The rise and rise of the mobile phone is one of the biggest changes to everyday life we have seen in our lifetimes, and our obsession with mobile gadgets shows no signs of abating. However, mobile phone bills can be a burden on anyone trying to live on a tight budget.
We’ve grown so dependent on them that they are seen as a necessity rather than a luxury, but high monthly bills can be a struggle for many. If you want to cut down the amount of money you’re spending on your mobile phone, this quick guide could help.
How To Save Money On Your Mobile Phone Bill
Change Your Monthly Mobile Phone Contract
If you’re signed into a monthly contract, take a look at your usage to ensure you’re getting the best deal. If you’re regularly going over your allowance of calls and texts, the charges can be disproportionately expensive, so think about getting a better value ‘add-on’ package as part of your monthly deal.
The same applies with data: if you’re regularly going over your limit, chances are you’ll be paying through the nose. A free app such as Stats Free will let you track how much you are using and even notify you when you have reached your limit. You can save money by adding a data package to your tariff or setting up your device to connect to free Wi-Fi whenever it’s available, cutting down on your usage of 3G.
Use Apps To Save Money On Your Mobile Phone Bill
You can also save money by using some of the many apps that allow you to make phone calls and send text messages for free. Software like Viber and WhatApp both let you call and text internationally free of charge, while apps like Skype allow free video chat to anyone with the same software. These services are incredibly high quality, particularly with international calls, and the clarity is often even better than that on a paying call.
Consider A Contract Phone To Save Money
If you’re not signed into a monthly contract, or yours is coming to an end, think about whether or not a contract phone is really the right choice for you. Download an app and keep track of how many minutes and text messages you use every month – often, people don’t use nearly as much as they think and end up paying premiums for services they don’t use.
If your usage is light or medium, you might be better off getting a SIM-only pay as you go for your existing phone. With an add-on data package and Wi-Fi connectivity, you’ll still be able to enjoy using your smartphone for everyday tasks like checking your email and social media but without being tied into an expensive contract. What’s more, it costs nothing to try – you can get free SIM cards with Lebara or similar companies just by visiting their websites.
In a world where mobile phones are becoming more and more intrinsically linked with our everyday lives, many see their devices as a necessary expense. However, with a little bit of planning, you can stay connected without breaking the bank.
I saved money by buying my phone outright rather than getting a subsidized phone from the carrier. This way, my phone is unlocked and can be used on any GSM network when traveling, and I have no contract, so I can choose whatever plan I want and switch at any time. Typically, I hit the breakeven point by month 15-18 depending on the phone, so the real savings comes in the last 6-9 months.
That’s a great tip about buying your phone outright. I have several friends who do this and love it. They love being able to have more flexibility when they choose which plans / contracts to use.
Love the apps you mentioned–smart! I’m still a holdout on getting a smart phone even though I know many of the advantages. One of these days I’ll break down and buy one. Thanks for ways to keep the monthly bill down. It will still be painful, but not quite as much!
I don’t think a lot of people realize they can get discounts from their alma mater or company either. I save 18% on my AT&T wireless bill through my company. My school had something similar. I think I’m eligible for discounts on AT&T, Spring and Verizon. Definitely worth checking!