These Promo Products Are More Than Just Free Stuff
Beige tote bag with floral design, text City Florist – a perfect promotional product.
Promotional or custom-made products can be seen everywhere, from branded pens to keychains to mugs—you name it. Companies swear by them to boost brand awareness, but I’ve
always wondered: Do people use these things or collect dust in a drawer? To settle the question, I tested four promotional items I’ve picked up recently: a customised tote bag, a branded metal insulated bottle, logo-printed stickers, and a premium branded handy lamp. Here’s what I found after putting them to real-life use.
First up: the giveaway tote bags I snagged as event merchandise at a trade show. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect that much. Event freebies often feel cheap or gimmicky, but this tote bag surprised me. The print was clean and high quality, with the company’s logo subtly placed in the corner. The material was thick and sturdy, not another throwaway flimsy bag. I started using it for a short grocery run, and it held up even with many loads. Then I tossed my laptop and charger in it for a coffee shop workday—still perfect. It’s reusable, eco-friendly, and surprisingly spacious for a quick errand—plus, it’s more stylish than I expected! It i
Next, I redeemed a branded metal insulated bottle (480ml) from a loyalty program after earning enough reward points. It wasn’t just another water bottle—it instantly earned a spot in my daily routine. The high-quality insulation keeps my drinks hot or cold for hours, and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere, whether at work, at the gym or just watching a movie. This kind of bottle feels sturdy and built to last, unlike those flimsy plastic ones that give out too soon. It has become my go-to, completely replacing my old bottles. Honestly, I appreciate the logo and feel grateful for this reward item every time I refill it.
Stickers with Good Hygiene is in Your Hands message, a perfect promotional product.
I went to an event last time and got logo printed stickers. At first, I wasn’t sure what to do with them—a pack with colourful designs and the company’s logo, but the quality really surprised me, not one of those stickers you can buy from the store. They were thick, durable, and had a vibrant look that made them hard to ignore. I ended up sticking one on my laptop, another on my water bottle, and even on my phone cases. They added a fun vibe to my stuff. Stickers might not scream “utility,” but when they’re this well-made, they’re a subtle, playful way to keep a logo in sight.
Finally, I received a premium-branded handy lamp as a freebie with a product purchase. I initially expected this to be a forgettable extra, but it went beyond my expectations. Compact and rechargeable, it delivers a powerful beam perfect for late-night reading or digging through storage. It’s a reliable bedside companion and has saved me countless times. The logo on the side is a nice touch, constantly reminding me of the brand.
My Conclusion
So, do people use promotional products? After this experiment, I’d say yes—but there’s a catch. The good ones, like the tote bag and insulated bottle, get daily action because they’re practical and well-made. Smaller items like stickers and the lampwork, too, especially if they’re clever or handy at the right moment. The takeaway for companies is clear: invest in quality, and people won’t just keep your stuff—they’ll use it. For me, these items have earned a spot in my routine, proving promotional products can be more than junk drawer fodder.
