Branded university merchandise can ignite school spirit among your college students and become a part of their daily campus life.
To help your university or college store managers make this magic happen, we’ve rounded up the top 15 university merchandise ideas.
This list is based on our clients’ top choices and feedback, so we’re confident you’ll find these suggestions helpful.
Ready to find out what made our list?
Table of Contents
What Is University Merchandise?
What Are The Benefits of University Merch?
How To Choose The Best College Promotional Products
5 Examples of Fabulous College Promotional Items from Famous Institutions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is University Merchandise?
If you’re looking for a way to make your institution a part of your staff and students’ lives, you need university merch.
From the moment college students step on campus to their graduation, university merch offers college students a keepsake from their college days.
University merch can include a variety of items, from wearables like t-shirts, hoodies, and beanies to functional gear like backpacks and water bottles.
For example, during orientation week, you’ll find these items everywhere as they help new university students feel connected right from the start.
At least 40% of consumers have kept hold of a promo product for more than ten years — that’s a decade of brand impressions. (ASI Central)
What Are The Benefits of University Merch?
The right university merchandise can make any student and staff member proud campus ambassadors.
Globally, 85% of people given a promotional item will remember the advertiser who gave it to them. (ASI Central)
Whether through a giveaway at orientation or selling items in the campus store, each product helps deepen connections within the school community.
Here are more benefits university merch offers:
- School advertising: Think of university merchandise as a mobile billboard, but way cooler and more personal. Each hoodie, sticker, or water bottle with the university’s logo turns students into brand ambassadors wherever they go. It’s like each student and staff member is saying, “Hey, look at us, we’re proud to be here!”
- A sense of belonging: There’s nothing like a t-shirt that feels like a warm embrace from your alma mater or a university lanyard that feels like a rite of passage. That’s the power of university merchandise — it weaves a sense of belonging into each item and transforms individual experiences into shared memories.
- Commemorating achievements: From acing exams to winning at the homecoming game, every university milestone is worth celebrating, and guess what makes perfect trophies? Yes, university merchandise. Got a championship game coming up? Custom sweatshirts can make the victory even sweeter. Or maybe it’s graduation — custom notepads or a T-shirt are keepsakes that will remind them of the journey that led to their walk across the stage.
- Building team spirit: There’s something magical about having the entire stand at a football game filled with the school’s colors. Whether it’s a jersey, a baseball cap, a wristband, or a flag, each item is a tool for bringing people together to showcase unity and support. It’s like being part of a bigger family that’s all geared up in university swag.
- Blending fashion and purpose: University merch also allows students to flaunt their college swag alongside the latest trends. A student can decide to pair their university sweatshirt with modern jeans or accessorize a simple dress with a school-branded shawl. Other items like branded laptop sleeves and tumblers also combine practical use with stylish design.
It’s clear that university merchandise is about the stories it tells and the community it builds, more than just the products themselves.
Let’s look at some college swag ideas.
15 Great College Swag Ideas
Choosing the perfect college swag is about striking the right balance between what is cool and what is practical.
Here are some top picks that every student will love to have.
1. Mix Bound JournalBook
Despite having tech tools for almost everything, most people prefer notebooks or a good old-fashioned journal to capture their thoughts or jot down lecture notes.
This is where the mix bound journalbook comes in handy.
This will become a trusty companion for every creative thinker and planner on campus.
Why we recommend it: This journal book is ideal for those “I need to write this down!’ moments. It can serve as a planner, doodle pad, or diary for students. It also has a pen loop and a ribbon bookmark to keep your place.
2. Miller Backpack
Every student needs a trusty backpack that is stylish, strong enough to handle school supplies, and super comfortable.
Enter the Miller Backpack.
Whether you’re running to class or taking a weekend getaway, the Miller backpack is ready for whatever your busy college schedule throws at it.
Why we recommend it: This backpack also makes a great promotional item for college fairs. You can pair it with a branded planner and a flash drive to create a college gift kit.
3. Sona Reusable Water Bottle
Allow your students to stay hydrated in style between classes with the Sona reusable water bottle.
This water bottle is a chic and eco-friendly companion for every campus adventure.
Why we recommend it: This water bottle is made from recycled materials and includes a trendy bamboo lid that will make it a hit among eco-conscious students.
It will become a lifestyle accessory that says, ‘I care about the planet.’
According to the ASI global ad impressions survey, eco-friendly promotional products lead to a more favorable opinion of your company among 42% of recipients.
4. Riley Patterned Cinchpack
Sometimes, your students have days with few lectures or light schedules that don’t require carrying a backpack.
That’s the place for a cinchpack.
Outside the classroom walls, it is ideal for a quick trip to the gym or an impromptu picnic on the quad.
Why we recommend it: It’s lightweight, stylish, and versatile enough to hold student essentials like USB flash drives or their power bank. Plus, its unique patterns make it stand out from plain bags.
5. Monroe Short Sleeve Pocket T-shirt
Looking for a college swag that is comfortable, casual, cool, and ideal for any college wardrobe?
Check out the Monroe short-sleeve pocket t-shirt.
This t-shirt allows your university students to show off their school spirit in comfort and style. It’s ideal for Casual Fridays, gym sessions, or just lounging around the dorm.
Why we recommend it: A soft polyester and cotton blend offers comfort and durability. You can pick from various colors and print your school logo on the pocket for that extra touch of pride.
6. Vacuum-Insulated Mug
This vacuum-insulated mug is a sturdy, insulated mug that is a must-have for the campus.
Insulated mugs are ideal for students who don’t joke around with their morning coffee or daily pick-me-ups during marathon study sessions.
Why we recommend it: The vacuum-insulated mug keeps your coffee hot and your iced tea cold — just what your students need to stay refreshed and focused.
7. Hand Sanitizer with Portable Neoprene Holder
From the classroom to the cafeteria, your health-conscious students can keep germs at bay with this conveniently portable hand sanitizer with a neoprene holder.
It’s a small but must-have healthcare item for busy students who are always on the move.
Why we recommend it: Your students can clip it onto their backpack or tote for easy access and never worry about where to find sanitizer again.
8. Hang-In-There Lanyard
The hang-in-there lanyard is for whenever your students want to keep their keys and ID within easy reach without fumbling around.
It’s a campus staple that helps your students keep important items handy in a stylish way.
Why we recommend it: Besides convenience, this lanyard is a little piece of personalized college gear that’s a visible part of your student’s daily outfits. What’s not to love?
9. Poppy 2-Pack Stainless Straw Set
What better way to encourage your students to skip single-use plastics than with the Poppy stainless straw set?
This set makes it easy for your students to stay green on the go.
Why we recommend it: The set includes a cleaning brush and a travel pouch, which are ideal for environmentally conscious students.
10. Sleek Aluminum Power Bank
During those long campus days, your students can keep their devices charged with this sleek aluminum power bank.
Power banks ensure your students can stick to their tight schedules without running out of battery.
According to ASI Central, power banks still have a place in the tech product category, with a third of consumers owning a promotional power bank.
We recommend it: Its compact design and dual-output feature make it perfect for charging multiple devices, ensuring your students stay connected throughout the day.
11. Customized Athletic Socks
Socks are a favorite when it comes to branded merch as they help your students put their best foot forward.
These customized athletic socks are comfy, cool, and completely customizable — they will surely step up your students’ style game.
Why we recommend them: These socks are a fashion statement that is comfy and breathable and can bring your school colors into the limelight.
12. Swift Earbuds with Mic & Volume Control
Your students will enjoy tuning into their studies or simply chilling out with tunes using the swift earbuds, complete with mic and volume control.
Whether tuning into a lecture or tuning out with some tunes, Swift earbuds will be their go-to for clear sound and convenience.
Why we recommend them: Their excellent sound quality and handy controls make these earbuds perfect for students who need to switch between music and calls on the go.
13. Non-Woven Can Lunch Cooler
The non-woven can lunch cooler works great for keeping snacks fresh and drinks cool.
This is a smart pick for any student for those long days to ensure they stay refreshed while on the move.
Why we recommend it: This cooler is like having a picnic in a bag. It’s spacious enough for a full meal plus snacks and keeps everything at the right temperature until lunchtime.
14. Eco-friendly Hoodie
The eco-friendly hoodie combines comfort with sustainability, making it a must-have for any eco-conscious campus goer.
This hoodie is perfect for chilly mornings or cozy study sessions. Its soft, durable material means it will last through many seasons of wear.
Why we recommend it: Every purchase of this hoodie leads to ten trees being planted, thanks to a partnership with a global reforestation project. Students and staff can contribute positively to the environment simply by choosing smart fashion.
15. Daylight Desk Lamp
The daylight desk lamp will become every student’s new best friend for long study nights or early-morning reading.
This lamp offers three light settings — white, natural, and warm — allowing you to customize your lighting based on the time of day or your study needs.
Why we recommend it: The daylight desk lamp simulates natural sunlight, which can help improve mood, enhance focus, and maintain a healthy sleep cycle.
How To Choose The Best College Promotional Products
Choosing the right promotional products for your college can turn a simple item into a powerful tool for engagement and spirit.
In fact, 72% of people say that a brand’s reputation is reflected in the quality of the promo products they receive.
Here’s how to ensure you’re choosing swag that resonates and endures.
- Know your audience: Start by understanding who you’re designing for. You can engage with your student body through surveys or social media polls to discover what items they would value most in their daily lives.
- Alignment with the university brand: Every promotional item should reflect the university’s mission and instill pride when worn or used. So, ensure that all merchandise aligns with your school’s colors, logos, and ethos.
- Practicality and usefulness: Choose items that your students and staff will actually use. A well-chosen product, like a durable backpack or a versatile water bottle, becomes a daily companion, constantly reminding users of their university connection.
- Quality and durability: Durable goods offer continual usage and are a testament to your university’s commitment to quality. Collaborate with vendors known for their high standards to keep your university’s name associated with excellence.
- Cost: Work out a budget to purchase high-quality items without breaking the bank. Look for vendors who offer competitive prices and discounts on bulk orders to maximize value.
- Marketing and promotion: Use every channel to hype up your new swag, from campus events to social media to university newsletters. Special promotions or limited-time offers can help create buzz and boost sales.
- Sustainability: Opt for items made from sustainable materials and produced under fair labor practices. This will appeal to eco-conscious students and also match broader global values.
With these guidelines in mind, let’s look at some examples that will keep you inspired.
5 Examples of Fabulous College Promotional Items from Famous Institutions
Promotional items are key in building community, boosting school spirit, and maintaining long-term relationships with graduates.
Here are five standout promotional items from renowned universities, each perfectly capturing the essence of their respective institutions:
1. University of British Columbia
The UBC Flex Fit Cap is a stylish and practical choice for sunny days on campus or cheering at a game. The cap features the UBC Thunderbirds emblem boldly embroidered on the front, which turns every wearer into a proud ambassador for the university.
Its stretchable band ensures a comfortable fit for various head sizes, making it inclusive.
This promo cap symbolizes pride and unity among students and alumni and can be proudly worn at sports events and casual outings.
2. University of California, Los Angeles
This Tencel knit tee from UCLA combines silky texture with casual elegance and features the spirited Bruin logo.
This tee, with its variety of sizes and beautiful color palette, ensures that every student can feel like a part of the UCLA family.
3. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto’s tote bag speaks to the eco-friendly ethos many students champion.
The tote bag is made from 100% natural cotton, making it durable, practical, and stylish for easily handling the rigors of daily student life.
4. University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba’s branded beanie combines warmth with college pride.
This beanie is made from 100% acrylic fiber and provides warmth and style, ensuring students can embrace the winter season head-on.
It can serve as a warm, stylish hug from the university to its students that keeps them cozy through the snowy season.
5. University of the Arts London
The UAL custom logo mug makes it ideal for art students and creatives.
The durable, high-quality design with the university’s vibrant logo makes it a favorite for morning coffees and late-night study sessions.
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Over To You!
Now, it’s your turn to elevate your university’s brand with promotional merchandise that will impact your students far beyond campus life.
From practical, everyday items to unique, memorable swag, the right products can advertise, inspire, and unite people — online and offline.
Ready to boost your university’s spirit and visibility?
Contact us today to explore personalized products that students will love and use repeatedly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about branded university merchandise.
What products do college students buy the most?
College students frequently buy items that improve their academic and social lives. Top buys usually include highlighters, journals, pens, laptop backpacks, umbrellas, sticky notes, drawstring bags, and drinkware.
What items do college students need most?
Essential items for college students cover both academic and practical needs. They often require pens and pencils, USB flash drives for data storage, power banks to keep devices charged, desk clocks for time management, and storage bins for organizing their dorm spaces.
What is in a typical college swag bag?
A typical college swag bag is packed with items meant to welcome students and provide them with useful tools for campus life. These bags usually include branded earbuds, lanyards, a reusable water bottle, a tote bag, a portable charger, and a custom pop socket.
What is the most popular college swag?
The most popular college swag items are those that blend functionality with team spirit. This includes branded t-shirts or sweatshirts, hoodies, custom beanies, socks, coffee mugs, backpacks, journals, gadgets, and sports bottles. These items serve practical purposes and also help students express their school pride after uni.
