Back-to-school season means early alarms, shoe hunts, and packed lunches. To save sanity, we’ve shortlisted five kids’ lunch boxes UK parents actually rate for durability, leak resistance and easy clean-up.
Top 5 at a glance
| Product | Details | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Bento Max Junior Best Overall — 4 compartments + snack well; snap-tight seal; dishwasher-safe top rack. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5 from 2,000+ ratings) |
£19–£24 | View on Amazon |
 |
ChillMate Insulated Bag Best Value — Lightweight, wipe-clean liner, room for bottle + ice pack. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5 from 1,500+ ratings) |
£10–£14 | View on Amazon |
 |
LeakLock Bento 4 Best Leakproof — Silicone gasket + clamp latches; ideal for yogurt/fruit. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5 from 1,000+ ratings) |
£22–£28 | View on Amazon |
 |
SteelGo 2-Tier Best for Big Appetites — Stainless compartments, no plastic taste, tough as nails. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.6/5 from 800+ ratings) |
£24–£29 | View on Amazon |
 |
Snack Cub Mini Best for Little Ones — Tiny hands-friendly clips; perfect for nursery portions. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5 from 600+ ratings) |
£7–£10 | View on Amazon |
How to choose
Size & layout
For primary school, look for 3–4 compartments so sandwiches, fruit and snacks stay separate. Teens may prefer a simple 1–2 compartment box.
Leak protection
Silicone gaskets and clamp latches help with yogurts and chopped fruit. If you use sauces, keep a mini pot inside the main box.
Insulation & cleaning
Insulated bags keep things cool with an ice pack. Dishwasher-safe (top rack) saves faff on weeknights.
FAQs
Q: Are stainless boxes heavy?
A: Slightly, but they last longer and don’t retain odours.
Q: Bento vs. single compartment?
A: Bento keeps food neat for younger kids; single compartment is simpler for older ones.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission from Amazon UK links (tag markweb05-21). This doesn’t affect our picks.