Save on phones
Wednesday 20 May 2009
We’ve come up with a few ways you can save money whilst buying a phone and making calls. Check them out.
A new phone
Deciding what phone to get is hard enough, but buying one when you’re a little strapped for cash is even more difficult.
However, Money Supermarket can help. The site has a search tool that allows you to select what network, handset and features you want, and then it will compare the best deals for you.
Remember, if you’re not one for a flashy new phone then you could probably find a really basic handset for dirt cheap.
The right deal
Choosing the right tariff can save you loads of cash.
Pay as you go
If you dont make that many calls or only send a few texts every month, then pay as you go mobile (PAYG) will probably work out cheaper than a contract.
Many networks now do free evening and weekend calls on PAYG packages too.
PAYG customers can even buy texts in bundles, and the price will work out much cheaper than individual texts. Some bundles could save you up to 7p a text!
Contract
Pay monthly contracts are probably better if you know you’re going to use your phone a lot. You'll get the tariff that's both right for you and cheap if you ask yourself:-
- How often will you use your phone?
- What time of day will you make calls?
- Do you need any other services?
- What network are your friends and family on? They’ll be the people you call often so this is quite important.
Remember that you can only sign a mobile contract if you're over 18 years old. If you're under 18, you will only be able to buy a PAYG phone.
Deal or no deal
If you think you’re on the wrong tariff, then you might be able to upgrade or downgrade to one that’s more suitable. Most networks offer tariff reviews every three months. They’ll review your bills and recommend something better (if it’s available).
Family costs
Some networks offer a family plan tariff that lets you make unlimited calls to your family for a cheaper price. So whenever you’re out late there are no excuses not to call home!
Holiday calls
Going on holiday this summer? If you want to send texts or picture messages, or call home when you're abroad, make sure you check how much these will cost you, as they're usually more expensive than other calls. Also, they may not be covered in your monthly minutes. If you're buying a PAYG mobile or signing a contract, ask about 'international roaming' charges to find out about call charges outside the UK.
Read your bill
Always check your bill to make sure you’re being charged the correct amount – occasionally you might be charged for something you didn’t sign up for.
If possible, ask your network to have your bill emailed to you instead of posted to your house. Depending on what network you’re on, you might be able to save a little.
Upgrade time
Sometimes getting your upgrade from the store isn’t the best option – usually they’ll offer you a new phone with a hefty price tag. Instead, contact your service provider directly. They could offer you a cheaper tariff and a new phone absolutely free because they don’t want to lose you as a customer.
Cash for your phone
Had enough of your phone? There are lots of websites that give you cash in return for your handset. All you have to do is sign up to the site and post your phone to them – simple as!
You could get over £100 for one of the latest models, or as little as £10 for an older handset. To find out how much your phone is worth, visit Envirofone.
