BLOG: Why Do Bags Make Tote-ally Perfect Tradeshow Promos?

Why Do Bags Make Tote-ally Perfect Tradeshow Promos?

What makes merch great? Usability, design, quality of construction, portability and the ability to be seen, eye-catching decoration, and necessity.

Unlike some other products, bags can encompass all of these traits! Let’s face it - whether you’re at home, at work, out and about running errands, or enjoying a vacation you most likely interact with a bag in some sort of capacity no matter where you are. Whether you’re using one yourself or come across someone else who is, these utilitarian pieces are a big part of our everyday lives. With that in mind, why not make sure that if people are using a bag that your company message is somewhere on it?

Where to start . . . 

Ask a few questions.  Who is the target audience for this campaign and how is the product being used? 

Why is this important?  Men and women have different tastes, as do different age groups.  Intended use can have an impact on which products are most appropriate for a given promotion as well.  When you know who you’re shopping for and for what purpose, it makes finding the right product that much easier!

Ready to start shopping?  Let’s jump into what products might work best for you!

TARGET DEMOGRAPHIC: Convention Goers -

The budget conscious might be inclined to go with something simple like our 20 x 13” Shopper. 

This on trend style is a popular choice because of its larger size and imprint area, as well as budget friendlier pricing.   This is a solid option and we couldn’t blame anyone for going this route.  However, there might be another bag that would be a better fit. Here are some words to the wise:

• Comfort matters - Choose a convention bag based on what products will be going inside. If it’s mostly literature and lighter weight items, a tote is probably sufficient, but for heavier products or longer conferences, consider comfort. How will this tote feel on someone’s shoulder when it’s full of stuff?  If the answer is not so great, it’s time to look for a different bag.

BEL has bags in the bag!

This ATOT107 Carry All has thicker straps for added comfort and durability, as well as front pocket, zippered main compartment, and a side mesh pocket for water bottle.  Conventions can be exhausting and staying hydrated is a must. Consider upselling your client to include a coordinating refillable drinkware piece that can be picked up in a sponsor's booth or special area during the show!

Want something even better for comfort? Consider a backpack!

While a backpack can be limiting to taking product off the show floor, since people have to take the backpack on and off to put items into it, a backpack like this one shown provides something totes do not - BALANCE and equal weight distribution. So, while people might be more judicious about what items they’ll take from home, they’ll be more comfortable with less back pain, and will be inclined to stay on the show floor longer. This is a benefit to everyone!  PLUS: Backpacks are less commonly used as show bags so your conference will stand out more, and if you design them right, your bag will have the highest chance of being kept for use in the future.  Now THAT'S a win!

Two more tips:

• When designing your bag - Think like the recipient! What would make you 1) grab this bag when you see it, and 2) keep it after the show is over?

You might be tempted to put an event name or sponsor logo all over this bag, but the reality is SAYINGS SELL. Try to come up with something fun as the main imprint that will get people excited to grab it and happy to keep it. The sponsor logo being the main focal point doesn’t do anyone any good if the bag ends up i the trash. The goal is maximizing want-abliity. Go for a saying as the main imprint and then add the sponsor information smaller and more subtle on the bottom of the design or a discreet second location

• Less is more - Along the same lines as above: No one wants to carry your business card on their tote bag.

With google being so easy to access, maybe opt for a simple Instagram handle or website, but leave the phone number and address information off of your merch. 

No matter what type of event you’re planning BEL has a solution for it, well . . . in the bag!

Want to browse on your own? Visit our website.

Prefer to have a guide along the way? We’re here and happy to help! Just message the page or reach out to your rep to get started. Happy selling!