Blog What to Hand Out At Trade Shows (So People Actually Visit Your Stand)

What to Hand Out At Trade Shows (So People Actually Visit Your Stand)

Every trade show up and down the country is filled with stands and booths offering free mugs and pens with brand logos in the hopes you'll remember their company and services. However, working out what to hand out yourself at a show, that will stand out from the rest, can be a challenge (especially if you want people to actually visit your stand!).

Using our years of experience in producing promotional products and merchandise to help get your company name out there, we've come up with 9 unique swag ideas for you to hand out at your next trade show.

What to Hand Out At Trade Shows (So People Actually Visit Your Stand)

9 Unique Swag Ideas to Hand Out at Trade Shows

Freebies and swag are commonplace at almost every trade show stand, but that doesn't mean you can't stand out with the promotional products you choose to give away at your next stand.

Here are our top 9 unique swag ideas to hand out at your next trade show to make sure people actually visit your stand.

1. Branded Tote Bags





Branded tote bags are surprisingly popular promotional giveaways at trade shows because they provide attendees with a practical, reusable item that showcases your company's logo and message.

Yes, we know that every other stand will be offering them, but they're just so handy. Not only do they offer ample space for carrying other swag and informational materials, but they also serve as walking advertisements, increasing your brand's visibility long after the event ends.

Their utility and eco-friendliness make them a firm crowd favourite, ensuring your brand leaves a lasting impression.

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2. Personalised Drinkware



Personalised drinkware, such as water bottles and travel coffee cups, is popular trade show swag because it offers practical use while on the go.

Attendees appreciate these eco-friendly items that can be reused daily, and every sip they take reminds them of your brand. Customised with your logo, these drinkware items not only serve as essential accessories but also as enduring promotional tools, ensuring ongoing brand exposure long after the trade show.

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3. Classic Pens & Notebooks



Branded pens and notebooks are indispensable at trade shows due to their practical utility and appeal. During talks and presentations, visitors can swiftly jot down notes, ideas, and important information, making these items incredibly useful.

Branded with your logo, they serve as constant reminders of your company long after the show's over, ensuring prolonged brand visibility beyond the leads generated at the event.

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4. Eco-Friendly Branded Promotional Items



Eco-friendly branded promotional items attract attention at trade shows by showcasing your company's commitment to sustainability. Potential customers are more likely to visit your booth to obtain these environmentally friendly products, earning their trust and appreciation.

Items such as biodegradable pens, recycled notebooks, and reusable shopping bags highlight your brand's values, making a positive impression and encouraging meaningful engagement with potential clients who value eco-conscious choices.

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5. Branded Caps



Branded caps make excellent trade show swag, particularly in the summer, as they provide immediate utility and protection from the sun. Your potential leads will appreciate the practical gift and wear it throughout the event and beyond.

These caps also serve as effective promotional tools long after the event is over. They prominently display your logo and increase brand awareness as they are worn in various settings.

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6. Stress-Relieving Gadgets



Stress-relieving gadgets are essential trade show swag for anyone who's ever been to one, particularly in stressful corporate industries, as they help attendees manage tension and maintain focus.

Examples include branded stress balls, fidget spinners, and slinkies. These items provide a welcome break amidst busy schedules, fostering a sense of relaxation and well-being. Customised with your logo, they serve as a reminder of your brand's thoughtfulness and care long after the event.

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7. Branded Flash Drives (Bonus if They're Pre-Loaded)



Branded flash drives are excellent trade show giveaway items because they offer practical storage solutions for attendees, ensuring your brand logo is frequently seen.

Pre-loading them with information about your business, such as brochures, catalogues, and contact details, adds significant value. It provides immediate access to your company’s offerings and makes follow-up easier for potential clients.

This combination of utility and instant access creates a lasting impression on recipients.

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8. Audio Gadgets



Our range of audio gadgets can be branded with your logo to create a memorable giveaway item. From wireless headphones to portable speakers, these items are sure to grab attention and leave a lasting impression.

These gadgets can be used as part of a bigger giveaway for people who sign up for your mailing list or other services your business supplies.

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9. Classic Branded Apparel



Branded apparel like t-shirts and hoodies are coveted swag at trade shows because they provide attendees with comfortable, stylish items they can wear repeatedly.

These garments turn attendees into walking advertisements, especially for multiple-day events, ensuring maximum brand exposure well beyond the event.

The high perceived value of apparel also reflects positively on your company, enhancing its image and making a lasting impression on potential clients.

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Why You Need to Stand Out With Trade Show Giveaways

Standing out with your trade show swag is crucial because it directly affects your ability to generate leads and elevate your brand's presence.

Exceptional giveaways can attract more attendees to your booth, providing you with valuable opportunities to engage and convert potential clients and making the show more beneficial. A memorable, high-quality promotional item increases the likelihood of attendees recalling your brand long after the event, ensuring prolonged exposure.

Plus, uniquely branded swag can differentiate your business from competitors, showcasing your creativity and attention to detail.

By investing in standout giveaways, such as big-ticket audio gadget giveaways or quality apparel, you can create a lasting impression, fostering stronger connections and ultimately driving more business opportunities.

Key Takeaways: Give Away Unique Promotional Products to Increase Footfall at Trade Shows

Using freebies to increase footfall at your trade show stand is essential because they attract attendees and encourage interaction. However, the giveaways need to be unique to your business. High-quality, unique giveaways generate interest and curiosity, drawing visitors to your booth.

This increased traffic provides more opportunities to engage with potential clients, showcase your products or services, and ultimately convert leads.

Plan for your next trade show stand with Flashbay's wide variety of branded merchandise.

Shop our full range of promotional products today!

FAQs

How far in advance should I plan my giveaway ideas?

We recommend planning your trade show giveaway and swag ideas as far in advance as possible so you're not stressing at the last minute. However, if you get a last-minute flash of inspiration, the team at Flashbay aim to get your personalised orders sent out to you with a lead time of 5 working days.

Should you have giveaways at trade shows?

Absolutely! Giveaways attract visitors to your booth, increase engagement, and enhance brand visibility. High-quality, unique promotional items leave a lasting impression and help convert leads into clients, making them an essential part of any trade show strategy.

What is the best thing to give away at a trade show?

The best thing to give away at a trade show is a unique, high-quality item that aligns with your brand and provides practical value to attendees, such as personalised drinkware or branded tote bags. These items ensure prolonged brand visibility and leave a lasting impression on potential clients.

How do you stand out at a trade show?

To stand out at a trade show, you need to engage attendees with interactive displays and activities and ensure your booth is visually appealing to attract more visitors. Of course, freebies help, but you need to grab people's attention with your booth first!