Data Only, PAYG or buy-back?

[Quin452]

So, I am thinking of getting a data-only SIM to act as a backup for my router.

Are the only options available the ones listed or is there a way to recoup costs (since I highly doubt I'd be using that much data)?

[Chalkychap]

I purchased a 2G data only SIM plan as an emergency backup for my home fixed line broadband, and places away from home without Wi-Fi.

I get a small discount by running a SMARTY group plan, but basically my data only plan is my insurance policy to cover emergencies, which might not happen. If there's an emergency, hopefully everything gets fixed before my 2G allowance is exhausted, otherwise I'll be buying a data add-on.

[MSF]

The only other theoretical method I could see was the Data Discount plan. You buy a plan with calls, texts and either 1, 2 or 3Gb data for either £6, £7, or £8 respectively. If you do not use the data, then you get money back for the unused portion - up to £1, £2 or £3 respectively. Problem is, the plan STILL costs a minimum of £5 per month as it covers calls & texts (that you don't need).

In summary, you are as well to buy the data only sim currently for £5 (and it has a lot more data at 4Gb). You form a group and include the sim as one of your 'users' and get 10% discount. Effective price for your 'insurance' is therefore £4.50 per month.

I guess it depends how unreliable🙄 your landline internet connection is really! Hope your brain doesn't ache now!