Giving “Less” this Holiday Season

As military families, we tend to accumulate a lot of stuff, which usually goes unnoticed until it’s time to move every 3 years! You’re traveling and experiencing new places, getting souvenirs, visiting relatives and acquiring family heirlooms, then you’re having children who are spoiled rotten by grandparents who send them everything under the sun because they aren’t nearby! I get it. Stuff, stuff, and more stuff. Then when it’s time to pack up, we think, why do we have all of this?!

The holidays are right around the corner, so what better time to talk to your friends and family about giving gifts that won’t require you to have more to pack (or donate!) come PCS time. Here are some ideas that would make great presents, especially for kiddos!

Experiences! Talk about memories! This is a great place to start when thinking of outside of the box gift ideas. 

-          Escape Room

-          Community Theater Shows

-          Summer Camp

-          Indoor Rock Climbing

-          Concert Tickets

-          Sporting Event Tickets

Classes! This would be a great couples or family gift! There's nothing like everyone getting frustrated together trying to learn something new! So many laughs and memories waiting to be had... 

-          Dance Classes

-          Painting Classes

-          Music Lessons

-          Physical Trainer

-          Cooking Classes

-          Swim Lessons

Time! This would be a great category for parents! (Hint, hint :D ) Whether these are intended to spoil (hello pedicure!) or give back precious time to work or spend more time with kiddos (thank you car wash!), these are perfect gifts!

-          House Cleaner

-          Babysitter

-          Car Washes

-          Spa Day

-          Yard Service

Memberships! Do a quick online search to see what fun places are near your loved one! Visit their website or call them directly to see how to get a gift card or experience pass.

-          Children’s Museum

-          Zoo

-          Theme Park

-          Trampoline Park

Consumables! There are a variety of places to look online to search for baskets, boxes, subscriptions, etc. I'd opt to check out local resources first! Supporting local businesses is important. :)

-          Fruit Basket

-          Chocolates

-          Coffee

-          Local Foods

-          Wine/Beer

-          Meat/Cheeses

These make wonderful presents and provide amazing opportunities to make memories with your family and friends.