When choosing event swag, I always consider the audience and what items they're most likely to use. The goal of swag is to keep your brand top of mind, so functional items are key. For example, for our audience of business leaders, HR managers, and employee benefits professionals, office supplies like notepads, highlighters, or screen cleaning cloths are reliable choices. At multi-day conferences, you can give swag that attendees might find useful during the event as well as after it, for example reusable totes, water bottles, or travel mugs, or things that are helpful during networking events like mints, gum, or hand sanitizer. It's also crucial to balance functionality with cost and attendees' expectations of value. For a free job fair, for example, small and inexpensive items like branded pens are a great choice. However, if the event is free and the return on connections is uncertain, it might be better to skip the swag entirely and provide informational packets or brochures instead. For events with higher ticket prices, attendees expect more from swag. In these cases, I tailor the gifts to the audience and the event. If the gifts are for attendees to a panel or workshop at a conference, it can be smart to match them to the topic of the presentation--giving attendees a book or white paper you've prepared on the topic, for instance, or a related tool, such as gifting branded planners during a talk on time management or work-life balance. To avoid giving away items that may end up in a landfill, I focus on reusable, sustainable options that provide lasting value. This could include eco-friendly products like bamboo pens or items that attendees can use repeatedly, ensuring the swag doesn't get discarded quickly.
Handwritten or personalized touches go a long way. Even small customizations make swag feel special. Handwritten thank-you notes stand out at events. It's all about human connection, not just branding. Thoughtfulness is more powerful than logos. Always ask: would I keep this myself? If the answer is no, don't give it away. Swag should feel intentional, not like an afterthought. People respect brands that prioritize quality. If it doesn't add value, it's just waste.
The most useful and valuable contribution from my point of view is an updated professional headshot. It won't fill up any landfill, sit on a side table or in the bottom of a bag. Their exceptional headshot will be used immediately and integrated seamlessly. A modern refresh of a LinkedIn profile optimizes the algorithm for their personal brand and company. It's a win-win and I highly recommend! If you need help sourcing the best headshot photographer in your area, happy to help.
The dos: Do choose swag that fits your audience and/or the event. If your audience is mainly office people, tech and desk accessories are always a hit. Do select customized items that everyone can use such as tote bags, luggage tags and lip balm. The don'ts: Do not waste money on swag items that aren't practical, such as items that will sit on a shelf and collect dust. Do not select cheap swag products that are sure to quickly break. Opt for useful, well-made items such as first aid kits or chip clips. How to come up with ideas? Ask around! Discuss ideas with staff, people outside your business and others who have attended similar events in the past. Ask what they preferred or what items would have come in handy. What's working right now? Some of the most popular swag items today are tech items such as chargers and screen cleaners; personal care products such as toothbrushes and nail kits; and apparel items, such as T-shirts and hats. What's not working? Bumper stickers are not hugely popular as swag gifts. How to be sure your swag is meaningful and won't get trashed? Survey people whose opinions you trust for honest advice on what to select for swag. Talk to organizers of similar events to see what swag usually gets left behind. How do you decide when swag isn't needed and what do you spend on instead? You have to know your audience to determine whether swag is essential for your event. If you're not sure, try something small and less expensive. If you feel your audience isn't going to appreciate swag, put your money into signage to direct people where to go. You could also use the money to customize lanyards for everyone including organizers of your event to promote safety and identify VIPs. Shelley Grieshop Shelley@totallypromotional.com
When planning promotional items for events, you want to create swag that people will keep or that is memorable. This can be achieved by using items that are useful, and not just gimmicks. Successful items often have more meaning if they are relevant to the recipients and potentially topical to current events or trends. For example, during the pandemic items such as hand sanitiser bottles on keyrings were extremely popular due to their practical use. If an event is taking place somewhere that has heavy rain, a poncho or umbrella may serve the recipient well. Likewise, if it is a hot country, you may want to consider handheld or USB fans. Reusable items such as aluminium drinks bottles or shopping bags may be kept around for longer, which is more sustainable and also means your branding will be showcased for longer, and you will be front of mind for the customer when they are considering options in the future. Include a QR code on promotional items for people to quickly access your site or details when they want to. Swag may not be necessary if the event has lots of footfall and the items may not go to the most targeted of audience - in this case, the money spent on physical items may be better spent on digital offerings such as free downloads, or even as part of a discount code strategy.
The best event swag right now is practical, high-quality, and sustainable. Cheap, generic giveaways end up in the trash, so I always focus on items people will actually use. Branded tote bags, reusable water bottles, and tech accessories like portable chargers or cable organizers are always a hit. What's not working? Plastic trinkets and paper handouts--nobody wants more clutter. Coming up with great swag ideas starts with understanding the audience. If it's a corporate event, sleek notebooks or high-end pens make sense. For a younger crowd, limited-edition merch or digital perks like exclusive content or discount codes work better. The key is making swag feel exclusive and useful. If swag isn't necessary, I'd rather put the budget into an experience--better catering, interactive booths, or a giveaway that offers real value, like a free service trial. People remember experiences far more than other branded keychains. Swag should enhance an event, not be a wasteful afterthought. Thoughtful, well-designed items create brand loyalty, while junk just leaves a bad impression.
Event swag should always serve a purpose beyond just handing out branded trinkets. What works best right now are items directly tied to an experience that attendees can use during or after the event. Think reusable water bottles at outdoor events, tech accessories at conferences, or even QR-enabled items that link to exclusive content or offers online. What's not working are generic throwaways like cheap pens, stress balls, or paper notepads that end up in the trash within hours. At Zima Media, we encourage clients to use swag to bridge offline and online engagement, like incorporating QR codes that lead to a sweepstakes entry, exclusive discounts, or valuable content. This helps extend the brand interaction beyond the event while feeding remarketing audiences for future campaigns. Sometimes, skipping swag entirely and reallocating that budget to personalized follow-ups or post-event digital experiences leaves a stronger impression than any logoed keychain ever could.h
Trendy swag doesn't mean useful swag. Too many events hand out cheap plastic items that end up in the trash before attendees even leave. What works? High-quality, practical items--think branded water bottles, tote bags, or tech accessories people actually use. One event I worked on swapped out standard brochures for QR-coded keychains that linked to exclusive video content. Engagement shot up, and waste dropped. Skip swag when it doesn't add value. If the budget is tight, invest in better experiences instead. A free coffee station, a phone charging lounge, or an interactive booth leaves a bigger impression than another branded pen. Video content can also replace wasteful giveaways--short, engaging clips sent post-event keep the brand top of mind without cluttering up luggage.
As the co-founder and CEO of Mercha.com.au, my role involves curating eco-conscious and sustainable merchandise for businesses, understanding both the value of branding and the nuances of sustainability. Right now, the key is to align swag with the values and lifestyle of the recipients while ensuring it's something they'll actually use. For instance, our Employee Appreciation Kits, including trendy reusable water bottles or CamelBak coffee cups, have been highly successful because they're practical and eco-friendly, aligning with modern values. It's crucial to remember that quality trumps quantity; a well-designed, durable item that resonates with the recipient's daily life is far more valuable than a plethora of cheap trinkets. Our wellness packs, complete with yoga mats and healthy snacks, have received excellent feedback because they integrate seamlessly into the end user's lifestyle, promoting both wellness and your brand. Determining when to skip swag altogether is essential as well. If the event's main goal is deep engagement or education, investing that budget in improved experiences like workshops or VIP networking breakfasts might be more impactful. Always assess if there's a genuine connection between the swag and the event's objectives to avoid landfill-bound giveaways.
Start with Intent The golden rule is to think beyond the "freebie" mentality--start by asking, "What purpose does this gift serve, and how does it align with our brand's values?" Our team at Marquet Media has seen a growing emphasis on meaningful, practical items that offer real utility rather than ending up in the trash. Think quality over quantity: it's better to invest in a single, well-crafted item--like a beautifully designed, reusable water bottle--than to hand out a bunch of keychains that people toss the next day. Embrace Sustainability Eco-friendly swag is huge right now. Gifting a compostable notebook or a seed-embedded thank-you card can excite attendees while reflecting your brand's commitment to sustainability. The key is offering something that feels both usable and guilt-free. When considering packaging, look for minimal or recyclable materials. If your event theme ties into broader social causes (e.g., carbon offsetting, recycling drives), let your swag echo that narrative--it forges a more memorable connection. Do vs. Don't Do: Prioritize items with everyday appeal. Tech accessories (like wireless chargers), wellness products (like natural candles), or local artisanal goodies often stand out. Don't: Default to cheaply made trinkets--there's a good chance they'll go from booth to landfill in record time, tarnishing your brand. Knowing When Swag Isn't Necessary Sometimes, the best move is to skip physical swag altogether. If your budget is tight or your event is virtual, consider immersive digital experiences--like e-gift cards for online courses or curated playlists that align with your brand identity. Another alternative is to donate your would-be swag budget to a relevant nonprofit or local community initiative. Sharing that decision with attendees can build more goodwill than any physical item might have. Getting Creative In brainstorming sessions, we encourage teams to consider the emotional response they want from attendees. Is it a surprise? Gratitude? A sense of calm or well-being? Work backward from that feeling. For instance, if you want attendees to unwind, a mini self-care kit--featuring a small journal, essential oil roller, and relaxation guide--might resonate far more than a random stress ball. By focusing on how you want people to feel, you'll land on swag ideas that are both meaningful and memorable.
VP of Demand Generation & Marketing at Thrive Internet Marketing Agency
Answered a year ago
When choosing an event swag, the focus should be on usefulness, sustainability, and brand alignment. Do opt for items that attendees will actually keep and use--think high-quality tote bags, insulated water bottles, or portable chargers. People love practical swag that integrates into their daily routines. Don't go for cheap plastic trinkets that feel like an afterthought; they often get tossed before the event is even over. As for branding--while logos are fine, subtlety is key. A sleek design with a small, well-placed logo makes an item more appealing.
Modern event professionals are reimagining swag through a sustainability lens, moving beyond disposable trinkets to meaningful, eco-conscious experiences. Our approach centers on creating lasting impact by selecting items that align with event themes and participant values. The most successful strategy involves understanding audience demographics and crafting personalized, functional items. We reduced event waste by 72% by introducing reusable, locally sourced products like seed packets, bamboo utensil sets, and digital experience vouchers. These items not only minimize environmental impact but also create memorable brand connections. Key considerations include prioritizing quality over quantity, choosing items with practical utility, and ensuring alignment with event objectives. Instead of traditional branded merchandise, we've shifted towards experiences--such as sustainability workshops or carbon offset contributions--that provide genuine value and resonate with environmentally conscious attendees.
We've learned that people don't want more generic swag--they want something useful or meaningful. The biggest mistake is choosing cheap, forgettable items that end up in the trash. Before finalizing swag, we always ask: Would we use this? If the answer is no, it's not worth giving out. Right now, practical and sustainable swag works best. High-quality notebooks, reusable water bottles, or even digital perks like exclusive content or discounts get the best response. Customization also makes a difference people appreciate something with their name on it rather than just another branded item. When swag isn't necessary, we shift the budget toward something more impactful, like an interactive experience. A premium coffee bar, a phone charging lounge, or even a small charitable donation on behalf of attendees often creates a stronger connection than another tote bag. The goal isn't just to give something away it's to make people feel valued.
When it comes to event swag, the key is to focus on meaningful, sustainable, and useful items that attendees will actually appreciate. The biggest mistake event planners make is defaulting to cheap, mass-produced items that end up in the trash. Instead, the focus should be on high-quality, practical items that align with your audience's interests. A great starting point is to prioritize sustainability, eco-friendly materials, reusable products, and digital options are all popular choices right now. Attendees are far more likely to keep a well-made water bottle, a high-quality tote bag, or a piece of tech like a portable charger than a plastic keychain or stress ball. Swag should also be relevant to the event and its attendees. If it's a health-focused event, providing wellness-related gifts such as mindfulness journals, ergonomic travel pillows, or access to a meditation app can be a smart choice. If your audience is tech-savvy, items like wireless charging pads, screen cleaners, or smart notebooks make a lasting impression. Personalization also makes a difference, custom engraving, tailored gift options, or allowing attendees to choose their swag ensures they actually want what they receive. On the other hand, what's not working anymore is generic, low-quality promotional items that lack practical value. Anything that is difficult to pack, doesn't serve an everyday purpose, or feels overly branded is unlikely to stick around. Branded notepads, stress balls, and cheap pens are examples of items that often go unused. Instead of forcing swag, consider whether your budget is better spent elsewhere. If a thoughtful, high-quality item isn't feasible, it may be better to invest in an engaging experience, better catering, or even a charitable donation in attendees' names. In the end, the best swag is something useful, memorable, and aligned with the values of both your event and your audience.
Audience & Season You need to stand out and catch the attention of the event-goers. Consider the type of crowd and the season. For big conferences, cellphone chargers or cases might be ideal. For outdoor festivals, branded reusable bottles will hit the mark. Use your brand colors and taglines and think of fun activities to engage them, such as letting them design their own shirt using pre-selected artwork. Don't use common items, and if you do, brand them to set them apart from others. Don't forget to add contact information. For example, putting your social media handles on the promo merchandise. You need to have a solid plan rather than simply winging it. Prepare in advance and order enough items. If done right, event swags can help you truly create an impact by providing the buyer with a memorable experience. If you do not have enough time to plan or are low on budget, you can go for alternatives, such as providing snacks. Small treats like brownies can really make a difference and attract potential customers.
The trend in event swag has shifted significantly towards sustainability and personal relevance. Gone are the days when attendees were bombarded with generic trinkets. Instead, modern event planners and marketing managers are opting for items that are either highly useful or emanate a personal touch. For example, high-quality reusable water bottles or tech accessories like USB hubs are currently well-received because they offer convenience and longevity. It's also becoming popular to include items that enhance the event experience such as branded sunscreen for outdoor events or a custom event notebook. To ensure the swag doesn't end up as waste, it's critical to understand your audience and tailor your gifts to their interests and needs. If you're uncertain whether swag is necessary, consider your event's objective and theme. For instance, for purely virtual events, it may be more impactful to redirect the swag budget into enhancing the digital platform or investing in interactive elements that engage attendees. Alternatively, funds could be used for high-quality, speaker gifts or donations to a cause that resonates with the event's purpose, adding a memorable and meaningful layer to the experience. In conclusion, successful swag is all about thoughtful personalization and practicality, ensuring the items are both cherished and utilized long after the event has ended.
A few years ago, I walked out of a marketing conference with a tote bag full of swag--cheap pens, flimsy notebooks, and a stress ball. By the time I got to my hotel, most of it was in the trash. That moment stuck with me. If brands are investing so much in swag, why do most giveaways feel meaningless? The Do's of Event Swag Make it useful - People keep items they actually use. Reusable water bottles, wireless chargers, and high-quality tote bags last beyond the event. In eCommerce, a brand offering sustainable packaging samples or exclusive discount codes adds more value than a generic trinket. Go digital - Sometimes, the best swag isn't physical. A free trial, a VIP discount, or early access to a product can create long-term engagement. A DTC brand offering early access to a new product launch builds excitement without waste. Sustainability matters - Eco-friendly swag is no longer optional. A subscription box company I worked with replaced plastic keychains with plantable seed paper--a small touch that aligned with their brand's sustainability mission. The Don'ts of Event Swag Avoid cheap, throwaway items - If it won't last beyond the event, it's a waste. No one needs another stress ball. Don't overlook convenience - If it's bulky or hard to carry, it won't make it home. A sleek tech accessory beats an oversized swag box. Generic doesn't work - Personalization makes a difference. Allowing attendees to choose from a few curated options increases the likelihood they'll actually use the item. When Swag Isn't Necessary Sometimes, the budget is better spent elsewhere. Investing in premium event experiences, better networking opportunities, or exclusive access to educational content can leave a stronger impression than another branded notebook.
Running ShipTheDeal taught me that the most effective swag items are those that solve real problems - like our branded phone stands that double as card holders, which people still mention years later. When we experimented with digital gift cards for popular eCommerce stores last year, the redemption rates were significantly higher than traditional swag bags, showing people value choice and flexibility. I always ask myself 'Will this item be on their desk in 6 months?' before approving any swag purchase - if the answer is no, we redirect that budget toward enhancing the event experience itself.
Event swag can be a real hit or miss. I've seen some amazing ideas that leave a lasting impression, and others that, well, end up in the trash. For me, the key is to make it sustainable and useful. I love when events give out eco-friendly items like recycled tote bags or reusable water bottles. Not only do they reduce waste, but they also promote the brand's commitment to the environment. Plus, who doesn't need another tote bag for grocery shopping? I've also noticed that swag that aligns with the brand's identity and message really resonates. Custom notebooks or apparel with the event theme are always a winner. It's like wearing a badge of honor, showing off where you've been and what you're passionate about. On the flip side, I've seen way too many cheap trinkets that are just, well, forgettable. Plastic keychains and the like often end up in landfills, which defeats the whole purpose of swag in the first place. And honestly, too much swag can be overwhelming. Focus on quality over quantity, and you'll be golden. When it comes to coming up with swag ideas, knowing your audience is crucial. For tech events, USB drives with event materials are super practical. And staying trendy doesn't hurt either. Right now, sustainable and practical items are all the rage. Sometimes, though, swag just isn't necessary. I've seen events where the focus is on creating memorable experiences, like interactive sessions or networking opportunities that leave a much bigger impact than any piece of swag. In those cases, I'd rather see the budget go towards enhancing the event itself.
It all comes back to being practical, and making sure what we gift matches with our audience's lifestyle and values. As one example, at a recent wellness conference we gave away high-quality, eco-friendly water bottles with built-in infusers, reinforcing our dedication to health as a top priority while also giving recipients something they'll use on a daily basis. And we've discovered that tech accessories, ergonomic office furniture and wellness-fueled products such as resistance bands or mindfulness journals resonate particularly well since these items are utilized in the remote or hybrid work spaces where many of our customers work. Any single-use item or any low-quality product is an easy way to end up in a landfill contrary to our mission of sustainable and wellness-enhancing living. Rather than handing out cheap tchotchkes, we build durable swag that's reflective of our brand's premium promise. There are also times when swag is the last thing you need -- such as when the event is more focused on getting things done from an educational or professional standpoint. When that is the case, we spend most of our spend on creating memorable experiences (hosting a wellness workshop or giving exclusive discounts on our products). Not only does this save money but it creates a stronger bond with our listeners. At the end of the day, we want to provide something that serves a purpose and is complementary to our values that also allows for a positive, lasting impression -- and not adding to run-off and waste.