Latest Packaging Design Award Winners

Patience Fruit & Co. packaging design by Cecilia Castelli
award logo
Patience Fruit & Co.
Recognized for its bold colors, playful illustrations, and clear messaging to energize the snacking experience
Antidote packaging design by DD.NYC.
award logo
Antidote
Recognized for its blend of alchemical themes and venomous snake symbolism to create a unique luxury experience
Design by

DD.NYC®

Dr. Michelle Copeland Packaging Design by Deal Design
award logo
Dr. Michelle Copeland
Recognized for its sleek silver accents, elegant typography, and a modern, science-driven aesthetic
Design by

Deal Design

All time Best Packaging Designs for 2025

Foreign Object’s New American Hoppy Ales

The Design Research Process

Our design research process is a dynamic journey in the ever-evolving landscape of packaging design. We search the web, contact brands and agencies, and evaluate the designs worthy of being part of our collection. To be acknowledged among the best packaging designs, one must master innovation, trends, impact, functionality, user experience, and even branding. 

Designs that manage to transcend expectations and take packaging aesthetics to the next level gain recognition, and the finest among them may advance further and compete for the title of Design Award winner. 

If you believe your design embodies these principles, you too can submit it for consideration, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of packaging design excellence. 

Best Designs 2025

Best Packaging Designs FAQ

How are the best packaging designs made?

Crafting top-notch packaging designs starts with a deep dive into the brand and product specifics. Designers first understand the product, the target audience, and the brand's story. Then, they use design software and 3D modeling programs to create initial concepts. These tools enable designers to develop and refine visual elements, including color schemes, typography, and imagery, for a cohesive and brand-aligned appearance. Practical aspects like user convenience, shelf presence, and environmental impact are also meticulously considered. 

For instance, take the World's Finest Chocolate package design. This work exemplifies how a deep understanding of the brand's premium quality is translated into packaging. The design uses luxurious color palettes, elegant typography, and sophisticated imagery that appeal to the brand's upscale market. It skillfully balances aesthetic appeal with practical considerations like readability and brand recognition. It shows how effective design can elevate a product, making it not just a package but a part of the brand's story and an experience for the consumer. 

What is the most important thing when creating packaging designs?

Product appeal and usability are the most crucial aspects of creating packaging designs. A successful design is not just visually appealing; it must also be functional, reflecting the product's nature and the brand's identity. It should stand out on the shelf, be memorable to consumers, and maintain consistency across various product lines. Plus, packaging designs should consider practical aspects such as protection and storage. 

For example, the Phelps Brand Ninja Goggles packaging design excellently embodies these principles. The packaging is immediately eye-catching, featuring bold colors and dynamic graphics that resonate with the energy and precision of competitive swimming. Beyond aesthetics, the packaging is also practical – it comes with clear information and eco-friendly material. It conveys the brand's high-performance value and appeals directly to its target audience of serious athletes. 

How much is a quality packaging design?

The cost of quality packaging design varies, with rates largely dependent on: 

  • The project's complexity 
  • The designer's experience 
  • The location 

If you plan to work with a reputable packaging design agency, you can expect to pay anywhere between $10,000 to $50,000. Note that this does not include the manufacturing costs.  

Most packaging designers also charge on a per-hour basis, with $100-$175 per hour as the standard rate for US-based firms. Design agencies outside the US usually charge between $35-$75 per hour. 

What do most packaging designers use?

Packaging designers mostly use software like Adobe Illustrator for its advanced vector graphic capabilities, crucial for detailed and scalable packaging designs. Boxshot is another essential tool, particularly for creating realistic 3D packaging mockups. CorelDRAW is favored for its comprehensive design features, offering versatility across various packaging needs. Additionally, user-friendly platforms like Canva are popular for simpler, template-based designs, while Figma is increasingly used for its collaborative, web-based interface.  

These tools cover diverse aspects of packaging design, from intricate illustrations to practical mockups: 

Design ToolBest ForQuick Links
Adobe Illustrator Intricate designs and vector graphics 
Boxshot Realistic 3D mockups and visualizations 
CorelDRAW Print-ready packaging layout and illustrations 
CanvaSimple, template-based packaging designs 
FigmaCollaborative, vector-based packaging projects 

Do professional packaging designers use AI?

Yes, professional packaging designers are now beginning to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their workflow. AI technologies offer innovative solutions like pattern and color scheme generation, customer preference analysis, and optimization of design elements.  

However, while AI offers quick assistance and insights, professional designers' creative intuition and expertise remain irreplaceable. They often use AI as a complementary tool with design software to achieve the best results. 

What are the rules of effective print design?

Professional designers follow these fundamental principles and techniques to create the perfect packaging design: 

Can DesignRush help me get expert feedback on my packaging design?

You can get free professional feedback on your packaging designs and potentially have them showcased on DesignRush by sending them to bestdesignawards@designrush.com. This is an excellent opportunity to gain expert insights without any cost! 

If you're seeking official recognition from our Best Design Jury and a chance to win the Best Design Award, you can submit your designs here at $75 per submission. With this service, you can get detailed critiques from leading professionals and establish yourself in the packaging design industry. 

Design Awards 2025

Ready to Showcase Your Best Designs?

Submit your work to the Design Awards and gain the recognition it deserves!