The Best Days to Snag a 2025 Bargain REVEALED—From Cheap Flights to Pay Rises
New research into shopping trends and consumer behaviour has unveiled the best months to make key purchases and life changes in 2025, potentially saving Brits thousands of pounds across the year.
Experts at Ocean Finance combined historical pricing data with insights from industry analysts, identifying the perfect timing for everything from booking holidays to buying a new car.
Fiona Peake, personal finance expert at Ocean Finance, shares her insider tips on how timing your spending strategically could help you get more for your money.
“80% of Brits aren’t aware of optimial buying times, and only 12% actively plan their major purchases around peak discount periods. By strategically planning when you buy, you could save up to £3,000 across the year.”
January – Book a Flight: “January is the prime month for booking flights, with airlines slashing prices by up to 30% to combat post-Christmas lulls and savvy travelers can save hundreds by locking in their summer holidays early. Set up price alerts on comparison sites and be flexible with travel dates to find the cheapest options.”
February – Land a New Job: “If you’re looking for a fresh start, February is when recruitment peaks, with data showing a 40% surge in job postings as companies set their annual budgets. Research salaries in your field and consider upskilling in January to stand out in interviews.”
March – Buy a Car: ”Dealerships are eager to move stock before new registration plates arrive, often offering discounts of up to 20% on previous year model. Visit showrooms late in the month to get the best deals.”
April – Spring Clean Your Finances: “The new tax year provides a perfect opportunity to reassess savings and investments. Consolidate debts, check ISA allowances, and compare utility providers and financial products – our research shows households can save an average of £200 annually by switching providers.”
May – Buy Furniture: “May sees furniture retailers launching their biggest sales to clear space for summer stock, with discounts of up to 60% on mattresses and home furnishings. If you’re shopping online, check for free delivery or bundle deals to stretch your budget further.”
June – Join a Gym: “Membership fees can drop by up to 25% as centres compete for customers ahead of the quieter summer period. Ask about free trials or pay-as-you-go options, and don’t forget to negotiate – many gyms will match competitor prices.”
July – Snap Up Tech in Prime Day Sales: “Amazon’s Prime Day in July is perfect for upgrading your tech. From laptops to smart speakers, big-ticket gadgets often see steep discounts. Stick to a wishlist to avoid impulse buys, and make sure to check historic prices using price-tracking tools to see whether you’re actually getting a bargain.”
August – Back-to-School Savings: “August brings back-to-school deals, with supermarkets and clothing retailers slashing prices on uniforms and supplies by up to 50%. Shop early to avoid the rush!”
September – Prepare for Winter Energy Savings: “September is the best time to winter-proof your home. Investing in draught-proofing and smart thermostats now could save hundreds on winter bills.”
October – Go on Holiday: “Off-peak travel makes October an excellent month to book holidays. Resorts and airlines drop prices, especially after the summer rush. Consider traveling mid-week to maximise savings, and sign up for airline newsletters to get exclusive early access to deals.”
November – Christmas Shopping: “November remains the top month for Christmas shopping, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday offering savings of up to 60% on gifts and electronics. Make sure to create a budget and plan purchases in advance to reduce the risk of overspending.”
December – Clothing and Tech: “Retailers push clearance sales in December, making it an ideal time to buy winter clothing and end-of-year tech. Keep an eye out for Boxing Day discounts; retailers often slash prices further on items that didn’t sell before Christmas.”
