Going backpacking: What do I do about my phone contract?

LostTheMarbles

I'll be leaving the UK in May to go backpacking around the world, I'll be spending most of my time in South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

My Vodafone contract runs until February next year, I took it out well before I even considered going travelling. I pay £25 a month along with the £7 a month for insurance, this leaves me around £250 left to pay after I leave the country.

I'm not looking to get out of the contract but I want advice on either minimising the cost or even making it cost effective to take the phone over seas with me.

horace_2

A contract is a contract, no if`s or buts.

h

Keith

Cancel the insurance, sell the handset, call Vodafone and pay off the contract, the price should be reduced for paying it early. I think you don't pay VAT.

Buy a cheap old Nokia and a sim card for the country you are in.

Annie._2

You are able to use Vodafone Passport in Australia and New Zealand.

If you know of anyone looking for a short term contract, you could consider going the change of contract ownership route before you leave, then all responsibility for the contract will be with a new owner.

reclusive46

You could ask them to freeze the contract. I think Vodafone let you do that for upto 6 months.

Annie._2

reclusive46 wrote: »

You could ask them to freeze the contract. I think Vodafone let you do that for upto 6 months.

You can only freeze the contract is you are serving in the armed forces with a confirmation letter from the commanding officer.

That would not be an option in the OPs case.

Buzby

Won;t you need a phone when travelling the World? They offer 'deals' for roaming that as a goodwill gesture they may be prepared to juggle your inclusive UK calls and swap it for roaming - just ask.

Vodafone

Hi LostTheMarbles,

As Ann S has mentioned, if there is someone who is willing to take over the contract then we can arrange a transfer of ownership for you.

If you would like to discuss your options, feel free to contact me via the address here with WRT135 FAO Heidi in the subject.

If you can include a link to your post and a contact number, I will get in touch.

Kind regards,

Heidi
Web Relations Team
Vodafone UK