10 ways to give experiences instead of stuff

We talk a lot about shopping on this blog. Thrifting and how to score the best deals in the general theme around here. So as many of us begin to feel bombarded with holiday lists and gift guides, I thought we’d take a step back and explore ways we can gift experiences instead of things. I reached out to my Instagram followers and asked them to answer a poll and over 98% voted that they value experiences as gifts. I then asked them to share some of their best ideas so we can compile a list to inspire others. If I didn’t have as many followers as I do online, I may not have been able to ask them for their advice, or I may not have got as many responses as I did. With that being said, a friend of mine did recommend I checked out something like an instagram growth service, in the hopes of growing my following even more. This is something that could be worth looking into. Anyway, here’s what we all came up with:

Food Tours

This was an extremely popular one! You can either book a formal tour through a company or create your own if your city doesn’t offer one.

Mini Vacations or Staycations

If you know someone who loves to travel, consider gifting an airline gift card. A few readers shared memorable experiences where families that live across the country met up at designated location, some suggested an all girls trip or a little getaway with their partner or spouse. Staycations with a local itinerary are always a welcomed break too. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out Pack Up & Go, a surprise travel agency.

Spas & Massages

A personal favorite of mine. Nothing better than looking forward to a free massage or spa day.

Yoga Classes or Any Type of Fitness Class

Fitness classes can be expensive so this is a great gift for someone who loves to stay active. A friend of mine bought her sister a set of womens Fitness Classes mandurah as she had wanted to get fit for a while. Fitness classes can be quite expensive depending on where you go, so buying someone a 6-week course of classes is an amazing gift! Over the past few years, yoga seems to have grown in popularity with people from all over the world, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find a qualified instructor or class in your area. You may even find one that has attended the rishikesh yoga teacher training center, and this could be a great experience for the recipient you are giving the gift too. The most important thing is that you find a class the person will find enjoyable.

Date Nights

Purchase a bunch of gift cards for fun experiences like plays, dinner, movies, concerts, music venues, etc. and treat yourself throughout the year for a date.

Cooking Classes

Can be included in your date night options or a solo treat.

Brewing Classes

This was another reader favorite.

Memberships: museums, zoos, theaters, nature centers, kayaking, season tickets, amusement parks

Fun for you and a partner, and great for families and kids.

Activities for Kids: pottery, painting, jump yards, rock climbing

Truth: buying my niece Frozen themed toys was starting to get a bit old so this past year I took my niece and nephew out for a dinner, movie, and ice cream date – all their choice. It was the most fun we had in a while, especially when Auntie lets you eat all the Sour Patch Kids.

TV memberships: Netflix, HBO GO, Hulu

You know they share your password so just go ahead and buy them the darn membership already.

I’m sure there are so many more so add, feel free to share your ideas in the comments or join the conversation on Facebook.

Header photo is from our trip to the Azores. Click here to read that travel guide.

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