How BNPL Is Changing Big Purchases Like Holidays and Furniture…
Once upon a time, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) was reserved for new trainers, makeup splurges, and late-night impulse buys. But in 2025, the landscape looks very different. Today, you can finance everything from your dream holiday to your new sofa using BNPL services, which are often interest-free.
As the cost of living continues to strain monthly budgets, more people are using BNPL to manage big-ticket purchases without turning to traditional credit cards. But is it a savvy budgeting hack or a slippery slope? In this article, we’ll explore how BNPL is used for larger purchases, its pros and cons, and tips for using it wisely.
BNPL for Travel: Book Now, Pay Later
Are you dreaming of a summer escape to Spain or a long weekend in the Lakes District? You’re not alone. As travel rebounds post-pandemic, more consumers are using BNPL to lock in deals while spreading out the cost.
Platforms like Fly Now Pay Later, Klarna, and even PayPal Pay in 3 allow travellers to break payments into manageable chunks, often without interest. Some travel booking sites now integrate these options directly at checkout.
Example: A £1,200 trip with Fly Now Pay Later could be split into 12 payments of £100 each, making a dream getaway more financially accessible.
BNPL for Furniture and Home Essentials
The living room overhaul you’ve been putting off? Now it’s easier than ever to finance it through BNPL. Retailers like DFS, IKEA, and independent homeware brands offer interest-free instalment plans via providers such as Clearpay, PayPal Credit, and Klarna.
High-ticket items like sofas, beds, and wardrobes are prime candidates for BNPL, especially during sales when waiting for payday might mean missing out. BNPL gives households a way to upgrade now and pay over time.
How About High-Value Tech and Appliances?
BNPL isn’t stopping at holidays and homeware. Consumers increasingly use services like Zilch, Butter, and Zip to break down expensive tech and appliance purchases, from MacBooks to washing machines.
If you’re shopping with big-name retailers – think Currys, AO, or Apple – there’s often a BNPL option waiting at checkout. Just be aware that some larger purchases come with longer repayment periods, and not all offers are interest-free.
Pros and Cons of Using BNPL for Big Purchases
BNPL can be a game-changer or a budgeting misfire. Here’s a quick look at the upsides and risks:
Pros:
– Instant access to big purchases without draining savings
– Avoids credit card interest if repaid on time
– Quick, easy approval (often no hard credit checks)
Cons:
– Easy to overspend when payments feel small
– Late fees and missed payments may impact your credit score
– Some providers charge interest for extended plans
As with any financial tool, the trick is to use it with intention, not impulse.
Smart Tips for Staying in Control
Using BNPL responsibly for big buys isn’t hard; it just takes a bit of planning:
– Know your limits: Don’t use BNPL for more than one or two big purchases at a time
– Turn on payment reminders: Most apps allow email or push notifications
– Read the fine print: Especially with longer-term plans, some include interest after a few months
– Check your budget: Make sure repayments won’t disrupt essential bills
– Use interest-free offers only: If you’re not saving money, it’s not worth it
The Future of BNPL for Big Purchases
BNPL is rapidly evolving, and it’s not just for online checkouts anymore. In-store financing, app-based BNPL debit cards, and integration with budgeting tools make it even easier to use BNPL for major life purchases.
Some providers are also launching loyalty schemes and cashback perks to compete with traditional credit cards. As regulation increases, the emphasis is shifting from ‘impulse-friendly’ to ‘budget-conscious’ – potentially making BNPL more responsible and mainstream.
Conclusion: Buy Smart, Pay Later
From luxury sofas to dream vacations, BNPL now covers a much broader spending spectrum. Used well, it can be a budgeting ally, helping you spread out costs and avoid dipping into savings. But it’s not free money. Every BNPL transaction is still a commitment. The golden rule? If you wouldn’t buy it with cash, don’t buy it with credit – even if it’s interest-free.
BNPL has opened new doors for consumers looking to finance bigger life purchases. Just be sure you walk through them with your eyes open.
