Keep the party magic going without overspending!
Party bags are the cherry on top of any kids' birthday celebration — they leave little guests smiling as they head home with a fun surprise. But filling those bags can add up quickly if you’re not careful! Don’t worry — you don’t need to blow your budget to impress.
In this post, we’re sharing creative and budget-friendly party bag fillers you can find or make for under R10 each, perfect for South African parents planning DIY party packs or themed goodie bags. Let’s make your next celebration both fun and affordable!
🧃 1. Mini Juice Boxes or Flavoured Milk
Always a hit! Stock up on mini boxed drinks in bulk. They're practical and a perfect fit for most party themes.
💸 Estimated cost: R6–R8 each
🍬 2. Sweetie Packs
Create small candy mix packets using mini ziplock bags or themed paper envelopes. Add a mix of jelly sweets, marshmallows, or lollipops.
💸 Estimated cost: R3–R5 per pack (when bought in bulk)
🎨 3. Crayon Packs
Break a regular pack of 12 crayons into sets of 3–4 and wrap with a ribbon or printable sleeve. Great for toddlers and creative kids!
💸 Estimated cost: R2–R4 per mini pack
🧩 4. Mini Puzzles or Activity Sheets
Print your own puzzles or coloring pages and roll them with string or pack them with a crayon. A clever combo for Peppa Pig, Safari, or Princess themes!
💸 Estimated cost: R1–R2 (if printed at home)
🧼 5. Bubble Wands
Mini bubble tubes are magical for kids of all ages. You can find small bubble wands in packs or DIY your own with straws and dish soap in mini bottles.
💸 Estimated cost: R6–R10 each
🧁 6. DIY Cookie Pack
Bake simple sugar cookies and package 1 or 2 in a themed treat bag. You can even include icing sugar in a sachet for a “decorate your own” bonus!
💸 Estimated cost: R2–R5 per bag (baking in bulk)
🧸 7. Stickers or Temporary Tattoos
Kids love stickers! Choose theme-matching sticker sheets (LOL Surprise, Spider-Man, Ballet, etc.) and cut them into mini sets.
💸 Estimated cost: R1–R3 each
🧠 8. Mini Notepads or Puzzle Books
Tiny notebooks or themed mini journals are fun and educational. Buy in bulk online or at local party wholesalers.
💸 Estimated cost: R5–R10 each
🐾 9. Plastic Toys or Erasers
Think mini dinosaurs, rubber ducks, funky erasers, or spinning tops — cheap and cheerful party pack fillers for under R10!
💸 Estimated cost: R3–R8 each
💌 10. Thank You Cards or Tags
Add a personal touch with mini thank-you cards or printed tags. Kids love reading their names on something special, and it shows care.
💸 Estimated cost: R1–R2 (DIY printables or handwritten)
🎀 Bonus Budget Tips:
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Buy in bulk from discount stores, Chinese wholesalers, or online shops.
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Choose multi-purpose items like crayons and printables that double as both activities and party favors.
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Stick to your theme — whether it’s Minnie Mouse, Safari, or Paw Patrol, themed packaging makes any item feel special!
🎈 Final Thought:
You don’t need to spend a fortune to create memorable party bags! These cheap party favors under R10 show that a little creativity goes a long way in creating budget-friendly, joy-filled gifts that kids will love. Whether you're building your own DIY party packs or using ready-made boxes, these ideas will keep your party fun and affordable — South African style! 🇿🇦