Frequently Asked Questions About Promotional Bags Satchels
What is the difference between a tote bag and a conference satchel?
Tote bags are open-top, lightweight carry bags made from cotton, calico, jute or non-woven fabric — suited to casual events, retail giveaways and eco-focused campaigns. Conference satchels are structured bags with document compartments, zip closures and shoulder straps designed for professional business events, delegate kits and corporate gifting. Satchels project a more formal image and typically carry a higher unit cost, while tote bags offer strong value at high volumes for large-scale giveaways.
Which branded bag style works best for a tradeshow or expo?
For tradeshows and expos, non-woven tote bags and drawstring bags are popular for high-volume handouts because they are lightweight, cost-effective and easy to brand with screen print. If you are targeting a professional or corporate audience, a structured conference satchel or backpack creates a stronger impression and is more likely to be kept and used after the event. The best choice depends on your budget, audience profile and how many bags you plan to distribute across the event.
Can I get branded bags with a full-colour logo?
Yes. Full-colour digital transfer printing applies detailed, multicolour artwork and photographic designs directly to the bag surface. This method works well on polyester, nylon and smooth synthetic fabrics. For cotton, calico and canvas bags, full-colour screen printing achieves bold, saturated colour across large print areas. Embroidery is not suited to full-colour photographic artwork but excels with structured logos in a limited colour range. Our team will recommend the right method based on your artwork file and chosen bag style.
What is the minimum order quantity for custom printed bags?
Minimum order quantities vary by bag style and branding method. Drawstring bags, non-woven totes and calico bags generally have lower minimums, making them accessible for smaller events and campaigns. Premium styles such as backpacks, laptop bags and travel bags may require larger minimum runs depending on the supplier. Contact our team on 1300 85 50 35 for specific quantities on the style you have in mind — we can also advise on the most cost-effective quantity break for your budget.
How long does it take to produce custom branded bags?
Standard production for most custom branded bags takes approximately two to three weeks from artwork approval. This includes artwork setup, print or embroidery production and quality checking before dispatch. Express turnaround is available on selected bag styles for urgent deadlines — lead times vary by style, quantity and branding method. To avoid last-minute pressure, allow at least three to four weeks between placing your order and your event or delivery date. Call our team early if your timeline is tight.
Are there eco-friendly branded bag options available?
Yes. Several bag options in our range are suited to sustainability-focused organisations. Jute bags are made from a fast-growing natural fibre and are fully biodegradable. Cotton and calico bags are reusable and a popular choice for brands communicating an environmental message. Recycled non-woven bags offer a lower-cost alternative with recycled material content. If your brief specifies eco credentials, let our team know — we can identify which options carry recognised sustainability certifications or use recycled or organic materials.
What is the difference between screen printing and embroidery on bags?
Screen printing presses ink onto the bag surface in flat layers of colour, producing bold, high-coverage logos ideal for large print areas on totes, non-woven bags and calico. It handles simple artwork and block-colour designs well. Embroidery stitches thread into the fabric to create a raised, textured finish that conveys a premium feel — best suited to structured bags like backpacks, laptop bags and conference satchels with firm panels. For detailed or multicolour artwork, full-colour digital transfer is often the better solution than either method alone.
Can branded bags be used as corporate gifts as well as event giveaways?
Branded bags work well in both roles, but the right style differs. For event giveaways at tradeshows, conferences and expos, lightweight totes, drawstring bags and non-woven bags offer value at volume and are practical for attendees to carry other materials home. For corporate gifting to clients, new employees or long-service recipients, laptop bags, premium backpacks and travel bags project a higher perceived value and are likely to be used regularly. The bag becomes a daily brand touchpoint for the recipient, making it one of the strongest long-term promotional products available.