Usually, an earpiece or headset, long lasting batteries and a car charger are provided at a discount when you purchase your phone. If you plan to replace these items, make sure that your new accessories are compatible with your brand of phones. A cell phone is a small, but sensitive item. If you try to attach wrong equipment, you'll need to use your warranty a lot sooner than you think.

Your lifestyle Some people ‘use’ their cell phones and others ‘love’ their cell phones. Which one are you? Users tend to stick to ‘for emergencies only’ rule and don’t go over their minutes. Cell Phone ‘lovers’ take phone to park, beach, work, library, school etc. If you are in this category make sure your cell phone service will fit your daily schedule.

Do you spend a lot of time in a mall, an emergency room (meaning base floors or lower levels of building) or out on range? During trial period go to these areas and check your bars. Better yet, call a friend or two and see what type of reception you get. Go to local mall and try to make a call from parking lot, first level, second level etc. 1.Are you roaming? 2.Did your call go through? 3.Was it clear? 4.Can you make calls from kitchen, but get constant static in your living room? Knowing where you spend majority of your time and type of reception you receive will give you a realistic idea of how much your service will really cost every month.

Geography Despite claims made by wireless companies, some services work better indoors, in cities, in south, on west coast etc. Pick a service that provides excellent local service. Do not rely on commercials, special offers or recommendations from friends and families in other states when you are picking your service. The only thing that matters is type of reception you will receive in your town. Take your cell phone out for a day and this will determine your ultimate level of satisfaction.

If you’re a business traveler, take an average of where you spend most of your time each month, and use this as your geographical guide when you sign up for a plan.