Looking for the perfect experience gift but unsure where to start? With so many providers to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the best deal. Two of the UK's biggest experience day companies are Virgin Experience Days and Buyagift, but which one is better? In this guide, we'll compare the two across key factors like pricing, experience variety, customer service, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Overview
If you're short on time or just want a quick comparison, this table breaks down the key differences between Virgin Experience Days and Buyagift at a glance. Whether you're looking for the best variety, value, or customer service, this summary will help you make an informed decision faster.
| Feature | Virgin Experience Days | Buyagift |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Variety | 3,000+ experiences | 4,500+ experiences |
| Price Range | £10 - £1,000+ | £10 - £1,000+ |
| Discounts & Offers | Frequent sales but fewer discounts | Regular discounts and sales |
| Voucher Flexibility | Can extend for a fee | Free extensions & exchanges |
| Customer Reviews | 4.3/5 (Trustpilot) | 4.4/5 (Trustpilot) |
| Delivery Options | E-voucher & gift box | E-voucher & gift box |
Experience Variety
Both providers offer a wide range of experiences, including adventure activities, fine dining, spa days, and short breaks. Virgin Experience Days is known for its premium and exclusive experiences, such as fine dining, luxury afternoon teas, and unique experiences:
Meanwhile, Buyagift stands out with a larger selection of experiences, including spa days, dining experiences, and adventure activities:
This makes Buyagift a better option for those seeking variety and affordability, while Virgin Experience Days appeals more to those looking for upscale or curated experiences.
Pricing & Value for Money
- Virgin Experience Days: Typically has higher base prices, but often offers premium and exclusive experiences. For example, a Five Course Gourmet Dinner with Cocktail for Two at Marco Pierre White's London Steakhouse Co with Virgin Experience Days costs:
- Buyagift: Generally more affordable, with frequent site-wide discounts and multi-buy offers. For instance, a similar dining experience on Buyagift:
💡 Tip: Both sites often has a 15-20% discount code available, making their experiences cheaper overall.
Voucher Flexibility & Expiry
One of the biggest differences is how each company handles voucher extensions:
- Virgin Experience Days: Offers extensions for a fee if your voucher expires.
- Buyagift: Allows free extensions and exchanges within the validity period, making it the better option if you're buying a gift.
Customer Service & Reviews
Both companies score well on Trustpilot:
- Virgin Experience Days: 4.3/5 ⭐ from thousands of reviews, praised for unique offerings but some complaints about expiry policies.
- Buyagift: 4.4/5 ⭐, with many positive reviews highlighting their flexible exchange policy and customer support.
Best for Specific Needs
Best for Premium & Luxury Experiences
Virgin Experience Days offers high-end, exclusive experiences such as:
It's ideal for those looking to impress with a touch of luxury.
Best for Budget-Friendly Gifts & Discounts
Buyagift regularly provides discounts, making it the go-to option for those looking to save money while still enjoying quality experiences:
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Multi-buy offers and seasonal sales add even more value.
Best for Voucher Flexibility
Buyagift allows free extensions and easy exchanges, making it a hassle-free choice for gift buyers who want peace of mind in case plans change.
Best for Unique & Niche Experiences
Both providers offer unique experiences. Here are examples from each:
Virgin Experience Days:
Buyagift:
Final Verdict
Virgin Experience Days vs Buyagift: Quick Summary
✔ Choose Virgin Experience Days if:
- You want high-end, luxury experiences, such as:
- You prefer a provider known for exclusive and curated packages.
- You don't mind paying a premium for unique experiences.
✔ Choose Buyagift if:
- You're looking for affordable experience gifts with frequent discounts:
- You need voucher flexibility, with free extensions and exchanges.
- You want a wider selection, including quirky and offbeat experiences.
Overall, Buyagift is the best choice for budget-conscious buyers and those looking for flexibility, while Virgin Experience Days excels in luxury and premium experiences.
Where to Buy
🚀 Before purchasing, check for promo codes to maximize savings!
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