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Let’s face it—streaming is the new cable, and it can get just as expensive. By the time you’ve added up Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and a couple of others, your “cord-cutting” dreams turn into another hefty monthly bill.
But what if I told you there are simple ways to cut costs and get your streaming services for less—without sacrificing your favorite shows and movies? Here are the best tips, tricks, and hacks to save on your streaming subscriptions.
1. Bundle Your Services (It’s Cheaper Than You Think)
Did you know you can bundle Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ together for just $13.99/month? That’s less than what some people pay for Netflix alone! If you’re already subscribed to at least two of these services, switching to the bundle can save you a ton.
- Where to Find It: Sign up for the Disney Bundle here.
- Pro Tip: Already have one of these subscriptions? Check if you’re eligible to switch to the bundle without losing your current account settings.
2. Use Discounted Gift Cards
Websites like Raise and Gift Card Granny sell discounted gift cards for Netflix, Hulu, and other services. A $50 Netflix gift card might cost you $45, meaning instant savings on your subscription.
- How It Works:
- Buy the discounted gift card.
- Redeem it on your streaming account to cover your subscription fees.
- Where to Find Them: Shop discounted gift cards on Raise.
- Pro Tip: Stack discounted gift cards with other deals, like cashback from Rakuten.
3. Share Accounts (Legally)
Most streaming services allow you to share your account with family or friends. If you’re already paying for a subscription, consider splitting the cost with someone you trust.
- Netflix: The Standard and Premium plans let you stream on 2 or 4 screens at once, so why not split it with a friend?
- Disney+: Share with up to 7 profiles on a single account!
- Pro Tip: Use apps like Splitwise to keep track of shared payments.
4. Take Advantage of Free Trials (and Rotate Them)
Free trials aren’t just for new users—many services offer free trials or discounted reactivation to lure back former subscribers. You can rotate between services to always have something to watch.
- Examples:
- Hulu: 30-day free trial for new users.
- Apple TV+: Free for three months if you buy an Apple device.
- Paramount+: Often offers free trials during big show releases.
- Pro Tip: Set reminders for when the trial ends, so you don’t accidentally get charged.
5. Use Cashback and Coupon Extensions
Extensions like Rakuten, Honey, and Coupert can help you save on streaming subscriptions by offering cashback or finding promo codes.
- Rakuten: Offers cashback on Disney+, Hulu, and more when you sign up through their site.
- Honey: Sometimes finds promo codes for streaming services during sign-up.
- Pro Tip: Combine cashback offers with a discounted gift card for double savings.
6. Downgrade Your Plan
Do you really need the highest-tier plan? Most streaming services have multiple options, and downgrading could save you a significant amount.
- Netflix: The Basic plan is just $6.99/month (with ads), and it still gives you access to the same content as Premium.
- Hulu: The ad-supported plan is $7.99/month, compared to $14.99/month for ad-free.
- Pro Tip: If ads don’t bother you, the savings can add up fast.
7. Wait for Seasonal Deals
Streaming services often offer discounts during holidays or special events. For example, Disney+ runs promotions for Disney Day, and Hulu has a Black Friday deal that cuts its price to $1.99/month for a year.
- How to Find Them: Follow your favorite services on social media or sign up for their newsletters to get notified about deals.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye out during Cyber Monday and back-to-school sales for limited-time offers.
8. Pause Subscriptions When You’re Not Using Them
If you’re binge-watching one service and not touching another, don’t let it sit there eating up your budget. Pause subscriptions you’re not currently using, and restart them when you’re ready.
- How to Pause:
- Netflix and Hulu let you cancel and rejoin without losing your watch history.
- Some services, like Sling TV, have a “pause” feature that stops billing temporarily.
- Pro Tip: Plan ahead and rotate services based on new releases or seasons.
9. Check for Perks with Credit Cards or Cell Plans
Certain credit cards and phone plans come with free or discounted streaming subscriptions. You could already be eligible for a deal without realizing it.
- Examples:
- Verizon: Free Disney+ and Hulu with select unlimited plans.
- T-Mobile: Netflix included with Magenta plans.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: Often offers streaming perks as part of its bonus categories.
- Pro Tip: Check your bank or mobile provider’s perks page to see what’s available.
10. Explore Free Streaming Alternatives
Who says you have to pay for streaming? There are plenty of free platforms that offer great content.
- Examples:
- Pluto TV: Free live TV with channels for movies, news, and more.
- Tubi: Tons of free movies and shows (with ads).
- Crackle: Free content, including some original shows.
- Pro Tip: Use these services to fill the gaps when you’re between paid subscriptions.
Final Thoughts
Streaming doesn’t have to drain your bank account. By bundling services, using discounted gift cards, and keeping an eye out for deals, you can enjoy all your favorite shows and movies without breaking the bank. Try one or two of these tips today and see how much you can save—it adds up faster than you’d think!