The 14 Best Storage Containers for Every Kind of Food (& Leaky Soups)

I get hungry roughly every 15 minutes two hours, which means that I invariably have a small meal or a variety of snacks stashed on me at all times. So it’s not surprising that I’ve tried out every kind of reusable container and food storage option for meal prepping, packing up freezer-friendly dinners, and stocking my cabinets with staples that could easily go stale in the wrong container.

After much trial and error (and ruined bags and snacks alike), I’ve figured out the best ways to keep precious snacks intact while also keeping my purse, fridge, and pantry organized—no crushed pita chips in sight.

Here are the 14 best food storage containers for every kind of food from crispy-crunchy snacks to big batches of soup or stock.

1. LunchBots Small Protein Packer, $20.99 $19.99

If you're a fan of crunchy snacks like pretzels, popcorn, or potato chips, look for a solid container in which they won't turn into crumbs. This container is technically for toddlers, but it just so happens to be the perfect size for adults who snack, too.

2. Stasher Starter Kit, $92.99

I used to carry all my snacks around in zip-top bags, until I discovered these. The reusable silicone pouches are perfect for cut-up fruit—and they're plastic-free, BPA-free, and hypoallergenic.

3. Divider Cup for Wide Mouth Mason Jars, $9.99

The cardinal rule of packing a salad or something like carrots and dip is to separate wet ingredients from dry ones so that your greens don’t become really sad versions of themselves. These silicone cups separate mason jars into two compartments, preventing any leakage.

1. Souper Cubes, $34–$70

Easily freeze soups, stews, smoothies, and more into single-serving blocks that easily pop out of the silicone molds. There's not much clean up, but feel free to toss it into the dishwasher.

2. Mepal Microwavable Nested Storage Bowls, $75–$85

These chic nested storage bowls come in fun colors that suit your style. They can also be used for serving, making them the kind of double-duty item perfect for small apartments.

3. Rubbermaid Brilliance Leak-Proof Food Storage Containers, $34.99

Another Rubbermaid favorite, these 100 percent leak-proof containers are indeed brilliant. Not only that, they're crystal clear so you know what's in 'em, and they've got built-in vents under the latches so you can microwave them with the lids on to avoid splatters.

4. Five Two Airtight Silicone Lids, $40

These colorful silicone lids are soon to be the most versatile food storage tool in your kitchen. Each set comes with five different sizes, so you can use them for almost any-size dish—perfect for storing leftovers, and a most excellent alternative to plastic wrap.

1. DuraHome Deli Containers, $18.91+

There’s a reason why we swear by these basic takeout containers. They’re easy to wash, stack, label, reuse, microwave, freeze—the list goes on. But most importantly, all the lids are the same size, so there's never any fumbling around.

2. OXO 8-Piece Baking Essentials POP Container Set, $62.99

My kitchen is stocked with these canisters because I typically like to see how much of any given ingredient I have without needing to open the container. They come in a variety of sizes fitting everything from spaghetti to cereal and nuts.

1. Mepal Modern Large Bento Box, $40

Bento boxes are also great for packing snacks and meals when you don’t want your food getting all mixed up. This bento box contains various microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe compartments, so you can stack and reheat all your treats.

2. To-Go Ware 3-Tier Stainless Lunch Box, $25.80+

Multi-tiered tiffin containers, a staple in South Asia, are ideal for meals with a bunch of moving parts. Plus, the stainless steel is a breeze to clean.

1. Picnic Time Potluck Insulated Casserole Tote, $46.95

If you’re a potluck or picnic fan, this is ideal for your needs. The sturdy tote has a generous flat bottom so your casseroles, salads, desserts, and more won't tilt over and make a mess.

2. Modern Picnic The Luncher, $195

The chicest way to transport leftovers if you're headed to the office, this purse doubles as a lunch box with a roomy flat bottom and an insulated interior.

This post was updated in February 2022 with more food storage containers we love.

What food storage containers do you swear by? And what do you use them for? Tell us in the comments below!

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