The cost-of-living crisis is real and we're about to feel it even more with more price hikes coming on April 1st.
Switcher.ie has put together five simple, inflation-busting, money saving tips to beat the April Fools' Day price hikes.
1. Bundle your broadband, phone & TV
Access to the internet is essential for most homes in Ireland, and if you enjoy one of the many TV streaming services like Sky, Prime Video or Netflix, you’ve probably got a digital TV plan too. You’ll save money if you bundle your broadband, phone and TV together rather than pay for them separately. Some providers even offer discounts if you bundle in your SIM plan.
2. Shop around to find the best deals
Use a comparison website to save time and find the best discounts available. Switcher.ie's broadband eircode checker makes it easier to search for the cheapest broadband prices where you live. Remember to cost in the price once the discount period ends and check out features like speed, contract length and exclusive perks.
3. Consider haggling
If you are thinking about switching, tell your provider you're considering a change before you make the switch - they may just pull out all the stops to keep you. Use a comparison website to find cheaper deals and ask if they'll price match. It could potentially lead to a new offer at a lower price - but it’s not guaranteed.
4. Keep it SIMple
If you’re out of contract but happy to stick with your phone, you could save by switching to a SIM-only deal. Bill pay phone contracts cost more because you're paying for the new device on top of airtime. With a SIM-only deal, you're only paying for calls, texts and data, so it’s cheaper than a bill-pay contract, and the tie-in can be as short as 30 days.
5. Grab a multi-cover discount
If you’ve got a bunch of gadgets, like an iPhone, tablet, laptop and smartwatch that you insure separately, consider choosing multi-gadget cover and save up to 15% on insurance. Only insure if your gadgets are brand new and check you're not already covered by home insurance so you don't double up.
Eoin Clarke, Telecoms Expert at Switcher.ie says:
"Despite the easing energy and food prices, households will be slapped by a round of price hikes on April Fools' Day, as four telecoms giants hit broadband and mobile customers with price rises up to 7.6%.
"On the bright side, providers are clamouring for new customers at the moment so discounts and perks are plentiful.
"Providers always keep the best deals for new customers, so it pays to switch when your contract ends. It's a switcher’s market right now, and freebies, welcome rewards and flash offers are all up for grabs.
"The cheapest deal isn't always the best value, so compare contract length and 'thereafter' price once your discount ends. If peace of mind is more important, you may prefer to lock into a deal with longer term savings."
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