Over time, spending money on movies, TV, and events can cost you a lot.The average family spends thousands of dollars on entertainment each year, but can be reduced by budgeting.If you know where to cut back, you can save money on your entertainment expenses.Track your spending and compare it to the previous month to see how you spend your money.
Step 1: Purchase an alternative.
Abandoning cable TV is the first step to reducing entertainment costs.Choose an online service.You can get access to hundreds of movies, TV, and original content if you subscribe to one of these companies.You can find a streaming service with a lower monthly fee by reviewing your cable bills.There are a number of popular video streaming services.If you're attached to a certain channel, look for a service that allows you to stream specific channels online.
Step 2: It is possible to listen to music via streaming services.
Try a music streaming service instead of buying every song you listen to.Users can listen to songs without downloads on most services.Many of these services offer free options, even if they have an ad-free subscription.Try some of the well-known streaming services.Before buying a subscription, try out a free trial.
Step 3: Get a library card.
A library card can save you hundreds on at- home entertainment.Books, movies, magazines, newspapers, and music are all free if you pay an annual fee.Video games and hobby supplies can be rented from some libraries.Free community events include children's read-alongs, book clubs, personal development workshops, and holiday celebrations.
Step 4: Video games can be rented instead of purchased.
You don't have to pay for the latest game release if you play a game rental service.If you don't want to replay games or resell them for less than the game is worth, this option is ideal.Some services, like Redbox, offer games for a minimal daily fee while others operate on a monthly subscription model.
Step 5: Your memberships can be split with your loved ones.
You can share the cost of a music, movie, or video game subscription with a friend or roommate.Some services offer family discounts if your relatives are interested.Users can add multiple users without spending more money.
Step 6: You can check out student, senior or other discounts.
Special offers for seniors, students, certain club members, and members of the military can be found at many entertainment venues.To find out if you qualify for any discount options, ask about them.You can learn about student deals by talking to your high school or university.If you need proof of identification, keep government-issued or student IDs on hand.
Step 7: Pick afternoon movies over evening movies.
You can save as much as half the ticket's cost if you go to movies on Mondays and Saturdays.Wait until they hit the discount theaters to save even more.You can buy your tickets online to get additional deals.
Step 8: There are free events to watch.
Free city events can be found in your local newsletters or online.You can attend free lectures, holiday festivals, concerts, and performances.There are plays, concerts, and sporting events open to the public near universities and high schools.
Step 9: There are discount days and happy hours.
The community can get free or reduced-fee days at some museums, recreation centers, and other public attractions.Swimming pools, bowling alleys, and restaurants have "happy hours" where their prices are reduced daily or weekly.Ask about upcoming discount opportunities at places you frequent frequently.
Step 10: Purchase season passes to your favorite places.
Purchase a season pass for your city's zoo, aquarium, museum, or amusement park.The amount of visiting is dependent on the season pass.You can save money by paying a little more upfront.
Step 11: There are special events that you can volunteer at.
While volunteering you can get free admissions to plays, concerts, or festivals.People are usually ushered in or set up after a theater or music production.Before buying your ticket, contact the venue and inquire about volunteering opportunities.
Step 12: During the off-season, travel to your destination.
During the off-season, you can avoid tourist traps and save money on attractions.Some entertainment venues may be able to reduce their admissions costs if there is a large flow of travelers.You will see more of the city's culture while saving money.
Step 13: You can buy event tickets months in advance.
Some companies will give you a 20% discount if you purchase tickets in advance.Before you go on your vacation, make sure you know how far in advance you can purchase plane or attraction tickets.
Step 14: You can purchase group deals online.
You can find entertainment deals in the city you're traveling to.Group deals are available for popular entertainment options.It's possible to find cheap entertainment options that you hadn't considered before by searching for group deals.Group deal websites include: LivingSocial, TravelZoo, and Local Flavor.Some vacation apps allow vacationers to know about city discounts and occasionally offer coupons.
Step 15: Pack a lot of water and snacks.
You can save money by taking food with you to tourist attractions.snacks that are easy to eat while walking around or participating in an attractionAsk the venue if they bring outside food to avoid throwing it away.
Step 16: Spending time outdoors is a good way to relax.
Since many nature-related activities are free, don't forget to spend time outside.Ask locals what their favorite outdoor activities are and check out nearby trails.You can rent a campsite to save money.