Want to save money? Follow our subscription-cutting tips

People across Ireland continue to feel the pinch as we head further into this cost-of-living crisis that has been with us for the last few years.

As prices continue to rise, many people are struggling to stay afloat.

This is especially difficult for those trying to manage rent and mortgages, along with weekly shopping and essential bills.

Although it is often a time of overindulgence, Christmas can come at a difficult time for people who are aiming to reduce their outgoings.

Along comes January, and many of us may have spent a little more than expected this year; it may be time to reduce non-essential items that we spend money on.

A good place to start is with subscriptions.

These days, it's quite easy to take out a subscription, whether that be for an app or streaming service, but before you know it, these can add up.

This January, why not take our tips on cutting back on those unused subscriptions, or at the very least, reduce them?

Tips to cut out subscriptions

Audit your subscriptions

This may sound obvious, but many people are surprised to see the amount of hidden subscriptions that add up once you take a step back and look at them.

Those €2.99 and €1.64 monthly subscriptions slowly start to add up, and if it's something you can afford to lose, then why not save yourself that money?

If you haven't used it in 30 days, cancel it!

As the title says, if you haven't used your subscription in 30 days, cancel it. This can be useful for those of you who convince yourself to keep something ‘just in case’. Yes, that also goes for your unused gym membership!

Create duo or family accounts

This one is for those of us who can't live without certain subscriptions. This one may require some effort, but it can be worth it in the end. For example, Spotify offers duo and family accounts, which may save you both money.

At the time of writing, Spotify’s individual account is €11.99 per month; however, their Duo plan is €16.99 per month. The only requirement is for you both to reside at the same address.

Find cheaper alternatives

As the title says, shop around! If you can find a service that's just as good, or almost, and it's cheaper, then why not switch to save yourself some money?

Put up with it!

For those of us who are absolutely dedicated to saving money this year, why not deal with the hassle of a free service?

This could be forcing yourself to listen to ads on podcasts or watching 30-second ads on YouTube; although frustrating, it will save you money.

Implementing these steps won't bring you financial freedom by any means, but it could help those who are struggling financially purchase more of those essential items that they need in these increasingly expensive times.