As dedicated health professionals, nurses often find themselves immersed in the demands of their challenging and often hectic work schedules.
With limited time for a lunch break and the need to sustain their energy levels throughout long shifts, having a reliable and convenient lunchbox becomes an essential tool in their arsenal.
However, finding the best lunch bag that aligns with the unique needs of nurses can be overwhelming amidst the sea of options available. Fear not!
In this comprehensive blog post, we will guide nurses on a journey to discover the ideal lunchbox that caters to their specific requirements.
From considerations like portability and insulation to durability and organization, we'll provide valuable insights and recommendations to help nurses find a lunchbox that effortlessly supports their dietary needs and contributes to their overall well-being on the job.
So, let's dive in and explore the world of lunchboxes, empowering nurses to fuel their shifts with delicious and nourishing meals!
Jump to:
- What to Look for in the Perfect Lunchbox for Nurses
- Our Top 4 Lunchboxes for Nurses
- The Rest of the Best (Numbers 5 - 13)
- Thinking about an Electric Lunch Box? Our Top electric lunch boxes
- OUR TOP 4 FAVORITE BACKPACK LUNCH BOXES
- OUR TOP 4 INSULATED LUNCH BAGS
- OUR FAVORITE BENTO BOXES
- OUR FAVORITE STAINLESS STEEL LUNCH CONTAINERS
- Our Favorite Thermos Containers
- OUR FAVORITE LUNCH BOX ACCESSORIES
- Packing Lunches? These Should Help!
- 💬 Comments
What to Look for in the Perfect Lunchbox for Nurses
Size and Capacity
The lunch box should be spacious enough to hold a complete meal, including containers for main dishes, snacks, and beverages. It should also fit comfortably in a nurse's tote bag or locker. While a busy nurse working at the hospital might want a small lunch bag that holds just their lunch, cell phone, and essential items, travel nurses or someone working 12-hour shifts might be looking for something with a larger capacity and enough space to hold personal items, a change of clothes, a variety of foods and everything they need to meet their daily needs.
Insulation and Temperature Control
Nurses often work long shifts, and their lunch box should have effective insulation to keep their food fresh and at a safe temperature. Look for lunch boxes with insulated linings or thermal properties that can maintain hot or cold temperatures. You can also look for one that comes with an insulated container.
Durability
Nurses are constantly on the go, so a lunch box that is sturdy and durable is essential. It should be able to withstand daily use, potential impacts, and be easy to clean. Sometimes a great lunch bag with a simple design made out of high-quality material will last a long time, whereas a good lunch bag with unique features might not last as long.
Leak-Proof and Spill-Proof
Nurses need a lunch box that prevents leakage and spills to avoid any mess and keep their belongings protected. Look for lunch boxes with secure and tight-fitting lids or zippered compartments to prevent accidents. The last thing any healthcare worker needs is a giant mess in their nurse lunch box. Look for waterproof material as well as leakproof.
Compartments and Organization
A nurse's lunch box should have multiple compartments or dividers to separate different food items, snacks, or condiments. This helps with portion control, keeps food fresh, and makes it easier to find specific items quickly. A fashionable design with exterior pockets might just be the key to a perfect nurse lunch bag.
Easy to Clean
Given the nature of their work, nurses may not have a lot of time in their busy schedule to spend cleaning their lunch box. Pay attention to ease of cleaning as you hunt for the perfect nursing lunch bag at a great value. Look for lunch boxes that are easy to wipe clean or can be thrown into the dishwasher without any issues.
Portability and Carrying Options
Nurses may need to carry their lunch box alongside other work-related items, so it should be portable and have easy carrying options like handles, shoulder straps, a padded handle or hooks to attach it to a bag.
BPA-Free and Food-Safe Materials
Ensure that the lunch box is made from BPA-free and food-grade materials to ensure the safety of the nurse's food and health.
Style and Design
While not a top priority, some nurses may prefer a lunch box that reflects their personal style or has a design that matches their profession. It can be a nice bonus if the lunch box has a stylish design and comes in different colors.
Cost
Lastly, nurses may have a specific budget in mind when looking for a lunch box. Considering the price range and value for money is important while making a choice. You'll find that every option on this list is less than $50, and most of them are less than $30.
Our Top 4 Lunchboxes for Nurses
#1 - JOYHILL Lunch Bag for Women
What you should know:
- Large
- Most stylish option on our list
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Handles or removable shoulder strap
- Side pockets for water bottles
- Two front zipper pockets
- One main insulated compartment
- Leak proof
- Would be the perfect gift for a nursing student
#2 - Maelstrom Lunch Box
What you should know:
- The largest lunch box on our list
- Three separate insulated compartments to keep hot and cold foods separate, all with easy access
- Top handles or removable shoulder strap
- Side mesh pocket for water bottles
- Front zipper pocket
- Multiple colors to choose from
#3 - Insulated Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Front, back and side mesh pockets - fits water bottle
- Multiple colors
- Handles and removable shoulder strap
- Insulated
- Leak proof
- Larger than it looks
- One main large compartment
#4 - Coobiiya Lunch Bag
What you should know:
Top handles
- Insulated main compartment
- Front zippered compartment for utensils or keys/cellphone
- Side mesh pocket for a water bottle
- Multiple colors/patterns
The Rest of the Best (Numbers 5 - 13)
In no particular order, here are the rest of the best lunchboxes for nurses.
Artelaris Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Lightweight
- durable
- insulated, leak proof
- Multiple pockets and compartments and could easily replace your purse.
- Perfect spot for your water bottle.
- Two carrying options - handles or a shoulder strap.
- Large - great for long nursing shift.
TOURIT Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Multiple colors
- Double decker with two separate insulated compartments to keep cold things cold and warm things warm
- Easy to wipe clean
- Does not have a side pocket for a water bottle
- Top handle or shoulder strap.
Artelaris Women's Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Insulated with several side front and back pockets
- Removable shoulder strap as well as handles
- Leak proof
- Very large and looks luxurious
- Multiple colors
KIPBELIF Insulated Lunch Bags
What you should know:
- Multiple colors with two different size options - normal or extra large
- Side pockets for water bottles
- One, large main compartment with zip top
- Removable shoulder strap or handles
- Leakproof and insulated.
Weitars Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Large
- Multiple colors
- Handle or removable shoulder strap
- Insulated
- Several front, back and side pockets, fits water bottle
- Leak proof
NOL Natural Organic Lifestyle Insulated Lunch Bags
What you should know:
- Very basic lunch box that gets the job done
- Multiple colors
- Handle or removable shoulder strap
- No outside pockets
- Insulated
- Small or medium size
Artelaris Lunch Backpack for Women
What you should know:
- Backpack shoulder straps or handles
- Front zipper compartments and side pockets for water bottles.
- One main insulated compartment
- Large - great for long shifts
- Multiple colors
MIYCOO Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Very large
- Two separate insulated compartments to keep cold things cold and hot things hot
- Top handles or removable shoulder strap
- Front zipper pocket plus side mesh pockets for water bottles
- Multiple colors to choose from
gelugee Brown Tactical Lunch Box
What you should know:
- Very large - choose between two sizes - large and XL
- Two separate insulated compartments to keep hot and cold things separated
- Handles or removable shoulder strap
- Interior mesh pocket for ice packs
- Front zipper pocket separate from main compartments
- Side pocket perfect for water bottles
- Multiple colors to choose from
SUNNY BIRD Insulated Lunch Bag Tactical Lunch Box
What you should know:
- Large
- Inner lid pocket is perfect for ice packs
- Insulated
- Handle or removable shoulder strap
- One insulated compartment
- Two zippered side pockets and one front zippered pocket
BALORAY Lunch Bag for Women
What you should know:
- Top handles
- Smaller size - could be carried inside a backpack or bag
- One insulated compartment
- No pockets
- Multiple colors/patterns
BALORAY Insulated Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Large capacity
- Top handles or removable shoulder strap
- Side mesh pockets for water bottle
- Front zipper pouch
- One main insulated compartment
Foundry by Fit + Fresh
What you should know:
- Traditional lunch box
- Side mesh pocket for your waterbottle
- Top handle
- Front zipper pocket
- One main insulated compartment
- Perfect to carry inside another bag or backpack
- Two polka dot patterns to choose from
Thinking about an Electric Lunch Box? Our Top electric lunch boxes
These are our top picks made of the highest quality materials. If you choose something from this list, you're guaranteed to make a great choice.
See our top four picks here, and then click through for our top 20 favorites.
#1 - WisaKey Electric Lunch Box Food Heater
What you should know:
- 1.8 liter capacity
- 25 - 45 minutes to heat food
- Separate food grade PP plastic layer for cold food (this must be removed before using the heating element)
- Fork and spoon included
- Insulated carrying case included
- Car adapter included
- Three colors to choose from
- Removable stainless steel container
- Dishwasher safe
- Leak proof
#2 - Crockpot Electric Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer
What you should know:
- 20 ounce size (approximately .5 liters) The smallest electric lunch box on our list.
- 45-65 minutes to heat food
- Does not have a separate plastic compartment for cold food
- Has a heating base that is attached along with a heat-resistant handle
- Fork and spoon NOT included
- Insulated carrying case NOT included
- Car adapter NOT included
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Removable stainless steel container
- Dishwasher safe
- Leak proof
- Cord is attached and has a slot on the bottom for storage. This can be a nice feature because you don’t risk losing your cord.
#3 - CTSZOOM Self Cooking Electric Lunch Box
This is the largest one on our list with three separate food compartments AND the option to cook rice.
What you should know:
- 30-35 minutes to heat food
- Three separate layers for cooking. The top layer has a divided stainless steel tray and the bottom two layers have one large stainless steel tray. BOTH trays have a food grade PP plastic lid (which needs to be removed before heating). The bottom layer can be used for cooking rice.
- Fork and spoon NOT included
- Insulated carrying case NOT included
- Car adapter NOT included
- Removable stainless steel containers
- Dishwasher safe
#4 - FORABEST Portable Microwave Food Warmer
Technically, this sucker considers itself more a microwave oven or a "Portable Food Warmer Lunch Box" than an electric lunch box. But its flexibility earns it a top spot on our list!
What you should know:
- You can heat meals in 35-45 minutes or COOK meals in two hours.
- You provide the container for cooking. This can be a glass dish, ceramic, cardboard, tupperware or disposable aluminum pan. The dimensions are 10 inches by 7 inches.
- Fork and spoon included
- Insulated carrying case included
- Car adapter included
See all of 20 of our Top Electric Lunch Boxes here ->
OUR TOP 4 FAVORITE BACKPACK LUNCH BOXES
While we stand by every cooler bag on our list, these are our top picks. See the top four below and then click here to see the all the rest on our list.
#1 - Scothen Backpack Cooler
What you should know:
- My clear top pick
- Two separate insulated compartments for hot and cold items to be kept separate.
- Leakproof and waterproof exterior
- Front and side pockets for all of your other items, including a water bottle.
- Several colors to choose from
- Plenty of room for your lunch and anything else you need for the day
- Did I mention that this was my top choice?
#2 - Insulated Cooler Backpack Lunch Box Laptop Backpack with USB Port
What you should know:
- Insulated cooler bag to keep food hot or cold.
- Large main compartments can be used for a laptop or school supplies.
- Includes a USB port
- Mesh side pockets fit a water bottle.
- Top handles or backpack straps.
- Interior mesh pocket for an ice pack.
- A few colors/patterns to choose from.
#3 - HILUSEN Lunch Backpack
What you should know:
- Insulated to keep food hot or cold.
- Two main compartments can be used for a laptop or school supplies.
- Unique design allows the backpack to be opened completely and laid out flat.
- Includes a USB port
- Mesh side pockets fit a water bottle.
- Interior mesh pocket for ice packs.
- A few colors/patterns to choose from.
- This is definitely one of the best lunch boxes on the list!
#4 - HILUSEN Extra Large Insulated Cooler Lunch Box Backpack
What you should know:
- Largest backpack lunch box on our list.
- Entire front, bottom compartment is insulated to keep hot things hot or cold things cold.
- Multiple other separate compartments and pockets for all your other needs including a separate laptop sleeve
- Side mesh pocket fits a water bottle.
- USB port included.
- Variety of colors to choose from
Click here to see all 22 of our favorite Backpack Lunchboxes.
OUR TOP 4 INSULATED LUNCH BAGS
When it comes to the best insulated lunch boxes, these are four of our top picks in all different sizes that will keep your hot food hot and cold food cold.
See our top four here, and then click here to see the rest of the list.
#1 Lily Bell Insulated Bag
What you should know:
- Food-grade PU leather
- No one will ever believe this is your lunch box
- Outside zipper pockets with large insulated main compartment
- Top handles or removable, adjustable shoulder strap.
- This is a clear top performer
#2 Foundry by Fit + Fresh Cooler Bag
What you should know:
- Thermal insulation
- Removable divider for main compartment
- Zipper closure
- Short or long handles
- Four outer pockets for bottles, etc.
- Several colors to choose from
#3 JOYHILL Insulated Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Very stylish medium/small size lunch bag
- Front pocket for keys/phone
- Insulated with aluminum foil
- Top handles
#4 FlowFly Insulated Reusable Lunch Bag
What you should know:
- Large insulated lunch box / cooler
- Size mesh pockets for water bottles
- Top handle or removable shoulder strap
- Front zipper pocket for phone / keys / wallet.
- Would also work great as a picnic bag
- If you're always worried that you didn't pack enough food, this might be your best option.
Click here to see all 35 of the best lunchboxes to keep food warm.
OUR FAVORITE BENTO BOXES
There's nothing better than packing your lunch in a Bento Box (to then put into your lunch box). Here are all of our favorites:
EasyLunchboxes® - Bento Lunch Boxes
I am obsessed with these food-grade plastic Bento boxes. They’re dishwasher safe, the lids stay on tight, and they make packing lunches SO EASY! Main course goes in the large compartment, two sides, and you’re good to go.
Bento Lunch Box (4 Pack)
These BPA-free containers have clear lids. They're leak proof and have four compartments for quick and easy packed lunches. Dishwasher safe.
HOMETALL Bento Box
This stackable Bento box comes with a leak-proof lid and several compartments. The bottom layer has two sections, the middle layer has three food sections with a center section for sauce, and the top layer has a place for silverware (included) and dessert. Dishwasher safe.
Bentoheaven Premium Bento Box
This is what comes to mind when I think of a Bento Box. Two stackable containers with a separate compartment on the top for silverware. It’s microwave and dishwasher safe. Multiple colors available.
Bento Box Adult Lunch Box
This stacking Bento box is just too cute (and there are other colors to choose from too! It’s microwave and dishwasher safe with a separate silverware compartment. It also comes with a condiment container with a lid that you can tuck into one of your boxes. The bottom layer is one large container, and the top layer has a divider down the middle.
Demiue Lunch Box
While this says it’s for kids, I’m not sure why adults couldn’t use it too. It’s a lunchbox combined with a Bento box. There are five compartments including a removable container with a lid for condiments. It also includes matching silverware, and it’s dishwasher safe.
KARRICO XL Bento Box
This darling bento box has two layers for food with adjustable dividers. Plus a mini layer for silverware (included). It’s dishwasher and microwave safe.
OmieBox Bento Box
This Bento box includes a removable Thermos container for soups or hot foods with a lid. Three total compartments with a leak-proof lid. Dishwasher safe.
linoroso Stackable Bento Box
This simple Bento Box includes two layers with dividers, a utensil set and dressing containers. It’s dishwasher safe. There are three compartments in each layer, which is really nice to have.
RIKDOKEN Bento Box Lunch Box
If I had to pick a favorite, it would be this one. Use one, two or all three containers clicked together. There are no dividers included. Dishwasher and microwave safe, with three colors to choose from.
OUR FAVORITE STAINLESS STEEL LUNCH CONTAINERS
Stainless Steel containers are a great insulated food container. They're a good choice for packing your fresh food. If you're looking for stainless steel lunch boxes, here are some of our favorites.
Lille Home Stackable Stainless Steel Thermal Compartment Lunch/Snack Box
What you should know:
- This stacking stainless steel thermos has three separate containers (two 10-ounce containers and one 20-ounce container).
- It’s leak proof and designed to keep food hot or cold.
- It comes with an insulated carrying case and utensil set.
- And it’s dishwasher safe!
Slaipo Bento Box Adult Lunch Box
What you should know:
- This 3-compartment stacking lunch box has three separate stainless steel containers with silicone lids that can be stacked together.
- Take one, two or all three.
- Designed to keep food hot or cold.
- Dishwasher safe and also includes an insulated carrying case and utensil set.
Hydream 8 Pack Salad Dressing Containers
What you should know:
- Eight stainless steel containers with locking lids.
- They’re leak proof and hold 2.4 ounces each.
- Perfect for sauces, dressings or sweet treats.
- Dishwasher safe!
Tanjiae Stainless Steel Snack Containers
What you should know:
- These 8-ounce (one-cup) stainless steel containers with silicone lids are designed to keep food warm or cold.
- They’re a great way to pack your lunch and snacks for the day.
- Dishwasher safe.
Our Favorite Thermos Containers
Sometimes you just need an insulated food jar with an airtight lid! And we have you covered - here are our top 8 picks:
DaCool Food Thermos
What you should know:
- 16 ounces
- Keeps food hot or cold
- Easy open
- Foldable spoon included
- BPA free
- Three colors to choose from
USEEM 17 Ounce Vacuum Insulated Food Jar
What you should know:
- 17 ounces
- Stainless steel
- Lid doubles as a bowl
- Folding spoon
- Works for hot or cold food
Design Letters Insulated Food Bowl
What you should know:
- 18 ounces
- Stainless steel with leak-proof lid
- Utensil included
- Easy to clean
- Works with hot and cold foods.
- Multiple colors/lettering options.
Stanley Adventure To Go Insulated Food Jar
What you should know:
- 12 ounces
- Stainless steel
- Leakproof
- Multiple colors
- Keeps food hot or cold
MAISON HUIS 8oz Soup Thermos
What you should know:
- 8 ounce
- Leak-proof lid
- Works for hot and cold foods
- Leak proof
- Multiple colors
YIUNEPA Thermos Food Jar
What you should know:
- 13.5 ounces
- Works for hot or cold foods
- Spoon included
- Two color options
Goodful Vacuum Sealed Insulated Food Jar with Handle
What you should know:
- 16 ounces
- Leak proof
- Works for hot or cold foods
- Multiple colors
ENERGIFY Vacuum Insulated Food Jar
What you should know:
- 17 ounces
- Foldable spoon included
- Easy to open
- Includes carrying case
- Multiple colors
OUR FAVORITE LUNCH BOX ACCESSORIES
When it comes to packing lunches, these are the best products to make the job easier!
Reusable Travel Utensils with Case
- Four sets of travel silverware with carrying cases.
- Each set containers a fork, spoon, knife and chopsticks.
- The silverware is made of natural wheat straw PP - it’s healthy, non-toxic and reusable.
- These are NOT dishwasher safe.
IPOW 24 Pack Silicone Cupcake Baking Cups
- This set of 24 silicone baking cups are exactly what you didn’t know you need for your packed lunch.
- If you’re using a bento box or a stainless steel container for food storage, these make the perfect food compartments for you.
- They’re dishwasher safe and oven safe.
Sophico Small Salt and Pepper Shakers
- Made of BPA-free, food grade plastic and silicone lids, these portable salt and pepper shakers are the perfect addition to your lunch.
- Dishwasher safe.
Reusable Storage Bags
- Like the flexibility of packing your lunch in baggies, but hate the waste?
- You’ll love these leak proof food-grade PEVA reusable bags.
- They’re dishwasher and freezer safe.
- Set of 10.
Timiuu Squeeze Salad Dressing Bottles
Set of four silicone squeeze bottles - perfect for all of your sauces and dressings.
Comes with a cleaning brush. Dishwasher safe.
Greater Goods Reusable Storage Bags
Silicone storage bags - perfect for stashing all of your lunch sides and snacks.
Dishwasher safe. Set of three.
Ziploc Paper Sandwich & Snack Bags
These paper sandwich bags can be recycled, and they close with resealable stickers (included in the box).
If you’re not ready to wash out your reusable bags every day, these are a great option. And they’re cute.
Ice Packs
If you’re packing lunch, you’ll obviously want to stock up on ice packs. This set of four is everything you’ll need.
Packing Lunches? These Should Help!
- 30 Great Packed Lunch Ideas for Kids
- More than 250 Lunch Box Quotes and Notes for your Husband
- More than 150 lunch note ideas to make your kids smile
- Do Uncrustables Need to be Refrigerated or Frozen?
- 35 of The Very Best Lunch Boxes to Keep Food Warm
- 22 OF THE BEST BACKPACK LUNCH BOXES FOR KIDS AND ADULTS
- The Ultimate Guide to Electric Lunch Boxes: Our Top 20 Picks
- Top Picks: More than 30 of the Best Lunch Bags for Nurses
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