We’ve all heard the famous quote about how life is a journey rather than a destination. Well, we’d like to think that the same theory can apply to presents—after all, what better way to show loved ones you care than to give the gift of experiences that they can look back on for years to come?
Whether it be a hot air balloon adventure or a culinary class, we’ve rounded up some retailers to shop when a physical present just will not do. Here’s where to find a gift that will not only create memories, but keep on giving.
Out of ideas for what to get family and friends this holiday season? Shop the Gifts section at Groupon for activities to purchase. When checking out, just make sure to select ‘Buy as a gift’ so that you can email or print the gift voucher. With tons of experiences to choose from by location, including city tours, dining, spas and more, you can find activities that will please everyone.
Giftory is another great site for gifting activities. You can even opt to purchase ‘The Classic Christmas Collection’ package, which is available in multiple locations and allows the recipient to choose their favorite experience, whether it be a cooking class, ice skating, a wine tour and many more.
You’re probably familiar with Virgin Atlantic Airways, but did you know the company also runs a Virgin Experience Gifts site? From car racing or off-road ATV experience gifts for the adrenaline junkie in your life, to river cruises and photography workshops, you can find an activity that matches your loved ones’ interests and hobbies. Plus, you have the option to purchase the gift ahead of time and let your recipient book at their convenience.
Whether you’re shopping for a die-hard “Swiftie” or someone who loves nothing more than rooting for their favorite hockey team, you can never go wrong with gifting event tickets from Ticketmaster. All you need to do is purchase the tickets and then go to your Ticketmaster account to transfer them to the recipient via email or text. We bet it will be the best notification they ever receive.
They say food is the way to one’s heart, which makes a gift subscription from Goldbelly a fine choice for just about anyone. Perhaps your loved one prefers to eat pizza on a weekly basis—Goldbelly has a subscription just for pizza lovers. Other options include sandwiches, ice cream, barbecue and more. Or you can send a subscription that delivers a selection of Goldbelly’s most sought-after dishes.
If your loved one is more of a homebody, then a monthly or yearly Max streaming subscription gift will let them binge all of their favorite shows in peace. In addition to Max, some of our other streaming retailers include Hulu, Disney+ and Paramount+. That being said, there’s no greater gift than having an excuse for a cozy night in.
If your friend or family member is a plant aficionado, then a three-month plant subscription from The Sill will bring them some cheer during the dreary winter months. Take your pick from houseplants, orchids, fruit trees and more. There are subscriptions for pet-friendly plants as well, in case your loved one resides with a furry friend.
Do you know someone who pretty much lives in their Alo Yoga leggings? Then, we think they’ll love an Alo Moves Gift Box, which includes an annual membership to the Alo Moves fitness and wellness platform. They can choose from hundreds of online classes such as yoga, barre, HIIT training and meditation workshops. And the best part? It can all be done within the comfort of their home.
Give your loved one something special to look forward to each month with a gift subscription from Cratejoy. Depending on their interests, you can buy everything from DIY craft kits, cocktail mixers, books, bath and body sets and more. Subscription periods run from one to 12 months, and you can also choose to send as a gift when you check out.
Send your pal on an adventure with one of L.L. Bean’s Outdoor Experiences. The site lists a number of activities like kayaking, cross-country skiing, hiking and camping, paddle boarding and more. L.L. Bean also sells an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass that you can order online and gift.
by Michelle Harris
Michelle Harris is a copywriter at TopCashback. When she’s not writing about money-saving tips, she enjoys hiking, cooking, and spoiling her chunky cat.
