Brits prefer web-surfing to sleeping

We spend a total of 57 hours per week online, or 2,964 hours per year, according to analysis by MoneySuperMarket. When comparing this to research from The Sleep Council, it’s emerged that catching up on sleep takes a back seat as we spend 10 hours more online than getting a good night’s rest.

The comparison site conducted research into internet use and found that 18 hours is spent browsing the web on a laptop or PC. Unsurprisingly, the surge in smartphone and tablet ownership has meant a further 10 hours of our time is spent using one of those devices. When it comes to how we connect to the internet, 40 per cent of households benefit from speedy fibre optic broadband with a quarter (25 per cent) admitting to accessing the internet at work.

Additionally, a third (33 per cent) of females admitted to using their mobile phone to browse the internet for up to five hours per week, with over a fifth (26 per cent) of 18 to 34 year olds spending up to 10 hours surfing the web on their handsets.

Furthermore, insight into MoneySuperMarket customers’ habits has shown that nearly a quarter of those polled felt that they now work more hours than before due to their increased connectivity.

Gautam Srivastava, broadband expert at MoneySuperMarket said: “With the surge in popularity of smartphones and tablets, plus the widespread availability of superfast broadband, it comes as no surprise that we’re spending more and more time online.

“If you are constantly online, making sure you’re on the right broadband deal for your usage is crucial. For example, those on a limited data package who go over their usage limit could end up paying additional charges, up to £5.30 per 5GB. In this instance, switching to an unlimited package more suited to heavier users will ensure you don’t pay over the odds for out of bundle fees. 

“Comparison tools such as MoneySuperMarket are designed to help find the best broadband deals on the market for your needs.”