If you’re new to the UK, you’ve probably noticed that mobile phone shops are everywhere, trying to lock you into 24-month contracts. When I first moved to Featherstone, I nearly signed up for one of those “shiny” new phone deals. Luckily, I took a step back and looked at the real cost. Today, I’m sharing why I chose a simple SIM-only plan with Lebara—and how it’s saving me over £300 a year.
Why You Should Avoid 24-Month Contracts
When you first arrive in the UK, you don’t have a credit history yet. Many big providers will put you through a “credit check,” and if you’re new, you might get rejected. Even if you get approved, you’re tying yourself down for two years. Why pay £40 a month for a fancy phone when you can pay a fraction of that and keep your freedom?
The “Mid-Contract” Trap
Warning: Most major networks (like EE, O2, Vodafone) increase their prices every April by the rate of inflation (CPI) + 3.9%. This means your £30 deal becomes £33 for no reason. Lebara’s SIM-only plans are much more transparent—what you see is what you pay.
My Experience with Lebara in West Yorkshire
After doing some digging, I decided to go with Lebara. Here is why it’s been a game-changer for me:
- No Credit Checks: You don’t need a UK credit history to sign up. It’s perfect for newcomers.
- Total Flexibility: It’s a 30-day rolling contract. If you don’t like it or find a better deal, you can cancel or switch whenever you want.
- Great Coverage: I’ve been using it around Featherstone and West Yorkshire, and the signal has been spot on.
- International Perks: Most plans include free minutes to call home, which is a massive bonus if you need to stay in touch with family in Turkey.
Quick Comparison: Contract vs. SIM-Only
| Feature | Standard Contract | Lebara SIM-Only |
| Credit Check | Required | None |
| Commitment | 24 Months | 30 Days |
| Price Hikes | Yearly (CPI+3.9%) | None (Fixed) |
| Freedom | Locked In | Anytime Switch |
How to Switch Without Losing Your Number
One of the biggest fears people have is losing their phone number. Don’t worry! You can use a PAC code to keep your number.
- Get your code: Just text ‘PAC’ to 65075 from your current phone.
- Give it to Lebara: When you sign up for your new SIM, they will ask for your PAC code.
- Transfer: They will handle the switch for you, usually within one working day.
Before You Buy: Check Your Coverage
Before buying, check the Ofcom Mobile Coverage Checker. It tells you exactly how good the signal is in your specific street in Featherstone.
Final Verdict
If you want to keep your costs down and avoid the “contract trap,” I highly recommend checking out a SIM-only deal. It’s one of the easiest ways to manage your monthly budget in the UK.
You can check out their latest plans directly on the Lebara UK official website.
For more tips on managing your budget in this area, check out my guide on the [Cost of Living in West Yorkshire 2026].