Take Advantage of Bundled Services: A Smart Cord-Cutter Strategy

In my previous post, "7 Essential Tips for Cord-Cutters," I highlighted the importance of taking advantage of bundled services to maximize your entertainment options while potentially saving money. But what exactly are bundled services, and how can you find the best deals?

This deep dive will explore the world of bundled services, providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the different options, evaluate their value, and make informed decisions that align with your cord-cutting needs and preferences.

Types of Bundled Services

Bundled services come in various forms, each offering unique benefits and considerations for cord-cutters. Here are the main types to be aware of:

Streaming Service Bundles

These bundles combine multiple streaming services together, often at a discounted price compared to subscribing to each service individually. Some popular examples include:

• The Disney Trio: This bundle includes Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus, offering a wide variety of content for families and individuals, from classic Disney movies and Pixar films to live sports and original series.
• Hulu+Live TV: This bundle combines Hulu's on-demand streaming library with live TV channels, providing a comprehensive entertainment package for those who want both on-demand and live content.
• Amazon Prime Video with Add-on Channels: Amazon Prime Video offers the option to add premium channels like Max and SHOWTIME to your subscription, providing access to a wider range of movies and TV shows.

Streaming Services Bundled with Other Services

These bundles include a streaming service as a perk or add-on with a non-streaming subscription. This can be a great way to get more value from your existing subscriptions or discover new streaming services without paying extra. Some examples include:

• Paramount Plus with Walmart Plus: I personally enjoy this bundle, as it gives me access to Paramount Plus for free as part of my Walmart Plus membership. This allows me to enjoy a variety of shows and movies from Paramount's library without paying an additional subscription fee.
• Apple TV Plus with Apple One: Apple offers Apple TV Plus as part of some of its Apple One bundles, which combine various Apple services like Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage.
• Streaming Services with Mobile Phone Plans: Some mobile phone plans include streaming services as perks. For instance, you might find plans that offer Netflix, Disney Plus, Max, or Hulu. However, the specific services and plans offered can vary significantly between carriers and can change frequently, so it's essential to research the latest offerings and compare the options to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
• Internet and Streaming Bundles: Some internet service providers (ISPs) offer bundles that combine internet service with streaming services. For example, Xfinity Streamsaver includes a basic Peacock Premium subscription with its internet service. Other ISPs with similar offerings include Frontier Fiber Internet with Amazon Prime Video, Spectrum Internet with Netflix and SHOWTIME, and Cox Internet with Peacock Premium. These bundles can be a great way to save money and simplify your bills, but their availability and specific offerings can vary depending on your location and the ISP.

Benefits of Bundled Services

Bundled services offer several advantages for cord-cutters:

• Cost Savings: Bundling can often lead to significant cost savings compared to subscribing to each service individually. This is especially true for streaming service bundles, where the combined price is typically lower than the sum of the individual subscription costs.
• Content Variety: Bundles can provide access to a wider range of content and different streaming platforms, allowing you to explore new shows, movies, and genres that you might not have discovered otherwise.
• Convenience: Managing multiple services through a single subscription or provider can be more convenient than juggling separate accounts and bills.

Evaluating Bundled Services

While bundled services offer many benefits, it's important to evaluate them carefully to ensure they align with your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

• Needs and Preferences: Before committing to a bundle, take some time to assess your individual needs and preferences. What types of content do you enjoy watching? Are there specific streaming services or channels that are must-haves for you?
• Cost Analysis: Compare the cost of the bundle with the individual prices of the services you want. Sometimes, it might be cheaper to subscribe to the services separately, especially if you don't plan on using all the services included in the bundle.
• Value Proposition: Evaluate the overall value proposition of the bundle. Does it offer a good mix of services that you'll actually use? Are there any additional perks or features included?

Exploring Bundled Service Options

To find the best bundled service options for your needs, it's important to do your research and stay informed. Here are some tips:

• Research and Compare: Explore the different bundling options available from various providers, comparing their prices, features, and content offerings.
• Stay Informed: The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, with new bundles and promotions emerging regularly. Stay updated on the latest offerings by subscribing to streaming news sites or blogs, following your favorite streaming providers on social media, or checking their websites periodically.

Conclusion

Bundled services can be a valuable tool for cord-cutters, offering cost savings, content variety, and convenience. By carefully evaluating your options and staying informed about the latest offerings, you can take advantage of these bundles to enhance your cord-cutting experience and maximize your entertainment options.

My Streaming Life includes bundling Paramount Plus with Walmart Plus, and it's been a big money-saver for me. I encourage you to explore similar opportunities and see how bundled services can enhance your cord-cutting experience.