Choosing the right mobile plan for your life is now more important than ever!
Yet, it seems like Kiwis aren’t putting much time into comparing mobile plans to see which one is actually best for them.
It’s a big issue as Kiwis are potentially missing out on hundreds of dollars worth of savings by not comparing!
Why should I compare mobile plans?
Last year, the Commerce Commission expressed concern that some Kiwi consumers were overpaying on their mobile plans. Also, Consumer NZ recently surveyed Kiwis and found that more than half of the respondents said they’ve been with their mobile phone provider for 5 years or more.
It’s clear that currently Kiwis aren’t comparing mobile plans. By not shopping around for the best deal, Kiwis are missing out on huge savings and plans that might suit their mobile needs better.
Mobile plans will be adding to the already large household debt as many people have mobile plans in the same home unlike power or broadband plans. Many Kiwis will be stressed about being on the wrong plan for the wrong price but that can all change if you compare.
How do I compare?
There are many different aspects that make up a mobile plan. To compare plans, you need to consider what features are most important to you!
Prepay vs. Pay Monthly
One of the most crucial things to decide when comparing mobile plans, is whether you want a Prepay or Pay Monthly plan.
It’s good to note that there are also contract plans. However, these are often based on you being locked in for a large amount of time to pay off a mobile phone, in addition to paying for a plan.
Prepay:
Prepay plans work by simply pre-paying or paying your plan in advance. You can either use casual rates for data, minutes, and texts or you can buy a pack (which allocates you set amounts of each). Packs range from a week to a whole month, with many letting you roll over your data, minutes, and texts.
Prepay plans offer great flexibility, as you can switch to different packs or providers at any time with no exit fees, and you’re not required to pass a credit check.
The only hassle is that you always have to make sure you have enough credit to renew your plan. However, some providers let you set up auto top-up, which makes things easier.
Pay Monthly:
Pay Monthly plans are typically plans that last for one or two years. Some plans are open-term, meaning you can exit whenever you like. All Pay Monthly plans charge you every month via credit card or direct debit.
Pay Monthly plans usually work out to be cheaper than Prepay plans and offer special benefits and perks. Plus, it’s stress-free as your provider automatically charges you every month.
However, you do need to be 18 years or older and pass a credit check. Also, many contracts are fixed term, meaning you’re locked in and could be charged an exit fee if you try to change plans.
How much data, minutes, and texts do I need?
Data:
Data will likely be the key factor to consider! For light users, 1GB should suffice, average users will need 5GB or more, and heavy users may need an unlimited plan.
Unlimited plans are fantastic but costly. Also, they aren’t completely unlimited due to the “Fair Use Policy.” Plus, hotspotting is usually not allowed but you can get a hotspot Add On.
Remember to consider that heaps of plans allow you to roll over your data and you can always get additional data with various Add Ons that are available.
We recommend looking at your current data use, to gauge which plan will be best. Remember, if you have broadband (especially an unlimited plan) at home, you probably don’t need heaps of data on your phone.
Minutes:
Cheaper plans will typically include 0-200 minutes while expensive plans will have 200 to unlimited minutes. If you make lots of calls, you may want to opt for an expensive plan or buy an Add On for more minutes.
Texts:
Almost all mobile plans offer unlimited texts. If you’re needing to send texts to Australia, some plans will also have you covered.
What about roaming?
If you travel overseas often, then it’s worth looking into roaming plans. Casual roaming rates can be expensive but many providers have roaming plans that are much cheaper. Have a look and see whether there's a provider who offers a plan that meets your travelling needs.
Just make sure that the countries you are heading to are included in your provider’s roaming plan. Not all countries will be included in every provider’s roaming plan, so it pays to double-check before you join up. Always check BEFORE you head overseas so you don’t land in a new country and get stuck.
Perks and special benefits
There are heaps of perks, special benefits and deals available from many providers! Free subscriptions, exclusive access to concert tickets, free hours of data, discounts if you bundle your plans and more, are all on offer!
COMPARE DEALS AT MOBILE COMPARE!
What if I need a new phone?
If you’re looking for a new phone as well, then head to PriceMe!
PriceMe is one of NZ Compare's comparison brands, alongside Mobile Compare, which houses thousands of products that you can compare. PriceMe helps make shopping easier and allows you to make a fully informed choice.
At PriceMe, you’ll find a huge range of phones to compare!
To help you decide which phone is right for you, check out our Mobile Phone Buying Guide!
Where do I go to compare mobile plans?
The best way to compare mobile plans is by using Mobile Compare!
Mobile Compare is a comparison website where you can compare all the latest mobile plans. You’ll find the perfect plan that suits your life and your budget!
How to use Mobile Compare!
Mobile Compare is super easy to use!
Just follow these simple steps:
- Jump onto Mobile Compare!
- Click on New Plan.
- Select how much data, minutes and texts you’re after.
- Select the type of plan you want (Prepay or Monthly).
- Choose a provider you want (you can select multiple).
- Hit enter!
- Browse all the plans available & compare them side-by-side.
- Find one you like and switch!
If you want the best mobile plan for your life, then head to Mobile Compare!