Streaming services are becoming more and more expensive as companies compete to get the most profit from the same customers.

At this point, subscribing to multiple streaming platforms would cost the same as getting a cable connection.

The excuse for an ad-free experience is also basically gone since streaming services are now rolling advertisements on their basic plans.

That said, all hope is not lost yet. There are still some ways to enjoy shows and movies on your favorite platforms without losing so much money, at least in a more legal way.

Also Read: From Binge-Watching to Budgeting: Is the Streaming Boom Sustainable for You?

Looking for Cheaper/Free Streaming Alternatives

Not all good shows and movies are locked behind Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Videos.

There are still many streaming platform alternatives to choose from that offer lower subscription prices than the mainstream sites, some of which also contain hidden gems and underrated flicks.

Platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, Freeveee, and Bilibili offer several shows on their platform for free or with a lower subscription price that former Netflix or Disney+ subscribers can easily afford.

Subscribe to Only One Streaming Service at a Time

If you really intend to watch shows on the more expensive platforms, cutting back on the number of services currently subscribed may ease some burden on the wallet.

For a month, subscribe to only one or two services that are being used the most. By the next month, switch to another platform to binge all the shows missed.

This way, people can still enjoy all the shows they want without the need to pay all of it at the same time. It only takes a few clicks to discontinue subscriptions, so it would not be entirely a hassle.

Streaming services will also provide discount offers to returning subscribers if they previously reasoned the platform's premium prices as the cause for halting their subscription.

Time in for Annual, Special Event Discounts

Speaking of discounts, people can also look for big discounts from these streaming services during special events and holidays.

Disney+ recently rolled out a big discount bundle for its services, along with Hulu and ESPN, when it integrated the streaming services into its platform.

Just subscribed for a full year on the services to enjoy the discount at its best.

Bypassing Anti-Password-Sharing Policies

If you were able to previously curb expenses from streaming services by sharing passwords with other users, there are still some free and legal ways to turn despite the current anti-password-sharing rules on the platforms.

One such thing is to use the third-party extension Meshnet to let friends and families obtain each other's IP addresses no matter where they are in the world. Most important of all, Meshnet is free!

Just make sure to use the extension with a trusted person since you are still giving them your IP address and other sensitive Wi-Fi information.

Related Article: Disney+, Hulu Start Cracking Down on Password Sharing After Netflix

Check in with Your Local Libraries

Yes, if you want to really reduce expenses from streaming subscriptions but still want to enjoy the same shows without breaking the law, go to your local libraries.

Most libraries have collections of movies and shows that can be borrowed for free or at a small price.

Some even have subscriptions on Kanopy and Hoopla that people can use for free to watch some shows.

It is worth noting though that most series and films on these platforms might be considered to be a little outdated, so viewer discretion.

But if you are someone who wants to catch up with some classics, visiting libraries might be a good option right now.