Dissatisfied with cable? You’re not alone. Break free from the status quo! Contrary to popular belief, numerous alternatives offer your favorite shows and sports at a fraction of the cost—no contracts required. Dive into the top 10 ways to revamp your monthly entertainment expenses.
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1. Ditch Cable
It’s a breeze to fall into the trap of overspending on movies, concerts, streaming services, and other leisurely pursuits. Based on 2022 data, the average monthly cost of a cable TV package is $217.42. One may save this amount on monthly subscription costs by cutting the cable and opting for alternatives such as Netflix.
In addition to cost savings, choosing an option like Netflix allows for personalized content selection and access to original content unavailable on traditional cable TV. This provides greater control over entertainment expenses while still offering a wide range of content options.
2. Lower Your Internet Speed
Internet service providers (ISPs) offer a range of packages with different speeds and prices to choose from. By selecting a lower-speed tier, you can enjoy a more affordable plan that still meets your basic internet needs, allowing you to save money compared to higher-speed options.
However, consider your specific needs and usage patterns to ensure that downgrading to a lower speed won’t hurt your online activities that require faster internet speeds.
3. Use a FAST Service
FAST services, or free ad supported streaming services are more popular than ever right now.
These free streaming services like Pluto and Tubi let you watch a wide variety of popular TV shows and movies. You will have to watch ads, but it’s all free. And, when you pair them with an antenna for your local networks, you can take your entertainment costs all the way down to zero, without giving up everything you love.
4. Use Free Days At Museums And National Parks
On free days, museums and national parks decide to give away their precious admission fees for absolutely nothing. This means you can feast your eyes on the exhibits, displays, and natural beauty without paying for entry.
It directly saves you the cost of admission tickets, which can be significant, especially for larger families.
5. Don’t Go After Latest Gaming Consoles
Why break the bank on a new gaming console when your trusty old one still gets the job done? The latest gaming consoles are usually priced at a premium when first released.
Plus, upgrading means shelling out for all those fancy accessories. Stick with what you’ve got and save some cash.
6. Find a Late-Run Theater
Get the movie experience for less with discounted tickets. Second-run cinemas often have cheaper tickets than first-run theaters.
You can catch previously screened movies at these theaters post their mainstream run. You may also be lucky to get popcorn, drinks, and snacks concessions
7. Download Free eBooks
Free eBooks eliminate the need to spend money on reading materials. You can read various books for free without spending money on physical or digital copies.
Free eBooks are available from various sources, and these works span the gamut from literary classics to modern novels to how-to manuals. Google Books, Amazon Kindle Store, and many more have free ebooks.
8. Explore Local Parks And Nature Trails
Many local parks and nature trails offer free admission or have minimal entrance fees. Compared to other entertainment options that require paid tickets or memberships, visiting these natural spaces can be a cost-effective way to enjoy outdoor activities.
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, picnics, or cycling at local parks or nature trails, which are often free or low-cost.
9. Check For Free Concerts And Other Events
Rocking out to free concerts and events is a budget-friendly way to soak up live music, performances, and culture. For details on future shows and events, consult your neighborhood newspapers, community bulletin boards, or city event calendars. These resources frequently list free events near you.
10. Subscribe to Fewer Streaming Services
Streaming used to be much less expensive than cable. Now, the high end live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu Live are inching closer to what cable used to cost.
Save on your entertainment costs by slashing live TV and subscribing to only two or three on demand services like Netflix and HBO Max.
35 Proven Ways to Save Money Every Month
Many people believe it’s impossible to save money. Or, they think saving $20 or $50 a month won’t amount to much. Both are incorrect. There are many simple money-saving tips that can amount to big savings. You just have to start one, then another, to increase your savings.
Ways to Save Money Every Month
How to Cut the Cord on Cable or Satellite
Record numbers of Americans are cutting the cord on cable and satellite. This guide shows the best way to end your contract and replace it with a top streaming service.
How to Cut the Cord on Cable or Satellite
How to Watch Local TV Without Cable
Do you want your local networks, but don’t want to overspend for an expensive live service? You have options.
How to Watch Local TV Without Cable
How to Save Money on a Tight Budget
Saving money feels impossible when you’re struggling to make ends meet, but you can do it. Use these tips to save money each month, even on a tight budget.
How to Save Money on a Tight Budget
Best Prepaid Phone Plans
Legacy carriers trick us into thinking we need a contract to get what we need. That’s a lie. A prepaid phone plan can give you the data you want for significantly less.
I’m John Schmoll, a former stockbroker, MBA-grad, published finance writer, and founder of Frugal Rules.
As a veteran of the financial services industry, I’ve worked as a mutual fund administrator, banker, and stockbroker and was Series 7 and 63-licensed, but I left all that behind in 2012 to help people learn how to manage their money.
My goal is to help you gain the knowledge you need to become financially independent with personally-tested financial tools and money-saving solutions.
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