My daughter has used the lunchbox for about a few months now and the carrying handle has separated from the lunchbox. One side of the handle is held on to the lid by 4 strings right now. I just noticed it today. Called LLbean and of course replacement is never a problem. That is the nice thing about this company. You don't have to worry about buying something here. They stand behind their products and make it right. On the other hand, I've had another one of these that I use myself for about 2 years now without a problem and without the handle separating.
I bought 2 of these for my twin grade 1 girls. I let them choose the print. The reviews are right. I can get the entire lunch, snacks, drink inside and also their SIGG water bottles fit in the lid. They both took the shoulder strap off and have no problem carrying these with the top handle. These will last a long time.