• High Heatwave Anxiety: 70% of people in Wales feel anxious about the prospect of more frequent or severe UK heatwaves (19% very anxious and 51% somewhat anxious).
• Unplanned Costs: 56% of Welsh households incurred additional spending as a direct result of the June heatwave, while only 38% spent nothing extra.
• Financial Strain: Among Welsh households spending extra due to the heat, a substantial minority cut back on non-essential spending, with some needing to use credit or dip into savings.
• High Heatwave Anxiety: 70% of people in Wales feel anxious about the prospect of more frequent or severe UK heatwaves (19% very anxious and 51% somewhat anxious).
• Travel Impact: Around 2 in 10 in Wales changed travel plans to avoid the heat, and a similar share felt physically unwell or unsafe while travelling Around 2 in 10 in Wales changed travel plans to avoid the heat, and a similar share felt physically unwell or unsafe while travelling.

New data released by savings site MyVoucherCodes highlights the growing personal and financial toll of rising UK temperatures on communities across Wales. With extreme weather becoming more frequent, the figures reveal widespread climate anxiety alongside direct pressure on household finances during recent heat spikes. 

Rising Temperatures, Rising Anxiety 

 Heatwaves are no longer just a temporary discomfort; they are a major source of concern for the majority of the Welsh population. A staggering 70% of people in Wales say they feel anxious about the prospect of more frequent or severe heatwaves in the UK. Breaking this down, 19% report feeling very anxious, while 51% feel somewhat anxious about upcoming weather shifts.

Sudden, unexpected expenses compound the emotional worry. During the recent June heatwave, 56% of Welsh households reported additional spending as a direct result of the weather, while only 38% reported spending nothing extra.

This unexpected financial strain forced many families to adapt. Among the Welsh households that incurred extra costs because of the heatwave, a substantial minority say they had to cut back on non-essential spending just to afford these heatwave-related expenses. For others, the buffer was even thinner, with households reporting they needed to use credit or dip into savings to manage the additional costs.

Travel Disruption and Health and Safety Concerns 

Beyond financial strain, high temperatures are altering daily habits and threatening well-being across the transport network. While the majority noted that their journeys remained unaffected, significant disruptions occurred: 

• 1 in 5 (around 20%) of people in Wales actively changed their travel plans to avoid travelling during peak heat. 
• A similar share (around 20%) reported feeling physically unwell or unsafe while making journeys during the heatwave. 

MyVoucherCodes shopping and lifestyle expert, Sarah-Jane Outten, said:

 All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 2094 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 2 and 3 July 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+). As part of the sample, 103 adults in Wales participated in the survey. MyVoucherCodes is a market-leading voucher, coupon and discount deals website based in the UK. It has around five million consumer members who receive daily emails featuring the best selection of deals, vouchers, and offers from a wide range of retailers, including fashion, beauty, restaurants, electronics, and many more. It works with more than 2,500 retailers to offer more than 25,000 vouchers or discount codes.Media Contact: Sarah-Jane Outten, Future Publishing sarah-jane.outten@futurenet.com

The sun is shining, the plants are blooming, and a J2O is calling my name. It’s garden party season. Whether you’re a planner or a last-minute kind of person, we all know how expensive garden parties can be. It’s easy to think you need to buy tons of bits and pieces to make the occasion feel special, but that’s not the case.

Today, I’m cutting right to the chase to tell you everything you actually need to host a garden party on a budget. And it’s not just the bare minimum. I’m talking everything from food & drink, to decor, entertainment, and more. Here’s what you’ll need, and some easy ways to cut costs too.

Garden party essentials list

To host the ultimate garden party on a budget, you’ll need food & drink, enough seating and plates, picnic blankets, garden decor, and some games for entertainment.

Garden party ideas on a budget

Low budget £30-£50:

• Make your own food
• Bring a board night to split the cost
• Decorate using what you already have
• Borrow chairs and plates from friends or family

Medium budget £50-£100:

• Supermarket food that caters for your party size
• A few drink options
• Garden lights
• Picnic blankets for more seating

Garden party on a budget: what do you actually need?

Food & drink

Easy way to cut costs on food & drink:

• Make your own instead of buying food
• Account for leftovers
• Work out how many portions you’ll need
• Have each guest bring a board to share the cost
• Check what food is on offer with reward cards

If you’re struggling with what to serve at a garden party, one of the easiest ideas is to do a BBQ. And if you’re keen to do it without overspending, I took a deep dive into which supermarket offers the best value BBQ food of 2026 - spoilers, it’s not M&S.

As for the best garden party drink ideas, your best bet is to have a drink station on a table where people can help themselves to beverages and ice. Split the cost and effort by having people bring their own favourites. Alternatively, do a poll with your guests and buy the top two most popular options.

Table setting

Easy way to cut costs on table setting:

• Make your own place cards
• Purchase paper plates instead of buying new serveware
• Use large chopping boards to serve food
• Utilise casserole dishes to serve food

I adore hosting, and for me, one of the best parts is the table setting. But decorating your table doesn’t have to mean showstopping centrepieces and brand new accessories. It’s all about using things that you already have to create a table that looks special but costs nothing.

Garden decorations

Easy way to cut costs on garden decor:

• Check out our latest Home & Garden vouchers and discount codes.
• Borrow decor from friends and family
• Go to car boot sales
• Have a look at charity shops

Most, if not all, of my own garden decor is actually secondhand. With half of it being charity shop bargains and the other half handed down from family, it's meant that my garden sure looks Pinterest worthy without having to spend a lot of money.

Seating

Easy way to cut costs on outdoor furniture:

• Ask guests to bring chairs
• Use picnic blankets on the floor instead
• Shop secondhand

I only have four outdoor chairs. That means whenever I host in my garden, I have to be savvy with what I already own. In practise, that looks like bringing dining chairs outside, getting the camp chairs out of the shed, and laying picnic blankets on the floor. You seriously don't need to buy any more chairs - you'd be surprised how much you already own.

Garden preparation

Easy way to cut costs on gardening:

• Bring indoor plants outside to add greenery
• Make your own bouquet with freshly cut flowers
• Work with what you’ve got
• Stay on top of weeding to help your space feel tidy

With an upcoming garden party, you might be tempted to splurge on new garden decor. Instead, try these easy, beginner-friendly gardening ideas that look expensive to help elevate your outdoor space.

How to make a garden party look good

Think greenery, homemade bunting, and outdoor lighting. Create zones for a drink station, a games area, and a place to relax with picnic blankets. The quickest way to elevate your outdoor space is by layering. Use tablecloths and decorate with candles, books, and plants.

Garden party activity ideas

If you’re after some garden party activity ideas, try these:

• Garden games like giant Jenga
• Outdoor movie night with a projector & blankets
• Spotify jam on a speaker
• Scavenger hunt where the winner gets a prize
• Bring a board to split the cost and effort of hosting
• Bake off, where you present and rank each other’s desserts
• Games tournament

This year, I’m in my gardening era, using every available weekend to create the cottage garden of my dreams. But I have expensive taste. And without the funds in my bank account, I’m having to find alternative ways to do it.

I’ve searched Pinterest high and low for inspiration, and spent evenings planning how to achieve the look I want. And along the way, I’ve found some of the simplest ideas for gardens that make the biggest difference.

Whether you’re new to gardening or you’d like to give your outdoor space a makeover, here are my favourite, easy tips to transform your garden into the outdoor space of your dreams.

What are the easiest garden ideas for beginners?

The easiest garden ideas for beginners are digging borders, painting fences, and tidying your lawn with an edging tool. You’ll want to fill your border with hardy perennials to avoid overspending, and add clusters of plant pots for that curated, lived-in feel.

Final verdict: what are the most affordable garden ideas?

Most affordable: Weeding is an absolute must, and it's completely free. My best advice is to stay on top of it little and often.

Best for instant impact: Plant pots with fast-growing plants like lavender, cat-mint, or herbs like mint, rosemary, and sage.

Best for quick wins: Tidy your lawn with a lawn edging tool for that put-together feel.

Best for beginners: Weeding & removing overgrown edges from your lawn are both ideal for beginner gardeners looking to elevate their outdoor space.

1. Dig a border

For gardens that lack colour or interest, one of the best things you can do is dig a border. All you really need is a shovel. A great tip is to use your garden hose to mark the shape of your new border before you dig. My favourite beginner landscaping idea is a wiggly, zig-zag border that gives that organic, wild cottage border feel.

Once you’ve dug it, turn the soil over and mix it with some compost to improve the soil quality. Keep the edges looking smart with an edging tool. Then it’s the fun part - planting all the beautiful flowers and shrubs that’ll make all the difference.

What you'll need: Garden shovel & compost

Approx. cost: £20

2. Plant pots

Adding plant pots to your garden can create that lived-in, considered feel to your outdoor space, as long as you know how to do it. When I first started, I bought tons of cheap pots and shoved them anywhere and everywhere. Unfortunately, it’s true what they say - buy cheap, buy twice.

This year, I’ve invested in higher-quality pots with proper drainage holes and been more thoughtful with my placement, and I love how it looks. Clusters of pots (groups of 3-5) of various complementary shapes and sizes look best. Terracotta pots are great because they come in lots of different patterns, shapes and sizes, and have a lovely, rustic texture – and they weather well too.

What you'll need: Plant pots, compost & evergreen/perennial plants

Approx. cost: £20-£100 (depending on how many you buy)

3. Cottage plants

As a gardening newbie, I know the importance of finding good beginner plant recommendations that require minimal effort but look beautiful. I’ve had my fair share of fussy plants that just died straight away - it’s not the vibe.

To save your money, you’ll want to prioritise perennial plants that come back year after year. I recommend you start with some of the following: English lavender, cat mint, alliums, and hardy geraniums. The key is to deadhead regularly and give them a feed every month or so.

What you'll need: Perennial plants

Approx. cost: £10-£50

4. Paint fences

When I moved into my house, my fences looked tired and run-down. Naturally, the whole space looked spent, no matter how much money I spent on outdoor decor. Since I’ve painted them, the space has never looked better, and I underestimated how much it would completely transform the garden.

Save your money and use a primer undercoat (I used one from B&Q). This will prolong the life of your fences and mean you won’t need to repaint them every year. I recommend Cuprinol fence paint. It’s super hardy and high quality, and available in tons of aesthetic colours.

What you'll need: Primer, fence paint & paint brush/car sponge

Approx. cost: £50-£150+ (depending on fence size)

5. Weeding

Weeding is by far the most affordable garden idea out there. It's completely free, and all you need is a good eye and some elbow grease. When I moved into my home, my garden was horrendously overgrown, so it was the first thing I did before I even thought about buying anything.

Once I'd weeded the space, I discovered that I actually had two large borders with beautiful, rustic brick edging, and the garden was such a lovely shape. My best piece of advice is to stay on top of it. Even one month of sun and rain can encourage tons of weeds, so it's all about little and often, especially when it comes to keeping your borders looking their best.

What you'll need: Garden hand fork

Approx. cost: £2-£5

6. Lawn edging tool

This one is an absolute must if you’ve got a lawn that often grows over your patio area. Last year, I embarked on a project to get my lawn looking its best, which involved reseeding it for this summer. Now, it’s truly flourishing, but it’s become a little overgrown and rough around the edges.

That’s where a lawn edging tool really comes in handy. It’s easy to use, and it does a fantastic job at neating up your edges. I’ve just done this with my lawn, and it instantly made my garden feel like it had been landscaped by a professional.

What you'll need: Lawn edging tool

Approx. cost: £10-£20

7. Patio cleaning

Over on one of our sister sites, Ideal Home, I wrote about how I saved myself a huge amount of money when I cleaned my patio and brought it back to life. Beforehand, my patio was stained with years' worth of black spots and mildew, and my dream of achieving a cottage garden felt out of reach. No matter how nice my pot plants were, my space felt dark and dingy.

That was until I discovered the Pro-Kleen Ultimate Black Spot Remover from Amazon. It’s super simple to use, and I was honestly amazed at the difference it made. My patio was like new, and now all I do to maintain it is give it a clean once a year with a pressure washer.

What you'll need: Patio cleaner & pressure washer

Approx. cost: £80-£100

8. Tiered pots

This one feels straight out of a Pinterest board, and it’s even suitable if you’re looking for small patio garden ideas. Add some varied height and interest to your space with a tiered pot display. The best tiered gardening ideas are the most affordable ones, and all you need is something to put your pots on, like bricks or a secondhand bench.

I recommend creating your display in a part of your garden that needs more colour or interest. If you want to grow some herbs, this would be a beautiful way to do it. And it’s less expensive than buying a raised bed, too.

What you'll need: Plant pots, herbs, compost & bench

Approx. cost: £20-£100 (depending on how much you buy)

I’m hosting Easter this year, and I love nothing more than creating the perfect spread. When it comes to hosting special occasions, it’s tempting to buy an abundance of new bits and pieces, but the cost quickly adds up.

The truth is that it’s not about buying more – it’s about styling what you already own and making sure that you know how to save when it comes to Easter celebrations. And with spring marking the season of new beginnings, it’s time to learn how to design a wholesome spread for Easter without overspending.

Mix and match tableware

Instead of buying matching crockery sets, which can be expensive, mix and match what you already have for that whimsical feel. Combine various plates and layer bowls on top for table settings. Use mugs or pouring jugs as little vases.

Bring the outdoors in

Nothing says spring like freshly cut flowers from the garden. Display them as the proud centrepiece on your table. Display sprigs of cut herbs and branches to give your space that relaxed but styled look.

Ditch the tablecloth

When it comes to tablecloths, use something you already own instead of buying a new one. Whether that’s tea towels for a patchwork vibe, a piece of fabric, or even a scarf, it’ll add a pop of colour to your spread. Layering is key for that elevated, organic style.

Homemade place cards

Use some old cards - extra points if it’s mix and match or pieces of scrap paper - and make some handwritten name cards. It’ll add a lovely, personal touch without spending a penny. If you have some scalloped scissors, use them to give them a cute border.

Use what you already have

If, like me, you’ve got a lot of bric-a-brac lying around your home, use it to give your table display a bit of oomph. I’m talking candles, vases, bowls, baskets, antique frames and cakestands. Group items together in odd numbers for that wholesome, natural look.

Style your food

Use fresh fruit that you plan on serving to add pops of colour and freshness. Carefully present baked goods like a loaf of bread or cakes and pastries for that homemade element. Pinterest is ideal for finding inspiration when presenting food.

Add height with books

Table settings always look best when objects and decor are placed with varying heights. Use books - be it cookbooks, coffee table books, or just regular books - to add dimension to your space. Stack under serving dishes for a dramatic effect.

Less is more

Spring is all about new beginnings and fresh starts, and more often than not, less is more. Avoid overspending on non-essential items and create a clean, elevated look with a minimalist spread. Allow for some space on the table, and opt for simple, understated decor items instead.

Spring is here, so it’s time to stop hibernating to get through the dark days and start your seasonal reset. Throw open those curtains, crack open the windows and feel the actual sun on your skin.

I love nothing more than a Spring routine reset - it helps me set some intentions for the next couple of months as we dive into longer, warmer days and approach a faster pace of life.

If you’re like me, you might be looking for simple ways to refresh your home now that we’ve finally made it to the Spring months. I’ve come up with nine easy ways to give your space a new lease of life, without redecorating.

1. Rearrange furniture

When I first moved into my house, I put all of my furniture where the original owners had it just because. So one of the first things I did when kicking off my Spring home glow up was rearranging my furniture.

You’d be surprised how big an effect this can have on your space. My lounge feels like an entirely different room. I’ve actually gained floor space, and the TV no longer has a glare from the windows.

2. Declutter

During the winter months, it’s so easy to accumulate more things, especially with Christmas. In my opinion, there’s nothing worse than living in a cluttered space with cupboards overflowing with things you don’t use.

Whether it’s your wardrobe, kitchen pantry, or office drawers, Spring is the perfect time to go through and have a proper sort out. I love to be super cutthroat with this. Anything I haven’t worn or used since last Spring is out.

3. Upcycle an old piece

As someone who has expensive tastes in homeware and furniture, I simply can’t afford to purchase the things I want, brand new. Now that you can get out into the garden, upcycle an old piece you already own.

With just a light sand, a lick of paint, and some new handles, you can easily breathe a new lease of life into your home. My current favourite trend is striped drawers, and this Spring, it’s something I’m going to do to refresh my office.

4. Deep clean

There’s nothing wrong with little and often when it comes to cleaning. And if you’re anything like me, during those winter months, it’s all you can be bothered to do. But now that March is here, I’ve got far more energy, and that means it’s time for the deep clean.

Pull out your appliances and give them a clean. Hoover under your bed, behind your sofa and in your cupboards. Honestly, nothing hits quite like a squeaky-clean kitchen and bathroom.

5. Change scent

I love a candle. I love a room spray. But over the last couple of months, my scents have been more cosy and warming. Change things up and treat yourself to a new, fresh scent.

Think lemon and thyme, lavender and camomile, or something fruity for those summer vibes. I find that when my house smells good, it instantly boosts my mood.

6. Add greenery

Bring the outdoors in with some new greenery in your living space. Purchase a new plant, or set yourself a goal to have fresh flowers in your home once per month, like me.

I typically purchase several smaller bunches of flowers and arrange them myself. It’s great for saving money, and it’s a fun little hobby to learn, ideal for the Spring months.

7. Organise cupboards

Feel good when you’re hosting this Spring knowing that all of your cupboards are organised. Last weekend, I spent the morning going through my entire pantry. I had tons of out-of-date tins and spices, as well as items that were just shoved in there.

Once I’d finished clearing it all out, I took everything off the shelves, wiped it down, and reorganised the whole thing. Not only do I have tons more room now, but I can access everything, so there’s no more clumsily reaching for plain flour when I need it.

8. Refresh your bedding

We often forget about the bedroom, but chances are your bedroom could do with a bit of love, too. After those winter months, strip down your bedding and replace it with some Spring sheets instead.

Patterns and pastels are just perfect for a gentle Spring refresh. I’m talking about florals, gingham, and stripes. Top it all off with a soothing bed spray.

9. Seasonal shelf styling

In my lounge, I have a gorgeous Welsh dresser which I bought for £70 secondhand and upcycled myself. I decorated the shelves with festive touches for Christmas, so now it’s time to switch things up.

Seasonal shelf styling is a simple yet effective way to give your home a glow-up without redecorating. Think dried flowers, pastel ceramics, and books about gardening. I always get compliments on them, and they feel brand new each time I re-design them.

Scrolling Pinterest and TikTok are some of my favourite things to do in my downtime. And at first glance, it sounds harmless. But the reality is that our digital habits might just be responsible for more than just a bit too much screen time.

The more often I use my phone, the more money I seem to spend. If, like me, you’ve noticed those outgoings steadily creeping up, not to worry. I’ve devised 5 digital spending habits that you can cut to help you save more.

1. Clothing apps

Now, I love a good scroll on ASOS - but I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t make me want to buy everything on my wish list. In reality, having clothing apps on your phone is a one-way ticket to over-consumerism - trust me, I’d know.

All it really does is encourage me to buy, buy, buy. I see something I like – it’s here the next working day, and I can wave goodbye to any money I planned on saving.

2. Scrolling on TikTok

As I’ve mentioned before, I love jumping on the next wellness or home trend from TikTok, but the cost can quickly add up. Influencers get paid to sell you products, so it’s no wonder you end up with an endless wishlist.

What’s more, TikTok shop now makes it even easier to spend money. With promises of low, competitive prices, everything seems like a good deal - until it isn’t.

3. No app limits

App limits are something that I’ve actually started using recently. If you’re spending hours doom-scrolling through shopping apps or consuming aspirational content, then this might be one of the biggest things you can do to help save money.

Limit your exposure to everything you supposedly need in your life, and focus on putting money toward your own goals and desires instead. App limits are a gentle way to stay mindful.

4. Subscription services

On the one hand, subscription services can definitely be worth the money if it’s for something you use consistently. But if you’re signed up for several things like fitness apps, meditation apps, and streaming services, it’s absolutely worth reviewing.

Unsubscribe from any that are not worth the money, and check for household or family discounts. Services like Spotify offer more affordable plans for duos and families.

5. Next-day delivery

Next-day delivery services like Amazon Prime and ASOS Premier feel like a good investment in the long run. But if you’re trying to save money, this might be one of the biggest factors that can cause overspending.

Next-day delivery encourages you to take advantage of the services and place more frequent orders, which can amount to a lot over time. Make it less convenient to purchase orders and opt out of these services.

If you haven’t yet jumped on the cosy colouring TikTok trend, then now is the time to do it.

When it comes to the best hobbies to do in winter, you can be sure that I’ve tried them all. From junk journaling and creating punch cards for habit tracking, to testing a walking pad to keep my steps up during the colder months, I love finding fun habits to fill my time.

Fellow lovers of cosy, low-maintenance activities will be delighted to know that the OG Fuzzy Hygge colouring books that went viral on TikTok a few years ago are now available to buy in Tesco stores.

For just £5 each with the Tesco Clubcard (that’s a saving of almost £3 in comparison to Amazon), you’ll get the adorable, original Fuzzy Hygge book containing 40 pages of illustrations for you to colour in.

In my local store, they also had the Cozy Corner and the Cozy Vibes books available for £5 for Tesco Clubcard holders. While the Fuzzy Hygge has illustrations of animals in cosy settings, the Cosy Corner is perfect for those who want to colour cute interiors (like me).

As someone who has an abundance of colouring books and pens, you can be sure that when I saw these, I snapped up the chance to buy them. They’re available online, but are currently out of stock (unsurprisingly!), so it’s definitely worth checking your closest store.

They’re absolutely adorable, and the perfect hobby for a Sunday afternoon in front of the fire.

These days, it feels like we’re all living life in the fast lane, crippled with stress. We’re running out of time in the day to sit back and unwind, and it’s going to end one way: burnout.

If there’s one thing you should start in the new year, it’s cosymaxxing. This new winter wellness trend from TikTok is all about finding new ways to make the most out of winter. Think slow living, fluffy blankets, and your favourite loungewear.

If this sounds like a bit of you, read on to find out how you can start today.

What is cosy-maxxing?

Cosy-maxxing is a new, emerging trend among home-lovers who want to create a warm and inviting space to unwind and destress. Like the Hygge interiors trend, it’s all about making it easier to slow down the pace of everyday life and to simply embrace the cosy season.

Often, we forget how important our homes are when it comes to managing symptoms of chronic stress like burnout and heightened cortisol. Cosy-maxxing allows us to create a dedicated space where you can just be.

Benefits of cosy-maxxing

• Ideal for destressing
• Helps prevent burnout
• Inspires guilt-free relaxation
• Improves fulfillment
• Decreases screen time

How to: cosy-maxxing

At its core, cosy-maxxing involves doing whatever it takes to help you be mindful and let go of those daily stresses. Balancing work and home life can be tricky - that’s why having a space where you can focus on yourself and the things that bring you fulfilment is so important.

Opt for pieces that give you a sense of calm. Create cosy nooks throughout your home with soft blankets, warm lighting, and relaxing scents. During the darker months, add pops of warmth with candles and accessories to help your space feel inviting rather than cold.

Once you’ve created your cosy haven, personalise it with the things you love. Whether that’s books on your tbr, relaxing background music, or a hobby station.

What do I need for cosy-maxxing?

• Neutrals/muted tones: replace bright colours with soft, muted tones to help instil a sense of calm.
• Soft lighting: use candles, fairy lights, or side lamps to light your space. Avoid harsh, bright overhead lighting.
• Calming scent: pick a scent that helps you instantly relax, like lavender or eucalyptus.
• Texture & warmth: add texture and warmth to your space with fluffy blankets and a cosy rug.
• Mindful habits: use your space to complete healthy habits like scrapbooking, journaling and reading.

Best budget homeware shops for cosy-maxxing

• Dunelm
• Dusk
• The Range
• Matalan
• Habitat at Sainsbury’s
• TK Maxx
• Primark
• Etsy
• Wayfair

Don’t let a tight budget stop you from trying out the new cosy-maxxing trend. Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have an abundance of fantastic discount codes and promotions to help you save.

From home decor and furniture to soft furnishings and more, we have an entire page dedicated to our best tried & tested home & garden offers.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

At this time of year, you can’t go wrong with a delicious hot chocolate. But if the shop-bought stuff isn’t quite cutting it anymore, you might be wondering whether it’s time to use those savings on the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser.

Since its original launch back in 2018, it’s clear that the Velvetiser has quickly become a household name, promising the ultimate hot chocolate with an unbeatably smooth and silky drinking experience.

As a lover of hot chocolates, I took the plunge and bought one. It’s now been over a year, so let’s see if it was really worth it.

How does a Velvetiser work?

In simple terms, the Velvetiser heats milk and chocolate flakes together while frothing, making a deliciously smooth and rich hot chocolate.

According to Hotel Chocolat, the Velvetiser is ‘engineered by chocolatiers to make barista-grace drinking chocolate at the touch of a button.’ And if you’re wondering exactly how: ‘through the InnerPod ridges and custom-designed whisk, the vortex-effect melds real chocolate and your choice of milk in a unique folding motion.’

Is the Velvetiser the same as a milk frother?

While a milk frother is a great way to level up your hot chocolate game at home, it’s certainly not the same. A Velvetiser is specifically designed to whisk, froth, heat, and melt, all in one, while a milk frother simply froths.

What’s included?

When you purchase a Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser for £149.95, you’ll receive a Velvetiser appliance, a Podcup and a Podglass, and 10 sachets of their drinking chocolate.

With the All-New Velvetiser, you’ll be able to enjoy these hot or cold - if this sounds like something you might be interested in, don’t miss my piece on everything you need to know about the All-New Velvetiser upgrade before you buy.

How to use the Velvetiser

It’s simple really. All you have to do is fill with your preferred choice of milk to the max line. Add your chosen Velvetiser drinking chocolate sachet. Pop the lid on, and hit the go button. Within a few minutes, you’ll have a luxury hot chocolate at the perfect drinking temperature.

The Velvetiser sachets

Hotel Chocolat has an abundance of drinking chocolate flavours available for you to choose from. With everything from your classic 70% chocolate and milky 50% chocolate, to black forest gateau, salted caramel, mint, vanilla-white, peppermint, hazelnut, and more – honestly, the list goes on.

These are available to buy in packs of 10 for £14.95 on the Hotel Chocolat site. Alternatively, you can buy handy selection boxes if you’re interested in trying multiple flavours.

Around Christmas, Hotel Chocolat also launch their drinking chocolate advent calendar which is a hot chocolate lover’s dream.

Can you put any hot chocolate in the Velvetiser?

Hotel Chocolat does not advise that you do. However, the reality is yes, you can put other hot chocolates in the Velvetiser. While I haven’t tried this myself, you can use alternative hot chocolate flakes, like the Tesco hot chocolate flakes I spotted, or powders too.

Just be mindful that the Velvetiser has been designed for the Hotel Chocolat drinking chocolate flakes specifically, so you might not get the best results if using other options.

Using the Velvetiser for coffee

A less widely known fact is that the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser can actually be used to make coffees too. This is actually one way I got more use out of mine. On their site, you can purchase a variety of mocha sachets – including caramel mocha, hazelnut mocha, and a selection box.

Using the Hotel Chocolat coffee sachets, the Velvetiser made fantastic coffees which were equally as delicious and smooth as the hot chocolates.

How to clean the Velvetiser

The Velvetiser is super easy to clean. In fact, the ease of cleaning the Velvetiser is by far one of the best pros of this appliance.

Once you’ve made your drink, simply fill with water and a bit of washing up liquid. Then pop the lid back on and press the button as if you’re making a drink. Once done, simply rinse out the remainder of the soap and you’re ready to go again.

The Velvetiser: my honest review

I’ve had the Velvetiser for over a year now so I’ve had my fair share of Hotel Chocolat hot chocolate experiences. Here’s what I really think.

How often did I use it?

I only really got it out of the cupboard in Winter. I found the drink quite rich which meant I only drank it occasionally, as a treat, rather than every day.

How easy is it to use?

It’s very easy and hassle-free for sure. It’s also very quiet which was a big thumbs up from me.

Did it actually make luxury hot chocolates?

Yes, the quality of hot chocolate is certainly barista grade. It’s everything they promise it to be - smooth, silky, and rich.

What are my favourite flavours?

My top flavours are the Milky 50% (great for a classic hot chocolate) and the Vanilla-white (super sweet, ideal for lovers of white chocolate).

Is it easy to clean?

Yes, it is exceptionally easy to clean. Every now and then, I’d find bits of chocolate that were stuck at the bottom, but it was nothing that a second rinse out didn’t fix.

Did the novelty wear off?

Yes, eventually the novelty did wear off. I thought I’d get it out when hosting to make guests a barista-grade hot chocolate, but in reality I didn’t. Though that’s not to say that the drinks were anything but delicious.

Is it a gimmick?

No, I don’t think it is. While I don’t use it as much as I’d like, it definitely does what it says on the tin.

Is it worth the money?

For me, I’m not sure it is entirely worth the money. It’s clearly a high-quality, well designed appliance, but I think considering I don’t get a huge amount of use out of it, I probably wouldn't repurchase.

The Velvetiser: would I recommend it?

To all of my fellow hot-chocolate fanatics, yes, I would recommend the Velvetiser. However, if you’ve got a limited budget, or a track history of other appliances gathering dust in the cupboard, I’d say give it a miss.

Your best bet is to try a more affordable dupe instead, like the Salter Chocolatier Hot Chocolate Maker for £37.99 or the Lakeland Milk and Hot Chocolate Frother for £49.99.

Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser verdict: should you still buy it in 2026?

Reasons to buy: If you’ve got a bit of disposable income to treat yourself, go for it. It’ll certainly level up your hot-chocolate game.

Reasons to give it a miss: People with a limited budget - try a more affordable dupe first. If you’re lacking counter space or cupboard space, potentially give it a miss.

Who would love it: People who are hot-chocolate lovers - if a luxury hot chocolate is your go-to order, then this is definitely for you. Set up your hot chocolate station in your kitchen, and you’re ready to go.

Who should probably skip it: People who drink hot chocolates every now and then. Like me, you might not get the most use out of it.

Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have an entire page dedicated to only the best Hotel Chocolat discount codes. These are updated regularly to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deals.

If you’ve decided to go ahead and purchase the Velvetiser, be sure to add one of our verified discount codes to the checkout to help you save.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

With darker days and plummeting temperatures, winter is often the time of year that most of us dread. But it doesn’t have to mean blowing all of your budget on pesky heating bills. Nor feeling down from having to stay indoors, with nothing fun to do.

From the best ways to stay warm minus the cost, to cosy activities to keep you busy, we’ve written an entire guide on how to make the most of the colder months without spending a fortune.

Stay warm without overspending

The thing that gets me down the most during the winter months is feeling cold, especially if I can’t really afford to turn the heating up. If this is something you struggle with, too, worry not. Over the years, I’ve devised some of the best ways to cut your heating costs in the winter. And the best part is, most of them are super easy and under a tenner.

How to beat the winter blues

With seasonal depression right around the corner, we know how important it is to beat those winter blues. Gone are the days of low mood or boredom, because we’ve compiled a handy list of 10 of the best hobbies to do this winter, to help keep you going.

Alternatively, it's also a fantastic time of year to go on holiday. If you're not sure where to go at this time of the year, we've found 6 of the best winter travel destinations that you won't want to miss.

From seasonal baking and festive reads to exploring a new city, you can kiss goodbye to those winter blues.

The feel-good home trend

They say home is where the heart is, and it couldn’t be more true. For me, my home is my safe space, and you’d be surprised how much the condition of your home can affect how you feel.

During the colder months when we’re stuck inside more, it’s super important to alter your home accordingly – and that’s where cosy-maxxing comes in.

Like hygge, the viral home trend of cozy-maxxing is all about romanticising winter by creating a space that simply invites you to cosy up and wind down. Think blankets, candles, and your favourite cosy hobby. Anything that helps you embrace slow living and indulging in those home comforts.

Winter skincare essentials

Though your skincare essentials like SPF are important year-round, during winter, you might find your skincare routine changes a bit to accommodate the harsh cold.

Perhaps you’re investing in thicker, more moisturising products, or nourishing serums and balms. Maybe it’s gentler, less abrasive products to help support your skin barrier. Whatever you need, find out how you can treat your skin to an all-new winter skincare routine on a budget.

Wrap up in style

If, like me, you don’t let the chilly weather stop you from venturing outside, then you’ll know the importance of knowing how to save money on a winter coat. Buying a good coat is key to making the most out of winter. Think winter walks (with often beautiful views), mooching around your favourite shops, and popping out to your most-loved coffee shop for a festive drink.

Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have tons of fantastic discount codes and promotions to help you save. From premium skincare and cosy home decor, to coats, scarves, and more, don’t miss out on saving money.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

With Black Friday quickly approaching, you’re likely seeing a lot of ads from your favourite brands notifying you of upcoming sales and discounts. It’s fair to say that Black Friday is a great time to purchase items for less, as long as you know how to be sure you’re actually saving.

But why wait until one time of the year to cash in on discounts? What if I told you that there are many alternative ways to save instead of shopping during the Black Friday sales? And the best part is – you can do it all year round.

Keep reading to find out all of our best tips and tricks on how you can save without having to wait for those seasonal sales.

1. Sign up for newsletters to be notified of sale periods all year round

Most retailers have a newsletter you can sign up for to be notified of all upcoming sale events. That means you’ll never miss another chance to save when stocking up on all of your firm favourites.

The best part is, if you’re a new customer, most brands have a welcome offer, meaning you can save instantly, too.

2. Shop secondhand

Whether you’re looking for a new pair of trainers, a set of drawers, or a refurbished iPhone, there’s an abundance of secondhand options for you to choose from. Utilise sites like Vinted, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace before shopping at your regular retailers. You never know what steals you might find.

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe without going over budget, we’ve dedicated an entire article to finding the best secondhand clothing apps so you don’t need to.

3. Purchase a dupe first

If, like me, you try to stay up to date with all of the latest trending products, but you don’t have the budget to indulge them all, then purchase a dupe first. I do this with almost all of my purchases – from Ugg Tazmans to the Dyson Airwrap. I even tested a Stanley Cup dupe vs. the real one to see if it was worth the hype.

Purchasing dupes is a great way to see if you’ll really use the item before spending the money. If you don’t, then you’re not losing out on much money, and if you do, then you can purchase the real thing when it needs replacing.

4. Shop outlets

Try exclusively shopping at outlet stores for a month or two, and you’re guaranteed to save money. Outlet stores are ideal because they stock out-of-season items for a fraction of the cost.

All you need to do is wait until the season has been and gone, and treat yourself to whatever you desire without breaking the bank.

5. Join rewards schemes

If you’ve got a favourite shop that you purchase from often, then it’s absolutely worth joining their reward scheme. With most reward schemes, you’ll have the opportunity to earn points to redeem against future purchases, saving money in the long run.

Whether you’re a makeup lover looking for how much you can save with a Boots advantage card or a book lover searching for everything you need to know about Waterstones Plus, most reward schemes are definitely worth your time.

Use a budgeting app

Avoid overspending by leaning on a budgeting app. If you’re new to budgeting, we’ve compiled a list of the best budgeting apps to help you save. Once you’ve set up limits for each category (household, luxury, food, etc.) you’ll have a much better insight into your spending habits.

Make purchases with confidence that you’re investing your money in something worthwhile. What’s more, trace how much money you’re saving and spending each month to help keep you on track.

7. Review and pause subscriptions

Subscriptions can sneakily creep up on you – not only in cost but in number too. I, for one, have far too many movie streaming subscriptions and would benefit from reviewing them.

Sit down and have a gander at what you’re actually paying. Decide which to keep and which to cancel. You’d be surprised how much an extra £9.99 odd from a subscription service could save you yearly.

8. Add to your basket and then ghost

I do this a lot when I shop online – simply add your desired items to your basket, and wait. Often, brands will email you with a discount to convince you to return and proceed with your purchase. The best part is, you’ll get what you wanted, but for cheaper.

9. Check eBay unwanted gifts

Whether you’re looking for gifts or just something for yourself, it’s worth heading to the eBay unwanted gifts page. Most people sell items brand new for discounted prices because they’re technically second hand.

10. Track prices throughout the year

Utilise sites like CamelCamelCamel to track prices of items throughout the year. That way, when seasonal sale periods like Black Friday or Cyber Monday come around, you’ll actually know whether you’re saving or not.

It’s also handy for noting when certain items are at their most affordable price too.

11. Shop affordable retailers

Sometimes the big brands don’t actually offer the best prices – in fact, most affordable retailers mean you can stock up on the real thing, for a fraction of the price.

We’ve seen this with the likes of The Works £1 book sale, where book lovers can frequently indulge in their most anticipated reads at impressive prices.

12. Read product reviews before buying

Making big purchases shouldn’t be difficult. A great way to ensure that you’re putting your money to good use is to read product reviews before buying. I always do this before I even think about buying luxury price tag items.

We know how helpful this can be, which is why we’ve done reviews of viral items like the All-New Velvetiser and the Nintendo Switch 2, to see if they’re really worth the hype.

13. Consume money-saving content

You’re already doing this one – consume money saving content as much as you can. Follow money saving blogs like ours here at MyVoucherCodes and pick up as many tips and tricks when it comes to money saving.

From helping you know whether ambiguous tech brands like Loaded are legit, to tips to get cheap Domino’s pizza, we cover as much as we can across several categories so you can purchase with confidence – and hopefully save while you do.

14. Use a discount code

Last, and by no means least, if all else fails – use discount code. Here at MyVoucherCodes you can discover all of our discount codes and promotions in one place. We have more than 10,000 offers available so it’s worth checking before you press checkout.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

It’s no secret that the festive season is when Hotel Chocolat truly comes to life. Whether it’s a delicious stocking filler or a selection box to indulge in while watching a Christmas movie, they know how to make the most of this time of year.

But if there’s one thing that never disappoints, it’s the ultimate hot chocolate. And hot chocolate fanatics will be thrilled to know that the long-awaited and much-loved Drinking Chocolate advent calendar is officially back.

If you’re loving the All-New Velvetiser upgrade, having read my review on whether the Velvetiser is still worth it, then you might be wondering whether this should be the next seasonal purchase for you.

What’s included?

For just £40 (£10 cheaper than last year), you’ll get 24 doors with 24 full-sized sachets of drinking chocolate. Flavours include two of their bestsellers, as well as some highly anticipated ones, like black forest gateau, blood orange, and even pumpkin spice (a new edition).

It’s worth noting that you don’t need the Velvetiser to enjoy these, though this is how Hotel Chocolat advise you to use their drinking chocolate to get the best results.

If you haven’t yet purchased their iconic Velvetiser appliance, you can simply heat some milk in a pan on the hob and empty the sachet into it. Then all you need is your favourite festive mug for the best hot chocolate experience.

Be it a Christmas present to enjoy for the remainder of Winter, or enjoyed in the lead up, the Hotel Chocolat drinking chocolate advent calendar has been known to sell out quickly, so don’t wait around.

If you would like to purchase one, take a look at our available Hotel Chocolat discount codes to help you save.

Full list of flavours available:

• Classic 70%
• Milky 50%
• Salted caramel
• Vanilla white
• Dark 85%
• Chili
• Black forest gateau
• Ginger
• Nutmilk 45%
• Salted caramel & clementine
• Hazelnut praline
• Blood orange
• Peanut butter
• Mint
• Coconut white
• Pumpkin spice

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

It’s almost that time of year again when you look out for the best possible deals at all of your most-loved brands. Whether you’re looking to save on Christmas presents or you’ve been waiting all year to make a big purchase for less, the Black Friday sales are a good place to start.

Sometimes it can be difficult to know if you’re actually saving – retailers can use sneaky marketing tricks to convince you to cash in at this time of year.

That’s why we’ve made this ultimate guide, covering everything you need to know when shopping the Black Friday sales.

When is Black Friday 2025?

This year, Black Friday takes place on Friday, 28th November. This is when you can expect most brands to launch their Black Friday offers and promotions.

It's worth noting that many retailers start their Black Friday sales in the week leading up to Black Friday, so keep an eye on your most-loved brands throughout November to avoid missing out.

What time does Black Friday start?

As mentioned above, you can expect Black Friday to begin on the day of Friday, 28th November, though some brands have been known to start before this day.

You’ll be able to shop the Black Friday sales at any time of day, and you’ll be surprised to know that the most popular time to shop Black Friday isn’t as early as you think.

Black Friday VS. January Sales

As a money-savvy shopper, you might be wondering what the difference is between the Black Friday sales and January sales, and which is more worth your time (and money).

Shopping the Black Friday sales, you can expect impressive discounts on popular items and products – including electronics & tech, toys, and luxury items too.

Brands typically advertise Black Friday sales across multiple platforms like email newsletters and social media countdowns. As a result, Black Friday sales tend to be more hyped by retailers, meaning items tend to sell faster.

January sales, on the other hand, typically offer discounts (potentially not as large a discount as Black Friday) on items that have not been sold over the festive period, like clothing, homeware and lifestyle products. In the past, we’ve seen a lot of January sales centre around the new year, new me resolutions.

How to check if a deal is genuine?

While Black Friday offers some of the best discounts on the market, it’s important to know how to avoid wasting money. From checking prices and considering hidden costs, in our article, we cover all the best tips so you can avoid wasting money over Black Friday.

Unfortunately, Black Friday has also been known to be prime time for scammers. But worry not, we have an entire guide dedicated to tips to help you avoid being scammed on Black Friday.

A good, general rule of thumb is that if a deal looks too good to be true, avoid it.

Tips for smart shopping

Make sure you’re in the know when it comes to shopping the Black Friday sales this year.

Knowledge is power. Find out which products see the biggest deals on Black Friday and why. Set budgets and stick to your wishlist. Avoid getting sucked into the marketing campaigns that want you to spend, spend, spend. Check that deals are genuine so you can purchase with confidence.

How to prepare for Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday takes place on Monday, 1st December this year, and is another fantastic way to save money on your purchases. To prepare, we advise you to use the same tips as for Black Friday.

Set a budget, keep an eye on prices around and before Cyber Monday, and avoid deals that seem like a scam.

It’s worth noting that sometimes Cyber Monday deals are actually better than Black Friday, especially when it comes to tech and electronics. That’s why it’s worth comparing the cost across both sales periods.

Black Friday Christmas Gifts

Black Friday sales can be ideal for purchasing Christmas gifts without spending a fortune. With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get organised.

The perks of purchasing during the Black Friday sales mean you’ll likely get your order sooner, so no more sweating a last-minute delivery close to the big day.

Set yourself up for a no-stress Black Friday Christmas shopping experience. Like with shopping in general, it’s good to make a list so you can avoid excess spending. Do your homework and check prices in the run-up to Black Friday to see if you’re actually saving money.

Something worth noting is that popular items can sell out fast over Black Friday. Be aware that scammers can make fake websites to trick you. Only purchase items from retailers you trust.

Is Black Friday really worth it?

Black Friday is known for its time-limited offers and promotions. But, sometimes it’s tricky to know what the real deal is with Black Friday shopping, and whether it’s really all that worth it.

In short, the answer is yes, Black Friday can be worth it if you follow our handy advice.

Don’t let all of the hype take advantage of your wallet. Black Friday is a great opportunity to make a killer saving, as long as you’re strategic. Avoid making impulse purchases, keep an eye on price increases and decreases, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Calling all book lovers – The Works has finally launched their Black Friday sale in stores, and it’s better than we imagined.

Whether you’re building out your dream book collection or looking for sneaky ways to save a few pounds on your hobbies, it’s handy to know all of the best tips and tricks for buying books on a budget.

Now you can shop your most anticipated reads of the year for as little cost as possible in their new 4 for £7.50 book deal - that works out as approximately £1.90 per book (almost as cheap as the Kindle 99p book deals), which is an enormous saving.

It’s fair to say that The Works has quickly become a firm favourite amongst readers on a budget. We’ve consistently seen impressive discounts on books throughout the year, including The Works viral £1 book sale back in September.

Fans of Freida McFadden, Christina Lauren, and Lindsey Kelk will be thrilled to know that they can purchase their books for a fraction of the cost in The Works well-awaited Black Friday sale.

The Works has confirmed that their Black Friday sale will take place from November 3rd to November 20th, so it’s worth heading down to your local shop to take advantage of the savings.

On top of a fantastic selection of adult fiction and non-fiction books, parents will be thrilled to know that The Works 10 for £10 on picture books is now 12 picture books for £10 in the Black Friday sale. So if you’ve got a budding bookworm, you can purchase a range of wholesome reads as the perfect stocking fillers.

So, if you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a Christmas read for a fellow book-lover, The Works Black Friday sale is the place to do it.

If you'd like to find out more ways you can save at The Works, take a look at our dedicated The Works discount code page which we regularly update with the latest discounts and promotions.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code or retailer pages, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Here's how it works.

Having reviewed the OG Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser and as a hot chocolate fanatic myself, I was super excited to find out that Hotel Chocolat had released an upgraded version.

While I indulge in a warm beverage during the cosy months, I love an iced drink all year round – and the all-new Velvetiser now makes that easier.

Since the original Velvetiser made its appearance in 2018, it quickly became a firm favourite amongst aspiring hot chocolate connoisseurs looking to achieve a luxury hot chocolate drink at home. With its sleek appearance and silky smooth hot chocolate, it has remained a well-loved product even now.

But if you’re anything like me, you might be wondering how the new model is different, and whether it’s worth the splurge this Christmas.

What does a Velvetiser do?

A Velvetiser creates a luxury hot chocolate with chocolate flakes and your milk of choice. The appliance heats the ingredients while whisking them, which gives it its smooth, rich texture.

The All-New Velvetiser returns with an entirely refreshed look, with subtle ridged detailing and a slightly bulkier design, making it a little more of a feature in your kitchen. Available in three new, exciting colour ways – chalk, pebble, and pewter – you’ll be able to opt for one that fits your preferred aesthetic.

Retailing at approximately £149.95, the new model comes with improved functionality too. The upgraded, fluted design ensures your chocolate sachets no longer get stuck beneath the whisk, like the original product.

Arguably, the question we're all asking is can the Velvetiser make cold drinks? With just the flick of a switch, the All-New Velvetiser can now make deliciously refreshing cold beverages – though it is worth mentioning that for iced drinks, you’ll need to pour it over ice.

The new model comes with a Podcup and a Podglass so you can drink in style, as well as Hotel Chocolat’s new hot & cold drinking chocolate selection. Flavours include classic, mint, banana, mandarin & orange, and creme brulee.

In short, if you’ve got the budget, the All-New Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser is likely worth it if you’re a lover of both hot and cold drinks. If it’s warm, silky hot chocolates that make you swoon, then the OG is probably the one for you.

Imagine starting your day knowing you've already banked over £2,000 this year. Sound like a fantasy? I thought so too, until I uncovered the startling truth about my finances. As a shopping and lifestyle expert for MyVoucherCodes, I’m constantly recommending ways in which others can save a few quid. And yet, I had been haemorrhaging money for years without giving it much thought. My biggest financial drain happened between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. My seemingly harmless morning routine, packed with takeaway coffee, the forgotten gym membership, and the daily meal deal, was secretly costing me a fortune!

After calculating the total, I overhauled my habits and discovered five simple, stress-free swaps that saved me over £2,244 annually. So, if you’re ready to stop letting your morning routine drain your bank account, I have 5 tips to help you do just that.

• Ditch the expensive coffee habit. The average spend on a takeaway coffee in the UK is between £3 and £5. I was spending around £4 a day on coffee 5 days a week, that’s a whopping £20 a week or £80 a month! It’s clear to see there are huge savings to be made by making your own. Invest in a good quality travel mug and save up to £960 a year.
• Make breakfast affordable and nutritious. Starting the day with a healthy breakfast is essential. I love making overnight oats, and in an airtight container, they last up to 5 days. A 1KG bag of Harvest oats, available at Tesco, is just 85p; the entire bag for one person will last around a month. Add your favourite fruit, nuts or seeds each morning for variety. This avoids picking up additional pastries or bacon sandwiches on the way to work!
• Swap the gym for a home workout. We all know that gym memberships are expensive. My local gym is reasonably priced at £28 a month. After a year of membership, I began to consider how much I could save by exercising at home, combined with regular power walks in my local area. And the answer is £336 per year. I now use free workouts available on YouTube and the great outdoors as my gym, and I haven’t regretted a thing!
• Leave the car at home. Use public transport, cycle or walk to work. This saves money on fuel and parking. Yes, the journey might take longer, but it gives me time to read or just enjoy my own thoughts behind my headphones. And knowing I don’t need to find or pay for a parking spot makes me feel like I’m winning. For me, leaving the car at home and using public transport instead worked out about the same financially. However, I found it less stressful and it’s better for the environment.
• Take a packed lunch. From occasional cafe trips to daily meal deals, it all adds up! Prepare your lunch at home the night before and take it with you to work. If you can save up to £960 a year on coffee, think how much you could save on lunch! The nearest supermarket to my workplace charges £3.95 for its cheapest meal deal. Over a five-day week, that’s £19.75! So, potentially, you might be spending around £948 a year, even when opting for this supposedly ‘budget-friendly’ option.
• Track your daily spending. Tracking your spending accurately is a game-changer when it comes to finances. Consider using an App like Monzo, Emma. Plum or Revolt. They are a handy tool that will help you develop mindful spending habits, leading to a healthier relationship with money.

About MyVoucherCodes: MyVoucherCodes is a market-leading voucher, coupon and discount deals website based in the UK. It has around five million consumer members who receive daily emails featuring the best selection of deals, vouchers, and offers from a wide range of retailers, including fashion, beauty, restaurants, electronics, and many more. It works with more than 2,500 retailers to offer more than 25,000 voucher or discount codes.

The average person is planning to spend £104.21 on Halloween this year, up from £61.50 in 2024 - a 69% increase in spending, new research by leading discount voucher website, MyVoucherCodes.

This year, people are spending £43.77 on food and drink, versus £24.60 in 2024. On costumes, they are set to spend £31.17, up from £19 last year. And on decorations, they are splurging £29.26, up from £17.90 last year.

The research also shows that more people are joining in the spooky fun this year, with 55% of respondents saying they’ll celebrate Halloween in 2025, compared to 48% in 2024.

When it comes to Halloween traditions, the research found that the majority of people still get involved in trick-or-treating, with 58% saying they welcome trick or treaters at their doors. However, 38% admitted they don’t answer the door when they come around.

Commenting on the findings, Sarah-Jane Outten, money-saving expert at MyVoucherCodes, said:

“It’s fascinating to see such a significant jump in Halloween spending this year. It shows that people are really embracing the season, whether through bigger parties, elaborate costumes, or themed decorations. But with rising costs across the board, it’s more important than ever to spend smart and look for savings wherever possible.

Whether you're throwing a haunted house party, going trick-or-treating, or just enjoying spooky snacks with family, Halloween 2025 is set to be bigger, bolder, and costlier than ever, but with the right savings strategies, it doesn't have to break the bank"

“Here’s my top 5 money-saving tips for Halloween:

• Use discount websites like MyVoucherCodes to find the best deals on costumes, decorations and food.
• Get crafty – DIY decorations and homemade costumes can save you a fortune and add a personal touch.
• Plan ahead and buy non-perishable items in bulk or when they’re on offer.
• Reuse and recycle last year’s costumes or decorations with a fresh twist.
• Team up with friends or neighbours for shared celebrations to split costs on food, drink and entertainment.

Notes to editors:* This online survey of 2000 UK adults, was commissioned by Front Door Communications on behalf of MyVoucherCodes and conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society's code of conduct. Data was collected between 05/9/2024 and 08/9/2024. All participants are double-opted in to take part in research and are paid an amount depending on the length and complexity of the survey. This survey was overseen and edited by the OnePoll research team. OnePoll are company partners of the MRS and has corporate membership to ESOMAR. ContactFor more information, please contact Rachel Mainwaring or Lisa Blake at Front Door Communications on rachel@fdcomms.co.uk or lisa@fdcomms.co.uk or call 029 20 020360.

Screwfix Rewards has changed a lot since it launched, and most of what you'll read about it online is out of date. Here's how the coins, milestones and monthly resets actually work now, plus the expiry traps to watch.

If you joined Screwfix Rewards when it launched in October 2025, or read about it since, forget most of what you know. The scheme was overhauled on 2 March 2026 and now works differently in almost every way that matters. Coins are no longer app-only, they no longer vanish when a promotion ends, and there's a predictable monthly rhythm you can plan around.

I've covered loyalty schemes for years and worked in a tool store before that, so I know how tradespeople and DIYers actually shop: little and often, with the odd big hit when a job kicks off. That pattern matters here, because this scheme quietly rewards one type of shopper far more than the other. I'll get to that.

Screwfix Rewards at a glance

Screwfix Rewards is a free loyalty scheme inside the Screwfix app. You opt in through the app, collect coins when you shop, and unlock money-off rewards when you hit monthly coin milestones.

The current version is called Spend & Save. It started on 2 March 2026 and replaced the earlier launch promotions such as Stack & Save and Rewards Unwrapped.

You earn 1 coin for every 1p spent, so £1 equals 100 coins. Coins can be earned on app, online, in-store and contact centre orders, but you still need the app to join, track your coins and access your rewards.

Coins reset on the first working day of each month. Rewards you have already earned do not reset with your coins, but reward codes expire 14 days after they are issued.

The scheme is best for regular Screwfix shoppers who place several orders a month. If you only shop there once or twice a year, you may still benefit, but you are less likely to hit the better monthly milestones.

What is Screwfix Rewards and is it a loyalty card?

Screwfix Rewards is the retailer's free loyalty scheme, run through the Screwfix app. Members collect coins on their spending, which unlock money-off rewards at set milestones each month, plus exclusive offers, surprise perks like prize draws and discount days, and rotating partner offers from other brands.

It launched on 8 October 2025, pitched by Screwfix as a loyalty programme built for the trade, though anyone can join. The early months ran as short promotional bursts under names like Stack & Save and Rewards Unwrapped. Since 2 March 2026 it has settled into a permanent monthly format called Spend & Save, and that's the version this guide covers. Joining costs nothing; you just need the app, a Screwfix account, and to be 18 or over in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

It is not really a traditional loyalty card in the supermarket sense. There is no plastic card to scan and no long-term points pot to build up over the year. It is more of an app-based monthly rewards scheme: you opt in, collect coins on qualifying orders, unlock rewards, then start again when the month resets.

You can read the official scheme details on the Screwfix Rewards page, but the important bit is this: the current 2026 version is much broader than the launch version. You no longer have to order through the app to earn coins, but you do still need the app to join and manage your rewards.

Screwfix Rewards app: how to join and activate it

You can only join through the app, not the website. Here's the full route, because the opt-in toggle is easy to miss:

1. Download the Screwfix app from the App Store or Google Play and sign in. If you don't have a Screwfix account, you can create one free in the app.
2. Tap the More section in the bottom-right corner of the homepage.
3. Find Screwfix Rewards and opt in by enabling the Rewards permissions.
4. That's it. You're a member, and any qualifying order from that point collects coins.

How to opt in through the Screwfix app

The key step is the Rewards permission. Downloading the app is not enough on its own. You need to go into the Rewards section and actively opt in before you start collecting coins.

That is worth checking if you installed the Screwfix app ages ago and assumed you were already earning. If the toggle is off, you earn nothing, even if you are logged in and ordering from the same account.

Can you join Screwfix Rewards on the website?

No. You can place orders on the website and still collect coins once you are opted in, but the actual sign-up has to happen in the Screwfix app.

That is slightly annoying if you mainly shop from a desktop, but it is how the scheme is built. Think of the app as the control panel for your rewards, even if you still prefer ordering online or buying in store.

Why the Rewards permissions toggle matters

Two things trip people up. First, you need the latest version of the app, so update it if the Rewards Centre isn't showing. Second, the opt-in is a genuine permission toggle. If it's off, you earn nothing, even with the app installed. Worth thirty seconds to check if you downloaded the app ages ago and assumed you were in.

Once you're in, turn on push notifications. Screwfix uses them to tell you when coins land, when you hit a milestone, and when your coins reset. Given how quickly rewards expire, those alerts do real work.

How do Screwfix Rewards coins work?

The earning rate is simple: 1 coin for every 1p you spend, which works out at 100 coins per £1. Since the March 2026 relaunch, coins are collected on orders placed in the app, online at screwfix.com, in store at the trade counter, and through the contact centre. That's the single biggest change from the old scheme, which only counted app orders.

How many coins do you get per £1?

You get 100 Screwfix coins for every £1 you spend. That is because the scheme awards 1 coin for every 1p of qualifying spend.

A few details from the small print that actually matter day to day:

• Coins count on every 1p of your order, including delivery charges. Gift cards and charity donations are the only exclusions.
• There's no minimum spend. A 79p pack of screws earns 79 coins.
• With a voucher or discount code, coins are calculated on the total after the discount.
• You can redeem a reward and still collect coins on the same order.
• Coins normally appear within an hour, but can take up to 24 hours.

Can you earn Screwfix coins in store?

Yes. Since 2 March 2026, Screwfix Rewards coins can be earned on app, online, in-store and contact centre orders.

That is a major change from the launch version, which only counted app orders. It means the scheme is now much more useful for trade counter shoppers who buy little and often, rather than only people who order through the app.

Does Screwfix have points or coins?

Screwfix calls them coins, not points. In practice, they work like loyalty points: you collect them on qualifying spend, build towards milestones, and unlock rewards in the app.

So if you are searching for Screwfix points, the current scheme you want is Screwfix Rewards coins. There is not a separate Screwfix points card or old-style loyalty points account.

When do Screwfix coins appear?

Coins normally appear within an hour, but can take up to 24 hours. Everything is tracked in the Rewards Hub in the app: your coin total, distance to the next milestone, earned rewards, and a history of recent orders and the coins they collected.

If your coins have not appeared straight away, do not panic after ten minutes. Wait at least 24 hours, then check whether you were opted in, whether the order qualified, and whether you are using a Business account.

Screwfix Rewards milestones, monthly resets and 14-day expiry

This is where the scheme gets interesting, and where most people lose value without realising.

Each month there are six coin milestones, and each one you reach unlocks a reward in your Rewards Hub. The exact coin targets and reward values are listed in the app, and the pattern is simple: the more you spend, the better the rewards. There's a ceiling, though. You can collect a maximum of 200,000 coins a month, which is £2,000 of spend, and after the sixth milestone you earn nothing until the next reset.

How many rewards can you earn each month?

You can earn up to six milestone rewards each month. Once you hit the sixth milestone, you have reached the monthly reward limit.

That does not mean Screwfix stops taking your money, obviously. It means any further orders that month will not push you towards more coins or rewards until the next monthly reset begins.

When do Screwfix coins reset?

On the first working day of every month, your coin balance drops to zero and the six milestones start again. If the new month begins on a weekend or bank holiday, the earning window stretches slightly, and anything earned up to 23:59 the day before the reset counts toward that month.

This is the bit that makes Screwfix Rewards very different from Tesco Clubcard, Nectar or most supermarket-style schemes. There is no long-term coin pot. It is a monthly cycle.

How long do Screwfix rewards last?

Earned rewards survive the reset. Coins reset, rewards don't. But rewards have their own clock: each reward code expires 14 days from the day it's issued. Codes work against any app, online, in-store or contact centre order, so redeeming is flexible, but the fortnight is fixed.

If you want the full legal detail, Screwfix publishes the current Screwfix Rewards promotional terms and conditions, including the monthly rules, reward list and live partner offer terms.

Why early-month orders can work better

Put those two clocks together and you get the tactical bit. A milestone reached in the first week of the month gives you a reward you can spend on later orders that same month, which earn more coins toward the next milestone. A milestone scraped on the last day of the month gives you a reward that spills into a month where your coins have reset anyway.

If a big material order is coming and you have any say over timing, place it early in the month to start the snowball.

One more quirk: because coins reset monthly and rewards expire in 14 days, there's no long game. You can't bank coins toward something big in six months, the way supermarket schemes allow. This is use-it-or-lose-it, built for people who shop weekly, not twice a year.

Screwfix Rewards benefits: offers, perks and partner deals

The milestone rewards are the core, but membership comes with three other strands, and they're easy to overlook because they live in the same corner of the app.

Surprise perks and prize draws

Surprise perks include giveaways, prize draws and member discount days run through the Rewards Hub. Some are open to all members, others go to selected customers only.

Recent examples include free Sprint delivery and 10% off Sprint orders for selected members, and a free Greggs breakfast roll and drink offer that ran in June 2026.

Partner offers

Partner offers are deals from third-party brands, rotating every few weeks. Recent ones have included £100 cashback from Tide, a Beer52 introductory box, and up to 50% off AA breakdown cover.

These are run by the partners rather than Screwfix, so read each offer's own terms, since some involve subscriptions that bill after the freebie.

Exclusive member-only offers

Exclusive offers are personalised member-only deals based on what you buy, delivered in the app.

These are worth checking before placing an order, especially if you are already buying from Screwfix that week. The annoying truth with app-based schemes is that the best offer is often the one you never saw because it was sitting quietly in a tab you forgot to open.

What happened to Screwfix Stack & Save and Rewards Unwrapped?

If you're comparing notes with a mate who joined at launch, or reading older coverage, here's what's different since 2 March 2026:

Coins from those earlier promos were removed when each one ended, so nothing carried over. Everyone started the March 2026 format at zero.

That is why older Screwfix Rewards guides can be misleading. If they say coins are app-only, tied to Stack & Save, or wiped when a short campaign ends, they are talking about the launch version rather than the current Spend & Save scheme.

Screwfix Rewards not working: why coins or rewards are missing

Judging by what people search for, missing coins and invisible rewards are the most common headaches. Before you ring Screwfix, check these in order:

Check you are opted in

Go to More, then Screwfix Rewards in the app. The permission toggle must be on. Opted out by accident? You can opt straight back in.

Check the app is updated

The Rewards Centre only shows on the latest version of the Screwfix app. If the Rewards section is missing, update the app first.

Wait up to 24 hours for coins

Coins usually land within an hour but can take a full day, as can milestone rewards. If you have just placed an order, give it time before assuming anything is broken.

Check whether you are using a Business account

Screwfix's help flags that rewards may not appear for Business customers, and staff of Screwfix, B&Q and parent company Kingfisher are excluded.

Check whether your order qualifies

Gift cards and charity donations do not earn coins. If you used a voucher or discount code, your coins are calculated on the order total after the discount.

Check whether you have hit milestone six

After the final milestone, coin earning stops until the reset. If you have already hit all six monthly milestones, more coins will not keep stacking up for that month.

If none of that explains it, wait 48 hours from the order and contact Screwfix, since their team can't trace coins earlier than that. The full rules live on the Screwfix Rewards page.

Is Screwfix Rewards worth it?

For a free scheme with a 1p minimum spend, there's no real downside, but the value depends on how you shop.

If you're at the trade counter every week, the maths works for you. Regular spend hits milestones most months, and the early-month snowball means rewards feed back into orders you were placing anyway. The £2,000 monthly cap only bothers serious spenders, and if that's you, you're unlocking the best rewards on the list every month.

If you're an occasional DIYer, temper expectations. A £60 tap and a tin of paint twice a year won't climb six milestones, and any reward you do unlock expires in 14 days. For that pattern, you'll usually do better checking the latest Screwfix discount codes before you order, since threshold and percentage-off codes don't care how often you shop.

The two also work together: coins are earned on your total after a code is applied, so a code plus coins beats either alone. If a project has you shopping beyond one retailer, our DIY and tools deals page pulls together offers across the big names.

UK retail loyalty is shifting toward this monthly, gamified format, and Screwfix's version is one of the more generous because the earning channels are so broad. We've covered how the Lidl Plus points scheme changed too, and the pattern is the same: everyone wants you back monthly now.

Screwfix Rewards FAQs

Ofgem's new default tariff cap takes effect from Wednesday, 1 October 2025, to Tuesday, 1 December 2025. The regulator sets a typical annual bill at £1,755 for a dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit, up approximately 2% from July to September.

The cap limits unit rates and standing charges, not your total bill, which still depends on your usage.

For the period from October to December, Ofgem's explainer lists average example rates of 26.35p per kWh for electricity, with a daily standing charge of 53.6p, and 6.29p per kWh for gas, with a daily standing charge of 34.03p.

Actual prices vary by region, payment method and company. Ofgem has published the full regional tables, allowing you to look up the exact unit rate and standing charge for your location.

If you're on a standard variable tariff and don't have a smart meter, submitting a meter reading tonight helps ensure that usage up to the 30th of September is billed at the outgoing rates.

As the Guardian reported last week, "millions of Britons risk overpaying on their energy bills if they fail to submit meter readings before the upcoming price cap increase on October 1st." Smart readers usually send readings automatically.

What to check this evening:

First, locate your region and payment type in Ofgem's tables, and note the new unit rates and standing charges that take effect tomorrow.

Second, record and submit your electricity and gas readings through your supplier's app or account by midnight, then keep a photo of the submission for your own records.

Third, if your supplier provides a next-day confirmation, verify that it displays today's date (30/09/25) so that your opening balance rolls over cleanly at the price change. These are standard billing steps tied to the cap change rather than recommendations to switch tariff.

Ofgem has also published a short news note that lets you compare July to September rates with those for October to December at a glance. If you need a refresher on how the cap works or what "typical use" means, the regulator's explainer provides clear explanations in plain terms.

IKEA is running a tiered "Spend & Save" offer for IKEA Family members across the kitchen and dining categories. The promotion runs until September 28, 2025, and is applicable in-store and online.

The headline thresholds are simple: Spend £50 and save £10, spend £100 and save £20, spend £250 and save £50.

The offers page lists the dates and mechanics and requires you to use the IKEA voucher code "SECRETSAUCE50" on your order.

The discount code applies to select products in the kitchen and dining categories. The full list of items is available on the IKEA page, which includes everything from wall storage to dining, handles, lighting, and sinks.

You will need to have an IKEA Family card to redeem your offer, which is available for one transaction per IKEA Family member. Therefore, try to group all your purchases together to maximise your savings.

There is also a 15% discount on Kitchen Installation Services until October 26, 2025. This is listed under IKEA's offers and events page. However, customers should note that these offers do not stack together, but are helpful if you are planning a fitting.

IKEA Family membership is free to join and is required for this promotion, as well as most other promotions of this scale offered by IKEA.

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The Works has its 10 for £10 kids picture book bundle live again, offering "carefully curated" pre-selected sets that work out at £1 per book while stocks last.

The line-up rotates, so that the exact themes will change. A current example is the Family Stories Bundle, which lists ten paperback titles and states, "10 of our favourite kids picture books are reduced from £2 to £1 each" as part of the offer. Expect early-year reads rather than hardback classics.

These are pre-selected sets, not a pick-and-mix of ten individual titles. If you prefer to choose each book, The Works offers a wider 3 for £5 mix-and-match deal across children's picture books.

The per-book price is higher than the bundles, but the range is broader, which can help avoid duplicates or top up a themed gift.

The cheapest way to collect a single £10 bundle is usually to reach the retailer's Click & Collect free threshold. Click & Collect is free on orders over £15 and £2.99 if you're under £15.

The delivery policy also sets free standard delivery at £45+ and £8.99 under £45. Note that if a The Works promo code reduces your basket below a threshold, the free option is removed.

Parents building a bedtime library on a budget, teachers and TAs restocking reading corners, and anyone planning party-bag fillers. As with any multibuy, it is worth checking out the price per book at checkout and scanning titles to avoid any overlap with books you already own.

Availability can change, especially in these while stocks last sales, so if a theme fits what you're going for, act fast while it's listed.

Working parents in England can now get 30 hours a week of government-funded childcare for children from nine months up to school age. The final stage of the rollout took effect at the beginning of September, doubling the previous 15-hour offer for under-twos.

The Department for Education (DoE) says families who use the full entitlement could save up to £7500 a year per child.

The entitlement is 30 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year. Some providers allow families to "stretch" the hours over more weeks by taking fewer hours each week. Eligibility runs from the term after a child turns 9 months.

Eligibility includes yourself and your partner (if you have one,) although generally you need to be in work and each expects to earn at least the equivalent of 16hours at National Minimum or Living Wage, with individual income under £100,000.

There are exceptions if one parent is on certain types of leave or cannot work due to disability or caring responsibilities. Check the official guidance to confirm your situation.

You can apply online via GOV.UK to receive an eligibility code, which you should then provide to your childcare provider. You must have a valid code before the start of the term, with standard cut-offs of 31st of August, 31st December and 31st of March for Autumn, Spring and Summer starts.

You also need to reconfirm every three months to keep the code active. Local councils publish the exact dates and reminders.

This scheme sits alongside tax-free childcare, which can reduce fees by 20% for eligible families, and other support such as free hours for some two-year-olds. Use the government childcare calculator to see how the options stack up for your household.

For parents comparing places, the government says take-up is expected to exceed early projections, with over half a million children set to benefit from the scheme. Sector groups continue to press on staffing and capacity, so it is worth contacting providers as early as possible if you need particular times or dates.

UK students are swapping big gestures for small, sustainable habits to keep costs down this term. A Guardian round-up asked current and recent students for the tactics that actually moved the needle, from classic discount hacks to rethinking first-year housing.

Several students say the simplest wins start before you buy anything: sign up to UNiDAYS and Student Beans and check for student discount codes every time you shop. Others found that leaving Apple Pay at home and taking a set amount of cash on nights out stopped impulse spending.

Planning ahead helps too, look up menus and deals before you head to bars or venues so you're not blindsided by prices.

Not every saving comes from buying "cheap". One contributor to the round-up said spending a little more on durable bedding and kitchenware cut their replacement costs over time. On campus, joining societies can be a low-cost way to learn a new skill because activities are often subsidised. Some universities also fund travel or internships if you apply early.

Create a plan, select a few rules you can actually follow, and utilise the discounts and support available to you. Housing is the big outlay, and the boldest tip came from a first-year student who shared a room. "It more than halved" their rent, taking the annual bill to around £3000. It won't suit everyone, but in high-rent cities like London (which can reach £178/week), the savings can be dramatic if your university offers the option.

If you're mapping out a term-time budget, UCAS has a straightforward student budget planner to tot up income and essential costs. And if your overdraft or freebies will influence where you bank, MoneySavingExpert keeps an up-to-date guide on the best student bank accounts.

The overall message? Make a plan, pick a couple of rules you can actually follow, and lean on the discounts and support you have access to. Those small, repeatable choices, plus the occasional bigger decision on things like housing, add up fast.

UK wage data out today points to a state pension uplift next April. Average earnings grew by 4.8% in the three months to July 2025, excluding any bonuses, and 4.7% including bonuses, according to the ONS.

Under the triple lock, the State Pension rises by the highest of earnings, September CPI inflation, or 2.5%. The exact rate is confirmed after the September inflation figures are published.

For money-saving readers, the priority is to ensure you receive everything you are entitled to and that routine bills are managed sensibly around any rise.

Start with the basics. Check your State Pension forecast on GOV.UK and review your National Insurance record in the UK to check for gaps that could reduce your benefits.

If you do have missing years, the government advises contacting the Future Pension Centre before paying voluntary class 3 contributions, so you only top up years that actually increase your pension.

If your income is modest, Pension Credit can boost your weekly income and open the door to other support. You can check eligibility and apply online or by phone. You can also contact Citizens Advice online or via 0808 223 1133 for advice on everything you can claim.

Energy help returns for winter. The Warm Home Discount is due to return in October 2025, with the government confirming plans to widen eligibility in England and Wales for 2025-2026.

Most eligible households in England and Wales are identified automatically. In Scotland, some people apply via their supplier. The Winter Fuel Payment of £100-£300 is paid automatically to most who qualify. If you rely on extra help with utilities, ask to join your suppliers' Priority Services Register.

Council bills are another area to check. If you live alone, you can get a 25% Council Tax single person reduction. If you are on a low income, Council Tax Reduction can cut bills further, in some cases up to 100% depending on local rules.

There are everyday travel and household savings, too. The Senior Railcard gives 1/3 off most rail fares for those aged 60 and over. Couples where one partner pays no tax can look at the Marriage Allowance, which lets you transfer part of a personal allowance to a basic-rate-paying spouse or civil partner, reducing their tax bill.

If broadband or phone costs are high, ask about social tariffs. Ofcom keeps an up-to-date list of low-cost packages for people on certain benefits.

Note: This article is general information, not financial advice. Check details on GOV.UK or speak to Citizens Advice if you are unsure.

Millions of households could be leaving serious money on the table because they're not claiming the support they're entitled to. New analysis from Policy in Practice suggests more than £22-24 billion in benefits and social tariffs go unclaimed each year across the UK.

A large slice of that relates to Universal Credit (UC). Anti-poverty charity Turn2us estimates that over £9.6 billion in UC wasn't claimed over the past year as families grappled with rising costs.

Reports citing Policy in Practice put the number of households missing out on UC in the region of 1.6 - 1.7 million, with average gains for some households worth several thousand pounds a year.

The backdrop is a system that's complicated and, for many, hard to navigate. Policy in Practice's director Devan Ghelani says "over £24 billion is left on the table at a time when many are struggling to stay afloat," calling for a simpler, more proactive approach to support.

Meanwhile, official DWP statistics show that 6.4 million households were on UC in January 2024, rising to 7.5 million in January 2025, over 50% of which were families with children, underlining how central the benefit has become.

If you're unsure if you qualify, checking takes minutes and doesn't commit you to a claim. The government signposts independent benefits calculators on GOV.UK, while charities run their own tools and one-to-one help.

With living costs still biting, even a modest monthly award can be the difference between staying on top of bills or falling behind. A five-minute check is a low-effort way to find out what you're due.

Almost one in five UK households found it difficult to pay their water bills in the past year, according to new figures from Citizens Advice.

The charity's survey, carried out in August, revealed that 21% of those who struggled with payments ended up in debt to their water supplier. The findings come after the biggest single-year rise in household water charges since the industry was privatised in 1989 under the government of Margaret Thatcher.

The hike, announced in January, saw the average annual bill jump from under £500 to more than £600. Households have been particularly hard hit since April, when an average increase of £86 (around 20%) was front-loaded into the current financial year. Once inflation is added, the typical bill in 2025-26 is £123 higher, a rise of 26%.

The consequences of this massive rise in cost for many families have been stark. Over two-fifths (42%) of those struggling said they had cut back on groceries or energy to keep up with bills. More than a third (35%) reported rationing water, with some reducing showers, flushing the toilet less often and washing clothes less frequently.

Citizens Advice chief executive Dame Clare Moriarty said that "long overdue and much-needed investment in the water sector cannot come at the cost of higher bills that push low-income households into debt or impossible choices. Every winter, we hear of families turning off the heating. Now we anticipate those same households will have to ration showers or cut down on laundry for fear of their water bill."

The charity is calling for a single nationwide social tariff to support households on the lowest incomes. At present, eligibility for reduced bills depends on the supplier, which Citizens Advice describes as a "postcode lottery."

For anyone finding it difficult to keep up with essential household costs, help is available. Citizens Advice offers free guidance on paying bills and managing debt. The Government-backed Help for Households hub lists available cost-of-living support, while the Consumer Council for Water provides information on water company schemes and reductions.

The report comes as the Consumer Council for Water said household complaints about suppliers in England and Wales reached their highest levels in nine years, rising 3% in 2023-24.

Book lovers unite. Whether it’s fantasy, romance, or thrillers, cosy season is upon us, which means it’s the best time to snuggle up with a good book – and there’s never been a better time.

The Works has launched an in-store sale, meaning you can stock up on your favourite, most anticipated reads for an absolute bargain.

The Works themselves have kept this fairly under wraps, but after TikTok trends revealed ‘The Works £1 books’ as a trending search term, it has been confirmed by booktokers across the UK that the retailer is offering books for £1 each.

If you head into your closest store, look out for books marked with red £1 stickers. One of our very own money-saving experts managed to bag books by romance author Emily Henry, dark academia author Olivie Blake, and romance author Hannah Bonam Young.

What’s more, fellow booktokers have also spotted the likes of Ali Hazelwood, Richard Osman, and Adam Silvera in The Works £1 book sale. So, whether you're looking for your next spooky read or something a little different, now is a great time to do it.

While content creators are proudly sharing their discounted book hauls from The Works book sale, commenters are debating how long the sale will last.

It’s worth mentioning that there are speculations that the sales will end when the stores run out of books, so it’s worth heading down to your local store to see if you can bag a bargain or two.

If you do find that you’ve left it too late, fear not. You can still shop The Works online sale. Alternatively, check out our handy article on the ultimate guide to buying books on a budget where we cover the best possible ways to save on your favourite reads.

If you'd like to find out more ways you can save at The Works, take a look at our dedicated The Works discount code page which we regularly update with the latest discounts and promotions.

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Energy regulator Ofgem has confirmed the price cap for 1st October to 31st December 2025 will rise by 2% to £1,755 a year for a typical household paying by Direct Debit. That's about £2.93 more per month than the current £1,720 level. As ever, it's a cap on unit rates and standing charges, not on your total bill.

Ofgem says the uptick is mainly down to policy and network costs, including the expanded Warm Home Discount and higher balancing and network charges. Standing charges will also rise on average (electricity up ~4% and gas up ~14%).

"While today's change is below inflation, we know customers might not be feeling it in their pockets," the regulator said, adding that switching to Direct Debit or smart prepay typically trims costs.

Consultancy firm Cornwall Insight thinks the cap should fall in January to roughly £1,712, reflecting softer wholesale prices. Still, it warns that the new policy costs (for example, the proposed RAB nuclear levy) could limit how far bills drop. Forecasts aren't promises, so treat them as guidance rather than a sure thing.

So, fix or stay variable? Suppose your supplier offers a fixed tariff that's clearly below the new cap (some deals have been under the cap in recent weeks). In that case, fixing can buy certainty through winter, especially if you're a heavier-than-average user.

If your offer is only level with, or just below £1,755, staying on the standard variable tariff could make sense if that January dip happens.

Always factor in exit fees, term length, and your own usage pattern; paying by Direct Debit typically costs less than standard credit (Ofgem estimates a saving of about £135.60 a year for those who switch payment method).

Make sure to confirm your current tariff and payment type with your supplier before October 1st. If you're struggling, remember suppliers must offer support like tailored repayment plans or emergency credit.

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Lovers of arts and crafts will be happy to know that Hobbycraft has finally confirmed the launch of their new Freeview TV shopping channel jam packed with handy crafting tutorials.

After nine stores were set to close in summer 2025, with more potential closures in late 2025, the crafting brand has reassured its customers that it was a tough decision, but that exciting things are coming.

Alex Willson, Chief Exectuive at Hobbycraft says that ‘the launch of Hobbycraft TV marks an exciting chapter for the business,’ and we’re certainly intrigued.

Willson states that the shopping channel itself will ‘offer a seamless shoppable experience with daily demonstrations, expert guidance, and creative content, all designed to inspire, educate and connect with both new audiences and our existing crafting community.’

If you’re keen to find out more about this, then you’ll be pleased to know that Hobbycraft TV is scheduled to go live on Freeview channel 97 from 7:30am on 4th September this year.

What’s more, previous episodes will be available to stream on the business’s YouTube page, if you’d like to get a sneak peek of the kind of things you can expect from the official channel after its launch in September.

So, while customers might lose their local Hobbycraft stores on the high street, they will still be able to get their craft on with their exciting new TV channel.

If you'd like to see more about Hobbycraft, then check out our available Hobbycraft discount code page so you can stock up on all of your crafting essentials for less. Alternatively, check out out guide on how to buy art materials on a budget.

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As of July 1st, 2025, Ofgem announced that UK energy prices have fallen by 7% thanks to the latest price cap. Those on standard variable tariffs can expect their annual bill to drop to £1720 on average.

This news will come as a welcome helping hand when compared to the high energy cap price seen in 2022-23, where the average bill is estimated to be around £2,316 annually.

While the price drop is great news, households are still paying far more than pre-energy crisis levels. Before the energy crisis came into effect, households were paying on average £1000 less annually than they currently pay.

Energy bills have fallen by 7% thanks to wholesale energy prices settling down, but unfortunately, they still remain volatile due to risks with gas storage levels in Europe and global demand.

In the latest energy price report, Ofgem has announced that bills will be rising by 2% as of 1 October. Meaning the typical dual-fuel household can expect their annual bill to increase to £1755.

Fortunately, energy consultancy Cornwall Insight predict that energy bills will fall again by 2.6% in the first quarter of 2026.

Principal consultant at Cornwall Insight, Dr Craig Lowrey, said, "There is better news on the horizon with bills currently expected to ease in January, driven by a forecast fall in wholesale prices."

EDF Energy and British Gas also predict that energy prices will be lower in the first quarter of 2026 by 0.5%.

British Gas, however, also forecasts that prices will go up in April 2026 by £1830 per year. It's worth noting that British Gas forecast this price increase with 'very low' confidence.

As Spotify subscription fees continue to creep up, you might be wondering whether there is anything you can do about it – as it turns out, there is.

MoneySavingExpert writer, Peter Lekarski, says that ‘Most of Spotify's existing 'Premium' plans … include 15 hours a month of listening time from its audiobooks catalogue, although on the Duo and Family plans, this is only available for the primary account holder.’

While there have been rumours that removing audiobooks from your Spotify plan can reduce your monthly bill, it seems this option is no longer available to most regular users. The good news, though, is that you can still save by downgrading your Spotify package.

As of 2025, Spotify family subscriptions cost a whopping £19.99 per month, but if it’s just two of you using it, you can save a whole £3 by switching to Spotify Duo instead.

Similarly, if you’re signed up to a Duo account but now only use it for yourself, opt for an Individual Spotify account instead for £11.99 a month, to save yourself up to £5 per month.

If you’re a student, don’t make the mistake of paying for a regular subscription. Spotify has a dedicated Student subscription option for £5.99 a month, so you don’t have to waste your student budget.

Alternatively, customers can also save even more by paying for a year’s subscription upfront using a Spotify gift card. MoneySavingExpert found that Amazon and Currys offer digital gift cards that mean you can enjoy 12 months of Individual Premium for £99.

So, while the option to remove audiobooks to save on your subscription is no longer available to most Spotify users, there are a few alternatives that can help reduce the monthly cost.

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Thousands of struggling families across the UK will receive a helping hand thanks to Ofgem announcing a £9 million grant.

Aimed at helping families throughout the cost-of-living crisis, the £9 million grant will be distributed between 31 organisations that will use the money to support struggling families in communities across the UK.

Ofgem are supporting 9,500 households in total, with the families at the highest risk of fuel poverty being targeted.

The head of enforcement at Ofgem, Russell Ogilvie, said, "This funding, which is a direct result of Ofgem’s enforcement and compliance work, shows that when energy companies fall short, we hold them to account and help deliver tangible support for those who need it most."

You don't need to do anything to apply for this grant. The selected charities will check the NHS's vulnerable patient finder tool, EPC and Council Tax data to find the households that are at the highest risk of fuel poverty.

Full List of Grants

• Age Concern Tyneside South - £104,829
• Age UK Bolton - £210,693
• Ashden Climate Solutions - £89,753
• Bath and West Community Energy - £656,258
• Bristol Energy Cooperative - £242,543
• Burmantofts Community Projects - £635,086
• Caritas Diocese of Salford - £249,658
• Cwm Arian Renewable Energy - £246,725
• Citizens Advice Liverpool - £772,091
• Citizens Advice Mid Mercia - £441,435
• Community Action Northumberland - £303,994
• Derby City Mission Ltd - £91,506
• Derbyshire Districts Citizens Advice Bureau - £356,199
• Grand Union Community Energy - £366,200
• Greener Kirkcaldy - £272,542
• Huntly Development Trust Limited - £127,659
• Isles of Scilly Community Venture CIC - £147,204
• KeyRing-Living Support Networks - £99,205
• Moray Food Plus - £81,119
• Nadder Community Energy - £70,000
• North Kensington Community Energy - £485,133
• Nottingham Energy Partnership - £235,733
• Opening Doors - £47,163
• PEC Renewables - £685,121
• Repowering Limited - £447,070
• South East London Community Energy - £100,137
• South Hams Citizens Advice Bureau - £447,349
• Swindon and District Citizens Advice Bureau - £187,996
• South East London Community Energy - £100,137
• The C.H.E.E.S.E. Project CIC - £158,759

For many savers, the Bank of England's latest rate cut has brought unwelcome news. Earlier this month, the base rate was lowered to 4%, the first drop in more than four years. While that might sound like good news for borrowers, it's already feeding through into smaller returns for anyone with money in the bank.

Over the past fortnight, more than 20 banks and building societies, including NatWest, Santander, and Chase, have reduced their savings rates. Some have cut by half a percentage point overnight.

The timing couldn't have been worse. Put that against inflation, which is sitting at 3.6% and could climb towards 4% in September, and the picture gets clearer: in real terms, the value of your savings pots is shrinking. If the return on a savings account is lower than inflation, then the value of your money effectively goes backwards. It may not appear on a bank statement, but over time, the spending power of those savings is chipped away.

For households that've worked hard to set money aside after years of higher living costs, the changes are frustrating. Many people who locked into "competitive" rates earlier this summer will already find those deals worse.

Thankfully, there are still options. Some smaller providers, such as the Zopa Biscuit card or Trading 212, offer rates ranging from 4.05% to 7%, although some providers may come with limits or require tying up your cash for a year or more. Cash ISAs remain attractive, thanks to their £20,000 annual allowance, which comes with tax-free interest.

It's also a good moment to check your older, easy-access accounts. Banks sometimes reduce rates quietly, leaving savers with earnings that are less than they expected. Even a small switch to a higher interest rate can make a difference if you have long-term savings.

Borrowers may welcome lower interest rates if further cuts follow, but savers are facing the opposite effect. Unless you take time to switch or double-check your savings, the real value of your money may continue to erode, a reminder of the tough climate.

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IKEA says falling input and freight costs have allowed it to lower prices across the range as part of a long-term affordability push rather than a time-limited sale. Inter IKEA Group reported that costs began to ease in the second half of FY23 and continued through FY24, enabling reductions that are already lifting visitation and volumes.

Ingka Group, the largest IKEA franchisee, confirmed it invested more than €2.1 billion in price reductions across thousands of products during FY24. This helped maintain global market share at 5.7%, even as Ingka’s retail sales declined 5% year-over-year to €39.6 billion, as it prioritised affordability.

In some markets, the scale of reductions has been made clear. For example, IKEA Canada confirmed that it cut prices on more than 1,500 products in 2024, with further reductions to follow this year, illustrating the breadth of its permanent “new lower price” approach.

The UK’s ‘New lower price’ listings show similar changes, including certain BILLY bookcase combinations moving from £199 to £150, alongside cuts to BRIMNES and MALM bed frames.

Design tweaks are also contributing to cost savings. The much-loved BILLY has had its veneer and edge-banding switched to paper foil, and its back-panel fix simplified – changes IKEA says improve sustainability and efficiency without affecting everyday use.

In the UK, accessibility is part of the strategy. The company opened its Oxford Street city store on May 1, 2025, and launched a new small-format outlet in Harlow in July, with Norwich and Chester to follow.

These curated, compact stores combine planning services with delivery ordering, aimed at shoppers who may not travel to traditional warehouse-sized branches.

IKEA’s pricing changes are structural, funded by reduced costs and significant investment. Permanent “new lower price” tags can appear at different times, depending on the country and product. Checking local listings, especially on high-volume ranges like storage, seating, and bedroom, is the best way to spot savings.

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Living next to a pylon isn’t exactly a dream for most people, but it might soon come with a perk. The government is considering a plan that would reduce the electricity bills of households located within 500 metres of new or upgraded power lines.

The offer works out at £125 off every six months, or £250 a year. Over a decade, that adds up to £2,500 (GOV.UK). It’s a small slice of help, but in the middle of a cost-of-living squeeze, plenty of families would take it.

The thinking behind it is straightforward: the UK’s electricity grid has to grow , and quickly. To handle more wind farms, solar energy, and electric vehicle chargers, ministers say the network will need a big expansion, which in turn means more pylons appearing in places that haven’t had them before.

“This discount recognises the role local communities play in helping Britain electrify and decarbonise,” Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho told The Guardian.

As it stands, the plan would only cover homes closest to the new infrastructure, and only for projects starting after the scheme gets approved. The public consultation is open until October 2025, and could shape , or scrap , the final version.

If ministers give the go-ahead, the first discounts could show up in 2026, arriving alongside a wave of planned grid work. For some households, £250 a year might mean a bit of breathing room. For others, it may simply take the sting out of seeing a new pylon outside the window.

Either way, it’s a reminder that the road to net zero won’t just be about technology. It will also hinge on keeping people, quite literally, on board.

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Whether you’re a fellow book lover like me looking for the ultimate guide to buying books on a budget, or Waterstones is your favourite bookshop, you might be wondering whether Waterstones Plus is worth it. After all, reading is a costly hobby these days.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Waterstones Plus - from collecting stamps and receiving seasonal offers, to book recommendations and more.

How does Waterstones Plus work?

Waterstones Plus is Waterstones’ digital reward scheme that gives you access to a selection of perks and benefits. So, if Waterstones is your go-to bookshop, you’re probably wondering if it’s worth joining, and what you’ll be rewarded with if you do.

What is Waterstones Plus?

Here’s what you get as a Waterstones Plus member:

1. Earn stamps for money off: As a Waterstones Plus member, you’ll get the opportunity to earn a stamp for every £10 you spend. The best part is, once you reach 10 stamps, you’ll get £10 off for your next purchase.
2. Seasonal offers & events: Once you become a member, you’ll have exclusive member-only access to exciting book events and sale periods throughout the year.
3. Prize draws: Enter yourself in regular prize draws throughout the year with the chance to win exciting monthly prizes. These include signed copies, collectables, and behind-the-scenes tours too.
4. Yearly gift: As part of celebrating the anniversary of Waterstones Plus, all Waterstones Plus members will receive a yearly gift.
5. Book recommendations: Gone are the days of not knowing what to read next. Discover regularly book recommendations tailored specifically to your past book purchases. When you become a Waterstones Plus member, you’ll receive all of these straight to your inbox.

What is Waterstones Student Plus?

As a Waterstones Student Plus member, you’ll get everything listed above, plus:

6. Student discount: An additional 5% off every purchase for Waterstones student plus members. Whether you’re stocking up on university books or treating yourself to a few new reads, you can do it without going over your student budget.

How do I join Waterstones Student Plus?

To join Waterstones Student Plus online, simply tick the box to check that you are a student. You’ll then need to verify your student status using your student ID.

Alternatively, you can head into your local Waterstones and speak to one of their members of staff. You’ll need to provide proof of your student status.

Is Waterstones Plus free?

Yes, Waterstones Plus is free to join. All you need to do is download the Waterstones app to create an account. Alternatively, you can also head into your closest Waterstones store and speak to a member of staff who will help set up your account.

How to use Waterstones Plus card

At Waterstones, you’ll have the option for a physical Waterstones Plus card and a digital one. If you sign up in-store, you’ll be given a physical card, and you’ll have automatic access to your digital Waterstones Plus card via the Waterstones app.

How do I register my new Waterstones Plus card?

Registering online:

1. Head to the Waterstones Plus registration page.
2. If you have a Waterstones Plus card, click ‘yes’ and enter your card number, security code, and email address. If you don’t have a card, click ‘no’ and follow the instructions onscreen.
3. Enter the information required.
4. If you’re a student, make sure to tick the student box.
5. Once finished, click the ‘register’ button.
6. You’ll then receive an activation email to activate your Waterstones Plus card.

Registering via the Waterstones App:

1. Download the Waterstones app.
2. Open the Waterstones app and head to the ‘account’ tab.
3. Click the ‘register’ button.
4. Enter the information required.
5. If you’re a student, make sure to tick the student box.
6. Once finished, select the ‘Create my account’ button.
7. Once your account has been created, you’ll get access to your digital Waterstones Plus card via the Waterstones app.

How to add points to Waterstones Plus card?

Every time you make a purchase of at least £10 at Waterstones and scan your Waterstones Plus card, you’ll receive a stamp. If you forget, keep your Waterstones receipt - these will have your stamps on which you can take to your local Waterstones store to claim.

Please note that you’ll have up to 30 days from your original purchase date to redeem your stamps from your receipt.

Waterstones Plus app

Here’s what you’ll get access to with the Waterstones app:

• The ability to earn stamps and redeem and track all of your Plus rewards in one place.
• Explore and discover new, exciting book recommendations that you’ll love.
• Quick and easy shopping experience with the ability to purchase your next favourite read with just the click of a button.
• Create a digital TBR with wish lists which you can edit and share with others.
• Find out whether your favourites are in stock at your local Waterstones.
• Stay up to date with exciting events in your local store.
• Make the most of click & collect when you simply just can’t wait to start your next read.

Is Waterstones Plus worth it?

In short, yes Waterstones is worth it. Whether you’re aiming to smash your reading goal for the year, or you love to read exclusively on holiday, it’s worth joining Waterstones Plus.

When you do, you’ll be able to earn rewards when you spend, save on future book purchases, find out about collectables, book events, and more. And it’s all completely free of charge.

Waterstones Plus FAQs

All information and prices listed in this article are correct and accurate at the time of writing.

Every 3 months, Ofgem announce a new price cap on energy prices, and thankfully, the latest announcement comes with some good news. The price of energy that households will pay from July to 30th September will decrease by 7% if you pay via Direct Debit. This reduces the typical UK household energy bill by £11 a month, or £129 per year.

This will come as welcome news to many people across the UK, although the prices are still 10% higher (around £152) than they were the same time last year, but are 28% lower (£660) than the price cap at the start of the energy crisis, which started in 2023. MoneySavingExpert founder, Martin Lewis, had this to say on the new price cap announcement, "Today's announcement that the Price Cap is to fall by 7% is welcome, but nothing to shout home about. All this really does is reverse April's rise, so it's back to roughly the cost at the start of the year. Crucially, energy bills this July will still be 10% higher than at the same time last year."

Households are encouraged to shop for better deals and use comparison sites, as even though the overall prices are down, you may find a better deal with another company. Director General of Markets at Ofgem says, "The first thing I want to remind people is that you don’t have to pay the price cap – there are better deals out there, so it’s important to shop around, and talk to your existing supplier about the best deal they can offer you. And changing your payment method to direct debit or smart pay as you go can save you up to £136."

When comparing energy prices, it may be worth looking into fixed rates as you'll be locked in with a lower price, and if the price cap rises again after September, you'll be protected.

UK families are placing a greater emphasis on saving right now than they have in nearly two decades, according to a new report.

A survey from GfK found that 34% of people say it's a good time to save money. That's the highest figure since 2007, just before the global financial crisis.

Why the sudden urge to save? Everyday, bills are going up, and there are worries about what the autumn budget might bring. Inflation remains at 3.6%, and although many workers received a pay increase over the last year, households actually have less money to spare after taxes and bills, with incomes dropping by 1% earlier in 2025.

Neil Bellamy from GfK, the group behind the research, said, "The jump in the savings index suggested people are anxious and that those able to put money aside are building contingency funds."

We at MyVoucherCodes say its all about planning ahead. With energy, food and council tax all costing more, people are thinking about how to protect themselves if times get tougher. There's also talk of possible tax rises later this year, making many people cautious.

For many, it means opening a new savings account, using comparison sites to find better interest rates, or simply stashing away a few pounds each week.

Others are making the most of loyalty cards, coupons, and supermarket deals to stretch their budgets.

The last time so many people were this keen to save was just before the last big financial shock. It's a sign that households are paying close attention and want to be prepared just in case.

Savers in the UK can now secure some of the highest interest rates seen in years, with several banks and building societies launching regular savings accounts paying up to 7.5% AER.

Principality Building Society currently leads the market with a six-month regular saver account offering a fixed 7.5% AER on deposits of up to £200 a month.

This account is open to both new and existing customers, giving savers a rare opportunity to boost returns at a time when easy-access accounts typically pay much less.

Other top-paying regular savers include Zopa's new account, which offers 7.1% AER, as well as deals from First Direct and The Co-operative Bank, both of which offer 7% AER.

These accounts also require customers to set aside money every month, usually up to £300, and in most cases require you to hold a current account with the provider.

All these accounts are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which guarantees up to £85,000 per person, per institution. Interest is usually paid at the end of the term.

Most regular savers do not allow withdrawals until the end of the deal, and exceeding the monthly limit won't earn the headline rate.

Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, says: "The headline rate on a regular saver looks great, but bear in mind the impact of drip-feeding the money in... you're effectively getting half the advertised rate on average."

In practice, that means saving £300 a month in a 7% regular saver actually earns around 3.87% overall because each deposit spends time earning interest.

Despite the restrictions, these accounts suit people who can commit to routine saving and want a guaranteed return. They're ideal for people who want to start saving habits by drip-feeding cash monthly.

The surge in rates comes as competition between banks heats up, with providers looking to attract new customers. Savers should check the terms carefully, as the top rates are generally only available to those who can commit to leaving money untouched for the long term.

Most families in the UK have less spare money at the end of each month, new figures show. According to MoneySuperMarket's Household Money Index, the average person's monthly disposable income dropped from £682 to £514. Between April and June.

Why is this happening? The biggest reason is the cost of essential bills. Households are now spending 75% of their income just on basics. Things like water, energy, childcare and broadband.

Water bills are up by 11%, childcare costs by 10%, broadband by 8%, groceries by 4% and health insurance by 22% compared to last year. Contributions to private pensions also dropped by 11%, which could lead to problems in the future.

Lis Barton from MoneySuperMarket's parent company, MONY Group. said "Energy bills eased off... offering a bit of breathing space in a still-volatile market. However, there are some bills that are more difficult to cut, like water and childcare costs."

Even though some costs, such as energy and mortgages, have decreased slightly, those savings haven't been enough to offset price rises elsewhere.

The average UK household now spends about £50 a day, or £1,564 a month, on regular outgoings.

Despite all this, some people continue to treat themselves. More households are paying for streaming services, games, and gym memberships, perhaps to enjoy little comforts even when money is tight.

But there are signs of worry. Research from Deloitte found that people are saving less, and their confidence about the future has dropped. Céline Fenech at Deloitte said:

"Concerns of a slowing labour market have left consumers worried about job security and income growth prospects, while persistent inflation... negatively impacted sentiment towards personal debt."

With rising bills and less money left over each month, many UK families are having to watch their spending more closely than ever.

Have you ever wondered if Amazon Prime Day is too good to be true? Well, you're not alone. With thousands of "limited-time" offers flooding Amazon every Prime Day, it's easy to get swept up in the excitement and FOMO of it all. And just as easy to end up buying something that's not actually a bargain. But there's good news: With a bit of know-how, you can quickly spot which deals are the real thing and which ones are just clever marketing

Here's how to become a savvy Prime Day shopper in 2025, no regretful purchases, no fake discounts.

Check the Price History (It Only Takes a Minute)

One of the oldest tricks in the book is hiking a product's price a few weeks before Prime Day, then "slashing" it back to normal and calling it a deal, hoping that all customers will see is the big percentage off sign.

What to do: Before you buy, use a free price-tracking tool like CamelCamelCamel or PriceSpy. Just copy the Amazon link, paste it into the tool, and check the price graph. If you see the "deal" price has been normal for months or even higher in the last week, you know you're not really saving.

Pro Tip: Add the browser extension so you can see the price history chart directly on Amazon, with zero effort.

Watch for "Was/Now" Illusions

If a deal says "was £199, Now £99, don't trust it blindly. In the UK, retailers are meant to use the most recent regular price as the "was" price. But not everyone plays fair.

What to do: Scan the small print, or better yet, do a quick Google search for the same product. If it's selling for £99 at three other retailers, that "£100 off" isn't exclusive to Prime Day, it's just the going rate.

Compare Against Other Retailers

Prime Day isn't the only big sale around. Argos, Currys, John Lewis, Very, Ninja and even supermarkets run their own July discounts to compete.

What to do: Before you buy, pop the item into PriceSpy or Google Shopping to see if another retailer has quietly undercut Amazon. You'd be surprised how often this happens, especially on tech and homeware.

Beware of Lightning Deals Hype

"Only 3 left!" "Ends in 10 minutes!" The pressure is real, but don't panic. Buy. These are called "calls to action" and are tried-and-true methods by marketers, sellers, and writers everywhere, including myself.

What to do: Add the product to your wishlist or basket, and take a breath. Amazon's lightning deals often come back around, or the same product is available from another seller for less, minus the countdown clock.

Real Talk: If you're not sure you want it, it's probably not a must-have deal.

Check the Reviews - Especially the Recent Ones

Some brands pump up their products with reviews that are months (or years) old, before quietly downgrading the quality. Or worse, third-party sellers relist items that have nothing to do with the original product.

What to do: Scroll to the most recent reviews. Are people saying the product has changed, or that the deal wasn't as promised? Watch for verified purchase badges, and avoid items with loads of 5-star reviews posted very recently.

There are also websites such as thereviewindex, which aims to provide trusted and objective reviews for Amazon URLs you enter into the box, because some review sites have questionable reliability.

Don't Fall for "Exclusive" Prime Day Labels

Amazon LOVES to badge deals as "Prime Exclusive." But sometimes, those items are actually available to anyone, or the same "exclusive" price has been around for weeks. Some notable examples include Ninja, Shark and Anker.

What to do: If you're curious, try viewing the deal in an incognito tab (not logged into Prime). Sometimes you'll see it's not as exclusive or personalised as it looks. And again, compare elsewhere!

Double Check Amazon's Own Brand Value

Yes, Amazon Basics, Fire, and Echo products often have real discounts on Prime Day. But don't assume every Amazon brand deal is the best out there.

What to do: Still check the price history, and make sure you're getting the newest model, not an old version being cleared out.

Quick Recap: Prime Day Deal Red Flags

• Huge discount with no price history to back it up
• Loads of reviews all on the same day
• "Exclusive" badges that aren't so exclusive
• Countdown timers and "almost gone" stock pushing you to rush

Final Thoughts

Prime Day is a great time to grab real bargains, but only if you're clear-eyed and a bit sceptical. A genuine deal will stand up to a little digging. Trust your gut, do a quick check, and you'll come out of Prime day with only the wins and no buyer's remorse.

Have you spotted a deal that looks dodgy or too good to be true? Tell people! Share it on social media, tell your friends, and share the results with the community so fewer people are ripped off by big companies.

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It’s cold outside, so there’s not much to do, and binge-watching TV is getting old. If you’re spending more time indoors like me and struggling to know how to make the most of winter, I’ve compiled a list of easy hobbies to help you make the most of the colder months.

It’s less about productivity and more about finding fulfilment in the cosiest way possible. They’re fun, low-maintenance and cost-effective too.

1. Junk journaling

It’s journaling without the pressure of perfection. All you need is a journal and scrap paper supplies. Think old bits of newspaper, recycled wrapping paper and your favourite stickers. It’s all about layering – and that’s it.

2. Punch cards

Winter is the perfect time to set some intentions for the year. Jump on the habit tracking trend and make some punch cards to help you stay accountable. Invite your friends to make some too for a wholesome crafting activity.

3. Writing session

What better time to sit down and write than winter time? Whether you’re writing a novel, a journal entry or a bit of poetry, make sure you can do it with ease. Light a candle, wrap up warm and let the creativity flow.

4. Cosy colouring

Jump on the wholesome trend and treat yourself to a colouring book or two. Amazon stocks some of the most adorable Coco Wyo colouring books for under £10 that are perfect for cosying up in the dark evenings and getting creative.

5. Virtual walking videos

Don’t let the cold weather stop you from hitting your step goal. Calling all walking-pad girlies – you can find a variety of adorable virtual walking videos on YouTube for free, including one that walks around Hogwarts Castle.

And if you’re wondering whether to take the plunge and purchase one, don’t miss my handy piece where I tested a walking pad for over a year to see if they are really worth the money.

6. Read your seasonal TBR

Make the most of the dark, chilly evenings with a new book. Opt for a seasonal read that takes place in the winter – Goodreads has an entire page dedicated to the best winter book lists that you’re sure to love at this time of year.

Keep an eye out for the ‘stuff your Kindle days’ where hundreds of books are available to download for free for 24hrs.

7. Make a Pinterest board

Spark some inspiration by making a new Pinterest board. Whether you’re looking for the next home project, or you just love an aesthetically pleasing vision board, making Pinterest boards are super satisfying and stress-relieving.

8. Cosy meditation

Grab your blanket and destress with a bit of meditation. Whether you prefer a guided meditation or to freestyle it yourself, meditation is a great way to recenter yourself, which can be especially helpful during the long winter months.

9. Baking

Baking is the ultimate cosy activity to do when you’re bored in the winter. Use free websites like BBC Good Food or Jane’s Patisserie for delicious, easy, seasonal baking recipes to enjoy making.

10. Take a bath

Take your self-care game up a level this winter with the ultimate pamper activity – a bath. Create the ideal bath setup with a bath tray so you can watch your preferred film, read a new book, or indulge in your favourite sweet treats.

And if you’re looking for more ways to wind down, don’t miss my article on 13 easy self-care ideas you can start today.

The festive season is here, and watching your spending is often at the forefront of everyone's minds. Make sure you know all of our top tips on how to save over the Christmas period, so you can put more of your time and energy into making those wholesome memories.

We all know how finding the perfect Christmas gift for teenagers can be challenging. Teens, known for their ever-evolving tastes and interests, often seek gifts that align with the latest trends, technology, and personal hobbies. This article aims to provide diverse gift ideas that cater to various interests and budgets, ensuring a joyful holiday experience for your teen.

Tech & Gadgets

Smartphone Accessories: With smartphones being an integral part of a teenager’s life, consider gifting unique accessories to go with that electric rectangle they never put down. Like portable chargers, customised cases or wireless earbuds. Although, depending on your budget, there are different earbuds you should consider. A good pair of budget earbuds are the EarFun Wireless Earbuds, but if you want excellent quality, enjoy fashion statements, and money is less of an issue, the Apple AirPods Pro are an excellent choice.

Instant Cameras: Retro is modern again. Instant print cameras like the old Polaroids back in the day are better and more instant than ever. Argos offer a range of instant cameras, from mini portable ones to retro-styled full-sized Polaroid cameras.

Virtual Reality Headsets: For teenage tech enthusiasts, a VR headset offers an immersive gaming experience, opening a new world of cool games and the ‘Among Us’ VR edition. However, VR headsets are pretty pricey, so this is more of a ‘main gift’, though there are cheaper options available, such as the Meta Quest 2, which you can pick up for between £200-300 depending on current sales and offers, so be sure to check it out around Cyber Monday for the best deals. There are also more premium VR brands, such as the HTC Vive, which can cost a whopping £400-500 but has fantastic build quality and resolution.

Gaming Gear: Speaking of video games, if you have a teenager who’s super into gaming and you hear the phrases Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Among Us thrown around often, you may consider getting some superb additions to their gaming tech for Christmas. For example, if they have an Xbox, a custom controller from the Xbox design lab would make them the envy of their gaming friends. You can customise it yourself or let your teen in on the loop and let them design their controller. Other gaming options exist, such as headsets that can be used on their consoles, computers and even mobile phones. Headphones like the Razer Kraken Kitty edition are fabulous for gamers with a penchant for cute fashion, or the Logitech G432 headphones for great 7.1 surround sound for an affordable price. 

Wellness, Skincare & Beauty

Fitness Trackers: For health lovers and tech lovers, devices such as Fitbit or Apple Watch can motivate teens to stay active and track their health, and options like the Apple Watch or the Samsung Galaxy Watch have many other features such as phone calls, texts and Apple/Android pay.

Skincare and Beauty Kits: Tailored skincare kits can help teens develop a healthy skincare routine. And beauty kits come with various cosmetics to add to a teen's growing collection and confidence. Put them together, and you have a brilliant gift idea. Also, if you gift a Glossybox subscription as a present, it becomes the beauty gift that keeps giving. However, if you’re just looking for a one-time gift or stocking filler, you can’t go wrong with a gift set from Sephora or e.l.f cosmetics. Boots also does an excellent 3 for 2 deal on Christmas gifts where you can mix & match your favourites.

Beauty Gadgets: Laptops and virtual reality headsets aren’t all the tech world has to offer. Your teen may enjoy adding many cool beauty gadgets to their routine. For example, the StylePro 4-in-1 Ionic Spa Facial Steamer is helpful in unclogging pores but also doubles as an aromatherapy diffuser. There is also the Magnitone FaceRockey 5-in-1 facial toner, which uses Radiocurrent, Cryotherapy, Sonic and massagers to give your skin the full monty. 

Experiences over Material

Concert Tickets: Consider buying tickets for your teen to see their favourite band, which can create unforgettable memories. However, you may need to buy two tickets and be prepared for that second ticket to go to a sibling or one of their friends if you do go with them as a parent, why not book a hotel for the night and have the whole experience? 

Adventure Experiences: Theme park tickets, escape room experiences, or outdoor adventure activities can excite energetic, sporty, adventure-loving teens. So, if your teen is the super outgoing and daring type, why not get them an experience gift from Red-Letter-Days or Buyagift

Cinema Memberships: If your teen is a movie buff or regularly goes to the cinema with friends, consider getting them a cinema membership. Movie theatres such as ODEON, Cineworld and VUE offer memberships that allow unlimited viewing and sometimes discounts on snacks. So your teen could go to the cinema with their mates whenever they want! 

Fashion & Clothing

Gift Cards: It is well known that buying fashion for your teenager is an absolute minefield of different styles and trends, and what's good one month is out the next. Simply put, it is hard to keep up, and it is risky to buy clothing if they pick it. The solution? Gift cards. Aside from cash, gift cards are one of the safest ways to shop for a teen; that way, they can take it to the stores they know they like and pick the clothing themselves. Almost every store, from Yours Clothing to River Island, offers gift cards too.

Wish Lists: If you feel gift cards are playing too safe, why not ask your teen to make a Christmas list of clothing brands, styles and sites they currently enjoy and wear? This then leaves little room for error. That way, they have something better than a gift card to open, and you avoid making a fashion faux pas. 

Selecting the perfect Christmas gift for teenagers requires understanding their interests and preferences. Whether it's technology, fashion, experiences, wellness, education, or personalised items, choosing a gift that resonates with their passions and hobbies is vital. With these ideas, you will surely find something to make this Christmas memorable for your teen. 

If you like a good bargain, there’s a fair chance you’ve already stumbled upon Temu. It’s a rapidly growing marketplace where you can browse everything from fashion and homeware to tech gadgets, often at surprisingly low prices. But with so many cheap products and deals, is Temu legit? Is it worth your trust? More importantly, is it safe to order from? In this article, we answer Temu and whether you can shop there without issues.

Who are Temu?

Temu is a fast-growing online marketplace run by the Chinese e-commerce company PDD Holdings, founded by entrepreneur Colin Huang. It specialises in heavily discounted consumer items, most of which are shipped directly from the makers in China and has become popular worldwide for its low price products.

My Experience with Temu

I am a homeowner and a lover of a good deal, so I was pretty early on the Temu bandwagon, and so far, my experience has been good. I buy from Temu monthly and have never had any issues outside of the odd product being low quality, but Temu refunded me, and all was well. So far, I've bought everything from photos and frames to mugs, blankets, pillowcases, a bathroom cabinet and even a small metal shed. However, I have noticed that sellers tend to exaggerate their deals and set the prices high, then discount them 80% to the regular price to make it look like a better deal. The products are usually still a decent deal, but it's a tactic people should be aware of.

Who owns Temu?

Temu was founded by entrepreneur Colin Huang and is owned by PDD Holdings, a legitimate company in Shanghai, China, own Temu.

Is Temu a safe site?

Yes, Temu protects its website with standard security methods. It uses HTTPS on every page and applies TLS and SSL encryption when handling transactions. This offers the same level of security that you would find with popular brands like eBay or Amazon. 

Are Temu products safe?

Yes, generally, though the quality of the items varies widely. It's best to check reviews beforehand to avoid lower-quality products. However, a Channel 4 documentary called “The Truth About Temu: Dispatches” discovered that some Temu products contained dangerous amounts of chemicals like lead and cadmium. In response, Temu said it would continue to enhance consumer protection and quickly take down any product listings under review. 

Does Temu steal your information?

Temu does not steal your information. Instead, Temu’s privacy policy states that they collect your personal information, such as your name, email address and purchase history. It may be shared with advertisers, service providers, and business partners outside the company. This is a widespread online practice as most stores, news outlets, and websites share data with 3rd parties. In my experience, one of the best ways to minimise your online footprint is to use Incogni. This subscription service automatically requests the deletion of your personal information stored by information brokers online, making your personal information safer. There is also no concrete evidence whatsoever that Temu has sold data to the Chinese government.

On the topic of emails, many people have accused Temu of sending out too many unwanted messages, something I can attest to. Reviews on Trustpilot mention that after making a purchase, there are many unwanted emails. I avoided this issue by unsubscribing from all marketing, and so far, I’ve not received any more emails.

Why is Temu so cheap?

Temu sells products directly from manufacturers in China to customers worldwide, eliminating any middlemen. This business model lets Temu sell many products at extremely low prices. This is known as dropshipping and is an increasingly popular method of selling online. TikTok Shop, AliExpress, Wish, and Shein also use it.

Another way Temu is cheaper is that it primarily sells unknown and unbranded items instead of known brands. Only a few tech companies, like Lenovo and Xiaomi, actually sell products on the site. A brand on the Temu website is verified if its listings show a blue checkmark.

Is Temu a scam?

 The official Temu app and website are not scams. However, due to their popularity worldwide, many scammers have pretended to be Temu through phishing emails. In general, when shopping on the internet, it is worth learning how to spot Phishing emails, scam texts, and websites for your safety. 

Are Temu coupons legit?

Their on-site/app coupons do work, and they offer them often enough to get savings. However, some prices are inflated by individual buyers to make the deal seem better, so take prices with a pinch of salt. This sales method is common, and Amazon is known for doing the same thing. 

Temu Reviews

However, despite my positive experiences, you should consider other customer reviews. Temu has mainly received mixed responses to reviews, with most complaints about delivery times and product quality.

As of January 2025, Temu has received a 2.5 on Trustpilot with 30,605 reviews.

On Reviews.io, as of January 2025, they have a considerably lower score, which should be considered. However, it should be noted many of these negative reviews are about delivery times, and Temu has several local warehouses in the UK which speed up delivery for selected products. 

Can I delete my Temu account?

Yes, if for any reason you wish to delete your Temu account, you can, and its relatively easy to do so via Temu’s account deletion page. Your account will take up to 7 days to be removed entirely from the Temu database. 

So, is Temu legit and safe to order from? Yes, it is; they have secure payments and use the same 3rd party data sharing methods as most other companies and I've used Temu many times. However, you may run into some delivery issues and some products may be a lower quality than you expected.

Hopefully, this article has answered your burning questions about Temu. If you're looking for more answers on which sites are legit, why not check out our article answering the question is CDKeys legit? You can also check our Temu coupon codes page to see if there is a good sale or discount live before you buy.

When you click on one of our links to our discount code page or a retailer page, we may receive a small commission if you purchase something from the retailer's website.

The survey, which asked 2000 participants about their spending habits when it comes to decking the halls,  noted that the age range that will be spending the most is 18 to 24, with each person splashing £194.60. 

With the continuing cost of living crisis, 61% of those surveyed said it will affect how much they will spend on decorations this year, with 47% saying they will be decorating an artificial tree and reusing old decorations.

Sarah-Jane Outten, shopping expert at MyVoucherCodes commented on the findings: She said: 

*These findings are from a study released by Sago between November 2nd-4th, 2024, among a random selection of 2,110 of GB adults aged 18+ who are online panellists of Sago’s Community. 

For more information, please contact Rachel Mainwaring or Lisa Blake at Front Door Communications on rachel@fdcomms.co.uk or lisa@fdcomms.co.uk or call 029 20 020360. 

About MyVoucherCodes:

MyVoucherCodes is a market leading voucher, coupon and discount deals website based in the UK.

It has around five million consumer members who receive daily emails featuring the best selection of deals, vouchers and offers from fashion, beauty, restaurant and electrical, as well as many more retailers. It works with more than 2,500 retailers to offer more than 25,000 voucher or discount codes. 

MyVoucherCodes is operated by Future Publishing Limited.

Every year, UK consumers eagerly await the launch of Black Friday in order to bag a bargain online and in store, and a recent study by voucher deals MyVoucherCodes has revealed the most popular time of the day Brits shop for Black Friday deals, with 9-10am being prime time.

Half (50%) of Black Friday shoppers like to shop in the morning, and half (50%) in the afternoon and evening. When it comes to the morning, 22% of Black Friday shoppers look for a bargain between 9-10am and 21% between 10 and 11am.

15% like to have a gander between 8am and 9am, with 10% between 6 and 7am and a further 10% between 7 and 8am.

But it isn’t just the early birds who catch the deals. 15% of Black Friday shoppers like to bag a bargain between 7pm and 8pm and 13% enjoy seeing what’s in the sales between 6pm and 7pm.

Here’s a breakdown of the times Black Friday shoppers like to take action:

After researching our figures here at MyVoucherCodes I found out that figures show how popular Black Friday is as a whole day and offers top tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of the big day.

These survey results show that the popularity of Black Friday shopping continues to grow in the UK, with people continuing to shop at all times throughout the day, right up until midnight. It seems that the early bird catches the worm with 6-11am being the peak hours to make those money-saving transactions.

With the rush and excitement of the savings the day can bring, it’s best to be as prepared as possible in advance so you don’t end up regretting your decision, and don’t forget that there’s voucher discounts and deals out there that can save you even more money on your Black Friday deal.

⦁Compare prices – check the item’s price with other retailers before you start spending

⦁Get clued up on the returns policy – retailers have different policies on returning unwanted goods, so make sure you’re aware of their refund and exchange policy

⦁Check for discount vouchers and deals on sites such as MyVoucherCodes to get even more money off

⦁Use a credit card – if you’re spending over £100, your purchase will be protected 

⦁Be mindful of scammers – check the website is secure, has a valid UK address, returns policy and terms and conditions

For the last 10 years, Black Friday has become ingrained in British culture as a way of saving money on consumer goods, and the buzz around the upcoming annual event shows no sign of slowing down as a whopping 80% of people are set to splash the cash on Black Friday this year.

A recent study undertaken by voucher deals website MyVoucherCodes reveals that eight out of ten people will be buying goods on this year’s Black Friday, which falls on November 29th.

69% of customers will be splurging on family and relatives, while 65% of people plan to self-indulge and treat themselves to something nice on the infamous shopping day. 

46% of people will buy for their partner, 31% plan to spoil their friends and 15% want to treat their pets. 10% of people will be purchasing Secret Santa gifts.

The survey also reveals that the average spend per shopper on Black Friday is a whopping £184.6.

More than half of those buying on the day (56%) will use the opportunity to grab some discounted Christmas presents, 48% will buy electrical goods and 48% will spend their hard-earned cash on clothes and shoes. Holidays are the least popular purchase on Black Friday, with just 12% of consumers opting for a discounted getaway.

More than a quarter of those shopping on the day (26%) say they will be searching for deals and voucher codes online to help them save even more of their hard-earned cash.

Shopping expert Sarah Jane Outten from MyVoucherCodes said, “More and more people are becoming aware that you can save yourself a significant amount of money by buying products on Black Friday. A lot of shoppers are unaware that you can add another deal on top of the Black Friday sale price with vouchers and coupons.”

MyVoucherCodes has shared some top shopping tips so you can make the most out of your Black Friday purchasing:

• Check the price history of a product. A lot of shoppers aren’t aware there are tools out there such as CamelCamelCamel, PriceRunner or Keepa for Amazon which show you the price points of a product since it was first launched. You’ll be able to establish if the Black Friday price is a genuine discount.  
• Don’t pay attention to the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price as it can be confusing. Lots of manufacturers have been found to inflate prices around Black Friday. It’s always a good idea to check the price history first. 
• Create a wishlist and set a budget. Refrain from panic buying and impulse purchases that might not save you money.  
• Use discount voucher codes and offers. Look for additional discount codes and exclusive offers that can save you even more money than the generic Black Friday deals. 
• Use a credit card or PayPal for an extra layer of security when buying online. This can give you valuable peace of mind.
• Mega cheap deals are everywhere on Black Friday, but be cautious about deals on brands you’re not overly familiar with. Research the electronic goodies you have your eye on, as they may need to be more reliable or have the same warranty conditions as more established brands. 
• Tech products, such as smartphones, TVs and tablets are generally updated on a one-year cycle. So be aware that on Black Friday, you’re likely getting a heavily discounted older model 

 ** These findings are from a study released by Sago between September 6th and 8th 2024 among a random selection of 2242 of GB adults ages 18+ who are online panellists of Sago’s Community.
The results were weighted by age, gender, region, and ethnicity to match the population, according to Census data. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of this size has an estimated margin of error (which measures sampling variability) of +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20. Discrepancies in or between totals when compared to the data tables are due to rounding. Excerpts from this release of findings should be properly attributed, with interpretation subject to clarification or correction.
Sago is the global research and data partner that connects human answers to business questions. Combining a legacy of impact, global reach, and innovative spirit, Sago enables clients to solve business problems through extensive audience access and an adaptive range of qualitative and quantitative solutions.

As a self-certified bookworm (and autumn enthusiast) I know that receiving book recommendations is the best. When it comes to autumn, it’s the ideal time to snuggle up with a cup of tea and a good book. 

That’s why I’ve created a list of all of my best spooky book recommendations that I think are perfect for this time of year. So, grab your favourite blanket, light your autumn candle, and enjoy. 

Cosy Book Recommendations

Magical Witchy Book Recommendations

Horror Book Recommendations

Dark Academia Book Recommendations

Classic Spooky Book Recommendations

When you click through any of the links in this article, we may make a small commission if you go on to purchase from their websites. Learn more about how we make money. 

University Essentials List for Students

Academic Essentials

• Laptop or tablet ▢
• Extension lead ▢
• Desk organiser ▢
• Stationery ▢
• Notebooks ▢
• Course books ▢
• Bag pack ▢
• Flashcards  ▢
• Planner  ▢
• Railcard  ▢

Homeware & Organisation

• Underbed storage ▢
• Over the door organiser ▢
• Bedding ▢
• Pillow and duvet ▢
• Clothes hangers ▢
• Fairy lights ▢
• Photoclips ▢
• Command strips ▢
• Blanket ▢

Kitchen & Bathroom

• Plates and bowls ▢
• Cutlery  ▢
• Mugs and glasses ▢
• Saucepans ▢
• Frying pan ▢
• Cutting board ▢
• Knives ▢ 
• Tupperware ▢
• Reusable shopping bags ▢
• Shower caddy ▢
• Cleaning supplies ▢
• Towels ▢
• Bathroom bin ▢

How can students save on laptops?

Purchasing a laptop is an investment, so choose the one that will work best for you. Before you buy, do your research. Look at reviews, ask friends and family, and go into the store so you can try before you buy. 

Check price comparison websites, consider purchasing refurbished tech, and time your purchases when tech is the most affordable. 

Related articles: 

• What tablet should you buy based on your needs and budget? 
• Where to Buy the Cheapest Tech Online 
• How to buy Cheap Refurbished Tech 
• Best Time to Buy Calendar 

The best student discounts for laptops

• Apple student discount: save £100 on a Mac and up to £100 on an iPad.  
• Currys student discount: enjoy an extra £50 off selected Macbooks, £100 off Beats headphones, and save £300 on a SAMSUNG Galaxy laptop.  
• HP student discount: save an additional 10% off selected laptops, and 40% off at the HP student store.  
• Acer student discount: get 15% off sitewide and free express delivery.  
• Lenovo student discount: enjoy 20% off PCs and 20% off monitors. 
• Grammarly student discount: get 25% off Grammarly premium.  

All Student Beans, UNiDAYS, and TOTUM discounts are correct as of the date of writing, however, offers may change at the discretion of retailers. Please note, you will need to verify your student status with a valid student ID card to access any student discounts. 

How can students save on stationery?

When it comes to notebooks, pens and pencils, and flashcards, it’s best to buy your stationery and university essentials in bulk. Don’t miss our article on the Best Budget Stationery. 

But before you buy, raid the stationery you already have - if you’re anything like me, you’ll have an embarrassing amount of empty notebooks you bought because they look nice. And someone’s got to be the one to say it - writing in them won’t ruin them. 

Consider if you’ll need stationery - a lot of courses are online, so unless you prefer to handwrite your notes, you’ll be able to utilise your laptop or tablet for all of your academic needs. 

The best student discounts for stationery

• Prime student discount: enjoy discounts on stationery  
• Rakuten student discount: get 30% off selected titles 
• Waterstones student discount: 20% off paperbacks and 10% off stationery 
• WHSmith student discount: enjoy 20% off stationery  
• Papier student discount: unlock 10% off for students  

How can students save on course books?

Some universities have exchange programs for coursebooks where students can swap coursebooks. This can be a lifesaver when it comes to saving money because course books don’t come cheap but are a necessity. 

Alternatively, try purchasing your course books second-hand, and if you’re not a first-year student, sell your old course books too. 

The best student discounts for course books

• Routledge discount codes we’ve seen 20% off for students using an exclusive discount code 
• Oxford University Press student discount 30% off university textbooks with exclusive discount code  
• WeBuyBooks student discount 10% off for UNiDAYS members 
• Amazon Prime student discount 10% off textbooks 

How can students save on commuting?

If you’re a regular commuter, it’s definitely worth getting a railcard to give you discounted train prices. Depending on your age, you can get a 16-25 Railcard for £30 a year, or £70 for three years. Alternatively, the 26-30 Railcard is £30 a year for mature students. 

You might also like:

• How Much do Railcards Save You? 
• How to Get The Best Deals on Public Transport 
• How to Get Cheaper Train Tickets 

The best student discounts for travel

• Trainline student discount you can get 20% off digital railcards for students  

How can students save on homeware?

While it’s nice to treat yourself to new homeware bits and pieces, if you’re on a student budget, make the most of the decorations you already own. Nothing is stopping you from borrowing them from your bedroom at home to spruce up your uni room. 

If you’re super excited to purchase some new items for your space, worry not. We’ve got an entire article dedicated to decorating on a student budget, to give you some inspiration and point you towards some affordable places to get it from.  

The best student discounts for homeware

• Dreams student discount enjoy 10% off for all students 
• The Range student discount unlocks 10% off on all orders over £40 
• Temu student discount make the most of 30% off at Temu
• Oliver Bonas student discount 10% off plus free shipping for students
• Dunelm student discount 10% off orders over £40  
• Ikea student discount we’ve previously seen free delivery on student purchases 

How can students save on kitchen appliances?

Before you buy anything, get in touch with your university housemates and find out what they are buying. You don’t all need a kettle each, and you’ll save a significant amount of money splitting the cost between all of you. 

The best student discounts for kitchen supplies

• Kenwood student discount up to 30% off for students 
• Dunelm student discount 10% off orders over £40  
• Ikea student discount we’ve previously seen free delivery for students 
• Amazon Prime student discount free Amazon Prime for 6 months and then a further 50% off per month  

How can students save on food?

Meal Planning & Batch Cooking

Plan your meals weekly to ensure you don’t overspend on your food shops. Batch cook meals and freeze leftovers to save time and money cooking multiple meals. Check out our handy article on how meal planning saves time and money on groceries. 

Supermarket Reward Schemes

Pay attention to supermarket reward schemes and sign up to them for handy discounts on groceries. If you’re unsure which supermarket reward scheme is the best, we’ve got you covered with our collection of articles below: 

• How to Save Money on Groceries  
• How do Nectar Cards Work? 
• Everything you need to know about the Tesco Clubcard 
• How Much Can Supermarket Reward Schemes Save You? 
• Which Supermarket Brand is the Cheapest? 

Big Weekly Shops

Buy your food in bulk during weekly food shops. Instead of buying 500g of basmati rice every month, opt for a large bag so you can have more, for less. It’ll not only save you money, but it will last longer too meaning you won’t have to do food shops as often. 

Takeaway Reward Schemes

For those days when you don’t feel like cooking, make sure you’re making the most of takeaway reward schemes and deals.  Whether you’re looking for ways to save on takeaway food, tips to get cheap Domino’s pizza, or you’re wondering what’s the cheapest fast food restaurant, we’ve got your back. 

Avoid Food Waste

Meal planning and batch cooking will help you avoid food waste and get your money’s worth. But if you’re still struggling with wasted food, check out our useful article on some of the top apps that save you money and reduce food waste. 

Where can I find the best student discounts?

There are several places you can find the best student discounts online. These include websites like UNiDAYS, StudentBeans, and TOTUM. There, you can find student discounts on all things ranging from fashion, health, beauty, food & drink, tech, and more.