How to Save Money on Streaming Services

February 14th, 2023

Let’s be honest, the streaming landscape is amazing. We have so many incredible shows and movies at our fingertips. But, let’s also be honest – it’s also expensive. It's easy to rack up a hefty monthly bill before you even realize you've watched a dozen things! If you’re feeling the pinch, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to cut back without completely giving up on binge-watching. Here’s a breakdown of how to save money on your streaming services.

1. Audit Your Subscriptions – Seriously!

The first step is brutal, but essential: take a good, hard look at everything you’re currently subscribed to. Make a list. Seriously, write it down. Don’t just glance at your Netflix queue and vaguely remember you have Hulu too. Be specific. You’ll likely find subscriptions you barely use or have forgotten about.

2. Bundle It Up (If It Makes Sense)

Many providers offer bundles that combine streaming services with your internet or mobile phone plan. These can be a significantly cheaper option than paying for each service individually. Check with your internet provider to see if they have any deals. Sometimes, you can get Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundled for a discounted price.

3. Rotate Your Subscriptions

This is a brilliant strategy! Instead of subscribing to everything at once, commit to one service for a month or two, binge-watch everything you want, then cancel and try another. This way, you're not paying for services you aren’t actively using. You can even rotate between family members to maximize the value.

4. Take Advantage of Free Trials (But Set Reminders!)

Streaming services frequently offer free trials. This is a great way to test out a service before committing. However, don’t forget to set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends – otherwise, you'll be charged!

5. Share Accounts (Within Terms of Service)

Many services (like Netflix) allow you to share your account with family members who live at the same address. Just be mindful of the terms of service, as some services limit the number of users per account.

6. Look for Discounts and Deals

Redmond Rocks: This service offers discounted subscriptions to various streaming services through partnerships.
Retailer Promotions: Keep an eye out for deals offered by retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. They often have promotional bundles or discounts.
Student Discounts: If you're a student, many services offer discounted subscriptions.

7. Consider Ad-Supported Options

Some streaming services (like Peacock and Tubi) offer free tiers with ads. If you don't mind watching commercials occasionally, this can be a great way to access a wide range of content at no cost.

Final Thoughts

Managing your streaming subscriptions doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and some smart choices, you can enjoy all the amazing content out there without breaking the bank. Happy binge-watching!