Easter Shopping List: Baskets, Eggs and Brunch

By Caleb Morgan

Easter involves several overlapping shopping tasks: baskets for the children or household, supplies for an egg hunt, dyeing kits for decorating eggs, groceries for brunch or dinner, and seasonal decor. This guide walks you through each category so you can decide what to buy fresh each year and what to purchase after the holiday for next season. Big gathering or small, a plan helps you avoid last‑minute scrambling.

Baskets and Carriers

The basket is the centerpiece of Easter morning for many households. You do not need to buy a new one every year if you choose a design that works beyond the holiday.

What to look for in a basket

• Size and sturdiness – A basket that is too small will not hold enough treats or eggs, while one that is too large may be awkward for a child to carry. Look for a firm weave or molded base that holds its shape.
• Handle comfort – A thick, rounded handle is easier for small hands to grip. Baskets with an arched handle that clears the top allow you to fill them without crushing the contents.
• Lining or fabric insert – Some baskets come with a removable fabric liner that can be washed or swapped out. This is handy if you plan to reuse the basket for other holidays or storage.
• Reusable materials – Wicker, seagrass, or painted metal can last for years. Avoid flimsy plastic that cracks or breaks after one use.

Alternatives to traditional baskets

You can also use fabric totes, wooden crates, or even large ceramic bowls as Easter carriers. These items have a longer life beyond the holiday and can become part of your regular home decor. If you have children of different ages, consider coordinating the same style in different sizes so the setup looks intentional.

Egg Hunt Supplies

A successful egg hunt requires a few key items beyond just eggs. Plan ahead for the age group and environment where the hunt will take place.

Fillable plastic eggs

fillable plastic eggs come in various sizes and colors. For younger children, choose eggs that are larger and easier to open. For older participants, smaller eggs that require more searching can add challenge. Assorted color packs help you spot eggs in grass, bushes, or indoor nooks. Check that the eggs snap shut securely so contents do not spill before they are found.

Fillers and small toys

Common fillers include stickers, temporary tattoos, small balls, bubbles, crayons, and mini puzzles. Safety note: for any participant under the age of three, avoid items small enough to fit inside a toilet paper tube, as they pose a choking hazard. You can read more about age‑appropriate choices in our guide on buying toys for your household. Non‑toy fillers such as fruit pouches, single‑serve snack packs, or coins are also popular options.

Hunt logistics

• Outdoor vs indoor – For outdoor hunts, brightly colored eggs are easier to find against grass. For indoor hunts, pastel eggs may blend in less on carpets or furniture. Decide on the number of eggs per participant so everyone gets a fair share.
• Marking boundaries – Use ribbon, chalk, or cones to define the search area, especially if you are in a public space or a large yard.
• Special eggs – Consider designating a small number of eggs with a unique color or marking for a bonus prize. This adds an extra layer of fun without requiring expensive prizes.

Egg Dyeing Essentials

Dyeing hard‑boiled eggs is a hands‑on activity that appeals to both children and adults. The supplies you need depend on whether you use conventional food dye or natural ingredients.

Basic dyeing supplies

egg dye kits are widely available and include tablets, a dipping tray, and often a drying stand. They provide consistent, vibrant colors with minimal setup. If you prefer a more controlled palette, you can mix your own dyes using food coloring, vinegar, and water.

• Eggs – Use white eggs for the most vivid color; brown eggs yield deeper, earthier tones. Make sure eggs are hard‑boiled and completely cool before dyeing.
• Vinegar – A tablespoon of white vinegar per cup of water helps the dye adhere to the eggshell.
• Utensils – A wire whisk or slotted spoon makes it easy to lower and lift eggs without cracking them. Paper towels and newspaper protect your work surface.
• Drying rack – A cooling rack or egg carton with the cups tipped slightly upward allows eggs to dry without pooling dye at the bottom.

Natural dye alternatives

If you want to avoid artificial colors, you can create dyes from foods such as red cabbage, beets, turmeric, and blueberries. Simmer the ingredient in water, strain the liquid, and add vinegar. Natural dyes produce softer, more muted colors and are safe if the eggs are consumed afterward. Always refrigerate dyed eggs until you eat them, and discard any eggs that crack during the dyeing process.

Brunch or Dinner Grocery List

Easter meals vary by region and tradition, but most menus include a mix of protein, sides, and something sweet. Use this table as a starting point for your shopping list. Adjust quantities based on the number of guests.

If you are hosting brunch, focus on dishes that can be served at room temperature (within the two-hour limit for perishable food) or reheated quickly. For dinner, a slow‑cooked protein frees you to prepare sides while it finishes. In either case, check your pantry for staples like flour, sugar, oil, and spices before you go to the store.

Decor You Can Reuse

Easter decor does not have to be single‑use. Look for pieces that blend into your year‑round decorating style or can transition into spring. Avoid items with current‑year dates or popular culture characters unless you are certain you will want them next year.

Decor categories worth investing in

• Table linens – A neutral linen tablecloth or a set of pastel napkins works for Easter brunch and for everyday spring meals. Avoid prints that are overtly bunny‑themed unless you love them.
• Candle holders and vases – Clear glass or ceramic pieces in soft greens, yellows, or blues can hold spring flowers and be used year‑round.
• Ceramic or wooden figurines – Simple bunnies, eggs, or bird nests in natural materials do not look out of place once the holiday passes. Store them in a box with padding so they do not chip.
• Fabric bunting or garlands – Felt or fabric bunting in pastel triangles can be folded flat and stored. You can also mix them with other seasonal decor.

Storage tips for longevity

Wrap fragile decor in acid‑free tissue paper or bubble wrap and store it in sturdy, labeled bins. Keep bins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you have space, store linens separately in breathable cotton bags to avoid mustiness.

After‑Easter Clearance Shopping

One of the smartest ways to prepare for next year is to shop clearance sales immediately after Easter. Stores mark down seasonal items deeply to clear shelf space. For a broader strategy on buying discounted goods, see our guide on clearance and open‑box shopping.

What to buy after Easter

• Plastic eggs and egg hunt kits – These are often marked down deeply. Check that all pieces snap together and that colors are not faded from display lighting.
• Egg dye kits – Dye tablets and kits have a long shelf life if stored properly. Avoid any sets that look tampered with.
• Non‑perishable decor – Bunting, ceramic figurines, table runners, and candle holders are safe buys. Skip anything with glitter that may shed over time.
• Seasonal linens – Napkins, placemats, and kitchen towels with subtle Easter motifs can be used for years if you coordinate them with your spring palette.

What to skip

• Perishable food – Candy, chocolate, and baked goods will not keep until next year. Buy them fresh.
• Dated or character‑themed items – Decor that references a specific year or a licensed character may feel old by next Easter. Stick to generic designs.
• Damaged goods – Clearance racks can include items with broken zippers, chipped paint, or missing parts. Inspect everything before you buy.

FAQ

When should I start shopping for Easter?

Start with non‑perishable decorations up to a month in advance so you have time to decide on a theme. Buy fresh groceries and eggs for dyeing within a week of Easter. After the holiday, shop clearance for next year’s supplies.

Can I reuse plastic eggs from last year?

Yes, as long as they snap shut securely and show no cracks or sharp edges. Wash them with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly before storing. Discard any eggs that are warped or no longer close tightly.

How do I store Easter decor to keep it in good condition?

Use clear plastic bins with lids for most items. Wrap fragile pieces in bubble wrap or tissue paper and store in a separate section of the bin. Keep bins in a climate‑controlled area away from moisture and sunlight.

What if I have young children during egg hunts?

For children under three, use larger plastic eggs and fill them with soft, safe items such as puffs, teethers, or fabric scraps. Avoid small toys or any item that could be a choking hazard. Supervise closely and consider a separate hunt area just for toddlers.

By breaking your Easter shopping into these categories, you can buy what you need at the right time, reduce waste, and set yourself up for an easy, enjoyable holiday year after year. Focus on reusable items and smart clearance purchases, and you will spend less time shopping and more time celebrating.

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our holiday shopping calendar guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.