OOT bag waste?

I love the OOT bag idea, but I'm a little concerned that people will already come equipped with everything in them. I know my family (and FI's) and there's no way they wouldn't show up with a beach towel, sunscreen, hats, etc... all the essentials. I want to have something for everyone when they arrive, I'm just worried that these will be a waste of money to put together. I hope that doesn't offend anyone.

Basically I am looking for OOT bag ideas that may be a little different... what might be nice for guests to have upon arrival? I definitely think a mixed CD is a great idea, but I'm stuck on others.

Here is what I have....

A travel candle (some rooms have a musty smell)

A bottle opener

A koozie for the younger crowd

Some postcards for them to send

A plastic bag for them to bring back wettish clothes

A thankyou note

A custom CD

Hmmm I can't think of anything else that I have but I am sure I am leaving something out.

I tried to include things people often don't think about. Also for some items, I plan to tell them I will be providing them.

Most people don't think to take a large cup to an AI, but when they get there they wish they had one (small cups at most bars)

I also got luggage locks for everyone. I will tell them I got those. I was able to buy them in bulk cheaper than everyone getting one for themselves.

I also put in a first aid kit, postcards, coin purse (room keys & change) & some other stuff.

Overall my bags were pretty cheap to make. I tried to pick things that I thought guests would get use out of & not have packed for themselves.

I do not think OOT bags are necessary though. And I think it's a great idea to think about what your guests will actually use. Unfortunately when someone started a post about what their guests used out of the OOT bags, it just made my list longer.

I've also paid attantion to not getting large items so they can pack easy.

http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t15112

Here is a thread about things guests found to be useful.

You may wanna do stuff also like advil, pepto just in case they dont brink meds and drink a little too much and get some motezumas (sp) revenge! I am also going to costco when I get there to get some munchies so that they can have them in there room. Instead of guests hungry and having to go by a whole meal may want something just to snack on.

I am keeping my bags rather simple. The items that I am including are as follows:

Welcome letter

Timeline of events

Bottled water (this is always overpriced in the rooms)

Snacks (we are not staying at an all-inclusive)

Gum (don't want any alcohol breath!)

Tylenol (more for the people that may be hungover than those getting sick)

Frisbees (FI wanted these)

After sun lotion (most people will bring sunscreen but forget about the aloe)

I think that is it.

OOT bags are really just personal preference but I have enjoyed receiving them in the past. I think most people would appreciate even just a welcome letter.

Thanks! Those are all perfect ideas!! I really appreciate it:)

I'm with ya on not giving people things they already have! Here is what I'm including:

Welcome letter and timeline of events

Beach Tote- I'm telling people that I'm giving these so they don't have to pack them, and they were cheap enough that I won't be offended if they throw them away at the end of the weekend.

Travel Candle and matches- in case room is musty

Chrome Luggage Tag

Big cup with their initial

Tropical Flavored chapstick for women

Disposable nail files for women (i just got these cuz they are cute)

Homemade soap- b/c i hate hotel soap

Small photo album for their vacation photos

Deck of cards

Rubix cube

photo scavenger hunt list

Gum

Tissues