Theoretically, experience gift items should be the opposite of consumable items, namely things made of material substance. However, when you focus more on what you gain out of giving such gifts, and not just the tangible or monetary side, it becomes clear that experience gifts are very different from consumable ones. When someone gives you a gift certificate for a day at a spa or a night at a club, that is a gift, because it offers something tangible that you can hold onto. However, when you give someone an experience gift, which is one given with no expectation of return, you give them a choice: do they agree to take the time to go through the experience offered, or do they say no thanks, and turn down the offer?
Experience gifts are also very different from traditional gifts of money or material objects. Consider the following gifts for your family and friends. If you are looking for a perfect present for your nieces, nephews, or godchildren, consider getting them each a snorkeling set (which is actually more of a membership in a resort, rather than a gift per se), or taking them to an eco-lodge to do nature hikes or participate in other hands-on activities. If you want to get your loved ones something a little more personalized, you could create a scrapbook, or calendar for each of them, or give them tickets to a theater production. (If they’re already into that, you can always encourage them to go on that adventure after the kids are done playing.)
There are many experiences that can be considered to be an experience gift. Take your favorite photojournalist to an amazing location where he or she will get to witness incredible scenes in person. For example, if you have a long drive coming up, why not ask your favorite photographer to spend one night at a Nature’s Sunshine retreat in New England while you and your spouse enjoy the rest of your vacation? (Be sure to get a copy of this special photo before purchasing the experience gift certificate – it will make the experience all that more wonderful.) Purchase a plane ticket for two (which is typically when most people take off) or more nights, then spend the next weekend traveling around the New England states, stopping at a cabin or hotel on each leg of your journey.
Other experiences are a little less tangible, but still excellent choices as gifts for your loved ones. For example, consider gifting a day at a National Park. Purchase park passes ahead of time so that your gift recipient can choose their own itinerary. Then they can enjoy their day by hiking in the forest, taking a zip line up a mountain, exploring the caves, or just strolling along the shore. They can even go see a special animal like a hummingbird or an elk!
Another option is purchasing a gift card to a vineyard. Gift certificates for wine tasting come in a number of styles and price ranges. Look for a gift card that offers discounts on tastings or special offerings so that your gift recipient gets to experience wines from some of the best vineyards in the world. You can also buy gift certificates for other vineyards that can be used to buy gift baskets and other kitchenware items. These gift cards are usually simple to make and fun to receive.
If you want a unique gift that shows someone you really know them, consider buying a New Zealand road trip gift certificate. The best part about this gift is that it comes with everything you need for a perfect road trip: a map of the country, a tent, snacks and drinks, and even car insurance if you happen to get into a car accident. A gift certificate like this is truly unique and will be appreciated for years to come. If you have enough of a sense of adventure, you might want to think about getting a new Zealand holiday rental. These rentals provide guests with the convenience of staying at a luxurious hotel while they tour the famous Bay of Islands.
One of the best gifting options available on the internet today is giving someone one of the many one-day supply kits that are available. These kits range anywhere from food and drink to personal hygiene products. Depending on your gifting budget, you could purchase a one-day supplies kit that lasts for a couple of days to a week, or you can buy a more long term solution such as a portable power generator that you can take with you on a road trip through New Zealand.
Whether it’s a road trip or even a beach getaway, New Zealand has something for everyone. Your gift card will help you find the perfect accommodation, so that you and your loved ones can experience a real sense of New Zealand culture and way of life. In return, they’ll get to experience a fun way to spend their vacation, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and photo opportunities. All of this will be made even better with a gift card to help you along the way.