How to Pack a Better Lunch

You don’t need to settle for sad sandwiches and wilted salads for lunch. This episode,  Wirecutter kitchen editor Gabriella Gershenson explains how the right lunch box can help you pack a midday meal that you or your kids will actually be happy to tuck into. We discuss how to choose between bentos, insulated totes, salad containers, and thermoses for both kids and adults. Some boxes are better for upcycling leftover odds and ends, while others do a better job keeping your food at a safe temperature throughout the day. Plus, Gabriella shares her favorite ideas and resources for adding more joy to the lunch box—from DIY tinned fish hand rolls to sweet hand-written notes. This episode covers:Why the vessel dictates the lunch: Compartmentalized bento boxes can help you turn bits of leftovers into an appealing meal, salad bowls will keep the greens crisp, while insulated thermoses open up a world of hot lunches–no microwave needed! Keeping foods at safe temps: If you don’t have access to a refrigerator during the day, you may want to get an insulated tote and use freezer packs. Fun packing ideas: Inspiration from Molly Yeh's bento hacks (like date "snickers" with nut butter and sprinkles) and Ali Slagle's DIY tinned fish hand rolls. Products we recommend: A sturdy, spacious plastic bento box: Bentgo Fresh Lunch BoxA chic stackable bento: Takenaka Bento Bite DualA great stainless-steel bento:  Ecozoi Stainless Steel Leak-Proof Bento Lunch Box 3 CompartmentThe best food thermos: Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food JarThe best food thermos for kids: ThermoFlask Food JarA simple and stylish bag: Baggu Puffy Lunch BagA sturdy and roomy bag: Carhartt Insulated 12 Can Two Compartment Lunch CoolerA sleek and stylish lunch bowl: W&P Porter BowlA stainless-steel salad bowl: S’well Salad Bowl KitGreat for packing cold and hot lunches for kids: OmieBoxA book for inspiration: Love Japan: Everyday Lessons and Recipes for the Home Cook, , co-authored by Gabriella GershensonAdditional reading:The Best Kids Lunch BoxesThe 8 Best Lunch Boxes of 2026 This Pricey Kids Lunch Box Is Worth Every Penny The 5 Best Cottage Cheeses of 2026  We independently review