Promotional Bags

What You Should Consider Before Purchasing Promotional Bags

By Tracy McCaskill

Many companies hand out promotional bags at conferences, trade shows, employee programs, corporate events, fundraisers or training seminars to advertise their company. However, they often place their order without determining what type of customized imprinted promotional bags is best for their particular marketing campaign.

Before you hit the order button, ask yourself the following questions:

1.     Is the bag intended for one-time or long-term use?

2.     Is the bag designed for the outdoors or indoors?

3.     How useful is the bag for a variety of functions & events?

4.     What are the demographics of the recipients?

For example, new parents will be thrilled to receive a customized diaper bag and anyone with a green thumb is sure to appreciate a handy imprinted garden tool bag. Giving careful thought to your promotional bags will ensure you get the most bang for your marketing buck!

Consider Your Fabric Choices

Remember to consider the type and weight of fabric when you order promotional bags. Stronger, water-resistant fabrics are designed for outdoor or long-term use. For example, if you're purchasing promotional backpacks for your outdoor club members or imprinted computer bags for your IT employees, look for bags made of durable 600d polyester that will last much longer. Drawstring backpacks with reinforced stitching will also stand up to the test of time.

On the other hand, a plastic bag, paper bag or one made of a lighter fabric is sufficient for one-time use. These promotional bags are not only lightweight and easy to carry, they will also cost much less.

Try: The free Handy Plastic Grocery Bag ebook contains hundreds of creative uses for recycling plastic bags!

Pay Attention to Plentiful Pockets

Pay close attention to details such as the number of pockets or extra options such as internal compartments or zippered pouches. They can really enhance the value of your promotional bags and ensure their frequent use. Prospective customers will be much more likely to reach for your promotional duffel bag if it contains lots of roomy pockets and handy internal compartments.

Many imprinted brief bags, attaches or messenger bags contain convenient organizers to help individuals store items such as pens, notepads and computer discs. Look for promotional bags that contain exterior side pockets to conveniently store drinkware, cell phones or other accessories.

Try: Read about the brief history of the pocket that we have come to love so much.

Dare To Be Different

Many companies hand out traditional tote bags, so look for unique promotional bags that will make your company stand out from the crowd. Items such as an all-purpose storage case that holds all of your tools or convenient console caddies and a side seat organizer to organize items in your vehicle are great choices. Recipients can place them in their cars, home or workshop where they will be constantly reminded of your company. Promotional hanging amenity kits are also sure to receive frequent use by avid travelers.

Try: To get your creative juices flowing, visit these photos of unique promotional bags that attract attention!

Go Green

Promote your company and help save the environment by ordering promotional bags made of recycled materials. Items such as a 100% recycled deluxe messenger bag, duffel bag, deluxe backpack or urban sling can be used over and over again when traveling, shopping or commuting. Many consumers are specifically looking for environmentally friendly companies who share a commitment to going green!

Try: Discover helpful ideas to make your office more ecologically friendly or visit the Green Ideas Network.

Think Outside the Box

For summer promotional marketing campaigns, order promotional insulated bags and coolers that can be used at barbeques, beach excursions, ball games and outdoor parties. Promotional picnic bags and picnic baskets make great raffle prizes for your next fundraiser. Don't forget to thank each of your employees for their hard work by handing out customized lunch slings at your company picnic!

Try: Review the picnic packing checklist, read about food safety for picnics and discover delicious picnic recipes and menus at Fabulous Foods.

Add extra value to your promotional bags by including smaller promotional items inside
Place your business card in the front pocket of each promotional bag so prospective customers can easily reach you
Spend a little extra money to purchase high-quality, durable fabric bags that are designed to last