Cash-strapped Britons are ditching expensive nights out and choosing to stay at home as they rein in spending amid the credit crunch, a survey has showed.
Nearly two thirds - 60% - of people polled said they now spend Saturday nights with friends and family at each other's homes rather than going out and splashing cash in bars, clubs and restaurants.
The survey, by Halifax Home Insurance, revealed that 84% of those questioned are now consciously trying to save money as they struggle against tighter credit conditions and soaring household bills.
Nearly one in seven, 15%, are also considering making joint trips to the supermarket with neighbours to cut down on their rocketing fuel costs.
Consumers are being hit with increases in food, gas and electricity and petrol bills as inflation races higher in the UK. Energy firms have begun another round of tariff hikes to add to the misery, with British Gas making record price rises just two weeks ago.
The survey results show that cash conscious consumers are increasingly looking for ways to help ease the cost burden, with 73% saying they are sharing money saving tips or bargains they may have spotted with friends and neighbours.
The Scottish are the most likely to stay in rather than go out, according to the study, which found 70% of Scots are now spending Saturday nights at home.
And women are the more likely to look at ways to save money, although men are top savers when it comes to petrol, the survey showed.
Paul Birkhead, of Halifax Home Insurance, said: "When you take into account travel, food, drink and entertainment, the cost of a Saturday night out can soon add up.
"Recently Brits are choosing to Stay In With The Joneses, and invite friends and neighbours round instead for a night in."
