Those who prefer the opportunity to get out and try something new are doing so to avoid getting ‘the same old thing’ every Christmas, and according to the study, experiences will take up around £1.6 billion of festive spends this year – thanks to treats such as show tickets, vouchers and many more.
Originally commissioned by Barclaycard, the research found one in five plans to buy an experience-based gift for a loved one this Yuletide with spokesman of the brand Daniel Mathieson stating: “Brits are fed up with receiving stockings full of socks or the same customary cosmetics and chocolates year after year, we now expect more from our loved ones. Not only do we want presents that provide entertainment, but we also want to create long-lasting memories too, meaning for many, physical items no longer cut-it as Christmas gifts”.
The study also found Brits are planning on spending an average of £129 each on experience-based gifts, a rise of 115 per cent from a year ago with almost half of Christmas shoppers fearing that friends and family will be given the same material gift twice, while 36 per cent worry that they’ll struggle to find the perfect present at all.
So, what’s the most important thing you think of when choosing a Christmas present?
It really is the thought that counts for Brits, as almost six in 10 feel the thoughtfulness of a present is the main factor to consider when gift-giving with twenty-five per cent feeling the sentimental value is also an important factor.
In addition, nearly four in 10 millennials admitted the main reason for buying experiences with their parents was to enjoy quality time together with the intent to create exciting content for their social media channels, with millennials aged 25-30 more conscious of this than any other age group.
It seems the emotion and excitement of giving and receiving an experience is something money can’t buy, particularly when it comes to activities that can be shared. What is truly heart-warming though, is that people want to spend more time with their friends and family and are choosing presents they can enjoy together while also providing something to look forward once the festive season is over.
With 1750 locations and over 90 activities situated all across the UK, why not look for the perfect Christmas gift to spoil your loved ones? As an early Christmas present, we’ll be offering a FREE GIFT WALLET as well as FREE DELIVERY with every one of our vouchers purchased.
Our offer is available until midnight tonight… so don’t miss out!