We’ve been creating memories since 2013, and from personal experience, I can say that kids remember the experiences far more than the things/objects. From splashing in muddy puddles at age 2 to trips to the ballet at 11, I’ve always prioritised experiences for my children, and I always will. A head full of happy memories is far better than a house full of stuff. To help others do the same, I’ve put together a guide on the why, how, and science behind it. Enjoy!
When it comes to building a happy family life, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest gadgets, toys, or trendy products. But research and countless personal stories show that experiences create more lasting joy than things ever can. If you want to strengthen family bonds and make memories that truly last, here are five reasons why choosing experiences over products makes all the difference.
Why Experiences Matter
Boosts Happiness
Shared adventures create lasting joy in a way that physical possessions can’t. While a new gadget or toy might bring a short-lived burst of excitement, the thrill quickly fades. On the other hand, a family hike, cooking a new recipe together, or a day trip to a nearby town keeps delivering joy long after the event has passed. Happiness is rooted in connection, not consumption, and experiences provide exactly that.
Strengthens Bonds
Family activities deepen connections by bringing everyone together in meaningful ways. When you spend time exploring, learning, or creating as a family, you strengthen the emotional glue that holds you together. These shared moments encourage teamwork, build trust, and give everyone the chance to feel seen and valued.
Creates Stories
You rarely sit around reminiscing about the time you bought a new pair of shoes, but you do remember trips, birthdays, and spontaneous adventures. Experiences create stories that become part of your family’s legacy. These stories get retold around the dinner table, during holidays, or even years later, offering laughter and joy every time.
Builds Growth
Experiences teach empathy, curiosity, and resilience in ways that products simply cannot. Travelling, volunteering, or even tackling a new hobby together helps family members see the world from different perspectives. Kids, especially, benefit from these moments because they learn how to problem-solve, adapt, and appreciate the richness of life beyond material possessions.
Check out Passposrt Adventures
Examples of Experiences vs. Products
| Instead of… | Try… |
|---|---|
| Expensive gadget | Family cooking night 👩🍳 |
| Designer clothes | Weekend camping/glamping 🏕️ |
| Video game console | Museum or science center visit 🏛️ |
| Fancy toy | Pedalo or biking trip 🚴 |
| New décor | Family art/craft class 🎨 |
Sometimes, the best way to see the difference is with real-life swaps. Instead of adding another item to your shopping cart, think about what kind of memory you could create instead.
Instead of an Expensive Gadget → Try a Family Cooking Night 👩🍳
That shiny device may keep kids entertained for a few days, but cooking together builds skills, teamwork, and plenty of laughs. Plus, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal at the end.
Instead of Designer Clothes → Try a Weekend Camping/Glamping Trip 🏕️
Trendy clothes eventually go out of style, but a weekend under the stars gives your family time to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other.
Instead of a Video Game Console → Try a Museum or Science Center Visit 🏛️
A console can keep kids indoors for hours, but a museum sparks curiosity, hands-on learning, and conversations that last well beyond the visit.
Instead of a Fancy Toy → Try a Pedalo or Biking Adventure 🚴
Toys often get tossed aside within weeks, but an outdoor adventure creates excitement, builds resilience, and gives your family a chance to explore together.
Instead of New Décor → Try a Family Art Class 🎨
A new lamp or wall print may brighten your home for a while, but creating your own art as a family gives you something personal, meaningful, and full of shared memories to display.
The Science
- Studies in psychology show that while people quickly adapt to new things, they savor experiences much longer. The joy of purchasing a new item fades quickly, but the excitement of a shared adventure stays with us through anticipation, the event itself, and the memories afterward.
- Shared experiences also increase social connection, which researchers identify as one of the strongest predictors of happiness. Whether it’s a family outing, a group trip, or a simple evening spent together, these connections boost emotional well-being in ways no product can.
- For children, the science is clear: they are more likely to recall family traditions, outings, and shared experiences than material gifts. These moments shape their sense of identity, belonging, and resilience. The traditions you build together today become the touchstones of their future.
Tips for Families
If you want to bring more experiences into your family life, here are some simple strategies to get started:
Set a “Memory Budget”
Just as you budget for groceries or bills, consider setting aside money specifically for experiences. This could be as small as £20 a month for a family movie night or as big as saving for a vacation. The key is to treat experiences as an investment in happiness and connection.
Gift Experiences
Instead of buying more toys or gadgets, give the gift of experiences. Tickets to a concert, festival, a theater show, or vouchers for a fun class not only make great presents but also provide something to look forward to and share together.
Create Traditions
Traditions don’t have to be elaborate or expensive. A weekly game night, a monthly family hike, or an annual “yes day” (where kids choose the activities) can create structure and joy in your family’s calendar. These traditions give kids something to anticipate and anchor family life with meaningful rituals.
Capture & Share
Part of the fun of experiences is reliving them. Take photos, keep a family journal, or create a “memory wall” at home where you pin pictures, ticket stubs, or notes about your favorite adventures. These visual reminders keep the joy alive long after the experience has passed.
