23 Conference Swag Ideas To Stand Out From The Crowd
Conferences are bustling hubs of networking, innovation, and brand exposure. Giving away free promotional products with your logo on it is an easy and effective way to get noticed and can ensure your company leaves a lasting impression. That’s why the actual promotional products and the quality of them matter. Your logo, your brand, is associated with the products you give so it’s paramount that the products represent your brand and values.
Amid the sea of booths, banners, and business cards, how do you ensure your company leaves a lasting impression? The answer lies in conference swag—those thoughtful, branded giveaways that attendees take home. But not just any swag will do. In a world where pens and tote bags are a dime a dozen, standing out requires creativity, quality, and a touch of personality. That’s where Roody.ie comes in. Roody.ie has a large range of sustainable swag and custom promotional products that will help any company to not only stand out but to show that your own brand really cares about the products you give as gifts. For every item made here at Roody.ie, a tree is planted.
Why Conference Swag Needs to Stand Out
We all know how some conference halls look. There are tables and stands everywhere and it can be very chaotic and some companies can get lost in the noise. Most companies want to give out the same promotional products. Things like keychains, notebooks and water bottles. While these products make for good gifts , people now want better quality ones and promotional products that are a little creative. That way, the person who receives the product will continue to use it long after the conference ends.
A 2023 survey revealed that 85% of people remember a brand that gives them promotional items they actually keep, while poorly chosen swag can even harm your reputation. That’s why it is so important to select products that are good quality, represent your brand values and are a little different from what others are offering. People now want sustainable options and there is no reason why conference swag can’t be sustainable. We will show you some options below.
Popular Conference Swag Options
There are classic and popular promotional products that companies always want for conferences. They are a reason they are popular. They are easy to carry so more people tend to take them. Even though these are classic items, there are sustainable options available and designs that will elevate your swag.
Opt for an organic cotton bag to give out at conferences. Due to the material used, these bags can be used time and time again. They are sturdy and have long handles which makes it easier to carry around. The bags can be printed with a logo or unique design on the front, back or both sides! Tote bags are also available in multiple colours. They make a great promotional gift as people use them at the conference and afterwards. A good tip is to put any brochures or cards etc inside the bag when giving them out at conferences.
Recycled Notebooks
If looking for a sustainable option for the notebooks for conferences, this recycled one is a great option. The size is A5 and it has a hard recycled carton cover. Opt for a logo or a unique design or message or text on it. A custom bookmark can also be included inside. This is ideal to add more details about your company or any new launches that are coming up. It can also include details of the tree planting. For every notebook you have at your conference, if it’s a Roody.ie one, a tree was planted for each and every one! That’s the kind of detail attendees like to know about.
Water bottles are an excellent giveaway at conferences for several practical and strategic reasons. They’re highly functional, keeping attendees hydrated during long days of talks, networking, and workshops—especially in busy, air-conditioned venues where dehydration can sneak up. Unlike single-use plastic bottles, reusable water bottles align with sustainability trends, appealing to environmentally conscious delegates and reflecting positively on the event’s ethos.
They’re also a branding goldmine. With logos or slogans printed on them, water bottles turn into walking advertisements as attendees carry them around the conference and beyond, extending visibility. They’re cost-effective too—durable options like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic offer long-term use for a relatively low investment per unit.
Plus, they’re universally appreciated. Whether it’s a tech summit in Dublin or a business expo in Cork, everyone needs water, making them a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t end up forgotten in a swag bag. Data backs this up: studies like those from the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) show that useful items like water bottles have a higher retention rate (over 80%) compared to less practical giveaways.
These T-shirts are made using 100% Organic compact ring spun cotton single Jersey fabric and can be made in a variety of different colours and sizes.
Organic cotton T-shirts make a fantastic giveaway at conferences for a variety of reasons, blending practicality, appeal, and a nod to sustainability that resonates well with modern audiences, including those in Ireland.
First, they’re wearable and versatile. Attendees can sport them during casual conference moments or later at home, offering comfort with a soft, breathable fabric that suits Ireland’s temperamental weather—cool enough for a brisk day, yet cozy when layered. Unlike generic swag, a well-designed T-shirt feels personal and useful, increasing the chances it’ll be kept and worn rather than tossed.
They also scream eco-credentials. Made from cotton grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, organic T-shirts appeal to environmentally aware attendees, aligning with Ireland’s growing green ethos.
Studies, like those from the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), show apparel generates up to 6,000 impressions over its lifetime—far more than a pen or flyer.
They are also just a really really nice gift. People love free clothes, especially if they’re high-quality and ethically made. At a conference, where networking can feel transactional, an organic cotton T-shirt adds a touch of warmth and goodwill—perfect for leaving a lasting impression on Irish delegates who value authenticity and community.
Lanyards are a must have for conferences. There are many different types available including some sustainable options like this bamboo one. The lanyard cord itself is cotton and the round piece on it is bamboo and can be branded with a logo or design.
Drawstring Bags are an alternative to tote bags. They are also available in a variety of colours and styles. By opting for a canvas one, the bag will last for a long time and the durable and functional nature of it will allow the receiver to use it time and time again. This one has handles made from cotton twill which makes it easy to use and comfortable to carry.
Custom Stickers are a great option for swag at conferences. They can either be used on other swag you are gifting, such as a notebook, or as a standalone gift. There are many options available, from holographic to die cut, and many shapes/ colours /design option. This allows a company to use the stickers for branding or for website information or product information.
Roody Tip - magnets are another good option as they are similar to stickers in terms of the different styles/colours/designs available. 
There are many mug options available but the most popular one for conference giveaways is the ceramic one. This is due to it being suitable for a full design/full colour option which allows a company to include a logo and any other branding or design they would like. Mugs are great as they are an item that is used all the time.
Unique Gifts for Conferences
What if the Conference is a Virtual One ?
Virtual conferences allow for more flexibility with gifting and giveaways. Attendees can choose their gift and Roody can ship it to them directly anywhere around the world. Alternatively, you can opt for a curated range for them to choose from or an individual item to gift.
If attending a virtual conference, chances are the attendees spend a lot of time online so this is a gift that will be very much appreciated. A lot of companies don’t realise that these can be branded too.
These socks are ideal for both in person conferences and virtual ones. Made from recycled materials, these socks can feature your logo or a playful design tied to your brand (think circuit patterns for a tech firm or coffee cups for a café chain). They’re a hit with attendees who love a fun, functional keepsake.
Custom baseball caps make excellent giveaways at conferences. First, they’re practical and versatile—people of all ages and styles can wear them, whether for casual outings, sports, or sun protection. Unlike some promotional items that might sit unused, caps have a high chance of being worn regularly, keeping your brand or message visible.
Second, they offer a great canvas for customization. You can embroider or print logos, slogans, or designs that align with your identity, making them a walking billboard. Studies suggest that wearable promo items like caps have a strong retention rate—around 85% of people keep them for months or longer, according to industry data from groups like the Advertising Specialty Institute.
They’re easy to distribute at events and easy to ship in mailers. A well-designed cap can feel like a gift rather than just merch, fostering goodwill. People love free stuff they can actually use, and a cap fits that sweet spot between utility and style.
Bamboo power banks make an excellent promotional product gift as they are practical and sustainable. Due to our reliance on smartphones, tablets, and other devices, a portable charger is a practical solution for staying powered up on the go. A bamboo power bank, typically offering capacities like 4,000 mAh or 5,000 mAh, can charge most smartphones at least once, making it a gift that recipients will use repeatedly—keeping your brand in their hands and minds.
This particular power bank charger stands out due to the casing. Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that requires minimal water and no pesticides, making it a sustainable alternative to plastic. This aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious products, especially among businesses and individuals prioritizing green initiatives. Gifting a bamboo power bank signals that your brand cares about sustainability, enhancing your reputation. The sleek, organic look of bamboo—often paired with features like laser-engraved logos—gives these power banks a high-quality, distinctive feel compared to generic plastic alternatives. This uniqueness makes them memorable, increasing the likelihood they’ll be kept and used rather than discarded.
They’re also versatile for branding. Bamboo power banks provide ample space for customization, whether through engraving, printing, or even pairing with other branded items like notebooks or pens in a gift set. Their durability ensures your logo stays visible for years, offering long-term exposure at a reasonable cost.
Conference Swag Ideas for Winter
These Custom Hoodies are a fantastic gift for any sort of event but for conferences, they leave a lasting impression. Everyone loves them due to how comfortable they are. Conferences often involve long days of networking, sessions, and travel, and a cozy hoodie provides a wearable layer of warmth and relaxation—perfect for chilly convention centers or evening events. Unlike flimsy swag like pens or stress balls, a hoodie feels substantial and thoughtful, something attendees can use long after the event ends.
They are great for branding too. With a conference logo, company name, or clever event-related design printed on them, hoodies turn attendees into ambassadors for your brand or message. People wear hoodies casually—at home, the gym, or running errands—extending your reach far beyond the conference itself. Studies suggest branded apparel gets around 6,000 impressions over its lifetime!
Custom hoodies help to build a community. When attendees sport matching or themed hoodies, it builds camaraderie and a shared identity, enhancing the event experience. Think of tech conferences like SXSW or company retreats where coordinated attire signals “we’re in this together.”
You can tailor hoodies to the audience—choosing colours, slogans, or even adding names or fun graphics tied to the conference theme. This flexibility makes them memorable and collectible, especially if the design is sharp or exclusive. Plus, with options like organic cotton or recycled materials, you can align with sustainability trends, appealing to eco-conscious attendees.
Custom knit beanies are ideal for conference giveaways especially in Ireland due to the weather! People always appreciate them and use them. A warm, snug beanie becomes a go-to item for attendees—whether they’re stepping outside between sessions or exploring the area post-conference. It’s a gift that matches the environment, ensuring it gets used.
A custom knit beanie feels both modern and rooted, appealing to locals and visitors alike without being cliché. They’re perfect for branding in a low-key way (you can opt for just the logo) or a full design. Beanies offer a clean canvas for embroidery—think a conference logo, event hashtag, or sponsor name—positioned front and center. Since people wear them in public, your brand gets organic exposure on streets, buses, or even social media selfies. They’re durable too, so that visibility lasts beyond a single season.
Fun Conference Swag Ideas for Summer Events
The bucket hats are made from recycled materials and are a playful yet practical giveaway. Customise them with your logo woven into a bold pattern on one side and a subtle design on the other. Or have bold designs on both sides or even a solid colour on one side only. The hats are reversible so both sides can be branded and each side can be different. Absolutely any design is possible with these hats. Attendees will sport them at the conference and beyond, turning heads and sparking conversations.
Bucket hats offer sun protection, which is clutch for outdoor conference events, networking breaks, or post-event exploring—think summer tech summits or festivals. They’re also packable, folding easily into a bag without losing shape, making them travel-friendly for attendees on the move. Even in milder climates, they shield against light rain, adding year-round utility.
Bucket Hats are a trending product. Bucket hats have surged back into style, riding a wave of ‘90s nostalgia and streetwear hype. They appeal across demographics— Gen Z loves the vibe, while older attendees appreciate the retro nod. A sleek or quirky design tied to the conference theme can make them a coveted item, not just swag that gets thrown away. Picture a bold logo or a clever slogan circling the brim—suddenly, it’s a statement piece.
With a wide, visible surface, bucket hats let you put on logos, patterns, or event taglines that pop. Attendees wearing them during and after the conference—say, at the airport or a local park—turn into mobile ads. Their casual, everyday wearability means your brand sticks around longer than other promotional products.
This is another trending promotional product. Roody’s custom Hawaiian shirts, crafted from organic cotton, bring a splash of fun to any event or conference, Picture your brand’s colours or mascot integrated into a tropical print—perfect for a summer conference or a tech event with a laid-back vibe. Companies like Google and Pepsi have teamed up with Roody for these eye-catching pieces.
The shirts are made using 100% recycled polyester. They can be easily washed and worn over and over. The unisex option is popular as people love to wear them - either as a shirt buttoned or open over a t-shirt. They are a premium portion all product item which makes them very much sought after. These shirts are ideal for conferences where you really need to stand out and make a big impact. They are ideal for giveaways but also for the employees to wear them on the stand. People will approach the stand just to ask about the shirt!
The fun element is what really stands out. Hawaiian shirts scream relaxation and good times, instantly setting a positive, laid-back tone—perfect for breaking the ice at networking events or loosening up a formal conference atmosphere. They’re a mood-lifter, making attendees feel like they’re part of something special, especially if the event has a themed kickoff party or casual day.
They’re comfy for all-day wear, especially at warm-weather conferences. Attendees can sport them during the event and later on!
The branding options are endless. With their loud, colourful patterns, Hawaiian shirts offer tons of space for customisation—think logos woven into the design, event slogans on the pocket, or a full-on bespoke print tying into the conference theme (e.g., tech circuits in a floral motif).
They’re memorable and shareable. Unlike generic swag and the usual promotional products that everyone receives, a well-designed Hawaiian shirt stands out in a sea of pens. Attendees are likely to snap photos and post them online—“Check out this awesome conference shirt!”—amplifying your reach on social media. Plus, they’re unisex and come in a range of sizes, making them inclusive and easy to distribute. Roody’s ethical production ensures your giveaways align with modern values.
Premium Conference Swag Ideas
Why settle for a single item when you can gift an experience? Roody’s swag boxes are fully customisable, eco-friendly and sustainable boxes that pack a punch. We can even store and ship them to anywhere in the world as and when you need them. So either before or after a conference is no problem!
They’re perfect for welcoming attendees, rewarding VIPs, or sending post-event thank-yous. Here’s how to make them stand out:
Start with the box. The boxes are fully customisable so they can have a design that goes anywhere on the box or just your logo-whichever you prefer! The boxes are reusable and compostable and are great for shipping products safely and sustainably. They are made from recycled, FSC-certified materials and printed with water-based inks.
You can then fill the box with as few or as many promotional products that you want. We have included a couple of suggestions below!
Custom Keepcups or Travel Tumblers
There is a huge variety of options with the tumblers. You can opt for an original keepcup or a Yeti or Stanley or go for something completely custom. These are promotional products that people use frequently.
Whether you opt for a stainless steel or a glass option, both lunch boxes provide a sustainable choice to include in your swag box. They are a gift that people will use while commuting or when in the office. They are a good choice for giveaways if shipping the gifts to the attendee. We wouldn’t recommend handing them out at a stand due to the size and nature of the product.
If you’re hosting the conference in a different city, be sure to include something local. Roody can help with this!
Add a personal note in the swag box. This can include a thank you to attendees, a bit about your company and any new projects/events coming up or anything else you want to include. You can also include a bit about the tree planting and how many trees were planted based on the box you sent.
How to Maximize Your Swag’s Impact
Great swag is only half the battle—here’s how to ensure it shines:
Make It Interactive: Set up a customisation station at your booth where attendees can pick colours or add their initials to a tumbler or hat. It’s a fun, memorable experience that draws a crowd.
Tell a Story: Highlight Roody’s sustainability creds—ethical production, tree-planting, and B Corp certification—on a card or tag. Attendees love brands with purpose.
Encourage Sharing: Design swag that’s Instagram or TikTok worthy (think vibrant Hawaiian shirts or sleek tumblers) and include a hashtag. Offer a prize for the best post featuring your swag.
Follow Up: For virtual or hybrid events, use Roody’s delivery service to send swag post-conference with a thank-you note, reinforcing your connection.
Why order your promotional products from Roody?
Roody.ie isn’t just a swag supplier—it’s a partner in crafting a standout conference presence. Our full-service approach—design, production, storage, and global shipping—takes the stress out of swag planning. As a certified B Corp, we guarantee ethical practices and premium quality, while the tree-planting initiative that adds an eco-friendly cherry on top.
Steal the Spotlight at Your Next Conference
In a crowded conference landscape, forgettable swag is a missed opportunity. With Roody’s sustainable promotional products, you can transform your giveaways into conversation starters, brand ambassadors, and planet-friendly keepsakes. From reversible bucket hats to curated swag boxes, these ideas—rooted in Roody.ie’s offerings—ensure your company stands out from the crowd.
Ready to make waves? Contact us now!