From refusing to wash clothes to avoiding certain phrases “just in case”, the research suggests the nation is far more guided by luck than it likes to admit
Superstitious Brits own at least one item they believe brings them luck in life, including a specific pair of lucky pants.
Some 38% admitted having one thing to give them good fortune. Nearly one in five said it was their lucky undies, with black the most common colour choice.
And from refusing to wash clothes to avoiding certain phrases “just in case”, the research suggests the nation is far more guided by luck than it likes to admit. Miles Baron, from The National Bingo Game Association, which carried out the study, said: “Brits may laugh about lucky pants and touching wood, but this research shows many of us are quietly relying on small rituals to feel more in control – especially when something feels exciting or high-stakes.
“Whether it’s a favourite outfit, a number we always stick to or a habit we refuse to break, luck still plays a role in everyday life. That’s part of what makes bingo such a popular game across Britain – it’s simple, fun and at its heart, a game of luck where anyone can win.
“With a quarter-of-a-million-pound jackpot launching, it wouldn’t be surprising to see people dusting off their good-luck charms, just in case.”
The poll also found 28% of adults quizzed confessed they have an item of clothing they keep wearing for important moments like job interviews, first dates and football matches. One in five admitted they refuse to wash certain clobber if they believe they’re on a winning streak.
And around 14% rely on a lucky necklace or keep photos of loved ones on them during key moments. Some 12% love crystals, while 11% said their lucky charm was coins.
Meanwhile, 74% revealed they follow rituals they believe improves their fortune, even though 50% admit there’s no logical reason behind them. Common habits include touching wood after saying something positive to avoid tempting fate, avoiding “jinxing” phrases like “it’s going well” or “nothing could go wrong”, and crossing their fingers during nerve-jangling moments.
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