Startup cost: $200 - $2k

Setup costs range from $200 to $2,000 for starting a packaging designer side hustle. At the minimum end, one would need basic graphic design software, such as Adobe Illustrator or Canva, costing around $200. For a more comprehensive setup, expenses can include a high-quality printer, specialized packaging design software, stock images, and mockup tools, totaling around $2,000. Essential expenses include software subscriptions and stock images, while optional items like a professional printer can enhance the quality of work. Hidden costs may arise from software updates, font purchases, or online course fees to improve skills. Online feedback suggests that initial costs can stay within budget if one researches and plans carefully. For a friend looking to take this seriously, a budget of around $1,000 would be reasonable to cover essential tools and resources.