A surprisingly high number of Britons open a bank account when they’re young and simply keep it for years and years, never checking to see whether other banks offer something better. If you compare bank accounts regularly, you can make sure you are able to take advantage of the best accounts banks have to offer you.

Current accounts offer different fee structures, interest rates, and different rules for what happens when you go into an overdraft. One important consideration is how often you go overdrawn. If you never go overdrawn, you should choose an account that offers you the best interest rate period. If you do go overdrawn, find an account that will let you arrange an overdraft to minimize the fees you face.

Check whether the bank accounts you’re interested in have minimum deposit requirements, and if you can meet them. If you are interested in perks like breakdown cover and travel insurance, be aware that some banks offer these in the form of “packaged accounts“. Sometimes the savings are genuine, but with others you will be better off taking out a regular bank account and buying the perks separately.

Switching bank accounts is easier today than ever, so there is no reason to stay with a bank account that is not letting you get the absolute most for your money.