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Step 1
Consider a family plan. Having spouses or family members that live in the same household under completely different companies and subscriptions could cost you more then you think. There are usually significant discounts for those that combine their plans together under one company.
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Step 2
Use a plan that accommodates your level of cell phone "texting". This could be one of the largest charges you fail to notice on a regular basis. If you have a limit on your ability to text, make sure to keep track of this before you get into a twenty five text conversation with a buddy about your next fishing trip.
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Step 3
Watch out for roaming charges. Cell phones will tell you with some visual or audio cue that you've hit a roaming zone. When you are in roaming, it means your provider does not carry a signal in that area and you therefore pay a penalty for using your phone in this region. Many people do not realize this until its too late, but even a ten minute phone call in a roaming area can put a heavy dent in your wallet.
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Step 4
Get a plan that does not charge you for roaming. If you live in an area that tends to give you problems with this, its generally a good idea to make the investment a pay the extra money a month as insurance you don't run into roaming charges which could be ten times worse.
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Step 5
Buy a cell phone with a plan when applicable. You can save hundreds of dollars off your purchase of the cell phone if you sign up with a contract with the provider offered. Just keep in mind not to get trapped into buying a cell phone just for the huge discounts -- that plan you are sad about with the unreliable provider will catch up with you financially at some point.
