25 Creative Trade Show Giveaway Ideas You've Never Thought Of (Splat Tomatoes and Inflatable Chairs Included)
Why Your Trade Show Swag Needs a Serious Upgrade
Let's be real for a second. You've walked the trade show floor before. You've seen the sea of pens, stress balls, and generic tote bags. And you've probably wondered why anyone would remember your booth when everyone else is handing out the exact same stuff.
Here's the thing: trade show attendees visit dozens of booths in a single day. If your giveaway doesn't make them pause, smile, or say "wait, what is that?" then it's going straight into the bottom of their bag, never to be seen again.
That's why we put together this list of 25 creative trade show giveaway ideas that'll actually get people talking. Some are quirky, some are practical, and a few are just plain fun. But they all have one thing in common: they're memorable.
The Weird and Wonderful Category
Sometimes the best way to stand out is to embrace the unexpected. These giveaways are conversation starters that'll have people swinging by your booth just to see what's going on.
1. Splat Tomato Stress Relievers
Forget the boring foam stress ball. A splat tomato is way more satisfying to throw against a wall (or desk). These squishy, throwable toys flatten on impact and then slowly reform back to their original shape. They're perfect for anyone who needs to let off some steam, and they're quirky enough that people will actually keep them on their desk.
2. Inflatable Chair Red
Yes, you read that right. An inflatable chair red (or any color matching your brand) is the kind of giveaway that makes people do a double-take. It's unexpected, it's fun, and it's surprisingly practical for dorm rooms, outdoor events, or just lounging around. Plus, every time someone sits in it, they'll think of your brand.
3. Magic Answer Balls
Think of it as a branded Magic 8-Ball. People love asking silly questions and shaking these things for answers. It's interactive, it's nostalgic, and it keeps your logo in front of them way longer than a business card ever would.
4. Custom Flipbooks
Create a mini animated flipbook featuring your product, mascot, or a fun story. It's old-school cool and gives people something tactile to play with. These are especially great if you have a creative or playful brand identity.
5. Branded Rubik's Cubes
A puzzle that keeps people engaged long after the trade show ends. You can customize each side with different colors, logos, or messaging. It's a desk toy that screams "this company thinks outside the box."
Tech Giveaways That Actually Get Used
Tech swag is tricky. Everyone's seen a million USB drives. But there are some tech giveaways that genuinely solve problems and won't end up in a junk drawer.
6. Repairable Micro USB Cable
Here's a sustainable tech giveaway that people will actually appreciate. A repairable micro usb cable is designed to last longer because you can fix it instead of tossing it. It's eco-friendly, practical, and shows that your company cares about quality over disposability.
7. Portable Power Banks
These never go out of style. A good power bank is something people genuinely need, especially at trade shows when their phone is dying by 2 PM. Go for a slim design with your logo and you've got a winner.
8. Webcam Covers
Privacy matters, and these tiny sliding covers are super useful for anyone with a laptop. They're affordable, lightweight, and show that your brand is thoughtful about modern concerns.
9. Bluetooth Speakers (Mini Size)
If your budget allows, mini Bluetooth speakers are a premium giveaway that people will use regularly. Every time they play music, your brand is right there with them.
10. Phone Wallet Card Holders
These stick-on card holders attach to the back of a phone and hold credit cards, IDs, or transit passes. They're practical, visible, and get used every single day.
Office Supplies That Don't Bore People to Tears
Office supplies get a bad rap as trade show giveaways, but only because most companies choose the boring stuff. Here are some office items that actually stand out.
11. Transparent Stapler
A transparent stapler is one of those items that makes people say "oh, that's cool." You can see the mechanism working, it looks sleek on a desk, and it's a refreshing change from the usual black or gray office supplies.
12. Forum Pens
Not just any pen. Forum pens have a unique design that stands out from the standard ballpoint. They write smoothly, feel good in hand, and have plenty of space for your branding. When someone asks to borrow a pen, yours will be the one they remember.
13. Magnetic Puzzle Cubes
These little desk toys are made of magnetic pieces that can be arranged into different shapes. They're perfect for fidgeting during long calls and they look cool sitting on a desk.
14. Custom Shape Memo Boards
We actually wrote a whole post about custom shape memo boards because they're just that good. You can create them in any shape related to your industry, and they're genuinely useful for keeping notes organized.
15. Personalized Notebooks
Skip the generic spiral-bound notebook. Go for something with a nice cover, quality paper, and a design that reflects your brand's personality. Moleskine-style notebooks feel premium without breaking the bank.
Fun and Games
Trade shows can be exhausting. Give people something that brings a little joy into their day.
16. Mini Frisbees
Pocket-sized frisbees are perfect for outdoor events or just goofing around. They're lightweight, easy to transport, and way more fun than a pamphlet.
17. Custom Playing Cards
A deck of cards with your branding is something people will actually use. Game nights, travel, killing time at airports. Your logo will be there for all of it.
18. Branded Jigsaw Puzzles
Mini puzzles featuring your logo, product, or a cool design related to your industry. They're relaxing, engaging, and different from the usual swag.
19. Noise Putty
Remember that stuff that makes funny sounds when you push your fingers into it? It's hilarious, it's a great stress reliever, and it definitely gets attention at a booth.
20. Mini Fans
Especially great for summer trade shows or warm convention centers. Handheld or USB-powered fans are practical and appreciated when the AC isn't cutting it.
Everyday Carry Items
These are the giveaways that become part of someone's daily routine.
21. Quality Tote Bags
Yes, tote bags are common. But a really nice tote bag with a cool design? That becomes someone's go-to grocery or gym bag. Invest in quality materials and a design people actually want to carry around.
22. Reusable Water Bottles
Sustainability is in, and reusable bottles are always useful. Go for something with a unique design, good insulation, or an interesting shape to stand out from the crowd.
23. Custom Coasters
Cork, leather, or silicone coasters with your branding protect desks and keep your logo visible every time someone takes a sip.
24. Luggage Tags
Perfect for the business traveler crowd. A durable, well-designed luggage tag gets seen at airports, hotels, and conferences around the world.
25. Lip Balm and Hand Sanitizer Sets
Practical, portable, and always appreciated. Bundle them together in a small branded pouch for extra impact.
How SWAG4BRANDS Helps You Find the Perfect Giveaway
Here's the deal: picking the right trade show giveaway isn't just about grabbing something cool off a list. It's about understanding your audience, your goals, and your brand personality.
That's where our SWAG Specialists come in. At SWAG4BRANDS, we don't just take orders. We sit down with you (virtually or in person) to understand what you're trying to accomplish. Whether you're targeting corporate offices, marketers, or businesses looking for trade show gifts, we do the research to find items that actually make sense for your situation.
We'll help you figure out the right balance between budget, quantity, and wow-factor. And we'll make sure you're not showing up to your next trade show with the same stuff everyone else has.
Ready to make your booth the one everyone remembers? Get in touch with us and let's brainstorm some ideas together.