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And with Christmas approaching, more than a third (38 percent) are broaching the subject of having their holiday funds topped up, as opposed to getting a gift.

Of the parents surveyed, one in eight (13 percent) revealed their ideal gifts would be more experiences and making memories with their kids, rather than receiving a pressie.

The research was commissioned by Haven Holidays, which has also created a quiz to help those who are stuck with whether to give cash, or buy a gift.

Simon Palethorpe, managing director of the holiday park company, said: “Spending time with your loved ones on holiday creates memories that last a lifetime.

“Giving the gift of an experience this Christmas encourages everyone to spend time with one another, and could be just the pick-me-up that we need to see us through the winter months.”

The findings come after the discovery that six in ten (59 percent) have had to cut back on saving for their holiday, because of the cost-of-living impact.

Half of respondents have forgone gift-giving in the past to top up their holiday fund with a loved one.

And three-quarters (77 percent) of those in a relationship think topping up the holiday kitty is a less stressful option than trying to find a specific gift for their partner.

Cash or experiences are seen as easier gift-giving options around Christmas time – with more than half (52 percent) of those surveyed wishing more of their loved ones asked for these types of gifts, as they struggle to buy the right present.

Food and drink experiences are the most popular type of experiential gift to buy a loved one, followed by spa and wellness days, and wildlife experiences.

And 78 percent of respondents think that gifting an experience is just as thoughtful as giving a material present.

While 56 percent would be happy to contribute if a loved one asked them for money towards a holiday or experience, instead of a Christmas present.

However, for the sake of flexibility and convenience, a quarter (24 percent) think cash is the best gift to receive from a loved one – with experiences following closely, at 21 percent.

This is despite a certain stigma surrounding giving cash as a present – with more than half (53 percent) agreeing that it is awkward asking a loved one for money for Christmas.

And only 13 percent would feel comfortable asking for a specific amount, preferring to let the gift-giver decide how much cash to gift them.

The study, conducted via OnePoll, found 54 percent of parents who would like to receive an experience-style gift from their children, feel that experiences offer an opportunity for some much-needed bonding.

And 75 percent cherish the memories they make with their kids while making use of their experiential gift.

Simon Palethorpe, from Haven, added: “A holiday with your partner, family, or loved ones is an amazing opportunity to get away together, explore, and experience new things.

“And we hope that thousands of Brits will be waking up to an exciting getaway this Christmas.”

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