01SIM-only, prepaid or a phone with a plan
SIM-only separates the mobile service from a phone you already own. Prepaid lets you use a number without a standard monthly subscription, although package prices and validity still need checking. A phone-with-plan offer combines a device and service, so its monthly figure is not directly comparable with SIM-only.
An eSIM is a digital SIM format that not every device or offer supports. Check your phone and provider before ordering, including how activation will work.
02Choose data for the way you actually use your phone
Look at how much mobile data you use away from Wi‑Fi and how often you call internationally. Home internet, navigation, video calls and travel create different usage patterns. Check the provider’s coverage map for your home, workplace and usual route, as well as what happens after your allowance runs out: a large data bundle is little use where coverage is weak.
Before travelling within the EU, check the roaming terms for the specific plan. ACM ConsuWijzer explains that using a phone in another EU country usually follows domestic conditions, but some plans and extended use abroad can involve limits or surcharges. Calling abroad from the Netherlands is a separate matter.
03Read the duration and full cost
Find the regular monthly charge, how long any discount lasts, activation costs and the commitment period. If a phone is included, separate the device cost from the service cost: paying for the device in instalments can be a credit agreement and may be recorded with BKR. A low first-month payment does not show the expense across the agreement.
ACM ConsuWijzer advises checking how the existing subscription can be ended before switching. Moving early can leave costs under the old agreement. Keep the new order confirmation and service start date.
04Arrange number transfer before activation
If you want to retain a Dutch mobile number, ask the new provider to arrange the transfer. ACM ConsuWijzer says numbers can be transferred from both prepaid and subscription plans. Agree the date so that a switch does not leave you unexpectedly without service.
If something goes wrong, contact the new and old providers and keep the correspondence. LiveInNL does not currently place orders or display live tariffs; confirm the chosen provider’s terms immediately before ordering.