Contracts are not for everyone. Whether you don’t use your cell phone enough to make a contract worthwhile or you want temporary phone service or you simply want more flexibility, you can choose another option. Prepaid phone cards make it easy to access cell service without a contract commitment.

A calling card allows you to pay for a specific amount of data usage or calling minutes in advance. You will need to use these prepaid minutes in conjunction with a pay-as-you-go phone, also known as a no-contract phone. You can also consider purchasing a new prepaid SIM card for a phone you already own as long as it’s unlocked. Then, you simply add more minutes or coverage as needed.

Many companies offer prepaid phone plans, including AT&T, Verizon and Tracfone. You can also choose prepaid coverage cards for no-contract mobile hotspots, or you can expand your calling options by purchasing international calling cards to make affordable calls abroad.

By buying prepaid calling cards, you can more easily manage your phone budget. Fortunately, there are many coverage and phone model options to choose from at different price points. To help you decide from among the offerings, look over this prepaid calling card chart that compares the best prepaid phone cards.

You can get a prepaid minutes or data option with a wide variety of phone brands and models from manufacturers including Samsung, Nokia, Motorola and more. If you’re considering a senior-friendly cell phone, you might look at the Lively brand, which specifically designs easy-to-use cell phones for seniors

When it comes to buying a new prepaid phone, it’s important to take some time to research the different features and options available. Look at camera abilities, Bluetooth connectivity, button size, display resolution, and coverage maps. Prioritize the features that you must have based on your budget. With prepaid plans, you can pair flexibility with great quality.