox shortcuts or these healthy school lunch ideas. // susannah 

1. Metallic Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Water Bottle by S’well // 2. Re(Zip) 5-Piece Reusable Storage Bag Set by Blue Avocado // 3. 16-Ounce Stainless Steel Food Jar by Thermos // 4. Garden Lunch Box by REX // 5. Original Bento Box in Fuschia by Monbento // 6. To-Go Salad Dressing Container by Crate & Barrel // 7. Gourmet Bento Slim Lunch Ice Pack by BUILT NY // 8. “The Little Book of Lunch: 100 Recipes & Ideas to Reclaim the Lunch Hour” by Caroline Craig & Sophie Missing // 9. Cutlery Set With Pouch by Trudeau // 10. Kid’s Kitty Lunch Box by J. Crew // 11. Snap Tab 8-Piece Food Storage Set by Honey-Can-Do // 12. Silver Dots Plastic Wrap Dispenser by Chicwrap