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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Earth Day is a great time to add a little green into your pocket and back into the Earth. However, a lot of people never really know what to do to make their Earth Day celebration count. For many, new ideas may seem expensive or too complicated to try which causes them to push aside the holiday and move on to the next. Earth Day doesn’t have to be anything but fun though. Instead of worrying about price consider green ideas that may actually bring money back into the house. If you’re still at a loss, here’s ten fun ideas that can turn Earth Day into one of the most frugal holidays of the year.

1. Don’t Drive Solo
One of the biggest contributions to environmental problems is how many cars are on the road. Our carbon footprints are getting bigger and bigger every day because we burn so many natural resources when we don’t have to. This Earth Day you may want to organize a carpool within your workplace or your child’s school. If you can, don’t even drive at all. Try to plan your route using public transportation. A transit pass is easy to get and may even save you quite a bit of money. Of course, you don’t have to simply stick with motorized transportation as a whole. If a location isn’t too far away you can always try cycling or walking to the destination in order to be even more green. With all of these changes you won’t spend as much on gas, you’ll get into better shape and you may even feel better about the part you play in making the environment cleaner for future generations.

2. Garden
One of the more obvious choices for Earth Day is to plant something. Trees are usually the more common item to plant, but many end up costing a lot of money. However, if you do have extra money to purchase a tree then it makes a great investment for both you and the environment. Trees can help shade the home when they’re large enough which is great for cooling costs in the summer and makes spending time outdoors a lot more bearable in the summer heat. If you choose a tree that produces fruit or nuts then you’ll be able to use these items in the household which also brings down living costs. If a tree isn’t your cup of tea then starting a little garden could makes things a lot of fun. Fruits and vegetables grown in the home can be healthier and they help cut down on the costs of produce you have to buy in the store. They also allow you to teach kids how to grow their own food, which could be beneficial when they grow up. If taking care of plants isn’t on your list of things to do then perhaps plant some flowers in the yard. Even low maintenance flowers help with the environment and will make your home look more valuable.

3. Recycle
Implementing recycling in your home is a great step towards progress when it comes to the environment. Most homes will have assigned recycling bins for as assortment of items to be disposed of. This is great for all of your school or work papers, milk jugs and other plastic, cardboard or paper items that your household uses on a daily basis. Of course, most locations will also allow you to bring in some plastics, glass and metals with a refund value. This is a great way to get back the extra CRV money that some locations charge on items like these, which can go back into the household. Of course, recycling doesn’t just mean dealing with the basics. A lot of the electronics we throw in the trash can also be recycled. Look around for places that accept printer cartridges, batteries, computer, discs and anything else you think may be recyclable.

4. Skip Water Bottles
Many of us believe that water bottles can be recycled so we use them every day and put them in the bin expecting them to be turned into something else. The fact of the matter is, a lot of the time, most of the bottle isn’t even recycled. So, lots of these bottles end up in a landfill adding even more pollution to the planet. The worst thing is, they take forever to break down, so the landfills keep piling up. So, instead of picking up that convenient package of water bottles at the grocery store, you may want to look for a more environmentally friendly way to keep your family supplied with fresh water. One simple way is to add a filter to all of your home’s faucets. These don’t cost much and will give everyone drinkable water whenever they turn on the tap. Another way is to use gallon jugs to purchase water from water stores. As soon as you begin using one of these methods you’ll quickly realize how much money you’re saving as well as how little you’re wasting each month.

5. Don’t Toss Out Food
We tend to waste so much in our households. From leftovers at dinner to purchasing items we just don’t like. A lot of food ends up in our garbage which isn’t great for the environment or our budgets. A lot goes into producing food so every time it goes to waste it is like slapping Mother Earth in the face. Instead of simply packing up leftovers and expecting the family to enjoy them again you may want to try turning them into something new and exciting. Create on the go frittatas with vegetables leftover from dinner. There’s lot of recipes online so have fun discovering new things. If you’re a fan of juicing then use the pulp to help you out in the kitchen. For instance, vegetable pulp can be used as a broth for most soups and fruit pulp is great for giving baked goods a sweeter kick. If the items have gone bad in the fridge or aren’t something your family will eat or that you can give to someone needy then start up a compost to help with your garden or a community garden.

6. Go Paperless
It seems like every day people get lots of mail that could easily be handled online. From bank statements to bills, there’s an option for most of this paperwork to be emailed to you each month. In most cases you can call and ask for this option, but many businesses will also have the option on their website. A lot of stores have also began to email receipts to their returning customers, which helps cut down on the paper wasted from each transaction you make. Although it may not save you a whole lot of money to use this option, it will save on the amount of paper shredding and recycling you must do as well as how much damage you do to the plant. Of course, not all of our paper mail and receipts are our choice. Credit card companies are always sending out new offers which waste an extraordinary amount of paper each year. One way to help cut down on this is to get on the website and take your name off of their mailing list. It may take a month or two to kick in, but once it does, checking your mail may not be quite as frustrating. In the household you should think about using less paper products as well, such as paper plates and paper towels, which shouldn’t be too difficult of a change.

7. No Meat Monday
Recently, a Meatless Monday movement was created to help cut down on the carbon footprint people are currently leaving behind. The movement calls for families to give up eating meat one day out of the week. It doesn’t have to be Monday, nor does it have to be just one day out of the week. It does, however have to be at least once a week. By getting every household to do this we will be removing the same amount of pollution from the planet as we would by removing millions of cars, which is a little extraordinary. Of course, cutting out meat from just one meal can also help you save some money as the meat component of a meal is usually more expensive. After seeing the savings and possible health benefits you may want to cut down meat from one day to two. There’s a lot of meatless recipes online to try out too and whole websites dedicated to making the transition easy for anyone willing to try!

8. Energy Efficient Upgrades
If you have some spare cash to part with then it may be time to upgrade some of your home’s appliances to energy efficient. If you’re not sure where to start then consider the items in your home that get used the most. For instance, the refrigerator is constantly running so it may be a great place to start. Other household items you can buy that are energy efficient are washers and dryers. Electronics are also a great place to start when it comes to the upgrades, especially televisions and laptops that may be used more often. These items are a great way to treat yourself during Earth Day because they cut down on electricity substantially, which means lower bills for you and a smaller carbon footprint too.

9. Keep It Local
When you decide to shop, try to keep local as much as you possibly can. Farmer’s Markets are great places to go for food shopping and will allow you to enjoy some amazing fruits and vegetables that aren’t filled with pesticides nor are they overpriced. Purchasing locally helps remove all of the transportation fees that are always tacked on to food so you get a better deal each time you go shopping. Shopping locally isn’t just about your budget though, even though that’s a pretty awesome incentive. It also helps keep your local economy going strong which benefits your community. With a strong local economy comes even more savings for you.

10. Thrift Stores
One of the easiest things you can do to cut down on spending and save the environment is to actually do some shopping! Thrift store shopping is a great way to cut down on unnecessary manufacturing while also keeping your clothing budget down. You can also find some of the necessities at thrift stores like items for the kitchen. Toys, books, movies and some electronics are also available here which can really change the way you enjoy your free time without costing you a fortune. The best things is, the money you give to thrift stores goes for a good cause so all of your shopping does a world of good. Of course, the thrift store works both ways. Where you can purchase items, you can also donate items which goes to help those around you. Donating items isn’t just a great way to give to a charity but it can also offer you tax deductions at the end of the year. Of course, giving up some of the clutter in your home to someone who can use it is also a great incentive. This helps cut down on the amount in landfills too as throwing away old clothes and other item adds to the waste that is causing immense damage to the planet.

Earth Day can be a great time to teach your family great ways to have fun and save the environment. With a few cheap adjustments to your life, even your green living can help make your budget flourish all the more. So, this Earth Day, make an extraordinary plan to help your family understand the importance of the holiday while saving money.

Chances are, you probably have quite a bit of stuff laying around that doesn’t exactly serve a purpose. May it be the item was broken quite some time ago or you just don’t like the way it looks anymore; these items tend to pile up in our storage areas. Often, we even replace them when we find something new and shinier even if we don’t get all of the value out of our older item. This doesn’t have to be the case! In fact, you can take all of those items and give them a little update to fit the needs of your home now. You’ll find you save a lot of money this way because you won’t feel the urge to go out and shop for new items. Not to mention, many of the refurbishing crafts will cost you little to nothing!

1. Furniture
Furniture tends to last in the home a lot longer than most things, which is why it’s easy to get attached to some items. Just because an item is broken doesn’t mean you have to toss it out though, so if you do particularly love a piece upscale it when you have a chance! For instance, chairs are one of the best examples since you can do so much with them! One great idea is to take a chair that has a broken leg and transform it into a swing. This is very kid friendly and you can place it just about anywhere. A broken chair can also be used to create a bench, especially if you have multiple chairs looking for a special upgrade. You may also wanted to pull the backs off of a slatted chair to use it as a hanger. These are perfect for scarves and belts. Tables are also easy to upscale. For instance, you can easily cut down the legs of a beat up table for children to use as a play table. You may also want to cut a long table in half to create smaller corner desks. Of course, you could always sand down damage and refinish it as a new dining table or use it has a ping pong table! Finally, you can remove the springs from a broken mattress and use the core as a display for jewelry, art or notes. Also, old suitcases can be used as tables, filing bins and even a medicine cabinet!

2. Clothes
Sometimes, we just can’t bear to part with the band shirts or jeans that we wore in freshman year. Although they may be ratty, old and long out of fashion they hold our hearts and seeing them in the trash or headed for donation is pretty heartbreaking. There’s an easy solution though. Try taking those old t-shirts (or any fabric) and turning them into a blanket or pillow. Some of the tasks require some skills on the sewing machine, but there’s many DIY blankets that require no sewing at all! The rest of the shirt can be used as a rag or a cute bracelet or headband! You can also take old jeans and cut them up for shorts or to use as razor sharpeners. A few swipes up and down after each use can make your blades last longer, thus bringing you even more savings.

3. Kitchen Supplies
A lot of your old kitchen supplies such as, broken plates, tea cups and silverware to begin with, can be transformed into works of art or something amazing for the garden. For instance, broken plates or bowls can be used as identifiers in the garden which will help you keep your crops straight. Bowls and glasses can also be used as indoor or outdoor planters which will definitely come in handy. Tea cups, saucers and bowls can be strung up and used as quaint bird feeders or a cute art piece. Items that are too broken to use can be salvaged into mosaic art projects which will look great in or out of the home. Finally, you can use silverware to make beautiful wind chimes that will add a soothing touch to your porch. These items can also be transformed into jewelry with the proper tools and tutorials!

4. Jewelry
Although we like to think we’ll always want to wear something when we buy it, it isn’t realistic. If you keep up with fashion trends then you probably have a box filled with items that aren’t exactly the style anymore. Sure, you can give these pieces to donation or try to sell them all, but there’s a lot of other cooler things you can do too! You can easily turn them into other pieces of jewelry. Simply take them apart and place them together for a more fashionable look you can be proud to call your own. You can also use them as hair accessories by gluing pieces to bobby pins, barrettes and headbands. Each of the jewelry pieces can also be used as a work of art that makes the home look amazing. For example, you can create a beaded chandelier or mobile that will instantly gain attention in your home! These items can also be glued to a magnet for your message board or refrigerator. If you don’t want to keep the items personally then they make great gifts!

5. Art Supplies
With kids in the home it’s hard not to have broken crayons all over the place. Art supplies tend to break quickly, so we end up buying more which just adds to the collection. Rather than going out and adding to the vicious cycle, grab your crayons and melt them into one. You can do this based on color or you can even work with layers. You can even store the new crayons in old lipstick or glue stick containers for an easy way to make arts and crafts even more fun, frugal and recycled. To add some fun to the new crayons, melt them into cookie cutters for fun shapes! You may also want to look for old dried out markers. Simply place them in some water and you’ll instantly get some fun water colors for your children to play with. Better yet, this is a whole lot easier to clean off tables and even carpet!

6. Shoes
Worn out shoes are another major thing that seems to take up space in our closets. It’s pretty easy to come up with an excuse to buy new shoes, but there are some ways to upcycle some of your more worn out pieces. For instance, if you have an old pair of slip-ons then it’s easy enough to remove some of the worn out fabric and create a cozy pair of sandals that may offer more support than any pair you may buy! Flip flops are easy to upcycle too! Simply remove the broken area from the sole of the shoe and replace it with an old braided t-shirt or other item. This is easier than it sounds and it’ll be a lot more comfortable than a lot of flip flop brands.

7. Decor Items
A lot of our decor items can be used for other purposes too! Picture frames are a great example of this as they can be used for so many different things! For instance, you can easily remove the glass and string wire on the frame to hold your favorite pieces of jewelry, post cards or photographs. This is perfect for dorm rooms especially as the frame won’t take up as much room as other storage devices. You can also use the picture frame as a nice service tray. Simply find something strong to use as a back and you’re good to go! If you happen to come across a broken guitar then this could easily be altered and turned into a shelf for some of your lighter decorative pieces. Finally, an old globe can be used for a variety of things. Try cutting it in half to use as a fun light in a child’s bedroom or in a study. You can also flip it over to use as a bowl or planter.

8. Exterior Goods
There’s a lot you can do with the items from outside that may just be sitting around rusting. A rake, for instance, can be hung on the home and used to hold some of your gardening supplies. Of course, you’ll probably want to stick with a metal rake for this task as plastic grows brittle over time and may not hold up your items anyway. Broken flowerpots can also be used as identifiers for your garden using a marker or paint. An old ladder, metal or wooden, looks great as a bookshelf. You can alter these many ways so if you’re low on creative ideas then browse online to see all of the incredible ideas. If you have recently replaced your bike tire or you have an old bike you no longer use then there’s a whole lot you can do with a wheel. For starters, you can use it to hang pots and pans from the ceiling! You can also make a cute custom mobile for the nursery. Finally, if you love spending some time crafting, you can make a large dreamcatcher that everyone will love to marvel at. Another great item to use is an old tennis racket which can be turned into a mirror or picture frame. Old tools can also be bent and used as hooks for hanging up coats and umbrellas.

9. Entertainment
A lot of homes are still filled with vinyl records, CDs and DVDs! Although these items are great to have, sometimes they are too scratched to enjoy or we just don’t use them anymore. Instead of tossing them out you may want to see if you can make something out of them. For instance, vinyl records look amazing on a game/bar room wall. Discs also make great additions to the walls or ceiling of a teenager’s room, especially if the shiny side isn’t too damaged. Finally, if you still have disc holders then change them into a cord holder. You’ll get a lot less tangles this way and they become much easier to store!

10. Recyclables
Even the items in your recycle bin can be upcycled. For starters, items like milk jugs, lotion bottles and other large or round containers can be used as storage or as a planter! Simply cut the plastic tops off and you’re ready to organize the entire home or enjoy some homegrown herbs! Toilet rolls are also a must save item! You can turn them into holders for your ear buds, charger cables and any other wires on your desk. Simply place to the toilet rolls in a box and you’re ready to keep your supplies tangle free! Drink holders are also a must keep! These items can easily be used to hold your household’s condiments (it especially makes getting them to the dinner table easier), crafting supplies and other dolls. Water bottles are perfect for holding dry goods, especially the larger bottles which you can mark for easy measuring! Old credit cards can be transformed into colorful guitar picks with just a few snips of your scissors. Finally, bottle caps can be turned into coasters, containers and even jewelry.

Finding old items around the house that aren’t being used are pretty common. However, what you do with the items doesn’t have to be. With these tips you should be able to turn your home into an upcycled work of art without putting a whole lot of money into the process. With all of these savings, plus the savings from shopping less, you’ll have a bigger budget to work with in no time!

You don’t have to be a mechanic to ensure your car is running smoothly! In fact, a lot of people skip out on some of the basic things you can do for your car because they believe they’re too hard to accomplish! There’s actually a lot you can do with your car to make sure it stays on track though, which helps you rake in the savings every year that your car doesn’t have to pay a visit to the shop. Although some things are out of our control, you’ll be delighted to know that preventive care goes a very long way and doesn’t cost you a lot of money to do! So, stop stressing over mechanic bills and try out these ten tips to make your car even better!

1. Change Your Oil
This is one of the top things on the list and should be done every 3 months at the least! It’s actually not hard to do, so don’t work yourself up before trying it out. The first thing you should do is learn how to check your oil. This is one of the easiest things to do and there’s lots of tutorials online. If you’re ready for an oil change then stop by a department or auto shop, that offers great prices, and pick up what you need. If you’re not sure then your manual will let you know, but you can also ask someone in the store for a little assistance. Once you have your oil then look online for a tutorial on how to do it. It may be better to watch a tutorial and print one out so you have step by step procedures to get the job done. However, if you’re still feeling uncomfortable then look for a good deal in your penny saver or online and let them do the job with the oil you’ve already purchased. Make sure not to fall into any sales traps here though as many oil changing businesses will try to offer you special services you probably won’t need. Keeping your oil changed will save you thousands, so make sure to set reminders when you can!

2. Watch Your Lighting
When it comes to your car’s lights, they’re actually one of the best safety elements of the car. So, it’s important to maintain them as much as you possibly can. Try to check to make sure your brake lights, headlights and blinkers are working once a month. You may need a little help doing this, but it’ll be worth the effort knowing you can signal and alert other drivers of your presence. As soon as you notice your light is fading make sure to replace the bulbs. It’s always nice to have replacements in the car, but if you don’t they’re very cheap to buy. Changing the bulbs don’t take up a lot of your time anyway so you can easily do it after work or before a trip on the weekend. Simply by keeping your lighting up to date you’ll keep your car safer and you’ll avoid some very pricey tickets.

3. Clean Inside
You may not believe it, but keeping your car clean can actually help you save a bit of money! No one wants to sit in a dirty car in the first place, but sometimes it’s hard to make time to clean up. However, it may motivate you to know that keeping a clean car actually helps keep the value of your vehicle up. For instance, if you have pets or children in your car then you may find surprises every time you clean. This is especially true if kids bring snacks into the car as some sticky foods are impossible to fully clean up. Smokers may also end up with ash trapped in the carpets of the car. Keeping trash up is a great start for your car, but you’ll also want to wipe down the interior too. If you have leather seating then leather wipes are a must as they won’t just help keep things clean and fresh but they’ll also help with preventing the leather from cracking. Finally, adding floor mats to the front and back seats can cut down on damage substantially!

4. Know About Recalls
Dealing with a recall won’t just save you money but it could save your life. Cars get recalled every month, so don’t stress about it too much. Generally, when you register a vehicle, you will automatically receive notices when there has been a recall, so you don’t have to scour the internet every single day looking for something on your car. However, if you do feel the need to this, or you hear a rumor about your car then there’s a few sites that will give you trustworthy information. When you get the recall slip in the mail make sure to schedule an appointment with the designated dealer as soon as you can. Recalls don’t cost you a thing so you won’t need to do anything but show up at your scheduled appointment. Getting the recall taken care of as soon as possible will ensure no other damage can be done to the car, which will save you a whole lot of money in the long run.

5. Keep Records
This is probably one of the easiest things you can do when it comes to working on your car. All you have to do is put away receipts any time your car has work done on it. For instance, if you get a new set of tires then file away the receipt just in case one of the tires gets a flat before the warranty or guarantee is over. It’ll also help you know when you last bought tires so you can easily know when it’s time to shop again. Another great time to keep your receipts is when you’ve had mechanical work done on the car. This will help you ensure your mechanic did the job right, as you can return with the receipt for more work or a refund if they didn’t do what they were supposed to. Holding on to smog and registration receipts can also come in handy, especially when you’re looking for tax deductions.

6. Store It Properly
Believe it or not, but a lot of damage to your car can be done when it’s not even in motion. This is why storing your car properly can make a huge difference to the worth of it as well as the amount of times it’s going to end up in the shop. One of the best places to store your car is in the garage. Here, you won’t have to worry about weather damaging your vehicle in the slightest, nor will you have to worry about other out of your control damage. Of course, not everyone has access to a garage, so it you can try to find an area with a bit of covering like an awning. This will help stop hail from doing damage but will also add a little more protection from the sun. If you don’t have a good place to park and won’t be driving your car for a while then try to invest in a cover. This will help prevent outside damage, like fading from the sun or scratches from stray rocks on the road. If none of this is possible then stick with a simple UV protector for the front window shield. It’ll prevent the sun from damaging the inside of the car while also keeping your interior cooler.

7. Protect from Rain
Rain can be very dangerous especially when it is pouring outside. If you find yourself commuting in the rain often then you might want to invest in a product like Rain-X. This will help the rain slip off your windshield, windows and mirrors a lot faster so you won’t have to deal with blind spots or losing track of the way traffic is moving. Generally, the spray doesn’t cost a whole lot so you won’t go broke purchasing it. It will also stay on your glass surfaces for quite some time so you won’t need to keep applying to get the same benefits. With this little bit of help you should be able to prevent many accidents on the road while also feeling a bit more secure when driving in bad weather.

8. Keep Track of Parts
Much of your car can be worked on and replaced by you without professional help which should save you a whole lot of money. However, the only problem is many people don’t keep track of their car’s parts. If it helps, buy a small notebook for your car. You can write down everything you put in the car to ensure you’ll know exactly when you need to replace something. You can also add this into a memo on your phone and set reminders to keep you up to speed. One of the easier items to keep track of is spark plugs. These items need to be checked around every 30,000 miles, which isn’t very often. The plugs should be checked to ensure they’re not loose, but most will last you between 30k-60k miles! You should also make sure your windshield wipers are functioning well, but they should be replaced every 6 months or so depending on your climate. Brakes are another item that are easy to watch out for. They tend to last a longer period of time, but if you hear squeaking then it’s time for a new set. The air filter is also simple to change and can be done with your oil. Finally, keep track of the air and tread on your tires to ensure they last longer and to know when you’re in need of new ones.

9. Clean the Exterior
Washing your car offers a whole lot of benefits you may not have even thought about. For starters, it will give you a sense of pride for your vehicle, no matter how old it is. With a shiny car to get around in you’ll want to show it off, but you also may be more inclined to drive a bit safer. Also, keeping your car clean can help remove rocks that may do paint damage and it can keep the value of your car much higher. Adding a nice polish to the mix can keep your car looking good for much longer, but it can also help block out sun damage which will harm your car’s paint job. Try to be as frugal as possible with your wash by using buckets rather than leaving the hose running.

10. Ask For Help
If there’s something wrong with your car and you don’t know what it is then ask for help instead of ignoring the issue. If there actually is a problem it can get worse really fast which will cost you even more money. A lot of the time you can call up a shop and let them know what’s happening and they’d be happy to give you a guess. This can be very useful in deciding if you need to have a professional work on it or not. You can also look online to see if there’s something on the problem. For instance, by typing in basic symptoms of the problem your search engine may bring up a forum to help you out. Online tutorials may come in handy too. However, if you’re still lost, make sure to bring it to a shop so they can sort it out before it’s too late.

Having a car is a lot of responsibility so don’t let the problems pile up. With a little bit of DIY and some preventative measures, you should be able to get your car taken care of before you have to spend a whole lot more on it!

If you’ve ever wanted to pick up the guitar and roll out your favorite song, or can’t go a day without feeling the strings on your fingers, then April is the month for you. International Guitar Month is an exciting time for guitarist often opens up a world of savings to those looking for their first guitar or a special upgrade. There’s lot of ways you can save big on a guitar throughout the year though, so prepare for the frustrating calluses and brush up on your favorite songs because this International Guitar Month is not only going to open you up to savings, but will help you fall in love with your guitar even more!

1. Shop Around
One of the golden rules for guitar shopping is to make sure you check out a large variety of online and local stores. Many guitar stores don’t offer a standard price on many guitars as a lot of their stock is used. Of course, they usually have a couple new pieces in stock but sometimes even these instruments will range in price substantially. The best thing you can do is check out a few different locations to see which store offers the most value for your money. Although a store may seem to have a smaller price at first, you should ask what comes with the guitar purchase. Some stores will actually throw in accessories that can help get your started while others will offer the guitar alone. A lot of stores will simply state their item is on sale when the price is only matching that of other’s stores. So, be careful here as you can end up paying much more than the guitar’s worth if you’re not careful.

2. Buy Used
A lot of people have issues with buying used items, but a guitar is one of the best items to buy used. This is especially true if you’re just starting out on the guitar. Used guitars are already a bit broken in, you won’t feel like they’re the most fragile thing on the planet and they’re a whole lot cheaper. This is especially good if you’re not sure you, or the recipient of the guitar, is going to stick with the new hobby. Of course, if you’re a collector then you probably already know that a lot of guitars that are worth collecting are used. From brand names and models to celebrity status and autographs, many used guitars have a value much greater than money. This, in itself, should tell you that used guitars are totally worth the money and may even make you feel like more like a rockstar than you would with a shiny new one.

3. Try It Out
It may feel weird, but before you purchase a guitar you should hook it up to an amp and take it for a ride. Some stores may act weird when you ask to do this, but you wouldn’t leave a car lot without a test drive, right? The same can be said for guitars. Some stores will ask you to do this before you make the purchase anyway, but if you get attitude from a salesperson when you ask to hear a guitar’s sound then it’s probably a bad sign. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying something new or used as the sound of a guitar can be totally off even if it appears to be find in the store. Not to mention, you want to get the feeling of a guitar before you buy it. Like clothes shopping, some guitars are a much better fit than others, so buying on style alone can leave you coming back in for a return. Trying out the item is especially important if you’re purchasing an “as is” item, so definitely don’t take no for an answer here!

4. Negotiate
If you’re not going to a big chain store, then your negotiation skills may be one way to help you save some big time money on your new purchase. Again, like purchasing a car, some of the local mom and pop stores may actually welcome some negotiation skills. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go into any shop without prior knowledge of a guitar. Do some research before you decide to make a purchase so you know what the guitar should be worth in various types of conditions. It may also help if you bring your smartphone along for the shopping trip so you can readily look up information and show it to the clerk to help aid your case. With any luck, you’ll be able to knock a few dollars off the price of a used guitar or you’ll end up getting a few accessories added on to the purchase at no extra cost. Remember to keep polite about the transaction though and it may help your case to return as a regular customer whenever you need guitar supplies.

5. Bundle
One of the best ways to begin the hobby is to actually look for a bundle set. These sets can be found both online and locally so you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one. The average bundle set comes with a guitar and an amp which is pretty much everything you need to get started. However, there are also bundle sets that come with the basics as well as picks, a guitar case and strap, tuner and some basic sheet music. The more you look around, the better the deal you’ll probably find so don’t leave any stones unturned. You can buy bundles for new or used equipment too, which will change the price tag of the set substantially. Generally speaking, a new set shouldn’t cost you over $150, so factor this in when you’re looking at a used set to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. You should also consider if each of the items in the set are used, as it may be more beneficial to buy a new amp with a used guitar.

6. Strings
Your guitar strings can make or break the way your guitar sounds, not to mention how your fingers feel. Although they’re usually not terribly priced, when you’re starting out you’re probably going to go through a lot more strings. There’s a few tricks that can help you save in this department though. For starters, look around and see if you can find bulk strings to help prevent you from having to shop more and to ensure you’ll always have a backup when a string breaks. When you’re just starting out then you may want to keep to purchasing cheaper strings. They’re going to break more often and may even snap while you’re learning to restring your guitar. So, quality isn’t always a priority. However, when you start to get the hang of things you may want to start finding a higher quality brand that you enjoy. When shopping for strings make sure they come in an air tight wrapper. Strings that are in a simple container actually begin to age on the shelf, thus you won’t get as much life out of them. Air tight strings maintain their newness so when you pull them out of the container it will seem as if they were just made. You may also want to consider boiling your strings to help them last even longer.

7. Online Lessons
Part of having a guitar is taking lessons to learn how to play, right? A lot of people will spend a small fortune when they finally locate a guitar teacher that has open slots for lessons. This can be a pretty time consuming activity and a lot of guitar teachers are in high demand so they can raise their prices to suit their needs. Rather than even bothering with this aspect of learning, you can easily turn to your computer or tablet for lessons that are absolutely free. Sure, you won’t get the feedback of the teacher, but you’ll learn the basics and will eventually be able to alter your technique to ensure you sound like a skilled player. If you’re still craving feedback from a teacher then you may want to browse online to see if anyone is offering online lessons. Some music sites will allow freelance teachers to offer lessons for a low price. You will probably end up conducting your lesson online via webcam, but it will be more affordable than some music teachers in your area.

8. Coupons
Believe it or not, but there’s a whole lot of coupons for guitars just waiting to be used. Major chain music stores put out a lot of coupons each year for their selection of guitars, but you may have to look online to find these coupons. Even local stores offer coupons, so check your local ads or call the store to see if there’s any available for you. These coupons usually take off a fair amount on some purchases, including that of the guitar and amp. They will also help you afford sheet music and accessories for your guitar. Of course, coupons for purchasing the guitar aren’t the only ones out there. If you search on social media pages you may be able to find some for guitar lessons. This is especially great if you know a group looking to learn how to play or you have more than one or two people in the family wanting to learn. You should also look for coupons for repairs as these are common too and can come in handy if you’re clumsy or don’t know how to re-string your guitar yet.

9. DIY Repairs
Taking your guitar in to get repaired can be an out of this world cost, especially if you’re not sure what’s wrong with it. Although, finding a great repair person is always a bit of weight off your chest, some issues can easily be corrected in your home. Before you decide to spend money on repairs for your guitar you may want to look online to see if there’s any tutorials to help your specific problem. Usually, someone on the World Wide Web has not only come up with an easy solution but has also posted it online for free. Thus, you can easily fix up your guitar with a few minutes and a little bit of streaming. If you’re not exactly sure what’s wrong with you guitar then you still shouldn’t stress out. Search engines are great because they can pretty much find information that is custom to your needs if you know how to search correctly. With a few keywords you may find out your guitar’s problem and the solution for it at no cost to you. If not, you can always join some guitar forums to see if anyone lurking on the page can help you out. Usually people are more than willing to lend a helping hand.

10. Research
One of the key components to saving money on your new guitar is actually doing a bit of research. You shouldn’t walk into a store willing to buy anything that meets your eye. Rather, try to learn more about brands and models before you take the leap. This won’t just help you gauge the price tag that should be associated with your guitar, but will also ensure you know general problems it may have as well as how to maintain it. A little research may also help you discover if you really want to play the acoustic guitar or the electric, which could lead to some major savings!

Purchasing a guitar isn’t light shopping so it’s important to know a few tricks to help you save some money. These ten topics should help you know more about guitars and ensure you find the savings you deserve. After all, what better way to celebrate International Guitar Month than to save lots of money on a new one!

April is a month that sees a lot more spending than most. Between entertaining the family during spring break and Easter holidays to spring cleaning and stocking up on the last of winter’s produce. It’s no doubt that saving in April does take a bit more work than the other spring months. However, there are some items you may want to spend some money on during this month! Each month a select few items make their way to the sales, so you can save big on items you actually do need around the home. So, if you can, you may want to stop by your local stores to check out some of these items before the prices sky rocket again!

1. Sneakers
Although a lot of people have already started working on the getting fit New Year’s resolution, April is the month to invest in the sneakers that can help further your physical fitness. With the birds chirping and weather heating up to a beautiful mild level, a lot of people will take to the outdoors to get their workouts. This means, they’re going to need a good pair of shoes to do so! Luckily, you should see your favorite sneaker brands taking a cut in price during this time, which should allow you to stock up on a pair or two to get you through the long months of summer and autumn runs. Of course, workout sneakers aren’t the only items on sale. You may want to take this time to stock up on your kid’s sneakers too. They’ll need them for the rest of the school year and for running and playing in the summer. Children’s athletic shoes should be on sale too, just in time for soccer and baseball season!

2. Cruises
While most people are planning their beach inspired spring break vacation, you should take advantage of the discounts cruise lines are offering. Generally, cruise lines want you to book well in advance, so it makes sense that they’d go on sale in the spring time in order to lure in summer time customers. There’s a wide variety of cruise lines available to you so make sure to shop around so you get exactly what you want for the price you can afford. One of the key things to look for here is package deals as many cruise lines offer these to give customers even more savings. Many include food and entertainment packages which will come in handy if you don’t want to worry about paying extra money while you’re on your vacation. Lots of websites will have deals on cruise lines too, so talk to your travel agent or do some shopping around to make sure you find a perfect match because you won’t see prices like this again until next spring!

3. Kitchenware
If your kitchen is looking a bit bare or could use a few upgrades then April is the time to do it. Most small kitchen accessories as well as pots, pans and bakeware go on sale during the month of April. This is a great time to finally get the smoothie blender you’ve been hoping would get you through the summer as well as any supplies you may be missing for your favorite recipes. Spring is generally when the majority of weddings happen, not to mention graduations which makes these kitchen sales an extra bonus for anyone looking for gifts. Typically high school graduates as well as newlyweds need these types of items to make their home a bit more comfortable as they start out fresh. Better yet, you can easily find many items like baking sheets and cooking utensils at a price that won’t even make you blink. Thus, allowing you an amazing gift for a price that won’t make a dent in your budget.

4. Summer Clothes
I know, we haven’t really embraced spring time yet as, until recently, it’s still been quite chilly in many areas. However, you may want to look ahead of the spring clothing aisle and head straight for the summer display. Summer clothes hit a low in the month of April, which is a great way for you to stock up on clothing for the whole family so you can be ready for the heatwave. Although most clothes that will be on sale are classed as summer clothes they can actually be worn from spring until the autumn, so don’t fret that you’re wasting money or spending too much on the deals. The bright colors seem to flow through the seasons so you won’t have to worry about having to buy all new stuff for spring and autumn. If you’re really looking to get ahead and you’ve found some great deals, then you might want to get a jump start on school shopping too. Choose items a size or two larger to provide for growing room and then put them away until school picks back up again! It’ll save you money when you’re already having to spend a lot on school supplies. Not to mention, you’ll probably find some better deals, especially after Easter.

5. Vacuum Cleaners
Spring cleaning meets allergy season which also means you’re going to need a heavy duty vacuum cleaner to get the job done! You’re in luck because April is known to be the month that vacuum cleaners take a dive in price. This happens for a number of reasons, but largely it’s companies wanting to appeal to spring cleaning! Although most vacuum cleaners will be on sale during this time you may want to plan on splurging. This way you can get the vacuum you want at the price of one that might not be as efficient. Choosing a high quality vacuum cleaner will also save you money in the long run, especially if it’s bagless. By spending the extra money, you may not have to shop for vacuum cleaners next April when they go one sale again. In fact, a good vacuum cleaner should last you up to 10 years which will definitely ensure you get your money’s worth out of it!

6. Jewelry
Valentine’s Day is well behind us but engagement season is here to stay! Thus, jewelry prices aren’t going to be quite as high as they usually are. This can be great if you’re looking to find a few new pieces to add to your collection, but make sure to shop around to ensure your deal is actually a deal and not a company claiming the price is a mark down. Graduates will soon be walking across the stage to get their diploma so you may want to consider purchasing something special for your graduate. Of course, one of the biggest holidays for jewelry is right around the corner. Mother’s Day comes in May and if you tend to procrastination then this year may be your time to shine. Get mom something nice during April that will make her feel special on her big day. We also must consider bride’s in this equation. From April until mid-autumn, weddings are going to be going on all of the time! So, if you’re planning on walking down the aisle any time soon then now is the time to get your accessories!

7. Grills
It may seem like summer is years away, but it’s really not. Try to think a bit ahead of the game and check out some grills this April! They usually make a price drop during this month so stores can get rid of old stock or simply show off their new stock. Buying a grill during April tends to be a pretty wise decision though. For instance, spring time weather is a little unpredictable, right? So, one day it may be snowing and the next may be entirely sunny. Well, what better way to keep your house cooler than to cook outside on the sunny days? Not to mention, grilling can be pretty cheap especially if you plan to have friends and family over. Try to find a grill that suits your needs when you go shopping. With the reduced prices you should be able to get something a bit fancier for the price you’d normally pay for something that’s pretty basic. Of course, make sure you’re getting something you’re going to use as overspending isn’t going to do you any financial favors.

8. Graduation Gifts
It’s probably pretty hard to grasp that soon a new batch of kids will be receiving their diplomas and heading off to college. This is especially true if it’s actually one of your children. So, you probably want to go all out and buy something special for their graduation gift. Don’t wait until their actual graduation to do this. You’re better off shopping for any and all graduation gifts in the month of April. For instance, mini-fridges, cooking supplies, lounging chairs and even school supplies will be on sale during this month. Thus, you can actually get the graduate in your life something that may actually get used from time to time!

9. Home Improvement Supplies
Well, if you’ve already made the rounds for your household, you’ve probably found several things that need repaired or upgraded. This isn’t even to mention all of the home improvement ideas you had while the weather was too bad to go out and do anything. Luckily, April is a great month for picking up anything and everything home improvement related. From lumber to tools you should be able to find some incredible deals at your local hardware or department store. You should also find plenty of kits, such as backyard playgrounds or treehouses, on sale too, which may ease the burden of some of your home improvement skills. This doesn’t mean you have to think entirely outside of the home. There’s plenty of items for indoor repair and improvement on sale too. For instance, it may be a great time to tackle your plumbing problem or to throw on a new coat of paint in the kids’ rooms! Finally, you should also shop the gardening center to get an early start on the supplies your flower bed and other landscaping projects may need.

10. Electronics
A lot of people are getting tax returns back and the deadline for tax season is rapidly approaching. That being said, it’s time for electronics to make their way onto the sales list for April. This is a great time to upgrade your television or add a new one to the home. If you have kids that play videogames this may be a priority before the long summer days approach. Other great items to buy during this season is laptops, tablets and phones. This is especially convenient as recent graduates will need a good laptop and/or tablet to help them work their way through homework, research and essays. You may also want to consider adding a new laptop to the home to help you with work. There’s also been quite a few new phones on the market lately, so if you’re looking to try something new, or your contract is up, then seeking out a new phone is a must in April. You don’t have to think about traditional electronics here either. For instance, remote control cars and helicopters are perfect finds to keep kids busy for a reduced price. Also, radios and other electronic emergency equipment may be a good buy if you’re living somewhere that often has extreme weather.

April may be filled with expenditures, but it’s also a great time to save on some of the items the household needs the most. With these ten tips you should be able to stock up on all of the items your home needs to run happily and efficiently which will help you save even more money as you take on the challenges of the upcoming months.