Scrolling through endless streaming options can feel like a nightmare for your wallet. One month you’re paying for Netflix, the next you’ve added Disney+ and a sports add‑on. It’s easy to lose track of how much you’re actually spending.
Most major platforms sit between £5 and £15 a month. Netflix’s basic plan costs about £5.99, while the premium tier pushes past £18. Amazon Prime bundles video, fast shipping, and music for £8.99. Disney+ stays at £7.99, and Apple TV+ is a cheap £4.99. If you go for a family plan, like Netflix’s standard or Disney+’s bundle, the price per head drops, but the total bill climbs.
Beyond the core subscriptions, many services sell add‑ons. HBO Max’s extra movies pack can add £4‑6, and sports channels often charge £10‑£20 extra. Some platforms also charge for higher‑resolution streams or more simultaneous devices. Those little extras pile up fast.
First, write down every subscription you actually use. A simple spreadsheet or budgeting app can show you which services sit idle most weeks. Cancel the ones you watch less than once a month.
Next, consider rotating subscriptions. Spend three months on Netflix, then switch to Hulu for a quarter, and so on. Most services let you pause or cancel anytime, so you never feel locked in.
Look for ad‑supported tiers. Services like Disney+ and Hulu now offer cheaper plans that insert ads, often cutting the price by half. If you don’t mind a few commercial breaks, you save a lot.
Sharing accounts is another legit way to cut costs. Many platforms allow up to four profiles on a single household plan. Split the bill with roommates or family members and keep each person’s monthly share under £5.
Finally, don’t forget free legal options. Public libraries often provide free streaming passes for services like Kanopy or Hoopla. Some TV networks stream episodes on their websites without a fee. Mix these free sources with your paid subscriptions to stretch your budget further.
In short, know the base price, watch for add‑ons, track usage, and use cheaper plans or sharing when you can. With a little effort, you can enjoy all your favourite shows without breaking the bank.
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