Making Lunchtime Easier: Practical Tips and Tools for Packing Lunch Boxes
Before I became a parent, I imagined that packing lunches would be fun and creative. However, after having three children in five years, I quickly realized it could be quite the opposite. Today, we’re diving into the world of lunch boxes. Over the years, I’ve discovered valuable tips, tricks, hacks, and tools to make packing lunches more accessible, and I’m excited to share them with you.
So, let’s get started!
The Right Tools for Packing Lunch Boxes
Before we delve into the hacks, let’s discuss the importance of having the right tools and supplies. Not all lunchbox supplies are created equal, and having the right ones can make a difference. Let’s start with the lunch box itself.
Choosing the Right Lunch Box
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when selecting a lunch box. It largely depends on your specific needs, the types of foods you’ll be packing, and any rules or regulations you must adhere to. Here are some key factors to consider:
Additional Useful Tools
Beyond the lunch box itself, other tools can make lunch packing more efficient:
Lunch Packing Hacks
Let’s explore hacks that make your lunch packing routine a breeze.
Preventing Fruit Browning
One common issue with packing fresh fruits like apples and avocados is browning. Here’s how to prevent it:
Batch Packing and Freezing
One of the biggest time-savers is packing multiple lunches at once. Here’s how I do it:
Versatile Lunch Options
Consider sending foods that can be eaten cold, such as pizza roll-ups and quesadillas. This will give you more options for what you can pack and reduce the need for reheating.
Top Lunch Box Recommendations
Here are the three lunch boxes that have worked best for our family:
Bentgo Lunch Boxes
These are great for younger children due to their smaller size and durability. They are leak-proof and while only the inner compartment is dishwasher safe, they offer various compartment options.
Omni Lunch Boxes
I love these for their leak-proof compartments, adjustable dividers, and built-in thermos, allowing for versatile packing of hot and cold lunches. However, they require handwashing.
B Box Lunch Boxes
Our newest addition, these are entirely dishwasher safe and come in multiple sizes with adjustable dividers. Thanks to a flexible rubber top, they also feature a unique design that accommodates full-sized fruits.
Conclusion
These are just a few strategies to make packing lunch boxes easier and more efficient. If you have any additional tips or hacks, please share them in the comments below. Let’s make this a place where we can all learn from each other to simplify our lunch-packing routines. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you’re having a fantastic day. Remember to be kind to yourself and others, and I’ll see you in my next post!