5 Experience Gifts for Christmas

Are you struggling to find the perfect presents for your loved ones? Christmas gift shopping can be a real stress, and dare we say can even put a downer on the whole festive period. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Rather than buying your wife another piece of jewellery or your dad a gadget he'll probably never use, give the gift of quality time together instead.

Why give an experience for Christmas?

Back in 2020, GiftingWho carried out a survey of the most popular gifts people like to receive, and do you know what topped the list? That’s right - experiences! A whopping 44.5% of respondents said they preferred to receive an experience gift, compared to 20.9% that said clothing and accessories and 12.7% that said electronics.

But what makes the gift of an experience so special?

1. It's unique and refreshing - no one else is likely to have thought of the same experience.
2. It’s a chance to spend quality time together and try something new.
3. Experiences are a lot more memorable than another pair of socks or a box of chocolates.
4. It saves on packaging and the dreaded task of Christmas wrapping!
5. Experiences are a lot more valuable to us than material objects.

Now you’re sold on the idea of giving an experience this year, instead of a traditional gift, let’s take a look at some unique ideas to inspire you.

5 experience gifts for Christmas

1. Buy them an annual pass to a place they love

Museums, botanical gardens, theme parks - they all offer annual passes that will make a thoughtful experience gift this Christmas. Is there somewhere your loved one would like to visit again? Buy them a season ticket so they can go as many times as they wish!

Memberships like National Trust and English Heritage also make great Christmas gifts. Give the gift of exploration, with the opportunity to visit castles, historical buildings, gardens and places of interest all over the UK.

2. Spa Day

Who doesn’t love a spa day? Treat your loved one to a day full of relaxation and pampering. Take a look at our top 5 spa breaks in the UK for inspiration and book a spa hotel through PlansChange.

3. Book a night out for parents

Know parents who could do with a well-deserved break? Treat them to a night out this Christmas and offer to babysit. Think about the experiences they’re likely to enjoy but don’t get to do as often now they’ve got little ones to look after. A trip to the theatre, a wine tasting experience or perhaps even dinner at a Michelin Star restaurant. They're all exciting gift experiences that will make their Christmas one to remember.

4. Romantic city break

Have you got into a bit of a rut buying your other half the same old Christmas presents each year? Surprise them with a romantic city break experience! We have lots of great deals from top hotel brands in Europe’s most romantic cities, including Paris, Venice and Prague. Or, if you have the flexibility to travel at short notice, check out our latest Resale Deals and grab yourself a bargain!

Need a little travel inspiration? Read our blog post on where to go for the perfect city break.

5. Plan a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday

In a few years, your children probably won’t remember the PlayStation game they got for Christmas or the doll you searched every store to find. But something they will remember is the family experiences you share. Scrap the material gifts this year and take the opportunity to book a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday.

All that’s left to think about is where you want to go. A safari in Africa? A stunning beach holiday in Mauritius? Simply pop your chosen destination into our search bar, and we’ll share the best hotels at the best prices. It’s that easy!

Would you prefer an experience gift to a traditional present this Christmas? Share your ideal experience with us on social media, and don’t forget to tag your loved ones to drop a cheeky hint.