A new nationwide survey has revealed the surprising items that Brits are most likely to lose, with traditional culprits like keys being rivalled by paper slips and digital disorganisation.
The Physical Loss: Receipts Reign Supreme
The research, conducted by OnePoll.com with 2,000 adults, found that the average person misplaces at least three physical items every month. Contrary to popular belief, the most commonly lost item isn't keys or a phone. Instead, 52 per cent of respondents admitted to arriving at a checkout or returns desk without the necessary receipt or voucher, marking these as the most frustrating losses.
Following closely behind, the classic TV remote was a problem for 24 per cent of people, while 19 per cent frequently misplace their house keys. The modern nuisance of lost earbuds or headphones affects 15 per cent of adults. On average, 27 per cent spend between 20 minutes to an hour each month searching for these physical items.
The Digital Dilemma: Lost in a Sea of Files
The study uncovered a parallel crisis in the digital realm. A significant 83 per cent of people now struggle to locate documents or files on their devices. This digital hunt consumes considerable time, with a third of respondents spending between one and six hours monthly searching their laptops, phones, or tablets.
Specific digital woes include losing track of important passwords and emails (30 per cent and 24 per cent respectively), while 18 per cent struggle to find specific photos. Nearly a fifth (19 per cent) stated they can 'never' find the document they need to send to friends or family. The scale of the problem is vast, with the average person holding over 3,000 documents, photos, or videos on their tech, and 28 per cent lacking confidence in finding a specific item within 30 seconds.
Tech to the Rescue? A New Approach to Search
The research was commissioned by Samsung to coincide with the launch of its new Galaxy Book6 series at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The technology is designed to help users rediscover files using natural language, rather than requiring specific file names or folder locations.
Annika Bizon, spokesperson for Samsung UK & Ireland, commented on the findings: “Searching for something you can’t find on a device can be even more infuriating than losing your house keys. Now you can ask for what you’re looking for in a natural, human way.” She added, “Losing things isn’t just inconvenient, it can really disrupt your day. Staying on top of both physical and digital clutter is becoming an essential skill for modern life.”
The poll also highlighted factors contributing to forgetfulness: 52 per cent blamed changes in routine, and 34 per cent admitted losing more items as they age. The top ten most commonly misplaced items by Brits are:
- TV remote
- Glasses/sunglasses
- Receipts/vouchers
- House keys
- Mobile phone
- Earbuds/headphones
- Paperwork
- Car keys
- Chargers
- Bank cards
