Shopping advice

Treadmill Black Friday deals 2025: what to expect this November

DREAMING of upgrading your home gym? Don’t miss out on this year’s best treadmill Black Friday deals.

Whatever your budget, you’re sure to find a brand and style to suit your fitness goals among the Black Friday bargains.

a treadmill with the word horizon on it

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Upgrade your fitness set up with a discounted treadmill this Black Friday

Whether you’re buying your first treadmill or upgrading to a high-tech model, Black Friday is the perfect time to snag a fantastic deal.

To help you navigate the November sale, we’ve covered everything you need to know about this year’s best Black Friday treadmill deals.

From important dates and unmissable deals to delivery fees and additional discounts, read on to find out more.

Best treadmill deals live now

On the hunt for treadmill offers? Shoppers are sprinting to several major retailers to score marked-down machines.

Here are just a few of the best treadmill deals available right now:

  • Walking Pad Treadmill with 5% Incline, £99.99 (was £119.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, £149.99 (was £599.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • CURSOR FITNESS Folding Treadmill, £203.99 (was £259.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • WalkingPad Z1, £299 (was £449) from WalkingPad – buy here
  • HOMEFITNESSCODE Folding Treadmill, £399.99 (was £699.99) from Decathlon – buy here
  • Pro Fitness T3000 Folding Treadmill, £575 (was £959) from Argos – buy here
  • Reebok FR20z Floatride Treadmill, £749.99 (was £950) from Sports Direct – buy here
  • GT40 S Treadmill Adults, £449.99 (was £799.99) from Sports Direct – buy here
  • T Series 10 Treadmill, £1,299 (was £1,799) from NordicTrack – buy here

When is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 falls on November 28.

The sale follows the Thanksgiving celebrations in the US, where the event first started.

The best Black Friday deals usually hit on the day itself, with prices steadily dropping throughout November.

Want to learn more about the biggest shopping bonanza of the year? Our ‘Why is Black Friday called Black Friday?‘ explainer covers everything you need to know.

What treadmill deals to expect during Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 is expected to offer some seriously impressive savings across a wide range of brands and models.

To get the most out of the sale, figure out which type of treadmill you need and do some research.

You’ll want to consider factors such as budget, space and storage, speed settings, incline options, and noise level.

It’s always best to shop around, so make sure you check out the places below for the best Black Friday deals:

What was in the treadmill Black Friday sale last year?

Teal and black Floatride+ treadmill.
Black Friday 2024 saw some unmissable treadmill dealsCredit: Argos

Black Friday 2024 saw major discounts on home treadmills.

The savings included:

  • Reebok FR20z Floatride Treadmill with Connected Fitness, £529 (was £749) from Argos – buy here
  • Echelon Stride-6 Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill, £972 (was £1,599) from Echelon – buy here
  • Toputure 2-in-1 Home Folding Treadmill with Dual LED Screen, £322.99 (was £399.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE 3-in-1, £197.19 (was £289.99) from Amazon – buy here
  • Reebok GT40 S Treadmill, £549.99 (was £799.99) from Sports Direct – buy here

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and are treadmill retailers taking part?

Cyber Monday falls on December 1, 2025.

It’s normally the final day to get your hands on incredible discounts, as it comes straight after Black Friday.

Unlike Black Friday, Cyber Monday was traditionally geared toward online shoppers, with some retailers adding extra discounts for web purchasers.

However, over the last few years, it has become an extension of Black Friday, with retailers extending deals both online and in-store.

It’s well worth keeping an eye out for any last-minute price cuts, as it’s the final chance to score treadmill savings before the festive season (although retailers will sometimes extend the sale).

For this year’s best Cyber Monday deals, make sure to check out our Cyber Monday hub.

How much does treadmill shipping cost?

Delivery costs will vary depending on the retailer, distance, weight, and size of the treadmill.

If free shipping isn’t available, treadmill delivery costs generally range from around £25 to £100 or more.

Additional fees may apply for installation or upstairs delivery.

Do treadmill retailers offer any other discounts?

Yes, retailers like Amazon, Argos, Very, and John Lewis offer treadmill promotions, limited-time deals, and new customer discounts throughout the year.

You can also search for monthly offers and seasonal sales at retailers like NordicTrack, Decathlon, WalkingPad, Echelon, and Sports Direct.

Which retailers had the best Black Friday treadmill deals in 2024?

All the big fitness brands usually take part in the Black Friday sales action, as well as retailers like Argos, WalkingPad, and Decathlon.

This means you can pick up a bargain on treadmills by the likes of NordicTrack, Echelon, Reebok, and more.

Because of the sheer range of choices, it’s hard to give a definitive answer for which retailer had the ‘best’ deal.

There were bargains to be found in several places and on different brands and models of treadmills – so this year, it’s well worth shopping around to compare prices.

Make sure you check out the following places for deals:

What are the best treadmills you can buy?

Not sure which treadmill is right for you?

When it comes to the best treadmills to use in the comfort of your own home, there are plenty of great options out there, depending on your needs and budget.

If you’re prepared to make a serious investment, NordicTrack’s Commercial X22i will keep you motivated and quite literally on track with its trainer-led iFIT workouts and 22″ smart HD touchscreen.

ProForm’s Carbon TLX is equally as immersive, with interactive training sessions through cities, trails, and studio classes to help keep you stimulated.

If you’re on a budget, though, fear not – there are plenty of options for those looking to shell out a bit less.

We’ve listed a couple of budget-friendly options below, so make sure to check them out.

How much do treadmills cost?

You can pick up a cheap, foldable treadmill for around £100 if you’re budget-conscious.

If you spend around £300, you’ll get more choice of design and features, like a smartphone connection.

On average, the majority of treadmills fetch around £400 – a reasonable amount that will get you all the gadgets and gizmos, a foldable and compact design, and still help you on your fitness journey without breaking the bank.

High-end treadmills are around £500-£3,000, with a huge choice of designs, brands, sizes, and features within that range.

It really depends on what you need from your treadmill, how often you’ll use it, how much space you have, and whether it’s worth making that bigger investment.

How much is a Peloton treadmill?

Peloton treadmill starts at £3,345.

There is also a £39 monthly fee for membership and access to the Peloton app and classes.

Shoppers who purchase a Peloton treadmill will also receive free delivery and installation to a room of their choice.

Peloton also offers several deals to help shoppers save.

For example, you’ll save £55 when you purchase the Tread Ultimate Set, which includes dumbbells in four different weights, a workout mat, and a water bottle.

Finance options are also available to take the sting out of paying the total sum in one fell swoop.

What is the best foldable treadmill to buy?

According to our best home treadmills UK 2025 guide, one of the best foldable options on the market is the Stride-6s Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill from Echelon.

It features a 10” Class HD Touchscreen, Bluetooth audio connectivity, adjustable speed and incline levels ranging up to 12.4 MPH and 12.5, and, best of all, it folds away easily.

There are plenty of foldable treadmills available from various online retailers, so be sure to shop around.

Is Black Friday a good time to buy a treadmill?

Yes, Black Friday is a fantastic time to invest in a treadmill, especially if you’re hoping to score significant savings on premium models.

Major retailers like Amazon, Argos, and John Lewis stock several models to suit all fitness needs and budgets, and during Black Friday, many of them are heavily discounted.

Whether you’re searching for a foldable treadmill to maximise storage or a machine that features a smart display to monitor your progress, there are plenty of options up for grabs in the Black Friday sales.

We’ve listed several retailers worth checking out above, so make sure to take a look at the deals and discounts they’re offering this November.

What is the best treadmill on a budget?

For those on the hunt for a budget-friendly treadmill, Amazon has an array of offers you won’t want to miss.

One standout saving is on the Walking Pad Treadmill with 5% Incline, which has been discounted from £119.99 to just £99.99.

The major retailer is also treating bargain hunters to an incredible price drop on the Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, which has been slashed by a staggering 75%.

It’s now scanning at the checkout for just £149.99, down from £599.99.

Both machines effectively boost your workouts, fold down when not needed, and are ideal choices for at-home fitness routines.

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Mulberry Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

MULBERRY’S premium leather handbags will never go out of style, and you don’t need to spend the big bucks to get your hands on one.

The Mulberry Black Friday sale is the perfect opportunity to score a discount on the item on your wishlist – here’s everything we know about the mega-sale.

mulberry-black-friday-sale
Mulberry has an impressive roster of A-list fans including Sienna Miller and Kate MossCredit: Mulberry

Mulberry sale

The British luxury brand is known and loved for its timeless leather accessories that are loved by celebrities, including Mulberry’s iconic Bayswater Bag.

For Black Friday 2025, we’re anticipating huge deals on Mulberry must-haves, including discounts from other retailers that stock the luxury label.

John Lewis, House of Fraser, and Selfridges are just three retailers worth checking out when the highly-anticipated sales event arrives.

Read on to find out more, including how to secure marked-down Mulberry items on Cyber Monday, and how to bag additional fashion deals.

When is Black Friday 2025?

When is Black Friday? This year, it lands on 28 November 2025.

The mega-sale traditionally takes place the day after the US Thanksgiving (which falls on the last Thursday of November), and it has become a global shopping event known for its dramatic discounts.

Black Friday has become just as popular in the UK as in the US in recent years, and brands and retailers often kick off their sales ahead of the main event.

UK shoppers can expect many retailers — both online and in-store — to launch their Black Friday deals early, with some sales kicking off from the beginning of November.

Wondering what the meaning behind Black Friday is? Check out our explainer.

Is Mulberry taking part in Black Friday this year?

Mulberry has participated in Black Friday in the past, so it’s highly likely that the retailer will return with more discounts this year.

In previous years, shoppers have enjoyed huge savings on bags, purses, holdalls, and other accessories.

Shopping directly from Mulberry’s website is usually where you’ll find the best offers and discounts.

While the Mulberry is yet to officially announce the details of its Black Friday sale, we’re expecting the brand to follow a similar suit to previous years.

To keep up-to-date with information on the Mulberry Black Friday sale, bookmark this page, as we’ll be updating it with all the sale news as it comes in.

More Luxury Fashion Deals

What to expect from Mulberry’s Black Friday sale 2025

Shoppers can expect to save on some of the brand’s most popular styles which include the AlexaLily, and Darley.

The brand is best known for its Bayswater bag, and even the iconic arm candy has been previously slashed in the Mulberry Black Friday sale.

Plus, other retailers taking part in the Black Friday sale could also include Mulberry items, so keep an eye out for offers at John LewisFarfetchSelfridges, and House of Fraser.

Shoppers will need to be quick when the sale does drop though, as big discounts on the most popular styles are likely to sell out fast.

What was in the Mulberry Black Friday Sale last year?

In 2024, Mulberry’s Black Friday sale featured a range of discounts on some of its most sought-after items.

Here are just a few of our favourite finds from last year’s Black Friday sale:

Mulberry

Brown leather handbag with gold clasp.
Mulberry’s website is usually where you’ll find the best offersCredit: Mulberry

More Mulberry deals

Beige Mulberry handbag with braided handle and gold buckles.
Keep an eye out for Black Friday dealsCredit: John Lewis

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Mulberry taking part?

When is Cyber Monday? This year, it will take place on 1 December.

Most brands and retailers continue their Black Friday sales through until Cyber Monday, serving as a final chance to make a big saving.

It’s possible that further reductions will be made on items for Cyber Monday, but it’s not always the case.

However, if there’s a particular item you have your eye on, waiting until Cyber Monday to snap it up means you could risk it selling out.

While Mulberry hasn’t confirmed its plans for Cyber Monday 2025, it’s likely that the discounts will continue throughout the Cyber weekend.

How much does Mulberry’s shipping cost?

If you’re planning to shop online during Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s good to know about its shipping policies.

Mulberry offers free standard shipping on all UK orders, which will take between to and five business days to arrive.

The brand is also currently offering complimentary shipping on new arrivals, although it’s unlikely that these pieces will be reduced in the sale.

Mulberry also provides faster delivery options at an additional cost, including express delivery (1-2 working days) and same-day delivery (if ordered before 3pm).

Express Delivery is priced at £6.95, while Same Day and Saturday Delivery will cost £12.

As it’s the most popular shopping event of the year, it’s worth considering that Black Friday is likely to impact shipping times.

Does Mulberry offer any other discounts?

While Black Friday offers the biggest discounts of the year, Mulberry does have other ways to save.

The brand usually runs sales in the summer and winter, with discounts on selected items.

Plus, Mulberry has been known to occasionally provide promotions through its newsletter.

If you want to shop on a budget outside of Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s worth checking out the brand’s Pre-Loved section or Buy Back option online.

Other retailers stocking Mulberry may also slash the prices of selected items throughout the year, so it’s worth checking various stockists before making a purchase to get the best deal.

Mulberry sale

More Amazing Black Friday Deals


Find your favourite brand’s Black Friday deals in our A-Z directory


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I visited pretty market town named UK’s best place to live — I’d move there right now

There was one specific spot I absolutely adored

Laura Nightingale smiles for the camera as she takes a selfie in Farnham Town Centre
I visited pretty market town named UK’s best place to live — I’d move there right now(Image: Laura Nightingale )

It’s been described as a ‘handsome market town’ with ‘bags of character’, and is known for its picturesque Georgian streets, handsome Tudor and Georgian stone buildings and easy access to the rolling hills that surround it.

And earlier this summer, a 2025 guide named Farnham, on the western edge of Surrey, among the best places to live in the UK. I spent the day in the beautiful town exploring its huge array of independent shops, thriving arts scene, superb restaurants and peaceful parks. Farnham is currently undergoing a huge regeneration project called Brightwells Yard, which will see 239 new homes, 25 commercial units for shops and restaurants, a six-screen cinema, a multi-storey car park and landscaped public open spaces.

Roadworks in the town centre are expected to continue until early 2027. But I didn’t let that put me off, and I parked in the Sainsbury’s car park and wandered around the pretty neighbourhood on foot.

I first visited Gostrey Meadow, and it painted a picture for the whole neighbourhood. There was a real community feel about the place with children playing in a new playground (opened in July) and families enjoying picnics under serene willow trees by the trickling River Wey.

On Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, people can gather around the bandstand and listen to live jazz music on the lawn for free. I bought a coffee from Jamie’s Coffee van and watched ducks bob along the water before moving on to Farnham Maltings.

The superb arts centre in Bridge Square is situated along the river, and it’s in a picturesque location for watching shows or participating in workshops. I only walked past on my way to Downing Street (not the London one), but I nearly stopped at its café as it sold tempting artisan sourdough, open Danish sandwiches.

Downing Street, which is currently closed to some traffic but not pedestrians, is a hidden gem for mooching around independent shops and quaint eateries. I stopped at a glorious little little spot called Hamilton’s Tea House half way up the street for a snack.

As I sat down at a table by the window, I looked around and noticed all three fellow diners were tucking into scones which immediately made me fancy one. By the counter I could see a display of huge plain, sultana and cheese scones and I gave in and ordered a fruit one (£4).

Hamiltons Tea House
I enjoyed a fruit scone at Hamiltons Tea House(Image: Laura Nightingale )

Served on a rectangular plate with butter, a mini pot of clotted cream and a jar of strawberry jam, I quickly understood why it was a hit among the other customers. Ultra light and fluffy, and incredibly buttery and moreish, I devoured the lot, not leaving a crumb.

With my sweet tooth satisfied, I continued walking up the quaint road, popping my head into a charity shop along the way, before I reached The Borough and then Castle Street home to familiar chain restaurants including Gail’s Bakery, Caffe Nero, Bill’s, Giggling Squid and Pizza Express.

we would be fine
Downing Street in Farnham(Image: Laura Nightingale )

On the corner was The Castle pub, a stunning gastropub set within a beautiful Grade two listed Georgian townhouse. Stylish yet relaxed, it boasted a hidden covered courtyard garden at the rear offering a tranquil oasis from the bustle of town life.

On the outskirts of the main town centre was Waverley Abbey, Farnham Castle, Birdworld, Farnham Park, Museum of Farnham, Bourne Mill Antiques Centre and Alice Holt Forest, so you could really spend a weekend there. On the fourth Sunday of every month, a farmers’ market takes place in Central Car Park.

I really enjoyed exploring the pretty Surrey town and I would happily move there tomorrow. It felt safe, clean and was bursting with character. I absolutely adored Gostrey Meadow, it was my favourite bit.

Farnham is a popular place to live for young professionals and families, especially those looking to escape the city for an idyllic rural life but still with easy access to the capital. There is a regular and direct train service from Farnham to London Waterloo which usually takes around 90 minutes.

According to Rightmove, house prices in Farnham have an overall average of £611,117 over the last year. This is just above the Surrey average of £598,462.

The majority of properties sold in Farnham during the last year were detached properties, selling for an average price of £897,765. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £538,557, with terraced properties fetching £435,120.

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I went to the UK’s poshest farm shop — one thing stood out well before I set foot inside

The farm shop is in the news again this week because US vice president JD Vance arrived with a huge entourage of security and police — I visited earlier this summer and one thing was glaring long before I got inside

Steffan Rhys in the garden centre at Daylesford Organic Farm Shop
I went to the UK’s poshest farm shop — the first thing I noticed wasn’t the food(Image: Steffan Rhys )

I’ve never been anywhere quite like this — it’s got to be the poshest farm shop anywhere in Britain. Nestled in the middle of the stunningly beautiful Cotswolds countryside, Daylesford Organic sells hampers for £690.

The manicured shelves feature £36 honey, £10 chocolate and cashew butter sourdough cookies, £175 tablecloths, £40 mushroom coffee and a £23 “immunity formula”.

Outside, a beautiful garden centre displays £1,600 garden dining furniture and £1,000 trees. Walking around it in the sunshine was one of the highlights of my summer. The whole place is gorgeous — and the customers (and their dogs) are as meticulous and beautifully presented as the shop. I came away with a bag full of Isle of Wight tomatoes (the best I’ve ever tasted) and a lavender bush which cost £20.

Daylesford Organic has made headlines for its prices in the past. But it’s back in the news this week because the US vice president, JD Vance, called in. Donald Trump’s second-in-command is in the Cotswolds for a holiday with his family and footage shows his huge entourage of security and police at the farm shop and in the surrounding lanes on Monday. He reportedly spent hours there.

But on my visit, the first thing that struck me wasn’t the food or the prices. It was the cars in the car park. I immediately spotted two Ferraris, several Porsches and too many Range Rovers to count. Right outside the front door was a white Ferrari with a number plate reading “cash”. I parked my car in a distant corner of the car park and then did my best not to look too gobsmacked as I walked around.

Steffan Rhys takes a selfie outside the front entrance of Daylesford Organic farm shop
I went to the ‘poshest’ farm shop in England and the first thing I noticed wasn’t the food(Image: Steffan Rhys)
A white Ferrari in the car park of Daylesford Organic Farm Shop with a number plate reading "cash"
A white Ferrari in the car park with a number plate reading “cash”(Image: Steffan Rhys)

But this level of ostentatious wealth isn’t surprising when you consider the area. The farm shop is around halfway between Chipping Norton and Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds, every inch of which belongs on a postcard. People who call this area home include the Beckhams, David and Samantha Cameron, Mike and Zara Tindall, Princess Anne, Kate Moss, Ellen DeGeneres, Simon Cowell, Richard E Grant and many, many more.

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi attend the unveiling of RH England
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are among the many A-listers who call the Cotswolds home(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for RH)
David Beckham and Victoria Beckham during a dinner at Highgrove Hous
David and Victoria Beckham also live in the Cotswolds(Image: Getty Images)
Zara Tindall and Mike Tindall attends Royal Ascot  on June 18, 2025
Zara and Mike Tindall also live there, as does Princess Anne(Image: Getty Images)

Jeremy Clarkson has made it even more famous with his huge Amazon Prime Video hit Clarkson’s Farm, on which you’ll see sweeping drone-shot views of the sunlit countryside and farmland. I’ve been to his (very different) farm shop too, which you can read about here, as well as his sensational pub, which you can read about here.

Its towns and villages, like Bourton-on-the-Water (read about it here), Bibury (known as Britain’s most beautiful village), Burford, Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold are among the most beautiful you’ll find anywhere.

And the farm shop itself was founded in 2002 by Lady Carole Bamford, whose husband is JCB founder Lord Anthony Bamford. The couple are said to have a joint fortune of £9.45bn, making them comfortably one of the very wealthiest people in the UK. Earlier this summer, Lady Bamford was pictured alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla at Ascot Racecourse. The Bamfords own several prize-winning horses, including one bought for £1.4 million.

Lady Carole Bamford, Sir Francis Brooke, Sophie Winkleman, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Lord Frederick Windsor, The Marchioness of Lansdowne Fiona
Lady Carole Bamford (far left) with Ascot race-goers including King Charles and Camilla this summer(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
Carole Bamford ahead of the Betfred Pretty Polly Stakes on 1000 Guineas Day of the Betfred Guineas Festival at Newmarket Racecourse, Suffolk
Carole Bamford started Daylesford with ‘a handful of fields’ and ‘a desire to make a difference’(Image: PA)

Walking around the shop and its outdoor garden centre, I enjoyed trying to figure out if I recognised some of the more glamorous customers (I didn’t). But visitors this week would have had no trouble figuring out who the most famous customer was, given the convoy of black SUVs he arrived with.

Locals in the Cotswolds have likened the security lockdown around Vance’s holiday to the Men in Black as roads, footpaths and village lanes were blocked.

rows of black SUVs at the farm shop for Vance's visit
There were rows of black SUVs at the farm shop for Vance’s visit(Image: SWNS)
A road leading into Dean, Oxfordshire August 11 2025 closed off by police where it is believed the American Vice President JD Vance will stay during h
Nearby roads were closed off by police and locals were spoken to – they compared it to Men in Black(Image: Joseph Walshe / SWNS)

One said: “Stopped off at a farm shop…so did JD Vance. Security everywhere.” Another said: “There were a few American SUVs and then loads of Mercedes. And a full police riot van and about three police motorbikes. “Because of this, there are loads of police everywhere at the moment – normally, you’d never see a police car around here.”

One local said: “You do seem to get a few political celebrities round here – Kamala Harris has been, David Cameron lives around here, and Boris Johnson often comes. I go to Daylesford Organic most days with my kids. It’s not often you see a presidential motorcade here though!”

Attendees pose with placards at a "Vance not welcome party", organised by Stop Trump Coalition supporters and local residents in Charlbury
There was a protest against Vance in the area this week(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

I’d go most days myself if I could and am certainly looking forward to my next visit. It would have been wonderful if Cotswolds farm shop rival Clarkson had decided to pop in at the same time to check out the competition. He has described Vance as “a bearded God-botherer who pretty much thinks that women who’ve been raped should be forced to have the resultant child”.

Clarkson, whose Diddly Squat Farm Shop is no more than a mile from the vice-president’s fortress-like holiday mansion, also said: “I’ve searched for the right word to describe him and I think it’s ‘t**t’.”

Oh well, I still hope Vance, who has also said the UK is a “truly Islamist” country, enjoyed his visit as much as I did. At least he could probably afford to buy a bit more than I could.

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Travel expert debunks ‘free upgrade’ hack that has fooled the internet

Netflights travel expert Amanda Parker tackles the viral ‘free upgrade’ flight myth that’s circulating TikTok, offering three alternatives to boosting your luck for freebies

Image of a female service agent with smile in travel security or immigration documents for airline control
A travel expert has provided a better alternative to boosting your luck on upgrading your flight [stock image](Image: Getty Images)

A travel expert has addressed a popular TikTok hack that promises to upgrade your flights for free. With the trend going viral this summer as jetsetters buckle up for a holiday abroad, Brits are desperate to know just how to save their coins whilst maxing out their luck.

One flier has circulated on TikTok, accumulating over 2.5 million views for sharing his means of a free upgrade. He said: “A little charm and confidence go a long way”. Instructing viewers to go to the lengths of buying chocolates at the airport and boarding last, the user suggested fliers charmingly gift the flight attendants upon board for a magical free upgrade.

READ MORE: Least crowded European beach holiday destinations revealed as UK beauty spot makes Top 5

A close-up of a passport and boarding pass being handed to a female airport staff member as a man chicks in for his flight
TikTok’s for free-upgrade hacks are circulating this holiday season, but this flight expert says there might be a better way to upgrade(Image: Getty Images)

Splitting viewers in two over whether this trick really works or not has led to flying experts at Netflights coming forward to shed light on this gift-theory and whether sweet-talking is worth a shot.

Netflights’ Amanda Parker said: “The travel hack of buying flight attendants a gift, and sweet-talking them when boarding the plane has gone viral. Kindness will always be appreciated by airline staff, so small gestures like snacks or gifts won’t go unnoticed.

One TikTok comment shares, “as ex-cabin crew I can confirm this works”. However, the chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade just by handing over a box of chocolates might be slim”.

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She went on, saying: “Free upgrades are usually determined by strict criteria, including frequent flyer status, ticket class, availability, and airline policies, unfortunately, not by last-minute sweet talk as you board the plane!”.

“The gift and sweet-talk hack may work, so it’s worth a try; but, we warn you not to get your hopes up, as these moments are the exception, not the rule! You may just strike lucky if your flight attendant likes chocolate M&M’s!”

Image of a glass of welcoming champagne awaiting a First Class passenger on an Airline Flight
Netflight give their expert alternative to the ‘flight freebie’ hack(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

As an alternative, Netflight provided their expert tips on how to really up your chances of that sought-after upgrade and ‘freebies’:

Join loyalty programmes

Frequent fliers and loyal customers are most likely to bag the free upgrades so take advantage of all those summer trips by joining an airlines reward scheme. Netflight adds that “even if you don’t fly frequently, some credit cards allow you to earn points that count towards upgrades. Over time, this can significantly boost your chances of an upgrade”.

Travel in off-peak periods

You can boost your luck by traveling in off-peak hours and days. Less popular times mean flights are quieter, therefore there are more Premium seats available – your chances suddenly peaking. Netflight suggests “to avoid flying in school holidays and Friday evenings or weekends” and to opt for “midweek flights at midday” as they are “typically quieter”.

Be polite and have good manners

Seems simple but whilst politeness won’t equal an instant upgrade, they never hurt. Staff should always be treated with respect, no matter whether you’re pinning for that upgrade or not. That being said, Netflight agrees that “being kind can make you stand out, so a small gift like chocolates might be remembered”. Either way, your flight attendants will definitely appreciate it.



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Woman goes furniture shopping in China and prices leave her floored

A British woman named decided to travel all the way to Foshan in China in order to buy all the furniture she’d need for her future home after hearing it was cheaper than the UK

Woman shopping for sofa
Woman Shopping for sofa(Image: (c) Juanmonino/Getty Images)

As the USA issued new trade tariffs on products from across the world at the start of 2025, with China being hit with a 20% tariff, which was an increase from the 10% tariff it had been before, Chinese wholesale sellers took to social media to urge people to shop with them directly.

While these tariffs didn’t directly affect the UK, it didn’t stop British social media users to see the videos that Chinese sellers were making about being able to by luxury products to a fraction of brands’ prices directly from the factories and wholesalers. This includes everything from designer clothes to furniture and home goods.

Doctor Shirley Bekker was one of many viewers who saw these videos on TikTok, and decided to book a spontaneous shopping trip to China in May 2025 in order to buy all the furniture she’d need for her future flat.

As she arrived in Foshan in China, a city known for its high manufacturing output to the world, having 30 towns specialised in particular industries, including furniture, machinery, and beverages, Shirley decided to document her shopping trip on TikTok to show people the big savings she was making.

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While Shirley herself hadn’t been convinced that travelling all the way to Foshan to buy furniture would be worth it, she quickly changed her mind when she found her ‘dream’ coffee table.

“It’s built on a solid wood platform, real glass on top, it’s really heavy, really durable, and just looks so luxe,” she said as she showed off the table, which also included wooded geometric details under the glass.

While it looked luxurious and expensive, she revealed that she’d only paid £150 for it, saying it cost her less than her HD frontal weave.

In her next video, she shared that she’d gotten a wooden dining table for £80, as well as customised chairs to go with it that matched the luxurious sofa she’d gotten for £340. She also made sure to get lamps and art to decorate her future how with as well.

While all of these sums do add up quickly, as she got home, Shirley decided to make a presentation to share how much money she’d saved after finding similar items sold in shops around the UK.

Starting off with the £80 wooden dining table she’d bought in China, she’d found an almost identical table being sold in B&Q for £349.99. While the import costs aren’t included in this comparison, Shirley saved £269.99 just from the table alone. Meanwhile, the two chairs she’d gotten for £65 each cost a whopping £990 each if she’d bought them in the UK.

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Shirley continued to go through the comparisons for all the different items she’d bought, only to come to the conclusion to how much she’d save.

“So in conclusion, you flew to all the way to China with nothing but a Monzo, Google Translate, and praised hands. You ran around for six days and bought enough stuff to furnish a bedroom, balcony, renovate a bathroom, and have enough dinnerware to host the royal family,” the voiceover said.

It continued: “Had you stayed in the UK and bought all the same things, this little venture would have cost you a grand total of £21,800. But all because you took the plunge and bought it all in China instead, you spent a grand total of £3,690.56.”

While these calculations did not include the shipping costs to get her furniture from China to the UK, Shirley still saved herself a whopping £18,109.04, which will most likely be more than enough to cover the shipping costs.

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Coffee drinkers love Aldi’s ‘amazing’ £23 travel item that’s ‘ideal for hotels’

The supermarket has delighted many coffee lovers with the lightweight product designed to be used on the go

Woman in dressing gown opens hotel curtains and looks out window
Aldi’s item is ideal for mornings spent away from home (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

Aldi has impressed coffee drinkers with a £22.99 item that enables you to “make exceptional espresso wherever you are.” The supermarket is stocking an Adventuridge Portable Coffee Maker that’s said to be “perfect for travel, camping, or on-the-go use.”

The travel item is one of the retailer’s SpecialBuy items, meaning it is only available while stock lasts. Based on social media reactions, the portable coffee maker could prove popular. The item received lots of attention when it was showcased in a Facebook post shared by Aldi UK.

The caption said: “No coffee shop, no problem. This is the perfect solution for those caffeine hits NEEDED after a sleepless night in a tent. Pick yours up in store now – perfect for everything from camping trips to office days.”

While some commenters had mixed views about the item, lots of viewers praised the idea. Someone replied: “These are amazing. Ideal for hotels too when you only get instant coffee and a kettle. I use one with a little pot of espresso on my travels.”

A coffee fan said: “I’ve got one of the Nanopresso (same design) and if you know how to use it, they make excellent coffees (from Espressos, Americanos and every other coffee type).” Another viewer wrote: “Be good for some footy.”

Another response read: “I’ll need this when we go camping.” Someone else told their colleague: “We should get this for work.” Meanwhile, another excited shopper said: “Bother, now I have to go to Aldi and I just got comfy.”

Portable Coffee Maker from Aldi
Portable Coffee Maker from Aldi(Image: Aldi)

However, not everyone was blown away, with one social media user saying: “Just have a simple flask!!!!” Someone else wrote: “What’s wrong with a kettle, a small stove, a cafetiere and a mug when camping?

“Similar to being in an office and you get much more bang for your buck.” A commenter added: “My travel mug keeps my coffee hot for hours. I don’t need one of these.”

For those who are interested in the portable coffee maker, a full product description is available on Aldi’s website. It states: “Enjoy your favourite espresso without the need for batteries or cords with our easy-to-use manual espresso maker. It’s perfect for travel, camping, or on-the-go use – giving you the freedom to make exceptional espresso wherever you are.”

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The description says that the “lightweight” coffee maker “works with any type of ground coffee, so you can customise your espresso to your liking” and that it “does not require compressed air or electricity.”

It’s also said that its “compact size makes it a great travel companion, fitting easily into your bag or backpack.” The coffee maker has a 1.5L capacity, and it comes with a one-year warranty. Product images are available to view on the website.

Shoppers can locate their nearest Aldi store here.

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I’m a hot sleeper, Simba’s ‘cool touch’ duvet sends me to sleep in a heatwave

Sleeping in the heat has interrupted my sleep pattern but Simba’s Summer Hybrid Duvet has been a game changer for regulating body heat at night

persons sleeping in bed
The summer hybrid duvet has a cool touch to help regulate body temperature

Sleeping in summer has been a struggle for me especially when the heatwave hit and I ended up tossing and turning in bed all night, but that’s not the case until I tried Simba’s Summer Hybrid Duvet, a down-like comfort designed for lightweight warmth.

Available in Single, Double, King and Super King with prices starting from £129, the Hybrid Duvet is a 4.5 Tog bedding that features innovative Stratos tech to keep hot sleepers like me to slumber down for a restful sleep. I don’t own a cooling fan so the special webbing pattern stitched to the bottom of the duvet is the next best thing that keeps me from oversweating at night.

While 10.5 Tog is generally considered for all-year use but for those who are prone to cold might want to invest in a two-in-one duvet such as Dusk’s Feels Like Down Duvet Collection, their All Seasons duvet is comprised of two separate 4.5 and 9 tog duvets, fastened together with buttons. It’s retailed at £63 but shoppers can enjoy 20% off with code EXTRA20 at checkout.

READ MORE: The dreamiest bedding sets to refresh your room for summer

READ MORE: ‘I tried a cooling blanket from Oodie to see if it would help me sleep in a heatwave’

I have been sleeping with open windows and legs out of my duvet cover but the traffic noise and night owls on the street have made an impact on my sleep quality. Since I swapped my duvet to Simba’s Hybrid Duvet, I’ve had some of the most peaceful sleeps and it kept my body temperature cool.

The special square stitched Simba Renew Bio Fibres fill prevents any uneven coverage and the fresh cotton cover had me ditching the duvet cover. Having said that, there is a risk of getting stains on the pristine white fabric.

Simba Summer Hybrid Duvet

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From £129

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Offering superbly light and gentle warmth, it’s made from recycled plastic bottle fibres combed into airy layers, and is designed to allow plenty of airflow through the duvet for wonderful, drier warmth.

But shoppers will be pleased to know that it is machine washable and it fits in most at-home washing machines and it also dries pretty fast (when the sun is out and about).

For those who prefer to add colours or patterns to their bedding essentials, the Night Lark Gingham Print Coverless Duvet in blue and taupe are perfect for summer styles and they are available in both 4.5 and 10.5 tog with prices starting from £60.

duvet
I’ve been sleeping soundly in hot days with this new duvet

I enjoy using the Simba duvet however, my brother is not a big fan as he finds it “too cold”. He said: “It’s nice to sleep in it but after a few hours, I felt cold and had to grab a fleece throw instead. It’s too lightweight and I like to sleep with a weighted blanket.”

While some customers find it pricey but for me, it saved me from buying a cooling fan, which could cost £100 extra. One shopper added: “A wonderful duvet, I cannot recommend it more. Just like a feather on top of you, and seems very temperature regulating.”

Another shared: “Warm yet light and regulates temperature so well. We are using the duvet now when we would have changed to a low tog summer duvet to keep cool. It’s not immediately obvious which is the top and bottom side so adding a label which states top and underside would be helpful.”

The Simba Hybrid Duvet is available to purchase here.

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