The introductory rate offers available on credit cards have become more generous over the past five years, latest figures from Defaqto show.

Since July 2006, the group had found that credit card providers are currently offering the longest zero per cent introductory purchase and balance transfer periods.

However, it pointed out that consumers now need to be more proactive than ever in order to take advantage of the deals.

David Black, Defaqto's insight analyst for banking, said: "The credit card market abounds with some very attractive offers but it remains the case that the best deals are aimed at new customers."

He stressed that people need to make sure they have a good credit rating in order to be able to change their card on a regular basis.

Furthermore, any credit card should be chosen to match levels of usage, Mr Black added.