Brits are planning to do more than a third of their Christmas shopping online this year, according to new research.
Santander Credit Cards predicted £16.7 billion will be spent on gifts in 2010, with 57 per cent of this destined for the tills of high street stores.
However, 38 per cent - equivalent to £6.4 billion - will go to internet retailers, while nine per cent of shoppers are planning to use overseas-based online shops.
In total, the average UK consumer will shell out £359 on presents for family members and loved ones over the festive period, the financial institution revealed.
Director of Santander Credit Cards Ian Coles said: "With many people tightening their belts, shopping for Christmas gifts online can provide a more cost-effective and convenient way of shopping."
This news comes after electricals retailer Comet forecast today (December 6th) will be its busiest ever for online shopping, with the Apple iPad, Xbox Kinect and 3D TVs expected to be the company's best-selling items.
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