The best gift to yourself? A gift to someone else!

A 2021 study found that spending money on others made people happier than simply spending it on themselves. Most of us feel good about splashing out on loved ones or stumping up for dinner with friends – and sometimes even giving money to strangers on a whim.

In that spirit, we share the stories of some of the best ways people have treated others, as well as how you could use your money to help improve both your own and others’ moods. Remember, you should only give what you can afford; don't get in debt just to treat someone.

A random act of kindness

'I treated two young lads in a supermarket to some cans of soft drink and a couple of packets of biscuits one Sunday when I heard them panicking at the self-service checkouts that they didn’t have enough money,' says Anna from West Yorkshire.

'They looked at me like I was a goddess. Their complete and utter disbelief that a total stranger would buy them their stuff was priceless.'

'It felt lovely to be able to change their day from panic and disappointment to surprise and joy for the sake of a few quid.'

A big blowout gift

Juliette hired a limo for her friend’s 28th birthday party, as well as paid for drinks.

'The whole thing cost me about £400,' she says, 'but it’s something we’ll always remember. She was a young, single mum who worked immensely hard, and she didn’t go out much.'

'I felt really happy for her – to be able to give her that memory.'

Charity begins at home

Every month, Alison puts £20 towards phone credits for refugees within her community. 'Three months of donations would cost the same as a massage, but this makes me feel much better,' she says.

'I don’t earn a lot,' she says, 'but this gifting really raises my spirits and hope for the world.'

The not-so-secret benefactor

'They do know it’s me – I haven’t figured out how to be a banking ninja!' says Mel, who regularly transfers money to friends and family in need.

'I did clear my cousin's back rent without telling her but her sister revealed it had been me. With one pal, I just randomly send her vouchers for a floatation tank session. They're too expensive for her but help ease her MS symptoms a lot.'

'At first they would ask what it was for and protest, but now they just say thank you.'

'It's a privilege to be able to do it,' Mel says. 'I feel lucky to have these brilliant people in my life and furious at the systems that have landed them in a place of financial struggle. When I've been asked in the past what success would mean to me, this was always my answer.'

'I get to help the people I love – that's such a lovely thing for me.'

Fun ways to treat others

Treat your loved ones to a surprise break to their favourite place. It's even better if you get to go along and help them enjoy it. Some recipients may see this as 'charity' and find it unwelcome, so you might wish to check this first.

• Consider gifting an experience such as a cooking class or skill day instead of a traditional gift
• Top up a gift or store card regularly and present it to someone when they’re feeling low – or low on funds
• Pay for a subscription service, such as a meal delivery service or online learning platform
• Commission a custom-made gift, such as artwork, jewellery or an engraved item
• Offer to cover the cost of home upgrades or renovations, if your budget can stretch to it

You can also offer random acts of kindness for loved ones that don't cost anything. For example, if you have a pregnant friend or family member, helping them with the nesting phase or in preparation for the baby's arrival might be appreciated. Things you could do include:

• building the crib
• painting the nursery
• deep cleaning their house
• making meals for the freezer

Spending money (or time) on others can have a positive impact – for you and the recipient.

To support customers with actioning their budgets, Chase lets you set up multiple current accounts, up to 20 in total. Since you can spend from these directly, they might help you track your spending throughout the month.

18+, UK residents.

Recommended reading

• A little luxury without the high price tag
• How to give wisely to the causes you care about
• In praise of extravagance