It’s that time of year again – tinsel, twinkling lights, and terrible gifts. From novelty mugs and festive toilet paper to Live Laugh Love plaques that no-one asked for. As TUI’s Christmas elves gear up for the festive season, they’ve unwrapped the truth about the most dreaded gifts we receive. 25% of those questioned in NI name exotic jams and chutneys, another 24% roll their eyes at novelty items such as joke mugs, silly socks or festive toilet paper, and 22% admit they will never read the books they’re given.
The Top 10 Gifts – Northern Ireland is hoping not to unwrap this year
- Exotic Jams or Chutneys – 25%
- Novelty Items – 24%
- Books You Wouldn’t Read – 22%
- DIY or Craft Kits You’ll Never Touch – 18%
- Puzzles & Games – 18%
- Mini Desktop Vacuum – 18%
- “Inspirational” Wall Art (e.g. “Live, Laugh, Love” wall plaque) 16%
- Toiletry Sets – 16%
- Calendars – 15%
- Perfume or aftershave – 9%
After decades of wrapping everything from Tamagotchis to Barbie dolls and novelty socks Santa’s elves have noticed ‘the great gift shift’, with Northern Ireland choosing experiences over ‘stuff’ – favouring memory-making moments with loved ones above clutter.
TUI’s new research reveals that 40% of those questioned in NI would prefer an experience over a physical present, with more than half (65%) saying they feel more emotionally connected when sharing an experience than opening a gift. Meanwhile, more than 1 in 10 of people can’t remember what they unwrapped last Christmas but can recall exactly who they spent it with.
And it’s not just about preference – it’s about pressure too. “With over three quarters (80%) of the nation feeling the strain of buying gifts, it’s no surprise many are rethinking what really matters. This year, it’s less about wrapping paper and more about sharing experiences. Whether it’s a weekend away (53%), SPA Day (33%), or wellness retreat (24%) – nearly half (42%%) of people asked in NI say they’re already planning to gift someone an experience to create memories and connection with friends and family this festive season.
The Top 10 Memory-Making Gifts NI is Seeking this Christmas
- Weekend Getaway – 53%
- Spa Day – 33%
- Wellness Retreat – 24%
- Bucket-List Travel Experience – 22%
- Concert or Live Show – 22%
- Theme Park or Attraction Day – 16%
- Wine Tasting or Food Tour – 16%
- Adventure Activity (e.g., Hot Air Balloon, Zipline) – 15%
- Cultural Experience (e.g., Flamenco Show, Walking Tour) – 7%
- Cooking Class or Workshop 0- 5%
