Save on magazine subscriptions
Magazines are sometimes a guilty pleasure for a frugal soul, but one that I enjoy. I’ve traded unused (and unlikely to be used) airline miles for some subscriptions and really enjoyed them.
I don’t purchase subscriptions outright very often, but there’s a promotion going on right now that might be a good deal if you like the right magazines. Meredith Corporation publishes scads of magazines, and they’re running a “Read for the Cure” special where you can get some of the magazines at a discount. In addition to being a good deal (on some of the titles), 10% of the subscription price goes to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
As you’ve probably picked up already, some of the magazines are a great deal, and some are not. You’ll have to compare to your usual outlet, whether that’s a subscription card from the magazine, or (my usual choice) Amazon
For instance, Fast Company and Inc. are cheaper at Amazon. Wired and Taste of Home are the same price. But Real Simple and Craft & Home Projects are cheaper.
You also have to keep in mind the number of issues that are included. Many of the Read for the Cure subscriptions are 6 or 7 issues, so make sure you’re comparing apples to apples.
With those caveats in mind, if you really enjoy a particular magazine, take a minute or two to see if it’s a good bargain.
photo credit: bravenewtraveler
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I agree that the frugal among us will often find magazines to be a guilty pleasure. I’m relieved that I subscribe to very few as they turn out to be more trouble than they’re worth. It’s been years since I’ve subscribed to many of them, and yet I continue to receive letters begging me to resubscribe. It’s like getting on a mailing list of those who donate money to specific causes – there is just no getting off of the list.
Sadly, many of the magazines often resemble television – a solid core of advertising with some information and entertainment wrapped around it. Therefore, I naturally turn the other way because I see advertising as an unwanted intrusion in my life that tries to convince me that I would be happier if I spent money on certain products and services. It’s absolutely counter to my frugal nature.
Periodicals that I find of value include those that promote self sufficiency and frugality, or otherwise offer useful information about being more self reliant. If I can walk away with a skill or an idea about a more self directed life, then the magazine might be worthwhile to subscribe to – at any reasonable price.
Clair Schwan
As frugal as I am, I cannot live without my magazine subscriptions! I subscribe to nearly a dozen and I wouldn’t give up any of them! However, I also pass them to my future mother-in-law and she passes them to her friend who then places them in the doctor’s office where she works. I figure that ensures that I have gotten my money’s worth! I love to find ways to save on my subscriptions, so I will certainly check this out!