Fresh ideas interns will actually use, post, and remember

If your intern welcome kits still include the same notebook-pen-tumbler combo from 2016… we need to talk.

Yes, those items can still work—but not if they feel like filler. A great intern kit doesn’t just check a box—it creates a moment. It says, “We’re glad you’re here.” It helps interns show up, settle in, and feel like part of something bigger from day one.

Let’s build something better.

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What Makes Great Intern Swag?

It’s not about avoiding common items—it’s about relevance, execution, and intention. The best kits hit four key goals:

• ✅ Useful at work and outside the office

• ✅ Reinforces team culture or brand values

• ✅ Fun enough to post, wear, or talk about

• ✅ Something they actually keep

Here’s how to pull that off—with fresh, summer-specific merch ideas your interns will actually love.

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🔥 1. Cool-Down Gear for Summer Interns

It’s hot. They’re commuting, exploring the city, or walking across campus. Give them gear that makes summer easier.

• Portable fan – USB-powered or clip-on versions are surprisingly useful

• Cooling towel – Great after a walk or outdoor team event

• Mini lunch cooler – Branded, compact, and perfect for intern potlucks

• Branded summer cap – Go beyond truckers. A clean 5-panel or unstructured cap = wearable

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✨ 2. Culture-Driven Conversation Starters

Swag can build team connection when it’s done right. Give interns ways to belong faster—and spark conversations with teammates.

• Company trivia deck – Flashcard-style stories about your founding, milestones, and fun facts

• Icebreaker cards – Perfect for onboarding lunches or virtual meetups

• Stickers or pins – Highlight inside jokes, core values, or “unlocked” team moments (like shipping their first ticket)

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🧳 3. Intern-on-the-Go Essentials

Your interns are mobile. Some are traveling, exploring, or working hybrid. Give them gear that goes with them.

• Branded belt bag or sling pouch – Functional, on-trend, and keeps your logo in motion

• Foldable picnic blanket – Great for team picnics, study breaks, or chilling in the park

• Slim power bank – Add a fun phrase like “Intern mode: always charging”

• MagSafe phone grip or PopSocket – Sleek, useful, and phone-based visibility = smart

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🧑‍💻 4. First-Day Desk Setup (That Actually Feels Thoughtful)

Even simple touches go a long way when they’re intentional.

• Custom nameplate or acrylic plaque – Welcome them with their name + team

• Phone stand – Branded, minimal, and helps them stay organized

• Screen cleaning kit – A branded microfiber cloth or cleaner is always appreciated

Bonus: Include a handwritten note or QR code that links to a welcome video from leadership.

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📸 5. Instagrammable Add-Ons

Want your interns to share their welcome experience? Make it easy.

• “Intern Squad” mini desk sign – Cheesy? Yes. But shareable.

• Branded welcome card with QR code – Link to a fun reel, playlist, or internal Slack emoji pack

• Custom enamel pins or patches – Great for jackets, backpacks, or lanyards

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✏️ Wait… What About Tumblers and Notebooks?

They’re not bad. They’re just expected.

But when you upgrade the finish, add a surprise inside (like stickers or gift cards), or make the design something interns actually want to show off… they’re still worth including.

It’s not the item—it’s how you deliver it.

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Final Thoughts: Your Intern Kit Is Part of Your Brand

Your summer intern welcome kit is often the first physical interaction someone has with your brand. It can either feel like a cheap afterthought—or like a clear signal that you invest in people.

Design with intention. Surprise them. Make it fun.
And if you need help? We build kits that make interns say, “Whoa… this place gets it.”

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➡️ Ready to build your intern kits?

See real-life merch examples and get your own custom welcome kit mockup at
www.BRND.agency