We here at BundleTips always say that there are 5 key elements to compare when looking at a bundle.

1. Offer - What's the deal?
2. Price Per Month - What does it cost each month?
3. Length of Contract - How long are you stuck with the service
4. Bonus - Did they throw anything in to sweeten the deal
5. Hidden Costs - Are there any hidden costs.

Now this is pretty straight forward and on each of our pages we break this down, but in this article, I'm going to show you 3 key questions to ask so you can be a pro when shopping for bundles.

What Happens After the Deal Expires?

This is one of the most common overlooked details when shopping for bundles. You see, when companies offer a deal on things like cell phone contracts or home services (like broadband, tv, and phone), they know that once you are a customer, you're less likely to change. So that is why it is important to find out what happens after the deal you sign up on expires.

When comparing different bundles, we've heard of some customers being charged up to 30% more after the "honeymoon" period is over.

Don't get caught of guard, simply talk with your potential provider and ask the following question.

"What happens after this offer expires?"

Based on what they say, you can then make an educated decision.

What Is the Cancellation Cost?

Life changes fast and with more and more changes happening in the job market, the real estate market, and the global economy, it's always smart to know what will happen if life throws you a curve ball.

For example, when you sign up for cell phone contracts with some providers, they will give you the expensive phone free… if you sign up for a 2 year contract with them.

They know that most people will do fall into two categories:

1. They use the company for 2 years.
2. Something happens to their phone (it breaks, gets stolen, or is lost) or need to switch companies in two years.

Because most people fall into these two categories, these 2 year contracts are designed so that the company make money in either circumstance.

That's why if you've ever had to cancel a contract with a provider, they often have what is known as a "contract buyout" price. This price is how much you'll have to pay to get out of your contract.

Typically in the case of cell phone plans, this will be the cost of the phone, or the price of the remaining months left on your contract. Either way, both of these options can be expensive so it's best to know how much you'll be paying if you want to get out of your contract.

If they weren't running a Bundle Special, Would I Still Want to Use This Company?

I love recommending this question to people shopping for bundles because, as humans we all want to get something great at a low price.

It's our nature, but sometimes this human instinct can get us into trouble.

That is why asking yourself "If they weren't running a Bundle Special, Would I Still Want to Use This Company?" before buying a bundle is key.

Sometimes, new companies or even old (questionable) companies use new sales tactics or new branding to get more customers in the door, but once they are in the door they treat them like garbage.

Don't fall into one of these traps, make sure you do your research and figure out the company's history.