In 2026, the best gifts might not be the things you unwrap — they’re the moments you remember.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a new skill learned together, or an adrenaline-filled adventure, experience gifts are the perfect way to create lasting memories without adding clutter.
Here’s a curated list of top experience gifts to book (or add to your Giftwhale wish list) this year — from big adventures to cosy mini-breaks.
🎨 1️⃣ Creative Classes for Curious Minds
Perfect for: Anyone who loves learning new things.
2026 is the year of hands-on creativity. Instead of buying another gadget, gift a skill they’ll keep forever — think pottery, candle-making, painting, or barista workshops.
Top ideas:
Pottery & ceramics sessions with local studios
Cooking classes (pasta-making, sushi, or baking)
Photography weekends with professional tutors
💡 Giftwhale tip: Add links from providers like Obby, ClassBento, or Airbnb Experiences to your list so friends can easily contribute toward your next class.
🚗 2️⃣ Short Breaks & Weekend Escapes
Perfect for: Couples, families, or friends in need of a recharge.
Who doesn’t love a mini-break? With flexible booking options and digital vouchers, short getaways make stress-free gifts.
Try these:
Countryside, lake or woodland cottages
Seaside spa weekends
City breaks in Edinburgh, Lisbon, New York or Amsterdam
📅 Giftwhale idea: Add a “Weekend Away” fund to your wish list — friends and family can chip in together through Group Gifting.
✈️ 3️⃣ Big Adventures for the Bold
Perfect for: Thrill-seekers and memory collectors.
From hot-air balloon rides to skydiving and helicopter tours, adventure gifts are unforgettable. They also make brilliant milestone presents for 30th or 50th birthdays.
2026 favourites:
Hot-air balloon rides over rolling hills
Driving experiences — supercars, rally, or classic cars
Scuba diving or sailing weekends abroad
🎈 Giftwhale bonus: Create a wish list titled “Adventure Goals 2026” and add each dream experience separately.
🍴 4️⃣ Food & Drink Experiences
Perfect for: Foodies, wine lovers, or anyone who loves a good night out.
The joy of a shared meal never gets old — but experience gifts make it even more special. Think beyond the restaurant voucher.
Ideas to taste:
Winery or distillery tours with tastings
Private chef dinners at home
Afternoon tea in heritage hotels
Chocolate-making workshops (yes, they exist!)
🍷 Pro tip: Add your favourite restaurants or food tours to your wish list so friends can gift you delicious memories.
🎭 5️⃣ Culture & Entertainment
Perfect for: Theatre-goers, music fans, and film buffs.
Live entertainment is back in a big way for 2026. Tickets to an experience or event show you know someone’s interests — and they’re perfect for digital delivery.
Book these:
West End or Broadway shows and musicals
Comedy nights and festivals
Outdoor cinema experiences
VIP concert passes
🎫 Giftwhale tip: Add your “Dream Events” as items on your list — friends can surprise you with tickets to the show.
🧘 6️⃣ Mindful & Wellness Experiences
Perfect for: Anyone who needs to slow down.
After a few busy years, more people are gifting calm — think yoga retreats, spa days, or digital detox weekends.
Wellness favourites:
Mindfulness retreats
Couples massage packages
Sound baths and meditation workshops
🌿 Giftwhale idea: Create a “Wellness Wishlist” and keep it private until you’re ready to share with loved ones.
🪂 7️⃣ Experiences for Kids & Families
Perfect for: Parents who prefer memories over more toys.
Children love days out — and parents love gifts that don’t fill the playroom.
Family-friendly picks:
Zoo and aquarium passes
Theme park tickets
Interactive science museums
Family photoshoot experiences
👨👩👧 Pro tip: Add these to your family Giftwhale list and share it with grandparents or godparents before birthdays.
💫 Why Experience Gifts Are So Powerful
They last longer — memories outlive products.
They’re sustainable — less packaging and waste.
They’re personal — easy to tailor to someone’s passions.
They’re flexible — book whenever it suits.
And with Giftwhale, you can make the process seamless — from sharing your dream experiences to collecting contributions as a group.
🎁 Start Your 2026 Experience Wishlist
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo class, or an unforgettable adventure, Giftwhale makes it simple to collect ideas and let friends chip in.
👉 Start your free Giftwhale wish list today — and make 2026 a year full of amazing experiences.
