Money·2 min read

How to Save on At-Home Entertainment

Spotify, streaming, audiobooks
February 18, 2021

The Story

It's day ??? of the pandemic, and you're still bored in the house…and in the house bored. We're here with budget-friendly entertainment ideas besides tie-dying.

Let’s hear them.

If you're still watching, find something new to binge. Beyond Netflix and Hulu, you can try Apple TV+, Disney+, Peacock, and soon Paramount+ (replacing CBS All Access). And many offer free trials. (For something a little more highbrow, see what "live" theater you can watch.)

Pro-tip: set a calendar reminder for the day before your free trial ends, so you can hit unsubscribe before the bill comes. If you decide to start paying, see if your rewards credit card is giving cash back or discounts. Some give cardholders extra points for spending on streaming.

My eyes need a break from the TV.

There's a lot more you can try for free. Listen to music and audiobooks with trials of Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, Audible, etc. Sweat it out with free at-home workouts. Learn to do graphic design, cook or start a biz through Skillshare. Or try these apps to brush up on your Spanish (or French, Mandarin, whatever).

Related: Podcasts for Learning Something New

Gracias. What if I'm craving social interaction?

See if the group chat is down for a virtual book club. (Need a rec for what to read? We've got you.) Or a game night. That way, you'll never run out of things to talk about or Code Name clues to make fun of. You can also hit up your concert buddy and enjoy a show...quarantine-style. Or share your thoughts with your fellow TV/movie fans via virtual watch party.

If you're itching to leave the house, go on a museum or art gallery, national park or world wonder tour with your favorite travel partner. None of it will be the same. But it will be more affordable.

theSkimm

In the Before Times, cancelling plans was a lifestyle. Now it's all about planning socially distanced and affordable ways to have fun at home.

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