Cut Streaming Expenses in 2025: Smart Saving Tips

Streaming services, once a budget-friendly alternative to cable, now rival its cost. Prices have surged, and content is scattered across multiple platforms. With subscriptions to Netflix, Max, Hulu, Paramount+, and Disney+, your monthly bill may be too high.

Fortunately, you can reduce costs without losing access to great content. Options like bundling services, leveraging free trials, and exploring free streaming platforms can help. Below is a concise list of strategies to save money while enjoying quality entertainment daily.

What’s your monthly budget for a streaming service?

$5$10$15$20$30$50+

AnswerSee Results

Combine Services for Savings

Disney+, Hulu, Max Streaming Bundle

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

Bundling is the most effective way to cut streaming costs. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle offers a significant discount compared to individual subscriptions. It’s the best deal available and one I’ve personally used. If you’re paying for these services separately, you’re overspending. Act fast to bundle.

Additionally, live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, which includes ESPN+ and Disney+, provide a cable-like experience in one package. This is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive streaming solution.

Maximize Free Trial Offers

7 Days Free

Apple TV+ Free Trial

See it at Apple

Free trials are a smart way to save. While Netflix lacks a trial, services like Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV+ offer seven-day or longer trials. You could, for example, binge both seasons of Severance on Apple TV+ within a week, just cancel before the billing starts.

Free trials are also great for live sports. Services like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo offer trials that provide access to numerous channels, perfect for catching major events without a long-term commitment.

Explore Free Streaming Platforms

Sling TV Freestream

See it at Sling TV

With ads now common even in paid subscriptions, free streaming platforms are a great alternative. Sling Freestream offers numerous free channels and DVR with a free account. Kanopy, accessible with a library card, provides free movie streaming.

For anime fans, Crunchyroll’s free tier offers many episodes at no cost. You can also try their premium tiers with a free trial for a full subscription experience.

Would you subscribe to a streaming service with ads?

Yes!No!Only if it’s very affordable.

AnswerSee Results

Invest in an HD TV Antenna

Our Top Pick

Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro

Enjoy long-range, reliable reception with this amplified HDTV antenna, featuring easy setup and a 12-foot power cable.See it at Amazon

For live TV without online subscriptions, an HD TV antenna is a great choice. It provides free access to major networks and local channels. I’ve used one to watch events like the Super Bowl and the Olympics, as well as live shows like The Bachelor, which air before streaming.

A quality indoor antenna costs around $50, a one-time purchase with no monthly fees, delivering ad-supported live TV.

Stream Free Movies on YouTube

YouTube Premium Student

Students can save with a discounted YouTube Premium subscription using their student email.See it at YouTube

YouTube offers hundreds of free movies and countless videos on various topics. Ads are common without a premium subscription, but it’s a solid free alternative to major streaming services.

Students can access a discounted YouTube Premium subscription to enjoy an ad-free experience at a lower cost.