33 Conference Swag Ideas That’ll Inspire Attendees and Steal the Show

If all you can imagine when thinking of conference swag are pens and notepads, think again. The conference world has changed, and so have event attendees. Participants are looking for more than just useless freebies from brands. Your company needs to use these events as an opportunity to connect with your target audience and leave a lasting impression. 

So, what makes the perfect conference swag, then? Whether your company is participating in or hosting an in-person conference or a virtual event, the best conference swag ideas are useful, original, and share-worthy.

Remember, giving away generic free stuff won’t help your branding efforts, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend much to impress. Instead, focus on creativity when it comes to branded items that your audience will treasure. 

In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of some clever swag gifts to inspire you. The best part? You can design and order them online, all in one place, and we’ll show you how to do it with print-on-demand services.

If you’re ready to step up your swag game and provide meaningful items that will build genuine connections with your attendees, let’s get started.

Why good conference swag matters

Conference swag is a tangible representation of your brand. Obviously, you don’t want it to be boring or look cheap. But more than that, it’s an important marketing tool you can smartly use to build connections and generate engagement. Here are 5 reasons for event organizers to dedicate some time to creating the best conference swag ideas for the next conference:

Brand visibility

Having people use or wear your swag during a conference or a trade show (and after) means they’re walking ads for your company. It’s equivalent to brand ambassadors spreading awareness about your business.

Memorability

Well-designed, quality gift bags have the potential to create a great first impression that lasts. Swag that’s used over and over again will bring up positive memories of the conference (and of your brand) long after the event.

Engagement and interaction

A swag gift can be used as an interactive tool to engage attendees and build connections. Unique and interesting items will initiate conversations at the conference table, generate buzz, and foster a sense of community.

Differentiation

Differentiating your brand from the competition and making a memorable impact can be challenging, with so many exhibitors and sponsors trying to catch the attention of attendees. However, the best conference swag presents an opportunity to stand out from the crowd. To do just that, choose trending products and invest in original designs that capture the essence of your brand.

Relationship building

We all know how important it is to strengthen relationships with new and existing customers and partners. Company swag helps build trust and brand loyalty. Of course, it takes much more than corporate gifting to do so, but a token of appreciation is always a valuable asset.

Extended reach

Beyond the convention itself, amazing conference swag can potentially extend your brand’s reach online. Make conference gifts so great that people will be proud to share them on social media, exposing your brand to a wider audience.

Positive brand perception

How do you want your brand to be perceived? Creative? Fun? Trustworthy? Eco-friendly? Answering this question will also help you find the best swag idea for your event—something that showcases your brand’s values and positively impacts your company.

Now that you see everything premium swag can do for your brand, let’s dive into some awesome conference gift ideas to build unforgettable swag bags.

Traditional conference swag

A classic is a classic for a reason. It works! But traditional event swag doesn’t need to be boring. You can put your own twist on these items by adding a design that translates your brand’s identity and connects it to your attendees. Here are some cool examples to help you spice your event swag up:

1. T-shirts

T-shirts are one of the top conference giveaway items. Why? They’re easy to use and versatile. To make your company shirts memorable conference swag items, invest in high-quality materials and visually appealing designs to leave a lasting impression.

A well-designed t-shirt with a clever quote or interesting artwork is more likely to be worn and associated with positive feelings about your brand than just any old boring tee.

Source: Hubspot

2. Hoodies

A streetwear staple that’s popular with almost everyone, hoodies just scream cool. These stylish pieces provide warmth and coziness, making them totally wearable—and your brand totally visible. This branded apparel can be worn during corporate events, on business trips, or in the recipient’s daily lives, amplifying your brand’s exposure.

Source: Instagram @wework

3. Sweatshirts

Just like hoodies, sweatshirts are among the top branded apparel choices in conferences to boost brand recognition. They’re also amazing tools to lift team spirit during a corporate event.

Source: Instagram @bumblehoney

4. Notebooks

Technology may have evolved to the point we don’t need to take physical notes anymore. Still, it’s scientifically proven that writing out information by hand helps the brain retain information much more effectively. It reinforces the natural learning process! Plus, many of us still love a good old pen and paper. Make sure the recipients are on board with that if you add hardcover or spiral notebooks to your conference swag gift set.

Source: Pinterest

5. Water Bottles

Custom reusable water bottles are essential conference swag items for attendees and speakers alike. The stainless steel version is more durable than the simple plastic bottle. And it’s perfect for keeping beverages hot or cold for longer periods.

Source: Instagram @careof

6. Pins

Ever wonder what makes pins so popular as conference swag items? Whether it’s their collectible nature, customization options, longevity, or portability, the truth is that they do help promote your brand without breaking the bank.

Fight the urge to just slap your company logo on it, and take time to craft thoughtfully designed pins. They’ll have more of a chance of elevating your brand’s visibility. Use your color scheme or relevant icons that speak to both your brand and the event’s theme.

Source: Instagram @smithhousephoto

7. Mugs

Everyone has a favorite mug. Wouldn’t it be great if you included this piece in the corporate gifting? Ceramic, enamel, or travel style, think about how you can make your brand mugs unique. Maybe use a catchy phrase that’ll motivate people to start their day with good vibes—and remember your brand.

Source: Instagram @wework

8. Posters

Conference attendees often leave the event feeling energized and full of fresh insights. How can you prolong that feeling? Include motivational posters among your swag items.

Need some inspiration? Take a look at StartUp Vitamins, a Latvian company that specializes in posters with motivational content tailored for entrepreneurs. Swag posters created in a similar vein can serve as uplifting reminders long after the conference ends.

Source: StartUp Vitamins 

Creative conference swag

Wanna go that extra mile to make your event attendees remember your company? Maybe it’s time to think outside the swag box and pick original items that’ll make an impact during your next conference or trade show. Find conference swag ideas with an original flair below.

9. Stickers

Let’s kick off this list of creative swag with some of the hottest branded products at the moment: stickers. Cost-effective and easy to distribute, they’re typically made from either paper or vinyl, and aren’t as common as other conference goodies. Attendees will love something different, especially if it’s a fun and unique design.

Source: Instagram @trelloapp

10. Stress balls

Conferences can get intense and even stressful at times. Why not think ahead and offer a fun, helpful solution with a company logo? A stress ball will remind your potential guests that whenever there’s a fierce situation, you’ve got their back, or in this case, their palm.

 Source: Etsy

11. Duffle bags

What if instead of swag bags, you offer duffle bags? It’s the perfect swag item for out-of-town conferences, for example. Make yours stand out with amazing artwork, like this one by art teacher Joshua Kirkham.

Source: Instagram @paintwithjoshk

12. Fanny packs

Since making a comeback in 2021, fanny packs have become a stylish accessory for everyone from artists to social media influencers. And they’re bound to be a hit with your conference or trade show attendees too!

Source: Printful

13. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are fashionable, functional, and one of the most trending products worldwide. Sunglasses will provide eye protection during outdoor conferences, helping attendees be comfortable and in style. As a bonus, your brand can continue to gain visibility during summer vacation.

Source: Etsy

14. Tumblers

Think of tumblers as the funky cousin to mugs and water bottles. Tumblers are super practical, suitable for hot and cold beverages, and offer a large customizable area for your brand or event logo. 

Source: Printful

15. Glasses

Speaking of creative drinkware, let’s not forget about glasses. Wouldn’t it be great if your brand was invited to the party? Personalize custom drink glasses with your logo or a creative design and cheers!

Source: Printful

16. Postcards

Postcards provide an excellent canvas to make the main message of your conference memorable and aesthetically pleasing. In addition to on-brand designs, add engaging content like event highlights, key takeaways, or QR codes that link to exclusive media as a way of enhancing each attendee’s experience.

Source: Creative Heart Conference

17. Towels

You may be thinking: towels, really? Well why not? Depending on your brand’s niche, or the conference theme/location, this could be an awesome pick for attendees that’ll easily be used again and again for summer pool days. Including additional items like relevant beverages and/or sunscreen to your swag bag will add that extra touch of fun.

Source: Instagram @lacroixwater

18. Hand sanitizer

Speaking of unusual conference swag ideas, hand sanitizer is definitely up there compared to traditional conference gifts. It’s a cute way to remind event attendees that keeping their hands clean is always a good idea. Especially when it comes to in-person conferences and trade shows, this could be one of the more handy gift ideas. Bonus—it’s easy to carry around!

Source: Etsy

19. Candy and snacks

Who doesn’t like candy or a snack at some point between all the meetings? We all know how important a quick bite can be to stay focused till lunch. Then why not take a commonly beloved type of snack and brand it as one of your conference swag giveaways? You know what they say—love goes through the stomach!

Source: Etsy

20. Backpacks

Backpacks are a personal favorite as conference swag. They’re so functional! Conference attendees can use these to carry their laptops, notebooks, and personal belongings while giving your brand the exposure you deserve. 

Personalize custom backpacks with your logo or be bold and try an all-over print design that’s in line with your branding.

Source: Instagram @nerdwallet

Tech conference swag

Another category that certainly deserves its own section is tech swag. From local gatherings to international conferences, tech swag can be useful for all kinds of events: workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities, exhibitions, etc. Let’s check out some interesting suggestions to get your gears going.

21. Laptop cases

Giving out custom laptop cases elevates the professionalism of your swag and offers recipients a practical item they’ll use all the time. It also shows your careful consideration in choosing swag items that match the tech-savvy lifestyle of most attendees nowadays.

Source: Printful

22. Mouse pads

Good conference swag ideas don’t need to be expensive. Add an elegant, fun, or smart design to a mouse pad and it’s a great swag item for anyone who relies on a computer for work (i.e. lots of people). Presented as a solo item or in a complete swag box, it’s a functional item that attendees will appreciate. 
 

Source: Printful

23. Earphone cases

Earphone cases are a rare swag idea that will definitely stand out. Although there isn’t much space for personalization, you can still make an impression with your logo or some small creative designs. 

It also goes well with other items. Just take a look at the example below from Optinmonster.

Source: Gemnotes

Eco-friendly conference swag

When we talk about eco-friendly conference swag, we mean giving out items that have a reduced impact on the environment. Choosing more sustainable items will show your company’s commitment to the planet and responsible gifting.

24. Tote bags

Tote bags are resistant and can be used over and over, reducing the use of plastic bags and enhancing your brand awareness at the same time. Extra points if they’re made of organic cotton.

Source: Instagram @crosspass 

25. Eco hats

Offering eco hats to your conference attendees is a simple way to broaden your brand recognition. This style from Printful is made of 100% organic cotton and you can personalize it with an embroidered design that’ll turn heads.

Source: Printful

26. Organic beanie

Beanies also make excellent practical swag items. Not only do they provide warmth and comfort but Printful’s ribbed beanies made from 100% organic cotton will appeal to eco-conscious attendees.

Source: Printful

27. Eco sweatshirts

Sweatshirts are a classic choice for conference swag. You can raise their appeal by opting for an eco-friendly version crafted from 100% organic cotton. This sustainable choice is sure to be a hit with conference attendees. Here is some design inspo from The Sill.

Source: Instagram @thesill

28. Organic drawstring bags

Organic cotton drawstring bags offer a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to traditional tote bags. These bags are perfect for carrying notes and personal items during the event but also serve as versatile and sustainable accessories long after the conference is over.

Source: Printful 

Virtual conference swag

Virtual conferences have become more frequent in recent years. So why not think about giving out some swag items that relate to the comfort of enjoying conference events from home? In this section, we’ll explore some swag ideas for your next virtual event.

29. Pillows

Your brand can enhance the conference experience by offering branded pillows and pillow cases, infusing a sense of coziness into the virtual setting. 

Participants can sit back, relax, and fully immerse themselves in the event with the added comfort your swag provides.

Source: Instagram @united

30. Blankets

Same goes for blankets. Consider providing snuggly blankets to attendees and ensuring a warm and unforgettable experience from your brand at the next online conference. 

Source: Unhide 

31. Socks

Remember when you hated to receive socks as gifts as a kid? Those days are gone. Nowadays, creative socks are a delight, especially on cold days. These accessories are useful swag items for virtual event attendees, potential customers, and in-house or remote employees. And they’ll be able to use your branded socks over and over again.

Source: Instagram @fullstoryhq

32. Power banks

Nowadays, conferences have no physical boundaries. Attendees can connect from nearly anywhere on the planet. That’s why there might be more situations in which an extra energy source is needed. A power bank is the perfect companion for anyone who’s on the move yet needs to stay connected at all times.

Source: Pinterest

33. Wireless chargers

Speaking of energy, another option for your next conference swag giveaway is a wireless charger. Available in many different styles, it’s a modern and useful item. Easy to carry around and use, a wireless charger makes a great gift for your virtual conference attendees. 

Source: Etsy

The easiest way to make conference swag online

Ordering merch for large groups can be time-consuming. There are so many details involved that it’s easy to make mistakes with shipping, sizes, or color preferences. If you’d like to make creating swag easier, check out Printful’s MerchShare service.

It works like this: you design a product online, save the product template, and share the link with your conference attendees. Then, they can order the product (size, color, etc.) for themselves. All you have to do is confirm the orders and pay for them through your Printful account. It’s that easy.

Create conference swag people will actually like

You may be wondering how to pick the best conference swag option for your event. To help you decide, here are some questions you can consider:

• Who’s your audience? Which promotional products would they use/wear?

• Where will the conference take place? Will it be an in-person or a virtual event?

• What time of the year will the event happen? Seasonal swag items can be a suitable option.

• What’s the potential event ROI? Is it worth it to make a lot of small items, or should you go for one big item with a higher value?

• Do you have room for storage? If not, opt for smaller swag items or use Printful’s MerchShare service to send them straight to your attendees.

Once you know which items you want, think about the design. Swag products featuring attractive artwork are more likely to be liked and used than those with company logos alone.

Lastly, always keep in mind that your conference swag will be a representation of your brand, so don’t underestimate the importance of quality. Instead of buying cheap stuff of lower quality, choose a provider that will deliver quality branded items you’ll be proud of.

Read next:

• Team-Building Gifts: The Ultimate Catalyst for Office Chemistry
• How to Order Merch for a Group with Printful: From Design to Delivery