Complete Lunch Box Guide: Essential Gear and Tips from a Mom | Les Belles Combines
11 February, 2025
Hello! It's Dominique again!
Many of you have responded to my 180 Different Lunches Challenge and asked me what my essential equipment items are. After all, behind every successful lunch lies not only inspiration, but also the right tools! So today, I'm sharing with you my selection criteria and my absolute must-haves.
The Best Lunch Box Containers: Selection Criteria
My philosophy? The simpler the better! I avoid boxes with built-in fixed compartments like the plague. Why? Because I want to be able to have fun and adapt the space according to my inspirations of the moment! Silicone containers that act as small dividers have become my best allies - they allow me to create exactly the sections I need, whether for a meal in portions or a more elaborate composition.
Lunch box organization: practical tips
One thing I've learned from experience: no snap closures! Not only do they take up unnecessary space, but they always end up breaking while the container is still perfectly usable. Frustrating, right?
Bento box for children: how to choose the right model
If I had to keep just one, this would be it ! Its versatility is just incredible: sometimes I only use the bottom tier, other times both tiers. My little tip? I invested in several rubber bands of different sizes to make sure the box closes perfectly no matter the configuration. It's simple for me and the kids, and it makes all the difference!
School Lunch Essentials
To complete my basic collection, three container formats have become essential:
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Small containers with screw-on lids (my favorite option, zero leaks guaranteed!)
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Two-compartment containers , perfect for snack duos
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The reusable pouch for yogurt or soft snacks (pssst there’s a discount for our subscribers to Magazine + or Octave !)
And of course, the trusty water bottle that never leaves my side!
Thermos for hot meals: buying guide
A thermos for each child is non-negotiable in my family! And not just any thermos - I found that a medium size is really ideal. Neither too small (to be able to put a good portion of soup), nor too big (perfect for just a hot sauce when I prepare my homemade "hot chicken" or my vol-au-vents). This versatility is essential when you want to vary the pleasures!
It's amazing how a simple thermos can transform an ordinary lunch into a comforting meal:
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Soups that stay hot until dinner
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The separate sauce that keeps all its heat
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Leftovers from last night's dinner perfectly preserved
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A great alternative when there is no microwave at school
Lunch box budget: money-saving tips
Let's talk money (because yes, it's important!): I don't break the bank for lunch supplies. Why? Because let's be honest, kids sometimes have a knack for losing their stuff! I opt for products that are of decent quality without being high-end. The goal is to find the right balance between durability and reasonable price. That way, no stress if a thermos doesn't come home one evening!
The secret to a successful lunch box
What I love about this material is that it allows me to give free rein to my creativity while remaining super practical on a daily basis. No need for a whole cupboard of different containers - a few well-chosen pieces are enough to create varied and appetizing lunches!
So, what are your must-haves? Share your finds in the comments! And don't forget to check out my stories to see all this gear in action in my famous original lunches! 🥪✨
To your boxes! 🍱 For lots of lunch ideas to fill your containers, it's here !
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