She's Been Ready for Weeks, He Starts in the Final 72 Hours – The Great Christmas Shopping Divide
The Californer/10332570

TELFORD, U.K. - Californer -- Women are officially the more organised gift buyers – outpacing men in both early shopping and overall spending during the festive season, according to new data from WonderDays, the UK's leading experience gift company.

Between 1 October and 31 December 2024, WonderDays revealed that 64.5% of all experience gift purchases were made by women, compared to just 35.5% by men.

The findings also show that women start shopping nearly three weeks earlier than men, with an average purchase made 18 days before Christmas, while men were far more likely to leave it to the last minute or even buy on the day itself.

Early Birds vs. Last Minute Dashers

Women not only plan ahead but are also more generous when they do.

• Average female spend: £97
• Average male spend: £90

Men's buying patterns spike sharply in the final 72 hours before Christmas, with a noticeable surge in same day voucher purchases. By contrast, women's purchases are more consistent throughout December, suggesting a more considered and less frantic approach to gifting.

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Experience Gifts Take Centre Stage

WonderDays Q4 data revealed a growing shift towards experience gifting, with Christmas and birthdays accounting for nearly 80% of all orders. Experiences in driving, flying, and dining categories were the most popular choices, led by:

• Junior Supercar Driving Experience
• Hot Air Balloon Rides
• Marco Pierre White Dining at The Shard
• London Theatre Show for Two

Women Buy Experiences, Men Buy Time

The WonderDays team believe these trends highlight how men and women differ not only in timing but also in the motivation behind their gifting habits.

Hayden Winter, Partnerships Manager at WonderDays, explained:

"The data shows that women tend to think ahead and look for thoughtful gifts that create lasting memories. Men, on the other hand, rely on flexibility — and often a little deadline pressure!"

About WonderDays

WonderDays is the UK's fastest growing experience gift company, offering a wide range of unforgettable adventures from supercar drives and hot air balloon rides to spa retreats, river cruises and fine dining. With flexible vouchers and instant email delivery, WonderDays makes it easy to give the gift of memories, whether you're planning ahead or shopping last minute.

For more information, please visit www.wonderdays.co.uk.