If you’re considering moving to the UK, or if you’ve just arrived and are trying to get settled, one of the biggest challenges can be setting up the essential amenities and services you’ll need. To help you save time and money, I’ve compiled a list of recommended service providers based on my own experiences. I don’t have any ties to these companies, just personal insights from using them.
1. Banking – Consider HSBC. Banks can sometimes mess up, but HSBC is usually quick to resolve issues. As an international bank, they’re great for travel; I’ve had my card unlocked swiftly during a trip to New York thanks to their local branch network.
2. Groceries – While Tesco is everywhere and convenient, I suggest Morrisons for their fresh products and reasonable prices, although they’re harder to find. If you’re less concerned about cost and more about quality, Waitrose is top-notch but pricier.
3. Broadband Home Internet – TalkTalk is a solid choice for affordability and reliability. It offers good speed without frequent disconnections. Although Virgin Media promises great service, its availability is limited in my experience.
4. Mobile Phone – Three stands out for its unlimited data, extensive call time, and free roaming in many countries. It also offers 4G speed, providing one of the best deals around.
5. TV – Sky offers a comprehensive service, but Netflix is much cheaper and on-demand. I switched to Netflix for its convenience and accessibility, letting you watch TV across different countries.
6. Home Phone (Landline) – It’s simple: get your landline service from the same provider as your broadband. This typically ensures reliability and cost efficiency, as bundled deals usually offer the best value.
7. Energy Service – EoN has excellent deals right now. Since there’s no “good” or “bad” electricity, it’s all about price. Use platforms like uSwitch to find the best deal and avoid sticking with the default provider when you move in.
