How Brits Are Embracing Experience Gifts for a Memorable Christmas, easyJet Holidays’ New Survey Reveals

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The way Brits approach Christmas gifting is undergoing a transformation, as new research highlights a shift from material presents to meaningful experiences. A recent survey by easyJet holidays of 2,000 UK adults reveals that 86% of people cannot recall all the gifts they received last Christmas, signaling a growing disconnect with traditional gifting.

The Unwanted Gift Dilemma

Despite an anticipated national average spend of £321 on Christmas gifts this year, many gifts go unloved. Brits report receiving two unwanted gifts each year, with 42% donating these items to charity and 37% opting to re-gift. A further 16% turn to resale platforms like eBay or Vinted, resulting in an average of £55 worth of discarded presents per adult annually.

Experiences Take Center Stage

Nearly half (49%) of Brits now prefer receiving travel or holiday vouchers over typical presents such as clothing, gadgets, or jewelry. Concert tickets (43%), theatre experiences (41%), and spa days (33%) are also among the most desired gifts. Interestingly, 13% would rather forgo physical gifts entirely if friends and family contributed to their travel fund instead.

The appeal of experience-based gifts lies in their ability to create lasting memories. Half of respondents (50%) cited the desire to make meaningful memories with loved ones as their reason for favoring experiences, while 49% expressed a longing to try something new, and 45% viewed experience gifts as more unique.

Travel Goals for 2025

Looking ahead to the new year, 30% of Brits plan to set a resolution to travel more in 2025. Italy leads the bucket list destinations (27%), followed by Spain (23%) and Greece (22%).

Top 10 Experience Gifts for Christmas

The survey revealed the most sought-after experience gifts this Christmas:

1. Travel/holiday vouchers (49%)
2. Concert tickets (43%)
3. Theatre tickets (41%)
4. Day spa experiences (33%)
5. Private dining experiences (19%)
6. Tickets to sports games (16%)
7. Wine tasting tours (12%)
8. Cooking classes (12%)
9. Outdoor adventures (9%)
10. Museum memberships (9%)

Generational Spending Trends

On average, Brits plan to spend £77 per gift this Christmas. Baby Boomers top the generosity scale, with an average spend of £337, while Gen Z budgets average £230.

The Most Unwanted Christmas Gifts

Despite the effort put into gift-giving, some presents continue to miss the mark. The least appreciated gifts include:

• Bath sets (41%)
• Bath products (38%)
• Practical items like socks and underwear (30%)
• Candles (28%)

EasyJet Holidays Spreads Holiday Cheer

To highlight the value of experiences over material gifts, easyJet holidays hosted a unique Santa’s Grotto pop-up in December. Children were given the choice between a wrapped gift and an envelope containing a surprise holiday voucher. Eight families who chose the envelope were rewarded with free holidays, creating unforgettable Christmas memories and showcasing the growing popularity of experience-focused giving.

This holiday season, Brits are redefining the spirit of Christmas by prioritizing experiences that create cherished moments over traditional gifts.