Now that more and more cellular phone companies are competing for your attention, expect to get a lot of services free -- free airtime, free cell phones, free long distance calls, etc. However, before you get carried away, understand that most of these deals are not really free terms and conditions always apply. As s a responsible consumer, you must know what these terms and conditions involve.

First of all, in order to receive any deals, you must enter into a contract with a cell phone company. For example, if you sign a 24-month contract, you could receive a free cell phone. Keep in mind, if you break the contract, you will face stiff penalties, and if you are paying high monthly fees, the free phone is not such a deal.

Talk isnt really cheap. It is human nature to take advantage of anything that is free, and cellular providers are quick to cash in on this human tendency. Companies often do give free airtime minutes, but if you are not careful, you may use them up before you know it and end up paying a lot more than you thought.

Dont be fooled by free phone accessories that mobile phone companies throw into their call packages just to entice you. For example, why would you want a free $40-dollar car charger, if you dont drive a car? Find out if you can exchange these freebies for something thats more useful like a headset for answering calls while both your hands are busy.