This “Game-Changing” Gadget Keeps My Favorite Comfort Meals Warm on the Go (and Saves Me So Much Money!)

If you ask any of my friends, they’ll tell you I’m all about comfort food. I’ve always loved hearty, filling meals — casseroles, soups, stews, and pasta dishes are my ultimate joy. Now that winter has arrived in Boston, I’m fully leaning into my love for cozy, warming dishes. Being a fully remote employee makes it easy to indulge in these meals at home — until I shake up my routine.

On some days, I’ll meet friends at coworking spaces, or I’ll head out for weekend ski trips where I need a meal on the go. Do I want to buy lunch while I’m out? Not really, especially after spending my Sunday meal prepping for the week. But when there’s no microwave in sight, I used to feel stuck — until I discovered the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box. This little lifesaver lets me plug in wherever I am and enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal. And it’s on sale right now on Amazon! 

The Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box looks like a mini slow cooker, and it’s just as convenient. It features a removable, dishwasher-safe basin and inner lid, plus an outer lid with a handle for easy carrying. Together, the two lids ensure your food stays secure and won’t spill into your backpack, tote bag, or purse. 

“I’m not a huge lunch meal prepper (despite my goal to be one) and this lunch box makes it easy to dump a can of soup in and then trot off to work,” says Deputy Commerce Editor Alicia, who has one of her own. “It heats soup more quickly than meals like chicken and rice, and it doesn’t burn anything. I can let my soup sit there plugged in for 15 to 20 minutes, and it’s fine. My quick lunches and warmed-up leftovers taste so much better than they would have in the microwave.”

The inner container holds up to 20 ounces, which is roughly the size of a bowl of soup or enough dip for three to four people. It also comes with a removable cord that can be neatly stored at the bottom of the warmer. Plus, it comes in four fun, retro colors, which makes your lunchtime a bit more exciting! The only catch? You’ll need access to an outlet to heat your food, so it’s not ideal for camping unless you have electricity nearby.

I never felt the need to take lunch on the go until I discovered this handy lunch box. It’s been a total game-changer — especially on days when I meet friends for coffee during the workweek. But it’s also perfect for park hangouts, road trips (just plug it in at a rest stop), and even train rides. I’ve used it way more than I ever expected, and it doesn’t hurt that it’s super cute, too. With its spill-proof top and convenient carrying handle, it’s easy to toss into my oversized bag or carry independently.

In just 15 minutes, my soup is warm and ready to go; if you’re in the mood to be patient, it takes a little longer for protein. It holds the perfect amount for a satisfying lunch. Heck, I’ve even used it for queso when I’m heading to a friend’s house — yes, it keeps dips warm, too! No wonder it has over 6,500 five-star reviews on Amazon, and more than 20,000 purchases in the past month alone. It’s just that convenient!

Buy: Crock-Pot 20-Ounce Electric Lunch Box, $34.99 (normally $44.99)