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127 PARTY FAVOURS FOR KIDS: ALTERNATIVE PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR KIDS 2023

Are you looking for the best party bag ideas for kids? Or ideas for the best things to give as an individual party favour instead of a party bag?

Whether you are looking for cool and unusual party bag alternatives or the best ideas on what to put into kids’ party bags, I’ve compiled a list of 127 of the best alternative party bag ideas for kids’ parties.

Many of the ideas on my list are unique, so you will look like you’ve put a lot of thought into finding something special. 

PARTY BAG FILLERS AND PARTY FAVOURS THAT AREN’T JUNK

There is so much pressure on parents to provide cool party bags for their kids’ parties, but what if you don’t want to spend a fortune or fill a bag with cheap plastic tat?

With a huge focus on how we can all reduce the amount of stuff we waste, particularly single-use plastic, I think it really is time to say goodbye to stuffing kids’ party bags with junk and, instead, putting a few well-chosen items into a party bag or giving out a single party favour instead.

I’ve noticed a growing trend for giving a single party favour as an alternative to filled party bags.

The kids I know, including my daughter, love it when they receive a thoughtful party gift.

Another clever thing to do is have a craft activity and use the craft as a party favour. 

127 ALTERNATIVE PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR KIDS: UNUSUAL AND COOL PARTY FAVOUR IDEAS FOR KIDS PARTY BAGS

Browse the list below to help you plan how to fill party bags or find the best party favour.

There are plenty of ideas for girls, boys and gender-neutral items.

Lots of the items could also work as prizes for kids’ party games.

I’ve also broken down the list of party bag ideas by age group under the main list, so you can focus on the age range you are buying for.

1. PAPER BALLOON ANIMALS

Unique
Japanese Paper Balloons

These paper balloon animals make for a unique party bag alternative to have little kids’ faces lighting up with joy.

Each balloon is individually packaged, so they make PERFECT ready-made party favours and budget-friendly ones!!!

These gorgeous paper balloon animals come in sets of 10 or sets of four.

Buy from Not On The High Street

2. STORY BOOK BOX SETS

Looking for a cheap party bag idea? One budget-friendly and cost-effective alternative party bag idea is to buy a book set and divide the books into individual party favours. This is very popular with parents at the moment.

1. MR MEN BOX SET – 48 BOOKS

Brilliant value
Mr. Men Complete Collection Box Set

The Mr Men Box Set is a great idea for party favours for kids parties. Buy a box set of books and divide it so you can give every child a book as a party favour. It's a great alternative to filling party bags. There are 48 books in the set, which makes it great value for money.

Buy from Amazon Buy from Argos

2. DIARY OF A WIMPY KID – 12 BOOKS

Great for 8yrs+
Diary of a Wimpy Kid

The Diary of a Wimpy Kid is super popular for eight years olds and upwards. Buy the box set and break it up to give each book as a party favour for your child's next birthday party.

Buy from Amazon

3. THE ADVENTURES OF HORRID HENRY – 30 BOOKS

Super value
Horrid Henry the Complete Story Collection

This box set of 30 books is ridiculously good value and a great way to give each party guest a fun book about the crazy capers of Horrid Henry. Gift wrap books with tissue paper for added an extra element of excitement for the kids.

Buy from Amazon

Great value
Hairy Maclary and Friends: 10 Kids Picture Book Bundle

Hairy Maclary is a much-loved kids' favourite. This ten book bundle is great value for breaking up as individual party favours for kids.

Buy from The Works

3. PERSONALISED KEEPSAKE TINS

These cute little keepsake tins from Cotton Twist can be personalised with a child’s name. They are perfect for kids to keep little treasures in. They can be bought empty or full of chocolates.

Pretty pastels

Choose from eight PASTEL illustrations.

Buy from Not On The High Street
Cute

Choose from eight CHARACTER illustrations.

Buy from Not On The High Street
Bright

Choose from eight BRIGHT illustrations.

Buy from Not On The High Street

Choose from pastel, bright or character keepsake tins by Cotton Twist on Notonthehighstreet.com

4.  A JOURNAL TO WRITE IN

1. ALL ABOUT ME JOURNAL

Inspire them to write
All About Me Journal

Journaling is a BIG thing at the moment. This makes these journals a super cool party bag idea for kids. My ten-year-old daughter received this gorgeous All About Me journal as a party favour and started writing in it immediately. And this journal is now an absolute favourite party favour idea with Mums Make Lists readers.

Buy from Amazon

2. THE YOU ARE AWESOME JOURNAL

Full of fun
The You Are Awesome Journal

This You Are Awesome journal is full of life hacks, tasks and challenges to help each kid to be awesome. What's not to LOVE!! In an age where screens are everywhere, it's great to have a gift that encourages a little writing!

Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones

5. PRE-FILLED TREATS PARTY FAVOURS

1. PRE-FILLED PARTY CONES

Time-saving fave!
Pre Filled Thank You Party Cone

I love these cute party cones by Little Lulubel because they have such a European flavour. You can add a thank you note to the cones so they can double up as party favour and thank you all in one. Very budget friendly and time-saving!! What's not to love?!! Do note that there is a minimum order of 15 cones.

Buy from Not On The High Street

2. PERSONALISED TREAT POTS

Candy cute
Personalised Treat Pots

These Personalised Treat Pots have enough space on the lid for a name and a few more party details, perfect for complete customisation.

Buy from Not On The High Street

6. MAKE YOUR OWN KITS

Grow your own kits make delightful gifts to give as alternatives to party bags. They are perfect for kids ages five years and older.

1. GROW YOUR OWN GARDEN KITS

1. Grow Your Own Dinosaur Garden

Dino fun
Grow Your Own Mini Dinosaur Garden

This grow-your-own dinosaur garden is a gorgeous pop-up woodland kit with real cress seeds for kids to enjoy planting and watch grow.

Buy from Not On The High Street

2. Grow Your Own Magical Garden

Magical
Grow Your Own Mini Magical Garden

If dinosaurs aren't your kids' thing, then this grow-your-own magical garden set is equally fun. It comes complete with pop-up unicorns. What's not to love?!

Buy from Not On The High Street

3. Personalised Make Your Own Magical Unicorn Garden

Girls' fave!
Personalised Make Your Own Magical Unicorn Garden

This personalised make-your-own unicorn garden is a gorgeous party gift if unicorns are a favourite. It all comes neatly in a lovely tin. 

Buy from Not On The High Street

2. MAKE YOUR OWN TOY KITS

These Make Your Own kits on NotOnTheHighStreet.com are brilliant. They’re also great value for money – starting at £1.95 a pop (they do international delivery if you’re outside the UK)

Penny-smart
Make Your Own Unicorn Wand Kit

This cut and colour make your own unicorn wand kit is perfect for kids aged 3+, it's super cute and it's eco friendly, perfect as a party favour or as a party bag filler.

Not On The High Street

Penny-smart
Make Your Own Model Aeroplane Kit

This model aeroplane kit is a lovely party favour for boys and girls who love planes and crafting. The kits are great value for money.

Buy from Not On The High Street

7. WRITE YOUR OWN STORY BOOK

Creative writing prompts
Write Your Own Story Book

These Write Your Own Storybooks are just brilliant. They are full of hints, tips and tasks to help kids write super amazing stories. The first half of the book is tips based and the second is full of story themes. 

There’s lots of lined space for writing, plus there’s character, setting and additional idea suggestions to help kids create a truly amazing novel!!

Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones

8. PERSONALISED JEWELLERY-MAKING KITS

Personalised Unicorn And Rainbow Bracelet Making Kit

These personalised jewellery-making kits are perfect for a birthday party craft activity which can double as a party favour. They are great when kids aren't so into party games and want to hang out doing some creative fun instead. 

Buy from Not On The High Street

9. MAKE YOUR OWN BIRDCAGE

Make Your Own Paper Birdcage

This make-your-own birdcage kit is just magical. I also love that it is made from recycled cards.

The birdcage is SO EASY to make, there's no need for glue or scissors, so it makes a great party bag idea for kids aged seven years old and upwards to make on their own or for younger kids to make with help. 

Buy from Not On The High Street

10. FUN LITTLE GAMES PARTY FAVOURS

I have a fondness for portable games that kids can take with them when travelling or to play at the table when eating out. 

They also make great alternatives to party bags, especially when kids are 7+ and the number of party guests is hopefully shorter than in earlier years. 

Here are some little games that work really well as party favours. 

1. PASS THE PIGS

PASS THE PIGS Dice Game

Pass The Pigs is a simple game, but it's fun. Great for whipping out at restaurants whilst hungry kids wait for their food. The aim is to be the first to 100 points by throwing the pigs and seeing how they land. All kids I know LOVE it. 

Buy from Amazon Buy from Argos

2. DOBBLE

Dobble Card Game
£9.00

Dobble is a speedy observation game, where players have to race to match the identical symbol between cards. It's a huge amount of fun to play. 

Buy from Amazon
06/03/2023 11:44 am GMT

11. A SET OF FANCY PLAYING CARDS

Marvel Universe Playing Cards

Playing cards are our family go-to for fun and games. We have a plain set, but there are loads of fancy sets for kids, making perfect party favours. 

Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones

12. A PIECE OF BIRTHDAY CAKE AND A BALLOON

Now this is super old school, but also a great way to double up on party decorations and party favours. 

Simply use the balloons to decorate the party space and then hand one out to each child with a slice of cake in a napkin as they leave the party. 

The key is to go for fancy balloons if you really want the wow factor.  You will of course need helium to blow up the balloons. 

Jungle Animal Foil Balloons

These foil balloons can be filled with helium, used to decorate a kids' birthday party and then given out as party favours at the end of the party.

Buy from Amazon
Helium King Helium Canister

This helium canister has enough to blow up 50 balloons, so it's great value for money to use for party decorations and balloons as party favours.

Buy from Amazon

13. GROW YOUR OWN GIFT

Grow your own seeds gifts make a lovely alternative party favour for kids of all ages, plus they’re the gift that keeps on giving. 

Grow Your Own Giant Sunflower Kit

This Grow Your Own Giant Sunflower kit is hard to beat when it comes to putting a smile on little kids’ faces. The kit is eco-friendly with a bamboo seed tray and peat-free compost, so there’s lots of lovely talking points for parents and kids. You can get the Giant Sunflower Kit over on Amazon.

Deluxe Grow Your Own Party Bag

This is a bumper eco-friendly party bag filled with wildflower seeds, a plantable flower-shaped wildflower seeder, a bio-degradable plant pot, a note pad, a wooden twig pencil, a mini-bee rubber, a wooden tag and natural wood slices disc.

Buy from Amazon

Pre-Filled Bee Happy Party Bags (Set of 10)

This set of ten pre-filled party bags is great value for money. Each party bag contains a pulp paper pot, a compost pellet, a wildflower seed ball, a personalised 'Bee Happy' tag, a leaflet with instructions and interesting information about the components, and a bee-shaped chocolate treat.

Buy from Amazon

Make your own seed kits

Here’s what you’ll need to create a set of beautifully presented grow your own gifts:

  • Seeds – cress seeds are a great idea for little kids, because it’s super easy to grow cress AND it grows quickly.  Pansy seeds are a lovely idea for older kids, as are peppers
  • Terracotta pots – I love these from Hobbycraft, because they’re totally classic and also great value for money. 
  • Paper napkins – napkins are the perfect size to wrap seeds in, whether they’re in a packet or loose. 
  • Ribbon – I’ve got a thing for grosgrain ribbon for gifts, but there’s a massive selection for you to choose your own at Hobbycraft
  • Paper name tags –  I suggest using luggage tags, because they come with a tie and they’re the perfect size for writing kids’ names on.  I like the scalloped edge tags by Kraft from Hobbycraft, they’ look lovely and they’re super cost effective. 
Neat plant pot kids' party gift instead of a typical party favour bag

There’s a great tutorial over on Rock My Wedding, it’s for wedding favours, but it’s the same idea in principle.

14. WARM SLOTH HUGS

What could be lovelier than giving out hugs as party favours?! No, not actual hugs! These adorable hugging sloths.

They can be popped in the microwave so that they give warm hugs. Find these sloths over on PrezzyBox.

Warm Microwavable Hugs - Sloths - Buy from Prezzybox.com

What could be lovelier than giving out hugs as party favours?! No, not actual hugs! These adorable hugging sloths.

They can be popped in the microwave so that they give warm hugs. Find these sloths over on PrezzyBox

Buy Now

PARTY BAG FILLERS AND ALTERNATIVE PARTY FAVOUR IDEAS BY AGE GROUP FROM 2 YEARS OLD TO TEN YEARS OLD

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR TWO-YEAR-OLDS

Here is a list of brilliant party bag and party favour ideas for two-year-olds.

  1. Wooden Musical Instruments for Toddlers (30 piece set)
  2. Wooden Musical Instruments for Toddlers (30 piece set)

    Wooden musical instruments can provide lots of fun for toddlers. How about buying this 30-piece set of instruments and then breaking it up as individual party favours for two-year-olds?

    Buy from Amazon
  3. Safari Rubber Ducks - Baker Ross
  4. Safari Rubber Ducks - Baker Ross

    Baker Ross has a selection of different sets of novelty rubber ducks, but this safari set caught my eye. Perfect for safari and zoo animal-themed toddler parties.

    Buy from Baker Ross
  5. Baby Einstein Board Book Library 12-Book Set
  6. Baby Einstein Board Book Library 12-Book Set

    This lovely set of Baby Einstein books has 12 books, perfect for breaking up and giving as 12 individual party favours or popping a book into each guest's party bag.

    Buy from Amazon
  7. SES Creative SES00305 fingerpaint 4 Colours
  8. SES Creative SES00305 fingerpaint 4 Colours

    Break this set of finger paints up and pop into party bags or give as a single party favour for two-year-olds.

    Buy from Amazon
  9. Natuce 18 PCS Colorful Wooden Spinning Top
  10. Natuce 18 PCS Colorful Wooden Spinning Top

    These little wooden spinning tops are eco-friendly and will hold two-year-olds' attention as they watch the bright colours swirl.

    Buy from Amazon
  11. Greenfibres Sonett Bio Bubbles
  12. Greenfibres Sonett Bio Bubbles

    Score big eco-points by gifting Bio Bubbles as party favours. Every two-year-old loves bubbles!

    Buy from Amazon
  13. Twist and Lock Blocks
  14. Twist and Lock Blocks

    These twist and lock blocks are great for developing motor skills in little kids.

    Buy from V&A Shop

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR THREE-YEAR-OLDS

How about one of these lovely ideas for party bag fillers or party favours for three-year-olds.

  1. Buy the Djeco 4 Pots Of Glittery Play Dough at KIDLY UK
  2. Buy the Djeco 4 Pots Of Glittery Play Dough at KIDLY UK

    What is better than play dough? Glittery play dough!! You can buy this gorgeous Djeco play dough in sets of four pots. Divide them up and give them as individual party favours. Pop them in a clear cellophane bag and tie them to make them look fancier.

    Buy from Kidly
  3. PlayWrite Junior Gardener Set
  4. PlayWrite Junior Gardener Set

    This mini garden tools set is super cute and really tough, great for messy play in the garden and even at the beach.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from eBay
  5. Afufu Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles (Set of four)
  6. Afufu Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles (Set of four)

    These super cute mini wooden jigsaws are perfect for little three-year-olds' hands. Buy a set and divide it up to give as individual party favours or to help fill party bags.

    Buy from Amazon
  7. Play-Doh Party Bag of 15 pots
  8. Play-Doh Party Bag of 15 pots

    Play-Doh is an absolute party bag filler. Be clever and buy a multiset pack and divide it into party bags or stack two or three together for individual party favours.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from eBay
  9. Make Your Own Unicorn Wand Kit By Cotton Twist | notonthehighstreet.com
  10. Make Your Own Unicorn Wand Kit By Cotton Twist | notonthehighstreet.com

    This is a cute little unicorn wand crafting kit with which three-year-olds can get creative. It's perfect as a party favour or alternative to giving a party bag, especially for unicorn-themed parties.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  11. Make Your Own Superhero Mask Kit By Cotton Twist | notonthehighstreet.com
  12. Make Your Own Superhero Mask Kit By Cotton Twist | notonthehighstreet.com

    These make-your-own mask kits are brilliant for three-year-olds to craft and then make. Give them as party favours or add them to party bags.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  13. AKH® Kids Garden Gloves
  14. AKH® Kids Garden Gloves

    These kids' gardening gloves are for ages 3+ and perfect for little kids messing around in the garden. The pairs of gloves can be bought individually or in a two-pack, which gives a little extra cost saving.

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR FOUR-YEAR-OLDS

This is a selection of really cool party bag and party favour ideas that four-year-olds will love.

  1. Japanese Paper Balloons
  2. Japanese Paper Balloons

    These paper balloon animals make for a unique party bag alternative to have little kids’ faces lighting up with joy.

    Each balloon is individually packaged, so they make PERFECT ready-made party favours and budget-friendly ones!!!

    These gorgeous paper balloon animals come in sets of 10 or sets of four.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  3. Air Dry Clay
  4. Air Dry Clay

    This air-dry clay kit has a rainbow of 48 colours, perfect for dividing up as party favours or popping into party bags for four-year-olds.

    Buy from Amazon
  5. 30 Pieces Felt Animal Masks
  6. 30 Pieces Felt Animal Masks

    These felt masks are super cute and would make great party bag fillers, especially for animal-themed kids' birthday parties.

    Buy from Amazon
  7. Hair Accessories For Kids (Set of 8)
  8. Hair Accessories For Kids (Set of 8)

    Buy this set of 8 lovely dinosaur hairclips to divide up between party bags.

    Buy from Meri Meri
  9. Melissa & Doug Scratch Art
  10. Melissa & Doug Scratch Art

    Scratch-art is super popular with kids, and this party pack set is great for dividing up and using as party favours or popping into party bags for four-year-olds. You could also use it as a craft activity at the birthday party.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Next
  11. Grow Your Own Mini Magical Garden
  12. Grow Your Own Mini Magical Garden

    This Grow Your Own Magical Garden set is super fun, it comes complete with pop up unicorns, what’s not to love?!

    Clockwork Soldier | Not On The High Street
  13. Wooden Animal Bookmarks
  14. Wooden Animal Bookmarks

    This set of 36 brightly coloured wooden animal bookmarks is perfect for dividing up and popping into party bags.

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR FIVE-YEAR-OLDS

Wondering what to put in a party bag for a five year old? Here’s my top suggestions for alternative goodie bag fillers or party favours that you can give instead of party bags, that five year old girls and boys will love. 

Five year olds are still at an age where they love lots of loot in their party bag, the thrill of being given a party bag kind of outweighs what is actually in it. But that doesn’t mean you should just fill it with junk! 

Here’s a list of junk-free party bag fillers and favours that five year old kids will think is lovely loot that they will actually use. 

PARTY FAVOUR IDEAS FOR 5-YEAR-OLDS

  1. Bigjigs Toys Animal Wooden Yoyos (3pk)
  2. Bigjigs Toys Animal Wooden Yoyos (3pk)

    This set of three animal yoyos is perfect for dividing up as party favours. The yoyos are made from sustainably sourced wood and decorated with non-toxic paint.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from BigJigs
  3. Wooden Cup and Ball Game
  4. Wooden Cup and Ball Game

    This classic game never goes out of style as a challenge for kids.

    Buy from Amazon
  5. Galt Toys, Kitchen Lab, Science Kit for Kids
  6. Galt Toys, Kitchen Lab, Science Kit for Kids

    This Kitchen Lab STEM kit is a great party favour for five-year-olds. They can learn how to power a clock with an apple amongst other brilliantly fun science experiments.


    Buy from Amazon Buy from eBay
  7. Colourful Creatures Colouring Pencils
  8. Colourful Creatures Colouring Pencils

    These bright and cute sets of ten colouring pencils make lovely party favours.

    Buy from Little Otter
  9. Dinosaur Biscuit Baking Party Bag By craft & crumb | notonthehighstreet.com
  10. Dinosaur Biscuit Baking Party Bag By craft & crumb | notonthehighstreet.com

    By five-years-old kids love the idea of making their own treats. This dinosaur baking kit is a complete party favour-in-a-box that doubles as a thank-you.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  11. Little Princess Party Jewellery (Set of 8)
  12. Little Princess Party Jewellery (Set of 8)

    These little wooden bracelets are fab little party bag fillers that five-year-olds will love to wear.

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR SIX-YEAR-OLDS

Here is a list of really bright and fun party bag filler and party favour ideas for six-year-olds.

  1. Wooden Tangram Puzzles Kids
  2. Wooden Tangram Puzzles Kids

    Wooden tangram puzzles are brilliant for kids to while away time with. They are also thoughtful party favours as an alternative to providing a party bag at kids' birthday parties.

    Buy from Amazon
  3. Silly Jokes for Funny Kids
  4. Silly Jokes for Funny Kids

    What six-year-old doesn't love a joke? Either to read to themselves or to entertain their family and pals.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones
  5. Bubble Lab Science Kit
  6. Bubble Lab Science Kit

    How about this as a great alternative to simply giving a bottle of bubbles? It's a complete bubble-making lab.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones
  7. I Am Not A Toilet Roll - The Recycling Project Book
  8. I Am Not A Toilet Roll - The Recycling Project Book

    Kids and their parents will absolutely love this book. It contains a bunch of fun projects to do with old toilet rolls and other bits and bobs that can be found around the house.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones
  9. Jacobs Ladder Visual Illusion Toy
  10. Jacobs Ladder Visual Illusion Toy

    Jacob's Ladder is a Victorian kids' toy that is still popular today. It is mesmerising to watch the wooden slats turn and click-clack up and down.

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR SEVEN-YEAR-OLDS

Here are some lovely ideas for party favours and party bag fillers for seven-year-olds.

  1. 15 x Sublime Science Party Bags
  2. 15 x Sublime Science Party Bags

    Buy a bundle of 15 prefilled Science party bags from Dragon's Den winners, Sublime Science. The kits each contain the following educational and fun science experiments:

    • Gold Sublime Science Party Bags
    • Flying Finger Rockets
    • Air Powered Helicopters
    • Micro-Catchabubbles
    • Rainbow Diffraction Glasses

    Plus a link to a FREE eBook packed with awesome experiments

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Sublime Science
  3. Write Your Own Story Book
  4. Write Your Own Story Book

    These Write Your Own Storybooks are just brilliant. They are full of hints, tips and tasks to help kids write super amazing stories. The first half of the book is tips based and the second is full of story themes. 

    There’s lots of lined space for writing, plus there’s character, setting and additional idea suggestions to help kids create a truly amazing novel!!

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Waterstones
  5. Kids Hair Clips – Meri Meri UK Retail
  6. Kids Hair Clips – Meri Meri UK Retail

    These unicorn hair pompom sets are gorgeous. Give them out as party favours or divide the pompoms up and use them as party bag fillers.

    Buy from Meri Meri
  7. Personalised Treat Pots
  8. Personalised Treat Pots

    These Personalised Treat Pots have enough space on the lid for a name and a few more party details, perfect for complete customisation.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  9. LEGO Gel Pen - Red + Minifigures
  10. LEGO Gel Pen - Red + Minifigures

    This Lego pen comes with a little Lego figure attached. It's a fun party favour that boys and girls will love.

    Buy from Amazon
  11. Monster Truck Car Temporary Tattoos (ten sheets)
  12. Monster Truck Car Temporary Tattoos (ten sheets)

    Brrm brrm!! These temporary tattoos will please any boy or girl into big monster trucks!!

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR EIGHT-YEAR-OLDS

Here are some fabulous ideas for party bag fillers and party favours for eight-year-olds.

  1. Girls Make Your Own Letter Necklace | Girls necklaces | Accessorize UK
  2. Girls Make Your Own Letter Necklace | Girls necklaces | Accessorize UK

    This cute little kit is lovely for kids to make and then they can wear it endlessly.

    Buy from Accessorize
  3. Retro TV Candy Treat Box
  4. Retro TV Candy Treat Box

    These treat boxes are retro style and contain all the penny sweets from yesteryear, so kids will have to fight to keep their parents' hands out!!

    Buy from Wicked Uncle
  5. 4 x Large Special Effect Bath Bombs
  6. 4 x Large Special Effect Bath Bombs

    These bath bombs are super duper charged with special effects. Divide the set of four up to help fill party bags or give a complete set as a party favour.

    Buy from Amazon
  7. 4M Lemon Clock
  8. 4M Lemon Clock
    £5.99

    These lemon clock-making sets are great little science projects and great STEM party favours.

    Buy Now
    06/03/2023 09:14 pm GMT
  9. 8 Animal Sticky Notepads
  10. 8 Animal Sticky Notepads

    These cute little animal-shaped sticky notepads come in sets of eight, perfect for party bag fillers.

    Buy from Amazon
  11. 6 Cute Animal Eraser Topper Pencils
  12. 6 Cute Animal Eraser Topper Pencils

    These cute animals eraser-topped brightly coloured pencils make great party bag fillers.

    Buy from Amazon
  13. Personalised T Shirt Painting Kit
  14. Personalised T Shirt Painting Kit

    These T-Shirt painting kits are fab. Each kit has a T-shirt, a set of themed stencils, an initial template (personalised for each party guest) and a brush. Use them as a craft activity during a party or give them out as party favours.

    Buy from Not On The High Street

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR NINE-YEAR-OLDS

Browse these lovely ideas for party bag fillers and party favours for nine-year-olds.

  1. Golden Jaws Bath Bomb
  2. Golden Jaws Bath Bomb

    These shark-shaped bath bombs are great for girls' and boys' party favours or bag fillers.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  3. Milk Chocolate Lolly Lick
  4. Milk Chocolate Lolly Lick

    These Smile chocolate lollies have a retro 80s feel, which will put a smile on parents' faces too.

    Buy from Hotel Chocolat
  5. Décopatch Elephant Mini Kit
  6. Décopatch Elephant Mini Kit

    Decoupage is a lovely craft, it takes a steady hand, so it is great for kids aged 9 years plus. These kits make great party favours.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from Cowling & Wilcox
  7. Friends Are Like Stars Heart Plaque
  8. Friends Are Like Stars Heart Plaque

    Friendships start to become really important for nine-year-olds, so these gorgeous friendship plaques make great party favours for a birthday party of close friends.

    Buy from Sass & Belle
  9. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids
  10. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids

    These gratitude journals encourage mindfulness for kids and are lovely party favours for nine-year-olds.

    Buy from Amazon
  11. Edible Paper Money
  12. Edible Paper Money

    Out of ideas for party bag fillers? How about giving cold hard cash? Or, failing that, edible paper money!!

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  13. Friendship Bracelets for Girls (Pack of ten)
  14. Friendship Bracelets for Girls (Pack of ten)

    This pack of ten friendship bracelets is perfect for popping a bracelet into each guest's party bag. The bracelets are adjustable, and each has a different pattern.

    Buy from Amazon

PARTY BAG IDEAS FOR TEN-YEAR-OLDS

Here is a roundup of lovely party bag filler ideas and party favours that make great alternatives to party bags for ten-year-olds.

  1. Milk Chocolate Love Heart Coin (Set of 18)
  2. Milk Chocolate Love Heart Coin (Set of 18)

    These giant Love Heart chocolate coins make brilliant party favours for ten-year-olds. There are 18 in the set, so they are great value for money as party bag fillers too.

    Buy from Swizzles
  3. Personalised Pre Filled Spotty Party Cones
  4. Personalised Pre Filled Spotty Party Cones

    Party cones filled with sweets make a welcome party favour for kids of all ages.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  5. Origami Book for Beginners
  6. Origami Book for Beginners

    This book is a brilliant way to get kids into origami and makes a lovely party favour for ten-year-olds.

    Buy from Amazon
  7. Doll Shaped nail polish
  8. Doll Shaped nail polish

    This set of 48 fab doll-shaped nail polishes is by the British small business brand Beauty4bBritain. It's perfect for dividing up for use as party favours or as party bag fillers.

    Buy from Amazon
  9. Children Lip Gloss By Little Lulubel | notonthehighstreet.com
  10. Children Lip Gloss By Little Lulubel | notonthehighstreet.com

    This natural lip gloss is the perfect party favour for ten-year-old girls. There are four fruity flavours - - strawberry, blueberry, raspberry and cherry to choose from.

    Buy from Not On The High Street
  11. LEGO 12 Pack Marker
  12. LEGO 12 Pack Marker

    This 12-pack of Lego marker pens is perfect for dividing up to use for filling party bags.

    Buy from Amazon Buy from John Lewis
  13. Make Your Own Paper Birdcage
  14. Make Your Own Paper Birdcage

    This Make Your Own Paper Birdcage Kit is just magical. I also love that it is made from recycled card.

    The birdcage is SO EASY to make, there’s no need for glue or scissors, so it makes a great party bag idea for kids aged 7 years old and upwards to make on their own or for younger kids to make with help. 

    Not On The High Street

Related: Best gift ideas for 12-year-old girls

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KIDS PARTY BAGS AND THEIR ALTERNATIVES

DO YOU HAVE TO GIVE PARTY BAGS AT A KIDS PARTY?

Over the last couple of decades, party bags have become a big part of kids birthday parties. Back in the day, we all used to get a slice of cake and a balloon if we were lucky! But do you have to give out party bags?

The simple answer is NO! You absolutely don’t have to and luckily there are plenty of alternative ways to tackle the issue of what to give kids as a parting favour if you give them anything at all.

The whole reason party bags became something of a prerequisite was because they are meant to be a little thank you to each guest for coming to the party, they are also meant to serve as a little something to take home as a memento of the party.

The emphasis here is on the word LITTLE!! A little something. Unfortunately, thanks to competitive parent syndrome, social media and the rise of influencers, party bags and party favours have become something of a minefield for the average parent who just wants to host a nice party for their child!!

Kids party bags can add a lot of money to your party budget and it can take a lot of time to plan, shop for them and fill them.

The good news is, you don’t have to give party bags out. You can give a single gift or party favour instead of a bag. Most parents will thank you for it!

WHAT CAN YOU USE INSTEAD OF A PARTY BAG?

If you are wondering what you can use instead of a party bag I have put together a quick list of ideas.

Budget can play a huge role in helping you decide what to give out. Try not to bow to peer pressure or keeping up with your local area’s answer to a Kardashian party host.

Take some time to put together a party plan and then work with the budget you have. I’ve got a post with a big list of party planning tips you will find useful.

Here are some good party favour ideas that you can give instead of party bags include:

  • Create a selfie photo-area at the party and give every child a polaroid selfie
  • Have a craft activity that once complete becomes the party gift
  • Personalised keepsake tins make great party favours
  • Make your own kit
  • A personalised keepsake tin. Kids love a bit of personalisation
  • A journal to write in
  • Write your own storybook
  • Pre-filled craft party bags
  • A piece of birthday cake and a balloon
  • A book (break up a box set of kids books for a super budget-friendly gift)
  • Edible treats (do something homemade if you have time and put it in a little gift bag or box)

BUT WHAT IF YOU DO WANT TO CREATE PARTY BAGS? WHAT CAN YOU PUT IN THEM?

If you want to go ahead with making party bags to give out, there are ways to create budget friendly party bags that are also eco-friendly.

PRE-FILLED KIDS PARTY BAGS

If you are short on time or just want to avoid the stress and effort of piecing together party bags, you can buy pre-filled party bags.

The trick is finding the pre-filled bags that aren’t just full of cheap plastic junk and rubbish sweets.

To help save you time and effort, I’ve got a list of seven absolutely brilliant pre-filled kids party bags, a couple of them just have a single item inside, but each bag contains something that kids will love and actually use.

TAKE A LOOK AT SEVEN BRILLIANT PRE-FILLED PARTY BAGS

CRAFT KITS THAT MAKE BRILLIANT PARTY FAVOURS

Craft parties are super popular with parents for lots of reasons, including the fact that you can use the craft activity as a party favour! I’ve put together a list of really gorgeous craft kits for kids parties that double as party favours.

TAKE A LOOK AT EIGHT GORGEOUS KIDS PARTY CRAFT KITS

ECO-FRIENDLY PARTY BAG FILLER IDEAS

We all need to be as environmentally conscious and conscientious as possible. Choosing to skip plastic junk and going for eco-friendly party filler options instead is a great way to cut down on landfill and single-use plastic waste.  

Looking for ideas to fill party favour bags with? Here’s a list of the types of things that are either eco-friendly or that you can buy eco-friendly versions of to put inside party bags. I’ve also now created a separate post with a list of 32 eco-friendly party bag filler ideas with links to some of the best eco-friendly party bag fillers around.

1. EDIBLE FAVOURS

  1. Sweets and candy 
  2. Chocolate buttons
  3. Sugar mice
  4. Lollipops
  5. Candy necklace or bracelet
  6. Chocolate coins
  7. Packet of popcorn
  8. Homemade cupcake or treats

2. BOOKS AND STATIONERY FAVOURS

  1. Pencil case
  2. Book
  3. Colouring book
  4. Pencil sharpener
  5. Notebook
  6. Pen toppers
  7. Personalised pencil
  8. Erasers
  9. Mini box of crayons
  10. Chalk
  11. Stickers

3. HAIR AND BODY ACCESSORIES

  1. Fun toothbrush
  2. Hair bobbles
  3. Hair clips
  4. Play tattoos
  5. Bracelets
  6. Water-based nail polish
  7. Lip balm 

4. FUN AND GAMES

  1. Finger puppet
  2. Mini rubber ducks
  3. Skipping rope
  4. Yoyo
  5. Bubbles
  6. Mini soft toy
  7. Magnet
  8. Pot of play putty
  9. Bouncy balls
  10. Sidewalk chalk

RANDOM OTHER FAVOUR IDEAS

  1. Glow stars 
  2. Pack of seeds to grow
  3. Colour stainless steel drinking straw
  4. Personalised or cute mug
  5. Polaroid photo from the party

LIST OF ECO-FRIENDLY PARTY FAVOUR / PARTY BAG SUPPLIERS

Here’s a list of sustainable, eco-friendly party favours and party bag filler brands and suppliers to look out for:

ALL 126 PARTY BAG IDEAS IN ONE BIG EASY READ LIST

This post has evolved over time, from a list of 12 alternative party bag ideas to over 100 ideas and now to 126 ideas.

If you just simply want to take a quick look down a list of party bag ideas you can use the simplified list below.

Click the links to shop the ideas.

126 party bag ideas for kids parties

  1. Paper animal party balloons
  2. Personalised keepsake tins
  3. Pot of colour changing putty
  4. Pot of squeezable putting
  5. Pot of silk clay or modelling clay
  6. Unicorn poo - yes really, it's a thing!
  7. Mini play doh pot
  8. Grow Your Own Dinosaur Garden
  9. Grow Your Own Magical Garden
  10. Personalised Make Your Own Unicorn Garden 
  11. Make your own unicorn wand kit
  12. Make your own aeroplane kit
  13. Make your own superhero mask 
  14. Make Your Own Paper Birdcage Kit 
  15. Wooden rocket stand up kit
  16. Colour-in party bags – doubles as a craft and a party favour or bag for party loot
  17. Sock unicorn craft kits – more of a party favour/gift than a filler
  18. Little animal sewing kits
  19. Mr Men Box Set - buy and break up for individual party favours
  20. Paddington box set of books -  buy and break up for individual party favours
  21. Little Miss box set of books  -  buy and break up for individual party favours
  22. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Box Set - - buy and break up for individual party favours
  23. All About Me journal 
  24. You Are Awesome journal 
  25. Write Your Own Storybook
  26. Personalised unicorn and rainbow bracelet making kit
  27. Prefilled party treat cones
  28. Prefilled pinata style party cones with gifts and treats
  29. Personalised treat pots 
  30. Pass The Pigs 
  31. Dobble
  32. Marvel playing cards
  33. Grow your own Giant Sunflower Kit
  34. Cress seeds
  35. Personalised wild flower growing kit
  36. Wooden musical instruments
  37. Animal shaped easy-grip crayons
  38. Baby Einstein board book (buy in set of 12) 
  39. Finger paints
  40. Scented gel pens
  41. Erasers
  42. Mini box of crayons
  43. Pencil sharpener
  44. Notebook
  45. Pen toppers
  46. Pencil case
  47. Cute highlighter pens
  48. Chalk 
  49. Stickers
  50. Mini bath crayons
  51. Wooden spinning top (18 pieces in one pack)
  52. CocoMelon bubbles
  53. Bubbles - I love these mini ice-cream bubble bottles
  54. Superhero rubber ducks
  55. Play-doh party pot (buy in party bag of 15 pots, super budget-friendly)
  56. Animal finger puppet
  57. Air-dry colourful modelling clay (buy in bulk for budget-friendliness)
  58. Colourful wooden animal bookmark
  59. Wooden birdhouse making kit (two per set for great value)
  60. Robot jelly bean party favour boxes
  61. Coloured pencils set
  62. Wooden wand making kit B07CRX597M
  63. Wooden dinosaur yoyo
  64. Wooden animal handle skipping rope
  65. Wooden hearts and rainbows bracelet by Little Otter
  66. Nut Bugs 
  67. Cute tattoos, Animal tattoos
  68. Tiger in the garden seedbom
  69. Pirates Treasure – Fools Gold
  70. Clown topped colourful pencil
  71. Bug pencil sharpeners
  72. Animal eraser and sharpener set
  73. Dinosaur themed sweetie party pots
  74. Personalised party chocolate bar
  75. Personalised baking kit 
  76. Cute animal topped pencils
  77. Make your own biscuit kit 
  78. Kidz Labs Lemon Clock 
  79. Wooden transformer robot
  80. Personalised keepsake tin
  81. Wooden animal keyrings
  82. Wooden animal stamps
  83. Animal shaped notepads
  84. Three minute gratitude journal for kids
  85. Biodegradable vegan skin glitter
  86. Edible paper money
  87. Heart sticker rolls
  88. Mini doodles notebook
  89. Animal memo holders
  90. Natural scented lip balm
  91. Natural lip gloss by Little Lulubel
  92. Water based nail polish
  93. Hair bobbles
  94. Hair clips
  95. Play tattoos
  96. Bracelets
  97. Nail art jewels 
  98. Lip balm 
  99. Peel off nail polish
  100. Lip gloss
  101. Coated Oreo party favour in box
  102. Unicorn coated Oreo party favour in box
  103. Playtime coated Oreo party favours
  104. Giant swirly lollipop
  105. Lick A Bubble edible bubbles (buy in pack of four)
  106. Cute mini notebooks – buy in sets and divide up
  107. Silicone fun drinking straws
  108. Wooden cars – buy a set and divide it up
  109. Slime Baff – eco friendly biodegradable bath slime, what’s not to love (eek!!)
  110. Baff Bombz
  111. Rainbow Surprise balls – buy a set of six and divide up
  112. Mini packets of flavoured popcorn
  113. Chocolate coins
  114. Candy necklaces
  115. Classic Freddo chocolate caramel
  116. Swizzels unicorn rainbow drops
  117. Wooden toy car
  118. Lego mini figures
  119. Lego craft kit - these are simply genius!
  120. Fidget toys
  121. Bouncy balls
  122. Mini bath duck 
  123. Novelty toothbrush
  124. Reusable drinking straw
  125. Keyring
  126. Glow stars

BAGS TO FILL WITH PARTY TREATS AND FAVOURS

Once you’ve got your party bag fillers you will need bags to put them in, so take a look at my roundup of 18 of the best paper party bags around for inspiration.

So there you go, some alternative party bag ideas for kids that take away the headache of thinking up ideas for stuffing party bags with.

Did you know you can now download my free kids party checklist, where you can make sure to tick off party bag favours!

READ NEXT:

I’ve got a growing list of kids’ party planning posts, take a look and which ones might be of use to you.

MORE KIDS PARTY POSTS

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Japanese paper animal balloons
Japanese Paper Balloons gift wrapped - pretty and fun option in place of a party favour bag
Paper animal party balloons from Not On The Highstreet
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Alternative kids’ party bag ideas
personalised chocolate bar

Stacey

Monday 24th of January 2022

These are super cute. Love them!!