Streaming services have made it easier to take entertainment on the road, but choosing the right one can be tricky. If you're looking for the best streaming service to use while travelling, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to make sure the service is available in the country you're travelling to. Some services, like Hulu, are only available in certain countries, while others, like Netflix, are accessible worldwide. It's also worth checking if the range of shows and movies will be the same as in your home country, as licensing restrictions may apply. Another thing to keep in mind is whether you'll need to use a VPN with your chosen service. Netflix, for example, blocks commercial VPNs, but some services, like ProtonVPN, may work.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, Sling TV and Philo are good choices, offering live TV streaming at a lower cost than cable. Sling TV has two packages: Orange ($40/month) with channels like Disney and ESPN, and Blue ($45/month) with local channels and premium cable channels. Philo is even cheaper at $25/month, but it doesn't include sports or local channels. If you're after a more premium option, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream offer a wide range of channels and features, but at a higher price point. YouTube TV, for instance, costs $73/month but includes over 100 channels and unlimited DVR.
What You'll Learn
- Streaming services with offline content
- Streaming services with family-friendly programming
- Streaming services with live sports
- Streaming services with the most channels
- Streaming services with the best value for money
Streaming services with offline content
Netflix
Netflix is one of the leading streaming platforms globally and allows users to download most of its catalog for offline viewing. This feature is available on Android, iOS, and Windows 10 devices. Netflix plans range from $6.99 to $19.99 a month and include a mix of content, from original shows to blockbuster movies. However, Netflix plans with ads do not allow for downloading content to watch offline, so you'll need to spring for the more expensive ad-free plans.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video also provides an option to download content for offline access. This feature is available on Amazon Fire devices and other Android or iOS devices. On Amazon Prime Video, you’ll find a mix of original and syndicated TV and movies that can be downloaded and watched offline. Live Thursday night football is also included for those who don’t want to miss a game while on the road.
Hulu
Hulu is another platform that has made offline viewing available. However, only users who subscribe to the Hulu (No Ads) or Hulu + Live TV plans can access the Downloads feature. Hulu allows you to keep 25 downloads at once on up to five supported mobile devices. You have a 30-day window to watch whatever you download, and once you hit play, you have 48 hours to finish before that download expires. Hulu plans range from $7.99 per month for ad-supported streaming to $82.99 per month for the Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+ package.
Disney+
Disney+ allows paid subscribers to download and watch all of its content offline. This feature is available across a wide range of devices, including Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire devices. Disney+ is only available through a bundle with Hulu, and plans range from $9.99 per month for a basic subscription to $19.99 a month for a Hulu/Disney+/ESPN package. You can stream on up to four devices at the same time, making it a great option for families.
Paramount+
Paramount+ is another streaming service that offers offline viewing. However, it doesn't offer a cloud DVR or any way to record live TV, so downloads only apply to its on-demand library. Paramount+ offers two plans, both of which have live TV and on-demand content. But only the Premium plan, which costs $4.99 per month, allows downloads.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another great option for offline viewing, as it allows you to download content from your cloud DVR. However, to download videos, you'll need to purchase the 4K Plus add-on for $19.99 per month.
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Streaming services with family-friendly programming
- Frndly TV: This service promises simple, feel-good programming with 14 channels, including the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries channel and the World Fishing Network. Plans start at $5.99/month after a 7-day free trial.
- VidAngel: VidAngel edits popular movies from other streaming subscriptions to make them more family-friendly. You can choose settings to filter out language, nudity, or adult material. During the COVID-19 shutdown, VidAngel offered free access to its entire offering.
- UP Faith & Family: This streaming service from UPtv curates a list of movies and shows that families can watch for free. It includes exclusive content such as 'Love Alaska' and 'Very Country Wedding'.
- Disney+: Disney+ is a great option for families, especially if you need to keep kids entertained on a flight or road trip. It allows you to download any movie or series and watch it anywhere, even without WiFi. You can stream on up to four devices simultaneously. Plans range from $9.99 per month for a basic subscription to $19.99 a month for a bundle with Hulu and ESPN+.
- Hulu: Hulu offers a variety of content, from original shows to movies and live TV. It has options ranging from ad-supported streaming for $7.99 per month to a premium plan with Hulu, live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $82.99 per month.
- Paramount+: This streaming service is a great value for sports fans, starting at $4.99 per month. It includes live sports and access to shows and movies from popular networks.
- Peacock: NBCUniversal's streaming service offers access to content from NBC, Bravo, Hallmark Channel, and Syfy. The Plus plan costs $9.99 per month and allows offline access.
- Sling TV: Sling TV was the first app-based TV service designed to help people cut the cord with cable. It offers live TV starting at $40 per month for 31 channels, with premium bundles available.
- HBO Max: This service can be added on through other streaming platforms or purchased as a standalone subscription. It offers a wide range of content, including popular shows like 'Ted Lasso' and 'The Morning Show'.
- Netflix: Netflix offers a range of original shows and blockbuster movies. Plans range from $6.99 to $19.99 a month, but the ad-based plan does not allow downloading content for offline viewing.
- Apple TV+: Apple TV+ is an ad-free streaming service with popular shows like 'Ted Lasso' and 'The Morning Show'. It costs $6.99 per month, but there are limitations for frequent travellers.
These streaming services offer a variety of family-friendly programming options, so you can choose the one that best suits your family's needs and interests.
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Streaming services with live sports
Streaming live sports while travelling can be tricky, but there are a number of services that make it possible. Here are some of the best streaming services for live sports:
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV offers an extensive live TV channel lineup, including ABC and ESPN. It also includes unlimited DVR, so you can record your favourite sports events and watch them later. Hulu + Live TV costs $82.99 per month and includes access to the entire Hulu streaming library. It's a great option for cord-cutters as it offers a mix of live and on-demand content.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another excellent option for live sports streaming. It offers a wide range of sports channels, including all the major broadcast networks, CBS Sports Network, several ESPN channels, FS1, FS2, Golf Channel, MLB Network, NBA TV, and more. YouTube TV also has a DVR feature, allowing you to record and keep recordings for up to nine months. The service costs $72.99 per month.
Fubo
Fubo is a great choice for sports fans, especially those interested in international sports. It offers a wide range of sports channels, including CBS, FOX, ESPN, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and more. Fubo also includes Spectrum, Bally, and select Comcast RSNs. The service starts at $79.99 per month and offers a variety of add-on packages to customize your viewing experience.
Sling TV
Sling TV is a good budget option for live sports streaming. The service offers two plans, Sling Orange and Sling Blue, which include different sports channels. Sling Orange includes ESPN, while Sling Blue offers FS1 and NFL Network. The combined Orange and Blue plan gives you access to all the sports channels. Sling TV also has a Sports Extra add-on for $11 per month, which includes additional sports channels.
Paramount+
Paramount+ is a great option for sports fans on a budget. For $8 per month, subscribers get access to NFL football games, UEFA Champions League soccer, college basketball, and the NWSL women's soccer league. For an additional $5 per month, you can upgrade to Paramount+ with Showtime to access live, local CBS feeds.
These are just a few of the streaming services available for live sports while travelling. Each service has its own unique features and channel offerings, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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Streaming services with the most channels
Streaming services are a great way to watch your favourite shows while travelling. Here are some of the best streaming services with the most channels:
Hulu
Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services, offering a mix of live and on-demand content. It provides subscribers with access to more than 70 channels of news, sports, and entertainment programming. Hulu also has a robust live TV option and a large library of classic shows and movies. Hulu's basic on-demand streaming plan costs $6.99 per month, while the ad-free version is $18.99 per month.
Sling TV
Sling TV is a great option for travellers who want to watch live TV without paying for cable. It offers a variety of subscription options, starting at $40 per month for 31 channels. Sling TV is especially appealing to sports fans, as it offers a number of ESPN channels. It also provides access to other popular networks like NBC, BBC America, CNN, and the Food Network.
FuboTV
FuboTV is another excellent choice for travellers, offering more than 120 channels, including all the major broadcast and cable networks. It's a great option for sports enthusiasts, with channels like NBA TV, NFL Network, and beIN Network. FuboTV also has a wide variety of entertainment channels, such as FX, National Geographic, and Syfy. The service starts at $80 per month.
Paramount+
Paramount+ offers a growing library of movies, original shows, and live channels. It provides access to content from CBS, Nickelodeon, BET, Comedy Central, and the Smithsonian Channel. The streaming service starts at $4.99 per month and includes live sports like NFL games and soccer on Champions League.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is included with a Prime subscription and offers a mix of original and syndicated TV shows and movies. It also includes live sports, such as Thursday Night Football. Amazon Prime Video has a vast library of content and frequently adds new movies and shows. The Prime subscription costs $139 per year.
These streaming services provide a wide range of channels and content to suit different preferences. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a movie buff, or a fan of original shows, there's something for everyone.
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Streaming services with the best value for money
Streaming services are a great way to keep yourself entertained while travelling. Here are some of the best streaming services with the best value for money:
Netflix
Netflix is one of the most popular streaming services and offers a wide range of content, including original shows, movies, and TV series. It offers different plans, ranging from $6.99 to $19.99 per month. Netflix allows you to download content for offline viewing, which is great for travelling. However, the plan with ads does not allow for downloading content. Netflix is available worldwide, except in a few restricted countries.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is another excellent option for travellers. It offers a mix of original and syndicated TV shows and movies, as well as live sports. You can download content for offline viewing. Amazon Prime Video is included with a Prime subscription, which offers other benefits like fast delivery and exclusive deals.
Hulu
Hulu provides a variety of content, including live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+. It offers ad-supported and ad-free plans, with prices ranging from $7.99 to $82.99 per month. Hulu also has a basic on-demand streaming plan for $9.99 per month. Hulu allows you to download content with certain plans and devices.
Sling TV
Sling TV is a budget-friendly option, offering two packages (Blue and Orange) with different channel lineups. The Blue package is more comprehensive, while Orange focuses on ESPN and Disney channels. Sling TV also offers add-on packages for premium content. It does not currently offer offline viewing.
Philo
Philo is one of the most affordable streaming services, costing only $28 per month. It offers over 70 channels, unlimited DVR, and a clean, intuitive interface. However, it does not include local stations or sports programming. Philo also has a free service with over 100 channels.
When choosing a streaming service, consider your budget, the availability of your favourite channels, and the devices you will be using. Additionally, the ability to download content for offline viewing can be crucial for travelling, especially if you anticipate limited internet access.
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Frequently asked questions
Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are the obvious choices. Both services have wide availability, allow you to access your account outside of your country of residence, and have a large selection of shows and movies to keep you entertained no matter how long your trip.
Philo TV, which carries 115+ channels, including A&E, Discovery Channel, Comedy Central, and more, for just $25 per month.
YouTube TV, with over 100 channels and unlimited DVR.
Sling TV, for its affordable price and customizable channel options.
FuboTV, to watch almost any sport you can imagine.
