Auld Lang's at-mine - Low key New Year's Eve

It's not just Cinderella who will be at home as the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve. This year, half of all Britons (48%) are planning to stay at home to celebrate the turn of the year, according to the latest NS&I Savings Survey.

Financial planning is high on the agenda for the majority of Britons this month when considering how to welcome in 2011. 44% of people who plan to go out this New Year's Eve will stay local to save on transport costs, while 49% of Britons say they will be keeping the cost to a minimum by going to a friend's house to celebrate the New Year.

Contrary to popular opinion, it is the younger generations who are most likely to be modest with their celebrations. More than three fifths (60%) of people aged 16-34 say they will be going to a friend's house to celebrate, while more than half (51%) of 25-34 year olds say they will be spending New Year's Eve at home this year.

However, money-conscious Britons will not be letting their financial restraints stop them from enjoying themselves. A third (31%) of those planning to go out will try to save money by celebrating at free events such as firework displays and concerts. Meanwhile, two out of five (41%) adults say they plan to go out but have not yet made any plans.

Tim Mack, Savings Spokesperson, NS&I, said: "While it is nice to celebrate and have a good time with friends and family on New Year's Eve, it's especially important that you don't give yourself a financial hangover for the new year. At this time of year many people set resolutions to organise their finances, if this sounds familiar then help yourself accomplish your resolution by being specific about what you want to do and by when."

Just 15% of the population said they were planning to enjoy the celebrations regardless of costs, by spending money on going to the best clubs, bars or restaurants.