How to Save Money on Streaming Services

October 2nd, 2024

Okay, let’s talk about something we all love – and maybe secretly feel guilty about – spending money on streaming services. Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max… the options are endless, and the temptation to subscribe to everything is strong. But the truth is, those monthly fees can really start to eat into your budget.

I get it. There’s incredible content out there, and it’s so easy to get sucked in. But before you sign up for that new anime service you stumbled upon, let’s look at some smart ways to cut your streaming costs and keep the entertainment flowing.

1. Audit Your Current Subscriptions:

This is the first and most important step. Seriously, take a look at everything you’re currently paying for. You might be surprised how many subscriptions you’ve forgotten about. Are you really watching that old fitness streaming service? Are you using all the features of your premium music subscription?

2. Consider Bundles and Deals:

Telecom Bundles: Many mobile phone and internet providers offer bundles that include streaming services like Netflix or Hulu for a discounted price. It's worth checking if switching providers – even temporarily – could save you money.
Disney+ Bundle: The Disney+ bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ is an amazing value, especially if you’re a fan of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
Verizon Offers: Verizon frequently has deals with streaming services as part of their promotional offers.

3. Rotate Your Subscriptions:

This is a brilliant strategy! Instead of subscribing to everything at once, commit to a service for a specific period (e.g., 3 months) then cancel and switch to another. This prevents you from accumulating a huge pile of forgotten subscriptions.

4. Take Advantage of Free Trials (Smartly!)

Most streaming services offer free trials. However, always set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends – or you'll be charged! Don’t let the allure of free content distract you from managing your finances.

5. Share Accounts (Legally!)

Many services (Netflix included) allow you to create multiple profiles on a single account. This is a great way to spread the cost among family members or roommates. Just be aware of the terms of service – some services restrict account sharing.

6. Explore Free Streaming Options:

Don’t underestimate the power of free! There are tons of fantastic free streaming services available, like:

Tubi: Offers a huge library of movies and TV shows.
Pluto TV: Live TV channels and on-demand content.
Crackle: Sony’s free streaming service with a decent selection.

7. Utilize Password Managers

Keep track of your streaming logins and passwords using a password manager. It saves you time and ensures you don’t accidentally renew a subscription you forgot about.

Final Thoughts

Saving money on streaming services is about being intentional with your entertainment spending. By implementing a few of these strategies, you can enjoy all the great content without breaking the bank. Happy watching!