Comping, or entering competitions as a hobby, has gained popularity in the UK for good reason. It can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your free time, with the potential to win anything from small prizes like gift cards to life-changing rewards like cars or holidays. If you’re new to comping, it may seem a little overwhelming at first, but this guide will help you get started and make the most of this exciting hobby.
What is comping?
Comping refers to the practice of entering competitions regularly, either online or offline, in the hope of winning prizes. Many competitions are free to enter, but some may require a purchase or other conditions. Compers often view this as a hobby that combines skill, persistence, and a bit of luck.
Why start comping?
There are plenty of reasons why comping can be a great hobby:
- It’s free or low-cost: Most competitions are free to enter, making this a budget-friendly activity.
- It’s exciting: The thrill of winning, even a small prize, can be incredibly satisfying.
- It’s flexible: You can spend as much or as little time on comping as you like.
- It’s rewarding: With dedication, you could win anything from gadgets to cash prizes or even unforgettable experiences.
Getting started with comping
1. Set up a dedicated email address
One of the first steps to becoming a successful comper is setting up a dedicated email address for entering competitions. This will help keep your personal email inbox free from the flood of promotional emails that often follow. Use a professional-looking address that includes your name or initials to ensure organisers can easily identify you as a winner.
2. Get organised
Comping can involve entering hundreds of competitions each month, so staying organised is crucial. Here’s how to keep track:
- Create a spreadsheet: Use a simple spreadsheet to record the competitions you’ve entered, along with their closing dates and prize details.
- Use bookmarks or folders: Save links to competitions you want to revisit in your browser, organising them by category or deadline.
- Set reminders: Use your calendar to set alerts for competition deadlines, especially for those requiring multiple entries or specific actions.
3. Familiarise yourself with competition types
Competitions come in many forms, and knowing the differences can help you decide where to focus your efforts:
- Prize draws: Simple random draws where you enter your details and hope to win.
- Skill-based competitions: These require creativity or knowledge, such as answering a question, writing a slogan, or submitting a photo.
- Social media contests: Often involve liking, sharing, or commenting on posts.
- Instant-win competitions: You find out immediately if you’ve won.
- Purchase-necessary competitions: Require a product purchase, often with a unique code on the receipt or packaging.
Finding competitions
1. Online competition websites
There are numerous UK-based websites that list active competitions. Popular options include:
- Loquax: A long-standing site with a wide range of competitions.
- Competition Database: Allows you to filter by category and prize type.
- ThePrizeFinder: Another great resource for finding free-to-enter competitions.
Bookmark these sites and check them regularly for updates.
2. Social media platforms
Social media is a goldmine for competitions, especially on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. To maximise your chances:
- Follow brands and businesses in your areas of interest.
- Search hashtags like #WinItWednesday, #UKGiveaway, and #Competition.
- Engage with posts by liking, sharing, and tagging friends when required.
3. Retailers and brands
Many retailers and brands run competitions through their websites, newsletters, or packaging. Keep an eye out for promotions at your favourite shops and consider signing up for their newsletters to stay informed.
4. Local newspapers and radio stations
Don’t overlook offline competitions, as they often have fewer entries. Local newspapers and radio stations frequently run contests for tickets, vouchers, or other prizes.
Tips for maximising your chances
1. Enter regularly
The more competitions you enter, the greater your chances of winning. Aim to enter competitions daily or set aside specific times each week to focus on your hobby.
2. Prioritise low-entry competitions
Competitions with fewer entries naturally offer better odds. Look for niche contests or those requiring more effort, such as creative submissions, as these tend to attract fewer participants.
3. Pay attention to terms and conditions
Always read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you’re eligible to enter. Check for details such as age restrictions, geographical limitations, and prize delivery methods.
4. Follow the rules precisely
Failing to follow entry instructions is a common reason for disqualification. Double-check that you’ve completed all required steps, such as providing your full contact details or answering questions correctly.
5. Be creative
For skill-based competitions, take the time to craft a unique and engaging entry. Think outside the box and ensure your submission stands out from the crowd.
Staying safe while comping
Comping can expose you to potential scams, so it’s important to stay vigilant:
- Avoid competitions asking for payment: Genuine competitions rarely require an upfront payment. Exceptions include purchase-necessary contests, but these should always provide a no-purchase alternative.
- Beware of phishing emails: Never share sensitive information like your bank details with competition organisers unless you’ve verified their legitimacy.
- Check URLs: Ensure the website hosting the competition is legitimate and secure (look for “https” in the address).
- Trust your instincts: If a competition seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Celebrating your wins
When you win a prize, take the time to celebrate and share the news. Here are a few tips:
- Respond promptly: Most competitions require winners to claim their prizes within a specific timeframe. Check your email and social media inboxes regularly.
- Thank the organiser: A simple thank-you message can go a long way in building rapport and keeping you on their radar for future contests.
- Share on social media: Post a photo of your prize and tag the organiser. This helps them promote their competition and encourages others to participate.
Dealing with setbacks
Comping requires patience and perseverance. It’s common to go through dry spells without any wins, but don’t let this discourage you. Stay positive, refine your strategy, and remember that comping is meant to be enjoyable.
To end it all:
Starting your comping journey in the UK can be incredibly rewarding, both for the prizes you win and the sense of achievement it brings. By staying organised, entering competitions regularly, and approaching the hobby with a mix of strategy and creativity, you’ll soon find yourself joining the ranks of successful compers. Remember to stay safe, have fun, and celebrate every win, no matter how big or small. Good luck!