In the past 20 years, we’ve seen custom reusable bags become one of the most effective promotional tools: they’re practical, visible, and long-lasting. But not every bag promotion delivers the same results. As experts in custom bags, here are five tips to help you choose the right bag for your project.
1. Match the Bag to Your Target Audience
A successful promotion starts with knowing who will use the bag. An inexpensive tote may work well for large trade shows, while a durable backpack or gym bag may suit students or active end users better. A higher priced tote is best for attendees at product launches or for campaigns where a quality, memorable takeaway is warranted. But there’s also a time and a place for the workhorse nonwoven polypropylene grocery bag too! When the bag fits the audience’s wants and needs, it’s more likely to be used repeatedly—keeping your brand visible.
2. Think Beyond the Budget
Once you determine who your custom reusable bags are meant for (see #1), you’ll need to compare their wants and needs to your budget. If you’re planning a fancy gala, you don’t want to hand out inexpensive, standard grocery bags. Even if that’s what you budgeted for, that type of bag just isn’t going to fit the bill, and could even be off-putting to your attendees (and by extension, your brand). Make sure that the amount you’re budgeting makes sense for the campaign as a whole.
3. Take Branding Into Account
One of the main drivers in suggesting bags for a project is branding. What do you want to print on the bag? How many colors, what size do you want, how big do you want it? These are the questions that could knock some bags out of the picture at the outset. Conversely, answers to these questions could make bags stand out that maybe didn’t before. We have bags with customizable handles, zippers, and more that can really bring branding to a whole new level.
4. Then, Make Your Branding Stand Out
Once you have a bag in mind, really lean into your branding. Does the bag allow for full color printing on the full bag (also called seam-to-seam or full bleed printing)? Take advantage of that real estate to make your branding stand out. Can you customize the zipper color? Choose one that accents your design and make the bag truly unique! Looking for something more subtle and high end? Look for bags with design capabilities on the interior lining of a bag, or consider a small logo on a bag with leather straps. Either way, you have the ability to make your project truly memorable…if you pick the right bag!
5. Connect with Bulletin Bag (of course!)
We can walk you through your entire custom reusable bag project—from conception to sourcing to purchase. We have more than 20 years in the industry, and we love sharing our expertise with our clients. Plus, we hand pick all of the bags on our site, so we really know our stuff!
