Marketing & Branding

All Things Swag Bags

What is a “Swag Bag”?

Some people may remember having gone to a Birthday party as a kid and receiving a fun goodie bag at the end full of treats. For those who have, a swag bag will be very familiar. Filled to the brim with promotional items, a swag bag is that goodie bag at the end of a trade show or event. But that makes you wonder, why is it called a swag bag and not just a goodie bag? Here is why.

Swag is an acronym for “Stuff We All Get.” It typically refers to the products companies hand out when advertising. A theme or promotional strategy will be set as a goal for what the bag will promote and include. People have been giving out Swag bags since the 1700s. While the meaning of it may have changed since that time, its goal has still been the same. To supply a customized bag of goodies or a lavishly designed gift bag full of memorable keepsakes.

Benefits of Swag Bags

A company may ask themselves, “why bother with a swag bag?”. Take a good look around your office desk or house. How many promotional products do you see? Most people have a decent number of branded items like pens, bags, and notepads lying around. Some people even expect there to be swag bags at events, making them more interested in attending. From fundraisers to fun runs, sporting, or company events. Seen in a study from 2016. Most people who receive swag bags will remember the name of the company or event that gave them it.

One may think that more items mean more money, but that is not always the case. You do not have to break the bank to supply people with a gossip-worthy swag bag. Other forms of advertising like radio and television can be costly. Swag bags let you keep to your budget, and just because it’s affordable does not mean the product is cheap!

Picking the Right Swag

You want to be careful when picking out the best promotional products for your bags. Think quality over quantity. It is nice to have multiple items, but cheap is not always the best way to go. The longer the products last, the longer you hold brand visibility amongst your customers. We are aware that everyone’s budget varies, and that you need to stay within your limits. With that in mind, some safe always loved products with including in your bags are.

Drinkware – One of the most kept and reused promotional items is drinkware. Consumers love having a nice water bottle for their car, or a mug for their office desk. Coming in a variety of products, and price ranges. Making sure there is no issue finding the perfect piece of Drinkware to fit your budget.

Tech Accessories – It is likely that just about anywhere you go, people will have or be on a mobile device. Giving out chargers, popsockets, and earbuds is a surefire way to have your brand get noticed.

Be Unique – Finding something uncommon and unique is a great way to stand out against your competitors. Include something people would not expect. It will amplify the lasting impact on your customers.

The Bag – As important as what is inside. The bag is the first thing people will see when receiving their collection of items. The bag should match the theme of your giveaways and have a good space to showcase your brand. Also, you want to make sure it is large enough to fit all the swag!

Extras – You may also want to include informational items like brochures and pamphlets that share insight about your company or event. You can also include things like raffles, coupons, and digital discounts as extra gifts to go along with your products.

Bag Themes

When putting together a swag bag, you want to put into consideration a theme that incorporates all your items. Though not all bags need to have a theme, they can add more value and interest to the consumers’ eyes. Here are some thematic ideas for swag bags.

Classic – An assortment of classic items like T-Shirts, Pens, Hats, Notebooks, in a traditional grocery tote.

Eco-Friendly – Products that are made from recycled materials. (Reusable straws, drinkware, Wheat, and paper products).

Travel Kit – Make sure your customers are ready for the perfect getaway. (Lip Balm. Travel Bag, Sunscreen, Journal).

Starter Kit – Be ready for your grand opening and showcase your logo. (Tumbler, Stickers, magnets, Sweatshirt, in a customized box).

Fun-in-the-sun – A selection of summer products to enjoy a day at the beach. (Beach ball, Towel, Sunglasses, Beach tote).

Warm and cozy – Survive the cold winter nights with a swag bag including Scarves, Mugs, Blankets, and knit hats).

The Techie – Great for tradeshows or tech industries. (Earbuds, phone charger, Flash drive, Mouse Pad).

One Last Tip

Swag bags are a fantastic choice to create brand familiarity and to impress your consumer. But with great swag comes great responsibility! Remember that your swag bag should include items that are useful and relevant to your brand and customers. Make sure that everything comes together as a whole and aligns with your theme. If you need any help picking out the perfect products for your swag bag. We have a team who are happy to assist. Just get in touch and we can help you make the swag bag of your dreams!

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