- call toll free: 1-855-544-4438 / local: 857-267-3800 quotes@promotionalproducts.com
Running a small business means making every dollar count—especially when it comes to marketing. But great branding doesn't require a big budget. In fact, some of the most impactful promotional products are both cost-effective and highly memorable.
If you're looking to build your brand, boost customer loyalty, or attract attention at events without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place. Here are the top promotional product picks under $5 that offer high value, wide appeal, and serious brand-building potential in 2025.
Pens are a classic for a reason—they're useful, affordable, and offer tons of exposure. But to make yours stand out, skip the generic and go for:
Soft-touch barrels
Stylus tips for touchscreen use
Eco-friendly materials like bamboo or recycled plastic
They may be small, but they’re mighty when it comes to everyday brand visibility.
Why it works: Pens travel—from desks to pockets to homes—and your brand goes with them.
Tote bags are one of the best value-per-impression items on the market. For under $5, you can offer a stylish, reusable bag that customers will use for groceries, errands, and more.
Choose non-woven polypropylene or lightweight cotton for affordability. Add a bold, clean design and you’ve got a walking advertisement for your business.
Great for: Retail shops, farmer’s markets, trade shows, and welcome kits.
In 2025, everyone’s glued to their phone—so why not stick your brand to it? Silicone phone wallets attach to the back of a smartphone and hold cards, IDs, or cash.
They’re slim, practical, and used daily—making them a perfect low-cost way to get your logo seen.
Bonus idea: Choose bright colors or a custom die-cut shape to make your design pop.
Compact notebooks with your logo are not only practical—they're a great way to show off your brand’s style. Go for covers made from recycled paper, kraft, or stone paper to boost eco appeal.
Pair with a matching pen (still under budget) for a simple but premium-feeling gift.
Best for: Conferences, workshops, educational events, or team onboarding.
Everyone needs lip balm, and it’s the kind of giveaway people actually keep and use. For less than $5, you can choose natural ingredient formulas in branded tins or tubes with custom labels.
This item is compact, appreciated, and especially effective in seasonal marketing campaigns.
Why it works: It lives in pockets and purses—and so does your brand.
Want a fun, creative, and ultra-budget-friendly way to showcase your business personality? Custom buttons and die-cut stickers are the answer.
Use them to:
Show off a slogan
Celebrate your town or local pride
Support a cause
Create limited-edition designs for events
They’re great for packaging inserts, giveaways, or retail counter displays.
Pro tip: Make your design cool enough that customers want to wear or share it.
These small cloths are perfect for cleaning glasses, phone screens, and tablets—aka, everyday essentials. Add a full-color imprint, and you’ve got a practical item that puts your brand in constant view.
They’re light, flat, and easy to mail or hand out with purchases.
Great for: Tech companies, optometrists, photographers, or any brand with a sleek vibe.
Believe it or not, you can still find quality drinkware options under $5. Consider:
12oz plastic tumblers
Collapsible silicone cups
Basic aluminum water bottles
These are perfect for casual events, fundraisers, or employee kits. The key is choosing a fun color and bold design that makes your cup the one customers reach for.
Best for: Gyms, schools, youth organizations, outdoor brands.
Standard keychains are everywhere—but multi-function keychains bring the value. Think:
Bottle openers
Flashlights
Tape measures
Safety whistles
Add your logo and you’ve got a giveaway that’s useful, not just decorative.
Why it gets noticed: Utility makes it stick around long after the event is over.
Even post-pandemic, personal hygiene remains a priority. Pocket-sized sanitizer sprays or gels with your branding are practical and show you care.
They’re perfect for healthcare providers, hospitality brands, or small businesses attending community events.
Pro tip: Go for scented or essential oil-infused formulas to stand out even more.
When you’re working with limited marketing dollars, every promotional item has to pull its weight. The key to standing out without overspending is to focus on:
Functionality: Choose products people will actually use.
Design: Make your brand look good—bold colors, clean logos, fun slogans.
Relevance: Match your giveaway to the event, audience, or season.
Quality: Even budget items should feel thoughtful and reliable.
By choosing the right products and adding a little creativity, you can stretch your budget while building genuine brand recognition.
You don’t need deep pockets to make a lasting impression. With the right under-$5 promotional products, you can build buzz, reward loyal customers, and share your brand in ways that are fun, useful, and memorable.
Whether you’re a café looking for merch, a startup heading to your first trade show, or a local shop wanting to boost visibility, these small-but-mighty promo picks are your secret weapon.