What to ask yourself before choosing a mobile phone plan with Telstra

Finding the right plan starts with simple questions about your daily phone habits, such as data usage, calls and texting.

3 minute read

What kind of mobile phone user are you?

Put a constant texter next to someone who always forgets where they left their phone and it seems that not everyone uses their phone the same way. 

Many compare phone plans to find the best mobile phone plan that fits how they use their phone each day. Our guide walks you through the most important factors to consider when you're choosing a plan with Telstra.

Match your phone habits to your phone plan

Think about how you use your phone each day. Your data habits, how often you call or text and whether you travel all influence the mobile plan that will work best for you.

 

I want to find the right amount of data based on how I use my phone

This depends on what you do on your phone. 

  • Streaming videos and shows: If you watch content on the go, you’ll likely want enough data to avoid buffering. Check your average monthly usage and speeds and consider a plan that has enough data.

  • Online gaming: Gaming usually requires less data than streaming, but stable speeds and low latency matter. Consider a plan that has enough data to keep up.

  • Social media, browsing, messaging: You may not need a plan that has a large amount of data. Estimate your typical habits to avid paying for extra data you don't need.

 

I use my phone mainly to call and text

If this is you, a lower-cost and low-data plan is usually sufficient as large data allowances may not be necessary. Most of Telstra's mobile phone plans now include unlimited standard calls and texts in Australia.

 

I'm on a budget

Work out how much you can comfortably afford each month. Choose a plan that fits your budget and matches your usage and avoid paying for extras you won't use.

Also, keep an eye out for special deals as these may reduce up-front costs or the cost of a plan over a limited period, without sacrificing the features you need. 

 

I need a flexible phone contract

If your phone habits or data needs change frequently, a no-lock-in month-to-month post-paid service mobile makes it easier to switch. You can change plans once each month or cancel your services altogether. 

 

I keep in touch with people overseas

If you're in regular contact with family or friends overseas, check whether international calling is included or comes as an add-on. It lets you make calls and send texts from Australia to overseas numbers.

 

I travel overseas often

For phone use overseas, consider international roaming. Some plans offer international roaming add-ons or daily passes without needing a new SIM. It's also worth checking the countries and locations where roaming is available before you travel.

 

I manage multiple plans

If you're a family with multiple plans, a bundle plan may help simplify account management and data sharing.

 

I need regional and remote mobile coverage

Mobile coverage is extremely important to everyone but especially those in regional and remote communities. Always check our predicted mobile coverage maps for the places you use your phone the most.

Frequently asked questions

You do not always need international roaming if you only travel occasionally. It depends on how you plan to use your phone while you are overseas. If you want the convenience of staying connected without buying a local SIM, roaming can be helpful. If you only need basics like maps or quick messages, a roaming day pass or a small add on might be enough. You can also choose not to roam at all and rely on Wi Fi during your trip.

Check your average data usage in your phone settings. If you stream often, you will need more data. If you mainly browse or message, a lower data allowance may be enough.

Most plans now include unlimited standard calls and texts within Australia. Always check the plan details to confirm.

A month-to-month plan gives you flexibility because there is no lock in contract. You can change your plan more easily if your habits change.

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