The UK population now has debts of £1.3trillion ($2.5tn) — more than £28,000 ($55,000) for every adult in the country.

In a new survey, most of Britons say they would need at least £100,000 ($200,000) to make a real difference to their lifestyle. They would use it simply to get their finances back on track.

In the survey, of more than 2,000 savers and spenders by National Savings and Investments, more than 60 percent estimated £100,000 as the very least they would need to improve their lifestyle.

At the other end of the scale, only 6 percent would be satisfied with a £1,000 ($2000) windfall. Commentators say a culture of “keeping up with the Joneses” is to blame, with many of people “going large” on holidays and expensive restaurants.

Higher earners too are not content. One in ten said a windfall of £2million ($4m) would be needed before they would really notice the difference.

John Prout, sales director at NS&I, said the figures reflected a change in national spending habits with more of us treating ourselves to everyday luxuries.

‘When Premium Bonds were launched in 1957, £1,000 was a life-changing amount and for many it meant security and a comfortable future. But foreign holidays and eating out, which used to be considered a luxury, are now a part of normal life. It is not surprising that the amount needed to have the same effect has shot up over the last 50 years.

“However, for a significant number, a windfall is now less about looking forward and more about a way to get back on track financially, and pay off past indulgences.”