My Take on SMARTBOX: The Truth About This Gift Box! 🎁

Sometimes we find ourselves needing to give a gift to someone, but inspiration just doesn't strike. In such cases, ready-to-use gift sets can be a fantastic alternative.

Six months ago, I had the chance to gift a Wonderbox package to my partner so that he could choose a getaway for us to enjoy together. In the following lines, I will share my honest feedback on this experience!

What is Smartbox?

WONDERBOX - 100% CANADIAN GIFT BOX
ConceptA gift box that allows the recipient to choose from a selection of over 140,000 activities available.
Types of boxes
  • Weekend Getaways,
  • Sports and Adventure,
  • Gastronomy,
  • Wellness,
  • Leisure and Outings.
Price Ranges Available
  • Starting at $10,
  • Under $50,
  • $50 to $100,
  • $100 to $200,
  • Over $200.
Shipping FeesFree for package pickup and standard shipping
Validity Period3 years and 3 months from the date of purchase
Exchange and Extension PolicyPossible as long as the validity date has not expired

👍 I Loved It

  • The very numerous gift options,
  • The ability to give beautiful memories instead of just an item,
  • The shared experience offered through the gift box,
  • The ease of making a reservation,
  • Free delivery to a designated pickup location near my home,
  • Affordable prices for future gifts,
  • The ability to exchange and extend if needed.

What Could Be Improved

  • You need to allow time to choose your stay or activity,
  • It's essential to inform the provider that you are paying with a Wonderbox.
  • You can only extend the box once.

Source: Facebook (@wonderbox.ca)

How does the Smartbox work?

Wonderbox "Romantic Getaway" at $59.90

Source: Wonderbox.ca

🔸 The E-Box

This is a digital version of the gift box described above. This gift box is sent via email to the purchaser or their recipient in PDF format within 15 minutes of the purchase.

👉 This solution is right for you if:

  • You want to give a last-minute gift,
  • You won't be meeting the recipient of the gift in person,
  • You want to do something surprising for someone on a specific day (for example, their birthday).

🔸 The Custom Box

This is a complete gift box

Wonderbox is a gift box system that operates similarly to the old "Good For..." vouchers we used to give. The recipient receives a themed box of a certain value, which corresponds to an experience to enjoy from a selection provided. It’s up to the person receiving the gift to choose and book an experience using the catalogue included in the box.

What are the different options for Wonderbox gift sets?

Wonderbox offers 4 different packages. You can choose the one that best suits your needs.

🔸 The Gift Box

This is the Classic Wonderbox, which can sometimes be found in supermarkets or large cultural stores. The gift box comes in a black and gold case and includes:

  • A small catalogue showcasing the available activities,
  • A gift certificate that corresponds to one of these activities.

👉 This option is for you if:

  • You want to present your gift with a beautiful package,
  • You would like the recipient to be able to directly view the list of activities in a booklet.

and customizable that you can create yourself on the Wonderbox website. You can select the activities you prefer, add a message, and even choose the design of your case.

👉 This wonderbox is perfect for you if:

  • You don't want to give a generic gift,
  • You're looking to create a special surprise for a particular occasion,
  • You're searching for a gift that can be offered either as a package deal or sent via email,
  • You already have a small idea of what activities you'd like to suggest for the recipient of your Wonderbox.

🔸 The Perfect Freedom Gift

This last option is a gift voucher valid for 140,000 activities offered by Wonderbox. It represents an amount between $30 and $50 that can be credited towards the activity chosen by the recipient.

Wonderbox gift card freedom

Wonderbox Freedom Gift Voucher - Starting from $30

Source: Wonderbox.ca

👉 This option will be perfect for you if:

  • You want to give the gift recipient the freedom to choose,
  • You prefer a digital gift delivered via email,
  • You aren’t very familiar with the tastes and preferences of the gift recipient.

How to Place an Order on the Wonderbox Website?

To select the wonderbox you want to gift, simply visit the homepage and then choose the category that interests you from the following options:

  • Weekend: spa getaways, romantic escapes, unique accommodations, a night in a castle...
  • Sports and adventure: skydiving, piloting, hot air ballooning, paragliding, bungee jumping...
  • Gastronomy: restaurant dining, tastings, cooking classes, wine education...
  • Wellness: treatments, massages, spa therapies, weight management, fitness...
  • Leisure and outings: theatre, concerts, movies, comedy...

Source: Wonderbox.ca

Once you've selected the section, all that's left to do is choose the gift box you'd like to give, based on the services offered and the price.

Source: Wonderbox.ca

You can then add the product to your cart, and click on "View my cart." Next, fill out the order form with the required information:

  • Format selection: gift box or e-gift box,
  • Message to accompany the gift,
  • Optional: premium gift bag, choice of design...
  • Delivery method: express, standard shipping, or pickup point,
  • Delivery address,
  • Billing information.

✅ Once your order is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email! If you don’t see it, please check your spam folder and consider contacting customer service at 1-877-123-4567 (local call rates apply, Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM).

How to Book with a Wonderbox?

To book your Wonderbox, you must first choose your activity:

  • By consulting the list of providers in the booklet provided (physical box only),
  • By visiting the Wonderbox website, then navigating to the "I have a Wonderbox" section in the menu.

Source: Wonderbox.ca

Next, once you have chosen your activity, get in touch with the provider and let them know that you would like to pay with a Wonderbox. They will usually ask you for the number of your gift voucher in response.

Source: Wonderbox.ca

🌴 If you are booking a stay, you can contact the Wonderbox booking assistance service at the following number: 1-877-440-4141, at the cost of a local call.

Finally, when you arrive at the location, you will be asked to present your gift certificate. If it was sent to you by email, be sure to print it out in advance! The chosen provider will then register the unique code to get reimbursed by Wonderbox. All that's left for you to do is enjoy!

How long is the box valid for?

Wonderbox gift sets are valid for 3 years and 3 months. If this period is nearing its end and you haven't had a chance to enjoy your experience, you can extend it. Please note that you must do this before the expiration date.

To extend your Wonderbox, simply visit the brand's website. Then, scroll to the bottom menu and choose the page titled "Exchange and Extension". Next, select "I wish to exchange it" and follow the instructions provided.

Source: Wonderbox.ca

How to Redeem a Wonderbox?

You received a Wonderbox and would like to exchange it for a different gift box? That's definitely possible, and it will allow you to enjoy an activity that you truly love.

To do this, simply visit the Wonderbox website, and as mentioned earlier, navigate to the "Exchange and Extension" section located at the very bottom of the homepage in the footer. Then, instead of clicking on "I want to extend it," just select the left option ("I want to exchange it") and follow the prompts.

👉 Whether you plan to exchange or extend it, I recommend that you register your Wonderbox gift card as mentioned earlier, so you can take advantage of these benefits if needed.

Wonderbox exchange

Source: Wonderbox.ca

How is Wonderbox Different from Other Gift Box Services?

Wonderbox has several competitors, such as Smartbox and DakotaBox. Here’s what sets these companies apart:

  • Wonderbox is a 100% French company, whereas most competitors are based abroad,
  • Customer service is located in Paris and not outsourced overseas,
  • Wonderbox gift boxes are valid for 3 years and 3 months, compared to only 3 years with most other major gift box retailers,
  • Wonderbox is the only box that offers the custom box that I described a few paragraphs earlier.
  • The selection of activities at Wonderbox is slightly less extensive than at Smartbox, but there are still 140,000 options available... plenty to find something you’ll love!

Source: Wonderbox.ca

Who is Wonderbox For?

Wonderbox is a convenient solution:

🌍 For those who want to give a gift to someone living far away,

❓ When you want to please someone whose tastes you aren't very familiar with,

🎉 To celebrate a special occasion (birthday, wedding, etc.),

👨‍💼 To give to an employee or a colleague,

🎁 When you prefer to give the gift of a memorable experience instead of a bulky item...

🌴 To give a trip to share (with a partner, friends, or family...),

🤸‍♀️ To introduce an activity to a loved one.

What are Wonderbox's prices?

The prices for Wonderbox vary depending on the gift box selected. They start at as low as $10 for gift vouchers and can go up to $1250. In the table below, you'll find the prices for some of the brand's standout gift boxes!

PackagePrice
3 Days of Dreamy Getaway for Two119.90 CAD
Unique Overnight Stay for Two69.90 CAD
Romantic Weekend Getaway59.90 CAD
Skydiving for Two279.90 CAD
Exceptional Dinner for Two99.90 CAD
Wellness Experience: 2 Hours for 1 Person49.90 CAD
Freedom Gift Card: "Happy Birthday"Starting at 30 CAD
Restaurant Gift CardStarting at 10 CAD

Are there any shipping fees with Wonderbox? 🚚

Most of the time, the delivery of your Wonderbox is free. Of course, if it's an e-gift box, sending the email is complimentary. For physical gift boxes, delivery to your home or a pickup point within 48 to 72 hours is free. This is a tracked delivery, and you will receive the details by email once your order is placed!

If you want to receive the package by the next day, you can choose the express shipping option at checkout. In this case, you will need to add $12 to your total order cost.

    Student? Here’s How to Save Money! 🤑

    With Student Beans, you can get an 8.5% discount on an e-gift card if you're a student. To take advantage of this offer, simply register at studentbeans.com, verify your student status, and then receive your secret code to enter at checkout.

    Source: Studentbeans.com

    Find the Perfect Gift with the "Gift Idea" Tool!🎁

    Stuck for ideas? Wonderbox offers a gift idea generator that I find really handy.

    By clicking on this link, you can explore personalized gift suggestions tailored to the recipient of your gift! 😉

    Gift Ideas for Women at Wonderbox

    Source: Wonderbox.ca

    What do customers think about Wonderbox?

    The Wonderbox gift box is quite well-known among the general public, as it is sold in many retail stores. Therefore, you can find a large number of reviews online from people who have tried it. To help you filter through these, I've prepared a brief summary of these testimonials.

    On the Trustpilot Platform

    Wonderbox currently has nearly 30,000 reviews on Trustpilot, and the number is growing rapidly! This is a great indicator of customer satisfaction, which appears to be quite positive, as the average rating is 3.8/5.

    Source: Trustpilot.com

    Let’s take a look together at what explains this rating:

    💚 Customers Loved It

    • The wide range of choices available,
    • The simplicity of the concept for a quick gift,
    • The ability to easily switch boxes,
    • The quick shipping of the box,
    • The price ranges suited for all budgets.

    Positive reviews from Wonderbox customers left on the Trustpilot platform

    They liked it less

    • The unavailability of certain venues during specific times (busy weekends),
    • The requirement to make reservations by phone.

    Customer review of their Wonderbox experience posted on Trustpilot

    About Igraal

    Wonderbox also has a substantial number of reviews on the Igraal website, with a total of 1552 to date, featuring a strong average rating of 4.5/5.

    Source: Igraal.com

    Customers are generally very satisfied with the selection offered and the delivery of the box. They are delighted to have been able to quickly find a beautiful gift for a loved one.

    People who are somewhat less satisfied also mention the challenge of finding booking dates during busy periods, such as long weekends or school holidays.

    Wonderbox on Social Media

    You can find the latest from Wonderbox along with plenty of gift ideas on this company's social media channels:

        👉 To read testimonials from people who have tried this gift box concept, feel free to follow #wonderbox!

          Source: Instagram (@wonderbox.fr)

          Is Wonderbox a Scam?

          Unlike its main competitors, Wonderbox is a 100% French company. It is a simplified joint-stock company, founded in 2008, and is based in the 15th arrondissement of Paris.

            Source: société.com

            This is a major player in the gift box and experiences sector: Wonderbox operates in 13 countries and the company generated over 240 million euros in revenue in 2021.

            Like any major online retailer, Wonderbox has a dedicated customer service team that can be reached by phone and email. The brand also pays attention to reviews left on the Trustpilot platform and takes the time to respond to any issues, inviting you to contact customer service directly.

            Wonderbox is a well-established French company that has been a prominent player in the economic landscape for many years and has achieved significant success: you can order with confidence, as this is neither a scam nor a financially troubled business.

            My Verdict on Wonderbox ⭐⭐⭐⭐

            A few months ago, I had the opportunity to purchase a Wonderbox gift set for my partner's birthday. This allowed me to choose the gift box myself, present it to him, and then try it out together! Let me share this experience with you!

            Was it easy to order a Wonderbox gift set?

            I chose Wonderbox because it was a French brand that I knew well. The gift boxes available at the supermarket near my home were quite generic, so I preferred to go directly to the website for more options. I didn’t want to simply give a "voucher for a weekend": I was looking for something a little more personalized.

            Source: Wonderbox.ca

            I wanted a wine and oenology getaway, which my partner is passionate about. So, I searched the website in the relevant category and was able to choose a "Wine Tasting Getaway" package that includes:

            • One night with breakfast,
            • A tasting and/or a tour of a winery or vineyard.

            Source: Wonderbox.ca

            👫 This offer, like many other Wonderbox packages, was of course for two people.

            When placing my order, I was able to customize my gift box, include a personal note, and choose the presentation style: I really appreciated having the opportunity to add a unique touch to my gift.

            How Did the Wonderbox Delivery Go?

            The delivery was very quick, and I received the package at home in no time. I chose a physical box because I wanted to give it as a "real gift" to my partner. I'm very happy with it!

            Our Wine Tasting

            Did the recipient have an easy time making a reservation?

            The booking system on the website seemed quite easy to navigate. However, it did take some time to explore all the available options.

            Additionally, we initially wanted to leave on the Ascension weekend, but when we contacted the service providers, we found no availability. So, we went this summer and had a wonderful stay.

            The Château des Faures, located in Puisseguin (33), where we spent our stay

            👉 If I had one piece of advice to give, it would be to inform the service provider you’re booking with about your Wonderbox. This prevents wasting time trying to make a reservation, only to be denied at the payment stage. In fact, many providers have specific availability for Wonderbox customers.

            In summary, we are pleased with the experience we had with Wonderbox, both in terms of the purchase and the shared stay. The options to customize your gift through the website really make a difference! 😊

            Wonderbox FAQ: Answering YOUR Questions!

            To help you navigate, here’s a final section that addresses the main questions you may have about Wonderbox. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to leave a comment! 😉

            Can you combine two Wonderboxes?

            It is theoretically possible to combine two Wonderboxes to exchange them for one of greater value. Since this is a specific request, I recommend you call customer service directly at 09 77 40 41 41, available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

            Source: Instagram (@wonderbox.ca)

            How to Check the Validity of a Wonderbox?

            To do this, the easiest way is to visit the Wonderbox website and register by clicking on "I have a Wonderbox". You will then be able to create a customer account, where you can check the validity of your Wonderbox.

            👉 If you have already registered your Wonderbox on the website, all you need to do is log in to your client area!

            How to Activate a Wonderbox?

            Your Wonderbox is active as soon as you purchase it and is valid for three years and three months. If you want to book a service, I recommend checking the available options in the booklet or on your Wonderbox online account, and then contact the provider you’re interested in to make a reservation.

            Source: Instagram (@wonderbox.fr)

            Can You Get a Refund for a Wonderbox?

            No, it is not possible to get a refund for a Wonderbox. However, you can exchange it for another one if you're not satisfied, or extend it if you are unable to use it within the specified time frame (3 years and 3 months after the purchase date).

            How to Contact Wonderbox by Phone?

            Wonderbox has a French customer service line available Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM. You can reach them at 1-877-123-4567, and there are no additional charges.

            📧 You can also send a message through the "contact us" section in the FAQ on the website by visiting this link.

            In summary, Wonderbox is truly a simple and effective gift-giving solution that allows you to spread joy while saving time! If you've tried it already, I'd love to hear your personal opinion in the comments! 😉