As 2026 approaches, consumers are looking for effective ways to reduce their streaming expenses. With just a few strategic changes, it is possible to save hundreds of dollars over the year. Here are six actionable methods to cut down on monthly subscription costs while still enjoying a wide range of entertainment options.
Evaluate Your Current Subscriptions
One of the easiest ways to start saving is by reviewing your existing streaming plans. Many users may be overpaying without realizing it. For example, Netflix’s Premium plan costs £18.99 per month for 4K Ultra HD streaming. However, if you do not have a compatible 4K television or device, you might be better off with the Standard plan, which offers Full HD for just £12.99. This change alone could save you £72 annually.
Moreover, if you are willing to accept ads, the Standard plan with Ads reduces your monthly cost by a further £7, resulting in total savings of £156 compared to the Premium option. Another example is Amazon Prime, which typically costs £8.99 per month. Students and individuals aged between 18 and 22 can access it for £4.49 per month, equating to £53.88 annually.
Consider Bundling Services
For those who own Apple devices, the Apple One plan may be a beneficial option. This service combines several subscriptions at a reduced rate. The Individual tier is priced at £18.95 per month, including services like iCloud+, Apple TV+, Apple Music, and Apple Arcade. This can lead to savings of £120 a year. The Family plan offers even more value by allowing up to five users to share a subscription, potentially increasing savings if multiple family members were previously paying for individual services.
The Premier plan, at £36.95 per month, includes extensive storage and additional services, offering savings of nearly £348 annually when compared with purchasing each item separately.
Explore Free Streaming Options
Another way to save is to explore free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) apps. These platforms provide access to live and on-demand content without any subscription fee, albeit with advertisements. Popular options include Pluto TV, Tubi, and Xumo Play. Samsung users can also access Samsung TV Plus, an additional FAST service that enhances viewing options without any cost.
Maximize Free Trials
Take advantage of free trials to experience new services without immediate financial commitment. While not every streaming service offers a free trial, some do provide limited-time access. For example, Apple TV+ offers a seven-day trial, while Amazon Prime Video provides a generous 30-day free trial for new users.
Students can benefit even further with Amazon Prime’s special offer that extends the free trial to six months. Additionally, new Apple device owners can receive three months of Apple TV+ for free, providing a significant cost-saving opportunity.
Utilize Subscription Swapping
Subscription swapping is a clever strategy that can dramatically decrease your annual streaming costs. Instead of maintaining multiple subscriptions year-round, consider rotating them. For example, pay for Netflix one month, then switch to Disney+ the next, and continue this pattern throughout the year. This approach allows you to enjoy three months of each service while only paying for one subscription at a time. By doing this, your total annual expenditure could be reduced to approximately £158.88, saving you over £476.
Check for Discounts
Finally, do not overlook potential discounts from other services you may be using. Certain bank accounts, such as those from Lloyds Bank, offer lifestyle benefits that include subscriptions like Disney+. Moreover, Sky TV customers may find they receive complimentary access to Netflix and other streaming services, enhancing their entertainment options at no extra cost.
By implementing these strategies, consumers can significantly cut their streaming bills as they head into 2026, freeing up funds for other expenses or entertainment options. Each of these six methods provides a practical way to enjoy diverse content without the financial burden that often accompanies multiple subscriptions.
