I bought my Tracfone in August because we were going on a wilderness vacation. I wanted the comfort of being in touch with my daughter while I was away, but didn't want to go to a lot of expense, didn't want to worry about surprise charges, and definitely didn't want a contract. The Tracfone was cheap, no activation fee, no hidden charges, and the 30 minute card suited my purpose perfectly. I called my daughter once, and she called me twice. I had 8 minutes left when I got home, and I bought another 30 minute card at a local store. That card extended my time till after Christmas. I called my daughter while we were on the road Thanksgiving Day. This is a PERFECT phonecard arrangement for anyone who really wants a cell phone for limited use. The minute cost might sound high, but remember that this is the ONLY cost, and it's not use-it-or-lose-it. I love the fact that I don't have to try to use the minutes before they expire.