Dollar Saver Tip #18
Save: $100+
Tip overview:
Did you know it's possible to get good network coverage on your mobile plan, without having to part with big bucks? I'm Mariam, one of Finder's in-house telco experts.
The appeal to go with Telstra, Optus and Vodafone is in the name. They exude big brand energy and offer some extra bells and whistles on their mobile plans.
However, if all you care about is making calls, sending texts and having enough data for when you're out and about, don't look past smaller providers.
Boost Mobile is the only MVNO (or small provider) that offers full access to Telstra's 4G network, meaning those living in regional or rural Australia can benefit as well.
For example, its 12-month long-expiry plan costs $200 for 140GB. That's roughly $17 a month for around 11GB of data. Telstra's own 12-month long-expiry plan costs $300 for 200GB. Yes, you get more data in return, but you're also paying $100 more.
Did you know?
According to the ACCC, the average Aussie only uses 10.2GB each month. If you rarely stream or hotspot when you're out and about, then you're likely going to use even less data.
Long-expiry plans are another great way to save money on your mobile plan. You pay a single amount upfront for the year and that's that.
Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker shows that Aussies spend an average $52 a month on their mobile plan. That's $624 a year. With a long-expiry plan, you could save plenty.