Gifting Survey Reveals the Elements of the Perfect Gift: Surprise, Meaning, and Experience.

Gifts have always been closely associated with human relationships across different periods. Whether it’s a traditional holiday, a birthday, or a spontaneous complimentary gift, gifts help express emotions and impressions. They symbolize a piece of happiness and carry good intentions.

Research by the National Retail Federation (NRF) shows that most people choose practical and valuable gifts during the holiday season. According to their survey, 60% of respondents prefer receiving items that serve everyday purposes rather than purely symbolic or decorative gifts. This choice highlights the desire for gifts that bring practical benefits and remind the recipient of the person who gave them.

The Gift Card & Voucher Association (GCVA) has confirmed this trend, showing that gift certificates are among the most popular gift options. This is because they allow recipients to select what they truly want.

Key Insights on Gift-Giving Preferences:

• Practicality Over Decoration: 60% of people prefer gifts they can use in daily life, such as home goods or appliances.
• Popularity of Gift Cards: 75% of consumers see gift cards as an ideal option because they avoid the risk of mismatched or unwanted items.
• Psychological Impact: Gifting strengthens social bonds, with small symbolic gifts sometimes carrying great emotional weight when chosen with care.
• Experiences Over Objects: About 40% of people favor experience-based gifts like travel or event tickets, as they create lasting memories.
• Economic Significance: Spending on gifts impacts the economy, with average holiday spending per person increasing by 5% in 2022, despite economic fluctuations.

According to Psychology Today, gifting goes beyond the material act—it strengthens emotional connections, making relationships warmer and more intimate. Ipsos data confirms that experiences, such as travel or concert tickets, are becoming increasingly popular as gifts, bringing more joy and lasting memories than physical objects.

Another emerging trend in gift-giving is the growing emphasis on personalization. In today’s world, consumers are increasingly drawn to gifts that reflect a personal touch or connection rather than generic items. Custom-made or uniquely tailored gifts, such as personalized jewelry, engraved items, or handcrafted products, allow the giver to add an intimate, thoughtful element to the gift, enhancing its emotional value. Personalization ensures that the recipient feels understood and appreciated, creating a more meaningful exchange. This trend demonstrates that in the search for the perfect gift, thoughtfulness and individuality can often outweigh the monetary value.

Conclusion

Gifting remains a vital part of human relationships and cultural traditions, with practical items, gift cards, and experiences leading the way. Whether aiming to offer something useful or meaningful, choosing the right gift can strengthen connections and leave a lasting impact.