First impressions don’t need frills - just smart packaging.
You’ve probably seen those viral unboxing videos packed with confetti, personalised notes, and tissue paper. And sure, they’re impressive - but they’re also expensive, time-consuming, and not always realistic for most businesses.
The good news? In 2026, you don’t need fancy extras to create a memorable unboxing experience. With smart use of printed packaging alone, you can turn every delivery into a brand moment - one that boosts loyalty, reduces returns, and even earns you a few new customers along the way.
Let’s break down how - and why - unboxing still matters, even when you’re not using inserts.
📦 1. Your Packaging Is the Insert
The outer box is no longer just a vessel. In 2026, customers expect more from their packaging - even if you’re not stuffing it with extras.
Why the box itself matters:
- It’s the first branded touchpoint when your parcel arrives.
- It sets the tone for the customer experience.
- It can convey personality, care, and professionalism without a single extra item inside.
💡 Printing on the box lid, inside flap, or even under the box creates surprise moments that feel personal without the cost of printed cards or leaflets.
🖨️ 2. Smart Print Placement = Maximum Impact
At Fast Printed Packaging, we specialise in printing only where it matters most - the top, front flap, or inside lid. Not only is this cost-effective, it’s also strategic.
Ways to create impact without inserts:
- A bold logo on the lid: brand recall.
- A short thank-you message inside: emotional connection.
- A seasonal or limited-run print: keeps things fresh.
📦 Printed brown or white boxes with clever messaging outperform plain ones every time - even without filler or extras.
🤳 3. Customers Still Share Great Packaging
Even minimal printed packaging is social media-worthy if it feels thoughtful and intentional.
In 2026:
- Social posts about packaging focus more on aesthetic & message, less on clutter.
- Eco-conscious packaging (like kraft boxes with minimal print) is trending.
- A clean, branded unboxing moment feels more authentic - and gets shared.
📸 Don’t underestimate the power of a box that photographs well - with your branding front and centre.
🌍 4. Eco Packaging Means Less Is More
Sustainability is a key concern for shoppers in 2026 - especially Gen Z and millennials. Overusing packaging or adding unnecessary inserts is no longer seen as “premium” - it’s often seen as wasteful.
What today’s customers prefer:
- Minimal, recyclable packaging.
- Uncoated kraft finishes and eco inks.
- Boxes that get to the point - clean, branded, and ready to recycle.
♻️ By skipping inserts and focusing on smart outer packaging, you save money, reduce waste, and still impress your customers.
🛍️ 5. Repeat Orders Start with Memorable Deliveries
If your customer opens a plain, unbranded box, they might forget where they bought from. That’s not good for retention.
But when they open a smartly printed, well-sized box with a little brand personality - they remember. And they’re more likely to:
- Order again.
- Recommend you to a friend.
- Tag you in a post.
🧠 Your box is a silent salesperson - use it wisely.
🧰 Final Tips: How to Maximise the Unboxing Experience Without Inserts
✅ Choose a kraft or white box that suits your product.
✅ Print only where it counts - top, flap, inside.
✅ Add a short, on-brand message (even “Thanks for shopping small!” goes a long way).
✅ Keep the packaging clean, consistent, and professional.
✅ Consider seasonal limited editions to keep things exciting.
🎯 Final Thought: It’s Not About Extras - It’s About Experience
In 2026, you don’t need stuffing, stickers, or sparkle to create a powerful unboxing experience. All you need is intentional, branded packaging that reflects your business.
At Fast Printed Packaging we help brands of all sizes deliver memorable experiences - with no minimum gimmicks and no maximum fluff. Just great packaging. Explore our custom printed packaging range here.
