Planning a children’s birthday party is exciting, but the thought of filling dozens of party bags with plastic trinkets that’ll end up in the bin? Not so much. The good news is that eco friendly party bags don’t have to be boring, expensive, or difficult to put together. In fact, with a little creativity, you can create party favours that kids will adore and parents will appreciate.
Whether you’re looking for cheap eco friendly party bag gifts, plastic-free sweets, or unique DIY ideas, this guide covers everything you need to throw a memorable, sustainable celebration.
Traditional party bags are often packed with cheap plastic toys that break within hours and sweets wrapped in non-recyclable packaging. Not only does this create unnecessary waste, but it also adds up in cost. Eco friendly party bag fillers, on the other hand, focus on:
From books to seed kits, there are countless ways to make your party bags kinder to the planet without sacrificing fun.
Books are one of the best eco friendly party bag fillers. They encourage reading, can be passed on, and are often made from recyclable materials. Check charity shops, eBay, or discount stores like The Works for affordable options. Letting kids pick their own book from a selection at the party adds an extra interactive touch.
Instead of plastic-wrapped sweets, opt for paper cones or small glass jars filled with bulk-bought treats. This reduces packaging waste and allows you to cater to dietary needs. Foil-wrapped chocolates (like Smarties) are another great plastic-free option.
Gently used toys, such as cars, dolls, or stuffed animals, make fantastic eco friendly party bag gifts. Wash them thoroughly, and they’re ready for a new home. Sites like Vinted, eBay, and local charity shops are goldmines for budget-friendly finds.
Kids love watching things grow! Mini sunflower seed kits, cress packets, or even plantable books (where pages grow into herbs) are educational and eco friendly party bag fillers. Pair them with a small biodegradable pot for an extra special touch.
Bake cupcakes, cookies, or slices of birthday cake and wrap them in paper boxes or reusable containers. For an interactive twist, include a DIY cookie mix in a jar with a simple recipe.
From bracelet-making kits to wooden animal figures to paint, craft supplies keep kids entertained long after the party. Look for plastic-free options like wooden beads, recycled paper, or natural fabric scraps.
Practical gifts like pencil cases, snack bags, or bamboo straws are eco friendly party bag items that get used again and again. Personalise them with the child’s name for an extra thoughtful touch.
Homemade playdough is a huge hit with younger kids. Package it in reusable containers or old jam jars, and include a simple recipe so parents can make more when it runs out.
Skip the plastic tat and set up a lucky dip with shredded paper hiding surprises like wooden yo-yos, crayons, or mini card games. Kids love the excitement of choosing their own prize.
Instead of traditional party bags, ask guests to bring a gently used toy or book. At the end of the party, each child takes home something “new” to them. This teaches sharing and reduces waste – win-win!
If DIY isn’t your style, several UK-based shops offer pre-filled eco friendly party bags:
Many of these retailers offer bulk discounts, making them ideal for larger parties.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to go green. Here’s how to keep costs down:
Throwing an eco-friendly party doesn’t stop at sustainable party bags – it’s about making mindful choices at every step. Just like swapping plastic toys for seed kits or secondhand books, small changes add up to a big difference. And if you’re already thinking about sustainable celebrations, why not extend that mindset elsewhere? Many of the same principles apply, whether you’re picking eco-friendly cleaning products for your home or choosing reusable decorations for your next gathering. And the best part is that kids learn by example, so a green party isn’t just fun – it’s also a chance to show them how easy (and rewarding) it is to care for the planet. Here’s to celebrations that feel good in every way!
Younger kids love simple, tactile items like homemade playdough, wooden animals, or mini colouring books with crayons. Avoid small parts that could be choking hazards.
Look for foil-wrapped chocolates (like Smarties), bulk sweets in paper bags, or plastic-free brands like Tony’s Chocolonely mini bars.
Absolutely! Reusable items (like bamboo cutlery sets), seed bombs, or homemade treats work well for hen parties, weddings, or other celebrations.
Skip disposable bags altogether and use fabric wraps, paper cones, or reusable containers. Fill them with secondhand or homemade items to minimise waste.
A book swap, homemade treats, or seed packets are among the most budget-friendly options.