SOS bags, short for Self-Opening Sacks, are one of the most common and versatile types of paper bags used in retail, food service, healthcare, and beyond. Known for their flat bottom and easy-to-load design, these bags are practical, budget-friendly, and often recyclable, making them a go-to choice for everyday business needs.
What Do SOS Bags Look Like?
SOS bags stand upright on their own thanks to a flat-bottom design and side gussets. Most have a simple open-top with no handles, though some may be paired with inner liners or closures depending on their use.
You’ll commonly see them:
- In restaurants as takeout or to-go bags
- At pharmacies holding prescriptions or small health items
- In bakeries for cookies, pastries, and snacks
- At retail counters for small purchases or grab-and-go items
Key Features of SOS Bags
- Flat bottom – Allows the bag to stand upright for easy loading
- Side gussets – Expand to accommodate bulkier contents
- No handles – Carried from the top or folded closed
- Available in many sizes – From small favor sizes to large takeout bags
- Custom printing available – Great for branding with your logo or message
- Cost-effective – Ideal for high-volume or everyday use
- Recyclable – Most are made from kraft or white paper with recyclable content
Why Businesses Use SOS Bags
SOS bags are a favorite among businesses that need a simple, functional solution for packaging smaller items. They’re especially popular in:
- Restaurants – For food orders, side items, and to-go snacks
- Cafés and bakeries – For baked goods or sandwiches
- Retail shops – As an alternative to plastic or handled bags
- Medical and dental offices – For prescriptions, samples, or aftercare items
- Grocery Stores – Affordable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags
They offer a clean, straightforward presentation while still allowing room for custom branding and messaging.
Can You Print Your Logo on SOS Bags?
Yes. At Morgan Chaney, we offer custom-printed SOS bags with your business logo, colors, or promotional messaging. Whether you need simple one-color printing or a more detailed design, our team can help you create the right bag for your application.
SOS bags are part of our Semi-Custom Packaging™ and fully custom options, with flexible order quantities and fast, expert service.
Need branded SOS bags for your business?
Contact Morgan Chaney to get started on your printed paper bag project today.