SwagUp Staff Picks: The Best Custom Swag for 2025

When you spend your days building custom swag merch, you get a front-row seat to what actually works. At SwagUp, we see it all — from everyday branded staples to the kind of premium custom merch that makes people stop and say wow.

So, we asked a few team members to share their personal favorites…you know, the swag they recommend again and again because it always lands. These are the pieces that get used, talked about, and remembered long after the unboxing moment has passed.

The Fellow Carter Carry Tumbler

Picked by Mariam Garner, Strategic Sourcing Associate

“I see this item fly through orders every day and it’s my favorite. The color options are incredible and make it easy to match any brand’s palette. It’s practical, stylish, and guaranteed to be remembered.”

Why we love it: The Carter Carry tumbler nails the sweet spot between utility and design. It’s sleek, customizable, and reusable. It’s everything you want in branded drinkware.

Best for: Onboarding kits, executive swag, eco-friendly gift boxes

👉Shop the Fellow Carter Carry Tumbler

Faherty All Day Duffle Bag

Picked by Paola Rodriguez, Brand Designer

“As someone who spends a lot of time matching swag to brand vibes, this bag is a dream. The design is clean and instantly feels high-end. You can tell the brand is going above and beyond.”

Why we love it: A quality bag always feels like an upgrade, and Faherty’s All Day Duffle is no exception. It’s versatile, stylish, and destined for daily use. Whether that’s commuting, traveling, or hitting the gym…this one is perfect.

Best for: Holiday gifting, client appreciation, milestone anniversaries

👉Shop the Faherty All Day Duffle

The North Face Thermoball Jacket

Picked by Crystal Xu, Business Development Representative

“When I recommend swag to clients, I look for pieces that go beyond the expected. This jacket is exactly that—universally appreciated and genuinely valued.”

Why we love it: Premium apparel never goes out of style. The Thermoball jacket is lightweight, high-performing, and makes an impression that no tote bag or water bottle can match.

Best for: VIP gifting, corporate holiday swag, premium employee rewards

👉Shop the North Face Thermoball

Why These Picks Matter

Our staff picks aren’t random. They represent the kind of swag that:

• Reflects your brand in a premium way
• Gets real use instead of collecting dust
• Creates a moment of delight that sticks

Because the truth is, not all swag is created equal. Choosing the right products turns a simple gift into a meaningful brand experience.

Holiday Promo: End the Year on a High Note

Right now, we’re making it easier than ever to nail your holiday swag strategy:

• 5% OFF your holiday order (plus even more perks)
• Up to 3 months of free warehousing
• 5% back in credits and shipping

Start your holiday order today — promo ends September 30th.

Build Your Best Swag Yet

From employee swag boxes to client gifting programs, SwagUp helps you create branded experiences that actually matter. And if you’re not sure where to start? Take our swag quiz and let us match you with the perfect solution.

Ready to get started?

👉Learn more and get started here.

🎁Shop Our Best Sellers! 

💬Want to bring your brand to life in a bold new way? Talk to a Swag Expert.

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