Cable bills can skyrocket quickly. Evaluating your current bill and pinpointing where your money is going is step one. Look for hidden fees and channels you’re not even watching. Removing those from your bill can save a chunk of change right off the bat.
Switching to streaming services opens up a whole new world of content at a fraction of the price. Think about services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. Each has its own vibe and selection, so find one that matches your style. Plus, most have no-contract options, making it easy to cancel anytime without hassle.
Free streaming options are out there, you just need to know where to look. Major networks often have their apps where you can watch recent episodes for free. Services like Crackle, Tubi, and Pluto TV offer loads of movies and shows without charging a penny.
The key here is to compare. Don’t just jump on the first service you hear about. See what each offers, consider the shows and movies you actually like, and think about how it all fits into your budget. When you’re armed with the right info, cutting that cord becomes a lot less scary.
Maximizing Savings on Streaming Subscriptions
Free trials are your best friend when trying out streaming services. Most platforms give you at least a week to explore what they offer. Trying different services helps you figure out what you really enjoy without spending anything upfront.
Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to streaming. Many services allow multiple profiles on one account, so team up with family or friends to split the cost. This way, everyone gets access without breaking the bank.
Streaming services love to throw promotions and discounts your way. Keep an eye out for special deals. Platforms often offer reduced prices during holidays or bundle offers that can save you big time. Signing up for a service’s newsletter can alert you to these deals as they come.
Bundles are a hidden gem. For instance, Disney+ offers a bundle with Hulu and ESPN at a lower price than getting each separately. This not only maximizes your savings but also expands your content choices.
Investing in Cost-Effective TV Hardware
Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Google Chromecast are game changers. They’re affordable and offer access to tons of streaming services. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect match without spending too much.
Digital antennas might sound old-school, but they’re a great way to get free over-the-air channels. These can include major networks like ABC, NBC, and CBS in high definition. One-time purchase, and you’re set up for free local TV.
Smart TVs have built-in streaming capabilities. If it’s time to replace your old TV, consider investing in a smart TV. This eliminates the need for extra devices and makes accessing your favorite services a breeze.
Sales and discounts are everywhere if you know where to look. Keep an eye on holiday sales, clearance events, and even refurbished options. Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart often have great deals on TV hardware.
Smart Viewing Habits for Long-Term Savings
Setting a monthly entertainment budget keeps your spending in check. It helps you decide what you can afford to spend on streaming services and other entertainment options without going overboard.
Keep the number of active subscriptions to a minimum. Having too many can quickly add up. Focus on the ones you use the most and consider rotating them. For example, you might subscribe to Netflix for a few months, switch to HBO Max for the next, and so on.
Don’t overlook the wealth of free content available online. Platforms like YouTube, network websites, and even some streaming services offer free content libraries. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy shows and movies without spending extra.
Review your subscriptions regularly. It’s easy to forget about a service you’re not using. Cancel any that aren’t providing value anymore. This simple habit can prevent money from slipping through the cracks.
Something to think about!
In another post I wrote about, I believe that Philo is the best streaming service for your money. Take a look at Philo and if it doesn’t have all the channels you want, consider adding a second streaming service to get what you want. Amongst all the streaming services available, adding it to Philo is still going to be a lot less expensive than any cable or satellite service.
As always, if you have any questions, about anything feel free to leave them below and I will be more than happy to help you out.
All the best,
Mark Piper
This is such a helpful and practical guide for anyone looking to save on cable and explore streaming options! I completely agree that the first step is analyzing your current cable bill. Those hidden fees can be such a drain. I also love the emphasis on free streaming services like Tubi and Pluto TV. They’re often overlooked but offer some really great content.
I’ve personally found the Disney+ bundle with Hulu and ESPN to be a game-changer for my family. Ut’s affordable and covers everyone’s interests!
Another point that resonated with me was setting a monthly entertainment budget. It’s so easy to lose track of subscriptions, especially when you have multiple services. Rotating subscriptions is something I’ve started doing recently, and it’s saved me a ton while keeping things fresh. Thanks for breaking this all down so clearly and making it feel approachable to cut the cord!
Hi Kavitha,
Thanks for visiting my website! The Hulu, Disney Plus and ESPN + combined with Hulu Plus Live TV is really a fantastic deal. Cable TV has gotten so far out of control with their pricing that they have exceeded many peoples’ budgets on entertainment! But people, like myself, believe that they have to have television and go ahead and pay it, because for so many years there was no alternative. Well guess what, there are alternatives now and unless cable tv companies come around and change things they will be out of business.