6 Tips on How to Attach Lunch Box to Backpack

Picture this: It’s a sunny Monday morning, and you’ve prepared a loving lunch for your little one to take to school, looking forward to a delightful day ahead. But when the lunch bell rings, they unzip their backpack only to discover a “lunchtime disaster” – juice has not only given their crayons a “color bath” but has also turned the carefully stacked sandwich into a scattered jigsaw puzzle, with books and homework reluctantly joining this “creative party.”

Such scenes might be all too familiar in the daily life of many moms. The little world inside a lunch box, if not properly placed, can bring chaos to a child’s school life. Hence, some moms have started looking for the perfect solution on how to attach lunch box to backpack.

You might have considered backpacks with detachable lunch packs or those lunch boxes with various clips. However, adding weight improperly to the front of the backpack could make your child’s walking posture awkward and could even lead to accidental falls.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. I’m here to guide you through six different methods, uncover the pros and cons, and help you make a smarter choice. Let’s ensure the lunch box and backpack combine perfectly without hindering your child’s mobility or negating your preparatory efforts. Ready? Let’s dive in!

I. Using Clips or Buckles

Using clips or buckles is a quick and effective way to secure a lunch box to a backpack. Some lunch pack designers cleverly incorporate these devices on the bag’s handle or loops, allowing them to easily hang on the backpack’s external hooks or loops. Simply find the right clip or buckle, and you can securely attach the lunch box to the backpack, allowing it to move with your child’s activities.

However, it’s worth noting that while clips and buckles (like carabiner clips or snap fasteners) offer convenience, there are some drawbacks to consider:

Safety: Although most clips come with secure attachments, there’s still a slight risk of detachment, especially if the quality is poor or they’re not correctly fastened.
Adjustability: Not all clips are adjustable. If the lunch box isn’t securely fixed, it could swing and potentially damage both the lunch box and the backpack.

II. Built-In Attachment Systems

Built-in attachment systems are a feature of backpack brands that come with proprietary lunch box securing systems. These systems might include specially designed straps, buttons, or other fasteners, all intended to stably secure the lunch box. When you opt for this type of backpack, you can effortlessly utilize these built-in systems to keep your child’s lunch box safe and secure in transit.

However, it’s important to note that while backpack and lunch box built-in attachment systems offer a stable and secure carrying method, they may also have some downsides. Compatibility could be an issue; not all lunch boxes and backpacks are designed with matching attachment systems, so you might find it difficult to pair your favorite lunch box with your preferred backpack. Additionally, built-in systems might limit versatility. For example, if your backpack only has specific types of loops or clips, you may not be able to connect a lunch box without corresponding features.

III. Side-Release Buckles

Side-release buckles are a more convenient solution. Some lunch packs are specifically designed with side-release buckles, making them easy to use with a backpack. For instance, on a lunch pack equipped with side-release buckles, you simply match its buckles with corresponding attachment points on the backpack to secure the lunch pack firmly on the side of the backpack. This design is straightforward and keeps the lunch pack stable in transit, providing a more convenient carry.

However, they are not without their drawbacks, which you should be aware of. The materials used in these buckles can vary, and not all are equally durable. If you opt for lower-quality plastic buckles, they could break under the weight of a heavily packed lunch box, especially during active movement. Additionally, if the buckle straps are not correctly woven through the loops of the backpack and lunch box, it could lead to slippage or accidental detachment. Therefore, make sure to correctly connect the buckles and tighten the straps to avoid these issues.

IV. Backpacks with Detachable Lunch Boxes

Backpacks with detachable lunch boxes are a highly convenient option, with many children’s backpacks offering this design. These backpacks come with specially designed detachable lunch boxes, usually equipped with clips or other fastening devices, allowing you to securely attach them to the front of the backpack. Kids can easily clip the lunch box onto their backpack. This design not only makes carrying lunch easy for kids but also keeps the overall look neat and tidy.

Despite these advantages, backpacks with detachable lunch boxes also have some potential downsides to consider. First, if not ergonomically designed, they might be uncomfortable. The lunch box could add extra weight at a certain point on the backpack, causing imbalance, especially when filled with a hearty lunch. Second, since the lunch box is detachable, there’s a risk of misplacing or forgetting it. Lastly, while the concept aims to add convenience, not all designs execute this well, and accessing your lunch might not always be as simple compared to traditional lunch box storage.

V. Two-in-One Backpacks

Two-in-one backpacks are an innovative design, especially those introduced by brands like Bentgo. They perfectly integrate the lunch box with the backpack while successfully keeping the lunch compartment separate from the backpack space. This design allows kids to carry their lunch easily and safely, addressing concerns that other methods might raise for many parents. The creativity behind this design reflects a deep understanding of user needs, bringing more convenience and comfort to children’s daily lives.

However, the only downside to two-in-one backpacks is the limitation of space. Since the lunch box is part of the backpack, the lunch space is relatively small and may be restricted compared to separate dedicated lunch packs.

VI. DIY Methods

DIY methods offer a creative way to solve the absence of built-in attachment methods for lunch boxes and backpacks. This could include sewing on straps or adding Velcro to both items. With sewn straps, you can easily secure the lunch box to the backpack, and Velcro offers a simple and quick solution to attach the lunch box to the backpack at any time without the need for additional accessories. This DIY approach is not only flexible and convenient but also caters to personalized needs, offering you and your kids more options and fun.

While cost-effective and creative, DIY methods often lack the durability and professional design of specialized lunch box connection systems. For instance, Velcro straps can wear out over time, and ties or ribbons might not hold during vigorous activity, leading to the lunch box (whether plastic, steel, or a lightweight bento box) being prone to detachment or dropping.

VII. Conclusion

There are many ways to attach a lunch box to a backpack. Beyond the six methods we’ve mentioned, there may be other creative solutions. If you have more ideas, please share your creativity in the comments section to benefit others.

If you are seeking the ideal solution for carrying a lunchbox and backpack, we, as professional 2-in-1 backpack manufacturers, highly recommend Bentgo’s 2-in-1 backpack. This backpack not only ensures the fun and safety your child desires but also incorporates a variety of functional features. Get started now and choose a suitable lunch carry backpack for your child.