Good Question: Spill-Proof Containers for Leftovers?

Jamie is looking for spill-proof, leak-proof containers for leftover and lunch. This is a good question for all of you who bike to work or school! Can you help her?

Whenever my boyfriend and I go out cycling around town sometimes we stop for lunch and end up with leftovers. Is there a container that we could use for the leftovers (rather than the styrofoam ones they give you) that won't pop open in our backpacks, which is my main concern with the disposable ziploc ones?
Perhaps something with a locking mechanism to prevent spillage. Also, something that won't take up a bunch of space.

Jamie, the first thing that came to mind is a bento-like lunchbox container, which of course would be great for workday lunches too. Here are a few lunchboxes and bento ideas we've mentioned before:

• Zojirushi Mr. Bento Stainless Lunch Jar
• Aladdin's New Lunchbox
• 9 Cool Lunch Boxes and Bags

The lunchbox pictured above is actually a kids' lunchbox, but we rather covet it. Ohdeedoh introduced us to it and we love the look. It contains several smaller containers locked into one larger container, minimizing spillage. These are made from BPA-free and phthalate-free polypropylene.

• OOTS Lunchboxes, $35-$45

And finally, one other lunchbox and food storage that we've seen recommended in various places are these Lock & Lock containers:

• Lock & Lock Food Storage Containers at Organize.com

OK, bike-riding, lunch-carrying readers — what do you use to safely transport your food from home to office?

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Related: Trend Watch: Bento

(Image: OOTS)

Comments (8)

I was going to suggest Mr Bento although the shape makes it somewhat difficult to fit in my backpack with books. It is also heavier than some other options.

Similar to the Lock & Lock (and also available at organize.com) are the Glasslock containers. I worry about keeping food in plastic - these are fully leak-proof (we put soup in them, and aren't very careful to keep them right-side up) and made of glass, except for the lids.

http://www.organize.com/glasslock-2-cup-square-food-storage.html (they come in other sizes, too, but I couldn't figure out how to link to just the glass ones...)

I'm a fan of Lock & Lock. I've never had a leak and use them nearly every day to bring my lunch to work on my bicycle.

yes, lock & lock. you can get them from target. You can put them in your bag upside down and shake and they still won't leak. They come in all different shapes and sizes.

I'll echo the lock & lock suggestion, they are awesome.

Biggie at Lunch in a Box reviewed (very thoroughly!) several Mr. Bento type "lunch jars" here:
http://lunchinabox.net/2008/09/22/thermal-lunch-jar-shootout/

I've been using Biokips locking containers to bring my lunch to work and I've had good results with them so far.

Lock and lock are the best! They never ever leak.

I would forgo Glasslock because although the bottom is glass, the top is still plastic. Obviously, the glass is heavier and a lot more prone to breaking.

I bike to campus almost every day, and I use To Go Ware to carry my lunch. The compact design fits easily into my backpack and their bamboo utensils are small enough to throw in my purse. I've carried thicker chowders and stews in it, with no issues of spillage. Bonus: the company works with NGO's out of India and Burma, to help employ refugees and other marginalized communities.

http://www.to-goware.com/stor/cart.php?m=product_list&c=11