This post is Part 1 of the Living Without series.

A new generation is graduating from college, joining the workforce, and moving out into their first real homes. They are the teenagers and twenty-somethings of today, and most of them have grown accustomed to having a cell phone with them at all times. It is hardly surprising, then, when many of these same people are reluctant to buy a land line phone, when their cell phone performs all the same functions, plus it can be carried around with them anywhere.

Of course, a cell phone plan will more expensive than most landline phone plans, ranging from anywhere from $20 to $60 or more if you have a cellphone data plan monthly, but the cost difference may be a small price to pay for the convenience. Having a cellphone only will allow you to take some clutter out of your life, too. Cellphones can be brought with you when you move, and you will most likely have coverage where you are moving. You don’t have to change your billing info and land line provider if you move, either.

Here are three tips to help you make the transition to a cellphone-only lifestyle smoothly.

1. Google Voice allows you to link a phone number to yourself personally, and redirect the calls depending on caller to your cellphone or your voicemail. customize your phone numbers, so you can keep your personal life separate from your business life. That way, when a call comes in, you’ll know if it’s a personal or business call.
2. If you’re looking to change cell phone plans to accommodate the increased monthly minutes you will need without a landline, check out the unbiased comparison charts at MyRatePlan.com, and find the cheapest cell phone plan for your situation.
3. Use Skype if you need to call long-distance or internationally. It will almost certainly be cheaper for you to use this Voice Over Internet Provider solution for these types of calls. International Skype rates hover around $.02, much better than most cell phone plans will offer. As long as you have access to the Internet, you can save money using this method to make calls to any cell phone or landline in the world.