Party planning can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting party favors that won’t break the bank. As parents, we often wrestle with finding that perfect balance between cost-effective options and meaningful gifts that won’t end up in the trash bin the next day.

That’s why we’ve compiled this extensive list of 100 budget-friendly party favors, thoughtfully categorized by age groups and interests. Each item has been carefully selected to ensure it provides real value, entertainment, and even educational benefits in some cases.

From tiny tots to trendy teens, we’ve got something for every birthday celebration, school party, holiday or special event. The best part? These affordable options prove that creating memorable party experiences doesn’t require expensive party favors.

For Babies & Toddlers (Ages 1-3)

Babies and toddlers love simple, colorful, and sensory-friendly items. These cheap favors are perfect for little hands.

1. Bubble Wands ($3-$5): Compact wands with non-toxic solution and easy-grip handles designed specifically for tiny hands. Features leak-proof caps and bright colors that captivate young minds.
2. Finger Puppets ($2-$4): Soft fabric puppets featuring friendly animal characters with detailed embroidery. Perfect for imaginative play and developing fine motor skills through storytelling.
3. Rubber Duckies ($2-$5): Classic bath companions made from BPA-free materials with squeezable bodies. Each duck features unique designs that make bathtime more engaging and fun.
4. Mini Soft Balls ($3-$6): Lightweight, textured balls made from washable materials that are perfect for developing hand-eye coordination. Includes various patterns that stimulate sensory exploration.
5. Fabric Scrunchies ($1-$3): Gentle elastic hair ties covered in soft, colorful fabrics that won’t pull or tangle. Doubles as a fun bracelet for creative play time.
6. Baby Hair Clips ($2-$4): Secure, non-slip clips with rounded edges and cheerful designs. Made from child-safe materials with strong grips that keep wispy hair in place.
7. Colorful Stacking Rings ($4-$7): Durable plastic rings in graduated sizes with smooth edges. Each ring features different textures and colors for sensory development.
8. Animal-Shaped Bath Sponges ($3-$5): Ultra-soft sponges crafted into adorable animal shapes that make cleaning time entertaining. Naturally antimicrobial and quick-drying for safety.
9. Mini Storybooks ($2-$4): Compact board books with simple, engaging stories and bright illustrations. Sized perfectly for small hands with durable pages that withstand rough handling.
10. Foam Alphabet Letters ($3-$6): Soft, waterproof letters in vibrant colors that stick to wet surfaces. Made from non-toxic foam that’s safe for mouthing and early learning play.

For Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

Preschoolers enjoy activities that engage their imagination and growing skills. These budget-friendly options are perfect for their developmental stage.

11. Mini Coloring Books ($2-$4): Portable-sized books filled with age-appropriate pictures and thick pages. Features simple outlines that help develop early coloring skills.
12. Chunky Crayons ($3-$5): Extra-thick crayons designed for small hands with stronger wax formula. Non-toxic and break-resistant for safer, frustration-free coloring sessions.
13. Sticker Sheets ($1-$3): High-quality vinyl stickers featuring favorite characters and easy-peel backing. Perfect for developing fine motor skills while expressing creativity.
14. Tiny Toy Dinosaurs ($2-$4): Detailed miniature dinosaurs made from durable plastic with realistic features. Each set includes different species for educational play value.
15. Play Dough Packs ($2-$4): Individual portions of non-toxic modeling clay in bright colors. Maintains softness for hours of creative sculpting and imaginative play.
16. Foam Crown Kits ($3-$5): DIY crown sets with pre-cut pieces and self-adhesive decorations. Encourages creativity while providing a fun dress-up accessory.
17. Animal Masks ($2-$4): Lightweight masks with elastic bands featuring detailed animal faces. Made from eco-friendly materials with breathing holes for comfortable play.
18. Plastic Slinkies ($3-$5): Rainbow-colored spring toys that walk down stairs and create fascinating patterns. Perfect size for small hands with durable plastic construction.
19. Pencil Toppers ($1-$3): Whimsical character designs that fit standard pencils and encourage writing practice. Made from flexible rubber that’s built to last.
20. Small Toy Cars ($2-$4): Die-cast vehicles with rotating wheels and detailed paint jobs. Sized perfectly for pocket storage and imaginative play scenarios.

For Elementary Kids (Ages 6-9)

At this age, kids appreciate items they can play with, use, or show off. These inexpensive options are sure to be a hit.

21. Glow Sticks ($1-$3): Long-lasting luminescent sticks in multiple colors that can be connected. Perfect for evening activities and creative light-up accessories.
22. Mini Puzzle Games ($3-$5): Pocket-sized challenge games with varying difficulty levels. Develops problem-solving skills while providing entertaining brain teasers.
23. DIY Friendship Bracelets ($2-$4): Colorful thread packs with illustrated instructions for various patterns. Promotes creativity and social bonding through crafting.
24. Mini Notepads ($2-$4): Compact notebooks with fun covers and quality paper for drawing or writing. Includes built-in pencil holder for on-the-go creativity.
25. Temporary Tattoos ($1-$3): Skin-safe designs featuring popular themes that last several days. Easy to apply and remove with detailed instructions included.
26. Erasers in Fun Shapes ($1-$3): Collectible erasers molded into detailed miniature objects and creatures. Actually erases well while doubling as desk decorations.
27. Whistles or Kazoo Toys ($2-$4): Musical novelties that produce different tones and sounds. Made from washable materials with child-safe mouthpieces.
28. Plastic Jump Ropes ($3-$5): Adjustable ropes with comfortable handles and smooth rotation. Perfect for outdoor play and developing coordination skills.
29. Paper Airplane Kits ($2-$4): Pre-printed sheets with various designs and folding instructions. Includes tips for better flights and aerodynamic principles.
30. Miniature Water Guns ($3-$5): Compact squirt guns with easy-fill tanks and reliable triggers. Perfect for summer fun with decent water capacity.

For Tweens (Ages 10-12)

Tweens are starting to develop specific interests, so favors that are trendy or activity-based will resonate with them.

31. DIY Keychains ($3-$5): Complete kits with trendy materials and tools for custom accessories. Includes various beads, charms, and strong attachment hardware.
32. Simple Origami Paper ($2-$4): High-quality folding paper with printed guidelines and patterns. Comes with step-by-step instructions for multiple designs.
33. Pocket-Sized Flashlights ($3-$5): Compact LED lights with strong beams and durable cases. Features multiple light modes and easy-to-use button controls.
34. Decorative Bookmarks ($2-$4): Sturdy laminated markers with unique designs and inspirational quotes. Includes tassel or ribbon embellishments for added style.
35. Gel Pens ($3-$5): Smooth-writing pens in metallic, glitter, and neon colors. Perfect for journaling and creative writing with quick-drying ink.
36. Mini Magnetic Games ($4-$6): Travel-sized versions of classic games with secure magnetic pieces. Includes storage compartment and fold-up board design.
37. Personalized Name Tags ($2-$4): Custom labels with cool designs and strong adhesive backing. Perfect for organizing school supplies and personal items.
38. Glow-in-the-Dark Stars ($3-$5): Realistic star shapes that create cosmic ceiling displays. Long-lasting phosphorescent material with easy application and removal.
39. Emoji Stickers ($2-$4): High-quality vinyl stickers featuring popular emoji expressions and symbols. Perfect for decorating devices and school supplies.
40. Rubber Bracelets ($1-$3): Flexible silicone bands with embossed messages and designs. Comfortable to wear with fade-resistant colors.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

Teens value functionality and style. Even on a small budget, you can find favors that appeal to their mature tastes.

41. Simple Phone Grips ($3-$5): Collapsible holders with strong adhesive and slim design. Provides secure grip while serving as a convenient phone stand.
42. Mini Notebooks ($2-$4): Pocket-sized journals with premium paper and artistic covers. Features perforated pages and built-in organizational sections.
43. DIY Friendship Bands ($2-$4): Premium embroidery floss with metallic accents and pattern guides. Includes specialized tools for creating intricate designs.
44. Small Candles ($4-$6): Scented soy candles in decorative tins with secure lids. Features trendy fragrances and long-lasting burn times.
45. Mood Rings ($2-$4): Color-changing rings with adjustable bands and stone settings. Includes chart explaining the meaning behind each color change.
46. Bookmarks with Quotes ($2-$4): Double-sided bookmarks featuring trending quotes and artistic designs. Made from durable material with metallic accents.
47. Sticker Decals ($3-$5): Weather-resistant vinyl decals with modern designs and symbols. Perfect for personalizing devices and water bottles.
48. Beaded Hair Clips ($3-$5): Stylish barrettes with secure clasps and trendy bead patterns. Suitable for various hair types and styles.
49. Mini Nail Polish ($2-$4): Quick-drying formulas in popular colors with chip-resistant finish. Perfect size for travel and experimenting with nail art.
50. Funky Shoelaces ($2-$4): Vibrant patterned laces in various lengths with aglet protectors. Transforms ordinary shoes into personalized fashion statements.

Eco-Friendly Favors for All Ages

Eco-conscious party favors are a great way to delight kids while staying budget-friendly and sustainable.

51. Seed Packets ($2-$4): Organic, non-GMO seeds for easy-to-grow flowers or herbs. Includes biodegradable packaging and simple growing instructions.
52. Paper Straws ($2-$4): Decorative straws made from sustainable materials with fun patterns. Maintains structure for hours while being environmentally responsible.
53. Wooden Spinning Tops ($3-$5): Hand-crafted tops from sustainable wood with smooth finish. Features unique patterns and long spinning capabilities.
54. Compostable Glitter ($3-$5): Eco-friendly sparkles made from biodegradable materials. Comes in various colors with the same shine as traditional glitter.
55. Mini Plant Pots ($3-$5): Biodegradable containers with expanding soil pellets included. Perfect for starting herbs or small flowers.
56. Bamboo Toothbrushes ($3-$5): Sustainable brushes with soft bristles and ergonomic handles. Features numbered bristles for tracking replacement timing.
57. Recycled Crayons ($2-$4): Unique multi-colored crayons made from recycled materials. Each crayon creates interesting patterns while coloring.
58. Cardboard Craft Kits ($3-$5): Eco-friendly construction sets with pre-cut pieces and natural adhesives. Creates sturdy models while teaching environmental responsibility.
59. Reusable Snack Bags ($4-$6): Washable fabric pouches with secure closures and fun prints. Perfect size for carrying small snacks and treasures.
60. Plantable Bookmarks ($3-$5): Paper embedded with wildflower seeds that grow when planted. Includes planting instructions and growing timeline.

For the Creative Kids

These artistic favors are cheap and perfect for inspiring creativity and imagination.

61. Mini Paint Sets ($4-$6): Compact watercolor kits with mixing palette and quality brush. Includes vibrant pigments perfect for on-the-go art projects.
62. Bead Kits ($3-$5): Assorted beads with elastic cord and creative pattern suggestions. Features unique shapes and colors for endless design possibilities.
63. Stickers and Stencils ($3-$5): Reusable stencils with coordinating sticker sets for enhanced artwork. Includes basic and complex designs for various skill levels.
64. Small Canvases ($3-$5): Pre-primed miniature canvases with easel backs included. Perfect size for creating displayable artwork.
65. Craft Paper Packs ($2-$4): Diverse paper collection featuring different weights and textures. Includes metallic, pattern, and solid color options.
66. Pipe Cleaners ($2-$4): Extra-long chenille stems in bright colors with easy-bend properties. Perfect for creating 3D art and wearable crafts.
67. Glue Sticks with Glitter ($3-$5): Non-toxic adhesive with embedded sparkles that dry clear. Features smooth application and secure bonding power.
68. Foam Shapes ($2-$4): Self-adhesive pieces in various themes and sizes. Perfect for creating collages and dimensional artwork.
69. Washi Tape Rolls ($3-$5): Decorative paper tape with easy-tear properties and repositionable adhesive. Features trendy patterns and metallic accents.
70. Paper Masks ($3-$5): Ready-to-decorate masks with elastic bands and smooth surface. Includes design suggestions and basic embellishments.

For Sports Enthusiasts

Active kids love favors that they can use during playtime. These are affordable and sure to excite.

71. Inflatable Beach Balls ($2-$4): Compact balls that inflate to full size with durable seams. Perfect for pool play and outdoor games.
72. Mini Cones ($3-$5): Flexible training markers in bright colors with stable bases. Ideal for setting up various sport activities and obstacle courses.
73. Plastic Medal Necklaces ($2-$4): Metallic-finish medals with colorful ribbons and detailed designs. Perfect for rewarding achievements and motivating participation.
74. Mini Soccer Balls ($4-$6): Soft foam balls with authentic panel designs and good bounce. Suitable for indoor and outdoor play.
75. Hand Grips ($3-$5): Ergonomic squeezers with adjustable resistance levels. Helps develop hand strength while providing stress relief.
76. Sweatbands ($2-$4): Moisture-wicking bands with elastic fit and sporty designs. Perfect for keeping sweat away during active play.
77. Stretch Bands ($3-$5): Latex-free resistance bands with exercise guide included. Great for warm-ups and simple strength training.
78. Plastic Whistles ($2-$4): Clear-sound whistles with breakaway lanyards and hygienic covers. Essential for sports games and referee play.
79. Toy Frisbees ($3-$5): Aerodynamic discs with easy-grip edges and stable flight patterns. Perfect for backyard games and beach activities.
80. Temporary Sports Tattoos ($2-$4): Long-lasting transfers featuring various sport themes and team logos. Easy to apply and remove with included instructions.

For STEM Kids

STEM-inspired favors don’t have to be expensive. These ideas are both affordable and educational.

81. Mini Rulers ($2-$4): Durable measuring tools with both metric and imperial scales. Features clear markings and convenient pocket size.
82. Magnifying Glasses ($3-$5): Real optical lenses with ergonomic handles and protective cases. Perfect for exploring nature and scientific observation.
83. Building Block Sets ($4-$6): Compatible construction pieces with instruction booklet for multiple designs. Encourages spatial thinking and creativity.
84. Puzzle Sheets ($2-$4): Age-appropriate brain teasers with varying difficulty levels. Includes answer keys and solving strategies.
85. Mini Science Kits ($4-$6): Self-contained experiment sets with all necessary materials included. Features safe, engaging activities with clear instructions.
86. Solar Paper Toys ($3-$5): Light-powered paper models that demonstrate solar energy principles. Includes assembly instructions and scientific explanation.
87. Plastic Gears ($3-$5): Interlocking gear sets with mounting board and rotation experiments. Perfect for learning mechanical principles.
88. Compass Keychains ($3-$5): Working compasses with protective cases and basic navigation guide. Teaches direction finding while being practical.
89. Brain Teaser Puzzles ($3-$5): mechanical puzzles requiring logical thinking and patience. Includes solution guide with difficulty ratings.
90. Glow Slime Kits ($3-$5): Safe ingredients for creating luminescent slime with scientific explanation. Perfect for learning about polymers and chemical reactions.

For Adventurers

Inexpensive favors for the nature-loving kids who love to explore the outdoors.

91. Mini Flashlights ($3-$5): Bright LED lights with durable cases and wrist straps. Perfect for exploration and emergency preparedness.
92. Trail Mix Bags ($2-$4): Individually packed portions with balanced sweet and salty ingredients. Energy-boosting snacks perfect for outdoor activities.
93. Paracord Bracelets ($3-$5): Woven survival bracelets with emergency unwinding capability. Includes basic knot-tying instructions.
94. Leaf Rubbing Sheets ($2-$4): Special paper with wax crayons for capturing leaf textures. Includes identification guide for common leaves.
95. Nature Bingo Cards ($2-$4): Laminated cards featuring local flora and fauna with marking chips. Perfect for making outdoor exploration interactive.
96. Reusable Water Pouches ($3-$5): Collapsible containers with secure caps and carabiner attachments. Saves space when empty while being environmentally conscious.
97. Plastic Magnifying Lenses ($3-$5): Scratch-resistant lenses with protective cases and observation guidelines. Perfect for detailed nature study.
98. Feather Necklaces ($3-$5): Craft kits using artificial feathers with natural appearance. Includes cord, beads, and nature-inspired design suggestions for unique jewelry.
99. Bug Stickers ($2-$4): Realistic insect stickers with educational fact cards about each species. Perfect for nature journals and learning about entomology.
100. DIY Friendship Maps ($2-$4): Blank map templates with drawing supplies and adventure-themed stamps. Encourages creativity while developing map-reading skills.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right party favors doesn’t have to be a source of stress or financial strain. As this guide demonstrates, there are countless creative and engaging options available that kids will genuinely appreciate, all while keeping your budget intact.

The key is to focus on age-appropriateness, practical value, and the potential for genuine enjoyment rather than just the initial “wow” factor. Whether you’re planning a toddler’s birthday party or a teen’s graduation celebration, mixing and matching these affordable ideas can help you create the perfect party favor combination.

The most treasured party favors are often those that encourage play, creativity, learning, or adventure – qualities that don’t come with a hefty price tag but rather with thoughtful selection and consideration for your young guests’ interests and developmental stages.