Make a Christmas gift bag part of the presentation

A gift bag can be a practical way to present a Christmas gift when the item is awkward to wrap or the recipient can reuse the bag. Choose the bag around the item rather than buying decorations first. A tidy arrangement, a clear name tag and a note will usually do more than extra layers of trim.

Fit and support the contents

Choose a bag with enough room for the gift and a base sturdy enough for its weight. Put heavier items flat at the bottom and protect fragile pieces with their own packing. Do not rely on tissue paper to cushion glass or to hide a bag that cannot support the load.

Keep decoration useful

Use a small amount of tissue for coverage, then add a tag that will stay attached while the bag is carried. Ribbon can finish the handles, but avoid knots that block an easy opening. A reusable ornament is an optional extra only if the recipient would enjoy it.

Plan for travel and storage

If the gift must be shipped, pack it in a shipping box using the carrier’s guidance; a handled gift bag alone is not transit packaging. For an in-person exchange, test the loaded bag by lifting it before the event. Keep paper and ribbon away from open candles or other flames.

Sources: USPS: preparing packages, cushioning and sealing · U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Holiday Decoration Safety Tips