Slash Your Streaming Costs in 2025: Effective Strategies

Streaming has evolved from a cost-effective alternative to cable into a more fragmented and expensive experience. The cost of streaming services has surged, and content is now scattered across multiple subscriptions. If you're subscribed to Netflix, Max, Hulu, Paramount+, and Disney+ simultaneously, you might be overspending on streaming.

Fortunately, there are several strategies to manage your budget while still enjoying a wide array of entertainment. You can bundle services, utilize free trials, and explore streaming alternatives. Here are some effective methods I've discovered to save money and maintain access to quality entertainment:

Bundle Services Where You Can

Get the Disney+, Hulu, Max Streaming Bundle

20$16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free.
See it at Disney+

The most effective way to save money on streaming is by bundling services. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle is a prime example, offering a significant discount when you subscribe to all three popular services together. This bundle is currently the best deal in streaming and something I've personally benefited from. If you're paying for these services separately, bundling them will save you money.

Additionally, various live TV streaming services provide a cable-like experience bundled with streaming. For instance, the Hulu + Live TV subscription includes ESPN+ and Disney+ in one bill, making it an excellent all-in-one option for accessing both streaming and traditional channels.

Take Advantage of Free Trials

Apple TV+ Free Trial

26
See it at Apple

Another cost-saving strategy is to make use of free trials. While major services like Netflix may not offer them, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV+ do provide free trials lasting seven days or more. You can use this period to binge-watch shows like both seasons of Severance on Apple TV+. Just remember to cancel before the trial period ends to avoid charges.

Free trials are also useful for catching live sports events. Services like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo offer free trials, granting access to a variety of channels for new subscribers.

Utilize Free Streaming Sites

Sling TV Freestream

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See it at Sling TV

With even some paid subscriptions now featuring ads, numerous free streaming sites provide content without any cost, albeit with ads. If you're subscribed to the basic tier of services like Hulu just to watch freely available content, consider switching to free platforms. Sling Freestream is a great option, offering many free channels and free DVR with a free account. Kanopy is another service that allows you to stream movies for free using a library card.

For anime enthusiasts, several platforms offer free episodes. Crunchyroll's free tier is particularly noteworthy, and you can also test their premium service with a free trial.

Get Yourself an HD TV Antenna

Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro

4
Enjoy long-range and solid, consistent reception with this amplified HDTV antenna that offers an easy setup and a 12-foot power cable.
See it at Amazon

For those interested in live channels without needing an online subscription, consider investing in a TV antenna. Many TVs have built-in capabilities for live TV, but if yours doesn't, an antenna can provide free access to major and local channels. I've used one to watch live events like the Super Bowl and the Olympics. It's also perfect for shows like The Bachelor, which are often broadcast live before they appear on streaming platforms.

A quality indoor TV antenna costs around $50 or more, but it's a one-time purchase that offers ongoing access to live TV without monthly fees.

Find Free Movies on YouTube

YouTube YouTube Premium Student

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Students can save by signing up for YouTube Premium with their student email.
See it at YouTube

Similar to other free streaming sites, YouTube offers numerous movies that you can watch at no cost. With hundreds of movies available at any time, along with an endless supply of videos on various topics, YouTube is a fantastic free alternative to major streaming services. The downside is the presence of ads on non-premium accounts, but students can enjoy a discounted rate on YouTube Premium to bypass them.