5 experiences for people who don't need more stuff at Christmas

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Everyone loves a Christmas present, but not everyone wants more stuff.

This year, 7.3 million Aussies will receive a gift they'll never use or wear.

If the last two years of lockdown have taught us anything, it's that experiences and doing things with the people we love are most valuable.

Here are some of the best experiences to really make someone's Christmas:

Open white gift box tied with red ribbon on red background. Horizontal composition with copy space.
Christmas gifts don't have to mean extra stuff. Photo: Getty Images

1. Overnight Zoo Safari, $690 for two, from RedBalloon

If you're looking for an easy getaway, then how about treating someone to an African-style safari - just one hour out of Melbourne?

Werribee Open Range Zoo is a world-leading zoo-based conservation organisation, dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction.

You'll stay overnight in a luxury tent, get up close and personal with some of the wildlife on an animal encounter, and enjoy a fully hosted dusk safari tour.

Then, relax over drinks and dinner from your private deck. Breakfast is included with two full day passes to the zoo.

Man and woman smile as they enjoy bubbles as the sun goes down on a deck. Overnight Zoo Safari, $690 for two people
Relax on your private deck on an Overnight Zoo Safari, $690 for two people. Photo: RedBalloon

2. Hot Air Ballooning Over The Hunter Valley, $598 for two, from RedBalloon

The early start is worth it, and the stunning landscape of the Hunter is the perfect backdrop for a hot air balloon flight.

You can help inflate the balloon, then hop into the basket and enjoy the peace as you drift over vineyards and valleys, and spot kangaroos hopping below.

When you land, you'll enjoy an a la carte breakfast, a glass of sparkling wine, and take home a digital photo pack to reminisce about your experience.

A crowd of people fill the basket of a hot air balloon as it flies over the countryside and clouds. Hot Air Ballooning Over The Hunter Valley, $598 for 2, from Red Balloon
Get incredible views when you enjoy hot air ballooning over the Hunter Valley, $598 for two. Photo: RedBalloon

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3. A MasterClass with an expert, from $23 a month

MasterClass is a streaming platform offering online classes from world experts in their fields.

Choose from a directing workshop with Ron Howard, a cooking class from Gordon Ramsay, an acting class with Samuel L Jackson, and hundreds more.

For $23 a month, you can take 20 video lessons from world experts, anytime, anywhere.

It's the perfect present to help someone learn a new skill, or enhance a passion.

Samuel L. Jackson stands smiling at a world premiere.
Learn acting skills with Samuel L Jackson through MasterClass from $23 per month. Photo: Getty Images.

4. Wine Blending and Tasting Session, $175 per person, from Get Your Guide

Learn how to blend your own wine at this two-hour session with an expert at the Urban Winery Sydney.

You'll learn how to explore the aroma, structure and palate of wine, and take home a bottle of your own blend.

You'll also learn how to pair wines with food and taste them with a cheese and charcuterie platter.

Exterior of the Urban Winery Sydney, with pepper tree and landscaped plantings.

5. Treehouse Getaway, $670 for two from RedBalloon

Escape from it all with this gorgeous adult-only accommodation just an hour from Brisbane.

This luxury tree-top room has rainforest views from the balcony, as well as a private spa bath.

You'll get chocolates and sparkling wine on arrival, as well as a daily bread basket.

The hotel is perfectly positioned to enjoy walking trails, wineries, galleries - or simply to sit and enjoy the serenity.

A peaceful pond surrounded by palms and ferns. Treehouse Getaway, $670 for two people, from RedBalloon

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