Common colds and other winter illnesses aren’t just physically draining, they can impact our pockets too.

A recent survey conducted by leading cashback site, TopCashback, revealed that the majority of Brits (90%) spend up to £50 a year on fighting a cold.

But it’s not only paying for remedies to think about, with 28% increasing spend on heating to stay warm and a further 22% always opting for takeaways when they’re feeling under the weather.

Almost one in five (17%) also end up missing out on pre-paid plans when ill, such as concerts, sports events, holidays or pre-paid transport.

With the knock-on effect of falling ill on finances, two in five Brits (39%) say they refuse to take a day off work despite being sick.

With the winter months often the biggest culprit for illnesses spreading, TopCashback’s UK Director Adam Bullock shares his top tips for cutting the cost of a cold.

1. Stock up on medicine and keep an eye out for deals

One simple way to reduce the cost of a cold is by making sure that you always stock up on remedies when there’s a deal to be had. Picking up paracetamol, Lemsip or vitamins when on offer, as well as other essentials like tissues, can be a great way to reduce costs.

Making the most of cashback deals and purchasing online instead can also reduce the price of cold-fighting essentials even further. Currently on TopCashback, members can get up to 6% cashback at Boots, up to 15% at Superdrug and 10% at Pharmacy First. Throughout January, members can also make the most of a buy one get one for 1p deal at Holland & Barrett.

2. Keep warm and cosy

Staying warm when you’re feeling poorly is a must, so be sure to stock up on the essentials to stay cosy and look out for some great deals to be had.

TopCashback has deals on a range of items to help keep warm this winter for less. The site currently offers 10% cashback on Heat Holders, up to 4.27% cashback at the Oodie (last year’s TikTok craze), and 6% cashback at Best Heating.

3. Always check the label

With the cost of medicine on the rise, according to Which?’s latest analysis, it’s important to always check the label for the list of ingredients. Own brand medicine can often have the same medicinal content as its branded counterparts, just with a cheaper price tag.

For example, 16 500mg of own brand paracetamol at Boots is 49p, compared to 14 500mg Panadol tablets costing £2.25 – both of which contain the same amount of paracetamol.

4. Always speak to a pharmacist

Whilst the above advice is designed to reduce costs, it’s always important to speak to a pharmacist and get a professional opinion to ensure the remedies you plan on taking match your symptoms and to avoid unnecessary spending.