Best school swag ideas

You’ve seen it happen, the tee that gets worn twice, the pen that barely writes.

The greatest swag? It’s high quality. It’s keepable. It’s loved.

Here’s what works:

High Quality Apparel 

Students and staff won’t wear apparel with giant logos across the chest. You want quality pieces that endure all of the activities with clean branding that feel like something they picked themselves. 

Tees 

Tees are a must and easy on the budget, most of the time. They can actually last through a school year and are easy to size. You can include them in student welcome kits, field trip shirts, or school fundraisers. 

Jackets and hoodies 

Jackets and hoodies are practical, wearable, and cozy. They're perfect for staff, coaches, and of course…

Students. Students wear hoodies on and off campus. Get the fit and feel right, and it won’t sit in a drawer.

The Roam Hoodie is soft, sustainable, and versatile.

This Coach's Jacket is classic, weather-ready, and perfect for coaches.

Bottoms 

Bottoms don’t get as much love in swag, but when they hit, they really hit. After all, who doesn’t appreciate comfy or stylish pants?

Gear for Their Bag (or Locker, or Desk) 

First things first, right? Let’s start with their bags. Whether it is for students, athletes, teachers, or staff, a bag is that one item everyone needs in a school. It is what carries you (and your things) everywhere. 

You want a bag (or backpack) that does not just look nice but handles daily use without falling apart (oops).

Now let’s think about what can be inside their bags.

Yes, we all think about a pen, pencil, tumbler… but how can you make that more thoughtful? Here are some of our best-selling examples: 

• This Sharpie® S-Gel pen writes smoothly and looks sharp.

• SproutWorld™ FSC® Pencil is biodegradable (always a hit).

• Mini Sticky Notebook is a pocket-sized and practical notebook.

• 32 oz Owala Freesip Stainless Insulated Bottle with Handle is trendy, easy to carry, and easy to clean.

  
  

  

  
  

Swag for Teachers 

Do you want teachers to feel like part of the team? Give them something they’ll actually use and make their days easier:

Mugs 

A good mug isn’t just a cup; it’s part of their morning routine. Something sturdy and well-designed shows you get that.

Stamps 

Teachers do a lot of paperwork. A reliable stamp makes grading less hassle. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.

Writing set 

Notes, meetings, reminders, it adds up fast. A good writing set keeps things in order. Bonus points if it saves time, like the Moleskine® Smart Writing Set that digitizes every page.

Desk Organizers 

Clutter kills focus. Help them keep their workspace tidy with options like the Mobile Office Pencil Case or the Good Value™ Desk in a Box. 

Kits

Whether it’s for kindergartners, freshmen, or new staff, a welcome kit should feel like someone thought it through.

Here are a few underrated heroes:

• First Aid Kit: Needed and appreciated.

• Coloring Kit: Great for school activities or homework.

• USB Adapter Cable Kit: Works for everyone.

When swag helps students or staff feel seen, it becomes part of their identity, not just another freebie.

Not sure where to start? Tell us your goal and your people, and we’ll help you build something meaningful.