If you’re coming to the end of your mobile phone contract, our five tips below could help you save money on your next mobile phone contract.
Do you really need the latest smartphone?
The cost of your contract is usually determined by the
tariff and the handset you choose. If you have decided the latest iPhone has to
be your next phone, the monthly cost of your contract will be higher.
Ask yourself do you really need the latest smartphone? And know
whether it’s worth the higher monthly cost. If you have a decent handset which
does what you need, you’ll get a far cheaper deal if you decide on a Sim-only
or PAYG deal.
If you do need the latest smartphone, pay some money upfront
for the cost of your handset and your monthly cost of your contract will be
lower.
Check your current usage
Many people are on unlimited phone contracts, which leave them with lots of unused minutes, data and texts at the end of the month. Knowing how much you use, will allow you to tailor your next contract to meet your needs and save money.
Check your old bills to see how much you use a month, and
then use that information when deciding your next contract.
It may be the case you use more data and rarely use minutes,
you could save by downgrading how many minutes you get in your next contract
and vice versa.
Pay-as-you-go or Sim-only – which is best?
If you have decided to keep your handset after your contract has ended, it may be cheaper to get a PAYG or a Sim-only deal.
If you no longer
want to be tied to a contract, PAYG is your best option. There is a lot of
different PAYG deals around - Giff Gaff is a popular choice for those looking
for lots of minutes and data.
If you want a wider
range of tariffs to choose from or you don’t want to change network, a Sim-only
deal could be your best bet. You can get a Sim-only deal on 30 rolling day contract
or 12-month contract.
Haggle for a lower tariff price
If you don’t want to
switch and you’re happy with your handset, haggling with your network could
save you money.
If you’re near the end of the contract, your network will not
want to lose you, so give them a phone call and ask for the best price possible
for your tariff.
Recycle your old phone
If you decide you’re
getting a new handset and your old one is in good condition, recycling your
mobile phone could earn you some money which could be used towards your
contract.
There are quite a few different mobile recycling sites offering you
cash for your handset, so compare different offers before deciding.
Protect your phone with Personal Possessions Insurance from
Discount Insurance.
