20 Best Trade Show Promotional Giveaways With An Experience

4. Reusable Water Bottles + Hydration Station

The Giveaway: Branded water bottles (reusable bottles or tumblers with your logo. A practical and eco-friendly giveaway, these bottles encourage hydration and can be used long after the event. Attendees love useful swag – and a good water bottle is something they'll carry daily, promoting your brand each time they take a sip.

Interactive Twist: Create a "Hydration Station" at your booth. Trade shows can be dehydrating, so offer visitors a place to refill their water (for free) and give them a branded bottle to do it. Buying bottled water at trade shows can be upwards of $10 a bottle! That's where you come in. Have a large water dispenser with cold water, maybe even infused with fruits (to make it fancy) or a sports drink mix. When attendees stop by looking thirsty, hand them one of your empty logo'd water bottles and invite them to fill it up at your station. Instantly, they've engaged with your booth, and they stick around for a moment to get the water, while your team can chat casually ("How's the show going for you?"). It's a welcoming gesture that people genuinely appreciate.

You can take it up a notch by theming it: call it a "Hydration Happy Hour" at certain times with infused water flavors or a contest like "if you guess the secret fruit flavor in our water, you win a prize!" As they fill their bottle, staff can talk about how your company "helps solve thirst" for whatever problem in your industry (a cheeky metaphor). Even without a gimmick, simply providing water and a bottle positions your brand as thoughtful and considerate.

Why it Works: You're fulfilling an immediate need (thirst) and providing a quality reusable bottle – making your booth both useful and memorable. Attendees often carry these bottles around the show, which means others see your logo in their hands. It's walking advertising. The hydration station also naturally draws traffic; people see others drinking or refilling and wander over. And because you're giving the bottle at the station, you ensure they engage (versus tossing it in a bag and forgetting it). This idea associates your brand with health, refreshment, and environmental friendliness (no disposable cups here!). Long after the show, when they use your bottle at the gym or office, they'll recall how your booth helped them out when they were parched, leaving a positive impression of your company.

6. Branded Tote Bags + Swag Bag Station

The Giveaway: Custom tote bags with your logo such as non-woven reusable totes. Totes are trade show staples. Attendees need something to carry all their goodies, and a sturdy bag with your branding fits the bill perfectly. Even if they receive one during check-in, they'll likely fill it up and need another. A well-designed tote will be reused for grocery runs, gym gear, etc., giving your brand lasting visibility as a sustainable, practical item.

Interactive Twist: Don't just hand out an empty bag. Instead, make it an event with a "Build Your Own Swag Bag" station at your booth. Here's how: set up a table with an array of small giveaway items or treats (some could be yours, like pens or stickers, and you can even include literature like a brochure or coupon in the mix). When visitors come, give them one of your flat-folded tote bags, then invite them to fill it with a few goodies of their choice. For example, have bowls of branded candy, sticker sheets, maybe stress balls or keychains (they could be branded with your logo or even unbranded fun items). It's like a mini candy shop or treasure hunt. Attendees get to pick what they want – which increases their engagement and enjoyment. Meanwhile, as they browse the "swag buffet," your team can chat with them about what you offer. You can even incorporate a quick conversation starter: "You can choose any three items to put in your bag, and by the way, have you heard about our new product X?" This approach feels interactive and personalized rather than just being handed a pre-stuffed bag.

At a minimum, the tote bag itself is useful. But turning it into an activity ("choose your swag") makes your booth more experiential. People love a bit of free choice, and it naturally creates a crowd (others will see a bunch of people picking out goodies and want to join the fun).

Why it Works: Tote bags are highly coveted trade show giveaways because everyone has stuff to carry. By offering a bag, you're already providing value. By adding the swag station, you're making the giveaway memorable. It slows people down just enough to engage in conversation, rather than a quick grab-and-go. Also, a reusable tote bag is eco-friendly and has longevity, allowing your brand to continue advertising for you long after the trade show. Attendees will associate your brand with generosity and interactivity. And as they walk around the expo floor that day, guess whose logo is on the side of the bags everyone is carrying? Yours. It's fantastic brand exposure and a great way to stand out from booths that didn't think beyond the basic bag handout.

7. Branded T-Shirts + Trivia Challenge

The Giveaway: Custom t-shirts with your logo or a catchy slogan, printed in bulk. T-shirts are like the holy grail of swag, especially when you choose a super comfortable shirt style. They have a high perceived value and turn attendees into walking billboards for your brand when worn. Perfect Imprints offers popular, comfortable options like Gildan SoftStyle cotton tees in a variety of colors and styles.

Interactive Twist: Instead of leaving a pile of shirts on a table, make people earn it in a fun way. Host a quick trivia or quiz challenge at your booth, where the prize is a t-shirt. For example, have a spinning wheel or a simple quiz game on a tablet where attendees answer a question related to your industry (or something fun/pop culture if you want broader appeal). Questions could be like, "How many cups of coffee are consumed at trade shows each day?" or something specific about your company ("What year was our company founded? Take a guess!"). If they participate, they get a t-shirt, and if they get the answer right, maybe they also get entered into a raffle for a bigger prize.

Another approach is a scheduled t-shirt toss or contest. Announce that at certain times (e.g., noon and 3 PM), you'll do a mini game show or spin-the-wheel where winners get t-shirts. This can create anticipation and draw a crowd at specific intervals. Have an engaging host to ask a question. Whoever shouts the correct answer first wins a shirt. It becomes a mini-event that people will gather to watch.

Even simpler: set up a "Drop your business card in the bowl for a chance to win a t-shirt every hour." Then, actually do a little drawing each hour and celebrate the winners. Handing the shirt in a celebratory way also draws attention.

​Gildan SoftStyle cotton teesing it to get people talking or competing a bit maximizes its value. And when you give someone a shirt, encourage them to change into the shirt so others see it and get FOMO that they missed out. If your booth is large enough, you can have a changing booth.

Why it Works: T-shirts have universal appeal; they're one of the best trade show giveaways for long-term impact because people keep and wear them. By turning the giveaway into a game (trivia, challenges, etc.), you ensure that the crowd around your booth is having fun and paying attention to your messaging (trivia questions can even be tied to your product benefits). This interactivity makes your booth lively. Passersby will stop just to see what's happening ("Why is there cheering at that booth?"). Every time someone wins a shirt, you've created a mini brand ambassador who might proudly show it off. Also, people value a shirt more if they feel they've "won" it rather than just picked it up, because it creates a small emotional investment. Later on, when that attendee wears the shirt at home or the gym, they'll recall the positive experience of winning it at your booth. That memory link is marketing gold. Overall, a t-shirt + fun challenge combo boosts engagement, spreads your logo around the show, and leaves winners with a wearable reminder of your company.

8. Logo Caps & Hats + Photo Booth Fun

The Giveaway: Branded caps or hats, such as baseball caps or trucker hats, embroidered/printed with your logo. A stylish cap is a high-value giveaway that attendees can wear during the show (if it matches their vibe) and afterwards. Hats give great visibility (literally putting your branding on attendees' heads!).

Interactive Twist: Combine this wearable swag with a photo opportunity to create buzz. Set up a simple photo booth or selfie station at your booth with a fun backdrop. It could be something relevant to your theme (like a step-and-repeat with your logo, or a creative scene). Include some goofy props if appropriate, but importantly, have your branded hats as the star props. Invite attendees to "Put on a cap and snap a pic!". If they take a photo at your booth wearing your branded cap, they get to keep the hat. This works exceptionally well if your cap has a cool design (such as a patch) or tagline on it, not just a plain logo.

Encourage them to share the photo on social media (maybe with your event hashtag or tagging your company) for an extra incentive, like being entered into a prize drawing. You can even make a mini-contest: "Post your selfie in our hat with #YourBrandRocks and we'll pick a winner for a $250 gift card after the show." This can amplify your reach beyond the booth. 

But even without the social aspect, people love taking photos. You could use a Polaroid or Instax camera to give them a physical takeaway photo, or go digital with a ring light and let them use their own phones.

As they pose, your team can laugh with them, compliment them ("Looking good in that hat!"), and chat about your business in a friendly way. The positive vibes are through the roof in a mini photo booth session.

Why it Works: First, hats are a desirable item. They tend to get more immediate use than some swag (an attendee might throw it on if their hair's messy or they just like the style). By tying it to a photo booth, you create a memorable experience and free advertising: everyone walking by sees folks in your hats taking pictures and having fun. It piques curiosity ("What's with those cool hats and the photo backdrop? Let's check it out."). The social sharing angle can further increase brand exposure if attendees post their photos online, essentially turning them into brand ambassadors to their followers. Even if they don't post online, the act of taking a photo solidifies the memory. They'll leave your booth with a hat in hand (or on head) and a positive feeling associated with your brand. Later, when they wear the cap at home or outdoors, they're a walking advertisement for you. And they'll remember the trade show moment whenever they see that hat. It's all about combining swag with an activity that makes people smile, which is a powerful combo for engagement and lead generation (happy people are more willing to chat and hear what you have to say!).

9. Sunglasses + "Bright Future" Photo Op

The Giveaway: Branded sunglasses featuring your logo on the temple or lens. Fun UV-protective shades are excellent swag, especially if the event or location has lots of sun. They're relatively low-cost and high-impact. Attendees love trying on cool sunglasses, and if they're decent quality, they'll keep using them at outdoor events or on the ride home. For the most value, buy stylish UV400 sunglasses that you can customize.

Interactive Twist: Play up a "bright future" theme (as in, the future is so bright with your product, you gotta wear shades!). Create a small photo op area with a bright backdrop or props. For instance, a big sun cut-out, palm trees if it's a tropical theme, or a light-up sign with your tagline. Invite attendees to put on a pair of your branded sunglasses and take a fun picture there. Similar to the hat idea, this is a selfie station but with sunglasses as the key prop.

To engage them further, consider a raffle: each person who takes a photo in the shades and gives you a business card (or scans their badge) is entered to win a nicer prize (like a pair of premium sunglasses or another gift). This encourages lead capture seamlessly – people will gladly trade a card for a free pair of sunglasses and a chance at something bigger.

You can also incorporate a challenge: for example, a sign that says "Our future's so bright, show us your coolest pose in these shades!" Attendees put on the sunglasses and strike a pose. Maybe have a Polaroid camera to snap a pic and create a "Wall of Fame" at your booth of the best poses. It's goofy, but it gets people involved and sticking around to look at others' photos. Of course, they keep the sunglasses after.

During all this, your team can be taking pictures too (with permission) and maybe posting to social media, or just using it as content. Attendees will likely show their colleagues at the show, "Hey, check out these free sunglasses I got over there!" which drives more traffic your way.

Why it Works: Sunglasses instantly inject a bit of fun and personality. They also have immediate utility if the trade show is outdoors or the area is sunny (think Las Vegas or a summer conference. Attendees might have forgotten theirs. By framing it around a "bright future" or lighthearted theme, you subtly reinforce a positive message about your company's outlook or the benefits of your product. The photo op creates an engaging scene: people with sunglasses on tend to act a bit sillier or cooler, which loosens them up for conversations. Meanwhile, tons of other attendees will see folks walking around wearing matching shades with your logo, which sparks curiosity. It essentially turns participants into walking promoters of your brand at the event. Post-show, every time they wear those sunglasses (on vacation, at a weekend outing), they'll think of your brand. And if the sunglasses have decent UV protection (make sure they do, UV400 ideally), they'll appreciate the quality too, associating that with your company's quality. In short, you're protecting their eyes and giving them a fun experience, which is a memorable combination.

11. Portable Chargers + Charging Lounge

The Giveaway: Portable phone chargers (power banks) branded with your logo. In the modern world, a little extra battery juice is one of the most useful giveaways you can offer. A compact 2200 mAh USB power bank can recharge a typical smartphone about halfway, which is a lifesaver when one's phone is dying at an event. It's a premium-feeling item that people will hang onto and use repeatedly.

Interactive Twist: Set up a cozy "Charging Lounge" at your booth. This could be a couple of stools or a small couch and a charging strip. The idea: invite weary attendees to recharge, both their devices and themselves. When someone comes by with a low battery, offer them a seat and access to a charging outlet right there, plus give them a branded portable charger to take with them. While their phone is plugged in at your station (or while you explain how to use the new power bank you handed them), you have a golden opportunity to chat. People will stick around for a few minutes in the lounge to get a bit of charge, so use that time to ask how the show's going, what they're interested in, and segue into your company's solutions.

You can even have a small sign like "Battery running low? Charge up here for free!" to draw people in. Many will be grateful, since finding an outlet at busy conferences is like finding a unicorn. You're solving a problem.

As a bonus: host a mini demo or presentation in the lounge at certain times while people sitting to charge are a captive audience. But keep it casual unless they're interested.

When they're ready to leave, hand them a branded charged power bank. Make sure your logo is on it so when they use it later, they remember who saved them from "low battery anxiety".

Why it Works: A charging lounge gives a welcome respite to attendees – a moment off their feet and relief that their phone (which might contain their digital tickets, schedule, or simply their lifeline to work/family) won't die. By aligning your brand with that relief, you generate a lot of goodwill. 

Power banks are always appreciated and tend to stick with the person (often traveling in purses or laptop bags for years). So your brand travels with them.

The interactive element is the service you're providing on the spot. It naturally leads to conversation, unlike a quick swag grab. Also, people charging phones will attract others ("Oh, there's a place to charge, let's go there") and increase traffic.

From a branding perspective, you're positioning your company as helpful and tech-savvy. You literally powered them up and set yourself up to metaphorically tie into how you can empower their business, perhaps. Attendees who benefit from this will leave with a positive charge (pun intended) about your company. And as they use that charger on future trips or in emergencies, they'll consistently recall your helpfulness at the trade show. Few giveaways create such a direct association between your brand and saving the day. It's an excellent way to stand out and generate leads from grateful visitors.

12. Branded Pens + Interactive Quiz

The Giveaway: Customized pens with your logo and booth info. Yes, the humble pen is one of the most common trade show giveaways, but when you combine with an activity, they become more than a ! Everyone needs a pen at some point, and a good-quality pen with your branding is likely to end up in use at the office or home (and stolen by coworkers, extending its reach). Modern options include stylus pens (for touchscreens) or even antimicrobial pens (to appeal to cleanliness), but even a classic ballpoint with a comfortable grip can make an impression if it writes well.

Interactive Twist: Elevate the classic pen giveaway by pairing it with a short quiz or survey game. For example, host a "Test Your Knowledge" quiz related to your industry or products. Have a quick 3-question quiz on a card or tablet. Attendees can use your branded pen to fill out the card (if on paper) or as a stylus on the tablet if it's a stylus pen. Questions could be light and fun ("Which of these challenges costs the industry $X billion a year?" with multiple choice). Assure them it's not an exam – it's just for fun and everyone who participates gets to keep the pen (and maybe a chance to win a bigger prize if they get all answers right).

Alternatively, do a "Would You Rather" survey about their preferences or needs, such as "Would you rather have more leads or more sleep?. They mark their answers with your pen. Then you can discuss results briefly ("Looks like most people here chose leads over sleep; we can help with that!" tying into your product). It's a sneaky way to do a bit of market research or qualification, too, depending on the questions.

Another option: Crossword or word search puzzle about your company – using a pen to circle words. Those who complete it get entered in a raffle. But keep it super short so it's not homework.

The key is they use the pen immediately for something engaging at your booth, rather than just grabbing and going. This slows them down just enough to talk to them. It also ensures they know the pen writes nicely (which means they'll keep it). After the quiz or survey, they can trade in their card for a reward (maybe a secondary item or just the knowledge they got all answers right), but the pen is theirs regardless.

Why it Works: Pens have longevity. People often keep them until they run out of ink, seeing your logo each time they use it. But by adding an interactive quiz, you avoid being just another bowl-of-pens booth. You're giving people a reason to pause and engage in a dialogue. Many folks actually enjoy trivia or giving opinions, so it creates a brief but meaningful interaction. You also get to subtly educate them about your business through the questions ("One of the quiz answers is 'Our software reduces costs by 30%.' A fact they learn while playing.”)

From the attendee perspective, it's a low-pressure activity and a nice break from listening to pitches. They also subconsciously value the pen more because they "used it to win a game" or participate, rather than just found it on a table.

13. Notebooks & Journals + Mini Workshop

The Giveaway: Branded notebooks or journals with your logo on the cover. These could range from small jotter notepads to classy spiral-bound or hardcover journals. Everyone can use something to write on during and after the show, and a notebook feels like a substantial gift. 

Interactive Twist: Host a mini workshop or "idea session" at your booth where the notebook becomes an essential tool. For instance, if the trade show has lull times, advertise a short 15-minute workshop or tip session (could be how-tos related to your industry, a guided exercise, or trend insights). Example: if you're a marketing firm, "5 Minutes to Brainstorm Your Next Winning Campaign – join us at 2 PM." When attendees gather (even if it's just a handful), hand out your branded notebooks and pens. 

Then lead them through a quick interactive exercise where they actually write something down in that notebook – it could be answering a prompt ("List 3 social media post ideas for your business") or copying an important formula or takeaway tip you share. Because they're using the notebook on the spot, it immediately has value beyond blank paper. They're now engaged in learning or creating, with your notebook as the vehicle.

If a formal workshop seems too much, you can do something more casual, like an "Idea Wall." Put up a board with a question: "What's your biggest challenge?" or "Share an innovative idea for our industry." People can use your notebook or a page from it to jot down an idea, then stick it on a wall (with their name if they want). In exchange, they keep the rest of the notebook. This sparks conversations as you discuss their challenge or idea. It also shows you care about their thoughts. At the end, you could even award a prize for the most unique idea (optional).

Another simple interactive approach: Ask attendees to write down one goal they have (business or personal) in the notebook. Then suggest, "This notebook is for you to fill with plans and notes to achieve that goal – courtesy of [Your Company]." It's a bit motivational and ties your brand to their future plans.

Why it Works: A notebook by itself is great, but getting someone to write in it immediately does two things: (1) It breaks the ice and gets them actively participating rather than passively listening, and (2) it "christens" the notebook so it's no longer empty (some folks hesitate to use a nice new journal, however, once there's a first mark, they'll continue using it, which means more brand impressions for you). By providing useful content or prompting ideas, you position your brand as a thought leader and problem-solver.

Attendees who attend a mini workshop or brainstorming session at your booth will remember that experience far more than a standard pitch. They'll associate your brand with learning or creativity. The notebook then serves as a souvenir of that learning moment, filled with at least a few of their own words or your tips. They're likely to flip back to that page later, reinforcing your message.

In summary, by giving knowledge or encouraging creativity along with the notebook, you're providing double value, practical and intellectual. Attendees will appreciate that and remember your booth as one that offered more than just freebies, but also insight.

14. Fidget Spinners + Spin-to-Win Contest

​

The Giveaway: Fidget spinners or other small fidget toys with your logo. These spinning gadgets took the world by storm a while back and are still a fun desk toy for many. They're great for stress relief and keeping hands busy, which can be a hit at conferences where people are sitting in sessions or milling about.

Interactive Twist: Host a "Spin-to-Win" contest at your booth that leverages the actual fidget spinners. For example, challenge attendees to spin one of your branded fidget spinners and see whose spins the longest. Have small stopwatches available for your team. This naturally draws a crowd as people cheer on the spinning toy and try to beat each other's times. The person who achieves the longest spin of the day (or hour) could win a larger prize. Even those who don't set a record still get to keep a spinner as a prize for participating.

Why it Works: Fidget spinners tap into the playful, childlike fun in everyone. By making it a contest, you introduce friendly competition and excitement. Your booth becomes an attraction. People will point and say, "They have a spin-off contest over there, let's check it out." This boosts your traffic and increases the time peolple stay at your booth.

The branded spinner is something they'll likely keep on their desk. Whenever they're on hold or on a conference call or brainstorming session, they'll be spinning it and see your logo. The whole time, they'll be recalling the fun they had at your booth, linking that dopamine hit of play to your brand.

Overall, a spin-to-win contest turns a simple giveaway into an interactive highlight. It communicates that your company is fun, engaging, and not afraid to do something different. And by the time someone's spent a few minutes trying to beat the top spin time, you've earned enough of their attention to slip in some conversation about what you offer. It's trade show engagement 101: attract, engage, and delight.

15. Custom Socks + Cozy Rest Stop

The Giveaway: Custom printed or woven socks featuring your logo or a fun design related to your brand. Branded socks have become a trendy giveaway, and they're unusual enough to feel special, and who doesn't love a comfy pair of socks? The key is to make them eye-catching and high quality, something people want to put on.

Interactive Twist: Create a "Foot Massage Lounge" at your booth where tired attendees can put on their new socks (required) and get a foot massage. Have multiple foot massager machines because one thing for certain is their feet will be hurting from walking miles at a typical large trade show!

To get people to the cozy corner, you might have a sign like "Feet hurting? Get A Foot Massage!" It's a bit of empathy marketing. It shows you understand how exhausting trade shows can be. Even a 3-minute sit with cold water (maybe pair this with the hydration idea if possible) and putting on new socks can refresh someone's day. They'll remember who gave them that relief.

Make sure you have a 3-minute pitch available to educate them about your company!

16. Puzzle Gifts + Brain-Teaser Challenge

​

The Giveaway: Branded puzzles or brainteasers, such as mini Rubik's cube-style puzzles, wooden puzzle pieces, or metal brain teaser loops with your logo. Another option is a custom jigsaw puzzle (maybe a small 35-piece one with your image/logo. 

Interactive Twist: Invite attendees to a "Brainteaser Challenge" at your booth. Have a couple of different quick puzzles on hand, for example, the simple metal rings that you have to separate, or a disentanglement puzzle. The contestants are timed, and the fastest for each station wins some branded swag.  

Another Example: "Separate these two metal links in under 30 seconds and win an upgraded prize!" Many won't be able to, but they'll enjoy trying. Or a matchstick puzzle on paper: "We have a riddle; solve it and win." These kinds of things draw crowds who also want to know the solution. After a few tries, you can demonstrate the solution, which itself can gather people ("Oh, that's how it works!").

You can also create a leaderboard if one of the puzzles is timed (like a Perplexus maze ball or slide puzzle). People love competing for top times, and they will frequently come by your booth to see if their time has been beaten yet.

After they compete, you'll talk about how your company loves solving tough problems for clients (hint, hint), making the thematic connection that you help solve puzzles in their business.

Why it Works: Puzzles make people stop and think, which means they stop at your booth longer than for a pen grab. It turns your space into a little activity zone where passersby might join in or root for someone. It's interactive and stimulating, which is a nice break from going booth-to-booth hearing pitches.

17. Lapel Pins, Buttons, Stickers + Wearable Swag Game

The Giveaway: Custom Lapel Pins and Buttons (badges) featuring your logo and fun graphics/slogans. These are cost-effective, highly brandable items that attendees can slap on laptops, water bottles, or their clothing/bags during the event. 

Interactive Twist: Implement a "Lapel Pin-Spotting" or "Badge of Honor" game. For instance, hand out lapel pins or small buttons to pin on their lanyard, and tell them that if our team spots you wearing it, you could win a prize (very similar to the lanyard idea, but with lapel pins/buttons, which are easier to combine with others). This creates a mini street-team vibe where your staff or secret "spotters" roam the show floor. At random times, you can literally tap someone wearing your swag and say, "Thanks for sporting our swag! You just won a gift card/awesome prize." 

Another approach: host a trading or collecting game. If you have multiple designs (say four different ones, each with a part of a message or collectible series), encourage attendees to "collect all 4" by visiting during certain times/days. People love completion challenges, and wearing all the swag shows they did it.

18. Webcam Covers + Privacy Quiz

​

The Giveaway: Branded webcam covers (those little sliding shutters that stick over a laptop or phone camera) with your logo. With cybersecurity and privacy concerns high, these are timely and useful – they allow users to cover their webcam for privacy when not in use. Perfect Imprints can brand simple plastic security webcam covers in various colors. It's a subtle piece of swag that sits right on someone's laptop (great daily brand visibility).

Interactive Twist: Set up a quick "Privacy Check Quiz" or challenge at your booth. For example, have a poster or tablet with a few true/false statements about online privacy/security. Ask attendees to answer: e.g., "True or False: Hackers can access your webcam without the light turning on." (Answer: True, in some cases, which is why covers are useful!). Or "What percentage of people stick tape over their webcam? A, B, or C?" Attendees give their answers, and you reveal the facts (perhaps startling them).

As a reward for learning about privacy (and participating), they get a webcam cover for their device. You can even help them stick it on right then and there (if they're comfortable) – which is another chance to show friendliness and literally get your swag in use immediately.

Why it Works: Webcam covers are highly practical and a bit novel as swag, as not everyone has one yet, but many know they should. They're one of those items everyone needs but no one wants to buy. By centering an activity around privacy awareness, you tap into a real concern people have. It feels immediately relevant, and the solution (your giveaway) is instantly gratifying and meaningful.

All in all, a webcam cover giveaway with a privacy quiz not only delivers a useful item but also positions your brand as a helpful advisor looking out for the attendee's interest.

19. Branded Candy & Treats + Sweet Incentive Game

The Giveaway: Custom-wrapped candies, mints, or chocolates with your logo on the wrapper. Think individually wrapped mints, little candy bags, lollipops, etc. Everyone has a bit of a sweet tooth at trade shows (all that walking = need sugar!). Candy is a crowd-pleaser and draws people in with the promise of a quick energy boost.

Interactive Twist: Integrate the candy into a fun game or contest like a "Guess How Many" jar or a golden ticket hunt.

For example, have a large, clear jar filled with your branded candies. Encourage attendees to guess how many candies are in the jar. They drop their guess (and their business card or written contact info) into a box. At the end of the day or show, the closest guess wins the whole jar (or a different grand prize, like a bigger box of gourmet treats or your product trial, etc.). Meanwhile, you can let everyone who guessed take a small handful of candy as a thank you (so they definitely get a treat no matter what). This classic game reliably draws people. Plus, you collect a bunch of business cards/leads from the entries to follow up with ("We'll email the winner, and maybe you send a consolation prize to everyone who entered, which could be a discount or special offer).

Alternatively, have a candy wheel or Plinko: spin a wheel with different candy types or treat prizes ("2 chocolates + 1 mint" or "a king-size candy bar" or "bonus entry in raffle"). People spin it as a playful way to get their treat. It's the act of playing that's engaging (the prize is candy, which they'd get anyway, but the gamification makes it memorable).

These contests attract crowds. Others see a group around a jar and get curious. It's a low-barrier invite: "Come guess the candy count and win a prize, and grab a sweet while you're here."

20. Prize Wheel + Spin-to-Win Excitement

The Giveaway: Various swag items featuring your logo, such as branded water bottles, tote bags, t-shirts, sunglasses, or higher-value prizes like portable phone chargers for the "jackpot" wedge. You can also include free trial offers for your services (if applicable) to mix in experiential value.

Interactive Twist: Invite attendees to "Spin the Wheel of Swag" for a chance to win a prize. The loud clicking of the wheel draws attention from across the trade show floor, making people naturally curious about what's going on. Once at your booth, participants can spin the wheel and watch with anticipation as the wheel slows, hoping to land on the big prize. You can add extra fun by having a staff member act as an energetic "MC," hyping up each spin and celebrating winners loudly to attract even more attention.

You can create an element of "VIP status" for big winners, such as flashing lights, a bell, or a special sound effect when someone hits the top prize. The spectacle alone builds buzz and creates a small crowd around your booth, sparking curiosity from others walking by.

Why it Works: The clicking sound of prize wheels is a magnet in a noisy trade show environment. It naturally draws a crowd, everytime! The anticipation of winning something bigger than a standard freebie adds excitement. While participants are waiting in line, it gives your team time to have a meaningful conversation. It turns your booth into an interactive space rather than just a stop-and-grab table.

Conclusion: Engage to Stand Out

In the bustling environment of a trade show, it's the experiences you create that people remember most. By pairing each promotional item with a thoughtful or fun engagement, you transform your giveaways from simple freebies into meaningful brand interactions. The ideas above aren't just about giving out swag; they're about sparking conversations, drawing crowds, and making attendees feel something positive at your booth.

Whether it's the relief of a cold drink in a new koozie, the thrill of winning a prize, or the feeling of a quick massage with an eye mask, each experience attaches extra value to the item (and your brand).

Remember, the goal is not only to have the best trade show giveaways but to use them as tools to get more leads and connections. Encourage people to participate, have fun, and linger. The longer and more enjoyably they stay at your booth, the stronger the relationship you're building. And ultimately, those relationships are what turn into business after the show.

One Final Note

The most important part of the process of getting a return on your trade show investment happens AFTER THE SHOW. Make sure you follow up with every lead!

References

1. "47 Trade Show Statistics Shaping 2025 and Beyond." Cvent.
2. "Branded Giveaways And Other Promotional Products: Do They Still Have An Impact?" Forbes.
3. "Top 20 Best-Selling Custom Stress Balls." Perfect Imprints.