Swag bags, goodie bags, gift bags—no matter what you want to call them, everyone loves receiving freebies.
How so?
When thoughtfully put together, swag bags make people feel like little kids who’ve just received Christmas presents.
But it’s not easy to create such an amazing gift bag with so many good options available.
Don’t worry; this year, Christmas is coming early for your recipients.
Take a look at this comprehensive list of 22 original gift ideas to learn the trade of crafting amazing swag bags.
Table of Contents
Wellness Items for Thoughtful Gift Bags
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Clothing Swag Bag Ideas
First things first, clothing items and accessories can make great gifts that you can include in thoughtful swag bags as they are easily marketable and can be customized to suit every audience. The more visible a brand is to consumers, the more likely they are to engage with that company.
In fact, around 84% of consumers stated that wearing branded apparel increases awareness, making it a key ingredient to any successful marketing strategy.
Here are some of the most common apparel items you can include in a swag bag:
- Promotional socks
- Sweatshirts and hoodies
- Custom hats
- Jackets and vests
- Knit caps and mittens
- Polo shirts
Now take a look at our selection of adored clothing swag.
T-shirts
We all know what a T-shirt is. But what most business people don’t often realize is that this casual wear item can be both trendy and corporate if you put some extra thought into customizing it.
T-shirts are versatile and affordable items anyone can wear to spread your message. They’re not called a ‘walking billboard’ for nothing!
And since they’re the number one promotional giveaway item, it’s a great option to include in any swag bag.
Author’s Tip: Make sure to pick materials that are comfortable and of high quality to create the perfect office uniform or the best personalized gift.
Worried about sizing?
We know that everyone has their own style and preferences, but that shouldn’t stop you from investing in branded apparel.
This guide will help you deal with any sizing issues.
Pricing: $11–$23
Where to get: SwagDrop
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Ballcaps
Here’s another promotional product that is cost-effective to make—and a very good marketing strategy.
The baseball cap!
Ballcaps are a great swag bag item idea since they don’t require sizing, unlike other apparel. You only need one size, which makes baseball caps rather inexpensive to make.
Plus, since they protect your head from the sun or rain, they’re a practical item that anyone can use.
Author’s Tip: Print your company’s logo on it or think of a more unique design, like your company motto, to bring awareness to your organization’s values.
Pricing: $10
Where to get: SwagDrop
Polo shirts
There’s only one way to describe the polo shirt: smart.
It instantly makes anyone look more professional, so if you want to impress your audience, make sure to include it in your swag bag.
Polo shirts are a combination of the comfort of a shirt and the formality of a polo that you can embroider with your company’s logo and use as a uniform.
Doing so will enhance unity among your staff since wearing the same branded uniform promotes a sense of community, pride, and belonging.
Pricing: $26
Where to get: SwagDrop
Hoodies
Looking for a product that warms your receivers’ bodies and hearts?
You won’t fail with this classic hoodie.
What’s truly great about them is that they’re highly customizable and versatile. Since they’re so many types of custom hoodies, you can choose the best one that suits your audience.
All you need to do is add your company’s logo or motto, or think of a nice design that represents your brand.
Author’s Tip: Be careful to select hoodies made with durable, high-quality fabrics that promote a more eco-friendly lifestyle and keep recipients warm during the chilly season.
Pricing: $38–$93
Where to get: SwagDrop
Vests
At your next event, aim to impress your attendees with a high-end custom vest.
Vests are lightweight apparel items that need to be comfortable enough when worn over a dress shirt or jacket.
Plus, a custom vest decorated with your logo adds style to your corporate portfolio. It helps promote your identity, while also increasing brand awareness with each use.
Author’s Tip: Remember to invest in products made with insulating materials that add an extra layer of warmth when it’s cold outside.
Pricing: $69
Where to get: SwagDrop
Packable jackets
Imagine an employee leaving for the office while it’s sunny but, as the hours pass, it gets colder with each gray cloud.
And they’re only in a T-shirt!
Why not give them an extra layer of protection by offering a personalized packable jacket to have at hand?
Branded jackets come in various designs and styles, so they maintain a professional appearance at all times while also being super light.
It’s also great for employees, clients, or prospects that love to hike, as they can fold it into a small pouch and carry a piece of your brand everywhere they go.
Pricing: $34–$89
Where to get: SwagDrop
Knit cap and mittens combo
Looking for novel ways to promote your business?
Well, prepare for trouble and make it double!
This knit cap and mittens combo is the perfect swag for chilly winter days.
They’ll keep everyone’s hands and heads warm and protected from the harsh wind, while also helping promote your brand through fashionable and elegant embroidery of your company’s logo.
Author’s Tip: Choose knit fabrics that are sustainable to reduce someone’s carbon footprint while keeping their fingers safe from frost.
Pricing: Cap: $8; Mittens: $34
Where to get: SwagDrop
Gadget and Tech Goodie Bags
Branded tech swag balances practicality with that ‘wow’ factor you should aim for when creating your swag bag.
After all, people might want to get their hands on the latest gadgets, such as:
- Power banks
- Earbuds or headphones
- Bluetooth speakers
- HD webcams
- RFID phone wallets
- USB flash drives
- Phone chargers and adapters
If you know someone who might appreciate products like these, then it might be a good idea to include the following tech swag items in your goodie bag.
Wireless earbuds
Imagine the look on your recipient’s face when they see these sleek earbuds in their swag bag.
Earbuds are an excellent idea since they’ll create a positive impression about your brand and will be highly appreciated by any avid music lover.
Not only are they high-quality branded tech items, but recipients will use them to jam to their favorite tunes on any occasion they get.
To top it off, since there are no wires involved, people have more freedom to break some moves or answer calls, which makes earbuds a truly special gift.
Author’s Tip: Make sure to create a design that’s visually appealing and recognizable.
Pricing: $70
Where to get: SwagDrop
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Bluetooth headphones
Similar to the earbuds, headphones are another product that’ll fit nicely into a swag bag.
Branded headphones appeal to all kinds of people as they’re comfortable and versatile.
Since this gadget is available in different styles and designs, try to be creative when branding this product to make it a truly integral part of your recipient’s life.
Be assured that people will use this item throughout the day when commuting, exercising, or just taking a break, successfully spreading your brand’s message.
Pricing: $30
Where to get: SwagDrop
Bluetooth speakers
Bluetooth speakers + wireless chargers = happy recipients.
A compact speaker that produces crystal clear sound and keeps the music playing for over six hours will lighten any party and create a more energetic work environment.
Not only will your prospects be impressed with your commitment to high-quality swag, but it’ll also ensure your recipients are reminded of your company when they listen to their favorite tunes.
Pricing: $40
Where to get: SwagDrop
Power banks
With our hectic schedules, it’s a chore to go back and forth between the office and home just to charge our phones.
To ensure you make a good impression, give recipients a branded power bank.
Power banks have a universal appeal since most people use them on a regular basis to keep their devices up and running at all times, no matter where they are.
What’s more, power banks are very affordable swag that you can include in new employee kits, long-term customer appreciation gift boxes, or event giveaways.
Author’s Tip: Pair the power bank with the aforementioned earbuds or headphones to create a swag bag that’ll leave a lasting impression.
Pricing: $10
Where to get: SwagDrop
RFID phone wallets
Make sure your recipients keep their items secure with an RFID phone wallet.
This handy and practical gadget uses Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to protect personal information from thieves, allowing people to safely store their IDs and cards in one place.
Since they’ll stop fumbling around looking for what they need, recipients will feel less stressed about losing these essential items when commuting or being in crowded places.
Plus, it’s a cost-effective item that’s great for a conference swag bag, as you can make them stylish enough to suit any audience.
Pricing: $3
Where to get: SwagDrop
Office Swag Bag Items
A desk is the center of many people’s lives and a place where we spend most of our time during the day.
Since we look at the same objects daily, it might be time to invest in new items that can improve an office’s ambiance.
Also, with remote working now popular, it’s even more critical to invest in office supplies that get your brand into people’s homes.
Jumpstart your recipient’s creativity with office items such as:
- Branded journals and pens
- Drinkware
- Mouse pads
- Desk lamps
- Personalized coasters
- Photo frames
- Stickers
- Desk organizers
We invite you to take a deeper look at the best products you can include in an office swag bag.
Notebooks and pens
How else can you take notes or brainstorm ideas than with a neat, branded notebook?
While notebooks and pens should be in any office, no one can ever have too many of them.
Whether people work from a home office or a traditional one, notebooks help people process information better and disconnect them from digital devices.
And, since you can customize them with your logo, they’ll serve as a reminder of your brand whenever the recipient writes an innovative idea.
Author’s Tip: To promote more sustainable practices, choose eco-friendly products that send a beautiful message to your recipients.
Pricing: $5–$35
Where to get: SwagDrop
Water bottles
How long can a person survive without water?
The answer is: not that long. Besides, not drinking enough water negatively impacts our health, causing tiredness and headaches.
However, sometimes it’s hard to remember to stay hydrated when we focus on work.
A custom water bottle not only reminds people of your brand, but it also shows people that you care about their health.
You shouldn’t stop at only water bottles, though!
You can use any kind of drinkware to enter people’s homes and increase recognition, such as:
- Stadium cups
- Travel mugs
- Wine tumblers
Branding elements should be kept at a minimum to make them stylish, but visible enough to remain in people’s minds.
Pricing: $5–$55
Where to get: SwagDrop
Coffee mugs
Coffee gives people the boost of motivation and energy they need to stay awake early in the morning.
If you have recipients that are coffee enthusiasts like 49% of USA citizens, then investing in a brand mug might be a good swag bag idea.
A custom coffee mug is one promotional item that has stuck over the years—and it’s clear why.
With over 450 million cups of coffee consumed every day, it’s safe to say that most of your receivers enjoy drinking coffee. Even if they don’t, you should still invest in a mug that’s a beloved office staple.
Plus, a custom mug is affordable and easy to personalize, suitable for many events, such as trade shows or sporting events.
Pricing: $3–$8
Where to get: SwagDrop
Mouse pads
An original way to decorate a desk space is a customized mouse pad.
Mouse pads are a quick and easy strategy for making anyone’s desk more visually interesting and creating a consistent aesthetic throughout the work environment.
And since mouse pads are practical and versatile items, the customization options are endless!
Use your logo and company name, add a fun print, or go crazy with the color scheme to come up with a creative design that’ll motivate your recipients or brighten up their day.
Author’s Tip: For employees and long-term customers, you can print a photo of themselves to make it fun or a year-long calendar to make it more professional.
Pricing: $6
Where to get: SwagDrop
Coasters
One, coasters pair up splendidly with any drinkware product.
Two, they suit any office or home space and are perfect for coffee tables, nightstands, or desks.
Three, they’re cheap!
What else is there to say?
Coasters are excellent ways to raise your company’s profile since employees and customers will see your logo or message every time they pick up their mug to sip on their favorite beverage.
Try to pick more high-quality and expensive coasters made with bamboo or marble to give the gift a one-of-a-kind feeling.
Pricing: $19
Where to get: SwagDrop
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Desk decorations
Lanyards, photo frames, a zen garden—all of these are cool products that spruce up any desk space and add that desired personal touch.
Since there are so many options you can choose from, try to think of useful items that cater to most audiences, such as a desk lamp that protects their eyes from harmful blue light.
Or choose products that calm the person after a long day of work. This can vary from easy-to-manage plants to portable aroma diffusers that promote tranquility and banish stress.
Pricing: $10–$50
Where to get: Contact us to learn more
Wellness Items for Thoughtful Gift Bags
A wellness program is critical for any business that wants to combat burnout and have more engaged workers.
Companies need to find ways to manage the mental and physical health of employees and customers to make them more relaxed and focused throughout the day.
You can do so with wellness promo items such as:
- Hand sanitizer
- Flip flops
- Snack gift boxes
- Bath bombs
- Fitness items
- Candles and plants
- Lip balm
- Tea blends
- Custom blankets
Ensure that your customers and workers feel loved and cared for with the following wellness swag bag ideas.
Candles and plants
What’s a great method to relax at the office and boost your mood?
Try a nice-smelling candle.
Why are candles such a good idea?
Because specific smells of candles can have a soothing effect on the brain, as our mind associates scents with memories and experiences.
As a result, certain scents can trigger different emotions, such as:
- Peppermint for enhancing focus
- Jasmine for positive feelings
- Lavender for alleviating stress
What’s great is that you can promote sustainability by choosing non-toxic candles made with eco-friendly ingredients.
Pricing: $25–$50
Where to get: SwagDrop
Blankets
The reason why we’re so excited about this item is that branded blankets are an amazing way to show appreciation.
Plus, they’re perfect for offices and nice additions to any home.
Remote team members will most likely be the most excited about a blanket they can cozy up with while working, but it’s suitable for any event swag ideas.
You can easily embroider the blankets with your logo, making the employee feel like they’re always surrounded and supported by your company—which is always a nice feeling to have.
Pricing: $27–$90
Where to get: SwagDrop
Yoga mats
Ready to show your recipients how much you care about their well-being?
A yoga mat is perfect for this purpose, as it promotes self-care and is suited for any wellness gift basket.
Aside from encouraging people to be more active, even if they’re not specifically practicing yoga, it’s an item that they can use while camping or going to the gym.
By branding the bag with your logo, you’ll get the desired recognition.
Author’s Tip: Go the extra mile and buy eco-friendly mats made with recycled or vegan materials that don’t easily slip from under you.
Pricing: $25–$47
Where to get: Contact us to learn more
Tea blends
Share positive vibes with your recipients over a relaxing cup of tea.
Offering tea blends in a swag bag is a luxurious and meaningful way to connect with your audience, as tea helps us unwind after a hard day of work.
Plus, it caters to every taste. With all the different blends, you can mix and match fragrant aromas to enchant your recipients’ palates and let them experience different flavors.
Author’s Tip: You can also add practical tea accessories to complete the gift, such as teaspoons, kettles, or tea cups.
Pricing: $15–$80
Where to get: Contact us to learn more
5 Top Gift Bag Ideas
Swag bags have many purposes, varying from employee birthday parties, virtual events, or even holidays to celebrate business milestones.
What you create is only limited by your imagination.
If you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve prepared for you some gift bag ideas everyone will love to have.
New employee onboarding swag bag
When welcoming new employees, it’s important to create a positive first impression.
Since most people are anxious during their first week at a new job, such a kit helps them adjust to the new environment and get introduced to the company culture.
A new employee onboarding swag bag is a package that contains items a new hire needs in the first months at a company, such as:
- Notebooks or notepads
- Mugs or water bottles
- Badge holders or lanyards
- Branded apparel
- Custom hats
Digital nomad swag bag
The digital nomad swag bag is suitable for remote employees or those that work from different locations.
A gift bag like this makes them feel more like real employees rather than random people working at a company in the comfort of their own room.
The digital nomad bag can contain items like:
- Laptop cover
- Power bank
- Wireless chargers
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Succulents or candles
- Drawstring bags
- Sticky notes
- Webcam cover
- Desk organizers
You can also include personalized promotional candy and snacks that will put a smile on your audience’s faces.
Coffee enthusiast swag bag
For those who can’t go on without coffee, you can prepare a swag box filled with all things coffee:
- Mugs
- Branded coasters
- Thermal mugs
- Gourmet beans
- Mug warmers
- Milk frothers
- French press
- Storage containers
You will make any coffee lover’s day by giving them everything they need to store and enjoy coffee.
Swag bag for foodies
You can never go wrong with food!
Many people will appreciate a swag bag filled with yummy snacks, candies, and gourmet food items.
Aside from the food, you can also include accessories such as:
- Cheese boards
- Lunch box
- Safe bowls
- Pizza cutters
- Cookbooks
- Spice jars
- Sauce sets
Show how much you appreciate and know your recipients by choosing a snack box that caters to all tastes.
Author’s Tip: You can also handpick goodies and get the company name printed directly on the packaging.
Eco-friendly swag bag
Last but not least is the eco-friendly swag bag, a chic item that’s perfect for companies that want to promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
You can include many great items:
- Recycled tote bags
- Recycled paper journals
- Stainless steel water bottles
- Reusable straws
- Bamboo or wooden utensils
- Bamboo lunch boxes
By choosing eco-friendly swag, you make recipients feel better about their carbon footprint while also reducing waste.
Build Your Own Swag Bag
Creating the perfect swag bag is an art that needs to be mastered in order to ensure your gifts make the best impression.
Remember to select items that suit your recipients’ needs and interests, and which bring uniqueness into their lives.
If you want to build a custom swag bag that has everything you need to strengthen business relationships, click here to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you have any unanswered questions about swag bags? We’re here to clear your doubts.
Q1. What are some good items to put in a swag bag for an event?
Here are some items you can include in a swag bag suited for an event:
- Travel gear
- Food and snacks
- Branded notebooks
- Promotional T-shirts
- Coffee mugs
- Health products
- Promotional socks
What’s important is to keep these items light, so they don’t take up much space. This way, recipients can easily carry these items around.
Q2. How many items generally go into a swag bag?
Generally speaking, swag bags contain 3 to 5 items.
Q3. Can I send swag bags virtually?
Yes, you can easily send swag bags virtually with SwagDrop.
With our convenient, curated swag packs, you can send your gifts in a speedy but meaningful way. By using our online platform, you create packages that look the part and build brand awareness.
Q4. How much should I spend on each swag bag?
To determine how much to spend on swag bags, you’ll have to think about your swag product budget and set realistic goals. After setting your budget, divide it by the quantity of bags you need to buy.
Q5. Why give swag bags?
Swag bags help:
- Engage with consumers and create a positive interaction between them and the organization
- Promote stronger brand recognition, as each item is customized to raise awareness
Keep customers connected with the brand.
