Saving Money on Mobile Phones
Mobile phones have become such an intrinsic part of everyday life, that it is hard to imagine life used to exist without them. Mobile phones can be very useful, but, they can also eat up alot of credit if we misuse them. These are some tips to minimise our mobile phone costs and save money.
Get the Contract Right for You.
A simple way to save money on a mobile phone is to get the right contract. If you are spending more than £20 a month on pay as you go, you will probably be better off on a contract version. Similarly, if your phone is idle for several months out of the year, pay as you go can save significant amounts. Don’t just look at your use in one week, but, your use throughout the year.
Use Mobile Instead of Landline.
If you have a mobile, your landline can become redundant. This means you can save on the line rental. Although increasingly communication companies are packing together tv, broadband and telephone all together. In this case cancelling a landline isn’t that much of a saving.
Make Use of Skype / Aim / Internet
When you have access to an internet connection, make use of a service like Skype to save on your mobile phone calls. If your friends have skype as well, you will not have to pay anything. But, even calling landlines and mobiles is usually cheaper with an internet provider.
Minimise Use.
If you are on pay as you go, look for ways to minimise use. Save all the gossip for another occasion. If you like gossiping on the phone, make sure you have a contract with many free minutes. Rather than use a mobile phone as your means of socialising, arrange to meet people in person, it is even better.
I’m not a great fan of communicating by text message. Sometimes it can be useful, but, it is very tiresome as a way of holding a conversation. Texting is good for passing a simple, short, clear message.
Buying Cheap Mobiles
Many mobiles are sold at knockdown prices when they come to the end of their shelf life. Every 4-6 months, mobile phone models are replaced with newer versions. To get rid of old stock an £80 phone can be sold for £20. If you’re not bothered at keeping up with the latest fashion trends, look out for these special offers. Just remember they were state of the art 6 months ago. Even 6 months ago, the phone had more features than you used anyway, so don’t worry about not getting the latest model.
Don’t Lose It!
I wish I followed my own advice and didn’t lose my mobile phone or charger. They are expensive to replace. Insurance is worth getting for phones worth more than £100, but, for less expensive phones it probably isn’t worth it.