Minute To Win It Junk In The Trunk Games
There’s just something about a game that gets everyone laughing before the timer even starts. That’s exactly what happens when you play “Junk in the Trunk” one of the most popular (and downright hilarious) Minute to Win It games. It’s simple, silly, and guaranteed to bring the house down with laughter, no matter the age group.
If you’ve never played before, the idea is straightforward: players strap a tissue box (or small container) filled with ping pong balls to their waist and then try to shake, wiggle, or jump until every ball is out. Sounds ridiculous? It is and that’s why people love it.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the original version. There are so many ways to mix it up, make it kid-friendly, add challenges, or even adapt it for classroom or office fun. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Minute to Win It Junk in the Trunk Games from setup, variations, and themes, to tips for keeping things safe, fair, and extra fun.
Why Junk in the Trunk is a Party Favorite
This game has stood the test of time because it ticks every box:
- Easy to set up: You only need a box, some ping pong balls, and a belt or string.
- Hilariously entertaining: Even the shyest players can’t help but laugh at the sight of someone wiggling around to empty their box.
- Works for all ages: Kids, teens, and adults love it equally you just adjust the number of balls or the difficulty.
- Perfect icebreaker: If you’re hosting a group where not everyone knows each other, this game instantly gets people laughing together.
How to Set Up Junk in the Trunk
What you’ll need:
- 1 empty tissue box (the rectangular ones work best)
- Belt, string, or fabric to secure the box around the waist
- Ping pong balls (6–8 per round is plenty)
- Timer (set to 1 minute)
Kleenex Tissues
Ping Pong Balls6 Pack Kitchen Timers
How to prepare:
- Cut two slits in the tissue box so you can thread a belt or string through it.
- Fill the box with ping pong balls.
- Secure the box around the player’s waist so it sits just above their backside.
- On “Go,” the player has one minute to shake, wiggle, or jump until all the balls fall out of the box.
That’s it! You’re ready to play.
The Classic Rules
- One minute on the clock.
- Hands off! Players aren’t allowed to reach in or touch the box. The only way to get the balls out is by moving their body.
- The first person to empty their box or whoever has the least balls left after a minute wins.
Junk in the Trunk Variations
The best part of this game is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun twists to keep it exciting for different groups:
1. Relay Style
Divide players into two teams. Each team has one box, and members take turns shaking out their balls before passing the box to the next teammate. The first team to finish wins.
2. Glow-in-the-Dark Junk in the Trunk
Play in a darkened room using glow-in-the-dark ping pong balls or wrap regular ones with glow tape. Perfect for teen parties or sleepovers.
3. Classroom Edition
Instead of ping pong balls, use crumpled paper balls (safer and quieter). Great for when you don’t want things bouncing all over the classroom.
4. Holiday Themed
- Christmas: Fill the box with small jingle bells.
- Halloween: Use plastic spiders or tiny pumpkins.
- Easter: Plastic eggs instead of balls.
5. Mega Junk in the Trunk
Add more balls than usual and see if the player can still get them all out in one minute. This is harder than it sounds and extra funny to watch.
6. Timed Challenge
Instead of racing against others, let players take turns and see who can empty their box the fastest.
7. Back-to-Back Showdown
Two players face off at the same time, standing side by side. Whoever empties their box first takes the win.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
For younger kids, you’ll want to make things a little easier:
- Use fewer balls (3–5 instead of 8–10).
- Allow them to bend and jump more freely.
- Skip the competitive angle if needed and just let them play for fun.
Tip: Kids love cheering for each other, so encourage the group to clap, chant, or count down the last 10 seconds.
Why Kids (and Adults) Love It
Let’s be honest most of the fun comes from how silly it looks. Even the most serious player can’t help but laugh while hopping around, trying to empty the box. For kids, it’s a chance to be goofy without rules holding them back. For adults, it’s a throwback to carefree fun, and it often turns into one of the most talked-about games at any gathering.
Ideas for Using Junk in the Trunk at Different Events
Birthday Parties
Kids and teens love this one. You can make it a highlight of the party, with small prizes for the winners.
Holiday Gatherings
Turn it into a Christmas laugh-fest by using jingle bells or wrapping the box in festive paper. It’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
Classroom Fun
Perfect for an end-of-term party or indoor recess. Just swap out balls for paper to keep it classroom-safe.
Office Parties
Yes, adults at work will play this! Junk in the Trunk is the ultimate icebreaker for holiday parties or team-building days.
Family Nights
This game works beautifully at family get-togethers, reunions, or even just a Friday night of laughs at home.
Tips for Running a Smooth Game
- Secure the boxes well. Nothing kills the fun faster than a tissue box slipping off mid-game.
- Keep extras handy. Have a couple of extra boxes ready in case one tears.
- Mark a play zone. This keeps balls from flying all over the place and makes cleanup easier.
- Play music. A fun, upbeat song in the background adds energy and makes the minute fly by.
- Prizes or no prizes. Kids love little rewards like stickers or candy, but honestly, the laughter is usually enough.
Safety First
While Junk in the Trunk is safe and silly, it’s always good to keep a few things in mind:
- Make sure the play area is clear of obstacles (no desks, chairs, or cords nearby).
- Encourage players to move safely wiggle, shake, and hop, but no wild flinging or running.
- For kids, especially younger ones, keep the number of balls low to avoid frustration.
- Always supervise kids get so excited that sometimes they forget about safety.
Adding Teamwork to Junk in the Trunk
If you want to make the game less individual and more team-oriented, try these ideas:
- Team Relay: Teams compete to clear all their boxes, one player at a time.
- Cheer Squads: While one player shakes, their team cheers them on with a chant. This builds energy and keeps everyone involved.
- Partner Version: Two players wear boxes and have to shake them out at the same time, counting only when both are empty.
Why Junk in the Trunk is More Than Just a Game
It may look like nothing more than a silly minute of laughter, but games like this bring people together. They break down walls, lighten the mood, and remind us that joy can be found in the simplest things a tissue box, a few ping pong balls, and a willingness to look a little silly.
Kids learn to laugh at themselves, adults rediscover the joy of play, and groups of strangers suddenly feel like friends. That’s the magic of Minute to Win It games they’re not just entertainment, they’re connection-builders.
If you’re looking for a game that’s easy, inexpensive, and an absolute riot, you can’t go wrong with Junk in the Trunk. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out themed twists, this game will have everyone laughing, cheering, and begging for another round.
So grab a tissue box, fill it with ping pong balls, and get ready for some unforgettable fun. Because sometimes, the silliest games create the best memories.
Remember: It’s not about who wins it’s about the joy of playing, the laughter shared, and the stories you’ll be retelling for years to come.
