Choosing the Perfect Experience Day Vouchers for Christmas Gifts

With Christmas just around the corner, many of us are hunting for thoughtful, unique gifts that create lasting memories. 

Experience day vouchers are a brilliant choice – they’re perfect for people who prefer adventures over “things” and offer a chance to try something new or indulge in a favourite hobby. 

From exhilarating hot air balloon rides to hands-on pottery workshops, experience days are a thoughtful way to make this holiday season unforgettable. 

Here’s a guide on how to pick the perfect experience day voucher tailored to your recipient’s interests.

1. Consider Their Interests and Hobbies

First, think about what your recipient truly enjoys. Are they a thrill-seeker who’d jump at the chance to skydive or bungee jump, or do they prefer gentler experiences like a day of pampering at a spa? Perhaps they’re a budding chef or a wine connoisseur who would love a cooking class or a vineyard tour. Aligning the experience day with their passions will show that you’ve put real thought into their gift.

2. Think About Location

While many experience day vouchers are valid nationwide, it's helpful to consider where the experience will take place. Some activities, like hot air balloon rides or driving experiences, may require travel to a specific location, which might be ideal for someone who loves a mini adventure. On the other hand, choosing something closer to home may be more suitable for recipients who have busy schedules or prefer a bit of local indulgence.

3. Choose an Adventure for a Shared Experience

Why not make the day even more special by joining in? Many experience days offer packages for two or more, letting you create memories together. From afternoon teas and cocktail-making workshops to tandem skydiving and scenic river cruises, you can make the gift one you both can enjoy. This could be a lovely option for a partner, close friend, or family member with whom you’d love to spend quality time.

4. Consider Age and Physical Comfort Levels

Some experiences, such as scuba diving or rock climbing, are more physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. 

Make sure to consider the age, health, and comfort level of your recipient. For example, a gentle pottery workshop or an afternoon tea on a steam train might be more enjoyable for an elderly relative, while teens might love the excitement of a zipline adventure or a virtual reality gaming session.

5. Make It Festive with a Personalised Touch

Christmas is a time for extra sparkle, so why not make the voucher feel as special as possible? You can pair the voucher with a small related gift – a fine bottle of wine for a wine-tasting day, or a personalised travel mug for someone heading off on a scenic train journey. Many companies offer personalised packaging and messages, so add a heartfelt note explaining why you chose this particular experience for them.

6. Opt for Flexible Dates

The Christmas season can be hectic, so look for vouchers with flexible booking options or open-ended validity. Many providers offer extended or even open-date vouchers, which allow the recipient to schedule their experience at a time that suits them best. This flexibility can make the gift even more appealing and ensure it doesn't feel like another task to add to their diary.

Top Experience Day Ideas

Need some inspiration? Here are a few classic experience days, each with its own unique charm:

Hot Air Balloon Rides: Ideal for those who love a bit of romance and spectacular views.

Pottery Workshops: Perfect for artistic souls who’d enjoy creating something tangible.

Cooking Classes: Fantastic for food lovers looking to learn new culinary skills.

Supercar Driving: A great choice for car enthusiasts with a need for speed.

Spa Days: The ultimate in relaxation, perfect for friends and family members who deserve a treat.

Theatre and Dinner Packages: A wonderful gift for culture enthusiasts.

Whisky or Gin Tasting: An ideal choice for spirits aficionados who love to explore new flavours.

Why Choose an Experience Day?

An experience day voucher isn’t just a gift – it’s the start of a new memory. Unlike traditional presents, these gifts are less likely to gather dust or be tucked away in a drawer. Instead, they provide an opportunity for your loved ones to try something different, step outside their comfort zone, or simply spend a relaxing day enjoying themselves.

By putting thought into the type of experience you choose, you can create a meaningful present that your recipient will remember long after the decorations have come down. So, this Christmas, consider swapping out the socks and sweets for a gift that brings joy and excitement. Happy gifting!