How to Choose the Right Promotional Bag for Your Event

Selecting the right promotional bag can make or break your event marketing. With so many options available—from cotton totes to drawstring bags, jute carriers to cool bags—how do you choose the perfect match for your occasion?

Step 1: Define Your Event Type

Different events call for different bag styles:

Conferences & Trade Shows Best choice: Cotton tote bags or document bags

Conference attendees collect brochures, samples, and materials throughout the day. A sturdy tote with long handles is ideal—it's easy to carry and has plenty of room.

Pro tip: Choose a bag large enough to fit A4 documents without folding.

Outdoor Events & Festivals Best choice: Drawstring bags or cool bags

For outdoor events, practicality is key. Drawstring bags are lightweight and water-resistant, while cool bags keep drinks and snacks fresh.

Corporate Gifts Best choice: Canvas totes or premium jute bags

When gifting clients or employees, quality matters. A heavyweight canvas bag or natural jute bag conveys premium value.

Retail Giveaways Best choice: Budget cotton shoppers or paper bags

For high-volume retail promotions, cost-effective options like 5oz cotton shoppers deliver brand visibility without breaking the budget.

Step 2: Consider Your Audience

Understanding your target audience helps narrow down options:

Audience	Recommended Bag	Why
Corporate professionals	Canvas tote	Premium feel, laptop-friendly
Students	Drawstring bag	Trendy, practical for campus
Eco-conscious consumers	Organic cotton	Aligns with values
Families	Large shopper	Practical for groceries
Fitness enthusiasts	Gym bag/drawstring	Sporty, functional

Step 3: Match Your Brand

Your bag should reflect your brand identity:

Luxury brands: Opt for heavier cotton (10oz+) or canvas
Eco brands: Choose organic cotton or recycled materials
Fun/creative brands: Consider bold colours and playful designs
Corporate/professional: Stick to classic tones and clean designs

Step 4: Plan Your Print

The print area and method affect the final result:

Print Methods Explained

Screen printing (spot colour) - Best for: Simple logos, 1-4 colours - Pros: Vibrant, durable, cost-effective at volume - Cons: Limited colour gradients

Digital transfer (full colour) - Best for: Detailed logos, photographs - Pros: Unlimited colours, photo-realistic - Cons: Slightly higher unit cost

Print Position Options

Front centre: Maximum visibility, classic look
Front + back: Tell a story or include contact details
All-over print: Bold statement pieces

Step 5: Set Your Budget

Bag pricing depends on several factors:

Quantity: Prices drop at 50, 100, 250, 500, 1000 units
Bag type: Cotton (budget) → Jute → Canvas (premium)
Print complexity: More colours = higher cost
Customisation: Coloured handles, zip pockets add cost

Budget guide: - Tight budget (£0.40-0.80/bag): 5oz cotton shopper, 1-colour print - Mid-range (£1-2/bag): Coloured cotton or jute, 2-colour print - Premium (£3+/bag): Heavy canvas, full-colour print

Quick Checklist Before Ordering

✅ Does the bag size suit the event purpose? ✅ Is the material appropriate for your brand? ✅ Will the design print well on the bag colour? ✅ Have you accounted for delivery time? ✅ Did you order samples to check quality?

*Need help choosing? Our team can recommend the perfect bag for your event. Get in touch or try our [instant quote calculator](/products).*

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