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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, we share top tips for how to save money on streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.
The age of endless entertainment at our fingertips is upon us! Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus offer a cornucopia of movies, shows, and documentaries, all available with a click. But let’s be honest, those monthly subscriptions can add up quickly.
Jason Higgs, the Senior Deals Strategist at Bountii, sent over four helpful tips to help you cut your streaming expenses without sacrificing entertainment bliss. So, grab your remote, settle in, and get ready to discover how to stream smarter, not harder!
How To Save Money On Streaming Services
1. Accept The Ads
There are cheaper packages containing commercials for platforms like Hulu, Paramount Plus, Netflix, and Disney Plus. This is a fantastic compromise if you’re open to a little interruption in exchange for a significant price cut. Consider it a built-in snack break!
These ad-supported tiers can be up to 50% cheaper than their ad-free counterparts, offering substantial savings without sacrificing all the great content. Think of it as a return to the days of cable TV, but with way more control over what commercials you see. Plus, with many platforms offering the ability to fast-forward through commercials, you can minimize the disruption and get back to your show even faster.
So, if you’re a budget-conscious streamer who doesn’t mind a few ads, these cheaper tiers are a great way to enjoy your favorite shows and movies without breaking the bank.
There are cheaper packages containing commercials for platforms like Hulu, Paramount Plus, Netflix, and Disney Plus. This is a great compromise if you want to keep the streaming service while significantly saving money.
Jason Higgs
2.Binge-Watch For Free
Free trials are a fantastic option for budget-conscious streamers who want to test the waters before committing. They offer a chance to explore a platform’s library, sample its interface, and see if it aligns with your viewing habits. Think of it like a test drive before you buy the car (or, in this case, the subscription).
Here’s the catch: free trials typically last anywhere from a week to three months, depending on the platform. This means you’ll need to be strategic if you want to maximize your savings. Let’s say you’re dying to catch that new season of a show on Hulu. Sign up for their free trial, binge-watch the season during that period, and then cancel before the trial ends. Boom! You’ve enjoyed the content without paying a dime.
Keep in mind: Not all platforms offer free trials. Big names like Netflix and Disney Plus have ditched them, but many others, like Hulu, Paramount Plus, and Apple TV+, still provide this opportunity. Do your research to see which platforms offer free trials and plan your viewing accordingly. Just remember to set a calendar reminder to cancel before the trial ends to avoid getting charged.
Make sure you cancel before the time expires, or you could be charged for the next month’s payment.
-Jason Higgs
3. Switch Out Which Platform You’re Subscribed To
While subscribing to several platforms simultaneously might seem like the ultimate way to access every show and movie under the sun, it can quickly drain your wallet. Enter subscription hopping, a budget-friendly strategy that involves strategically subscribing to one service at a time.
Instead of subscribing to multiple platforms at once, pick one service that aligns with your current interests. Devour the shows and movies that pique your curiosity, then, when you’ve exhausted your options (or simply need a change of scenery), cancel your subscription and move on to the next platform.
To make the most of this method, a little planning goes a long way. Research upcoming releases and exclusive content on different streaming services. Consider creating a watchlist for each platform, noting shows and movies you’re excited about. This helps you decide which service to subscribe to next based on your current viewing desires.
Think of subscription hopping as a streaming buffet. Sample the offerings of each platform in turn, enjoying the variety and avoiding subscription fatigue. This prevents you from feeling stuck with services you’re not actively using, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Monthly plans are more expensive than annual ones, but you have more flexibility. Some programs also jump from one streaming service to another, so you may be able to enjoy them elsewhere.
-Jason Higgs
4. Watch Free Alternatives
Some streaming channels will let you watch for free. Some examples include:
Charge!
Amazon FreeVee
Crackle
Tubi
Plex
Pluto TV
Sling TV
FilmRise lets you view movies via YouTube, and Fawesome.tv provides kids’ shows through an app. Also, check out Comet for sci-fi content and BBC iPlayer for TV shows and live channels. On the downside, these free platforms offer less choice, and you’ll have to sit through more commercials.
JaIt’s wise to monitor your usage patterns and prioritise your subscriptions. With mindful streaming choices, you can save money while enjoying your favourite films and programs.
-Jason Higgs
About Bountii
Bountii is a team of bargain hunters, deal finders, and savings enthusiasts. We’re passionate about finding ways to help customers cut costs without cutting corners on quality. Our experts verify and update our deals regularly, ensuring that our readers get access to only the most current and valuable offers.
Jason Higgs is the Senior Deals Strategist, a seasoned professional in online retail and e-commerce, with a passion for uncovering the best deals and discounts the internet offers.
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