Travel agents outshine most sectors for card spend in December, Barclays finds 

December saw spending with travel agents outstrip all but one other consumer sector, latest research shows.

Outlay with agents was up 7.2% year on year, with transactions rising by 16.5%, according to Barclays monthly card spend data.

A 7.8% increase in digital contents and subscriptions was the only other area where spend was above agents.

However, card spend with airlines fell by 1.5% with transactions down by 5.9% against December 2024.

Overall spend on travel, including public transport and other travel, was up by 2.1% with transactions down 5.9%.

But growth in overall consumer card spending fell by 1.7% per cent in December - the greatest annual fall in spending since February 2021 (-9.5%) - as consumers continue to combat rising costs by making and planning cutbacks.

Essential spend declined for the eighth consecutive month, while non-essential spend saw its greatest fall since February 2021

Despite this, the bank described consumer confidence as showing “signs of recovery” with confidence in household finances rising to 66% - up from 64% in November and 63% in October - albeit below 2025’s average of 70% . 

“Similarly, consumers are regaining confidence in their job security and ability to spend on non-essentials, which both improved three percentage points month-on-month, to 46% and 55% respectively,” Barclays said. 

“Confidence in the UK economy grew to 24%, after remaining subdued at 22% in both October and November.”

The bank’s chief UK economist Jack Meaning said: “These numbers suggest 2025 ended with a whimper, following the slowdown we saw define last year. 

“However, we expect inflation to ease significantly in the first half of 2026, which, alongside a further easing of interest rates, should provide consumers with respite, unlocking real spending power. 

“If the tentative signs of improving confidence can last beyond the new year, then UK activity could strengthen as the year goes on.”

Barclays head of retail Karen Johnson said: “Despite there being encouraging signs that consumer confidence is recovering, shoppers will undoubtedly pay increasing attention to value for money in 2026, as many look to loyalty schemes and budget supermarkets. 

“Meanwhile the new year has brought with it a renewed focus on both financial and physical wellbeing, which will result in more considered and conscientious spending. Wellness, beauty and fitness will all benefit from this shift in priorities in 2026 and beyond.”