NDP fun packs ranked
When we look back at some of the most memorable NDP moments, we think of the parachuting Red Lions, the iconic F-16 fighter jets, and of course, the fireworks. But no one can deny that these parades would be incomplete without the NDP fun packs.
Since their introduction in 1991, attendees have started looking forward to what the fun pack will look like each year and, more importantly, what’s inside. In celebration of our nation’s upcoming birthday, let’s revisit some fond memories of the various NDP fun packs over the years.
Table of Contents
8. The chicken rice fun pack (2021)
Image credit: @wowdealssg via Carousell
For a lot of Singaporeans, there’s only one thought that crossed our minds when we first laid eyes on the NDP 2021 funpack. That’s right, it’s chicken rice. Specifically dabao chicken rice.
Image credit: miss neverbeenme~ via Flickr
Inspired by Singapore’s hawker culture, the backpack closely resembled the brown wrapping from takeaway meals we usually get at these stalls. Sustainability was a huge theme that year, so the bags and everything inside them were made using biodegradable materials.
Although we wouldn’t call it the most fun pack since there were only 4 items inside, it did serve well as a patriotic survival kit. Plus, we laud the humble attempt at encouraging Singaporeans to go green.
Design: 2/5
Contents: 1/5
Nostalgic factor: 3/5
7. The “I can see everything” fun pack (2016)
Image adapted from: NDPeeps via Youtube
Not only was the 2016 NDP fun pack cute, but the waterproof exterior was a bonus feature. So even if you got wet, rest assured that your goodies wouldn’t have.
The main highlight of the pack had to be the huge red scarf that came within. It made me want to stand up for Singapore while holding it above my head.
Image Credit: Choo Yut Shing via Flickr
Pros: Unique translucent design; cool and trendy.
Cons: You’re pretty much giving everyone a free tour of what’s in your bag. A little weird if you ask me.
Design: 3/5
Contents: 2/5
Nostalgic factor: 1/5
6. The daily backpack (2019)
Image credit: Zero Waste Singapore via Facebook
If you wanted to cop a simple yet fashionable backpack, then the NDP 2019 fun pack was the year for you. I think that this fun pack looked the most stylish out of all the other years.
Some interesting items were the reusable bamboo straws that doubled as clappers, and I’m sure kiasu singaporeans loved the thick booklet of discount vouchers.
To all that got to attend the parade that year, I’m jealous.
Design: 3/5
Contents: 3/5
Nostalgic factor: 1/5
5. Mix and match (2014)
Image Credit: Choo Yut Shing via Flickr
Ah, yes, the fun pack that ruined friendships.
The NDP 2014 backpacks came in 6 colour combinations and added pops of colour to the NDP show. Included were clap banners to hype up the performances and adorable SG-themed badges that you could pin to the bag.
I attended the NDP show as a P5 that year, and the yellow and pink combination was my favourite. You best believe I argued with my friend over who was getting the pretty one. Sorry gurl, but hey, at least I got my bag.
Design: 4/5
Contents: 2/5
Nostalgic factor: 2/5
4. The fun box in a bag (2010)
Image credit: Sharon via Blogspot
Dubbed the “Fun Tote”, the NDP 2010 fun pack came in 7 different designs. The goodies in the fun pack weren’t just thrown inside; no, they were neatly packed into a red box.
And it’s not just any normal, boring-looking box. It’s a Fun Box! Classic board games such as Snakes and Ladders were printed at the back, bringing back forgotten childhood memories.
Design: 3/5
Contents: 2/5
Nostalgic factor: 3/5
3. Wah! So colourful (2009)
Image Credit: NDPeeps
Say bye-bye to the typical shades of red and white with the NDP 2009 fun pack. I mean, we were presented with literally every shade of the rainbow. The bags were a huge hit that year thanks to their versatility. You can sling them, remove the front flap for a tote bag moment, or swap them for endless colour combinations.
Goodies included a heart lightstick to wave during the parade, which we thought was cute. An iconic year if you ask me.
Design: 4/5
Contents: 2/5
Nostalgic factor: 3/5
2. The DIY bag (2007)
Image adapted from: H55 Studio
The NDP 2007 fun packs basically scream: “We’re the Power Rangers!” The bags that year were designed so people could use them even after the parade. Unzip the panels for a smaller size or trade colours with your friends. The possibilities were endless with this one.
Goodies included a mini fan with LED lights on the blades, projecting words like “NDP @ Marina Bay” and “Happy Birthday”. How cool!
Design: 5/5
Contents: 3/5
Nostalgic factor: 3/5
1. The time machine (2015)
Image credit: BQ-T via Flickr
Singapore turned 50 this year, and the NDP 2015 fun packs were simply the cherry on top. With 50 different tote bag designs, it was oh-so exciting to see which one we’d get. The bags were stuffed with nostalgic games and snacks such as the figure 8 chocolate candy and Old Maid card games. Of course, the country erasers were a favourite.
Image credit: typicalben
SG50 easily tops our list by putting the fun in the fun pack. And the nostalgic factor is clearly on point.
Design: 3/5
Contents: 4/5
Nostalgic factor: 5/5
Bonus: The total defence-inspired NDP pack (2024)
Let’s talk about what we can expect this year.
Remember commemorating Total Defence Day in school? The NDP 2024 pack is inspired by the 6 pillars of defence, thus coming in 6 different designs. Each one has been hand drawn by 40 student artists, showcasing artworks that uniquely represent Singapore.
Image credit: Ministry of Defence via Facebook
The drawstring bag is made lightweight and foldable, which makes for a handy reusable bag after the parade. It is also made using eco-friendly materials and showcases Singapore’s efforts towards sustainability.
Image credit: Ministry of Defence via Facebook
As for the goodies inside, well, we’ll leave that as a surprise for you to find out.
Ranking of NDP fun packs over the years
And there we have it, the final ranking of our favourite NDP fun packs that left us as proud Singaporeans. It has become a tradition that we look forward to every year, and I seriously can’t imagine what NDP would be like without them. Definitely a lot less fun-packed.
For more National Day content, check out:
Cover image adapted from: @wowdealssg via Carousell, Choo Yut Shing via Flickr