Unlocking your dream experiences in 2025: 5 essential hacks for consumers

As we approach the end of the year, many of us will begin thinking about unforgettable experiences they wish to have in 2025. Whether it's catching that much-anticipated concert, unwinding at a wellness retreat, traveling abroad, or diving into outdoor adventures, our research how shown that consumers are prioritizing making memories through experiences more than ever.

But with demand for these experiences higher than ever, a little savvy planning can go a long way. The good news? There are simple strategies you can employ right now to get ahead. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer escape or planning a trip to the theater, these hacks will help you turn your wish list into reality without losing out to last-minute rushes. 

1. Smart annual leave: Maximise your time off  
  
Being in the moments that matter to you in 2025 will require time, so being savvy with your annual leave and bank holidays is essential. With a bit of planning, you can create extended breaks that maximise your time off work. In 2025, bank holidays fall on strategic dates, allowing you to combine them with annual leave for longer holidays or weekends away. For example, if you take just a few days off around the May Day holiday, you could secure a week-long escape. This tactic not only gives you more time to explore bucket-list destinations or attend popular events, but it can also save you money on accommodation and travel, as prices tend to soar during peak periods.  
  
2. Sign up for pre-sale alerts and mailing lists  
  
In-demand experiences, such as concerts and live events, can sell out within minutes. To enhance your chances of securing tickets, sign up for pre-sale alerts from platforms such as Live Nation, and mailing lists for your favourite artists, venues, and festivals. Many organisations offer early access to tickets for subscribers, providing a vital edge when it comes to popular events. By being proactive and registering ahead of time, you can ensure that you’re first in line when tickets go live, giving you a better shot at experiencing those events that are high on your list.  
  
3. Tap up your friends and contacts  
  
For experiences that are particularly hard to secure, such as music festivals or sold-out concerts, use your social network. Many events allow multiple ticket purchases in one transaction, so coordinating with your friends and family can significantly improve your chances of success. Plus it also allows you to attend and share these experiences with your closest social circle creating lasting memories together. Mastercard research from this year shows a third of Europeans find shared experience with other deeply enriching. 
  
4. Travel during the shoulder season  
  
As climate patterns shift, the ‘shoulder months’—specifically May and September—are becoming increasingly popular and more affordable for travel within Europe. These months often feature pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices on flights and accommodation. By planning your trips for these months, you can enjoy bucket-list destinations without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist times. To save even more, consider booking on Travel Tuesday—the day after Cyber Monday—when travel deals are typically at their best, offering significant discounts on flights and accommodation.  This strategy could make for a more enjoyable experience and open up opportunities to explore more expensive attractions at a fraction of the cost. 

5. Use social media for inspiration  
  
Social media platforms are treasure troves of inspiration for unique experiences. In 2025, make it a habit to scroll through your feeds for ideas on areas including wellness retreats, outdoor excursions, or travel destinations that pique your interest. Follow influencers and brands that align with your passions; they often share tips on the hottest events and hidden gems. By curating a collection of potential experiences through social media, you can create a personalised wishlist that guides your planning for the year ahead. 

For even more inspiration, you can discover unique and unforgettable experiences worldwide on Priceless.com. It’s more than just discounts—think VIP concert tickets, exclusive sports events, and cooking classes with top chefs. From dining to travel and entertainment, Priceless.com platform can give you special access to moments that are hard to find anywhere else.  

The demand for meaningful experiences is only set to grow next year, and with the right approach, your most-wanted adventures are well within reach. By planning ahead, using smart tactics, and leaning on your network, you can turn these experiences into reality—without the stress of last-minute scrambles or overspending. So whether you're booking flights or concert tickets, remember: a little strategy goes a long way in securing the unforgettable moments that make life richer. Here’s to a year filled with unforgettable moments—because in 2025, the best memories are made when you’ve got the right plan in place.