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When you’re budgeting and want to boost your savings, the last thing you might consider doing is spending more money. But there are situations where choosing quality over quantity can actually help you save more in the long run. Keep reading to learn more!

Quality over quantity

I know it sounds crazy to buy something more expensive, right?

Well, actually, there are plenty of times when knowing how to spend wisely will help your future finances. I’m here to tell you about them and help you make the right choice.

Quality over quantity meaning

What does quality over quantity mean? Okay, so the definition may be obvious, but it’s important to be clear about the quality over quantity meaning before we go any further.

The phrase implies that choosing fewer things of higher quality is better than owning lots of low-quality things. It can apply to your fashion goals, what you eat, and what items you buy for your home.

Quality is how well-made something is

In basic terms, quality is how good something is. If an item is high quality, it means that it is well-made and will not easily break.

As an example, expensive bag brands like designer handbags are much more likely to last longer than high-street bags. But excellence often means a high price.

However, the quality of an item can also be subjective. A person’s opinions and feelings can determine it.

Quantity is just an amount

Quantity refers to the amount of something. So the number of shoes and handbags I own or general items around my home that I don’t actually need are quantity items.

Unlike quality, quantity is measured in a numerical format, and it can be counted.

How spending more can save you money in the long run

So this is what I’ve recently considered with purchases: Instead of filling my life and home with stuff, what if I carefully considered every purchase I make? How would that benefit my financial health?

Well, it would certainly make sticking to a budget much easier and my savings goals easier to achieve. I’d also stop overspending on cheap items that need replacing regularly.

While spending more on an item might seem like it would be more expensive, it will likely cost me less over time.

10 Quality over quantity examples

Ready to save money by buying quality things? Here are 10 quality over quantity examples that will improve your finances.

1. Furniture

When shopping for expensive items such as furniture, it can be tempting to purchase the cheapest items available. But by choosing high-quality items that are made to last, you may actually save money.

For example, if I buy an $800 sofa that lasts five years, it will cost me around $160 a year.

In comparison, if I buy a cheaper sofa at $400 that only lasts two years, it will cost me $200 a year.

Nobody wants uncomfortable furniture, and did you know that poor-quality chairs can negatively affect your body and health? Some things are worth spending more on, and furniture is definitely one of them.

High-quality furniture that is properly maintained can even be a good investment that you can sell when you decide it’s time for a refurb.

2. Clothing

Most of us are guilty of contributing to the fast fashion crisis. When it comes to clothes, quality is definitely best for our wallets and the environment.

If you spend a lot of money on a new pair of jeans, you’re much less likely to make an impulse purchase on cheaper items because you’ve already made a substantial purchase.

High-quality clothing is made of more durable fabrics, which means it won’t need to be repaired or replaced as often as lower-quality garments.

3. Food

Cutting your grocery bill and using the cheapest grocery list is a smart financial move to reduce your outgoings. But whilst canned goods and processed foods cost less, they can negatively affect your health and cost you money in the long term on healthcare.

Instead of compromising on the quality of your food, shop smarter by:

  • Buying in bulk
  • Growing your own fruit and vegetables
  • Eating less meat
  • Reducing food waste
  • Buying in season

 4. Reusable items

Reusing items wherever possible is a great way to save money and do your part for the environment. Here are a few reusable products that will save you a ton of cash over time.

  • Grocery bags: Most stores will charge you for carrier bags, so reduce your bill and take your own.
  • Make-up eraser towels: Trade the disposable cotton pads for a more eco-friendly and purse-friendly towel. Simply wash, dry, and reuse it again and again.
  • A smart notebook: Eliminate the need to buy a ton of notebooks and invest in a smart notebook. Write your notes, scan the page, clear it, and start again. Genius.

 5. Storage

Utilizing storage options can save you money on things like food and furniture. The right storage solution can protect and prolong the life of items, meaning you won’t have to replace them as often.

From buying freezer food bags to renting self-storage for your furniture, there are many ways to care for your possessions and get the most value from them.

6. Debt

What does quality over quantity mean when it comes to money? It doesn’t just apply to tangible items. Credit card debt is the perfect example of how spending more can save you more in the long term.

Making the minimum monthly repayment means that your debt will take longer to pay off. The balance left will also then accrue interest, costing you more overall.

For instance, suppose my credit card has a $2000 balance and an 18.9% interest rate. Clearing the debt in three years instead of five will save me hundreds of dollars and keep me from drowning in debt.

7. Homeownership

Are you deciding between buying your first home or continuing to rent?

There’s no denying that owning a home costs more than renting in the short term.

However, from a long-term financial perspective, buying a house allows you to save money and invest in your future.

The most important thing is only buying a home you can afford so you don’t become house poor. It’s often worth saving for longer before getting on the property ladder to increase your down payment and reduce your monthly mortgage repayments.

In most cases, rent prices may be higher than mortgage repayments, so you can use the difference in money to boost your savings.

8. Memberships

If you, like us, love a good subscription service, here’s some good news. You might be able to save some cash with the right membership!

For instance, if you use Amazon, it’s definitely worth investing in an Amazon Prime account. You will save money on deliveries and have access to videos and music, so there will be no need to spend money on these elsewhere.

Perhaps you already have a subscription like this. If not, you can save by buying only one that offers a lot instead of several.

Food subscription boxes are also a good way to save money by reducing food waste. With some research, you can find subscriptions that prioritize quality over quantity.

9. The neighborhood you live

Good neighborhoods may demand higher rent and mortgage payments, but living in a better area can save money.

For instance, good neighborhoods come with lower crime rates and a sense of community vigilance. They also tend to have well-maintained surroundings, including roads, parks, and public spaces, which contribute to a clean and pleasant environment.

Schools have good ratings and living in a desirable neighborhood can positively impact property values. I certainly considered school district rating and property values when I was deciding where to live and raise a family.

You may also be able to save on car insurance which is likely to be lower if you live in a lower-risk area.

10. Insurance

Paying for health insurance or a health savings account may seem unnecessary when you’re young and healthy, but it can save you thousands of dollars if you require emergency care.

Instead of skipping the coverage completely, shop for the best price. You can also save money by joining a family member’s existing plan if you are a spouse or under the age of 26.

Expert tip: Be consistent in your choices on quality

To truly live a lifestyle that values exceptional quality, you need to be consistent in the choices you make. You need to clearly define your personal core values and stick to them. Every time you spend money, it should be on something that reflects your priorities.

I found that physically writing my values down on pieces of paper and sharing them with my family motivates me to make the right decisions. You could even include a few in your wallet so you see them every time you open it. I also believe it’s easier to say no to things that cost money if family and friends know what you’re aiming for.

Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you stay consistent in your choices:
Do I really need this?
Why do I want to buy it?
Can I afford it?
How long will it last?
Could I borrow it instead?

Buying quality is all about making the right kind of purchases, and these are never rushed! You can apply this approach to items as small as a bottle of water or as large as a car to ensure you’re consistent with your buying habits and long-term goals.

Why choosing quality improves your life: 6 Reasons

Maybe you’re convinced to start buying for quality. But just in case, here are a few more reasons why buying quality is always the right option.

1.   Quality lasts for years

High-quality products are created to stand the test of time. Which means you won’t need to constantly replace them. I love that I can buy something for a bit higher price but am confident that it will last for years.

2.   It’s better for the environment

When a product is well-made, it’s less of a burden on our planet because it won’t need to be thrown away. You can help the earth with sustainable living and your budget at the same time.

3.   It helps you save time

By focusing on quality over quantity examples, you won’t waste time trying to have everything at once. The time you save can be better spent doing the things you love instead. Having fewer items to care for is another way to get some of your time back.

4.   It can benefit your mental health and well-being

Understanding what quality over quantity means will not only benefit your bank balance but also your happiness.

In fact, clutter can hurt your mental health. So, instead of having many items in your home, choose fewer possessions of high quality.

5.  Reduces stress in your life

Carefully choosing the people and things you have in your life will reduce stress. How? Well, owning many material items and being part of a huge circle of friends can be overwhelming.

Stress is often caused by trying to do too much. Less clutter and less worry and busyness can lead to a more carefree lifestyle.

6.  Helps you live more simply

Choosing quality ultimately means doing what makes you happy. When we do what makes us happy, we experience satisfaction and fulfillment. When people say “it’s the simple things in life” that make them happy, it really is!

Think about it like this: Would you rather invest in one classy, timeless piece for your wardrobe or buy a bunch of trendy, lower-quality garments that clog up your closet and will become redundant in a few months anyway? I guess that most of us would go for the first option.

What is the theory of quality over quantity?

The quality over quantity theory uses measurement to explain why investing in quality things is better for our mental and financial health. It focuses on value and fulfillment being more important than volume. Quality gives us longevity and significance, whereas quantity just gives us a large volume of an item or thing.

You may need to shift your mindset to train yourself not to choose quantity over quality, and that’s ok. Start by prioritizing what’s important to you and focus on those things. With practice, you’ll naturally strive for quality and a simpler life as you start to benefit from the many reasons quality is king.

In my opinion, daily gratitude is an excellent way to achieve a quality mindset. I like to take ten minutes out of my day to remind myself of what I have to be grateful for.

You could even make a list and look back at it whenever you need a reminder.

What does quality over quantity mean in relationships?

The quality over quantity meaning in a relationship is not about how much time you spend together; it’s about HOW you spend it.

For example, if you spend every evening with your spouse but use the time to browse social media and watch TV, it doesn’t count as quality time focused on each other.

A few activities you could try that prioritize quality with your significant other without breaking the bank are:

Cooking together

Preparing a meal requires conversation and physical closeness, making it the perfect date night activity. 

Treat yourselves to a spa day

Who doesn’t love a spa day? Relax in each other’s company and enjoy the moment.

Have a picnic

Sometimes the simple activities are the best. Pack a picnic, choose your favorite spot, and watch the world go by.

Exercise 

Exercising together can strengthen your bond. It’s also great for motivating each other to keep going and achieve your fitness goals.

Stargaze

If you’re looking for a cute activity for date night, look no further. You don’t need fancy equipment—just some blankets and the stars!

Plan a vacation

Nothing beats the excitement of planning your next vacation! Make a list of places you want to go and things you want to see, and choose everything together. And don’t forget about a vacation budget!

If you’ve enjoyed this article on why quality is better than quantity, you’ll love these next ideas!

Focus on what matters most!

So, here are the final thoughts…choosing how we spend our money is powerful, and we choose how we spend it.

By making quality purchases, we will reap the benefits of our purchases for a long time. And, in turn, save both time and money!

So leverage the tips we’ve explored here and the many ways that opting for quality over quantity can help you lead a financially healthier and happier life. You’ll save money and live better. And next time you make a purchase, focus on quality, not quantity, to help you save money!

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What To Buy At The Grocery Store To Maximize Your Budget  https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/what-to-buy-at-the-grocery-store/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/what-to-buy-at-the-grocery-store/#respond Thu, 10 Aug 2023 17:22:58 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=56674 […]

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In times when the price of food seems out of control, it can be tough to buy all of the groceries you need. If you’re finding the price of groceries hard to handle, you need to go shopping with a strategy. Think ahead about what to buy at the grocery store to maximize your budget. Let’s get into some great ideas!

What to buy at the grocery store

Prepare and make a list of what to buy at the grocery store

Instead of getting to the checkout line and discovering you don’t have the money to cover what’s in your cart, use these planning tips for the supermarket. A bit of time and preparation can ensure you make the most of your funds. 

One way to prepare is to make a grocery list. The most list-averse person may still want to start the habit of making grocery lists. With inflation making overall food costs higher with each passing year, everyone could stand to save on their meals. 

In addition, there are other ways to prepare for grocery shopping, including using tools like apps and making a meal plan. Here’s how to get ready for a grocery shopping trip.

Create meal plans to help make your grocery list

You can use budget meal planning to build your grocery list and spend more intentionally. There are even free online meal planners to follow, or you can just brainstorm your household’s top meals each week. 

When I’m meal planning, I like to be efficient. So I check my pantry, fridge, and freezer first to see what I have to use up. Then I look at grocery store sale flyers to help me pick items that are on sale. 

Focus on staples good for multiple dishes

As you make your meal plan and grocery list, think about the staple items—ingredients you can use more than once.

For example, Shape magazine suggests staples like peanut butter, frozen produce, and canned beans to keep in the house all the time. 

Pasta, rice, oats, flour, and similar items can form the base of many dishes. What you deem a staple depends on your family’s diet, too, so think of the most common meals you eat. Then, make a grocery list that utilizes similar ingredients. 

Focusing on food staples can also save you time!

For example, if you’re using ground beef for your famous tacos one night, you might cook extra meat at the same time to use in a casserole the next night.

Use tools to simplify grocery shopping

Don’t be afraid to try a new app or tool that can simplify your grocery shopping on a budget. When you need to know what to buy at the grocery store, technology can help!

Check out supermarket websites

Your supermarket’s website is a free tool that can help you make the cheapest grocery list. Many grocery stores like Kroger, Meijer, and Walmart enable online shopping, which is useful in a ton of ways. 

Shopping online helps you to stick to your list since you’re not wasting time strolling around the store and seeing surprise items. It allows you to pick up groceries conveniently (or have them delivered). Plus, you can save your “favorites” online for quick and easy shopping. 

Use grocery shopping apps

When you need to know what to buy at the grocery store, grocery shopping apps can save a lot of hassle. Using an app like Ibotta or even Mealime could help you save money and time at the supermarket. 

Some apps help you locate the best coupons, or you might price-compare different stores. Some apps provide you with discounts to specific retailers.

Think about what you need the most and search for the best free grocery apps (and also the best coupon websites). 

Time your grocery shopping carefully

Remember how key timing can be in saving money.

In addition to knowing what to buy at the grocery store, you need to know when to go. 

This can be as simple as visiting the store on their sale days. You can also probably save money by not shopping when you’re hungry, which could lead to more costly impulse spending

How to find the best foods to buy at the grocery store

When it comes to grocery shopping for the best food on a budget—maybe even a bare bones budget—a few basic habits can save you tons of money and time. Here are some general guidelines to save money and still eat well. 

1. Start with generic or store brands

If I had a mantra for grocery shopping, it would be to try store brands or generics first. With so many generic options available on supermarket shelves, why not try these versions that can cost significantly less? 

According to CNET, store brands could save you about 40% on average versus name brands. Some won’t save you quite that much, but the bottom line is that you’re almost guaranteed to save money on store brands. 

Yes, some store brands don’t taste exactly the same as their name-brand counterparts, but chances are you can get fairly close. Give them a try, and you might be pleasantly surprised!

2. Shop at multiple stores to get the best deals on all food

If you have the time, try multiple stores so you can take advantage of each store’s best prices. This is when it’s handy to look at those paper mailers announcing weekly sales. You can buy your meats at one place while you stock up on nonperishable snacks at a different store. 

If store-hopping isn’t possible, you can just stick to the store where you normally find the best grocery prices. Discount retailers like Aldi can save you money on pretty much everything, meaning you don’t need to coupon-clip or drive to different supermarkets. 

3. Avoid prepared foods

Here’s another cardinal rule: you’ll almost always save money buying raw ingredients instead of ready-to-eat foods, and it’s sometimes a healthier option. Sometimes it’s unavoidable to get something from your grocer’s prepared foods section, but whenever possible, steer clear. 

You can probably chop your own vegetables and assemble your own one-pot meals rather than buying stuff already in various states of readiness. Even if you’re thinking, “I hate cooking!” that doesn’t mean you can’t save some cash by doing simple food prep yourself. 

Stock up monthly or bi-weekly on these groceries to maximize your budget

Think about how often you need to replenish certain grocery items. Here are a few that you can likely buy on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. Use this monthly meal planner for additional guidance.

Frozen foods

Frozen foods are good to stock up on, perhaps every two weeks or even once a month. Of course, you’ll need freezer space to store frozen vegetables, meat, and other items, but if you can, buy those less frequently to save money per unit.

Plus, you can make some of the cheapest meals with lots of these ingredients. 

Boxed pantry staples

Those items you buy in a bag or box that go in the pantry? If you’re able to, buy enough for at least two weeks at a time so you have them ready. Cereals, baking staples like flour, and uncooked beans or pasta will last a long time. 

Plus, you can save money by cooking easy meals at home instead of ordering takeout. 

Canned foods

Much like boxed foods, you can buy canned foods on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. Of course, this is tough to do if you’re living paycheck to paycheck, but in the long run, it can save you money. 

Buy these foods weekly for your meal plan

In your plans for what to buy at the grocery store, these are the foods you’ll most likely need to pick up at least once a week. 

Fresh fruits and vegetables

Of course, fresh produce is something that you’ll want to buy more frequently.

Whether you go to your farmer’s market or the supermarket, be ready to buy what your family eats each week. 

Some fruits and vegetables are cheaper than others and still healthy, such as bananas, apples, and potatoes.

Dairy or dairy substitutes

For those who love cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products (that’s me!), you’ll need to pick these up fairly often. Include your favorite dairy items in your weekly shopping list to ensure things don’t go bad.  

Eggs and meat

Similar to dairy products, eggs and meat might land on your list of items to replenish weekly. This is especially true if you prefer to cook everything fresh. Eggs and meat, as well as other refrigerated items, can be a weekly purchase. 

But remember that meats can also be a great ingredient to pick up on sale and freeze extra portions for later use, especially if you’re trying to make frugal meals for families

Keep certain ingredients on your “as-needed” list

Besides your monthly and weekly grocery needs, there are bound to be a few surprise grocery items that pop up in between trips. Meal planning and making a list don’t have to mean you get rid of those last-minute trips altogether. 

Other items like olive oil or salad dressing might only run out occasionally, so try to set aside a little money when you budget by paycheck for miscellaneous groceries.

Snack foods and soft drinks might also fall into the category of things you buy only when and if you can spare the money. 

Basic list of what to buy at the grocery store

As a starting point to help ensure you won’t miss any essential ingredients, you can use this general list. Tweak it to suit your family’s favorites, and add whatever you need to this basic grocery list.

  • Dried beans/lentils
  • Pasta and rice
  • Bread, tortillas, baked goods
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Meat and seafood
  • Cereal or oatmeal
  • Soup
  • Canned beans 
  • Canned vegetables
  • Frozen fruits and vegetables
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Tea or coffee
  • Oils like olive or canola
  • Condiments like ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce
  • Peanut butter
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Treats

Of course, your list will depend on your dietary needs and preferences, but this should give you a solid base of groceries.

Expert tip: Always plan your meals ahead

Even if supermarket prices have been a source of financial strain, you can use planning and shopping strategies to save money. Paying attention to what to buy at the grocery store will help you maximize your budget without sacrificing more than you can handle. 

I find that a lot of what it comes down to is planning ahead. By planning most meals and sticking to a frugal grocery list, I can stretch my grocery budget as far as possible.
Being savvy about when and where we shop, as well as buying store brands, will also help.

What groceries do people buy the most?

Staple items seem to be the groceries people buy the most. According to Instacart, the number-one grocery item purchased in the U.S. and Canada for eleven years with Instacart has been bananas.

Other top American grocery purchases, per How Stuff Works, are bread, packaged meats, peanut butter and jelly, eggs, and milk

What foods should be on your grocery list?

When it comes to deciding what foods should be on your grocery list, try to buy items that will help you fill your hunger, first and foremost. Here’s a quick basic list:

  • Bread
  • Cereal
  • Meat
  • Seafood
  • Pasta
  • Rice
  • Frozen foods
  • Dairy
  • Eggs
  • Produce
  • Canned goods
  • Snacks

Pick from the items that suit your diet and start from there. 

How do I make a grocery list for one person?

If I need to make a grocery list for one person, I only need to consider my own diet and favorite meals, and I can end up with money leftover in my budget. Meal planning is important no matter what, though.

Decide whether you’ll buy only what you need for the week or stock up and keep items in the freezer or pantry until needed. If you don’t have a lot of space to store extra groceries, another possibility may be to go shopping with a buddy and split bulk items.

If you enjoyed reading this article about grocery shopping, read about these ideas next!

Understanding what to buy at the grocery store will help you make the most of your budget!

Hitting the grocery store aisles doesn’t have to be a routine you dread.

In fact, you can make a few basic plans for what to buy that will maximize your budget.

When things are tight due to a sudden job loss or inflation, great supermarket strategies can help you stretch your money further and also help you learn how to stop worrying about money. As a bonus, living below your means with grocery shopping can help you achieve financial success!

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20 Smart Tips For Grocery Shopping On A Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/grocery-shopping-on-a-budget/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/grocery-shopping-on-a-budget/#respond Fri, 28 Jul 2023 13:42:42 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=56094 […]

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Let’s talk about grocery shopping on a budget. You can cut lattes and your cable bill, but the one thing you can’t cut from your budget? Food. Food is expensive. Whether you’re a student on a low budget or a parent trying to keep the food bills at bay, we could all use some tips on managing our grocery budget properly so we can save more money.

Grocery shopping on a budget

The average American spends around $7,300 on food each year. And, your grocery spending can eat up anywhere from 14% to 34% of your household income.

That said, grocery shopping on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health. It’s about shopping smarter to make the most out of your monthly grocery budget. It’s also very easy to do if you carve out the time. You’d be surprised at how simple it can be to cut your grocery bill in half!

20 Ways to start grocery shopping on a budget

So what can you do today in order to save money on your next grocery run and minimize impulse purchases?

Here are 20 ways to get more out of your monthly grocery budget. (Be sure to check out our frugal meal plan ideas as well!)

1. Review what you have in your pantry

The easiest way to reduce your grocery bill is to simply buy less food. And no—we’re definitely not suggesting that you let yourself go hungry to save a few bucks.

Instead, give your pantry (and fridge/freezer) a double check so you know what to buy before you head out to the grocery store. Do you really need everything on your list? You may have already written “almond milk” on your grocery list—but turns out you bought in bulk last time and still have another box in your pantry.

Or maybe you wanted to buy beans to make tacos for dinner. But checking your pantry reveals that you already have a few cans of chickpeas on hand—and those will do just fine for tacos, too!

Bottom line: Before you head to the store (or even make your grocery list), take stock of what’s already in your pantry. You may need to buy fewer groceries (and spend less money!) than you thought.

2. Create your grocery budget

If you want to save money on groceries for the long term, then you need to create a budget—and stick to it.

I like to start by figuring out how much I currently spend on groceries. I review credit card statements and receipts from the last 2 to 3 months. Then I’ll ask myself, what is my average amount spent on groceries each month?

If this number is above my target grocery budget, then it’s time to make some changes.

An easy way to redesign your grocery budget is to work backward.

First, decide how much you want to spend on groceries each month. For example, let’s say you’re comfortable spending $250 per month. That equals $62.50 per week.

Next, make your weekly grocery shopping list—and make sure it does not top your weekly budget (in this case, $62.50).

If you tend to lean on credit cards and have a hard time holding yourself to a budget, try going to the grocery with just the $62 in cash. This way, you can be sure that you won’t buy more than you can afford—and you’ll stay true to your ideal grocery budget.

3. Plan your meals

A big part of grocery shopping on a budget is planning your meals. Meal planning is the key to saving money, as well as saving time. Start off small and plan your meals for the entire day.

Once you’ve mastered that, proceed to plan your meals for the entire week, then work up to creating a monthly meal planner. Meal prep is easy, and everybody can do it! Cook your meals in bulk and store them for later in the week. For example, you can plan casseroles, pasta dishes, sandwiches, side dishes and more!

This process not only ensures that you save money by making sure that you’re able to distribute your ingredients over several meals evenly, but it also ensures that you’re able to conveniently heat up your food and eat it immediately.

By the way, there are tons of creative and frugal meals you can try out!

4. Create a grocery list

We often spend more than we need to when we’re shopping for our groceries. We buy more than we can eat, and we often lose track of what we intended to purchase in the first place.

Much like how a to-do list keeps us on track with our tasks, a budget grocery list is imperative to keep us on track with what we must buy.

While it may sound basic, this factor must not be overlooked. How many times have you made a quick trip to the shops to buy one thing, but you end up buying a lot of other items you didn’t really need?

Writing up a quick budget grocery list — or on your phone, if pen and paper are a little too ‘old school’ for you — before leaving for the store will effectively prevent you from buying any unnecessary items as it keeps you on track.

5. Don’t limit yourself to one store

Sales don’t just happen at one store. Every store is different, and each of them is constantly competing to provide consumers with the best prices. Take advantage of this and shop for the best prices.

You’re not constricted to purchasing your groceries at just one store so take the time to scout out the varying prices and follow the cheapest prices. Shopping at different stores is one of the simplest ways to save money on groceries.

6. Shop for store-brand goods

Store-brand items are indisputably cheaper than commercial goods, and usually, I can’t tell the difference, apart from the packaging. This is due to store-brand goods being independently produced and packaged by the store itself. It’s no wonder that they’re cheaper.

While not all foods have a store-brand counterpart, items such as canned foods, condiments, and other processed foods are definitely guaranteed to have store-brand versions.

7. Bargain hunt

A huge part of grocery shopping on a budget is bargain hunting. Sometimes all the planning in the world can be fruitless if that one head of lettuce you need is $6.99.

When you head to the supermarket, take note of what fruits and vegetables are on sale. Most likely, it will be things that are in season and in excess.

If you see something on sale in the shops, make the most of it. Notice that 2 lbs of pumpkin are only $.50? Why not grab a couple? Vegetables can be so diverse and used in so many different recipes.

It might be just pumpkin soup, or you can get creative and make things like pumpkin cornbread, pumpkin beef, black bean chili, or pumpkin cannelloni.

See some cheese, eggs, ground beef, chicken breast or pork chops on sale? These can be stretched across multiple meals in your meal plan.

You might also see an abundance of cabbage or corn. You can preserve these foods and enjoy them at a later time, saving you tons of money down the road.

8. Prioritize your food needs

Defining your needs vs. your wants isn’t just for items you buy. This method can be used when you are making your budget grocery list too. It’s easy to buy up a bunch of random food that we really don’t need just because it sounds tasty.

For instance, do you NEED to buy steak every week, or could you find a cheaper option for dinner? Finding ways to save money on groceries by defining what you truly need can lead to big savings every month.

9. Pay with cash

People tend to spend more money when using credit and debit cards. Paying in cash can help you stick to your monthly grocery budget easier. The cash envelope budgeting system can be a great way to switch from cards to cash.

This is where you have dedicated envelopes to put specified amounts of cash in to pay your bills. For example, you would have an envelope specifically for your groceries for the month. This helps you stick to your budget and prevents overspending.

10. Use store rewards cards

Most grocery stores have a free discount card, points card, or rewards card. These are cards that you can use to earn points and get sale prices and other discounts when you shop.

In many instances, unless you have the store card, you will not be able to get the items you want at the sale price.

That being said, it’s very easy to miss out on receiving the sale discounts. During checkout, items are scanned pretty quickly, and you may not realize it until after you get home and look at your receipt — that’s certainly happened to me many times.

To ensure you always get the discounts, put your points card next to your source of payment. If, for some reason, you were not asked for it, or you forgot to use it, be sure to head over to customer service for a price adjustment.

Keep in mind that you can also use your points card online too. Rewards cards can help you stick with your monthly grocery budget.

11. Sign up for your store emails

In addition to signing up for the store points card or rewards card, be sure to sign up for your store email newsletters. Many times stores will email additional discounts, including printable coupons or free grocery delivery or pick-up offers.

They may also make you aware of sales going on in-store that are based on your shopping habits or things you typically buy or have bought in the past (using information from your points card).

Be careful not to get caught up shopping every store sale you are emailed unless you really need the items and they fit into your monthly grocery budget.

12. Search online for manufacturer coupons

Use coupons! Many of your favorite grocery brands sometimes offer manufacturer coupons on their websites or on coupon sites (like coupons.com or redplum.com) that you can use in-store or online.

Just do a quick Google search before you go grocery shopping to see what you can find. (Here’s our list of best coupon sites!)

13. Buy in bulk

Heading to your local farmer’s market may be your favorite Sunday afternoon activity but it may not be the most friendly on your wallet.

We’re not saying you should stop supporting your local farmers (not at all!). But to trim down your grocery bill, consider buying some of your pantry staples in bulk.

For example, shelf-stable products are great picks to buy in bulk for the following reasons:

  1. Buying in bulk means you can score bigger discounts
  2. Focusing on non-perishable bulk goods means you can shop once and have enough food to last weeks or even months.

Want to watch your grocery bill shrink? Head to warehouse stores like Costco or BJ’s to stock up on must-haves with a long shelf life, like:

  • Flour
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Canned tuna
  • Nuts
  • Grains
  • Rice and pasta
  • Peanut butter (or other nut butters)
  • Pasta sauce
  • Oatmeal
  • Spices & dry seasoning

14. Shop discount grocery stores

If you need to get groceries on a budget, another easy way to reduce your bill at the check-out counter is to stay away from boutique grocery stores.

After all, food is food, right? So head to discount grocery stores like Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Lidl, and Market Basket for your weekly shopping run. These stores often sell grocery staples at just a fraction of the prices you’ll find at fancier shops, like Whole Foods.

So give discount grocery stores a try—your tastebuds won’t be able to tell the difference, but your wallet sure will!

15. Buy generic vs. brand name

We all have some brands we’ve been loyal to for years … but if you want to trim down your grocery budget, it may be time to evaluate your long-standing favored brands.

If you’re skeptical about switching from name-brand groceries to generic, here’s some food for thought: A study from CNET reveals that generic groceries are about 40% cheaper than name brands.

Let’s do some quick math: That means that if your current grocery bill clocks in at $400 per month, switching to generic brands could end up saving you $160 a month or $1,920 per year!

16. Learn how to store your food

It’s important to learn how to store your groceries properly (and safely). And storing your food properly will prevent food from getting spoiled and in turn save your money.

While canned goods, seasonings, and noodles aren’t necessarily a problem when it comes to shelf life, it’s a whole different story when we’re talking about other foods.

Dairy products like milk, cheese, eggs and yogurt are highly perishable and should be refrigerated as soon as you get home. The same applies to salads.

Vegetables and fresh fruits should be replenished every one to two weeks because they don’t last very long, even if they are stored in the fridge.

However, the shelf life of foods can definitely be prolonged by placing them in the correct location of the fridge and freezer.

Make sure that you store all meats in the freezer immediately after you get back from the store. Freezing meats will definitely make them last for weeks so buy them when they’re cheap and don’t be afraid to stock up. The same can be done for bread.

17. Get the store flyer when you walk in

Ever noticed that pile of papers as you walk into your local grocery store? The next time you walk by these, grab one!

You might just find a few cutout coupons in there, and they are a great way to get a summarized view of what’s on sale in the store. This way you can determine what items on your list are discounted.

18. Buy your groceries online

Personally, I think online grocery shopping is a great way to save money because I’m not distracted by yummy smells or product placements; I can simply search for and purchase what I need.

In addition, I have time to think about whether or not I really need the items I have added to my cart because I’m shopping online.

Yes, the delivery fees might be pricey — typical fees are from $10 to $20. However, you can find promotions offering free or low-fee deliveries if you try a new service.

And how many times have you spent much more than the delivery fee in-store after falling into the temptation of buying things that you didn’t plan for?

You may be able to save money on the cost of delivery by opting to pick up your online shopping at the store. You basically place your order online, and then your store provides you with a pickup time to come and get your pre-packed groceries.

Often, the cost of a pickup can be cheaper than delivery by up to 50 or 75%. If online shopping is something you have available to you, you should definitely consider taking advantage of it! Shopping online makes grocery shopping on a budget much easier.

19. Learn how to cook 

It’s not a secret that home-cooked meals are cheaper than eating out at restaurants.  However, the process of cooking may seem daunting for those who aren’t used to it.  Anyone can cook. You just have to start off with simple recipes with simple ingredients.

Cooking at home ensures that you know exactly what you’re putting into your body. Also, if you have bought your ingredients on sale, the cost of your meals will definitely equate to less than what you pay for at restaurants, about $20.37 per meal. Learn a new skill and save money while you’re at it.

20. Use leftovers

One of the easiest ways to save money on groceries is to utilize your leftovers. Repurposing dinner from the night before into lunch or another dinner idea can stretch out your food longer.

For example, if you have beans from the night before, you can use them in another main dish, such as tacos.

Rather than letting food go to waste, get inventive and make more cheap meals. Make a goal to use everything you cook. Check out Pinterest for ideas on how to use your leftovers.

Expert tip: Create a grocery budget you can stick to

Sometimes, it can be a little too easy to get carried away when creating a new budget. Don’t get us wrong—if you’re enthusiastic and motivated about improving your financial health, this is a good thing! But sometimes those moments of inspiration can lead to biting off more than you can chew.

For example, say I currently spend $400 per month on groceries and I want to cut my budget down to $100. That’s quite a big jump! And it may be harder to pull off in a one-month turnaround than I’d think.

For long-term success in learning to shop for groceries on a budget, start small. If your current spending is $400, maybe aim for $300 for this month, $200 for the next month, and $100 for the month after that.

Often, slow-and-steady baby steps help turn big goals into regular habits so you can commit to them for the long term.

How do I start a budget for groceries?

To start shopping for groceries on a budget, there are three key steps to follow.

Step 1: Review the last two to three months of your groceries expenses. How much have you been spending at the grocery store?

Step 2: Determine where you can make cuts. Are you buying more pre-made meals than you need to? Are you making a lot of small, frequent grocery store runs … that amount to a big monthly total?

Step 3: Add some structure to your grocery shopping routine. Decide how often you’ll head to the store—once a week? Twice a week? Give yourself a weekly spending cap on groceries—and stick to it.

By being aware of your spending, trimming the spending fat, and holding yourself accountable to a shopping schedule, you can keep your grocery spending in check.

What is a reasonable amount to budget for groceries?

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Thrifty Food Plan, the average woman between 20 and 50 years old can expect to spend $55.8 per week on food—or $241.90 per month.

Note that this Thrifty Food Plan considers that ALL snacks and meals are prepared at home. To give yourself some wiggle room for dinners out and coffee runs, you may consider raising your grocery budget to between $250 and $350 per month.

Can I spend just $25 a week on groceries?

While spending just $25 a week on groceries may be a bit limiting for the long term, it is certainly possible.

To drastically reduce your grocery spending, look for low-budget staples that you can turn into many different meals, such as chickpeas, rice, lentils, potatoes, etc.

Also, learn how to get the most out of every piece of food! For example, you can easily get three meals out of a whole chicken: 1) Dinner the first day; 2) Lunch the second day; 3) Homemade soup from the bones and scrapes.

You can save money grocery shopping on a budget!

Cutting your food budget in half is easy. And though I know it requires a little effort and discipline, it doesn’t have to be time consuming and the savings are well worth it!

Finding ways to save money on groceries can help you save towards other goals too. Let’s say you start saving $50 a month on groceries; that’s $600 in just a year!

Learning how to be frugal in all aspects of your finances will help you stop wasting your hard-earned money and bulk up your bank account! Learn how to save even more with our FREE savings challenges bundle!

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21 Best Coupon Sites To Save A Ton Of Money https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/the-best-coupon-websites/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/the-best-coupon-websites/#respond Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:29:57 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=53877 […]

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Coupon sites can be your secret weapon to scoring some great deals. And knowing the best coupon websites can help you save money on almost every purchase.

You can enjoy quality items at a discounted price if you take advantage of coupons. No, we aren’t talking about your Grandma’s coupons from a newspaper. We are talking about coupons from the best coupon websites around!

We will dive into the different types of couponing and the best coupon sites available today!

Best coupon websites

This post contains affiliate links. Please see our disclosures for more information.

Why should you consider using the best coupon websites

Coupons are an easy way to cut back on expenses without sacrificing quality. Although you will need to invest some time, it can be a good return on investment.

Even if you’re not into extreme couponing and only use coupons to save on groceries, you can use the saved money for something you desire.

Couponing can give you more wiggle room in your budget, freeing you up to spend money on other things. And thanks to technology, you don’t have to clip coupons anymore. Instead, you can use apps and websites!

Different types of coupons

Before you can start couponing, you’ll need to know the different types of coupons. Read the fine print no matter which coupon type you are working with.

You’ll be able to ensure you are getting the most bang for your buck and saving money by understanding the fine print on your coupons. Here are the basics:

Manufacturer’s coupons

A product’s company issues manufacturer’s coupons.

For example, if you find a manufacturer’s coupon for Kraft mac and cheese, it was issued by Kraft. These coupons can be used at any store that accepts the coupon and sells the product.

Printable manufacturer’s coupons

Printable manufacturer’s coupons are simply coupons that must be printed from a website.

You can find them on the best coupon websites we will discuss below. Another place to find these coupons is directly on the manufacturer’s websites.

Although you can find these coupons on multiple sites, you shouldn’t make copies of any single coupon. Many have unique codes with usage limits, so follow their limitations.

Store coupons

Particular retailers issue store coupons. You can only use the coupon at the issuing store. In some cases, you might be able to stack manufacturer’s coupons with store coupons. Still, it will vary based on the retailer.

Typically you can identify a store coupon with a logo or wording that indicates the voucher can only be used at a particular store.

Coupon code

Coupon codes will give you discounts on purchases while shopping online. As you shop, many stores have a field for coupon codes at checkout.

Make sure to enter the coupon code before you complete your order. The website will let you know if the coupon code is invalid.

Cashback

Cashback differs from a traditional coupon but is still a worthwhile way to save money. In some cases, cashback may be offered in addition to your coupon savings.

You’ll receive the cashback directly in the store if you shop in person. The cashback will be credited to your account with the particular coupon site if you shop online.

Generally, this cashback is sent out once you hit a certain threshold.

Best coupon websites

Now that you know some of the basics of couponing, it’s time to get started! We’ve covered the best couponing websites below.

If you start to use these coupon websites regularly, you’ll see a positive change in your bottom line.

1. Rakuten

Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is one of the best coupon sites that also offer cash back.

The service is free, and you can earn cashback from hundreds of websites. Plus, Rakuten offers access to coupons on top of its cashback program.

You can install a convenient Chrome browser extension that will let you know if the site you are on offers cashback.

You don’t have to do any research to score these deals. The earnings can range from 1% to 12% cashback and sometimes more during special sales.

Plus, if you link up your credit card, you can earn cashback in select stores through Rakuten. You’ll receive your money via PayPal or a check, whichever works best for you.

2. Ibotta

Ibotta is a coupon and cashback app that can help you save money painlessly, especially when shopping in grocery stores.

You’ll earn cashback on certain items by completing different tasks. These tasks might include purchasing the item, providing proof of purchase, watching a short video, or commenting on the product.

The number of tasks will vary based on the item and the cashback amount. 

Sometimes, you can use Ibotta on top of other in-store purchases, saving even more money.

It’s one of the best coupon websites that make saving money easy!

3. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is one of the best couponing websites around. It’s a versatile site that offers valuable coupons to its users. You can print coupons in-store or use cashback opportunities during online shopping.

When you print out a coupon, you’ll earn a Swagbuck. You can redeem these points for gift cards at many retailers, which will allow you to stretch your budget further.

If you’d like more Swagbucks, you can earn them by watching videos, taking surveys, and using the Swagbucks search engine.

4. Groupon

Groupon is the best website for coupons when it comes to entertainment and restaurants in your area.

You can also find attractive travel deals through Groupon. The site also offers thousands of coupons with a ton of category options from popular retailers.

Many of these are for services and products like spa days and car repairs. It can be a fun way to accomplish your to-do list on a budget and treat yourself in the process.

5. Amazon coupons

That’s right! Amazon offers coupons for many of the products on its site.

If you are an avid Amazon shopper, this is the best website for coupons. You should investigate these money-saving opportunities.

Most of the coupons offered are manufacturers’ coupons, but you can add them to your cart in a few clicks. Find out what’s on sale with Amazon coupons.

6. Coupons.com

The name of this site says it all; it is one of the best coupon sites you can use. You can find coupons for both physical and online retailers through coupons.com.

The site updates its coupon selection monthly, so check back regularly. In addition to coupons, you can earn cash back on purchases by linking your debit card to the site.

7. RetailMeNot

RetailMeNot is another one of the best couponing sites offering coupon codes for thousands of online retailers. Each day, the site updates its homepage with deals that are trending that day.

You can find coupon codes, cashback opportunities, and discounted gift cards. It’s a great spot to check out before you head to the store or finalize your online purchase.

Use this great go-to site when scanning for coupons while checking out.

8. BeFrugal

BeFrugal is a simple app that helps you cut costs while enjoying shopping. It offers lucrative cashback opportunities at over 5,000 stores.

It is a great app for coupons because of its accessibility. BeFrugal has an option that applies coupons and codes with the push of a button.

It couldn’t be any easier, which is great for beginner couponers. You can receive your earnings via PayPal, check, direct deposit, or gift cards.

9. Checkout 51

Checkout 51 is a fantastic way to earn cashback. It specifically focuses on saving you money with groceries and gas, which are high costs for most budgets.

Using the app, you can add your savings offers and then take a photo of your receipt. You’ll get money back in your wallet for your everyday expenses.

10. Savings.com

Savings.com offers a wide variety of money-saving opportunities. It can help you save money on groceries, flights, and everything else.

You’ll find both local and national level deals on Savings.com. It is an easy place to assess all of your coupon options in one place, which is why it’s one of the best coupon websites.

11. Brad’s Deals

Brad’s Deals has the latest information on deals at particular retailers. You’ll be able to find bargains for a wide variety of products.

Plus, based on past sales data, the site offers advice on the best time to buy certain items. Make sure to take a look!

12. The Krazy Coupon Lady

The Krazy Coupon Lady is the best website for coupons because of its reputation for knowing everything about coupons. On the site, there are both printable and digital coupons.

Suppose you are overwhelmed by the couponing process. In that case, the Krazy Coupon Lady can teach you how to coupon effectively and match up some amazing deals. Make sure to take advantage of this free resource.

13. SlickDeals

SlickDeals offers a different take on couponing. Instead of focusing on saving money for yourself, SlickDeals includes a community aspect. Not only does their team finds deals, but it also allows members to add their findings.

The most recent deals are displayed on the home page. However, some forums offer the opportunity to discuss the details of the deals with others in a similar situation.

14. CouponCause

CouponCause is one of the best coupon websites because it donates a portion of its earnings to non-profit organizations!

Some organizations they donate to include the World Wildlife Fund, Feeding America, and the City of Hope.

You can find coupons and promo codes for top retailers such as Booking.com, Amazon, Target, JCPenny, and more.

15. Hip2Save

Hip2Save is one of the best couponing sites for daily deals, promo codes, and coupons. You’ll find coupons from tons of stores, and they also have a section on where to find freebies! They also provide honest product reviews and shopping tips.

16. Printable Coupons and Deals

Printable Coupons and Deals is another one of the best coupon websites available. The site is set up in a very organized way, and you can find coupons for everything from health and wellness to cleaning products.

Find the coupons for the items you want and then print them out.

17. Capital One shopping

Capital One shopping is a browser extension that finds you coupons as you shop online. It’s a super simple way to save money without thinking about it.

There’s also an app version if you prefer that. Plus, the website helps you find deals with retailers like Ulta, Adidas, Levi’s, and more.

18. DealNews

DealNews is a great website for saving money. The website shows their current offers coupon codes, as well as deals for items that are on sale. And you can also sort through them by picking the brand, store, or category.

19. Tada

The Tada website focuses specifically on saving you money with grocery shopping. It gets you cash back as you scan your receipts.

So since you’ll buy groceries anyway, you may as well get some money back! It’s available as an app or a browser extension.

20. Valpak

Valpak allows you to save money through coupon codes. It can also help you find local coupons specific to where you live so you don’t miss out on any deals.

21. PayPal Honey

PayPal Honey is a Chrome extension for online shoppers. It gives you points for purchases, and then you get cash back.

It’s simple, easy to set up, and constantly saves you cash.

Expert tip

Use multiple websites to find coupons and discount codes to maximize your savings. When you utilize various websites, you can combine offers and save more.

What to do with the money you save from coupons

Now that you know the best couponing sites, remember you shouldn’t buy an item just because you have a coupon.

You can seek coupons for the items you already planned to purchase and look for the best deals. Otherwise, you’ll be spending money you weren’t planning to spend and not truly saving to your full potential.

If you use coupons effectively to meet your needs, then the savings will pour in. It might surprise you how quickly your savings add up!

As you build these savings, it is a good idea to use them to reach your financial goals. Here are a few ways you can redirect your newfound savings:

Build an emergency fund

Life can throw some surprises your way. Whether it’s a car repair or a medical emergency, unexpected expenses will pop up. A solid emergency fund can make those unplanned expenses less stressful.

Most experts recommend saving between 3 to 6 months of expenses in an emergency fund. That may sound overwhelming, so start with a $1,000 savings goal and build from there!

Save for your first home

Buying a home can be expensive but an exciting step in your life. The extra money you save from using coupons can help you start saving for your first down payment.

Every little bit adds up and can help you reach your goals faster!

Pay down debt

If you are in debt, then you realize it is not ideal. Stop trying to keep up with payments and make a concerted effort to pay down your debt. Any extra savings can be used to pay off your debt ASAP.

Save for retirement

Although retirement might seem far away, it is important to start saving early. Even if you can only save a little bit at a time, it can add up quickly over time. Take your earnings and deposit them towards your retirement savings.

Treat yourself

Yes, saving for long-term financial goals is important. However, you also need to enjoy your life.

Make an effort to fund your short-term goals, such as a new car or relaxing vacation in cash, instead of going into debt.

Using coupons can help you have more fun money in your budget.

How do I find legit coupons?

To find legit coupons to ensure the coupon source is from the manufacturer, retailer, or a reliable website. In addition, check the quality of the logo. 

If it looks grainy or has a low resolution, it may have been copied by a scammer. Additionally, read the fine print to scope out any fake coupons.

Is it safe to use coupon codes from websites?

There are risks to using coupon codes from websites, so it’s important to take precautions. Only use codes from reliable websites such as the one previously mentioned in this post. In addition, make sure you read the terms and conditions.

Where do extreme couponers get their coupons?

Newspapers and other print sources are where extreme couponers get their coupons. However, many of them also find coupons through apps and websites.

Which website is best for discount coupons?

Some of the best websites for discount coupons include Rakuten, Ibotta, Swagbucks, Amazon Coupons, and Groupon.

What browser extensions can I use to find coupons?

Rakuten, Honey, Capital One Shopping, and RetailMeNot are great browser extensions that work with multiple browsers, including Safari, Firefox, and Google Chrome.  

Coupons are just one way to save money while shopping. Check out these related posts to save money while spending!

Use these best coupon sites to save a bundle of money today!

Coupons can be a great way to cut back on costs without cutting down on quality. If you can use coupons strategically, you can score some amazing deals. If you aren’t taking advantage of coupons, you leave money on the table.

Keep more cash in your wallet by leveraging one or several of the best couponing websites we have provided. Also, be sure to shop with a list, make meal plans, and have a budget for all spending! Here’s to saving more money!

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18 Frugal Grocery Shopping Tips https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/frugal-grocery-shopping/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/frugal-grocery-shopping/#respond Sun, 04 Jun 2023 16:51:07 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=52132 […]

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One of the main expenses no one can avoid is buying groceries, and sometimes money is tight. Even if you don't have a special reason for it, you can still use frugal grocery shopping tips to keep more of your money in your pocket!

Frugal grocery shopping

If you hope to spend less at the supermarket every month, you can try any or all of the following frugal ideas. You won’t be sacrificing anything important, and you’ll keep more of your income.

Why shopping frugally is always a good idea!

You likely don’t need any reminders here about why you’re hoping to try shopping frugal and start grocery shopping on a budget. There are lots of reasons for anyone to try to save money and maximize your food budget.

Perhaps you’re facing a period of low income, either due to a lack of job training or a recent layoff that has you explaining gaps in employment.

Or you might have higher expenses in other areas right now, and saving on groceries would really make an impact. Maybe rent has gone up, you’ve moved to a new place that has a higher cost of living, or you needed to upgrade your vehicle. Saving on groceries will help.

Maybe you’re trying to save for a major expense, or perhaps you need to save a certain amount, like $5000 in 3 months.

During those times, of course, you’ll need to learn how to drastically cut expenses, including food costs.

Whatever your reasons may be, try these 18 frugal grocery shopping tips and watch your bills go down.

18 Frugal grocery shopping tips to save money

See how many of these great ideas you can use to save money each month!

1. Shop your pantry

This first frugal grocery shopping tip is to shop for free—in your own home! You may have stocked up in the past on non-perishable food items. Now’s a great time to start using up those canned and boxed items.

You can also explore your freezer to save money. Many of us store food for months and forget it’s there. Take the opportunity to shop your kitchen and pantry, and you could find a treasure trove of items that are essentially free.

2. Quit using credit cards at the supermarket

This tip may be controversial because many people like to pay with credit cards to reap the benefits of credit card rewards.

However, researchers at the MIT Sloan School of Management have found that paying by credit card can activate reward centers in our brains and could lead to spending more.

Even if you’re skeptical about whether that’s true for you, try using only cash or debit cards for a month or two. This could help you stick to your grocery budget and avoid impulse spending.

3. Plan your meals on a weekly basis

One of the most popular frugal grocery shopping tips is to start budget meal planning. Meal planning one time a week can help you to be more mindful about the groceries you buy. Instead of buying everything you see, you can focus when you shop.

Thinking about the best way to use foods that are on sale, like seasonal produce or discounted items after a holiday, can help your overall food budget.

Shopping frugally is a lot easier if you plan ahead by thinking about the meals you want to prepare and eat. It takes effort, but it's worth it.

4. Eat at home instead of in restaurants

The first few tips for shopping frugally hinge on the assumption that you’ll eat the majority of your meals at home, not at restaurants. While it’s possible to find deals on dining out, it’s almost always cheaper to prepare meals yourself.

The average U.S. household spend $3,030 on food away from home and $5,259 on food at home, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey. It’s likely that the more than $3,000 on dining out made up only a small percentage of meals, though.

Though it depends a bit on what you purchase, you can usually save money on ingredients thanks to larger quantities that yield multiple meals.

5. Frugal grocery shopping includes buying produce in-season

One way to shop in a more frugal way is to buy fruits and vegetables when they’re in season. Since in-season produce is in greater supply, the price drops to keep demand high.

You’ll typically spend less on groceries if you look for produce during its growing season. An added benefit is that fresh fruits and vegetables will have the best flavor during the in-season months, and you’re moving towards living a healthy lifestyle.

6. Check grocery store sales and plan meals based on this

When you’re looking for frugal grocery shopping tips, it’s a no-brainer to watch for supermarket sales. Pay attention to those grocery store mailers that tell you items that are marked down for the coming week, and you can plan meals around those items.

Making monthly meal plans or weekly meal plans based on supermarket deals can help you create some of the cheapest meals. You won’t sacrifice taste or enjoyment by simply timing your meals to save money.

7. Buy groceries based on meals you can prepare in advance

Along with the previous money-saving tip, you can plan some of your meals to prepare well in advance. What I mean is you can save money by meal-prepping a bunch of meals one day and freezing them for future use.

Pick meals that are easy to make ahead of time, and choose a day to do all the prep work. This works well for one-pan meals like lasagna, but you can also do it by prepping ingredients that need to be combined and warmed on the day you’ll eat them.

This can save money because by cooking several meals’ worth of chicken at once, you save yourself a step on a busy day. It makes it more likely that you'll learn how to stop eating out.

8. Buy bulk items only if you can use them

It can be very tempting to stock up on giant packages of paper goods and food if you shop at Costco or a similar warehouse club. And yes, bulk shopping can save you money per unit, but only if you shop wisely.

Buying anything in bulk doesn’t really save you money if you end up wasting half the product. So be sure to avoid buying in bulk unless it’s for food you can reasonably use before it goes bad. Food waste can be one of the money leaks you want to avoid.

Keep in mind, too, that you'll need space to store all those bulk products. Getting carried away with bulk grocery shopping might lead to decluttering down the road (and not saving money, after all).

9. Try frugal grocery shopping at discount grocers

Obviously, one of the best frugal grocery shopping tips for anyone is to simply change where you shop. Buying groceries at upscale markets can be a serious drain on your finances.

If you are truly serious about saving money on groceries, start by shopping at the most affordable grocery stores. Check out stores like Aldi, Walmart, Market Basket, Food 4 Less, and others in your area to save major money on your groceries.

10. Stick to raw or unprepared ingredients to save money

This grocery tip goes along with the general concept of eating at home.

In addition, be sure to buy your ingredients in their simplest, unprepared form whenever possible. You can make food from scratch—it’s easier than you might think.

For example, take a stroll down the produce aisles at your local grocer. Compare the cost of a whole pepper versus already chopped peppers or the cost of a watermelon or pineapple compared to pre-sliced fruit.

It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll pay a premium for anything that’s prepared ahead of time. These items are great when you’re in a hurry or on the go, but don’t make them your default. Shopping frugally can mean buying raw ingredients to cook or prepare yourself.

11. Use couponing apps for supermarket purchases

When you hit the grocery store aisles, don’t forget about your favorite couponing apps. You can save money upfront or get cash rewards back.

Check out the best coupon websites for deals on everything from groceries to home goods. Just pay attention so that you don’t end up buying things solely because of a coupon. If it’s not an item you’d normally buy or it costs more than your typical brand, it’s not saving you any money.

12. Buy less meat whenever possible

We’re all aware that, typically, meat costs more than other food groups. There are exceptions, but you can almost always save money by reducing your meat consumption.

You can do this by switching meat to another protein, such as lentils or chickpeas, several times a week. Or bulking up meals with less expensive rice and beans while using smaller quantities of meat.

By making meat more of a side dish or an occasional treat, your frugal grocery shopping budget will improve.

13. Focus on buying nutritious foods

Here’s another grocery-saving tip that we don’t always want to think about but can save a lot: cut down on the junk food you buy. While ice cream and chips can be a welcome treat sometimes, they’re not great for your health or your finances.

Spending the majority of your grocery budget on nutritious foods will help you to develop a good habits list for your health and prevent overspending. Shop frugal by choosing foods that are filling and nutrient-packed.

Junk food doesn’t have any nutritional value, so it’s not a great use for your money. If you’re serious about saving money, cutting out (or reducing) junk food buys is a good step.

14. Pay attention to credit card and store rewards

While this tip goes against the one about using only cash, it might work better for some of us. If you’re a responsible credit card user, you can really save money on groceries with your credit card.

Some credit cards do a good job of rewarding grocery store purchases, perhaps with a percentage back on what you spend. Just don’t go into debt and then spend time learning how to get out of credit card debt simply for the promise of some rewards.

Plus, plenty of retailers offer their own loyalty programs. These rewards programs aren’t always a credit card. They often only require you to sign up with an email to take advantage of discounted prices.

15. Give generic or store brands a try

In addition to shopping at your local Aldi or another discount grocer, remember that store brands often taste nearly identical to the pricier brands. Do some price comparison to discover which brands of a particular milk or breakfast cereal, or other food costs the least.

You may encounter a little resistance on this one, either from yourself or others in your household. But it’s worth giving generic food and drinks a try for the money you can save.

In many cases, you won’t even notice the difference (except in price).

16. Cut down on the number of grocery shopping trips

Raise your hand if you’ve ever done this: go to the store to stock up one day, but you forget a couple of items. You return to the store multiple times in one week, each time buying more than you planned to buy.

I’ve definitely been known to make three or more grocery trips in a week.

The problem with that is, you almost always buy more than you intended. Stopping by for “just one thing” often doesn’t work out that way in reality. Impulse spending may mean spending more money.

Work on your meal planning so that you can shop mindfully, perhaps once a week. This way, you reduce the chances of overbuying since you won’t be in the store as frequently.

17. Check the price per unit

When doing your frugal grocery shopping, whether online or in the store, you should check the price per unit of things you buy. Don’t merely glance at the price tag because different brands may be packaged in different amounts.

Checking the price per unit ensures that you pick the best deal for your wallet. This is harder to do if you shop online, however you should be able to see quantities and weights of products if you look for them.

18. Stick to your list for frugal grocery shopping

I’ve already hinted at this frugal grocery shopping tip, and it goes along with a lot of the previous tips: stick to your list.

You can make the cheapest grocery list while you do your meal planning to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Then, when you go shopping, follow the list like a road map. Avoid putting anything in your cart that isn’t on the list.

Of course, you may need to add something you forgot to put on the list. But in general, trying to skip any impulse buys will leave you with a lower grocery bill.

Expert tip

There are many great ways to save cash with groceries, from making a list to shopping your pantry but food waste is important to consider. Paying attention to this can save you a ton of money and extend your grocery budget.

So plan your meals in advance, eat or freeze leftovers and don't overbuy.  You'll find yourself saving even more money!

What is the smallest amount you can spend on groceries each month?

How much you'll spend depends on if you're shopping for just yourself or for a family. But the chances are, you can probably spend less than you're currently spending and still buy everything you need. Plan out your cheapest meals ahead of time and be sure to price shop and coupon hunt online for different stores.

By doing this you can determine where the best place to shop is for the month since different grocery stores run different coupons and offers each month.

Can you spend only $100 on groceries?

It is possible to spend only $100 on groceries for a week. But it may require some sacrifices and be alright with having fewer options to choose from. But don't neglect your health when trying to save!

For example, You can cook a full meal for a family of four with a box of spaghetti, a can of crushed tomatoes, and seasoning (which you likely have at home) for under $5 each time!

Can you still eat healthy while shopping frugally?

Yes, it is very possible to eat healthily and not spend all your money. Simply make sure you have organized finances, look for deals, and be willing to take the time to meal prep rather than buy ready-made. You can find great fresh produce that you can use to make multiple meals that will cost less than pre-made frozen food!

Save money as a frugal grocery shopper starting today!

These frugal grocery shopping tips aren’t hard to implement, but they may require some getting used to. Save money on your groceries by trying as many of these as make sense for you.

Remember, even saving a small amount of money means your expenses are lower, and that's a win. Also, consider other ways to save, such as how to save money from salary pay and other creative ways to save money.

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How To Ask For A Discount And Save Money! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-ask-for-a-discount/ Thu, 05 Jan 2023 13:48:25 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=41899 […]

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How to ask for a discount

What if I told you the hardest part of getting a discount is asking for one? Once you learn how to ask for a discount, you’ll be amazed at how much money you can save.

Here, we show you how to ask for a lower price on everything from bills to everyday goods, so that the next time you’re shopping, you feel empowered to ask for one yourself!

How to ask for a discount 101

I used to think that if I asked for a cheaper price, I would offend the store owner or seller. I presumed that they would turn me away and I’d miss my opportunity to buy the item.

And I was scared of how the salesperson would perceive me, so I would leave without ever asking about the options.

Eventually, with practice, I got over that fear. I’m here to help you get over it, too, and learn how to buy the things you want for a lower cost.

Here’s how to ask for a cheaper price on anything!

1. It’s all about your attitude  

The first step for how to ask for a discount is all about how you act. It’s as simple as being nice. For most people, this is how you operate anyway, so it’s not much of a tip.

But it can be a good reminder that how you treat the person you’re asking for a favor (in this case, a lower price) can go a long way.

Assuming acting kindly and politely is how you would go about things anyway, there’s another aspect to your demeanor that is key, and that’s your confidence. When asking for a discount, you are not doing anything wrong!

Don’t shy away, hide, or speak softly. If you’re going to go for it, ask with confidence as if you are expecting a yes answer.

Acting confidently, even if you don’t feel it, causes others to think of you more positively and they might be more receptive to your request.

2. Talk to the right person

The teenage sales clerk helping you find the perfect gift for your niece might be great at their job. But, it’s unlikely they’ll have the authority to give you a cheaper price on that gift. While it never hurts to ask, it’s always best to ask the right person.

If the first person you ask says they can’t do anything for you, ask them if there’s a manager available. If there isn’t, ask when they will be back so you can follow up.

Sometimes, paying less means returning to a store later when the right person is around. If you have the time and patience, you might find you can save a lot of money this way.

This works when on the phone with customer service, too. Often, the first person you speak with will not have the authority to give you a lower cost. Ask to speak with their supervisor and you might have better luck getting that bargain.

How to ask for discount infographic

3. Ask if there are any coupons or sales or discounts going on

Whenever you enter a store, make a beeline to the first salesperson you see and ask about their current discounts or coupons. This way, you’ll be able to shop with an eye toward the sales.

Sometimes they’ll tell you there’s no promotion going on, and most people will leave it at that. But, not you, since you’re on the hunt for a more affordable price!

Instead of dropping it, ask if they have any upcoming promotions. If there is one, ask if they’d be willing to apply it to your purchase today.

If they say no, and you have the patience and time, you can always ask them to hold the item for you until the sale is on and then you can go back and make your purchase.

4. Negotiate the price

Don’t be scared to negotiate for what you want! While it’s harder to negotiate in places like a chain store where prices are pretty fixed, there are plenty of places where negotiation comes in handy.

What is one situation where negotiation can save you tons of money? I’ve found that one of the best times to negotiate is when signing up for services, like cable.

Never take the first offer, as you can almost always get something else added to sweeten your deal, whether it’s a less expensive price or a free service.

For example, you might suggest that you’re going to drop your cable TV services unless they offer you something in return for staying a customer.

They will likely offer to add a free phone line or upgrade your wireless bandwidth so that they don’t lose you as a customer.

5. Offer to pay in cash

Like negotiation, offering to pay in cash doesn’t exactly work in a place like Target, but it definitely does when you’re paying for services. Some sellers may offer a cash discount if you pay early.

Even more ways to ask for a discount!

The above tips will certainly save you lots of money. But there are even more ways to pay less, such as:

1. Ask for a price match after your purchase

While getting the cheapest price at the outset is the least amount of work, don’t assume the price you paid is the final one. Many stores offer a price match after you buy an item.

How does this work? If an item goes on sale or the price is slashed, a store offering price matching will refund you the difference between the price you paid and the sale price.

It takes a little extra work, but if you keep monitoring the price of an item, you can get that bargain after the fact.

Don’t wait too long, however, as the price match is usually only valid within about 30 days after your original purchase.

2. Ask for fees to be waived after the fact

You can even ask for a discount on things like unexpected fees. For example, have you ever gotten a $20 bank charge for a one-time transaction, like a wire transfer? Most people grumble and let it go, never asking for the bank to waive the fee.

But, if you call up your bank, they are likely to waive the fee if you just ask! This works for other types of services, too, like fees associated with your utilities.

3. Ask about student, law enforcement, military, or healthcare worker discounts 

If you’re a student, in law enforcement or the military, or are a healthcare worker, extra discounts abound.

Many times, these cheaper prices are listed in obvious places or you’re even asked at checkout if you are in one of those categories.

Sometimes, however, the discount is not so obvious. How to ask about a cheaper price when it isn't advertised? It’s quite simple – just ask! If you’re shopping online, use the chat function and wait to talk to a real person.

Let them know you’re in school and ask if they have a student discount. Even if a store doesn’t officially offer them, they will often send you a special code to use on your purchase.

Asking for a discount – how it’s worked for me

Interested in learning how asking for a discount has worked for me in real life? Here are just three of the many ways I’ve recently used the tips above to save me tons.

Lower prices on lodging

The biggest discounts I’ve ever received have been on Airbnb stays. My biggest travel tip to save money is to never settle for the price Airbnb shows at checkout.

Instead, send a message to the host and ask if they can lower the price (or suggest a price yourself). The worst that they can do is say no.

I’ve had success doing this, especially for longer-term stays where the host is happy to have one guest instead of managing multiple bookings, so it’s a win-win for both parties.

Cheaper medical bills

Medical bills are some of the most complex and daunting bills around. For one procedure, you might receive one bill from the hospital, another from the doctor, and still another from a separate doctor. This happened to me and it shocked me how much the bills cost, even with my insurance coverage.

In the past, I would have left it at that and paid the bills, but I decided to call the billing department of three separate offices and ask for a discount.

I told them I couldn’t afford the full price and they not only offered me a lower price, but I was able to pay in monthly installments instead of paying all at once.

Getting a “locals discount”

For a year, I lived in a town full of tourists and reaped the benefits of being a local. For anyone who lives in an area with plenty of vacationers, this tip is for you!

When you are dining out or shopping, ask if the restaurant, bar, or store offers a lower price for locals.

During that year of living in a tourism hot spot, I regularly received 10% off at my favorite restaurant and even got a 10% locals discount on my wedding band!

When not to ask for a discount

Knowing how to ask for a discount is good, but it might not always be something you want to do.

While it’s up to everyone’s individual comfort level, there are some situations where I normally never ask about paying less.

At places such as one-person-owned Etsy shops, small businesses, or street fairs, I am usually happy to pay the asking price to support the shop.

Another area I never ask for a cheaper price? International markets where the prices of items are usually already very low and haggling over a dollar or two doesn’t feel right.

Again, this isn’t about judgment, but there is a time and a place for lower prices and a time and place for paying full price. Where those places are is totally up to you.

Put these tips into practice and learn how to ask for a discount! 

Hopefully, you now know a little bit more about how to ask for a lower price and have the confidence to do so.

A great attitude goes a long way, as does the simplest tip of all – just ask and see what you receive in return!

You might save money on everything from groceries to your car expenses. Now, go get those discounts!

The post How To Ask For A Discount And Save Money! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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The Best Christmas Eve Box Ideas For Toddlers And Kids! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/christmas-eve-box-ideas/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 10:24:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=13859 […]

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This article on Christmas eve box ideas contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Christmas eve box ideas

I’m so excited to do a Christmas Eve box for my toddler this year! He’s three, and he just learned who Santa is. I’m not quite sure he knows what Santa does, but I think a Christmas Eve box will be so much fun for him (more fun for me, but he’ll love it too).

That said, I'm excited to share these Christmas Eve box ideas.

It is, however, important to point out that 31 percent of Americans go into debt during the holiday season because of overspending and poor planning.

So, it’s not a bad idea to start planning your gifts early on. That way, you can be as generous as you’d like without blowing through your budget.

And if you have a toddler just learning about Christmas like me or if you’re looking to add new Christmas traditions for your family, you’ll love these Christmas Eve box ideas for kids. (By the way, we have some great positive affirmations for toddlers too!)

What is a Christmas Eve box?

A Christmas Eve box is a fun little box of assorted goodies you give to your children the day before Christmas.

So there are two ways to make your own Christmas Eve box. You may choose to make one small box for each member of your family, or you can put together one large box for the entire family.

The idea behind these boxes is to start Christmas Eve family traditions that the kids can look forward to year after year. And of course, we’d like to be mindful that the presents are something they can enjoy and use.

That’s why we recommend gifts that center around activities that the family can do together. Things like a Christmas movie, crafts, and games are good ideas.

A Christmas Eve box also makes the holidays even more magical and fun for the kids. It helps build the excitement for Christmas morning.

And it’s a nice surprise for kids of all ages who can’t wait to open presents.

Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers

You can put anything in your Christmas Eve box. The options are endless, but here are a few really fun ideas.

1. Christmas pajamas

Toddlers are the best recipients of cute pajamas. That’s why Christmas-themed pajamas are the first thing on this list of Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers.

Of course, any kind of soft and warm pajamas for winter will also do. But if it’s something you’re into, you can get matching Christmas PJs for the whole family!

2. Books

Books are great gifts for any occasion. They’re also a great addition to a Christmas Eve box for toddlers. You can put any age-appropriate Christmas book in the box.

But if you don’t have them yet, this is a great way to introduce Christmas classics like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” or “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” to your toddler.

My kid is all about trucks right now. So, I think I’ll get him “The Little Blue Truck’s Christmas” this year.

3. Snacks

I can generally get my child to do anything if there are snacks involved. So, of course, snacks are a must for the Christmas Eve box for kids. You can probably fill it with just snacks, and your child will be thrilled.

It's an easy addition because you can shop your pantry. You can add your kid’s current favorite snacks as is or make up a snack bag. You can also use these decorated Ziploc bags for a little Christmas flair.

Some ideas for snacks are pretzels, cookies, mini marshmallows, and hot chocolate as sweet treats.

4. Small toys

Small toys also make great Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers. Play-Doh is always an excellent choice. And these Melissa & Doug Pull-Back Vehicles are great choices for younger toddlers.

Here are more of our favorites:

5. Puzzles are fun and educational Christmas Eve box ideas

Puzzles are great Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers and kids. Solving puzzles encourages cooperative play. It also helps develop fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities in kids of all ages.

You can also use puzzles to teach your kid colors, letters, animals, and more. You can get a starter puzzle like this Melissa & Doug Farm Animals Sounds Puzzle. There are many options for jigsaw puzzles as well.

6. Bath toys

My toddler used to love bath times, but he has since started fighting it. Sigh. So, aside from giving him plenty of notice to warm up to the idea, I also looked for ways to make bath time fun and engaging for him.

And I think these inexpensive bath toys make excellent Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers:

I can’t promise it’ll work all the time. But try some of these fantastic bath toys to make bath time less stressful. Bonus point: your kid thinks it’s for them, but it’s actually more for you.

7. Stuffed animals

Stuffed animals make for awesome Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers. Because for many, stuffed animals are more than just toys. A kid's favorite stuffed animal or lovey comforts them throughout all hours of the day.

If you’re picking out your child’s first stuffed animal, make sure there are no small pieces or choking hazards. Look for stuffed animals that have embroidered eyes and noses and not beads. You can also opt for one made from washable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen.

8. A letter from Santa

Out of all the Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers in this list, I love this the most. What child would not be thrilled to receive a letter from Santa? I can already see my kid’s big toothy smile when he receives his.

I think it adds so much magic to the Christmas experience. You can write and print one at no cost. But if you're not creative, you can easily get free printable letters from Santa on the internet.

9. Christmas ornament

Christmas ornaments make great Christmas Eve box ideas – even for toddlers. It’s an excellent way to mark a milestone for sure. It's also easy to make.

You can even get your child to help for some quality time together.

If you’re looking for ideas, this Good Housekeeping article offers 78 ways to DIY Christmas ornaments. It also includes tutorials for simple sugar cookie ornaments.

Christmas Eve box ideas for kids

You can make your box as simple or elaborate as you’d like. But to help you stay on budget and not get overwhelmed, you can follow the four-gift rule.

That is, include something your child needs, something they want, something to read, and something to wear. Below are our favorite Christmas Eve box ideas for kids.

1. Winter pajamas

Pajamas will always be a great addition to your Christmas Eve box ideas. Because who wouldn’t want new pajamas?

If your kids don’t have strong preferences, you can get Christmas-themed pajamas. Otherwise, soft and warm pajamas in a color or character they prefer will surely bring a smile to their faces.

2. Books

As kids grow and experience the world, they pick up new habits and hobbies. But one way to foster the love of reading is to make sure they have access to books that interest them. That's why we always include books in our Christmas Eve box ideas for kids.

You can choose to include a book from your child’s Christmas wish list, or you can pick any age-appropriate book. You can also stay with a Christmas-themed book and make it a part of your tradition to read the night before.

3. Socks

Socks are also a fun thing to add to your Christmas Eve box ideas. Find some cozy socks for your kids to wear on Christmas Eve, and they’ll be smiling from ear to ear.

Of course, you can also keep the holiday theme and get festive designs.

4. Snacks

Again snacks are simple Christmas Eve box ideas for kids. They're easily accessible and won't cost you much. Because you can shop your pantry and include some snacks you already have.

But if you're feeling generous, you may pick out a special treat for the occasion.

5. Candy canes

Candy canes are another fun addition to your Christmas Eve box ideas. And you can’t have enough candy canes. They can be used in so many ways that add just a little bit more Christmas magic.

The kids can either snack on them or hang them in the Christmas tree as ornaments. You can also make hot chocolates and use the candy canes as stir sticks. So much fun!

6. A coupon book is one of our favorite Christmas Eve box ideas for kids

A coupon book is such a fantastic addition to your Christmas Eve box ideas for kids. I love the idea of a coupon book so much. I will for sure be making one when my kid is old enough to understand it.

Anyway, the idea is to give the kids a personalized coupon book they can use to cash in on fun experiences throughout the year. Here are some examples of what you can put in a coupon:

  • One family trip to the ice cream shop
  • 30 minutes of extra screen time
  • 30 minutes of staying up late
  • A movie night with the movie of their choice
  • Dinner of their choice

A coupon book is such a fantastic idea that you can do without spending money upfront.

It might cost you a few bucks to order fillable DIY coupon cards from Amazon. But you can also find free printable coupon books on the internet.

7. A letter from Santa

Keep the magic of Christmas going with a letter from Santa included in your kid’s Christmas Eve box.

For some kids, sending a letter to Santa is serious business. Imagine their reaction if they get a reply back!

With the Santa Mail program from USPS, kids can get a reply back from Santa. When you send your kid’s wish list, include the letter you want them to receive from Santa. And the USPS will mail you back the letter with a postmark from the North Pole, Alaska.

Make sure you send the letter within the recommended time (before December 8th), so they have time to process it. For the personalized letter, you can create one, or you can easily find free, printable templates online.

For a fun activity to prepare for Santa’s visit, you can put together a cookie decorating kit to add to your kid’s Christmas Eve box. You can bake the cookies in advance so you can get to decorating right away.

Ask the children to help you for some additional quality time together. Oh, it would be so exciting for the kids to set out cookies they’ve decorated themselves for Santa before they go to bed.

9. Reindeer food for Santa

Get your kids involved in welcoming Santa and his reindeers by adding reindeer food to your Christmas Eve box ideas.

To make the reindeer food: mix some oats and red and green sprinkles together. Next, put the mix in a decorated Ziploc bag and label it as reindeer food. The kids can then sprinkle it outside for Santa’s reindeer.

Start a new family tradition with these Christmas Eve box ideas!

Start your own holiday traditions with these fun Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers and kids. And remember, you can make Christmas a magical time of the year for you and your family without breaking the bank.

Plan your spending to account for unexpected expenses and look for ways to save.

You can also set up a dedicated Christmas Club account to make saving and budgeting your gifts easier! Be sure to check our 12 days of Christmas gift ideas on a budget as well!

The post The Best Christmas Eve Box Ideas For Toddlers And Kids! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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20 Inexpensive Thank You Gift Ideas For Any Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/inexpensive-thank-you-gift-ideas/ Sun, 16 Oct 2022 13:02:33 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=36431 […]

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This article on inexpensive thank you gift ideas contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Inexpensive thank you gift ideas

Ever wanted to tell someone thank you with more than just your words but didn’t want to break the bank to do so? This is where inexpensive thank you gift ideas come in!

Gift-giving is a unique way to show your appreciation for someone. Although a verbal thank you is always appreciated, a physical gift can better demonstrate your gratitude.

So here are 20 inexpensive gift ideas for that special someone in your life. And the great thing is that many of these items can be purchased online.

Who could use a thank you gift?

When you think of who to buy cheap thank you gifts for, think about people in your professional life.

Perhaps there is a co-worker who covered for you when you took days off. Or a secretary who helps you stay organized.

Even a mentor who helped you advance in your career would appreciate a thank you gift.

Going beyond the workspace,  inexpensive thank you gifts are great for helpful neighbors or carpool buddies.

Any person in your life who has helped you manage your day-to-day activities or made things easier for you would be the perfect person to give a gift to.

20 Inexpensive thank you gift ideas

Now that you know who to give gifts to, let’s talk about what you're going to give. Depending on the person you can get them something edible, thoughtful, or practical.

Here are 20 inexpensive thank you gift ideas that will be perfect for the people in your life.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate inexpensive thank you gifts

Very few people would refuse a box of chocolates. This is why this sweet treat is one of the most popular cheap thank you gifts.

Many chocolates can be purchased from your local candy shops. But if you need more ideas, this list not only shares the best-boxed chocolates but also gives you ideas of fancier chocolates that are sure to leave a good impression.

For example, Lindt Chocolates are a perfect gift for coworkers, spouses, and also friends.

2. Homemade banana bread

Out of all the inexpensive gift ideas, homemade banana bread is the least expensive and perhaps the most delicious.

The great thing is that it can be made with what you already have in your pantry. And don’t worry if you're not a big baker, there are tons of simple recipes to follow.

In addition, the great thing about banana bread is it can be a gift for one or many. If you want to show appreciation to your staff or a group of coworkers, a loaf of banana bread is a great expression of gratitude.

3. Fruit basket

Giving a basket full of delicious seasonal fruits is one of the go-to cheap thank you gifts. There are often premade fruit baskets are your local store.

However, if you want to be a little more creative, try visiting your local farmer's market. There you can personally pick out the selected fruits for a more personalized gift.

Fruit baskets are a great gift to leave on your neighbor's doorstep or a gift to your gardener.

4. Spice basket

Spices inexpensive thank you gifts

A spice basket is a perfect inexpensive thank-you gift for someone who enjoys cooking. Putting together this gift can consist of going on a spice hunt for exotic flavorings.

However, if you don't have much time, you can purchase premade boxes. Most boxes cost between $20 and $30.

5. Coffee and tea (one of the easiest inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

Tea leaves inexpensive thank you gifts

Rich coffee beans or aromatic tea leaves are two inexpensive thank-you gifts that anyone would love. These gifts are not only practical but are easy to purchase when you’re short on time.

If you want to make sure these two gifts are a hit, try asking around to see what type of coffee or tea your special someone likes. So you can be sure to get them exactly what they enjoy.

Coffee gifts are often a big hit with co-workers and bosses.

6. Candles

Candles can set the mood for any environment. It can make a home feel cozy. Even lighting a candle in the office can make the space more inviting. Also, most candle lovers would admit that they can never have too many.

Because there is an abundance of candle options and they are used almost daily, they can make for the ideal inexpensive thank-you gift.

There are many places to get candles such as Target, Home Goods, and even on Amazon. Candles can also be the perfect romantic gift for your partner.

7. A handwritten note

As we know, the point of inexpensive thank-you gifts is to show appreciation by spending as little money as possible.  If you want to say thank you but have a $0 budget you can always write a handwritten thank you note.

This may seem simple and not as flashy as buying candles or coffee but, it can still be just as meaningful depending on what you write.

When composing your handwritten note first think about what you want to say before you start writing. Because the most thoughtful letters are sincere and specific.

If you want your note to be a little fancier you can write the note on special stationery or write the letter using calligraphy or another fancy lettering.

Handwritten notes are appreciated by everyone but are loved by parents and partners.

8. Frame a picture of you and the receiver

Framed picture inexpensive thank you gifts

If you are more of a visual person and less of a wordsmith, a framed picture is a great inexpensive thank-you gift.

This gift is ideal for anyone who you have shared memories with. For example, a coach that helped you train for your marathon or a photo of your mother and their grandbaby, to thank them for the extra help.

9. A photobook

To take the photo idea a little further you can create a photo book. In addition, photo books are inexpensive thank you gifts that can double as birthday and holiday gifts.

Many photobooks cost between $10 and $30 and are simple to put together. There are many programs such as photobookamerica.com, and snapfish.com that can help you design your book.

A photobook can be a memorable gift for the person you went on a road trip with or someone who helped you put on an event.

10. Personalized playlist (one of the most unique inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

You may remember the era of mixed tapes and CDs if you were born in the 90s. Back in the day if someone recorded for you a random collection of songs you were on the top tier of friends.

Since CDs and cassette tapes are a thing of the past, you can create a personalized playlist. Although Spotify's AI does this for many people, it still can’t outdo a personal touch.

These hand-picked playlists are great for the workout buddy that has helped you stay consistent or a friend and fellow music lover.

To make these playlists special try adding a mixture of different songs. Also add songs that are special to you and the other person, songs that bring up nostalgia, and songs you know that person would enjoy. You can even throw in some podcasts into the mix.

11. Personalized mugs

A personalized mug is an inexpensive thank you gift that others will love and use.

Common personalized mugs can include someone's name or their titles such as superhero mom or best coworker.  At Gossby.com they have mugs that you can write personalized messages on, to give to your special person.

Mugs are great for coworkers, grandparents, and family members.

12. A book

Books are those inexpensive thank you gift ideas that never fail. This is because there are always an array of books to choose from and almost all books have an average price of $20 or less. A book is a great way to say thank you to a teacher or a counselor.

If you're not sure which type of book to choose you can always go with a book on financial literacy.

It's the inexpensive thank you gift that keeps on giving.

13. Compression socks or winter socks

Out of all the cheap thank you gifts, socks might not sound glamorous or appealing. Yet they are a practical and thoughtful gift for anyone in your life. Besides no one can keep up with a pair of socks for very long.

If you want to upgrade this somewhat simple gift try gifting compression socks or thick winter socks to provide more support and warmth.

Socks are always appreciated by family members young and old.

14. Reusable water bottle with filter

Water bottle inexpensive thank you gifts

Gifting a reusable water bottle with a filter is what every traveler needs and wants.  They are convenient, practical and sometimes a necessity.

So they are a great gift for the traveler in your life and one of the best inexpensive thank you gifts.

15. Passport holder

Passport holder inexpensive thank you gifts

International travel is growing and it is made possible by the use of a passport.

This is why having a passport holder that can hold a passport as well as other important cards can be an inexpensive thank-you gift that will be much appreciated by friends or family members who are always traveling.

16. Travel journal

For those that want to save memories that aren’t captured by their camera phones, a travel journal is a great gift idea. There are many travel journals that not only give you space to write but include spaces to write down the location, date, and weather.

This is an obvious gift for a friend that travels, but it can also be a gift that encourages a friend or a co-worker to take that trip.

17. Multi-USB outlet charger (most practical of the inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

We’re all in some way attached to our devices which is why we often need to charge them.

Some of the most inconvenient travel moments are when you need to charge your tablet, cellphone, and earbuds at the same time with one outlet available. This is why a multi-USB outlet charger is one of the best inexpensive thank you gift ideas.

Your cousin or friend who is about to backpack through Europe will be very thankful for this gift!

18. Adult coloring book

Adult coloring book

Although coloring books are associated with children, adult coloring books can have many benefits for the overactive mind. These coloring books with more complex patterns, other than your Disney princesses, can be self-soothing and therapeutic.

Making them a great inexpensive thank-you gift for anyone who needs a calming activity.

19. Gratitude journal

Gratitude Journal inexpensive thank you gifts

Superstars such as Oprah, rave about the importance of gratitude. Studies have shown that showing a little bit of gratitude every day can improve your happiness and overall mental health.

Gratitude journals make for a thoughtful and useful gift for a friend, close relative or mentor.

20. Listography journal

Listography inexpensive thank you gifts

Who doesn’t like making a good list? We rely on lists to help us with our grocery shopping, and to get things done for the day.

But lists aren’t just practical, they are fun, too. With listography journals, they make list making interesting with lists for traveling, dreams, and so much more.

These journals are perfect for a secretary or personal assistant.  And they are also a handy gift for someone new to journaling.

Show your gratitude with inexpensive thank you gift ideas without breaking the bank!

Gift-giving is an act of kindness and appreciation.  Whether you are looking for a practical or creative gift, the most important thing to remember is to add a personal touch.

Take your time in choosing the right gift for the right person.

With this extensive list of inexpensive thank you gift ideas you are sure to find the perfect gift for that special person. And to be prepared for any occasion, check out these other gift ideas!

The post 20 Inexpensive Thank You Gift Ideas For Any Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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28 Great Experience Gifts For Kids! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/great-experience-gifts-for-kids/ Mon, 03 Oct 2022 11:08:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=13608 […]

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Gifts of experience for kids

Instead of buying yet another toy or item for your little ones, have you thought about experience gifts for kids? Some of the best gifts I received as a child were not toys or things. They were experiences.

For instance, my parents surprised me with a trip to a theme park one summer day.

I had such a blast, and thinking about how my parents couldn't participate in some of the rides due to health issues makes me appreciate that experience so much more.

The best things in life are made of memories, bonding, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. So rather than buying something for the special little ones in your life or giving a gift card, bless them with a memory that will last forever.

You’d be surprised that even the simplest activities can make an impact.

Benefits of experience gifts for kids

There are some great reasons to give your kids experience gifts rather than a toy that adds to clutter and is soon forgotten. So here are the best reasons why having a fun family experience is the perfect gift!

Broaden horizons and education

When you take your children on a trip or to an event, it's often educational and teaches them more about the world. It gives them the opportunity to think and form new opinions about things.

It's a unique and unforgettable experience to remember

What do you remember more from growing up? A toy you got for Christmas, or family vacation? Probably the second one, right?

Your kids will love the chance to connect with you and make memories as a family. And doing something unique that is different from the everyday is a great gift.

28 Best experience gifts for kids

Need some ideas for non-toy gifts or the best experience gifts for kids? Here are the top 28 ideas to help you find the most incredible experience ever! (These are perfect birthday and Christmas presents too!)

1. Take a trip to the zoo (One of the most educational experience gifts for kids)

Lions, tigers, and bears, OH MY! A trip to the zoo is one of the most incredible experience gifts for kids you can do.

Not only is it fabulous for the animal lover, but it can also be educational. You can teach your little ones all about the animals as you enjoy your day.

2. Go to a waterpark or theme park

This is one of my favorite experience gifts for kids. We got to skip school one day and go to an epic waterpark!

Not that I’m encouraging you to have your little one skip school, but life is short, and sometimes you have to embrace the moment.

They will have a blast zipping through the air on a speedy coaster or splashing around in the wave pool. You can save money on tickets by getting discounts and coupons on sites such as Theme Park Center or Groupon!

3. Take a painting class

Painting is fun and helps kids and adults express their creativity. It also improves focus, lowers stress, and “activates the reward centers” in your brain!

You can take an in-person painting class or try a virtual one on Yaymaker.com or YouTube. It's one of the cheapest kids experience gifts you can give that's still very enjoyable.

Maybe your child could even turn their painting skills into an amazing kids' business!

4. Go ziplining

Ziplining is one of the most adventurous experience gifts for kids. It's an adrenaline-pumping fun way to spend time together that they will love.

The average zip-line reaches 31-40 miles an hour, but some can get much faster than that!

Some places, such as Adventures on the Gorge, have you zipping over mountain ridges and valleys at speeds of 65 miles an hour.

5. Visit a farm

Visiting a farm can be a great experience for kids because it's fun and educational.

They can learn all about farm animals and how they contribute food for them, such as eggs, milk, and cheese. Plus, they can enjoy seeing cows, chickens, goats, horses, and more.

6. Try horseback riding

Horseback riding is one of the most exhilarating kids experience gifts you can give! Horses are such majestic creatures that are a privilege to be around.

Depending on where you live, you can find horseback riding lessons or trails in the mountains or even on the beach.

7. Take a hot air balloon ride (One of the most unforgettable experience gifts for kids)

There is nothing quite like riding in a hot air balloon. So set your sights on the sky and take your little one on an unforgettable adventure.

It isn’t for the faint-hearted, though, because you will reach heights up to 2,000 feet in the air!

However, if you and your kids are daring, then this is one of the most thrilling kids experience gifts ever.

8. Cruise to the beach

Who doesn’t love a weekend at the beach? Load up the car and head to the coast for a fun yet relaxing experience for the kids and yourself.

You can cut costs by packing lunches and finding low-cost things to do while you’re there.

9. Go on a “glamping trip”

So what is glamping? Well, basically, it’s luxury camping at its finest. Rather than sleeping in a tent on the ground, you stay in a fun tree house or a beautiful yurt.

Check out the best 18 places to go glamping for ideas on where to go!

10. Head to a gem mine

You’d be surprised at how many gem mines in the United States there are. You will pan for gorgeous gems, and you get to keep what you find.

Depending on where you go, you can find amethysts, rubies, emeralds, and more.

In addition, some places offer to make jewelry out of the gems you find. Gem mining is one of the most adored gifts of experience for kids.

11. Check out a planetarium

Visiting a planetarium is one of the super cool kids experience gifts.

A planetarium is where you can go and view the glittering stars and planets through telescopes. They have a large dome room with seats and a projector that shines images of the stars and other objects on the ceiling.

12. Go tubing

You can either hit the snowy slopes in the winter or tube down the river for a fun summertime activity. Both are incredibly fun to do and a fairly inexpensive experience gift for kids.

If you are heading to a ski lodge, you can usually cut costs by going on a weekday instead of the weekend. The best thing about summer tubing is once you buy the tubes, you can find free places to go, such as lakes and rivers.

13. Try an escape room

Do your children love solving puzzles and mysteries? Then a trip to an escape room is the perfect experience for kids.

An escape room is when you are locked in a themed room, and you have to solve riddles and clues to get out.

A word of caution is this isn’t great for those that are claustrophobic, so keep that in mind before you go. Also, they advise a trip to the bathroom before getting locked in!

14. Head to a state park

State parks are gorgeous and offer tons of entertainment. You can go hiking, biking, swimming, camping, and more.

It’s also great if you enjoy photography as a hobby to capture beautiful landscapes and adorable animals. Find a park in your state and have an awesome adventure.

15. Buy tickets to a concert

Have your kids ever experienced seeing their favorite musician in person? Take them on an epic experience of seeing their icons singing their beloved songs.

Also, see if you can find pre-sale concert tickets on sites like Ticketmaster to save some money on this one.

Some credit card companies also offer pre-sale tickets so you can be the first to know when they go on sale. You can also set up alerts to be notified when they are available.

16. Hit the arcade (Possibly the most entertaining experience gift for kids)

Arcades are a blast and filled with fun games and things to do. So if you have one close to your area, you can check out the ultimate arcades like Dave & Buster's.

Your kids can try a game of old-fashioned skee ball or air hockey. Don’t forget to collect tickets and get prizes too.

17. Find a fair or carnival

Set out to a local fair or carnival and have a ball. The kids will have a great time playing games, eating yummy treats, and whipping around on the exciting rides.

So check out sites such as Eventbrite to find carnivals and fairs near you!

18. Have a party

Most kids love to socialize, so a party is a fun experience gift for kids that can be easy and enjoyable to do. You can get party decorations, games, and other items cheap at stores such as Dollar General or Dollar Tree.

Don’t forget to check out the Goodwill and other thrift stores for supplies too. Save on food by buying in bulk or at cheaper stores such as Aldi’s.

19. Go indoor skydiving (One of the most unique experience gifts for kids)

Who would have thought you could skydive safely? Indoor skydiving is when you get into a “vertical wind tunnel” that enables you to literally fly in the air as if you were jumping from a plane!

It's one of the best experience gifts for kids they will never forget.

20. Go on a scavenger hunt

There are so many wonderful ideas for scavenger hunts you can do. For instance, a color scavenger hunt is great for toddlers because it can help them learn how to identify colors.

A nature scavenger hunt is fantastic for getting outdoors, but you can find one to do inside on those blah rainy days too.

21. Have a home face painting party

Try out your artistic skills and have a home face painting party. There are tons of budget-friendly face painting kits on Amazon that include stencils, brushes, and more.

You could have a theme party and paint your faces like animals or insects too.

22. Purchase educational subscription boxes

If your child has an interest in a certain subject, like science or crafts, there are monthly subscription boxes for it.

Buying something like this means that every month, your kid will receive a box with all sorts of fun games, items, and more, to keep them occupied and learning.

It's a fun experience because every month is different, and it's also a long-term gift that continues to provide fun and education.

Magazine subscriptions are a fun alternative, too!

23. Go bowling

Bowling is an entertaining activity for everyone and a great experience gift for kids!

You can also invite anyone you want, including a grandparent or two, friends, and other family members, and divide into teams for a fun competition. And this is one of the best experience gift ideas for kids of any age.

24. Take a trip to go ice skating

Want to do something memorable this holiday season? Why not try ice skating at the local skating rink?

You can make a day of it by stopping for hot chocolate and lunch afterward. Alternatively, you can try roller skating in the summer.

25. Fund your kid's college or another expensive event

Want to give a practical gift? You can add to a college fund or give your kids money for another expensive event that they care about, like a trip with their friends.

26. Get passes or tickets to go somewhere interesting

If you want to make some great memories, get passes to a local museum, aquarium, trampoline park, sporting event, theater, amusement park, or any other event or place that your kid would love to visit.

The options here are pretty much endless. Also, if there's a place your kid really loves to visit, you might even consider getting them annual passes.

27. Take a train ride

Taking a train ride is an educational, fun, and kind of old-fashioned thing to do. You can take a short ride or go to a whole different state if you want.

Take photos of the scenery you pass by and enjoy the ride as you travel somewhere new together!

28. Family movie night

A great gift is the chance to spend time as a family. So grab the popcorn and snacks, choose a kid-friendly movie that they will love, and watch it together.

If you want, you can make a gift certificate for a movie night that they can redeem at any time they want.

Make lasting memories with experience gifts for kids!

These gifts of experience for kids will make pleasant lasting memories. Experiences are so much better than things because you can keep those memories forever. Plus, you can find ways to cut costs but still have fun.

Remember, it's essential that you save up for gifts and not go into debt trying to have fun. Set up a savings plan and make it part of your monthly budget so you don't derail your finances. And make saving money for great experience gifts easy with our savings challenges.

The post 28 Great Experience Gifts For Kids! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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20 Inexpensive Gifts For The Woman Who Has Everything! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/inexpensive-gifts-for-the-woman-who-has-everything/ Sat, 17 Sep 2022 03:27:15 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=34846 […]

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This article on inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything

A list of inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything? Yes, please! We all have someone in our lives who’s difficult to buy presents for.

Maybe it’s your sister, your mom, or your mother-in-law, we all know someone who doesn’t want anything.

In this article, we’ll give you a list of specific gifts to buy and a guideline on where to start your search. This way, you’ll have options whenever you’re looking for fun, inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything.

Let’s dive in!

Gift ideas in every category for the woman who has everything!

Below is a list of practical but thoughtful gifts for women.

We recognize that inexpensive vs expensive is relative. And what's affordable for someone isn't budget-friendly to another. So, we divided the goods into four categories, namely, food, personalized items, experiences, and luxurious items.

With this list, you’ll have fun buying presents that fit your budget and impress the recipient. There are tons of ideas to consider on this list, for example, food, personalized items, experiences, or even luxurious versions of her favorite things!

1. Chocolates

Chocolate gifts for the woman who wants nothing

There’s a reason why chocolates are one of the most popular presents to give and receive. Chocolate is a luxury anyone can enjoy. Furthermore, it’s delicious, decadent, and versatile.

You can give this as a gift for a special occasion or “just because.” Chocolates also come in so many flavors, textures, and combinations. Plus, dark chocolate has amazing health benefits as well.

Whatever budget you’re working with, you can find fabulous chocolate treats as gifts for the woman who wants nothing.

2. Coffee

When giving consumables as gifts, it’s a good idea to find out what your recipient likes. But food gifts usually go over well because you know your recipient will at least try them out.

Because of this, coffee is an excellent choice as a gift for anyone who enjoys a cup of joe. Find out what your recipient drinks and get them that or be adventurous and get them some specialty coffee.

3. Gourmet tea

Gourmet tea gifts for the woman who wants nothing

Given the popularity of matcha nowadays, we figured gourmet teas would also make for perfect inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything.

First of all, tea is a source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and more. Second, there are so many varieties of tea with unique tastes and characteristics. So, you can be creative in your gift-giving and still stay within your budget.

4. Wine

Wine is another gift that’s welcome in all situations. It’s a perfect gift for casual dinner parties or special occasions. In addition, it's not difficult to find a suitable wine for every price point.

If you’re a bit lost in the wine department, you can simply ask the recipient what they drink to narrow down your options. Consequently, the knowledgeable staff at the wine store could help you, or you can check out lists of top wines.

Another option is to purchase some great wine accessories as your gift.

5. Travel mug

Travel mug gifts for the woman who wants nothing

Personalized travel mugs are the perfect present for everyone. Moms, especially those with young babes, will surely appreciate it. They’re a thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys a hot drink.

With all the options available, you can be as creative as you want with initials, names, messages, and even photos. Certainly one of the best options for inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything.

6. Water bottle

Similar to travel mugs, you can also get customized water bottles and tumblers. Seriously, check out the selection because the tumblers are so cute, and the designs are even better. You may even purchase an extra one for yourself!

7. Towels

Monogrammed towel gifts for the woman who wants nothing

Monogrammed towels make for an excellent gift for any occasion. Hand towels certainly add a touch of custom feel and elegance to a bathroom.

But you can also customize any towel you want, like bath towels, beach towels, and baby towel sets. I’m sure whoever receives a towel with their name, monogram, or family photo on it will be delighted.

8. Personalized leather keychain

Know someone who keeps losing their keys? Get them these personalized leather keychains. Aren’t they so cute?

You can get it stamped with the recipient’s name, initials, or any mix of 10 characters. It's a practical, affordable gift that hopefully helps the person keep their keys as well. Fingers crossed!

9. Blanket

Personalized blanket gifts for the woman who wants nothing

Beautiful personalized blankets are heartfelt gifts for family and friends. You can customize the blankets with pictures, names, special dates, and messages.

So, your present won’t only keep them warm and cozy, but it will also serve as a reminder of your love and appreciation.

10. Jewelry

A piece of personalized jewelry is a really nice gift for a young woman. It’s also a heartwarming gift for moms and grandmas.

If you need to include multiple names or initials, a better option is a necklace personalized with birthstones. This way, it’s easier to add the names and initials of several children and grandchildren.

11. Spa day

Spa day inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything

A spa day is the ultimate pampering gift. Book a facial, body massage, body wrap, manicure, pedicure, or any treatment combination for your mom, mother-in-law, or anyone you want to pamper.

Salons are typically accommodating, so you can easily customize a package that works with your finances. And if you’re feeling generous, you could also send her a spa gift basket so she can recreate the experience at home.

12. Vineyard tour

A vineyard tour and wine tasting experience are perfect gifts for the woman who wants nothing. Book it for both of you and enjoy the stunning views of the grapevines.

They are very picturesque and relaxing. Tours usually come with lunch as well, so you can make a full day of it. To make the experience even more special, present the gift recipient with a wine tote bag.

13. Dance lessons

Give the gift of new experience and new skills with a dance lesson. It will not only help the recipient get active, but it’s also a great way for them to make new friends.

The gift of dance can be for anyone, whether they’re a beginner or an avid dancer.

Check out community centers and studios for adult classes and private lessons. And this gym bag with room for her dance shoes will definitely be appreciated.

14. Cooking lessons

Are you looking for an awesome gift for someone who loves to cook? Why not a cooking lesson to hone their skills? And a cool cooking set to help them get started?

You can enroll them in a live, interactive class. Or gift them an online class, and they don’t even have to leave the house!

There’s a wide variety of classes, so you’ll be sure to find something for your loved one, regardless of their skill level and favorite dishes to cook.

15. Tickets to a musical show or theater

Tickets make for fabulous, inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything. Instead of items, you’re giving them quality time and an experience.

And it would be memorable for your recipient to see their favorite band perform or team play, either with you or another loved one. For extra comfort, add this portable seat cushion to your list for games or concerts that last for hours.

16. Staycation

A staycation is a less costly way to gift a new experience without the hassle of travel. With this, you can either gift them a stay in a nice hotel or recreate the experience of being somewhere new but at home!

For instance, if you want to do Italian vacation vibes, take them to explore European architecture in your area. Then, play Italian music, watch a movie or show based in Italy, eat Italian food, and have some wine for a full experience.

The gift of a staycation can be as simple or as elaborate as you can make it. But one thing’s for sure, it’s a gift to remember!

17. JournalJournal inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything

In recent years, journaling is said to be a great way to cope with stress. Journals have become one of the best wellness tools. Hence, a journal is a thoughtful yet affordable gift for a family member, a friend, or a colleague.

18. Flowers

Flowers are perfect gifts for any occasion. You really can’t go wrong with flowers. It’s also a gift that fits any price range.

You can order arrangements for any occasion according to your expectations and within your budget.

Furthermore, flowers are unique gifts that complement other equally amazing presents like chocolates, scented candles, or wine.

19. Soap

Artisan soaps inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything

Artisan soaps make for unique inexpensive gifts for the woman who has everything. They’re typically made from natural ingredients and come in pretty shapes with beautiful packaging.

It’s a gift that shows you put some thought and effort into it.

20. Candles

There are many reasons why candles make great gifts for the woman who wants nothing. Candles boost the vibe of a room. Plus, the container and packaging make them gorgeous decorations.

Their scents bring the smell of nature indoors and make a home feel festive. So, showcase your thoughtfulness and pick a loved one’s favorite scent.

Buying gifts for the woman who wants nothing can be easy!

Buying presents for the women in your life should be fun, instead of a daunting task. We hope this list gives you a whole array of ideas and options to choose from.

For big milestone celebrations or if you’re gifting as a group, you can also take a pick from each category and put together a gift basket. Easy, right?

Whatever gift you give, remember to check up on your money goals and make sure you're not spending more than you can afford. You can also start up a side hustle to earn extra money for your gift-giving budget category!

The post 20 Inexpensive Gifts For The Woman Who Has Everything! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How to Save Big On Back To School Essentials https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/save-big-on-back-to-school-essentials/ Fri, 26 Mar 2021 02:37:21 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11160 […]

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School essentials

Back to school shopping can be really expensive, and outside of the holiday season, this is the second biggest retail shopping season in America. The biggest items purchased? Electronics, clothing, and school supplies. Needless to say, it's easy to see how these school essentials can add up fast!

If you have kids or if you are a student, then you may likely be picking up a few school supplies, and so in this article, you'll get some key tips for how to get the most bang for your buck on your back to school shopping list!

Simple ways to save on your back to school shopping list!

As a parent, we know you are busy and don't have much free time. We also know you need to save money whenever possible for emergencies, groceries, and other things...like a vacation. That's why we created a list of easy ways to save you money on all the back to school essentials you need.

1. Make a back to school shopping list and budget

The best way to save money on school essentials is by having a back to school shopping list so you can avoid overspending. The easiest way to create this plan is by starting with a list of things you need to purchase and creating a budget of how much you will be spending on each item.

Start by doing a quick survey of what you or your kids need this back to school season, and then assign a fixed dollar amount to each item. The goal here is that when you go shopping, you stick to your list, and you stick to your budget.

2. Leverage student discounts

If you are buying computers or other expensive electronics (tablets, printers, etc.), you definitely want to see if you can get a student discount from the various retailers because it can save you a bundle of money.

Many retailers offer them, and depending on the store, your discount can be up to 15%, in some cases maybe even more.

3. Compare prices for school essentials online

Before you hit the shops for your school essentials, it's also a good idea to do some comparison shopping online across different retailers for the things you need to pick up. This way, you can be sure you are getting the best prices.

You may also be able to find some coupons online that you can use towards your purchases to bring the costs down even more.

4. Wait to buy backpack essentials for school

When it comes to notebooks, pens, pencils, markers, cases, etc., big retailers like Target and Staples will mark the prices down tremendously just before the back to school shopping season closes, and the markdowns can be major.

I'm talking dollar and cent bargains! So if you aren't in a hurry, it's a good idea to wait to buy your backpack essentials for school.

5. Buy used textbooks and electronics

Save a ton of money by purchasing textbooks and electronics preowned. Slightly used books and refurbished electronics are considerably cheaper than brand new ones, and a lot of times, if the items are in great condition, you may not even be able to tell the difference between new and used.

Compare prices for books on bookfinder.com for the best deal. Also, check out your local pawn shops and the Facebook Marketplace for preowned electronics and other back to school essentials.

6. Save your receipts

Be sure to check back on the purchases you made at the end of the back-to-school season to see if they have been discounted further. If they have, many retailers will give you a price adjustment or partial refund on the price difference, but you will need to have a receipt to get it.

7. Shop secondhand for school essentials

Clothing can get expensive, especially shopping for kids every year. You can save a bundle by shopping second-hand clothing at thrift stores and on sites such as Poshmark. You'd be surprised that most of the clothing is in good condition, and you will find name-brand items for a fraction of the price.

They have other supplies, too, such as backpacks, lunch boxes, binders, and more. Save money on back to school essentials and put that cash in a savings account instead!

8. Use cash-back apps

Don't forget to maximize your savings by using cash-back apps. These apps will give you cash-back just for signing up and shopping! Rakuten is one of our favorite apps, and you get cash-back shopping for school essentials at major retailers.

Apps like Fetch Rewards give you rewards just by uploading pictures of your receipts.

Where to find free school supplies

If you're on a low-income budget, then you should check around for free back to school supplies to help you and your family. Here are a few places that can help you get free backpack essentials for school.

1. Check the Salvation Army for school essentials

One of the best programs offered for free back to school supplies is by the Salvation Army. Regional locations will conduct local drives to help families in need. Simply find a Salvation Army close to you to participate.

2. Boys and Girls Clubs of America

The Boys and Girls Clubs of America team up with national retailers to provide free school supplies to low-income families. You can search for a local chapter to see what programs are available and find back to school drives in your area.

3. Freecyle.com

Freecycle is a unique site that features tons of items that people in your town are giving away. Their goal is to keep good stuff out of landfills and encourage people to give it away rather than throwing it out. It's a great place to search for free back to school supplies!

4. Check for brand giveaways

Follow brands or stores on social media to be notified of giveaways or see if they have coupons or other ways to get items for free. Sometimes if you contact them, they may give you promo codes or possibly free samples.

5. Use store rebates

Yes, you have to pay upfront, but for some items, you can get money back by participating in retail store rebates. So, check your favorite stores for rewards programs and rebates that may be going on for school essentials before you shop.

Be savvy and save money on school essentials

Being savvy by shopping sales and secondhand on school essentials will save you big bucks! Being frugal with your money will prevent you from overspending so you can have more money for other things.

For example, you can take the extra money and open a savings account for your child. Your kids will learn from your good financial habits, and you can set them up for success. So try these simple tips and see how much money you save. Happy back to school shopping!

The post How to Save Big On Back To School Essentials appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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15 Most Practical Busy Mom Gifts https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/busy-mom-gifts/ Thu, 10 Feb 2022 18:25:16 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=17352 […]

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This article on most practical busy mom gifts contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Busy mom gifts

What are the most practical busy mom gifts? I’d say a good night’s sleep is the best gift any day. But seeing that sleep may be hard to wrap, we came up with a list of the best gifts for busy moms.

And don’t worry, these gift ideas for busy moms work for any occasion. So, you can use it as a guide whether you’re looking for a birthday, a Mother’s Day, or a just because gift.

But before we dive into our list of gift ideas for working moms, let's dive into what to look for when buying your gift!

What to look for when thinking of gift ideas for busy moms?

I feel like there are two kinds of mom gift recipients, the first group is easy to shop for because they have a list of things they want or need. And then, some don’t want anything and say that if they need something, they’ll just buy it.

You understand the sentiment, but then where do you start when you want to give them something? And yes, moms deserve presents just for all the things we do every day!

So, for practical gifts for busy moms, consider what she needs right now. You can’t stretch the day to give her more hours but maybe you can give her a robot vacuum to clean up after the toddler and the dog.

Also, try to take and infuse her personality into the gift. For instance, if she likes to cook, she’ll probably appreciate kitchen gadgets that will make meal preparations or clean up a breeze.

15 Fun and practical busy mom gifts

As we’ve mentioned above, when you’re looking for busy mom gifts, start with her needs and personality. And then, look at this list of gift ideas for working moms and pick one or two out to make her life easier!

1. A water bottle or a to-go mug

Every mom needs a water bottle or a to-go mug they can take anywhere, so these are always top of the list for practical gifts for busy moms. If a mom embraced her love for caffeine and drink four cups a day, get her a fun coffee mug that will keep her choice of beverage hot for hours.

For a breastfeeding mom or a mom friend who’s trying to up her water intake, a water bottle is one of the best gift ideas for busy moms. Check out this stainless steel water bottle with the appropriate #momlife to boot!

2. The Instant Pot

You know about Instant Pot, right? You have one, right? So, it’s your duty to get it for any mom you know who doesn’t have it yet.

Seriously though, have you gone anywhere in the last few years where Instant Pot wasn’t mentioned. But we have to agree, the hype is well-deserved.

That’s why this genius of a kitchen gadget is one of the best gift ideas for working moms. It saves you tons of cooking time, and makes clean up easy because it’s just one pot! Plus there are so many amazing recipes out there for Instant Pot owners to try.

3. A thawing plate

A thawing plate – a kitchen tool you can use as a defrosting tray to get frozen meats to room temperature quicker. Where has this been all my life!

Help out a busy mom avoid the 4 PM scramble of running warm water over rock-hard frozen food hoping it will defrost in time, get her a thawing plate. Honestly, the thawing plate is my favorite from this list of practical gifts for busy moms.

4. A coffee maker

I mean, I would prefer it myself if all my coffee drinks are prepared by Starbucks’ baristas. But sometimes, the kids want to put on their own shoes. And although I applaud their want to be independent, it makes us late for everything.

But even if there’s no time for Starbucks, or if you're trying to save the extra cash, there’s always time to make your own coffee. So, for the coffee-loving busy mom in your life, a quality coffee maker can be something of a lifesaver.

5. A blender

If there’s one kitchen appliance that works as much as the coffee maker in our home, it’s my blender. It pureed a lot of fruits and veggies when my kid was in the infant stage. 

And now that he’s learned to steal my smoothies, my blender gets pulled out of the cupboard almost every day. I’ve also been making a lot of Dutch baby pancakes lately and it’s easier to mix all the ingredients using my trusty blender.

Anyway, all I’m trying to say is, you can’t go wrong with a high-quality blender. It’s one of the best gifts for busy moms.

6. A robot vacuum

If you’re looking for practical gifts for busy moms, then one that cleans so mom can relax for a few minutes is top of the list. So, if you can swing it, why not get a mom a smart vacuum? 

Check out our sinking fund ideas to learn how you can save for a smart vacuum if you’ve been wanting to get your mom one.

7. Car Phone Mount

We all need to multi-task, sometimes or most of the time. So, for the busy working mom who needs to be on the phone while driving their kids to school and appointments and extra-curricular activities, get her a car phone mount.

It’s the most convenient and easiest-to-use option for holding your phone in the car. This is one of the best busy mom gifts to buy for the mom that does it all.

8. Charging dock

What home does not have multiple mobile phones, iPads, and all kinds of devices nowadays? So, help a mom stay organized and save time from looking for chargers at the same time.

Get her a charging dock, it’s a practical and easy way to charge devices. You can even get one that also charges watches and earphones. It truly is one of the most practical gifts for busy moms.

9. Headphones

This is one of the best gift ideas for working moms that I can get behind. I actually asked my husband for noise-canceling headphones for Christmas last year and I could not be happier with the one I got.

It helps me focus on Zoom calls, first and foremost. Plus, it’s such a nice way to listen to audiobooks while doing housework. I also love that I can put it on and dance around to music while making dinner.

10. Bag Organizer

As always, we want to help busy moms be as organized as they can. So, what better way to do that than to get them a bag organizer. This really is a game-changer. I like huge handbags and with an organizer, they don’t feel like bottomless pits anymore. A bag organizer is truly one of the best gifts for busy moms!

11. One-step hairdryer

Moms don’t want to show up anywhere with a bun, it’s just that with everything going on, that’s all we had time for. But what if there’s an easier way to look good and still get out of the door on time-ish?

This is what a one-step hair dryer and volumizer promises. Try it and get one for your mom friend, too. It's one of the best busy mom gifts for the mother on the go!

12. Bathtub Tray

If you’re looking for an indulgent but still practical busy mom gift, why not a bathtub tray? Get it for mom to get away for a hot bath, have tea or wine and even read in the tub. It feels too fancy, it elevates the experience of a simple hot bath, which is all we need to relax sometimes.

13. Cozy Slippers

Cozy slippers are another one of the most functional and practical gifts for busy moms. They might seem simple, but give a mom nice, soft, and luxurious slippers and she’ll appreciate you forever. A new mom who’s on her feet a lot rocking the baby will definitely love sliding her feet into cozy slippers.

14. Essential Oil Diffuser

For the busy mom who loves essential oils, get her a stylish essential oil diffuser. I’m sure she’ll appreciate you helping her get her zen vibe. If you can, ask for her favorite scents and include one or two in the gift.

15. Gift Cards

And last but certainly not the least on our list of the best gift ideas for busy moms are gift cards! Truly, if you’re in doubt, get a gift card. A gift card to Starbucks works for me and most moms, I’m sure.

Most moms will appreciate a gift card for a massage, a nail, or a haircut appointment as well. And of course, you can’t go wrong with an Amazon gift card. 

Give the best busy mom gifts!

We hope you found some inspiration in this list of the best gifts for busy moms. Some of these are items most moms don’t even know they need so, they won’t know to ask for them. But these will make them feel pampered and cared for while saving them time and helping them be organized.

Although, sometimes the best gift you can give to another mom is not a material thing but a gift of knowledge. So, why not sign her up for our completely free financial courses?

You can also share our articles and get her to tune in to the Clever Girls Know podcast and our YouTube channel for tips on all things money!

The post 15 Most Practical Busy Mom Gifts appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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8 Cable Alternatives To Slash Your Entertainment Bill https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/8-cable-alternatives-to-slash-your-entertainment-bill/ Sat, 16 Oct 2021 13:37:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=9042 […]

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Alternatives to cable TV

Cable television can be a costly habit: average consumers may pay over $200 a month when you include hidden fees. Paying that much to watch commercials and surf through hundreds of uninspiring channels doesn't sound like that great of a deal, right? But luckily, better options are out there. Cutting the cord doesn't have to be boring, thanks to these free or inexpensive cable alternatives.

So why not cut the cable so you have more money to treat yourself to other things!

8 Best cable alternatives to switch to

There are many alternatives to cable tv that you can switch to that are entertaining and much cheaper! Here are the best cable alternatives to choose from:

1. Borrowing DVDs from the library

Libraries are one of the most under-utilized resources we have available today. They're one of the few remaining community fixtures that welcome you without the expectation of spending money (unless you lose track of when your books are due—note to self!). In addition to books, you can usually find events, groups, classes, tax help, job assistance, and the relevant part to this article: a wide selection of shows and movies on DVD.

DVDs are one of the best cable alternatives because you can find them cheap or free. Typically, you can borrow DVDs for a week and renew them for longer if another patron hasn't requested them. I'm a regular at my local library as it's a great place to get focused writing done, so I often see new arrivals of shows, movies, and documentaries on the shelves.

If your library doesn't refresh its collection as frequently, you can usually submit a request for something you'd like to watch and it will be shipped from another library in the system. The flexibility and up-to-date selections make this one of my personal favorite cable alternatives.

And if you got rid of your DVD player as soon as Netflix got big, you can likely pick one up quite cheaply on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Or, if there's an Xbox or Playstation in the house, those consoles are also capable of playing DVDs and Blu-rays.

Bonus: Can't find anything you want to watch? From time to time my partner and I do "random movie date night", where we each pick a movie off the shelf with our eyes closed. It's a fun way to either find hidden gems or laugh at how terrible a film is.

2. Installing an antenna for local networks

An antenna is the best alternative to cable. Local channels are free to watch, as long as you have an HD antenna to receive them. Usually, you'll get content from major networks and affiliates including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS, in addition to sports, weather, etc. Enter your zip code on the FCC website to see what's available in your area.

As far as what antenna to get, TechRadar did a roundup of good indoor antennas here. Prices will differ based on what kind of range and reception you want.

If you live close to a city, you might be fine with a cheap 30-mile antenna, but options go up to 80 miles. Remember, this will just be a one-time purchase with no ongoing costs, so I think it's worth spending a little extra to get good quality and plenty of channels.

3. Watching online TV channel content

Networks often have websites where they upload recent episodes for free. You'll just have to be quick on the draw to watch episodes while they're still online.

A few popular options offering free online episodes and clips include:

If there's a channel you often watch that doesn't have free content, you may be able to buy an individual online channel subscription. Channels offering subscriptions include Showtime, ESPN, and HBO. These are great alternatives to cable TV.

4. Cheap streaming services are the best cable alternatives

Paid streaming services usually have a lot of up-to-date and popular content, plus original shows. The three biggest options, which you've probably already heard of, are Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

Now, you could get all three and it would still be cheaper than cable, but the most cost-effective option is to keep one subscription at a time. Watch through all the shows you want to see on that platform, then cancel that subscription and switch to one of the others.

Using one subscription at a time is the best alternative to cable because you can save even more money this way. (Or, piggyback on a family member's account if they have a plan allowing multiple users, and throw them a couple of bucks.)

5. Streaming on free ad-supported websites

There are plenty of free, safe, and legal websites where you can watch content online as an alternative to cable TV. The catch? You usually need to be okay with ads, and with not watching the most popular shows right when they drop.

Some of the biggest players in this space include:

For more details on these sites and others, see my full article on free Netflix alternatives here. The internet is also full of sketchy streaming sites that definitely are not as safe or legal, so stick with the verified ones.

6. Watching YouTube videos

YouTube can be the best alternative to cable because you can find just about anything on it. On YouTube, you'll find thousands of channels with free content, including clip libraries from popular TV channels and shows.

For instance, you can subscribe to the YouTube channels of:

YouTube also has a Movies & Shows section, where you can buy them, rent them, or watch some for free.

Of course, there are also countless individual creators putting out their own entertainment, tutorials, and other content on just about every topic under the sun, from skincare to neuroscience. Check out the Clever Girl Finance YouTube channel for the best financial advice and money-saving tips!

Usually, on YouTube, you'll need to watch a short ad or two before the video begins, and sometimes there's a mid-video commercial in longer clips.

7. Listening to podcasts

If you're ready to take a break from watching a screen, try some audio cable alternatives instead! Podcasts are especially convenient to put on while you're getting ready in the morning, driving somewhere, cleaning, on a walk, etc.

Free apps like SoundCloud have thousands of podcasts available to stream or download. If you already have Spotify, you can explore their podcast section as well.

The content of podcasts can be fiction, real-life stories, educational entertainment (history, psychology, etc), interviews, news—just about anything!

For example, try some of these to experiment and see what appeals to you:

Podcasts are fantastic alternatives to cable tv because they can be entertaining and educational!

8. Reading books

Head back to the library to browse the bookshelves in addition to DVDs! Books may be old-school, but they're absolutely still one of the best forms of entertainment. Pick up a well-written book with good imagery and this cable alternative is like activating a personal built-in TV inside your brain as you picture the characters and unfold a new world.

Books are also great alternatives to cable TV because of all the benefits they offer for your intellectual, emotional, and even physical health. Regular reading can slow cognitive aging, increase your empathy, reduce stress (which comes with quite a cocktail of health benefits), and more. Check out this ultimate list of best books for women!

Whether your pleasure is modern fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, mysteries, or learning about the many topics represented in the nonfiction section, they're all accessible for free with a library card. If you prefer to build up a book collection of your own, look at used bookstores or search on eBay to find cheaper copies instead of always buying brand-new ones.

Switch to these cable alternatives to save more money!

Now that you are armed with the best cable alternatives, are you feeling ready to cut the cord? I promise—you won't miss the commercials!

Plus you can save quite a bit of money for more important things such as an emergency fund or perhaps a family vacation. Even if you drop your entertainment cost by $100 a month that's $1200 in just a year! So go ahead and slash cable and save more money!

You can make saving money fun by enrolling in our completely free "Savings challenge bundle." It includes the $5 savings challenge, the master your spending challenge, a meal planning challenge, and more!

The post 8 Cable Alternatives To Slash Your Entertainment Bill appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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16 Pregnancy Gifts For First Time Moms https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/pregnancy-gifts-for-first-time-moms/ Sun, 10 Oct 2021 23:30:28 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=14566 […]

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This article on pregnancy gifts for first time moms contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Pregnancy gifts for first time moms

Yes, the babies are so cute, and they smell so good! But we also want to celebrate the mama and acknowledge what she has accomplished. There are so many things new moms need for themselves! So, we created a list of pregnancy gifts for first time moms because it takes a lot of work to bring a baby into the world. But before we dive into our incredible list of gifts, let's discuss how you can provide a little bit of support to first time moms.

How to support first time moms

Starting a family is a life-changing experience. And that’s true for all parents. But for new moms, the uncertainty of being responsible for another person can be full of worry and self-doubt.

So, being there for them, listening, and giving words of encouragement are great ways to show support. Or maybe you can take her out for lunch sometimes for some adult conversation. Motherhood can be isolating at times, and new moms crave company too.

When you visit, you can also offer to do some chores for her, such as taking out the trash, washing the dishes, or putting in a quick load of laundry. Any help will be more than appreciated!

16 Pregnancy gifts for first time moms

Pregnancy and giving birth are triumphant events. But, just because more than 10,000 babies are born every day doesn’t mean each one is not a miracle. And for all of it, mom grew the baby, labored, gave birth, and is now taking care of a brand new baby.

She probably already received or bought more than enough onesies for her child. So, if you can, make sure you get something just for her. Postpartum essentials are always welcome. Or you can make an amazing care package of pregnancy gifts for first time moms with some of the items below that fits your budget.

1. A fun water bottle

Hydration is so important for moms, especially if they’re breastfeeding or pumping. I can still remember how thirsty I got during those days. So, even if you think a fun, motivational water bottle is one of those unexpected pregnancy gifts for first time moms, it will be much appreciated.

A water bottle makes mom’s life easier to have it beside her at all times. And she won’t need to get a drink when the baby is nursing or sleeping.

2. Heating pad

Everybody’s pregnancy and birth story are different. But everyone can agree, the labor and delivery process is exhausting. Since heat can help soothe sore muscles and joints a heating pad is a great gift on the list of things new moms need.

3. Nipple cream

Breastfeeding is beautiful. It’s a way for moms to provide nourishment to their babies and bond. But breastfeeding can also lead to sore, raw nipples. So, help a mama out. If you’re putting together a care basket of things new moms need for themselves, make sure to add organic nipple cream.

4. A snack box

The struggle and sleep deprivation for parents during the first few months is real! The life of a new mom can get super busy that she may even forget to eat. And we can’t have that because the baby’s health is dependent on the mom’s health.

And that’s where you and a healthy snack box comes in. Put together a basket of her favorite snacks. Or order a healthy snacks care package from Amazon and get it delivered to her door.

5. Baby carrier

I don’t know why but as soon as I start a chore, my kid thinks it’s the best time to cling to me. So, I mostly wore my baby to make dinner, run errands and get work done. And this is why I’m adding baby carrier or baby wrap to this list of pregnancy gifts for first time moms.

6. Comfortable clothing

Luxurious robes, leggings, and nursing bras are highly recommended pregnancy gifts for first time moms. Most often than not, moms will prepare everything that their baby needs. But they won’t buy anything for themselves, so these items will be much appreciated.

I’m also happy to see more options for postpartum/nursing support leggings for moms. Leggings with high waist support suitable for a postpartum belly? Yes, please! And brands like Mother Essentials and Homma are great, affordable options that fit every budget.

7. Stroller organizer

A stroller organizer is a must on the list of things new moms need. Seriously, moms can always use another set of hands. But since that’s not always available, a stroller organizer can make her life easier. It helps keep all the essentials like coffee, phone, wallet, keys, baby bottle, and snacks within reach while she’s out and about.

8. Diaper bag

While most women welcome the opportunity to show off their purses by swapping them all the time. Moms don’t have that luxury. Not having a dedicated bag for baby’s essentials is an easy way to forget things. Think diaper blow out without an extra onesie while they’re out and about!

So, of course, a great diaper bag is one of the things new moms need. I highly recommend a backpack because it is easier to carry. You can even get ones that come with organizers for diapers, wipes, bottles, and snacks.

9. Share a meal

Almost every mom will agree that the best thing you can bring them is food. It’s a bonus treat if it can be frozen and consumed on those days when the parents are too exhausted to make dinner. Of course, dishes that can be eaten one-handed are awesome too!

You may want to ask ahead of time to find out if there are any food allergies or if she has any cravings you can get her.

The family will appreciate not having to do meal prep or cooking. Gift cards to Grubhub or UberEats also make great pregnancy gifts for first time moms because the family can pick out exactly what they want.

10. Grocery delivery

Leaving the house with an infant can be such a mission most days. For starters, mom has to dress herself and baby, and then there are diaper bags to pack and car seats to maneuver. So, why not take an errand off the new mom’s hands with a grocery delivery gift?

You can ask her what she needs at the store and have it delivered. As another option, you can give her a gift certificate to Amazon Fresh or Instacart. Either way, it’s an amazing time saver that she’ll definitely appreciate.

11. Restaurant gift cards

If you’d want to spoil the new parents, you can’t go wrong with a gift card to a local restaurant. It will allow them to have a night out or maybe a no-cooking quiet night at home. You can grab a gift card with a few different restaurant options to make sure they use it. This way, they’ll have a few choices.

12. Housekeeping is a fantastic pregnancy gift for a first time mom

Housekeeping is one of the best pregnancy gifts for first time moms. Most new parents don’t have the time and energy to fit house cleaning on top of everything they have going on. So, a house cleaning service would be a much-appreciated gesture. I know I appreciated it while I was recovering from my c-section operation.

13. A Spa or massage package

When you’re thinking of things new moms need for themselves, consider a spa or a massage package. With a new baby, it’s probably the last thing a new mom will get for herself. So, setting her up with massage or spa services will give her a guilt-free experience she’ll appreciate.

14. Manicure or pedicure package

Similar to the spa package, you may choose to give the new mom a gift certificate for a manicure or a pedicure. She will appreciate the chance to sit down, relax, and get pampered. This is one of those pregnancy gifts for first time moms that’s only for them. It lets them know you’re thinking of them, and they’ll enjoy it.

15. A haircut or hair color

Most moms spend their days with their hair in a bun for the first few months of having a new baby. And they’re probably experiencing the dreaded post-pregnancy hair loss as well. 

Between diaper changes and nighttime feedings, most moms would not think of getting a haircut, let alone a hair color. So, why not step up and give her a gift certificate for a hair appointment? It’s like fixing her crown for her, you know?

16. Offer her the gift of time

When I had my baby, I thought I knew what was coming. But I was so unprepared for how little time I had for anything else! So I relished the time I could shower or enjoy a meal unbothered.

So, one of the best pregnancy gifts for first time moms you can give is the gift of time. You may offer to watch the baby if you or mom is comfortable with that.

You can offer to hold the baby for a few minutes. So, mom can shower, eat, work on her finances, or do something she might not be able to do without you there.

Make life easier for her with these great pregnancy gifts for first time moms!

Bringing home a brand new baby is a momentous occasion. But most of the time, everybody is so focused on the baby and forget about mom. That’s why we created this list of things new moms need for themselves. You won’t find these on her gift registry, but these will make her feel special, pampered, and cared for. And she deserves it.

Why not offer to sign up with her for our completely free financial courses and worksheets? You can offer support by watching the little one while she learns how to create a new budget for her family. Also, tune in to the Clever Girls Know podcast and YouTube channel for tips on all things money!

The post 16 Pregnancy Gifts For First Time Moms appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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12 Days Of Christmas Gifts On A Budget! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/12-days-of-christmas-gifts-on-a-budget/ Sat, 11 Sep 2021 16:18:23 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=13866 […]

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This article on the 12 days of Christmas gifts contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

12 days of Christmas gifts

As you start preparing for Christmas, you may get a sinking feeling thinking about all the gifts you need to buy. That’s especially true if you want to partake in the 12 days of Christmas gifts, a fun tradition that accompanies the popular tune.

Buying that many gifts for your loved ones don’t have to break the bank! Below we list the best gift ideas for the 12 days of Christmas if you’re on a budget.

What are the 12 days of Christmas gifts?

So you’ve probably heard the song “12 Days of Christmas.” You know, the one that goes, “On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…” and so on and so on.

The song is believed to have its origins in France, but it was first published in English in 1780. It is meant to commemorate the 12 days after the birth of Christ in Western Christianity. Traditionally, the twelfth day marks the arrival of the Magi to visit Christ and culminates in the Feast of the Epiphany.

That said, if you’re using the 12 days of Christmas as a gift-giving exchange and aren’t particularly religious, we recommend handing out one gift a day from December 13 to December 24. That way, you’ll get to build up momentum for the big holiday!

Each verse of the song has a specific gift presented, but to be honest, most people wouldn’t want a partridge in a pear tree or two turtledoves these days. You may want to skip your local pet store and focus on song-themed 12 days of Christmas gifts rather than literal interpretations. It just makes things more fun!

Because you have to buy 12 things in total, we’ve kept the budget for each item under $20. That should keep you from overspending. But to save even more, you may want to use a coupon site to unlock hidden discounts.

The best gift ideas for the 12 days of Christmas

The 12 days of Christmas gifts are a way to show someone you truly care! Here are our top recommendations that are right on theme with the popular song!

The first day of Christmas gift ideas

On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

A partridge in a pear tree

Pear candle

Add a little glam to your loved one’s life with this pear candle. It burns for about 40 hours and has a golden exterior that works great for display purposes during the holidays.

Pear bird feeder

Instead of giving your loved one a partridge, they can attract their own with this pear-shaped bird feeder. The large opening lets birds nest inside, or you can fill it with food to watch birds come and go.

The second day of Christmas gift ideas

On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Two turtle doves

Dove Beauty Bar

Everyone can always use a luxurious soap! This Dove Beauty Bar is more moisturizing than a normal bar and has a delicious coconut and jasmine scent that will have you craving bath time.

Dove chocolates

After your loved one is done bathing, they can have a sweet treat in the form of Dove milk chocolate candies. These individually wrapped chocolates include special messages on the foil to further brighten their day.

The third day of Christmas gift ideas

On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Three french hens

French rooster pillow covers

Liven up your living area with these vintage farm rooster and hen pillow covers. They’re great for adding a birdy touch to any room that needs a bit of fun. For instance, you can add them to a kitchen nook or in a family room.

Unisex chicken socks

Who wouldn’t love a pair of chicken socks? These ones have the quirky saying, “Sometimes you just gotta say ‘cluck it’ and walk away.” Not only are these a great gift, but they'll also make for a good laugh!

The fourth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Four calling birds

The Birds movie

“The Birds” is a classic movie, and while it’s not really a Christmas hit, it’s perfect for people who love horror year-round. That’s why it makes our list of 12 days of Christmas gift ideas.

Hanging birdfeeder

Assuming your loved one has a big backyard, they’ll love this hanging birdfeeder as well. Its hexagon shape means multiple birds can get in on the feeding frenzy at once.

The fifth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Five golden rings

Birth year ring

A little finger bling is just what Santa ordered. This cute birth year ring is customizable from 1980 to 2005 and comes in sizes 5.5 to 10.5

Ring toss yard game

Prepare for summer with this ring toss game. Both kids and adults can play, and the goal is to get as many rings on the poles as possible.

The sixth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Six geese a-laying

Gudetama lazy egg plush

Gudetama is the laziest egg around. He probably didn’t come from a goose, but since he’s so soft and plush, it probably won’t make a big difference. Plus, he's only $10, which makes him one of the most affordable 12 days of Christmas gifts!

Untitled Goose Game for Switch

For the gamer in your life, Untitled Goose Game is a must. While it sounds like a half-finished game in development, it’s actually a hit Nintendo Switch title that lets you play as a goose in a small town.

The seventh day of Christmas gift ideas

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Seven swans a-swimming

Swan color changing mug

Make morning coffee more interesting with a color-changing swan mug. At first glance, it’s just two swans on a black background, but then the heat of your beverage will transform the mug into a vibrant landscape with flowers.

Black Swan movie

Why not get in a mind-bender during the Christmas holidays? “Black Swan,” tells the tale of a ballerina who will dive deep into character in order to snag the lead role in a production of Swan Lake.

The eighth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Eight maids a-milking

Reusable milk bottles

Do some good for the environment while giving your friend a matching set of glass milk bottles. Certainly, they can use them for milk, but they’re also good for cocktails or flavored water. Like the idea of an eco-friendly gift? Check out our sustainable Christmas gift guide!

Milk bath soak

This spa milk bath soak is the ultimate way to pamper your friend on a budget. This salt removes dirt deposits while making skin smooth and soft.

The ninth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Nine ladies dancing

Dance stretch strap

This is one of the best 12 days of Christmas gifts because it helps you stretch out after a big holiday dinner. Use this leg stretcher strap to improve flexibility and mobility.

Dance party light

Keep the party going all night long with a dance party light! There’ll be more than just nine ladies dancing when this seven-lighting mode disco ball gets turned on.

The tenth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Ten lords a-leaping

Jump rope

Help your friend get an early start on their New Year’s resolutions with this jump rope. The 6-inch memory foam handles are easy to hold, and you can easily adjust the length of the rope for most heights.

Frog brooch

Jump into action with a sweet frog brooch. It’s made of alloy, so it’s durable enough to be pinned on purses, shirts, coats, hats, and more.

The eleventh day of Christmas gift ideas

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Eleven pipers piping

Piping bag kit

If your friend is a baker, this piping bag set might come just in time to put the finishing touches on this year’s holiday desserts. It includes six stainless steel tips, a reusable pastry bag, and a plastic coupler.

Wind chimes

Let the pipes of this wind chime play your loved one a beautiful melody every time a breeze blows in. The six metal pipes are tuned so you’ll hear elegant chords.

The twelfth day of Christmas gift ideas

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me

Twelve drummers drumming

Chopsticks

Chopsticks are basically like mini drumsticks! They’re an excellent choice for all Asian food buffs, and since this set comes with 10 pairs, you can use one when you’re visiting.

Drum ornament

It is Christmas, after all, so it makes sense to gift at least one ornament. This drum ornament fits the bill with amazing detail at just 3.5 inches tall.

Shop smart with these 12 days of Christmas gift ideas

So the 12 days of Christmas gifts don’t have to be big. It’s the thought that counts and all of the gift ideas for the 12 days of Christmas mentioned above are considerate and useful.

Another good thing about the 12 days of Christmas gifts? There are only 12 of them, which is great if you sometimes get carried away and don’t know when to stop shopping. With your budget set and your gift list made, the only thing left to do is start wrapping.

As you plan out your gifts, definitely check our best Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers and kids!

Remember to open up a dedicated savings account for gift money. This will also help you set spending limits! Learn more about budgeting, saving money, and being frugal with our completely free courses and worksheets!

The post 12 Days Of Christmas Gifts On A Budget! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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20 Ideas For Sustainable Christmas Gifts https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/sustainable-christmas-gifts/ Mon, 03 Oct 2022 10:46:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=13625 […]

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This article on sustainable Christmas gifts contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Sustainable Christmas gifts

Are you tired of giving gifts that add to clutter in the home and harm the environment? If so, wouldn’t it be nice if you could give sustainable Christmas gifts? Something you know is useful and helps the planet?

It sounds too good to be true. But there are many gifts you can give your friends and family that have a purpose. And there are products that are easy on the environment and promote sustainable living.

We’ve rounded up our favorite best sustainable gifts below so that you can give the best presents this year!

As Americans, we accumulate about 43% more waste during the holiday season. Not to mention the concerns presented by carbon emissions and non-eco friendly manufacturing.

Why contribute to that nonsense when there are sustainable Christmas gift ideas?

If you’re concerned about the environment and our future, sustainable Christmas gifts help lighten your load on the environment.

To be sustainable, an item must positively impact future generations and also help the current generation while conserving our resources.

Whether they are made from recycled products, the material itself is recyclable, or the product is minimalist and not adding to the recipient’s clutter, you’re doing your part to save the planet.

Fortunately, there are many ways to give cheap earth-conscious gifts to everyone on your list and not look like you sacrificed. Our sustainable gift guide is proof!

And remember, a gift isn't less special because it costs less. In fact, some of the best gifts are cost-efficient and can be great gifts for someone who has everything!

20 sustainable Christmas gifts everyone on your list will love

Whether your recipient is an environmentalist living a sustainable lifestyle, is someone who tries to be carbon neutral, or you want to share the love and do your part even when you’re giving gifts to others, here’s a list of the best sustainable Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.

1. Living composter

Composter sustainable christmas gift

Help your loved ones reuse their waste with a living composter. It’s pretty enough to leave on the kitchen counter and powerful enough to process the food waste of 1 to 3 people.

The living composter is easy to use, and it requires little upkeep (minus regular watering and ensuring there’s enough sunlight).

It's one of the best eco-friendly gifts because they can repurpose their waste and use it for other plants to make an environmental impact!

2. Produce bags

Help your friends and family stop using plastic bags with one of the best sustainable Christmas gift ideas. These reusable produce bags come in three sizes and replace almost any shopping bag your loved ones need.

The food-grade bags are great for grocery shopping, storing food, or even storing personal items. It's one of the most practical Christmas gifts you can give because it is something everyone can use. Plus there's less concern about recyclable plastic this way, and less plastic waste is better for the planet.

3. Stainless steel water bottles

Help everyone stop using plastic water bottles with stainless steel reusable water bottles from Amazon that are cute and functional. This insulated sports water bottle keeps cold drinks cold for 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 12 hours.

There’s no sweating and, most importantly, no waste or harmful plastic bottles polluting the environment. And since it's stainless steel, it's bpa-free.

4. Solar-powered phone charger

Give the gift of charging with a solar-powered phone charger. Getting caught out in the open without an electrical source can be frustrating or even dangerous.

A solar-powered phone charger can be a backup source for powering up your loved one’s phones. It's a nice novelty that someone likely wouldn’t buy themselves, but they make great sustainable Christmas gifts.

5. Reusable sandwich bags

Reusable sandwich bag sustainable gift

Families with kids, adults who pack a lunch for work, or anyone who likes to bring food along with them can benefit from reusable sandwich bags.

The amount of plastic bags we use per year is in the trillions —think of all of the pollution you could prevent just by gifting sustainable bags that are cute, leakproof, and of course, reusable.

6. Audiobook subscription

If you have an avid reader on your Christmas list, give the gift of endless reading without worrying about damaging the environment.

With an Audible subscription, your recipient can listen to an unlimited number of books in the Audible catalog as well as one premium selection per month.

An Audio subscription is also one of the best eco friendly Christmas gifts because it limits the number of paper books used by opting for the sustainable option.

7. At-home spa treatment

If you want to give your loved one a spa gift but don’t have the money for expensive spa treatments and want to get gifts with natural ingredients, give the gift of an at-home spa treatment. Your recipient can pamper herself as much as she wants on her time.

There aren’t any chemicals used, and it’s the gift that keeps on giving since your loved one will get multiple uses from the products.

8. House plant (one of our favorite sustainable Christmas gifts)

Anyone could use a mood and productivity booster, right? Even if the gift recipient doesn’t have a ‘green thumb,’ a succulent plant is easy to take care of and brings a sense of calm to the home and is the perfect gift for anyone.

The hanging pot is adorable enough to hang in just about any room, and it only needs watering every ten days, so it’s easy to care for and enjoy.

9. Handmade scented candle

Skip the expensive and toxic candles sold at big-name stores, and instead, buy someone special on your list a handmade scented candle made from eco-friendly soy wax.

The beautiful scent from the candle is like the gift that keeps on giving, reminding your loved one how special they are without harming the environment. Handmade scented candles are fabulous sustainable Christmas gift ideas.

10. Bamboo toothbrush

Bamboo toothbrushes sustainable gifts

While toothbrushes don’t seem like a gift, they can be a great option in your choice of sustainable Christmas gifts either on their own or with something else.

Bamboo toothbrushes last as long as plastic toothbrushes without harming the environment. Bundle them in pretty recyclable packaging, and it's one of the best earth-friendly gift ideas.

11. Natural yoga mat

Do you have a yoga lover on your Christmas list? Give the gift of a natural yoga mat and watch their face light up!

Typical yoga mats are slippery and don’t last long. Some also smell like chemicals.

However, a natural yoga mat lasts much longer, is better for the environment, and doesn’t slip. It's one of the best sustainable gifts for the fitness guru in your life.

12. Reusable beeswax food wraps

Many people don’t realize how harmful plastic wrap is to the environment and their food. If you’re looking for cheap eco friendly gifts, give the gift of reusable beeswax food wrap.

It’s sustainable, easy to use, and even comes with more beeswax to repair wraps that are wearing out. You’ll help your loved ones save money and their health with this gift.

13. Reusable makeup remover pads

Any woman on your list who wears makeup needs these reusable makeup removal pads. Rather than throwing out cotton or tissue every day, your loved ones can use eco-friendly pads that last for many years.

Just throw them in the wash with your towels and reuse them over and over again.

14. Zero waste year planner and journal

Do you have an eco-friendly friend or family member or know someone who wants to start reducing their waste?

Help them by giving the Zero Waste Year Planner and Journal. It's one of the best sustainable Christmas gift ideas.

While writing, they may get ideas on how to reduce waste, declutter their lives, and even zero in on certain goals like paying off their mortgage early or getting out of debt.

15. Bamboo travel utensil set

Bamboo travel set sustainable gift

For the person on your list that has everything, give the bamboo travel utensil set. It eliminates the need for plastic silverware and reduces waste.

In addition, the durable kit comes in an attractive carrying case that’s easy to throw in a purse or keep in the car’s glove box.

16. Recycled glass dishware

Our sustainable gift guide wouldn't be complete without a product that is made of recycled materials! Glass dishware is the perfect upscale sustainability gift.

It's both a decoration and a practical item for meal time.

17. Stainless steel straws

To cut back on the amount of plastic straws ending up in landfills, purchase stainless steel alternatives as some of your sustainable Christmas gifts.

Help your family and friends reduce their carbon footprint and go plastic-free also.

18. Herbs or seeds for a garden (one of the best sustainable Christmas gifts for nature lovers)

Give back to the earth with purchases of herbs or garden seeds for those on your gift list.

Buying a plant-based gift for someone may help them discover a new hobby of gardening, or will at least be a fun project!

19. Sustainable clothing

For friends and family who are fashion and eco-conscious, look for sustainable clothing. You can find great gifts made of sustainable fabric like organic cotton and recyclable materials.

This shirt is made of eco-friendly materials and is comfy, too! Or purchase these bamboo socks.

20. Beauty products

Find sustainable makeup that is cruelty-free and natural (look for something made by a certified B corporation).

It's one of the best sustainable gifts for those on your gift list that love beauty and fashion products.

Sustainable Christmas gifts are the best gifts to give!

Don’t give up and give the ‘usual’ Christmas presents because you can’t think of anything else. Think outside the box with our sustainable gift guide and give the people on your list sustainable Christmas gifts this year.

Not only will it be better for the environment, but your loved ones will appreciate the gifts even more because they are thoughtful, useful, and gentle on the world.

Also, be sure to create a Christmas budget, so you don't overspend and rack up debt. It's easy to get carried away when you are in the spirit of giving, so have limits set for your spending to keep your finances in check.

To avoid going over budget, set up a Christmas Club Account to keep your gift money separate. And we've got plenty of other Christmas budgeting suggestions that are fun and creative!

The post 20 Ideas For Sustainable Christmas Gifts appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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30 Best Non-Toy Gifts For Kids Everyone Will Love! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/non-toy-gifts-for-kids/ Tue, 31 Aug 2021 02:52:44 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=13506 […]

The post 30 Best Non-Toy Gifts For Kids Everyone Will Love! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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This article on non-toy gifts for kids contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Non toy gifts for kids

Are you trying to find the perfect gift that isn’t a toy? Perhaps a birthday or Christmas gift? Whether you are buying something for your little one or your favorite niece or nephew, there are many excellent non-toy gifts for kids to choose from.

In fact, some of the best gifts for kids aren’t toys, and getting a useful gift can be much better than a toy!

For instance, some of these gifts can teach kids about saving money, scheduling, and being on time!  Others can help them start healthy hobbies such as sports and journaling their feelings. So, instead of getting another toy that may get tossed aside, consider these entertaining non toy kid gifts!

30 Top non-toy gifts for kids

The struggle is real when it comes to gift-giving. So, we’ve rounded up the best gifts for kids that aren’t toys!

1. A real camera

A real camera specifically for kids is one of the best non toy kid gifts you can give because they will have their very own camera for family outings and vacations. It would also be great to teach them photography as a hobby. Who knows, maybe it could lead to a high-paying career one day!  

2. A cool alarm clock

Gone are the days of boring alarm clocks. These days you can pick up a super cool alarm clock that comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some even have projectors that display shapes of stars on the wall! This is one of the best gifts for kids that aren’t toys because it’s fun and teaches them the importance of being on time.

3. Art supplies (Great non-toy gifts for kids to foster their creativity)

Is your little one an aspiring artist? Then art supplies for kids are a fabulous gift idea! You can pick up paint, coloring pencils, sketching pencils, and an easel to supply them with all the basic needs to start expressing their creativity. You could also take a painting class together to make it even better!

4. Dress-up clothing

Remember how much fun it was to dress up as a kid? There are tons of fun dress-up clothing you can get to encourage your little ones to express their imagination further.

So, grab some costumes or preowned dresses for dress-up clothes ideas. You could also upcycle some of your old clothing for them and save money too!

5. Snowboard or skateboard

A snowboard or kids skateboard are some of the most fun gifts for kids that aren't toys! Not only will they have a blast for much longer than a toy would last, but they will get exercise too. There are many different styles and designs, so you can get them something personalized to make it extra special.

6. Paddleboard

I’ll be honest; the kids might be having to fight their parents off this gift because paddleboarding is so much fun! It's great exercise and is perfect for getting out and enjoying nature too.

You can find inflatable stand-up paddleboards on Amazon that are durable and easy to use. A paddleboard is one of the most adventurous non-toy gifts for kids.

7. Rollerblades

Rollerblades are one of the top non toy kid gifts for those little ones on the go. They have so many different styles, and some even have light-up wheels! Also, don't forget to grab protective gear because it can protect them from injuries.

8. Trampoline

Who wouldn’t want their very own trampoline? These also come in various sizes and price ranges so you can pick which is best for your little one. They also have miniature “climb n’ slide trampolines, which is one of our favorite non gifts for toddlers!

9. Rock painting kit

Rock painting is fun and creative. It sparks the imagination and promotes critical thinking. Plus, once they have the kit, they can find unlimited rocks outside to paint! A super-budget-friendly idea for a gift.

10. Pottery kit

Your child can be sculpting bowls, plates, vases, and more with their very own pottery kit! These kits are equipped with everything they need to create anything they want out of clay. They also include paint so they can further their creativity by painting and designing their completed piece.

11. Toolset for kids

A play toolset is perfect for those little kids who want to be involved with home projects. It's an excellent way to teach your child how to use tools to fix things that are also safe. You can find play workshops with tools that have hammers, drills, screwdrivers, and more.

12. Metal detector

A metal detector is excellent for a child that’s adventurous and enjoys treasure hunting. They can take it out in the yard and see if they find any old items such as coins and jewelry. Who knows, maybe they will find something valuable!

13. Coin collecting kit

There are so many awesome coin collection kits that are great for kids too. For instance, there is a “penny passport book” for souvenir pennies and a “state quarter collection map” so they can collect all of the state quarters.

Coin collecting can be an educational and fun activity which is why it’s one of the best gifts for kids that aren’t toys.

14. Jewelry making kit

With kids jewelry-making kits, the possibilities are endless! They have kits to make rubber band jewelry, charm bracelets, beaded necklaces, and more.

Learning how to make jewelry isn’t just enjoyable; it’s a skill your little one could use to start making money! This is why it's another one of our favorite non-toy gifts for kids.

15. Coloring and activity books (One of the most traditional non-toy gifts for kids)

You can’t go wrong with the classic gift choice of coloring and activity books. These books may be fun for kids, but they are actually very beneficial for teaching too! It helps them improve their motor skills, prepares them for school, and stimulates creativity. This is why it’s one of the top non toy gifts for toddlers too.

16. Journaling set with pens

Journaling is a wonderful tool for self-discovery.  It’s a place where your child can express their thoughts, emotions, and dreams without judgment. You can find journaling sets for kids with different designs, characters, and colors that match their personality and taste to make it a special gift just for them.

17. Musical instrument (One of the most beneficial non-toy gifts for kids)

A musical instrument is one of the most epic non toy kid gifts you can give. Learning an instrument will teach them patience, enhance coordination, and boost their confidence. The good news is there are many different instruments available in smaller sizes for kids. 

For example, they have junior size guitars, wind instruments, and keyboards. This also makes them a bit more affordable too, which is good for the wallet.

18. Old school CD Player, iPod, or iPad

Just because everything is digital doesn’t mean your child wouldn’t enjoy a retro-style cd player. They have adorable portable boomboxes that include a cd player and a radio.

Of course, an iPod or iPad are other options if you’re searching for something more up-to-date. One perk of the iPod and iPad is that they can also watch videos and play games on them.

19. Piggy Bank (One of the best non-toy gifts to teach kids about money)

So this is one of our favorite non-toy gifts for kids! Teaching your child to save money can instill good money habits they will use throughout their life. You can either stick to the cute and traditional piggy bank or get an electronic bank safe that is equipped with a cash entrance and password pad!

20. Wallet or purse

A purse or wallet is another fantastic gift that can also teach your child about money. This will help them become responsible for their own money by having a dedicated place for it. It will also teach them about the importance of keeping up with their wallets.

21. A savings account with money

The ultimate non-toy kids gift is a savings account with money in it. This is a gift that keeps giving. Like a piggy bank, it will teach your child the importance of saving money, but it will also give them experience with maintaining a bank account and tracking their savings.

22. A new bike

Is it time to upgrade your kid’s bike? Surprise them with a set of new wheels or take them and let them pick out which one they like best. There is nothing better than cruising the neighborhood in style on your new wheels. Tricycles are great non gift toys for toddlers too!

23. Books they'll love (Great non-toy gifts for kids to develop the habit of reading)

Reading is important for children, whether they can read independently or if you read them their favorite books as toddlers. It helps them develop empathy, improves their concentration, and is great for their imagination.

Books can be some of the best non toy gifts for toddlers and older kids. Money books for kids are also a great idea to teach your kids about money!

24. Bird feeder + seed

Is your little one a bird lover? Then a bird feeder with seed would be a fabulous non toy kids gift. They will be able to enjoy watching their feathered friends snack every day and can even learn what the native birds are to your area.

25. Terrarium kit

Bring the outdoors indoors and teach your kids all about the greenhouse effect with a cool terrarium kit. They will learn how to grow plants and the science behind a fully functional ecosystem!

One of my nephew's favorite gifts was a swing set. It encouraged him to use his imagination while getting outdoors and having fun. An easy-to-set up swingset tops the list of non-toy gifts for kids that can be used for years.

27. A room makeover

As your child grows, their taste in room decor is sure to change. So why not give them a total room makeover as a gift? They can pick out what colors and decor they want to put in their room that expresses their personality. You can also make it a project you do together and teach them how to do it themselves as they get older.

28. Monthly calendar

Pick out a fun-themed monthly calendar to give your child so they can learn about time management and scheduling. You can write down what days they go to soccer practice or when your next vacation is, so they will know how to keep up with their schedules.

29. Digital watch

Another great teaching tool that’s also a fun gift is a digital watch for kids. This will help you teach your child how to tell time and the importance of punctuality. Pick out a cool character or themed watch they will love.

30. Cash

So you can’t decide which gifts for kids that aren’t toys to get? You can always resort to cold-hard cash. Kids get super excited about having their own money. Plus, they get to pick out something they truly want with the money you gave them.

These non-toy gifts for kids are great all year long!

These non-toy gifts for kids are great whether it’s a special occasion or you simply want to reward your child. Not only do they get to express themselves creatively, but they also can learn from them.

Of course, we love the idea of giving gifts that can teach your child about financial literacy because learning about money management at a young age can help them become financially successful!

Get more help teaching your kids about healthy money habits with our completely free course! Be sure to check out our list of experience gifts for kids and Christmas Eve box ideas for toddlers too!

Also check out Clever Girl Finance on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook for frugal living tips and more!

The post 30 Best Non-Toy Gifts For Kids Everyone Will Love! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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What Car Should I Buy? Take Our Car Buying Quiz https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/what-car-should-i-buy/ Thu, 19 Sep 2019 03:46:13 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=8803 […]

The post What Car Should I Buy? Take Our Car Buying Quiz appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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What car should I buy?

Are you are a few weeks away from a car purchase, or are you ready to buy one right now? Whatever the case might be, if you’ve ever asked yourself, “What car should I buy?” you are in the right place. Grab your coffee and buckle up while we help you navigate your car purchase ride!

Aside from purchasing a home, a car is one of the larger purchases you’ll make in life. And it’s so easy to get it wrong.

How much car can you really afford?

When thinking "what car should I buy", it's important to put some real thought into the decision-making process and leave nothing to chance.

To figure out what you can really afford, here are two approaches to consider:

  1. Buy your car outright with cash upfront
  2. Financing your car through monthly car payments

Let's examine each option in more detail to help you make the right decision for your wallet.

Buying your car outright with cash upfront

If you really want to be ahead of the game, you can buy a car in cash upfront. Sounds impossible, doesn’t it? Well, it's very doable.

In a world where credit cards rule the day, paying cash for a car purchase seems highly unusual. But it can save you thousands of dollars and help you be more diligent in choosing a car that meets your key needs.

So how exactly can you achieve this? For starters, you can purchase a cheap pre-owned car. If you save $2,000 over a few months, you could purchase a cheap car that you can use while you save up for the car you really want.

For the next few months, take any money that would have gone towards a car payment and diligently save that in a separate account dedicated to your next car purchase.

In a matter of a few months, you can sell your current car and add the proceeds to your savings for the car you really want, and voila! You’ll have the car of your dreams, paid for in cash!

Financing your car through monthly payments

As mentioned, one way to afford a car is to make monthly payments over an extended period of time. Experts have different opinions on what that period of time should be, but here at Clever Girl Finance, we lean towards as short a time frame as possible.

This approach means you focus on paying off the car quickly, and in turn, this frees up funds to pursue your financial goals.

Here's how to determine the final car purchase price you can comfortably afford:

  1. First, figure out how much you can afford to pay each month in car payments based on your monthly budget.
  2. Next, explore loan financing options available to you based on the payment you can comfortably afford.

What can I "really" afford to pay each month for my car?

Conventional wisdom on this number differs; however, I'd recommend that no more than 10% of your net monthly income after tax and other deductions should go towards a monthly car payment.

This decision should be based on your take-home pay as opposed to your gross pay to ensure that you’re working within a budget you can truly afford. It's also important that you base it on the current loan, not what it could be if you refinance the car later.

For example, if you have $2,500 left after taxes from your total monthly income, then your car payment should be no more than $250 each month.

To be clear, based on your gross pay, it might look like you can afford higher payments. However, this may not be in your best interest. You don’t want to end up paying too much each month, especially as the value of cars typically declines over time.

You’ll also want to consider the duration of the car loan and how much interest you'll be paying over the life of the loan. Ideally, your goal should be to pay off your car loan as quickly as possible since it's tied to a depreciating asset. Yup, a car is an asset, but it will depreciate over time.

Factors that determine your monthly car payment

As mentioned above, figuring out your monthly car payment is a great first step in your journey towards buying a car. However, it doesn’t end there. The actual amount you can borrow under a car loan will be determined by additional factors which will need your careful consideration.

Here are some things that will determine your monthly payment:

The loan term

The maximum number of months you have to pay off your car loan. Shorter loan terms typically mean higher monthly payments.

Interest rate

This is what it's going to cost you to borrow the money. If you want to get the best interest rate possible, you’ll want to ensure your credit score is in good condition. The higher your score, the less risky lenders will deem you to be and the less you’ll pay in interest.

The condition of the car

If you’re buying a year-old vehicle, prepare to spend more in total costs than if you’re buying an older vehicle. This, in turn, means higher payments.

Consider the total final price you'll be paying for the car

A host of factors go into the final price you end up paying. For example, you’ll need to factor in taxes and some not-so-obvious fees such as registration and documentation fees. These vary according to state, so a good estimate would be to add 10% to the price of the vehicle.

Additionally, if you trade in your existing car, you’ll likely lower the final purchase price. These factors can increase or decrease your final purchase price and are key to ensuring you make the right estimates before going to a dealership.

The best websites for car-buying research on a budget

In this digital age, you can thankfully say goodbye to making trips to a car dealership where you’ll be inundated with slick offers by a salesman. If you really want to understand and compare the benefits of different cars, then there are plenty of opportunities to do so online.

That being said, not all dealerships are filled with sketchy salespeople, and a key benefit to visiting one in person is that you'll be able to negotiate prices. This is not an option when browsing online as the prices are generally fixed.

However, car shopping online has its advantages, including the ability to search at your own pace and sometimes find lower prices than an in-person trade.

If you’re looking to go down the online route, here are some sites to help you get started:

Autolist

For the person on the go, Autolist is the perfect search tool for mobile. The software scans multiple other sites and dealerships, and it will show you useful information such as how many days the car has been on the market, % of similar listings, and historic price changes on their mobile app. You will also see basic specs for the vehicle as well as contact info for the seller.

CarGurus

Car Gurus is an excellent resource if you’re shopping on a budget. The site sorts cars by listing the best deals first (based on the dealer’s reviews and vehicle data).

Each used car also has a “deal rating,” letting you know if the car is a great deal or if it's overpriced. Additionally, the site will pull up valuable information such as prior accidents on the car and its market value.

AutoTrader

Autotrader is the industry go-to when it comes to car shopping online. While it offers basic search features such as filters by price and model, it goes the extra mile by letting you drill down on other more advanced specifications.

It also has a calculator that helps you figure out how much your payments would come to for each listing.

Cars Direct

If you’re a novice and looking for a simple site, Cars Direct is a great place to start. The site focuses on the basics, letting you screen used cars by model, price, and body style. The site also lets you save a model you like in order to review it later.

Qualifying for a loan at the best rate

Once you’ve narrowed down your car choice, you’ll likely start considering your financing options. It's a good idea to get pre-approved for an auto loan before heading out to a dealership.

This comes with a significant benefit that cannot be overlooked - You'll be able to negotiate a better sales price. To get a pre-approval, you have a few credible options:

Credit Union pre-approval

Credit unions are often a great place to get a car loan. A credit union is a not-for-profit member cooperative whose main goal is to help its members to achieve their financial goals at competitive rates.

Typically, credit unions offer lower interest rates and fees than a commercial bank would when it comes to loans. Lending done through a bank or a credit union is sometimes referred to as direct lending.

A credit union could also be more consumer-friendly if you have a lower credit score than a regular bank.  This is because banks follow a strict criterion when issuing debt, whereas a credit union is much more interactive and takes a more one-on-one approach with a borrower.

Typically, a credit union will ask for:

  • Contact information of the borrower (that's you!)
  • Your current employment, housing, and income information
  • Trade-in information (title or loan information, registration, etc.) for an existing car
  • The expected financing amount (including the purchase price, taxes, title, and warranty minus any down payment)
  • The requested loan term

Since most applications today are done electronically, you can expect to receive a decision on your loan within minutes. After you've been approved, a check will be mailed to you or can be collected from the credit union branch.

Once you’re ready to buy the car, you’ll need to take the check to the car dealer as evidence of your pre-approval. You'll want to ensure that the check is completed and signed.

Finally, after you've purchased your car, your credit union may ask you to send a copy of the title to their office within a few weeks of finalizing the purchase.

Car dealership loan

Another alternative is to get financing through a dealership. Under this arrangement, you would enter into an agreement with the dealership where you purchase the car from them and, over time, pay off the amount financed plus a finance charge.

Sometimes the dealer will keep and manage the contract, but, more often than not, the dealer sells this contract to a bank, a credit union, or a finance company that will service the account and collects your monthly payments.

The benefits of dealership financing include:

Ease and convenience

If you’re already shopping for a car at the dealership, you’ll likely want to finalize everything associated with the purchase within that same location.

Multiple options

Dealerships will typically have a range of financing options available to you based on the number of relationships they have with banks and financing companies.

Special offers

Dealerships often have special offers run by the car manufacturer in the form of lower financing rates or certain incentives associated with a payment. Typically, special offers are reserved for certain vehicles.

Whatever financing option you choose, shop around and take your time. You certainly won’t regret it.

A note on secured vs. unsecured auto loans

Car loans can either be secured or unsecured. If a car loan is secured, the contract will usually contain a lien or a claim to the borrower’s assets.

The type of assets included depends on the contract, but a lot of the time, a lien is put on the car being purchased. If you default on your loan, the car will get repossessed. Liens can also come in the form of other cars or a home.

On the other hand, unsecured auto loans do not have any assets attached to them and will typically come with a higher interest rate to account for the additional risk a lender must take on.

Should I buy a new or pre-owned car? 

Buying a brand-new car is exciting! New car smell, zero damage, and the freedom to choose and customize your car how you please. However, the reality is that purchasing a brand-new car can cost you thousands of more dollars than a used car. Here are some key considerations:

Purchase price

According to Kelley Blue Book, a new car costs $37,000 on average, whereas a used car costs $20,000 on average. This cost differential doesn’t only affect the purchase price – it also affects financing and insurance.

Depreciation

A key deterrent to buying a new car is the fact that car depreciation significantly alters the value of every car. Conventional wisdom states that a car depreciates by 20% as soon as you buy it and that with moderate use, that number could increase to 30% by the end of the first year.

Maintenance costs

As alluded to earlier, new and more expensive cars often come with a higher monthly payment and higher insurance premiums. An older car will be cheaper to replace for an insurance company in the event of an accident, which is not the case with a new car.

Other costs such as registry renewal are also lower for used cars vs. new cars.

Reliability

Until recently, buying a new car guaranteed that you received quality consistent with the brand you purchased. However, today, with increased competition in the market, car brands have significantly stepped up their offering to ensure that they are at par with top brands. Reliability is now less aligned to a brand and more tied to the upkeep of the previous owner.

All in all, if you’re set on making a car purchase, strongly consider a pre-owned vehicle. Not only can it save you thousands of dollars, but it can also help you achieve your other financial goals.

Factoring insurance and maintenance costs into your budget

Don't forget to factor the cost of maintenance and insurance into your monthly budget. When considering what car to buy and how much you can really afford the expenses can make quite a difference.

Auto insurance coverage

This can feel like a pain in the neck to manage. Premiums can feel too high, or you may have an excellent driving record and feel confident that you only need the most basic coverage. However, life happens, and if it does, you’ll be glad you had the right kind of auto insurance.

Even if you drive an old vehicle, auto insurance coverage is essential because it could save you the often unexpected cost of replacing a vehicle.

It's important to keep in mind that the cost of insurance can vary based on:

  • The safety record of your car's make and model
  • The cost of the car and its associated parts

Maintenance costs

When putting together a budget for a car, many people often forget to include maintenance costs. As the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.”

What ends up happening is that as you neglect to budget your car maintenance costs, you’ll likely forget to run basic maintenance on it for extended periods of time. Emergencies then arise where you can find yourself paying more for huge repairs that regular maintenance could have handled.

If you’re wondering what the best way to handle these car expenses is by creating a sinking fund in your budget for car maintenance is a reasonable way to manage these costs. On average, you’ll want to budget about $75 for car maintenance each month, which can help with new tires, tune-ups, or replacement of a side mirror.

What car should I buy quiz

We've come up with a mini "What car should I buy quiz" to help you decide what type of car will be best for your needs and budget!

What type of features are most important to you:

  1. Fuel efficient
  2. Speed and power
  3. Spacious and comfortable

Which best describes you:

  1. I need things that last a long time.
  2. I'm super techy and love the most up-to-date gadgets.
  3. I like to wait a while before purchasing something to make sure it's reputable.

How often will you be driving your car:

  1. Several trips a day-(plus traveling)
  2. Back and forth to work
  3. Daily with some occasional events

Your typical weekend is:

  1. Heading out of town for the weekend
  2. Have dinner out with friends
  3. Take the kids to parties and events

What type of driver are you:

  1. I tend to be easy on my car to reduce wear and tear and save on gas.
  2. I'm the first one off the line at the stoplight.
  3. I'm cautious but like to have power when I need it.

Best vehicle type based on your quiz results

Here are the results from our what car should I buy quiz!

1. Fuel efficient

If you found yourself answering mostly 1's on this quiz, then you're searching for a car that is fuel-efficient. You are on the go and need something that will save you money on gas!

Whether you're deciding on a new or used car, there are tons of cheap cars that get great gas mileage; think Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, or a Ford Ecosport.

2. Fast and Techy

Did you answer mostly 2's and find yourself daydreaming of zooming around town listening to your Bluetooth stereo system? Then you probably want a newer, more up-to-date vehicle that packs power. However, it's best not to purchase brand new because they can get super costly. Also, remember that insurance on sports cars is higher than others too.

Rather than buying a new car, purchase a model that is a year or two old. This way, you can save big bucks on car depreciation. However, if you're set on a brand new car, there are some affordable new vehicles that are speedy and techy too! For instance, the Subaru WRX or the Hyundai Veloster N are both under $30,000 new.

3. Luxurious with plenty of space

If you answered mostly 3's on our what car should I buy quiz, then you are searching for a luxurious car with plenty of space. You need a vehicle that is roomy for either taking the kids to soccer practice or loading up and going camping for the weekend.

Since you are looking for something reliable and comfortable, you may want to consider an SUV. Nowadays, you can actually find an excellent SUV without busting your car budget! The Chevy Trailblazer, Ford Ecosport, and the Hyundai Kona SE are all under $25,000.

Save money and buy the car that's best for you

When you’re considering what car you should get, you’ll want to conduct your due diligence as much as possible. It may take a bit of time upfront, but the savings could really drive your overall long-term goals forward.

Use the results from the what car should I buy quiz to help you determine which vehicle is best for your needs and budget!

The post What Car Should I Buy? Take Our Car Buying Quiz appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Save Money On Car Expenses https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-save-money-on-car-expenses/ Sun, 11 Jul 2021 11:47:21 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12432 […]

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Save money on car expenses

Although it may not seem like it, owning and driving a car will be a major part of your financial picture throughout your adult life. And as with all financial aspects, it pays to be a smart and savvy decision-maker and shopper and to know how to save money on car expenses.

Although cars are considered an asset, it’s good to remember that cars are a depreciating asset. Every year, they decline in value due to wear and tear and also due to the release of newer models. As a result, cars are not an investment since they only hold value for a short amount of time.

So be smart about your cars. Making sound financial choices about the cars you drive, and the car insurance you obtain will equal more money in your pocket in the long run.

First, let's take a look at some tips on how to save money when you are buying a car.

Tips to save money on your car expenses

Saving on automotive expenses can be easier than you think. It just takes some know-how and effort. Check out these easy ways you can save!

1. Consider buying fairly used

A new car can lose anywhere from 10 to 20% of its value as soon as you drive it off the sales lot. Did you know that even if you return your brand-new car within a few days or even a few hours, it’ll still be worth much less than you originally paid?

Crazy, huh? It’s because the wholesale value on a car (the price the dealer pays to get the car) is usually much lower than the retail price on the car (the price you pay the dealer). When you buy a new car, the gap between wholesale and retail can be quite substantial.

Wondering how to save money on a car? Buy used! Buying a used car can prevent this large gap so that you can get a better deal. But buying a used car doesn’t have to mean buying an old beater!

A 1 to 3-year-old car in great condition can save you tons of money. And if you take your time to search carefully, you can find a used car that’s in near-perfect condition. So, buying a used car versus a new one can save you a bundle on car expenses.

2. Know what you are willing to pay in advance

Got a certain car in mind? Do some research before shopping to determine what the average cost of the car is. There are a ton of online tools that can help you make this determination. For instance, Kelley Blue Book and TrueCar.com are great places to start.

These sites list both the manufacturer's retail price and the suggested retail price. Once you have an idea of what your car should really cost you, you won't be easily moved by the "supposed" discounts the car salesman is selling you.

3. Know your credit score 

Your credit score will determine what interest rate you get. But it can also help you negotiate the cost of the car. Those two things combined can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in car expenses. One important thing to keep in mind when financing a car is that you will be taking on new debt.

Some car dealers will tell you to buy the car now with whatever credit score you have and then refinance the car later. This is not a good idea especially if you are not in a rush. Set a goal to improve your credit if needed so you can qualify for the best possible interest rate from the start.

It's important that you buy what you can realistically pay off and make a plan to pay off the debt as quickly as possible. Don't end up paying a bunch of interest after working hard to negotiate a better price—that's counter-productive.

4. Secure outside financing

One of the most clever ways to save on automotive expenses is to secure your own financing in advance of visiting a car dealership. This can save you a ton of money in interest compared to what your dealership might be able to offer you.

Spend some time shopping around for the best interest rates on sites like BankRate.com. Stop by your local bank or credit union to see what they have to offer. Even a half-percentage difference on an interest rate can be a lot of money.

5. Factor the cost of owning a car into your budget

It's one thing to be able to purchase a car. But it’s a completely different thing to be able to afford to keep it. Owning a car includes purchasing gas, paying for insurance (more on that below), and maintenance costs for your car.

That's why it's good to know how to save money on car expenses. Figure out how much all these things will cost you and build them into your monthly budget.

6. Compare prices on service and maintenance costs to reduce your car expenses

Just because you bought your car at a dealership doesn't mean that it's the best place to take it for service. Most car dealerships make most of their money in the service department. They do this by providing the service and providing an "experience," but this can cost you a lot in padded costs.

Sometimes your dealership's service specials can't be beaten. However, when it comes to servicing your car or routine maintenance visits, be sure to compare prices across other reputable auto shops.

How to save on car expenses by getting the best trade-in value for your old car

So now that you know some of the best ways how to save money on a car let’s take a look at how you can save money when you’re ready to trade it in for a different one. And since most Americans will own ~9 cars over their lifetime, there’s a good chance you’ll trade in a car at some point.

1. Know the real value of your car

Just like you did before you bought your car, you’ll need to know how much it’s worth before you sell it. To determine the value of your car, you’ll need to know its year, make, model, mileage, and condition. That’s because trade-in values can vary wildly based on those factors.

And when you start getting offers? It's a good idea to compare them against one another to ensure you get the best possible deal.

Clever Girl Tip: It's a good idea to add a bit of markup (e.g., 10% - 15%) to your selling price. Dealers and private buyers will most likely try to negotiate your initial price down.

2. Spruce up your car

A clean car is more attractive to buyers and can help you get a better trade-in value. Consider getting your car and engine detailed in preparation for its sale. Also, showing that you have regularly serviced your car and kept it in good condition will make it extra attractive to a potential buyer.

3. Be aware of needed repairs

Before you put your car up for sale, be sure you are aware of any repairs that might be needed, even if you don't intend to make the repairs before you sell the car. Knowing what the repairs will cost you will ensure you don't take a low-ball offer on your car based on what your buyer tells you the repair will cost them.

For example, let's say the brakes on your car need to be replaced, and you get a repair estimate of $500. But if a dealer tries to knock $1500 off your trade-in price because of the needed repair, you can counter that by showing them the estimate of what the repair will actually cost!

4. Separate your trade-in negotiation from your next car purchase

If you choose to go through a dealer to trade in your car, be sure to negotiate the price for your trade-in first as opposed to building it into the purchase of your next car. This way, you are aware of what you are being offered, and you can be sure it's in line with the real value of your car.

It's very easy for the value of a trade-in to get severely discounted (or lowballed) when it's tied into the transaction of purchasing a new car. It might seem like a great deal because you'd be getting a discount on the car you are trying to purchase. But if you were to take a closer look, it might not be as good a deal as you think.

Reduce car expenses by getting a better insurance rate

So now you know how to shop for a used car and how to trade in a car to reduce car expenses and maximize your savings. But what about car insurance? Do you need it? And if so, should you pay top dollar for full coverage or skimp by with the state minimum and hope nothing goes wrong?

First, remember to include car insurance in your budget. Since many plans have you paying premiums twice yearly instead of every month, it’s easy to forget about this expense. Including it in your budget will prevent you from having to put your car insurance on a credit card.

Secondly, shop around for the best car insurance rates you can find. Getting a great deal on car insurance is a lot like buying a car; you need to shop around to find the best possible price. If you want the lowest rates for car insurance, you'll need to compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best price.

Here are some other ways to reduce your car insurance burden:

1. Revisit your limits and deductibles

Raising deductibles and lowering limits is one way to reduce rates. However, this costs you more out of pocket if an accident or theft occurs. I recommend holding the minimum car insurance coverage only in cases where you absolutely can’t afford more or if you rarely drive.

It may be tempting to reduce your car expenses by lowering your coverage but consider how much more it will cost you if you have an accident!

2. Identify discounts to reduce your car expenses

Insurance companies offer all kinds of discounts. However, many of them go unnoticed and unused. Don’t wait for your insurance company to tell you what discounts they offer —it’s up to you to ask about them!

3. Mention life events to your insurer

Did you get married? Have a kid? Move to a city with great public transportation? Many companies view these events in a positive light when it comes to risk. As such, they’ll often provide lower rates because of them.

Save on car expenses by finding the best deals on car insurance

So, now you know how to reduce your insurance, but what about finding the best deal? Here are some simple tips for getting the best rates possible.

1. Bundling

Putting multiple cars on the same policy or buying your car insurance from the same company that provides your home or life insurance results in discounts as high as 30 percent.

2. Adding safety features to your car

Installing or buying cars with safety features like anti-theft systems can land you savings on car insurance. Of course, the discounts depend on what the provider offers, so be sure to ask for the details when getting your quote.

3. Taking defensive driving courses

Insurers will often offer discounts of about 10% for taking a defensive driving course. Doing this not only saves you money on automotive expenses but helps you freshen up your driving skills too!

There are all kinds of ways to save on car insurance, but it’s helpful to know which companies offer the best rates for you. The cost of insurance depends on a variety of factors, including gender, age, and driving record.

As a woman, you already have an advantage in getting better discounts on car insurance. However, you don’t have to stop there! If you purchase car insurance in the right place and take advantage of all the cost-saving strategies available to you, you can get the best deal for your individual profile.

Use these tips to save on car expenses

Using these tips will help you save a bundle on car expenses! Buying a used car instead of a new one, finding the best insurance deal, and getting the best trade-in value when you decide to upgrade will keep you from overspending and put more cash in your pocket!

Remember to set up a sinking fund for planned repairs and an emergency fund for unexpected issues to cover automotive expenses without racking up debt!

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13 Tips How To Lower Electric Bills In A Big Way https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-lower-electric-bill/ Thu, 10 Jun 2021 11:31:50 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11701 […]

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How to lower electric bill

Let's go over how to lower electric bills! When was the last time you took steps to lower your electricity bill? Unfortunately, many of us just assume that the amount we owe each month is the amount we’re stuck with. After all, we have to use electricity. But you might be surprised just how easy it is to reduce your energy bill in a big way.

Before we get into how to save money on electric bills, check out the benefits of lowering your bill and just how much you can potentially save.

The benefits of a lower electric bill

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electricity bill in the U.S. in 2019 was $115 per month. Residents of Hawaii, Connecticut, and Alabama have the highest monthly bills.

Often, figuring out how to lower electric bills just doesn’t seem worth it. After all, can we really save more than a few dollars here and there? But, in reality, you could save as much as 50% of your monthly energy bill with a few changes to your home. For the average homeowner, that could be nearly $700 per year in savings that you can put toward other financial goals.

Top 13 ways how to lower electric bills

Ready to start saving money on your electricity bill? These 13 simple steps will show you how to lower electric bills by as much as 50%.

1. Get an energy audit

One of the easiest ways how to lower electric bills is to do an energy audit. An energy audit is when a professional walks room-by-room through your house to find places where it might be losing energy. This audit can help you identify air leaks, poor insulation, low-efficiency lighting, and more.

Many electric companies offer energy audits, often as a free service. If your electric company doesn’t offer energy audits, you can follow the instructions from the Department of Energy for a DIY audit.

2. Lower your electric bill by adjusting your thermostat

Changing the temperature on your thermostat is truly one of the simplest ways how to lower electric bills. According to the Department of Energy, turning your thermostat back by 7-10 degrees for eight hours per day can save you as much as 10% on your electricity bill.

Many thermostats today can be programmed with set schedules. For example, you can program your thermostat to adjust when you leave for the day and then return to a more comfortable temperature during the hours you’re home.

3. Replace your air filters

Air filters are designed to catch any dust, dirt, pet hair, and more and prevent those particles from making their way into your HVAC system. The Department of Energy states that changing your air filters on the recommended timeline is the most important maintenance task for your air conditioner. In addition, it can lower your electricity consumption by anywhere from 5% to 15%.

4. Increase the temperature on your refrigerator and freezer

Refrigerators and freezers are often set several degrees cooler than what’s actually needed to keep your cold and fresh. According to the FDA, food safety guidelines recommend that refrigerator temperatures be kept at 40ºF or lower, while freezers should be kept around 0ºF. So if yours is set lower, consider increasing it a few degrees.

5. Turn down your water heater

Manufacturers often set water heater thermostats at 140ºF, but most households only require a maximum temperature of 120ºF. Lowering the thermostat on your water heater has several benefits:

  1. Lowering the temperature eliminates a safety hazard caused by scalding water
  2. It slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes
  3. It lowers your electricity bill by as much as $400 per year.

Turning down the temperature on your water heater is how to save money on electricity fast!

6. Wash clothes in cold water

90% of the electricity needed to run your washing machine is a result of heating the water. A simple way to reduce your energy use in this area is to simply wash your clothes in cold water. This change can save you about $63 per year on your electricity bill.

7. Unplug appliances to lower electric bills

Phantom loads refer to the energy that your home appliances use when they’re in standby mode. These phantom loads cost homeowners an average of $100 per year, but you can avoid them by unplugging and turning off appliances when you aren’t using them.

While it’s not realistic to unplug your large appliances when they aren’t in use, you can certainly do so for smaller appliances like coffee makers, stand mixers, and air fryers. Unplugging those unused appliances is how to lower your electric bill with minimal effort.

8. Save money on indoor lighting

Making a few changes to your indoor lighting can really make a difference in your electricity bill. The easiest place to start is to turn off lights in rooms you aren’t using and only use your indoor lights later in the day when natural light isn’t sufficient.

Another change you can make is changing your light bulbs. According to the Department of Energy, LED lights use 75% less energy than standard light bulbs and last 25 times longer. So not only will you save money on electricity, but you’ll also save money on lightbulbs.

Finally, you can save money on lighting by installing dimmers in your home. With dimmer switches, you can lower wattage and output, which helps to save energy. Saving energy is how to save money on electric bills.

9. Install solar lights outside

Solar power is an excellent way to reduce your reliance on the electricity grid and reduce your energy payments, but home solar panels aren’t practical or affordable for everyone.

However, an easy way to incorporate some solar power into your home in a cost-effective way is to install solar lights outside your home. Replacing the lights in your yard with solar lighting is how to save money on electric bills while enjoying your outdoor space.

10. Maintain your HVAC system

Air conditioners make up about 6% of electricity use in the United States, costing homeowners about $29 billion per year. Additionally, they release 117 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into the air.

While people in most of the country can’t entirely forego their air conditioning, you can take steps to ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible. One of the best ways to do that is to schedule annual maintenance for your HVAC system. Then, you can identify any inefficiencies and ensure the air circulating your home is clean.

11. Upgrade your appliances to lower electric bills

The government-backed Energy Star program identifies energy-efficient products that can help consumers’ wallets, as well as the environment. If your home appliances are more than ten years old, consider upgrading to Energy Star products.

For example, an Energy Star certified washing machine uses 25% less energy and 33% less water. Over the lifetime of the product, you can save about $370 in energy costs. And that’s just for one appliance — imagine the savings if you had only energy-efficient appliances. Investing in energy-efficient appliances is how to lower your electric bill and help the environment.

12. Switch to fans and lower electric bills

In the summer months, air conditioning is one of the biggest factors leading to higher electricity bills. When temperatures rise, people automatically reach to adjust the thermostat. But you might actually be underestimating the power of your ceiling fans.

A ceiling fan can help a room feel cooler and uses 10% of your air conditioner's energy. So cutting off the air conditioner and switching to fans is how to lower your electric bill in a big way!

13. Take advantage of off-peak rates

For people on a time-of-use electricity plan, your rates vary during certain hours of the day. For example, rates are higher during peak hours when lots of people are using electricity. These hours generally include weekdays and evenings, while late nights and weekends have lower demand.

One way to take advantage of these rate-of-use plans is to run appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer during early morning, late-night, and weekend hours.

What you can do with the money you save

Learning how to save money on electricity and making the recommended changes in your home can save you hundreds of dollars per year. But then you might find yourself asking — What should I do with that money instead? So here are a few ideas.

Stop living paycheck to paycheck

Polling from the American Payroll Association has consistently shown that most Americans live paycheck to paycheck. A 2020 survey found that 69% would experience financial difficulty if their paychecks were delayed for a week. And while it would be easy to blame this statistic on the pandemic, the numbers were actually worse in 2019.

Reducing your monthly expenses by learning how to lower your electric bill is one of the best ways to begin breaking the paycheck to paycheck cycle. You can instead put that money into an emergency fund for each amount you reduce your bills by.

Pay off debt

Debt is a huge financial and emotional burden for many American families. Freeing up money each month from your electricity bill can help you increase your monthly debt payments and reach debt freedom more quickly.

Increase savings

Another benefit of reducing your electricity bill is that you have more money to put into savings. You can start by building your emergency fund with a few months of expenses. Then you can start saving for other financial goals like a vacation or a down payment on a home.

Start investing

Investing is perhaps the best way to build long-term wealth. And the best part is that it doesn’t require a lot of money. Even just a small amount of money invested each month can make a huge difference in the long run.

Let’s say you were able to knock $50 off your monthly electricity bill and put that money into a brokerage account with an 8% annual return. In 30 years, you would have more than $68,000. So while $50 might not seem like much, compounding in the market is what really makes the difference.

So, learning how to save money on electric bills can free up money for things such as paying off debt and investing!

Learning how to lower electric bills saves you money

So, now you know how to save money on electricity and can start lowering your monthly expenses. Even the smallest changes around your home can make a sizable difference in your annual electricity costs. The Department of Energy has an entire section on its website devoted to helping to reduce energy costs in your home, so check there to learn more ways how to lower your electric bill.

And remember that while saving money is great, it’s equally important to have a plan for that money that’s not free in your budget. It would be easy to spend that money, but it will go a lot farther if you put it toward paying off debt, investing, or reaching other financial goals. Learn more about ditching debt and saving money with our FREE financial courses and worksheets!

The post 13 Tips How To Lower Electric Bills In A Big Way appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Financing An Engagement Ring? Read This First! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/financing-an-engagement-ring/ Sun, 30 May 2021 13:39:21 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11698 […]

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Financing An Engagement Ring

So you're ready to marry the love of your life! Congratulations! You’re probably on cloud nine thinking about starting a life with your best friend. You've also likely been talking about engagement rings and you've imagined what yours would look like. Many people consider financing an engagement ring as the right thing to do. After all, you should have a great engagement ring that you love and can show off to the world right?

Financing an engagement ring can be very expensive but the cost of financing is not something most people think about. I'm sure you want to start your marriage off on the right foot financially as newlyweds.

Well, the last thing you want is to find yourself in a high-interest debt cycle from financing a ring. Especially if you also have a wedding to budget and pay for.

That being said, in this article, we'll cover what to consider, and the best alternatives when it comes to financing an engagement ring!

Average costs of engagement rings and wedding bands

Did you know the average cost of an engagement ring these days is about $5,500? Keep in mind that this cost doesn’t include the wedding bands. The average cost of wedding bands for both the bride and groom is a little over $1900.

So once you add the cost of the bands, you’re really getting up there in the amount of money you may end up spending on rings. For many, thinking about this amount of money, makes financing for an engagement ring seem attractive.

Why you should pay cash vs. financing an engagement ring

Given the fact that so many people are dealing with student loans, a couple planning a wedding may already have student debt that they are bringing into the marriage. And so paying cash for an engagement ring is always the better option.

Even if neither of you has any debt, paying cash is still a good idea. This is simply because, once it's paid for, you don't have to worry about a monthly payment schedule or accumulating interest.

You can instead focus on planning your beautiful wedding and keeping those costs in check. Because as you likely know, the average wedding can cost a pretty penny too!

To save successfully for an engagement ring, start by opening a dedicated savings account. Next, build saving for the ring into your budget so you have a specific amount of money you put aside each time you get paid.

While you save, you can finetune your budget in terms of how much you'd like to spend. You can also start researching the four C's based on your budget: Carats, color, cut, and clarity!

Financing for an engagement ring: Save the most money

If you however prefer to go with financing an engagement ring, keep in mind that not all financing options are created equal. Here are some key money tips to help you with the process.

Find a jeweler that offers zero percent interest for financing a ring

When financing an engagement ring focus on finding a jeweler that offers a great deal on financing - as in zero percent! There are jewelers that have their own in-house financing options that offer zero-percent financing. Some may require a minimum purchase amount and some require you to make a cash down payment.

It's important to know that the zero percent rate may only be in effect for a certain period of time. For instance 12 months. So be sure you read and understand the terms and conditions so you know what you’re getting into.

Use a credit card with zero percent interest

You could also use a non-jeweler credit card that offers a zero percent interest rate. Lots of issuers offer introductory rates of zero percent for a period of time.

So do your research to see what offers are available. Again, you want to pay attention to the terms being offered before you sign on the dotted line.

Get a low-interest personal loan

You may also be able to get a low-interest loan from your bank or credit union if you have other accounts with the financial institution or can prove your creditworthiness.

Don’t go with just any jewelry credit card

I would highly recommend that you avoid financing an engagement ring with any jeweler that doesn’t offer some kind of special financing or intro rate.

You also definitely don’t want to sign up for just any credit card because it’s offered to you. This is where you can get into trouble with super high-interest rates. Instead, do your research to find the lowest interest or preferably zero-percent interest.

How to quickly pay off your financing for an engagement ring

Regardless of how you secure financing, you’ll want to pay it off as quickly as you can. It's a good idea to create a plan to pay off your purchase as quickly as possible. Here are some key tips:

Know the terms and create a plan

You can avoid paying a lot in interest if you pay off the balance quickly. If you get a credit card with a zero percent intro rate, you should make sure you can pay off the balance within the length of time specified. You can do this by creating a debt repayment plan.

For example, if you get a card with zero percent interest for 12 months, make absolutely sure you pay your balance in full within the 12 months!

If you go over 12 months, you may have to pay interest from the original purchase date. This is because the interest is “deferred”.

And if you get hit with paying all the deferred interest, this could add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars so you obviously want to avoid this at all costs.

Cut back on non-essential spending

You want to throw as much money at that debt as possible and this means cutting back on non-essential spending. By doing this, you can put all the extra funds towards your paying off the ring. This could mean cutting back on eating, happy hours and etc.

For example, buying a $10 lunch every day of the week adds up to $50 per week. Add in a happy hour on Fridays and there’s another $50. If you cut these expenses you could save up around $100 a week to put towards your ring payments.

That’s almost $400 per month. These small costs can add up big time. It might hurt a little to cut back, but it will be worth it!

Look at your budget together with your spouse so you can work on your plan together. Once you have your ring paid off, keep saving that $400 and invest it for your future!  You’ll never be sorry you saved money.

Alternatives to financing an engagement ring

When it comes to financing an engagement ring, it's worth looking into various alternatives to see if you can save more money. Here are some ideas:

Check out online retailers vs. brick-and-mortar stores

Because online jewelry retailers don’t have to pay for traditional brick-and-mortar stores, they can offer lower prices.

They also usually have larger selections to choose from. If you want to explore an online retailer, make a virtual appointment so you can meet with your jeweler in a virtual showroom and see rings in a super fun atmosphere.

Consider pre-owned rings vs. financing a ring

Another alternative to purchasing an engagement ring traditionally is to check out pre-owned rings. If you’re open to purchasing a used engagement ring you can score really good deals!

Plus once the ring is shined up and polished, no one will ever know! There are lots of people out there looking to sell their engagement rings.

Try out lab-grown vs. natural diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming more popular because they are ethical and more sustainable. Given all the concerns about conflict diamonds and the impact of mining on the environment, this is a great and also budget-friendly option.

It's all about financing a wedding ring the smart way

When it comes to financing your engagement ring, take an honest look at your budget.

Based on this, do your research to find the best terms and then create a plan to pay off your ring as quickly as possible. Ideally, to avoid financing, you can start saving for your dream ring now in cash.

The post Financing An Engagement Ring? Read This First! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Reward Yourself Without Blowing Your Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/reward-yourself/ Wed, 21 Apr 2021 12:56:44 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11391 […]

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Reward yourself

The truth is that you work hard for your money, so it's only fair that you get to reward yourself every now and then, right? Well yes! You definitely deserve to treat yourself and have fun. What girl doesn't love to look good, take nice trips, and enjoy life?!

However, when it comes to rewards and spending money, you want to make sure you are doing it the right way by spending money wisely and not derailing your financial goals or blowing your budget.

Tips on budgeting when rewarding yourself

So, how do you reward yourself and still stay on top of those goals you set? Planning accordingly will prevent you from overspending and keep you on track. Let's get into some key tips!

1. Budget your fun money

All work and no play is never any fun, especially if you are working so hard to earn your money. That being said, working hard and playing excessively can be detrimental when it comes to your finances.

If you are always thinking, "I'm going to get a reward for myself," and feel like you deserve something constantly, it can lead to overspending. This is the biggest culprit for the derailment of many financial goals.

You can avoid this by building your rewards A.K.A your fun money into your monthly budget (once all your essentials have been met in each budget cycle).

This way you don't find yourself feeling like your budget is a punishment because you haven't given yourself any wiggle room.

If you want to purchase something that costs more than your monthly fun money allocation, then plan to save part of your fun money over a few months towards the purchase you want to make. This will result in guilt-free spending, and your financial goals will remain intact.

If you have debt, a great approach is to reward yourself in a small way each time you pay off a chunk of money.

2. If you don't need to spend it, save it

Ever find yourself not wanting or needing to reward yourself all the time? Take that money you have from your budget and repurpose it towards your financial goals.

Put it in your savings or investment account or be charitable. Just because you have put aside money in your budget towards a reward doesn't mean you need to spend it all if you don't really have to.

 

3. Don't get caught up in comparison, be grateful for what you have

Don't feel like you need to spend money to impress anyone. You've probably heard the saying that comparison is the thief of joy and it really is.

Don't spend money you don't need to spend to impress anyone; otherwise, you'll find yourself competing with them and buying things you don't like or need, and they probably won't even notice (and they won't be helping you pay the bills).

Budget-friendly ways to reward yourself

Do you ever think, "I'm going to get a reward for myself," then get caught up in feeling guilty afterward? It's actually important to reward yourself when accomplishing goals.

Doing so makes you happy and can help motivate you to do more. Check out our ideas to treat yourself within your budget!

1. Reward yourself with the things that matter to you

It's important to ensure that you are spending your money on things & experiences that you really want / like and are of value to you as you reward yourself.

Why? Because the more in-tune you are with spending money on the things you value, the less likely you are to feel discontentment, which can lead to overspending.

For example, if you value spending time with loved ones, your fun money can go towards experiences with them, e.g., dinners, movies, etc.

Keep in mind that you don't need to spend money to have a good time. Cue the Netflix and homemade popcorn! You are very likely to find yourself feeling happy, grateful, and content.

However, if you spend your fun money on things you don't really care about, you might end up spending more and more to find that the next best thing doesn't exist because you are not spending your money on what you truly value. You'll still find yourself wishing for the experiences you want to have with your loved ones.

2. Reward yourself for free

As I mentioned above, rewards don't always have to be about spending money. You can reward yourself for free in so many ways!

Examples include finding free entertainment (free museum days and events in your city), having potluck nights in with your friends and family, using any loyalty or rewards points you have accumulated instead of spending cash, etc.

3. Reward yourself with some me-time

One of the best ways to reward yourself is some quality "me-time"! Taking time to do some self-care or try a hobby you've always wanted to do is a great way to treat yourself without spending a bunch of money.

There are many ways to pamper yourself on a budget, such as taking a bubble bath, reading a book, or simply taking time out to relax.

There are also many budget-friendly hobbies to start! Painting, crafting, or even writing a novel are fun inexpensive ways to reward yourself. The important thing is to do something you enjoy with the time you take for yourself.

4. Take a staycation

One of the ultimate ways to reward yourself is to take a staycation. Not only is a staycation less expensive than a traditional vacation it can be more relaxing too.

For instance, not having to hustle through the airport or drive long distances can take quite a bit of stress out of vacationing. Touring your hometown can be quite fun too!

There are also so many great things to do during a staycation that will have you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

For example, you could spend time gardening, going hiking, or visiting a park. However, if you decide to treat yourself to a vacation, be sure to reduce costs by using your cashback rewards and create a vacation budget to prevent overspending.

5. Take a day to do nothing

We live in a nonstop world, and one of the best ways to reward yourself is to take a day and do absolutely nothing. Give yourself permission to be "lazy." Watch movies, sunbathe in the backyard, or nap all day.

You may even take advantage of a digital detox and give yourself a complete break from the outside world, which can reduce stress. You'd be surprised at how much better you feel after taking a do-nothing day.

Try these budget-friendly ways to reward yourself

When you ask yourself, "What's a good reward for me?" be sure to determine if it's going to really make you happy. Again, some of the best ways to reward yourself can be free!

Finding ways to treat yourself that don't blow your budget can help motivate you to achieve more tasks.

One of the biggest rewards you can give yourself is learning how to become financially successful. You can learn how to achieve success with our completely FREE financial courses and worksheets!

The post How To Reward Yourself Without Blowing Your Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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7 Airport Hacks To Save Money While Traveling https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/airport-hacks/ Tue, 23 Mar 2021 10:56:12 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11105 […]

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Airport hacks

Spending money while traveling is much too easy, especially at the airport. That's why it's essential to be prepared with money-saving airport hacks to prevent you from overspending. Have you ever traveled through an airport, realized you forgot something (or were super hungry) and got mad about the price you had to pay for the item you purchased? Well, I've been there, done that.

Airports are a money pit by design. You are forced to pay a premium price on items because you don't have much of a choice if you are waiting for a flight. Retailers capitalize on that fact by charging higher than usual prices for everyday items.

Paying a premium price for food and other items at the airport is a really easy way to waste money that could otherwise be put to better use. For instance, towards your savings or paying down your debt (yup, those small amounts add up).

Avoid money traps with these essential airport hacks!

There are many simple airport tips you can do to stop wasting money and become a frugal traveler. Check out these easy airport hacks to save money on your next trip.

1. Create a travel checklist specifically for the airport

The simplest airport hack to help save money is to make a checklist. When people make travel checklists, they are usually for things that go in their suitcase that they don't want to forget. However, it's also a good idea to make a checklist for your hand luggage too. This list includes things you know you'll need while you are at the airport before your departure, during a layover, or upon your arrival.

A few examples of things that could go on your list include:

  • A variety of dry snacks
  • Travel electronics e.g. headphones, iPad, etc
  • Other entertainment e.g. a great book or magazine
  • Toiletries e.g. toothbrush and toothpaste (if you are traveling long distance), wipes, travel moisturizer, and hand sanitizer
  • A pen and notebook

2. Create a fixed budget for meals

It's super easy to get swayed by all the different food options at the airport. However, if you know you'll most likely be getting something to eat at the airport, then set a fixed budget and let the amount you have budgeted determine what you can buy to eat.

Also, since airports have many chain restaurants, see what coupons you can find before your trip to use at a chain restaurant in the airport. This can save you the overpriced difference in the cost of your food.

To see what restaurants the airport and terminal you are traveling through has, take a look at the airport directory online in advance of your trip. Creating a budget for your meals is a savvy airport hack that will save big bucks.

3. Pack an empty water bottle

Bottled water is one major item that is excessively overpriced at airports. They charge 2 to 3 times more than the average cost for a bottle of water. An easy airport tip to help save money is to pack an empty water bottle (it must be empty to pass through security) then refill it at the various water fountains in the airport or while you are on the plane.

Most airlines won't hand out entire bottles of water, but it's pretty easy to pour the glass of water you are given on your flight into a water bottle and then ask for more!

4. Look for free WiFi first

Surfing the internet can be a great way to kill time when you are waiting for a flight but paying for wifi at the airport is another big money pit. Most airports offer free wifi but with a catch - it's either for a limited amount of time (e.g., 30 minutes at a time), or you'll get access to the internet at a slower speed.

This approach is used to up-sell people into paying for "unlimited" and "faster" wifi, but unless you are working on something that requires a super-fast internet speed, then the free option should work just fine.

Refreshing the wifi to get additional time added only takes a couple of minutes, and you can definitely survive the few seconds difference between page loads on the free wifi vs. the paid version.

If you can't get free WiFi through the airport itself, try checking with the free lounges, coffee shops, or restaurants. Many have their own free WiFi set up. Use this easy airport hack to save money on WiFi.

5. Exchange international currency before you get to the airport

Currency exchange is another thing that can cost a lot of money at the airport. Research online or call your local bank to compare foreign currency exchange costs. It may be cheaper to purchase your currency from the bank instead of at the airport. You might need to order it a couple of days in advance, but this airport tip will save you some money if you plan ahead.

6. Avoid shopping

Don't go shopping in the airport. Items are much more expensive, and you most likely will blow your vacation budget. Pack items such as earbuds or headphones, so you aren't tempted to purchase them during a layover. Remember to pack a book or magazines for something to do besides shopping.

Purchase gifts and other items at your destination to avoid overspending. It's best to avoid going into shops altogether if you can. This airport hack will prevent the temptation of impulse purchases.

7. Skip the bar

Drinking is expensive but even worse at an airport bar. High-priced alcohol and time to kill is the worst combination for your finances. Like shopping, bars should be avoided to stop you from spending your hard-earned cash on overpriced drinks.

If you are simply burnt out on drinking water, then opt for a soda or sparkling water instead of a cocktail. Avoiding bars is a huge money-saving airport hack.

Save a bundle with these airport hacks

Saving money wherever possible while traveling will keep you from busting your budget. These items add up to a pretty significant amount, and that's money that could be put back into your next vacation fund.

Learning how to travel on a budget keeps you from wasting money and makes it possible to travel more often because you have more money to do so. Use these thrifty airport tips for your next vacation and see how much money you save!

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First-Time Dog Owner Expenses To Be Aware Of https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/first-time-dog-owner/ Sun, 14 Feb 2021 11:44:38 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10749 […]

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First-time dog owner

Having a dog can bring so much joy to a home, especially as a first-time dog owner. It comes as no surprise that over 38% of American households own dogs. But as much joy as pets can bring, they also bring plenty of extra expenses. From the cost of food to regular veterinary care and everything in between, the first year of dog ownership can set you back thousands of dollars.

Before adopting your first dog, make sure you know the costs you should expect and how best to budget for them.

Common pet expenses a first-time dog owner should be aware of

Before buying your first dog, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. Not only is pet ownership a huge responsibility, but it can also be a costly one especially as a first-time dog owner.

The first year of pet ownership is often the most expensive. When you adopt a new dog, you take on one-time costs like adoption fees, spay or neuter fees, and more. According to the ASPCA, the average cost of owning a dog in the first year ranges from $1,471 to $2,008, depending on whether it’s a small or large dog.

Some of these expenses go away after the first year, but the annual cost can still certainly reach or exceed $1,000. And when you combine these annual expenses with irregular expenses and emergency vet bills, the average lifetime cost of owning a dog can range from $10,000 for a relatively healthy dog to more than $30,000 for a dog with serious health issues.

Adoption cost

Depending on where you get your dog, there’s a good chance you’ll pay an adoption fee of some kind. Adoption fees can easily cost thousands of dollars from a breeder. Even if you get your dog from a shelter, you can expect to pay an adoption fee, which helps pay shelter staff and keep it up and running.

Spraying or neutering costs

When you adopt a new dog, your vet will likely recommend that you spay or neuter the animal. Shelters often take care of this before adopting an animal out to a family, but dogs that come from pet stores and breeders probably won’t already be spayed or neutered. According to the ASPCA, the cost to spay or neuter a dog ranges from $190 to $220.

Microchip

A microchip is a small chip placed in a pet as a way of identifying its owner. Veterinarians use a needle to place these chips between a dog’s shoulders. These chips display a unique code that is registered to the owner. If your pet runs away or gets lost, a vet can use a microchip scanner to reunite you. Microchipping is relatively affordable — it costs roughly $50 and only needs to be done once.

Home supplies (Bed, crate, leash, collars etc)

When you bring home your new dog, there are plenty of startup supplies you’ll have to purchase. These include a dog bed, crate, leash, collar, dog bowls, toys, etc. You’ll likely have to replace these items over the years, but they’re most expensive in the beginning when you purchase them all at once. These costs can easily set you back hundreds of dollars.

Regular veterinary care

As a first-time dog owner, you have a responsibility to make sure your pet is getting proper veterinary care. You’ll likely pay for annual medical exams, vaccinations, and other preventative care. These visits aren’t terribly expensive but can add up over time.

Medical emergencies

In addition to the regular veterinary care your dog will need, you may also end up paying for emergency veterinary care at some point. Whether your dog eats something they shouldn’t have or suffers from another health problem, these vet visits can cost a lot of money. According to the ASPCA, pet owners should expect to incur at least one $2,000-$4,000 emergency vet bill during their pet’s life. And for some pets, you may end up spending a lot more.

Food and treats

Food for your pet will be one of the largest recurring expenses you’ll have over their lifetime. There’s a wide price range for pet food and treats, depending on how high-end you go. According to the ASPCA, the average annual cost of dog food ranges from $212 to $400 depending on how large of a dog you have, but you could easily spend more by purchasing high-end food.

Training

Many homeowners decide to train their dogs at home, but you can also pay for a training class or individual training. This might be best for first-time down owners who aren’t familiar with dog training. According to the ASPCA, the average training class costs about $110.

Dog daycare or dog walking

If you work long hours outside the home or do any traveling, you might spend money on a doggie daycare, dog boarding, or dog walking services. These expenses are totally optional, but you might find that they fit your lifestyle well. Prices can vary depending on the services you’re paying for.

Grooming

Depending on your dog’s breed, grooming could end up being a significant portion of your annual pet expenses. Certain breeds need to be groomed on a regular basis. Even if your dog doesn’t need regular haircuts, you might still spend the money on baths, nail trims, etc.

Pet insurance

Pet insurance is totally optional, but many pet owners feel it’s worth it, especially in the first year or with dogs prone to health issues. According to the ASPCA, the average annual cost of pet insurance is $225.

Cleaning supplies or services

While cleaning expenses aren’t exactly pet expenses, you might find yourself spending more on cleaning products with a pet. Dogs trail dirt into the house. And when they’re puppies, they may have accidents on carpet and furniture. You may wish to pay for professional cleaning.

Boarding costs

If you decide to take a vacation without your beloved doggie, you need to budget for boarding costs. The main thing to keep in mind is to research what type of boarding is best for your dog and ensure the place has a good reputation. Depending on what kind of boarding you choose can average $20-$50 per night. Keep in mind some sites may offer “add-ons” such as extra playtime, walks, etc.

However, sometimes it’s best to hire an in-home pet sitter. A new environment can cause your pup to have anxiety and stress. It’s actually around the same price for this option, thanks to sites such as Rover and Care. If you decide to take your puppy with you, keep in mind you have to find pet-friendly hotels, and they charge additional fees for animals.

Pet fees if you rent your home

An important cost to keep in mind as a first-time dog owner is pet fees if you rent a home or an apartment. Pet fee costs vary depending on your location. Deposits and fees can range from $100-$500 before you are allowed to move in. Another fee some landlords may charge is “pet rent.” This charge can range from $10-$100 per month.

You must build this into your budget to ensure you can afford the additional cost. Also, if there are damages caused by your dog and they exceed the deposit amount, you will be liable to pay those as well. However, a dog is one of the best roommates you can have, so they are totally worth it.

How to budget for pet expenses

As you can see, pets bring with them a lot of extra costs. There are two different ways you can budget for pet expenses. Both methods are better for different types of expenses, so I recommend using both.

Pet sinking fund

A sinking fund is a way to set aside money each month for annual expenses. For example, suppose you know you spend $1,200 per year on regular pet expenses. You would save $100 per month for your pet sinking fund, and then you’ll always have the money set aside when you need it for regular pet expenses.

Pet emergency fund

It’s to save and budget for regular pet expenses, but it’s impossible to plan ahead for medical emergencies. That’s why, in addition to your pet sinking fund, you can have a pet emergency fund for those unexpected costs. By having a pet emergency fund, you never have to worry about not being able to afford medical care to save your pet’s life.

Tips for the first-time dog owner

Do you research

It’s impossible to tell you exactly how much pet ownership will cost for you. That’s why it’s important to do your research upfront. You can research things like:

  • Adoption costs as your local shelter
  • Grooming and vet costs for the breed you want
  • Daily costs at your local doggie daycare
  • The best food brands and how much they cost
  • Health problems common with the breed you want

Find a vet ahead of time

Veterinary costs will be some of the most important (and most expensive) parts of pet ownership. As a result, it’s worth doing the research to find a vet ahead of time. That way you can bring your new pup to the vet as soon as you adopt them and can build a relationship with a vet you trust.

Prepare your home

Having a pet in your home will definitely be a change. In addition to buying items for your new dog, you might also want to purchase items to protect your home. For example, if there are certain rooms where you don’t want your new dog to go, consider buying dog gates to place around your home.

Consider a microchip

You might think of skipping the microchip when you adopt a new pet, considering it just another unnecessary cost. But you may want to reconsider. A microchip can help reunite you with your pet in case it gets lost or runs away. And while having a dog tag with contact information could do the trick, it doesn’t help you if, for some reason, your dog’s collar comes off. The cost of a microchip is a small one in return for the extra security it provides.

The bottom line

Dog ownership is a huge responsibility. And while most people know that going in, many don’t think about the huge cost that also comes with it. Before you adopt a dog, be sure to research the costs you can expect. Have money set aside in your budget ahead of time so you can buy everything you need for your new pup without worry. Got a cat? Learn more about the specific expenses for first-time cat owners too!

The post First-Time Dog Owner Expenses To Be Aware Of appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Costs To Plan For As First-Time Cat Owner https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/first-time-cat-owner-costs/ Sat, 13 Feb 2021 18:54:37 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10738 […]

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First-time cat owner

I may be biased, but in my opinion, cats are fabulous. My fun little fur-balls have brought me so much joy I feel honored to be a cat mom. However, I had no idea of the costs of a first-time cat owner. I mean, how expensive can a cat be, right? Hopefully, your new cat will be happy and healthy most of its life, but you need to be sure you are financially prepared for your new furry friend.

In my case, I wasn't so lucky, and I've spent over $8,000 in emergency vet bills in the last three years for my three babies. I had no idea how much it would cost for emergency vet visits and wish I had been prepared.

Not only do you need to create a budget to cover the monthly costs of your cat, such as food, litter, supplies, and toys, but you need to be sure you can afford the unexpected costs too. Having pet insurance, an emergency fund, and keeping your pet healthy is a crucial part of being a loving cat owner.

Don't let this discourage you from getting a cat; just prepare yourself financially with these essential tips so you can afford to keep your cat healthy and happy!

The costs of owning a cat

Planning for a new cat takes proper financial planning. Here are the expenses you can expect as a first-time cat owner.

1. Cat owner adoption expenses  

I can't stress enough the importance of adopting a cat instead of purchasing one. The feral cat population in the United States is on the rise, which results in colonies of undomesticated cats fending for themselves for food, shelter, and water. Not to mention the issues of spreading Zoonotic diseases such as rabies. You can stop cat breeding by adopting from your local shelter and have your cat spayed or neutered.

That being said, the fees for adopting a new cat can range from $15-$200 depending on its age, behavior, medical condition, and demand. Another perk of adopting from a shelter is, in most cases, they are already vaccinated and spayed or neutered before adoption. Many people give away cats that you could consider adopting too.

However, keep in mind a "free" cat is never free because you need to ensure they are properly vaccinated and healthy by getting them examed by a veterinarian. ALWAYS be sure to get a copy of a cat's rabies vaccine, and if there isn't one, you need to have them vaccinated as soon as possible. Rabies must be prevented because there is no cure, and it's transmittable to humans.

By adopting instead of purchasing a cat, you will save a precious life and find a wonderful cat that you will love!

2. Pet insurance

I wish I would have invested in pet insurance when I became a first-time cat owner. This could have prevented massive credit card debt and helped cover unexpected expenses. Like other types of insurance, you need to review the different policies to ensure you are covered for the expenses you may need help with later, depending on what issues your cat may develop.

Pet insurance can cover costs such as accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, alternative therapies, chronic conditions, and more. The sooner you get pet insurance, the better because it is less expensive, and some policies won't cover "pre-existing conditions.” Be sure to shop around to get the best coverage for the best price!

3. Emergency savings

I can't stress enough the importance of setting aside an emergency fund for your cat. One overnight stay in the veterinarian hospital cost me $2,900! Of course, this can be lower or much much higher depending on what is wrong with your cat.

It's a horrible feeling not being financially prepared for your furry friend because this can mean life or death, depending on the situation. Having pet insurance can cut these costs, but you need to have funds in place for the gap between what the insurance pays and what they don't.

As a first-time cat owner, the best thing you can do is to start saving immediately. Make it a goal to save your first $1,000 and then build from there. The more you save throughout their life, the better. You never know when you may need that money to help get your cat the best care possible and avoid going into debt!

4. Meals

When it comes to feeding your feline, you want to feed them nutritious meals to prevent health problems and provide optimal nutrition. Certain types of cat food can prevent urinary tract issues, combat obesity, and be overall better for your cat's health. Of course, the range for cat food expenses varies depending on the type of food you buy and your cat’s size.

The average cost to feed one cat is between $15-$60 a month. You can save money by buying your cat food, treats, etc. in bulk from sites such as chewy.com. It's nice to have it shipped right to your door too.

5. Vet visits and grooming

Other expenses to consider when becoming a first-time cat owner are vet visits and grooming. It's essential to get a check-up for your cat at least once a year, even if they seem to be in good health.

Annual check-ups can detect any hidden health issues or hopefully catch a potential problem in its early stages to prevent further conditions. The average cost of a yearly check-up ranges from $45-55 or more. Of course, things such as dental cleanings and other preventative care may add to this amount, depending on your cat's needs.

Cat's are pretty good at keeping themselves groomed. However, it's good to give them a little help when they need it. Keeping their claws trimmed, cleaning their ears, and giving them baths can be very difficult, and it's much easier for both of you to have it done professionally.

They aren't high maintenance when it comes to getting groomed, and the average cost range is only $50-$70 a year. Unless you opt for a poofy long-haired beauty, then they may require a bit more salon time than normal.

6. The cost of a pet credit card

You may decide to open a pet credit card to help with emergencies. However, having pet insurance and an emergency fund should always be put in place to prevent from going into debt. As with any credit card, you want to use it responsibly and pay off the balance as soon as possible.

CareCredit is a specific credit card for pet owners to use in case of emergencies. At times they offer a 6-month deferred interest promotion. This means you pay no interest as long as the balance is paid in full within six months.

However, if it’s not paid in full by the required due date, then all of the interest will be calculated back to the date of the original charge. Interest is expensive and can rack up to hundreds to thousands of dollars in costs! Being financially prepared as a first-time cat owner can prevent you from going into debt.

First-time cat owner tips to keep your cat healthy & prevent expenses

As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Use these tips to keep your cat healthy and prevent costly expenses.

A healthy diet & weight are essential

Just like people, a healthy diet and lifestyle are essential to preventing health issues in your cat. Obesity in cats can cause conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, and joint problems. This can shorten your cat's lifespan and can cause expensive treatment plans or make it harder for them to recover from other illnesses. Do your best to keep your pet at their ideal weight to keep them as healthy as possible.

Routine check-ups & up to date vaccinations

Don't forget your cat needs to have routine check-ups to help catch health issues before they get severe. The longer a condition goes undiagnosed, the worse it can be for your cat. Whether your cat will be indoors or outdoors, there are four core vaccinations they must have to prevent deadly viruses and infections. These are:

  • Rabies
  • FVR/FHV-1—Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus/Herpesvirus 1
  • FPV—Feline Panleukopenia
  • FCV—Feline Calicivirus

There are other essential vaccines outdoor cats require because they are exposed to certain types of diseases indoor cats aren't. Discuss what type of lifestyle your cat will be exposed to with your veterinarian to ensure you properly vaccinate your cat.

Prevent the spread of illness

If you find that you love being a cat owner, you may decide to adopt more kitties. You mustn’t expose your current cat to any cat that may be sick or has unknown diseases. To prevent your cat from contagious viruses, be sure to have your other cat checked by a vet before you let them socialize with each other.

You don't have to leave them out in the cold but put them in another room that your cat can’t access. Taking extreme precautions can save your cat's life and save you thousands of dollars in emergency expenses!

Get financially prepared as a first-time cat owner

Cats are wonderful companions. They have unforgettable personalities and can be pretty independent too. However, adopting a cat is a 15-20 year commitment. Please keep this in mind when thinking of adopting one. They require constant care, and being financially responsible is the kindest thing you can do for your cat. Create a pet owner budget, start saving money, and go save a cute kitty!

P.S. Are you a dog owner too? We break down the top dog expenses to keep in mind as well!

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Should I Buy A New Or Used Car? https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/buy-new-or-used-car/ Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:16:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10571 […]

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Buying new vs used car

Buying a car is a huge decision. Perhaps the biggest debate you are having when it comes to car buying is, "Should I buy a new or used car?".

Many people keep their vehicles for anywhere from five to ten years, so it’s definitely a long-term commitment. You want to make sure you’re getting a good deal, but considering how much time many people spend in their cars, you also want something you’ll enjoy.

In this article, we’ll lay out some of the benefits of each and help you decide which is right for you as you save for your car!

Benefits of buying a new car

When you’re buying your next car, it can be tempting to buy new, and for good reasons. There are several perks that come with buying a new car. Here are some of the benefits of buying a new vs used car.

Better gas mileage

If you’re looking for fuel efficiency in your next vehicle, then you might want to buy a new car. Gas mileage has been steadily improving over time, with new cars generally offering the most miles per gallon. This could be appealing to drivers who spend a lot of time on the road or who are concerned about the environmental impact of their vehicle.

Longer lifespan

According to Car and Driver, vehicles today are expected to last about 200,000 miles — 300,000 if you’re driving an electric vehicle. When you buy a new car without any miles on it yet, you can expect that it’s going to last a lot longer than a car with many miles. If you’re looking for something with longevity, you might be better off buying new.

Better financing

Car manufacturers and dealerships make the most money on new vehicles, so they try to incentivize buyers to go in that direction. To help push you to buy a new car, dealerships often offer better financing for new cars.

New car loans come with lower interest rates, and some dealers even offer 0% financing when you buy new. Over the course of a five-year loan, a few percent can make the difference of thousands of dollars.

Newer technology

Car manufacturers are continually coming out with new technology to help make vehicles safer and more comfortable. When you buy a car that’s more than a few years old, you miss out on many of these features. Buying new is the best way to guarantee your vehicle has the most up-to-date technology.

Warranty coverage

No matter what type of car you buy, you can expect that something will eventually go wrong with it. Something in your car will break down or need to be replaced — it’s inevitable. But when you buy a new car, you’ll typically get a warranty that covers many of the things that could go wrong. With a used car, you may not have access to a warranty, or it may not cover as much.

Benefits of buying a used car

While buying new seems like the obvious choice for some buyers, there are plenty of advantages to opting for a used car instead.

Lower cost

It won’t come as a surprise that buying a used car means you’ll typically pay a lower price. Often you can buy a car that’s just a couple of years old for significantly less than a brand new version of the same car.

If you’re paying in cash, a cheaper car will save you thousands of dollars that you could spend on something else. And if you’re financing, then you can pay a considerably lower monthly payment.

Slower depreciation

You’ve probably heard that cars depreciate quickly. In fact, CarFax data shows that new cars lose as much as 10% of their value in the first month and as much as 20 percent after the first year.

Once you get past that initial drop, depreciation happens more slowly. Even buying a car that’s just a year or two old can help you avoid the most depreciation.

There are a couple of reasons it might be wise to buy a car that’s already lost some of its value. First, when you finance a brand new vehicle, you could be underwater on your loan almost as soon as you drive it off the lot.

This means that you owe more on the loan than the car is worth. The other problem with buying new is that even if you sell just a year later, you’ll recover very little of your investment. But if you buy used, you can get more of your money back when you sell.

Cheaper insurance

Car insurance companies determine your premiums based on how much they expect they’d have to pay out if you file a claim. When you have a cheaper car, it’s cheaper to replace if you total it. As a result, drivers often pay lower insurance rates for driving used cars.

Lower registration fees

Some states base the cost of vehicle registration on the vehicle’s age. Brand new cars have the highest registration fees, and they slowly decrease as your vehicle ages. If you live in a state that calculates registration fees in this way, then you’ll save money each year with a used car.

Should I buy a new or used car?

There’s no hard and fast rule that says you should buy either new or used. As you can see, there are advantages to both, and you’ll find experts on both sides of the debate. Really it comes down to what’s best for you.

First, it depends considerably on what type of car you plan to buy. Certain cars depreciate more quickly than others. If the car you’re eyeing holds its value well, then you might opt to buy new.

Another consideration is what type of financing you can get. The 0% interest rates that some dealers offer can be enticing. And depending on the interest rate you’d get on a used car, the numbers might work out that buying new makes more sense for you.

But ultimately, cars depreciate very quickly, and you can almost always buy a car that’s just a year or two old for significantly less than a brand new car.

So unless there’s a specific reason why buying a new car is a better financial choice, buying used typically makes more sense. If you’re on the fence, shop around for cars and financing and see what options are available.

Factors to consider when buying a car

There’s a lot to consider when you’re buying a vehicle, whether you’re buying a new or used car. Here are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind as you’re preparing to buy.

Downpayment

If you’re financing your next vehicle, you’ll want to save for a downpayment. This will reduce your monthly payment, lower your interest rate, and reduce your chances of being underwater on your car loan.

Keep in mind that the more expensive a vehicle you buy, the more of a downpayment you’ll want to have. According to Edmunds, the average car downpayment was 11.7%.

Credit score

If you’re financing a vehicle, your credit score is going to be very important. First, a bad credit score might prevent you from getting a car loan at all.

And if you can get a loan, the best interest rates are reserved for borrowers with excellent credit. If your credit could use some work, you might consider waiting a while to buy until you can boost your credit score.

Interest rate

The interest rate is one of the most important factors to consider when financing a car. A good interest rate can make the difference of thousands of dollars in savings.

Your best bet is to shop around and get pre-approved before you head to the dealership. That way, you aren’t stuck accepting whatever offer you can get from the dealer.

Cost of ownership

All cars come with their own expenses. The cost of ownership includes insurance, gas, maintenance, etc. Some cars are more expensive than others, so it’s worth doing your research ahead of time. Try to avoid models that are more expensive to repair.

The bottom line

A vehicle is a big purchase, and it’s important to do your research ahead of time to make sure you’re making the best choice for your situation when it comes to buying a new vs used car. Buying new and used both come with their own advantages. The most important thing is choosing a vehicle that fits within your budget.

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15 Best Family Vacations On A Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/best-family-vacations-on-a-budget/ Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:48:51 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10205 […]

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best family vacations on a budget

Family vacations can have a positive impact on your family. Spending time on vacation together not only creates memories but can help to nurture and tighten relationships. Plus vacations are actually good for your health!

A vacation can reduce stress, decrease burnout, and boost happiness for your entire family. That being said, the thought of funding a vacation may have you a bit overwhelmed. The great news is you can absolutely have the best family vacations on a budget!

And when I say "on a budget", that's actually a really good thing. By creating a family budget for your vacation, you can save money, which in turn means you can travel more often and see more destinations with your loved ones. Now, how about that?

Top 15 Budget-Friendly Family Vacations 

Disney World is always at the top of many lists, but there are so many other great places! Here is our list of top destinations for the best family vacations on a budget! You can spend some time looking into each one as you decide where next to go. Road trip anyone?!

1. Assateague Island, Virginia

There’s nothing more majestic than watching wild ponies run the beaches. Viewing the wild ponies is just one of the amazing activities the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge offers. You can ride horses on the beach, go bird watching, and view the wildlife. You can even climb the Assateague Lighthouse for free!

Depending on your budget, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes and hit the water. There are beautiful beaches you can enjoy and have some family fun for free. If you’re adventurous, you can opt to camp out at one of the campgrounds and save money on a motel. Assateague Island is one of the most unique and best family vacations on a budget.

2. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Florida is one of the dream destinations for many families but can get pricey if you’re hitting the big theme parks. However, you can have one of the best family vacations on a budget in Florida without hitting the top tourist spots. Over the years, Clearwater has been named the best beach town in Florida due to its gorgeous white sandy beaches and shallow clear water.

There are tons of things to do in Clearwater, such as dolphin site-seeing, nature parks, and marinas. You can visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for under $30 a ticket. Take in a beautiful sunset on the pier, or maybe enjoy a delicious dinner cruise. If you’re looking to take the kids out for some epic fun, check out the Celebration Station for a fantastic night of laser tag, bumper boats, mini-golf, and more! Clearwater is jam-packed with fun, sun, and relaxation!

3. Boone, North Carolina

There’s no place like Boone, especially if you’re a Wizard of Oz fan. This gorgeous town features the historic Land of Oz Park which only opens twice a year for unforgettable fun. Tickets for Autumn at Oz typically run under $50 each. There are many low-cost things to do and places to visit, such as gardens, museums, and parks.

If you’ve ever wanted to pan for gems, then you should take the family to Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. You get to pan through buckets of dirt to search for gemstones and rocks, and you keep what you find. The adrenaline-seeking families should check out High Gravity Adventure Park for thrilling zip-lining and more. Boone is filled with fun and adventure, making it one of the best family vacations on a budget.

4. Outer Banks, North Carolina

There’s just something charming and wonderful about a small beach town, and you get that and more at Outer Banks, North Carolina. Pack a picnic and head to the beach to enjoy some free fun in the sun. Be sure to visit Jennette’s Pier for beautiful exhibits and a stroll over the ocean waves.

The North Carolina Roanoke Island Aquarium is an epic place to visit. Tickets are inexpensive, and they have amazing conservation programs too. You can tour the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation area and see the sweet turtles they are helping to heal. There are many gardens, parks, and outdoor watersports to enjoy as well. The Outer Banks is one of the most enjoyable and best family vacations on a budget.

5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

There is never a dull moment when you vacation in Myrtle Beach. Tons of fun in the sun and plenty of budget-friendly attractions to enjoy. If your family loves mini-golf, then this is the destination for you. Myrtle Beach is named the world’s mini-golf capital, with over 35-themed miniature golf courses to play at.

Go beachcombing for beautiful shells at Myrtle Beach State Park and view the serene undeveloped side of the beach. You can have some massive fun at Family Kingdom Amusement Park. You will have everything wrapped in one fabulous vacation at Myrtle Beach.

6. Cape Cod, Massachusetts 

One of the most serene places you can visit is Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A popular bucket list adventure is to partake in one of the famous Whale watching tours. You will set out on the deep blue ocean and witness these magnificent creatures up close. Don’t miss a visit to Lighthouse Beach for a gorgeous stroll next to the ocean and maybe even enjoy some kite flying.

Take a trip to the Heritage Museum & Gardens for beautiful blooming flowers and take a ride on the vintage carousel. If you are a seafood lover, then trying the clam chowder while visiting Cape Cod is an absolute must. Cape Cod offers beautiful natural sites, delicious food, and fun activities.

7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

If you are searching for lush landscapes, love animals and nature, then Yellowstone National Park is for you. To keep from spending too much on lodging, you can visit when it’s warmer and camp instead. Most venture to Yellowstone to witness the awe-inspiring “Old Faithful” geyser that erupts up to 20 times per day.

However, this gorgeous park is also adorned with rivers, waterfalls, and lakes. You can admire the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone River, which runs about 20 miles long. Watching wildlife is breathtaking, and you can see everything from grizzly bears to moose. This is one of the most mesmerizing vacations you will experience.

8. San Diego, California

Head out to San Diego for a fun-filled family vacation. Although California is known for its luxurious status, there are many terrific low-budget and free things to do in this city. One of the must-see places is called the Children’s Pool. Its original purpose was for a place for kids to swim, but now it’s an amazing spot to watch seals.

Of course, there are many beautiful beaches to spend your sunny days and parks to visit. You can rent a pedal boat and cruise up and down the bay. You can also take a fun and affordable harbor cruise that passes Coronado Bridge and possibly encounter some sea lions. San Diego can be one of the best family vacations on a budget.

9. Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital is one of the best family vacations on a budget. The Smithsonian Museums are free to tour, and there are quite a few to visit. Some of the favorite museums to tour are the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air & Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History. If you’re an animal lover, then you and your family will love the Washington D.C. Zoo, and admission is FREE!

You can schedule a tour of the White House, visit the Congress Library, and even go see where money is printed at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing. There is even a beautiful Botanic Garden to surround yourself with gorgeous plants and flowers. Washington, D.C. is packed with tons of entertainment, history, and sites.

10. South Padre Island, Texas

Are you craving some fun in the sun on a gorgeous island? Then South Padre Island is your family's next destination! Beautiful beaches, nature trails, and parks are a few things you can enjoy at this wonderful vacation spot. South Padre Island is also the home of America’s largest outdoor sandcastle! Don’t forget to stop at Sea Turtle, Inc. to visit the adorable Sea Turtle Exhibit.

Take the kids and have a blast at Beach Park. Ride the water coaster for a thrilling experience or give body-boarding a shot on the surf rider. If you need a break from the sun, then check out the Museums of Port Isabel. The sites include the Treasures of the Gulf Museum, the Port Isabel Lighthouse, and the Port Isabel Historical Museum. There’s no denying that South Padre Island is an unforgettable vacation experience.

11. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, then Steamboat Springs is the perfect vacation. Relax in the soothing hot springs after a fun day of horseback riding, skiing, and tubing. You can zoom down the mountain on the thrilling Mountain Coaster. You can also slow down with a serene scenic Gondola ride up the mountain. One of the most magical experiences available is the horse-drawn sleigh ride.

Steamboat Springs even offers great activities for Summer vacationers. You can spend the day at one of the Burgess Creek Beaches and soak up some sun. Take an afternoon and enjoy wildflower viewing, hiking, and biking. You can finish up your day with a round of mini-golf too. Steamboat Springs is a wonderland waiting for you to explore.

12. Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

One of the best vacations to escape everyday life’s hustle and bustle is Blackwater Falls, State Park. No matter what season you head to Blackwater Falls, you will find many fun-filled activities to enjoy. Camping, whitewater rafting, hiking, and horseback riding are all available to partake in. You can explore the mountains via a Steam-Locomotive and view the wildlife like you never have before.

Experience a view like no other with one of the amazing Aerial Tours. There’s also zip-lining and Winter sports such as tubing and skiing too! Blackwater Falls State Park is sure to be a memorable family vacation.

13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee 

There is so much to do in Gatlinburg that you and your family may have trouble deciding where to start. One of the most raved about attractions is the famous Titanic Museum. This one-of-a-kind self-guided tour features over 400 artifacts directly from the ship and passengers, and they are valued at a whopping $4.5 million. You will also see a replica of the Grand Staircase, touch a real iceberg, and shovel coal in the boiler room.

There are many low-cost activities to relish in, such as feeding the ducks at The Old Mill, catching a flick at Forge Cinemas, and taking in the views at the Friendly Falls. Gatlinburg is definitely one of the best family vacations on a budget.

14. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City offers a ton of free things to do for the whole family! After a great day at the beach, you can catch a free movie at one of their movie on the beach events. You can even strap on some roller skates and hit the free skate bash for some retro fun. Take a relaxing evening stroll down the infamous boardwalk and check out the sites.

If your yearning for some thrills, then head to Jolly Roger Amusements for great rides with an ocean view! Are you looking to add some strange and odd entertainment to your vacation? Then head to Ripley’s Believe It or Not 2-story museum for a fun but bizarre evening. Ocean City is a perfect choice for a budget-friendly family vacation.

15. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 

A visit to Grand Canyon National Park will take your breath away. You will experience beautiful hiking on various trails for wonderful views of the canyon. You can enjoy a smooth water rafting down the Colorado River and experience the canyon from a different view. The lure of Havasu Falls majestic beauty requires a 10-mile hike and an overnight camping trip, but travelers rave that it is one of the most beautiful sights at Grand Canyon.

One of the most unique experiences is the Grand Canyon Skywalk. This semi-circle bridge extends 70 feet out over the canyon and is equipped with glass floors, allowing you to view the canyon from 4,000 feet above! You will need to budget for this venture because tickets are a little pricey starting from $60 a person. The Grand Canyon National Park is full of adventure for the whole family.

Budget savvy vacationing tips

You can save a bundle of money on vacation by traveling frugally. You should be mindful of your budget while vacationing, and these tips and tricks will make it easier to stick to your budget but still have fun.

1. Travel during the “off-season”

You wouldn’t believe the amount of money you can save by adjusting what season you take your family vacation. Hotels, airlines, and resorts will give major discounts during their off-season to try to get travelers to book vacations to fill these spots. You can also find deals on tickets to amusement parks and various attractions at discounted rates too. Check out sites such as booking.com to find great deals on your next vacation.

2. Find low-cost & free things to do

Thanks to the internet, it’s never been easier to find low-cost & free things to do on vacation. Simply google free things to do or budget-friendly things to do and input the city you are staying in, and you will find an array of wonderful activities to enjoy and sites to see. Don't forget your summer reading list!

3. Cook your meals & hit the dollar menu

Eating out can get expensive and blow your vacation budget fast. Although it may cost more, try to find a discounted room with a small kitchen so you can cook your meals rather than dining out the whole time. When you do eat out, opt to order from the dollar menu from fast-food chains rather than ordering meals. This can save a bit of money, and you can enjoy a dinner out instead of all three meals.

4. Save for your vacation

The last thing you want to do is rack up a ton of credit card debt by taking a vacation. You may have to reserve rooms, airline tickets, or car rentals with a credit card but be sure to pay off the balance, so you don’t pay high interest on your purchases.

To set yourself up for financial success and avoid debt, you should save for all purchases rather than charge them on your credit cards. You can make saving money fun with one of these awesome money-saving challenges to help you save for your dream vacation!

You can have a fabulous family vacation on a budget

By learning how to budget for your family vacations, you'll be able to have an incredible family travel experience! Just because something is budget-friendly or free doesn’t mean it isn’t fun and exciting. Sometimes the best things in life are free so revel in your newfound money-saving journey. Plus, you'll get to enjoy it with the ones you love most!

If you're searching to take more vacations, free yourself from debt, and be financially successful, check out our free personal finance courses and resources! Have a blast on your next best family vacation on a budget!

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Find The Best Low Cost Or Free Check Cashing Place https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/check-cashing-places/ Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:33:15 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=9716 […]

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Check cashing places

Before the universal use of credit cards, checks were the go-to choice. Although many businesses no longer accept checks, they’re still a fairly common way to send and exchange money. One of the main advantages is that by using checks, you can pay without having to carry exact or large amounts of money. This makes using checks much easier than their using cash.

So what happens when you receive a check? You need to deposit or cash it! Let’s chat about how it works and the best low cost or free check cashing places.

How does check cashing work?

Yes, that little rectangle of signed paper still has value in this day and age. Assuming the issuer filled it out correctly and has sufficient funds in their account it's a simple process. All you need to do is sign it and claim your money at a nearby check cashing place. However, it’s not always quite as simple as that—there may be fees or limitations.

The best check cashing places near me

The whole point of writing or receiving a check is for the convenience of it, right? So you don’t want to mess around with check cashing places that are far away or charge exorbitant fees.

Your local bank

If you have a bank account, definitely visit there first. Most banks allow you to deposit or cash your check for free as a perk of being their customer. They can offer this because they make money from the account you hold with them. Some banks also allow account holders to cash checks via ATM. These ATMs are generally located at one of the bank’s physical locations. Since your bank may offer your fee-free check cashing privileges, you should always check there first.

A local credit union

Credit unions are less driven by profit than banks. As a result, they are less likely to charge a fee to cash your check. If you’re already a member of a credit union, start there. Plus, many credit unions are connected to a wider “shared branching network”. This allows you to cash checks with partner branches, even if you’re not a member of that specific credit union.

The check issuer's bank

If your bank or local credit union doesn’t cash checks, consider contacting the check writer’s bank. The money is being drawn from that bank anyway, so they might be willing to cash it for you.

Imagine you held a garage sale and someone wrote a check for one of your big-ticket items. Their check would say their bank (or credit union) name in the bottom left corner, just above the memo line. If it says “Chase Bank,” you can stop by your nearest Chase branch and get your money. The teller will be able to verify the account balance has enough funds to cover the check’s amount.

Unless you’re a customer with this bank, they may charge you a fee to cash your check. They might have a flat rate per check ($5-10), a percentage based on the check amount (such as 10%), or a fee for higher check values (such as $10 to cash checks valued at more than $50). You can call, check online, or ask the teller in-person before committing to the transaction.

As a non-customer, the bank might only offer you a prepaid debit card in place of cash. This might suit you if you don’t have any other options, but be sure to review the terms and conditions because the cards might come with monthly maintenance fees or expiration dates. If that’s the case, it’s likely worth finding a better check-cashing place.

Local retailers 

If banks aren’t an option or you’re going to be out shopping anyway, you might be able to cash your check at a local retailer. Some may do it for free, but most stores will charge some sort of fee. Occasionally they’ll offer store credit, which could be a good option if you already shop there regularly for items you need, like groceries.

The pro for the store: with more cash in the hands of their customers, you might spend more than if you weren’t able to cash your check. The con for the retailer: bad checks and check fraud are a real risk.

Some retailers limit the type of check they’ll cash—such as payroll checks, cashiers’ checks, and money orders—in an attempt to mitigate their risks. Each store has a different cashing policy and a quick trip to the customer service counter should give you the clarity you need to make your decision.

Walmart and Kmart

Walmart can cash larger-value checks than many retailers and accepts a wider variety of check types. The Walmart Check Cashing charges a flat rate of $4 for each check valued up to $1,000 and $8 for each check greater than $1,000.

You can cash up to $5,000 each day. The daily cashing limit increases to $7,500 from January to April to accommodate holiday money and tax refund checks. However, only personal checks up to $200 are accepted at these Walmart money centers.

If there’s a Kmart near you and you’re a member of their “Shop Your Way” rewards program, you can cash your check for less than $1 per check. While they accept fewer check types than Walmart, it’s more affordable. Bring your payroll and government checks of up to $2,000, or personal checks up to $500.

Gas station travel centers

Gas stations have had the same problem of check fraud as many retailers, so fewer are willing to cash checks nowadays. Your local gas station might still be willing to cash your check, but the travel center next to it would be a more likely bet. (FYI: Gas station travel centers are essentially truck stops, most often found along the highway.) Pilot Flying J and TravelCenters of America are the two best-known travel centers, so consider these if you happen to be on the road.

Using an app

The Check 21 Act, passed in 2004, allows banks to take pictures of checks in order to process them electronically. This allowed for big progress in mobile banking apps. While this method won’t give you your money immediately, it’s a lot easier than driving around town looking for a physical location that will cash your check. (If you do want your money more quickly, but don’t need the cash-in-hand, your bank or credit union might have their own app, which you can use to deposit your check. These generally process more quickly than third party apps.)

PayPal

We all know of PayPal—it’s one of the OG online payment processors. But you might not know that they can cash your check for you. (With help from their partners, First Century Bank, and Ingo Money.)

All you do is upload a picture of the front and back of the endorsed check. You pay a fee—1% for government and payroll checks that have a pre-printed signature, or 5% for any other checks (with a minimum fee of $5 per check). You’ll find the money in your PayPal account within three business days. If you’re really not in a rush and hate the idea of paying to get your money, you can wait 10 days to receive the funds and they’ll waive the transaction fee.

You can cash multiple checks totaling up to $5,000 per day and up to $15,000 per month. Your money will live in your PayPal account until you transfer it to your bank account, a debit card, or a prepaid card.

IngoMoney

PayPal entrusts their check cashing tech to IngoMoney. If you’re willing to download an extra app, or just don’t like PayPal, IngoMoney could be a good route to take. It has a few more options for redeeming your money, including direct deposit, PayPal account, prepaid debit card, Amazon gift card, online bill pay with retail credit cards. You can even choose cash pickup at participating MoneyGram locations or split the balance between multiple redemption options. The deposits are nearly immediate and the bill pay goes through the next day.

Using the same upload process like PayPal, you’ll pay slightly different fees. Be prepared to pay $5 for handwritten personal checks valued at less than $100, or 5% for balances higher than $100. It’s $5 for pre-printed payroll and government checks valued at less than $250, or 2% for balances higher than $250. As with PayPal, you can avoid processing fees for both check types if you’re willing to wait 10 days to receive the balance. Just note, if you choose this delayed method, you can only redeem the balance with a single account.

Transact by 7-Eleven

7-Eleven has a special app, Transact by 7-Eleven that offers all kinds of functionalities, including cashing checks. (They also use the same First Century Bank and Ingo Money technology.)  If you shop at 7-Eleven often, this could be a good option. Upload a photo (you know the drill by now) and the balance from your check goes directly onto your reloadable prepaid 7-Eleven card. You can use this card in-store, on gas, or anywhere that accepts Debit Mastercard.

If you need the cash once the check clears, you can visit any Allpoint Network ATM or an ATM with a Trans@ct logo to withdraw cash without any fees. It’s a little unclear on their website what fees are included for recharging the card or to process checks, so call customer service or proceed with caution when using the app.

What you need to know about cashing a check

Despite so many options, both in-person and on your smartphone, not much has changed over the years when it comes to cashing your check. Above all else, you need to sign the back (aka endorse it) to receive your payment. It’s important to note that only the person whose name is on the check can cash it. (If you want your spouse to be able to cash your check, you need a joint bank account.)

You should also verify a few areas on the front of the check front before heading to the bank or your check cashing venue of choice. Be warned: If any of the information is incorrect, you won’t be able to cash your check and claim your money.

The check’s dollar amount fields—the long-form and numeric—should also match. The check writer also needs to sign the check on the bottom right corner, which essentially activates the check.

If you’re able to, cash the check sooner than later. You might have issues getting the check cashed if it’s older than 180 days. That said, if you get a check that’s future-dated (for your birthday or payday), you can’t cash it until the date on the check arrives.

Do your research

Call ahead. Especially if it’s a smaller venue, you should be able to catch a real person on the phone (as opposed to an automated system with endless key-in options). Ask about their fees, what’s needed in order to cash the check and any other information they can give you. It’s better to have the conversation from the comfort of your home than to drive all the way there only to find out it’s not the right fit.

Have the right identification

Pretty much anywhere you go in-person, you’ll need to show I.D. Your driver’s license is the standard, but any legal I.D. should work. If it’s a government check, you might need proof of your Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number. One advantage of cashing with apps is that your identity is “pre-approved,” so you don’t have to worry about remembering identification each time.

Know the daily redemption limit

As mentioned above, each method of check cashing and each of the check cashing places have their own limits depending on check type and dollar amount. Call ahead or look online if it’s a special case and take note of the regular transactions you make. You don’t want to commit to a provider only to discover you’re over their limit.

Know what types of checks the establishment will cash

Government checks are viewed as “safe” (or unlikely to bounce), so you should have fewer issues as long as the name written on the check matches your legal I.D. These checks include tax refunds, Social Security benefits, stimulus payouts, and other checks from the U.S. Treasury or your local government.

Handwritten (vs computer-printed) personal checks are seen as risky. The processor has no way of knowing whether the person who wrote that check actually has the money listed. Sometimes an extra window of verification is needed, so plan accordingly if you urgently need your money.

Start cashing your checks

Checks are here to stay, at least for the foreseeable future. Armed with this new knowledge, do a quick search for all the “check cashing near me”. Based on this you can decide which is the cheapest, most convenient option for you and your check cashing needs.

The post Find The Best Low Cost Or Free Check Cashing Place appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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