Buy reusable bags instead of gift bags! Via Shutterstock
Eileen writes in with an easy tip to avoid buying gift bags, which can easily cost $3-$4!
I have started to purchase cloth bags to use to “wrap” presents. Our grocery store had team-themed bags closed out at $1.50 each. They are heavy duty and will hold the heavier and bigger presents without ripping. Afterward, they can utilize them as grocery bags or our grandchildren could use them as school bags or overnight bags to friends/relatives. They are cheaper than gift bags, more durable, and can be used for other purposes. Just don’t fall for the designer ones as they can be quite expensive.
Thanks, Eileen! Do you have any birthdays coming up?
- This video has three unusual ways to wrap gift cards
- Yazmin shared five ways to wrap gifts with items you have on hand
- Bobbi discovered a free tool to make word puzzle wrapping paper
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
I’ve used cloth bags for years… started with the first Earth Day when I was still in the classroom, and would often receive canvas bags as a teacher gift from one or more book clubs. Canvas is great because it can be machine washed and then hung out to dry. I usually soften them a bit later when they won’t take as long in the dryer. Using them to “wrap” oddly shaped gifts has long been a way for me to also give “green” to friends.
@EllieD I still have a few of the Trader Joe’s $2.99 canvas bags they sold years ago. They are SO sturdy. We use them for carrying groceries, beach gear, camping gear, and extras when we go on a road trip! Wish they still sold them – guess they weren’t making enough money. I dislike the flimsy plastic-y bags they now sell.
Earth Day is here, at Fresh n Easy they are giving away a tote with $20 purchase.
@Maureen That’s a nice deal! How many totes have you collected – and are they durable, good quality?