Consumers can cut 92% off the cost of an overseas phonecall by using the Internet, according to research from price comparison website and switching service USwitch.

During the festive season, many people who have friends and family abroad will have to fork out for long-distance phone calls, however USwitch advises consumers to take advantage of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in order to cut costs.

VoIP is a technology that enables calls to be made over the Internet, if made from one computer to another. Calls are charged at a significantly reduced rate of 92% if made from a computer to a landline.

Steve Weller, head of communications services at uswitch.com, commented: “It’s clear that VoIP is a great way to save money on calling abroad. However, the sophisticated range of international calling plans and other landline options show that there’s no reason to write off the traditional home phone just yet.”

USwitch also advises consumers that they can save up to 81% on long-distance phone calls by changing to a different provider, or by upgrading to an international calling plan.
Weller added: “Christmas is an expensive time of year and a few pounds here and there can really mount up – so if you have family or friends abroad that you wish to call, plan ahead and make sure you don’t miss out on savings by not shopping around.”