A trade show giveaway is a free item businesses hand out at events to attract visitors, build connections, and promote their brand.

These giveaways aren’t just cheap little freebies. They’re a simple way to make sure people remember us after the show. When done right, they build goodwill, spread your brand, and even bring customers back later.

Here are 15 good trade show giveaway ideas you should know.

1. Water Bottles / Mugs/ Trumblers

Water bottles are always a crowd favorite. You can choose to print on water bottles, print on mugs, or print on tumblers. Each option is a great way to showcase your brand and leave a lasting impression. These practical items are perfect for daily use and are among the best trade show giveaways for any audience.

If you're unsure how to print, you can check out our earlier guide about how to print on a mug. It shows you simple steps to create your own personalized and professional designs.

2. Tote Bags

If you want corporate gifts both stylish and practical, tote bags are the way to go. At trade shows, attendees can use them to carry giveaways or personal items. This quickly improves their impression of your brand.

Plus, tote bags are reusable and eco-friendly trade show giveaways that are great for daily shopping or outings. Don't forget to add your unique logo to make it stand out. They're also one of the most popular trade show giveaways for their versatility.

3. Power banks

A power bank is a proven trade show giveaway item. It keeps devices charged during busy days of networking and social media sharing, ensuring attendees stay connected. Compact and practical, it's easy to carry and fits into any bag. Add your logo to make it a lasting reminder of your brand.

4. USB Drives

USB drives are practical and classic trade show giveaways, perfect for business professionals. You can add your logo and even preload them with company brochures, product catalogs, or demo videos.

This way, your brand stays visible every time they use it. It's a cool trade show giveaway that's hard to ignore.

Image: HappyToadDesigns-Etsy

5. Stickers

Stickers may seem small, but they pack a big punch. They're affordable, versatile, and easy to distribute. Customers can stick them on notebooks, phone cases, or water bottles. Stickers are also a cheap trade show giveaway with endless design possibilities.

Image: TwigsTags-Etsy

For more details, check out the printing guide about how to print stickers.

6. Luggage Tags

Luggage tags are a trade show swag for frequent travelers. Customize them with a unique design and your logo, and they'll be used every time your customers pack their bags.

Plus, luggage tags get seen in airports, hotels, and train stations, giving your brand free exposure. They're a great trade show giveaway that's both useful and stylish.

7. Coasters

Coasters are a subtle yet practical gift. Perfect for home or office use, they keep your brand visible every time someone enjoys a cup of coffee or tea.

Choose high-quality materials such as leather, wood, or plastic, and add a sleek design to make your brand look premium. Coasters are a practical trade show giveaway that fits seamlessly into daily life.

8. Golf Balls

Golf balls make a good giveaway idea for trade shows, especially for clients who love the sport. Add your logo, and they'll turn heads on the course. They're easy to toss in a bag and will keep your brand in play every time they're teed up.

For more details, check out our previously published article on How to Print on Golf Balls.

9. Pens

Pens are one of the best promotional giveaways. Simple yet practical, they're always in demand for signing contracts, taking notes, or doodling. Choose high-quality materials like metal or eco-friendly options. Add your logo to make your brand stand out.

Image: CraftsByAden | Etsy

10. Notebooks

Like pens, notebooks are another popular trade show giveaway idea. Imagine your customers taking notes or writing down ideas, with your logo on the cover catching their eye every time. They're practical, versatile, and something customers will use every day.

Image: USolivetree | Etsy

11. Keychains

Keychains are practical and inexpensive trade show giveaways. Lightweight and easy to carry, they keep your logo in sight every day. Most keychains are made of acrylic-check out our earlier guide on how to print on acrylic for more details.

12. Frisbees

Frisbees are a unique giveaway for trade show that screams, "This brand is cool!" Lightweight and entertaining, they're perfect for outdoor activities or family gatherings. Add your logo or design to the frisbee, and your brand will stay in their minds after the trade show.

13. Mini Fans

Nothing beats a mini fan at a hot summer trade show. It's small enough to fit in a bag but powerful enough to keep your customers cool. Add your logo, and it becomes a great giveaway for trade shows that customers will appreciate every time they use it.

Image: YingDesignUK-Etsy

14. Wooden Bookmarks

Wooden bookmarks are a unique promotional item that adds a premium touch. Their special material makes them stand out and can be customized with your logo. Every time customers open a book, the wooden texture and your brand will catch their eye.

Using the eufyMake E1 printer, you can easily print high-quality wooden bookmarks with custom designs.

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15. Lip Balm

Lip balm is one of those best promotional products that make people say, "Wow, this brand really cares." Especially in dry seasons, having a lip balm on hand can be a lifesaver.

Add your logo or a warm message to the packaging, and your customers will think of your brand every time they use it. It's a useful trade show giveaway that works for everyone.

Image: myflowerchildco-Etsy

How to Choose the Best Trade Show Giveaway?

The right giveaway can grab attention, promote your brand, and keep it memorable long after the event. Here are some tips:

Prioritize Practicality

Customers prefer items they can use daily, like water bottles, notebooks, or phone stands. Practical trade show giveaways leave a lasting impression.

Match Your Brand

Your giveaway should reflect your brand's values. For example, eco-friendly brands can choose reusable tote bags. Tech brands might prefer USB drives.

Keep It Portable

Small and portable items like water bottles are easy to carry and get noticed by others when used outside. These giveaways not only help customers but also increase your brand exposure wherever they go.

Be Creative

Use unique giveaways like frisbees or mini fans to grab attention. They'll make your brand unforgettable.

Stay Within Budget

Choose affordable trade show giveaways that still represent your brand well. Bulk orders of inexpensive trade show giveaways like stickers or tote bags can maximize your budget.

By following these tips and ideas, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect trade show giveaways. They will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

FAQs

What is the best merchandise for a trade show?

Some of the best merchandise for a trade show includes tote bags, water bottles, and luggage tags. These items are practical and portable. When customers use them outside, your logo gets seen by more people, helping to maximize brand exposure.

Do trade shows giveaways need to be fully customized?

Trade shows giveaways don't need to be fully customized. Adding your logo or trade show theme is often enough to boost brand visibility while keeping costs low. Fully customized items can be reserved for high-value clients or special occasions.

What should I do with leftover trade shows giveaways?

Leftover trade shows giveaways can be used for marketing purposes, such as customer follow-ups, social media giveaways, or employee rewards. This ensures the giveaways continue to add value even after the event.

Do trade shows giveaways need to be creative?

Yes, creative trade shows giveaways are essential to grab attention. Choosing unique items like mini fans or custom golf balls can make your brand stand out and leave a lasting impression.