Great Swag Ideas That Actually Get Used and Remembered

Some swag gets tossed in a drawer. Other swag becomes a favorite hoodie, the go-to coffee mug, or the conversation-starting gadget that gets your brand noticed in all the right ways. So what’s the difference?

It all comes down to thoughtful selection and smart delivery. Great swag isn’t about handing out stuff—it’s about creating moments, building brand love, and giving people something they genuinely enjoy using. Whether you're welcoming new hires, rewarding your team, or promoting your business, these swag ideas are designed to impress, engage, and leave a lasting impression.

1. On-Demand Apparel That People Actually Wear

Branded gear is a classic—but only when it’s something people want to put on. Skip the one-size-fits-all tees and embrace on-demand gear from premium brands like Nike, TravisMathew, and The North Face.

With customizable online swag stores, employees and customers can choose their preferred styles and sizes, and even personalize their gear with their name or team name. It’s a win-win: no waste, no guesswork, and swag they’ll reach for again and again.

2. Curated Swag Packs With a Purpose

Instead of sending one random item, create a themed swag pack that tells a story. These bundles instantly feel more thoughtful and exciting. Some popular themes:

• WFH Warrior – blue light glasses, comfy socks, wireless mouse, branded mug

• Wellness Starter – yoga mat, resistance bands, infused water bottle, calming stickers

• New Hire Welcome – soft tee, notebook, desk plant, and a snack pack

These sets are easy to send on demand with no minimums, so every pack feels special—whether it’s one or one hundred.

3. Eco-Friendly Items That Actually Get Used

Sustainable swag shows your brand’s values—and when done right, it’s incredibly practical too. Choose high-quality, reusable products like:

• Stainless steel or glass water bottles

• Bamboo desk organizers or utensil kits

• Organic cotton totes with bold graphics

• Refillable notebooks or eco journals

Want to make it even more impactful? Add a printed QR code linking to your company’s sustainability mission or green initiatives.

4. Tech Swag That Makes Life Easier

Tech gear is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially when it’s something they’ll use daily. Ditch the dated USB drives and go for:

• Wireless charging stands

• Bluetooth trackers (for keys or bags)

• Multi-port charging cables

• Portable phone stands or power banks

• Noise-canceling earbuds

Perfect for remote teams, client gifts, or incentive programs.

5. Statement Socks That Spark Smiles

Socks might sound simple, but they’re secretly one of the best swag items out there. They’re size-flexible, lightweight, and endlessly customizable. Add some fun with:

• Team mascots or inside jokes

• Limited-edition seasonal designs

• Branded colors or motivational phrases

Roll them up into a surprise welcome gift or use them for quarterly drops that employees look forward to collecting.

6. Drinkware That Goes Beyond the Mug

Mugs are everywhere—but drinkware can be much more exciting (and useful). Great alternatives include:

• Stainless steel tumblers with etched logos

• Color-changing cups or frosted glasses

• Branded pour-over coffee kits

• Hydro-style bottles with leak-proof lids

Pair with a coffee gift card or small-batch tea for a fully curated moment of refreshment.

7. Swag with a Digital Surprise

Add a modern twist to your physical swag by connecting it to a digital experience. These little extras make your swag more interactive and memorable:

• Stickers with QR codes that lead to playlists or welcome videos

• Apparel with hidden tags linking to company culture pages

• Puzzle kits that unlock prizes or internal content

It’s swag that starts a conversation—and maybe even goes viral inside your team’s Slack or social channels.

8. Seasonal and Localized Swag

Swag that fits the moment always feels more thoughtful. Match your gift to the season, location, or occasion:

• Summer: waterproof speakers, SPF lip balm, custom beach towels

• Winter: knit beanies, fleece throws, hot cocoa kits

• City-specific: skyline designs, local snacks, or slogans unique to your regional team

• Events: trade show survival packs, marathon kits, or conference exclusives

When swag feels timely, it also feels more valuable.

9. Build-Your-Own Swag Store

Empowering your team or customers to pick their own swag is a game-changer. You set the budget, they browse your custom-branded swag store and choose the gear they actually want—from tees and tech to wellness products and home office upgrades.

It’s flexible, fun, and ensures every recipient feels like they got something made just for them.

10. The Unexpected “Wow” Item

Every swag strategy needs a little surprise—something that catches people off guard in the best way. These memorable items drive buzz and build instant engagement:

• Branded LEGO sets replicating your office or product

• Scented candles named after your company values

• Retro fanny packs or windbreakers with a vintage flair

• Mini projectors for movie nights or company retreats

• Custom puzzles or board games with brand-themed illustrations

One unexpected item can turn an ordinary swag pack into something unforgettable.

Why These Swag Ideas Actually Work

The best swag blends form and function. It’s fun, useful, and makes people feel part of something special. Swag shouldn’t feel like junk—it should feel like a perk, a gift, or a cool moment that builds pride and connection.

When done right, great swag:

• Reflects your brand personality

• Makes people feel seen and appreciated

• Gets used, worn, or shared—again and again

• Boosts engagement, retention, and referrals

And with Merchloop’s on-demand swag model, you don’t have to commit to bulk orders or waste. You create a smart store or curated collection once, and let the magic happen automatically.