In a world where the cost of living keeps climbing, it’s crucial to find ways to save money wherever we can. One area where many of us overspend without realizing it is our mobile phone bills. In this article, we’ll share some simple yet effective tips to help you cut down on your monthly phone expenses.
Don’t Pay for Unused Data
Are you paying for data you never use? On average, people in the UK use around 5GB of data per month. If you’re shelling out for more, it’s time to take action. Check your bills to see how much data you’re using regularly. If you find yourself far below your data allowance, inquire with your provider about switching to a more suitable plan. It’s all about paying for what you actually need.
Don’t Miss Out on Deals and Offers
Many mobile providers offer enticing discounts and special offers that could lead to substantial yearly savings. For instance, O2 extends a 20% discount to students and provides family plans that can significantly reduce monthly bills. Consider bundling your contracts onto a single account to maximize savings – a family of four could save approximately £140 a year. Reach out to your provider to explore these money-saving opportunities.
Second-Hand Phones: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
In the market for a new phone but not willing to break the bank on the latest model? Second-hand phones can offer fantastic value, and some providers even offer refurbished devices complete with 12-month warranties. By choosing a refurbished phone over a brand-new one, you could save around £200 per year. Additionally, trading in your old devices can score you discounts, so start rummaging through those drawers and cupboards for unused treasures.
The National Databank: A Lifeline for Digital Inclusion
The National Databank, a program backed by Virgin Media O2 and managed by the Good Things Foundation, functions similarly to a food bank but provides free mobile connectivity to those facing digital exclusion challenges. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria such as being over 18, residing in a low-income household, lacking internet access at home, and more. Eligible individuals can receive a free O2 SIM card with 20GB of data per month for up to six months. Visit the Good Foundation for more details on how to access this valuable resource.
Stop Overpaying for Your Handset
Shockingly, many UK mobile service providers continue to charge customers for handsets they’ve already paid off. When you sign up for a mobile phone contract, scrutinize your bill to determine if it separates the cost of airtime (data, calls, texts) from the device itself. Combining these costs into one bill might lead to unnecessary expenses. Research from Virgin Media O2 found that impacted consumers are overpaying by an average of more than £200 each year. Make sure you’re not one of them.
Could You Get Double Data?
If your household subscribes to both O2 and Virgin Media services, consider linking the two accounts. Doing so can boost your broadband speed and provide double data on eligible O2 SIMs. This simple move can result in significant savings and improved connectivity.
Avoid Unexpected EU Roaming Fees
Don’t let unexpected EU roaming fees ruin your holiday. While some mobile network providers don’t include EU roaming in their contracts, others, like O2, offer up to 25GB of EU roaming as a standard feature. Be sure to check your tariff before traveling to assess whether purchasing a roaming bundle is more cost-effective than incurring roaming fees. Don’t forget to add a spending cap to your mobile plan to avoid unexpected expenses