I’m trying out various tools and services as part of my dev workflow, but I worry about forgetting to cancel subscriptions before the trial period ends.
I’ve heard some folks use empty prepaid credit cards to bypass this, but I’m unsure if that’s the right approach.
What are the most effective and ethical methods you’ve used to avoid accidental charges while still exploring full-featured trials?
You can try using Virtual Cards with Spending Limits.
One practical and secure method is to use a virtual credit card service (like Privacy.com or Revolut) that allows you to set spending limits or freeze the card after sign-up. This ensures that if you forget to cancel a trial, the card can’t be charged more than you’re comfortable with.
I’ve been using virtual cards for years, especially when testing new SaaS tools. It’s great peace of mind, and many platforms accept them just like regular cards.
Try using platforms that dont require Credit Cards.
Some platforms, like LambdaTest, offer free trials with no credit card required, which is ideal if you want to explore capabilities without the stress of billing surprises. LambdaTest, for instance, is great for testing websites across multiple browsers and devices — all in the cloud.
I used LambdaTest to test a cross-browser issue on a freelance project, and I appreciated not needing to enter billing info just to explore. No hassle and totally transparent.
If you prefer using your real card, you can avoid surprises by setting up reminders via Google Calendar, Notion, or even apps like Truebill or Bobby that monitor subscriptions. Just enter the trial’s end date at sign-up.
Personally, I use Notion to track every tool I trial, along with the cancellation deadline. It’s helped me avoid any accidental renewals and keeps my workflow organized.