The Right Stuff: Shop top back-to-school picks for lunch essentials
We're helping you get a head start on back-to-school shopping this week with "The Right Stuff."
Back-to-school season calls for gear that's durable, functional and kid-approved. Whether packing lunch for a preschooler or a tween, these smart picks make mealtime easier.
For example, Crate & Kids' dual-compartment lunch box is built for busy mornings with easy-clean materials and compartments to separate food.
If you are shopping for older kids, they can benefit from PackIt's freezable lunchbox, which keeps food fresh without an ice pack. Hydration is covered for back to school with the trending Owala's 16-ounce FreeSip water bottle.
These essentials listed below make lunchtime a breeze -- scroll on to shop now.
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Little kid lunch box
This soft-sided lunch box has dual compartments, an interior divider for organization and easy-wipe recycled materials that are perfect for busy mornings.

Dreamer Sherbet Hopscotch Dual Compartment Soft Insulated Kids Lunch Box
- $27.20
- $34
- Crate & Kids
Editor's note: The Dreamer Sherbet Hopscotch lunch box is currently sold out, but we've selected a similar item to shop below.

Older kid lunch box
This freezable lunch bag features built-in ice packs to keep food cool for hours -- just freeze it overnight, pack and go.

Water bottle
With a spill-proof lid, built-in straw, and 24-hour cold insulation, this stainless-steel bottle keeps kids hydrated wherever they go.

Snack containers
These stackable, click-together snack containers offer three compartments and a sleek design that fits easily into any bag.

Snack bags
Grease-resistant and recyclable, these eco-friendly sandwich bags seal with a strip to lock in freshness on the go.

Portable stainless steel cutlery set
This compact cutlery set is perfect for lunchboxes -- no more plastic forks! It's reusable, dishwasher-safe and comes in a handy travel case, so it's ready for everything from pasta to fruit salad.

Scratch-off lunchbox notes
Add a little midday surprise with these fun notes -- each card hides a message under a scratch-off sticker. Whether it's a joke, encouragement, or just a "have a great day," it's a sweet way to connect during the school day.

24 Scratch-off Lunchbox Notes // Back to school, lunch box note, first day of school gift, kids lunches
- $18
- Etsy
OmieBox bento box for kids
This all-in-one bento box keeps hot foods hot and cold foods cold -- side by side -- thanks to its built-in thermos and separate insulated compartments. Leakproof seals prevent mixing or spills, making soggy sandwiches a thing of the past.
With customizable sections, it's perfect for picky eaters or adventurous snackers -- and it's easy to clean, with replaceable parts that make this a lunchbox built to last.

OmieBox Bento Box for Kids - Insulated Bento Lunch Box with Leak Proof Thermos Food Jar - 3 Compartments, Two Temperature Zones - Pink Berry by OmieLife
- $49.95
- Walmart




