Best Drawstring Bags for Events

Drawstring bags occupy a useful middle ground in the promotional products world — more functional and visible than a flat tote, at a similar or only slightly higher cost. They're a strong fit for a wide range of events and audiences.

Why Drawstring Bags Work Well

Unlike a flat tote carried by hand or over a shoulder, a drawstring bag worn on the back keeps both hands free — genuinely useful at an event where attendees are collecting materials, shopping, or navigating a crowd. This practical advantage tends to translate into people actually using the bag during the event itself, not just after.

Material Options

• Non-woven polypropylene — the most economical option, appropriate for single-event use at high volume.
• Nylon — more durable and water-resistant, a step up for events where the bag might see repeated use afterward.
• Cotton canvas — heavier and more premium feeling, though less common for drawstring styles than totes.

Best Use Cases

Design Considerations

A large, bold logo centered on the main panel reads well at a distance, similar to a tote bag. Because drawstring bags are often worn on the back, the design is visible to people behind the wearer for the duration of the event — worth keeping in mind when choosing print placement.

How They Compare to Tote Bags

Tote bags generally offer more visible branding surface and a slightly more premium feel; drawstring bags offer better functionality for hands-free, active use. Many event organizers choose based on the nature of the event — a seated conference favors totes, while an active event (a race, a festival, a school event) favors drawstring bags.

Drawstring Bags as a Retail or Merchandise Item

Beyond giveaways, some organizations sell drawstring bags directly as merchandise — particularly effective for gyms, schools, and community organizations with an established, loyal audience who wants branded gear. This shifts the item from a marketing expense to a small revenue source while still extending brand visibility.

Comparing Drawstring Bags to Backpacks

For audiences that need more substantial carrying capacity or back support (school-age children, longer events), a full backpack may be a better fit despite the higher cost, while a lighter drawstring bag suits shorter events or an audience that just needs to carry a few lightweight items. The choice often comes down to how long and how much the bag will realistically need to carry.