When are People Most Likely to Cheat on their Partners?

December 8, 2023 - Reading time: 9 minutes
Updated on: September 3, 2025

Infidelity is one of the most damaging experiences in any relationship. In modern times, cheating is reported more openly, with countless studies exploring when and why people are unfaithful. Understanding the patterns and situations in which people are most likely to cheat can help you recognise warning signs and protect yourself emotionally.

Seasonal Peaks of Cheating

Research shows March is one of the most common months for divorce filings and increased infidelity. The weeks after Christmas are also notorious, with stress, festive discontent, and New Year resolutions all influencing behaviour.

Another spike is mid-February. 13th February, often called National Mistress Day or National Cheat Day, is a key date when unfaithful partners spend time with lovers before focusing on their spouse on Valentine’s Day.

Couple holding hands while drinking coffee

Everyday Opportunities: School Run, Work, Gym

Not all cheating happens during holidays. Many affairs are carried out in the routine of daily life:

Cheating on the school run – Some people use the school drop-off and pick-up time as cover for meeting lovers while their partner assumes they are occupied with childcare.
At work or “working late” – The classic excuse. Offices, business trips, and after-work drinks create cover for discreet affairs.
Lunch breaks and afternoons – With partners at work, afternoons are often used for secret meetings.
“Going to the gym” – Some unfaithful partners claim to be exercising but are meeting someone else.

Cheating Abroad and Sex Tourism

Travel can create anonymity and opportunity. Affairs are common during holidays or business trips, with some destinations notorious for casual encounters and sex tourism. Locations such as Thailand, the Philippines, the Netherlands, Spain, and Eastern Europe are frequently cited in reports of infidelity abroad.

While away from home, people often feel freer from consequences, making foreign trips one of the riskiest times for infidelity.

Escorts, Massage Parlours, and Discreet Services

Many unfaithful men and women turn to escorts or discreet services. This can include:

Escorts and paid companionship, often booked online or via agencies
Massage parlours where extra services are offered discreetly
Casual hook-up apps used alongside work or travel

These methods are risky, as payment records, phone logs, and surveillance can all uncover the truth.

Age and Life Stage Patterns

Studies show some predictable life stage patterns in cheating:

Men are statistically more likely to cheat between the ages of 60 and 79.
Women are more likely to cheat between the ages of 28 and 37.
Infidelity is more common after major life stresses, such as moving house, a job promotion, or bereavement.
The seven-year itch is a real risk period when long-term partners may stray.

What to Do If You Suspect Cheating

For many, there is nothing worse than the thought of a partner cheating. If you suspect infidelity, professional help can provide clarity. At Private Investigators UK, our team of experienced detectives specialise in surveillance and background checks.

We can discreetly confirm or disprove suspicions, providing either peace of mind or evidence to support your next steps. Our services are confidential and available across the UK. Contact us for a free consultation.

Glossary of Key Terms

School run cheating – Using the school drop-off or pick-up as cover for affairs.
National Mistress Day – 13th February, the day before Valentine’s, associated with infidelity.
Sex tourism – Travel to destinations such as Thailand or the Netherlands for sexual activity.
Seven-year itch – A common relationship milestone when long-term partners may be tempted to stray.
Escorts and massage parlours – Paid services frequently linked with infidelity cases.

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