How to Create a Quirky Boo Basket this Halloween

Halloween is approaching quickly, and there’s one trend from last year that seems destined to last. The boo basket. Think of it as a seasonal care package filled with Halloween magic, perfect for surprising a friend or partner. Whether you’re a crafting expert or a shopping enthusiast, creating a boo basket is a sure fire way to brighten someone’s month.

What is a Boo Basket, and Why are They a Thing?

A boo basket is essentially a gift basket specifically made for Halloween. These baskets can be cute, spooky, silly, or even mysterious, depending on the vibe you want to create. According to the trend, they should be left anonymously at someone’s door, making them an ideal gift for those living in student accommodation.

In 2024, boo baskets became incredibly popular among young people as a low cost and adorable way to treat their loved ones. They were especially popular on TikTok but were mainly valued as small acts of kindness that brought joy during the darker nights and changing weather of October.

The Essential Boo Basket Checklist

If your partner has recently mentioned boo baskets, you might be wondering what to include inside. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back with a list of cute items and treats you should definitely add to yours:

• Sweets: Mini chocolate bars, jelly eyeballs, or those weird pumpkin lollies nobody really likes but finds cute.
• Drinks: Sachets of pumpkin spice latte, seasonally flavoured teas, or a can of their favourite fizzy drink.
• Décor: Pumpkin fairy lights, glow sticks, fake cobwebs, or candles are all popular choices.
• Self-care: A bath bomb, face masks, or a Halloween themed lip gloss.
• Cosy supplies: Fuzzy socks, scented air fresheners, or a small plush toy.
• Personal gifts: Handwritten notes, cute photos, or a sentimental item.

The key to creating a boo basket is to customise it for the recipient. If you’re making baskets for each other in a Secret Santa style, it’s best to focus on fun items rather than sentimental ones. That is, unless you’re hoping to impress someone special…

Budget-Friendly Ideas

You don’t need to spend loads to make a meaningful gift, and please don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Here’s how to craft your boo basket using your student loan:

• Forget the basket, paint an old shoebox or container.
• Descend on the seasonal discount aisle at local shops, especially the day after Halloween.
• DIY your fillers by baking sweet treats or printing out photos at home.
• Shop in bundles and split multipacks across several baskets (if you’re making multiple.

Extra Tip: If you go at the right time, you can create your entire boo basket using just items from the Lidl or Aldi middle aisles.

Where to Get the Goods

If you want a head start or like to build things as fast as possible, Lush has a great guide to building your own soapy boo basket. Their eco-friendly wrapping and charmingly themed products make it easy to create a basket for anyone.

Other places worth checking: 

• Poundland or B&M for budget props.
• Local markets for handmade bits.
• Charity shops for unique baskets or random trinkets.
• Online marketplaces such as Vinted or Depop for clothes or vintage finds.

A Growing Tradition That Brings People Together

Boo baskets are fast becoming more than just a trend. People have realised they offer a quiet kind of care that cuts through the noise of a busy world. For students managing so many aspects of university life, it just provides moments of warmth as the nights draw in.

In an environment where timetables rarely align and not everyone wants to hit the clubs at spooky season, this tradition can be even more meaningful. Boo baskets create love and open up moments of genuine connection between friends and partners.

Starting your own annual boo basket tradition is a way to make university feel more homely and make everyone feel cared for. If you’re searching for your new home from home, explore our cities and discover how life as a student can be yours to shape.

Bonus Boo Basket Tips

• Keep it weatherproof. If you’re leaving it outside someone’s door, lace it inside a plastic bag or box.
• Add a note that says ‘pass it on’ to encourage the spooky chain.
• Plan ahead by buying or crafting items in the lead up to Halloween.

Let the Spooks Begin

Whether you’re crafting a boo basket for your best pal, sneaking one into your crush’s kitchen, or just looking for a way to make October less gloomy, the joy of gifting is a way of sparkling some magic into someone’s day.

Also, you can definitely make one for yourself. It still counts. Actually, it’s highly encouraged, because we all love a little treat from ourselves.

Ready for more? Read more spook-tacular blog posts to discover more seasonal tips and tricks.