Remember how excited you would get for recess back in preschool or kindergarten? Whether it was because you couldn’t wait to munch on that special treat your mom or dad included in your lunchbox or it was just your favorite “subject” in general, we think we can all agree that it was the best part of the school day back then. But for the high schooler or college student, when you think of recess or lunchtime, cafeteria food and other unappetizing things come to mind. Don’t get us wrong, school lunches have definitely gotten better in the last few years. But we’d rather still pack our own lunch, you know?
Packing your own lunch is without a doubt one of the best choices you can make health-wise. Doing this gives you the option of selecting healthier food choices that will actually help you get through the day. It also helps save a few bucks and that’s always a plus.
If you’re bringing instead of buying, a stylish yet functional lunch tote is a must. Check out our roundup of cool insulated lunch bags that are sure to bring the fun and excitement back into bringing your own food to school or work.
[ Next: 17 Backpacks You Don’t Have to Head Back to School to Carry ]
Back to School Lunch Bags That Won't Make You Look like a Kindergartner
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Kate Spade New York
Strawberries Lunch Tote, $30 at Bloomingdale's
Carry your snacks and more in this designer lunch tote because why not? You can also opt to fill it with just desserts, just like it says on the front.
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Built NY
Gourmet Getaway Lunch Tote, $19.99 at Built NY
If you want something that can easily be tossed in the wash, this neoprene zipper tote is a cute and roomy bag that's perfect for the on-the-go snacker.
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State
Metallic Rodgers Lunch Box, $38 at Bloomingdale's
This shiny carrier features a fully insulated main compartment, a mesh interior you can keep silverware in and a pocket specifically for notes or pictures. Plus, for every bag sold, a fully stocked backpack will be donated to a local child in need.
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Fluf
Zipper Lunch Bag, $29.50 at Fluf
Simple yet still pretty stylish, this machine washable bag made with organic cotton will house all your rations, including that cute tumbler you can't live without.
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L.L.Bean
Lunch Box, $19.95 at L.L.Bean
If you're not a big fan of prints and like things plain, this lunch bag is a popular BPA-free option that features an ice pack pocket and promises to keep your food fresh and cold until it's finally time to feast.
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PackIt
Freezable Hampton Lunch Bag, $19.99 at PackIt
This easy-to-carry zipper bag is another nontoxic alternative that will keep your lunch cool and crisp for hours with its built-in freezable gel packs.
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Herschel Supply Co.
Unisex Camo Pop Quiz Lunch Box, $30 at Bloomingdale's
On days you don't feel like sharing (we don't judge), conceal your snacks in this super cute, insulated, camouflage print lunch bag and keep favorite homemade goodies safe AND fresh.
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Modern Picnic
Beige Luncher, $149 at Modern Picnic
Featuring premium vegan leather and an insulated interior with fork/spoon/knife slots, this lunch bag was designed for the chic and hungry.
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Fit & Fresh
Retro Insulated Lunch Bag, $11.99 at Target
Match your outfit with this stylish tote that's both elegant and versatile. It's compact yet roomy and will fit multiple containers, including a water bottle. It also features extra thick insulation and comes with a removable ice pack.
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Wonderful Flower
Insulated Lunch Bag, $15.66 at Amazon
This waterproof, easy-to-clean zipper bag is not too big or too small. It's just the right size to fit all of your yummies in.
