We get it – the 9-5 grind is tough, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle. But let’s be real: finding balance and prioritising self-care is more important than ever. That’s where a wellness holiday comes in! It’s the perfect way to break free from the everyday and focus on you.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of a wellness holiday, the best types of retreats to try, and tips to help you find the perfect escape for your next trip.

Contents:

• Why you should try a wellness holiday
• Find the right holiday for you
• 3 wellness resorts to check out
• 3 activities to try
• 5 self-care tips for your holiday

Why you should try a wellness holiday

Taking time for yourself isn't just a luxury – it's essential. Here's why wellness holidays deserve a spot on your travel bucket list:

1. Reduce stress

Breaking away from your usual environment helps reset your stress response. Studies show that even a short wellness break can significantly reduce cortisol levels and improve cognitive function.

2. Physical rejuvenation

Wellness holidays prioritise activities that nourish your body. From the state-of-the-art fitness facilities on Marella Cruises to the thermal spa treatments at TUI's mountain retreats, these experiences help release tension, improve circulation and restore physical vitality.

3. Improve your sleep

Many of us struggle with sleep in our day-to-day lives. Wellness retreats often focus on creating optimal sleep environments and routines. Without the blue light disruption and schedule demands of normal life, you'll likely have a better night's sleep!

Find the right wellness holiday for you

Not all wellness holidays are the same, and choosing the right one depends on what you need most. Whether you're looking for deep relaxation, an adventure or a mix of both, here’s how to find the perfect break:

Need a total reset? Try a spa & relaxation retreat

If relaxation is your top priority, a spa holiday is your go-to escape. Expect luxurious treatments, thermal pools and tranquil settings that help you truly unwind.

TUI’s spa holidays offer luxury spa treatments that pamper you from head to toe. Many of these resorts feature saunas, hot tubs and serene pool areas where you can fully relax.

Best for: Overworked professionals, busy parents or anyone craving total relaxation.

Want to move more? Opt for a ski trip

If you love being active but also want time to relax, a ski holiday is the perfect balance. Ski holidays let you enjoy fresh mountain air, thrilling slopes and restorative spa treatments at the end of the day.

Crystal Ski offers wellness-focused ski resorts where you can combine adventure with deep relaxation. These getaways include spa treatments, yoga and relaxation therapies, combining adventure with deep relaxation.

Best for: Adventure seekers, fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Looking for inner peace? A yoga retreat is calling

If your goal is to disconnect from stress and find balance, a yoga or meditation retreat is ideal. These retreats often take place in scenic locations like Thailand or Bali, with daily yoga sessions, guided meditation and nutritious meals.

Booking.com has a variety of yoga retreats worldwide, from beachfront escapes to serene mountain hideaways. Discover five of their top yoga retreat destinations here.

Best for: Mindfulness seekers, spiritual travellers and those needing a digital detox.

Want a bit of everything? Consider a cruise

Can’t decide between relaxation and exploration? A cruise lets you have both of both worlds.

Marella Cruises offers all-inclusive voyages where you can enjoy spa treatments, sunrise yoga, healthy dining and exciting shore excursions - all in one trip.

Best for: Travellers who want variety, couples and those who love discovering new places.

Travelling Solo? Go for a specialised solo trip

Travelling solo doesn’t mean travelling alone. Whether you want a peaceful escape or an active break, these retreats let you focus on yourself while meeting like-minded travellers.

Just You offers wellness-focused solo retreats where everything is planned for you, from accommodations to activities.

Best for: Independent travellers, self-discovery seekers and those who need a solo recharge.

3 wellness resorts to check out

Croatia: TUI BLUE Adriatic Beach

Croatia is more than just a Game of Thrones backdrop - it’s a dream destination for history lovers and sun seekers. Explore Plitvice National Park in the north or unwind along the Dalmatian Coast, where pine-backed beaches and fresh seafood await. For a truly tranquil escape, check out TUI BLUE Adriatic Beach in Makarska. Nestled at the foot of a pine-clad mountain, this adults-only retreat features a sea-facing infinity pool with Balinese day beds and a luxurious spa for ultimate relaxation.

Jamaica: Azul Beach Resort Negril

For the ultimate wellness escape, Jamaica’s Negril is the place to be. Home to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, this paradise is all about white sands, turquoise waters and total relaxation. Stay at Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma, where you’ll wake up just steps from the shore. Unwind with beachfront yoga and tai chi, indulge in massage huts on the sand, or relax in the spa’s sauna and steam room. Plus, with gourmet dining and a speciality coffee shop, you’ll be living the laid-back island dream.

Thailand: TUI BLUE Khao Lak Resort

Thailand is a tropical paradise where palm-fringed beaches, peaceful temples and seaside massage huts create the ultimate escape. For a romantic couple’s retreat, TUI BLUE Khao Lak Resort is an ideal choice. This adults-only haven sits right on the beach and features five tranquil pools, beachfront yoga, and guided walks. Indulge in a side-by-side massage by the sea, then enjoy a gourmet dinner with ocean views - the perfect way to unwind in the Land of Smiles.

Found your dream retreat? Now it’s time to lock in a great deal on flights. Check out our guide on how to find the best flight deals so you can get there for less and save more for those spa treatments!

3 activities to try

Spending time in nature is one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate both your body and mind. Nature-based wellness activities help you reconnect with the outdoors and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and natural surroundings. Here are some activities to try on your trip:

Guided experiences

TUI Musement offers incredible guided experiences that connect you with nature in meaningful ways. From dolphin watching in the Algarve to their National Geographic Tours in Cancun – watch the spirit of exploration come to life.

Beach yoga

There's something magical about practising yoga with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves as your soundtrack. Marella Cruises offers sunrise and sunset beach yoga sessions at various port stops, allowing you to strengthen your body while connecting with the ocean's natural rhythm.

Costal walks

For a wellness break closer to home, the National Trust coastal paths offer breathtaking sea views and refreshing hikes along dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches.

From the rugged landscapes of the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland to the stunning South West Coast Path in Cornwall, these trails provide the perfect setting for UK-based wellness holidays where you can clear your mind while connecting with Britain's natural heritage.

5 self-care tips for your wellness holiday

Taking a wellness holiday is a great start, but making the most of it means prioritising self-care. Here’s how you can truly unwind and recharge:

• Disconnect to reconnect: Set digital boundaries like “no phone before noon” or a full detox to stay present and enjoy the moment.
• Prioritise rest: Improve sleep with a wind-down routine - use a sleep mask, try a meditation app or go to bed earlier. Wellness retreats often offer sleep therapy, so take advantage!
• Move in a way that feels good: Skip intense workouts if they’re not your thing. Opt for morning yoga, a scenic walk or a relaxing swim - whatever feels natural and restorative.
• Nourish your body: Enjoy treats, but also fuel yourself with fresh, wholesome foods. Wellness resorts often have nutrition-focused menus - perfect for trying new, energising flavours.
• Bring the calm home: Keep the wellness vibes going by incorporating small habits from your trip, like meditation, healthier eating, or simply taking more mindful breaks.

A wellness holiday isn't just a luxury – it's an investment in yourself. Taking time to disconnect from daily stress and focus on your well-being helps you return feeling recharged, inspired and healthier. Whether you're craving a spa retreat or a yoga escape, the perfect break is waiting for you.

When you book your trip via Give as you Live Online, you can raise free donations for your chosen charity! Whether you’re booking a luxury resort, flight or travel essentials, your getaway can make a difference.

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post The Ultimate Guide For Your Wellness Holiday appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

With the cost of living on the rise, we know that every penny counts but even during these challenging times, saving is possible.

Whether you are looking to start saving for a rainy day, a new home or that dream holiday, here are our 10 saving tips to help get you started:

1. Record your expenses
2. Plan a budget
3. Find ways to cut spending
4. Search for discounts
5. Save money on Insurance
6. Pick the right tools
7. Book a free savings review
8. Make savings automatic
9. Check what you are entitled to
10. 4 saving challenges to try

Record your expenses

The first step to saving money is keeping track of how much you spend each month. This should include all of your expenses, including your monthly bills, household items and even the occasional coffee on the go.

You can track your expenses in multiple ways, it can be as simple as writing them down, completing a spreadsheet or using money management tools. Most banks – including HSBC and Halifax – allow you to opt-in to transaction notifications so you can keep track of what you have spent and received.

TIP: Refer back to your bank statements to make sure you’ve included everything and to help get a more accurate idea of your spending habits.

Plan a budget

Now that you know your monthly expenses, it's time to create a budget. This should compare your expenses to your income, helping you plan what to spend. Remember to include occasional expenses like car maintenance.

Be sure to set aside a portion for savings. Start with an amount that feels manageable and aim to gradually increase it over time. Make sure you find a balance; everyone deserves a treat now and again!

TIP: MoneyHelper have a free budget planner tool you can use to help you record all your spending. They also provided personalised tips when you have finished!

Find ways to cut spending

Review your spending habits and identify areas where you can cut back. For instance, limit dining out, cancel unused subscriptions, or switch to a more affordable utility provider. To start, you could challenge yourself to spend nothing on one weekend every month. Enjoy free activities like a walk and use up leftover food to stretch your budget further!

TIP:  Give as you Switch allows you to compare the best deals on all your Insurance needs including utilities. This will help you find the best deals and even more ways to cut your spending. The best part? You can raise up to £25 for your chosen charity for FREE!

Search for discounts

One of the easiest ways to save money is by searching for discounts and using vouchers. Give as you Live Online has a range of voucher codes to help you find the best deals. The best part? Every time you shop via Give as you Live Online, you’ll raise a free donation for your chosen charity too!

TIP:  Which? offer a wealth of resources, including detailed product reviews and price comparisons. Their insights can help you make informed decisions and find the best deals, ensuring that you get both quality and value for your money.

Save money on Insurance

Insurance is essential, but that doesn’t mean you should overpay. Shop around and compare quotes to ensure you're getting the best deal. Use comparison websites like Compare the Market or MoneySuperMarket to find the most competitive rates on your insurance.

Consider bundling policies with the same provider, as companies often offer discounts for multiple policies. Discover our top insurance tips here.

TIP: To save money on insurance, avoid monthly payments with high interest. If possible, pay your premiums upfront - it's a simple budgeting tip that can save you a lot over time.

Pick the right tools

To achieve your savings and investment goals, explore a range of options for both short and long-term needs. For short-term goals, consider high-interest savings accounts from your bank. For long-term growth, investment platforms like Scottish Friendly offer products such as unit trusts and investment bonds.

Evaluate options based on balance requirements, fees, interest rates and accessibility. By choosing a mix of savings accounts and investment tools that fit your goals, you can effectively balance risk and return to grow your savings.

TIP: Some savings and investment accounts have minimum balance requirements. Ensure your chosen option aligns with your financial situation.

Book a free savings review

Many providers, such as Nationwide, offer a free savings review service. They will help you assess your current financial situation and provide saving tips to get you started.

TIP: Get advice from Experian’s CreditExpert to understand how your credit score affects your savings and receive tips on improving it. Better credit can help you save on interest rates and loans.

Make savings automatic

Streamline your savings with automation! Set up automatic transfers from your bank account to your savings account to avoid impulsive spending. Many banks also offer rewards programs that allow you to redeem points for cash back or gift cards. Directly deposit these rewards into your savings account for a hands-off approach to saving.

TIP: Enable round-up savings on your debit or credit card. Every transaction will be rounded up to the nearest pound, and the difference will be transferred to your savings. It's a small change that can make a big difference over time!

Check what you are entitled to

Did you know that billions of pounds in government benefits and allowances go unclaimed each year? Make sure you're not missing out! Claiming what you're entitled to could give your income and savings a valuable boost.

TIP: Use free benefits calculators like the ones at GOV.UK to check your eligibility.

4 saving challenges to try

• Take the 1p Challenge: One of the best saving tips is to start small. Save 1p on day 1, 2p on day 2, and so on. By the end of the year, you'll have over £650 in savings.

• Save before you splurge: This money tip encourages you to save the equivalent of what you plan to spend on a treat. Before buying that £30 dress, save £30 by cutting back on other expenses. It's a great way to build your savings while controlling impulse spending.

• Try a 52-week savings challenge: Start by saving £1 in week 1, £2 in week 2 and so on, increasing your savings by £1 each week. By the end of the year, you'll have saved £1,378. It's a gradual and manageable way to build your savings while developing a consistent savings habit.

• The 30-wear challenge: This challenge encourages you to commit to wearing any new item of clothing at least 30 times before replacing it. This will help you think twice about your purchases, promoting mindful shopping habits. It’s also a great way to reduce waste, save money, and support sustainability. Discover more ways to save money on your clothing here.

Saving money doesn't have to be overwhelming. With just a few small adjustments to your daily habits and a bit of planning, you can start saving in no time! By implementing our saving tips and challenges, you'll watch your savings grow in no time!

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What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

Sign Up >

The post Saving Tips: 10 Effortless Ways To Grow Your Savings appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

If you’re looking to start raising free donations using the Give as you Live Online Donation Reminder, you might need to uninstall other browser extensions, as they may interfere with the tracking needed for retailers to provide a donation.

This guide will show you how to quickly remove and disable browser extensions on popular browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer.

Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome and click the three vertical dots in the top right corner.
2. Go to Extensions > Manage Extensions.
3. Toggle off the switch for extensions you want to disable or click "Remove" for permanent deletion.

Safari:

1. Open Safari and go to Preferences.
2. Go to Extensions and uncheck the box next to the extensions you want to disable.
3. Click "Uninstall" to remove them completely.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox and click the three horizontal lines in the top right corner.
2. Go to Add-ons and Themes > Extensions.
3. Find the extension and click the toggle switch to disable it.
4. Click the three dots next to the extension and then "Remove" to delete it permanently.

Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Edge and click the three dots in the top right corner.
2. Select "Extensions".
3. Find the extension you want to remove and toggle the switch to disable it.
4. Hover over the extension, click the gear icon, and select "Uninstall" to remove it permanently.

Internet Explorer:

1. Open Internet Explorer and click the gear icon in the top right corner.
2. Select "Manage add-ons".
3. Find the extension you want to remove from the list.
4. Click on the extension and then select "Disable."

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post How To Remove And Disable Browser Extensions appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

How to ensure you never miss a donation for your charity with Give as you Live Online

If you’ve been using the Give as you Live Online Donation Reminder you may have noticed that you don’t see the pop-up on a small number of stores. This might be because the retailer doesn’t allow our pop-up to be active, but you can still raise free donations for your charity!

Contents:

1. Why can’t I see the Donation Reminder pop-up?
2. How can I still raise a donation?
3. Which retailers don’t allow the Donation Reminder pop-up?

Why can’t I see the Donation Reminder pop-up?

The Donation Reminder is a fantastic tool to ensure you never miss an opportunity to raise a free donation for your charity with Give as you Live Online. However, a small number of retailers have rules that mean the Donation Reminder pop-ups are not allowed to notify you of the opportunity to raise. If you visit a retailer that doesn’t allow the pop-up, the good news is that you CAN still raise a donation on your purchase.

How can I still raise a donation?

If you visit a retailer and don’t see a pop-up from your Donation Reminder, follow these steps:

1. Click the heart icon on your toolbar to open the Donation Reminder
2. You’ll see the retailer displayed along with their donation rates. Click ‘Turn on Give as you Live’
3. That’s it! Your visit is now tracked, and a donation will be added to your account within 7 days if you complete a qualifying purchase

Which retailers don’t allow the Donation Reminder pop-up?

Fortunately, there are only a small number of retailers that don’t allow the Give as you Live Online Donation Reminder pop-ups to be active. These include eBay, Booking.com, Waitrose, TK Maxx and ASOS – but you can still raise a free donation for your charity by following the steps above.

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post A Note For Donation Reminder Users appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

Did you know, you can raise free donations for charity? Invite your friends to join Give as you Live Online and when they raise £5 from their online shopping, we'll donate £5 to your charity for FREE!

Contents:

• How does it work?
• Can £5 make a difference?
• Ways to raise donations

How does it work?

It's as easy as 1,2,3! You can unlock unlimited £5 donations for your chosen charity with these three steps:

The more people you invite, the more donations you can raise. If five of your friends sign up and shop, that’s £25 you can raise for free!

Can £5 really make a difference?

A £5 donation can help charities carry out the vital work they do. Here are some examples of what a £5 donation can do when you refer a friend:

“£5 pays for annual storage of 15 DNA samples for future research.”

Motor Neurone Disease Association

“£5 could provide a new training lead for one of our canine residents.”

Dogs Trust

“£5 could help give children in distress or danger a place to turn.”

NSPCC

Three easy ways to start raising donations:

Make fundraising easy for your friends! Here are 3 ways they can start raising donations from their online shopping:

1. Buy Groceries: Raise money on essentials at Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Iceland and more!
2. Book a Trip: Raise donations on everything from hotels to cruises!
3. Update your wardrobe: Need a style refresh? Raise donations with some of the biggest fashion retailers.

Don't forget, there is no limit on the number of people you can refer to Give as you Live Online! The more people you refer, the more donations you can raise for your charity for free.

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post Raise Free Donations For Charity, When You Spread The Word! appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

It’s worth spending a little more time than usual shopping smartly online to ensure you get good value, especially with car insurance, but also for other needs like home, travel, and life insurance.

Where insurance companies know people struggle to afford these big rises, some have looked to keep prices low by removing some cover elements. So it’s important to look beyond just the price and question whether you might be creating a false economy for yourself in what you won’t be entitled to, should the need arise.

Contents:

• How and where to look
• 10 tips to be a savvy insurance buyer

How and where to look

Before diving into online comparison sites, it’s important to identify your specific needs. This will help you compare plans more effectively. If you are looking for car insurance, Compare the Market has a great breakdown of insurance types here.

When it comes to researching insurance quotes, the internet is your friend, so do make use of the UK insurance industry’s many comparison websites.

Pricing is very fluid at the moment, and there is a lot of competition between individual insurers and the platform itself, so don’t assume you’re seeing the best possible price just because you’re using the one platform that advertises the most!

Over 80% of car insurance was bought via Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket and Confused.com in 2021. All of these major providers can generate a donation through Give as you Live Online.

But we also offer several niche providers who may be able to offer you a better price (and donation) because they want customers whose profile your circumstances match, whether that’s because of your age, where you live, the size of your family, or what you want to insure.

Our 10 top tips for being a savvy insurance buyer

1. Be honest

It is never worth attempting to get a better price by providing false or misleading information. Insurers have sophisticated checking systems, and we all have a digital data footprint that can be examined. Having your cover cancelled or claims rejected will cost you far more in the long run.

2. Be aware that your job title matters

Having said that, be honest, there is one area where you have some important wriggle room: your job title. Insurers use lists of job titles as part of their risk analysis, and there are legitimate options which can save you money. Money Saving Expert has a tool to help you do this safely.

3. Timing is important

Try not to leave buying insurance until the last minute; you will often get a better price 3 weeks ahead of your renewal date than in the last 3 days. Make sure you know your renewal dates by adding them to your Give as you Live Online account; we’ll send you a handy reminder when you’re coming to the end of your deal!

4. Avoid the cost of credit if you can

5. Speak to your existing provider about their renewal quote

Which? surveys have shown that around 70% of people who wanted to renew an existing policy were able to secure an additional discount, just by querying the quoted price by phone, without having to accept any reduction in the terms of cover. Due to changes in the law, swapping to a new provider every year isn’t the guarantee of a lower price than it used to be, so renewal is now a more likely option for you, especially if you’re armed with a cheaper quote from a competitor.

6. Look into a Telematics policy

Technology is playing an increasingly large role in the provision of insurance. For car insurance, one of the main recent innovations has been the option to have a telematics black box in your car, which records data about your usage and driving style

If this is available to you, many insurers will take this as a strong signal that you intend to be careful and price your premium accordingly. Even if it doesn’t make a huge difference in year one of a policy, it may well give you a larger reduction in year two.

Uswitch, Compare the Market, and RAC all offer Telematic policies which you can raise free donations when you go via Give as you Live Online.

7. Consider what excess you can afford

Your policy’s voluntary excess is an amount set by you, as your payment towards any claim. If you know you are less risky than your basic circumstances might suggest, then you can, in effect, take that bet on yourself, increase your excess contribution and reduce your upfront costs – as long as you don’t need to make a claim.

8. Look at whether a Pass Plus discount is available

9. Bundle types of insurance

There are various ways of combining insurance coverage to make it as cost-effective as possible. For car insurance, you can look at multi-car cover insurance if you have several vehicles in the family. Larger insurers will offer bundles of types of insurance, for example, home and car.

10. Check you’re not duplicating cover or paying for add-ons

There’s nothing more frustrating than paying for something you never needed. Check whether your bank account offers any forms of insurance as a benefit (travel and/or mobile phone insurance, for example, is quite common.

Do remember, next year’s premium for any type of insurance is ultimately in your hands. Not making a claim is the surest way to reduce future costs. Whether you’re insuring your home, car, travel, pets or belongings, keep yourself safe. And by clicking through to your insurer from Give as you Live Online, let’s do some good for charity by raising a generous free donation.

Fundraising doesn’t need to be extraordinary. Just give as you live your ordinary life.

The post How To Be A Smart Buyer Of Insurance Online appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

Are you new to secondhand fashion and eager to make more eco-friendly clothing choices? Or maybe you’d like to invest in some designer labels without breaking the bank. If so, secondhand fashion is for you! In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through the essentials of secondhand fashion.

• What is secondhand fashion?
• What are the benefits of secondhand fashion?
• How do I shop secondhand?
• Where can I buy secondhand?
• How can I upcycle?

What is secondhand fashion?

Secondhand fashion refers to clothing and accessories that were owned by someone else and are now being resold rather than thrown away.

According to Oxfam, every week, 13 million clothing items end up in a UK landfill. By embracing secondhand fashion, it not only rescues clothing from landfills but also reduces textile waste and contributes to a more environmentally conscious economy.

What are the benefits of secondhand fashion?

By giving preloved clothing a second chance, you're not only making a positive impact on our environment; you're also unlocking a treasure trove of benefits tailored just for you, including:

 Budget-friendly fashion: Buying secondhand means you can acquire high-quality items at a fraction of their original cost. Depop found that 18–35-year-olds in the UK could save an average of £535 per year by buying secondhand clothes.

Style experimentation: Explore various styles and looks without a hefty price tag, granting you the freedom to evolve your fashion preferences and experiment with confidence.

Supporting charities: According to the BBC, over half of all secondhand clothes in the UK come from charity shops. Clothing is one of the biggest sources of funds for many charities, and it helps to fund a wide range of programs and services.

Historical and cultural connections: You will often come across one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, and you're unlikely to find anyone else wearing the same thing as you. Vintage pieces are often made from high-quality materials and construction methods. This means that they are more likely to last longer than cheaply made new clothes.

The thrill of the hunt: Shopping secondhand can be like going on a treasure hunt. You never know what you might find, and there's always the chance of stumbling upon a unique or valuable item.

How do I shop secondhand?

Shopping secondhand can be a rewarding and sustainable experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get started:

Where can I buy secondhand?

There are many ways to buy secondhand clothes, including local charity shops, from friends and family, and at car boot sales. You can raise free donations from your online shopping when you shop via Give as you Live Online with these secondhand retailers:

Love the thrill of the auction? eBay will donate 0.50% of every purchase to the charity of your choice when you shop using Give as you Live Online.

Did you know, Oxfam have an online shop? It's the go-to place for second-hand goods, with lots of designer items at incredible prices.

As well as supporting Oxfam's vital work with every purchase, for every sale, they'll donate 5% to your favourite charity when you shop via Give as you Live Online!

Preloved is an online community full of people selling nearly new and vintage bargains in over 500 categories.

When you sign up via Give as you Live Online, they'll pay donations to the charity of your choice at no cost to you!

How can I upcycle?

Using secondhand clothes is a great opportunity to get creative and express yourself! You can upcycle secondhand clothes into unique and stylish pieces with these projects:

• Dye: Dye your clothes to give them a new lease of life. You can use fabric dye to change the colour completely or use tie-dye or other techniques to create unique patterns.
• Iron-on patches: Personalise your clothes with iron-on patches. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, so you can find the perfect one to match your style.
• Fabric glue: Add embellishments to your clothes with fabric glue, such as patches, lace, or appliqués. You can also use it to repair holes and tears.
• Cut and tie: This simple and versatile technique can be used to create a variety of new garments and accessories. For example, cut a T-shirt into a crop top, tie two shirts together to make a skirt, or cut up a sweater to make leg warmers.
• Sewing: If you know how to sew, you can upcycle secondhand clothes into all sorts of new creations. For example, you could turn a pair of jeans into a skirt, a dress into a top, or a sweater into a scarf.

Here are some other great upcycling ideas:

Be open-minded and don't be afraid to experiment. There are no rules when it comes to upcycling!

In the world of secondhand fashion and upcycling, the possibilities are endless, and your choices can make a positive impact. Dive in, save money, save the planet, and have fun expressing your unique style! Don't forget you can raise free donations when you shop with secondhand retailers via Give as you Live Online!

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post Secondhand Fashion For Beginners: A Guide To Sustainable Style appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

If you have a charity close to your heart, Give as you Live Online is a great way to support them without having to spend any extra time or money. It's a win-win for everyone involved: you get to raise donations from your shopping for your favourite charity, and your charity receives a donation without any extra cost! In this blog, we answer some of our most-asked questions about Give as you Live Online.

Contents:

1. What Is Give as you Live Online?
2. How Does Give as you Live Online Work?
3. How Can I Raise Donations From Shopping?
4. Why Should I Use Give as you Live Online?

What Is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a leading fundraising platform that allows you to raise free donations for charity simply by shopping online. When you shop at any of our 6,000+ retailers, we donate a percentage of the commission we receive from your purchase to your chosen charity.

Give as you Live Online is part of Give as you Live Ltd, alongsideGive as you Live Donate and Give as you Live Instore. Since 2005, UK charities and fundraisers have benefitted from direct donations and Fundraising Pages. We have worked with thousands of charities, fundraisers and retailers to raise over $grandTotalRound for charities.

How Does Give as you Live Online Work?

It's simple! You can raise free donations from your shopping with these three easy steps:

1. Browse: Start by visiting our website, Donation Reminder, or App. From there, you can browse over 6,000 participating retailers.
2. Shop: Once you've found a retailer you want to shop at, simply follow the link to their website. You can shop as normal, and the store will know you're a Give as you Live Online shopper.
3. Raise: That's it! Give as you Live Online will make a donation to your chosen charity when you complete your purchase.

Check out our 'How it works' page for more information!

How Can I Raise Donations From Shopping?

No matter what you're looking to buy, you can find it and raise money for charity simultaneously when you use Give as you Live Online. Here are just a few of the different ways you can raise donations:

Food & Drink

Raise donations on groceries, takeaways and confectionery at these leading retailers:

• Sainsbury's
• Just Eat
• Waitrose
• Hotel Chocolat

Browse Stores >

Clothing & Accessories

Raise donations in style with these leading retailers:

• Debenhams
• ASOS
• Boden
• Matalan

Browse Stores >

Home & Garden

Freshen up your home and garden and raise donations with these leading retailers:

• Toolstation
• B&Q
• eBay
• Dunelm

Browse Stores >

Why Should I Use Give as you Live Online?

Here are just a few of the reasons why you should use Give as you Live Online:

• Easy charitable giving: By shopping through our platform, you can support your favourite charities without any extra effort.

• Diverse retailers: We partner with numerous online retailers, spanning various categories like fashion, electronics, travel, and more. This means you can support your chosen charity while shopping for everyday items or gifts.

• Broad range of charities: With over 200,000 registered charities on board, such as Macmillan Cancer Support, RNLI and Cats Protection - you can support causes that resonate with you.

• No extra cost to you: The donations made to charities through Give as you Live Online are a percentage of the commission we receive from the retailer. This means you can contribute without incurring any additional cost beyond what you'd pay when shopping directly from the retailer.

• No cost to the charity: We use a percentage of the commission we receive from the retailer to pay our running costs, meaning the service is free for charities, and we charge them no monthly or set-up fees.

• Increased impact: Many people shop online regularly, and their cumulative purchases can lead to meaningful contributions to charities. By using Give as you Live Online, you can amplify your impact by directing a portion of your spending towards causes you care about.

• Tracking and transparency: Members are able to track their contributions in their accounts and see the impact they've had on their chosen charities.

Next time you're about to hit that "Checkout" button, remember that with Give as you Live Online, your shopping choices can make a difference to a charity close to your heart.

The post What Is Give as you Live Online? appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

Your supporters don’t have to go out of their way to help you raise vital funds this year. Simply taking a break will enable them to give back with Give as you Live Online.

1. Booking the holiday itself

It’s a buyer’s market for travel in 2024, and incentives are everywhere. Give as you Live Online allows supporters to generate a free donation for your charity with most online purchases, including holidays, travel and hotels. There's a wide range of major travel companies and airlines offering free donations, including Booking.com, Tui, British Airways and hundreds more.

2. Car hire/airport parking

Booking airport parking early can be much cheaper and allows for a great deal!  The stress-free start to your supporter's trip can earn a charity donation, as can car hire while they're away. These are sometimes big elements of a travel budget, so they can generate a great donation!

3. Insurance and currency exchange

Another competitive area where it pays to shop around. We have your supporters covered with a range of providers for both the all-important spending money and essential insurance.

4. Travel shopping

There’s always something to restock before the travel starts. Toiletries, sunglasses, maybe it’s even time to get new luggage! Well, your supporters can start quickly racking up the donations for your charity when the shop for travel essentials commences!

5. Destination research

A good travel guide pays for itself many times over.

Your supporters can shop a wide selection at Waterstones and raise FREE donations for your charity by using Give as you Live Online.

6. Flex their travel

For those who have the luxury of time or destination flexibility, it can result in big savings. Skyscanner has a couple of useful tools, and they’ll pay a small donation for every search your supporters make.

7. Not a flyer? No problem

Holidays don’t have to involve flying. For those wanting to explore the UK by coach or train, or perhaps go Interrailing, supporters can fundraise via any means of travel.

With Give as you Live Online, free donations will be raised when supporters book tickets for most methods of travel – and it won’t cost you or them a penny more!

8. Hotel, self-catering or hostel?

There are so many accommodation options that are available to book online. Your supporters can explore all possibilities, even budget hostels, to find a perfect match for them - all while raising a lovely donation for you!

Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and many more comparison sites offer free donations for your charity when supporters use Give as you Live Online. Free donations can also be generated when booking directly with many of their favourite hotel chains!

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed that your charity can shop from. Ensure that your charity is signed up to receive free donations from your supporters shopping!

The post 8 Travel Hacks To Turn Your Supporters' Holiday Into A Charity Fundraiser appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.

Bananas

The price of a banana bought in the UK has dropped from 18p to 11p within a decade. For most farmers in low-income countries, growing bananas for a living is becoming unsustainable. Buying Fairtrade bananas means farmers are protected from fluctuating market prices. Workers are guaranteed a minimum price, with support to invest and improve workplace conditions.

Where to buy Fairtrade bananas:

100% of the bananas sold in these stores are Fairtrade:

• Sainsbury's
• Waitrose & Partners
• Co-op Food

Chocolate

Prices for cocoa beans have fallen in recent years. With crops being more difficult to grow due to climate change, fewer people are choosing cocoa farming as a career. When you buy Fairtrade chocolate, you know that farmers are getting a fairer price for their cocoa.

Where to buy Fairtrade chocolate:

• Morrisons
• Green & Black's
• Ethical Superstore
• Oxfam's Online Shop

Coffee and Tea

By buying Fairtrade coffee and tea, you support farmers fighting the effects of a changing climate and low income. Fairtrade helps communities invest in clean water and clinics, improving everyone’s health.

Where to buy Fairtrade coffee/tea:

• Tesco
• Co-op Food
• John Lewis & Partners

Fruit and Vegetables

Other than Bananas, 98% of tropical fruits are grown in low-income countries. When you buy Fairtrade fruit and vegetables, you help workers improve working conditions and gain a steady income. Fairtrade fruit and vegetables also have lower greenhouse gas emissions and avoid using harmful chemicals - benefitting our environment!

Where to buy Fairtrade fruit/vegetables:

• Ocado
• Ethical Superstore
• Sainsbury's

Wine

Fairtrade wine can be found in a lot of supermarkets in the UK. More than 20.5 million litres of Fairtrade wine were drunk in the UK in 2019. Every bottle of Fairtrade wine you buy helps the lives of the farmers who grew the grapes.

Where to buy Fairtrade wine:

• Cellar by Waitrose & Partners
• Sainsbury's
• Marks & Spencer

Fairtrade Clothing:

Most of the cotton used in our clothing comes from struggling farmers with low incomes. Since 2010, Fairtrade has been working with cotton farmers. By buying Fairtrade, you support farmers disadvantaged by global trade. Here are some Fairtrade clothing brands:

Fairtrade Flowers:

From roses to sunflowers, there are Fairtrade flowers to suit every occasion. Fairtrade flowers are traceable to the original farms, many of these being in countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka and Uganda. Fairtrade-certified farms receive a Fairtrade Premium of 10% for every flower sold. This allows workers to invest in healthcare and other benefits.

Where you can buy Fairtrade flowers:

• Marks & Spencer
• Interflora
• Arena Flowers

Why choose Fairtrade?

Buying Fairtrade helps ensure farmers and workers receive a fair price for the products they grow and sell. Fairtrade also helps communities invest in workplace conditions, education, and health care for a better future.

Choosing Fairtrade also means a more sustainable future for our favourite foods. All producers that are certified as Fairtrade use environmentally friendly practices, which help towards climate change and sustainable production.

When you do your online shopping next, keep an eye out for Fairtrade products. There are over 6,000 Fairtrade-certified products for sale in the UK. Don't forget, every time you shop through Give as you Live Online, your charity receives a free donation!

What is Give as you Live Online?

Give as you Live Online is a FREE online fundraising platform that has raised over $grandTotalRound for UK charities just through online shopping. There are over $retailerCount stores listed and over 200,000 charities available to support. Sign up, click through Give as you Live Online and raise free donations whenever you shop!

The post A Guide To Buying Fairtrade appeared first on Give as you Live Online Blog.