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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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