Planning a kid’s birthday party? Don’t forget the birthday treat bags – those little surprises that bring big smiles! Also known as party favor bags or birthday return gifts, treat bags are a must-have to wrap up the celebration on a high note. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or just a casual gathering, treat bags show appreciation and give kids a fun takeaway they’ll talk about for days.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from what to put in party favor bags to DIY birthday treat bag ideas, age-appropriate gifts, budget-friendly tips, and more!
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What Are Birthday Treat Bags and Why Do You Need Them?
Birthday treat bags are small gift packs given to guests (usually kids) at the end of a birthday party. They’re filled with little goodies – toys, candies, crafts, or keepsakes. Here’s why they’re worth the effort:
- Surprise & Excitement: Kids love surprises. A small bag filled with fun can make them feel special and included.
- Lasting Memories: Goodie bags are a way to thank guests and leave a lasting impression.
- Fun & Social Connection: Exchanging or comparing goodies is often a fun post-party activity.
Most Popular Types of Birthday Goodie Bags
Before diving into what goes inside, let’s look at the different types of kids’ birthday goodie bags you can use:
1. Plastic Treat Bags (with Themes)
Affordable and easy to find, these bags often feature cartoon characters, balloons, or popular party themes.
2. Mini Drawstring Bags
These fabric or mesh pouches can be reused and feel a little more “special.” Great for adding a personal touch.
3. Gift Boxes or Baskets
Small cardboard boxes or baskets with handles make the goodies feel more like a real gift.
4. DIY Paper Bags
Get crafty with simple kraft paper bags or decorated paper sacks. Kids can even help design their own!
What to Put in Party Favor Bags?
Choosing the right fillers depends on your budget, theme, and the kids’ age. Here are fun and affordable ideas for what to put inside your birthday treat bags:
Mini Toys
- Fidget spinners, pop-its, slime, bouncy balls
- Temporary tattoos, bubbles, mini puzzles
- Great for active play and instant fun
Candy for Birthday Bags
- Gummy bears, marshmallows, wrapped chocolates
- Sour candies, mini lollipops, rainbow drops
- Choose individually wrapped candies for safety and hygiene
Stationery & Craft Supplies
- Cute pencils, erasers, small notebooks
- Stickers, coloring pages, DIY kits
- These double as useful and fun return gifts
Cheap Party Favor Ideas That Still Wow
- Stickers and stamps sets
- Glow sticks or finger puppets
- Mix of dollar-store toys and candy can go a long way
Personalized or Themed Items
- Tags with each kid’s name
- Character-themed trinkets (like Elsa rings or Spiderman masks)
- These little extras add a “wow” factor!
Easy DIY Birthday Treat Bags Anyone Can Make
Want to make it more memorable? Go DIY! Here are a few simple ideas for DIY birthday treat bags you can create at home – no fancy tools required.
1. Folded Paper Bags
Use colorful paper, fold it into a bag, and seal with tape or string. Decorate with stickers, stamps, or markers.
2. Origami Treat Boxes
Make a square box using origami techniques. Kids love these as they can reuse them to store small items.
3. Cup-to-Basket Hack
Transform a paper cup into a mini basket with ribbon handles. It’s fast, cute, and great for holding candy.
4. Personalized by Kids
Let children draw or color their own bags at the party! This becomes both an activity and the treat bag.
Themed Birthday Party Bags – Match the Magic!
Make your birthday treat bags even more special by matching them to your party’s theme. Kids love when everything fits a story and themed goodie bags tie it all together.
Princess & Fairytale Themes
- Add tiaras, unicorn stickers, sparkly pens, or “magic” wands.
- Colors: pink, lavender, gold, pastel tones.
Superhero Themes
- Mini action figures, badges, or masks.
- Popular characters: Spider-Man, Batman, Iron Man.
Animal & Jungle Themes
- Plastic animals, “zoo passes,” animal-print stickers.
- Great for outdoor or safari-style parties.
Career Themes (Doctor, Police, Firefighter)
- Mini stethoscopes, police badges, fire truck keychains.
- Encourage role play and imagination.
Color Themes (Pastel, Neon, Rainbow)
- Pick fillers and bag styles that follow a color palette.
- Visually satisfying and very Instagram-friendly!
Treat Bag Ideas by Age Group
Choosing treats by age makes a huge difference. Here are some tailored suggestions for kids of different age ranges:
Treat Bag Ideas for 3–5 Year Olds
- Soft plush toys
- Stickers and bubble blowers
- Large crayons, coloring sheets
- Light snacks or marshmallows (easy to chew)
For 6–8 Year Olds
- Slime kits, mini puzzles
- Scented pencils, glow sticks
- Character masks or snap bracelets
For 9–12 Year Olds
- DIY kits, card games, small notebooks
- Candy mixes with variety
- Fun pens, mini journals, phone holder toys
Candy for Birthday Bags – Sweet and Safe
Kids love candy – and treat bags wouldn’t feel complete without them. But a smart candy mix matters:
- Individually wrapped candies for hygiene
- Gummy, chocolate, and sour candy combo for variety
- Low-sugar options for younger kids (optional)
- Mini snack bags like popcorn, crackers, or fruit rolls
Tip: Avoid hard candies for toddlers and always check for allergy-safe ingredients.
Treat Bag Ideas for Every Budget
You don’t have to spend a fortune to impress. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Under $1 (per bag)
- Stickers, mini erasers, small candy packs
- Great for classroom parties or big guest lists
$1–$2
- Add a mini toy or stationery
- Slime pot + candy combo is popular and cheap
$2–$5
- Include personalized items, themed toys, or DIY kits
- Ideal for smaller, more intimate parties
Where to Get Ready-Made Treat Bags
Short on time? You can still create wow-worthy goodie bags with ready-made solutions:
- Themed party bundles on Amazon, Etsy, or local party stores
- Custom printed bags with names or ages
- Favor bag kits (pre-filled with toys & candy)
Conclusion
Birthday treat bags are more than just a party extra – they’re a fun and thoughtful way to say thank you to your guests. Whether you go DIY or store-bought, themed or budget-friendly, the key is choosing age-appropriate, fun, and safe goodies.
