Buying a new mobile? Take a look at your options first

With so many mobile phone service providers out there, it’s hardly surprising that people often like to change from one network to another, one price plan to another, one phone to another. But how do you know what the best option is for you? Here's a brief rundown of some solutions to your mobile phone needs.

Bored with your phone? If you've had the same handset for ages and it's looking a bit worse for the wear, there are a couple of options open to you. Say, for example, that you're on a pay monthly contract with your service provider. Most companies offer free phone upgrades if you are in a certain month of your contract. Vodafone, for example, allow you to upgrade both your mobile phone and price plan if you're in the last 70 days of your contract, and will deliver the upgrade to you for free if you follow the simple online upgrading process. If, on the other hand, you're on a pay as you go plan, getting a new phone is very simple. Either take a look at the mobiles available from mobile service providers, or try shops like Dixons or Argos for a wide selection of options.

Bored with your network? If you feel like you've been with the same network for too long and could get a better deal elsewhere, all it takes is a bit of research and you could land yourself a great deal. Have a look at the websites of various mobile phone companies to see what deals they have on at the moment.

Bored with your price plan? If you're on a pay monthly contract and fancy a cheaper plan, or are on pay as you go but think you want to commit to a pay monthly contract, there are many options for you to choose from. Those already on contracts could save money by upgrading their price plan at the end of their contract, rather than looking for a new contract elsewhere. Those switching over to contract for the first time could benefit from introductory offers, like Vodafone's free Nintendo Wii with Guitar Hero and Samsung Steel when you sign up to their 24 month Talk plan, which is £35 per month with 600 minutes and unlimited texts.