Switch to save, mobile users urged

British mobile phone owners have been encouraged to get the most for their money by making sure they tailor their package to their own needs.

According to the Office of Communications (Ofcom) and Consumer Focus, consumers could be shelling out hundreds of pounds more than is necessary by paying for free texts or minutes that go unused throughout the month.

For that reason, Ofcom has published a guide, which is available on its website, that aims to help Brits get the best deal from their mobile provider by doing things like checking its network coverage and paying online by direct debit.

In addition – and I think this is really useful – it gives pros and cons of both pay-monthly and pay-as-you-go contracts, as well a raft of questions to ask themselves and the supplier before plumping for a new deal.

These include: Will I get upgrades? Is there a charge if I leave my contract early? Are there any hidden costs? How long is the contract? Am I happy to commit to it for this length of time?

Ed Richards, the official watchdog’s chief executive commented: “Ofcom wants to ensure that consumers are getting the best from their mobile deal. This guide is designed to help consumers make informed decisions and to get the best from what’s on offer in the market today.”

He added that “it’s hardly surprising” that so many Brits find it difficult to know what deal and handset to go for when there are more than nine million available to them.

To make it easier, when you are looking for new mobile phone deals we suggest you use a mobile phone comparison site like Recombu to help make sure you get the best deal available.