Choosing the right mobile phone tariff depends a great deal on the way that you use your mobile. There’s no “best” tariff that’s a one-size-fits-all solution to your mobile needs. Whether you’re signing up for your first mobile phone tariff, looking to upgrade to a new handset or wanting a better deal than you currently have, here’s some expert advice on how to choose the best mobile phone tariff for your needs.
The Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Mobile Tariff
- Do you want to change providers?
If you’re looking for a new tariff because you’re dissatisfied with your current provider, you may want to give them one last chance first depending on the reason for your dissatisfaction. If your main reason for wanting a change is the money, do check with your current provider first. Many of the major companies will break out a special lower cost deal when they think they’re about to lose a customer.
- Are you still under contract?
You may pay a hefty penalty if you jump ship in the middle of a contract period. If you’re nearing the end of your contract – typically 12, 18 or 24 months – start shopping around to find the best tariff for your needs. Otherwise, you may be better off sticking it out with your current provider until your contract runs its course.
- Do you use all your minutes and texts each month?
If you consistently have lots of rollover minutes each month, you might do better with a less expensive mobile plan. Why pay for something you’re not using? Take the time to go over your bills for the last several months and see if the plan you’re paying on really suits the way you use your mobile.
- Do you consistently go over limit on your minutes and texts?
Additional minutes and texts can run up a hefty charge on your monthly account. If you consistently pay for extra minutes, data transfer or texts, you might be better off switching to a plan that includes more of them.
- Are you on pay-as-you-go?
If you pay-as-you-go, you might save considerable money with a contract mobile. If you spend £20 or more per month to top up your minutes, check out the various deals offered for contracts. Keep in mind that switching to a contract could garner you a nice, shiny new handset – for very little, or even for free.
- Is pay-as-you-go the way to go?
If you typically use less than ten minutes a day on your mobile, then you might be best off with a prepaid pay-as-you-go mobile plan. If your usage typically exceeds that, shop around for a good, low-usage contract that commits you as little as possible.
The key to finding the best tariff is in knowing the way that you use your mobile. If you already have a contract, check back over your past year’s account statements and figure out your usage, then base you decision on that. If you’ve never had a contract before, opt for a contract for the shortest time possible so that you can gauge your usage before making a longer commitment.
And as always, shop around before you commit, and don’t forget to read reviews on each service before you buy.
