I rarely read through the Terms and Conditions (I have done on a couple of occasions when really big or important transactions were involved).
What I sometimes do is click on the Ts&Cs and then do an online search for "fees". This quickly highlights any additional or unexpected fees that might be included.
I can't remember the last time I signed a cheque - it was probably back in the last century! But I avoid paying by direct debit or even standing order at all costs, because they can put you into overdraft and incur fees. If I do have to pay by these methods, I try to schedule it for the end or beginning of the month, when most of my income goes into my account. I pay most bills by bank transfer.