Smartphones are incredibly useful and for most people an essential part of their day to day life. However, they are also expensive with many smartphones costing anything up to £50 per month.
Thankfully there are some relatively easy ways for you to save money on your mobile phone tariff.
Do you really need the latest smartphone?
New and improved versions of smartphones often mean higher prices.
If there is a new version of a particular phone available it is almost certain that older models will be reduced in price. Think about the main differences between the new model and its predecessor and ask yourself how it will affect you. Is the difference better zoom on the camera? Ask yourself ‘how much time do I spend taking photos?’ Does the new phone have extra water resistance? Is your phone really going to be near water very frequently?
Remove your personal hotspot
This feature allows you to connect your phone to another device and allow it to connect to the internet using your phone’s mobile data.
Unless you actually need and use it, removing the personal hotspot option can save you some money on your mobile phone tariff. Sadly, not all providers allow you to do this but if this in an option definitely consider it.
Reduce your mobile data
I know the thought of having unlimited data on your phone is appealing but do you actually need it? Think about how many places nowadays have free public WiFi including shops, restaurants, gyms and even buses and trains.
You can look up your phone data very easily to check out how much data you use each month. Use this to work out how much data you actually need. Most mobile phone contracts have various options for mobile data allowance including 1GB, 5GB, 8GB, 15GB and 20GB. To give you an idea of how much data this actually is have a look at the following stats:
10GB of data will give you approximately 120 hours of web browsing, 20 hours of video streaming, let you send 10,000 emails and download 250 apps.
1GB of data will let you send around 1,000 emails and send 1.5M WhatsApp messages.
Rather than paying for tons of mobile data you don’t need, why not choose a tariff with less data which will mean a reduced cost?
Ask them to price match competitors
Phone providers will want to keep you as a customer. In fact almost every mobile phone provider has a team of employees whose sole job is to convince customers to remain with them (usually called the ‘customer retention’ team).
If you notice that another phone provider is offering a better deal on the same phone, ask them if they can either price match or even offer you something better. Remember they may say no which leaves you with the decision of either sticking to your current provider or switching to a new one.
Trade in your old handset
Some mobile phone providers will let you trade in your old mobile phone in exchange for cash or a discount on your new phone. The amount you get will depend on the condition of your mobile phone. Scratches, dents or cracks in the screen will result in a lower offer however some providers have been known to pay up to £150 for handsets in good condition.
It is entirely up to you what you do with this money. You can keep it for something else or put it towards your new mobile phone payments.
Had previous poor experiences with your provider? Let them know
If you are considering remaining with your current provider but you have had some issues in the past i.e poor signal, rude staff, long waiting times on customer services call lines or bad connectivity you should bring this up when you are negotiating a new deal with them. They may offer you a better deal or another incentive to stay with them by way of an apology. However, be polite and courteous when you raise these points and do not be tempted to exaggerate/make things up.
