More than half of Brits say they can no longer justify the cost of last-minute holidays, even though most admit these spontaneous trips create their best memories, according to new research from digital bank Zopa.
Spontaneity Becoming a Luxury
The study found that 54% of Brits feel increasingly priced out of last-minute experiences, which often cost more than carefully planned alternatives. This "spontaneity gap" — the space between wanting to seize the moment and feeling financially able to — means many are missing out on the joy of unplanned experiences.
Psychologist Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo explained that spontaneous experiences can be particularly rewarding. "Novel experiences enhance neuroplasticity and our brain’s ability to adapt and learn new things. It can also trigger dopamine release, enhancing enjoyment and motivation." However, she warned that spontaneity is most beneficial when accompanied by a sense of psychological safety. "If an impulsive decision is perceived as financially risky, the brain’s threat-monitoring systems become more active, reducing the capacity to fully experience enjoyment."
Memories and Freedom
The research also revealed that for 65% of Brits, the best memories come from unplanned experiences, while 70% associate spontaneity with a greater sense of freedom and living in the moment.
Zopa’s Biscuit account offers users up to £192 through cashback, interest and fee-free spending. The bank has created the Biscuit Break Map, using data from flight comparison site Skyscanner, to show how far customers can travel with those perks. Top destinations include Amsterdam (£98, or half a Biscuit), Brussels (£173, or four-fifths of a Biscuit), Marseilles (£143, or three-quarters of a Biscuit), Barcelona (£65, or one-third of a Biscuit), Seville (£52, or one-quarter of a Biscuit), and Faro (£115, or three-fifths of a Biscuit).
Small 'Say Yes Fund'
Clare Gambardella, chief customer officer at Zopa Bank, said: "People aren’t looking for excuses to spend recklessly; they’re looking for the freedom to say yes to the moments that make life feel exciting, spontaneous and memorable without compromising their financial goals. We created the Biscuit Break Map to show how everyday banking rewards can become something people genuinely value: a small ‘Say Yes Fund’ that gives them the freedom to book the trip, take the weekend away or make the most of summer."
