And I’m far from the only one is trading material things for memories. A new Ipsos survey for Wells Fargo found that 29% of Americans prefer receiving experiences like travel and events. Even holiday travel itself is staying strong, with a new study in the NerdWallet reporting that 45% of U.S. adults plan to spend gift money on flights or hotels during the holiday season, suggesting that “time together” is more important than gift cards or candles.
Related: 6 Biggest Travel Trends Defining 2026, Per New Report
“More Stuff”
Then there’s the psychology piece. Experiences often outlast things, because they turn into stories you retell, photos you frame, and inside jokes that randomly pop up months later on the way to soccer. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychologyfound people report more happiness from experiential purchases (like trips) than material ones. Another study also found that part of the magic of travel is that experiences are less comparison-prone than physical purchases, which can make them feel more satisfying over time (and prevent the inevitable fights and competition that happen with siblings.)
When the Gift Is Just the First Step
How do you gift a getaway without turning it into a group project?
Gifting travel works best when you keep it simple and tangible. Give a “travel window” instead of a fixed date to allow for spontaneity and flexibility, then cover one real piece right away, like a hotel deposit or flight credit. From there, build the trip in smaller gifts throughout the year, and let family pitch in with whatever fits, from points and miles to travel gift cards, luggage, or a transit pass. Add the details in the gift note (what it’s for, the date window, and whether it’s a full trip or a trip fund) and you’ve given a getaway head start, not a headache.
Sources:
Ipsos Survey for Wells FargoNerd WalletPWC Holiday OutlookMasterCard's Holiday SnapshotJournal of Personality and Social PsychologyHence then, the article about why families are trading gifts for getaways this year was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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