Thermos Element 5 Lunch Lugger Review

Storage Size: 11-quart size

Construction: Plastic, fabric, and metal composition

Cost: Intermediate-priced

Features: Front zippered pocket and mesh pocket, adjustable strap, extra-wide opening

Pros: Large cooling storage for the size, good size for easy mobility

Cons: Zippers break easily, only one color choice

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Last Updated by Brandon F. on July 27, 2020

This is our Thermos Element 5 Lunch Lugger Review.  The Thermos Element 5 Lunch Lugger is Thermos’ answer for those needing a handy and efficient way to store their lunch items for a work lunch our outing.  It has a primary top enclosure that insulated and has a wide opening for easy access. 

Also, there are multiple side pockets for additional storage of your items that don’t need to stay cool.  For carrying, there is an adjustable strap on the top.  To help protect your items and the lugger itself, there is a PEVA lining that is not only leak-proof but also tear-resistant.  This product is made of fabric, plastic, and metal, comes in a black, orange, and gray color scheme, and stores approximately 11 quarts of volume.

Insulation Ability –

This product should keep your items cold for a few hours (or basically until lunch).  The insulation is thick enough to do so with minimal if any additional ice but if you do decide to include ice or an ice pack the melted water leaking should be minimal thanks to the liner.  For the size, it has a rather large cooling area, capable of fitting a 12 pack of cans easily.  In other words, it should be more than enough room for and individual’s lunch.

Mobility and Durability –

This lunch lugger is a great size for an individual carrying or inserted under their seat/on their bike rack.  It is quite roomy and even has external pockets and mesh for additional items.  While we also enjoy having a combination of shoulder strap as well as handle, having only the handle here is a minor complaint. 

Unfortunately, there are some issues with build quality as well as construction.  The zippers on this item seem to break quite easily, which can be very frustrating.  Also, this is essentially a soft-sided cooler but it is almost “too” soft which results in it being easily deformed and not staying structurally rigid while in use.  You will need to be sure to put it somewhere that can help stand it up or you will have to deal with a saggy cooler.

Visual Appeal – 

There is only one color choice, which is a bit disappointing.  The color scheme is alright, but having more options is always a plus.  It is a very professional look and both a male or female of any age or demographic could easily carry it around without looking out of place.

Cost – 

This part will typically be in the lower end of the intermediate price tier online.

Overall Rating – 

The Thermos Element 5 Lunch Lugger Review earns 2.5 out of 5 coolers.  The cooling performance of this part is good enough for its intended application, but it does struggle in the durability department and the design of it is a bit bland.  The price, while not terrible, is a bit too high for what you are getting with this lugger.