Thrifty Brits could save over £200 a year – by shopping around for the best deals on services like utilities or mobile phone providers, research has found.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that one in three actively enjoy searching for the best deals and bagging a bargain – with those working in insurance and pensions most likely to seek out a better car insurance deal (83%).
But despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, one in five of those polled admit they are “too lazy” to shop around, finding the process boring or confusing.
And a quarter feel as though the effort to switch such services is not worth the reward.
But while two in five (41%) feel as though they are stuck in a rut, it emerged that 37% will complain about the cost of services such as utilities – but then do nothing about it.
On the other hand, adults who do spend time shopping around believe they save a whopping £208 each, per year, as a result of their thriftiness.
A spokesman for mobile network provider, SMARTY, which commissioned the study, said: “Switching isn’t always the best move – but it usually is. We know that finding the best deals can save people money.
“In this research, 41% of Brits are telling us they feel stuck in a rut in their day-to-day lives – maybe it’s time to embrace change and switch things up.”
SMARTY has also commissioned a quiz to find out how adaptable you really are to change – from being a rigid traditionalist, to being flexible and willing to roll with the punches.
The research revealed that 11% have never looked around for a cheaper energy provider, despite April’s bills increases hitting households across the country.
And 33% haven’t changed mobile provider in over five years – as 22% don't think they will find a better deal.
And 31% of Brits feel loyal to their current mobile provider – and don’t want to change for fear they may be “cheating”.
Of the 41% of people who have started to shop around for a better deal on a utility service – and then given up – 38% got bored, and 27% distracted, preventing them from switching.
But 15% of those that dislike shopping around for utilities say they simply don’t like change, according to the OnePoll.com figures.
Life coach, Rachel Coffey, said: “As humans, we are incredibly adaptable. Making appropriate lifestyle changes will help you feel happier, more confident, and in control.
“Even the smallest of changes can have a positive impact, and you’ll start to see it trickle into other areas of your life.”
When it comes to being too lazy to shop around for deals, people working in accounting and finance are among the top offenders (45%).
SMARTY’s spokesman added: “Some people find shopping around a genuinely enjoyable experience and love the thrill of bagging a bargain, while others fear it will be a time-consuming and tedious experience.
“Being passive can save time, but end up costing you financially – so it all depends on your personality type really, and what your priorities are.”
LIFE COACH RACHEL COFFEY'S TOP FIVE TIPS FOR MAKING A CHANGE AND GETTING OUT OF A RUT:
- Think holistically. One small change may not seem important, but when you look at the impact of all your small changes put together, it can have a big impact.
- Stop making excuses. Instead ask yourself what’s stopping you, make that decision, and get it done.
- Think long-term. Putting the effort in now can save you a lot of time, money, or stress long-term. Make a change today, and reap the rewards tomorrow.
- Share the love. If you manage to change a habit, let people know. Their positive reaction will help keep you on track – and who knows, maybe they’ll join in too.
- Be money mindful. Unused subscriptions? Old contracts that are just rolling on? Take a look at what’s new and refresh. You’ll feel lighter, brighter, and better off.
