Comping, a term derived from the word 'competition', is a popular hobby in the UK that involves entering as many free competitions as possible in the hope of winning prizes. It's an activity that combines the fun of the game, with the potential for tangible rewards, ranging from cash and gadgets to luxury holidays.
What Is Comping?
Comping is a phenomenon where individuals make a hobby out of participating in numerous free competitions with the aim of trying to enhance their chances of winning various prizes. Unlike sporadic competition entries, comping is a dedicated effort wherein individuals enter dozens or even hundreds of free competitions on a regular basis.
How Does Comping Work?
At its core, the principle of comping is simple: the more competitions you enter, the higher your chances of winning. Many comping enthusiasts scour the internet and other sources for free competitions, entering as many as they can.
The types of competitions vary significantly, from simple prize draws to more complex tasks that require a certain level of skill or creativity, such as solving a puzzle or creating a captivating slogan.
Competitions are prevalent promotional tools for companies who view them as an inexpensive and engaging way to advertise. As a result, any prizes you win from a competition are typically tax-free, which means you don't have to declare them to HMRC. Hence, the potential rewards can be significant – cash, gadgets, luxury holidays, and more.
Are Competitions Gambling?
Although there's a common thread of winning between gambling and comping, they are fundamentally different. While gambling often involves betting money on uncertain outcomes, most competitions are free to enter and are based on some form of skill, knowledge, or chance.
Can You Make a Living From Comping?
While it's unlikely that comping could replace a full-time income, many successful compers may supplement their regular income with any prizes they win. Some even manage to sell prizes they don't need or want, thereby turning their hobby into a profitable venture.
However, it's essential to remember that comping requires time and dedication, and there's no guarantee of winning.
Are Competition Winnings Taxable?
In the UK, cash prizes from competitions and the National Lottery are free from income tax, making the UK quite unique compared to other countries.
However, for a prize from a 'competition' not to be classed as an illegal form of lottery, it must either have a skill-based element in the entry or offer free entry, usually via postal entries.
How Often Do Compers Win?
The frequency of a comper's wins depends on several factors, including the number of competitions entered and the nature of the competitions themselves. Some dedicated compers report winning prizes regularly due to the sheer volume of competitions they enter, while others might only win occasionally. However, even small wins have the potential to add up over time, making comping a worthwhile hobby for many.
Comping Tips – How To Win Competitions
To increase your chances of potentially winning competitions, consider the following tips:
- Set Up a Dedicated Email: Having a separate email address for comping will prevent your main inbox from being inundated with competition-related emails and potential spam.
- Be Selective: While entering as many competitions as possible may potentially increase your chances of winning, it can be beneficial to be a bit selective. Only enter competitions for prizes you genuinely want or would use.
- Stay Organised: Keeping track of the competitions you've entered can help prevent duplicate entries, which could lead to disqualification.
- Read the Terms and Conditions: Make sure you understand the entry requirements and terms and conditions of each competition.
- Use Social Media: Many competitions are held on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Following companies or accounts that regularly post competitions can help you stay on top of new opportunities.
Is Comping Worth It?
Whether comping is worth it or not depends on your perspective. If you view it as a fun hobby with the potential bonus of winning prizes, then yes, comping can certainly be worth the time and effort.
However, if you're looking at it purely as a money-making scheme, it may not meet your expectations, given that winning is never guaranteed.
Comping is a unique hobby that combines the fun of the chase with the anticipation of potential rewards. If you approach it with a positive attitude and realistic expectations, it may provide not only potential prizes but also a great deal of fun along the way.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
