Switcher.ie’s 5 Top Money-saving Tips to Beat 1 April Price Hikes

Irish households – already squeezed by high energy bills and soaring food costs – are to be hit by another raft of price hikes on April Fools Day, as four telecoms giants announce price increases for broadband and mobiles customers.

Switcher.ie has put together some inflation-busting, money-saving tips to beat the price hikes and their expert, Eoin Clarke comments on how to future-proof against annual price rises.

1. Shop around to find the best deals

Use a comparison website to find all the best deals in your area and save hundred of euros. Switcher.ie’s broadband eircode checker makes it easy to compare the best broadband prices and discounts where you live. Remember to check out features like broadband speeds, contract length, exclusive perks, and rewards.

2. Bundle your broadband, phone & TV

Access to the internet is essential for most homes in Ireland, and if you enjoy one of the many TV streaming services like Sky, Prime Video or Netflix you’ve probably got a digital TV plan too. You’ll save money if you bundle your broadband, phone and TV together rather than pay for them separately.

3. Consider haggling

If you are thinking about switching, tell your provider you’re considering a change before you make the switch – they may just pull out all the stops to keep you. Use a comparison website to find cheaper deals and ask if they’ll price match. It could potentially lead to a new offer at a lower price – but it’s not guaranteed.

4. Keep it SIMple

If you’re out of contract but happy to stick with your phone, you could save by switching to a SIM-only deal. Bill pay phone contracts cost more because you’re paying for the new device on top of airtime. With a SIM-only deal, you’re only paying for calls, texts and data, so it’s cheaper than a bill-pay contract, and the tie-in can be as short as 30 days.

5. Grab a multi-cover discount

If you’ve got a bunch of gadgets, like an iPhone, tablet, laptop and smartwatch that you insure separately, consider choosing multi-gadget cover and save up to 15% on insurance.

Eoin Clarke, Commercial Director at Switcher.ie comments:

“It seems there’s no respite from rising prices, and from 1 April, we’re paying more for broadband, TV and phone too. Fuelled by inflation and global headwinds, Irish consumers are being hit left, right and centre by soaring costs.

The good news is competition is fierce between providers, so introductory discounts are often there for the taking. Providers always keep the best deals for new customers, so it pays to switch when your contract ends. Welcome credits, special offers and freebies could be up for grabs too.

The cheapest deal isn’t always the best value, so compare contract length and the price after your discount ends. You may want to check out the smaller providers too.”