It’s that time of year again when your inbox is full of ads for the latest gadgets or appliances. Even your cabinets are stuffed with items you haven’t used for ages. It’s tempting to go on a shopping spree this holiday season. But remember that not all gifts should come in a wrapped box with a ribbon, whether it’s a gift for yourself or others.
Did you know that the best gifts won’t break the bank? They won’t also add to the already-overflowing closets and drawers of your friends and family. This holiday season, why not make gift-giving clutter-free?
Here are ten gift ideas you might want to consider before checking out items in your cart.
- Gift certificates or e-vouchers
- Experiences
- Donation to charity
- Class pass
- Subscription to a service
- Wall art and photo tiles
- House cleaning service
- Fruit basket
- Baked goods and desserts
- GCash
1. Gift certificates or e-vouchers
It’s easy to purchase gift certificates or e-vouchers on the Giftaway website. You can pay via GrabPay, GCash, PayPal, or debit/credit card in exchange for gift certificates or e-vouchers.
There are plenty of options, whether for a favorite restaurant, department store, or even services like GrabMart.
2. Experiences
From tickets to a concert or show to a day at a spa or amusement park, giving the gift of an experience is a great way to create lasting memories.
If you’re feeling extra generous, why not surprise someone with an Eraserheads reunion concert ticket? That’s a sure way to make a batang 90s Christmas happy.
3. Donation to charity
Donate in someone’s name to their favorite charity. Not only will you be helping those in need, but you’ll also be teaching the recipient the importance of giving back.
You can coordinate directly with the recipient’s chosen charity or send the money via bank transfer.
4. Class Pass
A class pass to a local gym or studio is a great way to help your friends and family get (or stay) healthy and fit. It’s also a gift that keeps on giving, as they’ll be able to use it throughout the year.
Not only does it serve as an expense that doesn’t require wrapping, but it also equips the receiver with various activities they love to do.
5. Subscription to a service
Subscription services are undoubtedly a practical and thoughtful gift guaranteed to keep on giving beyond the holidays. Not only can subscriptions be personalized to fit the recipients’ interests, but they can also be bought online with just a few clicks of the mouse.
For example, Spotify and Netflix are easily accessible digital services, and you can purchase physical magazine or newspaper subscriptions directly from their website.
6. Wall art and photo tiles
Beautiful wall art can add life to any room and make a great conversation starter. Just be sure to choose something that reflects the recipient’s taste and style.
If you feel like getting creative, ask for a printing company that designs personalized photo tiles that are easy to hang on the wall.
7. House cleaning service
Ensure the recipient gets the most from holiday celebrations with a complete house cleaning service. This frees up time for them to do other activities (such as visiting family or decorating for Christmas).
It also could help create an atmosphere of peace and joy in their home during the holiday season.
8. Fruit basket
There’s something special about giving the gift of health and wellness during such a season of indulgence. It will brighten anyone’s holiday celebrations, no matter their budget.
It’s also a great way to support local farmers. You can choose from a wide array of regional specialties depending on where you live.
9. Baked goods and desserts
Supporting local small businesses is a great way to ensure that their craft continues to thrive and the Filipino culture of delicious desserts is kept alive for years to come.
Buying baked goods locally might feel like more out-of-pocket money initially – but think about all the money you’re saving on buying random items which people rarely use.
10. GCash
This year, give the gift of convenience – opt for GCash or e-wallet money transfers this Christmas. With cashless transactions becoming the norm in the Philippines, gifting with GCash or a similar money transfer app is a clutter-free, efficient and secure way to ensure your loved ones get what they need.
Even better, e-wallet transactions are incredibly easy, so you can quickly transact even if you don’t have physical cash.