The Super Trend of 2026: Why Giving Experiences Is Better Than Giving Objects

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Giving experiences generates more happiness than giving objects. Van Boven and Gilovich, from Cornell University, demonstrated in their study (2003) that more than 300 people consistently reported greater emotional satisfaction when investing in experiences than in material goods. In short: memories last longer than things.

At Hotel Treats, we see it every year: gift voucher sales soar at Christmas, Valentine's Day and during the teacher-gifting season. This trend is no coincidence.

Giving experiences, especially at renowned hotels such as Meliá, El Palace, H10, Iberostar, Hospes or NH, is changing how we celebrate and connect with others.

Here are 5 reasons why, in 2026, giving hotel experiences without needing to stay overnight is already a trend.

1. Experiences create lasting memories

Experiences activate emotions, and the experience becomes associated with a shared moment, rather than a passive object.
The result? The memory lasts over time and is worth more.

• Objects create quick but limited satisfaction
• Experiences create anticipation and strengthen bonds

A perfume, an item of clothing or a gadget may be greatly appreciated… but they quickly become part of the routine. An experience, on the other hand, is remembered, retold and relived.

And it makes perfect sense. Tell me: would you rather receive yet another object that ends up forgotten at home, or a spa package with breakfast included? Because I know what I would choose.

2. Experiences are socially meaningful

Giving a voucher for brunch with live music at Gran Hotel Inglés or enjoying a special experience such as The Best Breakfast in the World at Hospes Maricel, creates a special moment: it strengthens the relationship and creates shared memories. All these Hotel Treats experiences are ideal for enjoying with friends, partners or family members. And that is because:

• HotelTreats vouchers make shared experiences possible.
• Sharing an activity improves personal bonds.
• Gifts at luxury hotels are original and have a surprise effect (and you look great too!)

3. Flexibility and no pressure to choose a date

Giving an experience is one of the most original and simplest things you can do to surprise your loved ones.

In fact, all Hotel Treats vouchers have an open date, and the recipient can book whenever they want: this is a truly frictionless gift, even for busy schedules.

4. Ideal for unexpected occasions and last-minute gifts

Hotel Treats vouchers are delivered digitally to your email in under 1 minute.
It is a super-convenient option for last-minute gifts and, what's more, they can be personalised (you can choose the card design and write a congratulatory message).

Result: Gift sorted at any time, even on a Sunday at 11 PM.

5. Better perceived value than an object

Many people point out that "I think experiences are more valuable; the joy of objects decreases over time, but the joy of an experience actually increases over time as we remember it"

Some even highlight the practical factor — so true! — "[...] I love receiving beautiful jewellery as a gift from my husband, but honestly, after more than two decades, I have received all the jewellery I really wanted [...]. So now I prefer non-physical gifts. I love receiving them, [...] I don't have to find space to store them!".

And personally, I completely agree: last Christmas I preferred to spend €41 per person giving my partner an experience of Spa with Brunch at a beautiful Hotel in Toledo, rather than spending the same amount on a piece of clothing. And if you are also part of the "sensory luxury" team, I know you value the moment experienced more than the visible object.

Why give Hotel Treats experiences?

• More than 1,900 experiences to choose from in Spain.
• Almost 2,000 reviews on Trustpilot with an average rating of 4.6
• Vouchers with an open date, delivered instantly
• A variety of experiences: spa and wellness, massages, gastronomy, getaways, day passes.
• Reviews like this one: "Hotel Treats is a great site to buy gifts. I have been using it for several years now to buy experiences for my sons and their partners for their birthdays.".
• Or this one: "Very quick and helpful response. Great customer service"

FAQ

Do I need to stay overnight at the hotel to enjoy the experience?

No. HotelTreats experiences do not require an overnight stay.

How long do I have to use a voucher?

It depends on the hotel, but most are valid for between 6 and 12 months.

Can the gift voucher be personalised?

Yes. You can add a personalised message and choose a digital or printable format.

What types of experiences can be given as gifts?

Brunches, spa experiences, massages, gastronomy, facial treatments, pool access and combination packages.

Which cities is the service available in?

In many cities across Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean.

Does giving experiences work for all ages?

Yes. The value of time and wellbeing is universal.

Where can I buy experience gifts in Spain?

On specialist platforms such as Hotel Treats, where you can find selected experiences at luxury hotels.

Conclusion

The evidence is clear: experiences make us happier than objects. They connect us with others, with the present and with ourselves.

In 2026, more than ever, giving experiences is a way of saying:

“I know you, I care for you and I want you to experience something special.”

And that is, ultimately, the best gift possible.