It has been said that the high street is dead. And while this might be something of an exaggeration – after all, people still love to get out there and browse for goods and services – it is fair to say that staying at home and searching online has become the go-to solution for most of us.
Once upon a time, people would leaf through the Yellow Pages and call up shops and service providers to find answers like: where the cheapest tyres can be purchased; how much a home phone connection should cost and where the best place to eat is.
But with just a click of a button and a reliable broadband connection it is now possible to find the answers to all this and more without hearing any dial tone at all. From Compare The Market to Just Eat; Airbnb to Skyscanner it feels like no stone has been left unturned in the comparison world.
If you’re after the best deal, the broadest choice or the most favourable reviews, comparison websites are the way to do it. Here are a few things you can compare online to save time, cash and stress.
Exploring utilities providers
As anyone who hasn’t been living under a rock in recent times will know, utility prices can be volatile. And going with the right provider can make a significant difference. Whether your favourite utilities aggregator is GoCompare, Uswitch or Money Supermarket, you’ll find all the best deals and contract terms laid out in front of you.
If you’re curious as to whether there’s a better energy deal available, an online comparison site will help you wade through the market in just minutes. And remember, it’s not just gas and electric; you’ll also find broadband deals aplenty.
Some websites will let you see quotes from providers straight away, others will conduct a thorough check and then fire through results to your email address.
When all’s said and done you may choose to stay with your existing provider – but isn’t it nice to know that you’ve got all the information to hand?
Checking out online casinos
It’s not just the household essentials you can compare online, of course. There’s plenty of opportunity to compare fun and games.
Over the last decade, online gambling has become big business. And with more and more operators across the internet, you’ll want to be sure that the platforms you use are reputable.
Whether your game of choice is blackjack, poker or classic slots, there’s no end to the options available. But finding the best and safest place to bet some money and have some fun isn’t always easy. That’s where websites like Fruity Slots are a great solution. Find out the safest, most secure and cost effective ways to gamble all in one place. You’ll even find a list of sites with incentives for joining or where you may get free spins – otherwise known as a casino sign up bonus, no wagering required.
Of course, every player has different preferences when it comes to how they prefer to play. So, using a comparison site will help you discover the casinos that meet your needs.
Hunting for used cars
Buying a car is a huge investment. In fact, it’s second only to purchasing a house for most people. Yet with so many makes and models to choose from, it can be difficult to see the wood for the trees.
Before the internet, thousands of people would browse the pages of Autotrader each month or roll from showroom to showroom trying to compare and contrast options. But today car shopping is so much more convenient than at any other time in history.
Whether it’s Autotrader online, Cinch, Motors.co.uk or something different entirely, buyers can browse based on price, car type, colour, gearbox type, fuel type and much more. It’s still important to see a vehicle in person before paying down, obviously, but thanks to comparison websites it is possible to limit the legwork required to get to a purchasing decision.
Clothes shopping
Shopping for clothes is incredibly convenient nowadays. Although not specifically known as comparison websites, many platforms like ASOS, MandM Direct or even Next online offer an array of products from different brands – making it possible to browse, compare, filter and add to basket with ease.
Filters can be applied based on brand, size, colour, material, fit and much more to help you narrow down your options and get to the product that meets your style standards.
Picking property
Property aggregators like RightMove and Zoopla have revolutionised the way that we all discover our next dream home. While the trusty estate agent still plays a valuable role in helping people to move, there’s no doubt that the average buyer has seen inside a vast array of houses before they finally take the plunge and sign on the dotted line.
Holiday planning
Of all the things that we shop for in life, few are as exciting as holidays. And while there’s no doubt that leafing through the pages of a glossy magazine can still be a rewarding way to book a trip abroad, the immediacy and convenience of online platforms such as Kayak or TravelSupermarket should not be underestimated.
From flights to transfers, hotels to attractions, the world is well and truly your oyster when you shop online. Of course, you have the option to compare full package deals or piece together your next adventure bit by bit.
However you prefer to build your own break, the great thing about the modern world of travel and hospitality is that you can find out exactly what your peers thought of their trip. Websites like Booking.com, Trivago and Tripadvisor can all be used to gauge the feedback, reviews and testimonials of previous visitors.
If you’re booking your first family holiday in a few years it’s important to have confidence that the trip is going to be as rewarding as you hope; so having the views and opinions of others can really build confidence ahead of placing a booking.
Catching the best insurance deal
There are few purchases less exciting than insurance – but there are also few that are as important. Whether it’s your house, your car or your health, there are plenty of comparison websites out there to help you find the best deal.
Insurance isn’t always the easiest thing to understand and gauging how much cover one needs can be tricky at the best of times. So, being able to see quotes side by side, filter out your requirements and see what will give you the best protection level is very helpful indeed. From Compare the Market to Go Compare, all the big hitters in the comparison space can help you find a deal that works for you.
So, there you have it. A wonderful world of comparison at your fingertips.
Leave a Reply