Over a third of Brits claim they have less spare time in summer months

15 August 2023 , 12:37

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Over a third of Brits say barbeques are their top favourite summertime meal (Image: Kinga Krzeminska/Getty Images)

Over a third of Brits (37%) claim they have less spare time during the summer months – due to spending more time with friends and family (37%), and wanting to make the most of the good weather (42%).

Other reasons busy Brits find themselves short of time during the warmer months include attending or hosting barbeques, going to festivals or on trips, and taking on more DIY around the home, due to the fair weather.

And a poll of 2,000 adults found that almost three-quarters (72%) look forward to summer mealtime moments – with barbeques (35%) and outdoor “picky” teas (13%) named as some of the favourite summer meals.

However, almost half of those polled (45%) admit they have hosted an event without all the necessary food and drink – as 57% claim they ran out of time to pick up foods to cater for alternative dietary requirements and preferences.

As a result, 44% have ended up ordering food and drink in, while 43% have resorted to asking guests to bring items.

Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

The research was commissioned by Tesco to highlight its Whoosh delivery service, which can now deliver from 20 minutes.

And nearly four in ten say they spend more time with friends and family during summer than at any other time of year (SWNS)

It also emerged 37% spend more time with friends and family during the summer compared to the rest of the year, as they find it easier to make plans when the weather’s nice, and get invited to more gatherings.

But while 44% of those polled, via OnePoll, have hosted impromptu social gatherings where the weather has turned out better than expected, 41% have had summer mealtime moments ruined by unexpected rain.

This left 57% cooking indoors, while 27% tried to brave the weather and power on. However, 18% ditched all food preparation, and opted to order food in to feed their guests.

And 26% have hosted a gathering that lasted longer than expected, leaving them making a mid-event dash to pick up extra drinks and nibbles.

The study also found 59% are more impulsive in the summer months, with 31% frequently making spontaneous plans due to the warmer weather and lighter evenings.

Although 24% have found themselves under prepared for things like birthday parties and barbecues – due to leaving themselves little time to prep, more guests turning up than expected, and prioritising other things.

And 34% have returned from holiday unprepared, as they realised they’ve got nothing in the fridge – leaving 42% forking out for a takeaway.

TOP 10 REASONS BRITS ARE TIME-POOR DURING THE SUMMER:

1. Wanting to make the most of being out in the good weather
2. An increased number of social occasions
3. More family days out with partner and/or kids
4. Planning for an upcoming holiday or day trips
5. Taking on more home DIY due to the fair weather
6. Increased childcare requirements due to school holidays
7. Attending barbeques
8. Their work schedule is busier during the summer months
9. Hosting barbeques
10. Going to festivals or on trips

Sarah Lumley