Experience gifts for families have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, shifting away from materialistic presents to memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. As more and more families seek meaningful connections and quality time together, gifting an experience becomes the ultimate gesture of love and thoughtfulness.
These gifts promise shared moments, laughter, and unforgettable memories that traditional presents might not deliver. In this article, we’ll dive deep into why experience gifts for families are becoming the new trend and explore some great options to consider for your next special occasion.
This post is part of our family travel gift guide series – check out our hand selected ideas for every adventure-seeker in your family
What are the benefits of gifting experiences?
Over the past few decades, the allure of physical gifts, from gadgets to toys, has dominated the gifting culture. But a noticeable shift has been taking place. Experience gifts for families are becoming a sought-after alternative to traditional presents. This change is driven by several factors:
- Value of Memories over Materials: Studies have shown that experiences bring people more happiness than material goods in the long run. The anticipation, the shared moments during the experience, and the memories afterward often outweigh the fleeting joy of unwrapping a physical gift.
- Avoiding Clutter: In a world where minimalism and decluttering are gaining traction, many families prefer experiences over more items that eventually take up space in their homes.
- Unique and Personal: Experience gifts for families can be tailored to the family’s preferences and interests. Whether it’s an adventure in the wild or a relaxing day at a spa, there’s something for every family out there.
Popular Experience Gifts for Families
If you’re considering giving an experience gift, here are some popular options for the whole family.
1. Outdoor Adventures
Whether it’s ziplining through a forest, white-water rafting, or a family camping trip, outdoor adventures are a hit. These activities provide adrenaline rushes and help families bond over shared challenges and accomplishments.
Our tip: Join a family summer camp
Family summer camps are unique escapes from our digital world, promoting recreation, bonding, and growth. These camps offer a break from daily distractions, presenting activities that cater to all ages and strengthen family ties.
They emphasize teamwork, communication, and learning and provide opportunities for adventure, talent discovery, and natural relaxation. Additionally, they foster community, allowing families to connect with others creating lasting bonds.
2. Travel
Even if it’s a short weekend getaway, gifting a family vacation can be one of the most cherished experience gifts for families. Exploring a new destination, tasting local cuisines, and immersing in a different culture are experiences that can shape a family’s stories for years to come.
Our tip: Buy an airline ticket as a gift
Gifting airline tickets is more than travel; it’s a chance for families, often spread out in today’s busy world, to bond and make lasting memories. The gift of travel allows loved ones to reconnect, experience new cultures, and deepen their bonds.
While airlines offer gift vouchers, we recommend buying a multi-airline gift card. Unlike conventional options, this gift doesn’t limit you to one airline. With multi-airline gift cards, your family can easily book plane tickets from the airline that offers the best price.
3. Cultural Experiences
Museums, historical sites, or theater performances are great ways to educate and entertain simultaneously. Many museums offer family-friendly interactive exhibitions that can engage kids and adults alike.
4. Workshops and Classes
From pottery and painting to cooking and dancing, enrolling in a class as a family can be both fun and educational. It’s a chance to learn something new and bond over shared progress.
Our tip: Attend a karate class
Joining a karate class offers families a unique opportunity to bond while learning discipline, self-defense, and respect. The structured environment of karate promotes physical fitness, enhances coordination, and boosts mental focus.
Shared challenges in the dojo foster teamwork and understanding among family members. As they progress through belts together, families strengthen their bodies and bonds, celebrating each other’s achievements and milestones.
5. Subscription Boxes
While these might toe the line between tangible and experiential, subscription boxes like science kits, art supplies, or book clubs offer a recurring opportunity for families to engage in activities together.
How to wrap an experience gift
Wrapping an experience gift adds to the anticipation. Start by placing any certificate or ticket inside a decorative envelope or themed container hinting at the present. For example, you could hint at a spa day with a small basket of bath products. If there’s no certificate, design a “coupon” or “voucher” detailing the experience.
Alternatively, print a photo representing the experience, wrap it, or place it in a frame. Consider adding a personal touch with a handwritten note explaining the gift’s significance. For a playful approach, set up a mini scavenger hunt with clues leading to the reveal.
Make memories, not waste
Experience gifts for families represent more than just a day out or a new adventure; they symbolize the value of shared moments and the joy of making memories together. As the trend continues to grow, it’s clear that families are seeking quality time, laughter, and stories that will be passed down through generations.
So, the next time you’re looking for a gift for a family, remember that the best presents aren’t always the ones you can wrap up in a box – sometimes, they’re the ones that unfold as unforgettable experiences.
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