Learn English – Difference between bundle and package

differencemeaning

"Bundle" and "package" both mean different items put together and sold as one unit. What is the difference between them in the following sentences?

  1. Starbucks is offering a lunch bundle for busy workers in London.

    https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/4971251/starbucks-is-launching-a-3-99-meal-deal-but-it-doesnt-include-a-hot-drink/

    Can I use "package" here instead?

  2. Turn yourself into a marketable brand with this $19 training package.

    https://thenextweb.com/offers/2019/08/05/turn-yourself-into-a-marketable-brand-with-this-19-training-package/

    Can I use "bundle" here instead?

  3. LSAC also now offers packages at a slight discount that include the LSAT registration fee, CAS fee, and school reports. The two packages are as follows:

    Package 1: LSAT (including LSAT Writing), CAS, 1 Law School Report = $430

    Package 2: LSAT (including LSAT Writing), CAS, 6 Law School Reports = $650

    https://magoosh.com/lsat/2019/how-much-does-the-lsat-cost/

    Can I use "bundle" here instead?

Best Answer

When speaking figuratively, it may help to think of a "bundle" as a group of various objects wrapped together:

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and a "package" as some objects placed in a box and sometimes wrapped with paper:

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"Bundle" can feel more loose and haphazard, which (as in your example) may be a kind of marketing gimmick. Calling something a "bundle" implies the vendor isn't all that concerned about the price, that they're trying to group a bunch of things together because they just want to get rid of them -- in other words, the buyer is getting a special deal.

Meanwhile "package" requires more effort and planning. Something like a "package tour" implies that the trip has been carefully organized to include everything travelers will need -- flights, hotels, meals, guides, etc. -- so they don't have to worry about additional expense.

In all of your examples, you can substitute "bundle" for "package", and vice-versa, but it may subtly change the nuance.

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