Promo items for students are a cost-effective marketing tool universities can use to improve brand recognition and loyalty. Whether it's freshman orientation, recruitment event, or a pep rally, there's always an opportunity to market your university to students. When exploring the different promotional items online, you may feel overwhelmed with the various options available. From notebooks and water bottles to t-shirts and backpacks - how do you know what college swag ideas are best for your university?
We put together a list of the top 12 giveaways for college students so you can start planning for your next big event and surprise your students with an item they'll love and use.
Here are our top 12 promo items for students:
1. Eco-Friendly Notebooks
Eco-friendly notebooks are a sustainable way to show your college's commitment to sustainable initiatives. Notebooks are also a must-have swag item for college students. Every time they go to class or need to jot down notes, they'll have the custom journal close by.
5" x 7" Eco Spiral Notebook With Pen- Available in four different colors: Blue, Green, Red, and Black
- Comes with 60 ruled pages and a pen
- Pricing includes a one-color, one-location imprint
2. Cotton Tote Bags
Tired of the traditional shopping totes and grocery bags? Consider switching to a high-end cotton tote bag instead! Cotton tote bags are trendy and have a higher perceived value. It's a promo item for students will use and enjoy while they go from class to class on campus.
The Original Cotton Shopping Tote- Features 30-inch long shoulder handles
- Three different decoration methods are available: Silkscreen, Heat Transfer, and Light Thermal Transfer
- Made with a thick 10 oz cotton fabric
3. Branded Pens
You can't go wrong with branded pens. This is a low-cost college swag idea that's useful and practical. Many branded pens are available for purchase for less than 0.50 cents apiece. You can also use them for various college events or just invest in them to have around the office.
Up Your Standard Jotter Pen- Available in 24 different colors
- Option to match gel inks
- Features a soft touch surface and fine point gel
4. Custom T-Shirts
T-shirts are like a walking advertisement. Everywhere the students go, your college will gain authentic brand exposure. While t-shirts may come at a higher price point, they can provide a higher return on investment than other promo items, making them a great college swag idea for events and special occasions.
District Concert T-Shirt- Choose from 24 different fun and vibrant color choices
- Large 14"w x 16"h imprint size
- Made with 4.5-ounce, 100% soft spun cotton
5. Reusable Water Bottles
Say goodbye to single-use plastic with reusable water bottles. Water bottoms are a crowd favorite that everyone can find a use for. They're available at various price points, so you can find an option that aligns with your budget and needs.
Metis 22 oz. Aluminum. Water Bottle- Made out of Silicone, AS Plastic and Aluminum
- Option to choose between a black, silver, or white body
- Comes with various colored translucent screw-top lids
6. Fanny Packs
Looking for something fun and out of the box? Consider custom fanny packs. These giveaways for college students are great for outdoor events, 5Ks, or pep rallies. They come in various colors and materials, so you can find an option that aligns with your branding.
Excursionist Fanny Pack- Available in six different colors
- Made out of 600D Polyester
- Three different decoration methods to choose from
7. Drawstring Backpacks
Drawstring backpacks are another great low-cost giveaway for college students. They are great for outdoor activities, college gyms, and more. You can feel confident students will use and wear the bag when they hit the gym, hike, or need a lightweight bag to carry their items.
Robin Drawstring Bag- Available in 13 different color options
- Option to silkscreen or heat transfer your logo or creative design
- Made with 210d polyester
8- Custom Dad Hats
When was the last time you threw away a hat? Chances are, it's been a while! Branded hats are college swag ideas that are here to stay. They have the power to extend the longevity of your marketing initiatives.
Custom Dad Hat- Pricing includes 10,000 stitches in one location
- Made with high-end washed chino twill
- Quick 10-day lead time
9- Lanyards
Lanyards are another practical promo item college students can use for their car or dorm keys. They come in various sizes and have many different decoration methods available.
Custom Printed Lanyard With Lobster Clip- Over seven different color options
- 3/4-inch wide lanyard with a swivel lobster clip
- Made out of polyester
10- Tumbler
The perfect giveaway for the commuter. Tumblers are a must-have that students will want by their side for all the late-night study sessions in the library or early morning classes.
Custom Printed 20 Oz Stainless Steel Polypropylene Travel Tumbler- Comes in five different colors: Black, blue, red, gray, or white
- Can keep drinks warm or cold for 2-3 hours
- Features a high-end stainless steel outer shell
11- Phone Wallet
Phone wallets are a low-cost giveaway that's great for events or situations where you might need a large quantity of items. They fit most phones and are a great way to get your university logo noticed on and off campus.
Silicone Phone Wallet- Comes in 10 different colors
- 1.5"w x 1.5"h imprint size
- Strong adhesive that sticks to the back of your phone
12- Rally Towel
Rally towels are the perfect go-to for igniting school spirit. Handing this giveaway for college students out at your next event is the best way to get everyone excited for the start of a new school year or the big football game that's coming up.
Rally Towel- Made with 100% Cotton Terry Material
- Large 10"w x 10"h, perfect for big ideas and creative concepts
- Comes in 11 fun and vibrant colors
Explore College Swag Ideas With Bagmasters
College swag ideas are a must-have you'll want to incorporate into all of your upcoming marketing initiatives. No matter the event, you can feel confident that students will love and appreciate the swag items you choose to brand. At Bagmasters, we have a wide range of promo items available. We also have quick turnaround times and low minimum quantities. Whether you're looking for a giveaway for an event or a high-end raffle item, we're your one-stop shop for all your swag items for college students.
Explore our best sellers today to get started.
