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Back to school means packing lunches, which is no easy task at times. I’ve already shared with you a few of my tips for packing a healthy lunch but what about an Eco-friendly lunch? A lunch that doesn’t require a disposable baggies, juice boxes, water bottles and storage containers. With the average person generating 4.3 pounds of waste a day, it’s important that we all do our part in reducing that number, as much as we can.
Starting with simple steps, like packing a more Eco-friendly lunch box. Moreover, did you know that waste free lunch boxes could actually save you money?
An estimated $246.60 a year, in fact! It’s true and if you’re wondering where to start, check out Waste Free Lunches – they have all sorts of inspirational lunch menus and ideas for getting started.
In the meantime, here are a few of my top solutions for creating a more eco-friendly lunchbox this school year. I have recommended a few of my favorite products and their highlights, all available on Amazon.com. (Please visit my disclaimer, this post does include affiliate links.)
Container & Bento Boxes
LunchBots

You gotta love a lunchbox that is not only 100% enviromentally friendly but also takes into account our needs as parents. With cool dividers for snacks and other things, as well as being dishwasher friendly, I am sold on it for sure.
- Plastic cover
- Dishwasher safe
- Stainless steel body, best for dry foods or leakage can occur
- Come in multiple colors
EasyLunchBoxes

With no BPA, PVC, or phthalates this lunchbox is thinking about our kids health. And, the dividers in this are a little better if you want to include a sandwich for lunch. Here are a few other important points:
- Not for liquids, just dry foods
- Easy open lids in many colors
- Portion control for kid’s packing their own lunches
- Lightweight & Stackable
- Freezable
- Dishwasher safe
Bentgo Kids

This lunchbox from Bentgo is made to divide up snacks into portions, but won’t suit anyone wanting the full space and freedom to choose what goes in a lunchbox. The rubber edges and the overall security of the latches make this a robust option.
- Leak-proof
- Dishwasher and microwave safe tray
- Portion control
- Kid friendly latches
- Dry or liquid goods
Reusable Baggies and Snack Packs
Not everyone wants a lunchbox, or you might also want to separately pack specific things in a lunch box or bag, right? That is why I have included this section on baggies and snack packs. It gives you lots more options for how you pack your kids lunch.
Fresh Baby 3-Piece MyPlate Reusable Sandwich and Snack Bags
No products found.A great way to buy bags once and re-use over and over. These are super strong and washable.
- Reusable
- Washable
- Tips for kids to pack healthy snacks and sandwiches themselves
Insulated Reusable Sandwich Bags

These easy to use ziplock bags are great for two reasons. They are environmentally friendly and insulated. So, they help keep those perishables fresh until lunch time.
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
- Insulated
BlueAvocado Re-Zip Storage Bags

Another double ziplock option that is also PVC, BPA and Lead free. They can also be used in the freezer if need be.
- Reusable
- Easy to seal
- Freezer safe
Lunch Box Sets
Maybe you need more than just a lunchbox or set of bags for your chlid’s lunchtime treats. That is where lunch box sets came into play. Below are a few options I found that will hopefully suit your needs. See what you think.
Trudeau Insulated Lunch Bag Set
No products found.- Reusable cutlery, thermos, snack jar and sandwich bag with insulated lunch box
- All in one solution
Nucucina Slim Bento Box Set
No products found.Smart design with a carry bag and cutlery. I might even use this for my lunches on the go.
- All in one, includes lunch box, bento box and cutlery
- Slim design
- Leak proof- can use with liquids and dry goods
- Easy to clean- dishwasher safe
- Reusable & Microwave safe
Water Bottles
Kids have to stay hydrated at school too and these drink bottles are the perfect option. Some are also insulated, so you can keep the water (or any other drink) cold in summer (or hot in winter if you like).
Hydro Flask 12oz Kids Insulated Bottle
No products found.Smart design with a carry bag and cutlery. I might even use this for my lunches on the go.
- Sized just right for kids
- Insulated to keep hot and cold drinks going for hours
- Leak proof which is perfect for kids school bags
- Easy to clean- dishwasher safe
- Lots of cool kids colors, including pink
Contigo Trekker Kid’s Water Bottle
No products found.Contigo make super smart drink bottle solutions that I absolutely love. They have concentrated on making things easy to use, easy to drink from and leak free.
- Three Pack
- BPA Free
- Top rack dishwasher safe
- Leak and spill proof
2-Pack Collapsible Water Bottle

These BPA and lead-free collapsable bags are great for when you need to save space. They are also freezable and just the right size for kids – 10oz.
- Freezable
- Foldable
- BPA Free
- 10 ounces
- Can attach to backpack
Little Hands
Sometimes the little ones need a place to store their food too. Here are a few options for you.
So Easy Divided Dish

This stainless steel PP Polypropylene, BPA, Lead, Melamine, and Phalate Free box has 3 divider placements to give you lots of size options.
- A bento style box for little ones
- Spill proof
- Easy to Clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel Cutlery with Case
No products found.This lead free, BPA and phthalate free and dishwasher safe kids cutlery set also comes with some cut food pictures on the ends.
- Great for on the go
- Dishwasher safe
- 3 years and older
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