Keeping a number but not being used (Lowest outgoing option)

20vt-rs

I have a UK number that I want to at least keep online even if I'm not using it. I will hardly use this number (maybe once every 1-2 months), it's a number I wish to retain having had it for a long time but is not my main number (was a work number previously.

What's the best way to keep hold of the number but not have to pay a high / regular monthly fee? I think getting something like an Asda or Giffgaff mobile PAYG sim, and then sending a text say once a month. But if there are any other / better options then advice appreciated, thank you.

flaneurs_lobster

Asda Mobile would do it, need to take a £5 1 month deal but just get online and set auto renew to OFF. PAYG rates apply from month 2, you'll need to add minimum top-up of £5. 

Most of that £5 initial cost can be recovered via Quidco cashback.

Anyone know if O2 Classic SIMs are still being activated/honoured? My two are still working fine but don't know about recent experiences. You'll find them on eBay.

RWG will give you a SIM for a quid's-worth of PAYG credit

https://www.rwgmobile.wales/webshop/offers/order-a-sim/

Their service has been reportedly a little off recently but my SIMs are still fine.

Detail_Merchant

20vt-rs said:

getting something like an Asda or Giffgaff mobile PAYG sim, and then sending a text say once a month.

I have a Giffgaff sim which is not my main number. I topped it up with (the minimum) £10 when I got it and I've still got most of that credit, just doing a text every couple of months for 10p.

Reading their Ts&Cs - https://www.giffgaff.com/boiler-plate/terms - in 13.5 it says "Your SIM Card will be disconnected unless, at least once every six months, your Account is used" with details of what counts as being used - so doing a text every month or two should be plenty. It's worked ok for me for over 2 years.

pseudodox

I have an ASDA PAYG keeping an old number for me.  Need to make a chargeable call or text every 180 days and top up minimum £5 also every 180 days.  I just top up, keep a couple of ££ credit on the phone then donate the balance by text to a charity I regularly support instead of sending them payment by other means or cash in a collecting box.  So all it really costs me is 20p per year for a couple of texts.

20vt-rs

Thanks all that is much appreciated, the ASDA PAYG route looks like it could be the best port of call for this, I like the donating to charity text @pseudodox
But I will also research the GiffGaff one, as I have a sim they sent me from purchasing a phone recently, maybe I can just use that and follow what @Detail_Merchant does above.