We hear all the time about how people cannot save any money anymore. The U.S. savings rate has traditionally been abysmal, though it surged to historic levels during the pandemic. In normal times, though, whether it’s by habit, convenience or lack of priorities, many people have a mindset that … [Read more...] about 12 ways to save more money, starting now
Shopping
Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
For families and those who have space in their homes to buy in large quantity, a warehouse store membership often makes sense — dollars and cents. But for many frugal people, the idea of paying to shop at a store gives them pause. How can you decide if Sam's Club is worth the membership price? To … [Read more...] about Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
Gift ideas for teachers that will earn you an A+
Do you have a child in school? Whether you have a preschooler, elementary school student, middle schooler, or high school student, you likely are thinking about getting end-of-year or Christmas gifts for your child's teachers. But what are the best gift ideas that teachers will love and won't break … [Read more...] about Gift ideas for teachers that will earn you an A+
Teacher Appreciation Week deals and freebies 2023
Teachers don't always get the recognition they deserve. They take care of and educate our kids, work long hours often for little pay and have been known to reach into their own pockets to help a student or improve their classroom. While educators should get accolades year-round, National Teacher … [Read more...] about Teacher Appreciation Week deals and freebies 2023
What to give Mom when you’re all grown up
This annual Mother's Day or Christmas or birthday conversation is so predictable it's aggravating: “Mom, what can I get you?” "Oh, I don't need anything!" She means it. Most mothers really don’t need anything. But handing her an overpriced store-bought card and saying “Thank you for being my … [Read more...] about What to give Mom when you’re all grown up
End of the quarter is a great time for bargains
Frugal families have long been fans of the end-of-season sale. They know that when stores change out old inventory for new, they slash prices on the outgoing merchandise to sell as much as possible. But time-sensitive sales are not only limited to seasonal items. Price-conscious consumers … [Read more...] about End of the quarter is a great time for bargains
Memorial Day Weekend freebies and deals 2023
Memorial Day is a day for parades and remembrance, picnics and barbecues — and lots of deals! Many restaurants and retailers are offering discounts and freebies over the Memorial Day weekend. Some of the deals are only for military personnel or veterans, while others are available to all. Some of … [Read more...] about Memorial Day Weekend freebies and deals 2023
World Market’s Golden Gnome Scavenger Hunt offers rewards of up to $100
Sharpen your Easter-egg-hunting skills early this spring! Bargain hunters always love searching high and low for great deals and bargains. And, in this case, their detective skills can pay off handsomely at World Market. The popular retailer is hosting its Golden Gnome Scavenger Hunt for some … [Read more...] about World Market’s Golden Gnome Scavenger Hunt offers rewards of up to $100
Frugal living guide: How to have less stuff and save money
Frugal living means you buy and use less, saving money and time. Happily, these are also basic tenets of minimalism, which is quite trendy right now so if you like living with less, you're in style! On the other hand, if you are a spendthrift used to buying out of want rather than need, … [Read more...] about Frugal living guide: How to have less stuff and save money
7 great (and cheap) baby shower gifts
If you have lots of friends and family members having babies, you’ve probably realized that the cost of baby shower gifts can quickly add up, especially if you’re opting to give cute designer baby duds. However, baby gifts don’t necessarily have to break the bank. No etiquette rule says you … [Read more...] about 7 great (and cheap) baby shower gifts
Best shopping apps to save money
Everyday purchases are the ones that add up and bust your budget. Items like food, cleaning supplies and even gasoline can end up costing you the most. Many frugal shoppers have turned to shopping apps to save them money and help them stick to their monthly budgets. There are so many phone apps … [Read more...] about Best shopping apps to save money
10 frugal living tips for young families
Young families have it rough. Parents might still be paying off student loans, while they try to save for a first (or forever) home and pay for preschool or childcare. Many are climbing the corporate ladder, working their way up to those bigger salaries, or starting a new business that has yet to … [Read more...] about 10 frugal living tips for young families
How to save money on gas
Prices at the grocery store and at the gas pump are two of the most common ways people gauge the cost of living. You don't need to wait for the government to release inflation statistics when you can see the price of a single cucumber go up to 60 cents or watch the digits keep rolling past on the … [Read more...] about How to save money on gas
5 things to consider when buying a used lawn mower
One of my readers, Amanda, recently moved into her first home with a yard and grass that needs cutting. "It's huge," she told me, "and I don't know what to do. Is it OK to buy a used lawn mower or does it have to be new?" That's a great question. Whether your old lawn mower has finally called it … [Read more...] about 5 things to consider when buying a used lawn mower
Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist
It's always fun to get new stuff, and even better if you can get what you need for free or at bargain-basement prices. Personally, I also like getting rid of stuff I no longer need. I find I'm more productive and more relaxed in a less-cluttered environment, but I hate creating more garbage. … [Read more...] about Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist