Swag bags are branded goodie bags filled with promotional items, given out at events to leave a lasting impression. Done right, they build brand recognition, add value to the attendee experience, and spark conversations long after the event ends.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 15 of our favorite swag bag ideas to help you create giveaways people actually want to keep. But before we dive into the list, let’s start with the basics: what does “swag bag” mean?
So, What is a Swag Bag?
At its core, a swag bag is a collection of branded giveaways, including practical, fun, or memorable items that promote your business. They’re typically handed out at conferences, trade shows, or company events.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Swag is an acronym for “Stuff We All Get.”
- It refers to promotional products used to boost brand awareness.
- A swag bag bundles these items together to create a thoughtful, on-brand gift for attendees.
Whether it’s a tote full of tech accessories or a few hand-picked goodies that reflect your brand’s personality, the goal is simple: leave a lasting, positive impression.
Why Swag Bags Work for Your Business
Swag bags are one of the smartest tools in your marketing toolbox. When done right, they get used, remembered, and even talked about.
Here are a few reasons why businesses include swag bags in their promotional marketing strategy:
- Stronger Brand Recall: 85% of people remember the brand after receiving a free promotional product [1].
- Boosted Customer Loyalty: 83% of customers say they feel more loyal to a brand after receiving branded swag [2].
- Trade Show Advantage: 75% of attendees are more likely to buy from a company that gave them a promotional item than one that didn’t [3].
- Brand Discovery: 27% of consumers say they would look up a new brand after receiving a promo product from them [4].
So if you’ve ever wondered what a swag bag is really good for, this is it. Thoughtful, useful swag keeps your brand top of mind long after the event ends.
15 Swag Bag Ideas For Your Next Event
Swag bags (kind of like the adult version of those goodie bags you got at birthday parties) are packed with branded items meant to surprise, delight, and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re putting together bags for a trade show, team retreat, or customer giveaway, the right products make all the difference.
1. Branded Tote Bags
Tote bags are the actual bag your swag comes in, and one of the most useful. Reusable, eco-friendly, and highly visible, branded totes are perfect for trade shows, onboarding kits, or outdoor events.
Top Pick: Promotional Non-Woven Tote Bag
Lightweight and water-resistant, this 15″ x 16″ tote is made from eco-friendly polypropylene. It’s a smart, reusable option for events or everyday use.
2. Chargers and Power Banks
Tech accessories are always a hit, especially at events where phones are constantly in use and outlets are hard to find. A compact power bank is practical, high perceived value, and is something attendees will actually keep and use.
Top Pick: UL Listed 5,000 mAh Power Bank with Multi-Cables
This slim, TSA-friendly charger features fast 10W charging and multiple output tips to work with most devices. UL certified for safety and ready to go wherever your audience does.
3. Branded Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles are a crowd favorite for fitness expos, eco-conscious events, and corporate giveaways. They’re practical, easy to pack, and used daily, which makes them a smart swag bag staple.
Top Pick: Brooke rPET Bottle with Easy Carry Handle – 20 oz.
Made from recycled PET, this lightweight bottle includes a spill-resistant lid and a carry handle for on-the-go convenience.
4. Promotional Pens
Branded pens are one of the most cost-effective and reliable swag bag staples. Whether used at work, school, or home, they offer everyday functionality and subtle brand visibility. They’re perfect for events where you need to give out something useful without breaking the budget.
Top Pick: Dart Promotional Pen
Features smooth ink, a comfortable grip, and 20+ color combos. Easy to customize and made for everyday writing.
5. Custom USB Drives
USB drives are a smart pick for tech conferences, training sessions, and educational events. They’re practical and offer lasting value, especially when preloaded with helpful materials like presentations, brochures, or onboarding docs.
Top Pick: Swivel USB Flash Drive
Compact and reliable, this flash drive features a swivel cover, multiple color options, and is compatible with most standard devices.
6. Branded T-Shirts
Apparel is always a crowd-pleaser. Branded t-shirts are wearable, useful, and turn every recipient into a walking advertisement for your brand. They’re especially popular for team events, charity runs, and company giveaways.
Top Pick: Nike rLegend Tee (Men’s)
Lightweight and moisture-wicking, this performance tee is designed for comfort and movement. A women’s fit is also available for easy team matching.
7. Sunglasses
Branded sunglasses are fun, affordable, and perfect for outdoor events, festivals, and summer giveaways. They add personality to your swag bag and give your brand visibility whenever the sun’s out.
Top Pick: Youth Rubberized Sunglasses
Made of durable polypropylene with UV400 lenses that provide full UVA/UVB protection. Designed for ages 6 and up, but fun for all.
8. Notebooks and Journals
Custom notebooks are one of the most functional swag items out there. They’re perfect for conferences, onboarding kits, or remote teams. Plus, they give your brand a daily presence in workspaces and backpacks.
Top Pick: 5″ x 7″ Journal Notebook
Compact and practical, this journal features a durable polyurethane cover, elastic strap closure, and 80 lined pages. It’s the perfect size for note-taking on the go.
9. Custom Tumblers
Everyone loves drinkware that travels well. Tumblers are valued giveaways that people actually keep and use. They’re great for both hot and cold drinks, making them ideal for everything from daily commutes to outdoor events. Not sure where to start? Check out some of the best tumbler brands we recommend that make an impression.
Top Pick: Sherpa Vacuum Tumbler & Insulator – 11 oz.
This double-duty tumbler keeps drinks hot for 5 hours or cold for 15, and also functions as a can cooler. Compact, versatile, and ready to go wherever your audience does. Wondering if you should go with a travel mug instead?
10. Portable Bluetooth Speakers
Portable speakers are a fun and valuable giveaway that adds energy to any swag bag. Perfect for music festivals, company outings, or even remote employee kits, they combine entertainment with everyday utility.
Top Pick: Xoopar Yo-Yo Wireless Speaker & Selfie Remote
This compact speaker delivers high-def Bluetooth sound and features a built-in selfie button, LED light, and silicone strap for easy carrying.
11. Phone Grips
With phones in hand 24/7, branded grips are a smart and highly visible swag option. They make devices easier to hold and double as stands, perfect for everyday use. If you’re deciding between styles, check out our guide on what a PopSocket is and why it’s still a top pick for branded phone accessories.
Top Pick: Gadget Grip Phone Stand & Cord Wrap
Made from soft silicone, this multitasker works as a phone stand and cord organizer, and it sticks to almost any device.
12. Hats and Hair Ties
Branded headwear and hair accessories are a great way to add both function and style to your swag bag. From sporty ball caps to stretchy headbands, they’re perfect for outdoor events, fitness promos, or just keeping hair out of the way during busy workdays.
Top Pick: 1/2″ Dye Sublimated Stretchy Elastic Headband
Soft, stretchy, and fully customizable, this headband offers all-day comfort and vibrant, full-color branding.
13. Can Coolers
Can coolers are always a hit, especially at tailgates and outdoor festivals. They’re compact, easy to pack in a swag bag, and give your brand exposure every time someone cracks open a cold one.
Top Pick: 12 oz. 4-In-1 Double Walled Can Cooler
This stainless steel cooler fits standard cans, slim cans, bottles, or can be used as a tumbler. Includes a slide-closure lid for mess-free sipping.
14. Toys and Games
Toys and games are a fun way to bring some personality into your swag bag. Choose from playing cards and dominoes to bubble dispensers and stress balls. They’re perfect for casual events, family-friendly brands, or anywhere you want to lighten the mood and leave a lasting impression.
Top Pick: On-The-Go Dominoes Set
This travel-friendly kit includes 28 dominoes, a gel pen, scorecards, and instructions — all packed in a clear case with a carabiner for easy carrying.
15. Personal Care Products
Items like lip balm and hand sanitizer may be small, but they’re always appreciated. Personal care products are practical, easy to pack, and perfect for wellness-focused brands, healthcare events, or travel-themed giveaways.
Top Pick: Natural Lip Moisturizer in White Tube
Formulated with premium ingredients and SPF protection, this lip balm is available in a variety of flavors — a small but thoughtful add-on to any swag bag.
7 Expert Tips for Building a Swag Bag
With over 30 years of experience in promotional marketing, Pinnacle knows what works. Here’s how to build a swag bag your audience won’t forget:
- Keep It Practical: Choose items people will actually use. Everyday utility means long-term exposure.
- Match the Event Vibe: Consider season, location, and audience demographics to pick appropriate products.
- Keep Your Audience Front of Mind: Think about who’s receiving the bag — their lifestyle, needs, and values.
- Choose 3–5 Quality Items: A few great items go further than a bag stuffed with throwaways.
- Think About Presentation: A well-packed tote or box with thoughtful arrangement adds polish and professionalism.
- Don’t Forget Branding: Make sure your logo is visible, but tastefully applied — no overwhelming graphics.
- Include a Call to Action: Add a business card or QR code linking to your site, promo code, or campaign landing page.
Let’s Build a Better Swag Bag Together!
When recipients walk away with something useful and well presented, they remember you for it. After all, what is a swag bag without thoughtful and well-chosen quality pieces that match your audience?
Swag bags are an extension of your brand, and with a little creativity, they can make a big impact. Pinnacle Knows Promo, and it shows in the way we help you come up with swag bag ideas your audience will love. Let’s build your kit!
References
- SellersCommerce – 13 Promotional Products Statistics Businesses Must Know (2025)
- BR Printers – 2023 Promotional Products Industry Statistics, Trends, & Impact
- BR Printers – 2023 Promotional Products Industry Statistics, Trends, & Impact
- BR Printers – 2023 Promotional Products Industry Statistics, Trends, & Impact
