Choosing the right paper bag size saves money and makes your products look better. A bag that's too big looks empty and wastes paper; one that's too small frustrates customers at the counter. Here's a quick guide to common paper shopping bag sizes (width × depth × height, in inches) and what each one is best for.
Small bags: jewellery, cosmetics, cards
- Gem, 5.3 × 3.5 × 8.5 in: jewellery boxes, small cosmetics, gift cards, macarons.
- Snack, 7.125 × 3.25 × 10.75 in: cookies, small treats and grab-and-go items.
Medium bags: the everyday workhorses
- Cub, 8.5 × 4.75 × 10.25 in: the most popular retail size, good for books, candles, skincare and small gifts.
- Debbie, 10 × 5 × 13 in: a taller medium bag for boutique purchases, bottles of sauce or oil, and bouquets.
- Bistro, 10 × 6.75 × 12 in: a wider base that suits takeout containers and café orders.
Large bags: clothing, shoes, bulk orders
- Vogue, 16 × 6 × 12 in: wide and low, ideal for folded clothing and boxed gifts.
- Simba, 12 × 7 × 17 in and Traveler, 13 × 6 × 16 in: tall bags for larger retail purchases.
- Super Royal, 14 × 10 × 15.75 in: deep bags for shoe boxes and multiple items.
- Jumbo, 18 × 7 × 18.75 in and Dumbo, 15 × 10.5 × 16.5 in: our largest sizes for coats, bedding and big gift baskets.
Specialty bags
- Wine, 5 × 3.5 × 13.25 in and Double Wine, 6.5 × 3.5 × 12.375 in: for one or two bottles.
- Cake, 13 × 10 × 13 in: a wide base for cake boxes and catering trays.
Tips for choosing
- Measure your three best sellers. Pick a size that fits your most common purchase with a little room to spare.
- Most shops need two sizes. A small or medium bag for everyday purchases and a large one for bigger orders.
- Think about handles. Twist handles are strong and comfortable; flat handles are economical; ribbon handles feel premium.
- Kraft or white? Kraft has a natural, earthy look; white makes colourful logos pop. Plain kraft and white paper bags are recyclable.
Ready to put your logo on your bags? Browse custom printed paper bags with every size and price listed, or stock up on plain kraft and white bags. Not sure which size fits? Send us a note and we'll recommend one.