When you turn 18, you'll be able to get a mobile phone contract in your own name. Whether you're using your mobile phone to download, stream, or keep in touch with friends, if you don't want to face palpitation-inducing phone bills at the end of the month, you'll need to take charge of your mobile bill.
Start by making sure you've got the right contract. Use your bills from the last few months to pinpoint your average usage for calls, texts, and data, then use this to find the cheapest tariff for your needs. See MoneySavingExpert’s 30+ cheap mobile tips for more information.
If you'd rather not change network, you can still make big savings. Near the end of your contract, call your provider and ask for the best deal possible – not just on your network, but ask them to match – (or beat) – any out there.
When you hear 'pay as you go', you might think of the early days of mobiles, and paying upfront for each call and text. But now it's possible to get great value pay as you go bundles, giving a better value allowance, and tighter control over your bill, as you know what you're using. If you think this might be a better option, see MoneySavingExpert’s guide to the best pay as you go sim deals.