The Complete Guide to Promotional Bags for Trade Shows

Trade shows are marketing goldmines – concentrated audiences of potential customers all in one place. And promotional bags? They're the gift that keeps on giving long after the event ends.

Why Bags Work at Trade Shows

They solve an immediate problem. Attendees collect brochures, samples, and swag all day. Give them a bag, and you become their hero – while your logo travels the exhibition floor.

Extended visibility. Unlike a pen that goes in a pocket, a bag is visible. Your brand gets seen by hundreds of other attendees as delegates walk the show.

Post-event longevity. Quality bags get reused for months or years. Every shopping trip, gym visit, or commute is another brand impression.

Choosing the Right Bag Type

For Maximum Reach: Drawstring Bags - Pros: Lowest cost, lightweight, easy to distribute - Cons: Less premium feel - Best for: Large exhibitions, high footfall, budget campaigns - Typical cost: £1-2 per unit

For Balanced Impact: Cotton Totes - Pros: Eco-friendly, good print area, practical - Cons: Less structured than canvas - Best for: Most B2B trade shows, conferences - Typical cost: £2-4 per unit

For Premium Positioning: Canvas Bags - Pros: Premium feel, extremely durable, impressive - Cons: Higher cost - Best for: Executive events, high-value prospects - Typical cost: £4-6 per unit

Quantity Planning

Rule of thumb: Order 20-30% more than expected attendee engagement.

If you typically speak to 200 people at a show, order 250-260 bags. You'll have: - Enough for unexpected interest - Spares for staff and partners - Stock for follow-up meetings

Design Tips That Work

Keep It Simple Trade show bags are seen from a distance, often briefly. Bold logos and simple designs outperform complex artwork.

Make Contact Info Visible Include your website or QR code. Many people take bags without stopping at your stand – give them a way to find you later.

Consider Both Sides Print different messages front and back: logo on front, tagline or offer on back.

Use Colour Strategically Your brand colours should dominate, but consider the show floor. A bright bag stands out in a sea of plain totes.

Logistics Checklist

8 weeks before: Finalise design and place order 4 weeks before: Confirm delivery to venue or office 2 weeks before: Arrange transport to venue if needed Day before: Count stock, brief staff on distribution

Maximising ROI

Pre-Show - Announce "free bag while stocks last" to drive stand visits - Include in pre-show email marketing

At the Show - Use bags as conversation starters - Require badge scan before giving bags (capture leads) - Refill stand supplies throughout the day

Post-Show - Include bags in follow-up shipments to hot leads - Photograph bags in use for social media

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ordering too late – Custom bags need 2-3 weeks production time
2. Choosing style over substance – A bag that breaks reflects poorly on your brand
3. Forgetting about storage – Bags take space; plan where to store them at your stand
4. No call to action – Always include website or contact details

*Planning your next trade show? Browse our range or [get a quote](/contact) for bulk exhibition bags.*