travel containers to keep food warm

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• What to Buy
• Glassware & Drinkware

We Tested the Best Hot Food Thermoses for a Great Meal Anywhere

Rachel Werner is a writer and author whose work has appeared in Fabulous Wisconsin, Entrepreneurial Chef, and the book "Wisconsin Cocktails."

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

• How We Tested
• What to Look for

Hiking and Camping Thermos Tips

Why trust the spruce eats.

The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas

When you're always on the go, it's easy to get into the habit of stopping for a quick-service meal, but relying on fast food can also add up—both calorie- and money-wise. With the right storage containers, taking homemade food along to the office, school, or even on a hiking trail is a cinch.

To help find one that suits your needs, we researched top products suitable for packing up leftovers or make-ahead meals , as well as dishes to add to the kids' lunch boxes . We tested to see how long our best models would keep hot food warm and cold drinks chilled.

Best Overall

Thermos stainless king food jar with spoon.

Retains heat well

Firm seal prevents leaks

Includes full-size spoon

Plastic laminate gradually peels off

Not microwave-safe

Thanks to an uber-tight seal, the Thermos King is touted as having maximum temperature retention for hot and cold food—and it stood up to those claims to earn our best overall spot. That's all thanks to the insulation from two walls of stainless steel. The fact that the lid is designed to be used as a bowl in tandem with the included standard-sized stainless steel folding spoon adds to the convenience and overall value.

Thermos King states this thermos can keep liquids hot for nine hours and cold for up to 14 hours, so we put that claim to the test in our kitchen. We filled all 16 ounces with freshly made mac and cheese and opened the thermos every hour to see if the temperature remained consistent. It wasn't until the ninth hour that the temperature dipped. (If you want to heat something up again, take it out of this thermos beforehand as it isn't microwave-safe.) Additionally, it excelled at keeping water ice-cold: We still observed ice cubes after 14 hours in the thermos.

To test durability, we intentionally dropped the thermos and noted that it wasn't damaged in any way. Also, its wide mouth is useful for eating straight from the container, and when you need to quickly hand-wash it. Each component of this model can safely be washed in the top rack of your dishwasher, allowing easy upkeep for busy professionals on the go. After using this one long-term, we did notice the plastic laminate peeling away.

Capacity: 16 ounces | Heat Retention: Up to 9 hours | Cold Retention: Up to 14 hours

• PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas

Best for Kids

Thermos foogo vacuum insulated stainless steel jar.

Dishwasher safe

Easy-to-grip rubber lid

Wide mouth is easy to eat from

Lid seal needs occasional deep cleaning

Ergonomically designed with kids in mind, the BPA-free Foogo is a favorite with parents, as its cool-to-the-touch 10-ounce body is the perfect size for a kid's lunch . The base and lid are made of rubber to make the jar easier to grip for smaller hands, too. Other perks include cost efficiency and a tough body that is resistant to scratches.

We like the double-wall insulation and its compact size since adults can also use this for hot sides and drinks. But during testing, we focused on one of the most important aspects of a thermos: How long will it keep your food hot? Thermos claims that this keeps food warm for up to five hours, which it fell a bit short of in tests (we don't think that's a deal-breaker, though!). Mac and cheese only stayed hot for two hours, was still warm enough to eat at four hours, and needed to be microwaved (in a separate container) by hour five. When it came to cold liquids, it did live up to its nine-hour claim, with ice cubes still present after a full workday.

One thing to note: After running the lid through the dishwasher there was food still in the lid and gasket, so you're better off washing it by hand.

Capacity: 10 ounces | Heat Retention: Up to 5 hours | Cold Retention: Up to 7 hours

Best for Young Kids

Thermos 10-ounce funtainer food jar.

Available in a variety of colors and themes

Hand-wash only

Too small for older kids and adults

Kids will adore the array of colors and character themes the Funtainer comes in. More importantly, a wide brim makes eating less challenging for little ones getting the hang of using utensils, and the stay-cool exterior won't harm their hands. Best of all, it's lightweight and compact enough for little hands to open and carry in their lunch box .

It's imperative to strictly adhere to the instructions for use, such as warming the interior with hot water for five to 10 minutes before adding any food that will be eaten later. We found that when we did, this kept hot food warm for five hours, even if it was opened every hour to test the temperature. It also kept cold beverages cool for seven hours, with ice cubes still visible at the end of the test.

Cleaning is a bit tricky. Washing the interior of the lid does require a sponge and some detailing by hand. This also isn't the best option for older kids or adults—it holds around 10 ounces of food or liquid, which is about 1.25 cups.

Best for Travel

Fewoo 27 oz vacuum insulated stainless steel lunch thermos.

Large capacity

Impressive heat retention

Built-in bowl

Susceptible to dents when dropped

For taking your food on outdoor adventures with peace of mind, consider this highly-rated thermos. The 18/8 stainless steel interior ensures no flavor transfer or lingering odors, and the 27-ounce capacity is plenty for your soups or on-the-go meals. Our favorite part is the handy insulated bag it comes with: This not only protects your container during transport, but it also extends the heat retention of your thermos and its contents. 

The FEWOO thermos demonstrated impressive heat retention in testing. After five hours, the soup inside was still plenty hot, and the outer lid made for a convenient bowl to eat from. The inner lid has a button for releasing air pressure to make it easier to open, too. When closed, the silicone sealing ring ensures no liquids or smells leak out of the container, which is key for long travels as it gets bumped around in your backpack.

This thermos can be a little unwieldy to carry when full, so we recommend using two hands when picking it up and using the insulated bag if you’re traveling with it. When purposely dropped from counter height, the outer lid sustained a small dent, so you’ll want to be a little careful when handling it. The large opening makes the thermos easy to fill and clean, and while it’s not necessarily practical for bringing to and from the office, we could see it getting some good use on a campout.

Capacity: 27 ounces | Heat Retention: Up to 12 hours | Cold Retention: Up to 12 hours

• PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Abigail Demarest

Best Budget

Simple modern vacuum insulated food jar thermos for hot food.

Sleek design

Matte finish doesn’t show streaks or fingerprints

Difficult for eating chunky soups and stews

Look to Simple Modern’s Vacuum Insulated Food Jar Thermos for a leakproof and sweatproof vessel on the cheap. Thanks to the wide opening at the top, it’s very easy to clean, and the rubber ring inside of the lid can be removed for more adequate scrubbing to prevent mold accumulation. The accompanying handle makes it easy to carry around, and the premium food-grade stainless steel is rust-resistant. 

In testing, this thermos proved to be sturdy and reliable. It did not leak when we filled it with water and turned it on its side, and when intentionally dropped from counter height, it didn’t get a single scratch or dent. It kept Italian wedding soup hot for more than five hours, and the top handle proved useful in screwing the lid off and on and carrying it around.

This holds a decent amount of food without being unwieldy, and it’s a solid everyday option for enjoying a warm lunch on the go. For less than $20, you get a well-designed, attractive thermos that does the job, with a matte finish that doesn’t show fingerprints or streaks. The only limitation we found was that the depth of the thermos made it slightly difficult to eat chunkier soups or stews, as getting to the very bottom with a spoon can be tricky.

Capacity: 16 ounces | Heat Retention: Up to 8 hours | Cold Retention: Up to 24 hours

For a decently sized thermos that will keep foods, such as soup, stew, and pasta, warm for up to an impressive nine hours, look no further than the Thermos Stainless Steel King Food Jar . Kids, on the other hand, will love the fun colors and cool touch of the wide-mouthed Thermos Foogo Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Food Jar .

How We Tested Hot Food Thermoses

Based on extensive online research of available models, we chose a collection of hot food thermoses to purchase and send to our experienced home testers, who filled, sealed, and even intentionally dropped each container to test its effectiveness and durability. We took the temperature of hot food and the measure of the container’s size and shape for packability. We also rated each thermos on design, performance, functionality, and overall value.

We Observed

• How well the thermoses sealed: Before adding any food to a thermos, we filled it to capacity with water to check for leaks. Each thermos was sealed tightly and then tilted on its side onto a kitchen towel. It sat for five minutes before we checked for wet spots on the fabric.
• How hot (and cold) food stayed in the thermoses: A thermos was filled to the brim with a variety of hot foods, from soup to stew to mac and cheese. We checked the contents’ initial temperature using an instant read thermometer , sealed the thermos tightly, and checked hourly for five hours to see when and how much the temperature dropped. We tested in the same way with iced beverages.
• How durable the thermoses were—even when dropped: We intentionally let every thermos fall from counter height to the floor while empty. Any damage to the body or lid was noted, including scratches and dings. We looked beyond the cosmetics for bent edges that prevented a lid from being tightened or an uneven bottom that kept the thermos from sitting flat.
• Design and functionality: In terms of design, we considered body and lid materials, including whether they are user- and environment-friendly. How smoothly the lid screwed on and off was noted, along with whether the overall size, shape, and mouth opening made a thermos easy or difficult to fill, pack in a lunch bag, and clean. Bonus accessories like a spoon or insulating bag were considered, too.
• Performance: Beyond testing each thermos’s seal and ability to hold heat, we looked at other characteristics that made it perform better or worse than its competitors. When filling a thermos, we noted how easy it was to pour in a soup or stew. We not only checked for leaks but also recorded how badly or how well a thermos held its contents when flipped on its side.
• Value: After testing was complete, we revealed the price of each product to decide whether the thermos was a good value for its price, overpriced, or underpriced based on its performance.

What to Look for in a Hot Food Thermos

Food thermoses tend to be shorter and wider than drink thermoses. This is so you're able to pour contents, such as soup, into the flask—and eat out of it as well. Most have a twist-on lid, which helps prevent spills. Some thermoses will have additional seals or interior lids for further spill protection. 

Stainless steel is the preferred material for thermoses. It won’t absorb color or scent from hot food that is stored in it for a long time and cleans easily. An inner flask is surrounded by a partial vacuum that won't conduct heat away from the flask, keeping the contents warm. An outer case, usually also steel, allows you to hold the container without condensation or burning your hand. The outer case may also be treated with a coating or surrounded by plastic. 

Even inexpensive models tend to be vacuum-seal stainless steel. However, the vacuum-seal method can be used with other materials like glass and plastic. Because they are not as durable as stainless steel, they are not recommended. 

The size of a thermos largely depends on what you want to use it for. Most thermoses for adults tend to be around 16 ounces, and ones for children are a little smaller. The food will cool down faster if there is excess air in the thermos, so if you want your food to stay hot for several hours, you'll want to use the best size thermos for the amount of food you're putting in it. If you just want the option for a small soup bowl at lunch, you can go with 10 ounces or smaller. If you want to carry a hearty meal in your flask, 16 ounces is likely the better fit. 

Thermoses tend to be fairly affordable, and you can typically expect to get a long-lasting one for somewhere between $15 and $30. The more expensive models may boast more fun colors, an extra-strong seal in the lid, or certain accessories, but they all will use the same stainless steel vacuum-sealed design. 

Ease of Cleaning

A stainless steel thermos is relatively easy to clean up. Because it won’t absorb scent or color from your food, you can treat it like you would any other dirty dish and wash it with soap and water. Many thermoses are dishwasher safe but not all. This isn’t because of the material but the construction: Dishwashers may mess up the vacuum seal. Interior lids and other accessories, like collapsible forks, may also require additional hand-washing to get rid of built-up grime. 

Hot food thermoses are handy to have around any time, but they can be necessities on hiking and camping adventures. We talked to Kate Bast , nature and forest therapy guide and founder of Shinrin-Yoku Madison , who offered some tips for taking thermoses beyond the classroom or office.

• Hydration : On hot days, Bast recommends hikers bring at least twice as much water as they think they need, even if that means bringing two or more thermoses. She also suggests adding hydration packets to water or filling a thermos with fruits that have high water content, such as watermelon, which can be frozen the night before to maximize coolness. On chilly days, Bast carries one thermos with room-temperature water and another containing a hot or warm beverage.
• Sustenance : "Think about the sustenance you'll need to match your exertion levels and what will be most digestible," Bast says. Her go-to hot beverages include apple or pear slices steeped in cider with maple syrup, white pine tea, and spruce needle tea. For hot food, Bast suggests bone broth , veggie broth, or other soups that you can add proteins to. For something heartier, she suggests a casserole or stew.
• Snow Days : "If you happen to be in a snowy situation after you've consumed your hot thermos items, fill it with clean snow. The residual warmth will help melt it ensuring you have more water at the ready."
• Quantity : "Always have another thermos or two [in the car] of what you brought into nature with you," Bast says. "You'll be glad to have it and be more likely to consume what you need on the trail knowing there's more waiting at the trail's end." 

Is the brand Thermos trademarked?

Thermos is synonymous with the product it produces—thermoses. But unlike Kleenex and Tupperware, Thermos has not been able to maintain the trademark on the term "thermos." The Thermos company , first started in Germany, was the first to figure out how to take industrial vacuum-sealing techniques and apply them for home use. Today, Thermos makes a wide range of insulated containers, from beverage flasks and mugs to coolers and lunch boxes. 

How do I choose what type of thermos to get?

Before purchasing a thermos, narrow down a preferred size and what it will most frequently be used for. This could range from beverages, like coffee and tea, to meals that need to survive a long day and transport to after-school clubs and sports practices. Perhaps durability is the top concern for long outdoor treks. Check customer reviews to read common raves and complaints about each manufacturer’s products.

How does a thermos work?

Using a stainless steel vacuum-sealed design, an inner flask maintains contents at a consistent temperature, since warm or cold air cannot easily penetrate or escape from the flask. The outer material, usually made of hard plastic or steel, allows the thermos to be comfortably held and transported without liquid leaking out.

How long do thermoses keep contents hot or cold?

High-quality thermal flasks can keep food and beverages warm for as long as a full 24 hours. More economical brands will typically retain the original temperature of contents for four to six hours.

Rachel Werner teaches culinary writing through Hugo House and has been selecting food-based businesses for editorial coverage for over six years. Her product and restaurant reviews, food styling, and photography have appeared in a variety of regional and national publications including Fabulous Wisconsin, BRAVA, and Hobby Farms Magazine. For this roundup, she interviewed Kate Bast , nature and forest therapy guide and founder of Shinrin-Yoku Madison .

Abigail Abesamis Demarest is a freelance journalist who specializes in food and drink content. She tested three of the thermoses in this roundup to see how well they kept food warm, if they were leakproof, and how durable they were.

• Kate Bast , nature and forest therapy guide and founder of Shinrin-Yoku Madison

Up to 50% Off

Get immediate access to our clearance department where products are discounted by up to 50% only available to our customers and subscribers

Join Our FREE 7-Day "Journey to Zero Waste" Email Course

Our 7-Day "Journey to Zero Waste" email course helps you take the first steps towards a greener lifestyle. Each day, you’ll get easy, actionable tips right in your inbox.

You'll also receive our FREE guide, "53 Eco-Friendly Swaps That You Can Start Today." where you can discover simple changes that make a big environmental impact!

We'll also add you to our mailing list where you'll receive awesome offers, tips and advice only available to our customers and subscribers

• Search for:

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

• Delivery from £1.99 | Free £50+ | 24h/48h options
• Free 28 day no quibble returns
• Price match guarantee
• Natural Soap Bars
• Eco Friendly Lunch Boxes
• Glass Water Bottles
• Reusable Coffee Cups
• Stainless Steel Water Bottles
• Home & Garden
• Dental Care
• Gifts & Boxes
• Our Eco Blog

   Fast, Secure Delivery - from £1.99 / Free £50+

  Go Zero Waste Today -  000's of Quality Products

  Free Returns - 28 Day No Quibble Guarantee

  Fast, Secure Delivery From £1.99 / Free £50+

Go Zero Waste Today 000's of Quality Products

  Free Returns 28 Day No Quibble Guarantee

  Fast, Secure Delivery - from £1.99 / Free £50+

  Go Zero Waste Today -  000's of Quality Products

  Free Returns - 28 Day No Quibble Guarantee

Keep Food Warm When Transporting – 21 Easy Ways

At various times in my life, I’ve needed to transport hot food. From camping trips with my children to delivering hearty meals to elderly parents I’ve used many hacks to ensure the dishes I’ve cooked arrive hot and ready to eat.

You can keep food warm when transporting in various ways from Insulated food containers and electric lunch boxes to heated car seats and hot water bottles. Each method retains warmth for different durations so it’s important to pick the one that suits your needs.

As well as the hacks I already knew about I decided to research the topic in more detail. I was surprised to find how many options there really were so I tested as many options as I could, some of which involved me borrowing a car from friends that had heated seats.

So in this article, I share my experiences and my 21 innovative ways to keep your food warm while on the move.

I’ve also summarised the heat retention properties of each method in a table at the end of the article .

1. Insulated Food Containers (4 hours)

• Double-Walled Insulation Keeps Food Hot For 6
• Lightweight And Easy To Carry
• Composed Of 18/8 Premium Food-Grade Stainless Steel
• Bpa/Bps-Free
• Condensation-Free Exterior And A Leak-Free Lid

Our Rating: 9.1/10

I began my journey with insulated food containers, as they are designed specifically for this purpose.

I tested two brands and found that the duration of warmth preservation depends on the container’s quality with the best one keeping food warm for around 4 hours.

Insulated food containers are designed with one primary purpose in mind – to keep food warm for extended periods.

These containers typically come in various sizes and are equipped with thermal insulation that effectively retains the heat of your dishes.

They are a versatile option, suitable for various types of food, from soups and stews to casseroles and pasta.

What I found was to maximize the effectiveness of insulated food containers, I preheated them before adding my hot dishes.

This made all the difference.

Preheating ensures that the initial heat loss is minimal, helping your food stay warm for up to four hours.

These containers are particularly useful for family picnics, potlucks, or longer journeys.

2. Preheated Oven Method (2 hours)

The preheated oven method is a straightforward but effective way to keep your dishes warm during transportation.

I tested this method by wrapping my dish in aluminium foil which I then placed in an oven set at 200°F (93°C).

This method kept the food warm for a surprising 2 hours.

While this method may not offer the longest duration of warmth retention, I find it very useful for shorter trips or when I need to keep food warm for just a couple of hours.

Top Tip: It’s essential to ensure your dish is well wrapped in foil to prevent heat loss. Additionally, using an oven thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy is a good practice.

I find that the preheated oven method is suitable for dishes like roasted meats, baked goods, or casseroles.

I would just keep in mind though that the oven should be preheated to the appropriate temperature for your specific dish to maintain its optimal quality.

3. Hot Water Bath (1.5 hours)

Using a hot water bath is a practical method to keep your food warm when transporting it short distances. This method involves placing your dish in a larger container filled with hot water, which acts as a natural insulator.

For this test, I placed my dish in a larger container which was filled with hot water from the kettle and covered it with a lid.

It kept the food warm for 1.5 hours.

What I find is that this method works best for dishes that should be kept moist and don’t require excessive heat to stay warm, such as lasagna or pasta dishes.

This is another method to use for transporting food over shorter distances.

One thing to note is that it’s a straightforward and budget-friendly solution.

Slow cooker transport bags are tailor-made for carrying slow-cooked dishes while keeping them warm and secure.

4. Slow Cooker Transport Bags (3 hours)

• Lined With A Padded Insulated Aluminum Foil Lining
• 2 Layer Extra-Large Capacity
• 2 Options For Carrying, Strap & Handles
• Perfect For Camping, Picnic, Family Gatherings, & Office Pot-Lucks
• Sturdy Hard Insert For Supporting The Bottom Of The Bag

Our Rating: 8.8/10

These bags feature thick insulation to maintain the heat of your dishes, and they often come with safety straps and handles for easy and comfortable carrying.

To test the slow cooker transport bag method I placed my hot dish inside the slow cooker, ensuring it was turned off.

Then, I carefully positioned the slow cooker inside the bag and secured it with the straps.

The thick insulation and sealable lid of the bag helped to keep the heat trapped inside, maintaining the dish’s warmth for up to three hours.

I find this method is especially convenient for people who frequently prepare slow-cooked meals for loved ones, parties, or family gatherings.

It ensures that your food remains at a safe and delicious temperature, allowing you to transport your dishes without the stress of them cooling down prematurely.

• Made Of High-Quality Tear And Water-Resistant Oxford Fabric
• Leakproof & Thermal Insulated
• Comes With A Detachable And Adjustable Shoulder Strap
• Modern And Lightweight Design
• Great For Packing All Of Your Food And Snacks For The Entire Day

5. Insulated Lunch Bags (1.5 hours)

I always thought that insulated lunch bags were traditionally associated with carrying sandwiches and snacks to keep them cool but of course, they can also serve as a suitable option for keeping your hot dishes warm during shorter journeys.

While their insulation isn’t as robust as that of some other methods, in my tests the lunch bag still provided around 1.5 hours of warmth preservation.

To test the insulated lunch bag, I simply placed my hot dish inside and sealed it tightly.

This method is ideal for dishes that require only short-term warmth retention, such as hot sandwiches, pasta, or small servings of soup and whilst they may not keep food warm as long as some other methods, They are a handy choice for quick trips and casual gatherings.

One important thing to note is that these bags are available in various sizes, which makes them a practical option for individuals who often transport their meals to school, work, or picnics.

Top Tip: For longer journeys, consider pairing the insulated bag with another method such as the insulated food container method to extend the duration of warmth retention.

6. Aluminum Foil and Towels (1.5 hours)

This method is a simple yet effective DIY solution where you wrap your hot dish in aluminium foil and then insulate it with kitchen towels.

To test this method, I started by placing my hot dish on a sheet of aluminium foil and wrapping it up tightly.

This is an important step as it helps to trap the initial heat.

Then I wrapped the foil-covered dish in clean kitchen towels and secured them with rubber bands.

This is another approach that is most effective for short-distance transport of dishes like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or bread rolls.

While it may not be the best choice for maintaining warmth over longer journeys,

I find it’s a budget-friendly and easy option when I need to ensure my dishes stay warm during a casual gathering or meal sharing event with friends.

7. Heated Bricks (2 hours)

Using heated bricks as a heat-retaining method might not be the most common approach, but I found it surprisingly effective.

By preheating bricks in the oven and then wrapping them in aluminium foil, you can create portable heat sources to keep your food warm.

For this test, I preheated bricks in my oven at 350°F (177°C) for around 30 minutes.

Once heated, I carefully wrapped them in aluminium foil, making sure they were well insulated. This is an important step to ensure you don’t burn yourself.

Then, I placed the wrapped bricks in a cooler and positioned them around my hot dish, securing everything to reduce the possibility of heat loss.

Although you might think I’m crazy the heated bricks method is particularly useful for longer journeys, picnics, or outdoor events where access to electricity or other heating sources may be limited.

With the right precautions and proper insulation, this method can keep your food warm for approximately 2 hours, ensuring your dishes maintain their flavour and temperature.

This is also an incredibly useful method for when you’re camping, you simply heat the brick on a fire rather than in the oven.

8. Portable Food Warmers (3+ hours)

• Maintains The Moisture And Freshness Of The Food
• 80W Fast Heating
• 1.5L Capacity + 0.45L Compartment
• Supports 110V Home/Office +12V Car And 24V Truck Use
• Grab-And-Go Carry Handle

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Portable food warmers are an excellent investment for those who frequently need to transport hot meals such as those caring for a loved one.

These great little devices come in various designs, such as heated trays, electric lunch boxes , and heated lunch bags, and each comes with its unique features.

I found the most common type by far is the electric lunch box.

I decided to test this option.

I simply plugged the lunch box into the 12V power socket in my car, positioned my dish in the box, and set my desired temperature.

In this test, the electric lunch box maintained the food temperature for over 3 hours.

I find this method suitable for a wide range of dishes such as hot sandwiches and wraps.

It’s particularly convenient for occasions like office lunches, picnics..

Top Tip: Portable food warmers come in various sizes and styles, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

9. DIY Heat Packs (2 hours)

Next up is the DIY heat packs using uncooked rice and a cloth bag.

I find this an ingenious way to maintain the warmth of your dishes while transporting them.

It’s definitely a budget-friendly option, and it’s surprisingly effective.

To make a DIY heat pack, I simply take a clean, heatproof cloth bag and fill it with uncooked rice.

I then Heat the rice-filled bag in the microwave for a few minutes until it reaches my desired temperature.

Top Tip: Make sure to secure the bag properly.

after heating I place it alongside my hot dish, wrapping both together in a towel or small blanket.

During my testing, this method kept my food warm for approximately 2 hours.

It’s perfect for dishes like curry, rice, or any meals that don’t require extremely high temperatures to remain appealing.

The DIY heat pack is particularly useful when you need to transport your food for a short to medium distance.

10. Towel Wrap (1 hour)

If you’re only transporting food short distances this is the simplest method I tested.

I found that this method provided warmth retention for approximately 1 hour.

To use this method, place your hot dish inside an insulated container, if available, or a covered casserole dish.

Next, wrap the entire container in clean kitchen towels, ensuring there are no gaps for heat to escape.

Secure the towels with rubber bands or similar.

Personally, I find the towel wrap method more of a last-minute solution for when you don’t have access to a better option or you’re in a rush.

It’s ideal for dishes like baked potatoes, roasted vegetables, or bread, which can still be enjoyed when served at slightly lower temperatures.

While it may not provide the longest duration of warmth retention, it’s certainly better than transporting your dishes without any insulation, especially in cases where maintaining some warmth is essential for the food’s quality and safety.

11. Thermal Blankets (2 hours)

Another very odd method but worth considering if you can get your hands on some thermal blankets

Thermal blankets are typically used for medical purposes to maintain a patient’s body temperature.

However, they can be repurposed to keep your dishes warm when transporting them.

I find that in order to use thermal blankets effectively, it’s best to wrap your hot dish in aluminium foil first to trap the initial heat.

Once you have your foil-wrapped dish, place it inside the thermal blanket and secure it with safety pins or clips.

Based on my research the insulating properties of the thermal blanket will help keep your food warm for approximately 2 hours.

This method is particularly useful for dishes that need to be served hot and moist, such as lasagna or casseroles. It’s also handy for dishes that you need to transport a short distance.

While not the most common method, it’s a reliable option when you need to maintain warmth without using electricity or more specialized equipment.

12. Heated Seat Covers (2 hours)

Sorry, this product could not be found.

Heated seat covers, typically used in cars during cold weather, can also serve as a method to keep food warm when transporting it.

These covers are designed to provide warmth and comfort to the people sitting in them, however, I’ve found they are surprisingly effective for maintaining the temperature of your dishes during shorter journeys especially if you are delivering meals locally.

To use heated seat covers for this purpose, first, ensure your dish is securely covered with aluminium foil to minimize heat loss.

Then, place the dish on the heated seat cover, ensuring that it’s turned on and if possible adjust the temperature as required.

In my testing I found that the heated seat cover I used kept my dish warm for approximately 2 hours, making it a practical option for short trips.

This method is ideal for dishes that don’t require extremely high temperatures to remain enjoyable, such as sandwiches, wraps, or pasta.

It’s also a clever choice if you’re transporting your food by car and want to ensure it stays warm without using additional equipment.

13. Styrofoam Coolers (3 hours)

Styrofoam coolers are known for their excellent insulating properties, which make them effective at keeping your food warm during transportation.

These containers are lightweight, affordable, and widely available.

To test the Styrofoam cooler I placed a hot dish inside and secured it with a well-fitting lid.

The insulating properties of the cooler helped to maintain the heat, and it kept my food warm for approximately 3 hours.

I find that styrofoam coolers are a practical choice for a variety of dishes, such as baked goods, hot appetizers, or side dishes.

They work particularly well for potluck gatherings, picnics, or other events where you need to transport hot food over a short to medium distance.

Top Tip: Consider pairing the Styrofoam cooler with additional insulation materials, like kitchen towels or thermal blankets, to extend the duration of warmth retention, especially for longer journeys.

14. Portable Stoves (4 hours)

• Lightweight And Compact
• Precise Temperature Control
• Matchless Lighting
• Burn Time: Up To 1.25 Hours
• Easy To Clean

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Portable stoves powered by butane or propane are versatile and reliable solutions for keeping food warm during transportation.

These stoves are often used for outdoor cooking, but they can also serve as excellent heat sources when you need to transport hot dishes.

To test the portable stove, I placed my hot dish in a heat-resistant container.

I then turned on the stove and set it to a low or medium heat level.

Top Tip: The heat level you will need will depend on your specific dish’s requirements.

The stove’s flame will maintain the temperature of your food, keeping it hot for extended periods, typically around 4 hours or more.

I find this option is ideal for dishes such as hot pots, or grilled items however there is one clear downside .

You should not use the portable stove whilst actually travelling as this could be very dangerous.

This means that for short trips such as local delivery of food to loved ones who live locally, you should choose one of the other methods.

Portable stoves, however, are a convenient choice for outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or any event where you want to serve hot meals without the need for electricity.

15. Hot Water Bottles (2 hours)

Hot water bottles, often used for soothing aches and pains, can also serve as a clever method for keeping food warm during transportation.

These bottles are simple to use and effective in retaining heat.

When I tested hot water bottles, I filled them with hot water from the kettle.

Top Tip: Ensure the caps are securely fastened to prevent leaks which could be dangerous.

I then wrapped my hot dish in towels and placed the wrapped dish and hot water bottle in a cooler.

This method maintained the warmth of my food for approximately 2 hours.

I find hot water bottles work well for dishes that don’t require extremely high temperatures to remain enjoyable, such as macaroni and cheese, pasta salads, or sandwiches.

They’re particularly useful when you need to transport food over shorter distances.

16. Insulated Food Delivery Bags (3 hours)

• Can Store Hot And Cold Items For A Long Time
• High-Quality Two-Way Zipper Pocket And Two Pairs Of Hand Straps
• 8+ Amazing Designs
• Water Resistant
• Large Size And Capacity

Our Rating: 9/10

Insulated food delivery bags are designed specifically for transporting hot dishes and maintaining their temperature.

These bags are often used by professional caterers and food delivery services, and they offer superior insulation.

My testing of insulated food delivery bags consisted of placing my hot dish inside and closing it securely.

This option is incredibly simple.

The thick insulation and sealed design helped to keep my food warm for approximately 3 hours, making them ideal for a variety of events.

Whether you’re delivering meals to friends or catering for an event this option makes sure your hot dish arrives in top condition.

Top Tip: To keep your food warm for longer, place the hot dish into the bag as soon as it’s ready and securing the bag with minimal openings is essential. This gives your food the best chance to stay warm until it reaches its destination.

Also worth noting is that these bags are available in various sizes to accommodate different dish sizes and quantities.

17. Heated Car Seats (2 hours)

Heated car seats are typically used for adding comfort whilst travelling during cold weather.

But they can also serve as an ingenious method to keep your food warm while transporting it in your car.

These seats provide a gentle, even heat that can help maintain the warmth of your dishes during shorter journeys.

Like the heated seat covers method above I tested the heated car seats by covering my dish with aluminum foil to minimize heat loss.

Then, I placed the dish on the heated car seat, ensuring that it was turned on to the desired temperature setting. In most cases, this would be set to the high setting.

I found the heated car seat option provided warmth for approximately 2 hours, making it a practical option for short trips.

I also find that it’s a clever choice if you’re transporting your food by car and want to ensure it stays warm without using additional equipment.

18. Thermos Flasks (Over 4 hours)

While thermos flasks are typically used for keeping beverages hot or cold, they can also be repurposed to maintain the temperature of liquid-based dishes.

I find this method works particularly well for soups, stews, and other hot liquids.

My testing of a thermos flask was very simple.

I simply poured my hot dish into the thermos and made sure it was tightly sealed straight afterwards.

Thermos flask manufacturers will show how long they will keep food warm with most averaging around 4 hours.

In my case, I tested the Black+Blum Insulated Food Flask which keeps food warm for up to 6 hours!

Thermos flasks are a convenient choice when you need to transport hot soups or other liquids that need to stay hot and delicious.

Top Tip: Thermos flasks are available in various sizes, so you can choose the one that best accommodates your specific dish.

19. Electric Warming Trays (Over 4 hours)

Electric warming trays are a top pick for keeping food warm when catering events or hosting large gatherings.

These trays are designed to maintain food temperature effectively and efficiently.

I tested my electric warming tray by plugging it into the electrical outlet of my car and setting it to a high temperature.

I then placed my hot dish on the warming tray, ensuring that it was well covered.

Electric warming trays can maintain food temperature for over 4 hours, making them ideal for extended events or for delivering food to more than one location.

These trays are available in various sizes and designs, and as with mine, many models come with multiple temperature settings.

20. Portable Hot Plates (3 hours)

• Keeps Food Warm For Occasions Such As Parties, Buffets, Or Family Dinners.
• Portable And Lightweight
• Sleek And Stylish Food Warmer
• Modular Food Warmer - Connect More Than One Together

Portable hot plates are a versatile option for keeping food warm during transportation, especially for dishes that require ongoing heating.

These hot plates can provide the necessary heat to keep your dishes at the right temperature.

When I tested a portable hot plate I placed my hot dish in a heat-resistant container.

I then turned the hot plate on and set it to a low or medium heat level.

In my tests, the hot plate maintained the temperature of my food keeping it warm for approximately 3 hours or more.

This method is ideal for dishes that require ongoing heating, such as hot pots or grilled items.

Portable hot plates are a versatile choice for outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or any event where you want to serve hot meals without the need for electricity.

They are available in various sizes and designs, so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

21. Chafing Dishes (Over 4 hours)

Chafing dishes are a staple in the world of professional catering and large-scale events.

These heated containers are designed to maintain food temperature effectively over extended periods, making them a top choice for serving hot dishes to a large crowd.

Clearly, you can’t use a chafing dish to keep food warm whilst transporting but they are perfect for when you are out about with family such as a family camping trip.

The water pan and flame ensure that your food remains hot and moist, preserving its quality and flavour.

My test of the chafing dish involved filling the water pan with hot water and lighting the fuel source beneath it, usually a can of gel or a flame.

I placed my hot dish in the designated food pans above the water pan and in my test, the chafing dish maintained the warmth of my food for over 4 hours.

Top Tip: Chafing dishes are available in various sizes and designs to accommodate different dishes and quantities.

How Long Can I Keep Food Warm Whilst Travelling

Below I’ve listed out my 21 ways to keep food warm whilst on the move along with the associated length of time heat is retained.

In conclusion, keeping food warm when transporting it is not only possible but can be done effectively using a variety of methods.

Depending on your needs and the duration of your journey, you can choose the most suitable option from the 21 methods I’ve shared above.

From insulated containers to chafing dishes, there are solutions for everyone, whether you’re catering a large event or simply bringing a homemade meal to a friend’s house.

Keep in mind that the duration of warmth retention can vary, so selecting the right method for your specific situation is essential.

Happy transporting!

Eleanore has over 25 years of experience writing articles for engineering specifically around environmental impact. She has a strong passion for helping people to consume less and loves to write about it !

For Instant Access complete the form below

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Username or email address  * Required

Password  * Required

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

We’re independently supported by our readers and we may earn a commission when you buy through our links.

What are you looking for?

Search ideas for you, 20 best insulated lunch boxes for hot food.

Shauna Andrews

Content Specialist

Shauna Andrews is a freelance content creator with a passion for both professional and personal writing. She uses her brand, Cowgirl Grammar, as an outlet for her word-obsession. Shauna lives in the small isolated town of Powell River, on the coast of British Columbia.

Table of Contents

Searching For The Best Insulated Lunch Boxes for Hot food

Do you love hot food but have no way to pack it? Is the thought of cold pizza or tepid soup a disgusting concept? Then you may be interested in this list of the 20 best insulated lunch boxes for hot food. Knowing which products on the market work best to keep food warm might make sure you never eat cold spaghetti ever again, and at an affordable price too.

Why Use Insulated Lunch Boxes for Hot Food?

No matter the purpose, having an insulated lunch box to keep your food warm will serve one primary concern—eating food that’s comforting, delicious, and, well, hot. Munching on cold pizza on a cold day isn’t nearly as satisfying (or tasty) as eating a gooey cheesy slice, or sipping on some hot soup.

If you’re comforted by a warm lunch, whether it’s at work or on a hike, then you should use an insulated lunch box to help you out.

20 Best Insulated Lunch Boxes for Hot Food  

Like any popular product, there’s about a million different insulated lunch boxes to choose from. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 20 best insulated lunch boxes for hot food , making the overwhelming situation more palatable.

#1: GOODESERVE Stainless Steel Heated Lunch Box-Insulated Bento Box Multifunctional Containers with 3 Compartments-Layered Design with Insulation Bag for SchoolWorkPicnicTrip,White

Price: $23.99

Description

Customer ratings by feature

Easy to clean: 4.8 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.8 out of 5

Portion size: 4.7 out of 5

#2: THERMOS FUNTAINER 10 Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Kids Food Jar with Folding Spoon, Navy

Price: $16.98

• THERMOS vacuum insulation technology for maximum temperature retention, hot or cold
• Keeps hot for up to 5 hours and cold for up to 7 hours. Durable double wall stainless steel
• Exterior stays cool to touch with hot contents and sweat-proof with cold
• Push button lid design allows for easy opening and access to spoon storage; Includes unfolding spoon
• Wide mouth is easy to fill, eat from and clean

Easy to clean: 4.7 out of 5

Durability: 4.5 out of 5

Easy to use: 4.4 out of 5

#3: WORTHBUY Stainless Steel Lunch Container, 2 Section Design, Keep Foods Separated, Metal Bento Box with Insulated Lunch Bag Portable Utensil, Kids/Women/Adults, BPA-Free(2nd Generation,Blue)

About this item

• MAKE LUNCH EXCITING: It’s 60% larger than our classic containers, so you can take along all of the protein, fruit, veggies, salads and snacks that keep lunch fun and exciting.
• TWO SECTIONS: In terms of food, adults are as picky as kids. After all, who wants their chicken mixed in with their berries? Our lunch box keeps food neat and separate without the use of smaller containers.
• 100% LEAKPROOF: It was designed for variety, not only dry foods, but also perfect if you want to bring along dressing or dip.
• SAFE AND DURABLE: Made from the highest quality 18/8 stainless steel, this is the best bento box for packing healthy meals. they’re great for any on-the-go lifestyle.
• TRUSTED BRAND: We’re dedicated to creating the highest quality bento lunch boxes. WORTHBUY containers last a lifetime and our customer service team is always here to help!

Easy to clean: 3.8 out of 5

Leak proof: 3.5 out of 5

Durability: 3.1 out of 5

Sturdiness: 2.6 out of 5

#4: 17 oz Insulated Lunch Containers Hot Food Jar, Wide Mouth Lunch Thermos for Hot Food Kids Adults, Vacuum Stainless Steel Thermos Lunch Box With Handle Folding Spoon for School, Office, Travel

Price: $17.84

• Our insulated food jar has a unique hidden handle that can reduce the volume of the jar and save more space for you. It fits perfectly in school bags and boxes. The hidden handle could also avoid accidentally opening the lid while carrying school bags.
• Joopetalk soup thermos comes with double-wall vacuum insulation technology, that can keep food hot for 12 hours & keep food cold for 24 hours.
• The insulated food container has a 3.1”wide mouth. It’s easy to use stainless steel foldable spoon to eat, fill food, or clean.
• Joopetalk thermos for hot food has an air pressure release button to help you easily open the bottle, and lunch thermos food jar is completely sealed, can prevent spilling accidents（100% Leak-Proof）
• Please note, pour hot water for 5-10 minutes to preheat before filling hot food, put them in the refrigerator for 5-15 minutes before filling cold food.

Leak proof: 4.9 out of 5

Durability: 4.7 out of 5

#5: Lille Home Stainless Steel Leakproof Bento Lunch Box/Metal Food Container with Insulated Lunch Bag, BPA Free, 22 Ounces, Gray

Price: $21.99

• Premium Material – Interior made from high quality food-grade stainless steel SS304 which will never rust and is naturally BPA-free. Does not retain flavors or scents, so you can use it over & over again.
• Leak & Spill Proof – The BPA-free insulated bento box is sealed with heavy-duty food grade silicone to lock in freshness, leaks, and odors. Please ALWAYS open the tiny valve on the lid first to release the pressure before opening the lunch box to avoid damage to the handles.
• Lunch Bag Included – Made of felt fabric and food grade aluminum foil lined interior, it can not only enhance the insulation, but also make it easier to be carried around.
• Durable Handle & Lid – This is the 2nd generation of our leakproof lunch box with improved handle and lid which makes it more durable.
• Enjoy Home-Made Food – Wrap it with ribbons, give it to someone you love so they can enjoy home made delicacy for a healthier eating style!

Easy to clean: 4.4 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.1 out of 5

Portion size: 4.1 out of 5

Durability: 3.4 out of 5

#6: Lunch Box, 900ml 1 Layer Thermal Insulated Hot Food Lunch Containers, Portable Stackable 304 Stainless Steel Adult Kids Bento Lunch Box, Cold and Hot Food Storage, for School Office Outdoor Travel

Price: $18.99

• FOOD GRADE: The inner layer of bento lunch box using high‑quality stainless steel material, mirror‑polished and easy to clean. Lunch Bento box is designed with silicone sealing ring for improving the sealing performance of the lunch box, keeps heat preservation lasting, and convenient to open the lid. The outer layer uses food grade PP material, high temperature resistant, safe and hygienic
• WITH BUCKLE: The thermal lunch box adopts a fashionable short buckle design. There are safety latches on both sides of the lunch box. Short buckle insulated tableware can be easily fastened with one press. There is no need to worry that the lunch box will loosen. Thermos for hot food has portable concealed double‑curved handle, suitable for home, work, travel, and school
• VENT HOLE: Bento box for kids adult adopts vent hole design and pressure cooker principle. Press and hold the vent hole to seal. When opening the cover, open the upper vent hole before opening the cover. Lunch food warmer has good sealing performance and can be removed for cleaning without leaving stains. hot food lunch container is connected with plastic and is not easy to fall off
• WIDELY USED: Insulated lunch box for hot food is a good helper for you to go out and eat. You can not only put food in it when you go to work, but also use the portable lunch box for lunch when you go to school, and you can also use it at home for food storage.Bento boxes are not only suitable for going out to use, you can also use common tableware at home. The insulated lunch box is suitable for office workers, students, people traveling, etc
• HIGH QUALITY: Insulated thermos hot lunch containers is exquisite and generous and does not occupy space. We take cushioning and damping measures for the packaging to ensure the integrity of lunch box transportation. If there is any damage or other problem, please contact our email for solution, Thanks for your understanding. The insulated lunch box will bring you a happy, healthy and satisfying dining experience

Easy to clean: 3.7 out of 5

Leak proof: 3.7 out of 5

Portion size: 3.8 out of 5

#7: Lunch Box ~ Pinnacle Insulated Leak Proof Lunch Box for Adults and Kids – Thermal Lunch Container With NEW Heat Release Valve 16 oz ~Set of 2~ Blue-Green

Price: $25.99

• KIDS AND ADULT LUNCH BOX – suitable for all ages, our thermal lunch box is exactly what you need to enjoy lunch on the go. It is robust, generous in size and lightweight so you can enjoy your favorite meal, wherever you are
• SUPERIOR THERMAL TECHNOLOGY – the wide bowl shaped design features an 18/8 stainless steel interior which will keep your food warm (not hot) for up to 4 hours and cold for up to 6 hours. There is no need to microwave your food or cool it in the fridge before eating
• NEW HEAT RELEASE VALVE – our bestselling insulated lunch box design has been upgraded and now features a vacuum knob heat release valve. Simply lift the easy to access latch so heat can escape to ensure you enjoy your meal at just the right temperature. Kids love it!
• EASY FASTENING LID – there’s nothing worse than a leaky hot lunch box which is why we have designed ours to be completely leak proof. The 4 easy to access clips secure the lid on tight to lock in the temperature and prevent leaks and spills. It really is the best way to enjoy your favorite meal on the go, without any mess You can even stand the box on the lid when eating
• LIGHTWEIGHT FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE – perfect for adults to carry to the office or for kids to take to school or college. The sleek design looks professional and keeps your food warm until lunch time. The outside of the lunch box will always feel cool, even when there is warm food inside

Easy to clean: 3.9 out of 5

Leak proof: 3.8 out of 5

Easy to use: 3.6 out of 5

Durability: 3.3 out of 5

#8: OmieBox Bento Box for Kids – Insulated Bento Lunch Box with Leak Proof Thermos Food Jar – 3 Compartments, Two Temperature Zones – (Meadow) (Single) (Packaging May Vary)

Price: $44.95

• KIDS EAT BETTER — Your kids will gobble lunch up when it’s their favorite food served warm inside OmieBox. OmieBox has a THERMOS INSERT that lets you easily pack hot food. Send their favorite pasta, soup, or last night’s leftovers – your kids will have more variety and build healthier eating habits.
• EASIER, FASTER LUNCH PREP — Now you can send hot soup and chilled strawberries without using a million small containers. OmieBox packs HOT & COLD TOGETHER in one compact bento box.
• HIGH QUALITY INVESTMENT – Durable, built to last and saves you the expense of buying a separate thermos! OmieBox weighs a sturdy 1.7 lbs and uses 18/8, 304 grade stainless steel. It’s FDA, CPSIA compliant and BPA-Free.
• MULTI-FUNCTIONAL AND VERSATILE – Use only the leak-proof thermos insert for hot food or liquid, or take it out to fit a sandwich. Use the divider to customize the compartments and keep food separate. It even fits a drink and snacks, so you don’t need a separate container. Complete your OmieBox with our utensil set with case and lunch bag!
• EASY TO CLEAN – OmieBox comes apart for easy cleaning. The rubber seals are all removable, so you can wash it thoroughly everyday. If the seals get worn or damaged, you can purchase replacement seals instead of throwing the box out.

Quality of material: 4.5 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.5 out of 5

Portion size: 4.5 out of 5

#9: THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Food Jar with Spoon, 16 Ounce, Matte Steel

Price: $24.49

•   STAYS HOT OR COLD: THERMOS vacuum insulation technology for maximum temperature retention of hot or cold meals. Keeps the weather out and the delicious in. Soups stay hot for up to 9 hours and cold foods stay cold up to 14 hours
•  EXTREMELY DURABLE: High quality 18/8 stainless steel construction is dependable any time of the year, from lunch on-the-go to camping in the wilderness
•  SWEAT-PROOF: Exterior stays cools to the touch with hot contents and sweat-proof with cold. THERMOS brand food jars are dishwasher safe, top rack recommended
•  SPOON INCLUDED: A full-sized spoon that folds for conveniently storing inside of lid. The insulated lid doubles as a built-in serving bowl
•  OTHER CAPACITIES: Love the food jar but looking for a different size? The STAINLESS KING food jar also comes in a 24 ounce and 47 ounce capacity
•  SINCE 1904: THERMOS brand products have been making everyday life better, every time. Hot stays hot. Cold stays cold. Food and drinks stay fresh. The little things go a long way, so do we

Quality of material: 4.7 out of 5

#10: Lille Home Vacuum Insulated Stackable Stainless Steel Thermal Lunch/Snack box, 2-Tier Bento /Food Container with Lunch bag, Smart Diet, Weight Control, 32 Ounces, Blue

Price: $26.95

• Superior Temperature Insulation – The vacuum insulation and insulated bag provide up to 6 full hours of warm retention; nearly twice as long as others. NO more cold lunch. NO more microwave. The vacuum insulation provides right temperature to keep food stay warm and healthy. Convenient for you to enjoy tasty homemade food at school or work
• Premium Material – Interior and exterior are made from high quality food-grade stainless steel SS304 which will never rust and is naturally BPA-free. Does not retain flavors or scents, so you can use it over & over again. The handle and divider are made from food grade plastic. Please be aware that it CAN’T be used in the microwave or dishwasher.
• Leak & Spill Proof – Between each stackable insulated compartment are heavy-duty silicone seals to lock in freshness, leaks and odors. Please be aware that the coupling between layers is tight to prevent leak and spill. After using it for a couple of times, it will become smooth. And please don’t lose the silicone valve on the bottom of each layer which will keep it leakproof..
• Lunch Bag Included – Made of felt fabric and food-grade aluminum foil lined interior, it can not only enhance the insulation, but also make it easier to be carried around.
• Ideal for Portion Control – Wrap it with ribbons, give it to someone you love so they can enjoy home made delicacy for a healthier eating style!

Durability: 3.6 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.0 out of 5

Portion size: 4.3 out of 5

#11: Signoraware Stainless Steel Bento Lunch Box | 20-Ounce Eco Friendly Portion Control Lunchbox Containers | 2-Compartment Metal Food Pail With Cover That Prevents Leaks & Spills – Blue

• SPECIAL DESIGN KEEPS FOOD SEPARATED: There’s no eco lunch box on the market like this one, that’s for sure. The cover is uniquely designed to lock in each section of the snack box. This ensures that none of the food mixes, spills, or leaks into each other.
• LARGE CAPACITY FITS A TON OF FOOD: If you have a big appetite or like to stock up for a long day, then you’ll love these insulated lunchboxes. Our reusable containers measure 9 x 6.25 x 2 inches with a large 20-ounce capacity. They’re the perfect combination of size and portability.
• GREAT FOR A VARIETY OF FOODS, HOT & COLD: The stainless steel bento boxes are safe for hot and colds foods. The BPA-free containers have a plastic outer wall on the bottom that will prevent the container from getting too hot or too cold to carry.
• HELPS SAVE MONEY & THE ENVIRONMENT: Brown paper bags are a waste of money and bad for the environment. Plastic storage containers wear down quickly, so they need to be replaced. These lunch boxes are reusable and will last a lifetime.
• PERFECT FOR MEN, WOMEN, & KIDS: Take the insulated sandwich containers with you to the office, job site, or school. They’re stylish, durable, and a great choice for adults and children. Give them a try for 30 days and see for yourself the difference!

Value for money: 2.6 out of 5

Leak proof: 3.9 out of 5

Portion size: 3.6 out of 5

#12: OmieBox Bento Box for Kids – Insulated Bento Lunch Box with Leak Proof Thermos Food Jar – 3 Compartments, Two Temperature Zones (Sky Blue) (Single) (Packaging May Vary)

• KIDS EAT BETTER – Your kids will gobble lunch up when it’s their favorite food served warm inside OmieBox. OmieBox bento box for kids with a THERMOS INSERT lets you easily pack hot and cold food. Send their favorite pasta, soup, or last night’s leftovers. Your kids will enjoy healthy lunches with more variety in OmieBox insulated container for hot food
• EASIER, FASTER LUNCH PREP – Now you can send hot soup and chilled strawberries without using a million small lunch box containers. OmieBox is a bento box for kids with thermos that packs hot & cold food together. This thermal lunch box for kids is great for hot lunch, cold food, or snacks.You won’t find another insulated lunch box for hot food that works as well as OmieBox!
• HIGH QUALITY INVESTMENT – Durable, built to last and saves you the expense of buying a separate kids thermos! OmieBox weighs a sturdy 1.7 lbs and uses 18/8, 304 grade stainless steel. It’s FDA, CPSIA compliant and BPA-Free insulated bento box / hot lunch box for kids
• MULTI-FUNCTIONAL AND VERSATILE – Use only the leak-proof thermos insert for hot food or liquid, or take it out to fit a sandwich. Use the divider to customize the compartments and keep food separate. It’s also large enough to fit a drink and snacks – unlike other kids bento box or kids lunch box
• EASY TO CLEAN – OmieBox comes apart for easy cleaning unlike other popular bento lunch box for kids. The rubber seals are all removable, so you can wash it thoroughly everyday. If the seals get worn or damaged, you can purchase replacement seals instead of throwing the whole box out

Leak proof: 4.4 out of 5

#13: Insulated Lunch Container for Hot Food 2 Tier Thermal Insulated Lunch Thermos Wide Mouth Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulation Food Jar 35oz

Price: $22.99

• 𝐅𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐓𝐄𝐓𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐒 – Food safety 304 stainless steel and silicone seal, no plastic materials, bring you healthy food everyday. PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS MADE IN CHINA.
• 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 – 35oz Small capacity food container is just the size for teens, ladies or adults on diet. PLEASE CHECK THE SIZE IN PICTURE AND CHOOSE RIGHT SIZE FOR YOUR LUNCH BAG.
• 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈 𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 – 2 Layer design allows you to put different food separated. Silicone seal covered on edge of tray as leak-proof for both compartments. PLEASE NOTE：THIS IS NO HEAT RELEASE VALVE DESIGH MAKES IT NOT ENTIRELY LEAK-PROOF. IF LID CLOSED HARD, PLEASE LUBRICATE IT WITH A LITTLE PLANT OIL ON THREAD.
• 𝐕𝐀𝐂𝐔𝐔𝐌 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 – Vacuum insulation Keeps food hot or cold for hours(PREHEAT IT BY HOT WATER FOR MINUTES), no microwave for next meal, so take it to go – For work, school, camping or a beach day with your favorite dishes. PLEASE NOTE: KEEP FOOD WARM LONG OR SHORT DEPENDS FOOD AND OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE. INSULATION EFFECT TESTED BY BOILED WATER.
• 𝐇𝐔𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐙𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 – The insulated thermal lunch carrier with wide mouth opening,it makes the food jar easy to fill and clean and allows users to eat directly out of the jar. And also with a comfortable thick handle,easy to take it to go.
• 𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄 – 1 x 304 Stainless steel insulated food jar, 1 x Instructions, 2 x Leak-proof silicone seal rings. To get more information and how to use, please read the instructions.

Sturdiness: 4.7 out of 5

Easy to clean: 4.3 out of 5

Durability: 4.1 out of 5

Leak proof: 3.6 out of 5

#14: Cute Lunch Box Insulated Lunch Bag Bento Box Food Container Storage Boxes With Spoon For Adults Office Camping (3 Tiers(grey))

Price: $27.99

• High Capacity: with the lids, the whole set has 7 food containers in total, perfect for putting all kinds of dry food. Also, you may choose to use only 1 layer or 2 layers according to the needs.
• Buy One Get Five: when you select this Lunch box set, you get Lunch Box + Lunch Bag + Spoon + Chopsticks + Container bag. Adjustable Strap & grab handle makes it portable to carry.
• High-quality Lunch Box and Bag: the lunch box is made of superior food-grade stainless steel. Material thick texture hard, no distortion, excellent durability. Felt + foil design of the lunch bag provides insulation. With the bag, this set keeps food warm for 1-2 hours.
• Warm Tips: please note that the lunch box cannot be used in microwave or dishwasher. Please do not screw the middle lids too tight to prevent them from opening.
• After-sales Service: rough transportation or delivery may cause damage to the products. Please do not hesitate to come to us when any problems occur. REFUND or REPLACEMENT will be offered within 3 days.

Sturdiness: 4.1 out of 5

Easy to clean: 4.1 out of 5

Value for money : 4.2 out of 5

#15: Thermoses for Hot Food – (Bidakid) 2 Pack Stainless Steel Thermoses Containers with Lid Vacuum and Folding Spoon Insulated Lunch Jar for Hot Cold Food Soup for Kids and Adults (25.4oz+17oz)

Price: $38.99

• SATISFY ALL YOUR NEEDS – (Bidakid) focus on the convenience and comfort of your life, the package contains 2 different sizes of stainless steel insulation bottle food jars, the large 25.4oz (750ml), the small 17oz (500ml), a folding spoon, portable leak-proof PP cover, and carrying bag to meet the needs of everyday life.
• EXCELLENT VACUUM HEAT INSULATION – Our stainless steel thermos food jars are newly upgraded, with seamless welding technology, better insulation, excellent vacuum heat insulation, 10 hours of insulation and 12 hours of refrigeration to keep your food fresh, whether in winter or summer, you can enjoy your food anytime, anywhere and enjoy a healthy way to live.
• EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP – Made of double-layered 304 stainless steel, this insulated food jar is BPA-free, PVC-free, easy to open, not easy to damage and wear; Wide-mouthed design that makes it easy to inject food and beverages; The leak-proof lid can be used as a bowl and prevents leakage and overflow; Large area bottom for excellent stability.
• WIDE RANGE OF APPLICATIONS – Our insulated lunch jar come with portable bags for easy travel and are suitable for toddlers, children and adults, and can be taken to school, office, camping, outings, sports, outdoor activities or travel without reheating or refrigeration, perfect for hot and cold foods such as coffee, pasta, soup, chili peppers or milkshakes.
• A THOUGHTFUL GIFT – Our vacuum insulated hot food containers are compact in design for easy cleaning and dishwasher safety. It is the perfect gift for her, women, him, men, parents, children, friends and colleagues to enjoy a pleasant meal together.Bidakid is proud to offer a Lifetime Warranty on our Thermos Food Jars.

Sturdiness: 4.2 out of 5

Easy to clean: 4.2 out of 5

Easy to hold : 4.1 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.2 out of 5

#16: Insulated Lunch Container DaCool Insulated Food Jar 16 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Bento Hot Lunch Box for Kids with Spoon Leak Proof Hot Cold Food for School Office Picnic Travel Outdoors – Black

• Safe Food Jar Stainless Steel – BPA free, no PVC, 304 stainless steel, food grade material. Please enjoy this hot food jar without any worries.
• Vacuum Insulation Technology – Double wall stainless steel, besides, great copper coated insulation and seamless welding technology, great beautiful insulated food jar for hot food & cold food for kids for school office.
• Long Time Insulation – Important Tips: Please pour in hot & cold water to preheat & pre-cool for 5~10 minutes before packing food. Keeps liquids hot & cold for 12 hours, package may vary. Please enjoy your healthy food even outside.
• Wide Mouth with Spoon – The extra wide mouth can help you easy eating with the shipping stainless steel folding spoon, also easy to fill food into this food jar and clean after use.
• Double Lids Design – The food grade material outer lid can be used to hold food, also be greater for insulation and leak proof, you will like the food jar with convenient leak proof double lids.

Portion size : 5 out of 5

Value for money : 4.9 out of 5

Sturdiness : 4.8 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.7 out of 5

#17: Bentgo® Stainless Insulated Food Container – Triple Layer Insulation, Leak-Proof Lid, Wide Mouth Design – Sustainable 2.4 Cup Capacity, Food-Grade Materials, Ideal for Cool or Warm Food (Rose Gold)

Price: $24.99

• TRIPLE LAYER THERMAL VACUUM INSULATION: Double-walled stainless steel, copper coating, and vacuum insulation with a brushed finish keeps food ready to eat for hours in this temperature controlled container
• LEAK-PROOF AIRTIGHT LID: Confidently carry this chic thermos for hot foods like soups or cold foods like yogurt to keep your food secure until you are ready to eat
• PREMIUM FOOD SAFE MATERIALS: Premium BPA-free food-grade 18/8 stainless steel bowl is a safe and sustainable alternative to plastic
• DESIGN DRIVEN & TRAVEL FRIENDLY: Stylish and practical, this container has a wide mouth design and is travel-ready for school, work, camping, or just about anywhere
• PURCHASE WITH A PURPOSE: Bentgo continues to be a proud supporter of Feed the Children, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that gives hope and resources for hungry children and families. Since 2017, Bentgo has donated more than $200,000 to help put an end to hunger.

Portion size : 4.6 out of 5

Easy to clean : 4.7 out of 5

Durability : 5 out of 5

#18: Baby/Toddler/Kids Stainless Steel Insulated Food Storage Container Small Leak Proof Lunch Box- 3 pk. 8 oz Snack Containers- Square Thermal Food Container With Airtight Lid On The Go, School, Daycare

Price: $21.50

• FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS – make life easier by preparing your little one’s food in advance and storing it in one of our brightly colored leak proof thermal containers so they can enjoy their food hot without the need for it to be heated up again
• SAFE TECHNOLOGY FOR CHILDREN – our plastic food storage containers are made from BPA plastic and feature an inner stainless steel shell which works to maintain the heat of the food you add to the container. The clip on, leak proof lid ensures no heat escapes and the outside of the box will never be hot or dangerous
• CONVENIENT 3 PACK – with 3 baby food containers included with your purchase, you have enough storage for multiple meals or food types. Use them for puree, vegetables, pasta and more to ensure your little one enjoys a healthy warm meal wherever you are
• 100% LEAK PROOF – perfect for busy families on the go, take our baby food storage containers everywhere. Day care, kindergarten, friends houses, the park, on day trips, camping and more. Just add the warm food to the storage pots, put on the lid and the food inside will stay warm for hours and will never leak and make a mess
• A GREAT MONEY SAVER – forget about expensive baby snacks or fast food solutions for your kids. By preparing your child’s food or snacks in advance you can make healthier choices and save money on shop bought items when out and about

Durability : 4.2 out of 5

Easy to clean : 4.2 out of 5

Sturdiness : 5 out of 5

Easy to use : 4.1 out of 5

#19: Electric Lunch Box Food Heater – FORABEST 2-In-1 Portable Food Warmer Lunch Box for Car & Home – Leak proof, 2 Compartments, Removable 304 Stainless Steel Container, SS fork & spoon and Carry Bag

Price: $39.99

• WARM HEALTHY MEAL ANYWHERE: No microwave required. Always on the GO and tired of cold or fast food? Now simply plug in and heat up your food with the FORABEST electric heating lunch box at home/office or in car/truck using the 110/12V power cables. Enjoy your warm & healthier homemade food.
• ELECTRIC LUNCH BOX 2 IN 1: FORABEST heated lunch box. Package includes 1x electric lunch box, 1x SS spoon & fork, 1x Insulated carry bag, 1x additional plastic compartment, 1x 12V 47in power cord for cars/trucks, 1x 110V 47in for home/office use. Capacity 1.5L.
• 30 DAYS SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Our food warmer for car and home is leak proof and perfect for soups and stews. It’s made of premium PP material, which is high temperature resistant, durable, 100% safe and easy to use. We offer 30 Days No questions asked guarantee if you are not happy. Contact us!
• PORTABLE & EASY TO CLEAN: FORABEST portable microwave for car comes with 304 stainless steel removable container which is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. Please do not wash external lunch box with water.
• BUY IT, LOVE IT & GIFT IT: Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for your Husband, Boyfriend, Father and Friend or for yourself while on the go, look no further and add this thermal lunch box to CART. They are going to LOVE IT. Add to CART NOW!

Portion size : 4.5 out of 5

Easy to clean : 4.6 out of 5

Giftable : 4.3 out of 5

Leak proof: 4.6 out of 5

#20: THERMOS FUNTAINER 10 Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Kids Food Jar with Folding Spoon, Lime

Price: $15.99

• THERMOS vacuum insulation technology for maximum temperature retention, hot or cold. Keeps hot for up to 5 hours and cold for up to 7 hours
• Durable double wall stainless steel

What Are the Benefits of Using Insulated Lunch Boxes for Hot Food?

Everyone has a preference on what they want to eat for lunch. Whether your selection varies from day to day, or you’ve eaten the same meal every day you’ve ever been on the job, we all have one thing in common—if you’re packing a hot lunch, you want to be sure you’ll enjoy it to the fullest.

By packing your lunch into an insulated lunch box, the chances of enjoying your meal while it’s still warm is maximized, and it’s likely the rest of your day won’t be too bad either. Or if you’re packing a hot lunch for a hike, or a long day’s work, the benefits of keeping food warm is simply quality and comfort.

Which Thermal Lunch Box is Best?

The top 20 insulated lunch boxes listed in this review are what we have researched as the most popular and effective of all thermal lunch boxes out there. However, if you’re wondering which are the best among them, it really just depends on what you’re using it for, how much you want to spend, and which boxes are available for you.

Once you’ve narrowed down your needs, you can decide which selections might suit your lunch, and lifestyle, best!

How Do I Keep Food From Getting Soggy in My Thermos?

Depending on what you’re packing along in your lunch, you may have to get strategic with storing food inside an insulated lunch box without risking it getting soggy. If you’re packing soup, then you’re pretty much all set. But what about a meatball sandwich? Wouldn’t you want to keep that warm without it soaking through the bread, making a mess? 

The best practices for avoiding the dreaded soggy factor in your hot lunch is to pack wet ingredients separately, like keeping bread away from moisture and ensuring key hot items take priority in your insulated lunch box.

Are Insulated Lunch Boxes for Hot Food Worth It?

Some folks are satisfied with a nice cold turkey sandwich for lunch. Others might just nibble on a few pieces of fruit during their break.

But if you love a hot lunch and want a solution keeping it warm and intact all day long, then an insulated lunch box is most certainly worth investing in.

How We Chose The Best Insulated Lunch Boxes For Hot Food

Before choosing any brand, we scour the web and all the biggest e-tailers to ensure we know all the available options on the market. We look at customer reviews, star ratings, brand ethos, processes, materials, accessibility, and so much more. We weigh the pros and cons, so you don’t have to, helping you make informed shopping decisions.

Next, explore other interesting top products from our curated lists:

20 Best Bowling Balls

20 Best Shower Splash Guards

10 Best Lab-Grown Diamonds

20 Best Photo Sticks for iPhones

Our team is dedicated to finding and telling you more about the web’s best products. If you purchase through our links, we may receive a commission. Our editorial team is independent.

Ask the community or leave a comment

Customer reviews, leave a review, ask the community or leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required

This field is required Please use a valid email

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You may also be interested in

Alo Yoga Review

Thesis Nootropics Review

Hydro Flask Review

Faherty Clothing Review

Zwilling Kettle Review

Advertisement

• Kitchen storage

The Best Food Thermos

By Wirecutter Staff

There’s a golden rule of the communal microwave: Thou shalt not heat up gross or smelly stuff in it.

Sadly, that rule is not always followed.

If you’re trying to avoid your lunch tasting like someone else’s salmon leftovers, consider packing your meal in a food thermos that will keep it warm.

Of course, food thermoses have uses outside of avoiding the ruination of a perfectly good lunch.

Whether you’re packing chili for lunch or oatmeal to eat after your morning commute, a good food thermos will keep hot foods at safe temperatures for hours, and they won’t leak into your bag.

Unfortunately, they’re not great at keeping cold foods at safe cold temperatures.

After comparing 22 food thermoses and testing 10, we’re confident that the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food Jar is the best. It has excellent heat retention, is durable and easy to clean, and comes in three sizes ranging from 12 to 25 ounces.

We also recommend the 10-ounce Thermos Funtainer Food Jar for packing kids’ lunches or for people who prefer smaller portions.

Everything we recommend

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food Jar

The best food thermos.

This container keeps food hot for hours, and it comes apart easily for cleaning.

Buying Options

Thermos Funtainer Food Jar

Great for kids.

The 10-ounce Funtainer is durable and easy for small hands to open. Plus, it comes in lots of colors and prints.

The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food Jar kept our tomato soup above a food-safe temperature (140 °F) for a full six hours. Liquids stayed warm for even longer than the six hours the brand claims.

It easily fits in one hand, and it emerged from our drop test with no dents. And it doesn’t leak.

The four-piece lid comes apart for easier cleaning, though keeping all of the parts together is cumbersome.

The Zojirushi’s heat retention is covered by a five-year limited warranty .

The Thermos Funtainer kept food hot, didn’t break when dropped, and didn’t leak. And it was easy to clean.

With its 10-ounce size, bright colors, and lower price tag, this thermos is particularly good for kids.

It fits into small lunchboxes, though it held our soup at a food-safe temperature for only four hours (versus the Zojirushi’s six-hour run).

Thermos also offers a 30-day warranty for defective products.

The research

How we picked and tested, our pick: zojirushi stainless steel food jar, also great: thermos funtainer food jar, care and maintenance, the competition.

It’s been years since Wirecutter’s Anna Perling rigorously and comprehensively tested food thermoses. But this is not a category with a lot of technological innovation. We’re confident that our picks are still great.

We considered models designed for kids as well as for adults. We preferred thermoses that come in multiple sizes and colors. And we tested smaller-size options (ranging from 10 to 13.5 ounces, with a few 16- and 17-ounce sizes) when possible, since we wanted a thermos that was easily portable and would fit into our picks for the best lunch box .

A great thermos should keep foods at a food-safe temperature —below 40 °F for cold foods and above 140 °F for hot foods—for long periods of time. In our tests, we considered how long thermoses kept soup and plain bow-tie pasta warm, as well as how long they kept milk and tuna salad cold.

They shouldn’t leak or otherwise compromise their contents in transport. Thermoses are meant to hold liquidy foods like soups or stews. They shouldn’t leak. Because accidents happen, they also shouldn’t break or dent significantly when dropped.

They need to be easy to clean. Most companies recommend hand-washing thermoses to preserve their vacuum insulation , but the lids and jars should be intuitive to take apart and clean.

How we tested

To test our 10 food thermoses, we heated tomato soup to a boil and added it to the thermoses, checking the temperature over six hours in two-hour increments.

We did the same with pasta. Our pasta tests, however, weren’t conclusive—it took us longer to fill the thermoses with wider bow-tie noodles after straining them than it did to ladle in boiling-hot soup, and we think the pasta likely cooled during the process.

We also tested the thermoses with cold foods, filling them first with milk and then with 4 ounces of tuna salad, both at 40 °F.

Then, because both milk and tuna rose above food-safe temperatures in all of the thermoses after just two hours, we repeated the tuna test after pre-chilling the thermoses with 40 °F ice water.

A few brands, like Thermos and Zojirushi, recommend pre-chilling thermoses, but we originally skipped this step because it’s annoying for thermos users.

But even after we pre-chilled the thermoses, after two hours none of them kept tuna within the USDA’s safe temperature guidelines.

After filling the thermoses with soup, we shook them in a backpack and held them upside down to check for leaks.

We also dropped thermoses from 4 feet onto pavement to see if they were damaged after a fall.

To see how easy models were to clean, we took them apart and hand-washed them.

In our tests, the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food Jar was one of the best at keeping soup hot. It proved durable, didn’t leak, and was quite easy to clean.

It keeps its contents hot (or cold). The 12-ounce thermos kept tomato soup above a food -afe temperature (140 °F) for a full six hours in our tests, dropping from 193 °F to 144 °F.

The only thermoses that did better were the 17-ounce Stanley Classic (larger volumes of liquid take longer to cool) and the Black and Blum Food Flask (which has an awkward strap around it).

We’ve used the Zojirushi to transport morning green smoothies, chili, soup, and oatmeal. It reliably keeps foods at nice temperatures.

To keep foods hotter for longer, we recommend preheating the thermos .

It’s durable and doesn’t leak. When shaken or held upside down in our tests, the Zojirushi didn’t leak (though none of the thermoses we tested did). The Zojirushi is also durable, surviving our drop test unscathed. Other metal jars dented upon impact.

We’ve also seen it survive trips through the dishwasher without a ding, even though Zojirushi recommends hand-washing the thermos.

And it’s easy to take apart and clean. The Zojirushi has a four-piece lid that comes apart, which allows you to deep-clean all of its crevices. We liked it better than the single-piece lids on most of the other thermoses we tested, which have hard-to-reach threads that look like they would trap gunk.

The Zojirushi also comes in a range of sizes, including 11.8-, 16.9-, and 25-ounce jars, and an array of colors, including pink, aqua blue, dark brown, cream, and stainless steel.

Plus, the heat retention of the Zojirushi is covered by a five-year limited warranty.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It’s not as great at keeping cold food cold. After just two hours, cold milk in the Zojirushi rose to 46 °F; after six hours, it was 52 °F. Tuna rose to 49 °F after two hours; after six hours, it was 63 °F.

None of the other thermoses we tested, however, did any better, even after we pre-chilled them with ice water (Zojirushi recommends filling the thermos with cold water for one to two minutes before filling it with food).

Packing the thermos in a bag or lunch box with ice packs can help foods stay cold, but ultimately we found that these thermoses are best for retaining heat.

Plain pasta also cooled more quickly in the Zojirushi, dropping from 178 °F to 82 °F over six hours, but the results were similar in all of the thermoses we tested. (Solids like pasta cool more quickly than liquids, so any thermos is most effective when used with soup, stew, oatmeal, or other liquidy foods.)

Reassembly can be difficult. Although we like that the Zojirushi’s multi-part lid is easy to clean, it’s a bit more difficult to put back together afterward. The rubber gasket is tricky to get on, and keeping track of the small four parts takes effort. Also, unlike the lids of some larger thermoses, the Zojirushi’s lid doesn’t double as a cup, so you will likely eat straight from the jar.

The pieces are easy to misplace. Anna ended up losing a small rubber stopper that plugs into the top part of the lid. This didn’t affect heat retention, but sometimes foods would leak into the thermos’s cap. So she prioritized unscrewing all of the parts of the lid to make sure she could get it really clean. Despite this minor leak due to the missing piece, the Zojirushi never leaked outside of the container itself.

The colored coating can scratch easily. We tested a jar with the stainless finish, but we have read several Amazon reviews noting that the coating on the blue, pink, and tan versions of the food jar can scratch. We’ve also found that the finish on Zojirushi’s travel mugs can develop small nicks and scuffs over time, but this wear and tear doesn’t affect performance.

In our tests, the 10-ounce Thermos Funtainer kept food hot, didn’t leak, didn’t break when dropped, and was easy to clean.

We prefer it for kids over the 12-ounce Zojirushi because it comes in an array of fun prints and colors, and the slightly smaller size will be easier for kids to use. The Funtainer also costs less, which is helpful if it gets lost and needs replacing.

The Funtainer is best for small portions. The Funtainer fits neatly into smaller lunch boxes like the L.L. Bean lunchbox we recommend for both kids and adults , and can hold a 10-ounce serving of noodles, veggie chili, or hot cereal.

But it doesn’t keep food hot for as long. Although the Funtainer kept foods hot, it didn’t do as well as the Zojirushi: after four hours, soup in the Funtainer had cooled from 193 ºF to 147 °F, and at six hours, it measured 130 °F. In comparison, the Zojirushi kept soup at a hotter 144 °F after six hours.

It’s durable and easy to open. None of the thermoses, including the Funtainer, leaked in our tests. The Funtainer's plastic lid didn’t break during our drop tests, faring much better than the competition.

The Funtainer’s lid doesn’t get slippery when wet and is also easy to twist on and off.

With its uniform, cylindrical shape, the Funtainer fits easily into all of our lunch box picks . It also comes in a variety of prints and colors that will appeal to kids of different ages (and adults can select a solid color option).

Thermos offers a 30-day warranty period for defective products.

Again, it’s not good at keeping cold foods cold. None of the thermoses we tested were able to keep cold foods at food-safe temperatures during our tests, including the Funtainer. After two hours, tuna salad that started at 40 °F rose to 49 °F; at six hours, it measured 63 °F. If you’re nervous about this, pack the thermos in a bag or lunch box with ice packs, to help foods stay colder for longer.

It doesn’t fully come apart for cleaning. The Funtainer has a removable rubber ring to seal the thermos, but since it doesn’t totally come apart, it’s a little harder to clean.

To keep foods hotter for longer, both Thermos and Zojirushi recommend preheating your thermos by filling it with hot water for five to 10 minutes before dumping it out and adding foods. You can do the same thing with ice water to pre-chill your thermos before adding cold foods.

Like most of the thermoses we looked at, the Zojirushi is not dishwasher-safe, and it needs to be hand-washed. Putting it in the dishwasher can degrade its ability to retain heat.

The Funtainer is top-rack dishwasher-safe, but Thermos still recommends hand-washing it because “harsher detergents and hot water may affect the appearance.” To clean the hard-to-reach places in the Funtainer’s lid, we recommend soaking it in warm, soapy water.

The Thermos Stainless King 16 Ounce Food Jar with Folding Spoon kept soup hotter than most of the competition in our tests. But it has a wider girth and a bulkier, ridged shape compared with our pick, so it’s harder to hold and to fit in a lunchbox.

The Black and Blum Food Flask ’s brushed steel and smooth curves are sleek, and the faux leather strap and spoon attachment charmed us. But the flask isn’t as widely available as our pick, and the strap-and-spoon contraption isn’t functional—the spoon would be exposed to germs in a bag, and the strap stains easily.

We like the affordable MIRA Lunch Food Jar , but it didn’t keep soup as hot as most of the other thermoses we tested.

The lid from IKEA’s Efterfragad Vacuum Food Container broke during testing.

We also tested the Hydro Flask Food Flask Thermos Jar, the Stanley Classic Vacuum Food Jar, the Simple Modern Rover Food Thermos, and the Contigo Stainless Steel Food Jar, all of which are now unavailable across multiple retailers.

Anna Perling wrote the original version of this guide. Abigail Bailey contributed reporting. This article was edited by Marguerite Preston and Ben Frumin.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Further reading

The Best Thermos

by Trey French and Jordan McMahon

The Stanley Classic Legendary Bottle 2.5 QT is the most comfortable thermos to carry and pour from, and it keeps your drinks hot over a long workday.

Why We Rely on ThermoWorks Thermometers in Our Kitchens

by Lesley Stockton

ThermoWorks makes the best thermometers for cooking and barbecuing. They’re fast, accurate, durable, well designed, and easy to read.

The 15 Best Gifts for People Who Love Food

by Mari Uyehara

For the people who obsess over dinner parties and reservations, we’ve gathered cooking and food gifts that will surprise and delight.

The Best Meat Thermometers

by Michael Sullivan

After testing over 36 thermometers since 2013, we think the ThermoWorks ThermoPop and the ThermoWorks Dot provide the best speed and accuracy for the price.

• Search the site Please fill out this field.
• Saved Recipes & Collections
• Add a Recipe
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Entertaining
• Good Times, Good Food

The Best Hot Food Containers for a Comforting Lunch Away From Home

These'll keep your food warm without any messy leaks.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Takeaway

• How to Pick

How We Tested

• Others We Tested

Common Questions

• Why Take Our Word For It

Allrecipes / Brian Kopinski

Long hours at work, endless errands, an occasional day trip—many of us live our lives on the go. But that doesn't mean we can't eat delicious home-cooked meals when we find a break in the day to take some sustenance.

That's where insulated containers come to the rescue. These useful vessels let you keep fresh, hot food ready to eat whenever lunchtime, or dinnertime, rolls around. Whether you're packing last night's leftovers or your weekly meal prep , these travel-friendly containers are a game changer when you're away from home for long periods. We sent popular models to the Allrecipes Allstars —our dedicated team of trusted experts—to help us determine which ones keep your food warm and appetizing, and which leave you with a cold, gloppy mess.

Our Top Pick

Stanley adventure vacuum food jar.

Why It's Great: Keeps food hot for hours; doesn't leak; built-in storage compartment and spork; vintage look

Grain of Salt: Spork can be difficult to detach; not the best choice for kids

Yes, Stanley is currently well-known for its insulated water tumblers , but its first claim to fame was the Stanley insulated vacuum bottles. This classic version features a wide mouth for easy filling (and eating), an integrated storage compartment and spork, and most importantly, Stanley's double-walled insulation that will keep your food hot for hours.

Of all the containers Allstar Amy Barnes tested, the Stanley had the best 5-hour temperature reading and kept its contents warm for a full seven hours. So, say your work meetings run long, you'll still have a warm lunch waiting for you. The vacuum seal held throughout testing, with no leaks reported. Amy reported that the spork got in the way when opening the double lid, and kids might need adult assistance. That said, the 18-ounce capacity is the perfect size for a filling meal and this could fit into lunch boxes for adults or kids.

The Details: 4.5 x 7.1 inches; 18-ounce capacity; dishwasher-safe but hand-washing recommended

"The Stanley thermos reminds me of my grandpa's favorite coffee thermos. Stanley's style, durability, and functionality shine in this modern updated thermos featuring an attached spork." — Amy Barnes , Allrecipes Allstar

Best Budget

Thermos stainless king food jar.

Why It's Great: Will keep your lunch warm; good for adults and kids; spoon built into the lid

Grain of Salt: Slightly narrow opening

Slightly squatter and smaller than our top pick, this classic Thermos performed almost as well as the Stanley and is "kid and mom-approved," according to Amy. The 16-ounce capacity is still large enough for a filling meal, and the vacuum insulation held liquids at 100°F after five hours—it should keep your lunch just as warm.

This is a great leak-free container for kids and adults, easily fitting into lunch boxes or a backpack. A foldable spoon hides inside the lid, which doubles as a cup, so you don't have to worry about losing your spoon (or cup) in transport. Though the opening is still considered wide mouth, it was slightly narrow so you'll need to take extra caution when filling. Also, if the stainless-steel spoon is broken or lost, Thermos sells replacements .

The Details: 3.7 x 5.5 inches; 16-ounce capacity; dishwasher-safe

Best for Day Hikes

Hydro flask food jar.

Why It's Great: Decent heat retention; easy to pour into; different colors and sizes available; stylish

Grain of Salt: Not the best option for lunch boxes; no integrated cutlery

Hot food containers aren't for weekday lunch alone. They're also perfect for packing your weekend lunch away from home, whether that's on a hike, at the beach, or in the car between morning soccer practice and an afternoon birthday party. The 20-ounce Hydro Flask Insulated Food Jar fits the bill. It won't leak if thrown onto your passenger seat or tossed into a backpack, and everyone can get a good grip on the exterior.

This kept food on the warm side for five hours, but the food wasn't as hot as it would've been in the Stanley or Themos. It does come in a larger capacity, though, and it's way more stylish. You will also have to tote along travel utensils as there's no built-in cutlery.

The Details: 4.3 x 4.6 inches; 20 ounces; dishwasher-safe

S'well Stainless Steel Food Bowl

Why It's Great: Good heat retention; comes with inner prep bowl; stylish

Grain of Salt: Inner bowl takes up space

Having a packed lunch means you're great at one thing: meal prep. S'well stainless-steel insulated container makes that one step easier since it comes with a Tritan plastic prep bowl that fits inside. So you can layer your hot lunch in the prep bowl, seal everything up, and tip it into the larger container for mealtime mixing.

With or without the inner bowl, this didn't leak and it did a good job of retaining heat for five hours. The inner bowl is microwave-safe in case lunch needs a little warming up. This is more for teenagers or adults, instead of a kid's lunch, and you'll have to remember to pack any flatware. But, as Amy puts it, "even an ordinary lunch in the cafeteria feels a little fancier in this S'well food storage option."

The Details: 4.8 x 4.6 inches; 21.5-ounce capacity; dishwasher safe

The Stanley Adventure Vacuum Food Jar and the slightly smaller Thermos Stainless King Food Jar will keep your food hot for hours (or at least until lunchtime), and you won't need to pack any extras.

How to Pick the Right Hot Food Containers

Heat retention.

Of course, it's nice to eat a hot lunch on a cold day (or in a cold office), but heat retention serves a very important function. It can help keep your food above the food safety "Danger Zone" (40°F to 140°F). The Danger Zone is the range of temperatures where bacteria multiply most rapidly, and keeping your food above it can help prevent food sickness.

There are two important aspects to consider when it comes to size: how much food a container will hold and what it'll be carried in. Ten to 12-ounce containers are great for those with smaller appetites or when it's being transported in a classic lunch box alongside a day's worth of snacks and drinks. Sixteen to 28-ounce containers work for larger appetites or more active days. This will have to be placed in larger lunch bags or backpacks.

Many hot food containers are safe to put into the dishwasher if you place them on the top rack. But, after some time, the heat and abrasive cleaners can affect the container's seal so you'll see hand-washing is the recommended route. Hand-washing also allows you to clean any nooks and crannies, especially if the lid comes apart. Doing so can prevent mold growth and/or staining.

We tasked Allstar Amy Barnes with testing various hot food containers and reporting on her findings. First, she analyzed each design to determine who it would work best for. She then checked for heat retention by leaving hot water in the container for at least five hours, taking the temperature at the beginning and end of the test. She left filled containers upside down to check for leaks and examined if they would be prone to damage. Here are a few important characteristics we paid extra attention to:

• Heat Retention:  Was a significant amount of heat lost within five hours? Does the container get hot to the touch when you add food, or is it insulated?
• Size:  Is it large enough to hold a full meal? If it's more for kids or small appetites, would they be able to grasp the lid to open it, or is it too big for small hands?
• Features:  Can the lid double as a cup? Will you need to remember your travel cutlery or need a separate bowl at mealtime?

The Leftovers: Other Hot Food Containers We Tested

We wanted to like the Bentgo Stainless Insulated Food Container . Its simple design and compact form make it an easy choice to pack for lunch, but we were less than impressed with its performance. The container leaked a lot, and even when left upright for five hours, it barely retained any heat, which could lead your food to go bad before you get hungry.

What can you put in a hot food container?

These are great for liquid or semi-liquid meals, such as stews, soups, and curries. If you want the container to keep the meal warm for hours, you should warm it up before adding the container. Since these have great insulation, they're also perfect for keeping cold food cold. You can bring a cold fruit snack or make a jar salad during the warmer months.

Should you preheat hot food containers?

You can! To warm up the stainless steel, pour boiling-hot water into the container and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Then dump the water and add your food. You can also pre-chill a container by placing ice inside for about 10 minutes before adding cold food.

Why Take Our Word For It?

Siobhan Wallace  is the senior commerce editor for Allrecipes. She has been bringing her lunch to the office for decades and frequently brings larger snacks on her day hikes and beach visits.

One of the Allrecipes Allstar testers, Amy Cipolla Barnes has 25 years of freelance writing experience, with a focus on food, family, travel, and lifestyle including food writing and recipe development. She tested hot food containers for us, vetting each based on her personal experience.

Want to know more about the Allrecipes Allstars? Learn about their favorite recipes, kitchen hacks, and product picks here.

You’ll Also Love