A new study by uSwitch.com discovered that online sales are set to total £40 billion this year, with consumers potentially saving more than £13 billion a year by shopping online.

The firm noted that each household could save £500 a year by using the internet for everyday shopping and essential bills.

Steve Weller, head of communications services at uSwitch.com, said: “Not only does shopping online save you time and money, but it can actually pay for itself.

“Each household can save £500, which pays for your annual broadband cost nearly three times over.”

A recent survey by moneysupermarket.com found that 39 per cent of consumers do not understand the difference between broadband deals currently available on the market.

Some 48 per cent of those questioned said that they were confused by bundled deals, offering both TV and telephone services.

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