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The Best Food Storage Containers

By Anna Perling , Michael Sullivan and Ganda Suthivarakom

We’ve tested dozens of food-storage containers over the years, subjecting them to repeated freezing, microwaving, and 3-foot drops onto hard floors. Most containers will break or wear down eventually, but we’re confident our picks are the best options for stashing leftovers, packing lunches, or sharing at potlucks.

If you prefer glass (which is odor-resistant and often oven-safe, though heavy), we recommend the durable Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set . For plastic (which is lighter and less likely to shatter), we recommend the leakproof Snapware Total Solution 20-Piece Food Storage Set . Both are affordable options that will provide you with years of use.

Everything we recommend

Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set

The best glass container set.

The Pyrex Simply Store containers stack neatly and are made from durable tempered glass. The colorful lids make it easier to match their shape to the corresponding container, though you may need to replace them over time.

Buying Options

Snapware Total Solution 20-Piece Food Storage Set

The best plastic container set.

These locking plastic containers have lids that are a snap to open and close, and they won’t leak. We think this set offers the best range of sizes and shapes among the plastic containers we tested. Plus, they stack neatly for storage.

Glasslock 18-Piece Container Set

The best leakproof glass container set.

The Glasslock containers have locking lids that will prevent leaks. But these lids also put stress on the lips of the containers, so the glass may be prone to chipping over time.

Budget pick

Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Containers

Containers you can leave behind.

These inexpensive plastic containers come in multiple sizes, for packing and transporting food. They do become soft after microwaving, and they hold onto stains and smells, so they aren’t the best for regular use.

The streamlined containers in the Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set are made from durable glass—they didn’t break in our drop tests. They stack neatly, and their lids are some of the easiest (among those we’ve tested) to put on and take off. Because the lids don’t clip closed like those on our runner-up pick, the Glasslock containers , we recommend exercising caution if you plan to transport liquids in the Pyrex containers. (We were surprised that the set’s round containers didn’t leak in our tests, but the rectangular ones are not leakproof, and a locking lid will still be best for preventing leaks and spills.) You can use this set in a microwave, freezer, preheated oven, and dishwasher.

In our leak tests, the Snapware Total Solution 20-Piece Food Storage Set ’s containers stayed sealed. And after being repeatedly dropped from waist height, they sustained only minor cracks on the edges of the lids. Also, stains and smells didn’t linger in these containers, and they looked great stacked in the fridge, filled with leftovers. The containers nest well, too, so in a cupboard they take up less space than much of the competition.

We like that the Glasslock 18-Piece Container Set includes lids that seal to prevent spills, and these containers survived multiple drops from counter height. But after four years of long-term testing, some of our containers have chipped around their edges—a common complaint with most glass containers we researched. Their locking lids require more effort to close than the lids of our main pick, the Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set . And we suspect that the repeated stress of snapping the Glasslock containers’ lids shut is what caused some of them to chip (stacking the containers for storage can also cause stress on glass containers and lead to chipping). That said, if you’re looking for leakproof glass containers for meal prep, these are the best we’ve tested. The Glasslock containers come in a variety of shapes that store nicely in the fridge, and they are safe to use in an oven, microwave, freezer, or dishwasher.

The Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Containers are perfect for transporting food to parties and other functions, and because they’re so cheap, you may not mind leaving pieces behind. This set comes in a variety of sizes, with containers that stack well for convenient storage. Scents and stains remained after washing, and a few containers leaked in our testing. But we think they’re the best option compared with other budget sets.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, choosing between glass and plastic containers, how we picked and tested, our glass pick: pyrex simply store 18-piece set, our pick: snapware total solution 20-piece food storage set, runner-up: glasslock 18-piece container set, budget pick: rubbermaid takealongs food storage containers, care and maintenance, other good food storage containers, the competition.

We’ve updated this guide after years of using these container sets in our test kitchen and in our own homes, storing leftovers in the fridge or packing lunches for our commutes. Anna Perling, who performed testing for and wrote our last update, spent more than four years reviewing food-storage vessels, from travel mugs to food thermoses to lunch boxes . Her reporting built on senior staff writer Michael Sullivan’s deep dive into the science of glass and thorough durability testing over the course of several months. Ganda Suthivarakom, who wrote our original guide, spent dozens of hours researching and testing (filling, shaking, storing, freezing, microwaving, washing, and dropping) food containers.

To learn as much as we could about materials, and what makes a great container, we've talked with several experts over the years, including glass scientists and cookbook editors.

There are a few reasons to upgrade your containers, especially if you use plastic yogurt or takeout tubs. First, you can’t see through yogurt containers, so once the lid is on, you can easily forget what you have in there (and let it rot). Second, they aren’t leakproof, which means that transporting them to work for lunch can be a messy affair. Third, such plastic containers are not FDA-approved for repeat food storage or microwaving. By upgrading to more-durable glass or plastic food-storage containers, you can be confident that they’ll last longer and keep your food fresher (however, because the lids are usually plastic, you may still need to replace the ones that come with glass containers before the containers themselves give out). And if your current containers are chipped or warped, that’s another sign it may be time to replace them. They won’t seal properly, and a chip or crack will act like a snag in a pair of stockings—the crack can run and cause more damage down the line.

You may also want additional containers if you’re getting into meal prep (that is, portioning individual meals into separate containers to eat throughout the week). Our plastic recommendations are especially great for meal prep because they’re less expensive and light enough to carry to work. If you already own a glass or plastic container set but want something you can bring to potlucks and picnics, you may also want to purchase a set of cheap plastic containers you won’t mind leaving behind.

Wondering which material to get? Here’s our breakdown.

Choose one of our glass picks if any of the following apply:

• You don’t mind heavier containers that can shatter.
• You’re using the containers mostly for storage at home.
• You store foods that tend to stain or smell.
• You prefer oven-safe containers (though you should still double-check whether a container can go in a preheated or cold oven).

Choose one of our plastic picks if any of the following apply:

• You want something that is less likely to shatter.
• You want a cheaper option that you can leave behind at potlucks or stock up on for meal prep.
• Your family members tend to lose containers.
• You want something lighter to carry around.

Ultimately, the choice between plastic and glass is a personal one that’s based on lifestyle. Of the experts we interviewed, some preferred glass, some preferred plastic, and one even preferred zip-top plastic bags for leftovers. They chose what worked best for themselves and their families, and you can too.

A note on tempered vs. other types of glass

Containers are made from different types of glass, which will affect their durability, price, and how they’ll break if you drop them. Most glass food-storage containers, including the Pyrex and Glasslock sets we recommend, are made of tempered glass , a type of heat-treated soda-lime glass. Tempered glass is ideal for cooking and storing food because it’s very durable. It can survive being dropped on the floor, and it’s able to withstand dramatic temperature changes without cracking. Tempered glass does have one downside, however: On rare occasions, it can shatter unexpectedly (this may seem spontaneous, but it’s usually a result of thermal shock or repeated stress on the glass). That being said, tempered glass is often referred to as “safety glass” because when it does break, it crumbles into cube-shaped pieces that are easy to sweep up, as opposed to long, thin shards that can more easily cut you. (This is why tempered glass is used for side and rear windows in cars and glass shower doors.) To understand more on how and why this seemingly random breakage occurs, you can check out our blog post on the subject.

Some food-storage containers are made from borosilicate glass because it’s even more resistant to thermal shock, or sudden changes in temperature, than tempered glass. However, it’s more expensive, and it’s also more brittle than tempered glass—which means it may break more easily if you hit it against the counter or drop it on the floor. You may also find containers made from heat-strengthened glass , which is twice as strong as untreated glass yet not as strong as tempered glass. So compared with tempered glass, heat-strengthened glass is not as resistant to sudden changes of temperature or as durable if you drop it. You’re unlikely to find non-heat-treated soda-lime glass containers because they are neither oven- nor freezer-safe.

After years of research and testing, we know that whether you’re choosing glass or plastic, a good container should meet the following criteria:

• Airtight and leakproof: “You want something that’s really airtight with a good seal, if it’s something you plan to keep for a bit,” Nancy Hopkins, then senior deputy food and entertaining editor for Better Homes & Gardens, told us. Not only will a good seal help food last longer, but leakproof construction is also important for transporting liquids. We’ve found that round containers are usually more leakproof than square or rectangular containers. Many of the models we tested have a gasket seal around the lip and plastic hinges that snap shut, so you know the container is sealed properly.
• Stain-resistant: Resistance to stains and odors is key—you don’t want to still smell or see yesterday’s pasta and red sauce on your clean container. Plastic containers are more likely to stain than glass, but we’ve found that some are more stain-resistant than others.
• Easy to clean: We wanted containers that could go in the dishwasher. For easier cleanup, we preferred containers that had sealing lids with removable gaskets because you can remove and wash them separately (this also prevents mold buildup). And we avoided lids that had microwave vents; they’re just another piece to de-crud, and you’re better off removing the latches and resting the lid on top of the container in the microwave (or not using the lid at all, as some manufacturers suggest).
• Easy to stack and store: Containers that can nest or stack neatly will be easier to store and nicer to look at. And the shapes and sizes will affect how easy it is to store containers—square or rectangular containers will maximize fridge or freezer space. We tried to pick sets with a good range from large to small, with emphasis on rectangular or square space-saving shapes. We didn’t eliminate round shapes, though, because they can be good for liquid foods. We also preferred glass and plastic sets that had interchangeable lids among containers, so finding the right lid will be a little easier.
• Heat-safe: We wanted containers that could go in the microwave, so that eliminated stainless steel. For glass containers, we also preferred options that were preheated-oven–safe or oven-safe so you can warm food in the same container.
• Translucent: The containers should be clear or easy to see through, so you know what is inside without having to open them. So we avoided ceramic containers (they can also break easily).
• Affordable: Plastic or glass storage containers range from about $3 to $10 apiece. Containers in a set are generally less expensive per piece. Although price was a factor when we made our pick, we also considered that glass containers will last a long time. Keep in mind that most manufacturers include both the containers and the lids in the total set count. So if a set is sold as 14 pieces or 16 pieces, you’re really getting only seven or eight containers.

Our 2021 tests built on our testing from previous years. We tested for leaks by filling containers with water and shaking them, before and after they had run through the dishwasher. To test how the containers would hold onto smells and stains, we filled them with tomato sauce, placed them in the refrigerator for five days and the freezer for two weeks, and reheated the sauce in the microwave for two minutes. Before reheating, we also checked the frozen tomato sauce for freezer-burn patterns, which indicate how tightly a container seals. And we submerged all of the lids in a large bowl of tomato sauce for 48 hours and then ran them through the dishwasher, as an additional stain and smell test. Usability is important in a container. We considered how easy each set’s containers were to open and close, how well they stacked, and how well their shapes and sizes would work with different types of foods.

Previously, we froze quarter-pound portions of ground beef for two weeks to look at freezer-burn patterns. And, most fun of all, we conducted a drop test from waist height for all of the containers (including glass ones) to see whether they would break or if the lids would pop off. In an attempt to simulate a non-bouncy kitchen floor, we did these drop tests on a piece of wood placed over cement.

In 2018, we also subjected the glass sets to extreme thermal stresses (which is something we strongly do not recommend trying at home): We pulled the containers from the freezer and filled them with boiling water; we took containers that had been in a 350 ºF oven for 10 minutes and filled them with ice water; we used the containers to reheat cold beef stew and tomato sauce in the microwave for three minutes; and, finally, we froze beef stew in the containers and put them directly into a 350 °F oven for 10 minutes. Since most of our picks have remained consistent over the years, we didn’t repeat any drop or thermal shock tests in 2021.

The classic, streamlined Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set is the best glass container set we’ve tested. Made from tempered glass, these sturdy containers survived multiple counter-height drops onto wood without breaking. Unlike other glass containers we tested, the Pyrex containers have a smooth rim that’s less likely to chip over time, and they look nice enough to use for serving. Though not all of the lids are watertight, they’re faster and easier to seal than the lids of our runner-up pick, the Glasslock containers (which require more force to clip closed). And because each shape of Pyrex lid is a different color, they’re easy to match to their corresponding containers. The lids will likely wear down faster than the containers themselves (especially if you run them through the dishwasher), but you can easily get replacements from Pyrex. This set stacks neatly and is safe to use in a microwave, freezer, preheated oven, and dishwasher.

We continue to be impressed by the durability of the Pyrex set: After years of use in our home kitchens, our containers haven’t chipped or cracked. We’ve heard this from a number of Wirecutter staffers. One person told us, “They’ve held up remarkably well over the last two to three years of regular use.” Another said: “I use them all the time, they’ve held up extremely well for years now. [I] dishwash them, top or bottom rack, wherever they’ll fit.” And yet another colleague told us, “I’d say I’ve had most of them for more than five years. Never had the glass part break.”

These containers were also impressive in our initial drop tests. They survived drop after drop onto a wood board placed over a cement floor. At one point, a container missed the board entirely and bounced off the cement without breaking. The containers also passed our thermal stress tests: They were still intact after we transferred them directly from a 350 °F oven to the freezer and vice versa (we strongly urge you not to try this experiment at home). The Pyrex containers are fairly heavy, but that’s true of all the glass models we tested (for lighter containers, we recommend plastic options ).

Instead of locking on with clips, the flexible Pyrex lids press on, and they don’t require as much force to put on or take off. They’re easier to seal than the similar Anchor Hocking lids we tested and than Glasslock’s locking ones. The lids come in different colors that correlate to differently sized containers, providing a visual cue to help match them together more easily. The lids are airtight, and we didn’t see any signs of freezer burn on our tomato sauce. Even though the round containers we tested didn’t leak in our tests, we would hesitate to throw them into a backpack with a computer. We also found that the rectangular containers leaked from the corners. However, since you can simply choose to store soups and stews in the round containers, we’re willing to forgive this minor drawback.

In our tomato-sauce tests, we could detect a slight aroma on the Pyrex lids after running them through the dishwasher, but the smell wasn’t as strong as the one left behind on some of the other containers we tested, like the silicone-rimmed Pyrex Ultimate containers. Pyrex’s plastic lids are obviously not oven-safe, and if you’re using a dishwasher to clean the lids, they should be placed only on the top rack.

The Pyrex set includes nine glass containers (with matching lids), and they range in size from 1 to 7 cups. The containers nest well, or you can stack the sealed containers on top of each other. The smooth, clean lines of the Pyrex pieces also look nice on a table, if you’re serving straight from the containers after reheating.

If you’re looking for fewer containers, the Pyrex Simply Store line is also available as a 14-piece set (with seven containers and accompanying lids). You can purchase replacement tops on Pyrex’s website .

Pyrex offers a two-year warranty on the Simply Store containers, meaning the company will replace defective pieces from the set as long as they haven’t been subjected to misuse or abuse. Also, according to the company, Pyrex will replace any glass product that breaks due to oven heat. If this happens, just be sure to keep the damaged item, since you may be asked to return it. Contact the Pyrex Customer Care Center for returns or replacements.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Like the other glass containers we tested, the Pyrex set we looked at had a number of visible flaws in the glass. These flaws aren’t noticeable unless you’re looking for them, but they can potentially weaken the glass and make it more prone to shattering, so it’s something to know before you buy.

Again, not all of the containers in this set are leakproof, so we don’t recommend using them to transport meals to work or school. Though the round containers didn’t leak any water in our tests, we’d still exercise caution if you intend to use them to transport liquids. Our runner-up pick, the Glasslock set, is best if you’re looking for an entirely leakproof glass option.

All tempered glassware runs the risk of spontaneously shattering . It’s rare, but the Pyrex containers are no exception. Glass is a brittle material and needs to be treated with care .

We’ve noticed some mixed feedback over how long the Pyrex lids can last. We’ve found that the lids can crack even when washed on the top rack after many years (about five). Several Amazon reviewers have complained that the lids can crack or warp even after just a few uses, but Wirecutter staffers reported that their Pyrex lids stayed intact even after two to three years. Pyrex does sell replacement lids if you need them. You may be able to prolong the life of your lids by hand-washing them, although it may be inconvenient to do so.

Out of all the plastic sets we tested, we recommend the Snapware Total Solution 20-Piece Food Storage Set . This plastic set doesn’t offer the same durability as the glass Pyrex set we recommend—we’ve noticed that plastic containers may scratch, stain, or warp over time, while glass ones do not. But the plastic, locking Snapware set is cheaper, lighter, and more convenient for transporting food than our glass picks. Snapware is owned by the same company as Pyrex, and similarly, it offers replaceable lids and a long warranty . These sets have held up well over time in our home kitchens, too. For those reasons, we think the Snapware set is the best option from our picks if you want to prep your meal ahead and grab your container from the fridge on your way out the door.

The lids in the Snapware Total Solution set are easy to snap closed (unlike those in the Snapware Airtight set, which were difficult to latch and repeatedly popped open, or the Rubbermaid Brilliance lids, which sprang shut violently, like a mousetrap). With the Snapware containers, there’s also a small tab at the edge to leverage when you’re pulling the lid off, though you may not need it (these lids didn’t suction as much as ones like the Rubbermaid Brilliance ). Still, the Snapware Total Solution containers and lids provided a tight seal, which prevented any signs of freezer burn and didn’t leak (even after a run through the dishwasher). With the locking tabs, these containers are more likely to stay shut than sets with press-on lids from IKEA or our budget pick, the Rubbermaid TakeAlongs .

Like most plastic lids, the Snapware ones retained a faint tomato-sauce scent after we marinated them separately in a large bowl of sauce for 48 hours, but they didn’t retain any stains. The containers themselves were also stain-free. In contrast, the Lock & Lock containers retained an oily orange residue (and when we previously tested the Snapware Airtight set and the Popit containers, we also found that these sets retained smells and stains). And the Snapware Total Solution set performed admirably in our drop tests: Only a small piece on the corner of the lid broke off, after the third drop.

We appreciate that the Snapware containers nest, for easy storage, or stack neatly in the fridge and freezer. The set comes with 10 containers and matching lids in a variety of shapes and sizes that we think will work for most foods—from small circular containers for storing sauces or dressings to deeper, rounded rectangles for lasagna or curry. You can also write on the lids to label what’s inside (which is a nice touch, even though we prefer to label with removable tape ).

The lids also work with glass Snapware containers, which is convenient if you’re buying both styles and don’t want to have to rummage through various lids in your drawer. We found the Snapware lids slightly easier to lock and pop off than the Glasslock lids (thanks to a small protruding tab at the rim). The key difference between the two containers is that you can remove the gaskets on the Glasslock lids for cleaning, but the gaskets on the Snapware lids we tested are attached. (The instructions on the Snapware Total Solution product page recommend removing the gasket for cleaning. But a company representative confirmed that these are the brand’s general-care recommendations and apply to the Airtight containers, which do have removable gaskets.) That’s a downside, but since the Snapware lids don’t have fine ridges, like the spongier gaskets on the OXO or Glasslock lids, we think the Snapware lids won’t trap grime as easily.

These containers are microwave-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe. Snapware offers a lifetime warranty on both the plastic containers and the lids if “damaged during normal household use.” Wirecutter staffers who have owned a set for several years reported no issues with the containers or lids. Snapware also sells replaceable lids for every shape in the set if you need them: round , square , and rectangular . (Like Pyrex, Snapware is a Corelle brand.) If you need to make a claim, contact the company’s customer-care center; be sure to keep the container or lid because you may be asked to return it.

As we mentioned, the gaskets on the lids aren’t removable, which makes cleaning more difficult compared with the Glasslock set. Over the years, we’ve noticed some stock fluctuation with these containers. If they’re sold out, we also like the OXO Good Grips 16-piece Smart Seal Plastic Container Set , which we discuss below .

We recommend the Glasslock 18-Piece Container Set only if you want a glass set that’s leakproof. Like a lot of glass containers we considered, these have a history of chipping over time (although many Wirecutter staffers report no issues after years of use). The Glasslock containers’ tight-fitting lids keep food fresher longer. But they also put pressure on the edge of the glass, which, according to the glass experts we spoke with, may be causing stress that results in breakage. (Several reviewers also mentioned that their containers chipped after they nested them for storage. We were told by Jane Cook, then chief scientist at the Corning Museum of Glass , that stacking glass can cause stress over time because the two hard surfaces rub together, and this may eventually lead to chipping. You can stack the containers on top of each other with the lids on instead, or layer a paper towel between containers.) That said, compared with other brands we tested, the Glasslock containers locked more securely without leaking and didn’t break or pop open when dropped. Per piece, the set also costs less than other glass options we considered.

The plastic lids have a firm silicone gasket that fills the lid groove from edge to edge and provides a tight seal that doesn’t leak. Though the gaskets are removable, they’re harder to pry off than the thicker rings on the OXO containers—we accidentally punctured the gasket on one of our Glasslock containers with a butter knife. Our testers found that the plastic flaps on the lids were more difficult to close than the press-on lids of the Pyrex glass containers, but that’s true of most locking containers. However, the Glasslock containers kept food fresher longer than much of the competition in our initial tests, indicating that they’re airtight. In our tests, greens remained sprightly, and cut strawberries tasted just a touch off after being refrigerated for two weeks. Tomato sauce didn’t show signs of freezer burn, and it didn’t impart stains or smells to the glass or to the plastic lid.

Impressively, the Glasslock set bounced in our drop tests, with no damage to the glass containers. The lids remained perfectly intact and didn’t pop off. (For kicks, we even tried dropping a Glasslock container onto cement. It broke on a corner only after three other attempts to crack the thing.) The glass Snapware set we tested didn’t fare as well in our drop tests: Some of the flaps opened, and the corner of the lid cracked.

The Glasslock set comes with nine square, rectangular, and round containers ranging from 0.7 cup (165 milliliters) to 6.3 cups (1.5 liters) in size. Though the containers are clear, you can choose to get them with clear lids with a sea-green gasket or with translucent cornflower-blue lids. This set has a wider range of shapes than the glass Rubbermaid Brilliance set. The Glasslock walls are thick but perfectly see-through, and same-shape containers of different sizes nest even with the lids on. These containers stack beautifully in the fridge, making it easy to see what leftovers you have.

Like Pyrex and Anchor Hocking, Glasslock makes its containers out of tempered soda-lime glass that’s oven-, microwave-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe. Though we like the OXO 16 Piece Smart Seal Glass Container Set (which has a spongier gasket and lids that are easier to take off and clean), it’s far more expensive since the containers are made from borosilicate glass. And we still saw complaints of chipping in the reviews.

Glasslock will replace any worn-out or faulty lids free of charge (though you’ll have to pay a few bucks for shipping). You can order the right-size lid on its website by looking for the product code etched into the bottom of your container. If you buy your set directly through Glasslock’s website, the company will offer a full refund within 30 days of purchase as long as the containers are unused and in their original packaging.

Like all tempered glassware, the Glasslock containers can spontaneously shatter (albeit very rarely) due to surface damage, manufacturing flaws, or extreme thermal stresses. Beyond that, several pieces we’ve long-term tested have chipped around the edge, and we’ve heard other people complain of the same thing. We’ve also read reviews that the containers’ body chips over time. The chipping is probably due to the pressure that the locking lids put on the glass when you snap them shut, or from stacking the containers. William LaCourse, then professor in the Glass Engineering Science department at Alfred University, told us, “There will be stresses as a result of the cap and putting the cap on with fairly high pressure … it essentially squeezes the cap onto the glass.” He explained that if there are any minor flaws already present in the glass, the added pressure from the lids could cause the containers to chip or break. Cook said that you can also put stress on glass by rubbing it against a material as hard or harder than itself (which happens when you stack glass containers on top of each other). That stress is also exacerbated when you stack warm containers that have expanded.

If you’re committed to getting the Glasslock containers because you want glass containers that don’t leak, we don’t think the concern of chipping or breakage should stop you. Only a small number of the containers we’ve tested have chipped. We also subjected the Glasslock containers to extreme thermal stresses , and they survived unscathed. And we’ve previously ordered sets from different retailers to check for any breakage during shipping. Just keep an eye out every time you open a container: The only thing you don’t want is a piece of glass in your food. And if you’re going to choose glass over plastic, keep in mind that all glassware is inherently brittle and needs to be handled with care .

If you don’t have a dishwasher, you may need to remove the gaskets from the Glasslock lids to clean them and prevent any mold buildup. (This seems to happen only to sets that people hand-wash.) Carefully dig the gasket out with a butter knife so you don’t knick it, wash it with hot water, and let it dry completely before you reassemble the lid.

Some Amazon reviewers have complained that the flaps on the lids of the Glasslock containers make a racket when snapped shut. But we don’t think this is a dealbreaker because it’s just a split second of noise; other containers, like the Rubbermaid Brilliance, were louder.

How the Glasslock containers have held up

Marilyn Ong, supervising editor on our kitchen team, has owned Glasslock containers for roughly seven years, and she uses them frequently to store leftovers for her family of five. She hasn’t experienced any glass chipping, though the flaps on the lids for her round containers did start to break off after about four years. She ordered new lids for free from the Glasslock website , paid a few dollars for shipping, and received them less than a week later.

If you need budget-friendly containers that you’ll be less likely to worry about leaving behind at picnics or potlucks, the best of those we tested were the Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Containers . We’ve tested a 40-piece set as well as a 52-piece set, and we found they came with a wider range of shapes and sizes than any of the other flimsier sets we tested. Although there can be a lot of pieces to keep track of, these containers and lids stack well and don’t take up as much space as you’d expect.

Unlike the similar Ziploc and Glad containers, the Rubbermaid TakeAlongs didn’t leak before or after we ran them through the dishwasher. And while other budget plastic containers we tested, like those from Reditainer and Glad, shattered immediately when filled with water and dropped from waist height, the Rubbermaid container we dropped remained fully sealed for two drops. Only after the fourth drop did the base of the Rubbermaid crack.

Like all disposable sets, the Rubbermaid TakeAlongs aren’t perfect, because they’re not intended for long-term use. The plastic becomes soft when microwaved, though not as soft as the Ziploc and Glad containers. The Rubbermaid TakeAlongs also stained slightly and retained a faint tomato scent after dishwashing, which was a problem we encountered with all of the cheap plastic sets we tested. However, because these containers are so affordable, come in a variety of sizes, and don’t leak easily, we’re willing to forgive these drawbacks. We’ve noticed stock issues with various TakeAlong sets. But we’ve tested a large range of the pieces available in the different sets (including a few smaller containers with screw-top lids to store sauces or condiments), and we have found that all the containers and lids are of similar quality, and are made from the same materials.

If you can’t find the TakeAlongs, or you want to consider other options that you may be able to pick up easily from a grocery or home-goods store, there are a couple of other budget-friendly sets that will work, if they’re easier for you to get. The nesting IKEA Pruta set didn’t stain or retain smells, and it is easy to pick up if you’re already shopping at an IKEA. But we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to buy this set, since it’s difficult to order online (our containers took three weeks to arrive, and the $5 shipping fee is almost as much as the $6 set), and it doesn’t include as many shapes as the TakeAlongs set. We also like deli containers , which stack and are designed to be disposable if you want to give food away or leave your container behind. But these don’t hold up well in the microwave or freezer and don’t come in as many different sizes.

Your containers will likely outlast your lids, but you can try and take a little extra care of them to prolong their lifespan. It’s tempting to just leave the lids on when you microwave stuff in your containers. Don’t. No sealed lid benefits from the vacuum effect that happens when you heat your food in the microwave. Abusing the lid in this way can cause it to warp and lose its seal. When you microwave, if you must keep the lid on to prevent splatter, always make sure to loosen the lid completely and set it slightly ajar across the top of the container. An even better option is to put a vented microwave cover or a paper towel over your container when you zap it. Keep in mind that if you’re using a microwave with sensor reheat, it won’t work properly unless it can detect the amount of moisture coming off of your food.

If you don’t own a dishwasher, or you want to prolong the life of your lids, handwashing works just fine for our picks. But if the lid has a removable gasket, remove the gasket from time to time and clean it separately from the lid to make sure no mold can grow. If you’re loading these into the dishwasher, plastic pieces should always go on the top rack, while glass pieces can go anywhere in the dishwasher.

After using these containers for years in our kitchens, we’ve found that when we put the Glasslock lids through the dishwasher, they stay mold-free even without removing the gaskets, which is convenient. Cook told us, however, that “automatic dishwashers are hell” for plastic (and glass!) due to high, uneven heat, humidity, and chemicals from detergent. We noticed a few of our Glasslock lids began to break after four years of putting them through the dishwasher, and our Pyrex lids have cracked over time, too. Hand-washing them with water no hotter than what comes from your tap, or at least avoiding the heated dry cycle (if your dishwasher has one) when you do use the dishwasher, may help extend their lifespan. You’ll need to weigh the trade-off between convenience and longevity when caring for your containers and lids.

After removing glass food-storage containers from a hot dishwasher, the experts we spoke to recommend letting them cool before stacking them in a cupboard. LaCourse said, “When they’re hot and clean, they will scratch easily.” Hot glass will also be more prone to sticking. Cook explained that, “When they’re warm, they’ve expanded slightly. As they cool down, if you put a colder glass inside of a warmer glass, they’re just going to grab onto each other. So you’re more likely to get a glass stuck inside another glass, and it needs to be pounded out or put under running water in order to get them apart, which all leads to more surface damage and shorter lifetime.” Stacking glass even when it isn’t hot can also add stress to containers, and lead to chipping over time.

To store, dry the lids completely before putting away. We recommend leaving the lids resting on top of the containers, but not snapped shut, which helps to protect the longevity of the seal.

We’ve read customer reviews on Amazon and feedback from our readers who have occasionally reported that their tempered glassware “spontaneously shattered.” Even though tempered glass is more durable than non-heat-treated soda-lime glass, it’s still glass, and can break. Never subject your glass food storage containers to extreme thermal stresses (such as taking containers from the freezer and placing them directly into a hot oven and vice versa). Always stay within the recommended temperature threshold indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you prefer borosilicate glass containers: We liked the shape and size variation of the OXO 16 Piece Smart Seal Glass Container Set . Because they’re made from borosilicate (which withstands temperature changes better than tempered glass), this makes them far more expensive than our picks—and we still found reviews complaining that they chipped. But if you plan on using your containers frequently in the oven or freezer, or the Glasslock containers are sold out, we think this is a good option. We also appreciated the lids on these containers: They have a thicker gasket that’s far easier to remove and wedge back in than the gasket on the Glasslock containers. In theory, that extra cushion could help prevent the OXO’s rims—which (like the Glasslock's) are slightly raised—from chipping.

If you want containers with as little plastic as possible: The Pyrex Ultimate 10-Piece Glass Storage Set has glass lids trimmed with white silicone that evoke a chic, minimalist lifestyle that’s aspirational but perhaps not realistic for actually storing food. The white lids stained in our tomato sauce tests (of course), and because the lids are glass, the containers are heavy and not ideal for transport. The lids do suction well, however, and they’re still easy to peel off thanks to a protruding tab.

If you want to switch between plastic and glass containers: We appreciate that the lids on the Snapware Total Solution Pyrex Glass Set are interchangeable with those of the plastic Snapware set. If you’re interested in owning both plastic and glass containers for different purposes, using Snapware for both means you won’t have to rummage between multiple mismatched lids to find what you need. This set was our former runner-up pick for glass containers (though it used to have 18 pieces and slightly different shape options). Like those of our current runner-up pick , this set’s lids clip closed and may subject the lip of the containers to stress, which can increase the chances of breakage. Because the silicone-bordered lids are a little harder to clean by hand than those of the Glasslocks containers, we recommend these only if having interchangeable lids between plastic and glass sets is important to you.

If the Snapware set is sold out: We like the lids on the plastic OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Plastic Container Set just as much as the ones on the glass version. These containers are more expensive than our pick, and they don’t have any round shapes. That said, we think they’re a fine option if our locking plastic pick sells out.

If you want a lid that’s easy to remove, you might like suction lids. The lids on all of our picks (the locking-style lids on the Glasslocks or Snapware containers and the press-on style lids from Pyrex and Rubbermaid) take some effort to get on and off. Suction lids, by contrast, simply sit atop a bowl or container you already own to cover it. However, they aren’t airtight and won’t prevent leaks or spills (they suction to the container only when you lift up on them from a knob in the center; otherwise nothing secures them in place). We’ve tested suction lids before , and out of all the ones we tried, we preferred the thicker, sturdier, clear Lékué Suction Lid . We also tried the GIR lids, which come in more sizes and colors. These are a little floppier and don’t create as strong a seal as the Lékué lids, but they’re easy to peel off and rinse clean. (I, Anna Perling, am breaking into the first person here to tell you that I used the GIR Suction Lids —as well as the Food52 Airtight Lids —for several months while I was recovering from a nerve damage injury and couldn’t move my dominant arm or hand. I found them easier to put on, take off, and clean than firmer lids with ridges or tabs; maybe you will too.)

There are just two shape and size options in the Rubbermaid Brilliance glass set, and the lids are more difficult to shut and pry off than those of our picks.

The Anchor Hocking Glass Food Storage Set survived our drop tests, but the containers leaked more than the similarly designed glass Pyrex containers we tested. The flimsy lids in this set also held onto odors more than our picks.

Anchor Hocking TrueSeal Glass Storage got a B+ from Good Housekeeping. But we dismissed them after reading that Cook’s Illustrated (subscription required) does not recommend them because the seal became noticeably looser after going through the dishwasher 50 times and leaked profusely.

Although we recommend the Rubbermaid Brilliance Leak-Proof Food Storage Containers line in our guide to the best dry food storage containers , we don’t recommend them for daily use for storing leftovers. We’ve read reports that they crack in the dishwasher or microwave. So we prefer them for longer-term dry storage, since you don’t need to wash the containers as often. They also have fewer shape options, and the locking lids require more force to shut than our plastic containers pick .

The Lock & Lock Easy Essentials Food Storage Container Set is affordable, and it offers many shapes and sizes. The lids are a little harder to align and lock, compared with our picks. In our 2021 update, these were the only plastic containers to have freezer burn and to stain after our tomato sauce test.

For a cheap set of containers with press-on lids, we like the IKEA Pruta set, but they’re difficult to get online due to prolonged shipping times or extra costs (ours took three weeks to arrive; IKEA also charges for shipping, which in this case costs almost as much as the containers themselves). They also don’t come in as many shapes as our budget pick. And, as is true of most flimsy plastic sets, we’ve found that they warp over time.

The Reditainer Deli Food Storage Containers are typically used in professional restaurant kitchens because they’re cheap to buy in bulk, they’re uniform, and they store very neatly. They’re also cheap enough to leave at someone’s house. Although these containers didn’t leak and did keep freezer-burn at bay, they stained easily and hung onto food odors. These containers also shattered in our drop test.

Though it’s convenient that the lids in the Rubbermaid Easy Find Lid 42-Piece Set stack, these containers leaked both before and after going through the dishwasher, so we dismissed them.

The Popit Little Big Box Food Plastic Container Set didn’t leak when filled with water, and the removable gasket made cleaning easy. However, this set didn’t pass our drop test: The flaps popped open, and one completely broke off.

The Rubbermaid Premier set did very well in nearly all of our tests, but it was difficult to tell when the lid was sealed properly. We also thought the container sizes were a little too small for holding leftovers.

The Snapware Airtight Plastic Food Container Set we recommended in 2015 had faulty lid flaps that were difficult to close when they were tested again in 2016. This set also held onto food odors and stains more than the competition. (This set is no longer available in these shapes, but there is a  set of round containers .)

Sterilite Ultra-Seal containers, which you can find at many retailers, received poor marks from both Cook’s Illustrated and Good Housekeeping for a seal that wasn’t airtight. (These containers also no longer come in a set with varying shapes and sizes, so every piece must be purchased individually.)

The Glad MatchWare color-coded lids and containers made matching pairs easy. But they leaked, stained, and left ground meat covered with freezer burn. These containers also exploded in our drop tests. (The colors and patterns on this set have changed since our original review, though the containers are the same.)

Ziploc’s containers nest well, but they leaked, and they became extremely soft when microwaved.

This article was edited by Marilyn Ong and Marguerite Preston.

Nicole Papantoniou, The Best Food Storage Containers , Good Housekeeping , January 22, 2021

Sharon Franke, The Best Food Storage Containers of 2021 , Reviewed , February 16, 2021

The Best Food-Storage Containers on Amazon, According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviewers , The Strategist , September 8, 2020

Nancy Hopkins, then senior deputy food and entertaining editor for Better Homes & Gardens , phone interview

Faith Durand, executive editor for The Kitchn , email interview

Michele Thomas, then executive editor at the International Culinary Center , email interview , January 28, 2016

Jane Cook, PhD, then chief scientist at the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, New York , phone interview, September 15, 2017 and March 16, 2021


William C. LaCourse, PhD, then professor in the Glass Engineering Science department at Alfred University in Alfred, New York , phone interview , September 12, 2017

Heated Glass Comparison , Vitroglazings.com

Meet your guides

Anna Perling

Anna Perling is a former staff writer covering kitchen gear at Wirecutter. During her time at Wirecutter, she reported on various topics including sports bras, board games, and light bulbs. Previously she wrote food and lifestyle pieces for Saveur and Kinfolk magazines. Anna is a mentor at Girls Write Now and a member of the Online News Association.

Michael Sullivan

Michael Sullivan has been a staff writer on the kitchen team at Wirecutter since 2016. Previously, he was an editor at the International Culinary Center in New York. He has worked in various facets of the food and restaurant industry for over a decade.

Ganda Suthivarakom

Further reading

The Best Dry Food Storage Containers

by Arianna Flores, Michael Sullivan, and Marguerite Preston

After testing 19 food storage container sets over the years, we recommend the Rubbermaid Brilliance Containers and the Rubbermaid Commercial Containers.

Expert Tips for Freezing Food and Reducing Food Waste

by Anna Perling and Katie Okamoto

We have the best freezer containers, plus expert advice on saving money and reducing waste by getting the most from your freezer.

The Best Food Processor

by Mace Dent Johnson and Michael Sullivan

Our favorite food processor is, as it has been for a decade, the Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor . It’s a durable, no-frills kitchen workhorse.

This $20 Lid Organizer Has Tamed the Chaos Inside My Kitchen Cabinets

by Rose Maura Lorre

Food storage container lids are incredibly annoying to deal with—unless you have the YouCopia StoraLid Container Lid Organizer .

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The best travel snack containers for kids

Discover the top travel snack containers for kids, designed to keep little adventurers happy and well-fed on-the-go. From spill-proof bento boxes to insulated snack bags, find the perfect snack storage solutions to make family trips a breeze. Explore our handpicked selection for mess-free snacking and stress-free travel!

Make traveling easier with the best travel activities for kids .

Table of Contents

Why kids love travel snack containers

Travel snack containers are a hit with kids for all the right reasons! These nifty containers come in vibrant colors and fun designs that instantly catch their eye. Kids love the sense of independence they get when they can access their favorite snacks on their own, thanks to the easy-to-open lids and compartments tailored just for them.

It’s like having a little treasure trove of treats during journeys! Plus, these containers often keep snacks fresh and mess-free, allowing kids to enjoy their munchies without any worries. Whether it’s a road trip, a plane ride, or a picnic, travel snack containers make snacking on the go exciting and enjoyable. It’s no wonder kids look forward to snack time with these fantastic companions by their side!

GoBe kids snack spinner

The GoBe kids snack spinner is the perfect travel snack containers. It’s got everything you need to keep those little tummies happy on the go. With its spinning magic, your kids can easily reach their favorite snacks without making a mess. And guess what? It comes with multiple compartments for all their munchies!

Plus, it’s super durable and totally safe with no yucky stuff. You can just toss it in your bag or car and you’re good to go on awesome adventures. Snack time has never been this fun and easy! Get ready for some seriously happy kids during your travels with the Gobe Snack Spinner!

My favorite kitchen essentials for toddlers

If you need more ideas I also share the best kitchen essentials that I use with my boys. I’ve had to go through a lot of bad sippy cups and kitchen products to find the perfect ones. I listed my favorite plates, cups, cups, and smoothie cups below.

The best kitchen essentials for toddlers

Pottery Barn is offering the cutest selection of Bento Boxes that can be perfect for travel snack containers. It’s a total game-changer for on-the-go munchies. With its cleverly designed compartments, you can pack a variety of delicious snacks all in one place. From juicy fruits to crunchy pretzels, there’s room for it all!

The best part? No more spills or mix-ups – each treat stays perfectly in its place. Plus, bento boxes are sturdy and easy to clean, making them a parent’s dream come true. Just pop it in your bag, and you’re set for any adventure with happy and well-fed kiddos. Embrace snack time bliss with the trusty bento box, the ultimate travel companion for your little explorers!

Silicone Bento

The silicone bento box is another great option for travel snack containers. First off, it’s incredibly flexible and collapsible, making it easy to store and carry around when empty. Not to mention, the silicone material is super durable, ensuring it can handle even the most adventurous journeys without cracking or breaking.

Cleaning is a breeze too, as it’s dishwasher-safe and resistant to stains. But the real magic lies in its leak-proof and airtight seal, keeping snacks fresh and preventing any messy spills in your bag. With the silicone bento box, snack time becomes a stress-free delight for both kids and parents alike!

Stackable containers

I love the stackable containers for travel snack containers. Its clever and compact design allows for easy stacking, ensuring you can carry multiple snacks without taking up much space. This feature is a real game-changer for busy parents on the move. With different compartments neatly stacked together, you can pack a variety of snacks to cater to your child’s cravings.

No more rummaging through bags to find snacks – everything is organized and easily accessible. The Stackable’s secure and leak-proof lids keep snacks fresh and mess-free, making it perfect for travel, whether it’s a quick trip to the park or a long journey. Say goodbye to snack-time stress and embrace the convenience and versatility of the Stackable, the ultimate companion for happy and well-fed kids on all your adventures!

The tackle box is actually such a good and inexpensive way to store your snacks. I’ve seen such a fun arrangements of snacks using the tackle box. Your kids will love to open this up on the plane or on a road trip.

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My favorite kid snacks to get from Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s kid snacks offer a wide variety of kid-friendly snacks that are not only tasty, but also free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. With so many options available in the market, it can be hard to find a snack that is both nutritious and appealing to picky eaters. I listed my favorite snacks below!

The best Trader Joe’s Kid Snacks

Tips for flying or driving with kids

The best tips for flying with kids

The Best Tips to Survive a Road Trip With Toddlers

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5 Leak-Proof Containers for Safely Stowing Your Airplane Food

By Elaheh Nozari

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Aside from the small minority of travelers who love airplane food, most of us just tolerate it and snack on tiny bags of pretzels until we land. Bringing your own food is one step on the journey to mastering the art of eating on the plane. The second, and arguably as important, is how you pack it. Without the right storage containers, the granola you made the night before might spill all over the aisle before you get to enjoy it. Here are five leak-proof travel containers that’ll keep your airplane food safe, sound, and ready to eat.

Rubbermaid Clear Plastic Containers

Grain salads are too pretty to be stored in opaque containers. Show off your plane food prep game and pack your herby bowl of farro, olives, and lemon in this crystal clear plastic container whose leak-proof lid will leave your carry-on free of any vinaigrette spillage.

Buy it: Rubbermaid Brilliance 3.2-cup plastic container, $35 for pack of 5 on Amazon

Twist-Top Stainless Steel Jars

Having a 6 a.m. flight doesn’t mean you have to forgo your morning oatmeal or chia pudding for overpriced airport alternatives. Pack your breakfast in these twist-top stainless steel jars—put your main in the 8-ounce jar, and accouterments like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit in the smaller 4-ounce ones.

Buy it: LunchBots Stainless Steel Jars, $11 for 4-ounce and $13 for 8-ounce on Amazon

Stainless Steel Airtight Containers

These airtight containers are durable enough for long trips and come in a variety of sizes, so there’s no snack they can’t store for those long international flights. Why wait to be served airplane nuts when you can pack your own mixed variety ?

Buy it: Onyx Stainless Steel Airtight Containers, from $50 for a set of 3 on Food52

Aluminum Lunchbox

Some of us only need a peanut butter & jelly to keep us sated mid-flight. For those simple, all-purpose sandwich cravings, get this aluminum lunchbox that’ll keep everything in place, no matter how soft the bread is.

Buy it: SIGG Aluminum Food Box Plus S, $35 on Amazon

Glass & Silicone Food Storage

If you’re a glass container loyalist, fear not—you don’t have to risk a shattered glass situation should TSA handle your belongings a little aggressively. This glass container has silicone webbing that protects the vessel from breaking so you get all the benefits of glass (no leaching chemicals!) without the risk of breakage.

Buy it: Lifefactory 2-Cup Glass Food Storage, $13 on Amazon

All products featured on Bonappetit.com are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn a small affiliate commission.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 13 Very Best Food-Storage Containers

Make your pantry and refrigerator easier to navigate and food less likely to spoil..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best collapsible

Best stackable jars

• Best with click-lock lids
• Best with pop-up lids

I consider myself to be a pretty organized person (especially in the kitchen, which I use more than any other room in my apartment). That said, the Home Edit –style decanting of absolutely all food into clear boxes and jars is not my thing (and, practically speaking, pretty unnecessary). Instead, I opt for a collection of food-storage containers that’s practical for my own way of cooking: many that nest tightly together in my small cabinet, some that clean up especially well for messy leftovers, others that can go in the freezer, and, overall, a wide range of sizes so I can keep everything from salad dressing to a whole batch of brownies. The point is: Having the right mix has made my pantry and refrigerator so much easier to navigate and food less likely to go bad.

Good news is the market is teeming with options that will allow you to curate your own assortment. To help you figure out what that might look like, I detailed my own favorites and consulted 16 experts (in this case, people who cook a lot and keep their kitchens together) to find out what they use to store dry goods, prepped foods, and leftovers. And if you’re looking for even longer-term food storage, you can read my guide to vacuum sealers , too.

What we’re looking for

 Glass containers are the easiest to wash, and you can see through them completely. But they’re also the heaviest (an important consideration if you’re looking to transport meals on the regular). Plastic ones are transparent and lightweight. While they clean up well if you throw them in the dishwasher, they can be a bit of a pain to scrub by hand (especially when there’s oil involved). Silicone is similar to plastic in terms of cleaning and weight, but you can’t see through it. Basically, there are pros and cons to each, so I’ve noted the material of all the containers below, including if the lids and bases differ.

Some people might like a uniform shape, while others might prefer to have a mix; it all depends on what you plan to use each piece for. For this, I say whether the shapes in each container set are uniform or a mix.

Again, this will depend on use (maybe you’re looking to organize all the dry goods in your pantry or you want to ensure your various leftovers stop going bad). For this, I also say whether they’re uniform or a mix.

Best food-storage containers overall

Material: Glass containers, silicone lids | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

I have a smattering of Pyrex glass containers that have been with me, traveling from apartment to apartment, for nearly a decade. And while I’m a deli-container evangelist (more on that pick below), I also recognize that they’re not as durable in the long run. The sturdiness and longevity of Pyrex, however, is unrivaled: The containers do not break or chip (I’ve even fully dropped them on occasion and they’ve stayed intact), the lids haven’t warped at all, and the glass has stayed sparkling clear, no matter what foods I’ve put inside over the years (now I clean them in the dishwasher, but that was the case even when I used to wash them by hand).

Pyrex came up most among experts, too. “The glass containers don’t absorb the smell or color of the food stored inside of them,” says recipe developer and cookbook author Jessie Sheehan . “I don’t want chana masala mixing with leftover egg yolks from baking.” She and cookbook author Erin Gleeson both note that all the pieces are dishwasher and microwave safe, even the lids, which is great for heating up food. “You don’t have to worry about putting a plate over the top,” Sheehan says. Mei Li, co-founder of Food Waste Feast , notes that “it really helps not waste food when you can see what’s in your containers.” But her praise of Pyrex doesn’t stop there. “Their lids fit well,” she tells  me. “I find that some of the clip-on ones get warped over time, but these suction on nicely. Plus, they’re remarkably unbreakable.”

Pyrex makes a myriad of mixed sets that include different shapes and sizes, so it’s worth poking around to find the one that best suits your needs. Or you can be like recipe developer Desirée Daniels and get one with identical containers . Or , if you’re interested in storage that doubles as kitchenware, Sheehan notes in particular how “100 percent brilliant” the Pyrex mixing bowls are. You can cook in them, store in them, and serve in them. Li agrees. “If you have a dip or something like that, you can take it from the fridge to the table and then back into the fridge,” she says. “They look nice.”

Best (less-expensive) food-storage containers

Material: Plastic containers, plastic lids | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

My personal food storage containers of choice are restaurant-grade deli containers, which come in a mix of 32 ounces, 16 ounces, and eight ounces. Somehow, one of those three sizes is always perfect for what I need. And perhaps best of all, they each fit the exact same lid so you’re never without one.

Although they won’t last as long as glass containers (eventually, they can start to warp just a bit, or, in more dramatic cases, become discolored after a ton of use), I simply recycle as needed. When I notice my stash dwindling, I buy some more (I did this recently for the first time in several years). And at such a cheap price, it doesn’t feel like a sting. They’re dishwasher and freezer safe (I have the largest ones full of stocks, pasta sauces, stews, and more in my freezer at all times.) They hardly take up any room at all when empty, as they stack super compactly (key for my small cabinet). But they also fit perfectly, one on top of the other, when they’re full so I can always see what I have in my fridge. They’re lightweight, great for bringing to the office or out on a picnic, and cheap enough that I never mind doling out leftovers to friends and saying, “Keep the container” as they leave.

Cookbook author Julia Turshen agrees. She uses them in many of the same ways I do, with the addition of decanting goods in her pantry. Plus, she has a great tip for using them to make salad dressing: “An immersion blender fits directly into one, so I don’t have to worry about dirtying a bowl and then later a container for leftover dressing,” she says.

Best large food-storage containers

Chef and author Virginia Willis says that Cambros are a remnant of her restaurant days. “They come in different sizes but no matter what, they stack perfectly,” she explains. “And because they’re square, you’re not losing any fridge or cabinet space. They’re also especially durable.” Willis likes the two-quart size, the smallest that Cambro makes. She says it’s large enough to hold all the leftovers after dinner without being crazy-big. But just for reference, that two-quart is twice the volume of the largest deli container — and they go a lot bigger. Strategist contributor Sarah Leon has them in a range of sizes, also for leftovers and for proofing bread dough — but used the 12-quart ones as a dish station filled with water to be able to scrub and rinse when she was renovating her kitchen and didn’t have a proper sink for a year. They “are not breakable, and they have handles, so they are easy to carry,” she says. Just note you have to buy the lids separately.

Best collapsible food-storage containers

Material: Silicone containers, plastic lids | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

If you’re low on space, or your main priority is commuting with food, consider these nifty Thin Bins recommended by Nikki Ostrower, founder of NAO Wellness . She has tried many containers over the years, and most proved to be impractical for her to carry around all day in her backpack, as well as difficult to stow in her small New York City kitchen. Finally, she found these collapsible silicone containers that can go in the microwave (without the lids), dishwasher, and freezer. Of course, best of all, she says, “when you’re done with your food, they collapse like an accordion.”

Material: Glass containers, tin-plated steel lids | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

Beyond her Cambros, Willis endorses Mason jars. “I love canning and preserving, so I always have a lot of them on hand,” she says. Professional organizer Faith Roberson uses them too for pretty much everything — leftovers or prepared foods, of course, but also dry goods like lentils and beans; herbs and vegetables in water; and, when she’s on the go, salad ingredients with dressings in these handy cups that fit snugly inside so the components don’t mix until she’s ready to eat. No matter how many ounces, both Willis and Roberson like the wide-mouth jars best. “I can add a scoop if I want the jar to hold powders or smaller seeds like flax or chia,” Roberson says. “But if I want to put something bigger inside, like dried lemons, I can do that too. Plus it’s easier to stick my hand in to clean.” Her favorite thing of all is how multipurpose they are, from the kitchen to the dining room and beyond. “I always find a way to keep them occupied,” she says, “whether it’s for holding flowers on the counter or as candle votives for tea lights on my dinner table. I even put my makeup brushes and cotton swabs in them. And if I find I’m in desperate need of one to store food, I simply disinfect a used one in the dishwasher.”

Material: Glass containers, glass lids | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

Weck jars are another popular choice for canning. Unlike Mason jars, which have a metal lid that, I have personally found, can be prone to rusting after a long period of time, these have glass lids with small metal clips that clamp down. They’re indented slightly at the top, which makes them stackable, a particularly useful trait if you’re short on cabinet or fridge space. “I’ve had other jars that easily slide around and fall and smash,” says cookbook author Kylee Newton . “These have that extra security.” She uses hers for pickles (the rubber seal ensures an airtight close, just like with Mason jars), as well as dried goods like oats, cereal, and sugar. “They’re also just aesthetically gorgeous,” she adds, “the prettiest jars out there on the market.”

Best food-storage containers with click-lock lids

Material: Glass containers, glass lids with silicone seals | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

When food writer Cathy Erway decided to get rid of plastic in her everyday life (including the takeout boxes she used to reuse), she landed on this set of Oxo containers. Ever since, she’s been a devotee. They’re made of glass, and therefore very sturdy, just like Pyrex — but the winning feature is the lids. They have a silicone lining and click-down handle on each side that holds tightly. “It’s really satisfying to hear that snap when they lock on,” Erway says, noting that unlike some other glass containers she’s used in the past, these can be thrown into her purse without the threat of leakage. Finally, she says, the smallest round container is the perfect shape and size for transporting dog food for her pup (it holds about one cup). She can feed him anywhere, even in the car, with no mess.

Turshen is also a fan. She first mentioned them to us five years ago, saying they were one of her essential kitchen items — and that remains true to this day. She uses them for storing leftovers in the fridge, and last year, when she was commuting to work, she would bring lunch in them. Just like Erway, she says that the click lock ensured no spilling on her commute: “If it turned over in my car while I was driving, I wouldn’t worry about it.”

Best food-storage containers with pop-up lids

Material: Plastic containers, plastic lids with silicone seals | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

These Oxo containers are made from plastic but have another genius lid design that has made them a favorite of food writer and recipe developer Rebecca Firkser . There’s a round pop-in, pop-out button on the top that creates an airtight seal when you press it and then releases when you press again. The company makes this style in a vast range of sizes from 0.2 quarts (for spices) up to six quarts, but Firkser especially likes the larger ones for decanting dried goods like granola, oats, flours, and sugars. “Though they don’t stack on top of each other,” she says, “the wide base helps these containers balance easily in places that weren’t necessarily designed for food storage but are often used as such, like the top of the fridge.”

Best stainless-steel food-storage containers

Material: Stainless steel | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

Cook and writer Tamar Adler has made a career of repurposing leftovers , so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about keeping them as organized and fresh as possible. She first discovered Vigor while working in restaurant kitchens, but about four years ago, when she couldn’t take the mess of too many Mason jars in her own fridge anymore, she invested in a few of these in various sizes. “Their tops are metal, which means there’s no plastic anywhere,” she says. “They’re indestructible, and they’re rectilinear, as is a refrigerator, making them really space efficient.” While they don’t create an airtight seal, the lids ( which are sold separately ) fit snugly, much like a pot or pan. Adler says she makes sure to use her leftovers within a week, but if you’re unsure, you can consult CDC guidelines on leftover-food safety. And while they’re not see-through, Adler says she considers this an opportunity to buy tape and Sharpies for labeling, which “makes you feel Über organized.” “Not having to guess what something is is very helpful,” she says.

Best food-storage container bags

Material: Silicone | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

If you’re in the market for storage bags instead of hard-sided containers, Stasher is a Strategist favorite. We’ve written about them many times over the years. Contributor Alison Freer, who wrote about how she couldn’t stop buying reusable storage bags in general, says, “I have every size, shape, and fun color they make, and while they are pricey, I reach for them above all other food-storage options I have in my kitchen. They can go in the microwave, freezer, and dishwasher; absolutely never stain or leak; and even though I’ve washed mine in the dishwasher hundreds of times (with the high-heat drying cycle on, even), they haven’t fallen apart or degraded in any way.” Multiple sustainability experts told us they swear by Stasher for this story on environmentally minded kitchen products. And Gleeson named them too. “We use them for kids’ lunches,” she says. “The smaller ones fit snacks like pretzels, crackers, and fruit. The bigger ones fit sandwiches. They’re durable. We’ve had them for four years at least.”

Best less expensive food-storage container bags

Material: PEVA | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

If the price of Stashers feels too steep, consider these (re-)zip ones that Wen-Jay Ying, founder of the café and farmer’s market Local Roots NYC , uses to store decanted bulk ingredients, save leftovers, and freeze goods. “They’re so light, they feel like Ziplocs,” Ying says. And because they’re made of PEVA, which is a less bulky and more malleable plastic than silicone, they’re thinner and easy to stack, says writer Anya Sacharow in our story on the best reusable food-storage bags . It should be noted, though, that they can’t withstand high temperatures like they can cold, so even though the brand says they’re dishwasher safe, we recommend hand-washing if you want them to last longer.

Best food-storage container bowls

Material: Glass and silicone | Shapes: Uniform | Sizes: Mix

W&P (makers of my and many Strategist staffers’ favorite ice cube trays ) also offers a myriad of storage containers , including these bowl-shaped ones. They’re glass so they clean up beautifully but have a silicone wrapping around the outside that provides a super-sturdy grip when I grab them from the fridge or wash them in the sink. The smaller size has become my go-to for storing dressing because the rounded bottom makes it easy to scrape out every last drop (more so than a small deli container, which has a shallow divot around the diameter), and the lid truly does not leak. I can shake it aggressively to re-emulsify. It’s so airtight, I can save half an avocado or apple with very minimal browning the next day. And though I work from home and therefore don’t transport lunch, I’ve eaten leftover grain salads and rice dishes straight from the larger vessel because the material makes it feel like an actual dish. The bowls are dishwasher- and microwave -safe, too. They’re on the pricier side, but I think introducing a few into your collection would be useful.

Most stylish food-storage containers

Material: Glass containers, BPA- and BPS-free plastic lids | Shapes: Mix | Sizes: Mix

Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng has used Our Place’s containers for over a year. The brand, known for its thoughtful designs that took Instagram by storm, sells sets in amber, teal, and clear with blue lids, all made from lightweight glass. Peng has the amber and says it’s “actually kind of happy-making to see them in the fridge” where the tinted glass can help make leftovers seem more appealing (and more likely to be used). She has taken to drinking water from the quart-size one, which the brand says can also be used as a vase, and stores smaller items, like partially used produce, in the others. While the lids aren’t quite secure enough to throw in your bag, “for storage, where things aren’t being jostled, they’re totally fine,” she says.

Some more food-storage containers we’ve written about

Our experts

•  Tamar Adler , cook and writer •  Desirée Daniels , recipe developer •  Cathy Erway , food writer •  Rebecca Firkser , food writer and recipe developer • Alison Freer, Strategist contributor •  Erin Gleeson , cookbook author • Sarah Leon, Strategist contributor • Mei Li, co-founder of Food Waste Feast •  Kylee Newton , cookbook author • Nikki Ostrower, founder of NAO Wellness • Chelsea Peng, Strategist senior editor •  Faith Roberson , professional organizer •  Jessie Sheehan , recipe developer and cookbook author • Julia Turshen , cookbook author •  Virginia Willis , chef and author • Wen-Jay Ying, founder of Local Roots NYC

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I Tested 48 Dry Food Storage Containers and Found Seven Sets That’ll Keep Pantry Goods Fresh

The winners are from Rubbermaid and OXO, and were leakproof, sturdy, and kept dry goods fresh.

Grace Kelly is the Commerce Editor for Serious Eats and has been writing for various media outlets since 2015.

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The Winners, at a Glance

What we learned, the criteria: what to look for in dry food storage containers.

• The Best Dry Food Storage Containers
• The Competition

Why We’re the Experts

Straight to the point.

Our favorite overall dry food storage container set was from Rubbermaid . They were sturdy, airtight, and easily fit into our pantry. We also liked the Guzzini Grigio Glass Canister for a good-looking countertop option.

Restaurants have food storage down pat; they have walk-in refrigerators (I want one!), walk-in pantries, and giant, rolling tubs to hold huge amounts of flour, rice, and other dry goods. 

That said, we owners of tiny home kitchens do have dry food storage options, even if they don’t hold gallons or roll on wheels. I cleared out my pantry and de-cluttered my countertops (it was an effort, trust me) to test dry food storage containers, so you too can have easy peasy access to rice, flour, sugar, and—most importantly—snacks. After testing 10 sets (48 pieces in total), I found that most performed well and that your storage space and needs should dictate which you buy.

The Best Overall Dry Food Storage Containers

Rubbermaid brilliance pantry airtight food storage containers, 8-piece set.

These are basically larger versions of our favorite food storage containers and sport the same super-sealed, secure lids. Even the bigger containers fit nicely in my narrow pantry.  

The Best Bigger Pantry Food Storage Containers

Oxo good grips pop 5-piece canisters.

These containers (which sport pop-on lids) were surprisingly good at storing rice, even when I shook them up and down. The set comes with pieces of various sizes, though I had trouble fitting the tallest containers (likely meant for spaghetti or…Twizzlers?) on my pantry shelf. 

The Best Large Set of Dry Food Storage Containers

Chef's path airtight food storage container set.

This 14-piece set is great for someone with a loaded pantry—there were containers of all shapes and sizes, perfect for a handful of nuts or a big bag of dried beans. Some of the smaller pieces can double as food storage containers, too. 

The Best Countertop Dry Food Storage Containers

Guzzini grigio glass canister.

Container Store

While the lids were a little tricky to get off, these glass containers kept rice and crackers sealed and secure. They’re also quite pretty and have a small footprint, making them a great countertop option. 

Another Great Countertop Dry Food Storage Container Pick

Le creuset storage canister.

While these weren’t airtight, they are beautiful, and I like using them to hold flour and sugar. Plus, they can double as a utensil crock in a pinch. I found that snacks stored in them got less of a stale flavor than ones stored in plastic containers, too. 

The Best Chef-Approved Dry Food Storage Containers

Cambro containers with lids - 2 quart and 4 quart food storage set.

If you want to store food like a chef, then a Cambro is the container for you. This pair is compact, sturdy, and can also be used to store liquids, like overnight yeasted waffle batter or quiche filling (that said, they’re not leakproof!). 

The Best Bulk Storage Dry Food Containers

Décor 8.98 qt. tellfresh superstorer.

If you’re looking for bulk storage, this is the set to get. These large containers are great for storing large bags of rice, flour, or even dry pet food. (If your cat is like mine, he can chew through the bag, but he can’t chew through this durable plastic! Take that feline foe!).

• Rice Test: I poured rice into a container from each set, closed the lid, and shook it 10 times to see how securely the lids were attached. I also noted if they were easy to fill, empty, and clean. 
• Leak Test: While these are dry food storage containers, I wanted to see how airtight the lids were, so I filled one container from each set with water and shook it to see if any leaked.
• Stack and Store Test: I stacked the containers to see how they slotted together (if this was possible). I also placed each set in my pantry and on my counter to see how they fit. 
• Snack Storage Test (Winners-Only): I filled the winning containers with crackers, closed them, and tasted them one and two weeks later, noting if they were stale or had any off-flavors.
• Durability Test (Winners-Only): I opened and closed the lids of our winning containers 20 times to see how they held up.  

Know Your Pantry and Storage Space

Before you get excited about food storage, pause, take a deep breath, and face the reality that is your pantry and/or countertop. For example, I have two narrow pantry cabinets with built-in shelves and a countertop overridden with gadgets, cutting boards , knife blocks , etc, etc,—so space is limited.

Then, think about what your food storage needs are. Do you want sugar and flour containers within arm’s reach during cooking? Or are you looking for bulkier storage bins for holding that 10-pound bag of sushi rice ? There are different containers for various needs, and throughout testing, I found that some containers simply didn’t fit in my somewhat restrictive pantry space. I liked the pretty Le Creuset and Guzzini containers as countertop picks for holding sugar and flour, while the taller, plastic tubs—like the Rubbermaid , OXO , and Chef’s Path —were better for pantry storage (think foods like spaghetti or cereal). Bigger tubs, like the Tellfresh and Cambros , were great for holding larger bags of flour or rice (or pet food), though, if you have a small kitchen, finding a place to store them could be challenging. 

Wide Mouths Were Best 

I liked dry food containers with wide mouths (like the Le Creuset), which made it super easy to grab a measuring cup , reach in, and scoop what you need. Containers with smaller openings, like the Ikea , were harder to scoop from—even pouring rice from the flip top scattered grains all over. 

Sturdiness Mattered

I really liked containers that sat sturdy and flat while we filled them. The Ikea containers were narrow at the base, making them prone to tipping and falling over, while the Progressive ProKeeper containers had attached lids that made them top-heavy when empty. Look for containers that sit flat and solid, like the wide Cambros or the sturdy ceramic Le Creuset.

Lids Were Important  

You want lids that are easy to put on and take off. Some lids were tricky to put on all the way, like the Tupperware , which made things risky if they tipped over. Others, like the Guzzini, were difficult to remove, which can lead to spills. In the end, I liked lids that popped on and off securely and easily and kept everything inside the container, even when I gave them a good shake as part of my testing. The Rubbermaid, OXO, and Chef’s Path lids were all easy to pop on and off and were watertight during the leak test. 

Plastic Imparted a Weird Taste 

As part of my testing, I filled our winning dry food storage containers with crackers, then taste-tested them one and two weeks later. All of the crackers were still mostly crunchy, though the ones stored in plastic containers often had an odd off-flavor. I'm not sure if this was a result of the oily crackers going a little bit rancid, or if it was the plastic containers themselves, though I did notice the crackers stored in the ceramic Le Creuset tasted fresher. 

Before you commit to a set of dry food storage containers, consider your pantry and countertop space; some of the sets I tested were quite tall (like the OXO), while others were short and wide (like the Cambro set).

In general, though, I liked sturdy containers with wide mouths that made them easy to fill and scoop from and ones that kept foods relatively fresh over a longer period. While some containers, like the Le Creuset, weren't airtight, I found they were useful for keeping sugar or flour within arm's reach on my kitchen counter.

The Best Dry Food Storage Containers 

What we liked: These storage containers had a water and airtight seal that kept food protected. Clumsy? No matter, the lids seal on so securely that even when I shook a container filled with rice up and down, the lid didn’t budge. The set I tested, which included four pieces, fit nicely into my pantry with no Tetris moves needed. 

What we didn’t like: There wasn’t much I didn’t like about these, other than they’re not the most aesthetically pleasing (but if they’re in your pantry, it doesn’t really matter). The crackers had a slightly plasticky flavor after one and two weeks, and the set was also a bit pricey. 

• Sets available: 3, 4, 8, 10, 14, or 20-piece options
• Materials: Plastic
• Lid style: Snap-on lids
• Cleaning and care: Dishwasher-safe; freezer-safe

What we liked: This is a massive set with 14 containers of all shapes and sizes, so if you’re looking to store a lot of dry goods, this is the hostess with the mostest, so to speak. I liked the easy-on, easy-off snap-on lids, the variety of sizes, and that I could use the smaller containers for more short-term food storage (hello leftovers!). This set was also airtight and quite sturdy. 

What we didn’t like: Like many of the other plastic containers, these did impart a faint off-flavor when I stored snacks in them for two weeks. 

• Comes with: 14 pieces
• Lid style: Snap-on
• Cleaning and care: Dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe

What we liked: I was skeptical about how well the lids on this set would stay put since they're shallow and feature a pop-up button that you push down to secure them. However, they were quite sturdy and stayed on splendidly even when I shook the containers filled with rice. I also liked the variety of sizes in the set. 

What we didn’t like: The tallest container in this set didn’t fit in my pantry, the manufacturer recommends hand washing (boo), and they aren’t the prettiest containers to look at. They’re also kinda pricey, shaking out to $11 per container. 

• Comes with: 5 pieces
• Materials: Plastic, silicone
• Lid style: Silicone gasket with "pop" feature to seal
• Cleaning and care: Hand washing recommended 

What we liked: These glass containers with acrylic lids are pretty and functional, a rare find in the world of dry food storage containers; I didn’t mind keeping them on my countertop. I liked that they had wide openings, which made it easy to scoop out ingredients or reach in for a snack, and the lids were very (if a little too ) secure. 

What we didn’t like: The lids could be tricky to get off at times. These are sold as separate containers (not as a set), and each container is a bit pricey. 

• Comes with: 1 container (there are four sizes available to purchase separately)
• Materials: Glass, acrylic
• Lid style: Silicone gasket-lined lid
• Cleaning and care: Top rack dishwasher-safe

What we liked: If you’re looking for containers that’ll sit on your countertop and look pretty doing it, these are an excellent choice. They’re also easy to open, close, and clean, and are great for keeping sugar or flour within reach (they could also double nicely as a utensil crock). I didn’t notice any off-flavors imparted during my two-week snack taste test. 

What we didn’t like: The silicone-lined wooden lids gently rest in the container, so they’re not exactly meant to be jostled (to be honest, I didn’t even try our rice shake test with them), and each canister costs a pretty penny.

• Comes with: 1 container (there are three sizes available to purchase separately)
• Materials: Stoneware, wood, silicone
• Lid style: Wooden lids with silicone gasket
• Cleaning and care: Container is dishwasher-safe; lid should be hand-washed

What we liked: These sturdy containers with snap-on lids are beloved by chefs and cooks everywhere. While they aren’t leakproof, the lids sat tight when I shook the containers filled with rice. This set of two is also relatively inexpensive. Plus, they can also double as a sous vide container . 

What we didn’t like: While I have used these containers to refrigerate things like waffle batter, they are not leakproof. Also, this set only comes with two containers, though you can buy other various Cambro sizes separately. 

• Comes with: 2 containers
• Cleaning and care: Freezer and dishwasher-safe (can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 160°F)

What we liked: With handles and easy snap-on lids, these large containers are great if you buy in bulk and don’t want an open bag of rice (or pet food) sitting in your pantry. Since they’re so big, they’re also easy to scoop out of and pour into. 

What we didn’t like: I'm curious about the longevity of the handles, since they seem somewhat flimsily attached. The containers are also quite big, so you’ll want to make sure you have space to store them. The lids are prone to popping off when jostled, too.

• Comes with: 1 container (there are two sizes, sold separately) 
• Materials: Polypropylene plastic
• Cleaning and care: NA

The Competition 

• IKEA 365+ Dry Food Jar with Lid : I liked the flip-top lid on these containers (it made pouring out rice or a portion of snacks easy, if a bit messy). However, the containers themselves were very narrow at the bottom, threatening to tip over when I filled them. 
• Progressive ProKeeper+ Baker's Storage Set of 17 : Some of the containers in this set had their lids attached, making them top-heavy and tipping them to the side slightly when filled. The small metal label on the front of the lids fell off right out of the box, which made these feel cheaply constructed. 
• Tupperware Stacking Square Storage Set : While there was nothing majorly bad about this set, the lids were difficult to put on, and when I gave them a good shake whilst filled with rice, well, let’s just say I'm still finding grains on my kitchen floor. 

Is it safe to store dry food goods in plastic containers? 

According to the USDA, it is safe to store things like rice, cereal, or pasta in plastic containers, provided they are tightly sealed and dry.

What is the best dry food storage container?

It depends on what you are storing and where you are storing it! If you’re looking for a countertop vessel to hold flour and sugar, you might want to consider something like the containers from Guzzini or Le Creuset, which look nicer than plastic containers. That said, plastic containers with snap-on lids are more airtight. If you have space in your pantry for storing dry goods in containers, any of the plastic offerings we recommended above will do just fine. 

• Grace Kelly is the associate commerce editor for Serious Eats, where she’s been testing gear for almost two years. 
• She has a background in journalism and has also done stints as a bartender and cook. 
• She has written dozens and dozens of reviews, with a couple of standouts being casserole dishes and Deba knives . 
• For this review, Grace tested 10 dry food storage container sets, evaluating their lid design, how easy they were to fill, if they were leakproof, and more.

U.S. Department of Agriculture. How do I store dry goods?

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Amazon's New Rubbermaid Deals Include a 30-Container Set That's Under $1.50 Apiece

You can also grab its popular produce-savers at a steal.

Food & Wine / Amazon

Leftovers, meal prep, and produce all need one thing: food storage containers . But not just any storage container will do. We use these in the freezer, refrigerator, and our pantries. So they need to seal tightly to keep our food fresh and secure for as long as we need it to. Plus, they also need to last.

That’s why we’ve rounded up seven container sets from Rubbermaid that tick off every box you’d need. And you’ll find them below, like produce saver sets , pantry organizer sets , and large sets of food storage containers , Plus, they’re all on sale for up to 24% off.

Best Rubbermaid Container Deals at Amazon

• Brilliance 4-Piece Food Storage Container Set , $40 (originally $50)
• Brilliance 7.8-Cup Food Storage Container , $14 (originally $19)
• FreshWorks 6-Piece Produce Saver Container Set , $27 (originally $35)
• Freshworks 8-Piece Produce Saver Set , $31 (originally $40)
• FreshWorks 2-Piece 7.2-Cup Produce Storage Container Set , $16 (originally $20)
• 42-Piece Food Storage Container Set , $29 (originally $35)
• 60-Piece Food Storage Container Set , $39 (originally $45)

Brilliance 4-Piece Food Storage Container Set 

Getting your pantry organized is a snap with this Rubbermaid food storage container set . The set has four containers of various sizes, including one 16-cup container, one 12-cup container, one 6.6-cup container, and one 3.2-cup container. Each container is made of BPA-free clear plastic that is shatterproof and stain- and odor-resistant. Their matching lids are airtight, featuring a silicone seal and two hinged latches that snap shut tightly. They’re perfect for storing flour and other baking ingredients, pasta and rice, or snacks and pet food. They stack neatly together for streamlined storage, too. These containers are some of our favorites on the market thanks to their sleek design, airtight lids, and ease of cleaning. Snag the set for 20% off and get your pantry in order.

Brilliance 7.8-Cup Food Storage Container

This now-24% off food storage container has the same features as the four-piece set above but has a capacity of 7.8 cups. It’s ideal for storing pantry ingredients like brown sugar, ensuring that it stays in a tightly sealed container. It also works well for other baking ingredients and is the perfect addition to any kitchen (including the previous se t for organizing your pantry). This container sports the same airtight lid and stacks nicely with the other pieces. Right now, you can get it on sale for only $14.

FreshWorks 6-Piece Produce Saver Container Set

If you’re tired of watching your produce wilt and spoil before you can use it, grab this six-piece produce saver container set . These BPA-free plastic containers are specifically designed to keep produce items fresher longer. The set has one 7.2-cup container, which is perfect for storing fresh fruits like strawberries, and two 18.1-cup containers, which are ideal for storing heads of lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and more.  Each container has a raised base that keeps your fruits and vegetables lifted up from the bottom, that way they’re not sitting in moisture. The lids have a built-in filter that keeps the oxygen and carbon dioxide leveled too, according to the brand. They stack together easily for streamlined storage in the refrigerator. Stop throwing away your produce, grab this set while it’s 23% off.

Freshworks 8-Piece Produce Saver Set

And if you need more than the six-piece set or require other sized containers, consider the eight-piece produce saver set , which is also on sale for 23% off. It offers the same features and functionality that keeps produce fresher longer, but has a different assortment. This set has two 4.6-cup containers that work well for smaller produce bundles like blueberries, one 11.3-cup container that can hold vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, and one 18.1-cup container for lettuce and more. It’s the perfect addition to any kitchen ahead of spring and summer farmers market runs. 

FreshWorks 2-Piece 7.2-Cup Produce Storage Container Set

For a smaller set option, check out this two-piece 7.2-cup produce saver set . They’re best for delicate ingredients like blueberries or strawberries. Just like Rubbermaid’s other produce storage containers, these also have the built-in filter in the lids, and the raised base in the containers to keep moisture from touching your food. They are stackable and nest together, too. With these containers, you’ll always have fresh fruit for strawberry shortcake or blueberry cobbler on hand. The set is on sale for only $16.

42-Piece Food Storage Container Set

For those cooks who love to meal prep or make larger portions so there’s leftovers for later, this 42-piece food storage set is the perfect solution. There are 21 containers with their own respective lids in this set. It includes a variety of sizes including five 0.5-cup containers, six 1.25-cup containers, six 2-cup containers, two 3-cup containers, one 5-cup container, and one 7-cup container. The lids for the 3-, 5-, and 7-cup containers have a built-in vent, that way you can microwave food in them without splattering. The containers are made of BPA-free clear plastic so you can easily see what’s inside them. And the lids have an airtight rubber seal to keep foods fresh. When not in use, nest the containers together, and lids together for compact storage. Snag the 42-piece set in red for $29 before it’s gone.

60-Piece Food Storage Container Set

And if you don’t feel that the 42-piece set above has enough containers, then put this 60-piece food storage container set in your shopping cart. Sporting the exact same features, this one has 30 containers including six 0.5-cup containers, six 1.25-cup containers, six 2-cup containers, five 3-cup containers, four 5-cup containers, two 7-cup containers, and one 9-cup container. No matter what set you choose, these bestselling containers have raked in over 86,700 perfect ratings for their durability, quality, and performance. One shopper says, “They work very well for saving leftovers, salads, and baked goods.” Get the set in red for $39 right now.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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6 Best Portable Charcoal Grills for Summer Adventures, Tested by Experts

With a portable charcoal grill in tow, the world is your sizzling hot oyster.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

BEST OVERALL PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

Portable kitchen pkgo camp & tailgate grilling system.

BEST VALUE PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

Weber smokey joe premium 14-inch portable grill.

BEST TABLETOP PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

Oklahoma joe's rambler tabletop charcoal grill.

BEST SMALL PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

Everdure cube portable charcoal grill.

BEST STANDING PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

Masterbuilt portable charcoal grill and smoker with cart.

BEST PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL FOR CAMPING

Biolite wood & charcoal burning fire pit.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliance and Culinary Innovation Lab , we've rigorously tested over 80 grills to uncover the best grills on the market. From gas grills to charcoal grills , kamado to electric and even pellet grills for smoking, we've left no grate unturned. We rigorously evaluate grills for their performance and user-friendliness, considering factors such as heat distribution, cooking speed, flare-ups, shelf and tool holder design and ease of fuel attachment or replenishment .

To pinpoint the best portable charcoal grills that'll turn you into a grilling maestro on the move, our analysts scoured the market for the best, newest and top-selling models. Our Lab experts meticulously unboxed, assembled and grilled chicken thighs and steaks to test them out.

At the end of this guide, we delve into our testing methodology and offer guidance on what to look for when selecting a portable charcoal grill. We've also tested a variety of grilling accessories — including grill tongs , grill baskets , grill brushes and grill cleaners — so you're equipped for every aspect of your grilling journey.

Portable Kitchen PKGO Camp & Tailgate Grilling System

A workhorse made of cast aluminum with cast iron grates, the heavier materials mean more weight to lug around, but it also means more durability for this portable charcoal grill. It’s the priciest portable grill on this list, but it’s also the best for the money. “ This is one of the best charcoal grills I have ever tested ,” says Nicole Papantoniou , director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliance and Culinary Innovation Lab. “ It’s easy to use, gets really hot for searing, can double as a low-and-slow smoker and is easy to clean. ”

We're thrilled by this grill's thoughtful design features. Its lid is equipped with two cool-to-touch vents for easy adjustments while cooking and boasts a generously sized handle for effortless access. When inverted onto the included base, the lid can double as an additional grill (it even comes with an extra coal holder and cooking grate). If you're looking for a portable grill for tailgating, the PKGO is perfect. During our testing, it swiftly cooked a steak and four chicken thighs to juicy, tender perfection.

This Weber grill is a mini version of the brand's well-loved charcoal kettle . “It’s super basic, small and lightweight with an oversized handle that stays cool during cooking,” says Papantoniou. “This little guy is very easy to take with you on a picnic and is easy to heat.”

Testers were impressed by this grill's sturdy yet portable construction and how swiftly it could be assembled. The oversized stay-cool c arrying handle, which also serves as a lid holder, proved to be particularly handy for monitoring food while cooking. This model boasts all the sought-after features of its full-size counterpart, including a compact coal bed, an easily adjustable vent and a lightweight ashtray (though slim) that conveniently stows inside the unit when cooled. This model can be purchased in various sizes and with an optional cover.

Oklahoma Joe's Rambler has a small but sturdy footprint and two large handles that make it easy to move around. In our tests, this grill achieved beautiful sear marks on chicken and maintained temperature well. It was also easy to clean. “This grill has a sturdy build, but it’s quite heavy and awkward to hold on your own,” says Papantoniou. So make sure you don't need to schlep it far, or at least have plenty of friends around to help haul.

It’s also a good small-format charcoal grill to keep in a tight backyard. I t comes with a tool for lifting the hot grates during cooking (the adjustable charcoal tray is also accessible during cooking), so you can add more coal as needed and feed a crowd without missing a beat.

Small and efficient, this portable grill has enough room to cook about four chicken thighs . It allows for a single layer of coals and has built-in storage. We love how compact it is and how it can be used nearly anywhere, from the beach to a picnic. “It's nice and lightweight and all parts clip together, so it’s quite neat,” says Papantoniou.

It has two large carrying candles and the bamboo lid doubles as a cutting board that rests on top of a plastic container that stores grilling accessories. In our tests, steak and chicken cooked quickly and got nice char marks without flare-ups. Ash falls through the coal holder holes onto the bottom of the grill for a neat grilling experience and the stainless steel grill grate is easy to wash once you get home.

Medium-sized but lightweight, this grill is built into the cart, so it's one full, sturdy piece that can fold for easy transport . It took testers a couple of tries to figure out how to set it up and collapse it for travel, but the wheels are stable, easy to move and large enough to roll on grass . It also has two sturdy shelves with tool holders and cup holders. It features a temperature dial for easy and controlled adjustments that range from 250 to 550°F to smoke low and slow and also sear steak.

Unlike many other charcoal grills, which require laying out the coals, this grill requires adding coal to a basket on the side and it uses a fan to circulate the hot air on low to high temps. In our tests, we achieved some sear marks, but they were more faint than those achieved by cooking over an open flame. The chicken came out juicy with a slightly smoky flavor. Grease drips into a disposable drip pan, which makes cleanup easy and the lid locks, so you don’t need to dispose of the ashes on site.

BioLite Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit

Primarily a fire pit that also functions as a charcoal grill, which makes it great for camping, this pick can even charge your phone. It has two oversized handles for carrying and its legs fold up to make it more compact for transport. It can be used with firewood or charcoal — just slide on the included grill grate to use it as a grill. An app-controlled fan lets you control the size of the flames and regulate the temperature. The coal bed can also be adjusted for better temperature control .

In our tests, it cooked a decent steak with nice grill marks. The grill grate is narrow, especially compared to other portable grills we tested, but can still fit four to five chicken thighs or two large steaks. We also tried the brand's grilling kit (sold separately) and found the accessories to be good quality.

Other portable charcoal grills we tested

Our experts tested other popular models on the market and whittled down the list based on consumer and Lab testing data. Here’s a handful that we tested and worked well but might not be the best picks for everyone.

The Big Green Egg MiniMax is the mini 13-inch version of Big Green Egg . It’s more affordable but difficult to transport. It might be suitable for car camping, but there were other grills with superior portability.

Kamado Joe’s Joe Jr. is another mini version of the brand’s big one ( which we love ), but again, it’s heavy and not exactly portable. However, they now sell a rolling cart to make rolling it around your backyard easier.

Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Cast Iron Grill won a Kitchen Gear Award in 2022 for its quality build and ability to cook juicy meats. We still adore this grill's ability to hold heat well, but it's heavy for a portable grill.

The Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill folds flat, so it can be stored super slim, but it’s quite pricey.

The Solo Stove Ranger has a grill attachment, but it’s hard to regulate the temperature. It’s fine for camping and bonfires but not ideal for grilling.

How we test portable charcoal grills

The Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliance and Culinary Innovation Lab has been at the forefront of grill testing for decades.

Having rigorously evaluated over 80 grills , spanning gas, charcoal, pellet and smokers, our expertise extends to many portable models examined throughout the years. Consistency is key; our testing methodology remains unchanged, ensuring reliable and comparable results. Moreover, we continuously adapt our tests to reflect evolving trends and innovations, ensuring relevance in our assessments.

In recent years, we've tested at least 20 portable grills — both gas and charcoal — through comprehensive side-by-side comparisons. Our evaluation begins with assembly, assessing ease of setup and usability, followed by rigorous cooking tests. While bread testing is typically reserved for gas grills, we thoroughly test charcoal grills by cooking steak on high heat and chicken thighs under medium, allowing us to gauge performance across various cooking durations.

Beyond performance, we evaluate ease of use, considering factors like shelf space, storage capacity and mobility features, like wheels. While size is important, stability takes precedence. Our selection of winning portable grills ensures not only stellar performance but also effortless transportability by a single individual.

What to look for when shopping for the best portable grill

Decide where and how you want to use your portable charcoal grill the most. Then consider these factors:

✔ Type : Portable charcoal grills come in various designs to suit different needs and preferences.

• T abletop grills are compact and lightweight, perfect for picnics, camping trips or small outdoor spaces. These types, like the Everdure CUBE and Oklahoma Joe's Rambler , typically feature a simple design with a grill grate, charcoal tray and sometimes foldable legs for easy transportation.
• Lidded grills , like the Portable Kitchen PKGO and Weber Smokey Joe , can be used to create a smoking environment for slow-cooking meats thanks to lids with vents for temperature control.
• Wheeled grills are built on carts with wheels, making them easier to transport, even over rough terrain. These standing grills, like the Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grill , may also feature additional storage space for charcoal or grilling accessories.

✔ Size : While a larger cooking space may seem appealing to accommodate more food, it also adds bulkiness, impacting portability. If you prioritize ease of transport, consider opting for a smaller-sized grill or one with features like folding mechanisms or wheels. This ensures you strike the right balance between cooking capacity and portability.

✔ Material : Thicker materials, such as cast iron or heavy-gauge steel, excel at retaining heat, ensuring consistent cooking temperatures that are ideal for longer cooks or smoking sessions. However, this robust construction often translates to heavier weight, potentially compromising the grill's portability. On the other hand, lightweight materials like aluminum or thin stainless steel offer easier portability but may sacrifice heat retention and durability. While they may be suitable for short cooking sessions like searing steaks or occasional use, they may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures for longer cooking periods.

✔ Stability : When it comes to a grill, stability is nonnegotiable. A wobbly grill is a safety risk. All of the selections on our list stood firm during cooking and testing without any instability.

✔ Lids : Lids are a great feature to have as they facilitate quick cooking by trapping heat. Some of our recommended picks, such as the Everdure CUBE and BioLite , don't have lids but still delivered satisfactory results, albeit with slightly longer cooking times.

✔ Ease of use features : Several features can enhance the convenience and functionality of a portable charcoal grill for a more user-friendly grilling experience, especially when cooking on the go.

• Adjustable grill grate and charcoal holder : The ability to adjust the height of the grill grate or charcoal holder allows for precise control over cooking temperatures, accommodating various types of food and cooking techniques.
• Oversized handles : Large, sturdy handles make it easier to transport the grill, especially when it's still hot. They provide a comfortable grip and reduce the risk of burns or accidents.
• Foldable legs : Grills with foldable legs are space-saving and convenient for storage and transportation. They also offer stability when in use, even on uneven surfaces.
• Ash collection system : A built-in ash collection system simplifies cleaning by trapping ash and debris, making disposal hassle-free and preventing messes.
• Vents : Adjustable vents on the lid and bottom of the grill allow for precise control of airflow and temperature regulation, ensuring optimal cooking results.
• Tool hooks and shelves : Integrated hooks or shelves provide convenient storage for grilling utensils, condiments or cooking accessories, keeping everything within reach while cooking.
• Built-in thermometer : A built-in thermometer enables you to monitor the internal temperature of the grill without the need for additional tools, ensuring consistent and accurate cooking results.
• Hinged grate or access door : Grills with a hinged grate or access door simplify the process of adding charcoal or wood chips during cooking, which minimizes heat loss.

How much charcoal to use for portable grills

The amount of charcoal needed for a portable grill depends on several factors, including the size of the grill, the type of charcoal used and the desired cooking temperature and duration.

• Size : Experimentation is key to finding the right amount of charcoal for your specific grill. Start with a single layer of charcoal covering the bottom of the grill and adjust as needed based on your experience.
• Type : Lump charcoal tends to burn hotter and faster than briquettes, so you may need slightly less. Briquettes provide more consistent heat and may last longer.
• Cooking duration : High heat or extended cooking times may require more charcoal to maintain the desired temperature.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Perry Santanachote is a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has been testing and writing about the best kitchen appliances and cookware for over a decade. She has years of experience in the food industry, working as a recipe developer, food stylist and cook.

Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliance and Culinary Innovation Lab where she oversees all kitchen appliance content and testing. She has tested more than 40 grills for Good Housekeeping, along with grilling tools and accessories. She's a professional, trained cook, recipe developer and grill aficionado.

Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal .

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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