Curb impulsive holiday spending with these tips

Key takeaways

• Social media-fuelled summer fashion trends are driving a surge in searches for “summer hauls” and holiday outfits, increasing the temptation to overspend ahead of trips.

• Last‑minute wardrobe buys can quietly eat into holiday budgets, but says simple habits can keep spending in check without spoiling the fun.

• There are three practical strategies you can use - the 24‑hour rule, the “stranger test”, and buying second‑hand - to curb impulse purchases and make money go further this summer.

As we head into summer, many Brits will be gearing up for upcoming holidays, whether that’s a trip abroad or a staycation closer to home.

But with advertising everywhere, and social media full of picture-perfect getaways, the desire to refresh your wardrobe and keep up with summer fashion trends can be hard to resist.

In the past 30 days, TikTok search data shows over 269,000 searches for “summer haul” and more than 294,000 searches for “summer 2026 outfits”, while Google searches for “holiday outfits” have increased by 29% in the past month. ¹

Kara Gammell
Personal Finance & Insurance Expert

Don't get pressured into a summer splurge

From airport outfits to new swimwear, it’s easy to feel like you need a whole new wardrobe before a holiday. But those last‑minute buys can quietly eat into your budget before you’ve even set off.

A few simple habits can help you stay in control, without taking the fun out of your break.

Small, consistent habits now can make a big difference over time. They help you feel more in control of your money, without missing out on the fun of a well-earned break.

Kara's top three ways to curb impulse spending this summer 

1. The 24-hour rule

Pausing for a full day before making a purchase gives you time to consider whether it fits within your budget and whether you really need it, rather than reacting in the moment.

The point isn’t to stop you spending, but to stop impulse buys that add pressure to your finances.

The first time you try the 24-hour rule, it might feel challenging - particularly if you are used to buying instantly. Repeating a simple phrase like, ‘if I still want it in 24 hours, I can come back to it,’ whenever you feel tempted can help reinforce the habit, without it feeling overly restrictive.

2. The stranger test

Another trick is the ‘stranger test’: imagine a stranger holding the item in one hand and the cash equivalent in the other.

For example, if it’s a £50 summer dress, which one would you choose? Research suggests most people would opt for the money, which can be a powerful way to reframe the decision and leave you with more to spend and enjoy once you’re actually on holiday.

3. Buy second-hand

Buying from resale platforms like eBay, Vinted and Depop can be a great way to keep costs down, especially for holiday items you’ll likely wear once.

If you’re tempted by a clothing item you’ve seen advertised or spotted in the shops at full price, it’s always worth checking resale platforms first to see if you can find it cheaper.

Better still, you can use these platforms to sell on holiday items you know you won’t use again after your trip, helping declutter your wardrobe, while giving your wallet a boost.

_Sources 

^{1. TikTok search and Google trends data (worldwide), retrieved and accurate as of 14.05.26.}