When your mobile phone contract is coming to an end, you then need to start the complicated process of finding a new one. The idea of upgrading your phone is often an attractive one but figuring out all the parts of the contract and what's the best deal is less fun.
So, to help out we have put together some tips to help you get the best deals from your phone provider and how to judge one deal against another to get you the best contract for your needs - as well as that smart new phone!
Think about what you really need
Just like shopping for a new energy deal or looking for the best insurance for your car, the first step in finding the best phone contract is to consider the essential things that you need. This applies to both your phone and the elements of the contract.
For example, are you an Apple fan or do you prefer to have a phone that runs on Android? Do you like to take photos so need a top-quality camera or will a reasonable one do for a few selfies and shots of the kids? Do you want the top end of screen sizes or do you want something a little more pocket-friendly? Having the answers to these questions can help you narrow down what you want from the phone. Or who offers the best coverage?
Also, consider the contract and what you need from it. Do you make a lot of phone calls or are texts more important? Do you watch a lot of videos or download movies so need a good internet allowance? Again, answers to these questions will help you narrow down the features of the contract.
Consider your budget
Mobile phone contracts come at varying prices, so it is a good idea to have some kind of budget in mind as to how much you want to spend a money. Most of the time contracts are made of two parts - payment for the phone which stays the same and the payment for the contract which can alter slightly. Phone bills can also be more expensive if you exceed free limits such as calls or internet use.
Consider your budget and how much you can afford. Also, think about what happens if you go over your contract amounts - it is worth going a little lower than what you can afford to make sure you can pay any extra if something happens like this.
Get the timing right
People often get a bit excited at upgrade time and start the new deal too early so end up paying for two contracts for a month or two. Ring your existing company to find out when the contract is due. For example, the will tell you when you can get an upgrade but make sure you find out when the contract finishes. You can also speak to the Vodafone customer service number who can tell you the same - the upgrade date is often before the contract expires and this is how people get themselves into trouble with extra bills.
If you do need to end the contract early, then ring the company to see what it will cost. For instance, the o2 contact support number will be able to tell you how much you will have to pay to leave the contract. Depending on the terms, this might just be the balance to pay on the actual handset or might include the contract monthly amount as well.
Don't feel pressured into making a decision
The job of mobile phone salespeople is to sell you a mobile phone but don't let them pressure you into making a decision. Get the information you need and then walk away for a bit to consider it.
In the same way, don't just assume your existing company is offering you the best deal - companies often save the best deals for new customers so switching might be better.
Use comparison sites and website information to really look at the deals on offer and see what you are getting for your money. Then when you feel confident in your choice, see the relevant sales team.
Don't be afraid to go back to your existing provider
When you shop around and get a range of deals, if they are better than your existing provider then don't be afraid to go back to them to see if they can match. Sometimes they might be able to match a deal or even better it because you have been with them a while. There may even be a better deal from them on a different contract that will save you money, but switching is simpler than switching to a new provider.
Need the right number?
If you are unsure who to speak to, use our handy database of telephone numbers for mobile phone providers to speak to the right person every time. It includes all the main providers and many smaller ones to help you find the right deal.
