Tote Bags Buying Guide

Few promotional products carry the marketing power of Custom Tote Bags. Increased environmental awareness in recent years has pushed reusable bags into the spotlight. Once relegated to the natural food store crowd, these promotional powerhouses are on the verge of becoming the norm for everyone. California is even considering a state-wide ban on plastic bags in grocery stores, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see other states follow suit and institute bans or taxes on plastic bags in the near future. And if consumers will need to carry a reusable bag, why shouldn’t it be one that displays your logo?

Need more evidence that promotional totes are right for your business? Consider the following:

• In a recent study conducted by the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), customers who received a promotional tote bag used that bag an average of 9 times a month. That means visibility for your logo in a variety of locations.
• In that same study, each bag averaged 1,038 impressions per month!
• Reusable bags send a positive message to your customers and prospects by aligning your brand with environmental awareness.
• Imprinted tote bags can be tied into almost any promotion or event—they’ve even gained popularity as wedding and party favors!

Tote Bag Materials

There are a variety of materials and styles to choose from when selecting a reusable bag. Before you decide to buy, let’s examine some of the more popular options.

Polypropylene Bags

Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that is made into a non-woven “fabric” frequently used in promotional bags. Polypropylene bags are usually at least partially made from recycled materials. They are durable and strong enough for repeated reuse, and many styles can be recycled where facilities exist. Many styles offered by InkHead can accommodate a four color process imprint, which makes them ideal for complex logos. Some polypropylene bags are laminated, which makes them more water resistant and wipeable. Most of the eco-friendly totes offered for sale in grocery stores are polypropylene bags. They’re also popular for conventions and trade shows.

Cotton/Canvas Bags

Cotton and canvas totes are popular due to their durability and higher perceived value. These fabrics are also washable, which adds to their appeal as shopping totes. Organic cotton bags are available to support environmental marketing campaigns. There are a number of fashionable styles available, so cotton bags are great for special events. Cotton bags are frequently chosen as wedding favors and convention totes.

Jute Bags

Jute is quickly gaining popularity as a promotional bag material. Jute is a natural vegetable fiber, so it’s a great option for eco-friendly promotions. Jute is not only strong and durable, but also biodegradable! Jute bags are a stylish choice for special events and retail use.

Recycled PET Bags

PET (polyethylene terepthalate) is a thermo plastic material that is frequently used for food and drink packaging. Bottles made from PET plastics can be recycled and converted into fibers used to create a variety of products. Bags made from PET are extremely durable and are a great example of turning trash into treasure!

How to Buy Custom Tote Bags

InkHead offers a wide variety of custom tote bags to fit every style and budget. Here are some key points to consider while shopping for promotional tote bags.

Tote Bag Materials. Choose a material that suits the purpose of the bag. If your promotion targets student athletes, a polypropylene bag might not stand up as well as a canvas tote. The material you choose can also help further the promotion’s message, especially when you use eco-friendly materials.

Tote Bag Styles. Are your promotional bags being distributed at a convention or trade show? Make sure you choose a roomy style to accommodate all the giveaways and literature attendees will collect during the day. Do you want your logo to have exposure in grocery stores? Try insulated polypropylene totes, or foldable totes that can be stashed in a pocket or purse. Selecting the best style for the intended purpose will ensure that your bags make the maximum number of impressions.

Tote Bag Brand Names. Brand names add impact to almost any promotional product, and bags are no exception. We offer some of the top bag brands including Owl, BAGedge, Harriton, Slazenger, Sovrano and more.

Ready to order some promotional tote bags? Have a question about this product? Please contact us. We can take your order over the phone or answer any questions you may have.