From beach-ready outfits and beauty treatments to bottomless brunches and last-minute getaways, the summer season is increasingly being funded by buy now, pay later (BNPL) schemes and credit, according to UK Debt Expert.
Figures from the personal finance website found that as of early 2025, 56% of Gen Z and 63% of millennials in the UK have used BNPL. It also pointed to figures released by Klarna that showed the value of travel bookings it processed had increased by 50% in a year.
Meanwhile, TikTok Shop data has revealed that the highest gross merchandise value (GMV) comes from beauty and personal care categories, totalling £1.8bn, as young people invest heavily in looking the part for summer.
Maxine McCreadie, personal finance expert at UK Debt Expert, said: “There’s nothing wrong with wanting to enjoy yourself – but when every scroll can turn into a spending spree, it’s easy to lose track. Social media trends can create a real pressure to spend money you don’t have, often without you even realising it. You can have a brilliant summer without going broke.
“Protecting your financial health is just as important as your physical and mental wellbeing, even when the sun’s out.”
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How to avoid a summer financial hangover
- Set a summer budget
Before the season kicks off, take some time to estimate what you’ll realistically spend on holidays, clothes, festivals and brunches and set a limit for each category.
Try doing weekly check-ins to see where you stand, and adjust as needed to avoid any sneaky overspending.
- Plan ahead for social events
Travel, outfits, and bar tabs can add up quickly. Cheaper alternatives, such as picnics in the park and BBQs at home, can be just as social but far more budget-friendly.
- Curate your feed
Social media can make it feel like everyone else is on back-to-back holidays, and living their best life. But remember, you’re only seeing the highlights. If certain accounts make you feel like you’re falling behind or pressure you into spending to keep up, don’t be afraid to unfollow, mute or take a break.
- DIY the glam
Home tanning kits, re-styling clothes you already own, and learning how to do your own nails or eyebrows can save you hundreds over the summer months.
- Track your spending
Knowledge is power when it comes to your finances. Apps like Monzo, Plum, and Emma let you track your spending in real time and help you spot patterns before they become problems.
