I rated this item 4 instead of 5 because I wish it kept the items colder. I put a "cold pack" inside the inner-lid's mesh pocket (velcro keeps pack in place) with an "already cold" bottle of water. A few hours later the bottle was "coldish" but not cold. I am going to try an alternate type of cold pack to see if that helps. Good construction with sturdy attractive fabric. Holds my 18 oz bottle of Trader Joe's sparkling mineral water and still has room for a decent sized sandwich, a large apple and banana (offered as a mental picture). Also, interior is suited well for small square food containers. Outer pocket can hold utensils, napkins, snacks like cookies, etc. It fits inside my Ogio Legend backpack, a highly recommended "roomy" student backpack (room for lots of books & a 15" laptop & lots more).
This is our second critter lunch box. First one is still perfect, but stained on the outside from daily use for two years and I grew tired of scrubbing it over and over. Got the black one this time. My son loves the cool spider on it and I love that the black color will keep stains away. Holds everything he needs for lunch with lots of extra room. Great product!
I bought this lunch box several years ago. My son used it daily for school and daily at summer camp for 2 years before it showed ANY signs of wear. I bought a replacement (didn't feel right sending it back for a replacement) and the second one is going strong after the same rigorous usage with NO signs of wear. When he doesn't use it for lunch, I do. It is perfect for containers, loose items. Just all around perfect. It has held up beautifully after repeated washings and daily use. I have more than gotten my money's worth for this product. Thank you, LLBean, for another high quality item.
