Complex bundles could be unnecessarily costing you hundreds a year in internet and phone bills, new research reveals.

A consumer research company has found that the hassle of switching bundles can discourage us from snaring a better deal.

A survey by Canstar Blue of 1700 Australian adults showed that once you sign up for a bundle — which typically includes ADSL2+ internet and line rental plus extras — it is very hard to switch, even if you know you’re getting ripped off.

Many consumers find the task of switching bundles too onerous. Photo: Shutterstock

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Half of those surveyed believed they were paying too much for their current product, yet only 28 per cent said they would like to switch suppliers to avoid getting slugged with higher fees.

The main reason they gave for not switching was that it was just too hard.

Canstar Blue spokesman Simon Downes told The New Daily that the onerous task of switching can be worth thousands of dollars over three or four years, and that consumers need to “look at the bigger picture”.

“You might think it’s not worth switching just to save $10 a month, for example, but over a couple of years the savings can really start to add up,” Mr Downes said.

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) spokesman Luke Sutton agreed that switching bundles can be “daunting”, but said consumers should not be deterred.

“If you’ve been on the same bundle for a long time you may find that your needs have changed over time and there might be a better deal elsewhere that gives you more value for money and better suits your needs,” Mr Sutton said.

Here’s how you can make the process smoother.

Compare the market

Mr Sutton said a bundle may not actually be right for you. Telco bundles are convenient and can offer potential discounts, but he warned that more than one in two consumers do not use half of their monthly mobile allowances.

“Each consumer’s needs will be different. A bundle may suit one consumer but not another,” Mr Sutton said.

ACCAN suggests comparison websites such as WhistleOut and Oz Compare as “great tools” to help you work out the best bundle or individual deal.

Here’s how consumers in Canstar’s survey rated bundle providers:

How consumers rated telcos in Canstar’s survey.

Call your current provider

You may not have to go through the hassle of switching at all to get a better bundle, Canstar Blue’s Simon Downes said.

“Get the rewards for your loyalty,” he said.

If you’ve been with your provider for a while, ask them for a better rate. But don’t be afraid to walk if they don’t come to the table.

Don’t get fooled by the extras

Joseph Hanlon, editor of comparison website Whistle Out, told The New Daily that the secret to finding a new and better bundle is to know exactly what you need — and to never pay for unnecessary extras.

If you already own a good modem/router, look for plans with a cheaper BYO modem option.

And do you actually need to call out through your landline? If you can do all your talking through your mobile, don’t pay for calls.

Customer service is key

Being able to trust in the customer service offered by your bundle provider is “paramount”, Mr Hanlon said.

This is because one company will be managing your access to several complex networks, he said.

Prepare to take the plunge

Once you’ve found a better deal, there are a few things you should check before making the switch.

Mr Hanlon said the most important consideration is whether or not you are still contracted to your current service provider. If you are, check how much it will cost you to cancel the contract. These charges are known as ‘early termination fees’ and can pack a wallop.

Keep in mind that while mobile phone services can switch over in a single day, broadband can take up two weeks, Mr Hanlon said. So you might want to find an internet alternative for that time.

Mr Hanlon also said it is “wise” to pay for installation if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, as this process can be “frustrating”.

If you experience any problems and cannot resolve them directly with the provider, you can report the matter to the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman.