Choosing a new cell phone and cell phone plan may seem like a small decision, but it can actually be quite complex and, if you make the wrong choice - quite expensive! Here are five tips to make your cell phone buying a bit easier!

1) Choose a carrier that has coverage in the places you will need reception. In general Verizon Wireless and AT&T Wireless(or Cingular) have the best reception nationwide - Sprint/Nextel is usually decent and T-Mobile is strong only in certain locations.

2) Choose a plan that has enough minutes to cover your use - overage fees can be quite high.

3) Take a cell phone that does what you need - and not one that will be too complicated to use. It seems that phones like the Motorola Razr V3 have taken the market by storm - check that its right for you before buying one.

4) Don’t choose based just on price - if you opt for a Free Cell Phone make sure it is actually the one you want - you will typically be locked into a 12-24 month contract - so get a phone you like!

5) For the best cell phone deals, Order your next cell phone online - consumer reports says that of all cell phone purchasers, the ones with the greatest level of satisfaction were those who bought online. The prices are lower, the selection is bigger and no waiting in line!