
Goodie bags can be a fun way to send party guests home with a little something special, but let’s face it—many traditional goodie bag items end up forgotten, tossed, or just aren’t practical.
If you’re looking for goodie bag ideas that aren’t junk, this list, inspired by our readers and Instagram followers, is sure to help.
Here are unique, thoughtful, and practical goodie bag ideas that kids (and parents!) will love. And some of them are just $1 each!

1. Art Supplies
Mini colored pencils, markers, small sketch pads, puffy paint, or tiny pots of paint are creative gifts that spark kids’ imaginations. We love these heart-shaped water color sets on Amazon. (We got this idea from Everyday Best Buy!)
2. Seed Packets
For a party favor that is good for the earth and encourages a love of plants and gardening, these seed packets are the perfect choice.
3. Chapter Books in Bulk
Mini books, bookmarks (you can even DIY them or print designs from Etsy), or chapter books purchased in bulk from places like Costco make for great keepsakes that encourage reading.
4. Bubbles
Small bubble bottles are thoughtful gifts that will definitely get used after the party! These crayon bubble wands are colorful and affordable.
5. Coloring Books
A fun coloring book is always a hit. Kids can use them during quiet time at home or even in the car, making this a practical and fun option for any age group. You can find coloring books in bulk on Amazon.
6. Deck of Cards
A deck of cards is a timeless and versatile goodie bag addition. Whether it’s for classic games like Go Fish, War, or even magic tricks, kids can enjoy hours of fun.
7. Mini Journals
Journals are a great way to encourage creativity and self-expression. You can find affordable sets in bulk—like a cute set of 20 journals on Amazon for just $19. Pair them with fun pens or stickers to make a thoughtful and unique goodie bag addition.
8. Generic Jibbitz
Generic Jibbitz, or shoe charms, are a trendy goodie bag idea that kids love. These small charms can be attached to Crocs or similar shoes, adding a personal touch. With so many designs available—like animals, sports, or characters—you can easily match them to your party theme. Affordable bulk packs make them a practical option.
9. Sidewalk Chalk
Little boxes of sidewalk chalk are thoughtful gifts that encourage kids to play and explore outside.
10. The Original Slinkie
The timeless classic! An original Slinky is a nostalgic and fun addition to any goodie bag. Kids love watching it walk down stairs or just stretching and playing with it. It’s a simple yet entertaining option that never goes out of style.
11. Gift Cards
A $5 gift card to a local ice cream shop or small business (or even Target or Starbucks!) is a simple and meaningful gesture that parents will appreciate, too.
12. Mini Animal Building Blocks
Mini building block sets, especially ones that create fun animals, are a hit with kids. They’re engaging, promote creativity, and can double as a fun activity during or after the party. These sets are often available in bulk online, making them an affordable yet exciting goodie bag addition.
13. Temporary Tattoos
Kids love temporary tattoos! They’re inexpensive, easy to use, and come in so many fun designs to match any party theme.
14. Etch a Sketch
Mini Etch A Sketch toys are a fun, screen-free way for kids to get creative on the go. These nostalgic favorites are perfect for drawing and doodling, and their compact size makes them ideal for goodie bags. Kids can enjoy hours of entertainment with these timeless classics.
15. Prime Hydration Bottles
One reader mentioned that kids went crazy for a bottle of Prime! These popular hydration drinks are a trendy and practical goodie bag addition that doubles as a fun treat. They’re a great option for older kids or sports-themed parties.
16. Speed Cubes
Speed cubes are a fun, brain-boosting goodie bag idea that older kids especially love. These compact puzzles are great for encouraging problem-solving skills. You can often find them in bulk for an affordable price, making them an engaging party favor.
17. Miniature Stuffed Animals
Miniature stuffed animals are a sweet and cuddly goodie bag idea. These tiny plush toys come in various designs, from zoo animals to sea creatures, and are perfect for younger kids. They’re soft, adorable, and sure to be a hit at any party. These cute stuffed are less than $2 each.
18. Tic Tac Toe Keychain
Tic Tac Toe keychains are a fun and portable game that kids can clip onto their backpacks or use on the go. These mini game boards are interactive and reusable, making them a practical and entertaining addition to any goodie bag. They’re also widely available online in bulk for a budget-friendly option.
19. Silk Sleep Masks
Sleep masks are a fun and practical goodie bag addition, especially for sleepovers or spa-themed parties. They come in cute designs like animals, unicorns, or classic patterns, and they’re perfect for encouraging relaxation.
20. Play Doh
Mini tubs of Play-Doh are a classic and versatile goodie bag item. They spark creativity, are mess-free when used with supervision, and are perfect for kids of all ages. You can find them in bulk at stores like Target or online.
21. Harmonicas
Harmonicas are a unique goodie bag idea that kids will love experimenting with. These compact musical instruments are great for sparking creativity and introducing kids to music. Affordable mini harmonicas can be found on Amazon.
22. Invisible Ink Pen and Notepad
Invisible ink pens paired with a small notepad are a magical addition to any goodie bag. Kids will love writing secret messages and revealing them with the UV light attached to the pen. This creative and interactive gift is perfect for spy-themed parties or just as a fun, unique favor. You can find affordable sets online in bulk.
23. Metal Puzzles
Metal perplexing puzzles are a challenging goodie bag addition that kids and even adults will enjoy. These small brain teasers encourage problem-solving and critical thinking, making them a fun and educational party favor.
24. LCD Doodle Boards
These reusable writing tablets allow kids to draw, doodle, and write with the press of a stylus, and they can easily erase with a single button. Compact and lightweight, they’re perfect for creative fun on the go and a sure crowd-pleaser.
25. Rainbow Scratch Pads
Each rainbow scratch pad notebook comes with a stylus pen and reveals vibrant rainbow designs as you scratch. They are perfect for party favors.
Or, Skip the Goodie Bags!
Some parents are opting out of traditional goodie bags altogether and sending a thank-you card instead. Others skip it and choose to focus on the party experience itself.
FAQ: Goodie Bag Ideas That Aren’t Junk or Candy
A: Look for bulk items online or at local stores like Amazon, Target, or the dollar store. Focus on practical, reusable, or consumable items, such as mini journals, coloring books, or healthy snacks. Many options on this list, like bubbles or Play-Doh, are under $2 each when bought in bulk.
A: Absolutely! Consider gifts like seed packets, reusable tote bags, or wooden toys. You can also skip traditional plastic bags and use paper bags or small baskets to package your items.
A: Healthy snacks like granola bars, popcorn, or crackers are great alternatives. You can also include items like Prime hydration bottles, small toys, or art supplies to keep the focus on fun and creativity.
A: Choose items that align with your theme. For example, for a spa-themed party, include silk sleep masks and mini nail polish. For a spy-themed party, add invisible ink pens and notepads. Matching the favors to the theme adds a thoughtful touch.
A: Yes! Many parents are opting for thank-you cards instead of traditional goodie bags. You can also use the party experience itself—like a fun activity or craft—as a memorable takeaway.
A: Consider items like speed cubes, harmonicas, metal puzzles, or $5 gift cards to Starbucks, Target, or local ice cream shops. These items are engaging and age-appropriate for older children.
A: Stick to reusable or consumable items, like books, art supplies, or snacks. Avoid single-use plastic toys and consider packaging the items in reusable bags or boxes.
Pro Tips for Goodie Bags:
- Stick to consumables or useful items: Think sugar cookies, temporary tattoos, notebooks, or snacks that won’t clutter a home.
- Match the party favor to your theme: For example, a spy-themed party could include invisible ink pens and mini notebooks.
- Make it interactive: Items like bubbles or fidget toys are great because kids can enjoy them immediately.
With these ideas, you can create non-candy goodie bags that stand out without adding unnecessary waste or candy overload.
Do you have other great goodie bag ideas? Email us at hello@mkewithkids.com.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.