Best Custom Drawstring Bags for Schools, Camps & Youth Programs

The best drawstring bags for schools and camps are small (youth) or standard sizes with durable stitching, soft cords, and bold, high-contrast prints that stay readable from a distance.

In youth settings, the bag must fit smaller bodies, survive daily stuffing, and clearly display the school or camp name during pickup, field trips, and events.

Drawstring Bag

Top recommendations (pick by program type)

1) Elementary schools / kids camps → Small (youth) drawstring bag

• Why it wins: better torso fit; less dragging below hips
• Best contents: coloring books, pencils, small notebook
• Print approach: bold mascot or camp name; minimal text

2) Middle school / mixed ages → Standard drawstring bag

• Why it wins: fits binders, light hoodie, water bottle
• Best contents: notebook + pencil + bottle
• Print approach: large school logo centered

3) Staff kits / heavy academic materials → Backpack alternative

If you’re including textbooks, larger binders, or laptops, move up:

Good / Better / Best table (youth program context)

What to print (school visibility rules)

Rule 1: Design for pickup-line visibility

Parents and staff identify kids by what they’re wearing and carrying.

• Large mascot or camp name
• High contrast color combinations

Rule 2: Avoid clutter

Skip:

• Long mission statements
• Small sponsor logos
• Event dates in tiny text

Keep:

• School/camp name
• Year (if large and bold)

For full printing rules:

Quantity planning (schools & camps math)

For enrollment-based distribution

• Order 1 per enrolled student, plus 5–10% buffer for late registrations and replacements.
• Camps often need extra for lost/forgotten bags lean closer to 10%.

For one-day school events (field day, orientation)

• Order 1 per participant, plus 5% buffer.
• If bags are optional, estimate 70–85% uptake.

For multi-site districts

• Split inventory by campus; avoid centralizing all stock at one location.

If your start date is close (orientation, camp kickoff), 

Safety & operational considerations (youth-specific)

Cord length & comfort

• Youth sizes prevent excess cord length.
• Smaller bags reduce tangling and dragging.

Weight expectations

• Kids overload bags with jackets and random items.
• Choose durable stitching for repeat use programs.

Locker/cubby fit

• Standard size usually fits most elementary cubbies.
• Oversized bags create clutter and increase loss.

Distribution strategy

• Pre-pack kits before parent pickup.
• Hand bags to parents for younger kids to reduce misplacement.

Explore more school-friendly items:

• Office & school hub: 
• Pencils: 
• Notebooks:

Mistakes to avoid (youth edition)

1. Ordering only adult standard size for elementary kids.
2. Printing long sponsor blocks that clutter the design.
3. Choosing thin fabric for multi-week camp programs.
4. Oversizing bags for light kits (invites overstuffing).
5. Skipping buffer inventory (kids lose bags).
6. Using backpacks when light drawstring bags would reduce cost and bulk.

If unsure about size:

• /blog/custom-drawstring-bag-sizes-small-standard-large/

If unsure between drawstring and backpack:

• /blog/custom-drawstring-bags-vs-custom-backpacks/

FAQs

What size drawstring bag is best for elementary schools?

Small (youth) size is best for elementary students because it fits smaller torsos and prevents dragging.

Should middle schools use standard size?

Yes standard size works well for middle school and mixed-age groups.

Are drawstring bags durable enough for daily school use?

For light daily use, yes but reinforced or heavier styles perform better for repeat stuffing.

What should we print on a camp bag?

Large camp name or mascot with high contrast is the safest choice for distance readability.

Should we include sponsor logos?

Only if they remain large and readable avoid cluttering the design.

When should we choose backpacks instead?

Choose backpacks when students carry textbooks or tech devices daily: 

What items pair best inside school drawstring bags?

Pencils, notebooks, coloring books, and water bottles are practical and lightweight: