The Best Promotional Items for Trade Shows: Stand Out with Gifts That People Actually Want

Annie Zhang
Feb 13
5 min read

Updated: Mar 21

Trade shows are a goldmine for networking and brand exposure. But let's face it: it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. So how do you make sure your booth stands out? The answer: promotional items. These little giveaways are more than just freebies; they’re an extension of your brand, a way to leave a lasting impression and keep your business top-of-mind long after the event. So, what are the best promotional items for trade shows? Let’s dive in.

index:

1. What Type of Promotion Takes Place at Trade Shows?

2. What Are the Best Promotional Items to Give Away?

3. How Many Giveaways Should You Order?

4. How Do You Attract Customers to a Trade Show?

Learn more in this article: How to Stand Out at a Trade Show: A Practical Guide

1. What Type of Promotion Takes Place at Trade Shows?

Trade shows are a unique promotional opportunity where businesses can showcase their products, interact with potential clients, and create valuable partnerships. Here’s where the magic happens: you get to put your brand in front of a crowd that’s actively looking for products or services. Promotions at trade shows typically involve:

Brand Awareness: Everyone knows your company now, and that’s half the battle.
Lead Generation: You’re not just giving out pens; you're giving them something they remember when it’s time to buy.
Networking: Building relationships that could lead to long-term partnerships.
Sales Opportunities: The goal isn’t always immediate sales, but definitely keeping that conversation open.

2. What Are the Best Promotional Items to Give Away?

Now that we know the purpose, let’s talk about the items. You want giveaways that are functional, memorable, and aligned with your brand values. Here are a few ideas, including one that’s especially close to my heart—flower gifts!

2.1 Flower Gifts: A Gift That’s Both Beautiful and Sustainable

Okay, I’ll admit, I might be a little biased here (after all, I’m the CEO of Sweetie-Gifts!). But hear me out: preserved flowers are more than just eye-catching; they’re sustainable, long-lasting, and really stand out in a sea of pens and notepads. Plus, you can easily customize these with your company’s logo or message.

People are more conscious than ever about the environment, so offering a green alternative to traditional swag is a great way to connect with customers on a deeper level. A preserved flower gift can remind your potential clients of your brand every time they look at it—and because it lasts so long, it's a constant reminder of the value you provide.

If you're looking for something cost-effective yet elegant, Sweetie-Gifts offers customized flower gifts that are perfect for trade shows. They're stylish, eco-friendly, and—let’s be honest—who doesn't love flowers?

2.2 Tote Bags: Simple but Effective

Every trade show attendee needs a bag to carry their swag. Why not make your tote bag the one they use? A sturdy, beautiful and high-quality tote bag with your logo is a great way to keep your brand visible throughout the event. Plus, people will likely use them long after the show—whether it’s at the grocery store or on a weekend trip. Practical, affordable, and effective.

2.3 Stickers: Small but Mighty

Stickers are simple, fun, and versatile. They’re great for slapping on laptops, water bottles, or notebooks. The best part? They’re budget-friendly and can be easily customized with your logo or a fun design. A sticker might seem small, but it can have a big impact when it’s placed somewhere visible. And let’s face it—who doesn’t like a cool sticker?

2.4 Pens: A Classic, But Don’t Overlook It

A pen might feel basic, but let’s be real—it’s a necessity. Everyone needs a pen, and when it’s branded with your company’s name, it becomes a reminder of your booth every time someone writes something down. It’s not flashy, but it's practical—and it’s often the first thing people grab when they visit your booth.

2.5 Lip Balm & Water Bottles: Small Essentials That Matter

I’ll admit, I love a good lip balm—especially in the dry air of a trade show floor. So why not give your attendees a practical gift that everyone can use? Lip balms are small, easy to carry, and gender-neutral. Similarly, water bottles are incredibly useful and act as a walking advertisement when attendees take them around the event. Plus, you’ll be promoting hydration (and, let’s be honest, a little self-care too).

2.6 Hand Sanitizers & Keychains: Health-Conscious & Handy

In the post-pandemic world, hand sanitizers are still a popular giveaway. It’s a thoughtful item that shows you care about people’s health and hygiene. Similarly, keychains are super practical. Whether it’s a bottle opener or a mini charging cable, a well-chosen keychain is something attendees will use every day.

2.7 Bluetooth Speakers & Power Banks: For the Tech-Savvy Crowd

If you want to splurge a little and offer something that really wows, consider Bluetooth speakers or power banks. These techie giveaways are coveted and useful. People will be excited to use them, and every time they do, they’ll remember your brand. Just make sure it aligns with your brand's image and your target audience’s interests.

3. How Many Giveaways Should You Order?

I get this question a lot: “How many giveaways should I bring?” The answer depends on a few factors:

Event Size: How many attendees are you expecting? You want to have enough for everyone who stops by, but you don’t want to over-order and waste money either.
Booth Traffic: Are you in a high-traffic area? If so, you may want to plan for a higher volume of giveaways.
Target Audience: Are your promotional items aimed at general attendees, or are you focusing on high-value prospects? For larger audiences, think more affordable items like pens or stickers. For VIPs, consider something more unique, like preserved flowers or tech gadgets.

A good rule of thumb is to order 50-100 giveaways for every 100 attendees, but adjust based on your specific goals.

4. How Do You Attract Customers to a Trade Show?

Attracting people to your booth is as much about engagement as it is about the giveaways. Here are some ways to get people to stop by:

Eye-Catching Displays: A simple yet bold design that tells a story. Make your booth memorable by creating a space that reflects your brand’s personality.
Interactive Experiences: Offer something unique—a demo, a game, or even a giveaway wheel.
Engage Early: Use your social media platforms to announce your trade show presence and offer sneak peeks of your promotional items.
Special Deals: Give attendees a reason to visit your booth—whether it’s a limited-time discount or exclusive event offer.

At the end of the day, it’s about making a connection. People will remember the experience, not just the product they walked away with. But the right promotional item can definitely help seal the deal.