It could be that you’re gearing up for a BBQ, doing the weekly shop or already preparing for the back-to-school return.
However, for those of us who prefer a less crowded supermarket trip, then the summer chaos can be off-putting.
Richard Price, supermarket shopping expert at Britsuperstore, has analysed in-store patterns and shared the best (and worst) times to shop during the summer break.
The retail expert has also looked at which days and times are best to shop and what to avoid, including the “danger zones” like bank holidays and sunny Friday afternoons.
What is the best time for shopping?
Mr Price says that Tuesdays to Thursdays, 7–9am, are the quietest windows, and contrary to popular belief, Sundays aren’t always the worst.
In fact, late Sunday afternoons can be “surprisingly calm”, especially during hot weekends when families head outdoors.
He explained: “During the school holidays, the usual rhythm of supermarket shopping changes significantly.
“Without the structure of school drop-offs and work routines, footfall becomes more unpredictable and often increases in volume.
“Families are more likely to shop together, which can slow down the overall pace in-store, while better weather and spontaneous days out mean more last-minute purchases.”
Below, Britsuperstore details the best time to go the supermarket for low crowds during the school holidays:
Monday 7-9am
Tuesday 7-9am or 7-9pm
Wednesday 7-9am or 7-9pm
Thursday 7-9am or 7-9pm
Friday – avoid after 3pm, early morning if needed
Saturday – avoid – busy most of the day
Sunday – late afternoon (3-5pm), but limited stock
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On the other end of the spectrum is the crowded periods, where families may be stocking up for a weekend getaway or garden party.
High-risk times to avoid during the school holidays, according to retail experts:
Midday to early afternoon (11 am–2 pm)
This is prime time for families heading out to shop after a slow summer morning.
Expect queues, buggies, and kids in tow, especially in supermarkets near parks, leisure centres, or popular day-out spots.
Late afternoons (3–6 pm)
With no school run, this time becomes a key window for after-nap or post-activity shopping.
Parents often pop in for dinner bits, and teens on summer break head out for snacks and drinks.
Friday evenings and weekends
Still peak times for big shops and BBQ/pre-weekend stock-ups. In summer, warm weather adds to the rush as people prep for garden gatherings and last-minute staycations.
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Summer bank holidays (like late August)
Expect reduced opening hours, packed aisles, and more people shopping ahead of family events or mini-breaks.
The Saturday and Sunday before a bank holiday Monday are especially busy.
Mr Price added: “Planning your food shop around these shifting patterns, rather than sticking to your usual schedule, can help avoid queues, reduce stress, and even lead to fresher stock and better availability.”
