Save big on streaming costs in 2026 with our ultimate guide to uncovering hidden discounts and top tips. Many of us are looking to cut back after the festive season, and streaming services are a popular target for savings. But you don't have to sacrifice your favorite shows and movies to do so. According to Barclays, the average household spends a staggering £175 per year on film and TV streaming services, and that number is only expected to rise. However, there are clever strategies to reduce costs without canceling your subscriptions. Here's how to save on the most popular streaming platforms:
1 Netflix
Netflix, the world's leading streaming service, offers a range of content from Stranger Things to K-Pop Demon Hunters. While Netflix doesn't offer year-round deals, there are ways to save. Many households overlook the fact that Netflix provides a cheaper ad-supported subscription for £5.99 per month, saving you £7 compared to the standard plan without ads. Unfortunately, Netflix ended free account sharing with non-household members a few years ago. However, consider partnering with a friend or family member to split the cost. You can also add an extra member for £4.99 a month with ads or £5.99 without them.
For Sky or Virgin Media TV customers, check your account as Netflix is often included at no extra cost. Virgin Media Broadband customers with the M500 or Gig1 package also get Netflix included.
2 Disney+
Disney+ is a favorite among families, especially those with kids. While Disney+ typically offers deals throughout the year for £1.99 a month, it's worth checking your mobile network provider for potential savings. Many providers offer Disney+ for free for a limited time, and some allow you to add it to your mobile bill for a discounted monthly rate. O2 and Vodafone currently provide these options. Alternatively, exchange Tesco Clubcard vouchers or your Lloyds Bank Club Lloyds annual perk for a year's Disney+ subscription.
3 Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is often included with your Amazon Prime subscription for deliveries and other benefits. However, if you rarely use these perks, consider subscribing solely for Prime Video, which is cheaper. Amazon doesn't advertise this option, but it's a quid less than the standard Prime subscription. Simply go to the subscription page, select the 'change' button next to Stream Monthly, and choose the £7.99 Prime Video option. O2 customers can add Prime to their billing and receive a £2 discount on their mobile costs, effectively saving £2 on Prime.
4 Apple TV
Apple TV offers extensive free trials, typically lasting around three months. If you received a new iPhone or Apple product for Christmas, don't miss out on these trials. Just open the Apple TV app, and the trial should appear. Barclays Blue Rewards and Premier accounts also provide access to Apple TV. EE offers a similar giveaway.
5 Paramount+
Paramount+ features a vast library of content, including new exclusive shows. Sky Cinema subscribers get Paramount+ included, along with two free cinema tickets monthly. Three mobile customers on the Value or Complete plan also receive Paramount+ for free. Consider downgrading to the basic tier with ads, which costs £4.99 a month.
6 Discovery+
Discovery+ offers a mix of entertainment and sports, with varying subscription tiers. The sports side is more expensive, so refer to our separate guide for savings. The entertainment-only package is among the cheapest at £3.99. Vodafone customers can get it for free for six months, and it's also included with some EE TV packages.
Switch and Save More
For substantial savings, consider a strategic approach. Instead of subscribing to multiple apps simultaneously, plan your subscriptions to align with your viewing preferences. For instance, subscribe to Netflix in January, then cancel and switch to Amazon Prime Video in February, repeating this process for Disney+ in March, and so on. This method allows you to take advantage of monthly subscriptions that can be canceled at any time, ensuring you only pay for what you want to watch.
The key to saving money on streaming services is organization and planning, ensuring you get the most value for your entertainment budget.
