From the weekly grocery shop to monthly utility bills and annual insurance premiums, there are a number of financial obligations we have to keep on top of. But while several of us are happy to visit a different supermarket or switch energy providers in order to get the best deal, we aren’t so eager to change our existing phone or broadband packages.
One leading provider says this is because customers are worried they’ll be without an Internet connection for a week or more, which is understandable. But if you can go without calling friends or family and surfing the web for a few days, some substantial savings can be had trying to get the best phone deal. What’s more, you may also receive some additional benefits too.
But before you start searching for the best broadband and phone deals available, here are some tips on how to get the most from your money.
Buy phone and broadband together, not separately
Generally, you’ll pay a lot more for standalone phone and broadband deals, so look for packages that come as a bundle. These tend to be superb value for money and you won’t need to worry about paying multiple bills from several different providers. See what you’re paying now, compare it with some bundle offers and the latter is bound to save you money on internet bills.
Identify what you do and when you do it
How often do you make phone calls? When are you on the Internet most? Answer these simple questions and you could find the perfect deal that suits you. If you are at work during the week, then an evening and weekends bundle is probably best. But for those who are online 24/7, make sure your package provides exactly what you need.
Think carefully about your download allowance
Even though a phone and broadband package with a calls or download limit might be cheaper, you could end up paying more in the long run. Additional charges or excess penalties can get quite expensive, especially if you like to speak on the phone regularly, download a lot of music or stream on-demand television and movies.
See what is available in your area
Not everybody will have access to the same phone and broadband packages, as things like availability, speed and cost depends on your location. So before committing to a deal, check to see what is available in your area. A package that offers lightning quick broadband might sound like the best option, but that may not be the case once you’ve typed in your postcode.
Contact your existing provider and speak to the alternatives
If you’re thinking about leaving your existing provider, let them know and there is a chance they’ll improve your current situation or package. But if you do decide to switch, speak to your new provider and ask them to take care of the whole process to sweeten the deal.
Image by Sean MacEntee, used under the Creative Commons license.

Hey Pauline and thanks for the great tips 🙂
How I get the best deals is relatively simple…I don’t own a cell phone…so I don;t have to worry about monthly plans, and my broadband bill is 34 bucks month with unlimited downloading. I’ve been with the same small company for almost 15 years and when I ear about the cost of other ISP’s, I am grateful to have the company I have 🙂
Take care and all the best.
Lyle
Lyle @ The Joy of Simple recently posted…Quit Wishing And Start Doing!
Another problem with switching carriers is the darn service providers that lock you into two years contracts with horrid termination charges. Why do I always find great deals a month after I start a new service contract?
Brad @ How To Save Money recently posted…Save Money by Tracking Your Spending Habits
I wish there were more options available in my rural area, but truth told, there’s not. I haven’t gotten the best service from my internet provider lately and if there were more/better choices, I’d highly consider moving.
Kayla @ Red Debted Stepchild recently posted…Blogging = Being a Hermit
Good tips! I also have only one choice of provider in my area. As soon as there are options, I’ll definitely be comparing and looking for savings!
Natalie @ Budget and the Bees recently posted…How to Work Out When You Really Don’t Want To