Petrol prices going up, car repair costs on the rise - the last thing you want is car insurance adding additional financial pressure.
But if you're simply accepting the first renewal price you receive, that's exactly what could be happening.
Our car insurance price index shows that the average price of car insurance is now £713.
But without shopping around, you could be paying more than £800.
Over half of UK drivers received a higher renewal price in the last 3 months.
It pays to not just accept the first renewal price you're given.
Here's the thing.
Overall, premiums are actually 3% cheaper than this time last year.
That's a saving of over £22 on average.
Inner London remains the most expensive region in the UK for car insurance and now averages £1,079.
But prices have fallen here by £70 in the last 12 months.
So the good news is the market is actually more competitive than this time last year.
But the bad news is renewal prices are actually going up for drivers.
Nobody benefits more from shopping around than young drivers.
Premiums for 17-year-olds have dropped by 13% year on year.
That's a saving of £253.
Young drivers might still be paying the most overall, but those savings are only available if you compare.
Timing matters, too.
Comparing quotes around 28 days before renewal can typically be around 53% cheaper than leaving it to the last minute.
While you're at it, check if your annual mileage estimate is correct.
Overestimating might mean you're overpaying, or underestimating might mean you don't have valid cover.
Adding a named driver with a clean record or plenty of experience can also help.
Just make sure the person who drives the car most is listed as the main driver.
Claiming otherwise is classed as fronting and is illegal.
Finally, adding your driving licence number can help nudge your premium down as well.
So, over half of drivers are seeing a higher renewal price right now.
You don't just have to accept it.
Compare early, make a few smart adjustments, and you could save more than £80.
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