As the days get longer and the weather brightens, May is a great time to reset your finances. With two bank holidays and warmer temperatures, there are plenty of ways to cut costs without cutting enjoyment. Here are some practical tips to help you save money this month.

1. Make the Most of Free Events

May is packed with free and low-cost events. From village fetes to open gardens and art trails, many communities offer entertainment at no charge. Check local council websites, Eventbrite, or Facebook Events for what’s happening nearby. Take a packed lunch, walk or cycle there, and you’ve got a full day out for pennies.

2. Cut Energy Costs as Heating Winds Down

With temperatures rising, it’s time to ease off on heating. Switch off radiators, especially in unused rooms, and adjust your boiler timer so it only runs when needed. If you’re still on a variable tariff, consider switching suppliers or using a price comparison site like Uswitch or MoneySuperMarket to lock in a better deal.

Tip: Turn appliances off at the plug rather than leaving them on standby — it can save you around £65 a year.

3. Start a Garden, Even a Small One

Whether it’s a windowsill herb garden or a few pots on the patio, growing your own can shave a bit off your weekly shop. Basil, mint, and parsley are easy to grow, and salad leaves grow fast. If you’ve got the space, try courgettes or tomatoes, both thrive in UK gardens from late spring onwards.

Tip: Join local gardening groups or Facebook swaps for free seeds and cuttings.

4. Use Bank Holidays to Batch Cook

Take advantage of the long weekends to cook in bulk. Making meals ahead means fewer takeaways and impulse food buys during busy weeks. Dishes like chilli, pasta bakes, and soups freeze well and save you time and money.

Tip: Use up what you’ve already got, check your cupboards before planning meals to cut down waste.

5. Reassess Subscriptions

With summer coming, now’s a smart time to go through your direct debits. Are you still using that streaming service, gym membership, or app subscription? If not, cancel or pause them. You might find you’re paying for things out of habit.

Tip: Apps like Snoop and Emma help track subscriptions and alert you to unused ones.

6. Switch to Seasonal Eating

Strawberries, asparagus, new potatoes, and spring greens are all in season this month. Buying seasonal British produce usually costs less and tastes better. Head to your local market or farm shop for fresh deals.

Tip: Use apps like Too Good To Go for discounted food nearing its sell-by date — it’s good for your wallet and the planet.

7. Plan Your Half-Term Wisely

If you’ve got kids off during May half-term, plan ahead to avoid costly last-minute outings. Look for free museum days, kids-eat-free deals in restaurants, or download Treasure Trail maps for budget-friendly adventures.

Tip: National Trust and English Heritage properties often have free or low-cost activities during the school break.

8. Declutter and Sell

Spring is prime time for a clear-out. List unwanted clothes, books, or electronics on Vinted, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. It clears space and earns you a bit back.

Tip: Take good photos and offer bundle deals to shift things faster.

May brings opportunity, better weather, longer days, and a chance to get ahead financially. Small tweaks add up. Whether it’s switching off the heating or batch-cooking for the week, these changes can help you spend less and stress less.

What’s one change you’ll try this May to save money?