For many Malawians, mobile data is the main way onto the internet. It is also one of the biggest small costs of the month. The good news is that a few habits can make a bundle go noticeably further.
Pick the right bundle, not the cheapest one
Daily bundles look cheap, but if you buy one every day they often cost more than a weekly or monthly plan. Add up what you spent last month, then compare it with the longer bundles on offer from Airtel and TNM. Always check the current prices on the network’s own menu before you buy, because offers change often.
Watch what runs in the background
App updates, cloud photo backups and autoplay videos quietly eat data. Set updates to Wi-Fi only, turn off automatic backups when you are on mobile data, and switch off autoplay in WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok.
Use lighter apps and data saver modes
Most phones have a data saver setting, and many popular apps have a lite version or a low-data mode. Turning these on can cut usage without changing how you use your phone.
Check your balance before it runs out
Running out of bundle and dropping onto out-of-bundle rates is one of the fastest ways to lose airtime. Check your balance through the network’s USSD menu or app, and set a reminder when your bundle is close to expiring.
Prices and bundle names change regularly. Zaku will keep this guide updated as networks change their offers.
