Around the world, people are avoiding large gatherings. While some trade shows and training workshops are being canceled or postponed, many are going "virtual" through videoconferencing and other technologies.

As more events go online, organizers and exhibitors are looking for new ways to create strong connections with attendees. Just because they're at home experiencing presentations through a laptop, it's still important for participants to feel engaged and excited.

We all know that branded merchandise is incredibly effective in creating connections. The ever-popular "swag bag" is a conference must. Everyone remembers the cool gifts they've received at events and continue using them in their daily lives.  

So when an event goes virtual, the gift bag becomes more important than ever. When you're not meeting in person, the need to connect is even more critical. That's why shipping conference registrants a special gift package before the event date is so essential.

Here are some of our top picks to include in your virtual-event swag bags.

Headphones and Earbuds

In addition to being useful for listening to training seminars and lectures, headphones can be used long after the event is over. They're also easy to ship and available in price points to fit any budget.

We recommend:

Martell Magnetic Metal Bluetooth Earbuds and Case and Wired Earbuds with Multi-Tips

Stationery

QRG has a great option for a virtual conference experience. The SmartPicx book solution allows you to include full-color, digital images with unique watermark icons that can be scanned by any smartphone for instant access to specific web pages you've chosen to link. And of course, you can't use a journal without a pen, so we'll insert one at no charge.

We also recommend:

Function Office Hard Bound Notebook with Pen Pouch and Cougar Wheat Straw Ballpoint

Tote Bags

These staples of in-person events make a ton of sense for online events, too. They provide the perfect container for printed content and smaller promo products. They also deliver a ton of brand impressions and are right on trend as a reusable alternative to plastic bags. While we're recommending traditional totes here, any bag can serve as a container and many of those options will get you added impressions. Depending on your audience, think lunch bag for something that will get used at the office, mesh shopper for a great general interest brand, or a fanny pack for wellness brands.

We recommend:

Split Recycled 5oz Cotton Twill Convention Tote and Nexus Budget Convention Tote

A Versatile Lightweight Layer

For conference apparel, include a half-zip like the Dege. In addition to being right on-trend, it has a subtle texture that recipients will love. Plus, the Dege is made with more than 40% recycled polyester, so if you're emphasizing the environmental benefits of a virtual conference, eco-friendly apparel is a no-brainer.

We also recommend:

Bodie Short Sleeve Tee and Dade Short Sleeve Polo

Drinkware

Reusable sports bottles and insulated tumblers are proven winners. If you want to make sure that your conference stays top of mind and generates serious brand impressions, daily-use drinkware is hard to top. Remember, you want people to register next year, too.

We recommend:

Valhalla Copper Vacuum Insulated Tumbler 16oz and Arsenal 25oz Stainless Sports Bottle

Chargers

Virtual events and mobile technology go hand-in-hand. Products like charging cables, wireless charging pads, and power banks are not only practical, they also fit the tech theme. And with features like universal charging, wireless chargers make great gifts for all attendees – no matter what type of smartphone they own. Even better, they're lightweight and inexpensive to ship.

We recommend:

Ozone Wireless Charging Pad with Dual Outputs and Brick USB Hub

For More Inspiration

Reach out to your QRG Account Executive or visit our blog for more about the industry and consumer trends that are creating new opportunities.