Subscription services have taken over our monthly budgets. From streaming platforms to meal kits, it’s easy to lose track of what we’re actually paying for. If you’re a renter trying to save money, cutting back on subscriptions is a simple yet effective way to free up extra cash. Here’s a breakdown of the most common subscription expenses - and which ones you might want to consider canceling or swapping for cheaper alternatives.
1. Streaming Services
Average Cost: £10–£20 per month (each)
Many of us subscribe to multiple streaming platforms - Netflix, Prime, Disney+, Sky, and more. The reality? You probably don’t use all of them regularly. Consider:
- Rotating subscriptions: Subscribe to one or two services at a time and switch every few months.
- Using free trials: Take advantage of promotions and rotate between services.
- Sharing plans: Some platforms allow account sharing, which can help split costs.
2. Meal Kit Subscriptions
Average Cost: £40–£100 per week
Meal kits promise convenience, but they often cost much more than buying groceries yourself. Instead:
- Try meal planning and batch cooking to save both time and money.
- Look for budget-friendly grocery delivery services if convenience is a priority.
- Use discounted first-time offers and cancel before the price jumps.
3. Gym & Fitness Memberships
Average Cost: £30–£80 per month
If you rarely use your gym membership, it’s time to cut the cord. Alternatives include:
- Free workout videos on YouTube (like Yoga with Adriene or HASfit).
- Affordable fitness apps with one-time fees instead of subscriptions.
- Outdoor workouts, walking, and home gym equipment (like resistance bands).
4. Music Streaming Services
Average Cost: £15+ per month
Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal are great, but do you need a paid plan? Consider:
- Switching to a free ad-supported plan.
- Using a family or student plan for discounts.
- Exploring free alternatives like Pandora, YouTube, or local radio stations.
5. Subscription Boxes (Beauty, Clothing, Books, etc.)
Average Cost: £20–£50 per month
If you’re subscribed to beauty, snack, or clothing boxes, consider:
- Canceling and buying only what you need.
- Swapping items with friends or finding secondhand deals.
- Using reward programs from brands you already love instead.
6. Gaming Subscriptions (Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, etc.)
Average Cost: £10–£25 per month
If you’re not actively playing, pause or cancel your gaming subscriptions. Instead:
- Look for free-to-play games.
- Buy individual games on sale instead of paying for unlimited access.
- Use game-sharing features if available.
7. Online Learning Platforms (Skillshare, MasterClass, etc.)
Average Cost: £10–£30 per month
If you rarely use online courses, consider free alternatives:
- YouTube tutorials from industry experts.
- Free courses on Coursera, Udemy (with promotions), or edX.
- Library resources that include free online learning.
The best way to cut unnecessary costs is to audit your bank statements for recurring charges. Ask yourself:
- When was the last time I used this service?
- Is there a free or cheaper alternative?
- Can I temporarily cancel and resubscribe if needed?
By canceling just a few unnecessary subscriptions, you can free up £50–£200 per month, which can go toward savings, rent, or other priorities. Try cutting back for a month and see how much you really miss them, you might be surprised!
