Money·3 min read

How to Save on Entertainment Costs

Save on Entertainment Cost
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December 4, 2019

The Story

Scouring deal sites isn’t the only way to keep your entertainment spending in check. 

Ain’t nobody got time for that.

Agreed. So start with your TV. With all the streaming services available, it’s never been easier to binge the content you want to watch – and quit paying for the things you don’t. 

See what each one has to offer, and ask yourself which you’ll actually watch. Then pick one to three base providers (Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, etc.), and build a bundle with the add-ons you can’t live without. Maybe that’s ESPN, Showtime, Starz, or PBS. Because choosing multiple options at $5-$16 per month is still usually cheaper than a cable package. 

Psst...it's pretty easy to sub and unsub from these services, so don't feel locked in to your picks. And take advantage of free trial periods when a series you want to try releases new episodes.

Bundle's built. What else can I slash?

If you’re a movie buff, look into matinee and weeknight pricing. And think about joining a rewards program so you can score discounts on tickets, popcorn, and soda. Pro tip: check if your alumni or work perks include deals with some theater chains. 

More of a reader? We feel that. If actually going to the library is too much work, see if yours lends eBooks. 

And if I live for the live stuff?

Theater, music, and sports fans can score free admission (yep, free) for volunteering at certain live events. Like ushering for Broadway shows or tearing tix at a Beyoncé concert. Do some digging to see if you can wiggle your way into an upcoming show or two. At the very least, eat and drink beforehand so you aren’t paying a premium on those ‘extras.’ 

Anything that requires zero effort?

Swipe (the right) plastic. Some credit cards give extra points, miles, and cash back for entertainment spending. As long as you’re paying off your balance in full every month, that's like free money. That you can use for another night on the town...or put toward your big life goals.

Related: theSkimm on Credit Cards

theSkimm

Saving money shouldn't mean depriving yourself of a good time. Building your own streaming bundle, volunteering at events, and using a rewards card put the fun back in funding more important stuff. Like big purchases and going permanently OOO one day.

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