Summer may be break time for classes, but it’s the peak season for connection on campus. Whether you’re planning a high-energy orientation weekend, a relaxed alumni golf outing, or a fun-filled summer sendoff, the right promotional products can turn any event into a memorable experience. We’re ready to show you the hottest summer swag for campus events!
Check out customized gear that brings your college brand to life, from beach-ready items to outdoor game sets. In this quick guide, we dive into the top trending summer merch for colleges, products that students, staff, and alumni will use and love. Let's make summer on your campus unforgettable!
Tips for Choosing the Right Products
When it comes to summer swag for campus events, not all promotional products are created equal. You'll want items that not only showcase your college’s brand but also leave a lasting impression on students, alumni, and guests.
Here are easy tips to help you choose the perfect promotional products:
Function First: Gift items that add real value by offering utility. Consider the summer season and the items that contribute to hydration, comfort, or fun, whether they’re practical reusable water bottles or outdoor gear.
Make It Seasonal: Pick items that fit the summer vibe. Waterproof, sun-friendly, and outdoor-ready swag ensures recipients actually use their gifts during the season. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and insulated tumblers are the first things that come to mind.
Prioritize Portability: With many students and alums traveling during the summer, prioritize lightweight and easy-to-carry products. Think compact bags, travel kits, and foldable items. People always appreciate swag that’s simple to pack and useful on the go.
Trending Summer Merch Must-Haves for Colleges and Universities
From pool days to picnics, college events are where memories get made. Branded merch is a tangible part of those experiences. Check out this summer's standout items for colleges and universities looking to leave an impression.
Beach Balls
If there’s one thing summer perfectly encapsulates, it’s carefree fun. Beach balls are the perfect lightweight gifts that always bring energy and excitement to outdoor events. Not only are they nostalgic and Instagram-worthy, but they’re also versatile enough for concerts, orientations, or casual socials. And what’s better? They're instant crowd-pleasers that show off your brand front and center.
Branded Koozies and Tumblers
Help students enjoy summer’s heat the right way with drinks that stay cool! Custom-designed koozies and insulated tumblers aren’t just eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic. Their long durability ensures that your logo remains visible long after the event is over. They’re ideal for barbecues, beach days, and even dorm-room movie nights.
Waterproof Bags and Drawstring Packs
Durable, stylish, and functional, waterproof bags and drawstring backpacks are perfect companions for everything from campus pool parties to hiking trips. These bags give students and alumni a reliable way to carry their essentials, all while your logo turns heads wherever they go.
Custom Coolers
Nothing beats a branded cooler for alumni golf outings, department picnics, or donor thank-you gifts. Choose from personal-sized soft coolers, backpack coolers, or classic lunch totes.
Outdoor Games Tailored to Your University
Who doesn’t love a bit of outdoor entertainment? Nothing brings people together like a little friendly competition.
Branded outdoor games are a hit across generations. They delight both students and alums, bringing the summer community together.
Customized Frisbees
Whether tossed around during a break or given for large-scale events, frisbees are affordable, easy to brand, and universally loved.
Branded Cornhole Boards
Cornhole boards add energy to tailgates, fairs, and summer gatherings. Additionally, larger promotional items ensure your logo receives even more visibility as players interact with them.
Pickleball Sets With Your Campus Logo
This trending sport is booming on campuses! Pickleball's popularity has exploded, and branded sets are a trending campus must-have. They’re perfect for both beginners and seasoned players.
Giant Jenga or Connect 4 Sets
Oversized games = oversized engagement. Oversized board games bring entertainment to any outdoor setting. Personalized Jenga or Connect Four sets take things up a notch, sparking joy and offering endless photo opportunities.
Campus Event-Specific Summer Merch Recommendations
Certain times call for the right type of promotional product. That's where we excel at having your back and providing the best summer swag for campus events, all for your students.
Alumni Golf Outings
Give alumni a reason to feel proud as they hit the greens. Classic items, such as branded golf towels, balls, visors, and high-quality polo shirts featuring your school’s insignia, are perfect for a day outdoors. Portable coolers or insulated tumblers also make for thoughtful, functional gifts that alumni can take home and reuse.
Summer Sendoffs
Whether students are heading off to study abroad or starting a new adventure, travel-friendly swag is the way to go. Consider essentials like luggage tags, passport holders, or compact toiletry kits for their journeys. Add hydration packs or travel mugs to ensure they stay refreshed wherever they’re headed.
Orientation Weekends
Create warm and welcoming experiences for incoming students with valuable and fun swag. Lanyards with campus maps or QR codes for event schedules are practical and informative. Welcome totes stuffed with phone wallets, sunscreen packets, reusable water bottles, and branded extras will leave a lasting impression as students settle into campus life.
Outdoor Student Events
Sunny days call for laid-back fun. Surprise students with branded hammocks for afternoon hangs or mini handheld fans to beat the heat. Don’t forget stadium blankets or picnic mats for chill outdoor movie screenings or picnics. Sunglasses and sunscreen packets also protect against the sun while promoting your school.
Increase Your Brand Visibility With Summer Swag for Campus Events
Now that you’ve lined up great summer swag, it’s time to make sure your products work double-duty. Use them strategically to increase engagement with your students, alumni, and potential donors.
Bundle Swag Into Kits
Combining several products into themed kits provides a polished touch and cohesive theme. Welcome packs for students or thank-you kits for alumni can include three or four useful items that make a lasting impact.
Drive Digital Traffic
Take advantage of QR codes on your giveaways. Use them to direct recipients to event schedules, online contests, or even your school’s social media pages.
Leverage Social Media
Turn your swag into an online moment. Create contests or photo challenges where students upload pictures with their branded goodies, increasing reach and visibility on social platforms.
Ready to Elevate Your Summer Swag for Campus Events?
At Campus Stop, we’re experts in campus-focused branding, creating unique merchandise tailored for the summer season. Whether you’re ordering for a small orientation or a large-scale alumni event, here’s how we can help:
- Custom design services are included with your order.
- No excessive minimums — we cater to events of all sizes.
- Lightning-fast turnaround for summer campaigns.
- Tailored recommendations for products suited to life on your campus.
From the quad to the golf course, from the beach to the orientation stage, we’re your partner in college promo done right. Summer won't last forever, but the impression your merch makes will. Explore Campus Stop's full collection of customizable summer swag and plan your next unforgettable event today.Ready to elevate your campus experience? Visit us at www.campusstop.com or email us at sales@campusstop.com to explore how we can help you create meaningful and lasting connections with your students.
