As energy prices reach new heights, Aussies get crafty to stay warm without breaking the bank

When it comes to winter, nothing beats the feeling of being cosy and secure while also protecting our hard-earned cash.

With energy costs skyrocketing, Aussies are on the lookout for clever ways to stay comfortable without breaking the bank during the chilly season.



Recently, on a popular online forum, a concerned Aussie sought advice on staying warm without burdening their wallet with hefty energy bills. They humorously described their home as a 'glorified tent' and couldn't help but notice a significant jump in their electricity expenses, which shot up by $100 to $150 compared to the previous year.

Their question was: 'What are your tips for staying warm when sitting in front of a computer at home all day?'


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From layering up to staying in bed, Aussies are coming up with creative ways of beating the chill. Credit: Shutterstock.



Tired of wearing layer upon layer of clothing just to prevent chills, the user said they were 'fed up with looking like [the] Michelin man: thick trousers, [wool] socks, uggs, t-shirt and wool jumper, and still cold'.

The post soon gathered steam, and fellow Aussies started sharing their ingenious warmth hacks for winter. Electric blankets certainly took the cake as one of the most recommended hacks for their energy efficiency and comfort.

As one helpful user put it, 'Apparently electric blankets are a lot more energy-efficient than I thought—some running at approx $0.03 per hour,' creating a new perspective on how to keep cosy without splurging on electricity costs.

Another user chimed in, recommending, 'Electric throw blanket on your seat, wrap it over your legs, and you're toasty all day.' Now doesn't that sound like a snug winter's day?



Layering yourself up with as much warmth as you can afford is another popular tip shared by fellow Australians, utilising all warm clothes at one's disposal like Oodies, thermals, beanies, socks, gloves, and even placing an electric blanket under your seat.

A word of advice from another is, 'I have Uggs and a sheepskin hat. And an Oodie. Keeping your head and feet toasty warm is a game changer,' showing how essential it is to protect those extremities from the cold.

Creative ways to keep the warmth indoors were also a hot topic. Sealing off the draughts, deploying snakes in front of doors, closing blinds to trap heat or even applying bubble wrap on windows came highly recommended by budget-conscious locals.

Others recommended sipping hot tea consistently during the day or even working from the comfort of a warm bed.



A recent survey by Finder divulged that nearly 75% of households have taken to turning off their heating to preserve costs. It was found that 40% of respondents were actively trying to mitigate the effects of escalating energy prices, with 18% offsetting increased expenses, while 13% admitted to the inability to afford heating altogether.

Mariam Gabaji, a utilities expert from Finder, recommends Australians consider switching to cheaper energy plans* and compare rates to keep those expenses in check.

'Wearing extra layers and covering windows and door drafts could help protect vulnerable Aussies from dropping temperatures,' Gabaji noted.

Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are turning to budget-friendly ways to stay warm this winter, with electric blankets and layered clothing among the most popular strategies.
  • An Aussie on a forum website initiated a discussion on cost-effective ways to keep warm, as their electricity bills have gone up by $100 to $150 compared to the previous year.
  • Tips include blocking draughts, using door snakes, closing blinds, and applying bubble wrap to windows to keep the heat in, as well as wearing layered clothing like Oodies, beanies, thermals, socks, slippers and gloves.
  • A Finder survey found that 40% of households have reduced their heating usage due to concerns over rising energy costs, with expert Mariam Gabaji recommending Australians compare energy plans and consider switching to cheaper options



As we brave the winter chill, let's not forget to check in on our neighbours and maybe even lend a helping hand to those vulnerable to the cold. After all, fighting the cold is easier when we all stick together.

Do you have any other tips for reducing your energy bills during this chilly season? Share your ideas in the comments section below! We'd love to hear from you!
 
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Although I live in Brisbane where 'winter' is not really a season, on cooler days my best option is a pair of socks and, as I'm always telling my husband, cover your ears in bed. Covering your ears, whether it be with a beanie or ear muffs is one good way to keep the cold to a minimum. I know places like NSW, VIC, TAS, SA and their capitals and the regional places of these states are much colder than here but try it - covering your ears and using some extra layers on your bodies may help somewhat. My suggestions only.
 
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I have a chronic intolerance of the cold. Sometimes when I’m at the computer or on the lounge, I put a hot water bottle behind my lower back and find it really helps.
 
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