Stoptober – the nation’s favourite stop-smoking challenge – runs for 28 days from the 1st October. And if you’re a smoker looking to go smoke-free, you should seriously consider getting involved – studies show that people who stop smoking for 28 days are 5 times more likely to quit for good!
Not only do the aptly coined ‘death-sticks’ make your breath stink, appearance suffer (we’re talking mouth wrinkles), and cause serious health defects, cigarettes also make a massive dent in your bank balance.
The average cost for a pack of 20 cigarettes has been rising steadily, hitting £7.98 last year. This means for 20-a-day smokers, giving up for Stoptober would save them a hefty £223.44 over the 28 days. (Plus whatever you save on breath mints…) So here’s a list of presents you can afford to buy yourself after successfully participating in Stoptober (and have change left over!)
Go on, you deserve it…
1)Barbour Duracotton Polarquilt Jacket
Part of the Classis collection, this stylish jacket will see you through the winter months better than any cigarette ever could.
Price: £199.00
2) A Return Flight to Europe
Fancy a winter city break? Well you can get your flights for less than it costs to smoke for a month – result. And you’ll be flying in style – British Airways thank you very much…
Price: From £129
3) Aston Martin Thrill Experience
Treat yourself to the drive of your life – this Virgin package gets you:
• Three to six laps driving an Aston Martin
• A choice of 11 locations
• Available on weekdays and weekends
Price: £115.00
4) Ritz 'Celebrate in Style' Couples Package
This one’s for the couples – and if you’ve given up together, you have double the amount to spend on your well-deserved treat!
Go for the Ritz ‘Celebrate in Style’ package, and get a one night stay in the elegant Louis XVI guestrooms, a bottle of chilled Ritz champagne, a customized celebratory cake, fruit, flowers and a full English breakfast the following morning.
After all, a month without smoking is something to celebrate!
Price: £445 (based on two people sharing)
5) Night out in London’s West End!
Your Stoptober savings will more than pay for a magical evening out in London’s West End. Why not get yourself Royal Circle (best seats in the house!) tickets for you and three friends to see Phantom of the Opera?!
Price: £149.90
6) Jo Malone Pampering Gift Set
We know the quitting process can be a stressful (to put it mildly), so a bit of pampering will most likely be in order. This Jo Malone London sumptuous pampering gift set contains everything you need to feel revitalised, relaxed and ready to take on the rest of the year – smoke free!
Price: £205
7) Brilliant Cut Cubic Zirconia Ring in 9 Carat Rose Gold
Diamonds are a girls best friend, but any shiny things come a very close second. Treat yourself to this Zirconia beauty and be reminded of your achievement every time you look down at it.
Price: £150
8) Apple iPad mini 2, Apple A7, iOS 8, 7.9", Wi-Fi, 16GB, Space Grey
Last, but by no means least, what better way to pat yourself on the back for getting through your first month as a non-smoker than with a brand new ipad mini?!
You can use it for information, advice and support about staying smoke free, plus the millions of apps and features that will now be at your fingertips, literally!
Price: £219