Sending a balikbayan box from Hong Kong isn’t just about stuffing it full — it’s about filling it smart. Akin to the tight living space available to residents, a balikbayan box has to be tightly packed to make the most of the cost to ship it.
These boxes are often measured by the dimension and not by weight so as long as your contents are within allowed items and do not exceed the length x width x height measurents, you are good to go.
As an Overseas Filipino Worker, every dollar (Hong Kong dollar, that is) counts. Whether you’re preparing your first box or looking for better ways to pack your next one, this guide will help you maximise space, save money, and still wow your loved ones with thoughtful and practical items.
Popular pasalubong ideas that don’t break the bank
Filipino families back home look forward to what’s inside that balikbayan box — not because it’s expensive, but because it’s from you. Here are crowd-pleasing items that are budget-friendly and widely available in Hong Kong:
1. Beauty and skincare products
From Sasa, Watsons, and Bonjour, you can find face masks, lotions, serums, and branded lip balms like Nivea, Vaseline, or Carmex in bundle packs. Korean and Japanese brands are a big hit with teens and titas — think Innisfree, Hada Labo, or Shiseido travel sizes.
Tip: Buy in sets or multi-packs for better value, and divide among relatives.
2. Chocolates and snacks
Buy in bulk from Prizemart or AEON’s clearance bins. Brands like Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, Toblerone, or even Hello Panda and Pocky are favourites among kids and adults alike. Dried fruits and nuts from Wellcome or Market Place add variety and are healthier options for elderly family members.
Reminder: Check expiry dates and choose long-lasting items, especially when shipping by sea.
3. Clothing and accessories
T-shirts, jackets, socks, and undergarments from G2000 Outlet, Bossini, or Uniqlo end-of-season sales are high-quality yet affordable. Thermal wear or padded jackets are excellent for family members in colder provinces. Cute bags, wallets, or hair accessories from Mong Kok street stalls make great low-cost surprises for kids and nieces.
Budget-friendly shopping spots for OFWs in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known for its mix of luxury brands and bargain finds. If you know where to look, you can fill your box with useful and well-loved items at a fraction of the cost.
Mong Kok
Check the Ladies Market for accessories, children’s clothes, and novelty items. Fa Yuen Street has cheap shoes, shirts, and sportswear — perfect for growing kids or active family members.
Sham Shui Po
This area is ideal for gadgets, cables, phone accessories, and electronics-related items like USBs and earphones. Yu Chau Street and Ki Lung Street are great for bulk fabrics, zippers, and craft items — useful for relatives who sew or tailor.
Sasa and Bonjour
Stock up on perfume testers, trial kits, and beauty bundles. Often, they offer Buy 1 Get 1 or seasonal promos. Check the clearance sections near the entrance for the best deals.
Watsons and Mannings
Take advantage of bundle promos like 3-for-2 on bath products, shampoos, and deodorants. Look for Watsons Brand or Mannings House Brand for quality generics at lower prices.
Balancing practical items with sentimental gifts
Packing a box isn’t just about shopping wisely — it’s also about touching hearts of loved ones back home. Here’s how to keep a balance:
Practical staples
- School supplies: pens, notebooks, pencil cases
- Toiletries: bar soaps, feminine wash, razors, sanitary pads
- Medicines (OTC only): paracetamol, ointments, vitamins — keep them sealed and labelled
Sentimental touches
- Fridge magnets, keychains, or “I ❤️ HK” shirts
- A handwritten letter or card with a photo of your current life
- A small gift reflecting your job or hobby, like a handmade scarf or a recipe book
Extra Idea: Include an empty photo album and say you’ll help fill it when you return home. It creates emotional anticipation without costing much.
Cost-saving tips when filling your box
Pack by purpose
Group items by occasion or person to avoid overbuying duplicates.
Use vacuum bags
Compress jackets, towels, and blankets to fit more in and protect against moisture.
Buy during sales
Time your shopping with Hong Kong clearance events:
- Lunar New Year (January–February)
- Summer Sales (June–August)
- Double 11 and Double 12 online sales (November–December)
Split big items among multiple boxes
If you’re planning multiple shipments, divide bigger purchases like rice cookers, pans, or appliances across different boxes to manage customs limits and shipping costs.
Weigh as you pack
Some couriers have weight limits per box, even if unofficial. Distribute heavy items like canned goods evenly to avoid damage and balance the load.
Final Thoughts: It’s the thought and planning that counts
Sending a balikbayan box from Hong Kong doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a bit of planning, smart shopping, and creativity, you can stretch your hard-earned money while still bringing smiles to loved ones across the sea.
Pack with intention, send with love, and take pride in every single box you send because every Filipino worker abroad knows, it’s not just a box. It’s a box full of heart.