General Corporate Swag Bags DOs AND DON’Ts

Fatina Malik • December 17, 2022

Are you attending an event for your business? If your answer to that is a resounding ‘yes’, then you should probably start considering some items for your swag bag.

What is a swag bag?

A swag bag (sometimes referred to as “goodie bags” or “giveaway bags) is a complementary assortment of products (often times, promotional products) given to the attendees of an event. Everybody loves free stuff, so start brainstorming on some swag bag ideas.

Whether you’re planning a conference, trade show, meeting, or any other event, complementary products are always appreciated. You’re creating awareness for your brand so that your company will come to mind each time your recipients use their gifts.

Without further ado, here are some corporate swag bag DOs and DON'Ts:

DO: Be Thoughtful

Gifts that are useful for everyday activities are usually appreciated. Giving folks day-to-day items like a nifty mug for their morning coffee or perhaps a nice set of coasters for their home is a rule of thumb.

Travel items are also appreciated, as you can never be too prepared when you hit the road. Your next swag bag can include items such as power banks, water bottles, or maybe some neck pillows for flights. You can actually find these items on LGP Promo and request a quote.

DONT: Add items that aren't suitable for everyone

Almost any product can be used for promotional purposes, however, not all of them are suitable for every occasion. A prime example of said item is alcoholic beverages.

They're not a complete ‘don't’, but they're definitely not suitable for every occasion the way a pen or a mug is. You can put a pen in practically any swag bag—you can't exactly say the same for a bottle of Jack Daniels.

Your swag bag has to be suitable for everyone attending your event because it makes no sense to give out gifts that half of the attendees can't benefit from.

There are several factors that make alcohol a “don't” for general swag bags. Here are a few:

Age
Religion
Personal preference

Alcohol is more suitable for more specific occasions, so you don’t have to count it out. You can gift a customer who’s close to your company a nice bottle of wine with tumblers.

If your company is sponsoring an event like an exclusive party, you could provide branded shot glasses or ice buckets. These items are all available on LGP Promo so, if they’re a “do” for you, consider using them to build some personalized, exclusive swag bags.

DO: Include a bottle of water

It seems simple, but giving guests water at the end of a long event is just what the doctor ordered. Incorporate the brand’s colors and overall theme for the event. LGP Promo has custom label bottles of water so, head to our website and check them out. Your guests will be thankful for the kind gesture.

DONT: Add Chocolates and Candies

With all of the movements gift bags endure, chocolates end up melting, and candies get broken. You especially want to avoid these sweet treats in warm climates. Avoid any form of damage or leakage in your swag bag so that it stays neat and presentable.

You can still have chocolates and candies at the events, it’s just that they just might not be a great option for swag bags.

DO: Add skin products

Skincare products are always a big hit in gift bags because many guests appreciate a good lotion, some sunscreen, or maybe even a face wash.

People love free samples of products they can use for themselves so they’ll appreciate the sentiment. LGP Promo has customizable skin products such as lotions, hand sanitizers, sunscreens, etc., so visit the website and check them out.

DONT: Offer Coupons

Although it looks like a thoughtful gesture, most of these vouchers are discarded along with other things like sample perfumes. You want the products in your swag bag to have lasting impressions—things that people can reuse so that your brand recall increases.

Before you place an order for your next swag bag, keep in mind that the products in your swag bag must be beneficial, relevant, and aligned with your brand. Have a look at our website and start brainstorming ideas.

Our website has a vast selection of cost-effective promotional products suitable for any occasion. Contact us, and we'll help you build your next swag bag.

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