A new report reveals that while travel is at the top of Brits’ spending list for 2025, home improvements are close behind, with many households prioritising both.
Insights from Statista’s latest data, visualised in an infographic called “Miles Before Meals”, show travel leading global discretionary spend. But UK consumers—alongside peers in Germany, the US, India and China—are also allocating budgets to home improvements, putting it in fourth place ahead of fashion, wellness, and luxury goods.
The trend underlines a growing desire not just to escape, but to return home to a place that’s warm, efficient, and well-maintained.
From simple repairs to energy-saving renovations, homeowners are eager to get things sorted before departure. It’s a mindset that Colin Greenslade, owner of Colin’s Sash Windows, says is becoming more common.
“People want to enjoy their time away, sure — but they also want to come home to somewhere that’s warm and not costing a fortune to heat,” he said.
“We’ve had customers telling us they’re upgrading before their holidays, just so they’re not dreading the energy bills when they get back.”
With energy prices still a hot topic, and homes responsible for a big chunk of heat loss through old windows and doors, homeowners are still thinking about ways to cut down on waste and make their spaces more efficient.
Colin added: “While the beach might be calling, many are making sure their own front doors are in good shape before they go because no one wants to come back from a relaxing break only to be hit with a cold house and a warm gas bill.”
