Making the switch from pre-paid to mobile phone plans

Whether it’s on the TV, the side of a bus, the radio or the internet, the media is saturated with mobile phone companies advertising their latest phones, contracts and special offers. If you’re like me, the mix of prepaid options, plans and maxicaps from an ever-expanding list of service providers can be overwhelming, particularly if you’re making the switch from a pre-paid to post-paid connection.

If you’re thinking of signing a contract with a mobile phone service, then here are a few things to consider:

- Think about your needs. Different mobile phone connections are right for different people. Prepaid is perfect for people who don’t like to be tied down or committing to long term contracts. If you’re making the switch to a plan, it’s likely that you are in a more settled or permanent stage of your life. Before making the switch, consider whether a pre-or post paid connection suits you best.

- Consider different types of plans. The decisions don’t stop there, because there are a number of different types of plans to choose from. Many plans allow you to use your phone as much as you want and whenever you want, for which you are charged via a bill on a monthly basis. Cap plans are another variety which are steadily growing in popularity. Cap plans are capped at a predefined amount and any additional usage is charged extra. Most cap plans charge a set price for a budget of calls, such as $49 for $300 worth of credit, or $69 for $500 worth of credit a month. Whether you choose a simple or capped plan will come down to personal preference.

- Compare. The key to getting the best deal on a mobile phone plan is to do your research and compare mobile phones as well as mobile phone plans. While there is a lot of similarity between carriers, there may be special deals at the time you are signing up that will be worth investigating. Luckily, new websites such as whistelout.com.au
are dedicated to providing the comparisons and outlining special deals. Such sites help empower consumers in getting the best deals by explaining the jargon and clauses of terms and conditions.

- Do you want to buy the phone outright? Many plans offer a phone for $0 upfront if you sign up for a 24 month contract. Alternatively, you can buy the phone outright, although this can be at considerate expense depending on the quality and sophistication of phone you are after.

The key to switching from a pre-paid connection to a mobile phone plan is to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Take advantages of websites that compare mobile phones and you’ll find the right plan for your needs.