Fixed vs variable mortgages—what's your pick?

Been looking into mortgages lately, and I'm kinda stuck between fixed and variable. Fixed seems safe, you know exactly what you're paying every month, no surprises. But variable...um, it can save you some cash if rates stay low, but it's a bit of a gamble if they spike.

My cousin went variable a few years back and bragged nonstop about saving money at first. Then rates jumped a bit, and suddenly he was sweating bullets every time the news mentioned interest rates, lol. Me, I'm leaning toward fixed just for peace of mind, even if it might cost me a little extra in the long run.

Curious what others here prefer and why. Anyone been burned badly by going variable or regretted playing it safe with fixed?