7 THINGS BRITS WILL ALWAYS SPEND MONEY ON (EVEN DURING A COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS)

Even with the cost-of-living crisis squeezing budgets tighter than ever, Brits have a few non-negotiables. While we might cut back on some of life’s luxuries, there are certain things we just cannot skimp on. After all, those little comforts help us feel like life is still ok, when the monthly bills come around again.

While some things like holidays, health and beauty and pets top the list when it comes to non-negotiables, spending money on online dating sites and shopping in department stores has taken a significant dip. Here’s our list of things that Brits just can’t live without.

Holidays and weekend breaks

According to research by Nationwide, holidays and travel are the top two things Brits spend their hard earned cash on despite the cost-of-living being a nightmare. Escaping the British weather is essential at some point. Whether it’s a long weekend in London, a city break in Barcelona, or a week or two in Cyprus, it a non-negotiable. There’s something about escaping the daily grind and immersing yourself in another world. For many, these little adventures are the mental health equivalent of pressing the refresh button.

Overpriced coffee

Even with the cost of living climbing, Brits continue to tap their debit cards for wildly overpriced coffee. The comforting smell of coffee and the feeling of treating yourself on a dreary morning is a little luxury we just don’t want to give up. So, we’ll carry on ordering our Crème Brulée Iced Brown Sugar Oat Shaken Espresso for £8, but maybe pass on the ham and Swiss baguette as that’s just a step to far.

Pets come first

Rising bills or not, our pets are family. Whether it’s quality food, a fancy cat tree for Mimi or premium bones for Ben the dog, we refuse to cut corners when it comes to our furry friends. Regular checkups at the vet, grooming sessions, and treats may all cost extra, but these are worth it for the companionship, routine, and emotional support we receive in return. You can stretch a weekly shop or skip a night out, just to ensure your pet gets the food they love.

A decent haircut

Ask anyone in Britain why they never attempt a home dye job or get a cheaper haircut, and you’ll hear horror stories of buzz cuts and uneven colouring jobs. A bad hair day isn’t just embarrassing, it can last 6 weeks, so we’d rather splurge on a proper haircut. It’s about confidence, looking presentable for work or school, and navigating life without a rogue fringe. Even when money is tight, we’d rather tighten our belts elsewhere.

Lego

Parents splurge on Lego sets for birthdays and Christmas, not just for the kids’ enjoyment, but for the memories made along the way. Building a set together can become a shared project, an afternoon of laughter, concentration, and nostalgia. And “big kids” love it too. Complex kits, display models, and collectors editions are just as much a part of British living rooms as the coffee table. Spending on Lego isn’t indulgent; it’s a combination of tradition, family time, and a little escapism.

A grand day out

There’s something almost magical about a British day out, even though we all know it’ll drain our bank balance faster than we can say “two adults and a child, please.” Whether it’s a trip to a National Trust property, a theme park, or the zoo, we’ll happily pay for the privilege of strolling around with a coffee in hand and pointing at things. By the time you’ve paid for entry, snacks, parking, and a souvenir, you’ve quietly slipped into the “this definitely cost more than I planned but I’m pretending it didn’t” zone.

This is not just food…

A decent takeaway, a well-stocked fridge with some M&S treats, or fresh beef from the butcher for our Sunday roast are the little things we’re not prepared to compromise on. Even with spiraling costs, many Brits prioritise their food (and drink!) experiences. A nice bottle of wine and a decent meal is an oasis of calm that lets you forget about the dreaded bills for a few hours at least.

The Bottom Line

Brits have a unique way of prioritising spending. Even in difficult times, we find room for the things that make life feel normal, enjoyable, and recognisable. The cost-of-living crisis may be a rising concern, but our spending habits show that some pleasures, comforts, and priorities remain worth every penny.

2025-11-18T13:49:02Z