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We all want to impress our best friend when her big day finally happens. The only problem is impressing someone we care about often comes with a huge price, especially when we know what she’s expecting out of a last blow out. Planning a bachelorette party can be a whole lot of stress, so don’t let your finances get in the way of the festivities. This party should become a way to show your best friend that her last night single will be the last party night she’ll ever need. So, step away from the high priced ideas and take a look at these cost effective and fun ideas to make her last shindig the best night of her life.

1. Throw Back Parties
If you grew up with the bride to be then chances are you had a whole lot of slumber party fun when you were kids. So, why not bring that party attitude back for her big night of fun. Make sure everyone brings a sleeping back and shows up in their favorite pair of pajamas. You can spend the time dancing to your favorite teen songs, having pillow fights or telling spooky stories about dates from the past. This will leave the bride to be feeling loved and will give a nice nostalgic mood to the night. You can also create you party around a specific theme. Ask your guest to dress up accordingly and throw a fashion show that details all of the costume dos and don’ts. If you don’t want to spend the night in the home then try to book a party at a skating rink. This will allow everyone to have some good quality fun that won’t cost you a lot. If all else fails there is always the go to pizza party that will make everyone happy.

2. Homemade Food
Being appointed the maid of honor means a lot, but it doesn’t mean that you have to spend hundreds of dollars to take everyone out for food and alcohol. If you’re planning on having food at your party,and let’s face it it’s not really a party without food, then try to make it yourself. Try to figure out what the bride’s favorite foods are and tackle them in your own kitchen. The less expensive the food is the better so try to choose items that are cheap to make in bulk. If you’re having trouble with cooking then try to get the entire bridal party together to cook the food. This will make it more of a treat for the bride and will ensure everyone gets to take part in the cooking party. If you don’t want to bear off of the burden on yourself then try to ask everyone to come in for a pot luck. This will allow a wide variety of food for the party without forcing you to pay for it or cook it all yourself. If you really want to make it special then ask the guest to bring the first meal they shared with the bride, or a food that represents their relationship.

3. Make the Accessories
One thing a bachelorette party can’t be without is accessories. From the bridal sash to the gag gifts, accessories make an awesome treat for brides and the rest of the guests. Many people tend to go out and buy a lot of accessories to make the party what it is, but when it comes to sticking to a budget you can do a lot of amazing things for less. Making your own accessories can be one of the best aspects of planning the party. For starters, the bride is typically presented with a sash to wear throughout the night. This can be easily made with a small amount of fabric and a little fabric paint. If you want to get really into detail then you can embroider the sash yourself. You can also make t-shirts for the group fairly inexpensively. Usually you can get a great deal on bulk t-shirts when you shop at a craft store, but try to look for a color that is going to match the wedding colors or simply draw out attention. Next, add a little fabric paint to a sponge for a custom look your guest won’t forget. If you’re feeling particularly crafty then you can create a tiara, wand or other princess props for your best girl.

4. Alcohol
It’s pretty hard to avoid the whole alcohol issue when it comes to a bachelorette party. Most brides are going to want a few drinks at her final party, but don’t stress out over it. One cheap and easy way to get drinks for the party is to introduce a wine tasting concept. This will allow you to purchase many different types of wine for guest to explore. Try to keep each bottle under $5 though, as this will really help keep the budget as low as possible. If you want to serve hard liquor at the party then try to not buy any new bottles. Instead, work with the items you already have at home and asks guest to bring a few of their own. Chances are you aren’t going to go through everything you have in the home, especially if you decide to make mixed drinks. These drinks can be easily made with juices you have around the house already, but if you do end up having to do some shopping then try to get generic brands as often as possible.

5. Groupons
If you really have to go out for the party then try to utilize groupons as much as possible. These special coupons on discounts for group outings that can really make your budget stretch really far. Try to keep an eye out for groupon deals in your area a few months prior to the actual party. This will allow you to find an event your probably didn’t think about so the party can be a total surprise for your bride to be. If you’re still a bit worried about money then ask the guests attending to pay a percentage of the deal. This will take some of the burden off of you while providing the bride with an outing that will take her stress away. When it comes to traditional bachelorette party outings you might want to look into pole dancing classes for the girls. This is a great way to add the adult theme to the party while giving guest something fun and new to try. If you mention you’re planning a bachelorette party with the studio you can typically get a pretty good discount, so make sure to bring up the topic while you’re talking about rates.

6. Stay Local
A lot of women feel like they need to plan a huge weekend trip to satisfy the bride to be’s needs. This is often a huge mistake though as most brides are content with one night out with good friends. So, instead of planning that weekend trip to somewhere out of the way look around for something you can do locally. Planning a trip out of town can actually add to the stress of the bride. With the traveling, packing and waiting there’s a good chance you’ll only get to spend a little bit of time with one another. The goal of the bachelorette party is to relax the bride and take her mind off the stress of the wedding. So, look around for something that won’t just be fun, but will allow everyone to unwind before the wedding day.

7. Ask for Discounts
When you’re planning your big party make sure to let everyone know you’re planning a bachelorette party. Many businesses, like hotels, restaurants and limos will actually offer you a discount as they would with couple on their honeymoon. You’ll love to find out how many people are actually willing to help you make your bride to be’s party dreams a reality. So, when you call to make your party reservations make sure to slip in that you’re planning a bachelorette party and the goals you hope to accomplish. A lot of businesses will actually work around your needs and give you some pointers to help you on the right track in your party planning. You have to make sure to ask about the discounts though!

8. Book Early
When it comes to party planning booking things early is really going to make your job a lot easier and a whole lot cheaper. Yes, it might be hard getting everyone that is going to confirm in time, but if you can get a general count of the people going you’ll be on your way to saving a whole lot of money. Try to get things booked at least three months early so you will know your plans are confirmed. You might also try to plan a trip for the off season months, even if it is well before the actual wedding date. Off season bookings are a lot more cost effective and will give you more money to work with when it comes to other aspects of the party.

9. Utilize Freebies
One great thing about using other facilities for a party is there are often a good number of freebies you can take advantage of. For instance, staying at a hotel often means you’ll have free access to a gym and pool. This is perfect for any bride and bridal party that might be worried about final looks. The pool will offer hours of entertainment and will even help everyone get a nice natural tan before the big day. With the pool and gym taking up a lot of the excess time then you might find there is no reason to plan a whole lot other pricey activities. You might also look into the spa at the hotel, or at least a spa located around the hotel. A lot of the time hotels will offer spa freebies to guest or will give out a discount voucher so guest can enjoy some relaxation at a neighboring spa. You might also find out if your hotel serves breakfast for free as this is a good time to get the ladies filled up for free so you can wait longer to go out to eat again.

10. Games
There is nothing quite as important as a fun game to make your party go by faster. There are numerous games you can transform into bridal party games that will cost you next to nothing. While you’re planning out the party festivities try to make a checklist of the games you actually own. This will allow you to look up different ways to transform them into bridal games. Older games you might have played in highschool, such as secret admirer based games, are perfect for entertaining a group of ladies ready to have some fun. You might also look online for crafty games you can create with old clothes, paper or other items. If you are really feeling ambitious then you can create a fun scavenger hunt that has guests looking for bridal items around the home. If all else fails you can break out the trusty truth or dare game for fun that could last all night.

A bachelorette party could be incredibly hard to plan if you’re keeping your budget in mind the entire time. Instead of working out how much money you can spend these tips will allow you to figure out how much you can actually save on party events you’ve always dreamed of going to. Now, you and your best friend will have a party that you’ll want to talk about for decades to come.

Every once in awhile you just need to take a break from it all and pamper yourself. The only problem is a little pampering can cost you a whole lot of money if you choose to visit the spa. Many spas are known for charging a lot for their relaxing services, but if you’re craving some time away there are numerous ways to save some cash. From weekend getaways to an afternoon massage, you’ll be able to get just what you’re looking for without causing yourself more stress. So, sit back and enjoy the fact that you’re not going to spend your life savings on a massage that you might actually consider emptying your bank account over.

1. Go Local
Often enough people tend to seek out popular and trendy spas to get a treatment instead of looking around for a smaller local venue. This can be one of the major problems when it comes to getting a massage as trendy places tend to feel comfortable with charging quite a bit more than the average spa should. So, if you’re looking for a quick way to relax you might want to find one that is in your community. Smaller spas tend to charge a price that is more fair to the customer on a budget and will offer the same, if not better, services. Usually you can find a list of spas in the yellow pages or online, but don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation from friends, family and neighbors. You should also keep an open mind when looking for a local spa as it might not be listed under spa services because many spas only offer facials and massages. A good place to begin your search is a local salon and these businesses tend to be located around one another.

2. Midweek Bookings
One major thing to avoid when going to a spa is trying to get an appointment around the weekend. Typically, the best time to book your treatment is in the middle of the week. This is largely due to the lack of business most spas get during this period, so don’t be afraid to take a day off work or pop in during your lunch hour for a massage. Many spas and resorts often create specials that only occur during this special time so they can try to entice more business. This means you might get a better deal on packages, or you could be privy to huge discounts or freebies. Another great thing about booking midweek is you won’t be surrounded by a lot of people, which means you get a lot more relax time for the money.

3. Package Deals
If you’re in for a long day of pampering then you might want to learn more about the packages your spa offers. A lot of the time many people will go through a list of services and book individual items that they want to experience. This can end up costing you a whole lot of money though. Most spas have a series of packages that offer you a wide variety of treatments throughout the period of your stay. So, if you want several hours or days of spa related fun then a package deal is typically going to best for you. When you look at packages make sure they cover at least two of the items you planned on doing separately. This will leave you feeling fulfilled while also giving you a few new things to try out. Some spas will even allow you to mix and match certain treatments, so don’t be afraid to ask when you book. Usually package deals contain each treatment at a discounted price, but some will add up all of the cost and then give you a small price decrease. Either way, you will end up spending less for a great time. You should also always book special treatments in a series to help you get more for your money. For instance, you should always have laser hair removal booked in several different appointments. It helps cut the cost and ensures you’ll be able to follow through with treatments.

4. Join a Club
When it comes to some spas there is nothing quite like the savings of a club membership. There are many clubs that provide you with discounts, so if you tend to frequent the spa quite a bit then this might be something you should look into. For instance, many social clubs offer their members coupons, gift cards and early insights on sales which can save thousands of dollars during the year. Some clubs will even make weekend trips to the spa, so for a flat price you can be transported to the spa and receive a special package that all of your club friends are enjoying too. A lot of spa are actually creating their own special clubs for clients who like to frequent their establishment. Many of these rewards programs offer discounts, or a free treatment after so many purchases or visits. So, if you find yourself spending more time at the spa ask about any rewards or research them on the internet.

5. Group Retreats
There is nothing quite as fun as going on an outing with your best friends, especially if that outing is some time spent at the spa. For many, a spa retreat is something that needs to be done at least once a year in order to keep in touch with old friends. This is great in many regards, but when it comes to your budget is is absolutely fantastic. A lot of spas and resorts will actually help group visits save some money if you mention you are booking as a group when you call in to make a reservation. Typically, groups help make the spa more money as it as a lot of people getting the same treatments. This makes it easy to lump people in together so other rooms are freed up for single clients. So, spas can easily lump the price of the group together and then add a little discount so each individual visitor ends up paying less. Group retreats also mean you will be saving on transportation and lodging fees as you can easily share the price of the trip with others.

6. Winter
One way to take the burden off a spa retreat is to book during the winter months. Typically, people tend to head to the spa during the long days of summer when they have time off work and want to relax more. In the cooler months, people are bustling around with work or trying to manage a holiday budget. This frees up a whole lot of space in the spa which means the spa needs to work harder to fill those empty slots. With the empty space in the spa most businesses will come up with exciting promotions to get people back into the resort. Winter is also one of the more comfortable times to visit the spa as the warm temperatures will help cheer you up and get you feeling refreshed so going back to work isn’t as tough. It is also a good time to get a massage as the muscles tend to be more tense and holiday stress tends to build up your tension.

7. No Extras
One way that you might end up draining your budget during a spa trip is saying yes to some of the little extras the spa might offer. When you enter a spa you should always remember that everything comes at price. This will help you when a staff member offers you something. Even though it might seem like a casual offer usually spas don’t offer anything for free, unless it is otherwise stated. So, if a staff member seems to be offering you something to make your life better you should ask what the rate is just to be safe. A lot of the time people will sit in the spa and accept drinks, food, or smaller items like a foot massage and expect it all to be part of the spa experience. This leads to some very scary bills when you check out of the spa though. So, in order to avoid you child’s college fund being wiped out over the weekend try to stick to things you already paid for or know for a fact are free.

8. Visit a School
If you’re looking for a simple spa experience, like a massage or a facial then nothing beats visiting a massage school. A lot of massage schools will offer an open house to guests who are looking to get a simple procedure. This is designed to give the students first hand experience for their future trade while enticing real people to offer their bodies as a teaching aid. Since you aren’t technically getting a massage from a professional, even though a teacher may step in from time to time and will always be supervising, you won’t have to pay the same price as you would at a spa. Sometimes, you might even end up getting a massage for nothing more than your time. For many students this experience is incredibly important for their success in school, so keep in mind that you might be asked to provide honest feedback. Even though you might end up spending a bit more time in the school than you would at a professional studio you will still end up spending a whole lot less.

9. Research
When it comes to visiting a spa you can get a whole lot for your money if you simply do a little research before booking. For instance, many spas will give you access to their steam room, pool and other amazing facilities for the day if you pay for one massage. Most people will show up to the massage appointment and leave directly afterward, which could be a waste of money. A lot of spas will add a small fee to all of their services that takes care of these facilities, so you could end up losing some of the money you paid if you just leave. Another great way to save is to look up the spa you’re going to be visiting before you book. Try to find out what each package contains and the rules and obligations of the spa. Sometimes you might end up buying a package that features items you don’t want or you might find out that the massages you’re booking are too short. Knowing everything about your procedures will help you make the best decisions. Of course, researching your spa will also make you privy to the sales you may encounter.

10. Stay Home
If you’re looking to save a whole lot of money then you should consider staying home. There are so many spa products on the market today that you’ll feel like you’re in a five star resort without leaving the house. There are numerous massage oils on the market that are perfect for a romantic night in with a date or spouse that are also looking for a little break from the real world. There are even a good number of facial products that can turn a night out with the girls into a night in at the spa. You might even find that staying in becomes a new tradition that creates tons of memories for you and your loved ones.

Spending some time at the spa can be the key to debunking the stress you’re experiencing. Of course, the key to getting rid of stress isn’t to add more financial burden to the list. With these easy tips you’ll be able to find the peace you’re looking for without forcing yourself to lose your control on your finances, which can be one of the best feelings money can’t buy.

Cellphones play a major role in today’s society. From keeping in touch with family and friends to making sure your on top of your work, cellphones ensure that you have a bit more control over your life. For many, the cellphone is a necessity, but the cellphone bill or phone itself can cost so much money that it isn’t right for the household budget. There are a few ways to make your cellphone usage worthwhile, so you don’t have to feel like you must get rid of your cellphone in order to be financially secure. If you can manage a few simple techniques then you can really make your cellphone bill a lucrative and inexpensive aspect to your monthly bills.

1. No Smartphones
Although smartphones are the coolest thing on the market right now they can really boost up the amount of money you spend per month on your bill. Most phone companies charge you extra for a smart phone fee and require you to use a data plan even if you don’t really want to, which could add up to $50 per phone to your bill. Not to mention, smartphones are expensive to purchase initially and if you don’t pay the monthly insurance fee you might also end up spending a whole lot more to replace or repair the device if it breaks. Rather than investing a huge amount of money for a phone that might not last you long, you might want to consider working with an older model that doesn’t require the extra fees. Typically these phones can still provide you access to the internet without forcing you go overboard on bill additions.

2. Consider Location
Before you purchase a phone plan you should consider the area you’re in and potential areas you might go. Many cellphone providers will offer you a certain coverage areas, but some just don’t cover everywhere you may go. So, you might want to look at the plans prior to actually purchasing one. Another way to get a good perspective of a potential company’s coverage is to ask friends and neighbors what company they use. This will allow you to know how your phone is going to work at home as well as out in the town. Knowing what your area coverage is will help you avoid roaming charges which could really mess up your budget. You should also consider the places that you visit often. For instance, if you spend a lot of time with relatives that live further away then you will certainly want your phone to work while visiting. If you go out of town for work a lot then you should also check out how the phone company covers a lot of your more than frequent destinations. Many people who travel abroad also have issues with roaming charges when they try to use their phone overseas. Many companies offer sister networks that allow you to switch your phone without having to worry about any extra fees, which will really do you a huge favor in regards to your bill. If you’re unsure about coverage then talk to the company about local and abroad coverage to help make your decision easier.

3. Know Your Usage
A lot of people are actually spending way too much on their cellphone bill because they think they use the phone more than they actually do. There is no reason to have unlimited everything unless you’re actually going to use what the company expects you too. Most people today communicate through text in order to get the message across quickly. This is great for cellphone companies because texts are actually very cheap for them to send and it also means people are using a lot less minutes, even though they’re being charged for unlimited use. You should always keep an eye on your bill to see what you’re really using. If you aren’t using more than a few minutes then downgrade your plan to help save some money. The same goes for text messages, as some people never use them. Data plans are also a huge portion of the bill. If you’re only using a small percentage then you can knock down the amount your using to help put more money in your pocket.

4. Turn Off Cellular
Many people constantly have their cellphone with the cellular data active. This can be one of the worst ways to save money on your cellphone. Many of today’s modern phones actually connect to Wi-Fi connections so you don’t have to waste your cellular data while you’re browsing on your phone. Loading simple webpages on the phone can really bog down your connection and run up your data, so it is best to put it on hold until you’re near a connection. The good news is there are so many different Wi-Fi connections around most cities and towns that you won’t have to go far to surf the web. In fact, most local restaurants, libraries and schools have Wi-Fi that is free to the public. So, if you can remember to turn cellular off until you absolutely need it, then you can really save a whole lot of money on your cellphone bill each month.

5. Avoid LTE/4G
There is a huge hype of LTE/4G these days, but it doesn’t mean these phones are a must have for today’s market. In fact, you might want to put a halt on buying any phone with LTE/4G. Most cellular companies don’t have enough broadband available to suit everyone with one of these phones. In fact, most areas don’t even have the connection, so you won’t be able to use the stronger connection often. The thing with LTE/4G is it causes you to roam if you leave it on, which means more charges for you at the end of the month. So, instead of dealing with massive roam charges it might just be easier to rock your 3G connection and deal with the slower connection. Eventually, 4G will be more accessible, but owning an LTE/4G phone at the moment might end up costing you more than the phone is worth.

6. Utilize Apps
If you plan on having an expensive phone then make sure to utilize it for your own gain. Apps are one of the best aspects of smartphones and many are actually used to provide you with ways to save a whole lot of money on everyday items. One great form of app to have is one that tells you where the cheapest gas in town is. This will help save you money, which will make you cellphone bill a lot less of a burden. Another amazing form of app is one that provides you with coupons. This will allow you to pull up coupons in the store without having to carry around pieces of paper or spend hours of time clipping out coupons. If you want to downgrade you phone plan then you might want to consider downloading apps that allow you to text, call, or video chat with friends and family for free. These apps can really take a lot off of your bill, but they do take the internet so make sure you have enough coverage for them.

7. Lose the Extras
When it comes to cellphones there is a whole lot of extras that can really make your bill skyrocket. One extra that has a lot of people losing out on money is the road side assistance clause. This monthly add on covers a lot of the same principles that most auto insurance does, so there is really no reason to get it through your phone. You might also want to skip out on cellphone insurance, especially if you plan on upgrading your phone every year. By the time you pay insurance every month for the phone you could actually save up enough money to buy two new replacement phones. A lot of people also spend quite a bit of money on games that have free alternative versions. Make sure you shop around before you buy anything because chances are there’s a cheaper way to make the purchase. You might also want to skip out on having a lot of different ringtones. They not only charge you money, but also take up valuable space in your phone.

8. Skip Newest Model
Phone companies love to come out with new shinier and more expensive models for people to buy. Although the new models are incredibly tempting, you might want to refrain from getting the newer model for quite some time. Sometimes the newest model isn’t the most secure and might have some bugs that need to be worked out. A lot of the times these models don’t offer you a whole lot more than the previous model so you might not want to spend the extra money for something that the older and cheaper model can satisfy. If you’re trying out a new brand of phone then you certainly should buy one of the older and cheaper models. This will allow you to get a feel of how the phone’s software works so you can decide if the phone is right for you. When the phone you want goes on sale then you might decide to upgrade then, but you really don’t want to pay more than the phone is worth if you don’t have to.

9. Consider Financial Needs
One major thing to consider when shopping for a phone plan is whether or not you should go with a prepaid plan. Usually if you’re looking to add the entire family onto one plan or if you enjoy upgrading your phone each year then you might want to keep up with your contract plan. Of course, if you’re keeping a tight budget then a prepaid phone might work best for you. This will allow you to choose what you need each month, so you don’t have to pay more than you need. It will also allow you to skip a month or so of phone coverage if you don’t have the money to keep it. A contract plan would add a lot of fees to this, so it you think you’re not going to have the money every month for the next two years then you might want to opt out for the prepaid deal.

10. Go With the Crowd
Although it might not always be frugal to follow the crowd when shopping when it comes to the cellphone bill it can actually be one of the wisest things you can do. If you’re looking for a cellphone plan then it might smart to ask the friends and family that you talk to the most what plans they use. Most cellphone companies actually allow you to talk to other members for free, so the more people on your plan the lower your cellphone bill might be. Another great thing about knowing people on the same plan is many companies actually offer a referral bonus. Thus, if a friend invites you to sign on with their company they’ll get a little reward and so will you. The same process can be repeated for as many friends and family as you can get to sign up. This will not only give you more people to talk to at no additional cost, or minute deduction, but it will help provide you with money to put towards your bill every now and then.

Cellphones shouldn’t be one of the purchases we regret buying. Instead, they should be enjoyed and used to help improve everyday life. With these few tips you should be able to shave more money off your bill so you can enjoy life a little more. So, keep in touch with family, surf the net and use technology to give your day some fun and excitement without stressing about the monthly charge.

Buying a new car can be a huge investment if you have never bought one alone. Many people tend to go into a dealership with high expectations and end up leaving with a slight case of buyers remorse and a car bill that won’t do the family budget any favors. There are, however, many ways that you can avoid leaving the car lot without a car that is not only going to satisfy your personal wants, but will meet your financial demands too. If you can follow ten easy steps while talking to your car dealer then you might find you’ll end up with a buying experience that won’t leave you feeling stressed out for years after the purchase. Now, you’ll be able to avoid all of the dealership tricks while still ending up with a vehicle that will make you proud.

1. Monthly Payments
After you’ve picked out your future car and are settling in the car dealer’s office you need to get in the appropriate mindset. A lot of car dealers will try to stress a low monthly payment, which will probably seem very ideal while you’re discussing the price. Although it sounds great, you need to keep out of the monthly mindset at first. Instead, concentrate on the interest price the dealer is trying to set up for you. A low monthly price will actually do you no good if you have you have an interest rate that is going to sky rocket your price. You should also concentrate on the full price on the car as you don’t want to buy a vehicle that isn’t in your budget. When you have both of these aspects of the deal secure then you should try to work out the monthly payment. This is incredibly important to pay attention to, because if you settle for just a low monthly payment then you might end up paying an unbelievable amount of extra money.

2. Money Down
Many car dealerships will lure potential buyers in with the idea of not having to put money down or pay finance charges for a certain amount of time. This can actually do you more harm than you think, so be leery of any deal that has you walking off the lot without a penny of down payment. When you go to buy a car you should always leave the dealership with something put down on the loan you have just taken out. This will not only help you in long run when it comes to interest, but will ensure you’re not still paying on a car that doesn’t run anymore. Typically used cars tend to last about as long as the loan does, so if you walk off the dealership without paying a cent then you’re going to have keep putting money down on a car while you’re looking for a new one. You also don’t want to pay on a car longer than you have to. If you skip out on a year’s worth of finance payments then you might find yourself paying up to five years of extra payments if you’re not careful.

3. Needs Before Wants
One of the main problems when it comes to shopping for a car is we all have the ideal car in our minds. This can cause us to buy a car that won’t actually suit our needs which can lead to more financial burdens in the future. Before you go to the dealership you should make a list of all the things you need in a vehicle. It might also help to do a little online shopping before you go in. One of the key factors to look at is how much space you actually need. If you have a larger family, or might be adding new additions to the family then you should try for a vehicle that is going to be an appropriate size for everyone. Whereas, if you are a single commuter then you might want to try for something smaller that will take up less gas mileage. You should also take into consideration your budget as there are often many different things that you can excluded from your car to help save even more money. For instance, you might not need the heated seats or in car entertainment.

4. Check Ups
Buying a used car can be trickier than a new car, especially if you don’t know much about vehicle mechanics. If you do intend on buying a new car then you should always have a mechanic purchase it before you actually make the final leap. Typically, mechanics won’t charge you a whole lot of money just to look at a car and inform you of any possible problems. This can actually save you a whole lot of money in the future as it will help you realize the actual value of the car opposed to what it is marked down as. If you know a bit about cars then you might want to write down things you notice during the test drive so you can ask your mechanic about them later on. You should also always ask about the history of the car, so you don’t have any unexpected surprises in the future. You should utilize both of these practices if you are buying a car off of Craig’s List or other personal dealer’s who might not be as honest about the car as you might think they are.

5. No Shiny
Everyone would love to be able to go out an buy their dream car without thinking about how their financial might be after the purchase. This, of course, isn’t an option for most of us. Even if you do think you have the money to pay for a car that is more shiny than anything else, you might be appalled by the charges that shortly follow. For instance, insurance on cars that are designed to look great and go fast can rage from expensive to unthinkably expensive for the household budget. It is best just to put the car dream aside for awhile and purchase something that is more economical for your needs. You might also find that your expensive car requires parts that are a whole lot pricier than the typical car’s parts, which could make getting your vehicle fixed a huge issue.

6. Trade In
Most people tend to seek out a new car in order to upgrade the current household’s home. If this is the case then you should bring in your older vehicle in order to trade it in for the new one. Sometimes, you can get a good price for your older car, but you need to make sure you know the value of what you’re bringing onto the car lot. A lot of car salesmen will give you a decent price for the old car if you use it as a trade in for the new one. This means that you get to take off the value of the old car on the new car’s loan. This can take a huge burden off of you when you it comes to paying off the new vehicle. This will also allow you to get rid of your older vehicle without having to pay a sales tax on the car. Thus, you not only get a bit of money back on your vehicle, but you also get to take the old vehicle off of the registration and insurance which will save you even more money.

7. Additional Warranties
Most car dealerships will give you a warranty whenever you purchase the car. Typically, this warranty will cover any major problems you might have with the car when you first buy it. Of course, your car insurance might also cover most of the problems you’re having. Many dealerships will try to push additional warranties onto you, but the trust is you don’t really need them. Generally, the extended warranties will add such an extra cost to your purchase that they won’t be of use to you anyway. Extended warranties work well if you don’t plan on purchasing a new vehicle any time soon, but they don’t do anything that the insurance you’re already paying for can’t. Most people tend to look into trading in their car, or purchasing a new one around the time the initial warranty is void anyway. So, by adding an additional warranty to your car you will be losing more money than you should on the vehicle.

8. Loan Shopping
One of the most important ways you can save money is to simple shop around for loans before you go shopping. This will allow you to find the best interest rate possible, so you don’t have to worry about it when you do go shopping for a car. Most people tend to wait until they’re at the dealership to worry about a loan, which typically means people only go through one financing company that might not have their financial situation in mind. This can leave buyers with a loan that is impossible to deal with for the duration of the repayment. If you can find a loan through your own bank or preferred financing company then you’ll be a lot better off financially since your chosen company will have more time to work with you for the best plan possible.

9. Hybrids
It might not seem the case, but buying a hybrid can actually save you a lot of money. Of course, if you look at the initial price of one of these vehicles then you might not believe it to be the case, but in the long run you’ll get the best car for your money through these vehicles. Hybrid cars are designed to help save you on gas and can switch to electric power in order to make your gas mileage stretch even further. In a few years time, many states will actually require these vehicles for road usage, so you might be doing yourself a favor by getting a head start on the switch. Currently, many states will actually allow you to drive in express lanes if you’re in a hybrid vehicle, which will also help you get better gas mileage and will add and extra convenience to your day. If you’re still worried about the price of the car, then check out a used hybrid that might be a great way for you to adjust the the change without forcing you to pay a lot.

10. Research
The best thing you can do before going out to buy a new vehicle is to research any car that you’re interested in. If you’re looking for a used car then try checking out some of the vehicles offered online. This will allow you to check out the car’s history, blue book value and will allow you to check out any major faults in the vehicle. The same can be said if you’re looking for something new. Doing a little research online will help you decide if the car is something that you’ll enjoy and what other people like and dislike about it. Looking online will also help you find the dealership that will offer the car to you for the best price. Knowing your future vehicles strengths and weaknesses is a simple way to help prevent future financial problems with the car, while can really help with extra spending.

Shopping for a new car is stressful, especially if you have to worry about your budget the entire time. Before you go to a dealership make sure to check out these simple steps so you can easily feel confident about your car shopping abilities. This will allow you to easily save a whole lot more money than you would simply going out and picking the vehicle that you find the most attractive. You might even end up with a car that can be passed down to the next generation.

With the release date of two of the most talked about consoles just around the corner, it might be time to think about which one you plan on purchasing. The Xbox One and Playstation 4 have made news throughout the year with their insights as to what each console will bring to the table, so it might be hard to choose between the two ground breaking consoles. If you’re looking from a financial perspective there are many reasons your choice will become a lot clearer. In the competitive game the Playstation 4 brings a whole lot more to the table than the Xbox One. This particular console will make your holiday shopping a whole lot easier as you won’t have to debate about which console you plan to buy first.

1. No Trade-Ins
One of the major aspects people are buzzing about when it comes to the two release dates is the games! Games are, of course, one of the most important areas when you’re considering upgrading your console. When it comes to the Xbox One you will still have a great selection of games, but your games from the older console will be useless. Some gaming stores are offering an upgrade program that allows you switch your Xbox games for Xbox One games for around $10 a trade in. This certainly beats spending buying the game again, but all of those trade ins will eventually add up. The Playstation 4, on the other hand, isn’t going to limit you the use of your old games. Sure, you can use the same $10 trade in deal for your games, but you don’t have to. In fact, the Playstation 4 will actually play any of the games you could previously play on the Playstation 3. With this amazing feature, you’ll be able to pop in your favorite games on the first day you get the console. This means less money out of your pocket and a whole lot more fun without waiting on release dates.

2. Entertainment
With cable cost on the rise many people have taken to using rental services like Netflix, Hulu and Youtube. With the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 you can use these application to your heart’s content. However, when the Xbox One is released this feature will no longer be allowed for people who don’t want to pay for a premium account. So, if you use your console to watch your favorite shows, but don’t want to play multiplayer online then the Xbox One might not be what you need. The Playstation Four also allows you to use the applications along with many others but you won’t be charged for this service. In fact, as long as you have an internet connection going to your Playstation Four you will actually be able to download an assortment of apps from Playstation for no extra cost. This means you won’t have to give up your favorite shows if you can’t pay for a monthly membership!

3. Membership
If you love playing games online with friends then you will certainly want to purchase a membership for your new console. Memberships can be bought in a monthly or yearly fashion, so you won’t have fret if you don’t have a huge sum to pay upfront. When it comes to picking a console you might want to look at what the membership fees are going to be before you commit. Xbox One’s membership is only $10 more a year than Playstation 4’s, so this shouldn’t be a huge concern when you budget in your yearly cost. Of course, what the membership comes with might help you make your decision. Xbox One will keep most of the same aspects the current Xbox Live Gold has. This includes the two free feature download games that Xbox introduced this summer. Playstation will also be utilizing their past rewards, including the six free feature games that are available each month.

4. Camera NOT Required
One major issue people are having with the Xbox One is that is requires a camera to play anything, even if the game isn’t camera enabled. This is sort of an irritating feature, especially for Xbox players who don’t have enough room to configure or use the camera. The Xbox One camera isn’t going to come at a cheap price either. Sure, one is included in the Xbox One package, so everyone will be set to go when they bring their console home, but if you end up breaking the camera then you might have to give the Xbox One a break until you can afford a new one. The Playstation 4 also comes with a camera in the initial bundle, but it isn’t mandatory to use it. If you’re playing a game that requires one then you’re set to go, but you don’t have to constantly leave it plugged in. The Playstation 4 camera will also be a little more affordable, so if you do have to replace it you won’t feel as bad about it.

5. Free Recording
Although recording isn’t for every gamer many people actually do love recording their game play for later use. Now, previously this meant buying a special software or a hardware component that were both on the pricier side of things. Now, with the Playstation Four you will actually be able to go into a game and record the things you do without any additional add on. This could end up saving you hundreds of dollars, especially if you enjoy creating mini movies with the content or running your own video game tutorial side. You’ll get clean quality footage that will reside on your hard drive until you remove it. The Xbox One will continue to allow people to record their footage if they have the right software or hardware components to do so. Thus, if you’re into going back and watching your game play, or if you miss a lot of details and need a little rewind time then you might want to consider the Playstation 4 to take your gaming to the next level.

6. Sharing
When Xbox One first made the announcement that they were cutting off physical disc and were forcing everyone to have a premium account just to play on their console people began to boycott the Xbox One. Of course, the company rescinded these plans in order to appease the market. They also took away one feature that many people were looking forward to. That is, the feature that would allow you to trade games with other players online. Despite the Xbox One scrapping this idea, the Playstation Four decided to move ahead with the concept. Now, when you buy games for your Playstation Four you’ll actually be able to allow friends and family to play with games you have. This is a great way to encourage people to buy games, as they get to try out their friends, and will allow families to save money since they won’t have to buy multiple copies of the same game. Of course, you won’t be able to play with many people at once with this feature and the game owner will always have the right to play the game even when others are on it, so don’t be surprised if you lose the game in the middle of a huge battle. This feature will change the way people and play and buy games though, so don’t miss out on the fun.

7. Games
There isn’t a lot of diversity when it comes to purchasing new games for both of the new consoles. They tend to price in the same area, so you won’t be saving money either way. Of course, Playstation 4 does allow you to use your old games without having to worry about importing problems. You will also be able to run some of the new games at a higher speed than the Xbox One allows. This will mean a lot less lag when you’re playing online and very little glitches when you’re playing a single player game. Playstation 4 is also making deals with many indie game makers. This will not only make PS4 users privy to games that Xbox One won’t see, but it might mean a decrease in the price of some of the games too. By the time you get your console you’ll already have so many games you want to play that waiting for the new releases won’t be an issue.

8. What’s Inside
When you go to look at the Xbox One and the Playstation 4 you may find that they are incredibly similar when it comes to their interior components. Both of these machines will run on the same processors and have the same amount of memory included in the machine. So, why does one cost a whole lot more than the other? Looking at the two devices you might think that the Playstation 4 would be the more expensive of the two. The PS4 has a cool sleek design that really makes the large and boxy Xbox One seem like an eye sore. It also features a new touch screen controller that will allow you to play games entirely different. If that isn’t enough, Playstation recently developed the Playstation Eye to compete with the Xbox Kinnect, so you’ll be getting a brand new camera with your console. So, with all of the new and shiny aspects of the Playstation 4 it is hard to see why Xbox would add on an extra chunk of money when it is actually offering a whole lot less.

9. Overall Price
The Xbox One and the Playstation Four are both going to hit the market on the pricier side of things. So, if you’re looking for this unit for a holiday surprise or because you just don’t want to wait then you might consider looking at the overall price of things. The Playstation Four is going to get you in and out of the store for $100 cheaper than the Xbox One will. This means that you can actually go out and buy a premium Playstation membership and still leave the store with $40 more than you would have if you bought the Xbox One. That is almost the price of a brand new game! The Playstation Four will also be hitting the market prior to the Xbox One, which leaves it wide open for amazing Black Friday deals. Apart from the console and membership being cheaper, you won’t have to run out and buy games right away. Plus, if you’re feeling low on funds, like so many are around the holidays, you can always trade games with friends or use your friend’s game as a little entertainment.

It might be some time before a console competition of this caliber happens again, so make sure you know what you’re getting into before you purchase your choice. With the upcoming shopping season it might be tough to take some time and think about what you want and need out of your console, but it is incredibly important that you do. With these nine reasons, the Playstation might be the only console that sticks out in your mind. So, if you really want to save money and don’t want to wait for the holiday gift of the year to drop in price, then the Playstation 4 is your smartest choice. Plus, if you want to buy both, the Playstation 4 is designed to be compatible with the Xbox One, so you won’t lose out money or have tp sacrifice the games you already love!

Don’t stop in your tracks when your favorite stores start to display the Halloween isle. This seemingly expensive holiday can really make your month spectacular if you guard your spending and learn how to create an extraordinary holiday without having to buy the holiday fun. There are numerous ways in which you can take this holiday and turn it into a way to show off your creativity while bringing joy to everyone in the household. With these simple tricks you may find that Halloween is one of the greatest holidays for bonding, bringing out new adventures and learning how to create amazing costumes that everyone will love. This Halloween let the holiday be a treat for your family, rather than a trick for your pocketbook.

1. No Chocolate
Usually there is a pretty good collection of assorted candy treats in the stores around this time of the year. Most grocery stores try to market the chocolate candies more than the rest as they are a bit pricier than the standard sugary treats. Stores put these candies at eye level so you’ll automatically start to crave them and grab a bag. This is one of the worst things you can do, especially if Halloween is still weeks away. Chocolates are, as stated, more expensive than other candies, so if you’re planning on giving out candy to trick or treaters then you might want to go on the cheaper side so you can accommodate more children. Buying chocolate too far from the actual holiday will mean it has to sit in your home until the actual date, which could be more impossible than you think. People crave chocolate, especially as the weather cools, so you might find your trick or treater stash has been depleted well before Halloween. So, you’ll have to go out and buy more candy which won’t do your budget or diet any favors.

2. Costumes
Our closets and storage areas are rich with costume ideas that we don’t even think about when we go costume searching. Many people can spend over a hundred dollars on costumes alone, so it might be wise to look and see what you already have prior to going shopping. Children costumes are especially easy to make with old clothes. For instance, an old white sheet can be draped over a child for a classic ghost costume, or you can take the sheep and rip into strips for an easy to use mummy wrap. An old pair of overalls is also a great way to create a farmer, scarecrow or other incredible costumes that will cost you nothing. You might also want to use ripped up jeans for a rockstar costume, or old military clothes to create a soldier for any age group. If you do decide to buy a costume try to pick something that will last more than just one Halloween. This will ensure you won’t have to spend money in the upcoming years. Children’s costumes can always be saved for younger siblings so you won’t have to buy the entire family a new costume each year.

3. Decorations
For some, decorating for Halloween is one of the best parts of the holiday. Numerous people go all out to the point their home turns into a haunted house. If you love to decorate you don’t have to waste a lot of money to do so. In fact, just like costumes, there are actually numerous things you can use to build your own fascinating and horrifying decorations. Scrap pieces of wood, for instance, can quickly transform into custom tombstones, building structures or spooky signs. Tissue paper or toilet paper can be used as streamers, or can be wrapped around styrofoam for cute little ghosties that will look great in your tree or hanging in the home. If you have some old clothes lying around then stuff them with leaves for a cool scarecrow that will keep your yard looking clean and scare off some trick or treaters. Of course, you can always enlist the kids to help make spooky pictures, cut out little pumpkins or create special homemade banners.

4. Party Snacks
One of the best things about Halloween is it is a time to create some treats that utilize your imagination more than anything else. There is absolutely no need to spend a fortune on your Halloween treats though! In fact, the more natural you go the better the treats will be. For cute little ghost and pumpkin treats that will satisfy anyone looking for a sweet treat all you have to bananas and oranges and garnish them to look like ghost and pumpkins. Kids will love these treats and you won’t have to worry about them having a sugar crash by bed time. For a great drink try mixing up some dark red fruit punch and adding peeled grapes for the finishing touch. The grapes will look like eyes and the punch blood, which will really freak out some guest. You can always go for some classic ideas like the caramel apple or baked pumpkin seeds too. You shouldn’t overlook spaghetti at this time of the year either, as it can easily be passed off as worms. If you really want to spend very little then have your guest bring a dish of their own for a fun potluck.

5. Corn Mazes
A lot of people tend to overlook the idea of visiting a corn maze during this holiday. This can be a huge mistake if you’re looking to do something memorable this holiday. Typically corn mazes have a very small entrance fee, so you won’t have to worry about this activity breaking the bank. The corn maze will allow you to bond as family as you go through the maze as you work together to find the exit. Corn mazes are perfect for Halloween though, especially if you’re looking for a low cost activity that is scary. Many people who run corn mazes will actually hire people to dress up as monsters on this day, so you’ll get a lot more out of the trip. There’s no doubting that your family will really make a lot of memories when you check out the corn maze this year.

6. Candy
Most people love to give out candy on Halloween. After all, it makes the kids happy and you get to see all of the cool costume ideas. However, you can really spend a lot on candy if you’re not careful so make sure to watch how much you spend. For starters, never buy candy that you and your household love as it will pretty much disappear before the trick or treaters can ring the doorbell. If you want to buy a lot of candy then you should look around for sales before deciding on a purchase. This will allow you to get more candy for the money, so you might actually end up with some candy for yourself after the holiday is over. Don’t be afraid to shop for candy at dollar stores either. They usually have amazing deals on candy and it is just as good as the stuff you’ll get from a department store. For candy givers looking to limit the amount of candy they give it you might consider putting up times in your yard so kids will know when you’re giving out candy. When the time is up turn off your porch light and put up the candy.

7. Trick or Treating
With little kids in the house it is hard to not take them out trick or treating. This task can be absolutely free if you can manage to stay within walking distance of the home. Usually you can get a good hour or two worth of trick or treating within your own neighborhood without having to drive. Avoiding the car is your ticket to saving money on this holiday as you won’t have to burn a lot of gas to get the kids to different neighbors. Walking is a great way to help make the holiday a bit more than just getting candy too. The time spent walking together will help you bond while also allowing kids to see their friends and their costumes. If the weather is bad or you’re already out then you might want to take the kids to a community center, mall or church for some amazing treats and games. These institutions usually provide you with free entrance so you won’t have to worry about spending so your kids can have fun.

8. Entertainment
There’s a lot of ways to have fun on Halloween without having to spend a lot of money. One of the best ways to bond with the family is to watch your favorite Halloween movies. If you have younger children then there will be plenty of cartoons on that the entire family can enjoy. Later on in the night you might want to upgrade to scary movies that you own or rent in order to appease the older members of the family. You can easily create movie theater inspired treats with a Halloween twist to help make the movie night special. If you’d rather be a bit more active with the holiday then try transforming some of your favorite games into holiday inspired versions of the classic. For instance, magical chairs is one of the easiest to use as you just switch out the music for Halloween songs. You can also do a scavenger hunt in the home that leads to special treats for the winner.

9. Alternatives
You don’t always have to follow the classic way of doing things on Halloween. For instance, if you don’t like giving out candy then you might want to look for little toys, pencils or alternative gifts for the kids. These usually cost about the same, or a little less, than spending money on candy. Try looking at the dollar store to find the perfect little prizes. You could also host a cake walk in the neighbor. Try to get people to donate cakes to help save you money, or whip up a few cheap and easy cakes the day before the cake walk. You might also considering hosting bobbing for apples, or a raffle game that will entertain the neighborhood without costing you a lot of money. One of the best ways to have some fun is to have a costume fashion show. You can make your prizes, like medals or certificates for those that win or participate.

10. Jack o Lantern
The Jack o Lantern is an iconic part of Halloween, but can cost you a lot if you decide to go all out on a design. One of the easiest ways to save money on this piece of Halloween is to shop for a pumpkin the day before the holiday. You should be able to get on at a discounted price, especially if you’re buying from a pumpkin patch. You don’t need to buy expensive carving kits from the store either. You can easily work out a design with a knife and spoon from your home. If you’re looking for patterns to make your pumpkin look cool then try an internet search. Usually you can download what you’re looking for without having to pay a sent. Simply print out the design, tape it to the pumpkin and you’re good to go. You might even win a few competitions if you’re lucky.

Halloween doesn’t have to be a stressor. In fact, this is one of the least expensive holidays that can provide you with a lot of fun. The key is to watch your spending and enjoy the smaller things that the holiday brings. This year may be an eye opener for you when it comes to saving some major money, which will certainly help with the more expensive holidays racing towards us.

With October finally time to look forward to this year’s exciting snow season. In just a couple of weeks fresh snow will be waiting for you to make your mark in it! Skiing can be one of the most expensive vacations or hobbies if you don’t watch your spending carefully though. There are many ways to counteract the price so you won’t have to worry about how much you have to give up just to have some fun on the slops. These tips will take you from the ski store to the mountains so you can give your life a little fun without having to worry about the price tag. Now, you can make the slopes your favorite part of the holiday season as you break away from the spending trend and stay active with friends and family.

1. Consider Renting
Sometimes people won’t to get a little bit ahead of themselves and buy large amounts of products for a hobby they’re positive they will love. This can be one of the worst things to do if you planning on taking up skiing. Ski gear is actually very expensive so to go out and buy items for a hobby you have never taken part in before could be one of the biggest wastes of money. If you’re new to skiing then make sure to rent your gear the first time you go. If you love it, and continue on with the hobby then buying items later on might be worth it. Renting not only saves you money at first, but it will also allow you to feel out different types of equipment so you’ll know exactly what you want to buy when you have the money to buy it. It is also important to rent when it comes to your kids as they are constantly growing and you don’t want to have to buy new items every season. If you don’t live near a ski slope then it might also be wise not to buy. When you have your own gear you also have to move the gear every time you go on vacation. This means packing your items up and hoping for the best when you put them on the plane, bus or on top of your car. So, if you aren’t planning on skiing often just stick to renting.

2. Wear What You Have
Skiing doesn’t require you to buy special clothing like many people believe. There are a few crucial items you need to wear, but none have to be bought specifically for this holiday. Most people who live in a colder climate have thermal underwear, tights, long sleeve tops, sweater and winter coats that are perfect for skiing and won’t cost you any extra to wear. You might also be surprised as to how much you don’t have to wear in order to keep warm when you’re on the slopes. Your movements will help to keep you warm so you shouldn’t have to wear layers upon layers of clothing. If you find your body is getting too wet while you ski then you might want to invest in special athletic base layers that can be worn for other sports too.

3. Book in Advance
A lot of people wait until first snow to make their reservations, which could be a huge mistake in bookings. It is always best to figure out when is going to be a good time to take your skiing trip and book then. Ski season starts up very close to the holiday season which means airline tickets are going to skyrocket if you don’t get them early enough. As soon as you can book your flight and hold firm to the date you choose. Once you have the flight make sure you also find a hotel that is not only reasonable but close enough to the slopes to not force you to pay extra for transport+++. The hotels around ski lodges will more than likely be booked by first snow, so don’t glue yourself to the weather channel when you’re planning your trip. Many people end up coming too early, so try to choose a date that falls after first snow if you’re anxious to get on the slopes as soon as possible. When you book early you might also be able to secure some discounts.

4. Smaller Slopes
If you’re starting out on the slopes then you might consider a resort that offers smaller mountains for you to try out. You don’t need to conquer the biggest mountains on your first trip so choosing a smaller area might be good for your learning process as well as your wallet. A smaller resort often charges much less because they don’t have as much of a mountain range to offer. Smaller resorts also tend to have less people so you might not have to wait in line as often which will give you a little more fun for your money. Even if you are a veteran skier then a smaller resort might be your best best to a short weekend retreat. This will allow your family to have a fun couple of days at a low price.

5. Food
After a long day out in the cold you’re going to want something piping hot and delicious to eat for dinner. You may want to avoid the lodge though as it will force you to pay a lot more than you’d want to on a simple meal. If you can, make a trip into town and check out some of the places the locals like to eat. This will give you a rich cultural experience and you might even find places you’d like to try out when you come back for your next trip. Local foods will run a whole lot cheaper than what you’d pay at a resort and the portions tend to be larger so you might have some food to bring back for lunch the next day. If you want to take a food break while you’re on the slopes then pack a sandwich or bring a thermos of soup. You might also want to pack a thermos of hot chocolate or tea to help warm everyone up before you head back out to the ski range. Always make sure to pack plenty of water with you though. You will sweat quite a bit while you’re active, even if you don’t notice it. So, don’t risk your party getting dehydrated. It is also important to have water on you just in case you get lost and need resources before being rescued.

6. Hotels
Choosing a place to stay can be one of the most expensive tasks. Most people want to stay at the sky resort as they believe it will help them get the most ski time during their vacation. Staying off of the resort can be one of the best financial decisions you can make though. Many hotels will pop up just outside of the resort so you might not have far to travel if you’re looking to save money. Some hotels will even offer free shuttles to help skiers get up to the mountain, which will work even more in favor of your budget. If you can’t find a hotel that offers a shuttle then try to find one that is near a public transit stop as this will be your cheapest way of getting up to the ski resort without actually staying at the resort.

7. Free Ski Days
It might seem like a myth, but there are actually days in which you can ski for free! Of course, it might take a little research work on your end, but if you might find one of your favorite resorts is offering a day that is welcome to all. If you have some spare time you might even be able to plan an entire trip around your free ski day which could cut your skiing price in half. Ski free days might mean battling the crowds though, so be prepared to wait in long lines and have other things planned in case you don’t actually get to ski a whole lot. You might also be careful about booking a hotel room as they tend to fill up during these events and you won’t want to be left out in the cold if you can’t find a place close enough to stay.

8. No Guide
If you aren’t traveling with a group of new skiers then you don’t really need to pay the extra money for a tour guide. Try to plan out your trips with at least one experienced skier who can help anyone out that might need it. This will enable you all to learn from one another while avoiding an expensive fee and forcing your group to hang out with a total stranger all day. Even if you don’t know an experienced skier you can always advertise for a group before you go which could help people in the area find the courage to try out skiing. If you can’t find anyone to help then stay on the smaller slopes until you feel more comfortable with your abilities. You should always bring a map of the resort and outside area as well as a compass with you no matter who is with you. This will help in case of an emergency and could save your life.

9. Good Timing
Part of the fun of planning a ski trip is to know when the best time to plan your trip is. A lot of people will be heading to the slopes when the snow begins to fall and the crowds will remain pretty steady throughout the holiday season, so you might want to wait a bit. Your best booking period is towards the end of the season when many people are ready for summer to show up. Whenever you decide to go you should keep in mind that booking in the middle of the week is often your best bet. Most people won’t want to take off a day during this period, so you may be clear to spend all day without having to wait in long lines. The middle of the week is oftener cheaper because of this as the resorts want to make these days more desirable for skiers. When you book ahead you will also get to a better deal than many who book right before a holiday, so always think ahead of time.

10. Kids
Planning a ski vacation with younger children around can be tough. If you don’t want to pay for daycare fees while you ski then you might want to consider traveling with another family that has children. This will allow the two families to switch off days with the young children while everyone else goes skiing. If you don’t have another family to go with you then you might want to look into free daycare services. Some resorts will offer this with their family packages while other hotels will offer it as a courtesy. Children that are a bit older may want to go skiing with you, so make sure to ask for discounted child prices when you buy tickets. A lot of the time children can get in for free. If you want your child to receive special lessons you might want to sign them up for a class which will allow you to go ski without having to pay daycare fees and will give your child a chance to learn from a professional.

Skiing can be an incredible hobby if you know how to spend your money correctly. With these simple tips you might actually be able to plan more than one trip this season without having to pay for your getaways for the rest of the year. So, enjoy the snow and plan wisely as this season will be over sooner than you think.

Technology seems to be an unending cycle that takes our money away and leaves us with a device we’re just going to have to replace in a few months. It isn’t that the products don’t work, or that we don’t love what we have, but the fact that we constantly feel the need to keep up with the market. This cost so many households thousands of dollars each year, which many can’t afford to spare in the first place. With the new iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 getting ready to make their debut many people have found themselves considering to fall into the same cycle. You will actually be surprised as to the many reason why you should avoid buying the new iPads. These nine reasons won’t just make you question your need for these new items, but might even renew your love for the devices you already have.

1. Design
The iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 both have an extremely chic design that would make any consumer drool; however you might want to take a step back and look at the design before you think about purchasing it. Both of these tablets are going to be thinner and lighter than any other models, which might seem like a great selling point. The thing is this is because they are made from a glass that is thinner. If you don’t intend on going anywhere with your tablet or letting your children play with then this might be the tablet for you. However, if you like to commute with it or your kids enjoy playing games or watching movies on it then this tablet might end up breaking on your pretty quickly. With the size being even larger than the other iPads you might find it a bit harder to handle though, so unless you intend on buying a pretty incredible case you might want to refrain from this tablet. The iPad 5 does allow you to order your tablet in a multitude of different colors, but you could always achieve the same effect by buying a cover.

2. Prices
One of the biggest reasons not to get the iPad 5 and iPad mini 2, at least not right away, is the prices! Both of these tablets are going to be released at a much higher prices than precious tablets so you might want to take a rain check, especially with the holidays coming up. The iPad 5 is lacking in a lot of the features that many recent tablets that are much cheaper have, so why pay more for less if you don’t have to. The truth is if you have an older iPod you might find it just as enjoyable as the new one, so don’t be too quick to see off your old tablet just for this new release. The more recent iPads have many of the same amazing features with a lot less of hassle, so enjoy what you have! As time progresses the newer tablets will decrease in price so you won’t have to feel as guilty about buying them. Apple has been releasing many tablets recently so if you choose not to purchase this upgrade you won’t be too far behind with your technology. After all, the original iPad mini was released just last November so chances are your brand new tablet will be behind in a few months anyway.

3. Internet
If you don’t already pay for an unlimited data plan for your tablets then you might want to look into it. The new iPad 5 and iPad mini are both made with LTE/4G which might sound like a dream if you love to browse while you’re out. The thing is that many places aren’t exactly ready to provide 4G everywhere you want to go. So, what does this mean for you? It means if you intend on browsing away in an area that isn’t covered by LTE and doesn’t have Wi-Fi then you will be getting charged for some major roaming cost. The 4G also takes up a whole lot more data then your current model does, so if you aren’t prepared to make the upgrade your bills could double, if not triple. It might sound awesome to have a faster internet on your tablet, but if you’re not quite ready for the bill to go up then you might want to steer clear from the new iPads, or simply use them only when you’re in a Wi-Fi area.

4. Memory
When it comes to tablets memory can be a major seller! The iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 will both have three choices when it comes to your memory selection. These choices will range from 16GB to 64 GB, but don’t get hopeful for anything larger any time soon. These choices wouldn’t be too bad if you could use a memory card to help make up for the lack of storage. Of course, neither device will have a memory slot, so if memory is important to you then it might be time to look elsewhere. There are numerous tablets on the market now that actually allow you to buy more memory while also using a memory slot to upgrade when you need to. Even if you don’t feel like you will use too much memory you might want to consider the size of apps designed for this tablet. They are made for the higher screen resolution, which means they will take up more space, so you might find yourself going gigabytes with your upgrade.

5. Screen size
The iPad 5 is intended to be one of the first larger tablets on the market. This tablet will feature a 9.7 inch screen that will make movies and games look incredible. The only problem with the screen size is it will be a bit of a problem for commuters who have to hold up the oversized screen in tight sitting quarters. The screen might also be a lot harder to store in brief cases and other commuter bags as it is equally convenient just to carry around your laptop. This tablet might not be ideal for children who could previously hold on to a tablet in the car while enjoying their favorite shows. The table may be too large for children leaving you to find a new means of entertainment. The iPad mini 2 is said to have a standard sized 7.9 inch screen which is typical of many of the e-readers out today The only problem is the iPad mini 2 won’t cater to readers so the screen won’t be as friendly on the eyes.

6. Apps
Anyone who loves to have the latest and greatest apps might have to do a bit of waiting when it comes to the iPad 5 and iPad Mini 2. Both of these tablets are designed to have a higher screen resolution with the retina display system so you might find that all of your older apps don’t have the same appeal as they did before. The current apps are designed to look amazing with a lower screen quality, so when you download these apps and put them on the larger screen you will be pretty much end up with a pixelated mess. The apps that are going to be designed for the tablets will be much larger when it comes to memory, which means you won’t be able to have as many apps as you did on your older tablets. There will also be very few of these higher quality apps to choose from so you might not have a whole lot of entertainment on your new tablet for several months.

7. Accessories
Giving your tablet its own personal touch is a fun experience that everyone loves. Unfortunately, the accessories you already have won’t be of much use when you get rid of your older tablet. The iPad 5 is going to be much larger, which means you’re going to have to spend a lot more money to provide your new tablet with the protection it needs and the look you want. One major problem with buying accessories for the new tablet is you’re going to have to be extra careful when shopping. A lot of stores are still going to cater to the standard sized tablets which means you might accidentally buy something that is too small or doesn’t fit right. Anyone who loves to have cool gadgets to make their tablet go further might also be disappointed in the selection. Many other devices are producing stands as well as keyboards so their tablets can be used like a laptop. This could leave you behind when it comes to the technological game.

8. Security
The big ios 7 had swooped the apple product nation recently, but has already shown to have a few security risks. This, of course, will be remedied by many updates to sort out all of the problems, but it might be better just to wait until all the bugs have been fixed. If you have an older tablet then this isn’t a problem at all, but when you order the new tablets the ios 7 system will already be on them. The bad thing about getting a new tablet with an insecure software is you could end up losing more money if you end up getting hacked. Another downside is the fact that both of the tablets are designed to have a fingerprint passcode system. This means your fingerprints will help you get into your tablet so thieves won’t be able to steal your tablet and use it. A lot of people are a bit spooked by this though as it might not seem like the wisest idea to give your fingerprints to something that is already having some security problems.

9. Software
Despite security measures the iOS software actually limits the way many users use it. This can be a bit of a problem for anyone who likes to play around with their software or want create their own apps. In the way of using ios to help you create you probably won’t have a whole lot of luck unless you go to school for it. Right now, many tablets are coming out with new operating systems that are already popular amongst PC users. One such example is applying Windows 8 to tablets. This enables many users to feel comfortable with their software while taking their tablet usage beyond games and chatting. Android is also making its own tablet which will allow many smart phone fanatics to design their own apps while using this friendly software to make their experience all the better. Windows and Android also have amazing means of communication so you may find yourself spending more time chatting with friends than you would on a typical tablet. This is especially great for businesses that are just starting out and may be working with partners from around the world.

We all like to have the top of the line devices to make us happy, but sometimes it just isn’t financially wise to indulge in these items. The new iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 might seem like a great idea right now, but you might find you’ll be way better off waiting out the hype before you go ahead and buy the tablet. While you wait out the first few months you might even find a tablet that suits your needs even more than you thought these could.

Every home looks amazing with a select few pieces of art to make the area seem more personal. For many, shopping for art is incredibly frightening as it seems prices for most pieces are designed for millionaire budgets. You don’t have to shy away from art prices though because there are actually many different ways you can pick up your signature pieces for a lot less than you would think. There are a few simple ways to transform your art budget into money that will stretch far enough to buy art for every room in the home. Now, you can take all of those bare white walls and transform them into a gallery that shows off your household’s unique personality. So, take a deep breath and prepare to hang up all of your favorite art work without having to stress about the money you lost from the transactions.

1. Buy Prints
One of the biggest mistakes many people make when they’re looking for artwork is they tend to look at original art prices first. This can be pretty frightening for first time buyers as many pieces are in the six figure range. The best thing you can do is look through the original art but refrain from buying the pieces unless you are looking for a major investment. If you find a work of art that you love then write down the name and artist and take the information to a store that sells prints. You should be able to find just about any art in print form for a fraction of the price of the original. One of the best places to look for prints is online as many stores will sell you just what you’re looking for for under $10. Of course, you can always find a print locally, especially if you’re looking for a piece that is iconic. Prints are great because you can get them in many different sizes and they can often be ordered in canvas form.

2. Smaller Scale Artist
Some people love to have original art in their home, but don’t want to spend a fortune. If this is your case then you might want to look around for a smaller scale artist. Most areas have local galleries or list of artist who want to sell their work to the public. One of the best things you can do is look around in these areas to see if there is something that will suit your home and taste in art. Another great place to look is fairs and other local based events. Typically artist will bring a small stock of their work for people to choose from, so act fast. If you are still having trouble finding work then you might want to look online as there as numerous websites dedicated to artist who might have something just for you. When you do choose to buy from a small scale artist you are certainly getting a piece that no one else in town will have. You are also making a great investment as you never know how much something will be worth in the future!

3. Negotiate Prices
Many people catch a glimpse of the prices on artwork in galleries and slowly back away from the area. When you’re visiting a gallery don’t forget that all of the prices aren’t exactly set in stone. If you happen to fall in love with a particular piece then you might want to try to haggle down the price to suit your budget a bit better. Sometimes when you deal with art dealers you might not have as much luck unless they are looking to move in a new artist or exhibition soon. So, try to plan your shopping for a period in which you know something new will be coming in soon. If you’re buying from the artist then you might have a lot easier of a time. Often enough, many artists will allow you to walk away with a pretty good discount if your negotiating skills are up to par. As with art dealers, many artist are also looking to move their work and sometimes they simply need to purchase more supplies, so you could benefit greatly from just asking about a price reduction.

4. Frame Art Yourself
One of the priciest aspects of buying art can be purchasing a frame. You should try to avoid buying art work that is already framed as this could quadruple the price of the art work and leave you with a frame that just doesn’t suit your style. So, if you find work you like make sure to ask for it without the frame so you can save a lot of money. When you do decide to look for a frame for the art then wait for a sale at your favorite craft store. Usually you can find something simple that won’t cost you more than $20! Of course, if you are looking for something fancy then try to wait for a sale and have the work custom framed. You could also take the framing into your own hands if you are accustomed with how to do it. If you do choose to have the art framed then try to choose cheaper options, like using acrylics or glass substitutes.

5. Watch for Sales
Art work is one of the best things to wait on until there is a sale on the item. Many stores online will sell a different set of prints at a lower price each week, so make sure to keep an eye on the work you’re looking to by. If you have a favorite gallery then make sure to talk with the people who work there. A lot of the time when work is moved from one area to the next, or is about to go into storage, then the gallery will try to sell it at a reduced price. This is especially great if you don’t like negotiating as you will get the lowered price just for being patient. Of course, if it is a piece you think you have to have you might not want to wait as a lot of the time the art might sell and you will miss out. Of course, if it is a piece you’re interested in, but aren’t ready to buy, then you might inquire as to how long the sale will be going on. Usually the longer the sales the more the price will drop before the gallery decides to get rid of the piece.

6. Visit Auctions
If you’re just looking around for something to showcase in your home then an auction might be just the place to look. An auction can be a breath of fresh air from someone who doesn’t yet know what they want to place in the home. This is because many auctions have such a wide variety of work that there is a high chance you’ll find something you find interesting. When you go to an auction it is very important to know your spending limits and stick to them. If you feel like you’re going to have a hard time following a budget then pull out the money you can spend and leave your credit cards and bank cards at home. This will ensure that you’re not going to go over budget no matter how much you want to. When bidding try to keep the piece low as you don’t want to over spend on something. You should also always go to the viewing prior to the auction so you will know for sure if you are actually interested in a piece. If you end up losing out on something you actually loved then make sure you take down the name of the art so you can possibly find a copy elsewhere.

7. Second Hand
Buying art work second hand can be one of the most rewarding purchased you can make. Whenever you go to a thrift store make sure to have a look at the art section as you never know what masterpiece you might find in the store. Sometimes you might end up with a cool print, while other times you might actually find an original piece that makes you smile. Either way, the thrift store will sell you art work at a more than fair price. You might also want to consider buying frames from this area as they will be much cheaper than a hobby store and you might even find something that looks incredibly vintage. Yard sales are also another amazing place to work’s of art. Usually you will find some of the more classic pieces, but every now and then you could run into a real treasure that’s looking for a good home. The best thing about yard sales is the price is always negotiable and if the seller sees you really love the piece they might allow you to haggle down the price a lot more than you’d expect.

8. Buy Online
In the digital age it is no wonder that there is a large selection of art work at a reasonable price to choose from. Rather than paying expensive rental fees for a gallery many artist are putting their work online so the world can see and purchase their art. This benefits you greatly as there is no need to raise prices as many of the gallery fees are not applied. It also means you get to choose from a wider variety of art that will suit your home well. Before you end up buying a piece you might want to look around a lot. This will help you from feeling buyers remorse or from ordering a whole lot of art you don’t have room for. Usually when you shop online you will also be able to buy a print instantly so you won’t even have to calculate the price for an original piece.

9. Swap with Friends
One of the best things about having friends who also love art is the two of you can swap out pieces to freshen up the home. This can be touchy for some people so you might want to work out a system that allows you to get the work back when you want it. You can manage the switch much like museums do, so everyone still has rights to their work even though it is in another home. Make sure you swap with someone you trust though as you will want to make sure you art isn’t going to lose value when it is in someone else’s home. Swapping can be a cheap way to keep new art in the home, or it can be a way of sampling some artists’ works to see if you would like their work in the home.

10. Make Your Own
One of the cheapest and funnest ways to keep an art filled home is to make your own. It doesn’t matter what your talents are as there are multiple ways to make art you’ll be proud to show off in your home. You can even get the kids in on the task which will help give the artwork more meaning while also creating memories you’ll share forever. When you go to make some art for the home try to consider your home’s theme, or things that represent your household and work from there. This will give you a piece that not only looks great but holds meaning that you can explain to your guests.

Art work can really make a home stand out, but you shouldn’t have to give up your budget because of it. With these tips you will be celebrating your home’s gallery which will really open up conversations and entertain your guests. Finally, you will be have the home décor you’ve dreamed of, without the price you’ve had nightmares about.

With school back in session and the cool winds inching in it can only mean one thing: football season. This season is beloved by so many in the country, but can be a pretty hefty burden on a fan’s budget if you aren’t careful how you spend during this exciting season. There are numerous things to take part in when the season makes it’s first kick off, so don’t be caught off guard. With a few simple trips you can be ready to take on the football season without having to drain your budget for unexpected expenses. Now, you can cheer for your favorite team, no matter the league, while also celebrating your amazing ability to keep your budget in check. This season will certainly be on your radar for years to come!

1. Tailgating
You may or may not have experienced the fun of tailgating during the football season, but chances are this activity seems appealing to you. Most fan try to do it at least or twice during the season if they are near a stadium. Some fans will even try to do so for every game, which can end up costing you a whole lot of money if you don’t know how to spend on this event. One of the major things needed for tailgating is a trailer to use as your small headquarters. This helps you cool down or warm up when the weather isn’t cooperative and will store your food and possibly a bathroom. If you can avoid renting a trailer you really should. The best thing to do is ask to borrow a friend’s or go tailgating with a friend who already owns a trailer. It is also important to ask people to come along! When you invite people along make them responsible for bringing an item. If you can get enough people to chip in then you’ll spend very little! You should also consider bringing cheap games, like a football or deck of cards, for the down time, especially if you bring kids along.

2. Fan Gear
We’ve all spent a ton of money on fan gear that we didn’t actually need. Sometimes we think we have to have the latest team jersey. This isn’t the case though, so step away from the merchandise and you’ll save a whole lot of money. Jerseys are the biggest expenditure and this is largely because people want to blend in with the crowd at games. To remedy this problem simply throw on a shirt or jacket that boast the teams colors. You won’t stand out when the camera passes over you and people will see you’re a fan. If you really want a shirt with your teams name on it then buy a paint pen and draw out the team’s name or logo. If you do have to have a jersey then try to buy one without a name. This will cut down on the price and ensure you can wear for many seasons to come. If you need an item to have autographed then pick up a cheap football that you wouldn’t mind displaying. Anything else you might possibly want can be put aside until it is on sale, typically at the end of the season, or put in a clearance bin.

3. Tickets
You might find tickets to be the most expensive part of the season because they’ve gone up in price substantially over the years. If you’re looking to catch a professional game then try to sit tight and refrain from buying until a day or two before the game. This will help get you the best price as ticket sellers will want to sell out their stock. You might end up missing a few games because of this, but you won’t spend a fortune on the games you do go to. Some people like to visit as many games as possible. For the people you might consider getting a season pass and sharing it with another family. This will allow you to split the cost while ensuring you will see a lot of games. Make sure you work out all of the fine details prior to purchasing though. Of course, if you’d really like to skip out on the big prices then check out a college game instead.

4. At the Game
Although tickets are expensive, everything inside of the stadium will be too. Try to avoid snacking during the game because concession stand prices are usually over the top. You’re not allowed to bring in outside food either. If your stomach just can’t wait any longer than pick something that can be shared amongst the family. Grab the largest soda, as it is usually only slightly more expensive than the smallest, and a snack like popcorn or a pretzels that can be split in half. You might also want to invest in your own seat cushion. Some places rent them out for a less than convenient price, while other places sell them at an expensive rate. You’ll want a cushion after the first hour of the game, so if you don’t want to buy a cushion pack a extra sweatshirt to sit on.

5. Transportation
Getting to and from the stadium can be a bit challenging as it is almost always crowded. You might end up sitting in traffic for hours as you watch your full gas tank slowly dwindle away to nothing. So, if you’re planning on driving to the stadium you might consider carpooling with others. This will allow everyone to chip in on gas and parking without forcing you to be burdened by all of the cost alone. When it comes to finding a parking spot try to keep as far away from the stadium as you can stand to walk. A free parking place will give you more money to spend at the game and won’t make you feel as guilty as spending up to $20 on a parking space at the game. You might also consider showing up very early or a little late, while leaving the game a bit early too. This will help avoid the mess of traffic, but will also mean you’ll miss out on some of the game. If your city has a good public transportation system then this might be your best bet. Typically buses have a stop right next to the stadium so you won’t have a big walk ahead of you.

6. Watch From Home
Sometimes there is nothing greater than enjoying a football game from home. After all, there’s no crowds, you get a better view and you don’t have to fork a lot of money for something as cheap as a hot dog. So, if you really want to lose a whole lot less this season try watching as many games as you can from the comfort of your own couch. This is usually the best way to save, especially if you love your local team. The best thing about staying home is you can have friends who love the sport come over and enjoy the sport with you as you catch up with one another, take some time during the break to throw around a football, and enjoy snacks that won’t make you gain five pounds instantly.

7. Snacks
Snacks are one of the priciest items on the list for people who choose to watch the game from home. There are so many ways to avoid overspending on snacks though, so don’t fret about your budget just yet. You should never have to go all out for a football party. In fact, football food is generally the cheapest food on the market! When you head to the store try to pick out items for sandwiches and hot dogs as they’re filling, easy to make, and always a crowd pleaser. Make sure you avoid pre-made items like salads and dips though. Of course, bigger games might call for more elaborate food, but this can easily be remedied by inviting everyone over to a potluck will save money and allow everyone to have something they love. You might even find some awesome recipes to help utilize the leftovers you have in the refrigerator. For instance, you might try to make a buffalo wing inspired casserole with leftover chicken.

8. Decorations
Whether you’re planning on going out to the game or staying in you probably want to decorate to show off how big of a fan you are. Premade signs and other items can be more than pricey, so when it comes to decorating you should always pull out the creativity card. You can always make signs to take the game, for the lawn, or to put in the home with paper or posterboard. You might even want to bring the kids into the project to help them bond with you and learn more about the sport you love. You can also create streamers with your teams colors. One of the more common projects is to cut out football helmets in your team’s colors for the door. This can be fun for the kids as it will allow them to create their own helmet to show off to guest.

9. Skip the Pass
Many people believe that they have to subscribe to a Season’s Pass through their cable company in order to enjoy all of the games they want. This is never the case though, so don’t be fooled when you are offered this cable package. Sure, the season pass will provide you with games from across the country whenever you want to watch them, but most people tend to stick to their own teams. There are numerous sites online that will actually stream games for free on the computer, tablet or phone so you can enjoy a game wherever you are. If you are a huge fan of the local teams then you don’t really have a lot to worry about when it comes to missing your team play anyway. You can usually catch the local games on you basic cable and can catch a lot of games from other teams on extended cable. With so many options there is really no reason to throw away money on games that you probably won’t end up watching or can get for free elsewhere.

10. Big Ticket Events
There comes a time in every season where you’re going to end up missing a game because it is a big ticket event. Usually, these games cost a fortune to see live and generally sell out anyway. They also somehow end up getting excluded from the local line up. So, chances are you’re going to end up renting an event or two from your cable provider during the season. Since this is the case then you might as well transform the cable company’s Big Event into a party for you can your friends. You can charge a $1 cover cost to help pay for the program so everyone can have fun and enjoy the game without spending a whole lot of money. You might also make a deal with friends to take turns renting the events so no one person ends up stuck with the tab at the end of the season. Of course, you should always ask around before you rent as one of your friends might be privy to the game through a different cable company.

Football season is a time to bond with friends and family while making memories together. The cool weather and games are a recipe for fun that shouldn’t force you to lose out on your budget. With these easy tips you can follow your favorite teams without having to stress out about the money you’re spending. So enjoy the season from the stadium or the couch and make sure to rejoice in the savings, after all the holiday spending season is right around the corner.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Sewing is one of the most popular hobbies that has served to save numerous families a lot of money throughout history. Recently, sewing has become a little bit pricier due to many technological changes in the hobby. Where once people took to a needle and thread, now people can choose machines that do everything from hem pants to embroider incredible designs. With all of these new advances you could end up spending a whole lot of money you don’t need to spend to get your hobby off the ground. There are numerous ways that you can save money on your hobby though. Once you know the tricks behind saving money for your favorite hobby, you’ll be able to use it to save even more money for the household while using your creations to make your family stand out.

1. Sewing Machine
The sewing machine is one of the most expensive aspects of your hobby, but it can also be one of the most important if you aren’t comfortable with a needle and thread. A lot of people believe they need to go for the most expensive sewing machine on the market, which is never the case. When you’re shopping for a sewing machine you should look to buy a machine that provides you with the things you need, but nothing extra. A lot of the time people end up thinking they need the extra goodies, but find they never use them or they have a hard time figuring out how they’re used. The less extras you buy the more money you get to save from your machine. You will also want to look for a machine that hold a warranty. In most cases, many brands will offer a life time warranty so make sure you read the warranty and know how to use it if you need to. If you do buy a machine that connects to the computer then make sure it has free lifetime updates. Many people are discovering that their older machines are now obsolete because they can not be upgraded to newer operating systems. Of course, to save the most money you should always look at used machines, especially if you’re just starting out with the hobby.

2. Recycle Fabrics
Looking in the home for fabrics and accessories is one of your best options if you’re looking to save money. Most homes are filled with plenty of old clothes that aren’t being worn anymore because they don’t fit or just aren’t fashionable. If you’re looking for new fabrics to integrate into your projects then try scrapping some old clothes. If you can’t work out a design to make new clothes out of then you can take some of the clothes and turn them into patches for holes in jeans. You might also enjoy taking some of your favorite t-shirts and turning them into pillow or patches for a cool new blanket. Other items you might want to consider scrapping for fabric is old sheets, Usually sheets have a great pattern that can easily be made into clothing, or they feature a solid color that is perfect for adding onto your wardrobe. You should always save buttons and zippers off clothing too as you never know when it might make the perfect addition to one of your creations.

3. Second Hand Shops
When shopping for new items for your hobby you should never overlook second hand stores. From thrift stores to yard sales, there is a large amount of fabrics that could make your creative energy surge. The best thing to do is spend some time looking through the clothes section to see if there is anything you’d like to alter and turn into something that fits your style more. This is also a great area to look for items that might make great Halloween or convention costumes as it could save you hundreds since you won’t have to order special costumes. You might also check out other areas of the store to see if they actually have fabrics available or to see if there is any sheets that might make a great alternative for fabrics. Some second hand stores, especially yard sales, might also sale sewing machines as well as other supplies needed to keep your hobby going.

4. Use the Internet
When it comes to looking for patterns you should always stay away from stores at first. The internet is filled with numerous sewing sites that can provide you with a wide assortment of patterns to download for free or at a cheaper price. All you have to do is print out the pattern and you’re on your way to cool new project. This is especially good if you’re looking for patterns that might be trendy, or perhaps you love the patterns from a specific designer. The internet is also a great place to download embroidery patterns directly to your machine. These patterns usually come with a free update, but you might look around for websites that support your machines brand. Another good thing the internet offers you, for free, is tutorials that will help you improve on your skills. You might find that the internet is one of the best places to help you make items that you might even consider selling later on.

5. Nail Polish
Sometimes clothes get damaged or threads come loose, which means it is time to break out all of your gear and mend it. This doesn’t always have to be the case though. In fact, it might be wise to not get out your sewing supplies and waste thread and time on something that can be mended in a matter of seconds without wasting your supplies. The best way to do this is to use a little nail polish. One of the best things to use nail polish on is a weakened hem or a thread that is coming loose. Simply apply a little clear nail polish to the area and it will prevent the damage from going any further. If you have a button that is losing color or missing a little detail then fill it in with some colored polish for a flawless look. Of course, sometimes buttons begin to come undone too, so make sure to use the clean polish on these areas too.

6. Sheets
Sometimes fabrics can be pretty expensive, especially if you are looking for fabrics with fine details. If this is the case then you might want to avoid fabric stores altogether. Sheets are a great way to find amazing fabrics for less the the actual price of the fabric. The good thing is that sheets typically come with enough fabric to make more than one dress, so you’ll end up being fabric rich when your hobby is over. The key is to look for sheets that are on sale or in the clearance bin at your favorite store. You should always consider the way your sheets feel though when you plan on creating things out of the fabric. Once you find a patter and texture you like you’ll be ready to go for just about any project and you’ll have fabric to spare.

7. Wait for Sales
Sometimes sewing items can be a tad on the expensive side. From special scissors to bundles of thread you might end up spending a whole lot if you aren’t careful. The best thing you can do when replenishing your sewing stock is to wait for sales. A lot of hobby stores hold these frequently so you won’t have to wait months to get the items you need. The more expensive an item is the more you should wait for sales, especially if you don’t want to buy a cheaper brand. Sales are also the best time to stock up on items like thread, needles and bobbins that you might need in bulk. If you keep your frugal attitude and keep in mind the things you really need a sale can lead you in a great direction that will ensure you won’t have to shop when sales aren’t going on.

8. Don’t Overdo It
One major problem with sewing is it is too simple to overindulge, which is a huge waste of money. Sometimes, you can get the most out of your hobby when you keep your sewing stock to a minimum. When you end up overstocking on items you often end up losing out on the money you spend on your sewing supplies. There’s no reason to have every color of thread in your collection, nor do you need fabrics you know you’ll probably never use. Not only are you wasting money on items that aren’t necessary, you might actually forget some of the items you’ve bought and waste money buying them again. You also don’t want to have to work in an overly packed workspace as it will make your job harder and will push you from actually spending your time sewing. If you keep a minimum stock of items then you’ll learn how to substitute on many items, which will help make your skills better and ensure you know how to save even more money.

9. Use Reward Cards
Most people have specific stores they love to shop at when they’re looking for sewing supplies. If this is the case then make sure you ask about getting a rewards card. Usually this requires a quick sign up in the store or online, but it will be well worth it when you end up getting points for discounts. Most rewards card keep track of your purchases and distribute rewards that can end up giving you free items or huge discounts on some of the items you love to buy the most. Many discount cards will even take off a small percent of your purchases so you end up saving a whole lot more than you’d expect throughout the year. Many cards will also send you discounts and coupons in your email which can help you save up to 80% on items you buy on a greater scale.

10. Off Brands
Many people end up spending a whole lot of money on products because they believe their sewing machine can only take certain products. This simply isn’t the case though. If you’re looking to save a whole lot of money then bring in your bobbins, needles and other parts to the hobby store so you can make sure you’re getting the correct size in a generic brand. You might also look in the manual and check out the measurements of the item so you can shop online without buying the wrong size. Getting the generic brand won’t harm your machine as long as you get the proper size, so don’t stress out about buying the cheaper product. You should also look into buying scissors, thread, and other items for your hobby in generic form. This can actually take off several dollars from your purchases which can go towards the household or buying even more of your favorite hobby supplies.

Sewing is one of the best ways to help your family save money when it comes to clothes and other linens in the home. Not only will you be able to enjoy your hobby you’ll also be able to enjoy saving some money for the home, which will make you feel like a superhero in your household. No longer will you have to battle spending your money on sewing supplies, but instead will enjoy savings that will keep everyone in the household pleased with your hobby.

Cold and Flu season brings a lot of misery to numerous households. Every year kids end up missing important lessons at school because there symptoms prove too much to handle and adults are forced to suffer through the illness in order to get work finished. This pain can lead to you spending too much money on cold relievers that won’t help you kick the cold any faster. It might also lead you to make costly visits to the doctor’s office in order to get back on the right track. There are many ways that you can avoid the cold or flu without having to spend a whole lot of money. This can ensure that this season you won’t have to fall behind or budget out extra money to help pay for all of your cold supplies.

1. Hand Sanitizer
One of the biggest aids to getting rid of germs passed on by your peers is hand sanitizer. Usually when school begins there’s a lot of sales that include hand sanitizer. It is important to make sure that everyone in your family has a travel sized container so they can use it whenever they need to. This is especially important for kids who often don’t get a chance to wash their hands before meals or after sneezing and coughing. Keeping your hands clean is one of the most important things you can do to help keep your family healthy. It is hard to know who is sick around you and at the first sign of sneezing or coughing you can easily get your hands cleaned in a hurry if you have to. Hand sanitizer is also important for anyone who uses public transportation as this is one of the fastest ways to get sick because you’re in close contact with people who might be sick.

2. Change Diet
You might not think about it, but altering your diet during the cold season can keep you feeling healthy. Maintaining a balanced diet is particularly important, but it is essential if you intend on avoid this year’s cold and flu season. Of course, sometimes we get sick no matter how balanced out diets are. When this happens you will want to add a lot more Vitamin C to your diet. Kids will enjoy having orange slices with their cereal each morning for a little boost to help them get through the day. You might also consider having a grape fruit to encourage your immune system to work better. Throughout the day you should incorporate snacks or beverages that are also high in Vitamin C, such as a nice cup of hot tea with a splash of real lemon. When you make family meals try to add kale or collard greens to the dinner which will help keep your family healthier. Recipes with garlic are also amazing for helping you beat a cold and will even help lower your cholesterol. If you’re dealing with a sore throat you might want to eat some honey, but try to stick to natural brands as sugar can lower your immune system.

3. Exercise
A lot of people tend to lay off the exercise when they start to get sick. Although you should cut down on extreme exercise you shouldn’t cut out exercise altogether. Exercise actually helps keep your immune system up so you might actually end up beating the cold faster if you do get it. You should be careful with monitoring your exercise and go at the pace your body allows you, rather than trying to overdo it. As you begin to heal then you can start going back to rigorous workouts. It is also important to add some cardio to your workouts because it will help clear out yours lungs which can help get rid of congestion a lot faster. If you don’t exercise often then you might want to start working out at least three times a week during the cold and flu season, just so you will have a little extra protection from the illness.

4. Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is probably the most important part of your health and wellness. Sleep helps your immune system work better and gives your body time to recover from the damage that has been done. If you notice people are getting sick around you then you should work out your schedule and make sure you can at least get eight hours of sleep each night, if not more. Children should be put into bed promptly to ensure they will have the proper rest to beat a cold as well. If you do catch the cold then try to sleep as much as possible. Sleep is your body’s way of shutting down so it can wipe out the cold so you won’t have to suffer as long. If you can try to take off a day of work and spend the day sleeping, or take small naps during your lunch break or right after work to help ensure you get a good amount of sleep.

5. Fluids
Our body needs lots of fluids to keep working properly, but when we’re sick we need even more. During the cold season it is important to drink a lot of water because you want your system to be flushed as much as possible when there is a chance of getting sick. Water is the best way to ensure you’re hydrated and that your body isn’t holding on to toxins that need to get flushed in order for the body not to get sick. Of course, no one wants to drink water all of the time, but you want to try to avoid soda and other sugary beverages as much as possible. In the morning you might want to drink a glass or orange juice or grapefruit juice to help boost the Vitamin C in your system. You will want to check the label when it comes to juices though because you need juices that have less sugar and more fruit. You might also want to have a hot cup of tea in the afternoon. Herbal teas are a great way to help beat the cold and the warmth from the drink will help ease your congestion.

6. Say No to Sweets
When it comes to being sick we all want to grab our favorite comfort foods to give us some instant gratification. One problem with this is a lot of people actually go for sweet items like chocolates and sugary foods. Other junk foods actually have plenty of sugar in them as well, even if they don’t seem sweet. The problem with picking out sugary foods is they lower your body’s ability to fight off the cold and flu. Sugar lowers the capabilities of the white blood cells so instead of fighting off the cold they actually allow the cold and flu to move right on in, thus forcing you to deal with all of the terrible symptoms. So, if you’re serious about getting rid of your cold or preventing it then you might want to skip out on your favorite treats.

7. Salt Water
Many people like to have many different forms of cough syrup and cough drops around the house when they’re sick. These items can end up costing you a lot of money and don’t actually help to relieve the symptoms for very long. One simple and cheap trick to help ease symptoms is to gargle salt water. All you need is a tea spoon of salt and hot water so you won’t have to do anything extra for the gargle. The salt water will help remove mucous on the back of the throat which leads to coughs and forces you to have a sore throat. With these symptoms gone you’ll be back on your feet before you know it.

8. Zinc
One of the best nutrients you can have in your system when you’re getting sick is zinc. Zinc will actually boost your immune system and will help you keep the cold at bay, or at least get rid of it sooner. Zinc can be found in a lot of common foods like seafood, beef, beans and spinach so make sure to add more of these items to your diet. If you think you need an even bigger boost then you should look into buy zinc supplement to help fight off the colds. Zinc can also be found in many different smoothies so you can improve your diet by drinking a smoothie for lunch. If you take a good dose of zinc when you symptoms begin you may find the cold takes a lot less time to kick.

9. Flu Shot
Many people have a lot of problems with beating colds, which can cause severe problems. It is especially important to get a flu shot if you know you have a harder time getting rid of the cold or flu. Flu shots are generally low in cost and can be completely covered by insurance in most cases, so they may be a cheap alternative if you tend to have to go to the doctor because of your cold or end up in the hospital. After a certain age you should always get a flu shot because as we grow older our immune system has a harder time fighting off these germs. You should always get your children immunized as well as they are more likely to have a hard time beating the illness than an average adult would. If your kids are protected from the flu then you might find you home ends up being free of the illness throughout the season.

10. Go Over Hygiene Procedures
One of the most important and valuable ways to keep the cold and flu out of your household is to go over hygiene procedures with your children. A lot of the time these lessons are skipped or hastily talked about in schools so many children don’t know the proper procedures. This means that your kids won’t know the basics of how to protect their bodies from germs or to prevent the spread of germs. Some of the procedures you should go over is how to deal with coughing and sneezing in public. This will keep their germs contained and will allow them to analyze when they need to stay away from people who don’t follow the proper procedures. You should also go over how to wash hands so your child won’t waste time washing without getting the best results. Kids should also know to keep their toothbrushes away from other’s in order to keep germs contained. Sending your kids out into the world with the knowledge of containing their own germs while avoiding those who can’t will help ensure your household might avoid many colds in the future.

Having a cold can be miserable, especially if you still have to function like normal. These simple tips will have you feeling better in no time without having to charge any extra purchases to help ease the paid of being sick. For many, colds are one of the worst ways to blow a budget, so don’t feel desperate when you start to feel symptoms. Instead, take a deep breath and follow these steps so you can get back in the swing of things without having to worry about your symptoms.

Now before you think that this is an article about extreme couponing, like the popular reality show, it isn’t. It is an article on why you should consider purchasing everyday items in bulk and how you can save money by doing so. Interested? Read on!

What is bulk?

Buying bulk typically means purchasing several of one product. Many online stores require customers to buy products by the case. A case could mean 12 or 24 items. Many times, the larger the quantity you purchase, the lower the unit price.

Why shop in bulk?

There are many reasons for shopping in bulk; the main one is to save money. For example, most everyone uses paper towels. Why spend $3.50 on a roll of towels when you can spend $1.75 if you purchase 12 rolls at a time? Unless you live in a very small apartment that has no storage space, then it only makes sense to buy some items in bulk. When buying bulk online, it saves you time. I don’t know about you, but I do not enjoy driving to a store, filling up a shopping cart, waiting in line to check out, loading the items in my car and then having to unload the items when I get home. Of course my family never seems to be home when I need help unloading the car. With online shopping, items are delivered right to your door!

Just think about the ways bulk shopping can be beneficial…

• Busy households. We’re a family of five. There are some things, such as toilet paper, paper towels, granola bars, etc. that we seem to go through a lot. It’s much easier and cheaper to purchase these things in bulk instead of running to the store once or twice a week.
• Community organizations. Are you involved with a club or group that puts on dinners or sets up concession stands? Then you’ll definitely want to purchase paper products and such in bulk.
• Special events. Whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion, or an open house for someone’s 75th birthday, you’ll appreciate being able to buy paper products, mints, nuts and more in bulk.
• At work. Do you and your co-workers chip in to keep the break room stocked with disposable products, bottled water and coffee? Instead of ordering from the office supply catalog that’s going to charge you a hefty price, get the items in bulk from an online store that deals with bulk. And what to do with the money you and your co-workers will save? Stock up on some granola bars and candy for the break room!

Popular bulk shopping websites.

There are many websites that offer products in bulk. Some deal mainly with food items, where others offer household items, office supplies and beauty supplies. Here are some of the best places for bulk shopping.

• BJs.com. Chances are you have been to a BJs warehouse. The company also has an online store with many products that are only available online. If you don’t have a membership to the store, you can still purchase online, but you’ll be charged a 5% non-member surcharge. If you decide you like the site or plan to shop at the warehouse from time to time, then it’s worth investing in the membership.
• BuyTheCase.net. It’s all about name brands when it comes to BuyTheCase.net. Each week the site has an online store flyer with popular brand name items such as Ragu, Pampers and Tide. What’s available one week isn’t necessarily available the following week. Although the site offers a discounted price, you need to check around to see if it’s truly the best price. As you add items to your shopping cart, the shipping costs will show up. This is nice if you’re working with a certain dollar amount.
• DollarDays.com. DollarDays.com offers rock bottom prices on thousands of products, ranging from food to clothing to office supplies. You have to purchase items by the case, which depending on the item, it could mean as much as 100 pieces per case. If you’re able to join shopping efforts with another person, or you’re shopping for the work setting, then this site is a good one to check out.
• DollarGeneral.com. If you typically shop at a Dollar General store, you know that the prices are usually lower than what you’ll find at the grocery store or drug store. When shopping at the online store, you’ll receive an additional discount when you buy in bulk. The site also frequently offers free shipping days or deep discounts an all products. This is a great site to stock up on paper products, food and household products.
• DollarTree.com. All items at a Dollar Tree store are $1.00 each (unless something is 2 for a $1.00). If there are items that you regularly buy from this store, then consider going online to DollarTree.com and ordering the items by the case. You won’t receive an additional discount, but you’ll have the convenience of having the items on stock in your home. If you go to the store to pick up the items, then it’s free shipping. If you’re planning a big social event and know that you’ll easily use a case of plastic-ware, plates, napkins, etc. then order it online rather than taking the chance that the store might have it in stock.

Do your homework.

Just because a website offers a “deal” on products, you need to do your homework to determine if the sale price is better than what you can find locally. For example, at a popular bulk site, a common brand of cereal has a regular price of $4.79 per box. The site sells the cereal for $3.79 per box . Sounds like a great deal right? After all, you’re saving a dollar per box. However, if your grocery store has the exact same cereal on sale for 2/$6.00, then you’ll save money if you buy the cereal from the store.

How to save even more!

Here are some tips on how to save even more money while shopping in bulk.

• Shop and swap. Is there a relative, neighbor or friend who might want to shop in bulk as well? There might be items that you have passed on because you’re not sure if you can use the entire amount before the expiration date. Yet, if you can swap half of a case of something for half of something else with a relative or friend, then chances are you’ll make the purchase.
• Wait for free shipping. Many websites offer free shipping from time to time. If you’re planning a big purchase then it’s certainly worth the wait.
• Look for coupons. Sometimes if you google the online store, a coupon will pop up. Also, if you choose to “like” the store’s facebook page, you’ll often receive good deals.

With careful planning and organized storage, shopping in bulk can save you hundreds of dollars over a year’s period of time.

Author: Barb Bergerson

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone else jewelry can be one of the most expensive items you can budget out. If you aren’t careful you might find that you need to take out a small loan just to buy some of the pieces you have your eye on. Jewelry doesn’t have to be an expensive outing though. In fact you can easily find ways to update your jewelry box without having to deal with expensive fees that leave you feeling instant buyer’s remorse. After all, jewelry is something you should love to have rather than something you’re afraid to wear out. With a few simple tips you may find your knowledge of jewelry as well as your budget for it will greatly improve so you can have your bling without dealing with cut backs in the household.

1. Second Hand
Some of the best jewelry available to you is pieces that have been owned before and are a bit older than the average piece you’d find in a jewelry store. If you look in the right location you might even find that you’re getting a steal of deal that you would have never come across in a typical store. Shopping in second hand stores can become more of a hobby that a shopping experience. After awhile you might develop a niche for picking up items that should be priced a lot higher than what they are at these stores. Usually shopping at thrift stores, pawn shops and yard sales are the best places to find these little treasures. You might also frequent auctions or look at online auctions, but practice restraint when bidding on items because you don’t want to spend a lot of money when you’re trying to save. Even if you aren’t looking to save big on an expensive item you might find something that suits your style and makes you feel incredible about yourself.

2. Repair Old Jewelery
For some people a busted watch or dirty pair of earrings means tossing out an item they once loved. This is probably one of the worst things you can do when you’re trying to save money. These items can undergo repair jobs which will render them beautiful once again. Typically fixing an older watch doesn’t take a whole lot of time or money if you know you’re doing. There are numerous online tutorials that can walk you through each step with ease, so you can get that watch working perfectly again. Cleaning jewelry is also a breeze and can be done in the home with special solutions that aren’t entirely expensive. Of course, if you’re just feeling bored with a piece you can always take it in for some alterations that will bring a new life to it so you’ll feel confident about wearing it again. One of the most common reasons for a person not to wear a piece of jewelry anymore is it fails to fit. Getting a ring re-sized or adjusting a wrist band can be simple fixes at a jewelry store that won’t cost you a whole lot.

3. Know What You Want
It is always important to educate yourself a little bit before you go into a jewelry store. Knowing how to spot various cuts of diamonds or how to tell if a stone is real is very important, especially if you aren’t going to a major dealer. If you’re interested in collecting a certain brand of jewelry then you should investigate the logo and common attributes tied to the brand so you’ll know you’re getting what you want. You can find a lot of information on the top of jewelry you’re looking for online so make sure to do your homework before you head out to a store. You should also do a little pre-shopping online before committing to a place to shop. This will ensure that you have a pretty solid idea of what you want. Knowing what you want is incredibly important because you might end up with a pushy salesmen that wants you to upgrade your original purchase idea. This is pretty common practice for any store that works on commission, but you don’t have to fall victim to it. If you’ve already sold yourself an item in your mind then saying no won’t be a lot of trouble, especially when the salesmen presents you with lots of beautiful jewelry that could be yours.

4. Take Care of What You Have
Sometimes we have a bit too much jewelry and loose track of the amount of time we spend maintaining it. Although it is often important to us and can often hold a mental tie to people we love it can slowly begin to deteriorate if we aren’t careful. This is why it is incredibly important to take care of the jewelry you already own. You can easily clean your metals and stones at home without having to spend too much time on the pieces. You can also hang up necklaces to avoid kinks in the chain and find a special holding space for rings and earrings. The more care you put into an item the longer it will look good for you. By maintaining the pieces you already have you might find that you want for other pieces less which will cut down on the shopping bill. If you have jewelry that looks great all of the time then you won’t have to worry about impulse buying to fill a void in your wardrobe.

5. Make Your Own
A lot of hobbyist all over the world have taken to making their own fine jewelry. This hobby can range from the amateur who loves to bead on the weekends to the artist who melts their own metals to create lovely bands that will catch your eye. The ideas are endless and so are the materials so feel free to look around the house and find things you might like to see on a piece of jewelry. One example is to raid your button drawer and find some that might make a cute pair of earrings. Or, you could pull out the old magazine and make paper mache beads that will leave everyone curious about your new look. Old t-shirts and items like toothbrushes and bottle caps can make awesome bracelets for kids. There are a ton of tutorials online to help you on your way, or you could simply just see where your creativity takes you.

6. Downgrade
A lot of people who go shopping for jewelry tend to look at the most expensive items because they think they won’t surpass the beauty of these items on the market. The fact of the matter is, if you want to save as much money as possible you can easily purchase a downgrade and most people won’t notice the difference. For instance, if you want to by a ruby ring then you don’t have to actually find one that is the actual stone. Many people have learned to make imitation stones that look almost identical to the real thing. You might also look into a lower grade of metal as this will significantly reduce the price of your jewelry. If you aren’t really interested in the flashy jewelry then finding something smaller might suit your taste a bit more. For instance, you can easily by a tiny diamond on your ring which will still look elegant, but won’t hurt the bank account quite as much.

7. Avoid the Chains
We’re all guilty of making our first stop at a chain jewelry store. This can be a major problem if you’re not careful, especially for first time buyers. A lot of chains will claim to offer you the best deal and since there are so many of the store we often tend to trust their judgment and assume they won’t rip us off. Although it is rare you will have an issue with the company it is always best to do your shopping elsewhere at first. A lot of independent jewelry stores are a great starting place because they can offer you competitive price on items that the chain also carries. Of course, a lot of these independent stores will also sell a number of items that are older and less trendy, which might strike your fancy more than the rings found at the major chains. If you can’t find a price you like at an independent store then try looking online next. The more shopping around you do the bigger savings you’ll end up with. You might even check to see if the chain stores have a deal online that might save you more money than the local branch does. So, try to avoid chains if you can, but if you have to shop there make sure to do a little shopping around first.

8. Watch the Metal Market
You might not be as familiar with the metal market as you are the stock market but it does exist. The metal market will actually inform you as to how much money metal is currently worth. When the metal you love is low then you might want to check in with your favorite jewelry store to see if the prices have dropped on something you’ve had your eye on for awhile. Most jewelry stores have to fluctuate their prices based on how metals are doing in the market, so if you’ve noticed a down point in the market then your time to move is now. Shopping like this can be a bit of a skill as it means you will have to predict if the metal is going to go further down or come back up. For instance, if you’re waiting on a gold ring and gold has been down in the market for a week then you have to judge whether or not you want to act now or wait another few days. Chances are the gold is going to change value back up eventually, so the risk is in your hands only. This can make shopping for metallic jewelry a lot more fun and challenging and could end up saving you a whole lot of money.

9. Reconsider Trends
Every year the market place comes out with new trends that everyone must have. These items are usually released around major holidays which means they get a lot of sales. One thing you can do Is ignore current trends to keep your budget a bit tighter. Usually having a few signature pieces is enough to get you through most occasions. Of course, if you do love staying trendy you can still purchase some of the same designs for a fraction of the cost. Usually, for $20 you can find a similar piece at a department store or online that will make you feel in fashion without putting you $1k into debt!

10. Sales!
When shopping for anything sales is the way to go all of the time. Before you buy anything make sure you ask about sale opportunity or look around at other locations to help you find a lower sales price. Usually looking online is your best bet for finding coupons and sales, but you can also rely on the holidays to bring you big name sales that will save you an abundance of money. If you can try to refrain from buying if it isn’t on sale. You’ll find with a little bit of patience you can save quite a bit of money and still get the item that been tugging at your heart for ages.

Everyone loves a nice piece of jewelry to make their style shine, but not too many people want to shell out the money for some of today’s high prices. With these tips you’ll find a lovely piece of jewelery that will make you feel great about your look while keeping you bank account a lot healthier which will please everyone!

If you’re a plus-size woman, you know that it can be difficult to find clothes that fit you right AND look great on you. Prior to online shopping, choices were very limited and often it meant having to travel a distance to find a store that catered towards larger woman. Thankfully, you can now shop right at your fingertips and there are several great options to choose from. The following provides tips on what to purchase at a store versus online, some of the top plus-size online stores, and tips for purchasing online.

Store purchase versus online purchase

Although online stores offer the same categories of items that you’ll find at a physical store, unless you specifically know the size and brand that fits you best, intimates should be purchased at a store. You’ll want to be able to try on bras, girdles and such. Once you know what you like and the size you need, then you can purchase the items online.

Bulky items, such as a winter coat, should be purchased at a physical store. If you order the coat online and it doesn’t fit, then you’ll be paying quite a bit in shipping and handling to return the coat.

If a store is running a really good deal that isn’t offered online, then it makes more sense to purchase the items from the store.

Popular plus-size online stores

There are several plus-size online stores that offer a variety of clothing that will appeal to teens through middle-age. Here are just a few of the popular sites and information about each one.

• Catherines.com Catherines is a plus-size only store located in many of the states and is also an online store. One of the nice perks about ordering from Catherines.com is if there is a physical store near you, they will ship the items to the store for free. If there are items that you don’t want to keep, the store will return the items for you for free as well. Catherines.com offers tops, pants, dresses, intimates and swimwear, along with a nice selection of accessories. The online store frequently offers great deals and free shipping. Prices are very reasonable and the clothing is made of good quality. Whether you’re looking for casual wear or something dressy for a special event, Catherines.com is a great choice.
• LaneBryant.com Do you love shopping at Lane Bryant in the mall? Then you’ll love shopping LaneBryant.com! This online store tends to cater more towards younger women; however, it offers a fair amount of clothing that will appeal to older women as well. Jeans, tops, dresses, shoes, intimates…LaneBryant.com has several items to choose from. The site often runs specials, so it’s certainly worth checking from time to time.
• Sonsi.com Sonsi.com is the online marketplace for plus-size shopping. Hundreds of brands are offered, including City Chic, IGIGI, Lane Bryant, Catherines and A Big Attitude. From casual wear to formal wear, Sonsi.com offers both classic and trendy clothes. The site even has a Bridal Boutique which offers a great selection of dresses. In addition to clothing, Sonsi.com offers handbags, luggage, jewelry, fragrances and shoes. In addition to its store, the site contains healthy articles, recipes and advice.
• OneStopPlus.com Very similar to Sonsi.com, OneStopPlus.com offers over 10,000 products in a wide range of sizes and styles. Prices are very reasonable. You can shop by name brand or category. For Halloween fans, they even offer plus-size costumes! In addition to clothing, you’ll find shoes, jewelry, handbags, beauty and home products.
• SimplyBe.com If you’re looking for clothing that is unique, then SimplyBe.com is a good site to check out. You’ll find fashionable tops, jeans, dresses and more in styles that are fun and flattering. Be sure to take advantage of the coupon for first time customers.
• JustMySize.com If you are looking for full figure underwear and bras, JMS is the best place. The quality they provide is superior, while their prices are much lower than those of brand names stores. The best about this store is their free return policy, you will get full refund, no question asked. They also sell plus size clothing, more towards women of 40-60 years old.

Tips for purchasing online

Just as you love to save money when shopping at a store, it’s nice to be able to save money when shopping online. Here are some tips to keep in mind while shopping online:

• Sign up for newsletters. Most online stores encourage you to sign up for their e-newsletters. These newsletters will often let you know about upcoming deals, the latest fashion fad, and sometimes will give you a special promo number to use for a certain percentage off or free shipping and handling.
• Like the Facebook page. If the online store has a Facebook page, be sure to “like” it. By joining the page, you’ll receive notices and deals that only Facebook fans will receive. Some online stores will ask an open-ended question on Facebook and do a drawing for those who participate. This is a great way to win a gift card to the site.
• Search the store. When you Google or Bing for an online plus-size store, there’s a good chance once you click on a store that you’ll see a coupon pop up. Stores want your business and they know that if they offer you a coupon, there’s a good chance you’ll use it.
• Be patient. Many online stores run specials throughout the year. Unless you need an item right away, if you wait a week or two, changes are you can get a good deal on it. Also, it doesn’t hurt to call the number given on the website to find out if there are any upcoming deals. You might get lucky and be offered a deal over the phone.
• Pay attention to deals. Some online stores offer deals that are only good for a specific brand of clothing. It’s important to understand what the deal is. Before you hit the “submit” on an order, double check the figures.
• Consider getting a store card. If the online store offers a store card, this is another great way to save money. You’ll receive notices of deals that are only good for people who have a store card.

More and more retail stores are including clothes for full-figured gals. The next time you’re at Old Navy, JCPenney or Target, check out the clothes.

Whether shopping at a store, or online, it’s nice knowing that plus-size women have options and can look great in their clothes.

Author: Barb Bergerson

With school back on track it is time to prep for the abundance of activities your student is going to want to take part in. Although some of these activities might be free for your children to partake it they can begin to take a toll on your energy level as well as the household budget. From filling up your tank to buying equipment to practice with you’ll be ready for a break as soon as winter comes along! Extracurricular activities don’t have to be a drain on your or your resources though. With these simple tips you can allow your children to broaden their horizons without having to constantly worry about the amount of money that you’re losing on their activities. These budgeting tips will help keep everyone in the home happy, busy and feeling fulfilled with life.

1. Utilize the School
Generally, schools are the first stop for your children when it comes to extracurricular activities, which is perfect for your budget. Schools will allow you to sign your children up for an assortment of activities without charging you a thing. This can be a huge relief off of your budget, but will also mean your student typically won’t need any extra funds to keep your student in the activity. In the high school and middle school levels students are usually given uniforms as well as the ability to use the gym and other equipment for practice at no extra cost. Schools are generally responsible for getting your child to and from games that are out of town and can even help you if you’re struggling to get your child to in town games. Most schools also offer a wide assortment of art or humanity activities that can help your child succeed in government, writing, painting and many other things that can help your student succeed in college. Younger children often don’t have many programs to choose from when it comes to school, but a lot of districts will help lower the cost of sports leagues and will offer arts and crafts classes for students and their parents.

2. Sponsorship/Scholarship
When you sign up for leagues outside of your school you might also want to research scholarships to help with the cost. Sports leagues are notorious for helping children who can’t afford uniforms or sign up cost so start asking around at youth centers or even your child’s school to find out more about scholarships. Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America are also willing to help out their scouts when it comes to dues, uniforms and field trips that the scouts go on to learn new skills and earn badges. If you need a little help with your child’s scouting dues then you can start by asking your troop leader, but there are also many national scholarships that can help you keep your troop member in the scouts. You might even be able to qualify your troop member for scholarships that can help with college and camps that will help the scout go even further in life.

3. Volunteer
Children’s services are always looking for parents that can volunteer their time to help make actives more cost efficient for everyone else. This is a great way to help get your child into an activity, so don’t be afraid to volunteer your time if you’re looking to save money. A lot of sports leagues will allow your children to join without a fee if you can become a coach or assistant coach for a team. This will also allow you to spend time with your child as they learn new skills. Another great way to use your time is to help out during a dance lesson, gymnastics or a karate class. If you talk to the instructor before hand you may be able to ask for a discount if you can volunteer enough time to make a difference in the class. Many parents are afraid to ask about volunteering, so take the first step and you might find that you’re on your way to saving more than you think.

4. Use Your Knowledge
If your child is interested in learning something you already know then don’t be afraid to skip out on the tutor and teach the child yourself. This is especially great when with musical instruments. Music is a wonderful way to improve confidence as well as mathematical skills so teaching your child an instrument can really be a key to success. This will even allow you to improve you bonding experience with the child which can really help as they go through the teenage years. Foreign language is another great activity that can help your child more than you think. If you’re fluent then you should use your knowledge all of the time to help your children pick up on the language faster. On the other hand, you could always choose to learn a language with your child. There are many programs that teach you how to speak a language via the computer, so you can take the learning experience together and practice with one another. Woodworking and mechanics are another important aspect of learning that many parents can pass on to their children. Changing tires and oil as well as working on various parts of the car can help the child later in life and will make these types of chores a lot of fun.

5. New Isn’t Best
Sometimes our children want to take part in an activity that isn’t exactly on the cheaper side of things. One common example is joining the school band. Many students begin middle school wanting to participate in the school band and decide it isn’t their thing after the first year. The only problem with this is many parents will go out and buy instruments for their child only to have to sell them for a lot less the very next year. Renting is one of the best ways to ensure you’re not going to spend a lot of money on an instrument your child might not use past the school term. Renting will only cost you around $40 a month, whereas buying can cost you up to $1k! You can always buy your student a new instrument later on if they do decide to stick with the band. Though band is a common example, sports are also a major part of the activities so try to buy used sports equipment like certain pads or balls to practice with. These items usually get torn up quickly anyway so you won’t be out any extra money. Music books are also an important aspect when it comes to learning, but can be pricey if you buy them new. There’s countless sheet music online that is free or you can look into used books to help your student learn.

6. Utilize YMCA
The YMCA is one of the best ways to allow your kids to participate in activities without costing you an arm and a leg. One of the biggest draws of the YMCA is it offers a pool, and lessons, for anyone looking to have some fun swimming. This can be a great way to keep kids busy during school breaks and will even allow your kids to learn swimming as a sport. The YMCA is also known for holding lots of classes for kids who are into a wide range of activities. From karate to yoga your child can enjoy numerous activities at half the price you would pay in town. This can be great for children that are home-schooled or kids who just don’t like the sports offered at their school. Of course, the YMCA does offer many of the more common sports, so you won’t have to sacrifice your child’s interest in sports. With the YMCA you can keep your entire household happy and healthier at a fraction of the price.

7. Reward Cards
One of the main issues with having kids on the go is you are also on the go which means you’re going to be burning through a lot of gasoline. There are a few ways you can help supplement the amount of gas you might be using while shuttling the kids to and from activities. There are a lot of gas cards out there designed for people who go through a lot of gas each week. These cards typically help cut down the price of filling up while offering small rewards as you spend. A lot of the time these cards work as a credit card so be careful how you spend! If you save the cards for emergencies you will be able to save money while filling up at the end of the week. There are other reward cards that will help get you rewards just for filling up. For instance, many grocery stores will allow you to sign up for a card that will add cents to your card that will help with your grocery bill.

8. Set a Limit
One of the best ways to keep control of your budget is to limit your kids’ activities. The more activities your children sign up the more money you’re going to spend on gasoline, fees and more importantly, your time. Try not to let kids sign up for more than one or two activities a semester and make sure nothing overlaps! Overlapping causes you to have to run back and forth and drain more gas than you should during the school week. With your children only working on a limited amount of activities you will find there is a bit more free time for everyone to relax and still have some fun as a family. The key is to make sure all of your children stick with the programs they sign up for. This will allow you not to lose money on your fees and will teach your children responsibility.

9. Fundraisers
One simple way to help raise money for your child’s activities is to run a fundraiser. Usually the community responds well to this so you might end up earning more than enough to tackle your children’s fees for any activities they might want. One of the best ways to earn money is to pull out your baking skills and try to make something that doesn’t take a whole lot to manufacture and can be sold at a decent price. Of course, if it is still warm outside then you might want to break out the buckets and soap and have an car wash for the neighborhood. Sometimes local businesses will volunteer their spaces for you to use in order to help out your cause. You might even ask the kids to have a lemonade stand just to help with finalizing fees and so they learn how to help with finances.

10. Activity Group
One of your biggest life savers will be finding a group to help you get through your activities. A lot of parents will have to deal with similar situations as you so make sure you meet and greet whenever your child joins a new activity. Having an activity group will help you form connections so you can come up with carpool schedules that will help you save even more gasoline. Your group can even come up with a snack schedule that will allow you to keep the kids in the household satisfied after an activity so you can easily prepare a meal later in the evening without your children having to feel as hungry.

Extracurricular activities can be one of the best parts of having school aged children. From learning new things to making friends you will certainly love watching your kids enjoy various activities that will allow your children to broaden their horizons. Of course, with these tips you won’t have to pay a whole lot more just to let your child enjoy the activities that will shape their entire life.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Whether actually enrolled in a dance class, or dancing around home pretending to be Cinderella, most little girls love to dance! If your little princess is taking dance classes, you probably have discovered that it can be a challenge finding decent places to shop for dancewear. It’s also challenging trying to figure out what size to buy. The following tips will help you know where to shop and how to choose dance attire for your little girl.

Dancewear basics

For most dance classes, little girls are encouraged to wear leggings, stretchy pants or leg warmers and a simple shirt to practice in. These items can be purchased at retail stores, such as WalMart, Kmart, Targets or Sears. When you buy the basic, keep the following in mind:

• Solid colors. Although there will be times when you’ll want fun outfits, stick with solid colors for leggings, stretchy pants and leg warmers. By doing so, your daughter will have more options regarding what tops she wears with them.
• Purchase one size up. Because material stretches, your daughter can wear one size bigger and not have her outfit fall off of her. By purchasing dance attire that’s a little bigger, it will last your daughter longer. As you know, little kids quickly grow and you don’t want to be purchasing new clothes every month or two.
• Buy used dance shoes. At a recent dance recital that my niece was in, some of the little girls were squishing their feet into their dance shoes. Ouch! When possible, buy used dance shoes that can at least be worn during the classes. When it gets closer to recital time, perhaps purchase new shoes, but allow plenty of time for your daughter to break in the shoes. It helps to make friends with some of the other moms so that you can purchase or trade shoes with each other.
• Check out swaps or sales. Some dance companies host a swap day where parents can swap dance clothes with other parents, or purchase slightly used dance attire at a low price. Also, as you go to garage sales, be on the lookout for dance attire. You might just find a great pair of dancing shoes that were only worn once or twice!

Dancewear for class or play

If your daughter is enrolled in a dance class that does ballet, tap, or freestyle, there are some great online stores that offer fun tutus, pettiskirts, etc. at a low cost. Here are a few great options:

• TheHairBowCompany.com. This small company operates out of Texas and takes great pride in connecting with their customers. You’ll find a variety of colorful tutus and pettiskirts for under $20.00. Your little princess will love spinning around in a bright purple tutu or wearing a crazy animal pettiskirt. Need legwarmers? Check out the striped or polka dot ones; they’ll surely bring a smile to your child’s face! If you’re ordering items just for fun, check out accessories such as butterfly wings.
• Target.com. Targets offers a limited supply of leotards, legwarmers and bodysuits. It’s certainly worth checking out from time to tie.
• Zulily.com. Zulily.com offers adorable outfits consisting of leggings, top, and sometimes a ruffle. Outfits are under $20 and are well made. Items posted on Zulily.com are very limited in quantity, so if you see something you like, you need to purchase it right away. Your little girl will fall in love with the outfits!
• PoshLittleTutus.com. A lot of the tutus, dresses and such are absolutely adorable! You’ll need to be careful about the prices, but you can find items for under $30. Your daughter will have fun wearing something from this site.

At these affordable prices, even if your little princess just wants a few outfits to wear at home for play, then these are great options.

Dancewear for recitals

When it comes to recitals, you definitely want to purchase clothing that will stand up to the challenge. The following online stores are popular choices.

• AllAboutDance.com. Bottoms, tops, dresses, leotards, shoes, tutus, unitards…you name it and this company most likely has it! AllAboutDance.com is one of the leading discount dancewear suppliers in the country. You’ll find the best name brand dance attire at very affordable prices.
• DanceWearSolutions.com. If you’re looking for fun and bright dance outfits, DanceWearSolutions.com offers a nice selection of cute leotards, tops, shorts, dance shoes, etc. Prices are a little higher than some other sites, but the clothing is of good quality and made from comfortable fabrics.
• DiscountDance.com. For one of the best selections to meet your little dancing girl’s needs, DiscountDance.com offers a huge variety of dance clothing and shoes! Shipping is kept at a minimal and items will arrive quickly. So if there’s a dance recital next Friday, no worries, your daughter’s outfit will arrive on time!
• SophiasStyle.com. If you’re looking for a unique outfit, this online store is worth checking out. Although choices are somewhat limited and items may be more expensive than you’ll find at the other three sites mentioned, it’s still worthwhile checking out this site.

Dancewear accessories

Part of the fun of wearing a dance outfit is adding the accessories! When shopping for headbands, hair bows and such, you want to find items that are designed to be worn during lots of movement. Your little girl will enjoy accessories from:

• DanceWearSolutions.com. Love, love, love this website! Whatever your little dancing diva needs to accessorize her outfit, you’ll have a great selection at this online store! From mesh bow headbands to sequin gloves, from rhinestone chokers to sparkling tiaras, these accessories are filled with glitz and glam. Prices are decent as well.
• Claires.com. Yes, they have stores in lots of shopping malls. Their online store claims to fame started with their adorable hair bows! Whether you’re looking for a flower clip, feathers, a headband or a cute bow, at a very affordable cost, you’ll love the options that this store provides.

Your little girl will stay a little girl just so long. As she embraces the world of dance, with wise shopping, you can provide her with dance outfits that she’ll absolutely adore.

Author: Barb Bergerson

It’s inevitable, at some point in our lives we have to make a move whether we like it or not. Moves can be incredibly stressful, especially if you are on a tight budget that offers no compromising. For many, the idea of a move is common and they have developed their own groove to get things done. However, for new movers the idea of moving can be frightening because there is so much to accomplish and the price tag can keep adding up if you’re not careful. There are a few tricks that can get you through a move without forcing you to throw away too much money though. So, remember to breathe and take your move one step at a time. Although it might be stressful at the moment, soon you will be in your new and making new memories.

1. Don’t Buy Boxes
Typically when people find out they need to make a move they go out and buy an extraordinary amount of pricey boxes. This can really hurt your moving budget right away, so try to refrain from panicking and making this purchase. Instead, you should learn your options for getting free or discounted boxes in your area. Many recycling centers get an influx of boxes each day and will offer them out to the public. So, you might want to begin your journey by calling and checking in with the recycling centers in your area. If you don’t have any luck, or still need more boxes, then Craig’s list is usually a good option. A lot of people will offer their used moving supplies because it is a lot more convenient then bundling them up and hauling them off after a major move. You could also ask around at grocery and department stores who often end up keeping their boxes for some time after shipments.

2. Say No To Movers
If you’re looking to save money on your move then roll up your sleeves and do the work yourself. Hiring movers can actually cost you over a thousand dollars of money you shouldn’t have to spend. Sure, it is awesome to have someone come in, pack you up and transport your goods, but it isn’t entirely budget friendly. One of the main reasons people hire movers is the fact that some items in the home might seem impossible to move. If you need to, call in friends, family and neighbors to try to help you get your move on the right track. If you don’t have this option, or are worried about getting the item out of the truck when you’re at your new location, then contact a local church or charity group to see if anyone can come help you out. Usually finding help isn’t too difficult so don’t be afraid to ask.

3. Re-evaluate What You Take
Everyone home has some form of clutter. From the piece of furniture no one uses to the clothes in the very back of the closet, there are many things in the home that could be removed from the move. One great thing about moves is they show you the importance of the items you have and allow you to do some spring cleaning so your new home doesn’t start out filled with useless clutter. When you find out you need to move then try to start going through your items and get rid of the stuff you don’t actually need or use. There is no reason to keep items that never get used or worn, so make a pile and start a yard sale or send them off for donation. You won’t believe how unburdened you feel after this entire process. On a positive note, all of the things you got rid of are items you won’t have to waste time packing up and will help keep your moving weight a lot lighter which will help save you more money.

4. Bubble Wrap
Sure, bubble wrap is one of the funnest aspects of moving, but it doesn’t mean you have to go out a spend a lot of money on the item. There are many ways to pack away your items without having to use bubble wrap. In fact, in order to save on some boxes you might consider packing your fragile items in with clothes. Packing your clothing and linens should always be the last items on your list because you’re going to want to stuff articles of clothing and sheets in with items that need a little extra support. For instance, any oddly shaped statues can be wrapped in a sheet or blanket and put into a box. Then, you can stuff clothing in the empty areas of the box to help provide support so that any accidental drops or too much pressure won’t destroy the sculpture. If you don’t want to use clothing to help support items then consider newspaper as an alternative. Usually, papers don’t cost a lot, especially if you grab the free or cheap editions, and will create a support barrier when crumpled up and places around an object.

5. Consider Pods
A lot of people always try to do things the traditional way which can really bring your budget to a screeching halt. Renting the big truck and not packing boxes full enough can leave you down a more expensive road. Of course, spending the same money you would moving a large household for a small household will also end up hurting you. If you are a one or two bedroom household then you might want to consider using Pods instead of the typical moving companies. When you order a Pod, the storage unit is delivered to your home for as long as you need it. You and your family will be able to load it up so you won’t lose any money on movers’ cost. When you’re ready the Pod company will pick the unit up and store at their warehouse or ship it to your new location. Pods can be particularly convenient because a lot of the time they will end up at your new home on the same day that you get the keys. This will allow you to unpack and get settled without the major cost or long wait times.

6. Know Your New Space
One of the easiest ways to save some money is to get to know your new place before you actually move into it. Sometimes, we choose a new place that might have a lot less space than the older space, which means it is time to get rid of some of the furniture you know you won’t be using. You should also always measure the doorways and hallways in a new home so you won’t have to deal furniture that you can’t get into the home in the first place. Sometimes we have to make blind moves and don’t actually get to see where we will be staying. This can be a real challenge when it comes to getting your items in the home. If this is the case don’t be afraid to call up your realtor or landlord and ask them for a copy of the blue prints. Some will even be nice enough to do the measurements for you. If you find items in the home you know won’t fit then sell them or donate them before the move. There is no reason to add on to the weight of your move, especially if the item is about to be rendered useless to you.

7. Post Office
Despite the new technological devices that allow us to keep books digitally, most home have a pretty large collection of books, comics and magazines. These items are pretty straight forward when it comes to packing, but one of the main issues is the amount of weight they add on to your move. So, if you’re trying to avoid a high weight move then you might want to take your reading items in to your local post office. You might think they shipping books could be pretty pricey, but the post office has a fantastic rate for these items when you tell them you want to ship it media mail. This rate will mean that your items are going to take a little bit longer to ship to your new home, but you shouldn’t miss them too much since you’ll be busy unpacking your other item. Sending your books through postage will also mean a whole lot less to load and unload onto the truck which could save your sanity if you’re burned out.

8. Know Your Value
Before you begin your move you should make sure you know the value of your items. Many people who hire movers end up having to deal with expensive items that have been damaged or lost. Instead of just letting your movers come in and start working make sure to point out which items have significant value, so they can either pack them away first or ensure they will be a safer area then items of little value to you. You might also want to consider getting insurance on the items just in case the moving company holds no liability over your things. If you aren’t hiring a moving company then it is still important to know your items value so you can make the necessary precautions to ensure the piece makes it without being harmed. Smaller items, such as jewelry or important items, should always go in the car with you. These items should be placed in a lock box in the trunk so you won’t have to worry about them disappearing during the move.

9. Disassembling
We all have a few of those signature pieces that took hours to put together. It might be painful to do, especially after all your hard labor to get it together, but you’re going to need to take these items apart. Items that can be disassembled are ideal for moves and you might find that families who change locations a lot will have a good amount of this furniture. This is largely because these items take up a lot less space then furniture that can’t be taken apart. With this furniture you can stack it up, put pieces in different areas and in general treat the pieces like a jig saw puzzle to suit your needs. You might want to consider labeling the each of the pieces of furniture as your remove it and keep all of your screws and small parts in a labeled ziplock bag.

10. Save Your Receipts
Moving can be pretty chaotic to begin with, but it is incredibly important that you actually save all of your receipts, including those for meals on the road. A lot of people have actually been able to receive tax credits for moving so bring your receipts in when you do your taxes. If you’re lucky you might get a small percentage back which could help you with items for your new home. Many people can actually get some of the moving money back from work, especially if they are being transferred. Saving receipts is also important when it comes to keeping track of your money though. A lot of the time we don’t have a chance to check on the bank so keeping totals from your receipt will help you know where you stand in regards to money.

Moving can really change the way you look at your life. It isn’t just the new home, but the concept of all of your stuff that helps you take a closer look at your lifestyle. With a move you end up losing a lot of things, while gaining many too, but that doesn’t mean you have to lose a lot of money. With these tips you should be on your way to a new life without having to deal with hidden cost or other financial moving burdens.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

With the beautiful summer weather preparing to go into hibernation you might find that your entertainment budget is about to make a pretty decent leap upwards. When it comes to entertainment most people don’t want to sacrifice their favorite pass times because of their budget. However, as time progresses entertainment becomes incredibly expensive and will leave you hurting for cash if you don’t know how to budget well. There are a few simple tips that you can use to make your budget meet your entertainment needs though. So don’t feel about that the easy days of summer entertainment are over, instead embrace your needs and try to find a way to keep entertained with these tips.

1. Sports
Although baseball season might be over there are still a whole lot of sports to keep you entertained throughout the cooler months. You might be wondering how sports can save you some money! Well, if you try to score tickets for a game earlier in the season you can grab a spot on the balcony for only $5 in many locations. This will give you ample leftover money to grab your favorite snack. Of course, if the major leagues are too hard to get into, or just not your thing then the minor leagues are always selling tickets to their exciting games. You could also join a league so you can enjoy spending time on the field while burning off the winter calories and having hours of fun with friends. Sports are also a great way to keep the kids entertained throughout this period of time. Most schools will run sports teams, but if they don’t try enrolling in a boys and girls club!

2. Movies
It doesn’t matter what the season is, movies are always a go to choice when it comes to entertainment. The only problem is most people don’t have $100 to spend on two people catching a movie and having a snack at the theater. So, if you plan on going out to watch a movie make sure you eat before hand. Usually afternoon movies are a whole lot cheaper than the more popular evening showings, so catch a matinee and save a few dollars per ticket. If you still don’t like the price of the theater then try to scout out a dollar movie theater. These places usually show movies that are about to come out on DVD, but they still make an awesome place to hang out and catch a great show on the big screen. You could always buy some popcorn for the home and check out a rental box for something that will appease the household. There is also the option of purchasing used DVDs or rummaging through the $5 bin at your favorite department store. Whatever means you choose you’ll be able to keep everyone happy while spending some time together.

3. Read
There’s nothing like snuggling up in bed with a nice book on a cold and rainy afternoon. Reading can be one of the cheapest entertainment sources for your home. If you are having problems with your budget then try cutting some of your expensive entertainment needs and plan a trip to the local library instead. This will allow you to get your children on the right track while catching up on some of your favorite literary adventures. Most libraries will even schedule special events for kids so you won’t have to worry about spending excess money on kids. If you like to own your own books then there are an abundance of cheap used books online and in thrift stores, so make sure to look around before you buy a new copy. To save more money you can download a kindle of edition of newly released books at a lower price than buying the tangible copy. Anyone interested in classic books might want to check out the numerous sited dedicated to offering free digital editions of these books to the public! If you want to make your hobby social then start up a reading club and invite people from the community.

4. Walk
Nothing clears the mind quite like a good walk, so grab a coat and get to walking. There are numerous places you can walk for absolutely no money at all. For example, you could start walking in your own neighborhood and then move on to parks or hiking trails to add a little interest to the task. You might even consider walking around the mall once a week to satisfy your need for window shopping. This will not only keep you occupied during your spare time but will also allow you to keep fit without having to pay for the massive gym membership. To make things more interesting for the kids you can always come up with scavenger hunts which will make them want to get out and walk as much as possible. You can even customize the task list based on what the weather looks like.

5. Community
Believe it or not, working for your community can be a whole lot of fun and can really cut down on your budget. For starters, helping out in the community means you’re one of the first people to find out about some of the most awesome events going on in your area. If you have a local university or community college then there will be a ton of events that most people won’t even know about. So, by spending time helping out you’ll get your family up front and center for plays, concerts and interesting workshops that everyone will love. You might also get to be a part of parades, fairs and other events that need a lot of planning. If you volunteer you might end up getting free admission to shows that need a few extra hands on deck. So, stop paying full price to go to places you’re not all that interested in and jump into your own local community for an awesome way to help and have fun all at once.

6. Music
For most people music is a way of life. Unfortunately, it is also a way to lose a lot of the entertainment budget. With new songs constantly being released it seems a lot of us might just live on our favorite digital music store. There are ways around spending a lot of money on the music we love though. To begin with there is internet radio. Recently many online radios have made an appearance on phones, tablets and laptops. These stations not only provide you with tons of stations from different genres, but also lets you listen to full albums and create your own playlist without purchasing a thing. Sure, some of these stations offer a premium service that is also at a low rate, but for most people the free edition is plenty enough music. You might also want to start skipping out on the high cost concerts. We’re all guilty of wanting to spend that $100 on a huge star, but there is equal or greater talent hanging out in local bars. Instead of opting for the big name, try spending a weekend night catching a local gig.

7. Discount Days
When it comes to budgeting your income you might want to look at your cities local schedule. A lot of areas have days in which many attractions will let in members of the local community for free or a discounted price. If you live in a city with museums, zoos and other cool things to see then check out the city’s website or bookmark the attractions to see if they are offering anything for free or a discounted price during the week. This is one of the best way to see your city and let your kids enjoy some awesome and educational attractions in the area. Sometimes, a lot of restaurants will do the same thing or will offer free dinners for children, so make sure you know when to journey out into the city!

8. Cut the Cable
Sure, we all love having the 900 channels of cable at our fingertips, but how often do we get a chance to actually enjoy it? Or, more importantly, how often are there shows on that we actually enjoy? It might seem strange to cut your cable, but once you save the hundreds of dollars each year you’ll see how well you can do without it. Besides, there are a lot of cool ways to watch shows now thanks to companies like Netflix and Hulu Plus. All you have to do is connect your T.V. to a video game console and you can enjoy your favorite blockbusters, television series or new original online series with the click of a button. You can also get these shows on your computer, phone or tablet so you’ll be set for entertainment whenever or wherever you’re bored. The best thing is these programs will cost you about $10 a month!

9. Join a Club
A lot of people have specific interests like swimming, rock climbing or knitting. It doesn’t matter what type of hobbies you have as the chances are you’ll be able to find a club to keep you busy. A lot of people begin their search for a club on the internet, but you could also check out communities buildings or ask around the neighborhood. If you can’t find the right club for you then start your own! You will be amazed as to how many people might share your interest that have also been looking for an outlet. The best thing about clubs is you usually only pay a membership or yearly fee and you’re set to go for various social events. You may even meet a group of friends that will help you find new interests while spending less money on expensive things you like to do.

10. Potluck Parties
We all love to have get togethers with our friends, but spending money on parties often can really drain the entertainment budget. Rather than inviting everyone over and feeding a lot of people frequently you might consider having parties that are potluck themed. People love sharing food with others so your parties might be even more fun than they were when you were footing the bill to everyone. So, instead of buying lots of food and drink you’ll have more money to spend on board games and other ways to entertain your guests. You might even try to plan out themed parties so your guest can bring various international, colored, textured and themed foods. This will make the party more like a puzzle which will entice people to show up boasting their addition to the party.

Keeping an entertainment budget can really transform your quality of life. We spend so much of our time cleaning and working that when it is time to have some fun we don’t want to worry about how much money we have to spend. With these simple tips you can have a bit more fun exploring your interests so you can learn new ways to keep yourself busy and happy without having to foot the big entertainment budget.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

More and more people are discovering the convenience of shopping online versus going to a store. With the cost of gas on the rise, you to factor in whether or not a shopping trip is worth the money spent on gas. If you’re limited on time, shopping online is a lot faster than roaming the aisles of a store and then standing in line to checkout. Of course if the store you’re in doesn’t have what you’re looking for then it means having to go to another store. Before you know it, you could be spending three or four hours shopping, while online you could be done under a half hour.

Yet, you do need to exercise caution while shopping online. Some items are better off being purchased at a store. These steps will help you know when to buy online and when to head to the store.

Making purchases online

Although you can purchase most anything online, you want to make safe and sensible purchases. The following items are ones that typically are cost-effective when purchased at an online store.

• Bulk items. What are some items that you typically stock up on? Toilet paper? Paper towels? Paper plates? Laundry detergent? Some websites, such as the dollar stores, offer reduced prices if you purchase items in bulk. If you wait until the site offers free shipping and handling, which many already do if you spend a certain amount, then it can be very cost effective to have bulk items delivered to your door.
• Drugstore items. Items that you use on an everyday basis, such as toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo or lotion, can easily be purchased at one of the drugstore sites. Often, once you start to regularly ordered from the same site, you’ll receive special deals or bonus bucks to be used towards future items.
• Games, books and toys. If you specifically know what you’re looking for, often you can get these items cheaper online than at a store. For example, near the holiday time, Toys-R-Us offers ridiculously low prices on a lot of their toys and games when ordering online. You’ll also discover that there are many items that can only be purchased online and not at the retail store. Barnes & Noble frequently has discounts on their books and gifts.
• Cut out the middle man. If you need a specific car part or a special size screw for a home renovation project, rather than going to a store and having someone order the part for you and charge you, there are reliable sites where you can chat with a customer representative either online or by phone, and they will help you order exactly what you need.
• Clothing, shoes, and accessories. Purchasing clothing, shoes and such online can be cost effective if you’re certain of the brand and size. If you’re ordering clothing from a new site, you won’t know if the items tend to run too big or too small until they arrive at your door and you can try them on. The unfortunate thing is, if the items don’t fit you’ll have to pay the shipping costs to return them.

Tips on purchasing items online

Sometimes you’re in a rush for an item and just need to quickly make a purchase. When possible, you should do a little prep work to ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible.

Here are some tips to consider when purchasing an item online.

• Get free shipping and handling. Many online stores offer free shipping and handling if you spend a given amount, or from time to time, they will offer free S&H regardless of the size of your order. If you’re a first time customer, the site might entice you with free shipping and handling.
• Check for coupons. Coupons are readily available and can easily reduce the cost of your items by 10% or more. If you Google, Yahoo or Bing a site you might find coupons. Coupons will also appear in Facebook. If you currently receive a catalog or flyers from the company, many of those coupons can be applied towards online purchases.
• Pay attention to warranty and guarantee information. Knowing the company’s policy regarding a product’s warranty and/or guarantee can make or break an online purchase. You want the assurance that if a product arrives to you damaged or it just doesn’t meet your expectations, that you can return the product. Find out if the company will only do an exchange or if they’ll give a refund. If you choose to purchase a “slightly used” item from a site such as eBay or Amazon, then chances are there won’t be a warranty or guarantee.
• Compare prices in advance. There are some good websites that will help you compare the prices of an item. You’ll also need to factor in whether or not you’ll need to pay for shipping and handling.
• Check the clearance racks. Just as you enjoy finding a great bargain at a store, online stores often have sales as well. You might just find what you’re looking for at a great price.
• Read over the descriptions carefully. There’s nothing more disappointing than opening up a package and discovering that an item is half the size that you pictured it to be. Take the time to read the descriptions so that you’re certain of what you’re ordering.

Making purchases at a store

When buying something that is big and bulky, it’s probably best to purchase the item at a store. For example, if you’re looking for a lawn mower, you could get it online. However, if something goes wrong, it might be harder to get it repaired locally than if it was purchased from a local store. If there is ever a need to return the item, then it’s going to cost big bucks.

When you’re looking for a special dress for a prom or a wedding, you’re going to want to look at the dresses close up and try a few on. This isn’t possible when shopping online. Also, any kind of clothing that needs alterations will be cheaper if the item is purchased from a store that’s connected to providing the alterations.

If you’re unsure of what you’re specifically looking for, then shopping at a store makes better sense than shopping online. For example, if you’re in the mood for a new kind of perfume, a candle or a room spray, you’ll want to be able to test sample the product before buying it. Once you find something you’re happy with, the next time you can order it online.

Some gift items should be purchased at a store rather than online. If you’re buying an item that might need to be returned, quite often it’s easier to return an item to a physical store than it is to an online store.

The choice is yours…

Whether to purchase items online or at a store, the choice ultimately is yours. Shopping online means you can shop any hour of the day or night, which isn’t true of most physical stores. If you prefer to use PayPal or a credit card, then online shopping will offer more choices than at a store. There are still some stores that will only take cash. On the other hand, some people love the thrill of going to several stores and finding great deals.

Author: John Terris

Every year we say we aren’t going to repeat the year before, but somehow we manage to get caught up in the sales and spend hundreds on a new wardrobe for each child in the home. Back to school clothes shopping doesn’t have to drain the kid’s college funds or put the family on a ramen diet for the next few months though. Actually, by the time the school year begins you should be able to get every child in your home a few pieces that will keep them looking trendy throughout the upcoming school year. If you can follow a few simple tips then this school year will bring your child some confidence and you a little piece of mind that doesn’t involve spending a grand on new clothing for the children.

1. Hand-Me Downs
Some kids might cringe at the idea of wearing hand me downs to school, but there are ways to make your child feel uncomfortable in clothes their family members have worn previously. Generally when you’re looking through the hand me down clothes you might want to choose items like jeans and jackets to pass down. Typically t-shirts can be outdated which will make your kid’s feel even more uncomfortable wearing the clothes. A good pair of jeans are typically one of the most expensive items on your back to school shopping list. The great thing about jeans is they don’t change too drastically in fashion, so you can easily have a younger child wear the pants without their classmates realizing they were worn before. Jackets typically don’t change a whole lot in fashion either, so when the weather gets a bit cool then pull out a jacket from storage, rather than going out and buying brand new items. Sometimes kids will want to go through the hand me downs themselves and find items that an older sibling had worn that they have been waiting to have for themselves. Either way, if you can find a few signature pieces these clothes can cut down your back to school bill by hundreds of dollars.

2. Wardrobe Check
For some reason many of us labor in the idea that the kids have absolutely nothing to wear at the beginning of each school year. This clearly isn’t the case, so don’t feel bad about taking inventory before you go shopping. The week prior to your big shopping day you might have each of your children go through the clothing in their closets and try everything on. If the items still look good and fit well they place them back in the closet. Everything else can be donated, sold in a garage sale or packed away for the next child to use later. You might be surprised as to how many clothes your child actually has in the closet once this task is completed. After the kids have done their part, with your supervision, it is time for you take inventory as to who has what clothes. If the kids all have a decent amount of jeans and shorts then simply buy them each one or two new items to freshen up their style.

3. Shop All Year
Instead of worrying about buying school clothes in one lump sum at the beginning of the year you might want to consider shopping throughout the year. Kids change a lot during one school year so the chances are they will outgrow a lot of the items you purchase before they get a lot of wear out them. So, when the new school year rolls around make sure the have a couple pairs of pants, shirts and a pair of shoes to wear and then call it quits. When your child heads back to school the need for clothes will be more apparent. Instead of buying items that your child refuses to wear because of friends, you can get items that the children will wear a lot. Shopping year round prevents your from having to have a huge budget to spend on clothing. If you wait and pick items up when you have the spare cash then the kids will have a full wardrobe and you’ll be able to keep your household’s budget in line.

4. Go Basic
A lot of shoppers tend to go a bit crazy when it comes to school sales. The best thing you can do is keep the basics in mind while you’re shopping. Kids need pants, shirts and shoes when school starts out and not a whole lot more. Many shoppers want to go crazy over socks, underwear, sweaters, jackets and even accessories instead of concentrating on items the kids really need. So, when you can go school shopping make sure you have a list that states who needs what. If you have a child who is lacking in t-shirts then you have to ensure you leave with a least three or four shirts, depending on how often you intend to do laundry during the week. Usually two pairs of good quality jeans per child will last for several months, so don’t forget this key item. You also have to make sure your child has a pair of gym shoes that fit comfortably as all kids will have to take place in an exercise program. Of course, you shouldn’t spend a lot of money on these items, especially for younger children, because kids outgrow shoes incredibly fast.

5. Shop Clearance
If you feel your early bird sense tingling then there is a pretty good reason. Generally before the big back to school sales many stores will begin to move last years fashion trends right into the clearance bin. If your alright with picking styles from last year then this is the time to swoop in and get your kids what they need for the new season. Most of the school clothes don’t vary too much from year to year so your kids won’t look out of place when they show up to school on the first day. If you’re lucky then you might also find items for the rest of the summer months in the clearance bin. Sometimes you might even find items a size or two larger than your kid’s current size which will make them look awesome next summer while ensuring you don’t have to summer shopping at the end of the school year.

6. Yard Sales
Finding the cash to purchase clothes for the upcoming year can be tough, especially after spending money on family vacations and entertaining the kids all summer. So, if you’re having a tough time finding the money then look no further then last year’s school clothes. Every kid’s closet has clothes in it that aren’t going to be worn again due to a change in trends or the clothes simply not fitting. Snag up these clothes and put them outdoors for a good old fashioned yard sale. If you really want the kids to learn responsibility then have them go through their own closet and choose the clothes they would like to sell. Then take the money they earn from the sale and let them pick the clothing items they’d like to wear in the upcoming year. This will allow them to pick their clothes while also realizing how much money goes into their wardrobe each year.

7. Customization
If your child’s clothes still fit, but aren’t as cool as they were a few months ago then you might want to look into customizing them! Every kid loves to have items that are completely unique to them, so don’t stress about adding a little TLC to your child’s look. Pants are some of the easiest items to customize when it comes to children. You might want to college any patches, buttons, jewels and paints you have around the home. Pants can be transformed by adding any of them items with your child, so they can fall in love with the clothes you once bought them. Many kids might also like character print outs, so grab some iron on sheets and iron on your child’s favorite superheroes, cartoons, or phrases. If pants have become too short then cut them off into shorts and hem up the bottoms so they still look good. Older shirts that have stains and tears can be cut up to create headbands, bracelets and clothing ties that will give your little girl a cute look without the price of accessories.

8. Secondhand Stores
If you’re in a pinch for money or just don’t see a point in spending a lot on certain items then you might want to look around at second hand stores. There’s a lot of great quality items that can be found in thrift stores as well as yard sales, do don’t be afraid to buy certain items for your children here. For instance, most thrift stores have a pretty good selection of jeans that are still in great shape. This is great for those ages in which kids seem to constantly be growing. You might also have an easy time finding vintage t-shirts for teen who want to stand out and don’t like items that are trendy. Of course, these shops are also perfect for finding the perfect jacket for the winter season.

9. Shoes
Shoes tends to be one item we want to spend a lot of money on, but when it comes to kids you want to think cheap when it comes to this purchase. Sure, expensive shoes look nice and they hold up well, but kids grow out of shoes faster than anything else so you don’t want to spend a lot on something they will be wearing a month or two. The best thing you can do is find a Buy One Get One Free sale so you can stock up the entire household on shoes while only paying half of the price. Most kids will only need one or two pairs of shoes, so make sure you pick items that are versatile and will work as gym shoes as well as play and leisure shoes. If your school requires a certain type of dress shoes then make sure to hold onto old pairs so your younger children can wear them in the upcoming school years.

10. Adjustments
You don’t have to box up your kids summer clothes and replace them with new ones. Instead shop with adjustments in mind. For instance, all of those spring and summer t-shirts can be transformed into awesome layer if you buy a neutral colored turtleneck, button up top or cardigan. This layered look is always fashionable and will keep your child warm as the weather begins to cool down. You can also take all of those cute sun dresses and pair them with a cardigan and pair of leggings for a finished look that will leave both parent and child feeling great about the fashion choices. When shopping look for key pieces that will tie items together so you won’t have to worry about buying all new clothes when you send the little one’s back to school.

School shopping doesn’t have to be the scary money spending event the stores make it out to be. Instead, enter the sales room with the knowledge of what you need and search for the best prices for your budget. With these tips you will be able to get in and out of stores before anyone can talk you into buying extra items that you know you don’t need. Your kids will even be the talk of their school’s fashion world thanks to your awesome shopping skills.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

We spend a lot of time on the road which can be pretty expensive when it comes to maintaining the parts of the vehicle. One of the major things affected by our road warrior nature is the wear and tear on our tires. When it comes to replacing these vital items you might freak out when it comes to the pricing. Tires are pretty expensive and you typically have to buy more than one at once, which makes shopping for the items something to dread. There are a several ways that buying new tires can save you money and ensure that your car is road worthy in the worst of conditions.

1. Wait for Sales
If you’re planning on doing a routine tire change then you might want to wait until there is a seasonal sale. Typically these sales happen at the end of every season, which is about every three months, and generally are based around the tires needed for the upcoming season. If you haven’t had a blow out then waiting for the sale prices might be your best bet if you’re looking to save some money. Of course, you don’t have to purchase the seasonal tires as they will probably still run at a higher price than the standard tires that work with most vehicles. There are also many blowout sales that can give you an amazing price for some of the best tires on the market. The key is not wait until the tires are too worn to use. You should always try to buy tires before you end up losing one on the road, because it is the random replacements that will end up costing you more.

2. Shop for Rebates
Tires are one of the best items when it comes to rebates. You can get a rebate pretty much any time during the year and they aren’t hard to find. Usually you can save anywhere from $60 to $200 on tires if you know how to look for rebates. So, before you go shopping you might want to call around and ask if they have any rebates going. Of course, you should always look online as well in order to find the most lucrative rebate available. It is important not to buy a tire just because of the rebate though. If you pick the wrong tire for your car then you will end up spending more money than you need to. Rebate shopping might mean you have to order tires online, so don’t rule this out as an option right away. Sometimes the rebate might even refund your shipping cost, so take your time when looking and you will certainly be rewarded.

3. Don’t Buy What You Don’t Need
A lot of tire salesmen will try to get you to buy items you don’t actually need. For instance, there are many tires that are designed to fit specific climates and they tend to cost a bit more than you’d expect. If you live in a mild climate then purchasing a tire designed for freezing temperatures isn’t exactly the wisest choice. So, before you go into the tire store you should have a pretty good idea of what you need and what you don’t need. If you tend to change out your tires more frequently then don’t be afraid to tell a salesperson exactly what you need and what you don’t need. People who change their tired frequently can opt for the lesser quality if they are looking to save money, but if you tend to stretch your tire usage as much as possible then make sure you opt for something that is going to last a long longer.

4. Warehouses
When you start looking around for tires one of the first places you should try is a warehouse. Even some of the memberships clubs will actually allow you to buy their tires if you are not a member. You, of course, won’t be given the same price tag as members but you will be able to save a bit more than you will at tire stores. Some warehouses don’t require a membership though, so make sure you do your research here first. Warehouses are also notorious for offering you four tires at a much lower price than you’d get buying the tires separately. If you don’t have a warehouse near you the try to find one on the internet that will ship to your location or to a mechanic shop near you.

5. Know Your Size
It is incredibly important to know the size of tire you need when you go into a shop. If you don’t know the size then you might end up getting a tire that is too large for your vehicle. This can cost you more at checkout due to the size, but there is a whole lot more you will have to worry about when you buy a tire that is too large. Oversized tires are harder on the vehicle and will show how poorly your car is running on the tires after the first fill up. When your tires don’t fit right on the car you won’t get as great of gas mileage as you would with a proper fitting tire. That being said, buying tires that are too small can also be a major problem for the car.

6. Buy Online
There are an abundance of online stores that will provide you with amazing quality products at a fraction of the price that you would pay in a shop. One reason for this is because you are often directly buying from a supplier so you don’t have to pay for another company trying to make a profit on the tire. You might think that buying online could be more expensive because you have to pay to ship the items to your home or a nearby shop. Usually, the cost of shipping, the tires and the price of a mechanic to put the tires on will actually save you up to $50. Of course, you still need to shop around and try to find rebates to help you save as much as you possibly can.

7. Try Used
One of the best ways to save money on tires is to consider buying used goods. A lot of the times people will get new tires when the old ones aren’t exactly worn out. This can be a huge benefit to anyone who is shopping a very tight budget. When you go into a shop you might want to talk to a sales person or mechanic about checking out the used tires. If you are feeling nervous about it then you can always thoroughly inspect the tires and have the mechanic look over them with you. Remember, if you aren’t certain about the tires you can always choose another set or go to another shop to check out what they have to offer. Typically if a store is selling them they should be good to drive on though. You might have a mechanic talk to you about how long the tires should work for you though.

8. Rotate Your Tires
A lot of wear and tear happens when you drive, so the best thing you can do is try to prevent your tires from wearing in certain areas. One way to do this is to rotate your tires. When you have this done a mechanic takes the tires and moves them each to a new area on the car. This will allow the tire to be worn in another area so you won’t lose your tires as quickly. You should get your tires rotated whenever you take your car in for an oil change. In fact, a lot of oil change packages have this included so you won’t have to worry about spending more money to have the job done.

9. Shop Around
You won’t do yourself any favors if you don’t shop around prior to purchasing your tires. There are a lot of places out there that will offer sales, but will still charge you too much for the items you choose. You should always have knowledge of how much an item should be when you go shopping for it. This means you’re going to have to do a whole lot of research both online and off. When you find the best price don’t settle for a number that is higher. Go for the lowest price possible whenever possible, especially if you can get all our tires in one deal.

10. Maintain Car
One of the easiest and most common ways to save money on tires it to do simple maintenance on your car. Everything from monitoring the brakes to checking the pressure in the tires can help cut down on how often you need to swap out your tires. One of the best things about the constant maintenance is you will know there is a problem before it can actually cause a problem with the car. Items stuck in tires can be fixed before the cause real damage, air can be added when needed and so much more. This can help prevent the possibility of a blow out when you’re on the road, so you will feel more at easy when it comes to driving in your car. These simple checks are especially important when it comes to longer trips, so practice safety measures before you go out on the highway.

Keeping your car road worthy can be pretty pricey, but you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune when it comes to purchasing tires. There are many shops and online companies that have amazing deals that can keep you on the road longer without forcing you to lose a lot of money. Now, when it is time to upgrade your car’s tires you can breathe easy and enjoy the idea of having a safer vehicle.

Author: John Terris

Whether you’re looking for a backpack for your child as he or she heads back to school or need a decent backpack for hiking, shopping online is the way to go. There’s no need to spend money on gas to travel to a store and then having to stand in line waiting to check out. With the following tips, you can find exactly what you’re looking for at the right price!

Decide what type of backpack is needed

A backpack for school doesn’t need to be as rugged as one for hiking and camping. Here are some things to consider when choosing a backpack.

• Backpack for school
For smaller children, you’ll want to purchase a backpack that is lightweight and that your child can easily put on and take off by himself. You also want to make sure that proportionally it fits the child. Too often little children struggle with backpacks that are intended for older children. Some kids prefer a backpack that can be toted like a suitcase on wheels. This makes it a lot easier to get a backpack on and off the bus and if your child has to walk a fair distance from one class to another, it takes the strain off his back.

Middle school and high school students will need semi-rugged backpacks. Often they will need to carry two or more textbooks which is a lot of weight. Students also prefer backpacks that have plenty of compartments or pockets to hold pens, calculators, a water bottle, etc. You especially want to look for a backpack that can easily be used over one shoulder or has a handle grip and can be carried like a tote. It’s also important that the straps are padded and adjustable.

Most school backpacks are made out of nylon, cloth or mesh. Some schools require that students only use clear backpacks. These backpacks are typically made out of sturdy clear PVC or breathable mesh. Although they may look cheap in design, clear backpacks are just as rugged as the other types.

• Backpack for the outdoors

Daypacks. Daypacks typically are used for hiking, biking, walking or other outdoor day activities in which you need to carry a few items with you. These backpacks are frameless (soft-backed) and are designed to carry 10 to 15 pounds. Daypacks are designed to be worn on the back. In addition to the shoulder straps, the backpack might have a hip belt to keep the backpack from bouncing as the person moves.

Internal frame backpacks. Internal frame backpacks are used when there is a need to carry 15 pounds or more. The frame, made of aluminum, plastic frame sheets or curved Delrin rods, is located inside of the backpack. The backpack is designed so that the weight is being carried on the hip area rather than the back. Internal frame backpacks work well for climbing and skiing.

External frame backpacks. For people who love to do trail walking, the external frame backpack might be the best option if you need to carry a heavy load. With this type of backpack, the load is carried farther away from the back, causing less strain. The person is able to walk more upright and it allows airflow between the backpack and the person’s back.

Where to look online

When it comes to choosing a backpack for school, the sky’s the limit! Little kids tend to want ones with their favorite character, while older kids will go for bold colors, plaid, camouflage, etc. Check online retail stores such as Target, Walmart, JC Penney or Sears for a wide selection of backpacks. Several online clothing stores also carries backpacks. Be sure to read the product descriptions so that you select a backpack that will fit your child or teen. Usually there will be a few photos of the backpack so that you have a good idea of what it looks like inside and out.

Although outdoor backpacks can be found in online retail stores, you will also want to check out sites that cater towards outdoor activities, such as Sports Authority, North Face and Outdoor Products. Some of these sites offer Live Chat where you can let a customer service know what type of outdoor activity you need the backpack for and they will assist you in finding one that will meet your needs.

It’s also worthwhile to check out sites such as eBay and Amazon. Quite often you can find new, or almost new, backpacks for a fraction of the cost. Be sure to read the product descriptions and to ask questions before placing a bid on eBay.

Money saving tips

As you’ll discover, the cost of backpacks greatly varies. If you have a child who tends to misplace his backpack and you end up buying two or three backpacks each year, you probably want to purchase backpacks that aren’t too expensive. If your child is expected to make it through a year or two using the same backpack, then you want to invest in a backpack that is durable and big enough to hold the necessary school items. The same holds true when shopping for an outdoor backpack. A good outdoor backpack should last a few years. In the long run, it is better to invest in a high quality backpack, than having to replace it every one or two years.

Here are some tips on how to save money while shopping for a backpack online:

• Look for sales. For school backpacks, many sites will offer “back to school” deals where backpacks will be deeply discounted. A couple of months prior to warm weather, sites will offer good deals on outdoor backpacks.
• Wait for free shipping and handling. Most store sites offer free shipping and handling at least once every two or three months. This will greatly reduce the overall cost of the backpack.
• Look for coupons. If you’re ordering from a site for the first time, you can sometimes get a coupon for 10% or 20% off on one item. Do a search for the store, such as Google, and see if a coupon is available. If you’re a Facebook user, you might discover that there are ads for backpacks. Once you start a search, Facebook pops up ads for those items. Often there are coupons with these ads.
• Make sure there is a guarantee. Wherever you choose to purchase your backpack, make sure it comes with a guarantee. Chances are you’ll be very pleased with the backpack, but if for some reason there is something wrong with it, you want the assurance that you can send it back.
• Compare sites. Take the time to check out the prices at a few different sites. Be sure to factor in whether or not there are any discounts or if you have to pay shipping and handling. There are sites such as Google Shopping, that will make comparisons for you. However, you may come across a great deal that isn’t on their list.
• Place the item in your shopping cart. Sometimes, if you find the item that you’re looking for and leave it in the shopping cart for a few days, you’ll receive a notice that you have items in the shopping cart. You’ll need to start the checkout process so that the online store has your email. When you receive the notice, they might offer a special discount if you choose to purchase the item.
  • Check the clearance sales. Many online stores have a clearance section. If they only have a few backpacks left from a particular line, they’ll sell the backpacks under the clearance section. Also, once school starts up or winter kicks in, you might find backpacks on clearance.

Lastly, if purchasing a backpack is a new experience for you, you might want to actually go to a store that carries a good line of backpacks and try a few out. Once you find a backpack that fits you well and has the compartments and such that you’re looking for, write down the information. Snap a picture of the backpack with your phone. Then shop online for the best deal for that particular model.

Happy backpacking!

Every summer panic sets in as the school supplies make their way out onto the main floor of your favorite department store. Pretty soon the school supply list will follow and your budget will have to be altered to get your children the items they need to succeed in another school year. Buying school supplies doesn’t have to be the panic it is made out to be. In fact, it can be an entirely relaxing experience that teaches you and your children the value of saving. With a few simple tricks you can have your kid’s off to another year of school while you enjoy the savings on the products that will make everyone happy. Now, when you see the items in the store you sigh with relief that school will soon be starting up again.

1. Look at Home
Our homes tend to accumulate a lot of items that we often forget we have. This can be a major money saving factor when it comes to prepping for school supplies at the beginning of the year. Every year on the last day of school students come home with all of their course work, books and unused supplies. Instead of putting these items in the recycle bin you can always pack them away for the upcoming year. When you finally get your school list then check what you already have before you go out and buy all new items. Usually, kids end up with an unused notebook, pens and pencils with little wear and tear, as well as a backpack in decent shape. This alone could save you hundreds when the stock up time occurs. You might also be able to find crayons or other goods that you would have in the home anyway, such as Kleenex. The more you find around the home the more you will save so don’t feel bad about looking the house over thoroughly before opting to spend more money.

2. Discount Stores
When it comes to shopping for school supplies you don’t have to think expensive. Instead, try to go to your local dollar store, or any discount market, to find what you need. Usually these stores will carry the basics for mere cents in comparison to some of the big name stores. If you’re worried about buying cheaper supplies for your children then try to put that behind you. Typically a classroom takes the supplies everyone brings and divides them between the students. If your child does end up needing more supplies later on then it might be cheaper to replenish their supplies over the winter break. For now, purchasing for every child in the household can be an overburden, so shop as low as possible in order to stretch your money further.

3. Shop Around
School shopping can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to finding the best possible deals. There will be an abundance of stores to choose your supplies from, so it is incredibly important to shop around first. Luckily, most of the time you don’t actually have to go store to store to shop around which is a huge save on gasoline and time. When you get a chance try to check out your local paper to see who is having sales on what. If there’s stores that appear not to have a sales ad up then take to the internet. You might end up going to a couple stores in person, but you shouldn’t have to spend hours looking for sales. When you know the place you want to shop make sure you get the deal they advertised. Of course, you might end up going to more than one store to find what you need so making a list of the places you want to shop and what you want to get there might be useful.

4. Buy in Bulk
If you have more than one child to supply then it might be wise to buy in bulk. No, this doesn’t mean to buy the biggest crayon box in the store, so please don’t do that. Buying school supplies in bulk usually pertains to other supplies. For instance, you might find a five pack of folders or notebooks that is a better price than buying them separately. You might also find a larger pack of pens and pencils, so go ahead and grab this type of item. When you open the pack you can divide it between the children so that everyone has what they need. Sometimes you might end up with extras which will help you out when someone looses something later on in the year. Paper is another great thing to buy in bulk because you will constantly need to buy that for the kids. With a little bulk shopping you can get everyone prepped for school in no time though.

5. No Extras
There’s a pretty good change that your children are going to want a whole lot of extras when it comes to their school supplies. From characters on folders and backpacks to glitter pens and keychains, there extras can end up costing you hundreds more than you’d like. Extras can be a nice way for children to express themselves, but a lot of the time items such as pencils, crayons, paper and folder are collected and used by all of the student’s classmates. Thus, there is no reason to spend a small fortune on something your child isn’t even going to be able to use. If the child still insist on buying the Spiderman folder or Barbie notebook then offer to pay the price of a regular notebook and have the child make up the different with his or her own allowance. This will teach the child responsibility as well as keep your budget happier.

6. Customize at Home
A lot of kids want to customize their school supplies so they can show off their personality. This is okay, but try to wait until the day after school begins. At this point you will already know if your students is going to be keeping the supplies you bought and if the teacher will allow custom items in the classroom. If both answers are a yes then don’t be afraid to pull out the household’s craft supplies and get to work. One easy way to give your children a custom look is to put their name in glitter on folders and other items. Of course, boys might not be interested in this, so you might want to brush up on cartoon lettering to give your boys a unique look. Stickers are also a great way for kids to show their personality without forcing you to buy the expensive character folders. Whatever you choose to do, try to make sure the household does it as a family so your children will feel like you’re a part of their school life.

7. School Sales
Sometimes waiting is your best bet when it comes to saving money. A lot of stores will actually have huge sales to get people to come in and choose their school supplies. It is usually safe to wait for these sales because all of the stores in town will be competing with one another to get your business. You will find that a lot of these stores will even match the price of the other, so if you do end up over spending on an item make sure to take it in for a price match. Some states will even host a tax free weekend on school items, which generally takes place right before school begins. If you’re not sure if your state does this then you can look online or call and ask local businesses if they take part in the tax free weekend. It might be a bit crazier to shop during these times so you might consider leaving the kids at home while you pick up their supplies.

8. Don’t Buy Everything at Once
Just because you have the long list of school supplies in your hand doesn’t mean you have to get everything at once. In fact, if you want then just buy your child the basics and then wait until school starts. This will allow you to get acquainted with the teacher so you can find out everything your child is actually going to need as well as the time frame they will need it in. If you start shopping a bit earlier you can buy a few items each payday so that you don’t end up spending a lot of the household’s budget on items for school. Timing can be everything when it comes to school supplies so don’t be afraid to sit back and wait. You might also keep a list of items that are and aren’t on sale and shop using the list. Typically backpacks should always be purchased while on sale or else you will end up losing more money on school supplies. Shopping for these items doesn’t have to be a rushed quest, instead you should take your time and buy items when you can.

9. Backpacks
Backpacks are going to take up the majority of the school supply budget, which is why you should shop carefully with this item. It might seem the best option to go out and purchase a cheap bag just to save a bit of money, but this can be a bad money saving decision right away. For children who are still in grammar school it is safe to buy the smaller and cheaper bags because they won’t have to carry a lot of weight to and from school. When your children are at the junior high, high school and college levels then cheap bags are no longer an option. Sure, some of the better bags on the market are pretty expensive which can be intimidating, but when you weigh your options you don’t want to have to keep spending money on bags that will last a couple of weeks when you can just purchase a bag that might last the rest of your child’s educational career. With a backpack expense out of the way your school supply budget will be cut in half every year thereafter.

10. Stock Up
One of the easiest ways to save money on supplies is to keep stocked up. You might have to set aside an area in your home office for your supplies, but it will be worth it at the end of the year. For instance, a lot of the time you can find notebooks for $.15 when you can shopping for supplies. If you buy 10 of these then you’re still not spending a lot of money and you will have backup notebooks for when the price hikes back up to a $1 a piece. Paper is also another great thing to stock up on, especially when you have kids in high school and college. Typically paper is cheap all year long, but a lot of the time it will be ridiculously low at the end of the school year. If you can find deals on items throughout the year then buying school supplies at the beginning of the school year won’t have to be an issue. You might even find that you get to sit back and relax while the masses do their school shopping in a rush.

You don’t have to break out into a sweat just because the school supplies have debuted in your local department store. With these tips you will easily be able to approach school shopping with a zen like grace which can really make this time of the year fun. Your children will be set and on their way with your budget still looking amazing. Now, all you have to worry about is the teacher your child is assigned to this year!

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Waking up in the morning could be rather tough without that surge of caffeine that we get from a cup of coffee. Many people around the world take pleasure in coffee throughout the day, but paying for this delicious treat can really have you hurting for money. When it comes to coffee a lot of people are okay with budgeting around the high prices so they can have a little treat. The great thing about coffee is you can make it incredibly cheap with a little know how. No longer will you have to wait in lines to purchase a cup of coffee that shouldn’t cost you any more than a dollar. With these simple tips you’ll be able to enjoy as much coffee as you want throughout the day, without having to pay what you are now.

1. Don’t Get Fancy
For some reason coffee has become an incredibly complex beverage over the last decade. Everyone wants to purchase the newest technology in coffee makers and people take pride in owning machines that are overly complex for any household. If you really want to save money step back and breathe before you buy a coffee maker. One of the best things you can do before purchasing is look at the drinking habits of the household. If you’re the only person who drinks coffee and you generally have about one cup a day then the new k-cup machines might be a good match, but you don’t have to buy the over sized and more expensive editions. You might also want to look into getting a filter too as k-cups can get a bit pricey. Of course, if you live in a household that drinks a lot of coffee then a simple brewing system might be your best bet. You can also look into one that has an area that will pour right into your travel mug. Once you’ve evaluated your needs try to choose the machine that is simple as this will be the cheapest bet. Remember, even a french press brews a great cup of coffee and you don’t even have to hook it up to a plug!

2. Grind Your Own Beans
When you go to purchase coffee you have a whole lot of options. One of your cheapest options is to buy coffee beans that haven’t been ground yet. You can purchase these beans in all sorts of flavors so you won’t be missing out on anything by purchasing coffee this way. Coffee grinders aren’t expensive either and if you already have a food processor then you’re pretty much ready to go. The reason why coffee beans are a better buy is because they come in larger packages for around the same price as a standard bag of ground coffee. The coffee beans also allow you to grind what you need for a week so you won’t have to deal with stale coffee. If you’re really into a fresh cup then grind the coffee each day! You’ll love how bold your coffee taste and will love how little shopping you have to do for coffee.

3. Buy Generic
If grinding your own coffee isn’t something you’re into then try shopping for a generic brand. One of the best ways to avoid paying too much for coffee is to browse the lower section of the coffee aisle. Generally, the more popular name brand coffees tend to be placed at eye level so people will grab them and carry on with shopping. There are a good number of brands that aren’t popular but still taste incredible. Sometimes, these brands have a more authentic and fresher taste then the big names. When you start out buying a different brand try choosing the smallest package available just in case you end up not caring for the brand. When you find one you like then try to aim buying a bulkier package so you save even more.

4. Make Your Own Creamer
Creamers are a major part of coffee today. They have flavored ranging from the classics to some of your favorite candy bar treats, which makes it even harder to say no to purchasing more. When it comes to creamer you can actually make the good stuff in your own home. Most creamers follow the same basic recipe which is generally milk and sweetened condensed milk, which most people already have in their own. There are a whole lot of recipes for homemade creamer on the internet, so let your sweet tooth guide you to what you’d like to try first. Most of the creamers will only take a few simple ingredients so make sure you have what you need when you go shopping next. You can even recycle your old creamer bottle for your new home made delight. You might even look for recipes that involve less sugar if you’re on a diet. Home made creamer will not only save you money, but it will be a healthier alternative to the store bought stuff.

5. Frothing
Frothing can go a long way when it comes to a cup of coffee and many people are willing to pay a whole lot of money for this technique. The thing is a frother only cost you around $2 and is simple to do at home. So, if you’re a huge fan of lattes and cappuccinos put your wallet away and look into buying yourself a frother to save money. This process is simply whipping regular milk or creamer so you don’t need to buy anything special to have a great cup of coffee in front of you. You might even find that your friends are coming over a lot more to get your expensive tasting coffee instead of heading to the local overpriced coffee shop.

6. Join a Coffee Club
Coffee is a major social thing in many countries, so there is already a whole lot of coffee clubs looking for members. If you really want to save money on more expensive brands of coffee then this is the way to go. You can search online for a clubs that suits your needs so don’t be afraid to look around and ask questions if you want. A good number of coffee clubs will actually send you free samples of some of their coffee, so you can enjoy several different types of coffee without paying a penny. If you do enjoy a certain type you can always buy if from the club and will usually get a pretty decent discount. Of course, some coffee clubs might only send you coupons on sale information, but every little bit help. One of the best features is being able to meet people who share your love of coffee and getting recommendations from them on what you should try out next.

7. Flavored Coffee
Coffee with a little extra flavor is pretty popular these day. You shouldn’t have to pay extra for something that is simple to do at home though. If you can’t get enough of flavoring in your coffee then stick to buy plain coffee. When you’re in the mood for a little extra flavor then you can take a variety of spices and put them into the coffee ground when you brew. All spice is one of the most popular items to put into coffee as it will give you the ever popular pumpkin spice coffee that everyone loves in the autumn months. You can even add a little spice to your froth to make the taste extremely bold. If you love the taste of fruit in your coffee then stock up on dried fruits. This can be expensive so if you have a dehydrator then you can easily do this for yourself. When you brew the coffee add the fruit to the grounds, or if you’re using coffee beans then grind the fruit in with the beans and you’re ready to brew a delicious cup.

8. Buy in Bulk
If you’re a coffee lover then you might want to add coffee to your bulk buy list as this alone can save you a whole lot of money. Usually bulk buy stores will have larger coffee canisters so you can get a whole lot of coffee for your money. Generally, when you buy like this you can easily several months worth of coffee for the price of one month. The same can be said when it comes to coffee beans in the bulk stores. If you really want great coffee beans then try looking at your local farmer’s market. They often have a wide selection and you can buy a whole lot of beans at once. You might think buying coffee in bulk is a bad idea because it will go stale. If you don’t take extra precautions then it will, but there are a lot of trips that will keep your coffee fresh for longer periods of time. You can always stick the coffee in the freezer in order to keep it tasting fresh for a long time. You can also vacuum seal some of the grounds or beans so they have even more protection from the test of time. After you begin buying bulk having coffee in the home will become such a convenience that you won’t think twice about it next time you stock up.

9. Don’t Throw Coffee Out
One major way we lose money on our coffee is by throwing it out. Sometimes we will brew a pot and not have time to finish it or find we just aren’t in a coffee mood anymore. Don’t just throw out this old coffee though! Instead take the pot and put it in the refrigerator, or simple put the coffee into something else and place it in the refrigerator. When you get ready to brew a pot the following morning add what you didn’t finish off the day before so it doesn’t go to waste. A lot of people believe their coffee will taste stale when they do this. When you add a freshly brewed pot onto the older coffee it will taste just like the freshly brewed pot. Now, you will have a bit extra to make up for your caffeine loss the day before. You could also take the coffee from the refrigerator and turn it into a delicious cup of ice coffee to cool you down on a hot day. This is especially great for a mid work day treat so you can get a little extra boost and still find satisfaction with the day.

10. Gas Stations
Sometimes we just don’t have time to brew a cup at home, or we’re out and about when the coffee urge strikes. If this is the case then you should try to avoid the expensive coffee and doughnut shops as much as you can. Instead, head to your nearest gas station or convenient store to fill up on your caffeine needs. Gas stations have known people need coffee, especially when they’re on the road, for decades. This is one of the reasons why they have such an amazing selection of coffee that even rivals your local coffee shop. Usually you can grab a cup of coffee and load it up with milks, sugars, creamers and anything else you can think of for no extra cost. Most gas station will even have ice coffee ready for the pour or a cappuccino machine.

You don’t have to skip out on your coffee just because the prices at the shop are a bit too much. With these tricks you can get the most coffee for your money so you won’t ever have to experience a caffeine crash again. Now, you won’t ever have to settle for a mediocre cup of coffee because you’ll have all of the tools to make the most out of your daily treat.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Furniture is one of the major purchases people have to make for their homes. When it comes to furniture you can either get what you want for a great price or you’ll end up spending money on something you won’t want for a long period of time. There are a few tricks that can help you stretch your budget a lot further than you could have ever imagined. If you keep an open mind you can get an amazing set of furniture that you might want to keep and pass down from generation to generation, which will only further the savings. Now, when it comes to buying a new sofa you’ll never have to stress out about the budget again.

1. Always Shop Second Hand
Buying furniture doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a lot of money for brand new furniture. If you really want to get the most for your money then you should look into second hand shops before you ever enter a new furniture store. There are many second hand stores around that range from thrift stores to stores that actually major in selling used furniture. If you don’t have luck in these areas then you can always try yard sales or online sites like Craigslist. You might even look into your local listing and find an auction to try to get a good deal on a set of furniture. Sometimes people will give away furniture that is barely used, or you might find something vintage that will get you an amazing look. When you do find something you like you might want to closely inspect it, especially if you found it on Craigslist. Sometimes people will give away items that are infested with bedbugs or other pest, so by inspecting the items you will prevent the pest from entering your home which could end up saving you thousands of dollars, especially if your home insurance doesn’t cover infestations.

2. Heirlooms
Family heirlooms can be one of your biggest helpers when it comes to paying less for furniture. If you have a piece that was built by your family or as simply been passed down then make to hang onto it. The same can be said for an item you don’t have. Perhaps if you have a relative that has the piece in storage and you could use then you might want to keep asking about the item. Perhaps, one day they just might give it to you. A lot of people end up giving away various heir looms because they believe they don’t need them in the home or might not ever have a place for them. Life changes quickly though so make sure you hold on to items that have been a part of your family’s life. You never know when you’re going to need a show piece or something old to make a statement. If you don’t have room then move the piece into storage until you can find a safe place for it. Family heirlooms are always nice for a conversation piece and to hand down to the next generation when the time comes.

3. Build Your Own
If you’re skilled with woodworking then you can always look into building your own set of furniture. This not only ends up cheaper, but gives you a sense of pride in your work which will make your home have a welcoming atmosphere. When it comes to buying wood you can buy some of the most expensive types and still end up saving a whole lot of money on the furniture. If you haven’t built your own furniture before you might want to start out with a small end table or a dining room table. These designs are usually fairly easy to follow so you can get a hang of the look and technique you want to work with. Sometimes you can even find a place to rent tools for very cheap which will allow you to have total creative freedom. If you like making furniture you might even find it to be a lucritive hobby if you can find the right type of buyers.

4. Outlet Stores
If you don’t want to be anything but new furniture then you might want shop at an outlet store before going to a specialized furniture shop. Outlet stores tend to get furniture that is mass produced or another store incorrectly ordered it. This means that you can get a great set of furniture for a lot lower than you’d pay otherwise. You might also find furniture that has mild flaws that aren’t even noticeable at an extremely low price might feel like a steal. If you don’t have an outlet store near you then you might want to try a bulk store. Sometimes, bulk stores will have some of these items for an incredible price.

5. Browse Online
Shopping online can be one of the best ways to save money on furniture. You don’t have to order from the internet if you don’t find a better deal but you can always browse a lot of different sites to find the best price. One of the best things about browsing online is you get to check out the furniture so you can get an idea of what you like. This is especially good when you go into the store so you won’t feel pressured by a salesmen to get something you don’t want. Usually when you shop online you will know exactly how much you’re going to pay for your furniture item, so you don’t end up paying excess fees. Sometimes you might even be able to order the furniture you want and have it shipped to the store nearest you so you don’t have to take something less than you want.

6. Buy Floor Sample
If you’re looking to spend a little bit less on your furniture then don’t be afraid to buy the floor model. Typically furniture stores will give you a discount on anything that is sold off of the floor because the item has already been lightly used. If the sales person won’t allow you to do this because there is another model in the back then ask to be put on a call list so they can call you when they are willing to sale the item. Depending on the damage the furniture has you should get around 10% off of the sales price, which is enough to make a difference for anyone that is on a tight budget. If you want to be eclectic you can choose a bunch of different chairs from the floor so you can have an awesome look that will cost you a whole lot of money.

7. Fix Up Old Furniture
Just because your furniture is looking drab doesn’t mean you have to get rid of it or replace it. Instead try to fix up the furniture so it will match your home and look like a brand new piece you will want to show off. If your furniture is covered in scratches and scuffs then take a walnut and rub it against these areas. The walnut will actually get rid of these problems so your furniture can have a fresh look that will only cost you a dollar or two. Of course, if you’re looking to switch things up then you might want to add a nice stain to your wooden furniture to give it a look that will highlight your keen taste. Some items like chairs or the sofa can easily be reupholstered to make the item look great again. If you’re looking for a more minimalist look then cut down your table or beds so they rest a bit closer to the ground. With a little bit of TLC to your current furniture you won’t have to break out a lot of money to improve the way your home looks.

8. Plan Your Shopping
Planning can be one of your biggest favors when you go shopping for furniture. A lot of the time if you end up shopping early in the season or the month you’ll have a hard time negotiating with the sales person because he or she will still have time to meet quotas even if they don’t get a sale from you. When you shop towards the end of the selling season or month then you will have an easier time negotiating for a price has the salesperson is more than likely going to want to get the sale to finish off the sales quota. You might find that you have a bit more control over what you buy during this period so you if you can try to wait before you go shopping. You could also go shopping multiple times during the season, but wait until the end before you make your buy.

9. Skip Delivery
Delivery fees can run you a whole lot money if you aren’t careful so try to avoid them if you can. If you have your own truck or know someone who does then it might be best if you move the furniture yourself. If you’re certain you are going to purchase something then bring the truck along so you can take your items right away. This is definitely one of the perks since often enough you will end up waiting days to get your furniture. Sometimes, they can’t deliver your goods until late at night which just becomes a huge inconvenience before it is all said and done. You also don’t want to have to deal with mover scuffing up your items or damaging you home’s space. If you transport the items yourself you know exactly what you’re getting and won’t have to deal with any third parties when it comes to your items.

10. Disassembled Furniture
When you buy items that aren’t yet assembled you get a slight discount because it means the company had to do less work on your items. It also takes up a lot less space in the delivery truck if you choose to have your items delivered. Disassembled items might require a few tools if you’re plan on putting them together on your own so keep this in mind before you order the item. Generally these items come in thinner boxes which make them perfect for anyone who is planning on moving before putting the furniture together. This can be one of the best ways to save money on moving and furnishing the home alike so make sure you ask if you can purchase it still in the box when you purchase your goods.

Furniture is a major part of your household so don’t stress out over how much money it cost. There are many different ways to avoid huge prices when furniture is involved so don’t panic right away. If you take a step back and do a lot of window shopping before you settle on a purchase then you will find you save a whole lot more than you would have expected when you originally began shopping. These tricks will have you excited for you new purchases instead of forcing you onto a ramen diet.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Everyone loves having a great pair of shoes that they can show off with their wardrobe, but let’s face it we can’t just stop at one pair. Shoes take up a major portion of our clothing budget which is why so many people feel they have a problem with their shoe addiction. If you know how to work the market then your shoe problem can be an asset rather than something you have to keep in check. Now, you can indulge in a new pair of shoes more often than you would think because your budget with flourish with these awesome shopping tips. So, don’t be afraid to let your taste for shoes run wild!

1. Know Your Colors
A lot of the time people run into a shoe that is a wild color that just can’t be resisted. This is one of the times that you should stand back and show a little control over your shoe addiction. When shopping, especially if it is spontaneous, step back and think about the clothing in your wardrobe. If you can’t think of five outfits that the pair of shoes match then it probably isn’t a great idea if you purchase the shoes. You want to find shoes that will match items in your wardrobe so you can add to your current look without forcing you to have to buy more clothes to supplement your latest purchase. The more the shoes add to your wardrobe the better the buy, so know the clothing you have and don’t just buy an item because you like its color!

2. Neutrals
If you plan on making a major purchase then choose a shoe that is in a neutral color. Neutral colors are easy to match with any color and wardrobe so you can afford to purchase more in the neutral range. Generally you should find work shoes that are in a neutral color because it will make you look professional and presentable for any occasion. When you look for a neutral color keep in mind the comfort level of your working day so you can shop accordingly. Chances are you aren’t going to want to shop for a pair of heels if you spend a lot of time walking or on your feet during the day. A nice pair of loafers is also great for anyone who wants to transform from their business attire to more comfortable casual clothing.

3. Cheap Isn’t Always Best
A lot of times people fall into the trap of buying cheap shoes because they think they are saving money by doing so. Cheap shoes can be great if you don’t plan on wearing them often, but if you’re looking for something to wear everyday then cheap shoes are your worst bet. When you’re looking for shoes for work or as your go to pair of shoes then you want to buy something that is going to take a little wear and tear. A good pair of shoes for specific occasions is your best bet so when you go to pick shoes that you’re going to wear a lot then try to find something that can be patched up. Usually getting your shoes resoled or fixed doesn’t cost a whole lot and will ensure that your nicer and more expensive shoes will last a whole lot longer. The less often you have to buy shoes the more you will end up saving on them.

4. Don’t Impulse Buy
Avoiding impulse buys can be one of the toughest aspects of controlling your shoe problem. This is where most people get into the most trouble when buying shoes. Typically an impulse buy ends up being something you don’t need and will generally lead to buyer’s remorse. If you have extra money for shoes then try to shop ahead before you go out. This might help prevent you from buying something you don’t really need. Of course, that pair of heels you just happened to walk past on the way to work might be too much to pass up. If this is the case then have a little back up with it. For instance, you could take a picture of your wardrobe so you can see if the heels would even be an asset to you. If not, then walk away and save the extra money for a pair that might actually do your wardrobe a huge favor. You might also have a shopping buddy come with you when you do go to the mall so they can help you make reasonable purchases.

5. Seasonal Shopping
You can save a whole lot money on shoes if you know when to shop for them. Generally you should do all your shopping at the beginning of a new season. This will allow you to buy shoes for next year at an incredibly discounted price. For example, if you’re gearing up for next summers attire then wait until autumn to get your choice of a variety of different shoes for less. Typically shopping when the season is over will help you get a lot of your major shoe needs at a clearance price. If you’re okay with wearing last year’s fashions then you can easily have your wardrobe taken care of before summer time weather leaves you feel unbearable in your spring clothing. You might want to skip out on buying shoes for the kids, unless you shop a couple sizes larger, since their feet change so much throughout the seasons.

6. Kids
It is a whole lot harder to save money on kid’s shoes so the key to shoe shopping is to keep things at a minimum. Children are constantly growing, especially when it comes to their feet so try to stick to cheaper shoes that the child isn’t going to grow tired of in a period of time. For instance, a lot of children want to have a pair of shoes with the latest characters on them which can be costly if you keep letting them have a new pair of shoes every time their interests change. You should try to stick with solid colors or designs that won’t be part of the passing craze. If you can try to get your kids a pair of shoes they can use all of the time. Typically this will mean buying tennis shoes as kids like to run around and play as often as they can. If your child needs a special set of shoes for school then try to hold on to the shoes so your next child can wear the specific shoes without forcing you to spend more money on them.

7. Second Hand
Second hand shoes can be one of the easiest ways to help you save money. There’s a lot of cute shoes looking for a new home so make sure you browse thru your local thrift stores for something that might suit your unique look. Typically these shoes will only cost you a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere so keep an eye out. You might want to ask friends about their old shoes too. A lot of the time we end up with items in our closet that we don’t actually wear. This can be a great way to bond with your friends and start up your own trading group. You never know what kind of awesome shoes you’ll end up with so remember that asking won’t hurt you. You should also hang on to shoes your kids burn through. Second hand shoes will save you hundreds if you can hang on to them. Don’t be ashamed to take the hand me downs from others as well and make sure to return the favor when you can!

8. Insertable Soles
If your shoes are giving you problems then you might want to consider buying some insertable soles to help bring you comfort wherever you go. A lot of the time when we feel we need a new pair of shoes it is because our previous shoes are actually uncomfortable. With a set of your own inserts you can actually renew the life of your shoes and feel comfortable in the items you already own. The best thing about inserts today is you can buy a set that is designed specifically for your feet and problem areas. Thus, a pair of inserts can take away back pain or relieve tension from areas of your body that you have had problems with for some time.

9. Customize
Sometimes we feel the need to buy a new pair of shoes because we are bored with the shoes we have. When this occurs you can always add a little customization to any pair of shoes. If you’re bores with the color then there are various different types of fabric or leather paints that can spark a new look so you can feel as if you have a new look without paying a whole lot for it. You can also do a lot of good with jewels, buttons, zippers and other accessory items that can be places on a pair of shoes to make it look better. Occasionally, just switching out your shoe laces can actually help you regain interest in your shoes.

10. Sales
Sales are one of the most common and best ways to save some cash on your shoe shopping habit. Many shoes have a Buy One Get One Free Sale that can help you stock up on your kids’ shoes or a couple pair of new shoes for yourself. These sales can be found throughout the year so whenever you’re looking for something new then make sure to research which store is going to give you the best sale at the time. You might also check online stores for clearanced items that can help you save even more money. Sometimes online stores will provide you with coupons that can take away the shipping costs. If you have a specific brand that you can’t live without then online might be your best bet for getting the shoes for a whole lot less than you would locally. Before you check out always remember to look for an online coupon though!

Shoes make our lives safer and healthier, but they also play a huge role in our fashion regime. If you are in love with buy shoes then these tips can help you keep out of the red zone when it comes to your budget. Now, you can enjoy a nice pair of shoes without having to rethink your purchase or find that you can’t even wear the shoes without buying clothing that matches. By the end of the year you will have saved so much money from your shoe purchases that you’ll be ready to top this years savings next year.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Sunny San Diego is on so many people’s must see list, but California prices can be frightening when you start to plan out a budget. You will be amazed at the beauty you find in this coastal city and will be even more surprised at how little you will have to spend when you plan a trip to this location. San Diego is one of those cities that you can fall in love with after being there for a few minutes, so don’t skip out on your trip because your budget is too tight. There are many great tips and tricks for San Diego that will allow you to have a blast in the city without having to spend much at all.

1. The Beach
One of the biggest appeals for the city of San Diego is the many beautiful beaches you can choose from. If you’re ready to soak up some sun and break some waves then the beach is where you should plan on spending the majority of your vacation time. The best thing about the beach is it is absolutely free so you can visit every beach in the city without having to lose money from your budget. San Diego has a lot of beaches to choose from and each one has a different appeal. For instance, Coronado features beautiful gold flecks in the water and the sand that will make you feel like you’re in paradise. While you’re visiting this area you can take a break from the sun and check out the famous Hotel Del. You’re allowed to walk in and check out the ground floor and museum without having to pay a cent. They also have a lot of food areas that will satisfy your taste buds. La Jolla is a bit further from the city but this beach is known for dolphin sitings and during certain parts of the year you can check out the Sea Lions. Imperial beach allows you to camp in certain areas, which could help save you even more money!

2. Stay Off Season
San Diego is known for staying pretty consistent in temperature, so if you want to avoid crowds and hiked up prices you might want to plan a vacation during the off season. Off season planning not only gives you a more private experience at the beach, it will meaner fewer lines and more time to reflect on the city and all it has to offer. You will even get better deals on things such as hotel pricing, food and airline tickets. This is perfect for anyone who has a hard time getting vacation time in the summer. So, if you want to hit the beach in January you won’t have to worry too much about getting snowed in. In fact, the worst the will happen is it will take you longer to get to the ice cold water, but don’t worry it is freezing cold all year long.

3. Balboa Park
One of the prized areas in San Diego is Balboa Park. This little area will allow you to check out some gorgeous Spanish architecture that will make you feel like you’ve traveled abroad. This area is filled with small museum, so don’t live any stone unturned or you might miss something cool. A lot of the museums are totally free too, like the Classic Art Museum and the Botanical Garden area. Some do change, but you’ll pay no more than $10 per person and they offer a large range of discount to help you out. If you plan on catching all of the museums then you should look into getting a pass that will cost an adult no more than $30 and gives you access to every museum in the area. Usually, there is always someone playing music or dancing in this area so be prepared for some entertainment while you try some street vendor foods. Every Sunday the park also opens up the International Cottages so make sure to check them out. A different country puts on a performance and serves food each week, so check out the schedule to see what you’ll experience!

4. Walk Downtown
Downtown San Diego is filled with amazing smells and plenty of things to see. If you want to take a stroll downtown you will have to check out all of the amazing districts, such as Old Town and the Gas Light District. Every district is unique with culture and offers so many delicious places to eat that you won’t know wear to start. Whilst downtown you should check out Horton’s Plaza, a massive mall that is fun to explore and will provide you with plenty local vendors to choose from. Depending on the time you visit the city you might also find entertainment from Comic Con, Zombie Walks and Colors Wars, so be ready to keep your schedule a little open for these things. One you’ve exhausted yourself you might want to grab a smoothie to boost up your energy and walk a bit further to see the Bob Hope Monument, Kissing the War Goodbye, Star of India ship and the USS Midway museum!

5. Public Transit
Driving in the city can be pretty frustrating, so don’t even bother with it. Leave the car at the hotel and grab one of the local buses. Everyone in the family can get a daily pass for a mere $5 a person. Of course, senior citizens to qualify for a discount and children of a certain age can ride for free. Although it might seem steep to pay for everyone a bus pass, you will see that in the end you have saved time and money on gasing up and parking cost. The public transit system in San Diego is fantastic. Buses run frequently and can get you to just about any destination in the city with little to no walking on your part. The tram is one of the best ways to get around though. This system can take you all over downtown, for people who aren’t as fond of walking. It can even drop you off at the border of Mexico in case you are interested in checking out the Fashion Valley Mall which is a huge tourist attraction.

6. Little Villages
If the city life gets a bit too much for you then you might want to stop and check out some of the little villages in the area. La Jolla is a cute little area that will give you that small beach town vibe despite its city routes. This village has a lot of little shops and restaurants that your family will love to spend a day checking out. The best thing is window shopping doesn’t cost a thing! Sea Port Village is another amazing little area that will satisfy your need to check out a viking inspired town. This area has a lot of Scandinavian shops to check out, so make sure you don’t miss out. You might also want to check out the Light house in the area. Coronado is more of an island than a village, but you’ll find it has a cute feel with loads of awesome shops and food places that can keep you busy for a day alone.

7. Small Hotel
When it comes to shopping for a hotel room always consider smaller. When you choose a smaller hotel in the city you aren’t going to spend as much. It is actually suggested that you will spend 2% less than a tourist staying in one of the major hotels. A small hotel will also give you a more homey feel so your family might feel a bit more comfortable in their surroundings. There are small hotels all over the city so choose your location wisely. If you plan on staying in the city or very close to the beach you might end up spending a bit more. Make sure you check reviews before you choose a hotel though. Feedback is always the best way to determine if a place is safe in the city.

8. Taco Shops
San Diego is known for having some of the best Mexican food in the nation, so don’t pass up your opportunity to try it out. You don’t have to eat an expensive restaurant to experience the food though. In fact, try to stay away from those all together because when it comes to Mexican food in the city you’re going to want to go to a small shop. Don’t worry, they are all over the place so the hardest thing will be choosing which one you want to try. If in doubt ask a local and they’ll be happy to boast up their favorite Taco Shop. Generally, eating at these little places can save you quite a bit of money. You will typically pay the price of a value meal for one burrito, but we’re talking about a gigantic burrito here. Usually you can eat on the burrito for two meals, so go for lunch and save the rest for dinner!

9. Multi-Attraction Pass
Although there are a lot of not so expensive attractions in San Diego there is still a good deal of expensive attractions that many tourist don’t want to pass up. If this is the case for your family then you might want to look into the multi-attraction pass. This pass will allow you to enter up to 40 places in a week, so you can see it all without having to pay for it all. You can completely customize your pass so don’t worry about paying for more than you will use. The multi-pass caters to people who want to check out Sea World, Knott’s Berry Farm, the zoo, Legoland, the wave house, Balboa Park and a whole lot of other attractions you might not even realize exist! You have to buy the pass online, but you’ll find that buying a weeks worth of events will only cost you the price of paying for two of the attractions. You might even be able to find a coupon or sale that will provide you with the pass for a little bit cheaper. You’ll also get out of waiting in a few lines thanks to this pass, so don’t hesitate if you want to see everything the city has to offer.

10. Buy Tickets in Advance
Shopping for your vacation in advance can save you a whole lot of money! If you’re planning on only catching a few attractions during your stay then you might want to keep an eye on the park for any sales they might be having which you might be interested in. Even buying the multi-attraction pass in advance can help you save a little money, so don’t wait for the last minute to get your schedule worked out. One of the best things about San Diego is there is always some sort of concert, play, orchestra or other attraction going on. If you check out the city site then you should be able to swoop in and pick up a ticket for less than you’d have to pay at the door or close to the attraction date. Don’t just look for major concert halls though, as so many of the best concerts will happen in a downtown club and if you don’t hurry up and secure your tickets you’ll certainly miss out.

San Diego is a beautiful city that is filled with numerous hidden treasure. So, if you’re planning on vacationing in this city don’t stress out about the price. These tips will have you sighing in relief as you enjoy sitting a cold drink on the beach. Now, you can see and do it all without having to constantly worry about what your bank account is going to look like when you get home. Pretty soon the relaxed beach life will take over your need to go go go.

Author: John Terris

Beauty takes up a huge portion of our lives. Everyone wants to look amazing and feel great about themselves, which leads so many people to spend a lot of money on beauty products each easier. Your good looks shouldn’t control your budget though. With these easy tips you’ll enjoy the best look of your life without having to pay a whole lot of money for it. In fact, a lot these beauty techniques will have you raiding your kitchen for items that you already have. Nothing will beat an easy to use product that makes you look amazing without forking over ample amounts of your hard earned cash.

1. Buying Products
When it comes to buying products you should always remember to look for larger packaging with a smaller price. Usually you can buy a nice generic brand that will work the same as the professional one you were spending a lot of just months before. Choosing a brand and buying it in bulk can also save a whole lot of money. Of course, being restrictive with your product is one of the best ways to save on money. For instance, you are probably using more product then you actually need to. If you can manage to add a little bit of water as your products run out then you will extend their life and save yourself from having to buy more product sooner than you need to. You might also mix any shampoo or conditioner bottles you have waiting around so you can create an all new bottle without having to buy a new one.

2. Eye Beauty
The eyes are considered the window to the soul so of course you want them to look incredible at all times. A lot of people suffer from bags under the eyes due to lack of sleep, allergies or stress. You can buy plenty of products for this but adding a black tea bag or a cucumber to your eyes for a few minutes each day can actually take away from the darkness while adding a radiant look to the eye. Mascara can be tough to apply at times and If you want to avoid the whole clumpy lashes look then you should try putting your mascara in a glass of hot water or heating it up with a blow dryer before you apply it. This will allow you to buy cheaper products while still looking great. Another way to save big is to buy eye shadow with multiple colors that suit your skin type. This will allow you to utilize the colors for the full eye to create an amazing look without having to buy multiple sets.

3. Skin
We all want flawless skin, but not everyone has the money to get special treatments. Many people look for a solution for acne for years without any luck. If you want a cheap an easy way then try washing your face with a little bit of honey. This will provide your face with excellent pores that will fight off acne. When it comes to get rid of pimples or their scars then dissolve an aspirin into some water and apply to the problem areas. You will notice a change quickly and won’t need to keep buying products to get your face back to normal. If cellulite is a major issue then try running some ground coffee beans in the area. This will improve circulation in the area and will get rid of the cellulite look. If you battle with redness in the face then pepto bismal can help even out your red tones and get rid of irritation and acne so you’ll be able to show your flawless skin anywhere. Of course, not all of our skin revolves around the face. If you have a lot of dry areas then you might want to moisturize with some Vaseline or olive oil. This is a particularly great way to keep the feet looking good after a lot of wear and tear.

4. Hair
A lot of problems we have with our hair is the amount of times we wash it in a week. You can safely wash your every other day and provide it with a nice healthy look. Washing daily actually dries out your scalp which will increase the appearance of dandruff. If you do have oily hair then add a little baby powder to your roots and enjoy your fantastic look. Of course, you can also make your own shampoo at home with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. If you need a deep conditioning then head to the refrigerator and give yourself a mayonnaise coat to help lock in moisture. Another good way to keep your hair a healthy level of moisture is to add a layer of avocado to your hair. If you can sleep in it to get the full effect. When it comes to salon visits you can eliminate a lot of the charge. For instance you can cheaply do all of your coloring at home. You can also cut your bangs and trim your ends without having to go into a shop.

5. Nails
Getting manicure and pedicures are one of the most expensive items on out beauty agendas. You won’t need to get them as often when you learn how to take care of your own nails at home. For instance, if you’ve recently gotten a french manicure but have noticed a chip in the nail then it isn’t time to head back into the shop. Instead, add a little white out to the nail and you’re good to go for quite some time. You should also never cut your cuticles. When they are bothering you then make sure you moisturize them well and press them back. This will allow your nails to grow faster and healthier.

6. Foundations
If you still need add a little toner to your life then make sure you stretch it as far as possible. There are many foundations that are powder based and will last you a lot longer, so if you find one you like then try to find it in bulk if possible. Of course, if you do enjoy a more liquid based foundation then you can stretch it further by buying a darker shade. When you use the foundation mix it with lotion to create a mixture that will moisturize the face and keep you looking amazing. During the summer time you can skip out on the lotion and mix your foundation with a protective sun screen that will help keep you protected from UV rays so you won’t have to skip out on makeup during the summer time.

7. Lips
Every woman wants a pair of lips that are stunning, but bad weather can leave them feeling chapped and looking less than perfect. If you need a little extra help locking in the moisture on your lips then you try adding some vaseline to your lips while you sleep. This is perfect for locking in moisture so you can show off your gorgeous lips throughout the day. Lip stick is another buy that will cost you a lot of money if you use it a lot. So, instead of buying new lipstick keep your old tubes and mix them together. You might end up with a new color that suits you all the more. You can add vaseline to the mix as a binder that will help keep your lips looking shiny and healthy throughout your big dates.

8. Feet
Our feet hold a major burden when it comes to day to day living, so it is no surprise that we have to deal with calluses. When you get home from work each day or before going to bed you should soak your feet in warm water mixed with vinegar or baking soda. This will get rid of your calluses and prevent them from coming back again. If you have a problem with dried out feet then rub body butter or a strong lotion onto your feet with a pair of cotton socks to keep the lotion on the feet. Sometimes feet will develop a tan look or the nails will yellow. This can be embarrassing for many people, but with a little lemon juice on your feet day you can clear up any colors so you won’t be embarrassed to show off your feet. Of course, a lot of people don’t want to admit they have overly sweaty or smelly feet. If this is your case then try soaking your feet in a salt water bath for a half an hour each day to reduce the smell.

9. Deodorant
Everyone needs to wear deodorant, but you don’t have to spend a whopping $6 every time you run out of some. One of the easiest ways to counteract the price is to buy a man’s deodorant. I know, no one wants to endure the intense man smell all day. There are actually many sticks that have a mild scent or no scent at all that can help you save money. Men’s deodorant comes in a larger stick with more protection for the same price as the typical woman’s stick, so don’t feel bad about buying from the men’s section. When you are about to run out of a stick of deodorant then don’t throw it out. Instead save it and add on to it when other sticks are almost gone. Eventually you will be able to to use a full stick again without having to go out to purchase a new one. If you are having trouble with smells still then you might try putting damp tea bags under your arms. This will eliminate odors so you won’t have to stress about the way you smell.

10. Beauty Fix
Many people love to have the expensive items though, but there isn’t a reason to have to pay full price for them! If you want the best products for your skin then you might want to sign up for Beauty Fix. This service will provide you with $400 worth of products for the mere price of $50 every 3 months. Each period of time you will get a new basket filled with travel and normal sized items that you can try out. This is a great way to learn which products work for you without forcing you to spend a lot of money experimenting on different items. You might really take to the Beauty Fix basket if you don’t like to use the same products all of the time. Plus, if you’re buying non-generic products you will probably end up spending more than $50 every three months anyway!

Your beauty regime doesn’t have to suffer because of a poor economy. You can still maintain your favorite look while saving money if you follow these easy tips. Using homemade goods to help keep your body looking good and self confidence up can really give you a power that people will notice. Soon you will find yourself teaching all of your new tricks to your friends!

Many artist struggle to support the cost of their hobbies. For many, working as a professional artist isn’t feasible so they work hard to earn the money for the supplies they need to produce their art. Art students often have the same dilemma as they tend to have pay for books as well as expensive supplies just to satisfy their semester’s curriculum. There is an easier way to support your hobby without having to sacrifice working hours though. With a few simple tips you’ll be stocked up and ready for all of your creative endeavors, so when the mood strikes you can get to work instead of letting your best ideas fade away.

1. Canvas
Canvas plays a major part in painters and many mixed media artists lives. The bad thing is pre stretched canvas can actually run you quite a lot of money if you aren’t careful. One of the cheapest ways to cut down on all of your canvas costs is to learn how to stretch it yourself. This should be a consistent part of any painter’s life as it allows you to control the shape and size of the canvas you need for your work. Buying canvas pre-stretched is very cheap if you can find it in bulk. Once you get the canvas all you have to do is worry about a frame to stretch it onto. Frames can be made out of cheap cuts of wood or scrap wood and can be reused so you shouldn’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on this aspect of you project. When you begin this process you will see how convenient it is to do it yourself rather than buying from the store. Of course, DIY isn’t for everyone so if you must buy it stretched then try to wait for sales and buy in bulk as much as possible.

2. Paints
Paints transcend genres so having a good selection of paints is an important part of an artist’s supplies. Paints can be pretty pricey though, especially if you think you need to buy the expensive brands. When you first start to shop for your own set of paints you might want to look for glazes. These specific paints are perfect because they can easily be watered down without sacrificing the quality of your paints color and durability. If you can keep your paints watered down they will last longer so you won’t have to keep replenishing your stock every time you work up a new painting. Mixing paints can also help you keep some of the more expensive colors in stock, so don’t be too afraid to experiment in order to get what you need. If you’re looking to start off very cheap then you might want to go for student acrylics. These paints will hold up and will cost you less than a dollar per color. They are also perfect for big products that you don’t want to spend a lot of money one.

3. 2nd hand stores
There are a lot of second hand stores that cater to the needs of artist. If you have a student store near you then you might try to check out some used art supplies. These supplies were usually used for a term so you might not get as much out of them as you would a new product, but you will certainly save a whole lot of money on it. When doing this you should always check to see the quality to make sure you aren’t buying dried out paints and glues. You might also want to check out thrift stores or garage sales. You might not think it so, but you can find a whole lot of inspiration in these areas. For instance, if you enjoy mixed media art you might see different things you can encouragement into your piece. A lot of the time you might even be able to find a nice frame that will frame one of your works perfectly.

4. Brushes
A lot of people tend to think it is safe to buy cheap paintbrushes to work with. This, however can be a very expensive mistake. When it comes to buying brushes you should always buy a trusted set, which might mean looking at a lot of reviews before you make your purchase. Cheap brushes tend to fray and might end up forcing you to repaint a lot of your work because your precision will be sacrificed. An expensive set of brushes will give you the best quality work while ensuring you won’t have to buy new brushed any time soon. Make sure you take care of the brushes though as leaving paint on them will force you to lose even more money than you’d originally expect.

5. Loyalty Cards and Coupons
If you find yourself shopping in hobby stores a lot you might want to check into getting a loyalty card to help reduce your expenditure on supplies. A lot of hobby stores offer these but they all have different ways of working their cards. Some will give you a discount every time you swipe your card which will help you save immediately. Other cards will provide you with points that eventually add up to a coupon, whilst others serve to send you coupons in the mail or thru email. It is important to keep up with coupons for hobby stores though as they will certainly help you save big on the items you need to make your art. Some hobby stores will even pass out a 75% off coupon occasionally so take advantage of this whenever you need a big ticket item!

6. Buy in Bulk
It doesn’t matter what your art is, when it comes to shopping for supplies buying in bulk is the best way to go. There are so many bulk store online and off, so make sure you do a lot of shopping around before you decide on a deal. One of the best items to buy in bulk is things like scrap booking sheets and accessories. These items can run pricey on their own, but when you buy in bulk you will actually pay mere cents for them. Always try to look for items you use a lot of in bulk. For instance, buying paint in bulk is usually a huge relief for painters who tend to go through paint bottles often. Thread and yarn are also a good buy in bulk even though they aren’t incredibly expensive on their own. If you use a lot of black thread then why stop spend double the price for five times the product? Of course, buying canvas in bulk is another great buy, but this can run pretty pricey if you aren’t careful. Make sure to know your bulk hobby supply stores before you commit to any purchase.

7. Trade
An artist best friend can be trading if he or she can find the right inner circle. If you know other artist then you might want to bring up the idea of trading with them. This will allow the entire group to get what they need without constantly having to spend a fortune on it. Trading is especially great when you only need to use something for a little while, or only need a small amount of something. You might even get a group together to share a studio which will give you all plenty of space to work as well as use the art supplies without having to wait on someone to answer your frantic text message.

8. Unexpected Places
When it comes to looking for art supplies you should think out of the box. If you look at a hobby shop for a painting sponge you will find they generally cost a small fortune. Of course, a short trip to the dishwashing section in a local store might give you a cheaper selection of sponges that might leave a unique pattern on your work. There is a world of items that are no longer wanted that can really inspire you to make some of the best pieces of art. Another example would be old tin cans. A lot of the time you can cut them and make a green friendly sculpture that provides you with a political statement to share at your next art show. Gizmos and gadgets are everywhere, so open up your mind and let your creativity flow so you can save money on your work while providing you with ample working materials.

9. Pottery
If pottery is your chosen form of art then it might be wise to find a cheap pottery shop. Sure, it would be ideal to have your own kiln and clay, but if you’re planning on saving this isn’t the way to go. Instead, find a place that has decent prices and an area that you feel comfortable working in. Generally, when you pay a pottery shop you have access to the clay and paints and any of the tools you might need to work your art. Sometimes you can even rent a locker or leave your project at the shop if you don’t get finished in one sitting. When you are done you can get your piece fired and enjoy your beautiful art at a fraction of the price you would pay on your own terms. Although it might be a sacrifice to go to the shop it will save you money until you can afford to find an area that will support a kiln and a budget that can keep you stocked up with clay.

10. Recycling
Our households are filled with art potential and once of the best places to look is in the recycling bin. Everyday we throw out goods that have potential, so next time you go out to take your recycling bin think twice about what you’re about to give up. Old tin cans can be cleaned up to make the best brush and pencil holders, so you’ll never have to spend on containers again. Plastic bottles are great for sculptural pieces or supports, but can also be melted down to help provide you a cool new look you can work with. Even old pieces of cardboard will allow you to create beautiful mosaics or collages without having to worry about poster board or other expensive art materials.

Art can be one of the most therapeutic hobbies out there. It is just too bad they often end up costing us a whole lot of money. If you’re worried about spending too much on your supplies then these tips should reassure you can actually relax about your budget when it comes to buying what you need. So, from now on let your creative flag fly and enjoy spending less on the goods you need.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Who doesn’t have a childhood memory that involves spending time at the local carnival or fair? It seems that most people have gone to one or another at some point in their life and remember key moments that made them feel incredible. Usually, trips to the fair are limited to the summer and autumn months, but they still allow you to feel as if a good chunk of your memories belong with you in this environment. The only problem is fair and carnival prices continue to rise because the economy is in a bit of a slump. Despite this, you can still find amazing ways to take your family to the fair without having to spend a small fortune.

1. Events
Most fairs and carnivals have a lot of different ways to attract visitors . One way is to schedule events that will draw people into the fair prior to the event taking place. Usually, the events are rodeos, circus shows or monster truck derbies that people normally wouldn’t get to see. Although you might be tempted to to pay to go to every event this might be a huge mistake for your budget. One thing you can do is sit down and consider which show is going to be the most entertaining for your family. If you live in an area that often has car and truck shows then you may want to put off shows of this nature. The same can be said for just about any event. When you find the event that works best for you try to plan around it so you can get the full carnival experience before you go to the major event. This will allow you to pay for admission into the fair only once.

2. Visit Booths
Every fair has a good selection of local and spotlight booths that will make the experience superb for all. Generally booths have a lot of information about the region, careers and hobbies that people find interesting. Sometimes, you will run across a booth that really sparks your family’s interest and keep everyone busy for a few minutes. Just checking out the booths can buy you a lot of time at the fair that will keep you from purchasing other items. Of course, many booths do sell items so you should always go thru all of the booths before you decide on what you want to purchase. This is especially important for children. If you don’t have money to spend on booth items then get a car from any vendors you found interesting. This will allow you to get in contact with them later if you choose to buy something when you have more money.

3. Rides
Fairs and Carnivals have some of the most interesting and entertaining rides on the market, so don’t skip out on them. Most of the time you can buy a ride pass for fairly cheap at the games. This usually doesn’t include all of the rides, but it will give you access to most of the rides in the area. The best thing about ride passes is they usually cost around $12 when paying per ride can cost you hundreds before the day is over. There are generally other rides available that are far more expensive, like bungee jumping, but these can easily be avoided to save money. With your riding pass you will easily be kept busy all day with all of the rides alone so make sure to use it as often as you can. You might want to visit the fair a bit earlier so you don’t have to wait in less lines for each of the rides. Rides will also cut down on the amount of food you want to eat, because who really want to scarf down a full meal when you’re feeling a bit on the dizzy side?

4. Shows
The great thing about carnivals and fairs is there are usually a lot of shows to keep you busy throughout the day. Most of the time shows are absolutely free and often enough you won’t even have to find seating ahead of time. There is a spontaneous nature to a lot of fairs and carnivals which really makes the attitude a lot of fun, but it does make planning a bit difficult. The best thing you can do is stop whenever you hear a show going on so you can take a break from the constant walking and relax. Shows will also prevent you from spending money for a little while. Since you’ll already be busy you won’t look for food or other items to fill your time, which will really help you keep your budget right on track. Shows are also a little more entertainment for younger children who need to stop and rest more.

5. Games
It is pretty much inevitable that you, or someone in your family, is going to want to play games while your visiting the fair. This can be a problem if you’re not careful but there are many ways to avoid spending way too much on these items. To begin with you should try to exhaust shows and rides before you venture into the game section. This will allow your family to be a bit more worn down so they will be more apt to leave after playing a minimal amount of games. When you enter the game section you should give everyone a specified number of games they can play. This will allow everyone to think on the games they choose, which will end up taking up a bit of time. When you do decide to play a game make sure you don’t have your money out in the open for the host to see. This will entice them to badger you into buying more rounds, especially if you have children with you. Keep a couple of dollars in your pocket and leave it at that. If you need more then exit the game area and return with the money in your pocket. If the host thinks you’re broke they will more than likely usher you away from the area.

6. Food
Fair food can be some of the most enticing food you’ll see. There’s a lot of new things to try and see, so slow down and think about what you’d like to have before hand. It helps if you plan on eating a heavier meal before you go to the fair as this will help you beat the hunger cravings for a bit longer while you’re out. If you do break down and buy some fair food be careful what you choose. Picking something natural and filling, like the grilled corn or a candied apple, is probably your safest best when it comes to a mid-afternoon snack. If you do choose to buy into the deep fried treats they offer then you might want to look into something a bit unique. You might also want to purchase this snack later on in the evening because greasy food, rides and heat aren’t the best combination for a lot of fair goers. If you eat light throughout the day though, you won’t feel as obligated to buy a huge meal at the fair so you can save the money you didn’t spend on food for other aspects of the fair.

7. Tickets
Usually before a fair begins there will be a wide assortment of groups selling tickets as a fundraiser event. Most of the time the tickets will end up being a bit cheaper than they would be when you buy them at the gate. You will also be helping out a local group who might need more funding than they are getting. If you don’t see a fundraiser booth or are looking to save a bit more cash then you should always try to shop for them at your local grocery store. Grocery stores usually sell them at a discounted price, so you’ll save money and time because you won’t have to wait in a long line. If you’re looking to go even cheaper then you might want to enter a lottery to win tickets or keep a listen out for radio sweepstakes that could allow you to win a free set for you and your family.

8. Souvenirs
The fair is one of the easiest places to get souvenirs for next to nothing. If you begin your souvenir journey in the booth area you might find that you can get a whole lot of neat things for free. A lot of people make promotional items for carnival goers, so take advantage of everything the booths have to offer. From bracelets to little snacks you kids will have a blast just checking out some of the goodies they find. There are also a lot of cheap items for sale, so try to make a budget of $10 or less and go from there. You might be surprised as to how many cool rocks, bracelets, necklaces and other items you can get for a $1! Of course, if you’re looking for a little more than you can always count on your carnival game skills. You might have a knack for winning goldfish or little stuffed animals which will make great souvenir stories to begin with.

9. Water
Water just might be one of the most important things for you to bring along for your trip. Yes, every fair will sell bottles of water, usually at an outrageous price, so don’t fall into that game. Pack a few bottles of water for your family in a small backpack or tote bag so you can easily keep your daily hydrated. Bringing bottles, whether the classic bottle or a reusable bottle of any kind, will allow you to refill your water bottle throughout the day at water fountains. This will prevent you from having to purchase drinks while you’re outside and will ensure the family won’t feel sick after several hours under the sun.

10. Parking
Parking should be the least of your worries when it comes to fair prices, unfortunately prices have shot up in recent years. One way to avoid paying major prices for parking is to park as far away from the fair grounds as you can stand to walk. There is usually a set amount of parking, so finding elsewhere to park might be a whole lot easier. You could also opt out of driving to the fair and take public transportation. Usually this will only cost you a set amount of money per person, so if you’re traveling with a small party it will be cheaper than passing the parking toll. If you’re planning on going out with a large group and want to stay out well past the transits operating hours then it might be one of the rare times that taking a taxi will be cost effective. Of course, if do live close enough to walk to the fair you should do so. Make sure you don’t travel alone though and bring a flashlight for the walk home.

You shouldn’t deprive yourself a day at the carnival just because you feel it won’t be budget friendly. With these tips you can avoid the expensive aspects of the fair and cut straight to the moments that have made fairs such a cherished event throughout history. You will not only have a good time, but will enjoy sharing something from your childhood with the next generation.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Music Festivals make all of the sweltering weather and sunburns seem like nothing. Each year some of the most popular, and most obscure, bands come together to celebrate the love of music! With any luck you’ll be able to land some tickets and enjoy all of the good things that summer has to offer too you. Of course, if you’re on a tight budget you might also find that music festivals can dry up your budget and force you to live on a ramen diet just to recover from your financial lost. There are ways to avoid losing a lot of money on your favorite music festival, which will still allow you to enjoy the festival to its fullest.

1. Research
Your biggest aid in fighting costing is to do a little bit of research on the festivals that are happening. Although all of the festivals might seem appealing you might want to check into which one will be the most festival for your morning. For instance, you should check out if the bands you love are going to have a large set or will just be features between other bands. You might also want to tally up the amount of bands you like opposed to the bands you don’t know of or arent too sure of. If you haven’t heard of the bands then look up their songs to see if it is something you’d want to spend money on. Usually, one festival will stand out more than the others so you might want to order tickets for that festival rather than spending a whole lot of money to go to them all. You should also check out what comes with your ticket. Sometimes festivals will give out goody bags or a free treat that they might actually calculate into the cost. By choosing the best festival for your dollar you’ll feel satisfied with your buy instead of feeling like you have to go to more festivals to make up for the one you were disappointed with.

2. Volunteer
So you want to go the festival, but you’re a few dollars short of the full purchase? Well, put your money away and apply to volunteer. Usually, if you get your application to volunteer in you should be able to get into the festival for free and enjoy the music while you pass out water or other small tasks. Booths at music festivals are often run solely by volunteers so don’t hesitate when you find out the details of the festival. Typically, volunteers are also privy to a free meal or two so you won’t have to bring a whole lot of money with you. You might only end up getting one day of the festival free so you might want to compensate for the other days of the festival if you can afford it. One great thing about volunteer work is it looks great on college and work applications, so you’ll be winning in more way than one.

3. Camp Out
If you’re planning a huge vacation just to go to the music festival then stop what you’re doing and breathe. A music festival is about relaxing and enjoying the music so allow yourself to that. You don’t need a hotel room for your stay, instead pitch a tent and enjoy the nonstop party for a few days. Camping out allows you to catch as many music shows as possible so you won’t have miss out on any of the bands you paid to see. Camping also allows you to take a cool down break between shows and can make storing food a whole lot easier. Camping will cut down on your festival cost by hundreds of dollars, so you can put the money into other aspects of your trip, or straight into savings.

4. Bring Your Own Food
It doesn’t matter if you’re staying at the festivals for one day or throughout the entire festival, bringing your own food will help save you a whole lot of money. There is generally a lot of foods available to choose from at the festival, but most will cost you a small fortune. Usually the foods are designed to cater to the typical teenagers taste buds too, which might not be the best diet while you’re trapped out in the hot sun and only have porta-potties to run to. Instead, bring a cooler filled with ingredients to make light foods like sandwiches. You should also bring some fruit along for a nice refresher throughout the day, which will help you keep the energy up without having to worry about feel rough a couple of hours later.

5. Water
Water is the essence of life, but you won’t appreciate it quite as much as you do when you’re at a music festival. Vendors at festivals can charge high prices for water because people have no other option but to pay the price. You do have the option to bring in your own water, so don’t forget to pack a lot before you go to the festivals. Music festivals generally take place at the height of summer, which means it is going to be beyond hot and there is going to be a lot of bodies packed into a tight area. Usually a 24 pack of bottled water can take you pretty far while you’re at a festival, but make sure to plan ahead just in case you run out. If you want to save even more money than you clean out old milk jugs and pour in filtered water so you don’t have to spend any extra money. This will allow you to keep hydrated while allowing you to save money and avoid long lines.

6. Beer
If you’re of drinking age then chances are drinking while you’re at the festival is going to be one of your means of fun. Alcohol can be incredibly expensive if you aren’t careful though, so know you drinking and financial limit and respect it. Usually a beer can cost as much as a full meal at a festival so if you do plan on drinking then choose one day out of the festival to do so. By choosing one day you get to get the drinking mood out of your system so you can gleefully transition into sober mode. You could also bring your own beer to certain festivals. Make sure you check on the matter before you stock up on booze though. If you are allow then try to buy cheaper beverages. Usually bulk sized beers will be your best bet. You should probably exclude buying mixed drinks and hard liquor though as this might send your budget into shock.

7. Bring Cash
Sure, there will be ATM machines all over the festival because no one will want to accept a credit or debit card as a payment. ATM machines, of course, charge you a lot of money to pull out money too. So unless you like giving a machine $5 every time you see something you have to have you might want to bring cash ahead of time. There will be a lot of cool things to see, do and buy at the festival so bringing cash can also help cut down on your spending. Try to set a reasonable spending limit and pull out the cash and then forget about the spending money. Leaving your credit card at home might even help prevent you from overdoing it. When you get to the festival put aside your food money and plan out little activities you might to do while waiting for your favorite band to play. Being frugal at the festival might even allow you to return home with some extra spending cash.

8. Scope Out Vendors
Let’s face it, if you’re staying for a full week at the festival you’re going to get sick of eating sandwiches fairly quickly. So, chances are you’re probably going to end up venturing to the fast food huts to get something a little bit different. This won’t hurt you too bad if you only eat at the vendors occasionally, but you will always want to scope out the vendors ahead of time. Just to make the rounds to get a feel for what you are in the mood for eating. Usually, there is more than one vendor for each food type so shop around the cheapest buy. If you want to know a little cheat code for the real world you should probably always look for the vendor with the longest lines. This is usually where you’ll get the cheapest foods at the festival. You should also follow the same rule when it comes to souvenirs. You probably won’t get too much of a choice when it comes to autographs, but you might find a cheap shirt or poster somewhere in the mess of vendors.

9. Grab Tickets Early
Sometimes, tickets can gain value the longer they are out on the market. You might want to try to get the tickets the very day they are released. Back in the olden days you’d have to camp outside of a ticket booth, but now all you have to is stalk your favorite ticket vendor online. Usually when tickets first hit the market they are about 10% cheaper than the tickets that just hang around in limbo until summer comes. You will always get a better price online opposed to waiting until the festival begins and buying them at the gate. A lot of the time you will only get one chance to buy tickets as some of the more popular festivals will sell out right away, so don’t stop and hesitate. Buying tickets earlier will also allow you plenty of time to save for other expenses that might arise during your festival trip.

10. Bring Entertainment
A lot of first time festival adventurers find that there are actually some down time between shows. One of the worst things possible is to get bored during a festival. This is usually when people start to venture off and look for food to entertain themselves or something else to buy. There is a solution to these down times though. For starters you can easily bring a pack of cards in your festival bag. This will not only allow you to have some fun while you’re waiting for your favorite band to take the stage, you will also be able to make some new friends. As you meet new people you will feel more comfortable with your surroundings and have a little more fun without having to rely on food and shopping. You can also bring a book you’ve been meaning to catch up on, it might not be the quietest of environments, but it’ll keep you busy while you wait. Of course, there is always napping between gigs!

Music festivals can really bring a summer to life so don’t skip out just because you might not have the funding. There are many ways to help cut the cost of the festival so you won’t have to miss out on your favorite bands just because you’re slowly approaching broke. With these tips you’ll not only get to catch some awesome music and make new friends, you’ll also learn the power you have over money during some of the most tempting situations.

Everywhere you look there seem to be commercials for getting in shape and feeling better about how your body looks. Commercials can be persuasive, but you should always rethink spending the extra money before you purchase anything that you think will make your losing process easier. In fact, you don’t have to budget a lot of money just to get into the shape you want to be in. These ten simple tips will take you from a budget crisis to a fun workout in no time at all. You might even be surprised as to how easy it is to spice up your workouts without having to drive out of your way to head to a gym.

1. Utilize the Outdoors
As kids we couldn’t seem to wait to get outside and play. It is just too bad that this excitement doesn’t carry over to us being an adults. The great outdoors is one of the best gyms you can find that actually won’t cost you a dime! It doesn’t matter if you live in the country or in the city as there are plenty of places to workout while you’re on a tight budget. For starters, you can easily take the sidewalk for a comfortable jog or a brisk walk before you start your morning routine. Of course, if you don’t like running on flat surfaces you can easily find a field to sprint through, which will give you an entertaining run that will provide you with so many health benefits. Don’t like simple runs? Well, if you have a park nearby your home try using benches as obstacles to improve your jumping skills. You might want to make sure no one is hanging around the park first. There are also a multitude of rock walls to climb, monkey bars to work on your upper body and plenty of sports courts and fields that are completely free to use.

2. Buy Used Gear
A lot of people get in the mood to work out around the New Year, which is beneficial because that is generally when tax returns start to come in. So, many will get their return, blow it on workout gear and find by the end of the year they’ve only used it a few times. Although it is nice to have workout gear in the home you don’t have to immediately go out and buy brand new items. In fact, if you buy used workout gear you will get more of a feel for the type of equipment you want in your home without having to spend a whole lot of money. Usually, if you frequent thrift stores you will find that it easy to find a wide assortment of gear that will help you maintain and sculpt your body. You might also try out local sales, like on Craigslist, for people who might be a bit more open to the price you are looking for.

3. Little Items
You might be surprised to know that there are a ton of little items you can use for working out. These items are generally found around the house anyway, and if you don’t have them they will cost you know more than $20! One such item is a jump rope. Jumping rope is one of the best ways to do a cardio workout, so get jumping! Even if you don’t have a jump rope you can easily substitute with a piece of rope. A basketball, or other form of ball, are also awesome ways to get a workout that will give you lots of results. Sports balls allow you to utilize fun aspects like dribbling, kicking, throwing and catching while you run and keep moving for an extended period of time. The key is to have fun and the workout will go faster. You can also use things like bottles of water as light resistance training as you do yoga or Pilates. For women, you can always vacuum and do household chores in high heels, which will add to your muscle movement and keep your calves feeling strong.

4. Free sources
We live in a world where there are a lot of free forms of information available to you. One simple source is turning on your television. If you have basic cable there is a wide selection of workout shows on many public access channels. Try to check your local listing for something you might be interested in doing and record or tune it at the time slot. If you have extended cable then you will have a huge selection to choose from. There are many channels that are dedicated to workout videos alone. This is a great way to experiment with your workout needs and find something you really enjoy doing. Of course, if you don’t want to watch the TV while you workout out, or can’t find what you’re looking for you can always hit the world wide web. Usually, you can find a workout for just about anything, which includes dancing, stretching and how to improve your sports techniques.

5. Join the YMCA
If you still want that sense of community while you workout you might want to look into joining the YMCA. This program caters to the community so you won’t end up spending a whole lot of money on a membership that you might not even use. Most YMCAs hold classes, have a pool and will let you choose from a wide selection of workout gear. Of course, not all centers are the same so you might want to do a tour of the facility and ask about services provided before you actually order the membership. A lot of center will charge you the same amount for a full year that you would pay for a month at other gyms. You might have to sign up for classes if you want to attend them so make sure you know what your schedule is going to look like before so you won’t end up trying to crash courses that are already too full.

6. Start a Support Group
For many, losing weight or bulking up can be tough without a support group. If you’re trying to bypass a personal trainer or a gym altogether then you might want to start a support group. This is generally free to do and can contain people you already know or reach out to the community. If you’re looking to join a group straight away you easily look around for group in your area via the classifieds, gym postings or on the internet. Most people are open to letting new comers in so don’t be shy. A support group can be as small as your relative or close circle of friends though, so don’t think you have to add a lot of people you will be uncomfortable with. A support group with have you on your toes more often and will help talk you out some of those purchases you think you need. You can also use one another’s home gym and exercise videos.

7. Change Routine
Sometimes a little change in routine can go a long way when it comes to losing weight. In a lot of cases you don’t have to even by workout gear to get a few inches off your body. For instance, instead of taking the elevator or escalator to work every day you can opt out for the stairs. This will get your blood pumping and metabolism working so you can burn more calories throughout the day. Another simple trip is to park at the back of the parking lot wherever you go. This will allow you to get a good chunk of walking in, especially if you have a big day of shopping ahead of you. Purchasing a workout ball for Pilates can be a great benefit too, because you can easily sit on this instead of the couch to workout your core. Of course, changing your diet up does help a little too. For instance, drinking an extra bottle of water in place of a can of soda can do a whole lot of good. You might also switch from black tea to green tea to boost your metabolism and give you a little extra energy.

8. Go for a Swim
Whether you’re looking to lose weight or build muscles, going for a swim can help you get a complete workout without any extra equipment. The best part of swimming is it is absolutely free if you can find the right place. Living by the ocean, or near a river, stream or lake can really give you the power to work your body without ever having to pay a cent for the workout. Generally, swimming is moving water provides you with more resistance so you can get a more intense workout without having to pay a whole lot of cash. You might always make sure you have at least one other person with you though because swimming alone can be incredibly dangerous. If you have your own pool you can get in a work out every day without ever having to spend any extra money. Of course, buying a pool pass generally doesn’t cost a whole lot and might even give you access to lap pools that will make your workout turn into a hobby.

9. Cycling
If you own a bike then you have the capability to workout while getting your every day business taken care of. Most towns and cities have a place for cyclist to ride, even if it ends up being the sidewalk. Bikes help you get you cardio workout so you can lose weight faster without taking more time out of your day. Bikes also help work your leg muscles so you will be more fit for other activities like climbing, swimming and lifting. The best thing about biking is you won’t have to spend as much money on gas just to go from one location to the next. You might even find a whole lot of new areas to explore that you never had the chance to see in your car.

10. Memberships
Some people just don’t want to give up their membership to the gym. There are ways around spending a whole lot of money there though. You might want to check with your insurance company prior to purchasing a membership. A lot of insurance companies will offer you 30% off your purchase because you are making an effort to stay healthy. Of course, you could always ask around your place of employment or clubs to see if they also give you a discount for gyms. Many places will even offer military discounts for active duty and dependents so there is no harm in asking. There are also many different promotions and coupons that will allow you to save a whole lot of money on your gym membership purchase. The key is to shop around and wait for the right moment before you buy a membership anywhere.

It might be too late to working on the bikini body, but it isn’t too late to get into a healthy routine. With these tips you will be on the right track to fitness without having to empty out your bank account. Above all, you will have a whole lot of fun finding your healthy niche and improving the way you feel about your body.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Any art major knows how rough framing pieces of art can be. From family portraits to classic art prints, framing can be one of the best ways to preserve your favorite images while allowing them to increase in value. However, if you don’t have the money to invest hundreds in the framing process you might not get exactly what you want out of your framing experience. There are many different tricks that can help you avoid spending a lot of money on your frames. With these tips you can easily reduce your price for shipping while finding the perfect match for your favorite art work to find a more permanent home.

1. Avoid Galleries
There are a lot of galleries out there that will promise you a professional quality framing job and they won’t be lying. When you go to a gallery you’ll end up with a beautiful frame and moisture proofing that will keep you work looking great for decades. Of course, you will also be paying a small fortune for something that probably isn’t even worth a half of what the art is worth. When you head to a gallery you’ll be paying full price, or more, for a custom frame, glass and all of the other services that are required when it comes to framing. When you choose to go to a gallery you are at risk for having to pay a lot of extra hidden fees. So, you should always make sure that you have all of the prices written down as a confirmation before you leave your work with the gallery. If you’re unsure about the price ask the framer to break down all of the cost so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for. You might even ask the framer if they have items on clearance prior to making any final decisions. A lot of galleries also will try to push services you don’t need, so make sure to know what you’re looking for before you go in so you won’t leave paying for things you don’t.

2. Standard Sizes
A lot of the major charges when it comes to framing have to do with the type of art you bring in. If you can, it is always good to work with art that comes in a standard size. Standard sizing will help you save money simply because it means you won’t have to buy a custom frame. Purchasing a custom frame can really run your hundreds of dollars for the frame alone, so if you have a standard size you will already be frame and mat ready,. This means there will be less of a charge for the frame and glass cutting. The less work someone has to put into your project is the less you will actually have to pay for your project. It also means that you’ll be getting your work back a lot sooner.

3. Unique Sizes
Unique sized artwork can be difficult and expensive to frame, but there are a few ways to help keep your budget down without forcing you to to sacrifice your work. One solution to your problem is to cut off any excess paper to help give the shape of a piece that can fit into a standard size frame. Of course, a lot of the this isn’t an option. In this case all you need to do is shop for a frame that is three frame sizes larger than your piece. Once this has been taken care of you can easily create a custom mat that will take away from the misshaped frame. Mats are generally a whole lot cheaper than buy a frame so you can easily spend more money in this direction opposed to actually creating a frame for an awkward sized piece. This tip is especially important for painters who like to frame finished work for selling purposes.

4. Buy in Bulk
If you’re planning to open up a show, or just like uniformity in the home then buying in bulk will certainly help you out. Generally, you can buy a large selection of mats or matting supplies in bulk which is especially good for anyone who loves to add a little extra color to their pieces. Mats give artwork a finished look and can really add to a dull frame when given the opportunity. A lot of people use mats to make oddly shapes pieces look more at home in frames, so if you come across a package of mats it might be wise to pick it up if it is generously priced. Of course, you can also pick up a lot of frames in bulk. This is especially true if you love the modern metallic frame look. These frames can be used for so much and really had a distinguished look to your work. The best thing is a lot of them come in two or more packages to help many artist keep a uniform look for their gallery or exhibitions.

5. Avoid Cheap Materials
Although you might not think about it at the time, buying cheap materials can really cost you a lot of money in the future. Usually, when people decide to opt for this type of material they are on a tight budget and feel that it will help them make the most out their art for the time being. Unfortunately, years down the line many people find that they have to replace the frames and sometimes the art work too. Cheap materials allow dust and grime to build up without you realizing it, which means your favorite portrait or art piece is slowly going to decline in quality until one day you won’t be able to show it off any more. When you do spend money on frames that offer a professional quality you won’t have to deal with this because the frame is air locked so your art will be preserved for decades to come. A lot of cheap materials will also leave marks on your artwork. For instance, if you use a black frame then you might know a black ring around your artwork that you won’t be able to erase. So, even if it seems like the best bet to take your work the cheaper route, if you intend on keeping it presentable your might want to reconsider the more expensive route.

6. Do It Yourself
Like with many hobbies, learning to do the work on your own will allow you to take a lot of the power over your artwork. Learning this craft might be easier than you think and will also allow you to work on your projects so you can have it completed faster than ever. One of the easiest part of framing is learning how to cut a mat. This step can be done by watching free tutorials online or using the trial and error method. Even if you only take the hobby this far you will be saving a lot of money when it comes to the final cost of your framing needs. Learning how to do the actual framing aspect of this hobby might mean you need to take a course. Some people can pick it up fairly quickly though, especially if they have a lot of experience with wood and glass work. If you want to learn to build your own frames then you might be on a new educational adventure. Framing itself can be very lucrative though, so if you do learn how you can always use it to make a little extra spending cash. It will also mean that you’ll have to go through framing companies a lot less that you normally would.

7. Coupons and Sales
All frugal shoppers know how to spot a good sale or coupon when they see it. Framing sales and coupons can be a little different though. You will actually have to go in search of these items and keep an eye for them constantly. A lot of hobby stores, such as Micheals, will allow provide sales once a month that offer as much as 75% off custom framing jobs. So, if you have a lot of work that needs to be completed then you will want to send it right away when these sales occur. Generally, if you’re a loyal customer you will be given emails that have plenty of coupons too. You might end up not seeing your work for awhile though because these sales are so big that many people will rush in to get their art and important documents framed up. However, if you’re in no rush and you’re looking to save then it might be best to go this route. You should also check on other framing locations in your town to see if they offer a program to help frequent framers out on their purchase.

8. Paint
You might find that sometimes you get the urge to have something reframed just because the frame is looking a bit old. Well, there are many solutions to this problem that don’t involve you spending a lot of money on a new framing arrangement. To begin with, you might want to try adding a coat of paint or stain to an old frame. Generally, older frames that are made of certain materials tend to look worn down if they aren’t kept up. So, try to add a vibrant color to make the frame a little bit more modern or child friends. If you’re looking for a more professional look then add a nice stain or a coat of black paint to give it a sleeker look. Make sure you put painters tape around the glass though as this will help keep the glass clean. Of course, if the problem is the glass then try having a fresh piece cut. This will only cost a small amount, so you won’t have to waste money on getting the whole item re-framed. If you feel like the frame isn’t working with your art then try adding a fresher piece to it! This will allow you save one buying more frames when you still have perfectly good frames in use.

9. Recycle Glass
Glass is an expensive part of the framing process, but you can work around some of these major cost. For instance, a lot of glass from frames that look worn out of have been broken can be replaced by glass from other frames. This is a great way to keep your favorite frames in commission while getting rid of frames that just don’t work out with your style or theme. Of course, not everyone wants to keep the glass from frames. So, if you find yourself with a lot of extra glass you can always take it into a recycling facility. It depends on the state in which you live, but many will actually give you money back for bringing in the glass.

10. Utilize Spacers
An easy way to cut down on cost is to use an item called a spacer. Spacers are generally used to help bring definition into a frame. This amazing effect will really help improve the way your favorite art pieces look in the frame. However, a spacer can always be used to replace a mat. Instead of doing several layers of mats you can choose look and use a spacer to make the frame job look complete. This is a particularly good step when it comes to saving money on larger jobs, without having to sacrifice the look of your custom work.

Framing can add a nice look to your home or gallery if you want to create a professional atmosphere. With these tips you can actually save money on something that used to cost people hundreds of dollars. Now, your guest will be so impressed with your home’s look that they will have to tell everyone how art savvy you are.

As the summer heat begins to rise, there is nothing that can soothe the discomfort quite like a pool in your very own backyard. Many people stray away from this route because they think having a pool can be too expensive for the family budget. There is, however, many different ways to help cut back on the cost of your pool, so you can easily keep one without having to worry about dealing with financial setback. With these tips you will easily be able to surprise your kids with a pool so the entire family can bond together as you enjoy swimming and avoiding the heat together.

1. Run Filter at Night
A lot of people keep their pool filter running constantly which can really make your electric bill jump. The filter is a necessary part of keeping a pool clean, but the fact is it doesn’t have to be left on all of the time. During the day most pool owners will want to spend time in their pool, meaning the water will constantly be moving and getting dirty. So, if you’re looking to save money then you might want to keep your filter off during the busier portions of the day. One thing to factor in, of course, is your electric company’s peak hours. This is why running your filter at night is the best options. This way you are running on a smaller rate for your electric bill and the filter won’t have to work around all of the body’s in the pool.

2. Use a Smaller Pump
A lot of prepackaged pools come with a pump that is actually too large for the pool. Yes, it is always great to have a big pump for hygiene reasons, but you can settle for one that is smaller. This is particularly true with the prepackaged above ground pools. While your oversized pump is working to keep your pool clean it is using up a lot more electricity than it should. With a smaller pump you minimize the amount of electricity needed to clean while still allowing the job to get done. A larger pump also processes the chemicals too fast, so you will constantly have to workout your chemical balance while replacing the chemicals the pool has already pumped out. This can be one of the most expensive aspects of pool cleaning! So, with a smaller pump your pool will be able to maintain the proper levels while using up less of your resources.

3. Pool Covers
Utilizing a pool cover can be one of the wisest and cheapest decisions on your part. In some areas these covers are required because they help protect neighborhookd children and animals. Of course, even if they aren’t required you should consider having on your pool whenever it isn’t in use. It is not only a safety factor, but a financial one too. When you put a cover over your pool you are actually preventing bugs, dirt, leaves and other things from polluting your pool. This means that the chemicals and filter don’t have to work as hard to keep your pool clean, so you won’t have to deal with purchasing a lot of new chemicals or dealing with a higher electric bill. Covers can also be used to keep in the warmth of your heated pool. This will help the heater stay off for longer as the thermostat will stay higher with the cover locking in all the heat.

4. Don’t Build Your Own
Spending the time and money to put in your own pool can cost you a small fortune. After you gr through all of the permits to get the job started you will still have to wait quite some time before you actually get to dip your toes in the water. An in ground pool can actually run you thousands of dollars so you might want to try opting for something a bit cheaper. There are a wide assortment of above ground pools that can help you save while still enjoying the pool. One of the best things is these pools are easy to set up so you don’t have to deal with the long wait. So, if you have a family that likes to stay active in the pool then you might check out one of the charger liner pools. Of course, it might be easier to grab an smaller inflatable pool if you have younger children who just want to splash around. These pools take less to fill and are easy to store away off season.

5. Don’t Drain the Pool
One of the major financial factors when it comes to having a pool is filling it up. A lot of people believe they have to completely drain the pool when they clean it which is a total waste of resources and money. Instead of dumping out your pool water you should always try to treat it with chemicals that can get the job done for a lot cheaper. Draining your pool can also lead to flooding within the neighborhood. Usually, neighbors are very understanding, but if you damage their possession or destroy their gardens you could be sued. So, when it comes to having pool water that looks too bad to dive into you should always try to find the best combination of chemicals or hire a professional to help you get your pool back in order. This is especially important if you have an in ground pool that is tricky to clean up.

6. Larger Isn’t Better
When it comes to choosing a pool you don’t have to pick the largest on the market. In fact, it is best to try to choose a pool that is quite a bit smaller than your yard. Generally when choosing a pool you should consider your family’s needs. Most family’s want a place for their children to cool down in the summer or to sit and relax with friends while enjoying a nice barbeque. A standard sized above ground pool is one of the easiest ways to meet these needs. If you want to swim laps in your pool then it might be better to have a training pool instead. You don’t have to opt for the in ground pool or super large pool that will take up your entire yard. Remember, the bigger your pool is the more water you will to provide for it, as well as chemicals and equipment to keep the pump going. So, going smaller not only saves on the initial price of the pool but on the yearly cost as well.

7. Add on Slowly
One of the major mistakes people make when they purchase a pool is they think they need to accessorize all at once. Usually when you get a pool children are happy just to enjoy splashing and playing in the water. So, get accustomed to the pool before you start to feel out the accessories you need to buy. Sometimes, families enjoy the pool without having to have extras for a number of years. If you really think you need to add on to your pool then you can pick noodles or scuba gear that will add a little extra to your children’s games. Once you really get used to the way your pool feels you can start to plan out a slide or other big toys that will make your pool more fun.

8. Watch Ph Levels
A lot of people don’t know a whole lot about ph levels when they buy a pool. One of the most cost effective things you can do is educate yourself on the matter, so you can monitor your own ph levels. These levels work out really well when it comes to keeping your pool clean. The important thing about monitoring levels is you know the correct balance for your system. If you can find a good balance then you will be able to reduce the chemicals you put in your system. This will help save you a lot of money as you won’t have to constantly go out and buy chemicals to keep your pool clean.

9. Fence Your Pool In
You might not think about it, but one great way to avoid spending on your pool is to fence it in. Yes, this help keeps the neighbors out of the pool, but the real reason for doing this is to help prevent wind damage on your pool walls. Many above ground pools can take in a lot of damage while they are under heavy winds. In fact, some wind storms can totally knock over a pool, or at least rip the liner and dump out the water. Adding a fence will slow down the wind that hits your pool so the damage will be totally minimal. If you’re worried about how it will look to keep the pool fenced in then have no fear. You don’t have to use a big and bulky fence, but can choose something that suits your home. You can even add shrubbery as a fence to help improve your pools maintenance cost.

10. Watch for Leaks
Leaks are one of the major problems with pools, especially if you’re using a pool that requires a liner. One of the best things you can do is monitor your pool for leaks every other day. This will allow you to catch any leaks before they cost you a lot of water or before a tear forms in your liner. Fixing a tear or replacing the liner can be expensive, so by simply looking out for your pool you can save yourself hundreds of dollars. Leaks are easy and cheap to fix if you can find them in time, so act fast. All you have to look for when it comes to pool leaks is excess water in certain areas or an abnormality in liner. Once you’ve found a leak patch it and move on to enjoy your pool without worry.

Maintaining a pool can be a lot of fun when you stop worrying about the costs. With these ten tips you can take care of your pool and enjoy having it up and running without having to feel guilty about the budget cuts you’ve made in other areas. So, from now on your summers don’t have to be as hot and uncomfortable. Instead, you can soak up some sun in a nice cool pool that will keep you satisfied.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

If you can’t get past the theme park family vacation rut than you might want to check out the wonderful adventures you can have at Sea World. This amazing park combines the fun of an amusement park with the magic of an aquarium. Pricing might vary between these locations, but if you’re really booking to keep to a tight budget there are a lot of different ways that you avoid the massive vacation price if you try. With these ten tips you’ll be on your way to having fun at the Sea World park without once worrying about the cash you are spending on your vacation.

1. Season Pass
Tickets for Sea World can be a bit pricey if yu’re trying to stick to a budget. There is a solution to your dilemma though, that will help you save money throughout the park. This solution, of course, is a season pass. A season pass cost a small amount more than a day’s ticket to the park and will allow you to get into the park for the entire year. So, if you live close to the park then this might be one of the best values for your family. If not, you might want to consider the other benefits of the pass. For instance, season pass holders don’t have to pay for parking, which generally runs you around $12 each time you enter the park. You also won’t have to stand in line with everyone else in order to receive tickets which can be one of the biggest appeals for the pass. No longer will you have to waste an hour or two of your day just to get inside! You might also love the fact that you will receive discounts throughout the park, which can really help make the day worth it. Finally, when you order online you can get $10 or more off your ticket pricing.

2. Plan Your Route
One of the main reasons families tend to over spend is because they are tired, hungry or thirsty. It is pretty hard to avoid exhaustion on vacation, especially when you have the summer months beating down on you. There is a way to help combat the fatigue that will lead you to purchasing more than you actually need though. For example, planning out a route is actually one of the best ways to take on your experience. Sea World is designed in a way that you can easily take on the full park without having to feel extremely sun drained at the end of the day. When you first enter the park in the morning you might try to visit displays that are outdoors. When the weather begins to hit them you will want to jump from outdoor exhibit to indoor exhibit, which will allow you to cool down while still seeing so much of the park. At mid-day you should try to make your way to the shows where you can sit down, enjoy a drink and get a little wet in the splash zones. As the weather begins to cool down again you can move throughout the items you missed.

3. Parking
There isn’t a whole lot your can do about the outrageous parking cost apart from avoid them. With a season pass you park in the Sea World parking for free, so this might be one of the best routes to take. Of course, if you don’t want to buy a pass then you still have a few other options. A lot of time cities will offer parking that is slightly nearby Sea World. The parking probably won’t be free, but it will be half of the price of the Sea World parking. You might also have quite a walk when you go this route. One of the best thing you can do is take public transportation to the park. Most cities will have a bus line that runs near the park so you will have an easy way to get the park and back to your hotel without having to worry about parking your car. Some hotels will even provide a shuttle free of cost, which is probably the most convenient way to get where you’re gong.

4. Souvenirs
Everyone wants a souvenir of their trip, especially children. Most of the souvenir shops in the park will have the typical over priced items, so you might want to avoid these stores if you can. Instead, try to hit up the ten dollar or less shop that caters to smaller items that cater to families that need to stick to a budget. This shop is filled with cute games and smaller toys that will please most children. You might even find a cute hat or top in this smaller gift shop. If you’re looking to spend very little on souvenirs then you might love some of the machines that will cost you less than a dollar. One machine will squish a penny and leave a Sea World design that will allow you to keep it and show it off. There is also a wax machine that cost around $2 to $5 to operate. This machine will make your chosen animal out of wax right before your eyes. This is a perfect gift for kids to bring home and show to their friends. If you are looking to spend a little more then you might want to invest in one of the Sea World cups. These specific cups will allow you to purchase refills for $.99 throughout the year.

5. Food
Many families struggle with the cost of food while they’re at an amusement park. Prices tend to be over the top and if you aren’t careful you can easily surpass a budget if you choose to eat three meals at the park. Sea World generally doesn’t allow you to bring a lot of food in the park, but you can pack away a bag of chips, or other small snack, and a bottle of water. Certain parks will even allow you to bring in a small cooler, but you might call ahead of time to ask. The great thing about Sea World is you can leave the park and come back throughout the day without having to pay to re-enter. Simply get your hand stamped and your all set for all day entry. This means you can easily pack a lunch and a cooler of drinks and leave it in your car as a nice break from the park. Doing this can save you over a hundred dollars, so don’t feel bad about it. It might also be a nice break to sit in your comfortable seats with a little air conditioning while you eat something a bit healthier than what the park has to offer.

6. Promotions
Like all amusement parks, Sea World has a lot of promotions throughout the year. The best way you can plan for your family’s vacation is to look out ahead of time. If you can check for deals every week then you might be able to snag some really great steals for your vacations. One of the best things to do is keep an eye on ticket discounts during the off season so you can secure an amazing deal for everyone. Sometimes, you can join a club for the park that will send you emails about freebies and discounts that will ensure your time in the park will be incredibly frugal.

7. Sharing
There are a lot of events the park offers that can easily be shared. For instance, most parks will sell fish so guest can feed the sea lions and dolphins. This is a great way to create memories for your children and isn’t expensive, unless you decide to pay for every child to do it. When you purchase fish they generally come with six fish per order, so you don’t need purchase for multiple people. Simply, give a fish or two to each of your children and enjoy watching them have fun with nature. You can also purchase snacks and drinks for everyone to share. For instance, you can usually pay a fairer price for the biggest drink on sale, which is plenty of fluid to go between every family member. You can also purchase pretzels, funnel cakes and other oversized treats that can be spread out between family members. This will allow you to experience some of the food without having to go broke because of it.

8. Shows
Sea World offers a lot of exciting and humorous shows throughout the day, so make sure you hit all of them. The shows are free which makes them the best event to allow your family to cool down and relax after a few hours of walking. Usually, you should try to catch the 2nd or 3rd showing so that you won’t have to fight the crowds to see the show. If you’re really looking to cool down during one of the shows then you might want to grab seats in the front rows, especially if you have kids. These seats are called the spray zones and they pretty much guarantee that you’ll be sprayed or splashed at some point during the show. These shows generally last between half an hour to an hour so you will still have plenty of time to see other shows or check out attractions.

9. Rides
Everyone loves to hit the rides at the amusement parks and Sea World certainly offers something for everyone. There is a good and bad time to try to ride though. Usually, if you make it to the park early in the morning then you might want to go ahead and jump in a few lines to ride the roller coasters for a couple of hours. When the park begins to get more crowded then you should probably take a break and see some other exhibits. Usually, when the park tends to die down a bit it is safe to hit the rides once again. Avoiding the lines during the day is important for many reasons. For starters, the amount of time you spend in the lines will take away from the park hours. Time spent in line during the heat also means that you’ll want to spend more money on drinks to help cool yourself down. So, in general, it is best to avoid long lines whenever you visiting this amazing park.

10. Ask for Discounts
Sea World offers a lot of discounts that you might never know about unless you ask. For instance, if you’re active duty military you don’t have to pay for a ticket to get into the park. This only works once every year, so choose your timing wisely. Dependents and retired military will also be able get into the park at a reduced price. Teachers will also get a discount or free entrance into the park at times too, so make sure to ask when you go to buy a ticket. There are many common discounts like those for senior citizens and the disabled, so if you feel you fall into a certain category then ask your ticket merchant. Children and students are also privy to a certain price so make sure to bring student id cards whenever you go to the park.

Sea World is one of the most exciting places to go while you’re on vacation, so don’t skip it just because you are feeling insecure about your budget. With these tips you can enjoy the entire park without having to worry about spending too much money on all of the little add ons that add up to too much. Instead, you can enjoy the people you’re meant to spend time with without having to have your fun fueled by cash.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Traveling the world seems to be on many people’s bucket list, but so many fail to actually follow this dream because they think it will cost them too much money. When you begin to travel abroad the price tag may begin to look overwhelming if you don’t know some of the trick to eliminate a large portion of the cost. Whether you want to explore the countries surrounding your own, or want to cross the ocean to find yourself in a whole new environment, there are many ways to eliminate cost so you can take the time to enjoy the beautiful world. You don’t have to refrain from your dream vacation, instead try reworking your numbers with some of these helpful tips.

1. Money Conversion
A lot of new travelers feel that they live in the digital world and shouldn’t have to carry around cash, which can be a huge problem when you go abroad. It isn’t that you won’t be able to find ATM machines or use your credit cards in stores, restaurants and hotels because most foreign countries will take these items as long as they are VISA or Mastercard. The fact of the matter is, when you use your card to make a purchase or pull out foreign currency you’re going to lose a lot of money in the conversion. Generally, most banks don’t charge a whole lot when it comes to converting your money for you, but by using the card abroad you will be looking at some major fees just for using the card outside of the country. Typically this will cost you two to five dollars, which doesn’t seem like much, but if you’re doing this often you might find that you’ve spend at least $100 on charges alone. The best thing you can do is get a set amount of money converted before you leave for your trip. It is usually best to do this at the bank as many airports will charge you a bit extra for this service. If you run out of money then you can use your card, but don’t forget to look around for a currency converter before you do this.

2. Tourism Cards
If you plan on going to a lot of places, or even if you don’t, a tourism card can be one of your greatest allies on the money saving front. These cards are generally purchased for a 24, 48 or 72 hour range which make them perfect for anyone who is not going to be in the city for very long. These cards are packed full of deals though, so make sure you look for one for each city you will be spending a large portion of time in. These cards are specifically designed to make exploration easier and cheaper for tourist. The cards allow you to get on public transportation for free, so you can exclude the cost of that expense when you plan your vacation. Typically, the cards also give you free admission to museums and other sites that tourist tend to flock to while on vacation, which makes your entertainment budget go down too. To top it all off you get plenty of discounts on a wide assortment of restaurants and stores, as well as some hotel rooms.

3. Accommodations
Many tourist have heard that hostels are the way to go when you’re traveling, which can be true. There is another option that has been made available due to the internet though. For many younger or single travelers a form of international couch surfing has become incredibly popular. Websites, such as couchsurfing.com, allow users to find a place to sleep while they are in a city for a day or two. This can be one of the best ways to cheaply travel as most people generally don’t charge you to crash on their couch as long as you can return the favor for them. This service also allows people to make friends quickly which can improve the way you see any given city. If couch surfing isn’t your idea of a good time then staying at a hostel is probably your cheapest bet. If you do want to stay in a hotel, which is better for families, try to look for one that is further away from tourist areas. This will allow you to save on a hotel as well as food.

4. Fresh Markets
While your out and about you might want to take advantage of the fresh markets that many foreign countries have. This is a great way to have a meal on the go that won’t cost you a whole lot of money. Most fresh markets will provide you with fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses and meats that will really give you the full experience of the country you are visiting. If you’re exploring the city try picking up some freshly baked bread or a nice piece of fruit to munch on while you walk to your next destination. Snacking like this in many cities is the best way to cut down on your food budget as most of the things you will be purchasing will only cost you mere cents. If your hotel has a place to cook you might want to grab some food for a later dinner, so you don’t have to eat at a restaurant every time you go out.

5. Transportation
Getting around abroad can be easier than you think. The cheapest way to get from one destination to the next, apart from walking, is to take public transportation. Usually, you can get a transit card for the day for very little money. This will allow you to commute from one area to the next just like the locals do. Most foreign places have a very good transit system, especially if you are visiting a city, so you won’t have to worry about wasting time waiting on buses to arrive. If you’re planning on staying in an area for a little while then you could also look into renting a bicycle. This will allow you to get around for cheaper and will give you a local experience you will love to talk about for years. When you’re abroad you should try to avoid taxis and rental cars because they will take over a lot of your budget. The best way to get around is to do what the locals are doing!

6. Pack Light
You might not realize it but packing light can help save you quite a bit of money. You don’t need a whole wardrobe when you go abroad and packing on can really hold you up when you’re traveling. For starters, bags that weight too much can actually force you to pay more fees at the airport when you go to check in. Heavier bags are also a lot harder to get onto buses and other forms of transportation that will get you to your resting destination. Not to mention, if you pack a full bad before you leave then you won’t have room for all of your souvenirs at the end of the trip. The best thing you can do is pack as little as possible. You can always do laundry while you’re abroad, so try to pack a bag that easy to carry and possibly might work as a carry on.

7. Airline
Choosing the right airline can be one of the most important choices when it comes to saving money on your trip abroad. Airline tickets generally seem to be where most people start when it comes to planning out their trip, of course, it is also where a lot of people stop. If you know how to look for the right airline you might not seem to think the price is too bad. For instance, a lot of airlines that are less popular will charge you less money to fly with them. You can also opt out of meal plans and other extras you know you won’t want on the plane. You should also look at less popular airlines when you fly too. If you plan on visiting more than one country on your trip then look into the various areas for the cheapest flight. While you’re abroad you will also find that is it much cheaper to fly from location to location. For instance, if you play your cards right you could get a flight from London to Dublin for only a pound! No matter what airline you choose you should always book your flight well in advance. This will give you a few extra savings to work with. Also, try to have someone drop you off at the airport so you don’t have to deal with parking fees!

8. Don’t Use Your Phone
With today’s world being so closely connected with social media it might be tough for people to actually turn off their phone and enjoy the vacation. Turning off your phone can be one of the most important things you do while you’re away though. Most cellphone companies don’t cover international use unless you have a specific plan, which can be expensive. This means that having your phone on can mean you’re racking up some major roaming cost. While you’re on vacation try to enjoy your time abroad without constantly talking to people on the phone. This will allow you to fully take in your surroundings without forcing you to pay a huge fee when you return from your trip. If you really need to get in touch with family then send them an email or post a social media status using wi-fi that can be found at many cafes.

9. Try the Special
When you go abroad try not to stick to your typical eating habits. One way to truly experience a country is to dine like the natives do, which might take a lot of courage on your part. An easy way of doing this is to eat the daily special at a restaurant you go to. Generally, the special tends to be something that is in season and that many people in the country will find to be comfort food. You might actually be surprised as to how much you will like some of the foreign dishes. The best thing is most of the time specials are about half of the price of a regular meal so you will get your fill for a whole lot less. If you can try to plan your meal time around lunch then you will save even more money and the food will help keep you full until you can buy something smaller for a later meal.

10. Free Sights
The best thing about going abroad is there are so many things you can see that won’t cost you a penny. For instance, if you’re traveling to Paris you can spend time in front of the Eiffel Tower for no cost at all. This will allow you to absorb the beautiful of the wonder as well as take in some French culture when you dine at the park next to it. You can still pay to go up into the Eiffel Tower, but it tends to be cramped and uncomfortable. You can also check out the Versailles Palace gardens for free, but they do charge you to go inside. In England you can go from museum to museum without paying a dime, which can take days to do. There are many other free things you can do abroad, so make sure you do your research before you plan your entertainment budget.

Everyone should have the chance to check out another country, but with a tight budget it might seem impossible. With these simple tips you too can finally have the vacation of your dreams without having to go broke doing it. You might even find something out about yourself that you never knew before, which will make the vacation well worth the cash involved.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Computers are a major purchase for most households, which means upgrading can take a lot time to budget into the households expenses. This can be a problem when something bad happens to a computer and households can end up not having this important technology in their home for some time. There are many ways to avoid the high price of computers when you do need to replace an old one. When you follow these simple tips you can knock at least a hundred dollars off of the price of your computer, which can help make your budget happier than ever.

1. Upgrade Older Machine
You might not think about it when you are having computer problems, but upgrading an older computer can actually solve your computer crisis. If you have a computer that is running slowly or just doesn’t fit your household’s needs then you can always upgrade various pieces of the machine. You might have to have the computer checkout out by a professional before you do this, but it can really keep you from spending a whole lot of money on a newer model. Generally, when you have an older computer you will need to provide it with a new processor or other items that can help spend it up. Adding new memory to the machine is generally a bonus too, especially if you plan on adding new software or playing games. A lot of the time you will have to upgrade the graphics card too in order to keep up with the newer programs. Of course, these pieces might cost more than you would want to spend on their own, but when you compare it to buying an all new computer then you will be doing a whole lot better money wise.

2. Shop Used/Refurbished
If you’re looking for a new computer then you might already be making a huge mistake. When it comes to budgeting you should always looking into the used and refurbished section before planning on spending a lot more cash on a brand new machine. There are a lot of used computers that come backed with a warranty from the supplier. Generally, these computers are still in perfect order and can really make you happy with your choice. A lot of companies will also offer you a refurbished item, which means that the computer has been altered to its original factory setting. This will make you feel like you have a brand new computer without having to pay the hundreds of dollars extra to get one. Refurbished computers are great starter computers too, so if you’re looking to get your child their first machine then you might want to start off here.

3. Know What You Want
When it comes to buying a computer it is actually incredibly important to know what you want before you go shopping. In a lot of cases, shoppers who blindly look at computers will end up paying a lot of extra money for things they don’t actually need or want. So, before you go shopping make sure you have a list that will help you decide what machine will work best for your personal needs. If you shop online or order a custom computer you can actually get it with very few items already attached to it. The more you add onto a computer the more you will have to pay out of pocket, so try to limit the things you add on to items you actually need. This is especially true for software that comes with many of the newer computers as manufactures tend to try to bundle different software to encourage people to buy from them.

4. Build Your Own
You might not realize it, but building your own computer can be one of the best things you do. Although, you might need to have a little technological know how, or at least have a friend that does before you try this. When you build your own computer you have to order each individual part to your specification. This will allow you to get exactly what you want in a computer without forcing you to spend money on things you don’t really need. When you plan out your future computer you should have a list of all of the items you need to get it up and running. You should also so research before you purchase the items as you are going to need make sure you are getting good quality item. This is especially important when it comes to cooling devices for the computer. As you choose items for your new computer make sure you keep in mind that you can always upgrade later, so you don’t have to spend a fortune on items today.

5. Rebates/Coupons
When it comes to purchasing something new the best thing you can do is look for coupons and rebates prior to making any purchase. The great thing about internet shopping is there is a wide selection of coupons that can take a lot of money off of your purchase. This is especially important on big items such as computers. So, before you choose a location to buy your computer from look around for coupons that can help get rid of a percentage of your fee. You might also want to call and ask about rebates for your computer. Rebates are one of the best ways to save if you have the cash to pay for an item up front. Sometimes, rebates can even give your hundreds of dollars in return, which is more than a fair deal. The effort you tend to put into your work the better off you are going to be when it comes to tallying up the final cost of your purchase. You might also want to wait and look for a new computer whenever there is a sale going on, which will take off just a little more at the end of the purchase.

6. Say No to Brand New
When you’re shopping you might be tempted to buy a brand new model of computer. This can be a huge mistake in terms of money though. Generally, new models don’t have a whole lot of new features to justify the cost so you will end up spending up $200 of more for a model that is just as good as an older one. A lot of new models, especially with brand new operating systems, often have a lot of kinks that need to be worked out before being used effectively. These problems can cause you a lot of grief and might even make your experience with the computer seem like a huge mistake. So, in order to save some money try to buy a model that you know is going to work well for you. It will be a lot cheaper and you will know that you will be able to smoothly work on the computer without having major issues that can cost you even more money.

7. Shop Around
When you buy anything you should never settle for the first price you seen. Shopping around is one of the most rewarding things when it comes to buying new products, so don’t make your computer shopping any different. Whenever you are looking for a new computer you should start buy looking online. This will allow you to search local stores as well as online stores. Usually, you will find an outstanding deal online through the manufactures site or sites that are designed to get you the best deal possible, like Amazon. If you do find a computer online that is from a store such as Best Buy or Wal Mart then you might fight it more useful to actually go to the store in person to pick up the computer. This saves you on shipping cost, but might also help you not pay several of the fees that are often tacked onto the price. You might even get lucky and find the salesperson can offer you a reduction or rebate for shopping in the store. Make sure you have spend some time thinking on the purchase though, so you won’t be disappointed in what you get.

8. Stay Away From Extended Warranty
When you purchase your computer you will be offered the option of an extended warranty. This is usually not a great buy. Generally, when you purchase a computer it comes with a warranty that guarantees you a certain amount of protection for your purchase. Typically this warranty with cover most of the issues you will have to deal with when it comes to the computer. An extended warranty often doesn’t cover a lot of the problems you will have after the original warranty expires. Sure, it will cover an occasional repair, but with the money you put down on the extended warranty you can easily pay for the repair yourself. There is a lot of fine print when it comes to extended warranties too, which could cause you to not to get the services you need out of the warranty you’ve paid a lot of money for. So, if you’re really worried about your new computer breaking you should take the money you’d put on the extended warranty and put it in your savings account to help pay for a new computer or any needed repairs.

9. Operating System
When you buy a computer it is crucial that you make sure there is already an operating system installed. This will help save you hundreds of dollars. Usually computer come with the operating software, but if you’re looking to save money you might accidentally purchase one that is entirely blank. If you miss out on an operating system you could end up spending more money than you saved just to get an updated version of the software you need to run the computer. If you are unsure if a computer always has its software installed then make sure you ask a sales person before you purchase. You can typically find what the computer comes with one the box or on a display near the computer. You will also want to make sure to backup your software on a disc so you won’t have to but it later on.

10. Accessorize Later
A lot of today’s computers offer all sorts of bells and whistles, which is nice but can cost a fortune. If you’re looking to save then you should always try to buy these things after you have made you initial purchase. For instance, some laptops come with a webcam already installed in the computer. This can really hike of the price, so make sure that you’re getting a computer that is simply designed. You can always buy a cheap microphone and webcam when your budget permits. A lot of computers will also try to tie in game packages and anti-virus software. These are totally unnecessary for an initial purchase so skip out on the option and order something that is cost effective for you when you are ready. You might also be offered software such as Photoshop and Dragon, which are both very expensive and can really make your computer seem ridiculously price. You should also avoid customized exteriors until later as well!

Purchasing a computer is something most people will do a few times in their lifetime. It doesn’t have to be a difficult or expensive task if you know what you’re doing. With these simple tips you can have a computer that runs like a dream without having to empty your bank account to get to it. Now, you can enjoy the time you spend on your computer without worrying about what can go wrong.

Author: John Terris

There comes a time when the kitchen just isn’t what we need in our home and the dreaded words of remodeling and budget tend to get thrown around a lot. This can be a scary time in any homeowner’s life and can take a whole lot of planning that might cause you to be at your wit’s end. One way to avoid a lot of the turmoil is to follow a few simple steps that can take your remodeling from frustration to a important time that will bring joy to your family in the future. Whether you’re remodeling to sale your home or trying to make the home more comfortable for your growing family, you will love these tips cut back on the talk about budget and allow you bring to life the kitchen of your dreams.

1. Shop Secondhand Stores
When you’re remodeling your kitchen you don’t have to go for the newest items for your home. There are a lot of secondhand cabinets, fixtures and islands that can turn your kitchen into your own personal haven. Secondhand items should be purchased with care though as many stores might you cabinets that won’t work right in your home, so make sure you know what you’re looking for. One of the best things you can do is try to shop at the Habitat for Humanity Outlet. This store will sell off excess supplies to anyone who needs the items, which can save you money and will allow you to donate to a good cause. Habitat for Humanity tends to sale off items they didn’t need on a project or items that are still in good shape that were extracted from a home. This means you’ll be getting good quality even if the items have been used before.

2. Remember Functionality Not Space
When you start to plan out your new kitchen don’t try to make your kitchen more spacious. Yes, spacious areas are nice, but when it comes to sticking to a budget you should always have functionality in mind. This means adding areas that make sense next to each other so you can move around the kitchen in a manner that makes complete sense. This might be as simple as making the microwave area above the stove, or adding in cabinets that spin so you can store more items. When it comes to adding space to your kitchen it is usually best to only do this when it is absolutely necessary. When adding space you tend to have to knock down walls and possible add more onto the house or put up more walls. This is where the big money comes in, so it is best to try to maximize the space you have, so you can get in and out of the kitchen with the least amount of labor and financial burden as possible.

3. Demolition
If you do decide that adding on is the way to go then try to tear down as much as you can on your own. This can be one of the most favored parts of saving money because typically you can find a lot of volunteers that are more than ready to take a sledge hammer to a wall. When you do knock down a wall make sure you are careful as you don’t want to do damage to pipes or get hurt. You can also take out flooring, wallpaper and cabinets on your own. When you do this you are taking a day’s worth of labor off of your bill and you are ensuring that the renovation isn’t just a hired on deal but a labor of love. When you do demolish some of the home make sure to see what can be used again by charity organizations. A lot of the time many charities will take on the majority of your rubbish which will help them out and save you on disposal fees.

4. Leave the Sink
Remodeling the kitchen can be a breeze if you manage to keep the kitchen sink in tact. This is particularly important if you don’t want to pay for a lot of extra labor and potentially clean up a huge mess. The sink is usually connected to a certain area for a reason and moving it can mean reorganizing the pipe work in your kitchen. So, by moving the sink you’re looking at hours of work that will not only tear up the walls in your kitchen but will cost you an absolute fortune. If you do leave the sink then you can easily work around this area and will save enough money to buy a fancier sink that will match your kitchen’s new look.

5. Natural Lighting
There is nothing more relaxing than natural lighting while you work in the kitchen. The only problem is adding more windows to your kitchen can be a huge burden on the budget as well as a difficult task to complete. Providing your home with more windows means purchasing the windows as well adding insulation and weather stripping to ensure that the windows are functioning well for the home. This can run you over a thousand dollars per window, so if your kitchen is lacking in light then you might want to consider replacing fixtures. There are many light fixtures on the market now that actually take bulbs that produce a light that looks and feels natural to you. This is a great way to make the room more comfortable and can save you a lot of money. If you want to add more fixtures into you home it will cost you around $500 per fixture, which is still a grand in savings.

6. Shop Discounted Flooring
When it is time to replace the flooring then you might want to do a lot of shopping around for discounted vendors. There are many retail centers online that will offer you a discounted price on flooring that doesn’t sell as well. This will give you the opportunity to choose between a large variety of wooden floors as well as tiles and vinyl that can suit your kitchen more than you ever thought possible. If you aren’t interested in waiting awhile to get your tiling then you might want to shop around locally. You can always ask a salesperson if they can show you to any discounted or clearanced flooring that will save you a lot of money. This might not give you as big of a selection, but can help you save when you are looking to keep a budget. You might also find a retailer that will offer you free installation when you buy from them, which is a huge help if you don’t know how to install yourself.

7. Buy Imitation Decor
After you have finished up redecorating you might want to look into a few signature pieces that will turn the room into a great place to spend time. The best thing you can do is avoid any piece that is name brand or that comes with a huge price tag. There are many imitation pieces available that will help you save a lot of money. This is especially great if you are trying to keep to a theme that you might grow tired of as the years go by. If you can find a couple basic wall pieces and some floor or counter pieces that you really love then your kitchen will look great. You can also buy a cheaper vase that matches your color scheme, which will allow you to pick or purchase seasonal items that will help you save money as the seasons pass. Decorations are where many people tend to overspend, so make sure you look around for similar pieces before you decide on what should go in your kitchen.

8. DIY
If you plan on doing a major remodel of the home then you should really consider doing as much of the work as possible. This is especially important with the easier task. For instance, you can easily tile your own home with minor instruction. There are many online tutorials and videos that help guide you through your home tiling experience. Another great way to save on money is to paint and wallpaper the walls. This is one of the easiest tasks possible, and will help you put a little love into your home. By doing most of the work yourself you are allowing more of the budget to go into areas of the remodeling that might require more money, such as for an electrician and plumber. A little DIY can help you make a big change to your home and will provide you will a warm feeling that will make you feel like you built the kitchen from scratch.

9. Neutral Colors
Colors are an important part of your remodeling so you will want to choose carefully. Generally, when you are remodeling to sale the home you will want to choose colors that are very neutral. This will make the kitchen look even more appealing to people who are looking into the house. Neutral colors allow people to see themselves living in the home easier as they suit any theme. If you are choosing colors for your own home then you might also want to looking into finding neutral colors that you like. This will allow you to remain happy with your home for longer, and will work well with any phase you might be going through. Neutrals paints can range in color so feel creative when you choose the one’s that are right for your kitchen. Color is especially important when you choose your cabinets as this will be a more permanent fixture in the kitchen than the color of the walls. So, to avoid more work choose a color that you can actually grow with instead of one that is a passing phase.

10. Hauling Materials
There’s a good chance that you’re going to have a lot of material you need to get to your home as well as haul away from the home whenever you remodel the house. The best way to do this is to use your own truck, as hiring someone will cost you a lot of money. If you don’t have your own truck and can’t borrow one from friends and family then you should try to rent a small trailer to help you get rid of your supplies. This can save you a lot of money in comparison to hiring someone as renting is generally a fixed fee for the day, whereas hiring someone might mean paying a lot of money per load. Hauling off your rubbish can be a great finalization task for the remodeling and will allow you to return to a kitchen that makes you want to spend time in it.

Your kitchen is an amazing room that can bring your family closer together. Having a place where you enjoy to spend time is a great way to make cooking and cleaning up less of a chore, so remodeling can really change your life. With these remodeling tips you can turn your kitchen into a room that better suits your family and lifestyle. Now, you don’t have to stress as much about how you’re going to budget your remodeling task and can instead enjoy planning out the beautiful room of your future.

Author: John Terris

The 4th of July is the first major holiday of the summer season which is why so many people want to go all out for this patriotic occasion. If you’re not care the party coast can start to add up without you even realizing it. Thankfully there is a great way to throw 4th of July parties without spending a whole lot of money. You can still have an amazing time with your friends and family without going overboard on the party funds. With these tips you’ll be on your way to a memorable party that keep everyone entertained throughout the day. So get ready to plan one of the most important bashes of the season.

1. Skip Decor
The fourth of July is largely an outdoor celebration for most, so don’t spend a whole lot of money on decorations for your party. Chances are most people are going to spend the majority of their time hanging out by the grill so they can enjoy the amazing food. So, there is really no point to go all out when it comes to decorating. One of the major decorations should always be your flag. If you have the flag flapping in the wind then you are doing a pretty good job at decorating for this patriotic feast. Of course, if you want a little more decoration then grab some poster board or a roll of paper and have the kids decorate a cute banner for the home. This will not only entertain the kids at the party, but will satisfy your need to decorate for a party.

2. Food
The best thing about the 4th of July is some of the delicious foods that are prepared. You don’t have to go all out and make expenses brisket and rib type meals for this holiday. Instead, let hot dogs and hamburgers steal the show for an amazing meal that everyone will love. Salads and chips are all you really need to complete these dishes, so you will be ready to go after spending only a few dollars. Of course, if you want to add a little bit more to your party’s feast you could always ask people to bring their own dishes. This is a great way to really show off what America has become as people will have a wide selection of dishes that were passed down through their family. Potlucks will also ensure that everyone gets plenty to eat while they are away. You can even have guest bring their own meat in order to make the food go even further.

3. Fireworks
Fireworks tend to be the main attraction for most fourth of July parties. Of course, in some areas they are totally illegal to pop on your own. So, you might want to play your party near a place that can legally do fireworks. Usually you can find a nice park to host a party for little to no cost, which is a great way to give your party a little instant entertainment. If you can pop fireworks at your home then you might want to invest in a few signature pieces. Usually, sparklers are your best bet when it comes to entertaining children so you will want to buy a few boxes of those if nothing else. These are generally very cheap too, so you won’t have to worry about blowing your budget. If you intend on doing a show then you might want to ask your guest to bring their contribution. This will allow many people to do their fireworks and entertain a full group of people. You can also just sit back and watch the fireworks that the community has let off, as generally there are quite a few let off throughout the night.

4. Games
There are so many cheap ways to create games for your guest that you might actually have to be choosey when it comes to games. You might want to play a water balloon war for the height of the day, so your guest can easily cool down. Water balloons are usually very cheap so you can buy them in large quantities. There are also a large number of races that will keep your guest busy throughout the day. For instance, you can put out a few sacks for a burlap sack race, tie two people together or make your guest balance an egg on a spoon. If you have a lot of space then you can set up a capture the flag game to keep all ages busy. You can also bring out a football or baseball for good old fashioned fun that will bring joy to everyone. If your guest seem to be sluggish by the middle of the way you can always bring out a board game to really get the fun going.

5. Movies
If you don’t want your guest to be outside all day then you can always entertain them with movies or t.v. One of the best ways to cool down a rowdy crowd is to put the baseball game on in the other room. Children’s movies are always a great bet too, especially if you have a game room or larger bedroom that the kid’s can play in. Of course, there are also a large number of movies that take place on Independence Day or are especially about the holiday that would make a great for of entertainment during a nice cool down hour. If you really want to make your party cool then you can rent a projector at a low price for movies outdoor. All you have to do is tape a large piece of paper on the house and hook the projector up and you’re ready to go. This is especially cool if you can play fireworks from the major cities across the country.

6. Treats
Everyone loves a little sweet treat during the holidays, so make sure you guest don’t end up longing for dessert. One way you can provide guest with something sweet and cool them down is to serve snow cones. All you need is a little shaved ice and some flavoring bottles, which are very cheap, and you have a treat that will impress kids and adults alike. You can also mix up a batch of rice crispy treats. To make the treats a bit more holiday friendly try cutting them into stars and decorating them with red and blue M&Ms or sprinkles. You might also want to set out piece of fruit, like watermelon, that will provide your guest with a classic dessert option for a very low price.

7. Drinks
Refreshments are one of the most important aspects of party, especially one that takes place in the heat. Kids will want something sweet and delicious to drink so make sure you have plenty of drinks like coolaid and lemonade ready to go. These drinks cost very little to make and will keep just about any child happy. You might also want to brew a lot of tea and had some sweeter fruits to the mix, so people can enjoy a delicious mix of beverages. Try to keep away from serving bottled water, but allow people to have access to getting filtered water even if it means opening up the home more. If you plan on serving alcohol you might want to buy only a small amount. Try to find a 12 or 24 pack that is on sale. For this portion of the party you should ask your friends to bring their own drinks so you will have plenty for everyone to share.

8. Party at the Park
If you’re worried about holding a party at your home then try to find a park that doesn’t require you to get a permit. This can be one of the best moves as it will allow you to entertain and accommodate your guest better. When you host your party at a park you are giving your guest plenty of space to spread apart so they don’t get as hot as the would packed together. It also allows children to run around and play more so you don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on keeping them busy. Most parks have areas that are fitted for baseball, football, volleyball and other fun games like horseshoes and croquet. This is a great way to really bring a party together and keep them busy while you’re preparing food.

9. Music
Most parties tend to greatly improve when the host has music playing. You don’t have to hire a DJ to have an exciting music vibe going on at your party. Instead, hook your laptop up to some speakers and find an amazing online radio. You might also want to consider creating a playlist just for your parties specific needs. Even if your guest aren’t big on the dancing front they will certainly love the extra relaxed and positive vibe to the party. You might also want to consider scheduling a karaoke hour to the party. There are many websites online that will let you use the music, so all you will need is a cheap microphone to the make most out of the might. If you don’t want to use your computer then renting a machine is fairly inexpensive, so you won’t have to break your budget.

10. Party Favors
No party is complete without a few party favors to send home with the guest. This portion of the party is particularly important for the kids who attend. If you start shopping a bit early you will be able to find a lot of streamers, balloons, noise makers and other cool favors for a lot less money than you would expect. Typically you can find a lot of you the best party favors at dollar stores or discount stores. Noise makers are a great way to keep kids busy during the party and will help them bond with children they haven’t met before. You might also try to find little yo-yos that can keep the kids busy for a bit longer. Sometimes you can even find cute little Uncle Sam or Statue of Liberty hats that will look cute on the kid’s and allow to pretend to be these iconic figures.

The Fourth of July can be one of the best times to have a party for your friends and family. With the beautiful weather and delicious seasonal foods you can plan an exciting party that will leave your guest looking for more. These simple tips will not only help you save money on your party, but will give you a sense of relief when it comes to your budget.

Author: John Terris

Photography is becoming one of the most popular hobbies amongst teens and adults alike. One major problem with the hobby is that is can tend to be a bit pricey, which is why so many people don’t have the opportunity to use the best possible equipment when they make their art. There are a lot of ways around this problem though, so that everyone can take their love of photography and turn it into a relaxing hobby or a potential career. With these simple tips you can get the gear you need to perform your hobby without having to spend thousands of dollars to it. This will not only help you save money, but will encourage you to make the most of the equipment you have, so you can make the most out of your hobby.

1. Free Software
Being able to edit your photographs in one of the major parts of the hobby. Unfortunately, many of the major software can cost you up to a thousand dollars just to purchase for a year. These software are constantly in need of upgrades too, which can mean you’ll lose more and more money each year. There is an upside to photography software though. Luckily, for the frugal photographer there are a lot of free programs online that can do the same job as the expensive brands. You might have to do a lot of research to find the best programs for you though. Many online software comes with only some of the features of the more popular brands, so you might have to have a couple of different programs in order to get the same job done. Of course, having a few programs is worth the trouble when it comes to saving that much money. You should always make sure you are downloading from a secure site though.

2. Second Hand Equipment
One of the best things about expensive equipment is it can easily be refurbished. This can work out in your favor! Most refurbished gear can be sold at a fraction of the original price, so you can get a great camera for an amazing discounted price. DSLR camera are fairly durable, so you shouldn’t have to worry too much about getting on second hand, especially if your buy from a retailer that has refurbished its stock. You can also look for other photography items that have been preowned. Generally, it is great to find lenses that have been used before. You can easily look over these items to make sure that they are not scratched or broken in any way. Props and filters are also great when purchased second hand. Props can be incredibly expensive if you want to buy them new, so when you first start out with your hobby you might want to look for items that are as cheap as possible. Filters generally don’t take a lot of upkeep so can be purchased for mere cents if you can find a set that has been owned before.

3. Improvise
There are many different items you can help improvise equipment when you practice your craft. For instance, you can easily make a diffuser to help eliminate some of the flash that might make your photograph too bright. This can save you a whole lot of money if you often use flash. Another great improvisation that you can create is a reflector. This will help add light to certain areas of your photograph and can make a flash work better if you don’t have the appropriate level of flash. To create a reflector you need to find a piece of poster board or cardboard and cover it with aluminum foil. This is one of the easiest things you can do to improve your photography accessories. If you want to add the colored photo look to your portfolio then you can simply make your own filter. Simply cut out some transparency that is about an inch larger than your lens. When you’ve done this take a sharpie and draw large and bold designs that will give your a colorful look when you take the photo.

4. Older Models
When it comes to keeping up with photographic technology you don’t have to worry about keeping up with the new trends. Having a DSLR camera will allow you to produce high quality images, so you might want to get comfortable with an older model before you start to feel like you need to keep up with the newer stuff. Most DSLR have the same basic traits, so getting comfortable with an old model won’t do you a disservice. A lot of the time newer models are just smaller or have a few features that won’t change your work very much. With an older model you will spend a lot less money on a camera that will allow you to practice, so if you do damage it you won’t be out as much money. These cameras are generally a bit easier to work with, so you might find that buying older is your best benefit. Typically, you can also use the lenses in new cameras which will save you even more money until you upgrade more.

5. Prints
When it comes to making your work tangible you will want to find a good printer. A lot of times home printing will do the trick, especially if you don’t plan on selling the work or putting it in your portfolio. Of course, if you do tend on doing a bit more with your work then you will probably want to find a place that prints for fairly cheap. The best thing you can do is find a bulk printer that will provide you with multiple copies of your work for a low price. Many printers will even offer deals that will provide you with free copies when you order so much work. You might want to look for a printer that will provide you with loyalty points. It might take a few tries to find the perfect printer for you, but once you know the cheapest and most rewarding route your photography work will be a lot easier to work with.

6. Volunteer at Workshops
If you really want to learn more about your craft then workshops are one of the best places you can find information that will help you improve. These workshops can cost quite a bit though if you really want to go to the more informational seminars. There are ways to work around the tuition fee though. For instance, you could offer to volunteer at the workshop. This will not only allow you to go to the workshop for free, but will give you excess practice at the workshop. You might have to do a little bit of work through initial lectures, but if you can multi-task then you will have no problem learning while working. Often, volunteers are brought up to exhibit certain ideas, which will mean you will have first hand experience that other attendees might not get.

7. Be Choosey
Storage is one of the main problems that many photographers have. This is largely because many people have a hard time picking which photographs are worth keeping and which ones should be tossed. SD cards tend to be a lot cheaper than they once were, but you’ll find that if you leave your photographs in the card when you’re not still shooting that you will end up losing a lot of memory space when you go to shoot again. A lot photographers will purchase several SD cards to try to counteract this problem, but if you go through your shots after every photo shoot then you will avoid this problem all together. You might also have an issue with your storage when you keep everything on your computer. Try to go through your pictures once or twice a month and get rid of things you aren’t particularly attached to. This will encourage you to improve your work and will make your shots seem more precious.

8. Swap Group
If you have a group of friends that are also interested in photography then you might want to get together and start a swap group. This will allow each member to purchase and share items that they might find particularly useful. If a member of the group is in need of an item that try to swap it for something that might be of use to another member. This is especially good when members of the group are trying to go professional as it will open up a whole new world of photography to each member. This group should be trusted as it is important to make sure that everyone will feel comfortable with sharing their equipment.

9. Online Tutorials
If you’re looking for an absolutely free way to improve your skills then you might want to look up online tutorials. There are a large number of free tutorials available online that will help you learn news ways to master your skills. It doesn’t matter what skill level you are for these tutorials as they will help you build up your skills from basic to expert if you know where to look. There are also a number of free online courses that can improve your skills. If you are interested in going through an online course without the grade, credit or deadlines then you will love learning from some of the most renowned schools around. Many schools place their syllabus online for people who aren’t registered to follow the work of their course. This can be especially beneficial if you can get a group together who might want to learn along with you.

10. Understand Equipment
One of the most important things you can do when getting into your hobby is to understand your equipment. Many people will spend a lot of money for things that their current equipment does. The best thing you can do is read your manuals over and over until you understand everything that your camera can do. Once you have learned everything from the manuals then you might want to check out online tutorials that might show you a few more things you can do with your particular model. You can even find a few alterations, like homemade filters and other items, that can really take your current equipment to the next level. There is a good chance that your current gear can actually do a lot of the work of the equipment you plan on buying, so by checking to make sure you can’t already do this trick you might actually end up spending a lot less many than you think.

Photography can be one of the most rewarding hobbies and can really bring out a part of your character that you didn’t know before. Now, you can really take on your new skill without having to worry about money constantly putting a wrench in your photography plans. With money out of the equation you might even find that your work is publishable and will bring you a lot of pride that you can share with friends and family. These tips might even help you turn your hobby into a lucrative profession that will bring your household a little extra money.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

We are all guilty of shopping online from time to time. With the busy lifestyles we all lead shopping online is one of the easiest, and sometimes cheapest, ways of finding what we need when we have little time to shop. Shopping online can be a problem for many people though. With shipping cost and so many options available to the public a lot of people tend to go over budget when they do their shopping on the internet. There are a few ways to avoid spending too much money while your online though. These trips will ensure that you will get the best deal every time and you might even find that you will get money back just for shopping for the items you would be anyway.

1. Use E-bate sites
Before you begin an online shopping trip you might want to look around for electronic rebates, or e-bates. This will help you get money back on some of the larger items you purchase online. A lot of e-bates site will help provide you with quite a bit of a discount and you could potentially receive free shipping just for using an e-bate site. This is a great way to fully take advantage of your shopping experience. Many e-bate sites will require you to register for the site in order to gain membership. A lot of registrations are free, but a few might charge you a small fee. Generally, your fee will be paid back in full by the amount of rewards you get through the membership. Shoppers should also keep an eye out on rewards that are specifically offered to first time shoppers, or shoppers who frequently buy from a specific site. So, if you tend to frequent the same online shops make sure to look through the site to see if there is any way you can be rewarded for your loyalty.

2. Coupon Codes
Just like shopping at local stores coupons can be a major help when you’re looking to save money on specific items. However, you can’t exactly use tangible coupons on online stores in most cases. Luckily enough, there are a lot of coupon code websites available to anyone who knows just where to look. There are many major sites that specialize in finding you coupons to help you save, but many major retailers will provide coupon codes right on their site. These can especially come in handy when it comes to buying larger items, but you might find that the little things are where the biggest difference occurs. If you find that you shop at certain sites a lot then you might want to sign up for their newsletter as this will give you access to the latest sales and coupon codes.

3. Membership Sites
There are a large number of membership sites online that can help you save a lot of money. These sites can range from retailers to sites that were created to provide you with discounts for a large number of stores. Many retailers will offer a free membership or reward program to customers who frequently shop with them, which can be one of your major saviors when it comes to online shopping. Other membership based sites will collect a small fee from you. This fee generally goes to help find the deals, coupons, discounts and freebies that many members are then privy to. If you want to maximize your savings when you go shopping online then these memberships sites are a must.

4. Used Goods Websites
If you love to find a good bargain then you might want to shop for used goods online. This will help save you a lot of money and will provide you with an abundance of goods you might not have been able to afford otherwise. There are many second hand stores online such as ebay, half.com and some areas of amazon, so you have a large selection to choose from. You might also want to check out stores like the goodwill who also have an online branch that you can shop from. If you are looking for technology based items then you might try shopping in the refurbished section of any major retailer, or you could try looking for a trustworthy refurbishing company that can help you find a nice discount on the device you’ve been looking to buy.

5. Free Shipping
One of the worst things about shopping online is the shipping charges. A lot of the time these charges will actually force you to pay more for items you could get locally. There is a way around this though. One such way is by joining a free shipping website. This will allow you to work with numerous companies who will give you free shipping just for becoming a member of the site. Free shipping sites usually charge you a membership fee, but when you add up all the shipping cost you might find that it is more than worth it to purchase this membership. There are also many sites that will offer you free shipping just for upgrading your membership, such as Amazon Prime. This is a great way to make the most out of your shopping experience and can save you hundreds of dollars throughout the year. You should also check out any retailer who is offering sales as many items will qualify for free shipping.

6. Hidden Fees
Whenever you’re shopping online for things such as hotel rooms, airline tickets and technological devices you should always consider the fees that are more than likely going to be added on to your bill. A lot of the time when a person goes shopping they forget about these fees and feel that they are getting a good deal until they check out. You can pretty much guarantee that there will be hidden fees on many things that you plan on buying online. For example, most hotels will go ahead and tag on an internet cost as well as a pool fee for your stay. It doesn’t matter if you plan on using these services because the fee is added on to everyone’s bill. The same can be said for anyone who shops online for airline deals as there are many fees and taxes you might not realize when you see your price tag. Technology can be a huge disappointment if you think you are getting the same deal that you originally see. Most devices have state tax as well as a disposal fee added on that can cost you a lot of money if you aren’t paying attention.

7. Clearance and Sales Bins
Many shoppers spend a lot of time just browsing before they know what they want to buy. One of the best things you can do is steer away from the full price areas of the site and browse through the clearance and sales bins. This is a great way to avoid spending a lot of money when you’re not looking for anything specific. If you are looking for some specifics, like prom dresses and other formal attire, then you might take these bins first. Generally, you can find amazing items that will satisfy what you need for a lot less than you could hope to spend on the items. Clearance bins are also one of the best places to find decoration items for anyone who is looking to decorate for a wedding or other special event.

8. Paid to Shop Sites
As online shopping continues to gain popularity there are many websites dedicated to pay you for your shopping activities. A lot of these sites are research based and want to know how the average consumer buys. Many of these sites, like Plink, can work on and offline which can help you get the most out of your shopping experience. Generally, these sites pay with gift cards so you can actually gain more points from shopping than ever before. Many of these sites will ask to link to your bank account though, so you will want to be careful as to which you choose. Try to do a lot of research on a company before you sign up for their program and make sure to look at reviews and ask your friends if they’ve had any experience with the site. Using a paid to shop site can really benefit your household though, so try to go for one that will work best with your shopping trends and that will reward you in a way that will be useful.

9. Shop multiple sites
When it comes to shopping you tend not to shop at the same grocery store when another has a better deal, so why do this when you shop online? Shopping online should mimic some of your offline shopping behaviors. Looking at various different sites for an item can be one of your best ways to save a lot of money. There are many search engines that will offer you a shopping engine, such as Goggle, that will compare an item for you. This will give you access to a wide variety of websites that will offer you prices you might be amazed with. Shopping online requires knowing more about stores online, so with the search engine you will be privy to stores you might not have known existed. Many search engines will even let you know if the site is trusted and will offer reviews so you can feel more comfortable about where you shop online. If you can, try to find all your items on one site to minimize tax and shipping cost, but if this is impossible then utilizing the shopping tool will help you avoid a lot of unnecessary charges. Many search engines will even show you how much shipping each site charges which can help you make the ultimate decision.

10. Social Media
Spending time on social media pages can really earn you some big time savings. Many retail pages on social media sites will offer special discount to anyone that is their friend, likes them or is following them. This can help you find the deal you’re looking for without actually having to do a lot of work to get it. Before you go shopping try looking on the social media page to see if there is any special deal available or coupon codes that they’ve added to the site. A lot of retailer will even host free giveaway here, so keep a look out. Another great thing about social media sites is they also have a great groupon section. This will allow you to plan out an adventure with friends or family at a lesser price than you could ever believe. With social media on the rise you will find that picking up your favorite retailer is more than an important way to save money, but will give you the insider news whenever your store has new sales or inventory that you might be interested in.

Shopping online is one of the most popular forms of shopping today and is on the rise in popularity. If you tend to do a lot of your shopping online then you might want to try out a few of these tricks to help eliminate the cost of your products. This will not only making your online shopping experience better, but will allow you to enjoy your shopping tendencies without feeling guilty about the money you spend. As you embrace the future of retail you will fall even more in love with your shopping abilities.

Everyone dreams of taking a trip or living in New York City at some point in their life. The truth is that this city is so intimidating because it is renowned for being one of the most expensive places on the planet. You shouldn’t let this stop your dreams though. If you really want to take in that NYC trip, or even plan on going to school in this wonderful city there are many ways that you can save money. With these tricks you will find that the Big Apple doesn’t have to cost you as much as you thought.

1. Transportation
When you take your first look at NYC you might be a bit intimidated. There is a lot of movement in this city and pretty soon you’ll be joining in. If you don’t have a car or simply prefer not to sit in traffic the majority of your day then you might want to get on board with the public transportation system. This city has one of the best systems and can get your from point A to point B without forcing you to take a cab. The metro system also allows you to buy a pass that can last for a day to year. This is the best way to go even if you aren’t planning on staying in the city long term. This pass will help you get on buses or take the subway so your day to day commute isn’t an issue. You will also want to avoid cabs as much as possible. Yes, they are fast and easy, but they will really drain you of funds before you know it.

2. Free Museums
If you’re spending the week in the city then you might be startled by the prices of museums and zoos. These prices aren’t as alarming as you thing though. For instance, some musuems will offer free admission on certain evenings, so if you plan accordingly you can catch a lot of famous museums without having to pay a penny. Many museums will also put up a sign with a suggested donation price. This scares a lot of people off because they think they actually have to pay the price to get into the museum. The truth is, you can get in without paying a penny if you want because a donation isn’t mandatory. It might be nice if you do offer a little cash to help out with running the museum, but you don’t have to put in the amount they request. If you’re a big fan of the zoo then you might want to free up your Wednesdays as it is free on this day ever single week. With all of these amazing things to see you won’t have to pay a whole lot of money for entertainment.

3. Eat Cheap
New York City has some of the most expensive food in the world if you don’t know where to look for it. Instead of hitting up the major restaurants try looking for food from a street vendor. Generally, you can get a hot dog, pretzel, felafel or slice of pizza for a small price that you won’t have to feel guilty about. Street vendors are a major part of the city so you if you want to feel like a real New Yorker then check out a couple vendors while you’re in the city. You can also venture to certain areas that have cheaper food like China Town or Greenwich Village. If you’re careful the neighborhoods you choose you will be able to enjoy a delicious meal for a decent price. You should probably try to avoid eating in Time Square at all cost though.

4. Shows
Going to see a show in New York City is one of the biggest things to do, but you don’t have to drop a lot of money to see a Broadway production. If you’re spending a time in the city during the summer then head down to Central Park for an amazing look into New York City’s theatrical shows. Many theater groups will perform free shows in the summer so anyone that happens to be in the park is in for a real treat. Some indie film screenings are also held in the park which will ensure that you might get to see some great films that might not hit DVD or a theater for a few years. Central Park is also the home to a large variety of concerts in the summer. Many of the concerts are donation based, but if you’re a bit low on cash then you can still hear a faint version of the music while you enjoy a snack, or a book in the park. There are also a wide number of television show screenings that offer free admission to a select number of guest, so make sure to wake up early while you’re in the city!

5. Walk Around
You’ll be surprised as to how much walking can actually help you see the city. This activity is a great way to really get a feel for the area and will help you experience the New York lifestyle. In the city so many people do a large amount of walking which means you’ll be able to follow the crowd to find some of the coolest areas in New York City. If you’re feeling ambitious one day then you might want to try walking across the Manhattan Bridge. This bridge is not only beautiful to look at, but it will provide you a great seaside view of the city while allowing you get a great look at the skyline on both sides of the water. The best thing is walking won’t cost you a thing so you can enjoy it as much as possible.

6. Skip the Hotel
There is no doubt it that hotels in the New York City area can really set you back a lot of money. If you’re looking to stay in the city for a longer period of time then you might want to look into staying in an apartment. A lot of people will sublet their apartments out for a month or two at a time, which can be a huge benefit for you. Typically this cost a lot less than a hotel would and it gives you the New York City experience you’ve dreamed about. Staying in an apartment can help you decide if you want to move to the city for good or if you should just take what you can out of the vacation. Another great thing about staying in an apartment is you’ll get to know a part of the city that a lot of vacationers don’t get to see, so you can bring back a lot of cool memories to share with friends and family.

7. Be Aware of the Burrows
New York City is made up of a collection of burrows, which is something that is important to know when you choose a place in the city. Some of the burrows are unbelievably expensive, like Manhattan, and should probably be avoided unless you plan on simply walking around and taking in the sites. Other burrows are great places to eat and enjoy the bar scene, such as Greenwich village. So, when you plan out your vacation or where you plan on living you might want to do a little research into the best places to live, work and play. Generally, you will want to try to find a place that is close to work if you plan on staying or the sights you intend on seeing if you’re on vacation. Either way, choose carefully and know the pros and cons of each place before you go.

8. Don’t Go to the Gym
A lot of newcomers will make the mistake of joining a gym to try to stay in shape and make new friends. This can run you about $100 a month if you’re not careful. Instead of joining a gym try to get a year membership at the YMCA which will only cost you $50 a year. This membership won’t just give you access to the gym, but a series of classes and the swimming pool. There are a lot of free and donation based classes in the city too. Yoga is one of the most popular free classes, but if you can’t find a free class many people will allow you to volunteer in order to take the class for free or at a discounted price. You could also join a free running group. This will allow you to make friends and get in shape without having to spend a dime.

9. Shop Online
If you’re living in the city then shopping online is going to be one of your biggest money savers. Most things in the city are high priced, which means if you shop often in the city you’ll find that you’re wasting money on a lot of things you could get elsewhere. The best thing you can do is try to find items you like online. Even with an additional shipping cost you will save a lot of money by buying clothes, furniture and other goods online. Of course, buying groceries online can even be helpful when you live in the city. Most people don’t charge a hefty when they deliver you and you will save on a cab fee. If you do shop online then you might want to consider buying a couple of weeks to a months worth of groceries. This will help you prevent additional delivery charges. You could try to bring the groceries on the bus or subway, but generally these areas are cramped and its probably not the easiest of tasks.

10. Drink Tap Water
In most places people tend to shy away from the tap water and buy the expensive bottled stuff. You won’t want to do this in the city because it will cost you way too much money. A single bottle of water can run between $1-3, which could cost you the same amount as a small meal. Believe it or not, the tap water in New York City is some of the cleanest you will find in the country. When you go shopping try to find yourself a refillable bottle so you can take some water with you wherever you go in the city. Without having to worry about the amount you’ll need to spend on water you can have a lot of extra cash to do some of the things you actually want to. Of course, you might want to drop this habit when you go home if you live in an area with poor tap water.

Visiting New York City should be on everyone’s must see list. This city is one of the greatest places to see and so things you would never be able to in other places. From the exciting foods and fashions to the great artistic areas, this city can really impress just about everyone. So, don’t worry about spending and book your flight, because these ten tips will help you get through the city without forcing you feel like you’ve made a huge financial mistake.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

The summer is one of the best times to head to the beach and soak up some sun with your family. This inexpensive vacation is one of the best choicest for families that are on a tight budget and don’ t want to have to deal with expensive surprise cost that will make the vacation a bust. With these easy to follow tips you can actually save a lot more than you’d expect for a beach vacation, which can help you maximize the fun you have with your family. So, don’t let the cost of your getaway stop you from getting some much needed time away.

1. Hotels
When you’re choosing a place to stay you should pay particular attention to your hotel room. A lot of beach front hotels will lure you in with their amazing views and convenient location, but they tend to cost you a lot more than you should have to pay. Instead of looking at beach front hotels try to examine hotels located in town first. Usually these will offer you a much better deal and typically provide you with breakfast and nice pool to spend time in when you’re away from the beach. A lot of hotels in town will put you near many local hot spots so you can experience the city just as much as the beach. One great thing about many beaches is some actually allow you to camp out on the beach. This is actually one of the greatest ways to bond with your family and will give your family memories they won’t forget any time soon. With the soothing noises of the ocean and delicious fire cooked foods, you will have the time of your life.

2. Foods
Food tends to be one of the biggest expenditures when it comes to vacationing. The best thing about the beach is you won’t want to eat large meals, which can free up a lot of money for smaller snacks that will keep the family cool. Most beaches have small vendors that tend to cost you quite a bit of money. If you really want to try food from these places you might consider sharing with the family instead of getting individual items. This will allow you to experience the food without losing a lot of money over it. One of the best things to do if you plan on eating at the beach is back items in a cooler. Sandwiches are one of the best family friendly foods to pack and be made for a lot less. Try shopping in town for your favorite ingredients and then packing up the food with some waters in your cooler. Most hotels provide you with free ice, so don’t be afraid to use it. When you are ready to have a larger meal try to venture into town. Typically restaurants in more residential areas cost a lot less than the ones in the tourist hot spots. You might also want to look at seafood prices in the area. Often, you can get great deals on seafood that you’d normally have to pay a lot for while you’re inland.

3. Transportation
While your staying by the beach you might want to consider keeping your car parked. Typically it cost quite a bit to park your car at the beach and might even force you to spend up to an hour looking for a place to park. One of your best options is to take public transportation. Most bus and trolley services will offer day or week passes to customers which can help you get around just about anywhere without a problem. Most bus services will drop you right off at the beach too, so you won’t have to make a whole lot of transitions to get to your destination. Most beach towns have a lot of things to see and within walking distance, so if you’re tired of the beach try getting walking around the board walk and checking out some of the amazing coastal shops. Many beanch towns also have a bike rental that will allow you to keep the bike for the entire day, so you can go a bit further and have a lot more fun than just walking around.

4. Spend Time on the Beach
The main you reason you go to the beach is to spend time on the beach, so don’t waste money doing other things. When you look for a beach to visit try to find one that is public and free. This will cut down your family’s entertainment spending to nothing if you can maximize your time here. Splashing around in the water and building sandcastles is totally free, so take advantage of doing this type of activity as much as possible. If you’ve been longing to catch up on your reading then the beach is the perfect place to do it. When you’re ready for a rest find a nice shady spot and bring out the book you’ve been meaning to get around to. A lot of beaches will have volleyball competitions and other activities that will bring you a lot of joy for no extra cost. If you start to feel bored then pick up your stuff and move to a different part of the beach as there will certainly be a lot to see and so throughout the area.

5. Rent Equipment
If you have beach equipment you might want to leave it at home. Typically renting gear isn’t too expensive if you know the right place to look. For many, renting at the beach isn’t exactly an option as they generally bring up the price due to their convenient location. Try to look in town before you agree to anything, this way you can get a little more for your money. There are numerous things you can rent for the beach so make sure you are choosing items that you can use all day long. Some of the items, such as a surfboard, boogie board and scuba equipment can be shared amongst family members so don’t spend money for everyone an item that can easily be shared.

6. Groupon
Before you leave for your vacation you might want to check out your social media pages or favorite coupon sites for great deals. Many groupons, especially in the summer, will attract people to the beach with their exciting deals. For instance, if you look carefully you will probably find a great deal on surf lessons amongst other beach inspired deals. One of the best values you can find is deal on dinners that can help you save a lot of family meals. You might even find some deals on tours that will help make your visit the best possible. So, don’t forget to keep an eye on your favorite sites to ensure that you will end up getting the most out of your holiday.

7. Souvenirs
One of the easiest places to bring home souvenirs for friends and family is at the beach. There are a wide selection of sea shells all over the beach that make incredible gifts for just about everyone. You can even have the kids go on a scavenger hunt to help find the best shells to give to your loved ones. If the kids get bored at the beach you can even have them make simple sea shell jewelry to share with their friends. Another amazing souvenir would be a small bottle of sand. This is a cool idea for anyone who like to add unique design element to many homes. Certain beach locations, like in Coronado, have beautiful gold flecks in their sand, which makes a great memorial piece for your family’s vacation. Your kids will love telling their friends and family about how beautiful the water and sand was, so the bottle will become extra special to your home.

8. Take a Tour
One way to change up your vacation is to take a tour with the family. Tours generally aren’t incredibly expensive and can get your family away from the routine activities. Most tours take place in various locations and will allow your children to learn a lot about the area they are visiting. For instance, some tour guides will know the best ares to find certain sea creatures on the beach and will even allow your children to get close to the one’s that aren’t dangerous. Other tours might even take you up in a lighthouse, which is a great adventure for just about everyone in the family. A lot of tours will even give you access to the aquarium, so you can have fun looking at all of the creatures in the sea without having to worry about the huge cost.

9. Visitors Center
Many people often bypass the visitors center when they go on vacation, but this location can actually help you find some of the best deal in town. Most visitors centers provide you with a book of coupons as well as a guide to the town that will help you unlock the best things to see and do while you’re on vacation. You will even get a mini lecture on the town’s history as well as the nature and animal life in the area. For many, the visitor center is where the vacation’s major planning takes place, so make sure not to skip out on this important part of the trip. Try to go to the visitors center before you check into your hotel so that you can already take advantage of the coupons provided for food, room discounts and activities. Visitor centers are also great in giving you a schedule of any shows that might be taking place during your visit.

10. Flying In
If the beach is too far to drive too then you should carefully plan out your flight tickets. There are many websites that are designed to provide you with a great fly in deal so that you won’t have to worry about spending too much. Some of these sites will even package your flight and hotel together to provide you with the most discounts possible. When you choose a flight you should always take into consideration the airline you are choosing as well as the airport you will be flying into. A lot of airlines that aren’t as popular can offer you a better rate whenever you fly, so try to look at these airlines first. You should also choose an airport that isn’t as large. This will reduce your price and will most likely get you to a closer beach location so you won’t have to rent a car.

Taking a vacation to the beach can be a whole lot of fun if you don’t bring the stress of every day life with you. With these tips you can enjoy your stay without having to worry about the debt your procured when you get home. You will really enjoy taking some relaxation time away from work so you can spend some time with your family and get the tan you’ve been hoping for.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

With the summer heat rising there is a good chance that you might be planning a visit to the salon to get a shorter and sexier hair style. Hair salons can take a lot out of your budget if you’re not careful about the services you accept though. There are a lot of salons that try to push as many services as possible on customers without revealing how much each service cost. This can be an alarming surprise when it comes to check out time. There is a way around this problem though. When you follow these simple tricks you can get in and out of the salon without having to lose money you didn’t plan on spending.

1. Avoid Complex Cuts
We’ve all had our eyes on that complex cut that we think will make us look like a fashion model. Yes, these cuts are perfect for a little confidence boost, but they are incredibly hard to maintain. Chances are if you don’t plan on going to the salon every day and you don’t have hair style training that you”’ pretty much be disappointed with your hair style the first time you try to style it on your own. This usually means that you’ll find another style to take it’s place or spend more money to get the hair styled once again. Complex cuts also mean that you can’t maintain the cut yourself. Generally, when your hair cut grows out a bit you can easily trim it down with a pair of scissors at home. With a complex cut it is hard to find the areas that you need to trim down, so you could end up with a horrible mess of a style that requires you to spend more money on a new look.

2. Reveal Budget
Hair stylist are renowned for being great listeners. After all, many people love to get their hair done just to have a nice conversation. So, when you go in to visit your stylist don’t be afraid to reveal that you’re working with a budget. One of the best things you can do is bring cash along with you instead of your credit card. This will allow you to enforce the budget a lot easier than you would be able to with the back up card. You generally won’t have to be forceful with many stylist when you talk about how much you can spend, which should make the job easier for you. Your stylist will know what they can and can’t offer to you when they give them a specific number to work with.

3. Avoid the City
If you live or work in the city then you might want to take a detour when you schedule your hair appointment. Most salons in the city pride themselves on having very high end stylist, which also means they’re going to charge you high end money for the same haircut you could get elsewhere. So, when you notice you hair needs a little update you might want to schedule with a stylist in the suburbs. This allows you to enjoy your experience a lot more and can ensure that you won’t be paying a lot of money for your signature style. You might even find a favorite stylist in a suburb that makes you feel comfortable with your environment as well as to try new styles out.

4. Touch Ups
Colored hair can make a nice touch to an individual style, but if you keep getting it colored at a salon then you will surely be paying more than you bargained for. Originally getting your hair colored at a salon can be okay, especially if you’re not comfortable with dying all of your hair by yourself. However, when you keep going back to get your roots touched up you will spend a lot of money that could go elsewhere. When you get your hair dyed the first time you should talk to your stylist about the color and brand they recommend for touch ups. Most stylist will gladly tell you what you should use for your touch up. This will allow you to pay for the total of the hair dye in the store, rather than the price of having your roots redone at the salon. Touching up roots is a breeze too and might make you feel more comfortable with dying your hair in the future.

5. Student Salons
Most towns and cities have beauty schools that will allow you to come in for a styling on different days of the week. The students that will be working on your hair have already passed through the wig stage, so you won’t have to worry about them making major mistakes. The best thing is the students are working with a master stylist to help make your hair look great, so you might end up getting a better hair cut than you would with your standard stylist. When it comes to prices at a student salon you will be paying very little to nothing because you are essentially donating your hair to the students. So, you can actually get the works done without having to worry about breaking your budget.

6. Learn to Say No
Some stylist can be really pushy when it comes to offering the extras. There are a lot of tricks that many will use to get you to go through the maximum of services. Some stylist don’t even ask before they provide you with some of the services. For starters, a shampooing isn’t free, so when the stylist starts to hustle you over to the shampooing station you might want to step in and say no. This can happen throughout your visit, so make sure to keep a look out for any extra services the stylist might be trying to push onto you. If you tend to have problems saying no then make sure you tell your stylist exactly what you want done before you sit in the chair. This will allow you to keep control the situation so you don’t have to worry about the total coming out to an outrageous amount when you the styling is finished.

7. Blow Outs
Getting a haircut doesn’t always have to be a solution to your style problem. If you are okay with the length of your hair and don’t mind doing trims yourself you might want to consider getting a blow out. This procedure is when a stylist takes your existing cut and shows you various ways of styling it. This can really freshen up your look and make you feel a lot less bored when it comes to getting ready in the morning. A blow out cost a whole lot less than a hair cut too, so you will really be doing yourself a favor if you are comfortable with your cut, but need a little change.

8. Home remedies
Many people head to their stylist for moisture remedies, especially when the weather is harsh outside. If you want to get your hair looking great without the price then you might want to look into some home remedies. There are many websites online that are designed to help you treat your better than any stylist could. So, if you’re feeling a lack of moisture in your hair then might want to consider looking up some new ways to moisturize. For instance, you can put mayonnaise in your hair to help bring out its natural shine and bring it back to a healthy moisture level. Avocado is also an excellent way to bring out your hair’s natural sheen. The best thing about home remedies is they are generally low cost and the items are usually found in your home anyway. Next time you visit your stylist you might even get a few compliments as to how your hair has regained its health with salon help.

9. Look Out For Specials
You might not think to look for coupons or sales on your favorite salon, but this technique can typically save you big. Most salons have seasonal sales like back to school deals and summer greetings which can save you a lot of money. If you can, try to plan out your hair updates along with these deals so you won’t have to pay full price when you go into the salon. You might want to choose a style that allows you to go longer between maintenance cuts, which will keep you away from the salon for longer. A lot of stylist will give out customer coupons for their regulars, so don’t be afraid to ask about an allegiance program.

10. Don’t Chat
It might be hard, but try not to chat as much to your stylist. If you do chat more then make sure to keep an eye on everything that the stylist is doing. Chatting is a great way to pass the time while getting your hair styled, but it can be a distraction to your stylist. Although distraction isn’t always bad, it can lead to your stylist messing up on the style they’ve been asked to create. It can also allow stylist to unwilling give you services that you didn’t ask for. Keeping the chatting down to a minimum can really avoid a lot of problems. One of the major problems with chatting is it can cause some stylist to mess up on the style. A lot of customers tend not to return to stylist who do a bad job, which means they end up paying for another hair style because the first one didn’t work. These extra cost can add up, so instead of dealing with them in the first place try chatting less and paying attention more.

Getting your hair done can be a treat if you know how use the hair salon properly. With these simple tricks you can get in and out of the salon for a lot less than you can imagine. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your personal style because the salon is too expensive. These tips will ensure that you can always get the look you want without having to stress out the entire you are in the salon. Take your pampering time back and take pride in the way you look everyday.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Being a working parent or a single parent can be rough, especially when you have to worry about the prices of childcare encroaching on your way of living. There are many childcare services that can actually cost you most of your paycheck if you aren’t careful! The best way to approach childcare is to not stress about money, but find the best facility or person that can offer both you and the children the care you deserve. With these ten tips you will find that affording childcare is easier than ever and your children might even begin to enjoy going to daycare each day. It is all about finding a balance between the childcare provider’s needs and your own that will leave this aspect of your life stress free.

1. Compare Facilities
Most towns and cities will have a wide variety of daycares to choose from. This will work out greatly to your benefit. Daycares, like all businesses, want to compete to get the most clients so many will increasingly lower prices to draw in more people. When you go looking at daycares you should always keep their fees in mind. Many facilities will actually match their competitors if you mention it doing your meeting. You should also always check the daycare’s hidden fees. Many will offer things that your child will never use, so make sure to draw attention to the issue before you sign any paperwork. You should always have your child’s education in mind too. A lot of daycares will offer early schooling at no extra cost, while others simply have the children play throughout the day. The more services there are to keep your child busy and mentally challenged the better. When you compare facilities you should also keep location in mind. A daycare close to the home or workplace is ideal so you don’t have go too far out of your way. This is perfect for gas prices and might even save you from being late to work a few times.

2. Look into Alternatives
If the daycares aren’t satisfying your for childcare then there are many alternatives available to anyone that is willing to look. Churches are generally one of the best options when it comes to low cost childcare that you can trust. Most churches will offer this service to their members for free or a low cost fee. Of course, you don’t have to be a member in order to receive the benefits as many churches will just charge you a low fee or ask for a donation. Churches tend to be one of the most trusted facilities for children and your child will be fed, looked after and given Bible lessons on morals throughout their stay. Colleges are another great alternative. Many schools will offer free or reduced childcare to their students. If you aren’t a student you will probably pay childcare based on your annual income, but you will still save a lot. Colleges typically offer the daycares in order to help their early childcare students get first hand training. This means your child will be privy to early education techniques that can help further on in life. You might even try local youth groups like the YMCA for daycare services. These services are generally low cost and offered to members. These locations are especially great for older kids who need care after school.

3. Share a Nanny
One simple way to save on money is to share a nanny with another family. This allows both family’s to enjoy professional care without having to pay the full price for it. This is also a great way for children to adapt to the change in routine. A lot of times the nanny will switch off homes so part of the time your child will be able to remain in the comfort of your home. This also allows your child the opportunity to get used to being around other children frequently without having to overwhelm the child like many daycares do. One of the best aspects about this is your child won’t get sick constantly or injured by other children. Sharing a Nanny can be a great way for neighbors to bond, but you will have to make sure to agree on the right nanny for all of the children involved. Many nannys will go the extra mile and bring crafts and other learning techniques that will encourage your children to advance before school begins.

4. Family
If you are feeling a little bit uneasy about sending your child to a daycare facility or having a stranger watching over the child then you might want to consider asking family. Grandparents that are retired or that work from home are usually the best options. Grandparents will generally take in their grandkids for the sheer joy of spending time with them, but you still might want to offer money to help with food and entertainment for the children. If grandparents aren’t an option then you might want to ask any family members that you trust that might already stay home with their own children. This will allow you to work without having to worry about your child as much and will help reduce the amount of money you have to spend on childcare each month. It will also give the child a comfortable environment to help adapt to you not being home.

5. Au Pair
If you’re feeling adventurous and have some extra space in your home then you might want to look into hiring an Au Pair. An Au Pair is a nanny, generally from another country, that comes to live with you in order to take care of the children in the home. There are many programs that train and screen nannys to choose from so you won’t have to worry about who is coming to live with. Au Pairs can offer care to the child at all times, so if you have an unusual work schedule you won’t have to worry about finding another provider. One great thing about having an Au Pair in the house is your children will be exposed to another culture early on in life. This will allow them to adapt better to foreign things and might even allow them to pick up a second language before they begin going to school.

6. Ask For Subsidy
If you have children then your boss might be willing to work with you when it comes to childcare cost. Most bosses would prefer their employees to be stress free when they come into work each day so they can concentrate on the job at hand. So, if you’re having trouble with a babysitter then you might want to ask your boss for a subsidy so you can place your children in a daycare facility. Many companies allot money to this cause, so there is no harm in asking what your companies policy is. If you’ve noticed that there are a lot of parents in the office that struggle with childcare then you might try to bring up the idea of a company hosted daycare service. This would allow parents to have their children in the same building so they could worry less and be more productive with work.

7. Work From Home
Working from home might be the best option for your family. A lot of companies will allow employees to work from home if they have circumstances that require them to. A lot of employers might even encourage trusted employees to try to get the majority of their work accomplished in the home so they don’t miss out on the early stages of life for each child. Talking to your employer is one of the best things you can do when you are having a hard time with childcare as it may results in a more convenient work environment for you. If you are currently unemployed and need to work then you might try to find a job that requires you to work from home. Sometimes travel agents, writers and data entry jobs require the employee to work from home. So, make sure to look around for something that is going to suit your needs.

8. Utilize Your Skills
A lot of daycare services are in need of certain skills to help them run more efficiently. If you are great with accounting then you might offer to help with the books once a month in order to lower your children’s tuition fees. This will help the daycare not spend more money on an accountant while allowing you to pay a lot less on your bill. You might also try to offer to volunteer from time to time. Many facilities need nap time relief, supervisors for field trips and help preparing meals. So, if you can take off your lunch hour to help out your child’s daycare then you might also enjoy the benefit of saving some money on care for your child. The best thing is you will be able to see your child while you volunteer, which will help your child adapt while giving you some extra parenting time that you wouldn’t normally get because of work.

9. Try Government Programs
There are a large number assistance programs available to single parents and low income families. If you’re stressing about coming up with childcare tuition then you might ask your provider for a list of assistance programs that they accept for aid. A lot of these programs can be easily researched and applied to online, so don’t hesitate to try to find a program that works great for your needs. Many programs don’t take a long time for approval so it might be as simple as going down to your local assistance office to get help. Government programs want to encourage you to work, so helping out with cost is their way of keeping people working. You might not see the full tuition disappear, but every little bit will help you make ends meet.

10. Tax Deduction
A lot of families really count on their income tax returns each year. This year when you file make sure you include your daycare cost when you talk to your accountant. In most cases families can receive up to $3000 per child back on their tax returns when they claim day care cost. This is a great way to start up a tuition fund in the bank so that you don’t have to take out every payment from your check. This will give you some extra money to play with while still allowing your children to go to the facility of your choice. Many times, the excess money can pay for most of the year, so you can actually spend your paycheck on more things that you want or need. Some parents will even send their child to a better facility with this money, or will have enough to pay for the expensive pre-school program that all of the other parents are raving about.

Your children are important, so of course you want to give them the education and comfort they need while you are at work. Childcare cost can tighten your family’s budget substantially, so if you’re having trouble making the tuition each month then you might want to consider a change in the game. With these ten tips you can help eliminate some of the expensive cost of childcare while allowing your child to get the most of the care provided.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

One of the best things about summer is catching up with your family as you take to the great outdoors. Camping is one of the most popular family adventures and is a great way to connect with your kids while teaching them everything they need to survive in the wild. Of course, camping is one of the cheapest family vacations you can give to your children, but there are still some amazing ways that you can cost even more. You trip could cost less than $100 if you plan accordingly, so check out these ten tips so you can reduce the amount of money your family vacations with this summer.

1. Create a Check-List
Camping can be a fairly easy going trip, but if you end up forgetting something it could ruin the trip if you don’t have money to replace it. In order to help avoid this problem you should make a check-list to help you. From personal hygiene and food products to survival and sleep gear your check-list should be checked as often as possible. Any of these items could really cost you a lot of money if you have to go to a camping site to replace it. Just to make sure you don’t forget anything you should have every camper check of the list just to make sure. You will also want to make a check-list for things around the house. Make sure the faucets are off, everything is unplugged and there are no gas products on. This will actually save you a lot of money since your utilities won’t be used during the duration of your trip. If you have pets make sure to leave out plenty of food and talk to a trusted neighbor, friend or family member you checking on them.

2. Map It Out Early
Before you go on any trip you should map out the location so you will know just how much money you need to save. A lot of campsites are free, so the only mapping you will need to is finding a location that is close to hospitals, stores and entertainment for your family. This can be tricky, but make sure you prioritize your needs so you can remain safe while having fun on your trip. Entertainment isn’t a must, but a lot of towns near camp sites will provide your family with frontier inspired events that don’t cost a whole lot. You also need to checkout the routes in which you will be taking. Make sure to look at an updated map even if you have been to the campsite on multiple occasions. Mapping out the route to the camp site is usually a great idea too since you will most likely try to take as many highways as possible in order to get the most mileage.

3. Food
Don’t stock up on food before you go camping. Camping makes cheap meals seem delicious and can help you spend a lot less while you’re enjoying the great outdoors. Instead of packing items like chickens and steaks, buy a few packs of hot dogs and buns, cans of beans, or make your own trail mix and stock up on chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers. You can also use your time outdoor to catch your own food. If you have a fishing license and plan on spending time near a lake or river then try to get a decent enough catch to help save on your grocery bill. Fishing is also a great way to spend some quality time with the kids and will really boost their confidence if they catch the fish you choose to have for dinner. If you are skilled with knowing berries then you and the kids can pick fresh berries to enjoy for breakfast or a snack.

4. Rent a Boat
You might think that owning your boat is the best idea when it comes to your family’s vacation time, but the truth is if you don’t live by a lake then you are really doing yourself a disservice. When you go on vacation you should try renting a boat instead of bringing along one that you already own. This will allow you to save on the gasoline that it will take to haul the boat along with you as well as a docking fee and fuel for the boat. When you rent you bypass a lot of fee, so if you only have a day or two to spend on the water then renting is the way to go. If you add up the cost buying your own boat might be a wise idea, but that is only if you leave near water and intend on going out in the water frequently. There many rental companies that will provide you with a great package deal to help you get the most out of your boating experience and vacation.

5. Use Second Hand Gear
Many people feel as if they need to bring a lot of gear with them when they go camping. If you plan on going camping during certain periods of the year then this might be true. If you have to pack a lot of gear try not go out and buy it first hand. For instance, if you would like a new tent for your growing family then you might look around your local listing and thrift shops for a significantly reduced price. This also works great with cooking gear and other necessities for camping out. If you intend on camping during winter then you might want to grab a few cheap sweater from the local thrift store so you can keep the family warm without having to purchase a lot of items. Old blankets also work great when you need a sleeping bag solution that doesn’t cost a thing. If you can’t find the gear you need from a store then ask to borrow some items from a friend who might already have them.

6. Camp Nearby
You don’t have to travel far away in order to enjoy a great camping trip. Try to find a camp ground that is near your location so you can save on the gas money it takes to get to the location. This will also provide you with a great way to explore the area that your family lives in, which will help you feel more connected to your home. This is also perfect for first time campers, as you can easily pack up and go home without losing too much money if you decide the family can’t handle the great outdoors. If you have kids that really want to give camping a try then set up a little campsite in your backyard. This is perfect for slumber parties and will get children ready for real camping when the family finally does go. You can even set up the fire pit to allow them to chance of making smores and telling stories.

7. Watch the Weather
Before you head out on your camping trip you will want to keep an eye out for the weather. Nothing ruins a camping trip like nonstop rain for the duration of the vacation. The weather isn’t always incredibly predictable, but if you make sure to keep an eye on the weather you might be able to avoid any major mishaps that could leave your family packing up and heading home. Generally, if you plan you vacation during the summer you are pretty safe when it comes to rain; however, you should always watch your surroundings and use your gut when it comes to the weather. Bad weather not only forces you to cancel your trip, but can ruin your gas mileage and make you break down and buy camp gear that works better in the rain.

8. Water
Water is a must have every day, but can cost you a whole lot if you just buy the little bottles. If you have a good water filter at home then try filling up clean milk jugs to help you save a lot of money on water. You can also buy the bigger jugs of water for a lot cheaper than you can packages of bottled water. Remember, you will need water to drink, cook and clean with on your trip so you don’t want to bring too little with you. There are also water filtration cups you can buy that will filter water out for you. These cups are a great buy for the frequent camper that doesn’t have a lot of space, but they also require you to be around a water source at all times. When you pack up water for your family’s trip you should always double their normal intake, especially in the summer, so that you ensure there will be plenty of fluids on board.

9. Plan Activities
One of the best ways to stop from spending money while you’re camping is to plan out activities before you go on your trip. You should always have several games planned out for both indoors and outdoors that will prevent people from getting bored. There are many low cost games that are perfect for the outdoors, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money on items to bring with you. For instance, try taking a horseshoe set for some outdoor fun and perhaps a pack of cards to play with in case you get rained in for the day. You will also want to plan plenty of activities that will tire your family out. Hiking and swimming can be some of the best activities to help bring your family’s energy level down so they will want to lay down and relax when the sun goes out. You should also plan a day where you go see a western show, or just venture out to the movies so the kids can get a break from the camping life and spend some time in the cool air.

10. The R.V.
It is usually best to leave the R.V. at home unless you are planning a long trip. The R.V. will take up a lot more gasoline than you would generally put in your car, so if you’re going somewhere close to home then try to convenience the family to take the standard car. If you do decide to take the R.V. out the fuel up before daybreak and after dark so you can get the most gasoline for your dollar. You might also have one of your passengers keep an eye on a gas app so you can fill up cheaply whenever you come across a town that offers a decent price. You might want to lay off the R.V. appliances as well as running the fridge, microwave, television and other items can not only drain your gas, but your battery. If you are just planning on stopping to sleep for a few hours then avoid R.V. parks and just park in a parking lot like Wal Mart’s. This will allow you to sleep for free for a few hours without having to hook up to an R.V. parks amenities.

Camping can be one of the best ways for your children to make great memories while bonding with you. If you love to camp then make to take some time off this summer so you enjoy the great outdoors with your family. With these tips you can actually save money on your trip so you don’t have to worry about bills and other costs bombarding you when you return home from your relaxing vacation.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Planning a trip to Las Vegas can be pretty complicated if you are worried about money. When it comes to this city everything is fast paced and if you aren’t prepared you might end up missing half of what you came to see. If you have big plans for you Vegas trip, but don’t have the budget to back it up then you are in luck. These ten tips will not only help you get the most our of your Las Vegas vacation, but will also ensure that you don’t overspend when you finally reach your destination. Now, you can plan the trip you always dreamed of without having to make as many compromises.

1. Food
Food can be one of the priciest purchases on your trip, so make sure to be cautious when you eat. One of the best deals is buffets. This gives you access to as much food as you could possibly ever want to eat at a decent price. The best thing you can do is plan to go out to eat during lunch time. This will allow you to fill up from morning and afternoon hunger, while eating enough to tide you over to the next day. Buffets are usually a bit cheaper during the lunch hours too, so you won’t end up spending as much. If you don’t have time to locate a buffet then you might find that hotel and casino food courts aren’t too bad when it comes to food prices. This will also allow you to get the most out of your casino time too. If you really want to splurge on a restaurant then you might want to check out the menu before you go into the establishment. This will ensure it won’t be too expensive and will let you decide if it is worth the money. When you do eat out try to order water as much as possible. Soda, bottled water and other drinks can cost almost half of the meal so try to avoid ordering them as much as possible.

2. Transportation
Once you’re in Vegas you might find that transportation is an issue, especially if you have a lot of places you want to see. If you intend on hanging out around the strip then walking is going to be your best bet. Its great exercise and will allow you to see a lot more of the city than you planned on. Of course, if you intend on going a little bit further then you might want try out the monorail or bus system. You can purchase a public transportation pass for the day for a lot than you would thing. This will help you save on taxi fares and gas, so don’t feel uncomfortable about going local for your vacation. If you do intend on not doing a lot of traveling then paying for the occassional taxi might night be a bad deal. Driving can really be a pain in the city, especially when you have to pay for parker everywhere that you go. It is usually best to keep your car in hotel parking and enjoy the city through other means. If you do want to drive then try to avoid buying gas in tourist areas. You will mostly likely find the cheapest prices along the strip or outside of the city.

3. Shows
Las Vegas is all about the shows, so you should try to catch a few while you’re on vacation. You don’t have to choose the pricey stuff though! In fact, it is typically best to avoid shows with a lot of hype behind them as they will generally cost a fortune. If you go online to find tickets you will see a great variety of shows, their description and a significantly reduced price. This is the best way to get tickets for anyone who loves to plan ahead. Of course, if you’re feeling a bit bored then you can always pick up tickets for a show on the day that it plays. A lot of times ticket booths will take off 50% on the tickets so they can help the show sell out. Earlier shows are generally the best if you’re looking to save money and can be less crowded so you will feel more comfortable at the show.

4. Gambling
Gambling is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Las Vegas, but it is also how many people end up losing a lot of their vacation money. The best thing about Vegas is that so many casino will actually offer your a card. You can put money on this card so you don’t over spend at each location. A lot of cards will even come with free money so you can maximize your game time at each casino that you go to. Slots are usually the worst thing you can play while you’re in a casino. Yes, they cost very little, but by the time you play them for 10 to 15 minutes you could lose more money than you would at a game table. Many casinos will even offer you free drinks and discounted food to help keep you in the casino longer, so make sure to take full advantage of the offer.

5. Hotels
Chances are you won’t be spending a lot of time in your hotel room during your vacation, so don’t go too big when you choose a room. There are a lot of amazing deals on the strip, but you might have to sacrifice space in order to pay less. If you’re planning your trip ahead of time make sure to book earlier so you can take full advantage of the deals when they are available on the site. You might also look for package deals that include parking or airlines to save more money. A lot of hotels have different deals per night, so you might want to check out deals and do some hotel surfing throughout the vacation. A lot of hotels will offer freebies, so make sure you check out all of the services available before you book. Some will provide you with a free breakfast while others will give you a pass to the pool. Whatever you decide to do make sure you check out reviews before you book with any hotel.

6. Airfare
If you need to use an airline to get to Las Vegas then you should always shop as frugally as possible. One of the easiest ways to save money is to do some research online. There are a lot of online sites dedicated to finding you the best deal possible. Of course, if also helps if you book your flight way in advance of the actual trip. Choosing a less popular airline is a great way to keep your flight price down and might even ensure that you will have less people on your flight. There are many travel sites that can give you a deal that includes your airline and hotel, which generally helps save you the most money. One of the most expensive things when it comes to airline tickets is the amount of baggage you bring. If you can bring on one carry on then you will end up spending a lot less on your ticket and will ensure that you have a lot less to look after when you pack up to leave.

7. Check Out the Sights
There are a lot of free things you can do in between shows and gambling while you’re in Las Vegas. For starters, there are a large number of replicas of the World’s Wonders to check out. These hotels are great for families and are totally free to tour inside and outside. You might also want to check out the downtown area where the Rat Pack performed a lot of their shows and hung out during their prime. Along with all the historical sites there are so many different fountains, sculptures and amazing architecture that you won’t see in the same city ever again. So, take some time out of the expensive vacation treats and enjoy some of the things that won’t cost you a dime.

8. Drinks
Las Vegas gets pretty hot in the summer so you will want to make sure you have plenty of water to keep you and your family hydrated. The only problem is bottled water can be expensive in the tourist areas and should actually be avoided as much as possible in hotels and restaurants. If you can, try to go to a store outside of the tourist areas so you will be able to stock up on a pack of water, soda and juice without paying a fortune. If you’re a big coffee drinker than try to avoid going to cafes and other expensive vendors. Most hotels have a coffee maker in the room or in the lobby area so you can enjoy coffee for free if you really need it. Most casinos will give out free drinks, so if you’re looking to drink on your vacation try to frequent the casinos as much as possible.

9. Coupons
You might not think it is possible to use coupons on your vacation, but you really can save a lot with coupons that you find online. Before you go on your vacation try to look up groupons to help make your vacation the most entertaining experience you’ve had in a long time. You can also find plenty of coupons for hotels and restaurants when you search online. This can take a lot of your budget, so you can spend money on more shows and entertainment. If you can, try to purchase discounted gift cards for restaurants you’d like to try before you leave for vacation. A lot of popular chain restaurants send out coupons each week, so if you are looking to eat at cheap places then take your coupons along with you, so you can enjoy food for less.

10. Souvenirs
A lot of people expect you to bring something back for them at the end of your trip. This can be pretty pricey if you end up buying things at hotels, gift stores and the airport. Instead of purchasing from tourist attractions you should always venture into town. There are a lot of outlet stores that sell the same merchandise you can get in the gift shop for a lot less than you would pay there. This will allow you to get the most out of your money and can stretch your souvenir budget even further. If you really don’t want to spend a lot on items then try to get free autographs or take a specific picture that someone might enjoy. There are also many places that give out plenty of freebies, so make sure to check out booths and other areas to enjoy souvenirs for absolutely nothing.

Las Vegas can be a great vacation area if you know how to save money. With these simple tips you will find that saving money is a breeze while you are visiting one of the most loved cities in the country. Vegas doesn’t have to be known for losing money, but can be a great source of fun for you and your family. You will love how much you trip changes when you utilize these tips to maximize savings and encourage exploration of the city.

Author: John Terris

Everyone loves to take a break from cooking and indulge in a fast meal from time to time. Although it might not be cost effective to do it all the time, every once in awhile it is a great way to change up the schedule and lift your spirits. Of course, sometimes you have to eat out due to traveling, working late or family emergencies. You shouldn’t have to stress out about eating out though. With these simple tips you can enjoy a nice meal without having to spend a lot or settle for the dollar menu. These tips will help you experience some of the best local foods in your home town as you will not longer have to stress out about how much you are going to be billed!

1. Drink Water
It is pretty tempting to order tea and sodas when you eat out, especially if you are going out as a treat. This can add a huge amount to your bill though. Many restaurants will charge you around five dollars per drink and many don’t offer free refills. A specialty drink or alcoholic drink can be much pricier. Some of these drinks even cost as much as a meal, which will double up your bill per person fairly quickly. Most of these drinks don’t come with free refills either, so if you drink more than one during your meal then you will quickly reach the hundred dollar bill mark. If you really want to go cheap when you eat then order water. Most restaurants will serve you iced water for free so you won’t have to keep adding on to your bill. This is especially important for places that serve more expensive meals.

2. Discount Gift Cards
There a lot of websites that are offering gift cards at a much cheaper price than they are worth. This is a great way to enjoy a meal without having to pay full price for it. For instance, many gift card stores will allow you to purchase a $25 gift card for only $10. This means you will have $15 you won’t have to worry about coming out of pocket when you eat out. If you purchase one of these gift cards when you have a little extra cash then you enjoy a nicer restaurant without having to spend money that is in your bank account. This is a great way to save up for birthdays and other special occasions. You can also purchase slightly used gift cards for a lot less. Many sites sell gift cards that still have money on them, which will benefit you greatly since they won’t charge you for the full amount of the card. Often enough you can grab a $50 gift card for half the price!

3. Skip Dinner
Dinner is one of the most expensive meals when it comes to eating out. If you can try to break for a later lunch because this will actually save you a lot of money. Lunch menus might not be as vast as dinner menus, but you will find that they can be just as filling for a few dollars less. Lunch usually last til about 3 in the afternoon, so if you can catch the late lunch rush then you might be full enough to skip out on dinner completely. Although lunch portions often aren’t as large as dinners, you might find a restaurant that serves you a little too much for your lunch appetite. This will allow you to take home the leftovers to enjoy for dinner, which will mean you will get two meals for one lower price. Of course, if you really want to be frugal then just go out for breakfast. A lot of restaurants have plenty of meals that will cost you less then $5 for breakfast.

4. Share a Dish
If you’re going out to eat with a friend or a date then you might want to consider sharing a dish. A lot of dinner dishes will come with so much food that it could easily feed two people with extra to take home for leftovers. The major thing is to be choosey with your meal. Try to pick something that is going to be filling like a pizza or pasta dish. You can also go for the two dishes for a certain price deal. If you do this then you won’t spend more than twenty dollars for a meal fit for two. If you have a family to feed then you can still utilize the same system if everyone can agree on a meal. If you have problems choosing then order two or three different meals so that can everyone can eat a little off of each dish. This won’t cost you as much as ordering each person a different dish, but will still have everyone leaving the restaurant full.

5. Timing is Everything
Restaurants have a lot of down periods and many try to entice people to come in by lowering the prices or offering great deals. If you go to a restaurant during the middle of the week you are more than likely going to get some amazing deals that you definitely wouldn’t on the weekend. The middle of the weeks tends to see less guest, so its easy for places to give away reduced priced or free desserts as well as amazing specials. You might want to also try to go out before six o’clock. A lot of places will offer an early bird special that will make dining out fully worth it. These specials usually provide you with good portions of food for a lot less than you would ever expect. Planning during these times will also leave you feeling more relaxed during your meal because the restaurant will be a lot less crowded and a lot quieter.

6. The Bar
If you don’t have the kids with you or are simply eating alone then you might want to ask to be seated at the bar. The bar is generally a bit more crowded, but it does offer you access to a smaller and cheaper menu that might suit your budget more than larger portioned dishes. Sitting at the bar will also make the specials more clear and might even make the service a little bit faster than normal. Of course, there is also happy hour that can really help you save a lot of money if you plan on having an alcoholic drink. However, a lot of places will include regular fountain drinks as well as appetizers into the happy hour so make sure to ask before you’re seated.

7. Online Coupon Deals
One of the best things about the internet is you can find coupons for just about any establishment. Sometimes you might even get luck and find a groupon that will help you and your friends enjoy a night on the town at a fraction of the original price. Coupons are fairly simple to find online and a lot of the more popular franchises will offer you freebies as well as half off coupons that can make your dining experience so much cheaper. Of course, if your planning on having a spontaneous meal out then you might want to look into downloading a few coupon apps. These apps can really help you save money on the go and generally don’t cost anything to download.

8. Utilize Social Media
You might not realize it, but social media sites can get your more discounts than the occasional coupon. For example, a lot of restaurants will actually keep track of the people that check in at their location on social media pages. These people will often receive freebies, discounts or coupons that will help them with their bill. Restaurants love when you help promote them, so don’t be afraid to let everyone know where you’re eating. If you really love a restaurant then don’t be shy when it comes to supporting them on their social media page. A lot of restaurants will offer people who like their page or follow them, depending on the site, a lot of special offers that other customers aren’t privy to. This can be a great way to pick up a discount or try something new on the menu for less.

9. Special Occasions
One way to really bring on the savings is to go out on special occasions. A lot of restaurants offer deals on major holidays, such as Veteran’s Day. If you show up dressed in your uniform a lot of places will offer the meal to you for free or for a discounted price. This is a great way for restaurants to show their appreciation for those to serves and a great way for veterans to be rewarded for their service. Of course, Mother’s and Father’s Day are not to be forgotten in this list of special occasions. Many places will offer specials on these days and you might even get a free dessert. Going out on your birthday might also be a great idea. Not only will you have a blast with friends and family, but a lot of restaurants will offer you a cheerful song and a free piece of cake! Some places might even offer a discount on major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas because their service will be slow on these nights. The key is to call and ask around to see what specials are going on, but if you plan carefully you can enjoy some great deals all year.

10. Surveys
Many restaurants will offer you surveys on your receipt or through your email subscription with them. Often, if you complete these surveys they will offer you a free menu item or a discount on your purchase. This is becoming increasing popular on with many fast food chains that want to improve their service while also promoting return business. So, every time you go out make sure you check your receipt for a survey. Most cashiers will point this out to you to make it easier for you to find though. There are also many online surveys that offer you free food or gift certificates for filling them out. Most of them don’t take long to do and can really add up if you do the surveys frequently.

Eating out can be an incredible experience that spices up life and helps up break out the work routine. Of course, paying a lot for it won’t make life any better. With these ten tips you can take advantage of discounts so you can enjoy the food you are eating without having to worry about the bill that follows. Now, you can try all those restaurants you’ve been wanting to without having to feel guilty about the money you’re spending.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Summer camp can be one of the biggest experiences in a child’s life. For a few hours a day to a whole summer you child can learn the ropes of camping, canoe on a lake or even go to a camp that specializes in one of their interest like that computers or theaters. It is certainly hard to pass up a great experience like this, but money can be a huge deciding factor in whether or not your child goes. Summer camp can run you thousands, but these ten tips can help you get your children enrolled in a great camp so their summer will be nothing less than spectacular.

1. Book/Pay Early
It is always wise to start thinking about summer camp in the beginning of the year. Most summer camps take early enrollment, so begin your search to find the perfect camp in January. Once you and your child know where they want to spend the summer keep an eye on the booking day. A lot of camps will be open for booking right after camp ends, so try to be early so you can ensure that your child has a slot in the summer camp the two of you decide on. If you decide to pay early you might be privy to a lot of discounts that some of the later campers might not get. This is a great incentive for camps to get people to book early, which helps make their planning job a lot easier. Although you can probably enroll your child a lot closer to the camp date, you may end up paying lay fees or speedy registration fees that you could have avoided by shopping around earlier. Booking earlier might also allow you to make payments instead of having to pay a huge lump sum.

2. Apply for Financial Assistance
A lot of camps can offer you an assistance program if you are having a hard time coming up with the money. This might require you to divulge information about your paydays, or taxes but is definitely worth it when it comes to ensuring your child can enjoy a great summer at camp. If you qualify for food assistance programs with your local school then there is a pretty good chance that you will be able to get a little help with the camp cost. You might only see a reduction in the food prices, but every little bit helps. A lot of camps will also offer grants to children who can not completely afford the program, so make sure you have your child’s report cards and a letter why they want to go to the particular camp so you can increase your chances of getting into the perfect camp.

3. Book All Kids
If you have more than one child then you might want to have the kids settle on one camp to go. This might take a lot coaxing and long conversations, but deciding on the perfect camp for all siblings can really help your kids develop compromising skills. This is important because a lot of camps will give you a sibling discount if you have more than one child enrolling in their camp. Sending all of the children to camp can also save you money in one other way. Although the kids might fight like crazy in the home, when you send them to camp they will automatically have a support system that they can count on. This will ensure that your children won’t end up wanting to come home early, so you won’t have to have wasted camper fares.

4. Shorter Sessions
Most camps will offer semesters of camps so they can allow more kids to experience the summer. Of course, many campers do choose to stay the full summer, but other’s don’t want to be apart from their families for that long. So, choosing one semester of the camp can cut your summer cost in half. This will still give your child a full month in camp, while keeping several hundreds in your pocket. There are also some camps that only run a week or two at a time. This can cost you as little as $200 per campers, so when you’re looking for a camp try to pick one that suits your financial needs too. There are also come camps that only run in the day time. Typically these camps are run locally, but you might end up doing a bit of driving if you choose one that is out of town. If you do choose to send your children to a day camp then you might want to look into a busing system that can get your child to and from camp for a lot less than you driving.

5. Ask for Discounts
Before you finalize your payment make sure to ask about any discounts the camp might have. Many camps like to honor civil servants like teachers, firemen, police officers and other government workers. You can actually end up saving a whole lot of money if you choose to do this, so remember there is no harm in asking. If you are a military family you can also receive a pretty good discount so make sure your camp knows about your situations. A lot of camps will even waive cancellation or early release fees to people in the military in case there is a sudden move or emergency. If you plan on sending your child to an academic camp then you might mention your child’s grades. Some camps will give you a small discount if your child is a straight A and/or perfect attendance students. Every little bit helps, so make sure you have all your grounds covered before hand.

6. Find a Sponsor
If you’re still having trouble finding the money to get your child into camp then you might want to look for a sponsor. A lot of schools, youth groups and churches will actually help you look for someone who is willing to sponsor your child for a few weeks at camp. Finding a sponsor might mean your child needs to have an interest in sports, great grades, or takes an active part in the church. If an organization picks your child up for sponsorship then you might find yourself working a few bake sales, or washing cars to help earn some money towards your child’s camp funds.

7. Offer to Volunteer
If you choose a camp that is nearby then a lot of the time you can actually receive a discount for volunteering. This might mean taking some time off work, or devoting your weekends to the camp, but at least you will be able to to see your children and ensure that will get to go to camp. Even if the camp is farther away you can plan on flying up for a week or two and helping out with specific events. A lot of camps need more people to help towards the beginning and end of camp, which can be a great way for you to help get your kids settled in and ensure they are happy before you leave.

8. Use Old Camp Gear
A lot of parents are tempted to buy all new camp gear for their children before they go off to camp. This is usually a first time camp parent mistake. If you have older supplies like a sleeping bag then make sure that you send your child with these items. Many items at camp can be lost or stolen so if you send your child with new items there is a good chance you’re just throwing away money. The same can be said for clothing. A lot of camps will provide your children with t-shirts to wear so that they can help classify them into bunks and age groups. This is typically included in the camp fee, so you shouldn’t send your children with a bunch of new clothes. When it comes to pants make sure that they still fit. Your child will need a couple of pairs of jeans and some shorts. If you don’t have shorts then simple cut off a few of your child’s old school jeans. An old pair of sneakers is probably best too, since they will mostly be getting dirty all summer. The only thing you might want to buy new is a bathing suit, but that’s only if last year’s doesn’t fit properly. You should also consider that your child might grow during camp, so make sure you have their sizes written down so you can send them any back up clothes they will need.

9. Use Expenditure as a Tax Break
Although it might not be helpful now you can actually use your child’s camps cost as a tax break in the future. This can actually help you save quite a bit of money if you have more than one child going to camp. This might also help you feel a little better about spending a lot of money on camp. When you file your taxes make sure you ask about this or else a lot of tax companies might over look the expense. With the camp fees taken out of your taxes you might find that you can easily save up for next year’s camp fees.

10. Choose a Non-Private Camp
A lot of private camps can charge a lot of money that many families just can’t afford. So, if you’re looking for a camp that is affordable and safe your child then you might want to look into enrolling in a non-private camp. There are a lot of colleges, churches and boy/girl scout groups that offer low cost camps to children interested in furthering their knowledge in certain areas. These camps are almost always low cost and only last a few weeks out of the summer. If your child is already a part of the boy/scout group or church then there is a good chance that you might not have to pay anything to enter your child in the camp. A lot of these groups will begin fund raisers several months before camp enrollment, so your child might even earn the money for camp before actually enrolling in a camp. This is a great way to teach responsibility and will even ensure that camp is a possibility for your child.

Summer camp is one of the easiest ways to keep your child busy and active during the summer. It doesn’t matter what camp you decide to send your child to as these tips can really help cut down cost without forcing you to cancel your child’s enrollment. You will definitely be your child’s hero when you tell them they are going to camp this summer. Now that you won’t have to stress over money this year you can certainly find a little relaxation time while the children are away at camp!

Author: Chelsey McQuitty