Call Using Internet-Based Apps
Using Wi-Fi to make voice or video calls is one of the easiest ways to save, but free options like WhatsApp, Messenger, or FaceTime only work for app-to-app calls. If you need to call an actual phone number or landline, you’ll need a service that bridges the gap—and ideally one that offers promo discounts.
- Skype – Skype is one of the most well-known apps that lets you call international phone numbers over the internet. While the app is free for Skype-to-Skype calls, you’ll need Skype Credit to dial actual landlines or mobile numbers. Luckily, Skype often offers top-up bundles where you can get bonus credit or discounted minutes.
- Talk360 – This app is designed specifically for low-cost international landline calls. It’s perfect when you need to reach people who don’t use smartphones or internet-based chat apps. You can purchase calling credits within the app, and new users sometimes get bonus credit or introductory discounts. Rates vary by country, so be sure to check their pricing.
These apps give you the convenience of calling directly to phones while offering a significantly cheaper alternative to traditional long-distance charges.
Top eSIM Promos for Travellers
Heading on a family vacation or student exchange? Don’t let roaming charges ruin your trip budget! eSIMs are like digital SIM cards that you can download instantly—no more hunting for tiny plastic cards or dealing with sketchy airport kiosks.
- Airalo is a popular eSIM provider offering affordable data plans across 200+ destinations worldwide. Known for its user-friendly app, competitive pricing, and instant activation, Airalo provides local, regional, and global affordable data packages without needing physical SIM cards.
- Saily is an eSIM service covering over 200 destinations with built-in cybersecurity features, including ad blocking and web protection at no extra cost. Saily offers data-only prepaid plans with reliable 3G/4G/LTE/5G speeds and unlimited hotspot sharing, making it ideal for security-conscious travellers.
- Jetpac is a Singapore-based eSIM provider covering 100+ countries that goes beyond just data by offering unique travel perks, including free airport lounge access for you and up to five companions when flights are delayed over one hour. Jetpac also provides free VPN trials and emergency hotline access, positioning itself as a comprehensive travel companion.
Why eSIMs Rock:
- Install them before you even leave home
- Switch between your home plan and travel plan instantly
- No more lost SIM cards or fumbling with those tiny card slots
- Often come with special promo codes for first-time users
Money-Saving Hack: Many eSIM providers offer student discounts or first-time user codes. Visit sites like VoucherAlarm for eSIM promo codes before buying, and you could save almost half the price on your travel data!
Tips for Finding Discounted Call Plans
Time to channel your inner detective and hunt down the best deals! Here’s how to become a plan-comparison pro:
- Don’t fall for fancy names – Plans called “Ultimate Unlimited Supreme” aren’t necessarily better than basic ones
- Consider smaller carriers – Companies like Lyca Mobile, Lebara, and giffgaff often beat the big names on price while using the same networks
- Family plans = savings – Convince your parents that getting everyone on the same carrier saves money (because it actually does!)
- Use comparison websites – Sites like uswitch.com let you filter by exactly what you need
Other Ways to Save on International Calls
Have someone in your family abroad you want to call, or friends studying overseas? International calling doesn’t have to be expensive!
- Budget-Friendly Options:
- Monthly bundles – Many carriers offer special international packages and monthly bundles on calls and data, like giffgaff and Vodafone. Others, like O2, even offer cashback on payments that will increase your savings.
- Local SIM cards – If you’re staying somewhere for more than a few weeks, grab a local SIM for super cheap local rates
- EU calling – Already free within European Union countries!
- Data-Saving Tricks:
- Use ad blockers to save 30-40% of your data usage
- Switch to mobile websites as they use way less data
- Turn off automatic downloads in WhatsApp group chats—those endless memes add up!
- Set data limits in your phone settings so you never go over
- Battery Life Hacks:
- Lower your screen brightness
- Use night mode
- Close apps you’re not using
- Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS when you don’t need them
- Update your phone’s operating system—those updates actually help!
To sum it up
Saving money on calls isn’t rocket science—it’s all about being smart with your choices. Use Wi-Fi whenever possible, don’t be afraid to try smaller carriers, and always hunt for promo codes before signing up for anything. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you when you’re not stressed about phone bills eating up your fun money.
Remember: the goal isn’t to stop connecting with people—it’s to connect smarter and cheaper. Now go forth and start saving!
Final Pro Tip: Sometimes the best call is no call at all. Meeting up in person is free, fun, and way more memorable than staring at a screen. Plus, you can even plan a fun trip to the cheapest UK weekend city breaks in the UK. Plus, you’ll have amazing stories to tell instead of just another phone bill to worry about!
