Author Swag Bags and Giveaways–What Do Readers Want?

As I’m starting to plan author events, a big questions looms…

What to put in the swag bag?

There are bookmarks, post cards, mugs, pens, notepads, pen flashlights, t-shirts, totes, candy, sunscreen, sewing kits.

You name it, you can brand it and add it to your author giveaways at events.

I’ve spent hours pouring over sites like customink.com and 4imprint.com. Read tons of blog posts on this.

Trying to determine how much I can get on my budget and what might be the best things to purchase.

So I thought I’d ask you for some insight. And if there’s something I’ve missed please comment and let me know.

I’m definitely going to include bookmarks, but what other item or items are essential to a swag bag/author giveaway for you?