Why Experiences Matter More Than Things

According to an article in Forbes, a staggering 74 percent of Americans prioritize experiences over products.

In a world where ads constantly tempt us with the next upgrade or must-have item, it’s easy to believe that more stuff equals more happiness.

But science—and our own hearts—tell a different story.

Studies show that experiences bring more lasting joy than material possessions. While new gadgets may thrill us for a moment, that feeling fades quickly. In contrast, experiences—especially shared ones—become a part of who we are. They create memories, stories, and emotional connection that endure long after the moment passes.

“Our experiences are a bigger part of ourselves than our material goods… You can really like your material stuff. You can even think that part of your identity is connected to those things, but nonetheless they remain separate from you.”
— Dr. Thomas Gilovich, Cornell University

When you invest in an experience—like soaring over the Gulf in an open-cockpit biplane—you’re not just checking a box. You’re stepping into wonder. You’re creating a memory you’ll relive again and again. And you’re giving yourself (or someone you love) something truly meaningful: joy that lasts.

At Suncoast Biplanes, we believe life’s greatest treasures can’t be wrapped in paper. They live in the stories we tell, the moments that take our breath away, and the adventures that awaken our souls.