Online shoppers in the UK generally get a worse deal than those in France or Germany. But shopping around yields better discounts from the median price, according to research from French-based price comparison site Twenga.

Online shoppers in the UK generally get a worse deal than those in France or Germany. But shopping around yields better discounts from the median price, according to research from French-based price comparison site Twenga.

The study compares the prices of 16 basic items needed for a school child, including a ballpoint pen, scientific calculator, and school bag.

In the UK, the median online price of this basket of goods is 22 per cent higher than in France and 41 per cent higher than in Germany.

However, when you compare the difference between the median price and the “value price”, UK shoppers can get better bargains. Careful buyers in the UK can save up to 55 per cent, whereas the French have a potential saving of 45 per cent and the Germans up to 40 per cent.

For example, parents can find a school rucksack for little over £10, instead of the regular price of £30 or £40, according to Twenga.