Myths vs. Facts: Busting Common Misconceptions About Promotional Products

Let’s be real—when it comes to promotional products, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around. Whether you’re a marketing pro or just dipping your toes into the world of swag, you’ve probably heard some of these myths before. But today, we’re setting the record straight!

Ready to get in the know? Let’s dive into some of the most common myths about promotional products and uncover the facts.

Myth #1: "Promotional products are so old-school."

Fact: They’re more relevant than ever!

Yes, we live in the digital age, but guess what? People still love tangible stuff—especially when it’s useful! Branded swag sticks around (literally) way longer than an online ad. A stylish tote bag or a sleek water bottle gets used again and again, keeping your brand front and center. It’s like a mobile billboard, but way cooler.

Myth #2: "Promotional products only work for the big guys."

Fact: Small businesses can totally rock promo items.

You don’t need a massive budget to make a big impact. In fact, some of the most successful promo campaigns come from small businesses who really know their audience. Whether it’s hyper-targeted giveaways or special gifts for loyal customers, a thoughtfully chosen product can turn heads and start conversations—no matter your company’s size. So yes, you can play in the big leagues.

Myth #3: "You need to order 10,000 of something to see results."

Fact: It’s all about quality, not quantity.

Spoiler alert: buying tons of cheap stuff isn’t the key to success. Instead, focus on high-quality, memorable items that people will actually use. Think outside the box! A fun, quirky item that gets attention will be way more effective than handing out thousands of pens. (Though, let’s be honest—people still love a good pen.)

Myth #4: "As long as it’s cheap, it’ll work."

Fact: Quality matters—big time.

You wouldn’t hand a client a flimsy business card, so why hand them a flimsy product? Your promotional items represent your brand, and a cheap, low-quality item sends the wrong message. Aim for products that feel good in your hands and will last. When someone loves the swag, they’ll associate those good vibes with your brand.

Myth #5: "You can’t really track the ROI of promo products."

Fact: You totally can!

Promotional products can be tracked just like any other marketing tool—you just need to get creative. Use unique discount codes, track event-driven leads, or collect feedback from customers. And the cherry on top? Studies have shown that promo products have one of the highest advertising recall rates, so your brand stays top-of-mind long after the giveaway.

Myth #6: "Sustainability and swag don’t mix."

Fact: Eco-friendly promo products are on the rise.

Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a must-have for many consumers. Thankfully, eco-friendly promo products are booming! From reusable drinkware to products made from recycled or biodegradable materials, you can impress your audience and help the planet. Who knew going green could look so good?

Myth #7: "Just slap a logo on something and call it a day."

Fact: Thoughtful branding goes a long way.

Sure, you could just stick your logo on a random item, but where’s the fun in that? The best promotional products are carefully chosen to reflect your brand’s vibe and what your audience loves. Whether it's something fun and quirky or sleek and professional, make sure it aligns with your overall message. Bonus points for creativity!

The promotional product world is a lot more exciting—and effective—than some might think. Whether you’re looking to create buzz at an event, thank your clients, or just get your brand out there, promotional products are one of the best tools in the marketing toolkit.

Need help choosing the perfect swag that’ll leave a lasting impression? That’s where we come in! At In The Bag Promotions, we’re all about helping you find the right products that’ll get your brand noticed (and remembered).