21 Things We Used to Spend Money On but Don’t Anymore

The Internet has changed how we live, learn, shop, and connect. Things that were once remote and unattainable are now accessible to people worldwide. Let’s take a look at the resources that are now readily available to anyone with a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC.

Email Accounts

Gone are the days of paid email services for basic use. Major providers like Google and Microsoft now offer robust email functionalities at no cost, complete with ample storage space.

Online News

While some premium publishers have paywalls, a vast amount of news content is available for free. Platforms like BBC and NPR provide high-quality, accessible journalism without a subscription.

Digital Storage

Cloud storage services like Dropbox and Google Drive offer free tiers, eliminating the need for costly physical storage devices. Users can easily store and share files up to a generous limit. This service has revolutionized data management and accessibility.

Music Streaming

The Internet has changed how we consume music. Services such as Spotify and YouTube allow free streaming of millions of songs, supported by ads. Gone are the days of purchasing entire albums for one favorite song.

Video Calls

Skype, Zoom, and other platforms offer free basic video calling services. This technology connects people across the globe without the long-distance fees that once were a norm. It has become an essential tool for personal and professional communication.

GPS Navigation

Free apps like Google Maps and Waze have replaced expensive GPS devices. They offer real-time traffic updates and route planning without any cost. This technology has made traveling more efficient and accessible to everyone.

Education

Websites like Khan Academy and Coursera provide free access to quality educational content. This includes video lessons and comprehensive courses across many subjects. Such resources have opened up opportunities for self-paced learning worldwide.

Photo Editing

Tools like GIMP and Adobe Spark offer powerful photo editing capabilities without the hefty price tag. These free alternatives provide features that meet the needs of both amateurs and professionals. They democratize access to high-level creative tools.

Word Processing

Google Docs and Apache OpenOffice are available for free, providing robust word processing tools that rival paid software. This shift has facilitated widespread access to professional document creation tools.

Online Gaming

Many games are now available for free, monetizing through in-game purchases and advertising instead. Titles like ‘Fortnite’ have popularized this model, providing entertainment at no initial cost.

Language Apps

Platforms like Duolingo offer free language learning courses, making multilingual proficiency more accessible. These apps use gamification to make learning a new language fun and engaging. This has broadened the scope of who can learn a new language and how.

Productivity Apps

Numerous productivity tools, including task managers like Todoist, offer free versions. These apps help users manage their time and projects efficiently without a financial investment. They are crucial for individuals and teams striving to increase productivity.

Budgeting Tools

Apps like Mint provide free budgeting services that help people manage their finances more effectively. They offer insights into spending habits and financial planning without the need for costly financial advisors, changing personal finance management for many.

E-books

Public libraries and websites offer vast collections of free e-books and audiobooks. This access has transformed how we consume literature, making it possible to enjoy new and classic works without cost.

Fitness Apps

Free apps like Nike Training Club provide users with extensive workout routines without the need for a gym membership. They include professional tips and community support, making fitness more accessible and tailored.

Recipes

Online platforms provide millions of recipes at no cost, eliminating the need for cookbooks. Sites like Allrecipes and Epicurious offer dishes from around the world, accompanied by user reviews. This wealth of information inspires more people to cook and experiment in the kitchen.

Networking

LinkedIn allows users to create profiles, network, and search for jobs without a premium subscription. This platform connects professionals globally, enhancing career opportunities without upfront costs.

Legal Documents

Many basic legal forms and documents are now available for free online. Websites provide templates for agreements, leases, and more, which can be customized without hiring a lawyer. This accessibility helps individuals and small businesses save on legal fees.

Consumer Reviews

Websites like Yelp and TripAdvisor offer free access to millions of reviews and recommendations on businesses and destinations. This transparency helps consumers make informed decisions without purchasing costly guidebooks.

Coding Tutorials

Free resources like Codecademy and GitHub provide tutorials and tools for learning programming. This open access has enabled countless individuals to develop coding skills without formal education.

Tax Filing

Platforms like TurboTax offer free versions for simple tax returns, guiding users through the filing process without charge. This tool has simplified tax season for many, providing free, user-friendly assistance. It has transformed how many approach this annual duty.