Are you looking for unique gifts to give your family this holiday season? Many opt for gifting an experience rather than the traditionally wrapped presents under the tree. There is a science behind the best gift for the holidays, and no, it’s not tickle-me Elmo.

The Science of Gift Giving

The University of Toronto Scarborough conducted research that showed that “experiential gifts are more effective than material gifts at improving relationships from the recipient’s perspective.” In non-research terms, gifting an experience is a great way to bring us closer to our loved ones.

Why Do Experiences Bring Us Closer?

“The reason experiential gifts are more socially connecting is that they tend to be more emotionally evocative,” states Cindy Chan, an assistant professor in U of T Scarborough’s Department of Management and the Rotman School of Management. “An experiential gift elicits a strong emotional response when a recipient consumes it and is more intensely emotional than a material possession.”

Again, in non-research terms, it’s the experience part of the gift that draws out feelings of emotion and intimacy that a material gift might not accomplish. Being immersed in a circumstance or event will leave a more substantial impact.

Is it the Thought that Counts?

We’re all groomed to believe it’s the thought that counts. And while that may hold mostly true, if we’re choosing to give a gift, why not make it really matter?

Gifting a Camping Experience

Camping is an experience that is such a pleasure to share with friends and family. There is a reason why it’s held its place as a favorite American past time. At times, the love of camping gets passed down from generation to generation. Now more than ever, more families are trying out camping for the first time. Regardless of your familiarity with it, camping doesn’t discriminate. 

Different Strokes for Different Folks

Another unique characteristic of camping is that it can be a different experience for different people. From a relaxing romantic getaway, an action-packed vacation with the kids, to an immersive experience in nature, you can choose your camping experience. 

A Break We All Need

Another reason why camping has been particularly popular this year is because of, well, COVID. Not to dampen the holiday mood, but as we learned to navigate the new circumstances, 2020 brought a strengthened appreciation of the outdoors. Camping turned out to be an excellent escape from the daily grind and a safe way to recreate. As the virus’s presence continues in 2021, camping will continue to be the refuge many of us seek.

The New “We’re going to Disney World!”

An incredible way to excite your friends or family through these long winter months is with the gift of a camping trip. I’ll even go so far as to say that “there’s something for everyone!” With a broader range of camping stays, from glamping to tent sites, and more than 500+ sites on the Campspot marketplace, allow us to help you find your next Campspot.