At this point, we have all been wired to think that bundling different items and services can actually help us save money in the long run. One of the most common services that are being bundle at the moment is internet plans and streaming services. However, there are certain factors that must be consider before you actually jump to a decision.
In this article, we’ll help you determine if bundling your home internet and streaming services is for you. Let’s begin.
Advantages of Bundling Your Internet and Streaming Services
Nowadays, the internet and streaming services are playing a massive role in the lives of the majority. From entertaining themselves at home to working and studying from home, these two services have become one of the highlights of our lives, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of the benefits of bundling them:
- It can save you money.
Most service providers usually offer bundles with discounted monthly fees. Let’s say you’re playing for your wireless internet for $50 while you pay for your streaming service, which costs around $60 per month. You will have to pay a total of $110. But if you bundle up, your service provider can easily give it to you for $100 or at least $90, saving you at least $10 to $20 a month.
- It’s more convenient.
Paying bills to different providers every month can be a tedious task, especially since we also have other utilities and services to pay for, like electricity, insurance, and whatnot. But, if you bundle your 4G home internet plan, for example, and streaming services, you will only need to pay one company for the two services – saving you time and hassle along the way.
- It can give you access to additional perks.
Most internet providers offer their bundle customers different benefits and perks that single-service subscribers aren’t given. A great example would be Dish TV. Once you avail of their internet and streaming service bundle, you will get 30 free premium channels for three months, a free installation, a two-year price guarantee, and a free DISH voice remote. If you love anything free, bundling is definitely a great choice.
Disadvantages of Bundling Your Internet and Streaming Services
Although it comes with several benefits, there are still some disadvantages that come with bundling services.
- You still end up paying more.
You have to keep in mind that even though you essentially ‘save more’ with bundling, you still end up paying more for two services than one. If you won’t really consume one of the services in the bundle, it would only be a waste of money. So, if you only need a fast internet plan but are enticed to opt for a streaming service bundle you don’t need, don’t be blinded by the discount offer because it will still cost you more.
- You might be locked in a long-term contract.
Most service providers that offer a bundle will likely have you sign a contract. Although you can usually terminate your services any time you like, depending on the duration left on your existing contract, you might need to pay hundreds of dollars for the early termination fee.
Depending on your local providers and your preferences, you might be unable to avoid signing a contract. Just make sure you are clear on how long you must remain with them, and before committing, make sure you have all the information you require.
- Price hikes are inevitable.
While bundle prices and advertising rates may seem attractive at first glance, you should be aware that price increases are likely and will have a significant impact on your monthly bill. You might be commit to your current service provider for many years unless your provider makes a serious error or goes out of business.
Although this is possible with standalone services, it is much more prevalent with bundles; one or two years after signing up, you may expect a price increase. It’s important to be vigilant and study the fine print of any agreement or contract you enter into because the price increases could add hundreds to your monthly expense.
Final Thoughts
Bundling your internet plan and streaming services is a great option if you’re planning to use them both. However, if you just want to bundle up because you think you’ll save more but won’t really use the extra service, it may not be a good choice as you’ll pay more than you consume. We recommend you evaluate your needs to determine if bundling is the best choice for you.
