Four in ten single Brits are looking for a partner to spend the winter with
FOUR in ten singles are looking for a partner for the colder ‘cuffing season’, research shows.
A survey of 1,000 single adults found that 35% enjoy the freedom of being apart during the warmer months, but 40% want to ‘hide out’ with someone in the winter.
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While 32% want someone to cuddle with during the colder months, and 29% want to enjoy festive activities with them.
Requirements for a beauty in this “cuffing season” include someone with a good sense of humor (70%), someone who returns messages in a timely manner (37%) and someone who doesn’t snore (21%).
It also emerged that the average winter partner will have a ‘test period’ of up to four months before deciding whether he or she is a keeper or not.
A total of 30% of people admit they will abandon their winter partner when the weather warms up.
The research was commissioned by giffgaff, which has launched its Cuffing tariff, which allows data-heavy swipes and conversations to flow.
“As the nation prepares to find love this winter, there is a clear desire for new relationships, and this season offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories,” says Sophie Wheater, who collaborates with giffgaff.
“After all, there is something special about sharing winter traditions and warm moments with someone by your side.”
It also found that 575 of people plan to sext this season, while 42% hope to enjoy phone sex.
The biggest deal breakers when looking for a new partner are someone who is disrespectful or lacks kindness (27%).
Poor hygiene or bad breath were a no-go for 21% of survey participants.
Nearly a quarter said their ideal first date would be a walk in the park, while 14% would enjoy a quirky dinner with endless conversations.
And 35% want a potential partner to spend New Year’s Eve with, while 25% would like to watch Christmas movies with them.
But 36% say they are unlikely to continue looking for a new relationship once the season is over – after Valentine’s Day.
It also found that 27% of OnePoll respondents would prefer to meet someone via dating apps and social media, compared to 23% who would prefer to meet someone in real life at a bar or club.
However, despite swiping almost 20 different profiles in one session when using an app, 24% have rarely or never met someone in person after matching with them.
The best tips from experts on how to brighten cuffing season
Lovehoney’s sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight
- Understand how sexual wellness can help: Understanding your own needs and desires and fostering clear, respectful communication with a partner.
- Solo fun for better connections: Improve your own connection and relationship with your body.
- Fun together with toys: Toys can be a great way to get to know your partner in the bedroom a little easier.
- Use online platforms: Online platforms enable faster communication and match filtering so you can find people with shared intentions.
- Most important things playful: Whether it’s experimenting with new toys, exploring different forms of touch, or bringing a sense of humor into the bedroom, staying open and playful can deepen your connection and keep things fresh, fun, and pressure-free.
Of those who did, 43% waited one to three weeks before meeting in person.
Giffgaff has also teamed up with Lovehoney’s sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight to provide top tips on how to spice up cuffing season.
The professional’s advice includes using online platforms and understanding your own sexual well-being.
“Sexual wellness is especially important during cuffing season – from understanding your own needs and desires to fostering clear, respectful communication with a partner,” Annabelle said.
“This period often brings a wave of new relationships – people looking for warmth and companionship, and clear consent makes both you and your partner feel safe and relaxed.
“[This] leads to better connections and a more enjoyable experience overall.”
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