How to buy a Virgin mobile

There are several ways to set up an account with Virgin Mobile in the UK. First choose whether you'd prefer a pay-as-you-go phone or a pay-monthly contract--Virgin's website lists the various tariffs so you can decide which one suits you best. To actually purchase the phone or the contract, you can either go online to Virgin's website or visit one of their high street stores. If you're already with another network provider, it's easy to switch to Virgin as long as your previous contract has reached the end of its fixed-term period.

• 1

  Purchase a pay-as-you-go mobile phone handset from a Virgin store, either online or on the high street. Remember that pay-as-you-go handsets are usually considerably more expensive than phones that come bundled as part of a monthly contract kit. You can then top up your credit whenever you choose with vouchers (available from high street retailers that display the green top-up logo at the cash register) or by registering your debit or credit card on the Virgin site, setting up a direct debit, or selecting the "Mobile top-up" option at selected ATMs.

• 2

  Unlock your existing phone. If you've bought a Virgin SIM card--either pay-as-you-go or monthly contract--you'll need to make sure your existing phone will accept it. Call your existing service provider and tell them you want to switch. If you're still under contract, you might need to give notice and pay an unlocking charge.

• 3

  Choose a handset and tariff for your new monthly contract. Certain handsets are linked to particular tariffs, so make sure your chosen handset and tariff are compatible. It's easy to compare tariffs on the Virgin website or on charts provided in the store. You can purchase the phone and the tariff either online or in a high street Virgin store.

• 4

  Give Virgin your bank details so they can set up a monthly direct debit for your new contract. Once you've chosen your handset and tariff, Virgin will need to run a credit check to make sure you're eligible for an account. Once that's been cleared, you're ready to go; insert your SIM card and get calling.

• 5

  Ask your current provider for a Port Authorisation Code (PAC) if you want to keep your old phone number after you've transferred over to Virgin. Dial 789 from your new Virgin Mobile phone or call Virgin on 0845 6000 789, and they'll transfer your old number to your new phone within two days.