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How to Cut Subscription Costs and Still Enjoy Entertainment

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How to Cut Subscription Costs and Still Enjoy Entertainment

January 29, 2022

Let’s be honest – it’s easy to get sucked into the subscription trap. Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, Audible, New York Times… the list goes on and on. Before you know it, you’re paying a significant chunk of your monthly income just to access entertainment. But don't despair! You can cut your subscription costs and still enjoy a fantastic range of content. It just takes a little planning and a willingness to be honest with yourself about what you actually use.

1. Audit Your Current Subscriptions:

The first step is simply to take stock. Sit down and list every subscription you have. Don’t just think about the big ones like Netflix. Include things like:

  • Digital magazines
  • Online courses
  • Gaming subscriptions
  • VPN services
  • Cloud storage

2. Identify What You Actually Use:

Now that you have your list, it’s time for brutal honesty. For each subscription, ask yourself:

  • How often do I really use this?
  • Do I get enough value out of it to justify the monthly fee?
  • Is there a cheaper alternative?

You might be surprised to find you haven’t touched that online course you signed up for six months ago, or that you’re rarely using that premium magazine.

3. Cancel What You Don't Need (Seriously!)

Don't be afraid to cancel! Many services offer free trials, and you can often cancel your subscription before being charged. Set a reminder on your calendar a few days before the trial ends to avoid being automatically billed.

4. Explore Cheaper Alternatives:

  • Streaming Services: Consider rotating services. Subscribe to one platform for a month or two, binge-watch everything you want to see, and then cancel. Then, switch to another. Services like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Freevee offer free, ad-supported streaming.
  • Music: Spotify Free offers a limited selection of music, and Apple Music has a free trial.
  • E-books: Libby (through your local library) offers free access to thousands of ebooks and audiobooks.
  • News: Many newspapers offer limited online access for free, or you can rely on local news websites.

5. Share Subscriptions (Where Possible):

If you have subscriptions that your family or friends would enjoy, consider sharing them. Many services allow multiple users, which can significantly reduce the cost per person.

6. Leverage Library Resources:

Don’t underestimate the power of your local library! They offer free access to ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and even streaming services. It's a fantastic resource for saving money.

7. Don’t Feel Guilty About Saying No:

It’s okay to prioritize your finances. Enjoying entertainment is important, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Cutting back on subscriptions is a smart move that can free up money for other goals.

Resources to Check Out:

Do you have any tips for saving on entertainment subscriptions?