Image: MomJunction Design Team
A meal management bag is a safe and insulated portable storage container for meals. The best meal management bag is specially designed with compartments to store your meal portions separately. These bags have larger capacities than regular lunch boxes and can store food for longer hours. Take a look at our curated list of some expert-recommended and time-tested meal management bags and pick the right one.
Top Picks
Different Types Of Meal Prep Bags
Here are the three types of meal management bags.
- Lunch box: This compact bag is suitable for carrying different boxes for one meal and comfortably fits backpacks. It also works for a small snack or a quick bite.
- Backpack: This design is suitable for on-the-go people. It has two straps to carry the bag on the back, leaving the hands free. It usually has space for additional essentials.
- Single-strap bag: Designed to be carried on one shoulder, it is spacious but unsuitable for long commutes.
Benefits Of Having A Meal Prep Bag
Check out some of the benefits of a meal management bag.
- Diet maintenance: It allows you to carry different healthy food items according to your diet plan.
- Insulation: It helps keep your meals hot or cold for long hours. It also prevents the food from getting spoiled while on the go.
- No spill: Its leak-proof material can reduce spills and leaks and is easy to clean.
- Pockets: Apart from a core compartment for meal boxes, it has pockets to carry bottles, pill dispensers, cutlery, and other essentials.
10 Best Meal Management Bags In 2024
1. Best Freezer-Safe: ThinkFit Insulated Meal Prep Lunch Box
ThinkFit meal prep lunch box has double insulation and two reusable ice/ freezer packs to keep your food hot or cold. It includes six BPA-free plastic containers with tight lids. The insulated meal management bag also has a pill dispenser, a shaker cup, a side pocket for a bottle, a comfortable shoulder strap, and three compartments on each side. Check out this video on YouTube to learn if this is the ideal meal prep lunch box for you.
Pros
- Leak-proof and dishwasher-safe containers
- Freezer-safe and microwave-safe
- YKK zippers
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Might be a little small
- Shaker might not be drop-proof
"I find this bag easily holds my meals, snacks, a shaker bottle, and a pill wheel. However, the containers may wrap over time. But its ability to keep my food cold without turning soggy made me stick to this option."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 1,345 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
2. Best Airtight: 6 Pack Fitness Meal Motivator Cube Lunch Bag
Featuring insulated interiors, this 6 Pack Fitness meal motivator cube bag keeps your meals cold and fresh for a long time, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal on the go. It includes one ice pack and three portion control containers of 20 oz each. All its containers are dishwasher-, microwave-, and freezer-safe. This cube lunch bag with an ice pack has an adjustable strap and a carrying handle for comfortable transport. Its dual-zipper closure facilitates easy usage, and the side mesh pockets allow you to store a bottle or handy things such as keys, tissues, or a purse.
Pros
- Made of 600D heavy-duty polyester
- Lids have a silicone seal
- BPA-free portable food containers
- Has an internal mesh pocket
- Leak-proof and airtight lids
Cons
- Container may be slightly smaller than expected
- May not have an internal partition
"Its compact and sturdy design makes it ideal for smaller meals. I'm also quite impressed by the quality of the containers and am considering getting a larger version."
Point to consider3. Best Easy-To-Clean: Mier Insulated Lunch Bag
The Mier insulated lunch bag has two separate compartments. Its upper dry section is for storing a variety of foods, including fruits, pies, and snacks, while the leak-proof bottom section allows you to store drinks, juice, and soups. Crafted with a food-grade, insulated PEVA liner, this meal management bag keeps your food warm or cold as per your preference. The bag is easy to wipe clean and has a short carrying handle as well as an adjustable shoulder strap for easy portability. Additionally, it includes a front zipper pocket for carrying cutlery or other small essentials.
Pros
- Adjustable and removable shoulder straps
- Has a name card pocket and two side pockets
- U-shaped flap with double zipper for easy access
- Available in multiple colors
- Available in two sizes
Cons
- Thermos may not fit upright
- Zipper might catch onto the inside lining
"Whether for my kids� school or my work, this versatile lunch bag meets all my needs. Its roomy bottom allows me to comfortably store snacks, meals, and ice packs. Plus, it is convenient to clean."
ThinkFit Insulated Meal Prep Lunch Box Best Freezer-Safe | 6 Pack Fitness Meal Motivator Cube Lunch Bag Best Airtight | Mier Insulated Lunch Bag Best Easy-To-Clean | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 16.5"L x 8"W x 7.5"H | 7.91 x 6.73 x 8.54 inches | 10.25"L x 8"W x 11"H |
| Shape | Rectangle | Phone | Rectangular |
| Weight | 4.65 Pounds | 1.83 pounds | 0.9 Pounds |
| Material | Plastic | Polyester, Silicone | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate |
| Color | Purple | Black/Pink | Black |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,345 | 15 | 5,086 |
| Price | $44.95 | $29.99 | $23.99 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Travel-Friendly: Isolator Fitness ISOMini Meal Prep Management Insulated Lunch Bag
If you want a bag that keeps your food cold for prolonged hours, try this Isolator Fitness ISOMini insulated bag. This insulated food carrier is engineered to keep the drinks or food cool for 12 to 16 hours and has an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying. It boasts two side mesh pockets, allowing you to store water bottles or other small things. In addition, the two-compartment design enables you to segregate your food for hassle-free storage.
Pros
- Includes BPA-free containers and a gel-free ISOBrick
- Prop 65 certified
- Includes a leak-proof ISOBrick
- Has a non-slip grip handle
- Dual zipper for easy access
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- May not be washable
"I like how it keeps my meals organized without appearing bulky or overstuffed. The containers fit a bit too tightly in the bag when used with ice packs, though."
5. Best Water-Resistant: Bentgo Deluxe Multimeal Bag
The Bentgo deluxe multiple meal planning bag has an ergonomic design with small and large insulated compartments that can store a variety of foods, including meals, snacks, and drinks. In addition, the padded shoulder strap ensures easy carrying without leaving strap marks on your shoulder. This expert-recommended lunch bag with compartments is made of premium-quality, food-safe, and waterproof fabric with leak-proof insulation that keeps your food insulated for up to eight hours.
Pros
- Suitable for gym, home, and work
- Includes mesh pockets for ice packs
- Includes external water bottle holder
- Comes with a name tag holder
- Features an exterior pocket for holding essentials
- Available in multiple colors
- Easy-to-clean fabric
Cons
- May be bulky and larger than expected
- Strap clips may be squeaky
"I appreciate this lunch bag's spacious dual compartments, which allow me to store my food in an organized manner. The insulation keeps my food chilled for my long shifts. However, it could benefit from increased structural support."
6. Best For Portion Control: To Go Meal Prep Bag
The insulated meal prep bag from To Go includes six portion-controlled meal containers, two ice packs, a shaker, and a medicine box. It has adjustable shoulder straps and a carry handle. Each container is microwave- and dishwasher-safe. The portion control quality meal prep bag measures 13×7.4×7.4 inches, and the meal prep organizers are leak-proof and BPA-free.
Pros
- Double-insulated walls
- Extra pockets for small items
- Freezer-safe containers
- Durable handle
Cons
- Containers might be slightly small
- Seams may come apart
"This meal prep bag has been a great pick for my busy lifestyle. The multiple meal containers and ice packs are pretty convenient when traveling or picnicking. The shoulder strap allows me to carry the bag with ease."
7. Best Spacious: PrepNaturals Meal Prep Bag
PrepNaturals meal prep bag includes food storage containers and side extra storage space. It is designed with a sling handle and a short carry handle to let you carry food anywhere you go and have healthy meals. It is crafted from durable polyester and has PEVA lining inside and strong zippers to keep things in place. The meal prep cooler bag keeps food fresh for eight hours with a core-insulated compartment. It also comes with two ice packs to keep the food cool and six pockets.
Pros
- Comes with multi-purpose shaker bottle
- Freezer-safe containers
- Removable divider
- Spacious
- BPA-free
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Might not keep the food warm for long duration
- Might not be lightweight
"This meal prep bag is handy during my long work shifts, family trips, and outings. With its multiple compartments, it can hold snacks, full meals, and a shaker bottle. It appears a tad bulky, but I'm not complaining; it's sturdy and well-insulated."
Quick tip8. Best Adjustable Straps: RitFit Insulated Lunch Box
Suitable for adults and children, this large meal prep bag is designed with adjustable straps. This meal management tote bag contains three containers and has space in the top compartment for a fourth box. The insulated pockets can hold a water bottle, while two mesh pockets can accommodate other essentials. With extra foam padding on the interior lining for thermal resistance, each compartment can be separately temperature-controlled.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Ice pack included
- Waterproof and tear-resistant
- Leak-proof, microwave- and dishwasher-safe containers
- BPA-free containers
- Easy to clean
- Available in many colors
Cons
- Ice pack might be thin
- Drink compartment might be slightly small
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 530 positive reviews on Amazon.
9. Best Easy-To-Carry: Oboo Lunch Backpack
Oboo business backpack is paired with a lunch bag. The quality meal prep bag is insulated and keeps food fresh for eight hours, giving you the pleasant experience of having warm food. It offers space for three managed meals and includes an ice pack. This removable lunch bag is easy to carry, and the meal prep backpack is spacious with multiple pockets.
Pros
- Includes removable insulated lunch bag
- Has a laptop compartment
- Cam store up to three meals
- Unisex design
- Zipper closure
- Multiple compartments
Cons
- Lining of the lunch bag may be thin
- May not be durable
"This backpack is spacious enough to hold my meal box and laptop with ease. Its cooler compartment ensures it keeps my food cold even during travel. However, it lacks a divider that prevents my other essentials from slipping into a cooler area."
10. Best Stain-Resistant: MDMP Meal Prep Lunch Bag
Bring home this all-in-one meal preparation kit that includes everything you will ever need to get the most out of your meals. This travel meal bag comes with three dishwasher-safe boxes, two ice packs for keeping your beverages chilly, and a 22oz shaker for smoothies on the move. Crafted with an ultra-durable PVC material, it helps maintain an ideal temperature and keeps your food fresh for up to 16 hours. The safety-tested and differently sized meal prep containers are reusable and leakproof, not to mention stain-resistant and super-easy to use anywhere.
Pros
- Two zippered compartments
- Metal buckle attachments
- BPA-free, FDA-certified containers
- YKK zippers
- Includes a shaker with additional storage space
Cons
- Might be slightly big for daily lunch
- Label on the bottle might comes off after a few washes
"I feel accessing this bag is quite simple with its multiple angles. While its side pockets can hold all beverages and essentials, the leak-proof containers are durable and straightforward to clean. Moreover, it maintains the temperature well even in high heat."
Pro tipDo Food Prep Bags Need To Be Refrigerated?
Insulated lunch bags do not need to be refrigerated if you use them for a few hours. Some bags also come with ice packs which keep the food cold for eight to 12 hours. If you need to store food for long hours, ensure you refrigerate the bag or keep it in a cool place, especially when carrying meat.
How To Choose The Right Meal Management Bags?
Here are some points you should consider when buying a meal management bag.
- Size: Choose the bag’s size depending on how many meals you usually carry. Some bags are designed to hold two meals, while others can hold three to four meals. Also, if you use your meal bag for other essentials, you might need a bigger bag.
- Insulation: Ensure the bag is adequately insulated to keep food fresh and healthy for long hours.
- Containers and pockets: Choose a bag with multiple containers and pockets that offer extra storage . Decide on the number of compartments you may need based on your requirements.
- Portability: Shoulder straps, backpack style, or carry handles are a few options to choose from. Ensure the handles are padded and adjustable for more comfort.
- Proofing: Ensure the meal bag is waterproof and leak-proof to prevent spills.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are meal prep bags machine-washable?
You can wash standard meal bags in a washing machine. However, you may hand wash or use the gentle cycle in the machine to wash insulated bags to prevent the insulation from degrading. Ensure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines in the product manual before washing the meal prep bag.
2. Are meal management bags safe?
Quality meal prep bags have insulated fabrics and lockable zippers that enable you to carry food safely and keep the food at the ideal temperatures. They are also leakproof. However, ensure the bag is made from food-grade, chemical-free materials for optimal safety.
3. Do meal management bags come with containers?
Yes, some meal management boxes come with sized meal prep containers. However, the number and type of containers can vary depending on the brand and size.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Our team of skilled writers and reviewers have compiled this list after thorough research and going through multiple user reviews. These meal management bags can help you follow a healthy diet and keep your meals fresh with portion containers. We have chosen bags that are durable and leak-proof and feature medicine boxes and ice packs to keep some foods cold. We have also included those that are microwave- and dishwasher-safe.
Meal management bags are safe, insulated, and portable storage solutions for your meals. They are bigger than regular lunch boxes and give you more organization options as they come with an array of features and accessories. Further, they help keep your meals clean, healthy, and mess-free. To choose the right meal management bag, you need to consider the quality of insulation and the number of pockets and containers. The prep bag options listed here vary by design and capacity but are all waterproof, easy to carry, well-insulated, made of safe materials, and leak-proof.
Infographic: How To Care For Meal Management Bags?
Meal management bags are a convenient solution for organizing and transporting portioned meals on the go. With their insulated design and versatile compartments, they ensure your food stays fresh, easily accessible, and at your desired temperature throughout the day. Refer to the infographic to learn how to care for meal management bags, extending their durability and maintaining hygiene.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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