Pass the Parcel is one of those old, classic games that will always be enjoyed by kids. You can never go wrong including this game at an upcoming kids party! But if you’re stuck for pass the parcel ideas of what to include, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help! From toys to include, to other clever ways to make pass the parcel more interesting, we have everything you need to make that next birthday party a HUGE success.
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- Transport Lover
- Glamour & Glitz
- Creative and Crafty
- Sweet Treats
- Games and Giggles
- Fidget Fun
- Squishmallows
- Superhero
- Sports Parties
- Beary Nice
- Rainbow Party
What is Pass The Parcel?
Before we dive in, let’s take a look at this popular game. When it comes to party games, this is a real winner. It’s a classic game that actually originated in Britain. The idea is simple. You pass the parcel from person to person and when the music stops, whomever it lands on gets to unwrap the top layer. They then get to keep whatever they find inside.
Wondering how far back the game dates? That’s a good question! It appears in a lot of historical events, which suggests it has been around for a while. Back in those days, the prize would be a chocolate, ring, jewellery or a token.
How To Make Pass The Parcel More Interesting?
While you can easily go ahead and wrap a lolly between each layer, you might be on the hunt for some great ways to make Pass the Parcel more interesting. And who can blame you?! As kids get older, this game doesn’t keep it’s charm for long, but there are ways you can make sure everyone still has plenty of fun. Here’s some:
Pass the Parcel Forfeits
Instead of putting something between each layer, have a ‘challenge’ for the kids. As they unwrap the layer, there’s a piece of paper waiting for them with a challenge on it. It can be as simple as, ‘Jump around the circle on one leg while sticking your tongue out’ or even ‘Sing Baa Baa Black Sheep in a high-pitched voice’. The idea is to keep it nice and easy, while also giving everyone a great laugh in the process. This is also called Pass the Parcel Forfeits. Instead of wrapping paper, you can also just have a bowl with all the forfeits in there, and pass that around the circle as a lucky dip. Here are some ideas:
- Roar like a lion as loud as you can
- Put lipstick on the person to your left with a blindfold on
- Have an argument with the wall
- Act like a T-rex
Treasure Hunt
Instead of just giving kids the treat, make them work for it! Each layer unwraps a clue that they have to work out to find where their treasure is hidden. For example ‘Where we sit to watch TV at night’ (and have them digging in the sofa). You make clues as easy or as hard as you like depending on the age group.
Stealing Parcels
This one is great for the older kids. As they unwrap the layer, they get to choose whether they keep their prize, or ‘steal’ someone else’s. Sp, if they unwrap a chocolate, they can swap it with someone else’s prize. This means the best spot is going last! They get to steal from anyone else and choose what present they end up with!
Funny Pass The Parcel Ideas For Adults
Why should kids have all the fun! Being an adult doesn’t have to be boring, it simply means altering the game a little to make it nice and fun for you. So, here we go, here are some ideas for pass the parcel for adults.
Strip Pass The Parcel
Let’s get down and dirty straight away. Each layer someone unwraps has an item of clothing that person has to take off! It could be a sock, or a bra, depending on how you want to play this game. You might want to have a lot of rounds each if you’re planning on getting everyone naked. Alternatively, whoever it lands on reads out an item of clothing. Everyone has to take it off, except the person with the parcel. This will move the game along much faster.
Lucky Dip
Add a new item of clothing to each layer of the Pass the Parcel, saving the best to last (as you do). Whatever people unwrap, they have to wear for the rest of the night! It could be something as harmless as a feather boa, or a little more risque depending on the mood. If you’re heading out for the night, this could get even more interesting.
Shot The Parcel
If you’re looking to get the night going, then this is the party game for you. All you have to do is write the name of a different shot on each layer of wrapping paper. If you’re feeling extra fun, pop a number next to it. Whoever unwraps it, has to the that many shots of whatever drink is listed. It’s sure to get the party started!
Ideas For Pass The Parcel Prizes
Ready to start planning that next birthday party? Here’s are some great pass the parcel gift ideas for all ages. Happy shopping! The best part is, many of these gifts also double as great party favour ideas to go inside party bags.
Transport Lovers (Cars, Planes, Trains)
If your party crew is all about things that vroom, zoom and chug along the tracks, this transport-themed pass the parcel set is sure to be a winner! Ideal for vehicle-loving kids, these prizes are fun, dynamic and easy to split across multiple layers.
- Pull-back mini cars – They zoom forward with a simple pull and let go – perfect for instant fun on any surface.
- Wooden train whistles – Classic and full of charm, these add a bit of nostalgia and loads of noise (parents will love you!).
- Foam glider planes – Easy to build and launch across the yard. Kids can race their planes or invent air show games.
- Hot Wheels cars – Always a party favourite! These are perfect for a “grand prize” layer.
- Transport-themed party favour pack – Packed with vehicle-shaped stationery, stickers and mini toys, it’s ideal for bulking up multiple layers in one go.
💡 Tip: Add a vehicle-themed joke or challenge in each layer (e.g. “Make your best car sound!” or “Zoom around the circle like a racecar before unwrapping”).
For more inspiration on vehicle-themed parties, check out our related themes:
Glamour & Glitz (Makeover Fun)
For kids who love all things sparkly and stylish, this glamour-themed pass the parcel set is sure to dazzle! These prizes are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and fun to your party.
- Kids’ nail polish sets
Safe and vibrant nail polishes that let kids express their style. - Lip gloss kits
Fun and fruity lip glosses that add a pop of colour. - Stick-on Earring Set
Let the kids sparkle with these fun and easy stick-on earrings. - Glitter butterfly clips
Gorgeous butterfly hair clips for some glitter fun. - Or get the complete Glamour-themed party favor pack, which includes a variety of beauty items perfect for multiple layers.
💡 Tip: Add a beauty-themed challenge in each layer (e.g., “Strike your best model pose!” or “Name your favourite nail polish colour before unwrapping”).
For more inspiration on glamour-themed parties, check out our related themes:
Creative & Crafty
Spark imagination and hands-on fun with these vibrant craft-themed prizes — perfect for artistic children and DIY fans alike.
- Niceup Craft Assortment Pack
Packed with pipe cleaners, pompoms, googly eyes and more, this colourful set is ideal for a mini make-and-create session. - Novelty Themed Pencil Sets
These party-ready pencils come in fun designs and include sharpeners, making them a practical and creative prize. - Scratch Art Sets
Let kids reveal bright rainbow colours underneath each design with this mess-free, magical craft prize. - Crayola Pre-Sharpened Crayons
Durable and long-lasting, these classic Crayola crayons are perfect for any colouring challenge mid-game. - Mini Colouring Books
These themed mini books (including dinosaurs and sea life) are just the right size for little hands and travel packs.
💡 Tip: Pop a small sheet of stickers or a creative prompt (like “Draw your dream house!”) in each layer to keep the energy going between unwraps.
For more inspiration on creative party ideas, check out our:
Sweet Treats
Sometimes the simplest prizes are the most exciting – and for many kids, nothing beats the joy of unwrapping a sweet surprise. These lollies and treats are crowd-pleasers and easy to pop into any pass the parcel layer.
- Chupa Chups Fizzy Drink Lollipops
These iconic lollipops come in fun fizzy drink flavours like cola, orange, and lemonade – perfect for a nostalgic sweet treat. - Ring Pops
A classic favourite! These wearable lollipops make a fun and colourful statement kids love to flaunt and eat. - Trolli Multi Mix Gummy Lollies
From bears to worms to cola bottles, this massive party mix covers all the chewy, fruity bases in one bright and tasty bag.
💡 Tip: Pre-wrap the sweets in small zip-lock bags or paper sachets so they don’t get sticky between layers.
Games & Giggles
If you’re looking to keep the energy up and the laughs rolling, add a playful twist to your pass the parcel with games, puzzles and silly surprises.
- Coogam Brain Teaser Metal Puzzles
A set of 16 tricky wire puzzles that challenge kids’ logic and dexterity – small enough to fit in a layer and fun enough to spark curiosity. - I Spy Travel Card Game
A tin of easy-to-learn cards based on the classic “I Spy” game – great for on-the-go or after-party wind-downs. - Knock-Knock Joke Book
Add a giggle to the game with a mini book full of clean, kid-approved knock-knock jokes that will keep them entertained for hours. - Galaxy Stretchy Putty
A non-sticky, glittery putty that stretches and squishes for a satisfying, mess-free sensory prize. - Flying Squishy Slingshot Toys
Launch laughter (literally) with these animal-themed stretchy toys – great for silly party fun and outdoor giggles.
💡 Tip: Add a game prompt inside the wrapping like “Tell your best joke!” or “Challenge the person next to you to a staring contest.”
Fidget Fun
Fidgets are more than just a trend — they’re fun, satisfying, and often help kids stay calm and focused. These small, tactile toys make excellent pass the parcel prizes for all ages.
- Fidget Assortment
A mega bundle of fidget toys including stretchy noodles, squishy animals, and mini poppers – ideal for layering through the whole parcel. - Rainbow Metal Fidget Spinners
These vibrant, weighty spinners are visually mesmerising and perfect for little hands that love to keep busy. - Push Pop Fidget Toys
Featuring classic bubble popping satisfaction in fun shapes and colours, these are always a hit with primary schoolers. - Mr Pen Spiky Sensory Rings
Discreet and soothing, these soft spiky rings roll up and down fingers and provide calm tactile feedback — great for fidget-loving older kids.
💡 Tip: Create a “quiet layer” in your pass the parcel using these calming tools — a nice balance to high-energy games and sweets.
Squishmallows & Soft Surprises
Whether it’s the latest Squishmallows or adorable mini squishies, these soft-touch toys are perfect for creating that “aww!” moment as kids unwrap their prize. Plus, they double as a sweet keepsake.
- Squish-a-Longs 25-Pack
A colourful assortment of squishy, animal-inspired toys perfect for dividing between party guests or layering in your game. - Soft Squishies for Party Bags
These slow-rising, pastel-hued characters are great for party bags or small rewards mid-game. - Squishmallows Ultimate Compounds Pack
– The ultimate sensory-soft toy blend, combining plush feels with gooey compounds for extra fun. - Mini Kawaii Animal Squishies
Tiny and adorable, these come in packs of 36 and are great for layering or even as a “consolation prize” stash.
💡 Tip: Wrap each squishy in tissue paper to keep them fresh, fluffy, and free from dust or stickiness in between layers.
Superhero
- Superhero Capes and Masks
The ultimate party dress-up item! Let little guests suit up in colourful capes and masks to become their favourite heroes. - Reusable Superhero Stickers
These fun and waterproof stickers are perfect for decorating books, water bottles, or even hands and arms during the party! - Superhero Temporary Tattoos
Easy to apply and super cool, these temporary tattoos are a mess-free party favourite for all ages. - Spider-Man Favour Pack
Packed with web-slinging goodies, this themed pack is perfect for fans of everyone’s favourite neighbourhood hero.
Planning a full superhero bash? Check out our ideas for Superhero Party Games, Decorations and Food.
Sports Parties
If you’ve got a crew of energetic kids who love to move, these sporty pass-the-parcel prizes are guaranteed winners. Whether it’s football, basketball or cheer, there’s something for every mini athlete!
- Mini Basketball Hoop & Balls Set
A great active prize! Kids will love shooting hoops indoors or out with this mini net and soft basketballs – fun and energy rolled into one. - Football Rubber Bracelets
These stretchy silicone wristbands come printed with motivational sports quotes and are perfect for handing out to every sports-loving guest. - Sports Erasers Party Pack
Tiny soccer balls, basketballs and more – these themed erasers are fun, practical, and easy to pop into any layer of your game. - Sports-Themed Temporary Tattoos
With designs covering every major sport, these bright tattoos are easy to apply and bring team spirit to the party atmosphere. - Mini Soccer Stress Balls
These fun squishy soccer balls help release energy while doubling as an ideal small prize for competitive kids.
Want to see a real-life example of a winning sports-themed celebration? Check out Elliot’s 4th Soccer Party for inspiration.
Lego Party Fun
Build the excitement layer by layer with these block-tastic Lego-inspired party favours. Perfect for little builders and mini engineers!
- Mini Building Brick Party Favour Pack
Includes brick-shaped cases filled with Lego-style accessories like notepads, keychains, and puzzles — ideal for stacking the fun into your parcel game! - Lego-Inspired Brick Keychains
A colourful 24-pack of keyrings that snap together like real bricks — fun, functional, and a great take-home gift too. - Building Block Silicone Bracelets
These bright rubber bracelets have brick-studded designs that kids will love to wear during and after the party.
Planning a Lego-themed bash? Don’t miss these ideas from DIY Party Central:
Beary Nice
There’s nothing sweeter than a teddy bear-themed party! These soft and cuddly favours are perfect for a gentle, playful twist on pass the parcel — especially for younger kids or picnic-style celebrations.
- Mini Teddy Bear Keychains
These adorable plush keychains come in assorted colours and make a lovable little surprise tucked into each layer of wrapping. - Teddy Bear Plush Bracelets
Soft, stretchy, and just plain cute — these wearable teddy bear wristbands will have kids showing off their party prize all day long. - Teddy Bear Plush Toy Set with Accessories
A value-packed option that includes mini teddy bears with matching accessories—great for creating a themed surprise or bundling as a grand prize.
Need inspiration for a teddy bear bash? Check out these real-life DIY party ideas:
Rainbow Party Fun
Bright, bold and bursting with colour — rainbow-themed favours are a cheerful way to bring joy to every layer of your party game!
- Rainbow Party Set
This mega pack includes rainbow slinkies, rings, keychains, and more — perfect for dividing across layers or handing out as end-of-game rewards. - Stackable Rainbow Crayons
These chunky, buildable crayons are fun to draw with and even more fun to take apart and put back together! - Rainbow Mini Notebooks & Stickers
A bright and practical combo for creative kids — these tiny notebooks and rainbow-themed stickers are perfect for party play or party bags. - Sequin Reversible Rainbow Keychains
These eye-catching sequin hearts flip colours with a swipe and are great for decorating bags or zippers with sparkly flair. - Mini Rainbow Keyrings
Small, simple, and full of colour, these silicone rainbow keychains are a sweet and safe gift for all ages.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you’re planning a preschool party or entertaining a group of older kids, pass the parcel remains a timeless favourite – and with the right prizes, it becomes even more magical. From squishy fidgets to sweet treats and themed toys, each layer is an opportunity to surprise, delight and keep the giggles coming.
Don’t forget to mix it up with themed layers, fun challenges, and even a few “just for laughs” items. The key is variety, age-appropriate surprises, and a sprinkle of party magic!
Need help planning your next celebration? Browse DIY Party Central for party guides, themed supplies, and more unforgettable ideas.
