Want to do something sweet for your little pumpkin this Halloween?
Boo Baskets are such a fun way to surprise the kids in your life — whether it’s your toddler, your niece, or your best friend’s baby.
This post is here to help you create a boo basket that’s thoughtful, age-appropriate, and full of Halloween joy (without loading it up with sugar and stuff that’ll end up in the trash).
Why This Boo Basket Guide Is Different
Pinterest is full of Boo Basket ideas — but so many of them are overloaded with candy, plastic toys, or random dollar-bin stuff that doesn’t last.
If you’re here because you want something more intentional, you’re in the right place.
This guide gives you:
- Gift ideas that are cozy, creative, and clutter-free
- Sections broken down by age so it’s easy to shop
- A quick, no-stress formula you can follow if you’re short on time
Let’s make a Boo Basket they’ll actually use — and you’ll actually feel good about giving.
👻 Boo Basket Quick Formula
Feeling stuck on what to include? Use this simple recipe for any age group:
Something to wear (like fuzzy socks or pajamas)
Something to enjoy (like a book, craft, or fall treat)
Something cozy (like a blanket, plush, or slippers)
Something festive (like a Halloween cup or seasonal decor)
You only need 3–5 thoughtful items to make it feel special. It’s truly the little things that make Boo Baskets magical.
What Is a Boo Basket?
Think of a Boo Basket as a little Halloween gift basket — filled with seasonal surprises and festive cheer.
You can leave one on your child’s bed, doorstep, or classroom cubby. Some families even drop them off anonymously to friends and neighbors!
It’s like the Easter basket’s cooler, spookier cousin.
And honestly? It’s just as fun to give as it is to receive.
When to give one:
Anytime in early to mid-October! It builds excitement and gives them something to enjoy before the big night of trick-or-treating.
What to Put in a Boo Basket for Kids
Not into loading your basket with candy and trinkets that’ll break in a day?
Same. Boo Baskets can be just as magical (and way more useful) with a mix of cozy, creative, and age-appropriate items.
Here are some favorite Boo Basket fillers that feel fun without being junky:
- Fuzzy socks or Halloween slippers
- Mini Halloween throw pillow or plush
- Themed pajamas or soft beanie
- Reusable Halloween cup or water bottle
- Glow-in-the-dark stars or a ghost nightlight
- A cozy blanket or hooded towel (for toddlers)
Think of your Boo Basket as part gift, part experience.
Another good rule of thumb? Include something to wear, something to read, something to play, and something just for fun.
Boo Basket Ideas for Babies (0–1)
Okay, babies may not understand Halloween yet, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join the fun! Go for soft, sensory, and seasonal.
- A Halloween-themed board book (Where’s Baby’s Pumpkin? is a fave)
- A pumpkin bib or ghost onesie
- A soft plush toy or crinkle book (don’t sleep on this monster!)
- A Halloween pacifier or paci clip
- Cozy fall socks or a knit beanie
Use a fabric bin or soft storage basket they can reuse for toys or books.
Even just one or two sweet surprises can make baby’s first Halloween feel memorable for the whole family.
We have TONS MORE (over 100!) Boo Basket Ideas for Babies and Toddlers here!
Boo Basket Ideas for Toddlers (1–3)
Toddlers love opening surprises and exploring new things. Keep it fun and practical — with items that won’t just end up under the couch.
- A Halloween sippy cup or straw tumbler
- Chunky board book or sensory story (Spooky Pooky for the win!)
- Soft plushie in a fall or Halloween theme
- Organic fruit snacks, yogurt melts or Halloween pretzel bags
- Cozy fall pajamas or Halloween socks
- A soft blanket or lovey in seasonal colors
You can skip the candy altogether — toddlers are just as excited about a new cup or book.
This is such a fun age to start simple traditions they’ll look forward to every year.
Boo Basket Ideas for Preschoolers (3–5)
Preschoolers are bursting with personality and imagination.
They love anything that feels like “big kid stuff” — but still want all the comfort and fun of being little.
- A Halloween-themed storybook they can “read” to you
- Mini flashlight or glow-in-the-dark nightlight
- Reusable Halloween water bottle or snack cup
- A soft plush ghost or pumpkin they can name and carry (Squishmallows are always a hit!)
- Reusable activity book (like a wipe-clean letters or shapes book)
- Fun socks or cozy slippers with a Halloween twist
Wrap it all up in a cute felt bucket or canvas tote they can carry around the house. At this age, even having “my very own basket” can make them feel so special.
They’ll remember the feeling of being included — more than any treat inside the basket.
Boo Basket Ideas for Early Elementary Kids (6–8)
This age is perfect for thoughtful little gifts they can use after Halloween too — think fun, creative, and a little bit cool.
- A mini spider prank box to get a good laugh
- A build-your-own craft (like a felt garland or door hanger)
- Glow-in-the-dark puzzle or memory game
- Halloween baking supplies + mini spatula
- Cozy socks or Halloween-themed hoodie
- Reusable tote or canvas trick-or-treat bag
Add a Halloween notepad or joke book they can share with friends at school.
These are the years when a little extra magic sticks with them — and Boo Baskets are such an easy way to give it.
Boo Basket Ideas for Older Kids (9–12)
Big kids want to feel a little more grown-up — but they still love traditions. Go for stylish, fun, and slightly elevated items.
- A fall-scented candle (battery-operated for younger tweens)
- Mini letterboard or felt pin banner for their room
- Soft flannel blanket or seasonal throw pillow
- A spooky graphic tee or beanie
- Pumpkin spice lip balm or sheet mask
- Book of spooky short stories or mystery puzzles
Include a cute card with a “Boo Basket Playlist” — you can write the songs or make a QR code to scan.
Even older kids love feeling thought of — and a basket that matches their vibe shows you really get them.
Assembly Tips: How to Make It Cute
- Use a Halloween bucket, wire basket, or fabric bin they can reuse
- Add tissue paper, shredded filler, or even a cozy scarf as the base
- Stick with 3–6 thoughtful items — quality over quantity
- Top it off with a printable “You’ve Been Booed!” tag (there are tons on Etsy)
Where to shop:
Target Dollar Spot, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Amazon, small Etsy shops, and your favorite local boutique.
Why Boo Baskets Are the Best Halloween Tradition for Kids
Whatever you put in your Boo Basket — just know it’s the thought that makes it special.
A few cozy touches can go a long way in making your kids (or grandkids, nieces, neighbors!) feel loved and seen this Halloween.
🎃 Save this post so you can come back to it next year — or share it with a fellow mom who would love this idea too!
Real-Life Boo Basket Inspo
Need a little visual inspiration before you start shopping? Here are some adorable real-life Boo Baskets that other mamas (and aunts, neighbors, and grandmas!) have put together.
From simple and sweet to themed and thoughtful, these baskets show just how creative — or minimal — you can be while still making someone feel so special.
Scroll through the examples below for ideas you can copy, customize, or use as your jumping-off point!