Best Christmas Gift Bags for Every Home and Budget
Our picks for the best Christmas gift bags, from drawstring sets and burlap bags to reusable fabric bags and tissue paper.
Gift bags are the secret weapon of busy holiday shoppers. They turn oddly shaped presents into tidy packages in seconds, they look festive under the tree and many can be reused year after year. Our guide to the best christmas gift bags covers big assorted sets for families, rustic burlap bags, reusable fabric bags, gift basket kits and the tissue paper that finishes everything off.
Below the product table you will find our top three picks, a buying guide, the main styles to consider, styling ideas, gifting tips and answers to common questions.
Our Top 3 Christmas Gift Bags to Give This Season
These three cover a versatile set for most households, an affordable rustic option and a gift basket kit for homemade treats. All are in the product table above.
Best for Most Homes: WesGen Christmas Gift Bags, 40 Pieces
This set covers almost every present on your list. It has a 4.7 star average from about two thousand Amazon reviews and costs around $26.
- 40 bags in 4 sizes, so small stocking gifts and larger presents are covered.
- 4 festive Santa themed designs that look cheerful under the tree.
- Inserted drawstring ribbons that close the bag quickly with no tape.
The trade off is that the drawstring style works best for soft or medium items rather than heavy boxes. It is ideal for families who wrap a lot of gifts and want everything to match.
Best Value: Homum Burlap Gift Bags, 25 Pieces
Burlap bags give small gifts a natural, farmhouse look. This 25 piece set has about two thousand ratings and a 4.6 star average, and it costs around $16.
- 25 burlap bags in a 5 x 7 inch size, perfect for jewelry, candles and treats.
- Drawstring closures that are quick to tie and reuse.
- Gift tags and string included, so you can label each bag.
The drawback is the small size, which limits it to little gifts and party favors. It is great for teacher gifts, cookie exchanges and neighbor treats.
Best Splurge: AFOROEOA Empty Gift Basket Kit, 10 Pack
For homemade cookies, candy or spa treats, a gift basket kit makes your presents look professional. This set has a 4.6 star average and costs around $34.
- 10 thick kraft paper baskets measuring about 12 x 10 x 4 inches.
- 10 clear bags and 10 gold bows included, so you do not need extra supplies.
- Room to decorate with stickers, ribbon or handwritten labels.
The downside is that assembly takes a few more minutes than a simple bag. It suits bakers, crafters and anyone giving gifts to several coworkers or neighbors.
How to Choose the Best Christmas Gift Bags
Christmas gift bags vary in size, material and how they close. Here is what to think about.
Style and Color Palette
Choose a palette that matches your tree or wrapping theme. Classic red and green feel traditional, foil bags add shine, burlap suits rustic decor and plain white bags look clean with colorful tissue paper.
Size and Placement
Count your gifts by size before buying. Assorted sets with small, medium and large bags cover most needs, while extra large bags like the Ethhqu white bags with handles fit bulky items such as blankets or board games.
Materials and Quality
Paper bags with sturdy handles hold heavier items. Foil bags look festive but can tear at the seams with heavy gifts. Fabric and burlap bags last for years and can be reused many times.
Paper vs Fabric
Paper and foil bags are inexpensive and easy to find in bulk. Fabric bags like the Yatinbos green drawstring set cost more upfront but replace wrapping paper for many seasons, which reduces waste.
Closures: Drawstrings, Handles and Ties
Drawstring bags close quickly and keep contents hidden. Handled bags are easy to carry to parties, and ribbon ties add a decorative finish. Choose the closure that fits how you will deliver the gift.
Storage and Reuse
Reusable bags need a home after the holidays. The Hearth and Harbor storage bag with interior pockets keeps gift bags, tissue paper and wrapping supplies organized until next year.
How Many Bags Do You Need
Make a quick list of everyone you are buying for and note the size of each gift. Most families need a mix of small bags for stocking stuffers and jewelry, medium bags for books and clothes and a few large bags for toys or blankets. Buying an assorted set with extras means you are covered for last minute gifts, office swaps and surprise visitors.
Types of Christmas Gift Bags
Here is how the options in our table compare.
Traditional
The WesGen Santa set and the 38 piece drawstring set in assorted sizes offer classic holiday prints that work for any recipient.
Modern and minimalist
The Ethhqu extra large white gift bags with handles look clean and modern, especially with colorful 3 Otters tissue paper in 30 colors tucked inside.
Rustic and farmhouse
Homum burlap bags and the AFOROEOA kraft baskets fit rustic and farmhouse themes, and they pair beautifully with twine and pine sprigs.
Reusable fabric options
The Yatinbos fabric drawstring bags and the BlessedSeason reusable Santa bag set can be used again every year, saving money and paper.
Styling Ideas
Gift bags can be part of your holiday decor, not just packaging.
Entryway and Porch
Set a basket of small burlap bags filled with candy near the door as party favors for guests. It is a warm welcome and an easy thank you gift.
Living Room and Mantel
Group bags of the same color under the tree for a coordinated look. Use foil bags near string lights so they catch the glow.
Dining Table
Place a small gift bag at each place setting for holiday dinners. Fill it with a handwritten note, a chocolate or a small ornament as a keepsake.
Finishing Touches
Tissue paper makes any bag look complete. Fold two or three sheets in contrasting colors, push the center into the bag and fluff the corners upward. Add a gift tag tied to the handle, a candy cane or a small sprig of greenery, and even a simple paper bag looks thoughtful and polished.
Gifting Tips: Who Will Love Christmas Gift Bags Most
Gift bags are a lifesaver for busy parents, office party hosts, teachers giving class gifts and anyone who dislikes wrapping. The top rated christmas gift bags in our table also make a thoughtful present for crafters and bakers who give homemade gifts.
For crafty friends who make their own gifts, see our guide to the best gifts for knitters.
Safety Tips Before You Buy
Keep plastic bags and small drawstrings away from babies and toddlers. Choose sturdy handles for heavy items so bags do not break while being carried.
Avoid placing paper or foil bags near candles, fireplaces or space heaters. Remove price tags and check that sharp items are wrapped in tissue before bagging.
FAQs
Quick answers to common questions about gift bags.
When should you buy Christmas gift bags?
Buy them in November so you have plenty of sizes on hand before the busy weeks of December.
How do you keep Christmas gift bags looking good year after year?
Fold bags flat after use, remove tape and store them in a dry bag or box away from heat and moisture.
Are reusable Christmas gift bags worth it?
Yes. Fabric and burlap bags cost a little more upfront but can replace wrapping paper for many years.
How do you store Christmas gift bags after the holidays?
Sort them by size, fold them flat and keep them in a gift wrap organizer with your tissue paper.
When should you buy Christmas gift bags for Christmas?
The best time is early in the season, before popular sizes and designs sell out.
Final Thoughts
The best christmas gift bags save time and still make every present look special. The WesGen 40 piece set is our top pick for most homes, Homum burlap bags are the best value and the AFOROEOA basket kit is a lovely splurge for homemade gifts. Compare prices in the product table above and make wrapping the easiest part of the holidays.
