Manage your mobile!

During the bad finanical climate that is affecting everyone around the world at the moment, people need all the spare cash they can get and to tighten those purse strings! Here are some savings that most people can try as we rely heavily on our mobiles and especially if you have children with phones!

• Use landlines Shop around for a good rate on your landline. If you're out, ask yourself if you can wait till you get home to make the call.
• Don't talk forever If you know you are going to have a long call, use a landline.
• Use off-peak services Call friends in these cheaper times. Some carriers offer free calls for other users on the same carrier, so try to use the same carrier for all the family.
• Stop unnecessary SMS We've all done it, engaged in long text 'conversations'.
• Get a better deal Call your mobile provider every six months or go online and see if there is a more suitable plan for you, based on your actual phone usage.
• Go for prepaid rather than plans This is ideal for the kids, to stop them from racking up huge bills. It also gives them a sense of control and budgeting.
• Use your PIN If your talkative teenagers have used all their prepaid credit, use the PIN function to stop them from using your mobile.
• 'Talk' over the internet Use email, chatrooms or online phone services such as Skype.
• Don't use your mobile overseas The costs are ridiculous...ouch. Use an overseas local carrier and pay local rates, and buy a phone card to call home.