10 smart (and fun) ways to spend a personal loan
Written by
Wednesday 14th May 2025
What would you do with £10,000?
What would you do if £10,000 landed in your bank account tomorrow? Whether you're dreaming big, planning for life’s practicalities, or simply indulging in something just for you, a personal loan could open up exciting opportunities.
Here are 10 smart (and fun!) ways to make the most of a £10,000 personal loan - some ambitious, some sensible, and a few delightfully quirky.
1. Give your home a makeover
Your home is your sanctuary - and even modest improvements can make a huge difference in how it feels and functions. With £10,000, you could upgrade your kitchen with modern fittings, transform a dated bathroom into a spa-like escape, or create a dedicated home office.
For smaller projects, think bespoke storage, fresh paintwork, or new flooring throughout. Renovating your space not only improves day-to-day life; it can also add value to your property in the long run.
2. Plan the wedding of a lifetime
From saying "I do" beneath a flower arch to dancing the night away with your closest friends, a wedding is one of life’s most meaningful celebrations.
A £10,000 budget can cover venue hire, catering, outfits, and a honeymoon - even on a modest scale, it can create a magical experience. You might opt for an intimate countryside ceremony or a stylish city event with unique personal touches. With careful planning, your dream day doesn’t have to be out of reach.
3. Drive off in a new (or new-to-you) car
Reliable transport can transform your daily routine - reducing stress, saving time, and opening up new possibilities. With £10,000, you can buy a quality used car or use it as a strong deposit toward a brand-new vehicle.
Whether you’re upgrading for safety, comfort, or style, a personal loan can help you get behind the wheel without dipping into your savings. It’s also a popular option for new drivers purchasing their first car.
4. Build your emergency fund
Life is unpredictable, and a financial cushion can make all the difference during times of uncertainty. Use a personal loan to establish or strengthen your emergency fund - ideal for handling surprise expenses like urgent repairs or job loss.
By proactively managing your financial health, you’ll reduce stress and avoid high-interest debt when the unexpected strikes. It’s one of the smartest ways to use a personal loan for long-term stability.
5. Take the trip of a lifetime
Why not turn your dream holiday into a reality? Whether it’s a luxury safari in Africa, an island-hopping adventure in Greece, or a three-week backpacking tour through Southeast Asia, £10,000 gives you the freedom to travel in style. Cover flights, accommodation, excursions, and a little indulgence without compromise.
Travel not only broadens your horizons - it creates memories that last a lifetime. For couples, families, or solo adventurers, this could be the journey you’ve always dreamed of.
6. Invest in your career or skills
Think of a personal loan as an investment in yourself. Whether you're switching careers, aiming for a promotion, or simply nurturing a passion, £10,000 can fund courses, certifications, or tools that enhance your professional development.
You might study UX design, train as a personal coach, learn a new language, or take night classes in photography. These investments often pay dividends in confidence, income, and job satisfaction.
7. Create a dream garden retreat
Turn your outdoor space into a personal oasis. With £10,000, you could install a patio or deck, lay premium turf, build a pergola, or even add a hot tub. Whether you're after a tranquil reading nook or an alfresco entertaining area complete with outdoor kitchen, your garden can become an extension of your living space.
A thoughtful garden revamp also boosts curb appeal and could add value to your home.
8. Fund a side hustle or passion project
Dreaming of running your own business? A personal loan could provide the seed money to get started. Use it to purchase inventory, build a website, market your offering, or rent equipment.
From handmade crafts to catering, tutoring to dog grooming, £10,000 can get your side hustle off the ground - without seeking outside investors. Even if it starts as a passion project, who knows where it might lead?
9. Do something quirky…like build a treehouse office
Sometimes, the best ideas are a little outside the box. How about using your loan to build a treehouse office, garden studio, or writing cabin? For remote workers or creatives, these unique spaces offer privacy, peace, and a bit of whimsy.
Or consider something fun like a home cinema room, a vintage campervan restoration, or even creating your own backyard escape room. With a bit of imagination, £10,000 can turn into something totally unexpected - and totally you.
10. Host an unforgettable party or family reunion
Celebrate life’s milestones in style. Whether you’re planning a big birthday bash, a golden wedding anniversary, or a long-overdue family reunion, a personal loan can help you create a celebration to remember.
Hire a band, rent a marquee, book catering, and decorate with flair. These moments bring people together and create cherished memories. It’s not just spending; it’s investing in joy.
Why choose a Novuna Personal Loan?
At Novuna Personal Finance, we believe lending should be responsible, transparent, and tailored to your needs. Whether you're planning something practical or dreaming big, our personal loans offer:
- Flexible repayment options
- Competitive fixed interest rates
- Quick and simple online applications
- No hidden fees
Written by
Anna Stacey is a skilled content writer based in Lincolnshire, specialising in the financial services industry. With over four years of experience in the digital landscape, she has an aptitude for crafting informative and engaging content that addresses a range of customer needs. Spanning diverse topics, from finance and lending to broader digital marketing trends, Anna is committed to delivering customer-centric content that not only educates but also empowers readers to make informed decisions.
