Why Experiential Gifting is Taking Off and Where it’s Headed Next
In a world focused on doing more with less, experiential gifting has emerged as a standout trend, resonating across demographics and regions. At Tinggly, we’ve observed this shift firsthand. Our recent U.S. customer survey confirms that experience-based presents are no longer a niche option but a mainstream preference for life’s big (and everyday) moments.
Experiences Win Hearts (and Gift Lists)
According to our survey, 82 percent of Americans say they would rather receive an experience than a physical gift. When asked about their last Tinggly purchase, 68 percent opted for an experience gift box, complete with a curated selection of adventures, while only 20 percent chose a traditional e-gift card. That choice is indicative of a deeper gifting trend in the U.S.: people want stories, not stuff.
Seasonal peaks reinforce this trend. Some 37 percent of survey respondents purchased their last experience for Christmas, 23 percent for birthdays, and 19 percent for weddings. In fact, 76 percent of gifts given to partners took the form of experiences, whether a sunset hot-air balloon ride to mark an anniversary or a private hands-on cooking class for two. Even for friends and family, experiences were a popular pick: 51 percent of those buying for close friends chose an activity or getaway over a gadget or gift card.
Regional Hotspots for Adventure
The experiential wave is strongest in five key states — California (26 percent), New York (22 percent), Florida (17 percent), Texas (16 percent), and Illinois (15 percent) — reflecting both population centers and cultural appetite for adventure. Redemption data shows these same regions leading the way: New York City’s skyline dinner cruises and Broadway backstage tours; Florida’s airboat rides and beachfront spa retreats; Las Vegas’ indoor skydiving and exotic car drives; Los Angeles’ vineyard tours and Hollywood-hill horseback rides; and Chicago’s architectural river cruises and gourmet food walks.
These regional trends highlight not just where experiences are taking place, but also what types of experiences Americans value: personal, immersive, and often shareable. In fact, the survey found younger respondents (aged 18–34) showed a stronger preference for personalized gifts.
Why Experiences Resonate
Four factors consistently drive customers to experiential gifts:
- Global Availability (59 percent): With no expiration dates and access to experiences in over 100 countries, recipients can redeem at their convenience, whether on a business trip to London or a summer break in Miami.
- Broad Selection (44 percent): From helicopter tours to ceramic workshops, people appreciate choice.
- Convenience (39 percent): Our online platform allows givers to plan ahead and access discounts; 62 percent of customers say they actively seek special offers.
- Sustainability (17 percent): Nearly one-in-five respondents cited eco-friendliness as a motivator, aligning gifts with their values.
Beyond these practical drivers, experiences offer emotional benefits. One-third of our survey panel said receiving an experience makes them feel more fulfilled, while 20 percent delight in the social media-worthy memories they create. Crucially, 59 percent admitted they would try something outside their comfort zone — like skydiving or race-car driving — if gifted the opportunity, even if they would never book it themselves.
Beyond Occasions: Everyday Engagement
While holidays and milestone events remain primary triggers, experiential gifting is also gaining traction as a spontaneous “just because” gesture. About 16 percent of our respondents purchase gifts at least once a month, driven by a desire to surprise loved ones. This frequency is especially pronounced among suburban customers and those over 45 … proof that the trend isn’t confined to millennials or urban adventurers.
What This Means for Brands and HR
The rise of experiential gifting presents new opportunities for retailers, registries, and corporate programs. Consumers now expect personalization: 84 percent of survey participants said they select gifts based on recipient interests, and younger buyers particularly prize tailored experiences. For HR teams, offering experiential rewards — whether for employee anniversaries or team-building initiatives — can boost engagement and retention in a competitive talent market.
Looking Ahead
As we move deeper into 2025, we anticipate continued growth in gifting tied to life’s key moments: birthdays, weddings, graduations, and an uptick in spontaneous, “just because” experiences. Regional travel and local adventures will flourish, but so will hybrid offerings, such as virtual masterclasses and at-home kits that deliver experiential magic remotely.
Algimantas Padegimas is chief growth officer at Tinggly, a global experience gifting company dedicated to transforming the culture of gift-giving from material items to memorable experiences.
Algimantas Padegimas is chief growth officer at Tinggly, a global experience gifting company dedicated to transforming the culture of gift-giving from material items to memorable experiences.
