These days, a mobile phone is usually an extension of our hand but without a bit of research, we can be left with a bit of a shock when the bill arrives.
Luckily, there is a lot of value to be had out there and a little shopping around can result in huge savings at the end of the months. From contracts to call charges, here is everything you need to know about choosing a mobile phone provider.
1) Get your priorities straight
One of the major factors in choosing the right provider is knowing what you’re looking for. Different plans can be weighted towards different functions so what is perfect for a heavy data user can be a nightmare for someone who loves a long gossip. Even if you think you know what you need, it always pays to make sure so download a usage tracker application to get a clearer picture of your monthly needs. My Data Manager, Onavo Count and Data Usage Defender are just some of the ones on the market but check the App Store or Google Play Store to see which works for you.
2) Keep your options open
Many of us have a preconceived notion of whether we want a Pay As You Go or a Bill Pay contract but sometimes the best value can be got by looking at both options. If you are buying a new handset, bill pay contracts can work out to be much cheaper but don’t forget, once you sign on the dotted line then there’s no going back! The best approach is to look at all offers and then sit down and work out a budget to see which is the most affordable. Some operators also offer 30-day contacts that give you the freedom of a bill pay contract, without the long term commitment.
Equally, don’t automatically opt for the most obvious choice. There are several new operators on the market, often offering the same level of coverage for a much more affordable price, so shop around!
3) Consult the experts
All of the above can be a confusing business so if you need a little helping hand, try logging on to a website like callcosts.ie. This handy site allows you to input your usage and will then suggest the best operator for you from the ones available. Use the information as a starting point but also take into consideration the signal coverage in your area and ask friends for feedback. A cheap plan is no use if you can’t use your phone.
4) Ask questions
If you’ve signed up to a new plan and are surprised by how expensive your bill is, make sure to go through it in detail before going into the store and questioning if there is a better option that might save you money. Sometimes, making a small adjustment such as adding a bundle to your package can make a huge difference in terms of cost and sales assistants are usually more than happy to take you through them. Just be sure to check for any hidden strings such as contract renewal/extension before you agree to any changes.
It’s important to note that while some contracts will offer ‘unlimited usage’, this is usually subject to an upper limit so if you are a heavy user (particularly of data), check out the details to avoid a seriously nasty surprise.
5) Know your rights
The National Consumer Agency has some great information on switching phone providers on its website so have a read here.
