Since I started using this bento-style lunchbox to take my meals to work, I have found it's made me much more particular about what I eat. I've never been one to spend much time in the kitchen, and I recently realized I was eating way too much junk/restaurant food as a result. I decided if I were to present my meals in an appealing way, I might pay more attention and start eating better. I also have the Mr. Bento Lunch Jar, which definitely has good presentation capabilities, but I found when I was taking it to work regularly it was difficult for me to fill up in such a way I did not have way too much food or a lot of unused space. The Laptop Lunchbox is the perfect size for me. I carry a little under 600 calories in it in general, just enough to get through a work day. Unlike the Mr. Bento, this lunchbox doesn't keep things hot, but the containers are advertised as microwave-safe. I generally bring foods that are ok at room temperature or cool: sandwich, nuts, apples/applesauce, carrots, hummus.

The box is 9" x 7" x 2" and holds four main containers, two that are 4.5" x 3" x 1.75" (volume each: ~1 cup) and two that are 2" x 3" x 1.75" (volume each: ~1/2 cup). There's also a small dip container that is 1.5"x1"x1.5", which goes into one of the other containers. Only the dip container and one of the larger containers has a lid, so you have to use mostly non-liquid foods. The lid of the outer box rests nearly flush with the tops of the inner containers, so small items don't fly around even if you hold the lunchbox sideways. I usually leave out one large container and put a sandwich there instead (cut in thirds, it fits better and looks quite nice on display). It’s somewhat marketed for kids. I've seen reviews from users who send one with their 2-year-olds to daycare -- a bit surprising considering how much it holds -- but the site sells more adult-appropriate bags and additional containers. They also offer an insulated Bento Sleeve with Ice Pack, which I would consider if I didn't have a fridge in my office.

Having been pushed into the prepare-my-own-food mindset, I'm actually starting to cook more for other meals (I even bought a rice cooker and immersion blender). It's been somewhat life-changing, which may seem a little odd. Of course, there's a Flickr pool for Laptop Lunches, so I know I'm not the only one.

-- Maria Blees

Laptop Lunchbox
$23
(no sleeve*)
Available from the manufacturer, Obentec, Inc.

*includes copy of The Laptop Lunch User's Guide

$34
(w/sleeve, no book)
Also from ReusableBags

Related items previously reviewed in Cool Tools:

The Hacker's Diet

LiquiSeal Travel Mug

Omnivore's Dilemma