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If there’s one area of the home that gets a lot of action, but not a lot of cleaning, it’s definitely the closet. For some, organizing the closet is enough to send them into sheer shock, which is never a good thing. Luckily, there’s a lot of great ways to transform a cluttered closet into an efficient location to store all of your must-have items. Sure, some organization tips may cost a lot of money, but there’s also a lot of great ways you can transform the smallest of spaces into a roomy storage area without spending much at all. With a little shopping know-how and a few DIY tips, your closet can go from drab to fab in no time at all.

1. Use the Door
Generally, people somehow master the concept of using every single inch of floor space they can find. There is, however, one space that always goes unnoticed: the door. There’s a lot of things you can do to a door to ensure that it will help you with all of your storage problems. Believe it or not, but some places do design storage units for the back of the door, but you may be limited if you have a smaller door or one that folds shut. Of course, you could always think out of the box and upcycle a storage shower curtain into an awesome place to store shoes, socks, accessories or anything else that fits into the pouches. Another great option is a simple peg board, which you can find inexpensively in a number of department or craft stores. This can be installed on a variety of doors thanks to its ability to customize. Peg boards are great for hanging jewelry, scarves, hats and anything else you want to keep nice and neat. If there’s lots of space in your closet, then you may also want to install baskets onto your door, which could work great for light weight clothing and accessories.

2. Hanger Extenders
One of the biggest problems people run into when they’re trying to organize their closet is the fact that they have too many clothes and hangers to fit into the small space. These items can be bought at a variety of stores on and offline and are made to fit specific types of garments, if you like to take the best care of your clothing and accessories as possible. Of course, if you’re not so picky and you want to save a whole lot of money, you can make these extenders at home for next to nothing. The first thing you’ll need is the tab from a soda can. If you don’t drink soda or anything from a can, then you may want to ask around to see if your neighbors can help out with some of their recycled materials. Once you have your tabs, you simply slip them over the hook of a hanger. You may have to swap to thinner hangers though in order to make this trick work. Then,hang a new hanger into the bottom portion of the tab. You can usually do this two to three times before the items are too heavy.

3. Add Shelf Dividers
If your closet is like most, then it has a shelf that is neatly placed over the clothing rack. This shelf is a great place to store a lot of junk, but it could also be utilized for more clothing and shoes. Simply add a divider to the top to help make the shelf more efficient for stacking your foldable clothing, such as jeans and sweaters. Dividers can be purchased from a variety of stores, but you can also make up your own with an assortment of materials. This method actually allows you to create unique sizes and designs to suit your décor and personality. Another great way to use dividers to your benefit is to add them to a simple shelf under your clothing rack. If there’s no shelf then simply use the dividers to create one. All you’ll need is a top and bottom for the potential shelf and you’re all set for lots of storage options.

4. Add bins
One of the easiest ways to store a lot of your items is to add bins. These handy devices come in all shapes and sizes and allow you to store just about anything you can think of. The best thing about some of the bins is they actually come in drawer like form, so you can even replace the bulky chest of drawers that’s hiding in your room or closet, if you want to make more space. These bins are simple to stack too, so if you have a lot of stuff you can stack them to the ceiling if you want. Larger bins are perfect for shoes too, especially those that don’t need all of the extra care, and will allow you to enjoy a more organized look without a whole lot of effort. If you choose clear bins then your closet will also look like it has more space than ever, which will make all of your organizational efforts stand out all the more.

5. Utilize Shelving
A lot of closets, especially those in older homes or apartments, tend not to utilize the space that they should. Rather than letting the prime real estate of your closet go to waste, you can easily install shelves from top to bottom to help keep up with your storage needs. This will allow you to stack clothes, store old boxes and whatever else you may need storage for. Plus, there are a lot of innovative ways to add shelves to your closet, which are sure to stand out. You can even find a variety of ideas that will make it a breeze for you to install shelving that doesn’t require you to do damage to the walls, which is perfect for renters. With your new shelving, you should be able to get most of your items in the closet in an orderly fashion and may even find you have room for storage.

6. Know Your Hangers
Actually knowing what type of hanger you should use comes in handy in regards to keeping your closet less organized. Hangers that are thinner are probably the best way to maximize the space as they will allow you to push clothing that doesn’t need special attention to the back of the closet. Thus, you’ll be able to get more clothing into tight spaces. Of course, you should also keep into consideration that some clothing items do need special hangers. For instance, sweaters and any open neck tops often need a special sweater that will help you keep your clothing looking nice, while also preventing it from falling on the ground which can cause a sense of disarray. If you often buy clothes from department stores, then you probably have a pretty good collection of plastic hangers with clips. These are perfect for hanging up your boots that need extra attention, as well as scarves, belts and other accessories. You can even hang necklaces, bracelets and glasses on a wire hanger, if you have the extra space.

7. Add Another Bar
Generally, most closets have a single bar for clothing that is slightly raised to meet you at eye level. This is pretty convenient, but it also ends up leaving lots of space on the bottom of your closet. This space can easily be used to add in an entirely new clothing rack. Now, you don’t have to be alarmed by this because it’s not a huge renovation and it may not even take you very long at all to DIY the task. Basically, if you go down to your local home improvement store, you should be able to find a kit for the bar to rest on. Then, you simply cut the size you need for your space and you’re ready to go. If you’re planning on hanging lighter items then you can always use an adjustable shower curtain or suspension rod to create the same effect without drilling holes in the wall. This will give you more space than you ever expected and may even open up your closet a bit more.

8. Buy an Organizer
If there seems to be no other solution, or you just want to make things easier, then buying a closet organizer may be the route to go. Of course, you should always measure out your closet before you do anything. There’s lots of different sized organizers on the market and some of them actually are adjustable so you don’t have to worry about them not suiting your needs. You should also shop around for manufacturer’s coupons or simply look for sales online and in your local area. The more you shop around for a deal on the organizer, the better off you should be. The best thing about actually purchasing a closet organizer is they tend to be sturdy and can last for your years if you treat them right. They also offer more space for clothing and storage, no matter what size closet you started out with.

9. Add Illusions
One of the best ways you can make your closet look more presentable, even when it’s in total disarray, is to add a few illusions to the mix. For instance, color coding your clothing is a great way to make the closet look organized and actually creates a roomier appearance. Another way, that’s a bit easier, is to add a mirror to the back of the closet. If you’re feeling really ambitious then you could surround your walls with mirrors. This actually creates the illusion of more space and will make your closet double in size. Also, if you can find clear drawers, then you will add even more space to the room. These drawers work wonders for the eye and make finding what you’re looking for a breeze. Of course, if you can find mirrored drawers then you’re doing well too. Even adding better lighting will help make your closet spring to life.

10. Purge
Of course, when it comes down to it, one of the best ways to get your closet organized is to actually purge some of the things in it. A lot of the time, we simply keep adding stuff to the closet without ever removing the things we don’t use. This can really add to clutter that causes a lot of turmoil in your life. So, before you even think about organizing the closet, you may want to go through it. Pull out clothes that you haven’t worn in a while and try them on. You may be surprised how many you don’t like anymore or even how many don’t fit you quite right. Clothing that is old and worn out should probably be reduced too, so you can maximize space and your wardrobe. The same can be said of shoes, accessories and anything else you may have laying around. There’s actuallya few questions you should ask yourself about the items in the closet, so when you finish the purging it’ll almost seem like you’re looking at a new closet. Trust me, when you pull out the old, you’ll feel pretty good about yourself.

Your closet doesn’t have to be a sore spot in your home. Nor, does it have to be a place you want to hide away. With these ten tips, you should be able to organize your closet without spending a small fortune. You’ll feel amazing after you see the final results and you may even add a little time to your prep period in the morning.

With the holidays already on their way, you may find yourself browsing Amazon to see if you can already score some great deals on some the items on the top of your list. Although Amazon usually has competitive deals, there’s some items that you should always consider even when you’re not looking for a bargain. These few items tend to save you big on your everyday buys, which is a great way to keep your budget down and your shopping satisfaction up. So, next time you’re surfing Amazon, check out these ten things to see if you can find the best possible deal on them. You may be surprised by how much you’ll save when you switch store preferences in regards to these common buys.

1. Electronic Accessories
You probably already know that Amazon is pretty much a go-to site when you’re looking for Black Friday electronic deals, but have you thought about buying your electronic accessories from the site too? Generally, Amazon has some pretty amazing deals on charging cables and adapters for a wide selection of cellphones, tablets and other devices. Of course, if you’re not already satisfied with the price of the brands, there’s also a wide assortment of off brand items that are so dirt cheap it’s hard not to buy ten. Another great thing to buy, is HDMI cables. It doesn’t matter how long you need them to be, because Amazon has some deals you probably wouldn’t even believe if you didn’t see the price right in front of your face! You may want to make sure you’re buying the correct cord though, so you can avoid refund times and having to order a different cord. Of course, battery chargers, spare parts and other must-have items to keep your products going, can also be found on the website.
2. Electronics
Although electronic accessories are a huge hit on the site, you’ll also find some pretty competitive prices on major electronics too. One of the biggest sellers, especially during the holidays is TVs. Generally, the site tries to offer some price cuts that might make you faint if you weren’t expecting them. Of course, this usually only happens during sales like Black Friday, but you should be able to find good prices on these items any other time of the year too. Tablets and phones are also popular purchases too because they tend to offer some of the biggest savings. Even newer releases may be a surprise when it comes to the price tag. Of course, one of the major things that helps you save big is Prime Membership because it will cut the shipping price that you tend to have to pay when you buy online. Headphones, video game consoles and learning pads are other options that aren’t as popular, but still offer steady discounts.
3. Bulk Pet Supplies
There’s no doubt, pets can be pretty pricey, especially if you have them on a prescription diet. Many websites, like Walmart and Target, won’t even sell the higher-priced foods, which cuts down your options significantly. Luckily, Amazon offers just about any food you can think of at a price that will leave you wondering why you shopped anywhere else. Even better, if you tend to buy your food regularly, you’ll find that you can even get a 5% off discount by enrolling in a subscription plan, which can really make life easier. Of course, food isn’t the only thing Amazon offers. Cat litter is a major purchase for some budgets, especially if you have more than one cat. When you buy in bulk, you not only save money, but you don’t have to worry about running out of litter any time soon. Last but not least, especially in your pet’s eyes, Amazon offers a wide selection of bulk pet treats that will ensure your animals get what they desire for all of their good behavior.
4. Baby Supplies
Babies are constantly in need of diapers, formula, bath products, clothes and toys to help them learn. It’s almost hard to keep up with it all! Luckily, if you sign up for Amazon Mom you’ll be privy to some amazing deals that will help save you a pretty penny. Amazon Mom basically gives you a Prime membership and helps you stay up to date with all of the best coupons that Amazon has to offer. Of course, apart from the great discounts available, you can subscribe to the items you know you’re going to need, so you’ll never have to worry about running out to get them in the middle of the night. Generally, subscribing to the item can save you anywhere from 5 to 15%, which is sure to come in handy. If you don’t want to sign up for Amazon Mom, you’ll still be privy to some pretty great deals, especially on diapers alone, which can eat you out of house and home if you’re not careful. You can also still sign up for the subscription and enjoy coupons that the site offers to everyone in the Daily Savings section.
5. Books
When it comes to buying books, Amazon offers some deals that are too good to pass up. Generally, new books on the site have an average price, but often new releases take a huge price cut if you preorder them, or if the book didn’t do as well as expected within the first few days. Of course, if you add a book to your wish list, Amazon will also let your know when it takes a price hike, which could be a great surprise. One of the best deals on Amazon is their used books though. For starters, there are many private sellers on Amazon, which sell a book for a penny, plus shipping and handling. This is almost too good to pass up as many used book stores can’t even compete with these prices. Kindle books are generally very affordable too, especially if you’re looking at the section for indie authors. Of course, students can also rejoice over Amazon’s book deals, especially if they have the special student account that Amazon offers for free for a year. This allows students to gain free shipping! Of course, if your year is up, you can still buy used textbooks at a price that won’t warrant taking out another student loan.
6. Kitchen Appliances
If you’re looking to add a little pizzazz to your kitchen, then finding appliances on Amazon is a must. To cut to the chase, Amazon tends to keep appliances at a low price because they’re such an important and popular item. Thus, when it comes down to it, many people judge Amazon to be a low price store simply because they sell these items at a low price. This allows you jump in and take advantage of the steals though. One of the best things to buy on Amazon is coffee makers because they try to beat everyone else’s deal. Even the latest models will earn you savings you’ll find hard to believe. Of course, you can also find a wide assortment of mixers, food processors, microwaves and other kitchen appliances at a great price. Novelty items, such as popcorn makers, snow cone makers and even hotdog roasters are great items to buy as gifts, especially when you can find them at such a great price.
7. Clothing
Clothing items are another steal when it comes to Amazon. If you’re looking to update your wardrobe then this may be one of the best places to go. Often, there are many smaller boutiques that sell their clothing on Amazon, so the price won’t leave you hurting for money. It may also leave you with some of the trendiest clothes around at a price that won’t get in the way of other spending. Apart from wardrobe choices that may not locally be available, you can also find many of your favorite brands on the website. The best thing is, they tend to follow sales that they offer on their own website. Amazon also offers large discounts on clothes each week, so keep an eye out if you’re looking for something in particular. One of the best times to buy is during back to school season because of the many savings on kid’s clothes. Of course, it may be burdensome to shop for clothes online, but there’s many tips to make sure your items will fit right when you shop online.
8. Household Basics
We tend to spend a lot of time shopping for the basic cleaning and health products we use on a daily basis. This doesn’t have to be the case though, especially with Amazon’s new Pantry program. Now, you can find some of your favorite items sold in bulk, which will only increase the savings. Plus, if you sign up for a subscription, you’ll get a percentage off of the price tag, which will start to add up. The best thing is, everything ends up delivered to your door, so you don’t have to think twice about anything but grocery shopping, and in some cases you can even get some of your favorite snack items! Some of the best items to buy this way are laundry detergent pods, coffee pods and toilet paper.
9. Beauty Supplies
Shopping online for your favorite makeup brands can leave you feeling ambushed by the price of your shopping cart. However, if you choose to shop with Amazon, you may find the deals unbelievable. Amazon offers just about every brand of beauty item out there, so you won’t have to search long before finding something you need. Of course, if you’re not sure what you’re looking for or you want to try something new, then you’ll have an endless amount of items to choose from. Everything from nail art to lipstick and fake eye lashes to hair treatments can be found on Amazon for an amazing price. Plus, there’s always deals offered, which can leave you saving even more. You can even find body jewelry at a price that will make you jump for joy. Bellybutton rings, earrings and even septum rings will make you want to celebrate.
10. Prime Membership
Of course, one of the best things to get on Amazon is their Prime membership. The membership offers free two day shipping, which makes the price tag of shopping online disappear. Plus, you don’t have to wait forever to get your much needed packages. Also, you get to enjoy free streaming movies and TV shows as well as music and so much more. Typically, the Prime Membership will run you about $100, but there are many sales on this throughout the year. For instance, in March, the price is often slashed in half. Of course, if you buy some Amazon products, you’ll actually be able to get a year’s subscription to Amazon Prime for nothing at all. Mom’s and students are also privy to a reduced price, which is perfect for their tight budget.

Amazon is a great way to find some amazing deals on the items you use every day. Not to mention, they offer great deals on the luxury items you desire. With savings as big as these, you should be able to keep your budget going strong while getting all of the items you need. Plus, with all of the gas you save from not going to the store, you should be feeling pretty good about your choice to shop online!

October has finally arrived, and in many places so has the cold weather. Although October is a month filled with warm activities, delicious foods and exciting holidays, you may find it always weighs heavy on your budget. Luckily, there’s lots of things you can save money on during this autumn month. With these ten great purchases that will save you big, you should be able to maximize your budget, while allowing yourself a little wiggle room in the upcoming months. So, don’t fret the splurge on last week’s pumpkin spice latte, or stress over your children’s Halloween costume’s because these savings are sure to leave you feeling amazing about your future budget.

1. Camping Gear
Camping season has finally come to a close, which means it’s now the perfect time to grab your camping supplies for the upcoming year. Camping supplies encompass a wide variety of items too. Obviously, tents are going to hit the shelves at a majorly discounted price. In some stores, you can buy this item for up to 50% off, especially if the store is expecting newer models in the upcoming season. Clothing is another major sales item during this time of the year. Long johns, jackets and water proof gear are great example of items you can buy now, that won’t just save you money for the next camp season, but will also save you money when it comes to winter apparel. Apart from clothes and tents, you should be able to find sleeping bags, cooking gear and even some weapons and fishing poles, which will make prepping for next season even easier. Not to mention, since it’s still early, you may actually be able to get a few camping trips in before the weather is too cold, which will allow you to enjoy your new purchases.
2. Fine Jewelry
The holidays are one of the prime times for jewelers, which means the prices can skyrocket in order to keep up with the demand and make more profit. With the holiday season right around the corner, you may want to get any fine jewelry shopping out of the way before it’s too late. Now, is the perfect time to pick up something sparkly if you plan on surprising your someone special with a beautiful gift for the holidays. Of course, you will miss out on holiday releases if you do this, but these items are usually passing trends that aren’t worn or cherished for decades anyway. If you choose to shop early, you can find a classic piece that will be cherished and passed down through generations. Of course, now is the perfect time to grab an engagement ring or wedding band, if you plan on making a romantic move during the season. October is the off-season for weddings, so it may be the right time to plan a small wedding, if you haven’t already begun the process. The holiday season is also proposal season though, so buying ahead of the time will help you stay prepared for the big event and save you major money.
3. Food
Although the real feasts don’t begin until next month, October has its fair share of reasons to pig out for less. In fact, October is actually National Pizza Month and many stores will offer a wide variety of discounts that will make your pizza purchase taste even better. If you’re a vegetarian, then you may want to hit your favorite stores on October 1, because it’s World Vegetarian Day, which means huge savings on all of your favorite veggie brands. Coffee lovers may want to enjoy one last cold beverage on October 4, in honor of National Frappe Day. Your sweet tooth will also rejoice for National Cheesecake Day on October 21! Of course October is also the home of Oktoberfest, which will bring you lots of sales on sauerkraut, sausage, beer and other German foods after October 4, when the celebration comes to a close. You may also want to take advantage of the low prices you’ll get at your local apple orchard or pumpkin patch, as all of this delicious produce will be in season and ready to be picked. Not to mention, with Halloween around the corner, you’ll want to save all of the pumpkin fillings for baked seeds and pies later on in the season!
4. Candy
Although less nutritious then all of the food offered during the season, you should still be able to find some awesome deals on candy. First of all, Halloween is at the end of the month, which means the big variety bags of candy will be on sale. Whether you plan on handing out candy or not, this can be one of the best times to buy huge assortments of your favorite treats. Of course, if you’re looking for something a little more intricate, then you’ll be pleased to know all of the customized candy from summer will be on sale. Thus, you can find great deals on red, white and blue dipped strawberries and other summer time creations. You may want to browse online for these treats, as there are many websites offering surprising deals on their leftover stock. You should also be able to find candied apples at an exceptional price since apples are currently in season.
5. Halloween Costumes
Although Halloween may be coming up later in this month, it’s still a great time to buy your Halloween costumes. However, there are a few tricks you should consider when you look for costumes during the month of October. For starters, you should always start in the clearance section. There’s lots of costumes that were put on clearance last year, which will quickly be reduced even more in order to make room for all of the costumes that will hit the clearance rack when this Halloween is over. You may be surprised by how many popular costumes you can find on the clearance rack. Of course, if you’re not satisfied with the costumes in your local stores, there’s lots of online costume stores that have a huge variety of clearance costumes. You may also be able to find the materials needed to make your costume amazing at a great price. For instance, some fabrics may be on sale as well as the basic accessories, like fangs, makeup or special gloves.
6. Cruises
If you’re already stressing about the holidays, then you may want to enjoy a little time away from the chaos. During October, cruises are a prime price, which will allow you to save big time on a well-deserved vacation. This is especially great for people who may not get a chance to take leave during the holiday season as it will help you rest up before you have to deal with hustle and bustle of the next couple of months. Although prices are best if you choose to go on your cruise during October, you can still save big time by simply booking your cruise during this month too. You may want to keep your plans off of time prime season, but with some careful planning, you should be able to cash in on some great deals.
7. Mammograms
October is National Breast Awareness Cancer month, so it’s no surprise that many hospitals and doctor’s offices are offering reduced price mammograms to any women that books during the month of October. This is a great idea for women who may not have the test completely covered by their insurance policy. Of course, you may want to talk to your doctor about the prices to see if there is actually a reduction in your area as not everyone will participate in this bold move to help prevent breast cancer. If your doctor or hospital is participating, then you may want to book an appointment as early as possible as there is sure to be many women who want to take advantage of the generous offer. Of course, you may also want to spread the word, so every woman has a chance to get the test completed.
8. Disneyland
If you want to send the kids into a frenzy of joy, then now is the time to grab a Disneyland vacation. If you plan a trip around the last 3 weeks of October to the early weeks in November, then you’ll be privy to some awesome Disneyland prices. Of course, with the price reduction also comes less crowds because these short weeks are the Disney off-season. You’ll be able to enjoy cheaper hotel rates, food in the park and possibly even ride tickets if you choose to travel to Disneyland during this time of the year. The good news is, since Disneyland is in California, you won’t have to worry about the weather being bad during your trip. You’ll probably experience mild weather, which may make it an even greater time to enjoy a mini vacation.
9. Harvest
Autumn weekends are the greatest because it’s the perfect time to check out your local produce. A lot of pumpkin patches, apple orchards, vineyards and corn fields will offer a lot of activities for your family to enjoy at a price that will make everyone happy. The best thing is, you can pick food for the family at a price that will probably have you picking your jaw up off of the floor. Generally, you can pay ahead of time to pick a certain weight of food. When you take the food home, it’s easy to can, freeze or cook it up to make your meals stretch further than ever. It’s also a great time to teach your family about where food comes from first hand. Also, since it’s autumn, you’ll probably be able to book a walk through a corn maze or a special hayride when you check out the local harvest.
10. Dog Adoptions
October is also dog adoption month, so now is the perfect time to bring a furry friend into your home for the holidays. Most animal shelters and charities like SPCAs will have better deals on dog adoptions during this month. Some may even waive the adoption fees, so you won’t have to pay a cent for your new pet. The best news is, your dog will already be fixed and vaccinated, if not the clinic will give you a voucher to have the procedure finished for no out of pocket cost. Of course, since it is October, you may not be able to adopt a black dog because many shelters ban adoptions of cats and black dogs during this month due to cruel activity. However, if you do fall in love with a black dog, then you can put in the paperwork for your adoption and take your new friend home as soon as Halloween is over. Not all shelters operate under this procedure though, it often depends on your area and past problems in the region.

October is a great month for saving on so many things you may have already thought about buying, and many that you may not have even considered. With these ten things saving you cash, you may find the month to be a lot more fun than you ever thought possible. Not to mention, you may even feel a bit more relaxed as you prepare for the upcoming busy months, this holiday season.

High school and college life seem to revolve around homecoming for the first few weeks of school. This game lets each school show off what they have while allowing the students to pump up their school spirit and have a great time. The only problem with the event is it can often cost an arm and a leg, if you’re not careful. The best thing about homecoming is you can do a whole lot to help cut down the price, if you’re willing to put in a little elbow grease. Between DIY projects and cutting the corners on some aspects of the occasion, your student sized budget won’t falter. With these ten tips, you’ll be able to look and feel your best while cheering on your team and having the time of your life.

1. Reuse Dress
There’s lots of school dances to attend, so you may not want to blow all of your dance budget on such a minor occasion. Homecoming is more about the team spirit aspect of the occasion than the dressing to impress aspect, even if it doesn’t feel like it at first. Instead of blowing your budget on a brand new dress, you can easily make one of your old dresses into something new. There’s lots of ways to transform last year’s prom dress, or other dress into something amazing. May it be dying it to suit your school’s colors or adding a few features to transform the dress into something extraordinary. You may even want to combine a few of your old dresses to make on spectacular new one. There’s lots of sewing tutorials online if you’re concerned about this aspect. Of course, if you’re a freshman and don’t already have a dress or if you outgrew your old ones, then you might consider checking out thrift stores to see what you can find.

2. Mums
In many states, the mum is what truly shows off your school spirit. Generally, you buy your own or your date provides you with one. Of course, if you purchase a mum in the store, you could end up spending over $100. Even some of the smaller mums ring in a bit pricey, which may be hard for some budgets to deal with. The good news, is mums really aren’t that hard to make and the supplies are fairly cheap. You can easily special order ribbon with your team’s mascot, if you so choose, or you can simply use your team’s colors. Fake mums are always pretty cheap and can even be bought in bulk if you want to share the costs with friends. You can add just about anything to your mums too! Bells, whistles, pendants, the sky is truly the limit here. The good news is, all of these items are pretty cheap and you should be able to find them at any craft store or stores that are already selling mums. If you’re not sure where to start, there’s lots of tutorials online.

3. Skip the Salon
Between facials, manicures, pedicures, makeup and hair, your salon bill for homecoming can really skyrocket in a hurry. If you’re planning on going the whole nine yards with your hair and nails, then you may want to consider doing it from home. One of the easiest ways to do this is to actually have your friends come over before the big event, so you can help one another out. If you gather up a small group then you can easily eat, do nails and hair and ensure everyone looks their best before you all head out to the game. This is a great way to expand the experience of the occasion and will allow you to have a bit more fun. There’s lots of tutorials online for hair, nails and makeup. You may even work together to create custom homecoming looks that will leave the rest of the school jealous of your styles. There’s also many tutorials online that will help you transform your style into a more professional look, so everyone will think you went to the salon.

4. Volunteer
If you’re worried about the price of tickets for the game or dance, then you may want to see if there’s any ways you can volunteer your time at the school to get free admission. Sometimes, the school will offer a signup sheet for this, so make sure to keep your eyes open. Of course, if you make an appointment to talk to the guidance counselor then you can easily explain the situation and see if there’s anything you can do to help us. Usually, the school needs students to help sell the tickets, set up for the event, and clean up after the event as well as students to bring in and set up refreshments. If you’re lucky, you can snag a job for the dance and the game so you won’t have to spend a cent on this aspect of the celebration. Although you will be partially working throughout the event, you will still be able to experience the fun.

5. Go to an After Party
Most groups, or couples, like to get together after the game to go out to eat. Although this can be a great way to end a night, you may want to consider a cheaper alternative. An after party is a great way to extend the fun of the occasion without actually spending a penny. Generally, people will start talking about after parties a few weeks before the big event, so make sure to secure your invite before homecoming rolls around. This will allow you to skip out on the fancy restaurant that you’ll probably end up going to again for prom night anyway. After parties usually have food to spare and will give you the chance to mingle with people who skipped the whole homecoming extravaganza. It is also a great way to make more memories that will stick with you for years to come. Of course, make sure the party is responsible and won’t land you in trouble.

6. Eat Before
You may not believe it, but eating before you go out will actually save you quite a bit of money. Usually, the homecoming game starts later in the evening, which gives you plenty of time to grab a bite to eat before you head to the game. If you’re full when you make it to the big event then concession stand temptations won’t win you over as easily. Usually, the concession stand tends to be overpriced, which can leave your food budget hurting after a mere snack and drink. Plus, the food isn’t exactly the best for you and many of the snacks can actually leave you feeling hungrier than when you bought the snack, which will mean spending even more money. Not to mention, most of these messy snacks can get on your clothing which means you’ll lose rental deposits or clothing you own may be ruined for the big dance. If you can manage to avoid snacking at the game, then there will be plenty of finger foods to snack on when you get to the dance, which should be absolutely free of cost.

7. Join a Group
If you’re looking for a free way to get into the game then your answer could simply be joining an activity or club that is required at the game. Obviously, football players and cheerleaders already get into the game for free, but there’s other options if this isn’t your cup of tea. Band is another major group that helps make homecoming as amazing as it is. Of course, there are other behind the scene activities that will give you easy and free access to the game. If you’re interested in medicine, then joining sports medicine will do your transcript a few favors and will allow you to spend time at the games for nothing at all. It is also mandatory for many photography or journalism students to be at the game and dance, so grab your press badge and have some fun while adding to your extracurricular list. If you’re not sure which activities will help you out, then talk to your class advisor or a guidance counselor. You may be surprised as to which clubs can ensure you a seat at the big game and maybe even the dance.

8. Buy Tickets Early
A lot of homecoming games are open to the public, which means the prices will go up when you when you buy them at the ticket booth. Usually schools will offer you plenty of time to buy your tickets at the school, so make sure to take them up on this offer. Advanced tickets are usually discounted, which means you won’t be able to beat the deal. Of course, if you somehow manage to miss the ticket sales then make sure you show up to the ticket booth before the game begins. If you use your student ID then you may still be able to buy them at a reasonable price. If you’re not a student and wish to see the game then try going to the school to see if you, too, can grab an early deal. Some schools have even begun to post tickets online, which will make early purchases even more convenient.

9. Sell Collectibles
If you can’t find a way to save money on tickets and other homecoming expenses, then one of the best things you can do is channel your crafty side. There’s a lot of awesome things you can make to help boost your school’s team spirit. Luckily, most of the crafts are cheap to make too. You can easily make t-shirts, buttons, bracelets, signs and other simple crafts to sell to earn a little extra money. If you want to go all out then you might try wooden lawn signs or necklaces. Of course, you should check with your school to make sure it is okay to sell the items on campus, if not then try to find other places to sell them. Word of mouth can be one of the best ways to get the message across. You may also post online to help boost your sales. With any luck, you’ll have enough money earned to get yourself to the game or dance.

10. Skip the Photographers
It goes without saying that there will be a photographer at the school on the big occasion. Many people feel obligated to use this service simply because it is there, which won’t do your budget any favors. It’s a rare occasion that these photos turn out how you want them to, especially when you pay in advance. Thus, it’s wiser just to skip the trend altogether. Of course, in this day and age everyone has cameras that are pretty high quality, be it on a phone or actual camera. So, there’s no reason you can’t get your amazing photos without paying a cent. Usually, families will be busy clicking away at the beginning of the night, but you can also take turns with friends to make sure you all get a few awesome photos to help cherish the moment.

Homecoming is a special time that will allow you to make memories you’ll hold on to for years to come. Even though it may cost a bit of money, you should be able to avoid many of the costs so you can enjoy the occasion without worrying about the financial aspect. You may even be able to have a bit more fun without the added stress!

With the holiday quickly coming up, you may be wondering how you’re going to fit gift shopping and travel in your budget. Luckily, there’s a few great ways for you to find the best deals on airline travel without having to step foot outside of your house. Generally, airline tickets are the most expensive aspects of your budget because traveling, especially during this time of the year, costs an arm and a leg. With these quick and simple tips, you should be able to find the best deal for your household without losing hours of sleep and free time. So, rest assured, planning your holiday season out can be fun again thanks to these amazing savings on airline tickets!

1. Know Your Fees
If you’ve ever spent hours looking for the best price and then got a nasty surprise when you hit the book button, then you’ve probably been a victim of the numerous fees that airlines put on their tickets. There’s everything from sales tax to luggage fees added on to the actual price of your ticket, which can take your amazing price right back down to a price that is going to wreak havoc on your budget. A lot of these fees can’t be worked around, such as snacks and beverage fees. Even if you plan on skipping out this part of the flight, you still have to pay for it. Of course, baggage fees can be worked around, especially if you’re a light weight traveler. If you can manage to check in with only a carry-on, then you may be able to talk someone into refunding this price for you. Also, if your plans are solid, then you may want to see if you can waive the refund fee. Some airlines don’t even include this fee, so if you’re worried about the add-ons then book with a flight that doesn’t include it or will happily waive it for you.

2. Master Your Timing
You’ve probably heard it time and again that you have to be careful when you choose to book your flight. Basically, you always want to book at least 42 days in advance, which will help secure a lower price right away. After that, you should also consider the day of the week you want to travel. For instance, those traveling on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday may be privy to the most discounts. Although if you want to save more you should aim for Tuesday or Wednesday, but Saturday does have its fair share of discounts considering most weekend fliers leave Friday and return on Sunday. Another thing to consider is the hours in which you may want to travel. Red eyes are going to save you more money, but you might to play around with timing to see if you can find a more money efficient swing shift.

3. Pack Light
Your baggage can say a whole lot about how much you’re going to spend at the airport. As mentioned before, if you can manage to get away with only packing a carry-on, then you’ll probably save a lot more on your airline than you even thought possible. Of course, this always means you have to make sure your carry-on actually works as a carry on. If you pack a bag that is simply too big, then you may end up having to check it, which means more fees. There are many different packing methods that can help you fit more into your suitcase or bag, which will allow you to skip the luggage aspect of your trip. Carry-ons also mean that you’re less likely to end up with lost luggage when your flight finally lands. Of course, if you know you’re going to be packing a bag then you might want to keep in consideration the size of the bag. Make sure you know how much you can bring along without being charged additional fees. In many cases this is around 50 pounds, but don’t be fooled because the pounds add up, especially if you’re traveling with more than one pair of shoes.

4. Show Up Early
Although showing up early won’t actually save you money, it will allow you to get a bit more comfort for your money. First and foremost, it creates a more relaxed process as you go check in, make your way through security and find where you will be boarding. This is especially true if you have kids or believe you’ll need to take extra time doing each of these activities. Plus, when you check in early, you end up getting a boarding pass that will allow you to take a seat earlier than others. This is especially nice if you like to sit in certain areas of the airplane. Plus, it will also allow you plenty of time to put your carry on away and get settled in the seat before taking off too. As you easily get on board with the flight, you’ll feel like travel will be smoother for the rest of the trip, which will make the hundreds you spend on the ticket seem a bit better. Plus, if you’re in the airport and checked in, you may not get bumped as easily as others.

5. Go In-Direct
A lot of people love a flight that goes from their location to the destination of choice in one big swoop. Sure, this is totally convenient and makes the frustrations of travel diminish slightly. On the other hand, it won’t help you save any money. In fact, it may cost you a lot more than if you chose a more in-direct path. Many airlines will actually offer you the chance to choose tickets with layovers or plane swaps. Some may even switch airlines out, which could mean a lot of hassle but if the savings are worth then it may not seem so bad. Of course, this could always be a great way to hang out in areas that you normally wouldn’t get to go to. For instance, many people love vacationing in Las Vegas, which is where many layovers occur. If you get a few hours to hang out and check out the Las Vegas Strip then it might make the trip seem more worthwhile. Plus, getting off a plane for a few hours is a great way to stretch out your legs and make you feel more comfortable about travel.

6. Clear Your Cookies
If you’ve ever spent a while on the computer looking for the perfect deal and then decide to wait to book the flight, then you’ve probably also noticed that the amazing deal is gone before you get the chance to confirm. This isn’t actually the case though. The deal is most likely still there in all its glory. The true problem is your cookies aren’t allowing you to see the deal anymore. This is a trick used my airline companies as it keeps you coming back looking for deals, while paying the extra money for a price you thing is long gone. Although this may seem like a totally rotten trick, it’s an easy fix. Next time you’re browsing for deals, make sure to clear out your cookies and you should be able to find the deal you’re looking for.

7. Bring Food
Airports are filled with lots of food that smells great. The only problem is, it costs two to three times more than you would spend on the food outside of the airport. Of course, you will probably get hungry during your travels though and most airlines aren’t offering meals anymore. Thus, the only way to frugally deal with the problem is to actually pack your own food. A simple sandwich or a bag of chips shouldn’t be hard to bring along with you in a purse, tote or backpack. You won’t be able to bring beverages past security, but there are ways to frugally enjoy drinks at the airport. Simply pack some tumblers with lids or water bottles. This will allow you to share a drink with family members or fill up your cups or bottles with water from the faucet. Even though it may not feel like you’re saving much from this trick, you may find after traveling without these items that you’re tempted to make more impulse buys.

8. Use Your Points
In this day and age, credit cards are a pretty common item to have. Although this may not help your debt out, it can bring some aid to your travel plans. A lot of credit cards tend to offer you points for the amount of money you spend based on the items you buy. This is a great way to help you earn money towards future flights. In fact, using your credit card on a flight is one of the best way to maximize the amount of points you earn. Thus, when you travel, you should see if your points can pay for miles off of your tickets. If you have a frequent flyer card then this is another great way to get back money on your flight. Before you know it, you should be able to plan a trip that won’t cost you a dime when it comes to transportation.

9. Research Airlines
Most people tend to seek out airline tickets from big name companies that do a lot of advertising. Although there’s nothing wrong with this, especially if you trust a company, you may actually be losing out on money by only searching these companies’ deals. There’s actually a lot of small companies that aren’t just reliable, but can save you a whole lot of money. Of course, many are regional and not able to take you as far, but if you’re looking for shorter trips then you’re in luck. You may want to look around and see if the airline is a good match for you. Simply call up your local airport and ask for a list of companies that are available. Then, simply do a bit of research. You should also check out reviews too, as this will give you a good indication of what you’re looking at in regards to service, prices and reliability. You never know, you may find a new favorite company to fly through.

10. Use an App
You guessed it, there’s an app for anything and everything these day and airlines aren’t an exception. There’s many apps to choose from as far as this industry is concerned, which will make your shopping worlds easier. Simply download an app that looks to fit your needs and you’re off. You can find apps that provide you with the hottest deals as well as those that allow you to find discounts by simply putting in basic information about your flight. Of course, you can’t forget the apps for your actual airline, which will allow you to check in early and keep up to date information on weather and your flight’s status.

Traveling is always filled with stress and financial worry, so try to make the best of it if you can. With these simple tips, you can easily find the best deals on the market so your little adventures can be even more exciting. Plus, no one wants to have to pay a boatload in fees when there’s so much holiday shopping to do.

Welcoming a new child into your life can be exciting and stressful. Whether you have nine months to plan or you’re waiting for adoption papers to go through, the process of planning out a nursery can add a lot to the stress factor of your new addition. From cribs to toys, there’s a lot to work out before your baby enters the home. Luckily, there are a few simple ways you can create your child’s nursery without spending an arm and a leg. It may take a big of effort, but before you know it, your nursery will look like a million bucks without actually costing it. These ten tips should help you start your new adventure off on the right foot.

1. Sign Up For a Registry
If you’ve never been a parent before then you’re about to fall head over heels for the baby registry. This is especially perfect it you’re planning a baby shower as it will allow people to shop for items you actually need so you don’t end up with a lot of things that will go to waste. Basically, a baby registry is a wish list of items that you’d love to have for your baby. You can register at many different stores for free, so you won’t have to spend any unnecessary money. Some websites, like Amazon, will even allow you to combine all of your registries on one site, which will save your friends and family a whole lot of time when they’re shopping for you. When you share your registry with others, they will be able to see just what you need. If a person chooses to buy something from the list then it disappears, so you won’t have to worry about duplicates. Then, when everyone is finished shopping, you can see what you have left over so you’ll know exactly what you need. It’s a great way to start out and will help your family support your needs more efficiently.

2. Shop Second Hand
When it comes down to it, second hand buys and hand-me-downs are going to be your best friend, especially if you’re on a tight budget. If you can, ask friends and family if they have items you can buy before you go shopping, especially if you know they took great care of their items. If you’re out of luck here then you may want to start checking out your local thrift stores. There should be lots of items to choose from, but you should always inspect baby furniture very carefully, especially when it comes to a crib. Cribs should be carefully inspected for secure hardware that won’t falter when your baby is actually inside the crib. If the crib is disassembled when you look at it then ask if it can be assembled before purchase. If, for whatever reason it can’t, then walk away. Consignment shops are another great place to look if you have a more flexible budget, as you should be able to find some higher end items. Of course, yard sales are also a must, but make sure you do check out the items before you buy them. Also, make sure you clean everything thoroughly, especially toys and bedding, before you use it.

3. Keep the Future in Mind
It’s easy to fall into the mindset that your new addition is going to be small forever. However, in only a few short months, your little one is going to be moving around on their own. Moreover, in a couple short years they’re going to need their own dresser and a toddler bed. So, when you shop around for your child’s furniture you should always try to buy items that can be transformed into furniture for the future. For instance, a convertible crib is one of the best ways to go for a new addition. This actually allows you to start out with a basic crib that’s perfect for newborns. As the baby grows you can lower the mattress to prevent any late night crib escapes or the potential of your child falling out of the crib. Then, when they’re ready, the crib transforms into a toddler bed with ease and later can even be used as the frame for a child’s bed. Another idea is to use a basic dresser for your child’s changing table. You can easily buy an inexpensive changing mat for the top, which will keep baby secure. Then, as the child ages you can use the dresser for clothing and other storage.

4. DIY Accessories
A lot of people will spend a small fortune on accessories for the nursery, which isn’t really necessary. Although decorations are important to stimulate the baby’s mind, it is never necessary to go out and buy a lot of items you don’t really need. For starters, art work is simple of make at home and will make you feel like you had a bigger part in your baby’s nursery’s designs. For instance, you can easily create stenciled artwork with the baby’s name which always looks cute above their crib. Also, if you have a specific theme in your nursery then you can print out images and frame them, for instant artwork that won’t cost a bundle. Also, stamping is quite popular in nurseries today. You can quickly by a package of sponges and cut them into shapes likes ducks, rabbits or anything else that comes to mind. Then grab some paint and let the fun begin. Mobiles are another popular item for nursery’s and usually keep your baby happy during the early waking moments. There’s many tutorials on these, so you can choose exactly what your baby will see. Also, quilting is a great craft to try out while you’re waiting for your baby to arrive. You can easily make them a special quilt that they can treasure for ages, which won’t cost you a lot either.

5. Unfinished Furniture
If you’re trying to save money without sacrificing style, you’ll learn to adore unfinished furniture. Many baby stores will sell this at a lower price because, well, it’s not finished. When you buy an item like this then you’re going to end up doing a lot of work on the project to get it ready for baby. Sometimes, the wood won’t be finished, so you’ll have to seal, stain or paint the item yourself. This may be the fun part of the job though as putting the item together can be a major headache. All the same, you will have saved a whole lot of money by doing this, which will make it worthwhile. Of course, the hardest part of all may be working up the motivation to get things done before the baby arrives.

6. Use Items From Home
Before you go shopping for your nursery, you may want to take a step back and see which items you already have in your home. You may be surprised as to how many items you have that can be transformed into items for the nursery. For starters, if you have a dresser that isn’t in use then give it a new paint job, grab a changing pad and voila, you have a great new changing table that offers plenty of storage. Small shelves are also perfect for baby’s early books, toys and even diaper supplies. Simply add baskets and you’ll gain even more storage for the items. Another big ticket item is a chair for the nursery, generally people choose glider rockets to help soothe the baby, but if you’re trying to save money then simply reupholster a chair that you already have to suit the nursery.

7. Shop Frugally
It’s hard to refrain from buying pricey items when it comes to shopping for your baby’s nursery. It’s even harder if you have a theme picked out and you want to stick with it at all costs. However, there are ways to keep your shopping frugal, so you don’t have to worry about going over budget to suit your needs. Bedding can easily be bought inexpensively. Try to stick with simple colors that will match with your theme and you can begin to buy signature themed pieces, rather than having everything themed to suit your needs. Also, try to look for generic items whenever you can. Name brands can cost an arm and a leg for the simplest of things, so keep it simple and you’ll reap some major benefits.

8. Skip the Accessories
A lot of people want their nursery to be ready the moment the baby makes his or her way into the world. This isn’t really necessary though. Yes, you’ll need the crib and the changing table for the baby as they come home, but a lot of the other things aren’t exactly on the must have list. As your baby grows, you can buy these items in stages, which will help save you money at first. Also, you don’t need to buy a lot of the extras, which people will push on you. As long as you have the basic needs for your baby you’ll be fine. The other stuff can be weighed in if you see it befitting of your child, because every baby is going to be different and may require different things.

9. Subtle Decor
Sometimes, people get so excited about their new addition that they spend a small fortune on paint jobs and artwork for their baby. In the early months of your child’s life, their vision isn’t exactly going to be up to par with yours, and they probably won’t care about the art on the wall until they’re a bit older. So, try to keep things subtle if you can. You should try to avoid gender based painting as well because you never know if you’re going to be surprised when your baby finally shows up. Rather, it may be easier to keep the walls the color they are and decorate the room when your child’s interests and personality begins to shine through. Of course, you can always settle for cheaper art and homemade crafts until this day comes. Although it may be hard to wait, you’ll be glad when you won’t have to repaint the room as often!

10. Shop Around
Just as with any other shopping extravaganza, when it comes to your baby, you should always shop around. There’s a lot of stores that will present their items as good deals, but often enough the deal isn’t as hot as they make it out to be. Sometimes, the stress of shopping for your baby can get to you too, which may have you want to stop and buy something that isn’t worth the cost. Thus, it may be wise to download some shopping apps before you begin your journey. This will allow you to input the item you’re looking at to see if it is actually a good deal. Often, you may be surprised that others stores will offer it at a much lower price. You may even want to check online for larger items, because most online stores now offer free shipping on items over a certain amount of money.

Your child’s nursery will become the first space they can call their own, but this doesn’t mean you have to go overboard with spending. There’s a few simple things you can do to keep you budget flourishing while creating the perfect place for your baby to come home to.

Next week is officially the beginning of autumn, which means it’s time to start planning all of the fun you can have with your family this season. Although keeping entertained during the autumn months can be relatively tough on the budget, there’s lots of ways to work around the cool weather to have some frugal fun. Between natural wonders and inexpensive indoor activities, you’re sure to find the perfect way to keep everyone happy during this transitional season. So, get out your planning book and check out these family friendly activities that will keep the entire household as busy as a bee no matter what the weather looks like.

1. Go Harvesting
One of the best things about autumn is there are so many harvests going on. Apple orchards, pumpkin patches and vineyards are all ready for the pickings. Luckily, many farms, vineyards and orchards are willing to open up their doors to allow people to enjoy their harvest. Generally, there is an admission fee if there are activities going on, so you may want to plan around this if you’re trying to save money. However, the activities are usually on the cheap side and can provide an entire day, or weekend, of fun for the whole family. Pricing tends to be a bit different depending on the harvest too. For instance, if you’re planning on going to an orchard then you will probably get the option to pay for the items you buy based on weight. Of course, even the smaller bushel options will leave you with a lot of apples, which will cut down on your grocery bill and will allow you to make some delicious treats for the whole family. Pumpkin patches usually require you to pay by pumpkin, so if you’re looking to save money then set restrictions with the kids before they choose the biggest pumpkin they see. Of course, this will also allow you to serve some treats if you make sure to hold on to the inside of the pumpkins when you make your jack-o-lantern. Last but not least, vineyards tend to be a bit pricier and more adult friendly, due to wine tasting, but you should still be able to get the kids to pick an abundance of grapes at a great price. They may even have the opportunity to squish grapes for juice or wine.

2. Scavenger Hunt
Autumn is a great time to come up with a scavenger hunt for kids of all ages. There’s lot of leaves falling and animals scurrying about, which proves to make great tasks for kids to find and identify. If you can, create a broad list so that kids can enjoy working on their scavenger hunt throughout the season. Of course, you should also organize hikes and nature walks to help them out. When they bring home their items, such as leaves, twigs and rocks, make sure to provide them with the resources they need to identify the items. These can easily be found online and will help get your child on the right track when it comes to learning how to research. You can even save some of the items for crafting later on, which will kill two birds with one stone. If you’re not sure how to plan out your scavenger hunt there’s plenty of pre-made lists online that can be customized by your region. You can even find ideas for children that are very young. This idea is prefect for homeschoolers too!

3. Invent a Game
When it comes to bonding, nothing works quite like brainstorming. This autumn, you should gather up the family and have everyone work together to invent a family game. Everyone can pitch in ideas for rules and strategies, which will make the game feel like a tradition in the making. The game can be based around indoor or outdoor recreation, so you can work around the weather in your region. Board games are some of the more challenging games to invent, but they can still be very inexpensive. With a little poster board, index cards and buttons, you should have everything you need to craft the game. Trivia games are also lots of fun and will allow each family member to put in their expertise, so everyone can learn more about each other. Of course, keeping active is also important, so you might want to think of games that can be played indoors or outdoors that can keep the family moving. These can range from dance offs to games that use balls or nets. The object is to create a strong team, which will ensure your family will be able to stick together and have some fun.

4. DIY Costumes
Halloween is rapidly approaching, which means it’s time to start thinking about this year’s costume. Sure, buying the costumes may be easier, but it certainly won’t save money. Not to mention, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of presenting your own costume that you put a lot of work into. So, next time the weather warrants a day inside, you may want to start brainstorming ideas. You can even look around the house to see if you can plan something out of the items you already have lying around the house. If not, then thrift stores and discount craft shops should help you find your way to the perfect costume. Plus, if you start your projects very early, you’ll be able to add more to the design, which may even earn your costume a few awards.

5. Go to A Festival
Autumn is the perfect time to get together with friends and family and enjoy one of the numerous festivals. From harvests and homecoming to Halloween and Thanksgiving, there’s a good chance you’ll find a festival every few weeks that you can enjoy. Many community ran festivals are low cost, which makes them a great option to enjoy yourself on the weekend. Some may even be free, especially when it comes to holiday fun. If you really want to get involved in your community then you could even volunteer to run a booth or help out with organizing the event. Generally, these festivals are filled with music and games. Of course, it is hard to forget one of the most iconic festivals of the season, Oktoberfest. Although many of these festivals aren’t family friend there are some that cater to a family environment, which would be a great way to teach the household about cultural elements while enjoying some delicious food.

6. Start a Thankful Cornucopia
Autumn definitely brings an abundance of reasons for appreciation and happiness. From the cooler weather to warm holidays shared with friends and family, this season is sure to bring a lot of reasons to be thankful to mind. Thus, you may want to work with your family to start your Thankful Cornucopia a bit early. If you’ve never made one before then you’re in for a real treat. Basically, you gather up supplies to make a special cornucopia. This can be made from paper mache, recycled material, clay, or even can be weaved. If your family is up for the task, everyone can even make their own individual cornucopias. These items make perfect decorations for the season, so you’ll even be able to save on how much you spend on seasonal décor. When the cornucopias are made to your standard, the family can place a thank you message into it whenever something pops into their head. When Thanksgiving rolls around, the cornucopia can be passed around as each person draws out a slip of paper and reads it aloud.

7. Bake
Would it truly be autumn without turning up the heat on the oven and giving in to your sweet tooth? I didn’t think so! So, why not let this autumn be the perfect time for you to teach the kids how to whip up some of their favorite treats. Of course, you should always organize the tasks based on age and maturity level, but as long as you keep a close eye on things, you can easily have everyone in the kitchen helping out with something special. If you’re feeling ambitious, you and your kids can come up with your own special recipe. This will help everyone bond together as you work to try out new flavors and combinations. You never know, you may just create the next household favorite. Of course, you can also begin plans for baking items for holiday gifts. Pies can easily be frozen, so you can bake in bulk for Thanksgiving dinner. Also, with all of the baking going on, you shouldn’t have to keep the heat in your home turned up, which will cut down on some of your heating costs.

8. Start a Book Club
Curling up with a book on a cold and blustering day is certainly rewarding, so why not share the joy with friends and family. If you’re feeling a bit bored during the season then see if anyone wants to join you for a book club. It doesn’t matter if they’re near or far because you can always use social media to organize meetings and discussions. If you’re not into organizing everything then your community should have a lot of book clubs to choose from. Of course, you don’t have to begin a book club outside of the house. Instead, you can begin one with your family. Simply have each member pick a book and gather once a month to share the story. You may even use a reward system to get the kids on board, so they will develop a taste for leisure reading.

9. Celebrate Leaves
If there’s one thing that autumn has a lot of, it’s definitely leaves. So, why not use this to your advantage. You can print out a list of leaves from your region and have everyone in the household collect one of each. The person that wins can get a special prize. Or, you can use all of the leaves in your yard to get crafty. There’s tons of things you can make with them, which will save you money and reduce the amount of raking you have to do. For starters, a reef or banner made out of leaves is always a great way to spice up your autumn décor. You may also want to spray paint your leaves golden or silver and hang them from the ceiling. If you’re looking to make gifts then consider adding leaves to a candle or pressing painted or preserved leaves between two pieces of glasses. There’s lots of crafts to try out, so browse around until something strikes your fancy!

10. Walk
When it comes to walking, there’s no better season than autumn. Sure, you may get sprinkled on every now and then, but that’s nothing rain boots and an umbrella can’t solve. Walking is one of the best ways to keep fit too, especially as the snow and icy months rapidly approach. This will allow you to get a better start to the cold and flu season as well, because walking will help boost your immune system. You only have to schedule walks for 30 minutes to an hour a day to keep up with your health, but you could also plan the walk to last a couple of hours as you try out new paths. Try taking a camera or your favorite music along to make things even more fun.

Autumn is a great time to have fun and feel amazing about your life and Mother Nature. With these simple activities, you should be able to have some fun while keeping on a tight budget. This will ensure you’re able to spend more time with your loved ones without the added financial stress!

If you’ve been paying attention to the media lately, then you probably know an all new fall line has made its way to the runaway. Thus, you may be feeling the urge to put on your shopping shoes and buy a whole new wardrobe. This can be pretty pricey, especially if there aren’t a whole lot of sales going on, but there are a few ways to ditch the high price of fashion so you can enjoy your new looks without having to deal with the credit card bills caused by them. With these simple tips, you should be well on your way to enjoying a fashion savvy season that will make you proud of your shopping abilities.

1. Try On Clothes
Clothes shopping can be a challenge for a lot of people of all shapes and sizes. Most of the time, we tend to see something on the sales rack that we think will look outstanding but it turns out to look terrible when we finally get it home and wear it out. One way to remedy this dilemma is to actually try the clothes on at the store. Take a minute and make sure it fits your body well and is actually comfortable to move in. You might want to bring a friend along for a second opinion, so you don’t feel biased about the clothes. If you can’t bring a friend along then take photos of yourself in the clothes and text them to someone you trust. After trying on the clothes, wait a few minutes to make a decision. You may be surprised that you might not want it anymore after you browse around a bit. Plus, trying on clothes will actually limit the amount of shopping you can do because it will slow you down. Thus, you’ll end up spending less even if you do buy a lot of the clothes that you try on.

2. Split Purchases
A lot of stores now offer a coupon at the bottom of their receipts, which can help you save a whole lot of money. Usually, all you have to do is simply take an online survey and you’ll get a special code that could earn you around 20% or more off of your next purchase. Thus, it may make sense to buy different items at different times. For instance, if you have an eye on some cheaper clothing then you may want to go ahead and buy it and then return later to purchase the more expensive item(s) on your list. This will give you money back that can be used elsewhere on your budget. This will also help you decide if you really want to make the larger purchase, as sometimes when we walk away from an item the need to buy it goes away.

3. Go Vintage
You may be surprised as to which styles are in this season. In fact, there’s a whole lot 60s and 70s revival looks that will make you feel the flower power attire resting in the back of your wardrobe shout with joy. Grunge is also another look making a comeback, so all of those ripped up jeans and plaid tops you’ve been holding onto are sure to come in handy. Boho chic looks are still in style too, which opens you up to a world of possibilities. So, before you head out to do a little shopping, you may want to check out the items you already have hanging around the house. You may also want to check out your local thrift stores and consignment stores to see if there’s anything there you can find at a fair price. This will cut down on a lot of the big expenditures for new clothing, so you don’t have to stress your budget out too much.

4. Follow Sales
When it comes to shopping for clothes, waiting for sales is the best way to get things done. Generally, the fashion season will start out with a few sales in order to get people into the store so they can see just what’s up for grabs during the new season. This may be a good time to get your feet wet, but try to hold off until larger sales arrive. Generally, it is too warm to wear a lot of fall fashions anyway, so you may want to wait until holiday sales arrive. Of course, you should sign up for your favorite stores newsletters and text updates so you’ll be informed of when they will be having specific sales on the items you’ve had your eyes on. Keeping an eye on their website is also important. Sometimes, the store will have online exclusives that will save you big time. Plus, if the clothes arrive and don’t strike your fancy, they can be returned directly to the store for a simple refund.

5. Window Shopping
Window shopping doesn’t have to be reserved for the days that you’re broke. Instead, you should take to window shopping whenever you feel the need to spend money. This allows you to get a general idea of the styles you’d like to wear, without forcing you to commit to anything. Once you have a few looks that you’d actually like to spend money on you, you may want to look around to see if you can find similar items at another store for a lower price. This will save a bundle and will make you look amazing. Of course, window shopping also forces you to be patient about the things you plan to buy. You can stop and try things on, think on them and later, when you have the budget, you can buy them. Of course, one thing you should always do when you go window shopping is leave the money, in cash and card form, at home. This will prevent splurges that can get you into some major trouble.

6. Know Your Colors
Keeping up with this season’s colors and the colors that will actually look good on you are an absolute must. This will not only help you prevent buying clothes that don’t look good on you, but will help you make the most of the wardrobe that you already have. This season, the fashion world is showing off jewel colors as well as black, white and pink hues. For many, this means you’ll end up buying a whole lot of colors to play with, but will slide right back into your comfort colors after only wearing many of the clothing articles once or twice. This can be a huge waste of money, so make sure you know you’re going to want to wear the color before you jump into it. Trying the clothes on and asking a trusted friend’s opinion can help if you’re feeling uncertain. You never know, you may find the perfect color for you during your seasonal shopping adventures.

7. DIY Trends
With all of the throwback looks this season, it’s going to be easy to channel your crafty side to make fashion savvy styles that everyone will be envious of. Grunge is one of the easiest and cheapest DIY styles out there. You may want to start out with a pair of skinny jeans. You can easily make holes, worn areas or even add a touch of bleach to create the beat up look that made up this era. Plaid was a huge hit during the grunge phase, so you may want to take some old plaid and transform it into something irresistible. You can start by cutting the sleeves off of a top to create a fun vest that looks perfect with band tees. You can easily make a headband out of the scrap material, as well as a simple wrist band or a tie for your boots. The 60s and 70s are also great looks to DIY, simple headbands are a perfect thing to make to complete these looks. You can even make them with natural flowers if you’re feeling those kinds of vibes. Boho looks are as easy as pie too. One cute DIY is to add sparkling beads to a skirt for a look that will thrill you!

8. Use Rewards Cards
It’s hard to go shopping without having a sales clerk or cashier ask if you’d like to apply for one of their rewards cards. Although the repetition may be a hassle, there’s a good reason why you should fill out the basic form to enjoy the benefits of the card. Most of the cards actually take a percentage of the price tag off each time you shop. It may not seem like a lot at first, but savings are savings! Of course, some of the cards do offer even more benefits. For instance, many cards will actually store points each time you shop with the store, or chain of stores. These points can add up to offer you cash back on purchases or free gifts, which are never a bad thing, right? Of course, the cards do tend to add up, so you may want to have a special wallet for these cards that can be left in the car for whenever you decide to enjoy a day of shopping.

9. Rent Clothes
You’ve probably heard about the clothes rental craze that has been going on over the past couple of years. It may seem a little weird at first and if you haven’t already tried it then it may feel like a waste of money. However, once you do give it a shot, you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised. Basically, you get to go through a wide selection of clothes and choose a few outfits at a time for a certain price. These clothes can be worn as long as you like and when you’re tired of them you can send them back and choose something else. Better yet, the clothes are professionally cleaned and maintained too, so everyone you know will think you’re always buying new clothes. This comes in handy with fading fashion trends as you won’t have to buy items to upgrade your wardrobe every few months. Rather, you’ll have them mailed to you. Of course, if you tend to fluctuate in weight or you plan on losing or gaining weight over the next few months, then this program is also great. You won’t have to go out and buy all new clothes because of the changes in your body. Instead, you simply update your size!

10. Broaden Your Horizons
When it comes to shopping this season, try to think beyond the season as often as you can. Instead of worrying about buying items simply for fall, look at each piece and think about how you can incorporate into your yearly wardrobe. There’s lots of pants and tops that can do this without a problem, so it won’t be a hard task. However, if there is one look that will only work for the season, then you might want to leave it on the rack and move onto something that will save you money. Another thing you should keep in mind is to look for signature pieces. If you can find one stand out piece of clothing that can be paired with other items, then you’re looking at a great style that will work wonders for you. This will also make buying accessories and shoes a breeze.

Shopping for fall fashions can be a whole lot of fun if you’re not stressing out about your budget. With these simple tips, you should find a few ways to improve the experience while allowing you to keep your budget happy. Without the financial worry, you’ll feel a lot more confident about your fall attire.

Autumn is a season filled with excitement and activities. Between the changing of the weather and the return of school, there’s a lot of things you should probably be working on before this season actually hits. In fact, if you update your honey do list before the cool weather settles in, you could end up saving a whole lot of money in the upcoming seasons. Don’t worry though, the items on your list don’t have to be pricey or time consuming. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make this list a must before the first leaf ends up falling in your yard. You’ll be grateful that you did!

1. Touch Ups
The last weeks of summer are the perfect to break down and give your home a little TLC because it will be months before this is going to be convenient again. You might want to start with pressure washing the house. This will help get grime and potential molds off it, but it will also bring a sense of pride back into the home. Once the home is washed, you might want to determine if it needs a new coat of paint or if it looks fine as is. Of course, you should also pressure wash the deck if you have one. If you haven’t already done so, you should weather proof it too. This is fairly inexpensive and will keep your nice wood looking good and staying strong for years longer. Another must have task is to caulk around the doors and windows. Sometimes, the caulking gets old which allows cool or hot air to leak into the home, thus raising your bills. You should also check out the roof to see if you may need to re-shingle before the cold and wet months set in. Last but not least, make sure you get everything out of your gutters. You’ll probably have to do this again, but if you give them a good cleaning prior to the cold months, you shouldn’t have to do it in the cold as often.

2. Clean Up Gardening Supplies
One thing you’ll want to do before the freezes hit, is to clean up all of the gardening supplies you use in the spring and summer. You might want to start with the water hose. Simply unhook and drain the hose to prevent it from being damaged from the cold weather. Hoses are usually easy to store, so this task shouldn’t even take up 10 minutes of your time. Once you have the hose unhooked, place insulated covers over your spigots. This helps prevent problems with your pipes and external damage to your home. Of course, you should always pick up basic gardening tools out of the yard, such as rakes, hoes, shovels and so on. These can quickly be buried in the snow, which won’t just damage the tool but could do some serious bodily harm to anyone that steps or plays on the tool.

3. Maintain Fireplace
Fireplaces are pretty much incredible. They bring a nice cozy feel to any home and can even cut down on your energy bills when the cold weather kicks in. Of course, they can also be incredibly dangerous if you’re not careful. Thus, you should use the last few weeks of summer to get your fireplace checked out and ready to go. Generally, there’s a few things you can look out for when it comes to your chimney but it might be better to bring in a professional to do the job for you. It really depends on who you hire when it comes to price range, but if you talk to your insurance company you should be able to get an inspection for free or a discounted price because it is preventive care. You should also take the time to clean out your chimney, and fireplace. There’s plenty of services for this, but if you want to save on some money then it isn’t as hard as you think. There’s even special logs you can burn to clean it for you throughout the cold seasons, so you won’t even have to worry about it after the initial cleaning. Before you light the fire, you should also make sure all of your safety equipment is up to date too.

4. Schedule a Home Inspection
Getting the home inspected once a year is actually a great way to save on your home insurance as well as repairs and overall monthly bills. Sometimes, your home insurance company will actually send one out to you for free, so make sure to discuss this with the company to see if this option is available to you. If so, then you’ve already saved a whole lot of money! If not, then make sure to shop around and base your decision on reviews. The inspection will make sure your home’s insulation is up to par so your home will stay warmer and cooler, depending on your needs. The inspector should also check out your radiator, heater and other cooling and heating devices. This not only makes sure everything is going to save you money throughout the year, but it will also keep your home safer than ever. This preventive measure can even help you catch problems that may take a lot to repair if you wait too long.

5. Lawn Care
Believe it or not, but mowing your lawn is actually one of the best ways to save money. This is largely due to the fact that mold easily develops on lawns that weren’t mowed down before the cold and damp weather set in. So, if you can, get in a couple more mows before the leaves begin to fall. It’ll make your spring cleaning easier and will also make leaf clean up a lot better too. While you’re outside, you may want to go ahead and trim down the trees. Ice easily develops on branches which could cause your tree branches to break and land on your car, home, or worse yet, a passerby. So, by getting rid of them your life will be a whole lot easier. They will grow back in the spring time, so don’t worry. Plus, you can use this wood to help heat the home during the cold months. Also, you may want to work on trimming down bushes too. Animals often hide in bushes in the winter, which could be unsafe for your home and the branches can develop mode and other problems. Finally, you might want to start working on plant covers for nights that are meant to freeze. If you have plants that live all year then simply placing a coke bottle over them could keep the plant thriving.

6. Update Emergency Kit
Although most of the time we don’t want to think about the bad things that could happen, the upcoming months do pose more of a risk. Thus, it may be a good idea to go through your emergency kit to make sure you have enough food and water to last a little while. This doesn’t mean you have to go through and spend a lot of money on items like emergency food. Rather, put back some extra canned goods, especially the items that your family doesn’t often use. You may even want to buy a couple jugs of water to add to the supplies. This will greatly improve your chances of survival in an emergency without forcing you to spend a lot of money. Another thing you should do is check out your first kit to make sure the supplies aren’t outdated or damaged.

7. Arrange the Closet
One of the best ways to cut down on the money you spend during this period of time is to go through your closet. First, you should pull out all of the summer clothing that can’t be incorporated into a colder weather wardrobe. This can easily be packed away for next summer or can simply be moved to the back of the closet if you have the space. Then, take a few moments to pull out all of your autumn and winter clothing. You may want to try these items on and see if you still feel the same about them as you did last year. If they work for your wardrobe then put them back in the closet, if not then donate them or sell them. There’s no need to add to clutter by keeping clothing you don’t actually want. Once you sort out what you need, grab the sweater and jackets that need dry cleaned and rush them to your favorite cleaners. This will help cut down on the wait and possibly the price because the dry cleaner may bring up prices when the cold weather sets in and everyone is scurrying to clean their clothes.

8. Plan Activities
One of the worst things about autumn is that it does cut down on the amount of time that the kids can play outside. Thus, you’re going to need to come up with some activities to keep everyone busy so you won’t be tempted to go out and spend money to make everyone happy. There’s lots of great crafts that everyone can do using very inexpensive items. The crafts could even be a great way to get a head start on holiday gifts for friends and family. You might also look up games online to see if anything suits your needs. Of course, pulling out the collection of board games that you already own is also a great way to keep the whole family busy. You may also want to look for activities that will keep everyone physically active because our health needs don’t pause because of the weather. Dance or exercise based video games are a great way to get some workouts in, but you may also want to try a few active games.

9. Buy Weather Supplies
Preparing for sleet and snow may be a wise idea before the weather actually hits. If you hurry to the store, you should still be able to get weather based supplies at a decent price, which will already cut down on your spending. You should always shop based on your region though. If you do get a lot of ice and snow then make sure you have supplies to salt your drive and walkways. You should also have the items you need to get rid of ice off of your car. Tire straps and chains are another must, so you don’t get trapped in one area if an unexpected storm hits. Of course, you shouldn’t overlook autumn supplies. For instance, you’re going to need more heavy duty trash bags to help with the falling leaves. You may also want to consider composting leaves, if you like to garden.

10. Upgrade Decor
Now is the perfect time to pull in all of your patio furniture and summer decor and bring out your autumn inspired supplies. Simply dusting off last year’s decor is always fun and will allow you to plan out your decor options. Of course, if you’re wanting to take a more natural route then you could easily make up a scarecrow using all of the fallen leaves in your yard. Simply setting out gourds is another easy option, as is making a wreath out of twigs and pine cones. Of course, it’s not too late to get low prices on autumn and holiday decor because the season is still a month away!

Autumn is a great time to get your home ready for the cold and busy season. With these ten suggestions, you should be looking at a comfortable season that will allow you to have some fun and save some money. So, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty before autumn arrives.

Learning a language can be a great way to broaden your horizons while improving your ability to travel, earn promotions in work and improve relationships with friends and family. Of course, picking up a new language is a whole lot of work which takes time, dedication and often, money. A lot of people shy away from the prospects of picking up a new language when they see how much language programs and tutors can cost. There is a lot of ways to work around the high prices of picking up a new language though. In fact, with the internet on your side, you should be able to find several different ways to learn a new language without having to spend an arm and a leg.

1. Apps
If you have a smartphone or tablet then you’re already on your way to picking up a new language. When you browse through your app store, you should be able to find an assortment of apps that offer lessons for foreign languages. Now, the key is to find one that actually allows you to learn for free. This won’t limit your choices by too much, but when you begin your search try to stick with the free range. One popular app is DuoLingo, which offers a multitude of languages for nothing at all. This app will even help translate the internet as you play, so people from all over the world can learn and enjoy the materials online that many of us take for granted. DuoLingo isn’t the only app on the block though, you should be able to find several that offer the same principles for free. These apps are great for anyone of a reading age too because they usually use games to help you pick up the vocabulary and grammar. Plus, they allow you to learn slowly and on your own time.

2. Software
Many people believe that software has to cost a pretty penny, so they disregard it before even looking around. Sure, Rosetta Stone is a very pricey software, but if you can get it on sale then you will have one of the best programs out there. Of course, there are other programs available that aren’t Rosetta Stone. These are usually much cheaper and have some of the same principles as the pricier software. These programs don’t offer you interaction with a teacher, but they do provide you with plenty of language games, vocabulary training and grammar lessons. If you shop around then you may be able to find some of these programs for around $20, which is probably one of the cheapest ways to learn a language. You may want to wait for major sales in order to purchase though and make sure you look at reviews on the software to ensure you’re not going to buy a dud.

3. Free Online Courses
Living in the age of information pays off, especially if you plan on learning a new language. There’s a lot of online courses that you can get for absolutely free. Most of the time, you don’t even have to sign up for the course to be able to do the work. Of course, sometimes this does mean you’ll have to buy a text book that follows the course, but this will be nothing in comparison to actually paying for the same course in a college or university. A lot of these online courses come from Ivy League schools too, which means you’re going to get a high quality education from the lessons. The only problem is, you won’t have exams or other activities to reinforce how much you have learned so you may need to find another way to evaluate your progress. All the same, you can find these courses by simply using a search engine, or by programs like Khan Academy or iTunes U. The BBC website is also a great place to look for language lessons.

4. Library
Your local library is always one of the best places to start when you begin learning something new. This amazing location has plenty of information on just about anything you can think of, so don’t think twice about stopping by to ask for a little help. Sometimes, libraries will have lists of resources to help you cheaply continue your language training. They may even have a list of free courses you can take within the community. Another great thing about libraries is they often have old textbooks that can help you through your studies. If not, there’s a good chance they can order a book or ask for an exchange from another library. The key is to actually sit down and talk to a librarian about your needs and goals, so they will know just what they need to do to help you out. If anything, you can always use their computers to study the language as many will have language software available.

5. Community College
If you’re already studying for a degree then you shouldn’t hesitate to add a foreign language to your course load. Foreign languages always look good on transcripts and if you’re receiving financial aid then you won’t have to worry about registering for the course. These are usually a requirement for most colleges, but they can also fall into the elective range if you’re trying to justify taking the course. If you’re not currently in college, then community colleges are probably the most affordable option when it comes to lessons in person. Depending on the community college, you shouldn’t have to spend too much money out of pocket to pay the course. There are scholarships and grants that you could qualify for simply by starting up a language course. Even some companies will help an employee enroll in language courses because this skill will benefit the company. If you’re really interested in picking up a language faster than this is probably the best way to go about it because you will receive feedback, exams and you’ll have a variety of other people to communicate with in the language.

6. Look For Freebies
It may surprise you how many free language lessons you can find in your very own community. If you’re not sure what language you’d like to learn then this could be a great way to figure it out. One of the first places you should look is your community center. Often, they will offer free English and Spanish lessons to help the community have a better understanding for one another. This is a great way to learn, especially if you’re looking to pick up a language that will make life more convenient. Another place to check out is churches. A lot of the time, a church member will volunteer to offer courses to members so they can progress in life. You may have to wait for an opening to join the group because they may be too far ahead of you to open up to a new student. Buddhist temples are also notorious for offering language lessons because many Chinese languages are becoming extinct due to the progression of Mandarin as a main language.

7. Buy Used Textbooks
If you’re a visual learner then buying a text book may be just what you need to learn a language. Luckily, you can find a whole lot of used textbooks online for an incredibly low price. The older the textbook is, the less you should pay for it, which could mean purchasing a book for less than $10. Of course, when you’re shopping around for a language textbook, you may want to look for one that has a software disc or companion website included because this will help you out with pronunciation and other skills that may be trying without an audio guide. The best things is, there’s plenty of places to shop or rent used textbooks, so you won’t have to search for long. You may even be able to find one in a thrift shop, which will save even more money.

8. Make Foreign Friends
One of the best ways to learn a new language is to make friends that speak the language you want to learn. With the internet filled with social media pages that help you meet new people, this shouldn’t be a problem. Try browsing around clubs that support your interests and make friends that way. Usually people are more than happy to speak their native tongue with you, especially if you’re just learning the language and want to improve. Of course, the internet doesn’t have to be your only options. There’s lot of ways to meet people who speak the language in your own community. Try joining a club based around the culture or language. This should help you meet others who speak the language, so you can chat. You can also stop by a restaurant or store that is part of the culture. Usually, you can talk with the owners, employees or even other customers in the language, if you’re lucky.

9. Use the Media
There may be more learning options than you think surrounding you. Sometimes, PBS and other educational channels actually show programs that are designed to help you learn a language. These can easily be recorded or you can tune in to the program as a scheduled lesson. Podcasts are also a huge deal when learning a language. These can be found based on interests or learning level. You may even want to check out YouTube to see if there’s any vlogs that might help you learn. Apart from that, movies and TV series are a great way to learn. You may want to try with the subtitles at first, but once you begin to get the hang of things turn them off. There’s a wide variety of magazines, newspaper and novels that can also help you learn. You may have to start out with children’s books but you’ll soon see yourself advancing!

10. Language Exchange
There’s a surprising amount of language exchange programs available to you. Like meeting new people, these programs help you find a pen pal that has similar interests and language goals. When the two of you are paired up, you may have to struggle a little to get over the language barrier; however, this struggle is one of the best ways to help you pick up a new language faster. When you get together, usually via a video chat, you can ask one another questions, show each other flash cards and even introduce new concepts. Before you know it, the two of you will be chatting a mile a minute in each language. These programs are great ways to find the support you need to keep trying at a language and may even make you a new friend out of the deal. There’s lots of these programs available, so make sure you find one that you feel comfortable with and that suits your budget. Of course, if you ever feel uncomfortable with your pen pal make sure to discuss it with the exchange program or follow the proper channels to report the person.

Learning a language is already going to be stressful, so eliminating the financial stress should put you back on the right track. With these simple tips you should find everything you need to learn and enjoy the language of your choice. So, prepare to broaden your horizons while saving a whole lot of money.

September brings lots of change for the entire household. As summer begins to cool down and slowly transforms into autumn, you may find a million things you want to purchase for the household. Luckily, September is also a great time for savings. Between Labor Day and other special sales, this month is a great time to save big on some of the must-have items for the household. Although September is a little bit on the hectic side because of school and work, when you see all of the amazing things you can save money on you’ll be pleased to make the transition from summer to autumn. This is especially true when it comes to your budget. So, make sure to take a few deep breaths and enjoy some frugal shopping during this lovely transition month because it’s all going to be warp speed from here!

1. Coffee
As the weather cools down, there’s no doubt you’re going to wanting your daily cup of Joe, or two, each morning. September brings good news for coffee loves because September 29 is actually National Coffee Day. So, what does this mean for you? Well, to put it simply, it means freebies and a whole lot of them! Many cafes and chains love to participate in this holiday because it brings in lots of business. So, take a look around and see which café near you is going to be giving away free cups of coffee on this day. You may also find that some of these cafes will offer discounts on their higher priced beverages, which may make your day even better. Of course, during this time, you should see discounts on coffee in stores, so don’t forget to shop around during this date. Remember, it may be more worthwhile to buy coffee beans than ground coffee, especially if you’re looking to maximize your savings.

2. Appliances
September is definitely the month for bringing in the new and getting rid of the old. This can be really good for you though! A lot of the old appliances in numerous stores will actually take a huge price decrease. By huge, I mean you could be looking at 70% off savings, which is definitely worth a purchase. Everything from refrigerators and stoves to washers and dryers should be on sell during this month. You may want to hold out and wait for the Labor Day sales to hit though. However, if you don’t find a sale that speaks to you then simply walk away. Some items will take further drops after the big sales so that the stores can make more room for the new stock. Of course, even if you don’t find the deal of your dreams then you might want to wait to see if Black Friday offers you a better deal, but you may miss out if you don’t look around to see if the prices suit your needs now.

3. Bicycles
The beginning of school is the perfect time to upgrade everyone’s bicycles. With plenty of decent weather still available, commuting to and from school or work can be one of the best ways to get some exercise and save on money. Bicycles are almost as low as they’re going to go, with the exception of huge sales, like Labor Day blowouts, so if you need a new one now is the time to do so. Of course, you should always know what you actually need out of bicycle before you purchase one. A little research will get you well on your way though. If you’re shopping for children then try to look for adjustable bikes that can be altered to grow with your child opposed to forcing you to buy a new one every few months. Now is also the perfect time to do a little holiday shopping if you think a bike might be on the kid’s grand list. If you can find one still in the box then you’re well on your way to taking care of some of the big budget items on your holiday shopping list.

4. Lawn Supplies
Well, there’s good news about autumn and that is, you’re almost done with all of the lawn work you had to sweat over in the summer time. Of course, another tid bit of good news is the fact that all of the lawn care supplies should be going on sale in the month of September. If you’re looking to upgrade your lawnmower so you can get in one more mow before the freeze then now is the perfect time. From ride on movers to the classic pull mower, you should be able to see some amazing deals that will start you out right when spring rolls around again. You should also look around for other gardening supplies you may need in the future. For instance, weed eaters and tillers should be ready to go to the clearance aisle this month too. Gardening supplies, including seeds and bulbs, will also be on sale. So, if you plan on growing some plants inside then now is the time to stock up.

5. Sunglasses
You may see sunglasses as a summertime buy and you won’t be alone on the matter. However, the facts are, you should always have sunglasses to keep your eyes protected from the sun. Even if there’s ten inches of snow outside, sunglasses are a must when it comes to eye care. So, the good news is, you can stock up on sunglasses for fairly cheap in the month of September. Since most people are summer time sunglass users, these items aren’t nearly as in demand in the autumn and winter months. Plus, by the time summer rolls around again, there will be an all new stock available to suit your fashion needs. Don’t just stop with new sunglasses though. If you happen to need a prescription then now is the time to get a custom pair cut for you. This will minimize the amount of time you end up using eyewear without a prescription, which is much better for your eyes. Or, it can help keep your eyes healthy if you happen to run out of contacts and need to wear sunglasses. You may also want to consider checking out transition lenses to help bring even more convenience to your life.

6. iPhone/iPad
September is a big month for a lot of people. This year, Apple announced that the new iPhone 6s will be released on the 18th of this month, which means you’ll either be turning in your old phone and buying the new one or you’ll probably be upgrading your old phone to something a bit newer. All of the older iPhones will be going on sale slightly before the release of the new phone begins, which will give you a good chance to upgrade before the line wraps around the block. Of course, this is also the perfect time to stock up for the holiday season as iPhones make great holiday gifts, especially for members of the household that aren’t quite ready for the latest items on the market. This is also a great time to check out the prices of tablets. Although a new iPad release isn’t happening now, that doesn’t mean it will be excluded from the sales events that lead up to the iPhone 6S release.

7. Cars
If your car is barely trucking along or you think you may want to check out a newer model, then you’ve waited until the right month to do so. September is all about the car sales for a number of reasons. First and foremost, Labor Day is notorious for getting cars out the door at an amazing price, which is why so many people choose to shop during this time of the year. Of course, there is a bit of a hidden agenda about these sales. Sure, they are celebrating a holiday, but they’re also helping car dealerships get rid of their stock so they can welcome in the newer models that will be released later in the month. Have no fear if you miss out on the sales though, generally as the release dates get closer, dealerships will keep marking down the cars to ensure they get them off the lot. This is a great time for you to swoop in and get a worthwhile deal. You may even get a few freebies to help you out!

8. Airfare
If you’re still shopping around for holiday airfare then September is probably the best time to buy. In fact, it may be your last chance before the holiday season begins. Most airlines will have a few deals, especially around Labor Day, but once this month is over, airfare is probably going to skyrocket because of the busy season. If you can, begin looking around for flights as soon as possible and try to see if any airlines are going to post spoilers about potential sales. If you can’t find good enough fair during the Labor Day sale then you might as well begin looking for the best deal possible. Of course, your options aren’t limited to planning for winter holidays, but you may want to look for refundable or exchangeable tickets for Spring Break.

9. Pool Equipment
Pools can be pretty pricey, especially during the primary swim season. Rather than waiting until next year to stock up on supplies, now is the perfect time to do it. Most items will be going on sale, so make sure to get your fill of cleaners, filters, tools, toys and anything else that may make your pool amazing next year. Of course, you may also want to consider getting some of the high dollar equipment now. For instance, if you’ve had your eye on a pool cleaner for some time then it may be affordable now. This will also help you get your pool in order before you have to prepare to winterize it. Of course, if you don’t already have a pool, then some of the large above ground pools should be on sale at this time. In fact, if you look around long enough, you may be able to find a large pool with a deck and all of the equipment at a price that is more than fair.

10. Luggage
Another great item for your future travel plans that will be on sale in September is actually luggage. You can find amazing brands and designs during Labor Day sales which will help make your travel plans a whole lot easier. Of course, if you’re looking to save a whole lot of money then you might want to consider buying lightweight luggage. You can usually find sets of suitcases that are well made and water resistant so you won’t have to worry about spending too much on luggage fees. It doesn’t matter what size items you’re looking for either. Generally, you can find plenty of models on sale and you may even get lucky and find a luxury set. Of course, to do this you might have to look around on the internet during the holiday.

September is a great time to save money, so you can allow your household’s budget to recover from summer before you run into the fast paced holiday months. With all of these amazing items to save money on, you should be ready to take on anything the upcoming months or year have to bring your way. So, take some time to relax because September pricing and these frugal tips will make sure you don’t spend too much.

Whether you’re planning ahead for the holiday season, or you just love a glass of wine after a hard day, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do to save money on your beloved beverage of choice. Wine can be a pretty expensive drink to consume, especially if you have pricey tastes. Luckily, there are a few ways you can easily cut the costs of your wine expenditures without having to give up on your favorite drink. Between prepping for the holidays and simply kicking back and relaxing, you’ll be ready to enjoy your glass of wine even more when you realize you didn’t have to spend a small fortune on it. So, don’t let the price of wine detour your love of it, with these tips you’ll get right back on budget in no time.

1. Join a Club
When it comes to enjoying wine, a club is one of the best ways to do so. Luckily, there’s lots of different clubs that can help you save lots of money on your favorite wines. For starters, warehouse clubs are very simple, and often cost effective, to join. These clubs tend to offer extraordinary deals on a variety of wines. You’ll probably even save more when you purchase the wine in bulk through these warehouses. You can also join an actual wine club. A lot of these clubs will send you great offers on wine each month, so you won’t have to pay full price on many of the bottles that you buy. You may even get free passes to some wineries or samples sent to you in the mail. Wine clubs often hold meetings too, which could offer you a chance to network to find greater deals. Last but not least, you want to join a club that offers a subscription service. These will actually send you a bottle or more each month for a standard fee. Usually the bottles are worth more than you pay for the subscription, so you end up saving big time.

2. Consider Second Labels
Wine shopping usually begins by checking out the brands we know we love, right? Sometimes, these brands are less than favorable when it comes to the price tag though. However, what a lot of people don’t know about their favorite brands of wine is that many actually produce a second label. These are wines that are made from the leftover grapes from their more popular brand of wine. These second labels wines only cost a fraction of the price and can taste exactly the same or incredibly similar. So, next time you’re feeling a little down in the dumps because your favorite brand costs an arm and a leg, you may want to check to see if the line offers a second label. Usually, your favorite wine or spirits store should have a list on hand, but if not you may have to do a little research of your own to see if you can find something similar. You may be surprised as to what you find and how much you enjoy it.

3. Shop Locally
If there’s one good thing that came from the hipster movement, it’s definitely the shopping locally motto. This doesn’t mean you have to do this to be hip and trendy, but, rather to save yourself a bit of money. To break things down, when you shop wine that comes from other countries or areas within the country, you’re going to be paying for a little bit of the shipping and import prices, which can really add to the price of the bottle. Local wines won’t have this fee tacked on, so they should be more affordable. Of course, there’s other reasons to shop locally too. For starters, you’re going to be getting wine that was made with fresh ingredients. Plus, with all of the work that bees do for local produce, the quality of the wine will be better for your system. You should also consider how much shopping local does for your community’s economy, which actually reflects back onto savings in other shopping areas. Finally, if you shop in local wineries then there’s a high chance you’ll be able to find a great bulk deal on wine.

4. Look for Discounts
Saving money on wine, requires a lot of shopping know how. When you want to buy wine, especially if you’re looking to shop in bulk, then you’re definitely going to want to shop around to see if you can find any special sales, discounts or coupons on your favorite brands. Of course, one handy thing to know is that wine sales actually drop during the autumn months. With grape season practically over, wine should be coming into stores in abundance, so it may be time to stock up whenever you see a good price. Of course, keep in mind that the prices won’t last until the holiday season, so hurry and get what you need now. Since prices drop in the autumn, you may want to keep an eye on stores that sell your favorite wines, just in case the price dips enough to warrant a purchase. You can usually keep an eye on a variety of stores at once by using a special shopping app. Of course, you should always keep an eye on the clearance bins in your favorite stores too, to see if anything you enjoy has made it onto the shelf.

5. Buy in Bulk
If you really love wine and drink it more than on special occasions then bulk buys are about to become your best friend. Wine can always be bought cheaper in bulk purchases, which is why you should always consider buying your favorite wines this way. When you shop online, the price difference is going to be more obvious as most sites will try to get you to buy in bulk from the beginning. Thus, you may want to take to some of your favorite websites to begin with. Of course, before you buy too many bottles of the same wine, you may want to test it out to make sure it’s something you enjoy drinking, unless you plan on passing it out as a gift. Boxed wine is already, technically, a bulk purchase; however, you can easily purchase these boxes in bulk too, which will come in handy for large celebrations.

6. Go Wine Tasting
If you love wine then there’s one thing you should do to save money on your favorite bottles. That is, enjoy a wine tasting trip. There’s lots of places to enjoy wine tasting, so you probably won’t have to look far to find a place that suits your needs. In short, wine tasting allows you to experience new wines which could help you find or expand the range of wines you generally buy. This, in itself, allows you to choose wines that will suit your budget. You may even be able to find a wine that tastes better or similar to your favorite wine for a whole lot less. When you try out a larger variety of wines, you’ll also become more knowledgeable which will allow you to make wise decisions on your purchases. Also, you may able to buy your favorite wines from the tasting in the winery store. If you want to save even more money then you may want to explore Groupon, or other social media coupon pages, to help you find an extraordinary deal on your wine tasting experience.

7. Shop Around
Shopping for wine can be tough, but accepting the first price you see on your favorite wine is usually a no-no. In this day and age, there’s probably 5 different stores selling the same brand and most of them are going to be competitive to the penny. Instead of simply purchasing the first bottle you see, take to your favorite shopping app to see if you can find a better deal on the product. If the store you’re in does price matching then you’re ready to go, but if not you may want to spend your money at another location. Of course, there’s lots of options that don’t mean you have to shop locally. In fact, if you’re not in a hurry to drink the wine then you may want to take your shopping experience online. You can usually find some of the best deals here, which will save you a lot of money in the long run.

8. Keeping a List
If you’re a list maker then you should have no problem with this one. Basically, when you try a wine out you should always write down the name on a list that shows your favorite wines as well as wines you couldn’t bear to drink. In life, we try a whole lot of new things so it’s a common mistake to buy a wine we hated twice, or to forget the name of a really good wine that we’d love to have again and again. By making a list, you’ll always know what you should and shouldn’t buy. For your convenience, try adding the list to your phone, but make sure to keep a hardcopy just in case your tech fails you. Having the list on hand will also help wine sellers make recommendations to you that will suit your taste buds and your budget.

9. Know Your Wines
One of the major problems that people run into when they’re shopping for wines, or even serving them, is lacking basic knowledge of the drink. Often, people don’t like a wine because they’ve paired it with the wrong foods. By knowing exactly what you’re serving and how to accent the meal, you’ll find that your wine shopping abilities have increased immensely. This will not only help you shop more frugally for wines that don’t cost an arm and a leg, but you’ll also be able to appreciate wine a lot more and help your guests enjoy an extraordinary wine experience. Don’t worry, you don’t have to take a class to understand how to use wine. In fact, there’s lots of charts and tutorials online to assist you in your planning.

10. Make Your Own
Wine is definitely an art form and if you love to drink it you’ve probably found that each is worth the price you pay. However, if you’d like to further your wine experience while saving some money then you may want to consider making your own wine. This hobby is growing steam as more people have taken to the life of artisan crafts, so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding the supplies you need to make the wine you’ve always dreamed of. The best thing about making your own wine is you typically make it in bulk, so you shouldn’t run out of supplies any time soon. You can also use old recycled bottles to store your homemade wine, which will help save you even more money on supplies. After you try your homemade wine, you’re sure to appreciate the process a lot more and may even find that your wine tasting experience has a bit more gusto than it did before. Plus, your homemade wine makes a great gift for the holidays and will even cut down on your party budgets.

Wine is a great way to relax with friends and family, but it also has a lot of amazing health advantages. So, you should never have to worry about your wine budget sending you over the edge. With these helpful tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your glass of wine even more, which never hurts.

Labor Day tends to mark the transformation from care free summer to the business of autumn. Thus, it’s no surprise that many people go a bit overboard when it comes to spending on this three day weekend. From last minute vacations to hitting all of the major sales, there’s definitely attractions that can cause your budget to fail if you’re not careful. Of course, there are ways you can save money during this holiday though. From preparations to frugal outings, you can make Labor Day the perfect holiday to prepare for all of the busy months that will soon be headed your way. So, get ready to make this upcoming 3-day weekend fun, frugal and beneficial.

1. Book Your Winter Vacation
Although you may have been hoping for a last minute vacation, there’s one thing you can do that will save you big time in the future. That is, get your winter vacation booked and ready to go. Generally, you want to book months ahead of time, so waiting until Labor Day is generally a bit of a stretch; however, the airline, hotel and rental deals offered during this time are often too much to pass up. You should be able to get airfare at an incredible price which will cut down on your getaways price substantially. You should make sure to splurge on tickets that can be cancelled or rescheduled though, just in case your time off of work is canceled for whatever reason. Hotels and rental companies will also have plenty of deals for this holiday weekend, so make sure to book while you can to ensure you have a place to stay and a car to drive during your getaway. With all of the bookings taken care of, you won’t have to worry about saving up money for your trip, which could help make the next few months a lot easier.

2. Go Back to School Shopping
It doesn’t matter if your child has already gone back to school or if they’re scheduled to return after the holiday, because the Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to grab all of the missing school supplies your student needs. Although back to school sales may be over, Labor Day sales will more than compensate for this and may even offer your substantially lower prices on the goods you need. Plus, a lot of back to school items will have already been moved into the clearance section to help make way for the holiday décor that will be heading to the store in just a few short weeks. School supplies shouldn’t be the only thing on your agenda though. Clothes should take a price drop during the holiday thanks to the sales, so don’t be afraid to hold off shopping until then. Last but not least, you may want to check out items you know you’re going to need during the school year. For instance, sandwich bags, sports supplies, cold remedies and crafting items. If you can, see if your area is having a tax free weekend around this time, it will add to the savings immensely, if they are!

3. Get the House in Order
There’s a whole lot of things that need to be done around the house before winter makes its way through. However, finding the time to do them probably isn’t going to be the easiest thing to do. Thus, you may want to spend time working on the home during the Labor Day weekend. There is bound to be lots of sales on cleaning supplies and home repair items. This will allow you to get through the list of cleaning and repairs that should be done before the cold weather arrives. While working on the home, you may want to consider adding a fresh coat of paint to freshen the home up, or redecorating a teen’s room to make it more study efficient. Now, is the perfect time to go through old items and host a yard sale to help earn some extra money or to make up for your back to school shopping. Of course, you’ll also want to prepare the lawn for the falling leaves that should be arriving in mere weeks. Also, clearing out the gutters and inspecting the roof are also wise ideas.

4. Visit National Park/Beach
Chances are, the weather is still on the warmer side in your area, which makes Labor Day weekend a great time to plan a trip to enjoy the great outdoors. Try to choose a park or a beach near your home to save on money. Most beaches tend to be on the free side, which will help keep your budget in check while you enjoy a few last minute days of summer. If you pack food and water for the day and stay busy in the water and sand, then you should be able to enjoy the trip for next to nothing. During this holiday weekend, a lot of national parks should be offering free or low cost admission to the park, which will help make your holiday plans even more frugal. With the price of admission reduced, you should be able to enjoy the weekend without spending a lot of money. Apart from beverages and some food, you should be good to go. If you can, plan a camping adventure complete with fishing and gathering. Everyone will get their fix for nature before the weather turns to snow and ice.

5. Plan Extracurricular Activities
If there’s one thing that autumn brings which often ends up causing a lot of headaches, it’s definitely the countless extracurricular activities that the kids get into. There’s no doubt, sometimes we over extend ourselves which causes frustration as well as loss of money. So, before all of the school madness begins, you may want to sit down and talk to the kids about the activities they’d like to participate in. If the activities are purely school related then you can easily make a schedule to make sure everyone’s activities won’t clash and cause you to rush from one end of town to the next. If the activities aren’t school related then you may have to budget in the price as well as the schedule. If you can keep activities to a maximum of two, then you should be looking at an easier schedule as well as a friendlier budget.

6. Know What to Buy
Labor Day sales are pretty tempting, which can cause your budget to turn upside down if you’re not careful. Of course, there are a few ways to avoid spending way too much though. One, is to know exactly what you should be buying during this sale. The new fashion line for autumn clothing will be out in full force, so many stores will concentrate on moving some of this stock. So, this is definitely the time to upgrade your wardrobe and make sure everyone in the family has what they need to stay nice and warm as the temperatures drop. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should stay away from clothing clearance racks either. In fact, if a store has a discount on clearance too then now is the perfect time to catch up on next summer’s shopping. This holiday weekend is also the perfect time to buy children’s toys, which could help you stock up for the holiday months. You should avoid electronic sales though as Black Friday is around the corner, unless you see a deal that’s too good to refuse.

7. Host a Potluck
It may be some time before you can get your family and friends together for a meal cooked outdoors, thus Labor Day is the perfect time to host a sendoff barbeque for the summer months. With school, work and bad weather striking, barbeques are almost off limits until next spring, so ask everyone to help with foods by raiding their pantries and freezers for their leftover summer foods. This will help everyone make room for autumn foods and will ensure you have plenty to eat when for your party without forcing people to spend a lot of money. As far as fun and games are concerned, you can easily start up a game of football or any other sport that sets the mood. You may also want to put on a movie or plan the party around the premiere of a TV show. Of course, board games and crafts are always a cheap way to keep the home under budget.

8. Visit the City
Whether you live in or near a city, you may want to take a break from the everyday grind and experience what the city has to offer. Generally, cities will host a variety of activities that are frugal for the Labor Day holiday. From concerts in the park to free parking days by the boardwalk, your city is sure to be filled with fun for the whole family during this 3 day weekend. Apart from community activities, many museums will drop the price of admittance to a low or free charge, which will provide you with hours of fun. Amusement parks are also a big deal during the holiday, so if your nearest city has a few then you may want to see what deals they’re offering. You should check online to see if there’s any hotel deals that will allow you to get out of the house for a night, so you can have more fun on your mini-vacation. Finally, if you’re traveling to the city or in the city then try a gas app to help save even more money.

9. Volunteer
If you missed out on volunteer opportunities during the summer months, then you may want to try to get some good deeds in before the autumn months. There’s always lots of help needed during this holiday because many people would prefer to take a last minute vacation or need the days off to help get their family ready for school. So, soup kitchens, food pantries and other need based charities are sure to welcome you in with open arms. You might also want to see if a program like Habitat for Humanity has any projects going on in your area. If you can’t find any activities then offer to help out a disabled or elderly neighbor with their yard or home. You can even pick up trash in a local park or see if you can plant trees or other foliage in a barren area.

10. Recuperate From Summer
Summer time can be filled with action, but so is autumn and winter. So, if you haven’t had a chance to kick back and relax then Labor Day may be the time to do it. Try to clear your schedule for the weekend, or at least the day so you can do nothing at all. It may be hard but a day of lounging around and watching TV could be in order to help keep your mental health up for the busy months. If you can, try to get the family to join in on a board or card game. You can even play the kids’ favorite video games with them. Of course, playing sports with family and friends is another relaxation friendly activity, as is reading a book. Whatever you choose to do, try to keep it as stress free as possible.

Labor Day is the perfect time to catch up on everything that needs to be done in the home. From cleaning and repairing to getting the kids ready for school. With these ten tips, you should be able to feel the joy of the holiday without spending a small fortune to celebrate it.

Writing a book is a challenge filled with frustration, grief, joy and stress. Of course, if you’ve just finished writing your first novel then the stress aspect is probably haunting you, right? Trying to figure out what to do with your novel is one of the hardest aspects of the process. From self-publishing and traditional publishing to just putting it away for a rainy day, this process can be daunting. If you’ve decided publishing is the route to take then you may have to be prepared to jump through some major financial hoops. Don’t give up though, because if you know a few tricks of the trade then you should be able to get your book selling in a very short amount of time.

1. Get an Editor
If you want to save money on publishing then this is one of the best things you can do. Why? Because you’re human and there’s no way you can catch every mistake or inconsistency in your novel. If you’re wondering how this saves money then you have to look at the different forms of publishing. If you’re going a traditional route then there’s a good chance the publisher will send the book back for edits before actually sending it to their professional editor for a final look through. This can be costly and time consuming as you’ll have to keep printing and mailing the new manuscript, unless the publishing company is a bit more modern than other publishers. If you plan on self-publishing then you’re going to want your book to look its best. This will help with your reputation as a writer as it will with the reputation of the book. When it comes to self-publishing, your reputation and reviews are going to be what helps you the most when getting sales. So, splurge a little on the editor to help make a whole lot of difference. You can even ask family, friends or a student to help out for a little less than you’d ask a professional. To save even more money, you can join a peer-review group to get free help on a weekly basis.

2. Talk to an Author
If you really want to walk the walk, then you should talk the talk with an author that has already been there and done that. Before you have a conversation with the author make sure you write down questions and concerns, so you won’t forget anything. If your plan is to self-publish then you should try to find an indie author to help you out. This actually isn’t a difficult task because there are so many to choose from online. There’s lots of forums and blogs dedicated to indie writers, so do some simple browsing around until you find someone that can make a difference. Traditional publishers may be more of a challenge, but there’s still a lot of these writers available that are willing to help. One great place to try is a writing convention. Generally, most authors won’t charge you for a quick chat, so you should be ready to move on to the next step without having spent a dim.

3. Research
Before you decide on anything, a little research is in order. You may actually be amazed as to how many websites are available to help you learn how to get more out of your publishing experience. From websites dedicated to saving you money to blogs with self-publishing tricks that will set your mind to ease, the web is filled with advice just for your needs. The only problem with research in this topic is there is a lot of information to sift through. So, unless you’re ready to bury your nose in tips, you may want to specialize your search a little. All the same, all of the tips online should help you find the right method for your book, as well as several different ways to avoid the high costs of publishing. If you’re going on the traditional publishing route, then you’ll be happy to find there’s lot of trips to prepare your book for the process, which can make publishing this way go a little faster.

4. Start with an E-Book
If you want to self-publish your book then one of the first things you should do is start your book out as an e-book. You can easily format the book on your own with basic tutorials, so there’s no extra fees for this process. Once your book is put into the e-book format then you can easily sell it on your own, or use a specialized website to help you out. For instance, there’s many programs like SmashWords which works with indie authors to not only get their book published, but to also draw in a market for it. The program will put your book into a genre list, so that people can browse around and hopefully purchase your novel. Generally, these programs are free to use, but they will take a portion of your profits to help pay for the service. Amazon is also another popular place for indie writers to sell. Generally, you do very little work here too and Amazon takes their cut of the profits to help pay for the service. Of course, if you have your own store then you will obviously gain all of the proceeds and will have better knowledge of the traffic your book is pulling in.

5. Make Your Own Book Cover
They always say, never judge a book by its book its cover, but in all honesty, most people do. So, you want to have a cover that speaks to your audience while doing your book some justice. When it comes to covers, you can pay someone a pretty penny to do it for you, but they may not be able to grab the concept you were going for. Not to mention, you’re out the money for the cover that could go for other areas of the publishing process. Luckily, in this day and age, making a book cover can be easy and totally free. There’s actually online programs that can help you out for free, which comes in handy if you’re not experienced with many of the programs. Of course, if you have knowledge of Photoshop or other editing software then your cover could be a masterpiece awaiting publishing in no time at all. You may even want to make a few covers and have people vote on them to see which attracts more eyes.

6. Shop Around for Printing
If there’s one item that’s probably going to cost you a bundle, it’s printing. So, if you do decide to take your book from digital to tangible, you may be in store for some major charges which will hit your budget hard. All the same, there’s a few ways to save money on just about everything. Looking around for printing companies is probably one of the best routes to go. You should check out the pricing per page/per word as well as potential discounts, such as bulk buys, and coupons. Many companies will offer a wide variety of book options too, so you can always choose one of the cheapest options, if that’s available. Last but not least, you may want to look into printing companies that will only print the book when ordered. This will avoid large stacks of unsold books since many people mostly shop digitally now.

7. Get Online
Book publishing won’t be complete with a little promotion action though. One thing you should do when you’ve published your book is start creating social media pages for advertising. You can contact people who have liked similar books this way and you can appeal to fans who may be more likely to share your novel with their inner circle. Social media is now one of the top ways to advertise because it hits such a wide audience and allows so many people to learn about your book while widening your reach. Keeping up with these accounts will also look good to fellow writers, which can help with your much needed networking connections.

8. Host a Giveaway
One way to truly get your book noticed is to give it away for free. No, I don’t mean you don’t have to charge for the book. Simply set up a giveaway and have fans win a copy or two of your e-book. Generally, when you choose to do this with an e-book you won’t really lose out on money. Many websites, such as Good Reads, will host your giveaway and will even draw potential fans to the book. When your giveaway is over, there’s a great chance the winner will reward you with a book review, which could help boost sales even more. If you’d like to further your giveaway process then ask fans to share the giveaway for a chance to win! This is truly one of the easiest ways to advertise without spending a dime! Not to mention, you may peak the curiosity of those that didn’t win, who may potentially buy your book.

9. Ask For Reviews
When it comes to publishing, a lot of people feel embarrassed to ask for reviews from people. At the end of the day, reviews are one of the main ways your novel is going to get noticed, so don’t be afraid to get out there and get your reviews rolling in. For starters, you can ask friends, family or book fanatic acquaintances to lend a helping hand. Usually, people in your inner circle will be more willing to leave behind a review for you. Of course, when people do begin to purchase your book, you can easily send them a formal request to leave a few words about your novel. A lot of book lovers will do this anyway, but when a writer reaches out to someone, then a review is more than likely going to be written. Of course, if you’re having no luck here you can always browse around for reviews you particularly like. Then, you can email the reviewer about reviewing your novel, if you’re willing to give them a free copy in exchange.

10. Go Traditional
Sometimes, going the traditional publishing route is the only way to go. This is due to the fact that there’s very little cost on your end. In fact, one of the only major costs will be sending in your manuscript to publishers. Usually if you include a SASE, you can resend manuscripts that are returned. Of course, some publishers will accept emails now, which is great news for your budget. Traditional publishing also means you don’t have to pay out of pocket for an ISBN and other hidden costs. Plus, all of the problems with advertising and promotions won’t be yours to bear as the publishing company will take care of it all for you. Plus, you will never have to worry about the cost of printing out your book, which can leave you spending thousands of dollars with no promise of getting a return on your investment. Of course, you may end up earning less from your book, but it will make initial fees a walk in the park.

Publishing a book is probably one of the more stressful things you can go through for both your psyche and your budget. There are a few ways you can combat the costs though, which may make the process seem even more incredible for you. With a few simple tricks, your book can be shining on the shelves in no time at all, which will mean you can kick back and enjoy the feeling of being a published author.

If you live in a region that is affected by a drought then you’re probably trying to do everything in your power to save on money without remodeling the entire home to save on water. Of course, even if you’re not in a drought, you may still be looking for simple ways to cut down on the amount of water you use on a daily basis. Keeping water consumption low doesn’t just help out the environment, but it can take a huge burden off of your monthly utility bills. All the same, many people tend to run into dead ends when they’re dealing with water conservations. Here’s a few quick ways that don’t take a lot of lifestyle changes that will significantly drop your water usage.

1. Dishes
When it comes to sending water down the drain, doing the dishes is one of the biggest culprits around. A lot of people believe that washing dishes by hand can actually save more water than running the dishwasher. This isn’t true in the slightest, especially if you have a more modern dishwasher. Typically, these dishwashers allow you to use a fraction of the water you would by running your dishes under the faucet. If you’re not sure if your dishwasher is up to code, then it may be time for a replacement anyway. This will help you save on water and electricity by getting the dishes clean the first time. You should also try to scrape food off of dishes rather than rinsing them as this sends even more water down the drain. You should also wait to do dishes until the dishwasher is full to help maximize the water being used. Of course, if you do have to do dishes the old fashioned way, then run water into a basin and clean this way. The trick is not to steadily run water during the process of washing as it will send gallons down the drain each time you do dishes.

2. Stop Leaks
It’s not always obvious when there’s a leak in the house, but there’s some tricks you can use to keep your home from dripping water. One way to combat leaks from happening is to have an inspection done at least once a year on your home. Often, your insurance company will offer these inspections at a low cost or free, so make sure you know what your policy covers. Another way to keep on top of leaks is to monitor the home carefully. If you notice water damage in the area then take care of it straight away as it will help save you money on your water bill as well as home repair bills. Of course, as soon as you notice the leak you should take action. Grab a bucket and allow the leak to flow into the bucket so the water doesn’t go to waste. You can use this water for other things, such as watering your garden or flushing the toilet. Also, if you notice a big difference in your water bill, then there’s a good chance you have a leak. If you can, fix the leak yourself as soon as you can, but if not, don’t hesitate to call in help.

3. Washer
Your laundry habits can be another major culprit when it comes to your water usage. One of the best things you can do is upgrade to an energy efficient washer. Of course, you should also make sure it is a front loading machine because this will help save you even more money and water. Although it may seem pricey to upgrade, you’ll notice the washer will pay for itself after you see how much your water bill actually is. If you don’t have a front load washer then chances are you aren’t just wasting water, but you’re also probably causing severe damage to your clothing. If you’re not ready to make the change though then there are still a few things you can do. For instance, running the laundry on quick wash will cut down on the water usage. Also, making sure the washer has a full load before you wash clothing will also help out. Finally, washing the clothes on cold will cut down on more unnecessary laundry bills.

4. Toilet
The toilet is your other major water guzzler. Part of this has to do with your habits and the other has to do with the way the toilet is made. Luckily, both of these things can be altered to help you save on water. For starters, if you can upgrade your toilet, you may want to consider getting a low flow toilet. This cuts down the amount of water you will use each flush, so you don’t have to worry about using too much. If you can’t afford an upgrade then one simple hack is to add a full water bottle into the basin of your toiler. This will help cut down on the amount of water your toilet uses each flush. Of course, if you’re worrying about the plastic over time, then you can use a brick instead. If you find your family is flushing all of the time then you may have to enforce a rule that will have the family only flush occasionally. During one major drought, the if it’s yellow let it mellow rule came to be, which helped many families use less water during the trying period. You should also use blue dye to make sure there’s no leaks in your toilet.

5. Shower/Bath
This region of the bathroom is where most of your water is going to be lost. We all love our soothing showers and baths, but at the end of the day, you’re not going to want to do this if you’re trying to conserve water. If you limit your shower to only a few minutes you should save a lot of water, but if you’re looking to save more then you may want to go to a more drastic level. For instance, many countries actually don’t run water the entire time they shower. Instead, they rinse off then turn the water off. From there they soap up and then turn the water back on to rinse. If you don’t want to do this then you may to try out a low flow shower head. This will do a lot of the work for you. If you’re taking a bath then don’t fill the bathtub all the way up as you don’t really need this amount of water. When it comes to kids you can bathe them together if it’s age and gender appropriate.

6. Kitchen
Of course, the dishes aren’t the only water waster in your kitchen. There’s lots of ways you can save in the home, which will ensure your water consumption will go way down. For starters, if you draw your drinking water from the tap, then try to fill up a pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. This will help the water stay cold, so you’re not tempted to run the tap until your water reaches the temperature you desire. Another common thing people do is thaw meat by running it under hot water. This is a definite waste of water and could leave your water bill hurting if you do it too many times during the week. Instead, place the meat in the refrigerator overnight, so you don’t have to worry about thawing it out the next day. If you tend to use hot water a lot in the home then it may be wise to install an instant water heater on your kitchen faucet. This will give you instant access to the right temperature, so you never have to wait for the water to get warm while running it down the drain.

7. Piping
Keeping up with your home’s pipes is actually one of the best ways to ensure water stays frugal in your home. You should monitor your piping at least once a year to make sure everything is in working order and won’t leave you dealing with a major repair bill. Many people can monitor the piping on their own, but if you’re not comfortable with it then ask a friend who is or shop around for the lowest inspection price. With your pipes secured, you can avoid leaks which hike up the bill. You should also consider insulating your pipes. This actually helps warm the water up faster, so you won’t end up running the tap a long time before the water reaches its desired temperature. Insulated pipes also don’t freeze as easily, which means you won’t have to deal with pricey repair bills in the winter.

8. Heating/Cooling
The way you choose to heat and cool your home can make a huge difference when it comes to your water bill. The first thing you’ll want to do is avoid water to air systems as much as possible. These pull water from the home to help keep the air cool, which means your water bill is going to skyrocket, especially if you’re dealing with a drought. If you can, try to find an energy efficient system that isn’t too pricey. These are becoming more common, so you won’t have to worry about looking too hard before you find the perfect match. Of course, if you can’t find a good system then try to avoid using your heating and cooling whenever it isn’t necessary.

9. Collect Rain
When water is scarce, you probably don’t want to see any go to waste, right? So, when it rains, make sure you’re ready to collect the water so you can use it around the home. There are many specialized basins that will help you collect rain water and store it for quite some time. These can be pricey though; however, they are very easy to make on your own by simply opening up a barrel. You can also use basic buckets and bowls to collect water and store it other basins. Of course, you may want to check to see what the rules are about collecting rain in your area. Some places it is actually illegal! However, if you can collect the rain then you’re all set to use the water for your garden, lawn, toilet or other household needs.

10. Forget the Yard/Lawn
If you’re dealing with a drought then you’re probably not very happy with the way your lawn looks. Although many places do allow you to keep up a food garden, your lawn is going to have to be sacrificed. There are some alternatives to the classic lawn though. If scientists in your area believe the rain is going to be scarce for years, then you might want to look into tilling up the lawn. You can replace the grass with decorative rocks or mulch, or you can add in desert plants that will add a natural look to your yard without all of the watering. These plants are usually inexpensive and your local greenhouse can usually give you a lot of information about the variety of plants you can choose from.

Droughts don’t have to cause you to spend more money on resources. With these tips, you should be able to cut down on the amount of water you use so your bills won’t be through the roof. Even if you’re not working with drought prices, these tips will help you add to your green living lifestyle, while also cutting down on your utility bills.

With summer peaking, there’s no question that dry weather is a huge risk to your home. With many areas of the country already fighting off bad wildfires, it may be time to make sure your family’s fire safety system is in working order. For many, coming up with a fire safety kit and plan can be costly and thus keeps getting put off. However, if fire does strike in your area, you may be glad you took the time to get your supplies ready to go. These ten tips won’t just help you decide what’s mandatory for your home, but will also help you keep your fire safety supplies and preparations as frugal as possible to ensure your budget won’t suffer.

1. Maintain Fire Alarms
Whether you’re sleeping or awake, a smoke alarms can be your first line of defense against a fire. They alert you the moment smoke is present in the home, so you have the time to put out the fire or get your family out safely. A lot of people tend to take their fire alarms for granted though. Although they can last awhile without maintenance, this isn’t really a risk you should take. One way that people go wrong when it comes to fire alarms is not having enough in the home. It is best to have a minimum of one fire alarm per floor of an average sized home. However, you may want to aim to place them in each room and hallway to be safe. You must allow routinely check them to make sure they are working properly. This can generally be done once a month, so you don’t have to stress over it every single day. A fire alarm should be replaced every ten years as many will stop working with age. You should always keep fresh batteries in the alarms too. For convenience, you may want to switch them out whenever you do your monthly check.

2. Be Cautious in the Kitchen
The kitchen is where most fires occur, which means it’s always best to take precautions whenever and wherever you can. For starters, working with the stove means standing at the stove whenever it is on. It’s tempting to run to the next room to grab something or to lose your concentration by talking on the phone. However, sticking with the stove while it is on is very important, especially when there are children around. You should also always double check to make sure the electric or gas is off on the stove or oven. This will ensure no major problems can happen, which could become disastrous and it will help you save on your bills. If your kitchen has a lot of appliances in it, then it may be wise to unplug then whenever they’re not in use. This will help cut down on the amount of power they use and will prevent any sparks from occurring when you’re least expecting it. Last but not least, you should always know how to put out common kitchen fires. It is amazing how many kitchen fires begin when someone tries to put out a grease fire with water.

3. Inspect the Home
This is a very key element to ensuring your home isn’t going to catch fire when you least expect it to. A lot of the inspection you can do yourself, if you know what you’re doing. Basically, you should try to check out your radiators, behind the dryer and water heater as well as anywhere else that may be dusty and hazardous. Usually, if you contact your insurance company, they will be more than happy to send someone out to do an inspection because it saves them money in the long run. All the same, this hired service should check everything including the obvious areas, like the radiators, as well as your fireplace and areas you may not typically think to check.

4. Maintain Cords
You may not believe it, but cords can be a huge problem when it comes to fires in your home. We tend to over burden sockets, twist up the cords and hide them behind furniture, which are all ways to increase the chance of a fire due to cords. You can easily reduce the chance greatly by using a surge protector. This allows you to plug more items into one socket, while also controlling the way power flows through the items. You should try to avoid putting any pressure on cords as well. Especially when it comes to cords stored in areas in which you cannot carefully monitor them. Sometimes, the wires inside of the plastic casing become exposed, which could easily set an item of furniture alight. The best thing you can do is organize cords, which is simple to do with twist ties or other organizational items. Also, make sure to mend or throw out cords that are exposed and potentially dangerous.

5. Remove Clutter
If you’re a pack rat, or you simply like to collect magazines or other paper items, then you may be putting your home at risk. Clutter of any form can help make a fire go from distinguishable to unfixable in mere seconds. Clutter can be anything too! From clothes to books. The best thing you can do is make sure the collectibles you have are in an organized area. For instance, books on a shelf are less likely to be hazardous opposed to old newspapers that have been drying out in the attic for the past 2 decades. If you have noticed a lot of clutter in your area then you may want to try to sift through some of your possessions to find out what exactly is necessary and what isn’t. You may be surprised as to how many of your items hold no meaning to you now. If you find a whole lot of items that you don’t want them start a yard sale as you may make some money out of your fire prevention plan! Also, make sure to recycle any items you don’t want that can be recycled. It will do the environment an even bigger favor.

6. Clean the Yard
Your yard can be a huge factor in a fire too. Toys and other clutter in the yard can be a fire waiting to happen, if you’re not careful. Try to make a point to pick up loose items in the yard every day, especially during the dry summer months. Of course, this isn’t nearly as big of a culprit as over grown lawns. You should always make sure to keep weeds and grass cut down low so that it is much harder for a fire to begin or spread into your yard. One way to really help eliminate this problem is to tear up the grass in the yard and replace it with decorative rocks. This will especially come in handy in areas that suffer from severe drought. If you don’t like the look of a yard without plants then you can easily add in a few plants that survive with very little water. Of course, you could just leave the tilled earth alone until it is okay to regrow your grass again.

7. Be Mindful
It’s actually remarkably easy to start a fire, so it’s important to keep in mind what you’re doing so that you can avoid any potential hazards. Smokers must always be on top of their game because they are constantly dealing with an item that could easily begin a fire every time they light a cigarette. If you do smoke, try to do it away from dry grass as it will help prevent any accidental ashes from starting a fire. Also, try to douse your cigarette butt in water before you put it in the trashcan or carelessly toss it on the ground. This should completely prevent a fire from occurring. Candles are another big problem when it comes to fires. You should always make sure they are completely out before you leave the room. Electronics are also surprisingly prone to causing fires. If they overheat and break they may cause a spark that will allow a fire to begin. Finally, before you hop in your car, make sure nothing is dragging the ground, as a simple loose chain hanging from a truck can spark a fire.

8. Talk to Your Kids
Letting your kids know the ins and outs of fire safety is one of the best things you can do. This will not only help keep your home safe now, but it will show them how to maintain safety as they grow into adulthood and have kids of their own. Of course, you never know, a little fire safety could lead to your child saving lives. This doesn’t just mean teaching your kids to not play with matches and other common household rules. You should sit them down and teach them what to do if a fire does start. Using a fire extinguisher or blanket is important for anyone old enough to operate it. Also, calling the appropriate numbers is a big lesson that every child should know. Last but not least, your child should know where the fire kit is kept in the home and your whole family should practice a fire escape route to help everyone feel a little more confident about potential accidents.

9. Have a Safety Kit
No home is complete without a fire safety kit to ensure accidents don’t become tragic. One of the most important items to have is at least one fire extinguisher. This should be kept in the kitchen, but you may want to consider having another, especially if you live in a home with more than one story. Your fire extinguisher should be kept up to date to ensure safety if an accident does occur. A fire blanket is another must for a few reasons. For starters, it’s an easy way to smother a fire in a hurry, especially if the fire isn’t big. More importantly, the blanket will also come in handy if someone in the house catches on fire. The blanket is a safe way to get the fire out as soon as possible. If you live in a house of more than one story then it may be wise to keep a ladder that reaches the downstairs readily available. They sell these ladders at a reasonable price or if you’re comfortable with making your own DIY rope ladder that would also suffice. Finally, you should have medical supplies to deal with burns until medical help can be contacted.

10. Utilize Insurance
Your insurance company can play a major key in fire safety. Before you sign on with a plan, you should always make sure they cover fire damage as you don’t want to have to fight a company when you’ve lost all of your worldly possessions. Apart from this coverage, you may contact them to see if they offer free or reduced price household inspections. As mentioned before, this is a crucial step in keeping your home fire free. Finally, you should also contact your insurance to see if they will issue you a fire safety kit, specifically a fire extinguisher.

When it comes to fire safety, knowing how to take care of the problem is half the battle. These ten tips will offer you easy and frugal suggestions to keep your home ready for potential fires as well as to help you prevent them from happening in the first place.

With the autumn months on their way, you may be looking for hobbies that will keep you entertained while outdoor activities aren’t as convenient. Piano is a great option for people of all ages and can help performances in school while also relieving stress. Unfortunately, the cost of a piano can be very intimidating for some budgets though. There are a few ways to get around the major costs, which will make your hobby seem even more realistic. With a piano in the home, you can avoid pricey entertainment charges while offering the family a new form of entertainment that will helps in many aspects of life. So, don’t let the price tag get you down because these tips will help you cut down on the big costs.

1. Go with a Keyboard
If you’re just toying around with the concept of a piano then you may want to take a step back and consider buying a keyboard instead. Keyboards are perfect for beginners as there is actually less keys than on a full sized piano. This will make getting the hang of the basic notes and chords a breeze. Keyboards are obviously smaller in size too, which means you won’t have to rearrange your life if you’re not ready to have it on display. Apart from the size of the board, you can also get one that is energy efficient or runs on batteries, which is perfect if you like to keep your energy bill low. When shopping for a keyboard price will probably be a big concern as you probably won’t want to splurge if you’re just starting out. If you look around and follow sales, you should be able to find one for less than $100. Thrift stores and second hand music stores may also have them for a bit less, so don’t be afraid to shop around. If the piano hobby doesn’t work out, these items are much easier to sell too, so you won’t have to wait some time to get your money back.

2. Buy Second Hand
Regular sized pianos do run quite a bit of money, but one way to combat this purchase is to look around for a used piano. There’s a lot of these on the market, so you don’t have to consider new models first. Flea markets are usually a great place to look as many people will sell off relatives’ antiques and items they don’t have room for here. Of course, that doesn’t mean that a regularly charity shop or even a yard sale won’t have them. You may even consider looking on your local listings, but make sure to properly look over any piano you may consider. If all else fails, you may want to take to the internet, but be warned that shipping prices can be astronomical. Another option is to try a piano store. Some will sell used pianos, but the prices may be higher than you’d like.

3. Rent
There’s no rule saying you have to go out and buy a piano right away. In fact, a lot of places will actually allow you to rent one so you don’t have to worry about the commitment if you’re not sure that a piano will be a hit in your home. To do this, you may want to call around local piano stores to see if they offer rentals to customers. You may only have a select few options to choose from, but it will still give you a chance to check out a model you’re interested in to see if it’s the right fit. If not, then you can always return the model and try out something else. Be careful though, as some companies may charge high shipping prices. You may also want to check to see if the store offers a rent to own policy, just in case you fall in love with the piano you rent.

4. Consider Options
Deciding to buy a piano is only the beginning of a long process. For starters, the first thing you need to know is if you’re going to want a digital or acoustic piano. This is where a lot of people get stuck because there’s lots of great benefits for both options. Acoustic pianos don’t actually draw in power from the home, which comes in handy if you’re looking to keep the cost of energy down. Although they don’t charge on a daily basis, you will have to pay to get the acoustic piano tuned at least twice a year unless you do the tuning yourself. Digital pianos, on the other hand, don’t really need a lot of maintenance, but they do draw power which is a problem for some users. Although they can easily be unplugged when not in use, if this is an issue. Of course, this decision may be hard enough, but if you do end up choosing an acoustic model, your choices are still incredibly open. For instance, you have the options of grand pianos, baby grand pianos or upright pianos. If you’re having trouble deciding do a little research. You may also want to take to a forum to get advice as other piano owners should be able to steer you in the right direction better than a sales person could.

5. Know What You Want
After you’ve considered your options, you may want to do shopping around online to see what options you have to work with. Although it’s always nice to see the piano in person first, going online can actually help you decide what direction you’d like to go in before you go to the piano store. This is crucial, especially if you’re going to buy a brand new piano. Usually, those who go into a store and aren’t sure what they’re in the market for end up spending way too much money due to the sales person trying to get them to choose the pricier items in the store. Having a strong hold of what you want will make it much easier to say no, so you don’t go over your budget.

6. Mind the Display
Pianos can be expensive if you don’t know how to care for them. However, a lot of this can be maintained simply by paying attention to the way you display your piano. It’s hard to resist placing your piano in that perfect spot of the home where you know everyone is going to be wowed by it. All though it may be aesthetically pleasing, there’s a whole lot that could be wrong about the spot in regards to your piano. One simple pointer is to keep your piano out of direct sunlight. This is due to the fact that sunlight will fade and possibly warp the piano’s appearance, thus causing you to lose out money on your investment if you ever do decide to sell it. Another major thing to keep an eye on is humidity and temperature. Ideally, the piano would be placed in a room that has an even temperature as fluctuations can cause damage to the wood and chords. You may want to consider buying a dehumidifier for the room too, as this will help combat humidity when it is at its worst.

7. Keep it Clean
Another thing you may want to consider when it comes to your piano is how often you need to clean it. A lot of pianos need work done daily, but don’t panic, because it usually isn’t a whole lot of work! Generally, you want to keep your piano dust free, not just for appearance but because you don’t want the tiny creases of the keys to get blocked with dusty materials. You also want to make sure your keys are very clean. If you have ivory keys then this can be more of a challenge, especially since it’s a little harder to keep these from turning yellow. One of the best things you can do for your keys is to ensure your piano has a cover over them. A lot of pianos already come with this, but you may have to buy something if you choose an older model. The inside of acoustic pianos can be trouble to clean too and if you’re not certain what to do, you may have to hire a professional to do the job every few months.

8. Shop Sales
You may be surprised to know that there are sales for pianos, even though they may not be heavily advertised. Try visiting your local music store around a holiday that’s usually known for major sales; such as Labor Day, Memorial Day and Black Friday. You may be surprised as to how much you can get off the retail price of your piano this way. Of course, tax free weekends may also be a good time to get a great deal on your new piano as it will automatically prevent you from having to pay over the price tag. If you’re in the market for a digital piano then you may want to consider waiting until late August. This is when new models are being released, so you can get a better deal on something a little older and around your budget.

9. Free Sheet Music
Although the piano is definitely the most expensive item on the menu, you may run into a few problems that could make your budget go downhill after you make your initial purchase. Sheet music, for instance, can cost a small fortune in stores. There’s lot of books available, which will make learning new music a lot of fun, but when you consider the price you may only want to buy one or two pieces to save money. This can really be frustrating if you bore of the same practice songs every day, which may cause you or other family members to lose interest in the new hobby. Of course, if you want sheet music you don’t really have to look any further than the internet. There’s actually numerous websites that will allow you to download sheet music for absolutely nothing. These are usually classic songs too, which are very good for beginners and intermediate students, as well as advanced students looking for a challenge with more intricate pieces.

10. Free Lessons
Piano lessons are also a huge deal when it comes to the overall price of your new instrument. In short, you don’t have to really pay for these either. A lot of schools or clubs will offer free instructions after school to help kids benefit from the skills. However, if there’s no program like this in your area then have no fear! You can go online and find piano lessons for any skill range at no extra cost. Try to look on your favorite tutorial sites to see if you can find a set of lessons that suit your needs. You may need a different type of tutorial for everyone in the family, so you may have to do some looking around before you find the perfect match. You may even want to get together as a family to share what you learned and offer tips that you picked up while you were working on your personal lessons. This is a great way to peer-review which will bring comfort to the task and will make new players feel less vulnerable.

Having a piano is a great way to kill some time while adding a great hobby to your down time. With these simple tips you can greatly cut down on the price of your piano and everything that goes along with it. Now, you’ll be able to enjoy this amazing instrument without having to stress over the price tag!

From summer time to late autumn, the fairs are in full swing and ready to bring your family unforgettable memories! Of course, they’re also more than willing to take your money and lots of it. If you’re worried about getting your family to the fair this year then there are some things to consider before you buy your tickets and go. With a little simple planning you’ll be able to find the best discounts on your tickets and purchases before you even set foot on the fair grounds. So, stop stressing about this pricey event because with these tips you could walk out of the fair paying next to nothing for your amazing experience.

1. Buy Tickets Ahead of Time
One of the best things you can do when it comes to the fair is shop early. There’s a lot of reasons for this though. For starters, most of the time when you buy tickets before the fair you’ll get them for at least $10 cheaper. This is a great way to enjoy savings right away and it saves you time too since you won’t have to wait ages at the front gate for entrance. Also, some stores that sell tickets will actually help you cut down on the price when you purchase certain items in their store. If the items are something you need then you’ll be able to get one of the best deals. Some soda companies will also make special cans that can be turned in for a discounted price on a ticket. If you’re going to other events, such as a monster truck show or brew festival, both of which are usually attached to the fair, then you may be able to get a free ticket for the fair with your purchase. With deals like these you’ll wonder why you ever bought tickets at the gate.

2. Look for Discounts
When it comes to savings, you should actually do a little digging so you can ensure you’re going to save the maximum amount on your trip to the fair. The first thing you may want to look for is special days that will help your family save. For starters, most fairs will have a special evening dedicated to children, the elderly, military or first responders. You may want to check out which of these evenings will take off the most money, so you can maximize savings. Apart from the special night dedicated to these groups, you may also get a discount on your tickets, so make sure to ask whenever you make a purchase. Military and first responder discounts may depend on the store in which you buy them, so you might want to call around before you make your final decision. Of course, if your disabled, a member of a specific club or you intend to work at the fair, you may also find great discounts.

3. Go Early
One of the best things you can do for your family and your budget is to leave early for the fair. In the summer temperatures tend to rise pretty quickly, so if you head to the fair early enough, you can get a lot of the fun out of the way before the heat kicks in. This can be especially important at the height of summer, as if you’re out past 11 in the morning, you could end up feeling sick and tired due to heat exhaustion. Try to show up when the fair opens so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the rides and outdoor games. Before the heat kicks in grab a bite to eat and then go inside. There’s usually a lot of things to see and so indoors and it will give the family a chance to wind down before heading home. Not to mention, if you show up early, you’ll usually beat the crowds which means more games, rides and activities without the huge lines.

4. Keep Hydrated
If there’s one thing you should do to make your time at the fair amazing, it’s definitely keep everyone hydrated. When it’s hot outside, you need a lot more water to keep your body going. This is especially true with the elderly and children. Without the proper amount of water, they could easily be at risk for a heat stroke. So, look ahead of time to see if you can bring your own drinks into the park. If so, carrying around a backpack of water bottles it shouldn’t be too difficult. You could also bring your own personalized reusable cups. If the cups have a filter then you can fill them up just about anywhere you go. If not, then you should be able to find a proper water fountain to suit your needs. If you have to buy drinks at the fair then consider purchasing a big cup. Usually stands will fill it up for water for free or you can pay a small refill fee. If you all share a cup, everyone should get what they need for a lot less.

5. Share Food
Although it’s a lot cheaper to pass up the food at the fair, it is often too tempting to do so. Some fair foods are one of a kind or are something you’ll only be able to buy once a year, so a lot of people are more than willing to hand over the money for these treats. Fair food is pretty pricey though, which can cause a big problem if you’re on a tight budget. The only saving grace about fair food is the fact that portions are actually really big. So, instead of wasting a small fortune on foods, try to find something the entire family is going to enjoy. Once you have your order, everyone can have a share of the dish. This won’t just cut down on money, big time, but it will also help prevent any major stomach aches while you’re outside. Considering most fair foods are fried or greasy, you’ll be glad you didn’t eat the entire corn dog or fried twinkie on your own.

6. Coupon Book
A lot of fairs will actually offer a coupon book for their customers. Sometimes these can be bought with your tickets, while other times they are offered by groups that are running fundraisers. All the same, they are generally priced fairly, so you shouldn’t have to spend an arm and a leg on the book. These books come in handy in many different aspects. For starters, they will offer plenty of freebies. From refills to a game or ride, you’ll be thankful for your freebie when you’re running out of money. Sometimes, the coupon will allow you a freebie with the purchase of something, which works out great if you have children. One of the best coupons is for drinks and beverages, which are perfect when everyone begins to lose energy at the fair. You may even be lucky enough to get a major discount on tickets for some of the main events.

7. Concerts
One of the best things to do at the concert is to sit back and listen to music. Luckily, most fairs include concerts in the price of their tickets, so you can easily take this time to cool down and grab some food. Sometimes the concerts will feature local bands of famous covers bands which may strike your fancy. Larger fairs even manage to add a few big names to the ticket, but you should always try to be early for these concerts as they will fill up fast. When you settle down for the concert you may want to consider bringing a blanket. This is perfect for picnics, but it also makes a great place for little ones to lay down and nap while you enjoy the music. Of course, if they’re not of the napping age then let them use some of the goodies they got at the fair, such as a coloring books and crayon.

8. Freebies
Chances are, if you know where to look, you’re going to end up with a lot of freebies while you’re at the fair, which may make you feel a lot better about paying the admission price. Of course, you’re probably not going to get any of the freebies if you stay outdoors the entire time. Generally, outside usually has a few free shows, but apart from that the real action is either indoors or a specific section of the fair that’s dedicate to merchants. A lot of people will show up free sample of their goodies, special gifts and other items you can take home with you. The fair usually has a great petting zoo or educational areas for kids to learn more about agriculture, which is a lesson you may not be able to give them any other way. Last but not least, you’ll most likely be able to enjoy a local art show, which is a great way to get acquainted with local artists.

9. Ride/Game Pass
A lot of people go to the fair for one reason and that is, games and rides. Of course, these are some of the priciest things to do while you’re at the fair. With rides ranging over $2 a ride and games even more expensive, there’s no doubt that you could go broke at the fair if you’re not paying attention. Luckily, a lot of fairs will offer passes that can help you save a whole lot of money. You can buy these in advance or at the door, so make sure to ask whenever you get your tickets. Generally, you will get a special wrist band or card that shows just how many rides or games you can play. The fair usually offers a bulk price on these, so you won’t end up paying the same as you would per ride or game. This should help you get more fun out of your time at the fair without leaving you completely broke after trying out each ride or game.

10. Don’t Drive
If you’re local, driving your car to the fair can be one of the worst things you can do. For starters, you’re going to have to make it through traffic just to get to the fair, which is a huge tourist attraction. When you finally arrive, you’ll be asked to pay parking fees which can range from $10 and up. Even after paying for your parking spot, your journey isn’t quite over. Actually, the battle to find a parking spot has just begun, which could take a whole lot of time out of your day. Usually, the parking lots are packed, so driving around is only going to cost you more money by wasting gasoline. When you finally get a spot, you get to look forward to getting out of the parking lot and making your way through traffic, just to get back home. If you can, try to walk or ride bikes to the fair. Of course, public transit is always a great way to go that could save you a whole lot of money. Some fairs will even have shuttles, so it you’re looking to save you may want to find out where this service picks up and if it cost anything.

Hanging out at the fair is a great way to bond with family and friends. For generations, people have loved the rides, games, food and shows, so make sure you don’t miss out due to a tight budget. With any luck, you’ll be able to have a blast without having to worry about your spending.

August is here which means back to school, last minute vacations and a whole lot of other expenses that may leave you scrambling to get control of your household’s budget. Even though expenses may be high this month, there’s still a few things you can actually save money on, which may come in handy in the upcoming months. With a few savings to get you through this busy and fast paced month, you may receive a breath of fresh air for all of your hard working juggling the budget. So, take a look around your home and see if any of these items will help you save even more cash in the long run.

1. Linens
If your linen closest is looking a little bare then this is the month to stock up on items such as towels and sheets. This month is popular for back to school sales, which includes items for kids taking off for their first stay in a dorm room. You may see items like twin sized sheets on sale more than other items, but if you have children then this is a great time to stock up to ensure they have what they need to stay comfortable. This doesn’t mean that larger sheet sizes won’t also be on sale though, so make sure to look. Often, a lot of these items will make it to the clearance rack too, so don’t forget to comb over the area to see if you can find something that strikes your fancy. Of course, if you’re looking to save, don’t fall for a lot of the thread count gimmicks. Towels are another must have for this month. Generally, a good towel can cost an arm and a leg, but with the college dorm sales going on you can easily take to the sales rack and stock up your home. Of course, don’t forget to look for items like blankets and comforters too as they will also have some pretty amazing discounts.

2. Canning Supplies
Autumn is a great time for canning, so make sure you’re prepared for the abundance of delicious produce that is about to head your way. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should over look today’s produce either. Now may be the time to enjoy jamming your favorite berries and creating tasty tomato dishes. All the same, you’re going to need an abundance of canning supplies to take care of business. Now is definitely the season to buy them though. Canning isn’t as popular right now so a lot of the supplies will be on sale. You’ll definitely want to check out mason jar sets, but don’t forget other items like canning salts and a special pot. Buying these supplies on sale are a great way to start your family out on the savings, especially since the food will help you get through the winter.

3. Office Supplies
If your office is looking a bit bare then it may be time to stock up on some goodies in order to keep you running efficiently throughout the rest of the year. Since it is back to school season, you’re in luck. All of the paper, pens and minor accessories like post-its and paper clips will definitely be on sale to help you save the maximum amount of money. Of course, an office needs more than just these things to survive. Luckily, printers, ink and other major office buys will also have some major discounts that may entice you to buy. Of course, if you’re looking for these items, you may want to stop by your local office supply store. Many are actually having closing out sales, so you should be able to find what you need on clearance. This includes the desk and comfortable chair you’ve had your eyes on for some time.

4. Summer Apparel
Sure, summer is almost over, but that doesn’t mean the heat won’t be hanging around for a little while longer. Thus, when you’re shopping for school clothes, you may want to keep in mind that the summer heat is currently reaching its peak, so cooler clothes are going to be a must for a while. Of course, you can always shop ahead for next year too. Try buying a size or two bigger so that everyone will be able to have comfortable clothes the moment the heat returns. Luckily, summer clothes are already starting to hit the clearance racks, especially as back to school clothes move in. Everyone is getting ready to look their best for autumn, so the summer stock gets pushed to the side, which means even more savings for you. Try to stock up on shorts if you can because they’re always a must have for the entire family. Of course, you can also look for shorts that can double as gym clothes, especially for kids who must take in their own clothing for P.E. Also, you may want to consider swim suits and other summer must haves before the clothes leave the shelves entirely.

5. Seeds
If you’re planning a garden next season, or if you want to get a jump start on your autumn planting, then now is the time to pick up your seeds. August is actually when seeds are at their cheapest, so you should be able to find even the most expensive of seeds at an affordable price. Better yet, a lot of places will actually give away seeds, which will come in handy if you’re still on a tight budget. With the last of the summer harvests happening, seeds are readily available and often people have more than they can handle. You may want to check on local boards, like Craigslist, to see if anyone has something that you’d like. You may also look around to see if items like soil or containers for seedlings are also on sale. With any luck, you can find just what you need to make an impact on your garden as soon as the correct season rolls around.

6. Patio Furniture
The days of hanging out with friends and family on the porch aren’t over yet. Luckily, in August, you should be able to get the set you’ve had your eye on all summer. This month, patio furniture takes a huge dip in sales which is certainly going to make it even more enticing to replace your old and worn out set with a little something new. Usually, it is best to buy the set rather than individual pieces, but if it suits you to buy items separately you should still be able to get a great discount on each item you choose. Of course, it may be wise to grab some weather proofing items before you set your new furniture out as the dry season will soon be changing. Also, if you want to start next season off with a bang then you might want to consider leaving your new items boxed away and presenting them when the good weather strikes again.

7. Laptops
The moment we’ve all been waiting for is here! Laptops are finally at a great price. Of course, with back to school sales come the great savings on laptops for all of the college newbies heading to their first year. So, now may be the time to start shopping around for the model you’ve had your eyes on. Make sure you browse through as many back to school sales as you possibly can in order to compare more prices. Also, you may want to download a shopping app which will help you figure out who has the best item. Sometimes, the app will even help you reserve the item so you won’t have to miss out on the awesome deal. If you’re coming up empty on laptop deals then don’t be afraid to hold out. This month usually brings tax free weekends, so keep an eye out for this major sales event. Also, some stores will begin Labor Day sales early, which will also offer big sales on laptops. Of course, make sure you’re getting the laptop that’s right for you in order to reap more advantages.

8. Winter Travel Deals
It doesn’t matter if you’re currently on your vacation or you just got home, right now is the perfect time to start booking your winter vacation. If you can secure time off at the office then try to get everything taken care of as soon as you can. This is especially true if you’re going to be staying at a ski lodge at some point during the season. The slopes generally open up in October, which, believe it or not, isn’t too far away! If you get a spot early in the season you may not have to worry about crowds, which will come in handy if you want to get the most out of your vacation. Of course, if a ski resort isn’t on your agenda you should still book soon. This is especially true if you intend on traveling during the holiday as some locations fill up insanely fast. Also, booking early for abroad locations is also a must so you can get all of your VISA information in. This is especially true when it comes to airfare, but always try to get a deal that allows you to change your flight without a fee.

9. Snow Equipment
You may be dreading the idea of shoveling snow already, especially after the amount the country got last year. However, if you want to keep ahead of the game and save some big money, then you might want to look into buying your snow gear in August. There’s lots of great deals on the items, especially since many companies are prepping to put out new models in the upcoming months. So, you should be able to find a lot of your must have items on clearance or sales aisles. One important item you should look for during this month is snow blowers. They’ll probably offer you the biggest savings, so don’t wait if you need one. Of course, you should also be able to find a lot of other items on sale too. Try to look for tire chains, ice scraper and items to help prevent slick surfaces on your sidewalks and driveways. Of course, if you plan on going the old fashioned way then a snow shovel is probably incredibly easy and cheap to find during this time too.

10. Summer Produce
Sadly, the summer produce is about to out of season, so now is the perfect time to stock up on your favorite items. Melons and many berries, for starters, will soon make a huge price leap which may make your budget grow too. Luckily, these items are incredibly easy to transform into other dishes so that you can make precooked meals for all of those busy school afternoons. You may also want to consider freezing a lot of the items so you can enjoy them throughout the year. You can easily place them in freezer bags, make them into pies or turn them into preserves to help stretch the summer supply further. Many of the summer fruits make great additions to holiday celebrations, so don’t forget to take that into consideration when you’re planning a budget. After all, the less you spend on your holiday meals during the holiday, the better off your budget will be.

Shopping in August is sure to leave you feeling great about everything you bought. You’ll no longer have to fear your shopping bills for this month since there’s so many amazing things to save on. With a little shopping know how, your experience may surprise you and keep your budget down in the upcoming months.

Every work day seems to start out the same way. A long and tedious commute that not only forces you to get out of bed sooner, but also robs you of your much needed free time. Of course, your entertainment time isn’t the only thing a commute can rob you of. Chances are, if you’re spending a lot of time in your vehicle during the work week, then you’re losing out on a whole lot of money too. Although it’s pretty hard to get around a commute, there’s some simple solutions that may help you save a whole lot of money simply by driving to work. Even though time can’t be saved, with a little extra money in the bank you may feel a bit better about each commute.

1. Keep Up With Maintenance
Everyone knows there’s a few things that need to be done to a vehicle in order to keep it street worthy. However, many people ignore this general knowledge or completely space it until it is too late. Believe it or not, but your routine maintenance can really change up your work commute. Making sure your tires are aired up properly is one of the best things you can do, not only for your vehicle but for your safety. When your tires aren’t aired up right you have a greater chance of dealing with a blowout when you’re on the road. It can also cause havoc on your gas mileage too, so try to do a quick sweep of the tires before you get in the car each morning. Another thing to keep track of is your oil changes. Running on bad oil is terrible for a car and could lead to greater problems down the road, which may cost a fortune to fix. There’s many other things to keep track of, but if you start out with these two you’ll notice major changes faster.

2. Use Gas Apps
There’s a pretty good chance that you have to stop to fuel up quite a bit, especially if your commute is on the long side. Instead of just pulling into any ole gas station, or your favorite brand name station, try to power up your cell to find the best gas prices around. There’s lots of apps that will actually pin point your location and tell you where to find the cheapest fuel within a certain mileage of your area. Some of the apps will even GPS route the location, so you don’t have to do anything but drive. This can really come in handy when you’re planning your route, as you can allot for time to stop or take a small detour for the fuel. Of course, make sure you do your planning before you get on the road. Playing with your phone while driving is not something you want to do, no matter the circumstance.

3. Telecommute
Recently, the telecommuting trend as come into play, which has really made a lot of employees happy. Today, more and more companies are picking up this practice in order to save money and to help their employees work more efficiently. The best way to start up telecommuting is to talk to your supervisor about it. If your company already has a program then you should be able to do this without a problem. Of course, if it isn’t something your company has tried before then you may have a bit of a wait time to see what their verdict is. If you do have this option, try to take advantage of it two or more times a week in order to cut down on the amount you have to commute. You’ll need a nice quiet place to work, but apart from that, your work day should be a little less stressful when you use this method. It’s even great for staying home with sick kids as it helps you avoid taking time off. All in all, this method is a great money saver for all parties involved.

4. Sneak in Errands
If you’re always busy, then you may want to sneak in some errands during your commute. This will not only save you a bit of time during your off period, but will also save on gas. If you have errands near your work place then you should take care any of these, within reason on your way to or from work. You may even get a few things settled during your lunch hour. This comes in handy because you don’t have to use the fuel you would normally use to complete the task during your off hours. Plus, it may give you a good reason to justify the commute when you’re feeling frustrated with the amount of money you have to spend to get to work each day.

5. Alter Driving Habits
You may not believe it, but one key factor to saving on money during your commute is to alter the way you drive. There’s lots of bad habits people pick up over time that actually cause you to use more fuel and do more damage to your car. One habit is putting the pedal to the metal. A lot of people love to speed to work and back home, so they can get their daily commute over. The only problem is, most cars don’t use fuel efficiently after they pass the 65 MPH mark. This should be the speed you try to travel on a regular basis, as it is both safe and will save you a couple of trips to the gas station. Acceleration is also a major problem for many. When people move onto the on ramp they want to go fast in order to merge. However, instead of building up to the speed, they accelerate so fast that they waste a lot of fuel. Another thing you can change about your driving habits is when you leave. Sometimes a few minutes can make a huge difference in regards to a commute. For instance, you may want to toy around with when you leave for a week or two. You may find it amusing that leaving a couple minutes earlier may get you to work a whole lot faster. Avoiding rush hour traffic by doing this can also cut down on the fuel you burn sitting around in traffic. Also, try to avoid using the air conditioner or heater when you can. You may be surprised by how much this helps.

6. Buy a Fast Trak
Most places in the country have Fast Trak passes now. Basically, this pass allows you to go in the carpool lane no matter how many people you have in the car with you. Of course, if you love to carpool then you don’t have to worry about the expense. Also, if you have a hybrid or electric car then you automatically get a pass to drive in this lane. However, for those who are simply looking to speed up commute times and save some money, the pass is well worth it. Typically the carpool lane isn’t packed, so you’ll get to drive with great traffic conditions the entire way to work. Also, a lot of carpool lanes go around detours, which could save you overall mileage. The big savings factor when it comes to the carpool lane is you’ll use less gas, overall. You’ll also end up on a road that isn’t going to do your tires in, which is an added bonus.

7. Carpool
If you live near people from work then it may be wise to get together and carpool as often as you can. It doesn’t matter how many days you do it, as even one day will cut down on expenses. If you have at least 3 other people to carpool with then there’s a good chance you’ll only end up driving to work once a week, which means huge savings on your end. Carpools are also great for getting in last minute work, or sleep, when you’re not the one driving. Of course, it could also help you bond in your work place so you don’t feel as bummed out on Monday morning when you get to work. One of the major bonuses of the carpool is you’ll get to take the carpool lane, as mentioned above. This cuts time and fuel off of each trip and will mean less worry while someone else is behind the steering wheel.

8. Take Public Transit
A lot of people stray away from public transit because they don’t really want to deal with the public first thing in the morning. Some people may feel that public transit takes too long too, which can be a problem in many areas. However, if you’re looking to cut money off of your commute then taking a bus, trail or trolley may be the way to go. Most locations will allow you to buy a transit pass, which will cut a great deal off your travel money when you commute this way. It may also give you a bit of time to relax each morning so you can enjoy a book, listen to music or catch up on some work you forgot to do the day before. If you’re not keen on riding the bus with a lot of people then you may want to see if your city offers public cycles. This new program will allow you to rent and return a bike for a great price, which is perfect for anyone whose commute isn’t too far.

9. Ask for Employee Programs
If you’re having problems keeping up with commuting prices then you may want to consider talking to your company about the issue. A lot of companies will have programs set up to lend a helping hand to employees that may need to make long distant commutes. Now, this doesn’t mean they’ll pay for your fuel every day, but often they will have a program that provides you with some relief, may it be adding a commuting grant to your pay or offering you a company gas card. Even if your company doesn’t offer financial help, they may be able to find you a ride if you’re having car troubles or help you find people you can carpool with. Some companies even have official carpool services which will allow you to head to work in a company vehicle with other employees.

10. Tax Deductions
Finding a way to rid you of some of your commuting debt may be frustrating. If you don’t have the time to look or follow up leads that may aid you, then a tax deduction might be the right thing to wait for. If you talk to your accountant, you may find that the government will refund some commute money if you qualify. Of course, this means you need to save all of your fueling receipts to prove how much you spent throughout the year. If you do receive the deduction then you can put this money towards a more eco-friendly vehicle or to help pay for gas for the following year. Of course, if you do purchase a hybrid car, electric car or motorcycle, then you may already have money coming back to you for your commuting purchase.

Traveling to and from work is pretty frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be costly either. There’s ways to work around the financial burden of commuting that can help you feel a little less burdened by the realities of getting to and from work. With these tips, you should be able to budget less of your paycheck for commuting costs and more for something you’d enjoy a bit more.

It’s never been a better time to buy a laptop. With prices significantly decreasing from their original price tags, this piece of technology is more affordable than ever. That doesn’t mean that they’re easy to purchase on a tight budget though. However, if you’re looking to keep to a budget then there are a few useful tips you may want to follow if you plan on buying a laptop any time soon. With the right shopping tips, you should be able to walk out of the store with a laptop that won’t just meet your expectations, but will actually surprise you in regards to price. So, whether you’re sending a child away to college or just want something for recreation or business use, these tips are sure to lead you in the right direction.

1. Buy Used/Refurbished
If you’re in need of a laptop, you don’t have to go straight for the brand new section. In fact, if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to check out what’s going on in regards to the used and refurbished section. Just to clarify, a used computer is a device that has been used by someone else; whereas, a refurbished computer has been used and then repaired to meet company standards for a brand new computer. Although buying a used computer is usually safe, if you choose a reputable vendor, you may want to opt for the refurbished option if you want the laptop to last a while. This is especially the case if you plan on buying a Mac. Generally, these laptops cost an arm and a leg, but when you buy refurbished they come with a certification that guarantees quality. So, you’ll spend a fraction of the price on a laptop that is capable of doing just about anything and will last for quite some time.
2. Reconsider Ad Ons
When you choose a computer, you usually don’t notice that they have lots of ad ons already installed. These are usually at the front of the store because they cost more and stores would rather see them fly off the shelves. There is, of course, a model that doesn’t have the ad on options, which will be significantly cheaper. You may have to ask for this one though. Of course, if you order online then you’ll get the option which is quite helpful for the whole shopping experience. If you’re not sure if you should skip on the ad ons then make a side to side comparison of the computers. Look at one option that the cheaper model left off, say the webcam, and see how much it would cost for you to buy an actual webcam. If the cost is less then you should definitely go with the basic model. A lot of the add ons you won’t actually need, such as some software, so don’t feel too bad about buying the cheaper model and buying the extras as you want or need them.
3. Make It Upgradeable
Sometimes it is hard to avoid the desire to have many of the items that bring up the price of the computer. For instance, extra memory is a huge deal for a lot of people and often, they’ll go ahead and spend the extra money just because they want that memory. If you look for a computer that is easily upgradeable then you won’t have to worry about the huge upfront fees. Instead, you upgrade different elements of your computer over time to help create your dream machine. This allows you to make a cheaper purchase while actually keeping your computer running properly for quite a bit of time longer than you would by simply purchasing the pricey already made computer of your dreams. Everything from processors, graphics cards and batteries can be upgraded when you can afford them, so don’t worry if your simple machine isn’t what you’ve always dreamed of. When you go shopping, make sure you check with your salesman to make sure the upgrades are possible without having to take your laptop into a shop.
4. Research Brands
Buying off brand or generic products is usually a good idea, but when it comes to laptops you may want to stick to the names you know. When you’re shopping around, try to make a list of the brand names of the laptops you’re looking at. Before you go back to the store and spend the money, you should do a bit of research on each one. Generally, you can find a lot of accounts on review sites which will come in handy. This can even help you decide if it is the right laptop for you, so you don’t have to stress over getting something that won’t be a good fit. Make sure to check out a few websites though so you can get an unbiased account of what you’re thinking of buying. Before you decide, you may also do a little research on common problems for each brand. This can be equally important and will help you determine if you may be choosing a computer that is going to be extinct in just a couple of months.
5. Consider Warranties
Warranties can be a sore subject for a lot of laptop consumers, so make sure to be careful when you decide if you want to purchase one for yourself. Basically, most of computers come with at least a one year warranty that will enable you to get repairs done without worry. However, most stores will also try to sell you a warranty. These usually cover damage and will even get you a new computer if something tragic happens to yours. The downside is, these cost an arm and a leg and usually don’t last more than a couple of months to a year. Most of the time, you’re not going to destroy your brand new computer in a couple of months. Although bad things happen, it may help you save money if you get in touch with your optimistic side at the checkout counter. If you have questions about the manufacturer or store’s warranty then make sure you ask before you hand over your money.
6. Shop Around
One of your best defenses to spending too much money on a laptop is to actually shop around. A lot of stores will advertise they are having special sales, when in fact the prices don’t drop any lower than you’d see at another store. A lot of people also assume that warehouse stores automatically sell these devices at a lower price, which often isn’t the case. Even online prices can be deceiving. Some websites will offer a great price and then tack on so many fees that you’ll be seeing stars when you see the grand total. So, instead of just taking the first price you see, make sure you look at a few different options to ensure you can save even more than you’d thought possible. You never know, the store you least expect may be the one that offers you the best price of all. If you don’t want to spend hours on your search, then you could download a shopping app that can offer you the best deal in mere seconds. You may even be able to reserve your laptop ahead of time.
7. Discounts
Who doesn’t love a discount? Luckily, when you’re shopping for a laptop, you’re privy to three different kinds of laptops. For starters, you may want to look for an actual sale. Back to school time, Black Friday and even some patriotic holidays offer great prices on these items. Of course, sales vary by store, so you don’t have to wait for a major event to look for a good price. Once you get the sale aspect out of the way, you might want to start browsing around for coupons. Manufacturer coupons are always great, but if you can find a coupon for a large percentage off at the store of your choice, then you’ll be doing even better. You may want to make sure the coupon is valid with a sale though. If not, then you may want to weight your options to see which is going to save you the most money. Finally, there’s the rebate. This is one of the best discounts out there. Sure, you have to pay full price for the item first, but when you mail in the rebate and receive it, it’ll feel like Christmas. The most important thing you can do when you get your new laptop is to fill out and mail in the rebate. A lot of people don’t even bother with this, but it only takes a few minutes and you can get hundreds back!
8. Energy Efficient
One of the big things you’re going to want to look for when it comes to your new laptop is a lovely sticker that proclaims it is energy efficient. Usually this will be a company called Energy Star, but new companies are popping up all of the time! You don’t want to buy a device that isn’t energy efficient. For starters, it probably means it’s outdated because most laptops now come with it. It also means that it’s going to cost you a whole lot more when it comes to your power bill. If spending more money every month doesn’t make you cringe, then choose the energy efficient device for planet Earth, your great grandkids will thank you.
9. Skip Newer Models
When you’re picking out your new laptop, you may not want to go for the newest models on the market. These will probably cost a hundred or two more than the other laptops, which isn’t going to help out with your budget. Instead, check out some of last year’s models first. They will last you just as long since they’re still brand new and won’t cost you to miss out on any new features. Typically, new models feature very little new content, they just have a more sparkly design to draw you in. As long as you stay within a year or two, you should be running the latest necessary technology and operating systems. Of course, choosing an older model could prove helpful considering many new operating systems often have bugs that need to be worked out.
10. Use Anti-Virus
Part of having a new laptop is to protect it. As soon as you power on your laptop, you could end up with something nasty that can do some pretty bad damage to your system. You don’t want your new programs bogged down with potentially harmless items, so make sure to get an anti-virus installed as soon as you have the internet connection to do so. There’s actually a lot of affordable anti-virus programs to choose from, so you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg if you’re not looking for that kind of protection. Some programs are even free, but make sure you do a little research on them before you download. Reviews and blogs about the program are usually the best sources if you choose to go the free route. Of course, if you order your internet via a cable company then there is a good chance that they offer you a free anti-virus just for being a customer. If you’re not sure call and ask or browse around their website. You may be surprised at the quality of program they offer. Plus, it’ll keep your new machine running strong a lot longer.

Buying a new laptop can be scary if you don’t have the money to spend. Don’t fret though! These ten tips should help you figure out just what you need to find a laptop that is affordable and durable. With any luck, you won’t have to worry about the expense for a few more years after you purchase your new device.

Soon enough, it will be time for parents to help their new students move into dorms, or for new students to take a bold leap and start a fresh new life. This can be a scary time for both parents and students in many regards. Although entering a new chapter in life is scary, the financial aspect of the new life may leave you waking up in a cold sweat each night. There’s a few things you can always buy to help keep your dorm room expenses down. With a few simple items, the stress of being out on your own may not seem as bad. Plus, parents will be able to rest a bit easier knowing that their student will have what they need to get their school work done.

1. Printer
There’s a lot of buzz about many professors accepting digital files as homework, which could be cause for celebration in the near future. However, today, it is pretty much a given that your professor is going to ask you to print out each essay and written exam that you do. No, hand written work won’t fly, even when you’re in a bind! So, it may be wise to invest in a small printer. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy the priciest on the market. You can easily find one for about $30 at most department stores. However, you should also try to find one that offers cheap ink replacement prices. Of course, by printing on quick print the ink should last a lot longer than you’d expect, especially if you’re only printing essays. Although most school facilities will allow you print there, it usually means paying per page. This really adds up fast though, especially if you’re in a writing course.

2. Mattress Topper
Although it may seem like a luxury item, a mattress topper will become a student’s best friend in no time at all. Typically, dorm room mattresses aren’t exactly the most comfortable thing to lay on, which can cause students aches and pains. Of course, one of the more worrisome side effects of the bad mattress is the sheer fact that students will begin to lose out on sleep. This doesn’t just cause health problems to arise, but it can also force a student’s grades to slip. With a mattress topper, students can actually enjoy their college experience, fight off colds, take on challenging classes and get the sleep their young bodies need. You don’t have to worry about spending too much on a mattress topper either. In some department stores, you can find them for less than $20.

3. Organizers
Well, it’s no secret that dorm rooms are small. In most cases, there’s simply not enough space to fit in all of a student’s stuff, which leads to major downsizing. Of course, one way to fix this problem is to check out organizational devices. You may want to start with the closet, because most closets in dorms may as well not even exist because they are so small. However, if you toss an organizer in there you can fit in more than just clothes. Also, you may want to check out adding another bar, to provide even more hanging space. If the closet has a door, then a storage organizer may come in handy. These are made for a variety of items, including shoes and beauty supplies. If you don’t share a bathroom with the entire dorm, then you may want to grab a shower organizer. This will help keep your stuff out of the way of roommates. They usually make these to fit over the showerhead, but you can also find special shower curtain organizers. Another amazing organizational system to look for is anything that can hang from or go under the bed. Stackable items are also fantastic. Last but not least, you will probably want a desk organizer too. Remember, the more organizational items, the merrier.

4. Message Board
Technology is great in the sense that it can offer quick reminders when we need them. However, for a student it is always better to keep something visible nearby that will be seen whenever they wake up, relax or go to sleep. This is where a message board comes in handy. You can choose from a variety of boards to make life easier. For instance, cork boards are great for students looking for simple ways to decorate without constantly putting holes in the wall. They’re also great for stacking messages and deadlines. Another great option is the white board. This will allow students to leave messages for a roommate, mark down homework assignments and keep track of important dates. Luckily, most of the time these boards won’t cost you an arm and a leg. However, if you’re looking to save even more money then you can always get a little crafty and DIY one to suit your personality.

5. Coffee Make
It may seem like a luxury item, but a coffee maker can do your student a world of good, especially during exam periods. Although some cafeterias will actually place a coffee maker in the area, the cafeteria isn’t always open when a late night study session is underway. Also, sometimes the cafeteria doesn’t add this beverage to meal plans or a cup can actually cost more than your student would like to pay. With this dilemma, students are often tempted to head to the nearest café for a cup of overly priced coffee they’ll regret when they began to sugar crash later in the day. Rather than send your student to school with the coffee bills to follow, it may be wise to buy a cheap little coffee maker. This can easily be kept on the desk and used whenever the need arises. Of course, it can also be used for making other hot beverages like tea and students can also use it food quick noodles when they’re in a hurry. You may want to look at K-cup machines with filters for ground coffee as well as items like a French press. These tend to be the best suited for the dorm.

6. Caddies
Similar to the organizers mentioned above, caddies are one of the most convenient ways for students to carry items around without worrying about forgetting their odds and ends. They make caddies for just about anything you can think of so it may be wise to make a list of what you think you will need them for. One of the most common needs is for the shower. Caddies can hold all of your soaps, razors, hygiene products and flip flops if you choose the right type. They even have caddies designed for wet and dry products, which makes life even more convenient. Another thing you may want a caddie for is laundry supplies. These supplies can be burdensome to lug around, especially if you’re trying to drag a bag of dirty clothes behind you. A couple of other ideas may be for your desk items (paper clips, pens, pencils and so on) or cleaning supplies. Of course if you can find caddies that double as something else, say a laundry bag and caddie combo, then this may be a wise investment. Also, caddies that stack on top of one another is a great option too.

7. Bedding
When it comes to college accessories, bedding is one of the most important things out there. This is going to keep your student warm and comfortable no matter how bad of a day they have. Make sure to look in the dorm room pamphlet to see which sizes of bedding you should buy. Generally, twin sheets and blankets are a great idea, but you may want to leave anything larger at home as it can take up a whole lot of space and leave dorm rooms feeling cluttered. You don’t have to go all out on this expense either. You may even find bringing bedding you already have is the best option, especially since it could help combat any feelings of homesickness your student may have. Of course, you could always make your child a memory blanket that is filled with pictures and comfortable patterns to help make them feel close to home without forcing them to lug around memorable items or pictures with them. Of course, when choosing bedding, you should keep in mind the climate of the region. Choosing a blanket that is great for hot and cold days may be the best option.

8. Fan
If there’s one item of convenience that a student needs, it is definitely a fan. May it be a bedside fan, stand up fan or the biggest one that will fit into the door room, this one object can leave your student feeling comfortable throughout their semester away from home. Fans help prevent small dorm rooms from getting stuffy, which is perfect to help improve moods and make people feel less aggravated while they’re learning to share a space. When the weather is hot, the fan will help keep the student cool, especially if the college dorms don’t keep the area air conditioned.

9. Mini-Vacuum
Although many students may roll their eyes at the prospects of having a mini-vacuum, this little device will come in handy in so many ways throughout the school year. For starters, bugs really love areas where there’s a high population that they can feed on and expand their numbers. So, bed bugs, lice and other unsightly pests may become your child’s roommate before they know it. Vacuuming the bed, ever so often will help prevent this from happening. Of course, you may want to vacuum the bed before it is used anyway since it would have belonged to someone else the semester before. Also, if your student has issues with allergies then this handy tool will save the day. The mini vacuum will make it easy to take care of dust and anything else on the ground. Plus, it’ll come in handy when your student drops popcorn or coffee grounds all over the place.

10. Laptop
So, this one may be a given, but a lot of people do head to college thinking they won’t need a laptop to help with their studies. In short, most schools have a library where you can spend a limited amount of time, but this won’t help when you have a big project due or a long paper that needs typed out. Laptops are pretty much life savers in college and without one your student may fall behind. A lot of students will even use the laptop for taking notes, or recording their professor, which may be a must if your student is in a fast paced course. Apart from the educational logic of the laptop, there’s also the entertainment value. For starters, you student can listen to music, watch movies and play games. This will help inhibit the amount they decide to spend on entertainment too, which is a win for the budget. Also, they can use it to keep in touch which saves on phone bills and will even allow you to see one another via video calling. If money is a huge concern, you can find a decent student laptop for under $200, if you know where to look.

There’s a whole lot that will transform a year in a dorm room, but many of these supplies cost an arm and a leg and your student probably won’t get their money’s worth anyway. With these ten items, your student won’t just feel more comfortable about the life change, but they’ll be able to take college by the horns and become the success that you know they are.

Finding a way to keep your family safe can be time consuming, frustrating and expensive. When it comes to home security, it may take you months before you find the best tips and techniques to help out your household. Of course, it doesn’t help that the numerous home security items on the market are incredibly costly and could leave you in a budget crisis after the first month. There’s no need to fret though, especially when there are tips and techniques that can be incredibly cost effective. In fact, some of the best security techniques won’t just leave your household feeling safer, but they also won’t cost you over $100. So, sit tight and let these ten tips help guide you to the right security for your household.

1. Lighting
When it comes to keep a location secure, nothing does the trick quite like lighting. In fact, even a porch light has been known to detour foul play, because it keeps the home in the spotlight where it is easy to recognize unusual behavior. Of course, running your home’s lighting all of the time can be bad for your electric bill, so you may want to find a few other solutions. For starters, you can easily install motion detector lights in the front and back of the home. These will allow you to keep your house dark, but the second a motion is detected your home will be well lit. You can also install solar lighting in your yard to help keep the home lit at night without having to keeping paying expensive bills. If you tend to be at work until late, or if you’re going on vacation then putting lights on timers can be an excellent way to make the home safer.

2. Security Cameras
If you’re really stressed out about your home’s security or want to know what goes on when you’re away, then security cameras are a great way to go. Try to find a camera or two on clearance and work from there. Generally, they’re less expensive than you think if you can find a good deal, so don’t stress before you even look. When you find the right camera for you, try your best to install it on your own to save even more money. You can hook the cameras up to record on a DVR all day or you can stream the live feed to your phone or laptop. If the cameras aren’t obvious then they may be more of help after the fact, rather than prevention, but all the same you’ll have ample evidence on hand if you ever need it. Of course, exposed cameras do work as a great detour.

3. Home Security Sales
A lot of people choose to go the home security route. There’s nothing wrong with this is if you have the money to spend because it offers a full range of coverage. The only problem is the price for these services can be astronomical if you’re not careful. The best thing you can do is find your system during a sale. This generally means that you will get all of the equipment, an install and a year’s service for one low price. These types of sales are important because it allows you to get the expensive part out of the way for less money. Once the system is set up then it gives you a good chance to try it out and see if it’s worth keeping before you make the commitment. If you’re not keen on the first service you picked then cancel after your contract is up and surf the next sale.

4. DIY Monitor
Home security systems don’t work out for everyone. In fact, some people have horror stories to share about their system. This doesn’t mean they don’t work for some people though! If you’re fed up with your security system and you own the equipment then there are a few ways you can still use it to your advantage. With a few simple things that you can do to your equipment, you can turn your home security system into a self-monitoring guru. If you’re not sure where to start then look up a few tutorials. Try to keep your search honed in on the type of system you have though because this will help ensure success. When you find the perfect tutorial, give it a try. Before long you may have complete control of your home, without having to go through a second party. Many people control their security from their cellphone, which allows you to take control from anywhere. This little technique has saved many people a lot of money, particularly in false alarm fees.

5. Get a Watch Dog
One of the best ways to keep your home secure is to add a four legged friend to the mix. However, I’m not saying go out and get a dog just to keep your home safer. If you do choose to adopt a dog make sure to love it, spoil it and make it a part of the family too. Dogs are great when it comes to security though because they are very firm when it comes to protecting their home and their humans. Usually, it doesn’t matter the size or breed of the dog as these furry friends either scare off or detour some activity. Usually, a dogs barking is enough to send someone running, especially if they’re somewhere they’re not supposed to be. If you’re not secure with just having a dog around, then you may want to take your pet through a special course. There’s many to choose from and the courses may help you bond and improve your pet’s behavior. Of course, dogs can be costly, but they won’t cost you as much as the home security system each month. If you’re worried about the price tag of dog ownership then try to choose a small to medium breed, as the expenses will be a little less.

6. Start a Neighborhood Watch
Believe it or not, but getting to know your neighbors is one of the best ways to avoid criminal activity around your home and your neighborhood. Back in the day, neighbors were tight knit, but now most neighborhoods tend to keep to themselves. By simply introducing yourself to your neighbors, you increase the likelihood that they would call the police if something were wrong on your property. This is especially true when it comes to leaving for vacation as it allows others to know they need to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior. Of course, getting to know the neighbors is only the first step though. You should also consider signing up for a neighborhood watch. With only a few people from the neighborhood on board, you’ll have enough to add a little extra patrolling at night. You’ll also be able to get signs to put in the neighborhood, which will alert others not to bother with your area. You won’t have to go through any special training to do this either, but the options are available if you’re interested.

7. Lock Up
It may seem like common sense to lock up the home, but there’s extra steps you can take to ensure the house is nice and secure. For starters, check all of your locks before you leave the home. Yes, even those awkward upstairs windows and garage doors should be locked before you say bon voyage. If your locks are outdated or don’t seem to be doing the trick then replace them as soon as you can. One of the most important locks is a deadbolt for the front and back doors. You don’t have to get fancy with this, but if you do want a little extra security you may want to consider a keypad lock that will freeze the door if any tampering occurs. If your home has a lot of windows or sliding glass doors, you can add to the security by placing a stick or rod on the track. This can be easily made from an old mop or broom but you can also use items from around the house. This simply stops the window or door from opening if the lock fails.

8. Signs
Another way to keep criminals away from the home are simple signs. For starters, you may want to put up a sign warning about dangerous dogs. It doesn’t matter if you have a dog or not as the sign will put the initial fear of a dog attack in someone’s mind. Also, trespassing signs can help out too, especially if they mention fines. You should also consider getting home security stickers. Even if you don’t have the system anymore or never had one to begin with, the signs can help fool those who want to do harm. Of course, neighborhood watch and other security signs are also a must when keeping your home safe. If you can’t find a sign to your liking then print one, there’s lots of websites that will let you have a little fun with it.

9. Mind Your Landscaping
Foliage can really make your yard beautiful, but it could also be a real hazard to your safety. If you have a lot of foliage then you may want to consider downsizing in order to keep the family safe. One way to do this is to make sure you don’t have trees or shrubs close to the home. These are easy to hide in, which can be unsafe. If you do want to line the home with shrubs, make sure they’re cut low and aren’t thick and bushy. Trees can be another huge problem, especially if they are low to the ground or if their trunk is very thick. If you have a willow tree or other similar foliage then you might want to consider trimming it more than normal to help prevent it being used as a dangerous hiding place. Of course, if you have a tree house or playhouse built around a tree then you may want to make sure these items are secure and away from the house too.

10. Be an Illusionist
When you’re on a tight budget, being an illusionist can do you a whole lot of favors. For starters, when you’re not home try to run a battery or solar powered radio. It puts off noise which could make a potential burglar believe someone is actually home. You should also keep your lights on a timer to help create the illusion that you are home. This will also save power as you won’t have to leave a light on 24/7 when you’re on vacation. Another way to help keep the home safe is to utilize blinds and curtains whenever possible. These items help people from seeing inside, which can lead them to believe someone is home or prevent them from seeing anything they may want to take. You can also use the aluminum foil on the window technique, especially during the summer time. Last but not least, if you’re on a tight budget then you may want to consider buying faux security cameras. They won’t actually record, but a lot of them do look like the real deal, which can make someone stop in their tracks right away.

Keeping your home secure is tough, especially in this day and age, so don’t let money discourage you. There’s plenty of easy things to do to give your home extra security, especially when you can’t pay an arm and a leg for it. With these ten tips, you should be able to stress less about your household when you’re away.

It may seem hard to believe that school will be starting in just a few short weeks. Although many people may feel that it’s still a bit too early to start shopping for school supplies, shopping now can help you earn some major frugal shopper points. This time of the year can be really hard on the budget, especially if you have children in secondary school. All the same, there’s some simple ways you can get more out of your school supply budget, so you don’t have to dip into savings or your entertainment budget. With these few helpful tips, you can get the supplies out of the way so you can worry about your child’s wardrobe and other school related costs.

1. Don’t Wait for the List
Every year, teachers take their time to come up with a list of supplies your student is going to need throughout the year. If your child’s future teacher waits too long then there’s a good chance you could miss out on some major deals. So, why wait? If your student has been in school already then you probably have a pretty good idea of most of the things they’re going to need. For instance, pens, paper, pencils and a backpack are pretty much a given. These items can be bought best in bulk and will ensure you already have the basic supplies your student needs. Of course, you should always stock up on tissues and other odds and ends that always seem to make the list whenever they hit the sales rack. This can be throughout the year, so watch out for the best deals. When it comes to folders, crayons and notebooks, you may want to hold out for the list as it would be a shame to buy the wrong color of something.

2. Shop at Home
Your home may be the answer you’re looking for to save big time on school supplies. Before you prepare to spend lots of money on school supplies, you may want to look around the house first. Sometimes, you’ll be able to find the right amount of pencils and pens to suit your child’s school supply list. Often, school supplies from previous years go unused, such as notebooks, paper packages, map colors and highlighters. Don’t feel bad about tossing these items in your child’s backpack as it will save you money and prevent you from wasting the item. You may also want to consider reusing lightly used folders and binders, as this will help cut down on most of your spending. Of course, skipping out on new backpacks and lunch pails can also save a lot. Make sure you check them out thoroughly to ensure they won’t break mid-semester. With all of the supplies you find in your own home, you’ll be surprised as to how little you need to buy at the store.

3. Coupons
Before you start your school supply shopping adventure, make sure you look for the best coupons around. Usually, your local stores should start sending out coupons for school supplies fairly early, but it also may do you some good to browse around online to see if there’s any more you can print out. One place to look for great deals is on a manufacture’s page. Often they will post direct savings that will work at any store. You should also pay attention to double coupon deals, which will help save you even more on the supplies. If you can combine your best coupons on top of a sales price, then you should walk away with a bundle of school supplies for a whole lot less than you planned.

4. Dollar Store
When it comes to school supplies, you may want to skip out on the department store and head straight for your local dollar store to see what deals they have to offer you. Dollar stores can offer huge savings on school supplies, especially if they’re a one dollar or less store. This will allow you to get nice pens and pencils for a fraction of the cost of other stores. Usually, you will be able to buy a few packages of paper, several notebooks and folders, plus a binder without breaking the $10 mark. Another thing to look for when you shop at the dollar store is lunch boxes. They may not be the sturdiest of lunch boxes, but they’ll safely transport your child’s food from point A to point B without forcing you to waste paper or plastic bags. Of course, the one thing you should probably avoid from the dollar store is backpacks. Whereas many dollar stores will offer them for around $10, you may find yourself shopping for a new backpack many different times during the school year.

5. Second Hand
Don’t think twice about using second hand items for your child in school. One of the best places to shop is a thrift store as they will often place gently used school supplies on a special display. Usually, these items will be zip-up binders, lunch boxes and backpacks but you may also find packs of paper and other items that people have donated to help out. When it comes to the thrift store, you may be surprised at some of the items you may find. For instance, you may fall in love with a vintage lunchbox that is right up your child’s alley. Also, they may have backpacks that are in great shape. Of course, you could also shop yard sales for these items. Another good way to get what you need is to ask friends and family if they have old items. Sometimes kids will end up with several themed backpacks or lunchboxes that simply collect dust. Don’t forget to pass down supplies from sibling to sibling too as this will help cut down on the price, especially if you have kids that follow the same interests.

6. Go Generic
Another mistake that many people make quite frequently is they will buy expensive name brand products. Most of the time, this won’t do you any good because they tend to be double to triple the cost of other supplies. One of the worst name brand things you can buy is tissues for the class. Most teachers ask for two or three of these boxes, which really adds up in the long run. You should also look for crayons, markers and colored pencils in a generic brand. Of course, some items that are off brand may not work as well, such as glue sticks. However, if you know your child isn’t going to be using their own supplies, or if they’re in the early stages of school, then the off brand shouldn’t make a difference. Also, you may want to skip out on buying themed products. Anything with your child’s favorite character on it is going to cost a bit more than the other supplies. This can really wear into the budget and may be frustrating when you find out your student has to share supplies with the entire class. Instead of shopping for themes, try to pick out items in their favorite colors which will make it easier for both of you if you find out your student doesn’t get to keep the expensive character pencils for themselves.

7. Don’t Skimp on the Backpack
When it comes to school supplies, the backpack is going to be the one area where you’re going to want to concentrate the majority of the budget. Sure, it may seem wrong to buy a pricey backpack and cheap supplies, but you’ll be thankful when you don’t have to buy two or three backpacks during the school year. It seems like every year, kids come home with heavier backpacks, even in the early grades! So, you’ll need something that stands up to the wear and tear of your child’s epic homework assignments. When it comes to older kids, you may really want to splurge. If you buy a hefty backpack you could end up not having to buy another backpack for the rest of the middle and high school careers. Sure, it may not be fashionable for them, but a trustworthy backpack will ensure they won’t have to suffer the embarrassment of all of their school supplies falling out of the bottom of their bag. Make sure to check out stitching when you shop and look for reviews.

8. Bulk Buys
When it comes to school supplies, try to shop in bulk whenever you can. This comes in handy when you have more than one child, but it will also save you money on the supplies you need for your own home or office. If you can find a great bulk deal on paper then you may not have to worry about buying it again for a couple of years, especially since most students only go through a package or two during their school year. You may also want to find pens and pencils like this as they always seem to go missing. This will help prevent you from having to constantly buy them and will even offer a supply for the home. Other items to look for in bulk stores are folders, notebooks, extra staples and subject separators. You may also want to give the kids a few study aids like post it notes or index cards. The more you can find on sale at a bulk store, the less you will have to worry about during the school year, so don’t hesitate when it comes to these types of buys.

9. Talk to the Teacher
If you’re really having a hard time coming up with a budget for school supplies, then you can always wait until the first day of school and talk to the teacher. Sometimes, the teacher will be able to cut you some slack on some of the items that may not be necessary, such as the 3 boxes of tissues or large canister of popsicle sticks. The teacher may also be able to offer some insight as to when your child will need specific supplies. For instance, if the students won’t be working with scissors and glue for a few months then it may be okay to pass up on these items until you’ve gotten the other supplies in order. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should send your child to school with next to nothing. Make sure to pack a paper and pen or pencil as well as anything they will need to get through lunch on the first day.

10. Look for Aid Programs
Another way to save on school supplies, if you simply don’t have the money for them, is to look for an aid program that can help out. There’s actually more than you think, so you may not have to look for long. One common one is theNational Association for the Exchange of Industrial Resources, which won’t just help with school supplies but can give your school a little aid in the sports and recreation department too. If this program isn’t available to you then you may want to call your local community center to see what you can find. Sometimes local charities will be able to donate school supplies for your children. Also, churches are another great resource that can help out your school supply dilemma without any questions asked.

A new school year is already going to be stressful on you and your children, so don’t let the school supply problem take your frustration to an all new level. With these ten tips, you should be able to find the best way to save money on school supplies, so your budget won’t be sent into the red.

Hitting the water is a great way to stay cool this summer, but if you’re dealing with boating fees you may find your budget simply isn’t ready for such adventures. Whether you already own a boat or plan on buying one soon, there’s quite a few ways to work around the high prices of owning, buying or operating a boat. It doesn’t matter what kind of boat you have or plan to buy, these tips will help make your summer on the water a blast, without forcing you to count out pennies for the rest of your summer days. So, grab a life vest and let the fun begin!

1. Buy Used
If you’re just getting started with your boating hobby, or you’re looking for the best possible deal then buying used can be the most frugal way to go. There’s lots of great boats on the market now that are gently used for a price that won’t leave you in shock. Of course, if you’re looking to put a little elbow grease into your new hobby then you can probably find a boat that needs a little work at a considerably low price. No matter what you’re looking for though, if you keep browsing on and offline, you should be able to find the perfect match for you. However, you may want to keep in a mind a few things when buying a used boat. For instance, you’ll want to make sure you get the title signed over to you. This is obviously for legal reasons and will make it a lot easier to get your boat on your insurance so you can take it out on the water. Also, if you don’t want to put in a lot of work then you may want to have someone inspect the boat before you put your money down. It would be a shame to pay too much for a boat that won’t go anywhere.

2. Know Your Needs
There’s a whole lot of boats to choose from on the market, so make sure you do a little research before you make a decision. When you consider your needs, you may find that you don’t need the type of boat you originally thought you did. For starters, you should consider what you plan on doing with the boat. If it’s purely for fishing then you won’t need to spend a lot. However, if you plan on touring the world then it may need a few bells and whistles to keep your comfortable. You should also take into consideration the size and material you’d like your boat to be made of. This can greatly affect the price, so do some research to figure out what will save you money. Finally, keep in mind your storage capabilities as well as how much you can spend on the boat annually. If you’re still not sure which route to go then talk it over with a boating expert or check out some online guides to help make the decision easier.

3. Store at Home
Storing your boat can be one of the priciest factors. You have a few options, but most of them involve shelling out more cash to ensure you boat is safe when you’re away from it. Most storage areas involve a pretty hefty rental fee, which could make your boat cost more than it’s worth within a year. You can also store it at a marina, which, apart from the cost, also raises several more concerns that will leave you feeling the pressure of your boat. Of course, storing at home may not be the most convenient for your space but it will help keep finances in order. If you have a garage that’s large enough then you may want to simply keep it there. Sure, you may have to expose your vehicle to the elements, but it will be well worth it to avoid all of the huge fees each year. If your garage isn’t an option then buy a tarp and store in your driveway. You may also be able to store it on the street in front of your home, but make sure you know your local laws, so there won’t be any fees coming your way. Plus, having your boat close by makes it much easier to keep up with routine maintenance.

4. Pick the Right Trailer
Believe it or not, but choosing the appropriate trailer can help you out big out. If you plan on going anywhere with your boat then you’re going to have to invest in a trailer, but being smart about it can help out immensely. Some trailers are bulky which add on even more weight to your vehicle, thus causing you to burn through more fuel then you should. One thing you should consider is a single axle trailer, if your boat is less than 20 feet. This will keep the initial price of the trailer down, plus single axles are a lot easier to maintain. Also, you may want to choose a trailer with a swing away tongue closure. This makes them easier to store in your garage, car port or any other storage area. They’re also easier to maintain than many other closures. Plus, if you do end up renting a storage space, this type of closure will allow you to choose a space that isn’t as lengthy, which will cut down on the price.

5. Anchor Out
A lot of people bring their boat back into the marina each night, even when they choose to sleep on their boat. If you’re going to be out on the boat and don’t plan on doing anything on land, then it may be best just as easy to anchor out. Of course, you can even do this is you have a paddle boat to get back to land, but make sure the waters are calm if you do choose to leave your boat for a little while. By anchoring out, you save yourself a lot of fees each day. Often marinas will charge an arm and a leg, especially during the tourist season. So, if you plan on staying for a while then just drop your anchor and enjoy the peace of the water without having to have neighbors for the night. You may even find it makes your time away from the rush of everyday life even more relaxing.

6. Aftermarket Parts
When it comes to maintenance and repairs, a lot of people believe they have to buy brand name and new parts for their boat. Sometimes, a lot of repair shops will even try to steer you in the direction of buying the pricier parts. However, if you know what you’re doing, you’ll know you can buy aftermarket parts at a price that will suit your budget and keep your boat running perfectly fine. There’s a lot of reputable sources for aftermarket parts online, so do a little research to see which shops you can use to suit your needs. You should also check reviews to make sure other customers received good quality products. If you don’t trust the reviews on the company’s website then place the company name and reviews into a search engine and see what other websites have to say. Aftermarket parts will also allow you to skip repair shops altogether as you should be able to install them using tutorials or by asking a knowledgeable friend for help.

7. DIY Maintenance
Yes, it is possible to maintain your boat without stepping foot into a repair shop. This is the best method to take if you’re wanting to save some money on your boat. Although it may feel intimidating, DIY maintenance is actually nothing to fear. There’s only a few things you have to do each year to keep your boat looking good and running well. However, if you do run into some problems then there’s an abundance of online tutorials that will help you figure out your problems and how to fix them. If you’re not sure where to start then take to a message board to see if anyone has any tips for you. Afterward, look around for online tutorial videos. Make sure to watch a couple though, so you can compare techniques and choose what’s best for you.

8. Insurance
One of the best things you can do to save money on your boat is to add it to your insurance plan the moment the title is in your name. Sure, this adds a monthly fee to your life, but it will be a fee you’ll be happy you paid when something unforeseen happens to your boat. No one wants to believe their property can be destroyed, but in reality things change fast. Your boat could end up in a fire. If you park it outside then the weather can do a number on it, or a passerby or passing car could cause it serious harm. Not to mention, when you’re out in the water or even traveling to the water, a long list of things could go wrong. So, by adding the boat to your insurance, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding some major repair costs.

9. Join a Yacht Club
Although becoming a member of a yacht club may sound pretty ritzy, you’d be surprised as to how much this club can actually save you. For starters, being a member of a club makes you privy to a lot of things. For instance, the club often organizes outings on the water which won’t cost you thing. Also, a lot of the clubs can offer you a discounted rate at their private marina or can find you a great deal at a marina that is secure. Apart from that, you can easily meet others that love to sail, which could help you find even more great savings. Also, you may even be able to find discounted lessons on boating, diving, fishing and anything else that suits the activity.

10. Shop Around
A big problem with buying a boat is people often go for the first deal that catches their eye. Often, the first deal isn’t even close to the best deal, so make sure you don’t fall into a trap when shopping. Some sales people are brilliant at their job, but don’t be hooked right away. Before you visit any shop make sure to do some research online. This will allow you to have a general idea of what you want and how much is should cost you. So, when you head into the store, any insincere sales pitch won’t fool you. Even when you shop around online first, you should still stop by a few different stores and talk to different people. You never know when someone will be able to cut you a deal you won’t want to pass up. Even if you’re shopping used boats, make sure to exercise caution when buying. Always know the value of a boat before you consider the price and take a look at damage when you meet the seller in person. Often a deal that seems too good to be true actually is.

Boating is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family, but the cost frightens many people away. With these tips you should be able to step away from your initial reaction to the price tag and find ways to reduce the amount your boat will cost you each year. With a little frugal planning, this summer will be filled with fun memories on the boat.

Summer is here, which means it’s time to dust off your golfing bag and hope your swing isn’t too rusty. With the warm weather comes the season to hit the golf course and show off your game for pleasure and/or business. However, if you’re facing a tight budget during the summer months, then you may not be able to enjoy your summer golfing games as much as you would like to. However, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get your fill of golfing while keeping the initial cost of the sport down to a minimum.

1. Shop Second Hand
One of the biggest expenditures when it comes to golfing is the actual supplies needed to play the game. From bags to clubs, you’re going to end up spending a pretty penny on supplies, especially if you buy all of your items new. Buying new can be a really bad idea, especially if you’re just giving the sport a try. Of course, renting can also be another terrible option if you plan to play for the entire summer or even for a bit longer. Instead, you may want to shop second hand. Typically, you can get a full set or nearly a full set with a bag included for less than the price of one club. This will allow you to try out the sport and if you like it, you can buy a new club one at a time until you get the set you want. Then, if you don’t like the clubs, you can sell them or donate them for a tax deduction. Of course, you may actually end up with a set you fall in love with, which is a win-win.
2. Recycled Gold Balls
Another item you’re going to spend a whole lot of money on is golf balls. Each game you play, you’re probably going to end up losing quite a few. Usually this isn’t the biggest issue on your mind, but after replenishing your golf ball collection a few times, you may end up looking for a cheap alternative. Recycled balls usually come at a much lower price because, as the name says, they’re made of recycled products. Each of the balls helps keep your game pretty eco-friendly too, which will make you feel a little better about spending money. Of course, recycled balls may not be easy to find in your local golfing stores, so you could buy balls straight from the golf course. They usually come in assortment of brands and are basically the balls that get lost in the golf course, so technically they’re recycled too.
3. Research Golf Courses
Chances are, there’s probably more than one golf course in your area. Even if it means going to a nearby town, you could end up saving a fortune by simply doing a little research on the golf course. Often the more convenient a place is, the more you’re going to end up paying, which could leave you spending hundreds more a year than you actually need to. So, get online and do a search for courses in your area. Usually golf courses will post their rates and hours online, so you shouldn’t have to spend hours upon hours deciding which course you want to go to. If you plan on golfing a lot, then you may want to also see what the price of a membership would be. Sometimes, you can actually say money my joining a club or purchasing a seasonal pass to play, but this depends on the golf course you choose.
4. Make It a Meeting
If work just seems to get in the way of your golfing game, then consider taking the time that would be spent in the office and move it to the golf course. Many companies have actually begun to host meetings on the golf course, so employees can get in a little exercise while discussing ideas and the status of the company. Many people also use the golf course to pitch potential ideas to clients or to help win over a business account they’ve been hoping for. The best thing about taking your meetings to the golf course, is the game could actually become a tax deduction for you. Under some circumstances, you can write these games off, so make sure to talk to your accountant if this sounds appealing to you. Also, these games can help everyone involved in the meeting concentrate more and retain more of the information discussed. With this technique in full force, the meetings will have gone even further and will encourage harder work when back in the office.
5. Walk
In recent years, less and less people actually use their feet when their on the golf course. So many prefer to rent or bring their own golf cart to the course, which actually ends up taking a lot of the sport out of the game. Golf carts can be particularly pricey if you rent them often. Plus, there’s really only room enough for two people so you may end up spending a whole lot more if you’re with a whole group of people. If buying a golf cart is on your mind then you may have to worry about fuel and maintenance costs, as well as actually getting the golf cart to and from the course. So, if you’re looking to save money on the golf course, then walking is definitely one of the best ways to do so. It may actually help improve your game too, especially by keeping you flexible and warmed up. Riding, on the other hand, can tense up the muscles and make you feel less connected to the game, which means you won’t really get your money’s worth out of the day.
6. Shop In Season
Although a lot of golf tournaments happen in the summer time, fall is the best time to shop for golfing supplies and accessories. Usually, during this time you should be able to get the best possible deals on golf clubs, bags and even clothing to wear for the sport. This will really help save you a lot of money in the long run, especially if you don’t like shopping for trendy items. Fall is usually when golfing stores are trying to move out the old stock so they can get in the new stuff. So, make sure to shop clearance and sales racks before you actually decide to check out the newer items on the floor. You may be surprised as to how much you can save when you do this. Also, autumn is one of the best times to save money on the actual golf course. Sometimes the weather isn’t always the most reliable, which means the cost of the game could be significantly reduced. So if you’re willing to risk the rain, you may be rewarded by some major savings.
7. Beat the Elements
In most cases, golfing is an outdoor sport, so you’re going to have to put up with some weather if you want to play. The best thing you can do is come prepared though, so you don’t end up losing money or not completely enjoying a game you paid for. In the summer it is important to keep a bottle of water, or two, with you at all times. This in itself will help you avoid the high prices of the concession stand when you’re thirsty. You should also bring along a visor, cap, umbrella or anything else that will keep you shaded throughout the game. Light clothing is also a bonus and will ensure you feel cooler in the heat. If you plan on going in the autumn or spring, then be prepared for rain with an umbrella and light rain coat. Layering may be key here, especially if you have special under clothing to provide heat or to cool you down, depending on the weather. If winter is your time to shine then wear proper foot attire and wear thermal clothing that won’t bother your movements, but will still keep you cool. Of course, you should wear sunscreen no matter the season.
8. Consider Memberships
If you already know you love golf and plan on playing whenever you have free time, then a membership may be the right route to go to save you some money. A lot of golf courses will offer memberships, but some are attached to country clubs or other strict clubs, so be prepared to jump through some hoops to get a membership. Many country clubs are invite only, so you may want to get familiar with people who frequent the club. This may help you get a better deal on a membership when you do receive the invite. A little research should help you find clubs in your area that are accepting memberships. Of course, you may have to dig a little deeper to find clubs that are low cost or free. You may want to start off your journey at the local YMCA or community center to ask for advice. Sometimes the YMCA can find you a great deal if you’re a member of their club already.
9. Driving Range
Sometimes, a full game of golf just isn’t in the cards, or you may want to get in a little practice to help your upcoming office tournament. No matter what the reason, a driving range is one of the best places to go if you just want to hit some golf balls. A lot of people will go to the driving range in the off season so they can prevent their swing from getting rusty, while those who are just starting out tend to go to help develop their swing before actually playing a full game. Before it’s all said and done, you’ll be thankful for the driving range because it is very cost effective. In fact, you may not actually have to go to a range. Now, there’s many simulation games that are low cost and can be played in your own home.
10. Go In a Group
Golfing with friends actually makes the game a whole lot better, so don’t be afraid to ask people to hit the golf course with you. A lot of the time a golf course charges by group, which actually helps you save money from the get-go. Before you leave for the course, make sure everyone is willing to split the bill on the game, this way everyone ends up getting in a full untimed game without having to pay a single price tag. When you play this way, you’ll get more for you money and won’t have to worry about rushing through the course or having to play with someone you just met. Plus, spending a little time with people you don’t always get to see will make the game a lot merrier and may encourage you to play more often. If some or all of the group don’t have clubs then you can always rent a single set and split them between the group.
When it comes to sports like golfing, money can play a huge factor in your ability to play. With these tips, you shouldn’t have to worry about spending a small fortune just to get in a game of golf or two. Instead, you should find simple ways to improve your skills or try the sport out, which will make golf season even more valuable and relaxing. You never know, with a great start you could be entering tournaments next year.

July can really heat up your budget, especially with all of the hot weather forcing you to kick up the air conditioning or seek cooler activities. Of course, July isn’t all expenditures though! In fact, there’s quite a few things you can save a whole lot of money on if you’re looking for a good deal. With a little heads up on these great deals, you should be able to help supply your household with some items that will keep your budget down for the rest of the year. Now, you can easily forget about the summer heat for just a little while and take the whole family on a shopping excursion that will help you save. So, prepare for the cool air conditioning of the mall and let this guide help you find the best savings of the month.

1. Swimwear
Yes, summer has just begun, but that’s not going to stop bathing suits from hitting the sales racks. This month is the perfect time to grab a bathing suit if you don’t already have one, need another or would like to stock up for next year. Most bathing suits will start going on sale during the 4th of July sales, so make sure to stop by your favorite department or clothing store to see if you can find a great deal on the suit you were admiring back in May or June. The best thing is, bathing suits for all ages and genders will be on sale, so you can get something for the whole family. Of course, if you are planning ahead for next year, try to guestimate how much your child will grow in that time as to not waste money on a suit they may never get to wear.

2. Air Conditioning
If you’re looking for a new air conditioner, then it may be time to do the happy dance. The month of July is actually one of the best times to get a new air conditioner, so hurry in to your favorite store and ease the pain of the summer heat. From wall units to portable air conditioners, you should be able to find what you need to keep your home refreshing without the typical price tag. Of course, there’s a few things you may want to consider before you purchase the air conditioning. For starters, is it energy efficient? If not, you could end up spending more than you bargained for on the unit. Also, is the unit a swamp cooler? These require water, which could up your bills, especially if you’re living in an area that is dealing with a drought. You may also want to consider using ceiling fans with the unit to help keep prices down. Also, you should calculate yearly savings on each unit you’re looking at, so you’ll know which is best for your budget in the long term and the short term.

3. Last Minute Vacations
Haven’t taken the plunge and picked a vacation yet? Or perhaps, you need another vacation to help you cope with the first vacation? Then, have no fear because July is the month to book something last minute. Most people tend to book early to maximize savings, which is probably your best option. However, most airlines, hotels, resorts and so on, want to fill their openings which is why so many vacation plans begin to take a huge price hike in the month of July. One of the first places to start is a travel website dedicated to finding you the best deals. When you see what is available then you may have a lot of different options for travel, based on your price range. Talking to a travel agent may also do you a world of good, so don’t forget to use this excellent planning service. Of course, as with any vacation, make sure to shop around and have everything ready to go in case your destination of choice only has a short window of discounted openings.

4. Food Freebies
For some reason, July seems to be the month of the sweet tooth. There’s actually a ton of obscure food holidays in the month, which will leave your cravings satisfied until Halloween rolls around. Of course, the problem is knowing when the holidays come up. With a little research online, you can find a lot of different lists that can steer you in the right direction. From there, contact local businesses in the area to see if they plan on celebrating the occasion with a free or discounted treat. Some restaurants may actually give you a freebie just for mentioning or bringing the holiday to their attention. One of the most popular of these days is 7/11’s iconic free slurpee day! Of course, it’s not all about the sweets. There’s actually several days devoted to your favorite barbeque dishes, bagels and your favorite alcoholic beverages.

5. Sports Gear
If you’re itching to enjoy a good ole competitive sport, then July is the time to find the big savings. Usually baseball season is in full swing during this month, so if your child needs new gear then now is the time to upgrade the glove, helmet or bat. You may also want to stock up for some of the essentials you’ll need for next season. Golf is also a big sport during the summer and you’re sure to find a whole lot of deals on golf clubs, bags and even golfing attire and shoes. Of course, the sport doesn’t have to be in full swing for you to find some savings. In fact, you may want to look for tennis supplies if your child plans on joining the sport when they return to school. Also, football, soccer and hockey gear should be in the clearance racks, so now may be the time to grab last season’s stuff so you can save on the upcoming seasons!

6. Furniture
When it comes to redecorating the home, there’s no better time to look for furniture than in July. This is probably because so many students and couples are starting off on their own after graduation and wedding season. The best time to start looking for furniture is during the 4th of July, but don’t fret if you missed many of the sales. There should be sales going on throughout the season, so make sure to keep track of what is going on at your local or chain department stores. You may even want to look online for some furniture deals. After all, in most cases, the purchase should be high enough to earn you free shipping, which will help stretch the savings even further. Of course, if you have old furniture to get rid, try to sell it to help save you even more money on your new set. If you have a student heading to a dorm room, then this may be the time to check out small furniture, such as chairs or other items they can take with them. Even small, foldable chairs can work wonders for a homesick student trying to make it through their first exam period.

7. Bottled Water
Whether you drink bottled water on a regular basis, or are simply looking to keep some in your emergency stock, this month is the perfect time to buy this product in bulk. Typically, bottled water can cost you an arm and a leg, especially if you’re buying the more expensive brands. However, this month, you’ll see prices drop significantly which can come in handy if your kids are in sports, you hike frequently or you don’t have a filtration system in your home. Of course, CRV prices probably won’t be taken off of your bottled water goods, but with the drop in price, you’ll barely notice the CRV on your receipt. Plus, you can always take your recycled bottles in to get a small refund on your purchase. Even if you’re not a fan of buying bottled water, having at least one or two cases in your emergency kit can help keep your family strong if there ever is an emergency or shortage of water.

8. Jeans
Buying a new pair of jeans may be the last thing on your mind during the month of July. However, you may want to think towards the future and check out your favorite brands to see if there is a sale that could benefit you when the weather cools down. During the month of July, it’s too hot for jeans so a lot of retailers will put them on sale to help get them off the shelves. Also, new fashions begin to make their way into stores in August, so many retailers don’t want to have a back stock of last year’s trends. Since jeans are on sale now, you may want to stock up on new looks for your kids’ school days, especially if the kids aren’t allowed to wear shorts to school. It may also be a great time to dig through the closet and get rid of all the old jeans that have been worn down over the years. This will help you make room for the jeans you’re going to save a bundle on.

9. Suits
Dressing to impress may also be another thing that isn’t currently on your mind because of the heat. However, wedding season is in full swing and if you know a graduate looking for a job then a suit may come in handy. Plus, pretty soon school will back in session and school dances will be knocking at the door. Of course, if you have to wear a suit to work each day, then this deal may be especially helpful to you. For starters, make sure to look around to see if there are any styles that are appropriate for your needs and your taste in clothing. Then, you should also check the fit. Once you know the suit for you then shop around, because you may find it at a better price elsewhere. You should also consider the amount of tailoring the suit may need. If a store offers free tailoring then you may be in for the deal of the year.

10. Christmas Items
Sure, Christmas may feel like half a year away right now, but before you know it the kids will be begging for toys seen on commercials and the cold weather will be the hottest topic of conversation. All the same, Christmas in July seems to be gaining more momentum as the years pass, especially in thrift stores. This doesn’t mean you have to throw two Christmas celebrations a year though. It does mean that you can find some pretty awesome deals on supplies you may have missed out on during the Christmas clearance events. So, you may want to start your journey in the décor section. There should be everything from garland to Christmas lights on sales, at a price that definitely rivals the holiday season. You may also want to look at artificial trees, as you may find some of the bigger and more outstanding trees at a price that you’d normally have to pay for something quite small. Finally, you may want to shop around for some of the “it” gifts, like tablets and some toys. You may find prices on these items that you wouldn’t even believe to be possible. If you don’t want to pay full price for these items not, then adding then to a layaway program will help keep the low price while allowing you to pay installments.

July doesn’t have to be remembered for its unbearable heat and large utility bills. Instead, try to check out some of these savings to see if any will help your household budget out in the long run. Even if you don’t find anything you like, spending time in the in-store air conditioning could be well worth the trip.

The summer heat has finally kicked in, which means the beach is probably the top hot spot all over the world. Enjoying some time at the beach can be a great way to cool down, soak up some fun and bond with the family. However, the beach comes with its own set of costs that could leave you hurting your budget if you’re not careful. There’s no reason to walk on eggshells when it comes to your finances and the beach though. In fact, there’s plenty of exciting ways to save money that will make you want to spend more time at the beach than ever before. So, whether you live near or far from the beach, make sure to check out these ten tips to see how much money you can save.

1. Be Discreet
One of the biggest problems with the beach is not having a place to store your personal items. So, if you decide to cool off in the water or to step away from your setup to help the kids build a sand castle, you run the risk of returning to your items missing. It’s frustrating that a pair of sticky fingers can turn your vacation into a chaotic mess, but there’s some ways to bring your items with you without letting the world know what you have. So, for starters, keys are a pretty big deal if you drove to the beach and most bathing suits don’t have a safe enough pocket to store them in. So, empty out a sunscreen bottle, clean it out well and toss the keys in it before you leave the car. This is also a great place to store money, your parking ticket and other small but necessary items. You could also do the same thing with a wipey container if you have small children. If you’re bringing along your credit/debit cards as well I.D. cards and other items then toss them in a diaper and label it dirty. To make the dirty concept really believable, put it in a ziplock bag. This will help cut down on sand and water contamination too. There’s lots of other out of the box ideas you can use to give your items a little more protection.
2. Keep Sand Away
When it comes to the beach, there’s pretty much no way to get around the sand. No matter how hard you try, the stuff ends up stuck to you and may not go away for weeks. Although this doesn’t exactly save you money at the beach, there’s a few things you can do to get rid of the money problems sand causes after the beach. Just think of all the car detailing and carpet cleaning you won’t have to do thanks to these tips. For starters. Before you get in the car to go home, sprinkle everyone down with baby powder. Make sure to pay special attention to the feet though. When the baby power touches the skin it begins to take away moisture which forces the sand to release its grip on the body. You’ll all be sand free in the minutes and you’ll smell pretty good too. If you want to keep sand out of your food and rest area then take a fitted sheet along with you. Place the sheet upside down and place an object in each of the folds. The sheet will create a fence from the sand, so all of your items won’t end up covered in sand by the end of the day.
3. Sun Protection
Keeping your skin and eyes safe from the sun should be a huge priority when you go to the beach. Not only will it help prevent cancer, but it will also save you a whole lot of money when it comes to creams and medication to reduce the pain. Before you leave for the beach always make sure to have a lot of sunscreen on hand. You should also make sure you have the right SPF rating for everyone in the household. Apart from sunscreen, you should also make sure to pack an umbrella, hats and anything else that may help you stay safe from the sun. Of course, after sun care can help you out too. If you want something soothing to put on the skin after a day at the beach then freeze some aloe vera in an ice tray. You can water it down if you like to help stretch the aloe further. Then place them in a ziplock and toss them in your cooler. After playing in the sun, rub the cubes on sensitive skin to help cool the body and refresh the skin.
4. Pack Food
When it comes down to it, looking for food on the beach can be a huge issue. In most cases, vendors are far and in between, plus their prices aren’t exactly on the best spectrum for what they’re serving. Many people end up leaving the beach to find a restaurant to soothe their needs. This can become even pricier if you’re on a budget, especially when the restaurants are in major tourist areas. Instead of going to all of that effort, simply pack food to bring to the beach with you. If you live near the beach then have the whole family make up their favorite sandwich before heading out. You can also pack nuts, fruits and trail mix to help keep energy up and hunger down. If you’re vacationing at the beach then head to a store in the area and pick up a loaf of bread and peanut butter, it makes the day easy to deal with for a very small price. You should also consider beverages. You’re going to need lots of water, so pack a couple of gallon jugs and reusable bottles to make things simple. Try to avoid energy drinks and soda as much as you can while on the beach.
5. Leave the Car
Although the car may have saved you some money getting to your vacation destination, it’s not going to do you any favors when it comes to the beach. Generally, parking at the beach can be pretty pricey, especially if you have no choice but to park by a meter. Instead of dragging the car along for the ride, you can easily walk or take public transportation to get to the area. This may also give you a good chance to scope out different areas of the beach, so you can choose a great place for you. You also won’t have to worry about your car in a strange area, as the hotel will keep it nice and safe. If you live near the beach then walk or bike, it’ll add to the experience and prevent you from spending a lot when you don’t need to.
6. Plan Accordingly
Like most things in life, a little planning can help you enjoy it all the more. Of course, it may be hard to take all things into consideration, such as the weather. All the same, you can easily check out weather patterns as well as forecasts to see if you should or shouldn’t hit the beach at a certain time. You may also want to plan your trip at the end or beginning of beach season. If you hit the right time you should be able to avoid a lot of the crowds which will make your vacation even better. Plus, off season visits may help you save a whole lot on hotels transportation and food. If you’re planning a trip to the tropics then looking ahead can do you a lot of favors. Typically many of the regions end up having hurricane season during popular vacations times, thus you may end up on a ruined vacation if you don’t plan well enough.
7. Social Media Coupons
Of course, finding activities to keep you busy on the beach can also be hard to do on a budget. Luckily, there’s many social media websites that offer special coupons to make your trip a blast. Try browsing around a few months to a few weeks before you’re near the beach to see if you can secure something fun. You can also browse around while you’re there because many coupons are for a limited time only, so you could score a major deal by checking your favorite coupon sites each day. Many of these coupons will be for activities like diving, surfing or even swim lessons. You may also find some that take you on a tour to experience the eco system at work. Other coupons may help you take advantage of great deals on restaurants, so you can give the sandwiches a break for a while.
8. Bring Entertainment
Even though the beach is pretty fun on its own, you should probably consider packing a few extra items to keep you and the kids busy, so that no one ends up getting bored. One of the best items to bring for younger kids is supplies to build up sandcastles. These can be condensed and stored in a backpack for easy travel and provide hours of play time. You might also consider bringing a beach ball or a volley ball set to keep the fun going. These activities can take up a few hours and will mix things up a bit when everyone gets worn out by fighting the waves. Music is another great option, especially during breaks from the sun or nap time for the little ones. Last but not least, a book can help you regain energy after being in the sun for hours and beach time may be one of the few times you actually get to catch up with some reading. By keeping entertainment activities with you, it should help prevent you from renting items to keep everyone happy.
9. Freebies
When it comes to the beach, and beach communities, there’s always something going on to take advantage of. Before you plan your day, call up the community center or check out their website to see if anything is going on. A lot of the time, the community may host a competition, giveaways or simply host a celebration. The latter is especially true during the summer months as there’s many barbeque worthy holidays to celebrate. Most of these activities are free, but some may end up costing you a small fee. Some businesses will also pass out free samples of their food to entice people to enjoy their restaurant, which could make a nice snack for the family. Timing is everything, so make sure you know what’s going on before you plan.
10. Budget
It doesn’t matter if you’re spending a day or a week at the beach, budgeting can make all of the difference. Rather than bring your credit cards along for the ride, leave them at home. Take the time to work out how much money you’ll need and how much money you can spend before you leave. This will help you make a guideline, so you won’t over spend while you’re on the beach. You should also just pull out cash so you’ll know where you stand with your budget. Not to mention, most places on the actual beach will probably only take cash, so you’ll be doing yourself a favor by doing this too. It may also help with any ATM fees you may have to deal with due to beach service charges.
The beach is a great place to kick back and enjoy time with family. So, don’t let it become a budget crisis. With these easy steps your days by the beach can be all relaxation! With any luck, you may end up spending nothing on the entire trip, which will make your time away even more meaningful.

The heat is rising, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious food and good company. Grilling can be the home’s best friend in the summer time because it allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without having to heat up the home with the stove and oven. Of course, if you’re not careful, the convenience of the grill can make a huge hole in your budget. There’s a few simple ways to take back your summer barbeques and simple grilled meals, without having to stress out over the money involved. With these ten tips, you’ll be able to get excited about cooking outdoors again, rather than getting stressed out over the budget.

1. Make It From Scratch
One of the biggest ways to waste money at a barbeque is to buy pre-made items when you can easily make them at home. From salads to sauces, there’s not a whole of grilling recipes that can’t be mimicked at home by even the most inexperienced chefs. Typically, people tend to buy tubs of potato and macaroni salad so they don’t have to make it themselves. At the end of the day, the money you spend on one of these tubs would allow you to make several days’ worth of the iconic salads. Plus, they’re one of the easiest things to make and whipping it up from scratch will make it better for you too. Beans are another big deal in the pre-made world because they seem so intimidating. Simply pull out your crock pot and find a recipe, you may find they’re less work than you think. Last but not least, the rubs and sauces for the meat are especially pricey. Dry rubs can easily be made with items already found around the home and barbeque sauces are just a few ingredients away from perfection too.
2. Go Easy On Meat
Sure, meat is one of the best things to add to your outdoor meal, but if you’re on a budget it can also be one of the most expensive items to buy. This is especially true if you’re feeding a whole lot of people. Rather than concentrate your menu around meat, try to incorporate other items into the meal to make meat more of a side dish. One great way to do this is kebabs. You still get to enjoy your favorite grilled meats, but you also get vegetable and sometimes fruits added into the mix. This alone cuts down on meat consumption per person and allows other foods to show that they’re at one with the grill too. You can also cut down on the price of meat for your barbeque by shopping a bit on the frugal side. For instance, you can easily buy cheap hot dogs and hamburger meat to cut expenses. Also, chicken legs and thighs are another frugal option and tend to have more flavor than the pricier pieces of meat.
3. Shop Bulk
If you know you’re going to be doing a lot of grilling this season or if you have a party to shop for, bulk buys can be the best way to save you a whole lot of money. Typically, your local wholesale store should be able to provide you with some of the best deals around for meat. Often, you can buy large racks of ribs or packages of chicken at a price you won’t believe. Of course, you could also talk to your butcher about bulk deals as some will offer great prices. Produce is another great thing to shop for in bulk stores as you can usually buy boxes of some of the best produce around for a surprisingly low price. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try your local farmers market. Typically, you should be able to get an extraordinary deal there if you shop in bulk. Last but not least, plates, cups and napkins are always best if you purchase them in bulk, but only if you’re going to be doing a lot of entertaining.
4. Keep It Simple
When it comes to grilling, a lot of people get the impression that they have to take it up a notch to impress the people they’re grilling for. This can be bad, especially in the money department. People having been grilling for hundreds of years and they seemed to manage without the high tech toys. These items aren’t just expensive, but they don’t actually do a whole lot for your food. In fact, some of them can actually be off, which could make the food you make taste worse than it would if you kept up with the classic meat thermometer and grilling accessories. You should also consider a grill that doesn’t require you to read the manual a few times to get an idea of how it works. Simple can help you keep the temperature even and won’t leave the meat burning on the grill while you try to figure out which nob reduces the heat.
5. Seasonal
Choosing food can be one of the toughest ways to plan your family’s menu or choose what you’re making for a barbeque. One of the golden rules for picking, especially when on a budget, is to keep it in season. You don’t need to grill up foods that thrived in the winter time to impress your guests. In fact, most of the summer produce is going to be the best items for the grill anyway. Foods like corn, zucchini, tomatoes and even peaches are prime choices for the grill. Not to mention, they’ll cost a whole lot less than foods that aren’t in season. Generally, you can tell which foods are in season based on price and how the food looks. Seasonal foods tend to be more vibrant, larger and healthier in appearance. Of course, there’s lot of guides to help figure this out though, if you plan on working up a menu before you go shopping. Of course, meats can also be seasonal too, so watch out when you’re shopping for these meal components too.
6. Potluck
Inviting friends and family over for a barbeque is what summer is all about, right? Of course, the company is always nice and the food is great too, but if you’re on a budget your get-togethers won’t be as appetizing as they could be. Instead of working around your budget to make sure everyone has plenty to eat, you could send out your invites for a potluck instead of a standard barbeque. You could even ask people to bring certain items, like chips, hot dog buns, or hamburger meat. Of course, you could also send out a list of ideas and have people let you know what they’re bringing so you can plan accordingly. With a potluck in full swing, your family and friends will be able to enjoy a great variety of food while you don’t have to stress about entertaining and feeding everyone on a tight budget.
7. Skip Alcohol
It’s not hard to believe that serving alcohol at your get-together can actually double the price of your event. Even if you keep expenses down by buying generic brands or sticking to cheap beer, you’ll still end up spending a lot more than you should on beverages. Not to mention, alcohol is a good way to dehydrate your guests in a hurry, which could make people feel sick and have to leave early. Luckily, there’s a lot of options that can keep costs down while providing your guests with a tasty beverage. For starters, you can can serve your favorite mixed drinks virgin style. This is especially good if you choose to make them with fruit that is in season. Apart from these drinks you could try iced cold tea, infused waters and fruit punches.
8. Lighting
Even though nightfall doesn’t come until much later in the summer, there’s still a good chance that your party may end up going until later into the night. Rather than set up lights that will use a lot of electricity, you can easily create a more intimate atmosphere by lighting candles. Tea lights are an especially good option as they cost mere cents and can burn throughout the evening. Of course, if you’re feeling crafty, you may want to consider making your own bug free candles. There’s many easy tutorials online and they will help keep your guests from swatting away at pesky mosquitos throughout the party. You can also use inexpensive tiki lamps to help out with the issue. Solar lighting is also a great option, but it will cause you to have to invest in some of the lighting if you don’t already own these lights. Luckily, the price of solar outdoor lighting is fairly inexpensive and makes a great home investment.
9. Stick to Charcoal
You can probably spend hours upon hours online trying to sort through the charcoal vs propane debates. Everyone has their own personal preferences and both sides have some valid points. However, if you’re looking to save money, charcoal is the way to go. For starters, you can easily make your own grill from items you find around the house, which already cuts down on the price significantly. Of course, if you don’t want to tackle the grill hands on, you can pick one up for only a few dollars at most department stores. Charcoal and lighting fluid won’t cost you a whole lot of money either, which is a bonus in the long run. If you use the items sparingly then it shouldn’t be a frequent buy. Plus, you can keep a charcoal grill going for longer without having to worry about how much of a resource you’re using. You also don’t have to worry if you turned the charcoal off when you’re done cooking, it goes out naturally!
10. Clean the grill
When it comes to keeping your barbeques as frugal as possible, there’s one key component you may not even think about. That is, keeping your grill clean. It doesn’t matter if you have a charcoal or propane grill because they all need to be cleaned to keep them usable and your food tasting good. The better you clean the grill, the longer it will last which means you’ll end up spending a whole lot less on grilling in the long run. All you need is a couple of tools to get the job done, which should cost you no more than a few dollars at any department store. Ideally, you should wipe down the grill before you heat it up, but this isn’t always on your mind when there is food to be cooked. One of the most important things you can do is get rid of the charring on the grill once the food is off of it. This will help prevent permanent damage. Cleaning while the grill is still hot can also help you save time and do a better job. Some grills even require oils to keep them up, so make sure you know what’s required of your grill before you let it go to waste.
Summer time is a great time to fire up the grill and make all of the classics you crave when the weather is too cold. With these ten money saving tips, you should be able to grill to your heart’s content without having to worry about the amount of money you’re spending on grilling supplies. Now, summer get-togethers can go back to being care free opposed to expensive and burdensome on your budget.

Summer vacation is in full swing, which may mean you already have kids bouncing off the walls. It doesn’t take long for kids to go from celebration mode to boredom mode, which is probably a cause for stress. If you’re on a tight budget, keeping the kids occupied can be even more troublesome, especially if you feel like you’ve already exhausted all of the ideas you had before summer break even occurred. Have no fear though, there’s a few ways you and your kids can have some fun without tapping into the budget. With these ten ideas, you should be able to find several fun activities to keep the kids busy and entertained before back to school days are here.

1. Library Program
One of the best ways to keep the kids busy and keep their imagination and creativity running on high is to check out your local library’s summer program. Most libraries will have several activities set up for kids of all ages, so you won’t have to worry about your toddlers being left out. First and foremost, the library typically comes up with a reading program for the kids. This allows kids to read, or be read to, in order to receive special prizes. This is a great incentive to entice kids to read as well as to help some of the younger children to learn how to before school even begins. You may even notice kids that are struggling to read will soon pick up on the skill after a few weeks of the program. Apart from the reading program, a lot of libraries will host arts and crafts, story time, movie time and other fun activities to keep kids busy during the long weeks of summer. Best of all, most libraries don’t charge a cent, so you can stress less about money. Of course, it there’s no program offered, you could always take the kids for a weekly trip to pick up new books and movies, while cooling down in the cold air-conditioned building.

2. Science Projects
Make sure everything your kids learned this school year doesn’t go straight down the tube. This can easily be accomplished by adding science activities into the summer schedule. If you have some extra money to spare you can easily buy discounted science kits based on ages. These are perfect for family bonding time and may even help the children brush up before next school year. Of course, if you’re shy on money then you can easily browse the internet and find a long list of projects you can do in the home for next to nothing. One fun idea is to take a few strawberries and have the kids extract the DNA from them. This is a great lesson on life and will have the kids amazed. Of course, you can also try out ideas that are more outdoor friendly. Creating an ant arm is easy to do and will give kids something to analyze all summer long. Balloon rockets are another idea that will spark the interests of most kids and may even add some water play to the task at hand. If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea simply look online using your child’s age or grade as a keyword!

3. Relay Races
It’s really tempting to keep everyone locked up inside the cool house when it’s burning up outside. Of course, this isn’t always great for everyone’s health. Instead of staying in all day, try to plan a few relay races for some outdoor play time. You can easily make races with items around the home, which will ensure you won’t have to spend a cent to entertain. One easy race is the egg balance, which only requires a few obstacles (shoes, chairs and so on), as well as an egg and spoon. A sack race is another great idea if you’re looking for simplicity. Of course, relay races can suit your imagination, so feel free to think out of the box to challenge the kids. If it’s especially hot you can also add some water to the mix. You can even keep the games inside if you want, just make sure to take safety precautions before the games begin. A string obstacle course if one of the best indoor activities and can be easily made with some yarn, tape and a lot of patience. Simply cut the yarn long enough to reach each side of the wall and then tape it into a pattern for the kids to climb over, under or around.

4. Arts and Crafts
Many kids spend their days on videogames or TV during the days of summer, which can really cut down on their creativity levels. You can easily get their minds off of technology and back on to being creative by coming up with some arts and crafts projects. You don’t have to think too out of the box here if you have younger kids and you can always plan all of the projects around the supplies you already have in the home, just to make things more frugal. For starters, you can easily print out coloring sheets for the younger children. This will help with their fine motor skills and will keep their attention so they can work on concentration. For older kids you can make pet rocks, canisters to hold their school supplies out of recycled milk jugs, or simply pursue a craft they’ve always wanted to try. For instance, origami is a cheap and easy way to learn something new and you don’t even need a book to tell you how to do this. If you have scrap wood lying around then older children can work together to make a dog house or bird house. You may even want to give pottery a try. Of course, if you want to get the kids outdoors, try out painting, shaving cream art, or chalk drawings.

5. Summer Recreation Programs
Many communities have summer recreation programs to keep the kids busy during break. These activities are usually free to low cost and can be offered by the school district, recreation center and even local churches. Recreational programs are a great way to keep kids moving during summer vacation and can even help prepare them for team sports during the upcoming school year. One of the most popular activities offered by these recreational programs is swimming lessons. This is a great way to keep kids cool while teaching them a vital lesson that could save their own life or someone else’s. Apart from swimming, kids can enjoy sports like basketball, tennis and soccer. Make sure to call your community center to see if you can sign your kids up for these activities and to get a schedule to help you and your kids get more out of summer.

6. Earn Money
One way to help kids out for the future is to teach them the value of money. It doesn’t matter if you already utilize an allowance program, as there’s always new ways to earn money which will teach children how to manage it more efficiently. For starters, you can have the kids make flyers and pass them out around the neighborhood for whatever service they plan to provide. There are many jobs the kids can choose from too. For instance, mowing lawns is always a classic, or they can offer to pull weeds, pick up trash or help the elderly garden. Another great way to help in the community is to offer pet walking or pet sitting services. This will especially come in handy since so many people will be leaving for vacation. To keep things a bit on the cooler side, you can help the kids host a car wash. This is especially great if they’re working for a youth program or trying to earn money for a larger item, such as to help with camp costs. Of course, you could also help them take to the kitchen to make some money. Bake sales are always a plus as is the ever famous lemonade stand. Finally, you could also have the kids go through their old clothes and toys and sell them at a yard sale.

7. Look For Discounts
When it comes to summer, discounts can be found in many different places. One of the most popular places is the movie theater where kids can get into theaters, with an adult, for free or as low as $1. Of course, museums also offer freebie days that the entire family can enjoy. You may have to present your I.D. to prove you live in the area, but other than that, you can enjoy the museum without having to pay a penny. Another great place to check out is zoos or aquariums as they often offer promotional days for family’s or even free programs to keep the kids entertained during the day. Theme or water parks may even offer you a little aid in the entertainment department. Many places discount kids tickets anyway, but on some days kids can get in for an even lower price when accompanied by an adult. With any luck, you can plan a few of these outings a month to help make the summer even more exciting.

8. Great Outdoors
One of the best places to go for some free entertainment is actually outside. Yes, you heard me correctly. The great outdoors offers endless possibilities such as hiking, scavenger hunts and swimming. That is, if you know where to look. More and more places are charging to enjoy the outdoors, but with a little research you can find free places to keep the kids busy. Some things may cost you a small fee, such as camping or fishing, but you should be able to get your money’s worth out of these items. You could also plan these activities around discounted or free days to save even more money.

9. Find a New Hobby
Summer is a great time to pick up a new activity that can help broaden your child’s horizons. Let your kids do some thinking on what they’d like to experiment with over the summer. If they’re leaning towards picking up an instrument, have a look on an auction website or thrift/yard sale to see if you can find anything that suits their interests. You can easily find lessons online that will save a huge bundle. Another great option is dance classes. There’s lot of fun types of dances out there that will help keep your child active and creative over summer vacation. Browsing online should turn up several tutorials that will help your child learn basic steps and routines. Martials arts is another great opportunities and these classes are often offered free in the community center or you can look online for free lessons. Of course, you can also look for discounted lessons for all of these activities in your local area.

10. Game Day
Encourage bonding within the family by pulling out all of the games and letting the kids pick which they want to play. You’ll be surprised as to how much fun everyone has. You can also teach the kids child-friendly card games which often help with math skills. If the games get old, then you can have the kids work together to make their own game. This will encourage teamwork, creativity and bonding. It may even become a household favorite, which will help make memories they’ll want to share with their friends and maybe even their future kids.

Summer vacation doesn’t have to be filled with TV and video games. These simple ideas should help you keep your kids busy and their minds active while they’re on summer break. Now, you can stop stressing over the entertainment budget and enjoy having the kids home for the hot months!

Although Ramadan is already in full swing, you have plenty of time to get in some savings during this sacred month. Many find Ramadan to be hard to budget because of the large meals and celebrations that occur. There’s actually a few ways to keep your budget happy during this time of celebration though. From food costs to gifts, you can find simple ways to cut cents to dollars from your spending without having to sacrifice much at all. With a little shopping know how, your Ramadan can feel like an even larger cleanse that’s sure to leave you feeling amazing throughout the rest of the year. So, put money stress behind you and let the holiday become your joy.

1. Make Dishes In Advance
One of the major issues people face during a fast is feeling overwhelmingly hungry when the fast ends. So, instead of prepping food to eat, they feel as if going to a buffet will ease their hunger a whole lot faster. Of course, doing this every now and then really isn’t an issue, but Ramadan lasts an entire month. This means you’re going to have to pay buffet prices for the entire family, every single day. This will add up and some buffets may not even offer foods that are worthwhile to you. So, you’re spending a whole lot of money for just a little bit of convenience. Instead of heading out for food over eating in, you may want to consider making some dishes ahead of time. If you know you’re going to be starving by the time the fast is over, choose dishes that will heat up quickly. You can make bulk batches of food and freeze them, or simply live on leftovers for a couple of days. Making bulk batches is also a great way to save on some money though, so you’ll end up saving even more in the long run since your ingredients won’t end up going to waste.
2. Use Coupons
When it comes to shopping for food in general, coupons are the best thing you can use to slash the high costs. However, Ramada is going to call for a lot more coupons and some of them may not be available in your local papers. The best thing you can do is look for coupons on online websites as they may be able to offer savings on the specialty items you may want for your meals. You should also ask around local market places to see if they will be offering any coupons or if they know of places you can find them. Often, many stores will be able to provide you websites that simply allow you to print out a coupon, which is pretty handy. Of course, non-specialty items have coupons all over the place, so make sure you look around to find the best deals. If you can find a store that allows double coupons then try to do as much of your shopping there as possible. Also, coupons that allow you to shop in bulk, especially on items you’ll need to make from scratch are a must have. Try to use these over smaller coupons whenever you can.
3. Buffets
If you don’t have time to cook or you want a special treat then a buffet is a great place to go after fasting. Some buffets offer great prices during Ramadan, but you should always make sure you know the fine print. For instance, if a buffet advertises their price with a “++”, that means that there are other fees, so the price presented won’t be the price you’re going to pay. Also, some buffets may charge you extra if you eat too much, so make sure to keep within their range, or find a buffet that doesn’t charge this way. One of the keys aspects to saving money on a buffet is to shop around. Word of mouth is a great way to find a cheap buffet that has great food, so don’t be afraid to talk to others about buffets they enjoy. Also, you can look to online review sites for a quick way to find a great buffet that suits your price range. Of course, as mentioned before, try not to eat at buffets often as the price could really cut into the budget.
4. Potlucks
Keeping up with the large meals can actually be very demanding and pricey. One way to remedy this problem is to work out a potluck with friends and family. You don’t have to host the celebration every night, but if everyone can get together and bring one dish, it should allow everyone to save money and enjoy a variety of foods when it’s time to break the fast. Ramadan is a great time to bring friends and family together and there’s no better way to this than to invite people over to eat. This will allow you to experience new foods, learn about new recipes and maybe even experience a dish that has been passed down from generation to generation. As the month progresses, you’ll have a better understanding of culture and you may even learn more about the holiday from elders. Plus, you won’t have to worry about feeding your family many different dishes. Instead, you can concentrate on one bulk dish, which is easier and more cost efficient.
5. Plan wisely
One problem many people run into during Ramadan is not choosing foods that work throughout the day, or to replenish their needs at night. Suhoor, the meal you eat before the sun rise, should be filled with protein, fiber and healthy fats. Keep in mind, oats, seeds and nuts are a great way to get the slow release energy you’re going to need to make it through the day. Try to mix in a fruit component with your meal to ensure you get a little sugar to give you a boost while the fiber and protein slowly moves through the system. You could consider beans, avocado and other foods you wouldn’t normally have for breakfast. Of course, eggs and toast are always a great idea, but try to dress them up with other foods. You should also consider smoothies that are made with produce that are water based, this will help keep you hydrated. For iftar, after sunset, many people usually have a sugary drink to start off the meal. This is okay, but try to avoid eating too much sugar as you don’t want to cause a spike in your blood sugar which could make you feel sick. For this meal, balance is also a must so try to keep up with vegetables, beans, and grains. Soups are a great item to break fasting with because they add water to your body and cause you to slow down while eating. During the month you should also avoid caffeine and soda as they will dehydrate you faster. Also, make sure to drink at least two glasses of water before the sun rises. Of course, drinks that hydrate faster, like coconut water, may be a good option for both meals.
6. Travel Frugally
Many people like to plan a trip or pilgrimage during this time of the year. However, some of the destinations you may choose could leave you in a bind as far as money is concerned. If you do want to go to one of the more popular locations then book well in advance. You need to make sure you have your airline tickets booked at a time that won’t interfere with prayers, as well as a hotel, because they tend to fill up fast. Instead of simply paying outright for your travel expenses, make sure to take advantage of the travel or credit points you’ve built up. You can easily find a hotel that offers meals or one that offers points or discounts when you stay with them often. Also, make sure to look around for deals or talk to a travel agent because you may be missing out on some huge savings.
7. Research Charities
Ramadan is a great time to give to charities, but it may be beneficial to know what you’re actually giving. Sure, you can make out a check out pass it along to the charity of your choice, but you won’t know how much of that money is actually going for the greater good. So, before you sign over the check do a little research. Also, always hold on to those receipts, they may come in handy during tax seasons as they could lead to deductions that could also be donated to other charities.
8. Volunteer
Ramadan is a time for giving gifts and showing love to the world while cleaning your body. So, rather than spend a small fortune on providing your loved ones with items they probably don’t need, you can easily concentrate your love elsewhere. For instance, there’s many places you can volunteer that are always looking for help. A few ideas would be a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter, a program like habitat for humanity or a food bank. These places will give back to the community while allowing you to bring joy to someone truly in need. You may also want to stop by a hospital or nursing home and visit those who may not get a lot of visitors. Perhaps, bring freshly picked flowers or fruits to give them a little something special that doesn’t cost a bundle. If you want to do good for your family, then help the elderly members with cleaning or yard work. Of course, you don’t just have to concentrate on volunteer work that helps people. You could also help out at an animal shelter, pick up garbage in a park or plant trees. The options are endless and they’ll make you feel like you’ve done something to better the world.
9. Make Your Own Decor
When it comes to decorations, Ramadan is one of the most beautiful holidays. There’s so many stunning things you can buy or make that you may be tempted to leave the decor up all year long. Of course, if you’re shopping for decor then you may want to hold off if you’re on a tight budget. Most of the items bought for this holiday are handmade and imported, which means they’re not going to be as frugal as you like. There’s many crafts that your whole family can partake in to make the holiday fun and beautiful. For instance, you can create a star and moon painting using basic paper and cheap paints. Each person can make their own for a look that will impress guests while showing off each personality. You can also make mobiles or garland using a variety of items found in the home. For instance you can color and cut Styrofoam cups and place them over a string of outdoor lights. There’s also many online tutorials to make your own fanoos or paper lanterns. These items look great and can even be used for gifts.
10. Budget
The best thing you can do for Ramada, and any holiday, is to budget before you spend anything. It’s easy to go overboard with meals, gifts and other supplies, so make sure you know what you can spend before you actually go shopping or plan out a celebration. If it helps, pull out the money you plan to use so you won’t be tempted to make extra expenditures when you’re swept up in the holiday or feeling really hungry. Simple planning can make all of the difference!
Ramadan is a great time to spend time with friends and family as well as cleanse your body and repent. With all of the good things going on, you shouldn’t have to feel the burden of money holding you back. With these simple tricks you should be able to spend less and enjoy your holiday more.

Summer time is the perfect season to enjoy water in many forms. It’s cooling, keeps you feeling fresh and hydrated and makes for some pretty awesome games. The only problem is, when it comes to this year, many places are facing a drought that has made the price of water skyrocket. Of course, buying a large swimming pool may not be the answer for most frugal families, drought or not. However, there are a good number of frugal water activities that won’t just keep everyone cool and entertained, but will save you a ton of money. So, don’t spend hundreds to keep the kids cool and busy this summer, because these ten ideas are sure to offer some money saving alternatives.

1. Don’t Drain the Pool
If you already have a pool then this is going to come in handy, especially if you’re in a drought. If you live in a mild climate that doesn’t often get freezes then there’s no reason to dump out your pool water. As long as there is no chance of the water becoming a solid then your pool is fine sitting as is during the off-season. If you do live in an area that freezes over, then get rid of some of the water so that it won’t cause cracks in the pool. When the swimming season rolls around again then you can easily shock the water with chemicals to make it clean again. Keeping a good filtration system is key too, especially if you have an in ground pool. By keeping the water in your pool then you won’t have a huge water bill during the summer months, nor will you receive a fine if you’re in a drought area. This can come in handy for current pool owners, but for those who do not have a pool, it may be best to keep this off your shopping list this season.

2. Buy a Pool Pass
Buying, filling and keeping up with your own pool can be a huge headache with an even bigger price tag. Rather than spending all of your hard earned money, you may want to see about getting a pool pass for the entire family. A lot of community pools will offer pool passes in individual and/or family packs, so make sure to call around in your community to see who can offer you the best deal. You may also want to look into getting a pass from your local YMCA or gym if they can support the entire family. This will allow you to not only enjoy swimming whenever you feel like it, but it will open up a world of other activities you may not have otherwise been able to do on your budget.

3. Water Balloons
When it comes to entertaining kids, water balloons is the way to go. You can come up with a lot of games to play with water balloons, so your kids won’t get bored playing the same thing day in and day out. If you’re shy on ideas then look online, many people have come up with their own games and uploaded the rules. There’s so many that are worth a try, you may be planning several different games a day! The best thing about water balloons is you can buy them for incredibly cheap. Try your local dollar store if you’re not planning on using too many. However, if water balloons are your bigger summer plans then buying in bulk will ensure you save the most money. You can find them sold in many stores, but you may also want to check online to see if there’s an even better deal. When you fill up the balloons try to utilize an old lotion or soap dispenser. This will fill them up without spilling or wasting water. It also makes this a more child friendly task, which is always a plus, especially if your children are in the independent stage. If you’re really feeling ambition, you can even make a DIY balloon launcher that will add hours of fun to the kids play time.

4. Car/Pet Wash
If you’re looking to cool down on a hot day but don’t want to waste water then you may want to combine chore time with play time. The best thing about this is no one is going to complain because they’ll get to cool down while having some fun. When it comes to the car, you can easily keep your chore frugal and environmentally friendly by filling up a bucket and trying not to exceed that amount of water during the washing process. Washing pets may be a bit trickier though. Try to fill up a child’s pool or the bathtub in order to get this job done. Use small sand pales to get the dog wet using the pool water. There shouldn’t be a reason to add more water to the mix as you wash though. In fact, the dog may do most of the work for the kids if they particularly love the water. Of course, you may have to quickly hose the kids down when the job is done, but try to use a water hose with a spigot to help control the water.

5. Water Gun Battles
One way to keep the kids busy for hours is to use water guns for battles. This can be a lot of fun for a little bit of cost, especially if you’re careful with the water guns you buy. Try shopping at a thrift store before you go to pricier store to see if they have some water guns that may cost you an arm and a leg anywhere else. If you have no luck at the thrift store then dollar stores a great second, although these water guns may not last as long. Of course, you can always browse around for coupons to see if you can find any worthwhile. Once you have the water guns, fill up a bucket and let the kids have some fun. Of course, there’s lot of games you can play with water guns too. In fact, once exciting game only requires white t-shirts, water guns, goggles and food coloring. Simply divide everyone up into teams and fill their guns with one color of food coloring stained water. Then, have the kids play until they get hit, which will be evident from their clothing. You can switch off colors after each round to make it easier to see who is in and who is out.

6. Public Parks
If you’re at a loss for ideas and money, then one of the best places to go is a public park. Nowadays, a lot of parks have splash zones for kids, especially if you live in a hot area. These zones are designed to allow kids to cool off, whereas other parks actually create special areas designed for water play. The best thing is, the public park won’t charge you a thing for this, so you can spend all day every day there if you really want to. These are also usually attached to other playgrounds so kids can play when they’re bored of being in the water. If you don’t have a park like this in the area, then look to see when your local parks turn on the sprinklers, most parks won’t care if the kids play in them for a little while as long as there is an adult present and they don’t tear up the grass.

7. Slip and Slide
The slip and slide is probably one of the more iconic ways to have fun in the water during the summer time. These slides can easily be made at home if you’re looking to cover a broad area, or you can buy them fairly inefficiently at your local department store. Once you’ve made or set up your slide then the fun can begin. However, you may want to consider using baby oil on the slide before you actually let the kids take it for a spin. This will allow you to use a lot less water than you would have to otherwise. It will also let the kids slide further and faster so it will be more fun for them and may even prevent burns from the material. Kids can play on this toy for hours and they’ll keep cool while doing it.

8. Natural Water Sources
One of the best ways to cool down during the summer months is to take your kids to the beach/lake/river/creek or any other natural water source you may have in the area. Having fun in the water can help make the whole family bond and feel more comfortable when the weather is over the top. Of course, when it comes to natural water sources, you should always know what safety items to bring with you. For instance, all young children should have a life vest and floaters to help keep them on top of the water if the unthinkable happens. You should also have bug spray, sunscreen and a first aid kit on hand to make sure everyone is having fun as healthily as possible. Also, you may want to consider bringing along inner tubes, boogie boards or other water toys you may have to help keep the day even more fun.

9. Utilize Sponges
There’s one item that most people already have lying around the house and that is, the sponge. Sponges tend to hold on to a lot more water than we expect which makes them a great toy when you’re trying to conserve water. Simply fill up a bucket, add the sponges and you’ll be ready for a wide assortment of games. For instance capture the flag with a sponge is always good fun. Instead of the other team tackling, have them throw the sponge to get their opponent out, or you can have the sponge as the flag as the water will make it harder to get it back to home base. Another fun idea is to use the sponges as dodge balls. The kids will get soaked in this activity which makes it perfect for a hot day. A lot of people have some pretty good sponge fun ideas, so if you can’t think of anything to add to the list then browse around and you’ll find countless ideas worth trying out.

10. Swim Lessons
Swim lessons are the perfect summer activity. They not only help keep your kids nice and cool on the hottest of days, but they also help ensure your child knows how to swim so they can enjoy other water based activities. In many areas, you can enroll your kids in a free summer program which offers swim lessons. These are usually offered by community programs, high schools or even your local YMCA. Usually your community center should be able to lead you in the right direction, but you have to do some calling around to make sure your child gets a free slot. If you can’t find a free course then ask your local public pool if they’re running courses. Sometimes they will give you a price break if you enroll more than one child in their course. Once you get your child enrolled, make sure to support the learning process by taking them to the pool to perfect their skills as this will help them retain lessons so they can further develop their skills.

Summer time doesn’t have to be miserable if your budget is on the tight end. With these ten tips you should be able to find the perfect ways to keep your kids cool without leaving your budget distraught. You may even find new ways to enjoy family time which will help your kids create incredible memories.

The Fourth of July is a great time gather family and friends for a celebration that goes above and beyond. However, planning a celebration for this patriotic holiday can mean a lot of spending on your end. From meats for the grill to firework prices, it may be hard to get anything done during the holiday if you’re on a tight budget. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to celebrate the holiday without having to put a lot of money into it. From simple getaways to frugal party ideas, with a little shopping know-how you’ll be ready to make your Fourth of July the best yet.

1. Skip the Party
There’s no law that says you have to have a Fourth of July party, even if you tend to have one every year. If you’re budget isn’t looking so hot this year then let everyone know you’re not going to be having a party. This may give someone else a chance to shine, which could be a nice change of pace. After all, sometimes it’s nice to give up hosting duties and simply enjoy being the carefree guest. Ask around to see if there’s any parties you can go to. Of course, if there’s more parties than you expected then you can easily hop from party to party to keep the day fun and frugal. You may find that going to parties is more your cup of tea and suits your budget too. If it doesn’t suit you then you can always host a party next year or when your budget can support a party.

2. See A Firework Show
Many cities and even rural areas don’t allow fireworks for a number of reasons. Those that do allow fireworks often have a long lists of rules to follow which may leave you wanting to forget the firework aspect of the holiday right away. Prices of fireworks aren’t exactly the best either and could leave you spending so much that you won’t have anything else to do for the day. Instead of worrying about fireworks in general, look to see if there’s going to be a firework show in your community or a surrounding community. Usually, these shows are free or cheap to get into and will give you the firework show you couldn’t get at home. Of course, you don’t actually have to go to a show to get this experience. Try carefully getting on the roof or setting out chairs in the front or backyard and watching all of the fireworks that are being let off around you. It’s free and will have everyone amazed by the show.

3. Shop Online
Believe it or not, but the Fourth of July is a great time to get online and shop. Sure, there’s lot of in store sales, but not quite like the sales you’ll find online. On this day you should find summer clothes, bulk party supplies, as well as seasonal items. Try to keep an eye on your favorite websites to see if they begin their celebration early as you may be able to find some great deals before the holiday even begins. The best thing is you don’t even have to set foot in a crowded store, which may save you more than money! Of course, many stores will also offer free shipping during this time which will help maximize your savings so your deals were even more worthwhile than you thought. With a little luck, you’ll be able to stock up on school supplies, summer clothes and other items that could keep your family stocked up and saving money for the rest of the year.

4. Decor
Decorating for the Fourth of July should never be a huge expenditure, even if you are hosting a party. In fact, there’s a lot of DIY crafts that are perfect for the entire family and may even leave you wanting to leave some of the decor out all year. One simple craft, that’s great for keeping kids busy, is to take the cardboard from a toilet roll and turn it into a firecracker decoration. Simply add paint to the toilet roll, then when it’s dried place streamers, pipe cleaners or other strings to the back of it. Once that’s dried, use paper to make an angled top. These can be hung from the ceiling, used as streamers or placed around the house. You can also add a string to the front and have kids make them fly as they run. Of course, there’s lots of ideas for this holiday so make sure to browse online. If you prefer to buy your decor then keep items like streamers, tablecloths and so on as a solid color. It’ll be easy to reuse at another party and these items generally cost less. Dollar stores are a great place to shop for these items, but keep in mind the quantity of the packages because you may not get your money’s worth.

5. Know Safety Procedures
Keeping up to date with safety procedures can actually be one of the biggest ways to save money, believe it or not. A lot can go wrong with a holiday like this because fireworks can easily go from a fun event to a trip to the E.R. Also, many people choose to drink on the Fourth, which could leave you dealing with accidents, big and small. So, before the event begin make sure you brush up on how to put out a fire. Although having a fire extinguisher on hand is one of the best ways to deal with the issue, sometimes this isn’t an option or it may be too big of fire for the extinguisher to handle. So, keeping up with these facts could save your life and your property. You should also make sure you know basic first aid procedures as well as how to keep a situation under control if there is a problem that needs emergency attention. Last but not least, put your pets away before the fireworks begin. A lot of animals are spooked by the noises which could prompt them to run away. So, in order to avoid your pet getting harmed or having to pay fees to get them returned, it is best to keep them secure before all of the action begins.

6. Soak Up Sun
A lot of people want to take off on pricey vacations when the Fourth of July rolls around. This can be one of the priciest times to travel though. Instead, try to get some sun in your own area. One of the best ways to do this is to head to a local body of water. May it be a pool, river, lake or the ocean, it’ll help you get the burst of Vitamin D you’ve been craving while ensuring your loved ones have a blast on the big day. Water isn’t the only option though, you can easily go on a walk, hike or scavenger hunt to get some sun and enjoy the great outdoors. You can even base the scavenger hunt around the holiday to make it more fun for the kids. No matter which option you choose, make sure to stay hydrated as the weather will definitely be hot in most places. Of course, if you don’t want to, you don’t have to travel anywhere. You can easily plan games in the front or backyard too. For instance, relay races are always a hit or you can pull out your favorite sports game to enjoy. Even hanging out on the porch and reading is a great holiday option.

7. Potluck
If you decide you want to go forward with the party despite the high price, then there is one quick way to cut costs and time. That is, make it a potluck. Potlucks are a great way to transform your personal party into a community event. When you send out invitations make sure to ask people to RSVP with the dish they’re making. This will help you prevent multiple dishes from being brought and will help you get a good idea of the food you need to purchase for the party. With most of your guests bringing their favorite holiday dish, you should have to spend very little on the party food, which will help you spend in other areas. If you do have to buy food then make sure to shop for cheap or bulk items to keep things simple.

8. Visit a National Park
There may not be a better way to celebrate Independence Day than to actually celebrate in one of our many national parks. During this time of the year, many parks may actually reduce the price of admission or allow guests to stay for nothing at all. Some parks will even have special celebrations to draw in more guests to the beautiful outdoors. In the park you can camp, fish and enjoy the great outdoors without having to worry about work or anything else that may be on your mind. You can even shut off the air conditioner while you’re gone to save even more money. Some of these locations will even allow you to go out and fish without a fishing license which will help keep your holiday celebration even more frugal. With any luck you’ll even be able to catch dinner to cut down on costs even more. With the beauty of the park on your mind, there’s no doubt you’ll look back on this Fourth of July fondly for years to come.

9. Movie Marathon
Since the United States has become a country, we’ve had many moments to celebrate, mourn and feel inspired over. So, take this holiday to celebrate the country for its many special moments and milestones. There’s countless movies that showcase American life, which are perfect to put on for your holiday celebration. In most cases, you can even find family friendly blockbusters that are sure to please everyone. Look for movies about Lewis and Clark, any war that’s challenged us, the civil rights movement or simply some of today’s great accomplishments. There’s no limit to your options. If you don’t have a large movie collection then check out what your cable stations or steaming video subscriptions have to offer. You may be surprised as to how many movies actually make you think of the country, once you begin your movie marathon.

10. Travel Wisely
If you have to hit the road for the holiday then the best thing you can do is plan well in advance. Try to make sure you have alternative routes to help you along the way, which can come in handy when there’s traffic or construction work. You should also download apps to help you out with finding gas stations that will save you big time. Make sure to pack food for meals and snacks so you don’t have to stop for fast food when you’re on the go. This will cut down on spending and ensure the family doesn’t feel terrible when you get to your location. You should also pack as light as possible as the heavier the car, the more gas you’re going to waste on the road. Last but not least, try not to run the air conditioning if you can. This is especially important if you’re driving through the mountains as it can leave you over heated and may leave you stranded on the road.

The Fourth of July is a great time to get together with those you love, so don’t let money stand in your way of this amazing holiday. With these simple tips you should be able to plan accordingly so you’ll get more out of the federal holiday for a lot less money!

Pre-summer heat already got you down? Between entertaining the kids this season and keeping up with daily routines, you may find that the month of June brings many hardships to the family budget. However, there are a few ways you can cool down the cost thanks to the amazing deals June has to offer. This June is proving to be a great time buy some much needed items for your home and entertainment needs, which should make June seem a lot more family friendly! So, slap on the sunscreen and head out to your favorite air conditioned store, because these deals may prove to be too good to pass up!

1. Outdoor Apparel
If you like to skip the gym in the summer then these deals are going to be a great find for you. From workout suits to new shoes, you’ll be ready to get in shape during the hot months. Overall, outdoor apparel takes a huge dive in the month of June. This is largely due to the fact that people want to get out and have some fun before the weather transforms from a little on the hot side to full on oven worthy heat. So, try to find some great workout apparel to help make exercising in the heat more bearable. For starters, items like Under Armor and other core clothing will help keep the body cool while you work out. This is a definite must if you live in a hot clime and don’t want to give up on your morning run. Shoes will also be on the sales rack this season. From hiking boots to running shoes, now is the time to get what you need to enjoy your favorite summer activities. Not to mention, items like cargo pants/shorts, outdoor hats and other accessories for the great outdoors will be on sale too.

2. Laptops
Mid-to-late May and early June are all about graduating kids from high school. However, June is also the time when you will be planning out the next steps in your child’s education. Thus, you’re probably considering purchasing a new laptop for your child to be able to study and work on their homework. Of course, if you have a computer you believe may be on its last leg, then now is the time to replace it, opposed to waiting for it to have a break down when you need it the most. This is due to the fact that laptops are on sale during the month of June. You may even be able to find some name brands for less than $200, which is practically a steal on your end. Make sure to do your research before you spend the money on a laptop though. Also, look for coupons to see if you can save even more on your large purchase.

3. Dishware
Getting married this month? Setting out on your for college? Or, perhaps you’re sick of your chipped and worn out dishes? June is the month to stock up on dishware, so make sure to look around for something you like! From dishes sets to separate items, you should be able to find everything you need at a price that will complement your budget. These sales are also perfect for housewarming, graduation or wedding gifts. Now, you won’t have to stress out about spending a fortune on the person who is celebrating a milestone in your life. This, in itself, will help keep your budget on the right side during graduation and wedding season!

4. Movie Tickets
Everyone knows, the biggest movies of the year come out during the summer time. Blockbuster season is what movie buffs wait for all year long! However, did you know that the month of June is the perfect time catch up on movies at the theater? Yep! June is the time to spend your money on big name films that will leave you and your family floored. The movie theater is the perfect summer activity for most families. Between the cool air conditioned rooms and comfortable seats, it’s a nice break from the everyday routine in the sweltering heat. Not to mention, the movie line up will keep your kids happy while they’re out of school for summer vacation. Generally, movie tickets drop a dollar or two during this time because there are so many people coming to the theater. You may even find days in which you can get the kids in for free as long as you pay for the adult tickets. Even better, many theaters will discount the prices of cold drinks during the summer, which will make your trip out all the more refreshing.

5. Tools
Most dads really like their tools. They cherish them, polish them, brag about them to friends. Their tools are like dear friends, but there’s always room for someone new. This is probably why the month of June is a great time to stock up on all of those tools you’ve been wanting but haven’t been able to afford. With Father’s Day on its way, the price of tools takes a dive because many people want to get their hands on something special for their father. Even if you’re not looking for tools for Father’s Day, now is the time to hit your hardware or department store and stock up on the items you need to keep up with your home and your lifestyle. Even if you simply need to pick up a hammer or screwdriver set, you’ll maximize your savings by doing it in June. So, don’t think twice about that wrench set or even the chain saw you know you’re going to need soon, because June savings will be long gone in a few short weeks.

6. Restaurant Discounts
If you love to go out to eat then you’re going to be pretty pleased with the month of June. This month is the best time to meet up with friends and family for a tasty meal that none of you have to cook or clean up. Perhaps it’s the heat or the fact that summer vacation is just kicking off, but a lot of restaurants offer extended happy hour times, which is always a plus. When you show up during these hours you’ll not only get cheaper drinks but you can also find some cheap appetizer deals that could count as a meal! Not to mention, a lot of places allow children to eat for free or a discounted price during certain days or times. If this isn’t enough to drive your taste buds wild then you’ll be pleased to know that June is also filled with quite a few freebies. Donut Day is probably one of the more popular days to celebrate, but if you look around town you may find other places are offering freebies on certain days too. Plus, if you plan on taking dad out for Father’s Day, you may find his meal is discounted or free, which makes celebrating him even more fun.

7. Lingerie
Although it may be the worst time to buy a bikini, lingerie is a whole different story. Thanks to Victoria Secret’s semi-annual sale, you can find some high quality lingerie at an everyday price that will blow you away. Of course, if Victoria Secret isn’t your thing then chances are you’ll still have some luck finding an amazing deal on lingerie that suits your style. Most lingerie stores, including department stores, have to be able to compete with Victoria Secret’s big sale, so you’ll probably see prices drop as soon as the sale begins. So, look around to see if your brands are offering some savings that will help you stock up and get rid of some of your older lingerie. Don’t be discouraged if your favorite store isn’t offering the same sale though. Chances are, they may be waiting for the big sales to be over, so they have an open window to draw in more business with a sale of their own!

8. Video Games
With the kids out of school, there may be a whole lot of video games on your mind. Let’s face it, when it’s sweltering outside, who can blame a kid for wanting to hang out in the cold and go on adventures that don’t actually require sweating. Luckily, June is bringing some major video games savings to the table. For starters, XBOX One has decided to offer a new console package that is $100 off the original price. This package doesn’t include the Kinnect, but if this is something your family never uses then it’s a great deal! Of course, you can always go back and buy a Kinnect later or purchase a used one for a discounted price. With this big news from XBOX, rumor has is Playstation 4 may also be coming up with some savings for the hot summer days. Game fans also shouldn’t forget that Steam begins their big video game sale in late June, which is the perfect time to stock up on games you’ve been wanting to try out.

9. Tropical Vacations
If you’ve ever longed to go to the tropics, then June is the month to do so. Even if you haven’t booked your plans yet, you may still be able to find some awesome deals during the month of June. So, what’s the catch? Well, June happens to be the beginning of storm season in areas like the Caribbean, so you may not see as many sunny days as you would if you went any other time of the year. However, June is just the beginning of this season, so the harsh weather hasn’t settled in just yet. You’ll still be able to catch some sun, hang out on the beach and enjoy local traditions. However, if you haven’t booked yet, you may want to plan your trip soon. July and August aren’t as friendly and may make your vacation a bust. Try to talk with your travel agent about deals to the Caribbean as they may be privy to some better deals than internet sites.

10. Produce
There’s nothing quite like summer time produce and June is when we begin to see some of this delicious food taking a dive in price at our favorite supermarkets. Items like squash and corn are probably going to be the first to make it to stores, so make sure you’re ready to fire up the grill and enjoy some tasty cookouts. Watermelon and other melons are also great finds during this season and can be used in so many different recipes and drinks. These items don’t freeze well, so make sure to savor the delicious taste of summer as much as possible. Tomatoes are another big summer crop that you’ll love to be able to buy in bulk. Now is the perfect time to pull out your canning supplies and create batches of salsa, tomato sauce, tomato juice and other delicious recipes that you can enjoy all year long. Tomatoes also make great add-ons for salads and sandwiches which are also a tasty and light meal for the summer months. You’ll also see fruits like peaches back in stock, so make sure to create your favorite pies, jams and other sweets with this fruit. These items can be frozen to ensure they last throughout the year too. Finally, berries will also be at a lower price, so get ready for tasty drinks and delicious snacks filled with antioxidants.

June is a great month for getting more for your money which should help offset the costs of all the other spending you’ll be doing during this time of the year. With a little shopping know how, these deals should help keep your budget looking good in the summer sun!

It’s that time of year again. That is, it’s time to let your dad know just how you feel about him. Although Father’s Day only comes once a year, it tends to show up when we’re busy entertaining the kids during summer break or trying to make the final preparations for a vacation. So, if your budget is looking pretty tight right now, you may want to check out these ten Father’s Day money saving ideas. Finding the perfect present for dad doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. You may actually be surprised as to how easy it is to make your dad feel loved and appreciated for all that he’s done for you.

1. Car Detailing
If your dad’s like a lot of dads out there, then his car means the world to him. It’s his pride and joy (after you, of course) and he’s always wanting to keep it clean and tidy. So, why not surprise dad with a custom detailing. You have a few options when it comes to this gift. To make life easier, you can take it in and have a professional clean it inside and out. Although this is a bit more convenient, it will also cost you a bit of money. So if you’re worried about the budget then you may want to try to do it yourself. Keeping the car clean shouldn’t take a whole lot of elbow grease on your end. Simply fill up a bucket with soapy water and get to washing. Try to conserve water as much as you can here as it will help you save money and it will also make your gift to dad a bit more ecofriendly. Once the car is washed, work on detailing the inside while it dries. Bring out your handheld vacuum cleaner to take care of debris on the floor and seats. Eliminate the trash from inside, but make sure it’s not something dad may need before you throw it out. Then, wipe down everything with a special car cleaner. You may even be able to figure out how to DIY this cleaning product if you look online. Last but not least, when the car has finished drying, slap on some wax and watch as she shines. You may also want to consider making dad a DIY gift basket filled with supplies to keep his car looking amazing!

2. Sports
Chances are, your dad likes one sport or another. So, let his special day be the perfect occasion to get outside and get some sun with him. You can easily organize a game of golf, tennis or ping pong with your dad, if those are the types of sports he’s into. You may even be able to swing the trip without having to spend a dime, which is even better for your budget. Of course, if dad’s into more team based sports then it may take a bit of planning on your end. However, if you have a lot of family willing to help out on the gift then you can easily organize teams for baseball, soccer, hockey and football. Just make sure to ask around a couple of weeks beforehand. Not all dads are excited to get out in the hot sun and play though. If your dad is more of a bystander than a player, then sit down and watch a game with him. Perhaps, you can buy cheap tickets for a minor league game in your area. If not, then kick back and enjoy a game on the TV with your dad. After all, it is spending time together that counts the most.

3. Yard Work
A lot of dads end up with a “Honey Do-List” that tends to be a mile long. So, why not ease the burden of dad’s chores and help out in the yard. You may want to start with the gutters as these are often long neglected. However, mowing and watering the lawn are usually a huge favor. You may even consider re-seeding, if the lawn is looking a bit sparse. Pulling weeds, trimming shrubs and other common lawn work are also a must. If you have kids then get them in on the action too. Your dad will love watching the effort as he sips some lemonade inside the cool house. If there’s not a lot of work to do then think out of the box. For instance, you can organize the lawn tools to make it easier for dad to get the job done. Also, you may want to consider making dad a gift basket filled with lawn supplies. This will help throughout the year and may even inspire dad to get out and work in the yard a bit more.

4. Brag Book
What dad doesn’t like to brag about his kids and grandkids? If your dad is always talking about how amazing you and your family are then give him the gift of a brag book. These handy books can easily be bought or made, which helps keep them on the frugal side. If you plan to buy your book then make sure to look around for coupons that will help cut the costs. However, you may find making the brag book brings even more meaning to the gift. There’s lots of brag book DIYs and you can even choose to create a portable brag book or one that sits proudly on the coffee table. Once you have your book made or purchased, fill it with pictures of the family. You may even want to add in achievements, such as ribbons or certificates. Of course, you don’t have to part with the awards, simply scan them and print them out!

5. Special Dinner
They always say food is the key to a man’s heart, so why not use this to your favor. On dad’s big day, pop by and whip up one of his favorite meals to please him. If you really want to push the envelope, you can ask around to see if you can find his mom’s or grandmother’s recipe for the dish, so it will be an even bigger surprise when he takes the first bite. Try to shop as frugally as possible when you go to buy the items for the dish though. There should be a lot of coupons out during this time so use as many as you can to cut down on the costs of the meal. Of course, you should also consider making dessert to complete the meal. Dads usually have a sweet tooth, so make sure to ask what they’ve been craving or work towards making their favorite dessert.

6. Coffee
If your dad is one of the many who can’t go without his morning cup of coffee then take him out for a cup of Joe and some good conversation. Dad will love being able to spend the time with you while the two of you catch up. You can even make your coffee outings a weekly thing to give dad a bit more of a gift for his special day. Of course, if you’re nowhere near your dad then a gift certificate for his favorite coffee house may do the trick. This doesn’t have to be inexpensive and will allow dad to go out when the mood arises. You can also plan on meeting him via video conversation apps so you can make good on your coffee promise. If dad isn’t really a coffee house kind of person, then send him a gift basket with his favorite coffee treats. For instance, you can pack a new mug, a couple bags of coffee and some cookies or cakes, to suit his sweet tooth.

7. Dad Date
Sometimes, all dad needs is a little time spent with his children. So, propose a special dad date for the big day. You can even make a coupon book to help make dad feel more special. You don’t have to choose expensive items for each coupon either. For instance, you can write up a coupon to share a hike or a simple walk with your dad. You may also want to write one for a free movie, dinner or game of cards. The options are endless with his gift so use your creativity. There’s also lots of ideas online if you can’t think of anything you think your dad would like. If you have kids then add a freebie grandkids day, or have the grandkids come up with their own surprises for their grandfather.

8. DIY Gifts
Most dads love gifts that let the world know they’re the best dad around. So, channel some creativity and start making dad some cool gifts to show off. One of the most common gifts for dads is a special t-shirt. Try to get some iron on decals or fabric paint to get started. You’ll also need a blank t-shirt in your dad’s size. Then, write or draw anything you like on the shirt. If there’s young children in the house then you might consider adding handprints so dad can always remember how small his kids once were. Another great option is a DIY hat, which follows the same principles as the t-shirt. Many dads love custom mugs or water bottles so they can show them off a work. Mugs are the easier item to customize as you can go to a pottery shop, or simply buy a special paint and a blank mug. There’s also many websites that will allow you to have your design custom printed at a fair price.

9. Have a Game Night
Chances are, growing up you had quite a few game nights with your dad. So, let dad relive the magic by calling a game night of your own. Try to get the whole family involved so it will increase the fun and make dad feel amazing. Simply, let dad pick a board or card game and let the evening roll. You may want to consider snacks and beverages for the event too as some games can go on for hours. Of course, if dad picks a short game you may want to let him play as many rounds as he likes, or move on to the next game of his choosing. If you think about the evening in a good light then there’s a great chance everyone will have the time of their life. You may even want to make game night a regular thing.

10. Shop Sales
If you already have something in mind for dad, then make sure to shop the sales. There should be a lot of great sales going on this month simply because of Father’s Day. For starters, if dad loves tools then now is the time to get him the gift you’ve always hoped you could afford. Most tools will take a huge price reduction, so move in while you still can! The same can be said for lawn supplies. Of course, there’s lots of great items to choose from for the big day, so think out of the box. You may also want to download some sales apps so you can find the best price around without having to drive around all day! Some apps will even let you reserve it, so you won’t miss out on the sale.

Father’s Day is a great time to think back on the happy memories your dad created with you. With these ten gift suggestions, you should be able to find the perfect something to let your father know he means the world to you without having to break away from your budget. With the financial burden of the holiday gone, you’ll love sharing and celebrating the man that brought you up!

Planning a trip abroad can leave you stunned at how much money it may take just to enjoy your trip. Whether you’re planning to backpack through Europe before heading to college, celebrating your honeymoon in the Caribbean or you simply want to explore your roots, there’s a few great tips that will help you get more out of your vacation for less money. Although looking at vacation plans may make it seem like your trip is impossible on a budget, you should find that there’s many corners that can be cut that will make it absolutely affordable. So, find your favorite knapsack and get ready to see some amazing things while you keep your budget flourishing.

1. Fly Wisely
Your heart may sink the first time you look at plane tickets for your destination of choice. Typically, tickets are in the four figure range, which isn’t exactly a pleasing number when you’re just starting out your vacation plans. There are a few ways to lower the number though. For starters, always make sure to shop around and talk to a travel agent. You may be surprised as to the difference in price you find when you do this. However, after doing a little research, make sure to clear your cookies so you can find the same deal again. Also, if you have time to book ahead, make sure to do so at least 6 months in advance. If possible, book at the end of summer to get more savings than expected. Planning is also a key factor in the flying experience. Try to book your plane ticket for a Wednesday departure and return on a Tuesday. You may also want to be open to alternative routes. This will find you some extraordinary deals. Last but not least, take the layover. It will actually allow you to get a bit more out of your traveling experience as you may get some time to check out an area you may not have otherwise seen.

2. Talk To a Travel Agent
In today’s day and age, talking to a travel agent isn’t always the most convenient way to do things. After all, most people are connected to the internet which allows you to connect to numerous websites that seem like amazing deals. However, travel agents are often privy to deals that you can’t find online. With a few calls they can probably find you the best deal possible, with little to no effort on your end. This is especially great if you plan on traveling abroad. The travel agent can get the ball rolling on your passport details as well as find out about any VISA information you may need to travel. They can also offer basic language and custom guides as well as secure you a hotel room so you won’t have to worry about anything but packing light!

3. Alternative Accommodations
Hotels can be luxurious and comforting, but at the same time, they’re also quite expensive. This is especially true when you factor in the currency rates which aren’t always going to be in your favor. Instead of immediately booking a hotel, you may want to try out some hostel options in the area in which you’re traveling. Luckily, thanks to many review sites you can log in and make sure it is a location you will be comfortable in. Hostels usually cost next to nothing so, if you plan on only staying for a few hours to catch some sleep and shower, then you’re in the right place. However, if you’re looking for a longer stay or a more authentic experience then you may want to consider renting out a room in someone’s home for a night. Many websites offer this service and will ensure you get a nice family setting which will give you a better taste of the culture. You can also rent out someone’s home, which is perfect for family’s that plan on staying in one location for a few nights. Finally, you can plan on camping out in many areas. With a simple light weight tent, you’ll be set to make sure your backpack experience is unforgettable and frugal.

4. Withdraw Currency
One of the worst things about traveling abroad is the fees that seem to follow you around everywhere. If you plan on using your credit or debit card while you’re abroad then you may be looking at hundreds of dollars in fees by the time you get home. So, instead of taking the plastic along as your primary funding source, you may want to pull out some cash. If you’re going to only one location then you can pull out the proper currency in your own bank. Make sure you have somewhere secure to keep the money and you should be set for the trip. Of course, if you’re going to be visiting a few different places, then you have a few options to consider. You can still withdraw the money from your bank, but take some time to budget so you’ll know just how much currency you’ll need for each country. You can also pull out the cash you need and exchange it for currency every time you enter a new country. There’s readily available booths that will provide you with an easy way to do so upon arrival. Remember, you may end up losing money via the exchange as currency values range based on their economy.

5. Look For Discounts
Even though you’re not on the home front anymore, you still may be able to find some discounts to help you make your trip a dream come true. You should start looking for discounts before you leave the country. Try to look for help with your travel company, as they often offer discounts for military members, senior citizen, the disabled and some members of clubs or organizations. This is also true if you need to buy special clothing or equipment before you go backpacking. You may even be able to find some deals on currency exchanges or credit card wavers if you are a member of certain banks. Of course, one of the biggest ways to save while abroad is to wave your student ID. Some places will recognize any student ID, but you may need to get an international student card if you plan on saving big time throughout the trip. You can use this for hotels, hostels, food, clothing and just about anything else you can think of!

6. Travel Like the Locals
If you want to get more out of your experience you can easily travel like the locals, which will save on some money too. This may mean doing a whole lot of walking on your end, but it’ll be worth it to get the full experience. Many cities also offer rental bikes which are great for longer distances or rides by the beach. You may even feel a lot healthier by the end of the trip which is certain to make your time away even more worthwhile. Of course, this also may mean you’ll want to buy a transit pass if you’re going to be in the area for an entire day or longer. These passes allow you to hop on the bus whenever you feel like it which will make seeing all the sights a breeze. Buses will save you a fortune in comparison to taxis too which is definitely a bright side to the entire experience. Another option to use is trains, which can help you get to destinations that are further away. You may even prefer the fun ride to paying extra for a plane ticket to go between countries.

7. Get Traveler’s Insurance
One thing you shouldn’t leave the country without is traveler’s insurance. This insurance can come in handy if a wide number of things go wrong and isn’t so expensive that it will leave you reconsidering the entire trip. One of the things this insurance will help you with is any ailments or injuries that happen abroad. Some countries won’t offer medical care without proof of insurance which can be a real problem if you’re in pain and your regular insurance says they don’t cover out of country claims. Another problem that traveler’s insurance can help with are rescheduled flights that leave you in a big bind. Loss of passport, stolen luggage and other vacation destroying experiences can also be remedied by making this little purchase before you step foot on the plane.

8. Eat Like the Locals
If you’re not careful, your food budget could skyrocket while you’re abroad. Often, the restaurants marketed towards tourists are over-priced which means you’ll end up paying way more than you should. Instead of hanging out in the tourist haven, try to strike up a conversation with a local to see where they like to eat on an average occasion out. If you don’t trust asking other people then power up your smartphone and use restaurant review sites to pick a location. Here, you will be able to see most menus and prices which makes it a breeze to compare prices to make sure you’re getting a good deal. Of course, you’ll also be able to see top picks so you find a place that is unique to the area without risking wasting your money. Of course, if you’re really looking to save some money then check out a local grocery store and buy items you can make in your hotel. It may open your eyes to some of the customs of the other country and will show you how different/similar the shopping process is.

9. Look for Freebies
The key to saving money on your trip is to look for items to do that won’t cost you a dime. Luckily, most countries have plenty of free activities to choose from so it shouldn’t take you long to pick up an itinerary for each location. One of the most common freebies abroad, especially in Great Britain and Europe, is museums and historical landmarks. You can easily step into an art museum and enjoy generations of art for nothing at all. Some locations will even allow you to check out castles or palaces at no cost. This is a great outing for history buffs or anyone looking to be blown away by art and architecture. You should also look for free places to swim or hangout. Beaches and lakes are some of the more popular freebies to enjoy. With all of these items on your to-do list, you shouldn’t have a whole lot of down time to play around with.

10. Set the Budget
No matter what you choose to do or where you choose to go, sitting down and coming up with a budget is the best way to ensure your vacation is going to be affordable. Try looking around on the internet to see the average costs of food, water, hotels and activities and then allot the higher amount of money to be safe. You should also budget in currency rates with a little room to grow as these rates can change daily. When you’ve got your budget set then set out budgets for each even that will require money. You can even put them in envelopes so you know what belongs where. This will ensure you can maintain your plans and won’t be tempted to go overboard on items like souvenirs or food that’s a bit of a splurge. It will also allow you to add a cushion to your other spending areas if you don’t spend everything you’d allotted for one area of the vacation!

Traveling abroad can be a great way to emerge yourself in culture and have a good time! With these ten tips you should be able to enjoy your holiday without spending a small fortune! With the budget off your mind you should be able to have a blast without thinking about over-spending.

Summer brings a lot of changes to everyday life. From job transitions to leaving for the dorm rooms, you may find yourself looking to change locations during the hot months. Moving can not only be a stressful time for everyone involved, but it can also cost you a whole lot of money if you’re not careful. For starters, the movie truck alone can send your savings account into the red zone. With deposits, fees and everything else that goes along with moving, you may feel overwhelmed as you spend hours budgeting away your life. Luckily, there’s a few simple solutions to keep your spending down as you transfer you, your family and your belongings to your new space. So, take a deep breath and let the moving stress lift away, because you’re going to feel a lot better after utilizing these tips.

1. Consider Pods
Gone are the days when you would have to rent a truck, and quite possibly a trailer to tug along your car, just to relocate. Now, things can be a little bit easier if you want them to be. Today, most moving companies offer pods, or special crates, that allow you to move without the huge headache. When you schedule your moving-out date, the company will drop off a crate, or three, at your home so you can fill it up in your own time. This takes the pressure off of rushing to pile everything into a truck, which also means you will probably be able to fill your crate up more, thus ensuring you save even more money. When the crate(s) is filled up and ready to go, the company picks it up and sends it to the destination you provided. Of course, this could take up to 2 weeks to do, but in that time you’ll be able to get to your new destination and secure your new home. Once the items arrive in your new town you can schedule a drop off date and enjoy the convenience of unloading on your own time. When you’re ready, the company will pick up the crate and leave you to enjoy your new place. A lot of people do tend to stay away from crates for the sole reason that they seem more expensive. Although the price tag may be startling at first, once you calculate the gas of driving a heavy truck, as well as towing your vehicle, you may find the crate will save you hundreds.

2. Ask For Help
When it comes down to it, a lot of people plan to hire movers to help them get the ball rolling on their job. If you have lots of friends and family that can lend a helping hand then why would you spend thousands to have someone help? This is especially important if you’re going to your first place. Asking friends and family to step in to help you pack up or even just load your truck can be the bonding time you need to make your move a little less upsetting. It may also be a great time to pick up packing tricks as you could find yourself moving more often in the first few years of college. Of course, if you’re well past the college age and have found a better home or job, then it could be a fun way to say goodbye to your community, co-workers and other loved ones you have in the area. Usually, it is a courtesy to feed the people who help you out, so try to arrange a quick barbeque or something simple and inexpensive to help save even more money. When it comes to moving in to your new home, you may be out of luck when it comes to help. However, you could always ask a friend to come along for the ride, especially if they’re on their way to the same destination.

3. Purge Before Packing
A lot of the time, we end up unpacking so many things that we often wonder why we even brought half of the stuff along with us. To save on the trouble, you may want to start looking around the home to find items you don’t really need or care for anymore. There’s probably more than you expect, so don’t be afraid to toss them in a box. Once you’ve gone through the home once or twice, donate the items to help with taxes at the end of the year or host a yard sale. This will give your community a chance to stop by and say goodbye and will also allow you to make some extra money before you hit the road. Of course, while you’re packing up the home you may also want to consider which items you want to take along with you as sometimes you may rethink the importance of an item when you see the numerous boxes stacked around you. This practice won’t just save you time packing and unpacking, but can also save you some major money as it will allow you to have a lighter truck and you may even be able to swing the smaller, less expensive model!

4. Look For Free Boxes
Many people will actually go out and spend a fortune on boxing when they move. Others will fall into the all too common trap that moving companies set, which allows you to purchase boxes directly from them. Instead of going out and buying boxes, try to locate them for free. You may be surprised as to how many stores will actually offer you cardboard boxes they have lying around in the back. These boxes have to be recycled, so it actually saves them time if someone comes to pick them up, rather than having an employee break them down and recycle them. If you ask most customer service directories they can point you in the right direction. You may not even have to visit more than one location if you get lucky. Of course, another great place to look for boxes is recycling centers. Generally, you can pick them up for free, and drop them off again when you’re done!

5. Off-Season Moves
Believe it or not, but there is a season in which to move and summer generally isn’t the best of times. In fact, if you can, you may want to try to push your move off until September. Typically, the down-season for moving companies is September to May as so many people want to pick up and move during the summer break. Of course, this may put a little wrench in your plan as often it’s not easy to get an option on when you get move. However, if you’re headed to school then you may want to ask your parents to hold onto your stuff for a bit longer. If you live close enough, you can always come back for your extra supplies during an early weekend in September. This will help you cut down on the cost and may even make moving easier as there will be less people on the roads.

6. Shop Around
Like all things in life, shopping around can save you a whole lot of money in the long run. When it comes to moving, you should start your search off with the moving company. There’s a lot to choose from, but make sure the companies you’re looking for offer services in your current area and your new area. It would be a shame, and a waste of gasoline to have to drive even further to return or pick up a truck. Make sure you shop around for coupons for these items too as you may find they can help you out immensely! If you have to buy your own moving supplies then make sure to look online to see if you can find second hand items for cheap. However, if this isn’t a possibility then you may find a great coupon to help you online. When it comes down to it, moving means more than shopping for supplies and trucks. It also means easy meal ideas, hotel rooms and gasoline. Try to use coupons to buy items for sandwiches and snacks for the road so you won’t have to waste money on fast food. You should also look around for hotel deals or coupons and plan your trip based on these finds. Of course, credit card or travel points can also come in handy here. Finally, try to download a gas app so you can find the best deals and use your gas card if you have one!

7. Look For Tax Deductions
Moving is costly, which is why you should use the expenditure to look for tax deductions. Try to hang on to as many receipts as you possibly can so you have the best records for when tax time rolls around. Then, look around to see if there’s anything you qualify for. Usually, a move that is work related is the prime tax deduction, but you may be surprised as to how many things you may find to help get you some money back. If you’re not sure where to begin talk to your tax agency or accountant. There’s also many online forums dedicated to helping you find a solution.

8. Review the New Place
If you’re renting then this can be one of the biggest money saving tips there is. Generally, when you enter a new home the agreement gives you a couple of days to look over the home and write down everything that is a problem. From holes in the wall to a leaky faucet, make sure you put every single minute detail down. This will help you out substantially when you move out because it will mean the renter can take less of your security deposit from you. It will also mean you can’t be faulted for items that didn’t happen on your watch. If you can, take pictures of the home and keep them in a special file, you may also want to take photos of the day you move out too.

9. Use Gas/Credit/Travel Points
One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself is use all the points you’ve saved up to help with the move. Between deposits on the new place and paying for the truck to move, you may feel like your budget is tighter than you like. Luckily, your credit points may come in handy to help get rid of gas fees, ensure you have a nice hotel to stay in or to simply give you some money back to help offset the costs. Make sure to talk with your credit card companies before you take off to learn what you have available.

10. Consider Insurance
Yes, there’s actually an insurance policy designed for your move, so why not make sure everything is in order just to ease your mind? The best thing is, some insurance companies don’t just stop at your possessions, but can help with car problems or anything else that may come up. You can buy a separate policy for your move through many companies. However, you may want to check in on your credit card company or with your renter/home insurance to make sure you’re not already covered through them! This in itself can save you thousands if something were to occur during the move.

Moving is a whole lot of work that can really stress you out. With these ten tips you should be able to cut down on the financial burden of your move which may make things a lot easier to deal with. With a little luck and some keen shopping skills, you’ll be able to get your move rolling without spending a small fortune, so you can enjoy your new location all the more!

There’s nothing quite like walking into a freezing movie theater while the summer heat stays outdoors. Summer time is definitely a time to catch all the best blockbusters, but going to the movie theater can be a huge drain on your budget. With prices climbing little by little each year, taking your family to the theater may end up costing you too much. Of course, if going to the movies is your favorite summer cool down activity, there’s a few ways to work around the budgeting problem! In fact, you can get more out of your movie going experience when you keep it fugal and utilize a few simple tips to help your family enjoy more movies for less than you’d expect!

1. Discount Days
A lot of theaters will offer special discount days from time to time. Of course, this all depends on the movie theater you go to, so you may want to call ahead and ask about promotions or discount days before you plan out your trip. Generally, a lot of theaters will offer promotions around specific holidays, so you may want to try to catch a film during these days. Other theaters may actually offer a discount every single week. For instance, some big name theaters offer a $5 Tuesday, which can really save some money if you have a lot of people attending. During the summer, many theaters will offer special discount days for children, some may even allow free entrance for some ages, which makes a field trip to the theater one of your best summer options. If you can, try to keep ahead of the theater by subscribing to their newsletter or keeping in touch with the front desk. After you catch a few discount days, you’ll really be pleased with the savings.

2. Be An Early Bird
If you haven’t already noticed, when you go to the movie theater actually determines how much you will pay to see a movie. Most movie theaters have a special matinee price for movie goers who want to spend the rest of their morning in the theater. This is usually up to $3-4 cheaper than the typical price, which could save you big time! Even better, some theaters host a twilight hour which can range from $1-2 cheaper than the matinee prices. Of course, the ticket price isn’t going to be the only thing that saves you money. If you go to the movies earlier in the day you may be less likely to hit the concession stands as popcorn and sugary food and drinks may not be on your agenda yet. It’ll also reassure you that you’re going to eat after the movie, so you may not feel as hungry as you would during the later periods of the day. Also, if you live in an area that requires you to pay for parking, you may end up paying less for non-peak hours or, better yet, you might actually have a chance of finding some free parking.

3. Skip IMAX/3-D
Sure, seeing your favorite movies in an all new light is a huge trend right now. It seems like almost every movie is made in 3-D and each film that is aims to make a younger audience jump up and down squealing until they put on the special 3-D glasses. Even pricier is the IMAX Theater which brings a larger and better quality image for you to enjoy. Although they may sound enticing to just about anyone, seeing the movie with these upgraded features will cost you a whole lot more than a regular movie ticket. Of course, you may think you want to impress your kids by taking them to see the adaptation they want, but at the same time, you may end up ruining their experience. 3-D films don’t exactly sit well with just everyone. In fact, they can really bother some people’s eyes and could lead to a day filled with a long-lasting headache. At the same time, if you have young children then IMAX may not be the best idea. Usually, when people pay more for a ticket they’re less likely to be patient with bathroom visits, crying or unexpected talking or coaxing that young children tend to exhibit. Thus, you may have an argument on your hands or an employee asking you to calm it down or take it elsewhere, both of which may ruin the experience!

4. Snacks
It doesn’t matter what theater you go to, when you hit the concession stand you can probably guess that it’s going to be pretty pricey! When you’re on a budget, even buying a soda can leave you wondering where all your money went, so it may be best to avoid this section altogether. Instead, make sure to eat something before you go into the theater. Sure, the smell of your favorite snacks may make you think you’re hungry, but if you have a tasty meal on your stomach you’ll probably be less inclined to hop up and grab a snack. This can actually do you a lot of favors anyway as many concession stand foods are terrible for you. Often, they can leave you with a horrible stomachache after the fact, or you can end up having to make bathroom visits with the kids every few minutes. Of course, if you do have to grab a snack then try to go for a reusable cup. You can get free to cheap refills this way which will come in handy every time you go to the movies. You may also want to skip out on any snacks that can’t be shared.

5. Rewards Program
If you happen to go to the movies often, then you may want to sign up for your theaters Rewards Program. Generally, when you buy tickets at the theater’s box office, the clerk will ask you if you’d like to sign up for their exclusive program. You should always say yes! It’s totally free and each time you go to the movies you get points based on what you bought. Even better, these points can travel with you so if you go to a movie theater in one location and they have the same company in another then you won’t have to miss out on those points. Every time you go to the movie and they swipe your card you can end up with free snacks and beverages and even free tickets. Sometimes, you’ll simply receive a coupon, but every little bit does help when you’re trying to enjoy the experience on a budget!

6. Try Discount Theaters
A lot of people prefer to head to a popular theater because it has the latest releases; however, if you’re just looking for a fun way to kill some time on a budget then discount theaters are your best friend. Generally, you can catch a movie her for about $1, which is a pretty great deal! The only catch is you won’t be able to see the latest movies. Usually, the movies at these theaters are about to come out on DVD. Of course, if missed out on a movie or you just want to see a favorite again, then you’ll love going to the discount theater. You still get the movie on the big screen and for a fraction of the price. Some theaters will even host special events where they host old movies for a week or two. This is a great time to let the kids see some of their favorites on the big screen, or it could be a great time to plan a date night where you and your partner relive your first dates!

7. Drive In
Step back into yesteryear by taking the family to the drive in. Okay, so it’s not exactly the same as it was back in its heyday, but drive in theaters can be a great place for all ages. Usually, the drive in plans a special feature which consists of two movies, so you’ll already get a little more fun for the money. You may also not have to pay as much to see the two movies as some theaters pay a flat rate per car, rather than charging admission per person. Either way, you’ll still be able to enjoy the experience more as kids aren’t confined to their seats throughout the film. Many drive ins will even have a small playground for kids who aren’t interested in the movie, or need a little play time during intermission. If the movies run late then you can just pack up a pillow and blanket and the kids can sleep through a movie that the adults want to watch. Better yet, some drive ins will even allow you to bring your own food, which is perfect for a cheap picnic dinner. However, you may want to call ahead of time as rules vary from theater to theater.

8. Ask For A Discount
When it comes to movie theaters, you may not believe the amount of discounts they offer. The best thing you can do is ask if you think you may qualify for a discount. Some of the more popular discounts are military members and dependents, AAA members and other special organizations or handicaps. Of course, you may not think to ask about some discounts. For instance, senior citizens should automatically get a discount when they buy a ticket, but sometimes you have to ask to ensure you get it. Students are also another group that often misses out on their discount opportunities. Make sure you bring your student I.D. with you and you’ll be all set to save on money.

9. Gift Cards
One of the best ways to save some money is to actually buy gift cards for your favorite movie theater. Shopping online on special gift card sites as well as your favorite bulk stores will allow you to save some big money on your movie theater experience. Online gift card stores can often get you gift cards with more money on them than you actually pay. These are usually trade in sites where people offer their gift cards in exchange for money or another type of card. Bulk stores are also great because you buy more than one gift card in a package and you usually end up getting at least one gift card for free. Also, paying in this way can help you stick to your budget so you won’t have to worry about over-doing it on an entertainment splurge.

10. Sign Up For Newsletters
When it comes to big savings, the best thing you can do is sign up for your theaters newsletters. Sure, you may end up getting more emails than you like, but when it comes to movie theater season you’ll be glad you signed up. Not to mention, you can unsubscribe at any time, so if the emails become bothersome the problem can be stopped right away. All the same, the newsletter usually contains new releases, early or special releases, discount days and special coupons. With this knowledge on your side you’ll be able to plan more efficiently so you can keep your movie theater trips to a low price.

It’s hard to avoid the movie theater, especially in the summer time! When it comes to summer entertainment your local theater is sure to please even if it just means staying cool for a couple of hours! With these ten frugal tips, you should be able to cut down on the amount you spend so you can enjoy plenty more visits in the future!

Can you believe it’s already time for the kids to be finishing up school? Of course, if you haven’t made vacation plans yet then a bit of a panic may be setting in some time soon. Don’t worry! There’s lots of ways to have fun with very little planning involved. If you’re a little shy on the vacation budget this year then you can still have a good time without having to worry about loans or losing out on work hours. With these ten frugal ideas, you should be able to find a vacation that suits your family, your wallet and your time off work! So stop stressing over something that’s supposed to be fun and relaxing, and start planning out this year’s epic vacation!

1. National Park/Monument
I don’t know what it is about summer, but it seems to inspire a visit to a national park or monument. The weather is nice and it’s a good time to kick back and enjoy all that the country has to offer. The best thing is, these locations are often free or at a lost cost. Most parks do charge a small fee, but if you plan accordingly you may find yourself paying a visit during one of its free periods. There’s lots of monuments and parks around the country too, so chances are you’ll be able to find one near you. There locations will allow you to enjoy Mother Nature at her finest, historical lessons and the overall wow factor that most display. You can even make these little getaways more frugal by packing a picnic or pitching a tent! Also, you can find just about everything you need to know about the park or monument on their website which allows planning for scavenger hunts, lessons or play time a whole lot easier!

2. Campsite
For generations, families have traveled to the great outdoors in order to enjoy some bonding and hard earned vacation time. Camping is a tradition that every child should experience and will allow the whole family to get back in touch with nature and less in touch with their social media accounts. The best thing about camping is, you don’t have to spend a whole lot of money to do it. If you already have the supplies then it will cost next to nothing to go; however, if you’re just starting out then you can always borrow supplies from a loved one or rent them from a camp site. To keep things even more frugal, you may want to look around and find a campsite that is free, or at least a low price. You should also make sure there’s places for fishing, hiking and other activities you may want to enjoy. Packing your own food is also a must when it comes to camping. You may want to pack a little extra if you plan on cooking fish that you catch, as sometimes the fish aren’t in the mood to bite!

3. Beach/Lake/River
With the summer heat gearing up, you may want to plan a trip to a body of water to help your family cool down. Not only is being able to swim whenever you feel like it appeasing, but areas near water tend to be a bit breezier anyway. The best thing about taking a trip to the water is it usually doesn’t cost more than the gasoline to get there. However, more and more areas are starting to charge for the use of the area, so make sure you check before you plan out a frugal getaway. While you’re by the water, you may want to bring along your water supplies. Of course, you can always rent surf/wake/boogie boards, as well as boats/canoes/kayaks and any other equipment you may want to use while vacationing. You should also consider looking on social media coupon sites, like Groupon, to find discounts on restaurants, equipment and activities, like diving.

4. Visit Family/Friends
If you have vacation time to spend, but are on a pretty tight budget then you may want to consider visiting family and friends, especially if it’s been awhile. Taking a trip to your hometown or somewhere there’s lots of people you know, can actually help take much of the burden off of your vacation expenditures. Usually, friends and relatives won’t have a problem with you and your family staying with them, which means you won’t have to worry about a hotel the entire time you’re away. If you can drive to the location, opposed to flying, then you’re also taking a great step to help out with the vacation budget. While you’re with your loved ones you should be entertained by all the catching up, but you may also want to plan out a few free activities to keep things going smoothly. For instance, if you’re familiar with the town then you’ll already know all the great parks so you can play sports, go for walks and maybe even take a swim. You can always give your family a tour of all the places you used to hang out when you lived in the location. If you’re having a family reunion then try to organize a potluck at a park or someone’s home to help save on food costs. This vacation idea offers a lot of wiggle room, so try to play as much as possible!

5. City Adventure
It doesn’t matter if you’re in a rural area, a suburb or actually in a city, sometimes, we overlook all of the cool things there are to see and do! So, instead of planning your next vacation in an all new city, you can always refresh your view of the one you live near! This is one of the best ways to keep it frugal on your vacation as you may not even need to stay in a hotel while you’re away. Simply head out to the city first thing in the morning, enjoy the sights and then cozy up in your own bed at night. The great thing about cities is there’s always something cheap or free to do in the city, so with a little planning you may not have to spend much at all. Of course, if you’re willing to go all out then you can always visit local theme parks, museums and other attractions. Sometimes, you may even be able to get a resident discount, especially if you have children in school! So, don’t forget to bring the student I.D. cards along for the ride.

6. Explore Nearby Town
Cities aren’t always where all the action is at. In fact, if you spend a whole lot of time in the city then you may want to mix things up and head to a smaller town instead. Check out a map of your region and pick out a town that isn’t too far away but may have a few hidden treasures in store. You can even research towns in your area to see who is going to offer you the most fun. Once you’ve decided then pack a lunch and hit the road! Of course, you should always make sure to check out the community center before you enjoy the town as it may lead you to some awesome finds you may have missed otherwise. Many towns will have special historical districts and museums that are fun for all to check out. You can also take the kids to enjoy a new park in order to get some of their energy out. Even if the town doesn’t have a whole lot going on, you may want to check out some of their shopping areas. Sometimes, there’s some amazing hidden gems that may lead you to a great find or huge savings. If you get through your town and still have time to kill then you may want to consider moving on to the next! You can even come up with clever games for the kids to play, such as scavenger hunts to find a certain number of plants, numbers, license plates and the like.

7. Water/Amusement Parks
If you don’t have a lot of vacation time or money to spend then you may want to consider finding a water park or an amusement park in your area. The closer to your area the better as it will mean you’ll be able to spend more time having fun and less time worrying about getting home or paying for a hotel room. The best thing about amusement and water parks is there’s a little something for everyone, so you can spend all day having a blast and cooling down. Of course, sometimes the tickets aren’t exactly on the frugal side. Luckily, many of these parks host discount days which could be the best time for you and your family to go. You may also want to ask if you qualify for some discounts. Of course, if all else fails, many parks will pass out coupons and some will even partner with major retailers, like Coca-cola, to provide families with an easy way to enjoy the park. To keep the visit even more frugal, pack a lunch and leave it in the car, you can get your hand stamped to re-enter the park after you relax and have a healthy meal.

8. Pretend to Go Abroad
Most people would love to take a trip abroad; however, most budgets aren’t ready for such a big trip just yet. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t come up with your own abroad trip to appease the family. Do a little research online to see if there’s a location everyone can agree on. Then, check to see if there’s anything in your own town, or a neighboring one, that follows these customs. You may be surprised to find restaurants, museums and other activities that will make your pretend vacation amazing. If there’s no luck then you can always decorate the home, try out some recipes and rent a movie or two that comes from the country of your choice. You may even bring some crafts to the event so the kids have souvenirs to share and remember the special moment.

9. Cheap Destinations
Believe it or not, you can still book and enjoy a vacation without spending a bundle. You may want to browse your favorite travel sites to see if there’s any place you’d like to go that meets your budgeting requirements. Las Vegas is usually a popular place to choose as there’s so much to see and do and hotel rooms generally range around $30 a night! Of course, if you can meet the airfare requirements for this trip, or simply drive then your family can enjoy a spectacular vacation without diving into the savings! To keep it even more frugal, avoid restaurants and choose activities that are free or low cost.

10. Staycation
Many lead very busy lifestyles, so one way to refresh is to actually have a staycation. The best thing is, this will cost you next to nothing. All you have to do is bunker in and enjoy catching up on books, TV and movies. You can also plan special games for the family to enjoy together! Of course, in order to keep your vacation even more serene, you may want to put your phone on airplane mode and enjoy the quiet time. For an even more relaxing time, you and your partner can set up a spa time for when the kids are asleep. You may even want to set up a campsite in the backyard or living room with your own DIY tent!

Enjoying a getaway doesn’t have to destroy your budget! In fact, these ten tips can help you save a whole lot on money while still getting the much needed relaxation and bonding time. With frugal getaways like this, you may reconsider the way you’ve been vacationing!

The smell of summer is in the air, which means it may be time to hit the wide open road again. However, if you’re dealing with a slight budget crisis this year, or you simply don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, then you may want to consider a few ways to cut the price of your road trip before you take off. There’s a few ways to do this that are actually a lot easier than you think! With a little extra money in your pocket, you may feel all the more relaxed as you enjoy your big trip with those you care about. So, pack up your supplies and plan out your destination because road trip season just got more affordable!

1. Pack Camping Gear
If there’s one expenditure you don’t need to worry about on a road trip, it is definitely the hotel. Although it’s nice to sprawl out on a comfortable bed and enjoy a work out or a swim after a long day of driving, the price of a hotel can run you up to $100 a night, if you’re looking for the cheapest rooms. Although the price may not leave you shaking in your boots right away, it will after you spend a few nights on the go! Rather than worry about the price of hotels you can easily pack your tent and other camping gear to help you save a bit of money! There’s plenty of free to low cost camp sites on the road which will ensure you save quite a bit money while you’re on your trip. With a little advanced planning you should be able to plan your travel distance per day based on these campsites. Of course, money isn’t the only reason to enjoy this method! By spending time in nature you’ll get to see even more of the country! Not to mention, you’ll get a free work out by swimming in a lake/ocean/river or enjoying a scenic hike!

2. Bring Food
A lot of travelers choose to stop for fast food or enjoy a sit down restaurant while they’re on their road trip. Although this is a nice break from the road, it isn’t always the healthiest option, nor is it the most budget friendly. By the time you’ve eaten out for a couple of days you probably won’t feel incredible, nor will your budget. The best option is to pack your own food before you go and use a grocery store to replenish your stock. Some of the best items to bring along is sandwich supplies. These are cheap, easy to make at a rest stop and can easily be stored in a cooler with your drinks. Produce is another great option and will allow you to enjoy a healthy snack while you’re on the go! Of course, you may also want to consider trail mix, crackers and other healthy foods to suit all of the taste buds in the car. Packing water is also crucial as keeping hydrated will make everyone feel better and will cut down on the need to eat as often.

3. Plan Wisely
The key to saving money on your road trip is to plan, plan, plan. Before you head out it is crucial to map out your trip with a few key elements in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to plan places you can stop and stretch your legs without being tempted to buy something. There’s actually a variety of tourist traps and rest stops all over the country which will suit these needs! Once you have a few destinations planned out, you may also want to consider the towns/cities of people you know. If you can couch surf with a friend or relative then it will cut down on your hotel or camping bills and will allow you to enjoy some time with people you may not get to see often. Another thing you want to plan around is toll roads and construction routes. Toll roads can really get pricey so you want to try to go around them whenever possible. Construction routes will slow you down which means worse gas mileage and you won’t be able to make it to your designated stops. Most GPS systems can be programmed to avoid these areas, but it’s important to re-check your mapping a day before you set out! With smart planning on your end, your trip will go smoother and will make your budget stretch further.

4. Watch the Tank
Filling up the gas tank while on a road trip can get pretty stressful. With gas prices not on the frugal side, you may feel tempted to stretch your fill-up until you’re almost on empty. Of course, this is one of the worst things you can do to your car! You never want to let your gas tank go below 1/4 of a tank, especially when you’re on the move. The last bit of gas isn’t the best for your car and can lead to many problems in the future. However, you also have to consider that much of the country is actually spaced out, which means you may think you’re going to see a gas station in a couple of miles but it could be up to an hour before you see any signs of civilization! This can be pretty bad if you end up running out of gas, especially if you’re not feeling up to taking a really long walk in the heat. You may also want to consider city traffic too. Sometimes, you think you can make it to the gas station of choice, but after sitting in bumper to bumper traffic you may end up parked in the shoulder. So, instead of letting the tank dwindle down, you should fill up whenever you see an affordable price. This will help you maximize savings immensely.

5. Get Your Car a Check-Up
One of the best things you can do to ensure your road trip will go smoothly is to get your car checked out by a mechanic before you hit the road. Sure, this will be an extra expenditure but most mechanics don’t charge too much just to take a look under the hood. Some of the key elements that should be considered are your car’s fluids, the tread on your tires and the state of your brakes. Even if everything is in perfect order, you may want to consider getting the oil changed just to be on the safe side, especially if your trip is going to be quite a distance. Of course, you can cheaply do this yourself, so don’t stress about a huge bill here! The day you leave for your trip you should do one more check to make sure your tire pressure is good to go and all of your car’s lights are working. This will help prevent blow outs, break downs and unwanted tickets.

6. Know Your Insurance Plan
When you hit the road, you should know just what your insurance plan covers in order to be prepared for the worst. For instance, you should know if your plan covers tows or road side assistance, just in case you end up in an accident, your car breaks down or you have a blowout. Being able to deal with the problem without pouring huge amounts of money into it will help big time when you’re on the road. You may also want to let your insurance company know you’ll be traveling. This will help prevent any hiccups in processing if you do need to use your insurance company for something. Also, make sure you have all your insurance information in the car, just in case you’re pulled over or need to quickly make a call. It’s never fun searching for these items in a hurry!

7. Just Cruise
If you’re enjoying your vacation there’s no need to speed it up! Instead, switch on your cruise control and enjoy the ride. There’s actually a lot of reasons why cruising is the best way to enjoy a road trip. For starters, you can give your foot a rest which is never a bad thing. For many, driving for several hours often means your foot gets heavier and heavier as the trip progresses, so cruise control can help you dodge a couple of speeding tickets! It can also help you save on gasoline! Generally, the best speed to go to maximize your fuel is 65 MPH. When we’re driving it feels a lot easier to take on higher speeds, so set your cruise control to maximize your fuel and you’ll be on the road to saving more money! You’ll also be a bit safer if you slow down your speed, especially in areas you aren’t familiar with. You may also end up missing less exits as it will be easier for you to switch lanes.

8. Get the APP
Before leaving on your big trip you may want to check out a few gas and GPS apps for the trip. There’s many free apps to choose from for just about any smartphone operating system, so make sure to check out reviews and look for features you know you’ll need. The best apps to download are those for gasoline though. These will help you find the cheapest gas stations in any given area. This will not only help you cut down on the price you pay in each region, but it’ll also let you know if you’re okay to bypass a town for gasoline and head to a nearby town that’s cheaper. This is thanks to the mile system that lets you know just how far away you are from a gas station!

9. Lighten the Load
One of the worst things you can do on a road trip is pack everything and the kitchen sink. For starters, your car is going to feel smaller and smaller each day you spend in it. So, you may not want to take away even more of your cramped space just so you can pack more things you’re probably not going to need. Next, the more you pack, the heavier your car is going to be which means you’re going to end up needing to fuel up more often, which is a total waste of money. So, make a list of the items you’ll need and stick to it. Usually a few pairs of clothes and basic hygiene products will set you for the trip. However, if you have kids then bring along a few light forms of entertainment.

10. Budget
The first thing you should do before you confirm plans is to budget. You need to know how much you can spend, so you’ll know how far you can go. This can be quite tricky as it’s often hard to know just how much gas will cost you on the trip. So, when planning out this make sure to always round up as much as you can. You should also plan a bit for food money too as you may need to buy the basics, or an occasional treat while on the road. If you’re packing light then quarters may be a must so you can hit up the laundromat when you’re out of clothes. Finally, you’ll also need an entertainment fund, a boarding fund, and an emergency fund. If it helps, pull out cash and put each budget in a marked envelope. It will help you avoid over spending and will help you see how you’re doing in regards to your budget.

Road trips can be a great way to see the country while bonding with your friends and family. Now, you won’t have to worry about over spending while you’re on the road. With these ten tips you’ll be well on your way to a good time and an abundance of amazing memories!

The long Memorial Day weekend is almost here, but have no fear, there’s still time to save a bundle on all of the exciting events and sales that will be happening. For many, Memorial Day kicks off summer and is celebrated with tasty barbeques and a weekend of shopping. Of course, if your budget isn’t exactly ready to tackle another holiday, there’s still a few ways you can make the most out of your Memorial Day. With plenty of free or frugal ways to celebrate, your family won’t just have a good time on this special holiday, but they’ll also get a great start to the summer holidays! So, if you’re still trying to figure out your Memorial Day plans, you may want to have a look at these ten frugal suggestions!

1. Host a Potluck
There’s no doubt about it, people love to get together on Memorial Day! The more the merrier, right? Well, maybe not when you’re on a budget and you need to supply everyone with something tasty to eat. There is an alternative though! Instead of buying an abundance of treats for everyone at the party you may want to host a potluck. This will allow people to bring their favorite dishes to the celebration which helps take the burden off of your expenditures. You may even want to consider adding a list of items you think might be nice to have on your invitations. When people RSVP they can tell you what they’re going to bring so you can prevent too many people from bringing multiples. With many new and exciting dishes being brought to the home, you can save the money to buy beverages, special treats or entertainment for everyone! Of course, you can always keep entertainment costs down by streaming music, offering sports activities or other games that won’t cost you a penny, such as card games for the adults!

2. Go Camping
A lot of people use the Memorial Day weekend to take a much needed vacation. Although this is a great time to enjoy a mini getaway, it can also mean spending extra money on vacation plans that might not suit your budget. Rather than booking flights and hotels, you may want to consider a frugal camping getaway. To start off your mini adventure, look around your area for a free or low cost camp site. You may actually be surprised as to how many there are! Then gather up your supplies! If you don’t already have a tent then try to borrow one from a friend or family member. You may also be able to rent one for a low price at the camp site too. However, you may want to call ahead of time to make sure this is a possibility. After you settle your tent issue, pack up pillows and blankets, if you don’t already have sleeping bags. Then, try to pick out foods that aren’t perishable or that can survive in a cooler. Usually sandwiches are a safe option and paired with chips, vegetables or fruits, your family should eat well for very cheap. You could also pack up your fishing supplies and eat whatever you catch!

3. Go To A Public Event
Memorial Day is a great time to take part in your community. With a little research, you should find there’s many free things to do over the long weekend. For instance, a lot of museums will offer free admission and tours in order to share the stories of those who have served their country. If free isn’t an option, then see if there’s any discounts you may qualify for. If you’re a military family then make sure to let this be known as you should be privy to great discounts over the weekend. Most communities will also host a special ceremony to honor those who have served in the past, present or future. Of course, choosing to attend one of these events will help celebrate those in your community, especially. There also may be a free parade which is perfect for young and old. Last but not least, you may be able to find information on a firework display depending on the rules of your community and your climate!

4. Shop Around
Memorial Day sales can be all too tempting, especially when you’re on a tight budget. If you do choose to get some shopping in during this period, you should always look around for the items you want. Typically, stores will send out sales papers for the big event the week prior, so you should be able to check out pricing from a variety of locations before you actually make it to the store. You may also want to check online to make sure you can’t find it there for much cheaper. Generally, with a little bit of research you should be able to find the best deal possible which will increase your savings. Not to mention, while you’re doing research outside of the store, you’ll be less tempted to spend money on items you’re not actually shopping for. Finally, before you go shopping you may want to pull out cash first. This will prevent you from overspending on your credit card and will help you keep track of how much you can spend, in regards to your budget!

5. Avoid the Roads
If there’s one thing you don’t want to do on Memorial Day weekend, it’s get on the roads! For most, this 3 day weekend means enjoying a nice getaway somewhere! Thus, there’s a pretty good chance you’re going to end up in bumper to bumper traffic, which isn’t a good use of your time or your money. With temperatures peaking during the long weekend, it isn’t exactly ideal on your gas tank to spend hours in traffic with the air conditioning blaring. Not to mention, gasoline prices usually take a bit of a hike during the summer months, which isn’t great for the wallet either. So, it may be best just to enjoy something fun in your neck of the woods. After all, Memorial Day weekend is one of the top weekends for car accidents, so you may be doing yourself a bigger favor than you realize.

6. Volunteer
There’s nothing more rewarding then volunteering on such a holiday as Memorial Day. If you still haven’t sketched out your plans then you might want to consider this option as it won’t cost you a penny and it’ll bring a smile to a good number of faces. One of the best places to volunteer is the VA hospital. These hospitals are specifically created for veterans, many of which don’t get a lot of visitors. Try calling up the hospital to ask if they could use any help on Memorial Day, as many are understaffed due to holiday leave. If they can’t find work for you then they may be able to give you a list of people who would love a visitor. This will allow you to spend the day with someone who has served, which could lead to a greater appreciation of the holiday. If you don’t live near a VA hospital then try to stop by and visit a veteran you know. You may also try to visit a nursing home to raise spirits over the weekend. Of course, if you still can’t find someone to help then there’s many other ways to volunteer such as soup kitchens, picking up garbage, planting trees or working for habitat for humanity!

7. Take a Swim
Memorial Day weather is usually already feeling the summer heat, so help cool your family down and keep them entertained by taking them swimming. If at all possible, try to choose a free location to enjoy the water. Natural areas like beaches, rivers, creeks and lakes are usually a free option, but make sure to look around to make sure there are no fees. To help reduce the burden of the trip you may want to consider walking to your local watering hole or taking your bicycles. This will help cut down on any parking costs and will save you on fuel! If you don’t have a natural source of water for swimming then ask around and see if you can visit family or friends for a dip in their pool. You may also want to try a low cost community pool! You might even save money by purchasing a season pass which will help your family keep cool all summer. If you’re lucky you might even get it on sale for Memorial Day!

8. Go Outside
There’s no reason to forget about the great outdoors on Memorial Day. There’s lots to see and do before the summer weather goes from a bit on the warm side to inside of an oven hot. You might want to consider taking the family out to fly a kite while the spring breeze is still available. Other items might include a bike ride or hike! Even a scavenger hunt will make the kids happy as you help them get some exercise! Picnics are another great way to switch things up a bit while allowing the family to bond. Of course, if you don’t want to do anything out of the box, or if you have very young children then you can always spend some time at the local park. You may even want to call up family or friends for a game of football, soccer or volleyball! The options are totally endless when it comes to frugal outside play!

9. Movie Marathon
For anyone looking for a great way to kick back and relax, a patriotic movie marathon may be the option for you. Try searching through your movie collection to find a few movies that will leave you feeling even more incredible about the holiday weekend. If you’re a bit shy in the patriotic movie front then there’s guaranteed to be a selection on your streaming video service. You may even be able to find some for free on some services, but make sure they’re legal before you partake. Of course, many of the basic cable and extended cable services will be playing an assortment of patriotic movies to choose from. So, you may want to look around and set up your DVR to suit your needs. However, you may want to plan your marathon based on age, as many films aren’t suitable for children.

10. Patriotic Crafts
If you have children in the home or you’re just looking for a fun way to decorate over the summer, then you may want to try out some patriotic crafts. You can easily print out patriotic color sheets for the kids to get things started. Of course, there’s lot of other ways to have fun, such as having the kids make their own flag using paper and popsicle sticks or creating Uncle Sam hats made from paper. You may even want to go a bit further with your crafts by painting flag inspired designs on décor items you already own. You can even check out the thrift store to see if there’s anything you can add a red, white and blue touch too. There’s lots of ideas online for these crafts so don’t be afraid to go big if you have many of the supplies already! You’ll be glad to show off your décor as the holiday weekend moves on and you’ll be all set for the 4th of July, just weeks away!

Memorial Day is a great time to honor the brave men and women who have served. Of course, for many it is also a much needed break from their daily work and chores. No matter how you choose to celebrate the holiday, these ten tips should help you keep it on budget, without forcing you and your family to be bored during the 3 day holiday!

Planning your honeymoon can be incredibly overwhelming, especially while you’re trying to get everything for your wedding put together too! There’s no doubt that watching all of the money for your wedding leave your pockets might make you feel uneasy about spending anything at all on your honeymoon. There are a few ways you can cut out the anxiety of honeymoon planning though. This is especially the case when you know how to maximize your savings so you don’t have to spend the entire trip pinching pennies. With a little shopping know how and an open mind you can plan the honeymoon you’ve always wanted without having to worry about how much money you’re going to have to juggle.

1. Wait for the Off-Season
Just like any other form of vacation or major shopping expense, there’s a season that you can cash in on! This is important to keep in mind throughout your entire wedding planning experience as you can save a whole lot on just about anything wedding related if you just hold your horses. Beginning in late October, weddings slow down considerably until Valentine’s Day. The good news is, this is typically when many people slow down on vacation plans too. Of course, if you plan on going to a ski resort for your honeymoon then you might have to plan a little harder as there’s only a small off-season window that would allow you to ski in actual snow, not slush. Other locations, such as anywhere in the tropics will be as warm and inviting as the on-season so you won’t miss out on anything here, apart from long lines and crowded beaches. If you still want to have your wedding in the on-season then don’t stress out. There’s no law saying you have to go on your honeymoon directly after. In fact, you can also take some time to recover from the wedding expenses and enjoy a more luxurious honeymoon when the off-season occurs!

2. Guest Registries
A lot of couples don’t really need the odds and ends for the household that they would have years ago. So, why not ask for something you can actually have a little fun with? Rather than spend hours looking at different stores registries, you can easily find a website that will allow your guests to help towards your honeymoon. Some websites simply just collect money to go towards your honeymoon fund while others allow guests to buy specific items. For instance, if you planned on heading to the Caribbean for your honeymoon then you might ask guests to help towards a snorkeling trip. Or, you can add small sections where guests can add money toward your hotel, airline tickets or a romantic dinner. With these guest registries you’ll still be able to give everyone options, especially when it comes to price ranges, which should make everyone happy.

3. Cut it Short
If you’re trying to figure out the best way to enjoy your honeymoon without having to sacrifice too much then one of the best solutions is to cut it short. A lot of people try to pack in a full vacation that lasts a week or two, which may be hard to plan anyway, especially if you both work or have children to take care of. Although it may feel ideal to be gone with your new spouse for that long, in reality it would really harm a budget. So, instead of disappearing for a few weeks, try out a few days. You can easily plan an extended weekend trip to some of your favorite locations, so you won’t have to give up anything when it comes to your ideal honeymoon spot. With a little planning you can easily find a cruise to make your honeymoon fabulous too! By taking less time, if any, off of work you’ll be able to bounce back from the expenditures faster and will certainly feel more relaxed as you enjoy your new relationship.

4. Groupons
When it comes to big time savings, nothing will help you enjoy your honeymoon quite like the saving power of a groupon or other social media coupon. There’s more and more social coupon sites opening all of the time, so make sure to do some research and ask around so you’ll have as many sources as possible to check out. With these amazing coupons you should be able to secure activities that you and your new spouse will love doing. The best thing is, you’ll save quite a bit of money on them. From dining out to getting a massage, you may be surprised by how many cheap activities you’ll find on these websites. You might actually come across an activity you would have never thought of trying out otherwise, which will make your first vacation as a married couple even more thrilling!

5. Mention You’re On Your Honeymoon
A lot of people are actually quite shy when it comes to spreading the word about their honeymoon. However, you may be surprised as to the deals you get when you make everyone aware of the big moment in your life. Although, you may not get a whole lot out of an airline company, many other places will give you some major discounts. Hotels are one of the best places to spill the beans about your honeymoon. Many will offer you a free night, discount the room substantially or give you an upgrade at no charge to you. Restaurants and spas have also been known to roll out the red carpet for newlyweds. Of course, it helps to give the venue a little heads up about this, rather than showing up on the day and expecting a deal. So, when you go to make reservations make sure to tell them you’re on your honeymoon or ask if they have a honeymoon special. You won’t be sorry you did!

6. Redeem Credit Points
There’s a pretty good chance that you have some travel or credit points built up that are just collecting dust! Rather than let them sit there make sure you talk to your credit card company to see what you can do with these points. A lot of the time, especially if you fly home or for work often, you’ll have enough points to buy at least one airline ticket, which will cut down the burden of your spending quite a bit. You may also want to see what spending power your credit card points have as this can also help you get cash back to go towards your honeymoon or other discounts that will help save you some major cash. You’ll also want to look and see where you can use your credit card to maximize points while you’re away. This will help give you a little something back as you spend money on your vacation.

7. Ask the Locals
If you haven’t planned out every second of your honeymoon, then one way to save on money is to talk to the locals. Rather than spending hours looking for cheap restaurants and activities, you may find that in one conversation you’ll discover all the best places to eat and see. Typically, locals know all of the best restaurants that don’t charge an arm and a leg so don’t be afraid to approach someone. You’ll definitely have to stray outside of the tourist area, but when it comes to saving money it’ll totally be worth it. Not to mention, you will get a more authentic experience that might make your honeymoon feel a bit more fulfilling. You may also discover free beaches, tours and other fun activities that travel guides don’t have to offer.

8. Consider Less Popular Vacations
There’s no doubt that many of us have one ideal place where we want to spend our honeymoon. Generally, it’s a big name location that a whole lot of other people want to see too. Instead of going mainstream for your honeymoon you can easily check out a variety of locations that are similar or near to your original destination choice. For instance, if you want to go to a large city in a country then you can easily search around for alternative airports. This will already cut down the price and you may be able to see less populated sights. Another great way to deal with this dilemma is to plan a location that is near other places and has an easy and cheap way to get around. For starters, if you plan on traveling to Great Britain then you could always fly into Ireland or Scotland. Here, you can enjoy a cheaper airport and you’ll be able to connect to the rest of the country via train and ferry. Plus, you may discover there’s a lot more to see then what travel programs offer.

9. Book In Advance
One of the best things you can do for your honeymoon is to book in advance. This is especially important if you plan on traveling during the on season as things tend to fill up fast and prices tend to sky rocket. If you can, try to book your honeymoon the moment you have it planned out. Even if it means just putting down a deposit on a hotel room, you’ll be a lot better off the moment you secure at least a small portion of your honeymoon. Getting the airline taken care of is incredibly important to. You’ll want to book your flight before prices go up for vacationers, so plan on securing this as soon as you know the trip is a go. Even if you’re honeymooning in the off-season, keeping your trip booked with help relieve stress as the trip grows nearer and may make you privy to some great discounts. Finally, if there’s a restaurant that is a must but you know it’s going to be booked, you should make sure to get in your reservation months in advance. It may mean juggling your honeymoon around the reservation, but at least you’ll have a secured seat!

10. Budget
Most importantly, you should always have a budget set before you plan out your honeymoon. This can be one of the most stressful aspects of the trip, but at least you’ll know where you stand when it comes to spending. The key element here is to break you budget down into several different areas. If you have to, make an envelope for each section. You should cover airline, ground transportation, hotel costs, food, activities and souvenirs. You may also want to think about clothing and supplies for the trip as you may need a new bathing suit, sunscreen, luggage or other travel necessities. Once you have the budget planned out don’t stray from it, period. If it helps, keep cash on hand to pay for items such as food and activities. You can always take from the less important sections, like souvenirs, but make sure to try your hardest not to splurge when you don’t have the means to do so. When the honeymoon is over, you may actually have money leftover if you stick to this method!

The honeymoon is such an important part of the marriage experience, but many people feel like they can’t afford one. With these ten tips you might find that enjoying your honeymoon isn’t as hard as you may think. After all, it doesn’t matter if your honeymoon is a trip to the Bahamas or a simple camping trip, as long as the two of you get the chance to unwind as a married couple!

The beautiful month of May is here and although some may associate it with May Gloom, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know this is a month worth celebrating thanks to its savings alone. With several holidays feature major sales, namely Memorial Day and Star Wars Day, there’s a pretty good chance you’re already enjoying some of the savings this month has to offer. However, there’s a few things you may not have considered buying during this month. Don’t worry, we have you covered. Here’s ten things you can enjoy roll back prices on in the month of May which will help balance your budget! So, what are you waiting for? Go enjoy the big savings before June shows up!

1. Refrigerators
With the hot weather starting to show up already, you’ll need some place to store all of those soothing popsicles and ice creams, right? If your refrigerator is on the fritz or you’re just looking for an upgrade now is the time to do it. In May new refrigerators show up in stores, which means all of the old models either hit the clearance floor or are permanently reduced in price. This means it’s the perfect time to find the make and model of your dreams. Combine this with holiday sales and you may even be able to afford a model with larger storage compartments and more gadgets than you’d expect. Of course, before you take the leap you should also consider what the upkeep of your refrigerator is going to be. For instance, is it energy efficient and if not how much is going to raise your power bill? You should also take into consideration the price of the brand’s spare parts. Finally, look around to see how much replacement filters are as these can sometimes be astronomical. With any luck, you’ll find a make and model that will make your budget and your family happy.

2. Mattresses
Is your bed feeling a little lumpy? Are there springs pestering you all night long? Well, May is the time to remedy this problem! Usually around the week of Memorial Day mattress and bedding stores start to have huge sales on mattresses. However, you should be able to find deals on these products throughout the month. Try calling around to see if there’s anything available that suits your price range. During this time, you may want to seek out military appreciation deals too. Usually, if you have a military I.D. card you should be able to get a great discount on the price of a mattress. Thus, when you add this discount to the other deals you’ll be saving a whole lot more than you would have thought possible. Of course, this may be the time to consider upgrades too! For instance, you may want to buy a pricier pillow top mattress to help with your sleep cycle, or you could go all out and buy an adjustable mattress that will allow you and your partner to create a comfortable environment for the both of you!

3. Office Furniture
If you’re ready to set up your ideal office or you need a little something new for work, then now is the time to grab the big ticket items. With school coming to an end and people wanting to take off for vacation, office items aren’t exactly in hot commodity. Thus, supply drops and savings begin. You may also want to consider the fact that some office stores are actually closing down, which means a lot of their stock is going to be on clearance. The longer the store stays open, the more the prices are going to drop, so make sure to stop in and check out what they have before your favorite supply store is gone. Even if you’re not ready to upgrade your office, you may want to consider a desk for your students. This could be an extra special gift for children that will be starting school in the fall!

4. Collectibles/Books
One of the best things to buy during the month of May is anything for your collection. It doesn’t matter if you have comics to buy or figurines, the month of May is probably going to have a deal worth checking out. This is largely due to the many holidays this month sees. For instance, Independent Book Store Day will help you find amazing deals on books so you can add to your growing book shelves. Although the event only last one day and is only in select areas, many stores will follow suit and lower prices for a week or so! With Geek Pride Day and Star Wars Day you’ll find excellent deals on figurines, comics, movies and a whole lot of other geek oriented gear that will make you leap for joy. Finally, Memorial Day is a perfect time to grab some of your patriotic collectibles such as coins or tribute dolls/figures/statues. Even if your collection doesn’t fall within these categories, there’s still a great chance you might find the right deal for you because Memorial Day and Mother’s Day often lead to sales that cover just about every item you may consider buying.

5. Sunscreen/Bug Repellent
Some areas may already be seeing a rise in temperatures and bugs! No matter what weather you’re experiencing though, May is definitely the month to grab your sunscreen and bug repellent! Typically, stores will knock the price down on these items because they’re in high demand, which means it may be time to buy enough to help you get through the entire summer. Usually these items don’t have a short shelf life, so stocking up won’t force you to waste money if your products don’t get used right away. Of course, before you hit the store and buy lots of products, you should make sure you know what’s right for your family. For instance, some bug repellent ingredients may not be right for certain types of skin or those allergic to certain ingredients. Also, you may want to check out the proper SPF levels to suit your family’s needs!

6. Patio Furniture
It’s almost time to spend lazy afternoons outside sipping tea and watching the kids play. Of course, this whole scenario would be a lot better if you have some patio furniture to sit on, right? Well, luckily, May is the month to enjoy some savings on patio furniture. During this time new items are coming out for summer, so stuff that is currently in stock will be greatly reduced to ensure you save big time on your summer fun. The best thing is, even though the fashions may be a bit last season, they’ll still look great as patio furniture doesn’t change a whole lot in style. Make sure you find a look that’s perfect for your family, environment and cleaning availability. For instance, you may not want metal furniture if you live in an area that does get a lot of rain. You should also look for furniture with weather proofing so you’ll know it will last a lot longer.

7. Spring Clothes
One thing you’ll want to be sure to check out this month is all of the fantastic deals on spring clothes. With June bringing even more heat to the table, May is when most spring clothes are going to hit the sales and clearance racks. The good thing about spring clothing is you can wear it throughout the summer thanks to the light colors. So, this may be the right time to stock up on items like shorts or light weight tops. You may even find a few pieces that will be perfect for next school year, but make sure to shop a size up to accommodate any growth spurts that may happen over the summer. Of course, if you wait until Memorial Day, you’ll also be able to enjoy some fantastic deals that will save you a whole lot more in the long run!

8. Party Supplies
May is a great time to celebrate! With graduations, mothers, veterans and the nice weather, you can probably come up with a lot of reasons to host a party in the month of May. Thus, it’s no surprise that party supplies are the perfect buy for this month. Everything from paper plates to streamers will be on sale so make sure you use these savings to stock up on everything you need. One of the best things to buy during these sales is wrapping for gifts. For instance bags, tissue paper and everything in between will be on sale. If you buy them now you won’t have to worry about them when a birthday comes up. You may also want to buy party supplies in solid colors. For instance, single color streamers can be used for many things throughout the year. Simply roll it up when you’re done and you’re ready to go! This is especially perfect for May since you’ll have the Stanley Cup to plan for, graduation celebrations and BBQs that could use a little extra flair!

9. Gym Membership
With the weather looking better and better outside, more people are going to take to the great outdoors to get their work out. Thus, the price of a gym membership is going to steadily begin to drop. This makes May the perfect time to swoop in and grab a deal before people begin to feel like it’s too hot to work out outside! A lot gyms will offer special discounts as well as Memorial Day sales so call around to see what you can find! However, you should also consider packages that will be affordable and worthwhile for you. For instance, if you’re not going to use certain aspects of the gym then it may not be cost effective to buy that particular membership even if it is on sale. With a little research and thought, you should be able to find some spectacular deals to help get or keep you in shape.

10. Grilling Meats
Your taste buds may be delighted to know that grilling meats take a dive in price during the month of May. With Memorial Day kicking off BBQ season it may be time to cash in on these deals to help make your summer even more frugal. Everything from hot dogs to brisket should be sale on right now, so make sure you clear out your freezer before you go shopping. With any luck you should be able to enjoy some very tasty meals at a price that will leave you shocked months later. Make sure you keep an eye on the date in which you place an item in the freeze though as each meat will have a different shelf life. However, if you plan to shop ahead for the summer, you should be able to buy plenty now without having to worry about anything going to waste!

If you were already excited about the month of May, all of these savings may make this month a little over the top for you! With all the excitement going on you should be able to enjoy great prices on some of the items that make summer absolutely fantastic. So, with a little budgeting and some great deals, your family will be well on their way to the right start for the upcoming heat wave months.

There’s no doubt about it, temperatures are rising and the temptation to turn on the air conditioning grows a little more each day. Staying cool in the heat can be pricey though, especially if you’re relying on air conditioning to do most of the work. There are a few ways you can get rid of the huge electric bills though without forcing yourself to be covered in sweat throughout the day. With these tips to help you stay cool, you’ll wonder why you put up with the heat for so long. Better yet, you’ll wonder why you gave up so much money when there’s so many solutions to help you feel amazing on the hottest of days!

1. Bedding
Your bedding may be the last thing you think of when it comes to cooling yourself down. In fact, for most people, the bedding ends up getting pushed to the foot of the bed because it’s too hot to handle any extra layers. However, the type of bedding you use can say a lot about how cool you stay in the hot months. For instance, flannel sheets are pretty much a no-no as the temperature rises. You’ll want to stick with cotton if you’re on a budget, but if you want to splurge, silk will keep you the coolest. Before you begin your day, you may want to move all of your bedding and hang it up in the coldest room in the house. This will help keep these items cooler which will also cool down your body. Another great way to make bed time refreshing is to place your pillow and sheets in a plastic bag. Then, stick this bag in the freezer. The plastic will protect the fabric from getting wet, so when you go to bed you’ll have freezing cold sheets and a pillow to enjoy.

2. Change Your Diet
Believe it or not, but changing the way you eat can actually help to keep you cool. Some of the best foods to eat when it’s hot are spicy foods. The spices force you to perspire more which cools down the body significantly. You should also keep a lot of frozen treats on hand. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should have ice cream every single day. Instead, turn your favorite drinks into popsicles. Or, freeze healthy yoghurts with a mixture of fruits. You can really think out of the box when it comes to these treats or simply surf the internet looking for something that strikes your fancy. Eating light and cold foods will also do you a huge favor. For instance, salads are perfect for summer time and you can change them up to make them taste unique each day. You should also eat cold fruits. One of your best food options is cucumbers. They’re light and mostly made of water anyway so you won’t have to worry about calories. Keeping hydrated is important too. Drinking a cold glass of water can cool you down for up to an hour. You should also switch from hot coffees and teas to cold brews.

3. Stay Downstairs
Everyone knows that heat rises, so this summer you may need to spend a little more time downstairs. This can be difficult, especially when most bedrooms end up in the top of the home. Thus, when bed time rolls around it may be too hot to sleep. If this is the case then you may want to organize a few camp outs downstairs. If you make some tents for the kids it’ll become a great summer time activity that they will tell their children all about. If you have a basement then you might want to take some time to turn this into a family friendly room. Try adding a television and a few places to sit to start with. This could be one of the best places for the family to eat meals and enjoy one another’s company during the day. If you have a garage then it may be almost as good, so don’t be afraid to move the cars out while the heat wave continues on!

4. Enjoy the Dark
When it comes to daytime in the summer, you may want to get used to spending time in the dark. Generally speaking, closing the blinds and curtains will actually keep your home much cooler throughout the day. Try to do this as soon as the temperature begins to rise so you won’t have to deal with all of the sun pouring into the home. If you don’t want to close up the entire house then simply close the side in which the sun is hitting. When the sun finally goes down then you can open up the home and enjoy all of your daily conveniences. It’s important not to run anything that will add heat to the home during the day time if you’re trying to keep cool. This includes a lot of items we use every day such as the washing machine and dryer, dishwasher and television. So, you may have to come up with alternative forms of entertainment. Of course, the most important thing you can do is open up the home at night. It usually cools down significantly so make sure all of your windows are letting the cool air in!

5. Fans
One of the cheapest ways to cool down a house is to use fans. Fans are great for many reasons though as they can also help keep allergens from bothering you and they keep rooms feeling fresher. You can choose from a wide variety of fan too, including simple handmade fans. One of the best fans to have in your home, no matter the season, is ceiling fans. These help distribute cool air around the room so you’ll feel better in a matter of seconds. You might also want to utilize box fans in the window. These can be used to pump cool air in the home during the night and to pump hot air out during the day. If you’re worried about the power bill then you can stick to fans that are solar or battery powered! Of course, if you already have fans in the home then you should always make sure they’re on the correct setting. During the hot weather they should be turning counter clockwise.

6. DIY Air Conditioner
It may seem too good to be true, but you can actually DIY an air conditioner that will cost you next to nothing to run. There’s a couple of ways to do this too! If you’re looking for a personal cooler for just sitting around by the pool or in your home then all you really need is a cup with a lid. Fill the cup with ice and then place the lid over it. If there’s already a hole in the lid then you’re good to go, if not then make one. Now, all you do is blow into the hole. When you’re finished cold air will make its way out. If you want the cold air to go even further then place a small fan by the hole. If you want to cool down an entire room then head to your local department store. You’ll need a Styrofoam cooler, two dryer vents and a small fan. Before you begin, place several bottles of water in the freezer. Then take the lid of the cooler and measure out the size of the vents on each end. You want these measurements to be as snug as possible. When you’re finished move to the center and draw a hole a little smaller than the fan. Now, cut out all of your measurements. Place each vent into the appropriate hole and then fill the cooler with the frozen water bottles. Place the lid back on and turn on the fan!

7. Utilize Shade
During the hot months, the shade is going to be your best friend. You may even find it cooler in the shade than in your own home. To ensure you get to enjoy more shade you should strategically plant trees around the home. With enough trees blocking out the light, your home will stay quite a bit cooler. Although blinds and curtains help out, you can’t beat the shade that an awning creates. Try to make some DIY awnings and place them above the windows in your home. It’s easier and cheaper than you expect, especially when you factor in how much money these awnings will save you. You should also add an awning onto your porch. This will provide you with a cooler place to enjoy a meal while you relax in the evenings.

8. Cook Efficiently
Your diet doesn’t say everything about keeping cool. The way you cook can speak quite loudly too. If you’ve ever been in a home that bakes in the middle of summer then you probably know how unbearable it is. Using your stove or oven can be one of the worst decisions when it’s hot, so try to avoid it as often as possible. One of the best things to do is count on your outdoor grill to do a lot of the work for you. You can also use your crockpot to make some of your family’s favorite meals, such as casserole. If you have a home filled with kitchen gadgets then you’re doing well for the summer months. You can easily fire up an electric grill or wok to make some healthy dishes everyone will love. If you still think it raises the temperature then place the item outside and cook there. Of course, you could always stick to foods that don’t need to be cooked in the first place.

9. Change Your Wardrobe
Sure, you may think you’re doing good sitting around in your denim shorts and cotton top, but there’s better wardrobe choices you could be making. For instance, you may want to start shopping for loose fitting clothing. This will make you feel less sweaty as the temperature rise. Light weight clothing is also a must. Usually button up tops will have this material, but you should always check out a fabric before you buy it. If you feel something and it’s breathable then it is a definite must for your summer time attire. You should also stick to light weight shoes, such as flip flops. There’s many slip on styles that use light fabrics too which may be better for your feet than some of your sandal options.

10. Go Out
If you just can’t keep cool in the home, don’t automatically go for the thermostat. Instead, get out of the house for a while. There’s actually many public places you can go to cool off that won’t cost you much. For instance, you can learn which days at your local museum, or other attractions, are free or have reduced price tickets. This could take up hours of the day and they’re almost always air conditioned. You may also want to spend some time at the theater when the tickets are a reduced price. Another great place to go is the library. The family can check out books, enjoy story time and take part in any event the library is hosting. You can also sign everyone up for low cost classes so you’ll keep cool and learn something too! The public pool is also a great idea, but make sure to look into season passes so you won’t spend as much! Finally, a lake, river, the beach or anywhere free that offers water to play in is a total must!

The heat doesn’t have to beat you! In fact, you can really stand against it and your rising electric bill by trying out some of these options. With a little know-how you should feel cooler than ever this summer without using the air conditioner!

Life gets busy, so if you’ve just realized that Mother’s Day is only a few days away then have no fear! This time of year can be hard on a budget, but there’s a lot of amazing things you can do for mom that doesn’t mean dipping into your savings account! It’s hard to avoid the temptation of splurging on mom’s big day because, after all, she’s done so much for us, right? But, there are a few things your mom will be head over heels for that only cost a little DIY and a lot of heart! With a few simple techniques and shopping know-how, you’ll be ready to surprise mom with a gift that will always be cherish.

1. Handpicked Flowers
One of the most popular gifts for Mother’s Day is the bouquet. You’ll see lots of flowers in your favorite stores, which can be tempting especially if you wait until the last minute. Of course, you will probably also see huge mark ups which won’t do your budget any favors. In fact, the closer to the holiday you wait, the pricier the flowers are going to get, so you might want to avoid these stores altogether. Instead, take to your garden to make an extra special bouquet for mom. This will allow you to choose from a variety that you’ll know mom will adore. Of course, not everyone has their own flowers to choose from. If you don’t then talk to friends and family that may have some flowers you can buy or have for free. You could also look around for public gardens that allow you to take home some of the flowers. Make sure to check in on the rules though as you don’t want to be fined! When you have the flowers, make mom a special DIY vase or wrap them in beautiful papers. This shouldn’t add on to the price tag much and it’ll make it look even more memorable for mom! Finally, deliver the beauties in person so you can enjoy the smile and add on even more joy to the gift.

2. DIY Fake Flowers
Flowers are good and all, but you can always take your gift up a notch and give your mom flowers that won’t end up dying within the next week or so! The best thing about DIY flowers is there’s absolutely no limit on the creativity you can exhibit. For instance, one great way to show off your love for mom is to make her paper roses! There’s lots of tutorials online and the only thing they’ll cost you is a bit of time and a lot of love. When you’re finished, find something special to put them in and hand deliver them to mom. You can also look around for fake flowers that you already have. If you don’t own any then buy some at your local dollar store. When you get them home place colorful candies in the center of each flower for a beautiful look that mom will surely get a kick out of. You can also create little notes for mom and fold them up and place them in the center. This will make the gift something she can look forward to seeing every day of the year. Finally, if you’re in the mood to bake, you can make stylish cupcake, cookie or brownie flowers for mom. You may also want to cut up fruit to make an edible bouquet that doesn’t cost a fortune. When you’ve finished your DIY flowers then find a great vase or make one and deliver the gift!

3. Customized Kitchen Supplies
If your mom is like many mom’s then the kitchen is her domain. So, why not give her a little something to make her domain even more personal? There’s a lot of basic kitchen items out there that you can transform into something spectacular. For instance, you can easily take cheap kitchen towels and turn them into spicy towels that show off mom’s attitude. Simply download some stencil from the internet and use your cloth paint to finish off the look! You can also do this to a new pair of oven mitts or an apron. All mom’s could use a bit more storage in their life so pick up some cheap storage containers from your dollar store or department store. Then, add some paint and you’ll have a whole new look she’ll be happy to show off. If you utilize some chalk board paint it’ll take the gift even further as mom will be able to customize it to her needs! You can also find some cheap wooden cooking utensils and paint the tops to meet mom’s favorite colors or designs. Finally, no mom will be able to resist her very own customized tea or coffee mug. Try painting on special messages or having the kids place the fingerprints on it!

4. Portable Hug
If you don’t live close to your mom then a portable hug may be the answer to your gifting problem! You can make one of these in a few different ways. One of the most frugal ways is to grab a roll of paper. Simply roll the paper onto the floor and have the hugger lay down with their arms spread out. Then, someone traces around the hugger. When this is complete cut around the tracing and have the hugger color in a picture of themselves. You can even write special messages on the portable hug to bring a smile to mom’s face. If you want a more durable hug then go to your local discount store and find a large pillow. Then, take some fabric paint and place it on the huggers arms and hands. The hugger then gently hugs the pillow leaving behind a hug that mom will be able to feel whenever she’s missing out. This craft is perfect for kids, so if you’re looking for a gift to make grandma happy or if there’s dad’s out there still lost as to what to help the kids do, then this is a great treat!

5. DIY Garden Kit
A lot of mom’s are interested in gardening, so why not help them with their hobby this holiday? A DIY gardening kit is one of the cheapest and easiest gifts to provide for a mom that wants to give the yard a bit of a makeover. First, you’ll want to find something to place your items in. Generally, a flower pot, bucket or watering can are some of the best choices. When you decide what you’re doing, pull out the paints and customize it just for mom! Then, find a few cheap tools like a handheld hoe or shovel to help with digging and tilling. These items can also be customized with a bit of paint, so don’t hold out when it comes to your creativity. Finally, add some smaller items like seed packets, plant food or a planter’s guide. You could also make custom plant markers to make the gift even more personal!

6. Make a Meal
One of the best ways to show mom you appreciate her is to cook her a meal. Of course, you should also make plans to clean up afterwards as it would definitely take away from the meaning to have mom stuck with a kitchen filled with dishes. Brunch is usually a great choice for many people as it allows them to give mom some extra time to sleep in the morning as well as some prep time for cooking. It also means you won’t have worry about two different meals and can incorporate mom’s favorite breakfast and lunch elements into one fantastic meal. Dinner is another great choice though as it allows mom to have some fun during the day and will give everyone a chance to come together for the meal. Make sure to pick foods you know mom loves and doesn’t get very often to make the meal even more extraordinary. Adding a dessert element to the meal will top it off and ensure mom feels the love!

7. Clean Up Crew
If there’s one thing mom will definitely appreciate, it’s having her chores taken away for the day. Try to gather up the whole family to get more things done and to make the surprise even grander for your mom. If you can, have mom make a list or ask dad for a list if you’re trying to make the chores a surprise. Then, get to work. Light housework is always a plus, but try to take on some of the bigger jobs if you can. These can be both indoor and outdoor chores. For instance, have some of the family clean out the gutters, work on hedges and other out of reach or hard to do tasks. Inside, you can take on the task of cleaning out the oven, deep clean the carpets and dust in high places!

8. Coupon Book
Nothing will make mom feel all giddy inside like her very own coupon book. This allows you a lot of freedom to make the book customized to your mom’s needs without forcing you to spend a lot of money. For instance, you can toss in coupons that offer her a free meal or baked goods. You may also want to add in a trip out on the town or movie night with the family. Some mom’s may even want coupons that allow them to take the grandkids for a night or two. You know just what mom wants and needs so make sure your coupon book has a little bit of everything. She’ll be so happy your gift was so thoughtful that other gifts won’t even compare. Best of all, she can use it all year long so you can keep giving back!

9. Photo Art
Most mom’s love to see photos of the people they care about, so use this to make her day absolutely fabulous. Most of the photo gifts that you buy in stores can actually be done at home, so browse around to see what art you can create at an incredibly low price. For starters, you may want to transfer one of mom’s favorite photos onto a canvas so she can display it for all to see. Another great option is to photo transfer onto a pillow or blanket. These are all easy tasks and won’t take a lot of time or money. Of course, you can also go all out and make your mom a special scrap book or brag book! Again, these are so simple to make and will ensure she feels appreciated all year long.

10. Keep It Artistic
Mom’s always love gifts that come from the heart, so this holiday make sure to show off your artistic side. One of the most common gifts to make is a personal card. You’ve probably been making these since childhood so make sure to put the same amount of love into that you did as a child who couldn’t afford to go out and buy a card. You should also include a special message that she’ll love to look back on. If you want to go beyond the card then try to create a poem or paint a picture. Anything that shows off the skills your mom passed down to you and helped you develop as you grew will make your mom feel ecstatic.

Celebrating Mother’s Day isn’t all about diamond bracelets or spending hundreds on the right flowers. With a little TLC, your mom will know she means the world to you! This Mother’s Day try to make finding the perfect gift a little more about showing your appreciation and less about your bank account. With these ten craft ideas you should be able to find the perfect gift for the special lady in your life.

Nice weather is upon us which means it’s the best time to make your yard more appealing to the kids. Although it may be harder to get today’s kids outside for some play time, with a fabulous yard to get them interested in good old fashioned play, there won’t be any bribing necessary! This doesn’t mean you’re looking at spending a lot of money on renovations though! Many of these ideas are entirely frugal and some will cost you absolutely nothing if you have the supplies laying around the house. So, throw on your favorite pair of comfortable work clothes because after this read you’ll be ready to renovate and have some fun!

1. Swing
One of the best ways to keep a child interested in the outdoors is to place a swing outside. These toys are great for playtime, but also make a great way to relax and enjoy a nice day. Many parents simply go out and buy a swing set when they’re trying to entice their child to enjoy the outdoors. Although this can be helpful, you really don’t need to spend the money if you have a tree in your yard. All you need is a bit of rope, a sturdy tree branch and a seat to make this toy a reality. Some of the best seats around come from old chairs. If you have a broken chair or one you don’t use anymore then take off the legs and strap it onto the tree. You can also use a palette for a swing that’s big enough for more than one child to lay across. This type of swing can also make a nice place to read a book or nap on a hot day. Old tires also make a great choice for many as well as logs and other pieces of lumber. Another fun idea that looks cool is to take a skateboard without the wheels and use it for a seat. Of course, if you have no tree then you may want to consider looking around at a second hand store for a used swing set.

2. Obstacle Course
Kids love running around and playing, especially when they have obstacles around to keep them busy. You can easily turn your home into an obstacle course by simply using some old junk to make it so! One of the best ways to keep kids guessing is to string up a lot of rope between two trees. Kids will love trying to figure out how to get through the maze. Of course, this toy should be carefully monitored by an adult and the strings should be tied in a way that is safe if an incident occurs. You can also use old tires or pool tubes to create holes for children to crawl under or jump over as they tackle their course. A rock wall is also something that is easier than you think to make! There’s several tutorials online so don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and find the perfect rock wall for your home.

3. Slip N Slide
With the summer heat rolling in you may want to consider getting a slip n slide in your backyard. A lot of the slip n slides on the market now are pretty pricey. Let’s face it, they don’t last very long either, especially if you got it at a price that almost seemed reasonable. Rather than spending money on a slip n slide you can easily make your own at home. Simply find a large tarp that you may not want to use again. Then, make sure there are no rocks or sharp objects on the ground. Lay down the tarp and oil it down with baby oil so you don’t have to use as much water to get the slide going. This will also help the children not get a friction burn while they’re playing. If you don’t have a tarp around the house then use some heavy duty trash bags and tape. When everything is set up then add water and let the fun begin. You can even keep the water to a minimum by using buckets instead of the sprinkler.

4. Kid Friendly Nooks
Kids love little areas where they can sit down with a book or simply have a secret clubhouse. One of the most popular ways you can achieve this is via a tree house, but this can be incredibly difficult and timely. There’s a few great options though that will also make your yard look absolutely fantastic. One fun way to give your child a nook is to plant sunflowers in the shape of a square. Once the flowers begin to grow your children will be able to walk into the floral box and enjoy some peace and quiet in the shade. You can also create a teepee using plastic piping or gardening wires. When you have the foundation built plant beans around the structure and shape them up the foundation as they grow. Any vine plant would work for this project though just make sure it is healthy for kids and animals! Finally, if you have a tree in the yard then hang a hula hoop from it. Then wrap an old sheet or shower curtain around the outside of the hoop. This will create a comforting and shady area for kids to cool down when playing.

5. Game Boards
If your family loves game night then this tip is for you. You can easily turn your yard into one giant board game! There’s a lot of options to choose from but one of the most popular is scrabble. All you need is several pieces of cardboard or old pieces of thin wood to create the letter pieces. You can also use scrap wood as planks that, combined with wire, will hold the pieces up. Another great option is bowling. All you need is a tarp, several bottles filled with water (add food coloring for fun) and a couple of balls. You might also want to consider kickball croquet. This only requires the use of cut up old tires or pool noodles to create the play area. With a kick ball, have the kids kick through each of the game pieces until someone makes it through without hitting the sides! You can also add a simple ring toss game to the yard using just about anything. To make things more interesting, add some glow in the dark items to the mix for a fun late night game.

6. Character Pieces
Although your yard may be ready for play time, it may not look as kid friendly as you think. A lot of the time a yard reflects the adults in the home more than children. This can easily be changed with a few kid friendly characters that will make children feel more like the yard is their domain. For instance, if you have rocks in your yard then you may want to give them a makeover. Try painting them to look like M &Ms and other fun pieces of candy. You can also turn your rocks into pet rocks for the kids. They’ll love painting their favorite animals on them! Of course, you don’t have to limit the creativity to animals only. Let your kids paint their favorite superheroes, cartoon characters and anything else they can think of! You may even want to make special rocks for the holidays, such as Easter eggs and pumpkins. Another option to bring some character to the yard is to create character’s using plants. You can easily cut shrubs to mimic the look of an animal, but you can also look for tutorials to transform smaller plants into furry creatures.

7. Tables
You’re going to want to make it so your children can eat, drink and play with their favorite toys outside too. This is easily done when you create tables for them! One easy table that won’t take up space in the yard is a foldable table that actually attaches to the fence. This is incredibly easy to make and will make kids feel like they have their own personal space in the yard. To make it even more kid friendly you can paint chalkboard paint on the top of it and let them have some fun drawing with chalk! You may also want to use tree stumps and other older pieces of wood to craft tables and chairs that will create a rustic look while also providing the kids with a place to enjoy their indoor luxuries outdoors!

8. Relaxation
Sometimes you just need a place to sit down and relax after a game of hide and seek. Of course, if you’re a parent you may not object to having somewhere to relax while watching the kids play. One easy way to make your relaxation dreams a reality is to craft a bench out of cinder blocks or other supplies you have lying around the house. Once you have the base made take plastic bags and pile them together to create a comfortable layer to sit on. When this is thick enough you can easily cover it with fabric or a table cloth material. If you do choose to use fabric then spray it so it’s water resistant! You might also want to consider making a hammock outside. These are very easy to make and can be made out of just about anything!

9. Beach
One way to get the entire family excited about spending time outdoors is to give your home its very own beach. This is actually easier than you may think. All you need is a tarp and a whole lot of sand. Place the tarp down where you’d like the beach to be and then place the sand over it. You can easily buy sand in bulk, so this expense shouldn’t set you back much. With the sand ready to go you can plan you backyard beach around the items you’d like! For instance, one great way to have some fun is to place a fire pit in the area. This is perfect for late night parties or sharing stories with friends and family. You may also want to consider a small kiddy pool for the little ones. You could also use this to place fish toys in so everyone can enjoy a fishing trip without taking vacation time. Finally, supplies for sand castles will always make this aspect of the yard a favorite.

10. Add Light
When it comes to yards, a little light can make them seem even more magical. If you’re proud of your flower garden or love your walk way then you can easily spice it up by laying down rope light. This creates a nice outline of the yard and adds light to make it seem more comfortable. If you have an old chandelier or other decorative light laying around the house then now may be the time to refurbish it. Hang it off of a tree or on your porch and fill it with solar lights. You may also want to pull your old wine or beer bottles out of the recycling as they make perfect torch lights for an evening free of mosquitos!

Spending time outdoors is important for everyone. With the fresh air and much needed sunlight improving your mood you’ll be glad you took the time to make your yard kid friendly. Best of all, with these easy tips you shouldn’t have spent much on your yard at all. With a little DIY your home will keep improving, one space at a time!

It’s hard to believe that the time has come for an all new group of students to walk across the stage and collect their diplomas on Graduation Day. Although it may be a great time to celebrate their achievements, it can also be a time of hardship if you’re struggling with your budget. Although many believe that money and pricey gifts are the key to celebrating the recent grad in your life, there’s many frugal ways to help them know they’re appreciated too! With a little a bit of planning and some out of the box thinking, you’ll find that some of the best gifts out there won’t cost you a lot of money at all!

1. Gift Bag/Basket
The gift bag/basket is one gift that can really stand out amongst the crowd and it’s totally easy to customize based on your budget. If you don’t have a lot to spend then gather pamphlets on colleges, if the graduate isn’t quite sure where they’ll be going. If they have picked a location then fill it with campus and local guides so they’ll be well on their way once they to the school. These can be found for very cheap and can also be printed for free, which makes them a great budget gift. You may also want to throw in little messages of encouragement as well as tips to help get them through their first semester. If you do have a little more money to put into the basket then toss in their favorite candies and junk foods as these will come in handy when they’re cramming for exams. You may also want to think practical. For instance, a small first aid kit is always a must as it’s something a lot of students don’t think about. You may also want to consider a mini screwdriver for basic repairs on electronics or a sewing kit for lost buttons and minor tears and holes. Safety items like pepper spray or a whistle could be valuable too. Finally, toss in a few gift cards! If you want to make the gift even more versatile, place the items in a shower bucket or sturdy backpack!

2. Kitchen Supplies
A lot of items that get overlooked with graduates is kitchen supplies. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy a set of pots and pans though. Instead, think out of the box! You might want to remember all of the items you forgot you needed when you moved off to college. This should help you make some pretty good decisions as to what to get the graduate. For instance, an oven mitt is a must-have for any college kitchen. You know the graduate is going to be loving TV dinners and frozen desserts, so make sure they have what it takes to pull them out of the oven before it’s too late. You can even add a special touch to this by decorating it. Other supplies they may need are cooking utensils, kitchen towels, items to do dishes, and maybe even storage containers. You could also put a bit more into the gift and buy a cheap smoothie maker, popcorn maker, indoor grill or anything else that might make college life easier. If you already have gently used items they may need around the house then don’t be afraid to keep it second hand!

3. Personalized Bedding
Nothing makes a student feel less homesick quite like bedding. The bed is where they’ll spend the only time they have not running to and fro, which is more than likely going to be the place they get homesick the most. So, if you have some quilting skills here is your time to shine! Gather up fabrics from the graduate’s childhood and pieces that lead to other special memories and quilt them into a beautiful blanket your student will be happy to have. If quilting isn’t your thing then making a croquet blanket may be just as good, especially if your graduate is going somewhere cold for college. This will help them relax and feel warm as they battle through their first semester away from home. Finally, a customized pillowcase can also make life feel better, especially when you’re graduate ends up in the laundry room and items may be left behind or taken.

4. School/Office Supplies
No one wants to be the person pushing school supplies on a student that just graduated. At the same time, someone needs to be because they’re going to need them! It may not be a fun gift, but you’ll know they won’t have to spend as much money on supplies when they finally do make it to school, which means more fun for them later on. Try to find an abundance of pens, paper, pencils, notebooks and highlighters to give to the graduate. You may also want to look for colorful post-its, tape and anything that shows off your graduate’s personality. If you want to spend a bit more though, you should consider finding a filing folder to help out with all of your student’s loan, grant and scholarship paperwork as well as other important documents they may need. Finally, a backpack or briefcase may also be a great gift and will make the perfect way to display all of the goodies you bought!

5. Food
It may seem pretty basic, but after a couple of weeks of cafeteria food or burning through money on fast food, your graduate will be so thankful they already have a stock of food to enjoy. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go out and fill their cabinets with items to make luxurious meals. Instead, look for cheap items like instant noodles, boxed mac ‘n cheese and other foods that come in boxes that hold a long shelf life. Canned foods are also great, especially items like spaghetti-o’s or canned fruit. Anything that isn’t difficult, expensive, perishable or requires a refrigerator or stove is pretty much a brilliant idea on your end. You can also toss in some of their favorite junk food items like candy and chips to give them the comfort foods they need to get though the change in lifestyle. Finally, to make things even better for the student provide them with coupons for free baked goods. When the student feels like brownies, cookies or anything else, they can let you know and you can bake them and send them in!

6. Transit Pass
If your graduate plans on using public transit while they’re in school then see if you can purchase a pass ahead of time via the school or transit company. This will give them one less thing to worry about when they get there. In the long run, having a transit pass will give them a huge advantage. For example, they’ll be able to travel around more which will allow them to find the best places to eat and hang out that are near and far from their location. It will also allow them to explore and find grocery stores and clothing stores that will be affordable for their budget. If they’re going to look for a job from the beginning then this is also a great route to go as it will allow them to travel to interviews without having to worry about the price of busses, trains or taxis!

7. Scrapbook
One amazing and creative gift to present to a graduate is a personal scrapbook. Try to gather up photos from friends and family to place into a book. You can easily make your own scrapbooking backgrounds or you can use some you already have to save money. If you do plan on buying more backgrounds then try to find a good coupon that can take a considerable amount off of the price. When you have all of your backgrounds and accessories picked out, make a copy of the photos and start placing them into the book. This present will be cherished for years to come and may even help the graduate get through the tough times they experience in their new life. With all of the amazing memories within the scrapbook the graduate will get more out of this book than most other gifts!

8. Cheap Technology
Your graduate probably has the laptop or tablets needed to make school a bit easier, but there’s always a few items that no student can go without. For instance, one of the smartest things to give a graduate is a flash drive or two. These can be purchased for fairly cheap and will allow students to move their work from one computer to the next. It also doesn’t hurt to have a couple of these lying around in case one goes missing or stops working. You might also want to consider buying some extra USB cables and charging cables as these items go missing a lot, especially in dorm rooms! Items like reading lights and other simple accessories to make studying easier and less of an irritant to sleeping roommates is also a great idea. Finally, a tape recorder might be a great investment. Although most phones can record audio it might be easier to have a device that only stores the course material on it!

9. Entertainment
Although the majority of your graduate’s time will be spent in class, studying or hanging out with friends, there will still be down time in which they’ll be pretty bored. It’s often hard to keep entertained when you’re broke so you might want to consider getting them some items to pass the time. Movies, music and books are one of the best routes to go as they should be able to fit them into various periods of the day. This will also prevent illegal downloading as they’ll already own a copy of the music or movie they love. Other great options are brain teaser games or board games that they can play with other people. This will help spark friendships and will make long weekends even more fun. If the student has a hobby then consider buying items to help with that. For instance, guitar strings or reeds for musicians, paints and brushes for artists and anything else that comes to mind.

10. Gift Cards
These types of gifts will probably be the most appreciated as they will help the student out while also helping avoid the temptation that cash brings to the table. Try to figure out which grocery stores are in the area and find a gift card to help out with some food. You can also offer gift cards to their favorite restaurants, which will come in handy when instant noodles aren’t cutting it. Department and clothing stores are another great option. Of course, considering entertainment is also a popular way to go. For instance, a gift card to help pay for a gym will be greatly appreciated if the college doesn’t provide one. They may also enjoy music gift cards or movie passes for days that seem a bit too stressful. If you look for any of these gift cards online you should be able to get more for your money!

Graduation is a huge reason to let loose and celebrate the one you love who has achieved something spectacular. Although you may feel like spending a fortune to help make the celebration even more spectacular, it isn’t always an option. With these ten easy gift ideas you should be able to find the perfect item for your graduate at a price that won’t make you feel overwhelmed. After all, one of the best gifts you can give a graduate is to share how to live a frugal lifestyle, so don’t forget to pass on your gift shopping secrets!

May will be here rather quickly, so it might be time to plan out your Cinco de Mayo party! Cinco de Mayo is such a great time to spread the love amongst your friends and family. Between the Mexican Independence Day and the gorgeous weather, it’ll be hard not to get out for a little fun! If you haven’t hosted or celebrated this holiday before then have no worries as there’s a lot of things you can do to keep your Cinco de Mayo celebration on the frugal side. From free events to cheap meals, you’ll really have your friends and family wanting to keep the party going for days. So, get out your notepad and get ready to create a party plan that people will be talking about for years to come, without spending a small fortune!

1. Play Your Own Music
Cinco de Mayo is all about the music, right? This doesn’t mean you have to hire a band to make your celebration stand out in the crowd though. In fact, there’s a pretty good chance you can get people to play for free since music is such a cultural and beloved aspect of Cinco de Mayo. Try asking your musician friends to bring an instrument along and see where the party goes. Even if they aren’t familiar with classic Mexican celebration songs, there’s bound to be someone who will show them the ropes. The more people you get to sing and play along, the more fun everyone will have. Of course, if you don’t know anyone who dabbles in an instrument or singing then you can always tune to your favorite streaming radio. You should be able to find a free radio station here or a playlist designed specifically for the holiday!

2. Community Celebrations
Just because you plan to host a party doesn’t mean your get-together has to begin in your home or party destination. Instead, have everyone meet up at a community event to see amazing displays of freedom and culture! This is a great time to get ideas for your own party, but will also have everyone starting out the celebration in a good mood. Try to look online or ask your community center where you can find celebrations in your area. Many will host dancing, storytelling, special vendors and possibly even food, which will take care of a lot of the entertainment and dining needs of your guests. When you’re finished at the community celebration leave for your home or party destination. From there everyone will want to show off what they learned as well as talk about the big event, which means less entertainment stress for you!

3. Dress Up
One of the best things about holiday is you often get to take the chance to dress up in clothes you may not normally wear. This adds an extra element of fun to the entire event. Of course, one of the better things about traditional Mexican clothing is it’s lightweight. This is pretty amazing because in most places the temperatures are already going to be on the warmer side of the spectrum. So, instead of ending up sweating in your jeans and thicker t-shirts, you can enjoy the celebration wearing flowing skirts and lightweight blouses or button-up shirts. If you don’t already own any traditional clothing then check out your local thrift store of consignment shop to see if they have anything that suits your budget. Some family members may also be able to pass down clothing to you, especially if you have young children as they tend to outgrow clothing rather quickly. You may also want to try your hand at making your own clothes. There’s several tutorials online and fabric is usually very cost effective. If you do choose to make your own clothes then you can enjoy wearing them throughout the summer as they easily pair with modern trends in most cases.

4. Dance
One of the best things you can add to a Cinco de Mayo celebration is dancing. Everyone will love to get out on the dance floor and show off their modern and traditional moves. A lot of people will avoid dancing because they don’t really know how to do the traditional moves. You can easily ask someone to show you at the party or you can look up tutorials online. Generally, there will be more than one person who doesn’t know what they’re doing so it may strengthen the bond of the party to have everyone pitch in to show new dancers the ropes. No matter what dancing you choose to do, it can usually take up hours of the party and keeps the party feeling a bit more natural and comfortable for those who have enjoyed traditional celebrations for years. You could also have those who do know the traditional dances perform for the rest of the guests to enjoy!

5. Share Stories
One of the best ways to set your Cinco de Mayo celebration apart from other parties is to share stories with your guests. There’s lots of ways to incorporate this into your party and it could add to the conversation that will last for hours. You will probably have a wide variety of people at your party so ask everyone to share a little something. It can be stories about their heritage, cultural myths or even some of their favorite aspects of Mexican culture. If a guest can’t think of anything to talk about then ask if they have any questions. One of the best topics to cover is the actual history of Cinco de Mayo which will help children understand what they are celebrating. With all the talk about the customs you will ensure that the culture will easily be passed on from generation to generation, which is incredibly important as everyone begins to incorporate modern elements into daily life while leaving behind their cultural roots.

6. Bulk Supplies
When it comes to hosting a party, your best friend is probably going to be bulk supplies. Before you start shopping in a basic grocery or department store, take a trip down to your bulk store and look around for ideas. You can usually get a lot of deals on foods in a bulk store, which will definitely come in handy when planning a party. Meats, produce and even canned items are your best bet when planning out a menu. For instance, you can get a large can of sliced jalapenos for the same price that you would pay for maybe 2 or 3 fresh peppers at a grocery store. Dry rice and beans will also change up your meal plans and keep you on a pretty frugal budget. You should also look for party supplies in the bulk store. Disposable napkins, plates, cutlery and cups are always a great choice if you don’t have enough regular dishes for your guests. You should also check out streamers, colored table cloths and other decor items to save even more money on the party.

7. Drinks
With the weather just shy of scorching, drinks are going to be one of the most popular items at your party. This doesn’t mean they have to be the most expensive item either though! If you want to keep it frugal then try making fruit infused water before the party. Kids will love it and the fruit can be eaten as a dessert! Fruit punch is also a great idea for the kids and can be made using special packets of powder in large batches. With the children taken care of you’ll have plenty of money for adult beverages! One easy thing to do is buy bulk alcohol. You can buy a large container of off-brand tequila or vodka without spending a lot of money. After you have the alcohol, try to stock up on seasonal fruits. This will allow you to make margaritas that will cool everyone down. Another idea is to brew your own beer ahead of time. This will offer you a lot more for the guests to drink without having to spend a fortune! Making your own drinks will really cut down on spending though, especially since you can avoid canned sodas and beers!

8. Cheap Food
Luckily, a lot of Mexican food can be made on a very tight budget. One of the best things to do is stick to rice and beans as a staple. Mexican rice is easy to make and will fill people up faster than you think. You can also slow cook beans to ensure everyone will be satisfied with this meal choice. If you want to add in a little meat to the mix then consider making a taco and/or fajita bar. These will usually suit just about any appetite and will make your celebration a lot more fun. A lot of these foods can be bought in bulk so you shouldn’t have to spend a lot if you keep it simple. You can also make your own homemade tortillas instead of spending a lot on store bought ones. Another great idea to add to the mix is a section to make your own nachos. Queso can be bought in a large can or in bulk, as can all the fixings. Finally, if you want to get creative with your meal you may want to consider avoiding foods that require cream or cheese as this will increase your bill substantially!

9. Look for Freebies
Believe it or not, but many communities will hand out freebies during Cinco de Mayo so don’t miss out. One of the more popular things people give out during this day is food. For instance, some places may offer a free taco or other small dish that will make the day feel even more special. A lot of companies will also pass out free souvenirs, decorations or even pamphlets talking about the holiday. This can be a great way to get your party started as most communities will group together whenever they’re passing out free items. You can easily meet your guests here and enjoy spending time amongst others while enjoying the cultural treats. If you haven’t’ already, make sure to connect to your favorite cultural stores and restaurants on social media to see who is giving out freebies and where they will be celebrating. You may also be able to find out information from your community center.

10. Pinatas
One of the best elements of Cinco de Mayo, for children, is the piñata. Who doesn’t love hitting a vibrant and festive character while getting rewarded with candy and other goodies? The only problem is piñatas can really set you back, especially if you’re looking for a larger one. Instead of going shopping right away, look online at some of the exciting tutorials. You can even get the family together to help build one so you can bond while making your party even more spectacular. Once your piñata is ready to go you can fill it with exciting treats. This can cost a lot of money too so you might want to consider making your own candies and baked goods to help ease some of the price tag. A lot of kids will prefer these treats anyway and it will make it a bit more culturally acceptable. Of course, you can also fill it with cheap party toys from a dollar or bulk store.

Cinco de Mayo is a great time to get outdoors and celebrate with those you care about most. Although the holiday could run up your budget, you can easily avoid a lot of bad expenditures with these ten simple tips. Now, you can learn a lot about the special day and have quite a bit of fun without the burden of money crossing your mind!

Geek culture is becoming increasingly popular as the years pass. With the extra popularity comes new merchandise that every fan feels they have to have. This wouldn’t be so bad if the items didn’t sometimes come with a hefty price tag. Nonetheless, May sports a few geeky holidays worth celebrating, especially if you’re looking to get your hands on some of these collectibles. This doesn’t mean you need to break into a cold sweat and configure how much money you have to spend though! Rather, check out these tips and let May’s geek-tastic holidays inspire you and show you that frugality and geeky can go hand in hand if you know how to make the most out of these celebrations!

1. Deals
When it comes to collections, May is the best time to do some shopping. Throughout this month comic book stores as well as other geek and pop culture shops will have plenty of deals for you to cash in on. The best thing you can do is plan your shopping experiences strategically. For instance, if you love Star Wars then May the Fourth is the day you should be shopping around. This holiday isn’t quite like others, in the sense that when it is over the merchandise will go right back to normal price instead of hitting the clearance bin. Anyone who may be looking for something other Star Wars merchandise, might want to check back the week of Geek Pride Day. This is a great holiday for finding some rare items at an affordable price or just picking up a few booster packs for your favorite game. Make sure to follow your favorite shops on their social media pages in order to know who is hosting sales!

2. Craft
One of the best ways to channel your inner geek is to get to crafting. Who doesn’t love making something special that was inspired by a geeky character? It doesn’t matter which holiday you’re celebrating as there’s a little something for everyone to try out. For instance, if you want to check out something new then you may want to try cross-stitching or needlework. You can easily find beginners kits that feature an assortment of characters to strike your fancy. If you’re skilled with a pencil or paintbrush then try to create a fun sketch or painting with your favorite characters or you can simply make your own! Creating a comic book with all of your own ideas and drawings is a great project to celebrate all of the geeky things you’ve come to love. You may even want to print out coloring pages for the kids so they can show their support too. Another great project for the whole family is to make characters out of rocks or recycling, such as an oatmeal container. If your crafts are good enough then you may want to consider selling them to other fans or simply show them off in the home!

3. Food
Nothing says celebration quite like food, right? So, of course you’ll want to pull out some geeky recipes to make the holiday even more fun. When it comes to May the Fourth you may not want to miss out on trying the iconic Blue Milk from Star Wars. It’s easy to make and great for the entire family. Other geek inspired recipes will need a little more creativity on your end. For instance, you can make cookies and decorate them like your favorite characters. A themed cake is also a must have for anyone planning to host a party! Another fun idea is to cut food into geeky shapes. For instance, if you have themed cookie cutters this can work on a variety of different foods like fruits or sandwiches. You can also use letters to spell out some of your favorite things to geek out on. If you’re good with cutting items without a cutter then try to use a knife to create the characters you and your kids love. You may also want to consider planning a meal around some of your favorite stories. For instance, you can have an Elven night complete with special breads and other treats. Or, you can try out having some astronaut food for lunch. The options are endless and you can probably find a lot of inspiration online!

4. Movie Marathon
One of the cheapest ways to celebrate your favorite geek holidays it to host a movie marathon or two. May the Fourth is the perfect day to relax in your favorite Star Wars pajamas while watching all six of the movies. Don’t forget to throw in the new trailer and a bit of discussion to keep the day even livelier. You may also want to gather some of your favorite superhero movies or sci-fi and fantast picks. Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings are popular marathon choices, but X-Men, the Avengers and other films that have a successful reigns are also great if you’re trying to appeal to an audience. If you really want to mix it up, ask your friends to bring over their favorite obscure anime movies. Of course, you may want to check to make sure they’re age appropriate if you have children participating. You can even have your guests bring themed food to make the day even more fun!

5. Dress Up
If you love geeking out on characters then dressing up is one way to show it. A lot of people love saving their Halloween costumes for these events, which makes it even cheaper to celebrate the holidays. Try dressing up and going to a movie, dinner or to an event that shows appreciation for your fandom! Of course, cosplay is becoming increasingly popular too! Although this may not be as frugal as digging out an old costume, it can be on the cheap side if you know how to use the right materials. Recycling, especially cardboard, are some of the best items to use to make a cosplay costume without spending a lot of money. You should also check out your closet for old clothes. When you have an idea of the supplies you need you may also want to check out the thrift store for cheap solutions. Once you’ve gathered all the supplies, enjoy the process of making your costume and think of all the geeky pioneers you have to thank for such an experience!

6. Visit a Convention
Spending a little time at a convention is a great way to show off your appreciation for geek culture. Check your local community posts to see if there is going to be a convention near you during the month of May. Generally, tickets aren’t incredibly pricey so you should be able to get a full weekend pass at a price that won’t make you feel squeamish. Of course, you may want to keep in mind what kind of convention it is. For instance, there are many comic conventions that are quite broad and will allow you to check out a variety of things. However, some conventions are very specialized, such as Star Trek, anime and etc. If you’re not into any element of the theme then don’t waste your money. Instead wait it out and get tickets for the next event that strikes your fancy. While you’re in the convention try to keep to your budget at all costs, or avoid the shopping venues altogether. Instead, enjoy some of the panels and check out cosplay shows to keep the day as frugal as possible.

7. Try Something New
In order to fully appreciate the geeky holidays you may want to try something new to further your range of knowledge. One of the best ways to do this is to go into a comic book store and look around until something catches your eye. When you have an idea of what you want to try pick up the first in the series, cash out and leave. This will help refrain you from buying items you would normally buy while also helping to keep you on budget. You should only pick up one copy as you don’t know if it will be a love at first sight reaction or if it’ll be a total flop in your eyes. You can also do this in a book store! Just make sure to keep your purchases low and you’ll be right on track with your budget.

8. Play Games
Enjoying games with your friends and family is a perfect way to celebrate geeky holidays. If you have a Dungeons and Dragons group, or other role playing games, try to get together with them and enjoy some well-deserved time in a fictional land. You can also get together to play cards, themed board games or any other game you think of, including those you make up yourself! Retro videogames are also a great way to celebrate that will help you walk down memory lane while also giving the newer video games a break. These are also really fun to get the kids into!

9. Go Outside
Getting some sunshine will make you feel great about being a geek and all of the fun holidays you get to celebrate because of it. One of the more common ways to have some fun while celebrating is to join a larping group. There should be many emerging during the month of May in order to show appreciation for the holiday, so you can always join whichever group follows your interests. All you have to do is throw together some costumes and fake weapons and you’re good to go! You may also run into some lightsaber battles while you’re looking for something to do. This will probably be more common on May the Fourth, but if you miss out on this day then keep a look out. Finally, a simple game of quidditch with friends and family may also make your holidays feel all the more special! Not to mention, it’s easy to DIY a quidditch court from items found in the home!

10. Read
Of course, one of the best ways to show off your inner geek is to take some much-needed time to catch up on your reading. It doesn’t matter if you’re into the classics or can’t wait to dive into the next big young adult novel, opening a book is such an amazing way to celebrate. You can even plan your reading schedule around the holidays. For instance, pick up a Star Wars novel for May the Fourth and then move on to Hitchhiker’s Guide to Galaxy by Douglas Adams to celebrate Towel Day. There’s a whole lot of options to choose from and you don’t even have to spend any money to enjoy this aspect of being a geek. Try to read those to-do books that have been collecting dust on your shelf, or spend some much needed therapeutic time at the library. You may even start a group that reads to children or the elderly in order to give back during this time of the year!

Celebrating all of the geeky holidays can be a whole lot of fun that gives you a lot more confidence in the person you are. Although it may be tempting to pull out your credit card during this month of amazing holidays, you can easily refrain by participating in one of these activities. As the holidays began to pass, you’ll be glad you had a frugal game plan to keep your from over-doing it!

Believe it or not, but prom season is just around the corner. Whether you’re a parent shopping for your child or a student looking for great ways to save money, there’s one thing you should keep in mind. That is, your pre-party. Although prom day is usually all about the dance and the after party, hosting a pre-party with your girlfriends can actually be one of the best ways to save on money. You may consider hosting a party a few weeks before the actual dance and then another on the day of to make your prom experience even more delightful. Not sure how this will save you money? Well, here’s ten things to implement into your pre-party game that will make prom as frugal as can be!

1. Eat
A lot of couples or groups are all about going out to eat before the big party. It isn’t a big deal, but you do usually end up spending more money on this meal than you normally would. This is largely because the night seems to go hand in hand with extravagance which isn’t exactly great when you’re on a budget. Rather than having a restaurant splurge on your schedule order in some food and enjoy it while you get ready. This won’t just be cheaper but it will also allow you to spend more time getting ready, rather than making your prep time feel rushed. It also means the likelihood of getting food on your prom attire isn’t as likely, so you’ll feel fresh throughout the date. Between pizza, Chinese and other takeout dishes you should also stay full throughout the night which should help you enjoy all the dancing more.

2. Hair
An afternoon at the salon is likely to cost you a pretty penny, especially as prom crunch time occurs. Rather than paying extra to book an appointment and for the hair do, you could easily stay home and enjoy more time with your friends. For instance, a couple of weeks prior to prom you and your friends can easily start browsing around for hairstyles you absolutely adore. Try to find tutorials to figure out how the style is accomplished and then put in some practice. You can all easily find the look you’re wanting this way and, thanks to the help of your friends, you can get it accomplished for next to nothing. When you host your actual pre-prom party then everyone will know what to do to make sure you all look fabulous without spending a penny in the salon. You can even pull all of your hair supplies to ensure no one has to spend extra on more supplies!

3. Manicures and Pedicures
Who doesn’t love a bit of pampering before a special evening out? The only problem is salons and nail studios are going to be over booked during this period which means you’ll end up paying more even if you have a coupon! Instead of leaving the house to get a bit of pampering and some flawless nails, have a spa session during your pre-party. You can easily work up a DIY foot bath at home and if you all bring nail supplies you should have enough to do just about anything you set your minds to. Try to find some online tutorials to help you out and practice when you all get together a couple of weeks before prom begins. With a little nail polish and a few print out stencils your group may have the best nails at the dance. Not to mention, you will have had the most fun getting them done!

4. Makeup
When you host your pre-party a couple of weeks before the big day, have everyone bring over their favorite makeup. This will allow you to know just what you have to work with on the big day, just in case anyone does need to go and make last minute purchases. Once you have a pretty good inventory list, start looking online to see if anything calls out to you. When you have a few options in mind then let the fun begin! With a few tutorials you should be able to find a look that everyone will adore! You may even want to take turns applying the styles so you can see who applies which look the best. This will allow you to have a complete game plan for your party on prom day which will allow everyone to get the style they want without having to pay for a makeup artist. Of course, asking a parent, family member or friend that does great makeup is also an option if they’re willing to help out for free.

5. Make a Corsage
Typically, your date is supposed to bring you a corsage but the times are a-changing, right? Rather than have your date spend a small fortune on a corsage that may not match your dress anyway, you can easily create your own while having a good time with friends. There’s a lot of different ideas you can incorporate into your design, which will give it a more personal feel. For instance, you can create matching corsages for you, your date, your friends and their dates. Or, if you and your date like a specific interest then you can easily add your fandom to the mix with a charm, pendant or a simple print out. Try to find a basic tutorial online that suits your interests and then add on to it to make the corsage yours. If you’re really trying to save some money then you don’t even have to use real flowers, unless you happen to have some growing in your garden! When you finish your corsage then make a matching one for your date’s lapel! The key to the DIY corsage, is to use items you or your friends have lying around so you don’t have to spend any extra on this classic prom accessory.

6. Raid Closets
Chances are, you and your friends have a lot of dresses that are sitting around collecting dust. This could come in handy if you have friends that are of a similar size or if you have dresses in your closet that range in sizes. When you host your party before the big day then ask your friends to bring over all of their dresses that could use a little TLC or could already pass as a stunning prom dress. Once everyone has arrived put on a little fashion show so each of you can pick something that will suit your style and tastes! Choosing a dress from your friends’ closets will help you save hundreds of dollars on prom, so don’t be afraid to try on everything! Once you’ve all made your picks make sure it’s okay to alter the dress if need be. There’s lots of great tips online for altering clothesor you can ask a parent or friend who is skilled in this area. Once the dresses fit perfectly then look for ways to improve them. A few appliques or beads here and there can make all of the difference. You may also want to consider jewelry pieces, shoes and gloves that you may want to wear to the big event. Once everything is ready to go then set it aside until you’ve eaten and finished up your hair, nails and makeup!

7. Take Photographs
If someone in your group is a photographer then you’re already good to go! If not, then try to take as many pictures as possible as you all have fun getting ready. When your dates arrive to pick you up make sure to take turns taking several photos of each couple! You may also want to ask a parent, sibling or anyone else in the home to take a few group photos, especially of you and your friends. Although, you may already have several parents flashing their cameras away! By capturing so many special moments from the pre-party as well as when your dates pick you all up, you may not feel as obligated to spend a fortune on the pictures offered to you by the school. Generally, these don’t come at a great price and often they don’t turn out so great so you may not be missing out on anything by not filling out the order form.

8. Relax
Your night is going to feel pretty intense. Between all the dancing, laughing and fun you’re going to be doing you may feel pretty worn out by the end of the night. This is never good, especially when prom only comes around once or twice in a lifetime. Instead, take some time out with your friends to watch movies, nap, do some yoga or anything else that makes you feel rejuvenated and ready to go. By taking some time out of the day to unwind you’ll actually end up getting more out of your prom experience. For instance, if you wind up wanting to come home mid-way through the evening then you won’t get your money’s worth out of the expensive prom ticket. You may also not be able to have as much fun during the after party if you bought a ticket for that event too.

9. Pack for the After-Party
Most schools host an after-party, which is a great way to make the night last longer while making even more exciting memories! Of course, it is also one of the cheaper and safer after-party options when prom is over. If you’re planning on enjoying your after party you may want to pack a few things that make the night all the more fun. For instance, where would you be without a cozy pair of pajamas? If you’re feeling bored, you and your friends can DIY some t-shirts for your group so you’ll look even more snazzy in the selfies you take throughout the night! You’ll also want to gather your sleeping bag and pillow. Finally, frugal snacks are going to be a must especially if you plan on staying up all night and talking after spending the night dancing. Veggie sticks are a great option for this and they’ll satisfy most appetites. If you have to have a dipping sauce then add some homemade ranch to a Tupperware or pack some peanut butter. Of course, if you really want to get noticed for your snacks then utilize your baking skills! From simple rice krispy treats to cookies and brownies, a few cheap baked goods will make the night all the more special.

10. Carpool
Many couples and groups want to make a grand appearance in a limousine which is fine in theory. However, if you want to spend hours working off the limousine tab then you may want to make things a little bit easier on yourself and your friends. Instead of renting a vehicle just carpool with one another. Try to choose whoever has the best vehicle or have a parent drop off your group. It may not be as glamorous as the limo concept but you’ll be saving a lot more money and you’ll be doing Mother Earth a big favor. Of course, if you live close to the venue then you could always start your own little parade to the dance, complete with music and all of your wonderful styles!

Prom doesn’t have to be a huge expenditure if you don’t want it to be. Instead, you can make it all about friends and making precious memories you’ll remember long into adulthood. With these ideas for your prom pre-parties you should be able to find an extraordinary look that doesn’t just flatter you but makes you feel fabulous for your special day!