Quick answer

Start by deciding whether your child needs a compact box for a light lunch or a larger bento for more variety. The Mepal Campus line offers two sizes: the standard bento lunchbox with fork fits up to four sandwiches or a separated meal, while the large version includes two removable containers for bread, fruit, and snacks.

Size matters more than you think

A lunch box that is too large encourages overpacking or wasted space; one that is too small leads to hungry afternoons. The standard Campus bento lunchbox (e.g., Cool blue or Frozen Friends) holds up to four sandwiches without the inner tray, making it a good match for younger children or lighter eaters. The large Campus (e.g., Frozen Friends or PAW Patrol Girls) is noticeably bigger and comes with two removable bento boxes, suited for older kids or those who need a full meal plus snacks.

Bento vs. open space: a trade-off in flexibility

A bento insert keeps foods separate, which is great for kids who dislike mixing or for packing dips, fruit, and crackers together. But the divider takes up room. With the standard Campus box, you can remove the bento tray to create one large compartment for sandwiches or wraps. The large Campus always uses two separate containers, so you get built-in separation without sacrificing capacity. Decide which trade-off fits your child's typical lunch: neat compartments or maximum sandwich space.

Your lunch box decision rules

  • Match size to appetite: If your child eats a sandwich plus one small side, choose the standard Campus bento lunchbox. If they need a main dish, fruit, and a snack, choose the large Campus.
  • Decide on separation style: Use the standard box with the bento tray for separated meals, or remove the tray for open space. The large box always separates food into two containers. Removing the tray in the standard box is a quick way to switch between bento and open-layout lunches.
  • Check the daily routine: For a packed school lunch that stays fresh until noon, both sizes have airtight seals. The large box is better for all-day outings or after-school activities where you need extra snacks. If your child often comes home with leftovers, the standard size may be more appropriate to avoid overpacking.

Lunch box options at a glance

  • Campus bento lunchbox with fork - Frozen Friends: Without the bento box, it fits four sandwiches; add the bento box for separated ingredients. This gives you the flexibility to switch between a simple sandwich lunch and a varied bento meal depending on the day.

    Campus bento lunchbox with fork - Frozen Friends

    Campus bento lunchbox with fork - Frozen Friends

  • Bento lunchbox Campus large - Frozen Friends: Extra-large lunch box with two removable bento boxes and a fork, ideal for bread, fruit, and snacks. The two separate airtight containers let you pack a main item plus sides without cross-contamination, perfect for heartier appetites.

    Bento lunchbox Campus large - Frozen Friends

    Bento lunchbox Campus large - Frozen Friends

Which lunch box fits your child?

Best for

  • Younger children or light eaters who need a sandwich plus one side
  • Families who want the option to switch between bento and open layouts

Not ideal for

  • Teens or very hungry kids who need a full meal plus multiple snacks in one box