Whenever your monthly phone bill comes in, it can be a moment of dread for all of us.

These days, most network companies have strict data limits and unlimited plans are almost a thing of the past (sob!). Pair that with numerous phone updates and a low Wi-Fi signal, and it's a recipe for disaster. 

So, to avoid the shock and horror when your next bill arrives, follow these tips to reign in your data consumption:

Low Power Mode

This will save your ass so many times. When you start to lose power (so around 2pm everyday), you can now go into the battery menu and choose Low Power Mode.  

As well as saving your battery, it also switches off some of the biggest data-eaters on your device. 

 

Turn off cellular data for iCloud

For any iPhone users out there, if you use the iCloud to move files back and forth, it could lead to very high data fees.

It's true that all those little edits are being saved on the cloud and still using data in the process, so think twice before you rely on it for backup. 

 

Turn off Wi-Fi Assist

Wi-Fi Assist can be just as harmful as it is helpful. If you leave it on by accident, it eats away your data allowance without you even realising it.

The setting is designed to switch your phone over to 4G if you have a low Wi-Fi signal, so yep, it's not an ideal way to spend your pennies. 

 

Disable automatic downloads

Apps are some of the biggest files on your phone, so if you're an updating addict, it could really be costing you.

Instead, wait until you are connected to Wi-Fi before downloading or updating apps.

 

Find out what's draining your data

Still no change in your data consumption? Then head straight to your mobile settings and under the heading Mobile Data you'll see a list of apps and the amount of data they use AND the amount of data they've used since you first downloaded them.

Now all that's left to do is delete the biggest offenders. Tough decisions ahead ladies.