When shopping for a bento box for triathletes, look for certain characteristics depending on your exact needs. Size/Volume Also, pay careful attention to the zippers. They need to be of high quality because the last thing you want is to be trailing energy bars or first aid supplies along your route! Weatherproofing Plastic ones are usually cheaper and more lightweight, so they are easier to carry, while glass ones are more durable, eco-friendly and also keep your food fresher for longer. A bento box is a small box or pouch attached to your bike that is designed to carry extra nutrition or valuables.

Whether placed behind the stem or behind the saddle, the box falls into the wake of your bike stem, so it really doesn’t cause much drag at all. If you’re carrying a phone, cash, or other important and fragile items, the bento box you choose should have some weatherproofing abilities. It’s logical to wonder if adding a bento box to your bike will be an aerodynamic problem. But generally, you have nothing to worry about.

Castelli Undersaddle Mini Saddle Bag

As we mentioned above, you’ll need to choose the right bento box based on whether or not you need to access it while you’re riding. Bento boxes come with different install options. You can get both bolt-on bags, which are a bit more permanent, or Velcro strap-on boxes, which are easy to remove when needed. Rather make sure you have more than enough, and a bento box is an ideal way to carry a good amount with you. Valuables A nice feature that gets a thumbs-up from us is a non-slip rubber bottom, which prevents the bag from moving around, especially when the handlebars are turned.

Your bento box should be made of sturdy, durable material that will hold up in the event of a fall. The material should hold its shape to protect the contents of the box.You’re already used to carrying a puncture repair kit and a water bottle cage, so a bento box is an easy to use, logical solution for increasing your carrying capacity. Make sure that wherever you place it, it’s up close to the bar and has little room to deviate. The tighter you can get it, the less drag there’ll be. What Features are Important? Due to their compact nature and various compartments, they can help you be more mindful about food choices, encouraging healthier eating. If you’re planning on storing a repair kit or first aid equipment, a behind-the-saddle bento box would be perfectly adequate. You most likely won’t need to be reaching around while you’re still riding to grab something out of it.

A bento box is essentially a copact lunchbox, with various compartments to help you with portion control, and more mindful eating.

LifeLine Adventure Handlebar Bag

Although they’re made to be as lightweight as possible, there’s no denying that they do add a touch of extra weight to your bike. If you’re one to worry about every ounce, you may prefer not to have the box and its contents on your frame. Three adjustable rail systems allow you to strap this box tightly to your bike frame, exactly in the right position. The straps are made of soft, non-slip leather, which is durable and friction-free. It’s not always possible to leave the phone, car or house keys, ID cards, or cash at home while you’re riding. If you have to carry these or other valuables with you on the ride, a bento box is a perfect solution.

A running belt can be a great way to carry extra valuables or fuel on your run. But what about when you’re on a bike?We've rounded up the best bento boxes online right now for you to buy, so you don't have to scour the web. As great as they are, bento boxes do have a few cons. Whether these are deal-breakers or you’re able to work around them is up to you. They usually come in plastic or glass containers and can both be used for food containers as well as a lunch boxes.