Kitchens are a great place to spend time in the home, so it’s no wonder why people are so willing to pour money into them in order to make them suit their needs as well as their personalities. Of course, overtime, kitchens can grow bland and the renovation bug begins to kick in. If you don’t have a budget to support these urges, then you may find yourself hating your kitchen more and more. Luckily, there’s several DIY tricks you can try out that will allow you to create a whole new look for your kitchen without spending too much money. Before you know it, your kitchen will have a fresh look that will make you want to stay in more, which will help save even more money.

1. Switch Out the Handles
You may be surprised as to how much of a difference switching out the handles and pulls in your kitchen can make. If you have basic handles on your cabinets and drawers now, then you’ll certainly be in for a real treat when it comes to your new handles. Luckily, you can easily find a great supply of these at any home improvement or department store. They range in prices too, so you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg if you can’t fit it into your budget. Of course, new isn’t your only option here. You can easily head to a local thrift store, flea market or yard sale to see if you can find anything that strikes your fancy. There may even be online stores that sell used items. In fact, if you’re out of luck when it comes to shopping, you might want to consider refurbishing some from an old piece of furniture that you’re no longer using.

2. Hang Things Up
The beauty of the kitchen is there are so many items that can be used as decoration. One of the best things you can do is hang up your pots and pans. First of all, they will look outstanding, especially if you’re going for a quaint or even quirky vibe. Second of all, this will free up so much space in your cabinets that you might not know what to do with yourself. There’s lots of other items that can be hung up too. For instance, if you’re particularly proud of your mug collection then these items look incredible hanging from the wall. Apart from that you may want to try oven mitts, measuring spoons, spices and anything else that you think would look incredible. This will prevent you from shopping around for artwork you’re going to grow bored of and will add a livable style to your functional kitchen.

3. Redo Your Backsplash
The backsplash of your kitchen probably doesn’t get a whole lot of attention. In fact, you may have kept it exactly the same as it was the day you moved into your place. However, by redoing the backsplash, you can easily skip painting the entire room, redoing your countertops and other expensive changes. The backsplash is easily changed too, so you won’t have to hire someone to come in and fix it up. One easily solution to change it is to grab some tiles that you enjoy and apply them to the area. You can even get a little crazy here by taking broken tiles and transforming them into a lovely mosaic that will make the area the focal point of the kitchen. Apart from tiles, grafting paper and wallpaper is another fantastic option, which will save you a whole lot of time on your mini-renovation. Wallpaper and grafting paper can be incredibly cheap too, especially since you don’t need a whole lot to make this area shine. When you finish up with the job, you’ll find your kitchen will look like new.

4. Add Fresh Paint
Nothing beats the look of a freshly painted room though. So, if you really want to get the fresh look you’ve been longing to see in your kitchen then you may want to consider painting the room. If you’re really looking to save money, then choose a similar color or the same color simply to add the fresh look that will make the room look like a million bucks. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of colors you use. If you’re in a particularly small kitchen, then you might want to work with colors that will make the room look larger and more efficient. Of course, many people also love creating a warm atmosphere though, so you might want to stick with colors that make you feel comfortable or have a spicy style. You should also keep in mind the direction in which your home faces. Kitchens tend to be warmer anyway, but if you paint your home a dark color then it is more than likely going to be a sauna if it faces the sun during prime cooking hours.

5. Swap Rugs
You may be surprised by how much work a rug does for your home. If you’ve had the same rug in your kitchen for some time, then try taking it out of your kitchen for a bit. This in itself could help you feel that your kitchen is a lot different. Of course, you don’t have to go without a rug though. You might want to try to swap it for a rug from another room in the house. If this doesn’t work, then shop around for a clearance rug or check out local yard sales and thrift stores to see if something strikes your fancy. You may even want to check out DIY rug tutorials to see if you can come up with something cool with your dish towels or other fabrics. Before you know it, this easy swap will bring a whole new life to the kitchen and will help satisfy the renovation bug.

6. Stain Cabinets
If you hate your cabinets and counter tops, then you could be looking at paying a small fortune in your kitchen renovation. However, there’s a quick and easy solution that could lead you to a lovely look without all of the hard work and money spent. That is, simply staining your cabinets. Wooden cabinets are great in the sense that you can change them up to suit your preferences, unless they are not too dark to begin with. Wood stains won’t cost you a small fortune either and you won’t need a whole lot to get the job done, which is even better. Of course, you may want to look at some staining tutorials before you get started though, just so you can do the best job possible while you work on your cabinets. Before staining, you should put down something to protect the floor and tape around the area to make sure stain doesn’t end up on your countertops. Last but not least, you might want to consider wearing gloves, because stain can totally transform the color of your hands for some time.

7. Go Fashion Savvy
These days, it seems like stainless steel is out and warm bronze colors are in. This doesn’t mean you need to go out and buy all new gadgets and appliances though. Going from stainless steel to bronze is actually pretty simple and won’t cost you a pretty penny either. All you need is a bit of bronzer and something to practice on. Once you’ve worked with the bronzer of your choice, you can apply it to your appliances, faucets and anything else you’d like to add a warm burst to. Make sure you choose the right color for you though as some bronzers will create a rustic look, while others will create the popular sunburst look. When you’re finished with your project, the room will feel like you replaced everything, but your budget will still be right on point.

8. Add Lighting
You can really transform a room simply by adding more lighting to the area. One of the best forms of lighting you can add to a kitchen is under the counter lighting. It adds a sleek and sophisticated look to the room, and it will help you with your cooking preparations. If you have a lot of money to spend then you can go through the grueling process of wiring the lights into the cabinet and so on, but the simple solution is to buy a few tap lights, which are incredibly affordable, and stick them beneath the cabinets. Of course, the lighting you’ll actually be able to see can make a huge difference too. You can easily mix things up by making your own lights using old wine bottles or other recycling. This is a fun craft and will add a touch of rustic charm to the kitchen. The best thing is, you can customize the light to meet your color scheme, by choosing the right color of glass. If crafting isn’t your thing, then it might be good to look in thrift stores for vintage lights or discount home improvement stores to see if there’s a light covering or fixture that suits your needs.

9. Cabinet Doors
If you’re no longer in love with your cabinets, then one easy fix is to take off the doors. Open cabinets help create the illusion of more space, which will make your home feel a lot more comfortable. Plus, being able to see all of your lovely plates, bowls and other kitchen essentials will add a touch of charm that will make the kitchen seem even warmer and more inviting. Not to mention, with the cabinets open, it might keep you motivated to keep things organized and looking good. If you’re not a fan of open cabinet doors, then you may want to consider adding decorative mirrors to each one. This will also add the illusion of more space, while giving the cabinets an edgy look that will have your guests mesmerized.

10. Dress Up Windows
Kitchen windows are great, because you don’t always have to keep them shut for your privacy, which means they can easily become a focal point. Thus, you can easily mix things up in the kitchen by adding a new set of curtains or a simple valance to the window to make it a focal point in the room. This will also allow you to let in lots of light, which will help create a great atmosphere during the daylight hours. If you’re not into curtains, then you can simply paint some designs around the window to frame it and make it seem like part of the décor of the room. If you have more of a country or rustic style, then you might want to look around for shutters to go on the inside of the window. Another simple and cheap option is to paint designs on the glass portion of the window to create a fun look or use decals.

Adding a bit of life to your kitchen doesn’t mean you have to hire a professional or throw in a lot of money into the project. These ten simple tips won’t take you long to accomplish and will have you enjoying your kitchen without forcing you to part with your hard earned money. Plus, the cool new look will have everything to do with your style and creative side, which will make showing off your new kitchen even more fun.

These days, Amazon is a huge player in the online market and they’re even starting to open up brick and mortar stores in the United States. With services like free shipping, scheduled orders and a wide selection, a lot of customers have turned to the website as their go to choice when it comes to shopping for just about anything and everything. Of course, the real question is: Does Amazon really save you the money that you think it does? There’s a few answers to this questions because you have to look at different aspects of the site. Here’s ten sections that will help guide you to decide whether or not you should shop with Amazon when it comes to a few popular items.

1. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime is one of the main draws of the website for some shoppers. For less than $100 a year you get access to free two-day shipping, exclusive coupons and sales, streaming videos and music, as well as a free book a month. The 2-day shipping itself will help save you up to $6 a purchase and, if you’re in no hurry, you can opt out of the free 2-day shipping for free standard shipping if you’d like to receive a discount on a movie rental and music or e-book downloads. Apart from the free videos you can stream, you can also enjoy commercial free music too, which would normally cost around $9 a month. The coupons that Prime members get access to will help save you a bundle, especially if you’re shopping in the home department. Often, the coupons will apply directly to purchases, so you won’t even have to browse through the numerous coupons that appear on the website each day. If you’re still not sold on the $100 price tag, Amazon offers sales throughout the year so you can purchase it at a lower price. Students will also get a discount on their membership and you can share your services with up to 4 people.

2. Streaming Videos
If you’re already paying for a streaming service, then there’s a good chance you’re paying around $8 to $15 for the service, which ends up being about $94 to $180 a year. For the same price as the basic streaming services, you’ll get access to a wide variety of streaming movies and shows that could keep you entertained for hours on end. Plus, you can pre-order, rent and digitally purchase seasons of your favorite shows as well as blockbuster movies. In comparison to other services, like GooglePlay and iTunes, the rentals cost about the same amount of money, but if you’re not in a hurry to watch your rental, you can leave it for up to 30 days before finally viewing it, if you so please. Of course, rentals and purchases aren’t just for Prime members, anyone with an account can enjoy this service.

3. Ebooks
Electronic books are a huge trend, especially in the world of self-publishing. Although most online book stores will offer digital books as a purchasing option, they probably don’t have near the selection of Amazon as it is known for hosting self-published novels by the thousands. This gives you a wide assortment of options to choose from and, you never know, you could be reading something from the next big someone in the book world. If you’re not into independent books, regular e-books are also at a competitive price. Sometimes, Amazon will even keep track of purchases and offer you coupons for authors you love. You may even be able to find some extraordinary pre-ordering prices. Amazon Prime subscribers don’t just get to check out this wide selection, but they can rent a free book a month and loan out and borrow books from people in their network. Recently, Amazon even offered Kindle Unlimited, which allows you to check out as many books as you want for a monthly fee.

4. Household Goods
Amazon is a great place to buy household goods, especially if you prefer to shop for items in bulk. Often, you can find some of your favorite brands on the website for less than you would your local store, which is helpful if you’re on a tight budget. Household goods are one of the more popular items Amazon likes to produce coupons for too, which is also a bonus. One of the latest features for Amazon is the subscription purchase, which generally takes away a percentage of an item. The only catch is you have to sign up for a monthly or bi-monthly subscription of these services. Of course, you can cancel the subscriptions when you want, but if you like the convenience of the service then you may end up spending way too much money. Generally, when you shop you get the chance to price check items, with this service you won’t get to as it will automatically ship to you after each time period passes.

5. Technology
One of the more popular searches on Amazon is technology, because they are always said to have good deals. Plus, the selection is so much better than a lot of other stores. You can find anything from basic accessories to top of the line gaming computers on Amazon, but you may be surprised to hear that you’re not always going to get the price when you shop with Amazon. In fact, when searching for laptops, phones and many other items, there were cheaper prices at stores like Amazon and Target. For instance, a quick search for an RCA 58 inch LED TV, led to WalMart hosting a better price at $499 opposed to Amazon’s $574.98. It isn’t just TVs that didn’t make the cut during a basic search though. Walmart again took the cake with a Toshiba Jetback Laptop for $249, while Amazon sells the same laptop for $374. Keep in mind, both Amazon and WalMart offer free shipping on these items, so you’re not losing money there. So, unless there’s a major sell going on, you may want to skip out on the tech section of Amazon.

6. Clothes and Shoes
When it comes to shopping online, clothing and shoes are some of the hardest things to buy. Sure, you can find a wide assortment of items you’d love to wear, but in reality finding the perfect fit without seeing it in person and trying it on can be next to impossible. Worse yet, Amazon’s return policies aren’t always the best. In fact, you can’t even open the package of clothing if you plan on returning it, which pretty much means you’re going to lose out on money even if you do return the item. The price of the clothing isn’t always the best either, but sometimes you can find a great sale. For instance, while looking for a pair of Levi’s on JCPenny.com the site shows off the popular Levi 505’s for $59.50, with the option of 20% off for a current sale, while Amazon’s 505’s were priced at $42.99 with a 28% off sale. You should also keep in mind that if you hold memberships to websites like JC Penny’s that you may be privy to a greater discount, due to membership rewards. Plus, if the clothing doesn’t fit then you can return it to the physical store, rather than paying for return shipping.

7. Baby Stuff
Mom’s know the struggle that shopping for baby things brings, especially if you have to take the baby with you. Between diapers, clothes, toys and furniture, the shopping may seem to never end, which is why so many parents turn to online shopping. Luckily, Amazon does have some great offers here. If you have a baby in the home, then Amazon will actually offer you a discounted membership on a service that is basically Amazon Prime. You’ll still get the free 2-day shipping, the videos and music and all of that, but you’ll also get 20% off diapers and wipes each month. If you’re not interested in shopping with Amazon Mom, then you still may find better deals on diapers with Amazon. For instance, Amazon’s 216 Pack of Pamper Swaddlers cost $43.69, with a $1.50 coupon instantly popping up, while the same pack from Target cost $45.99. Apart from the basics, you can probably find a mixed amount of deals on furniture and toys on Amazon. It’s generally best to shop around for these items before you decide on where to buy them from.

8. Price Guarantee
A lot of stores offer price matching, so if you’re in the market to save a lot then you might want to go this route, rather than shopping online. However, if you’re not into that then you may want to simply keep an eye on the items you’ve already purchased. Amazon likes to keep your best interest in mind, so if you make a purchase with them, keep an eye on the price for a full 7 days after the item has shipped. If the price drops then you can contact Amazon and get a refund for the extra amount that you paid. Of course, you probably won’t end up saving much, but every little bit counts sometimes.

9. Flash Sales
Amazon is known for offering Flash Sales. Although they are more common during the holidays, you can still find a wide assortment of items on the flash sales every single day. The only problem is; the item might not be something you’d actually want to purchase on your own. For instance, if you don’t have a use for a chef hat, but you see one at a daringly low price you might be tempted to go for it. After all, you may one day need one, right? This is where the flash sale can really leave you in a financial bind, so if you have a hard time saying no then you might want to avoid them. Sometimes there are great deals though, especially on Tupperware or other household goods. The only problem is, you have to be fast before the item sells out, which means you don’t get a chance to shop around. Apart from the everyday sales, Amazon also hosts major sales like Prime Day, which is said to have more sales than Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Again, some of these items might save you money, but exercise caution here or else you’ll spend more than you should on items you might not need.

10. Variety
Of course, one of the biggest draws for Amazon is that you can find just about everything and the kitchen sink, literally, on the website. This is great for people who live in areas that might not have stores for geeky items, special spices and other rare products. Take for instance, those who love Indian food. A lot of stores fail to sell some of the basic spices, or charge an arm and a leg for them. Amazon allows you to buy these items at better prices from a variety of shops, which will save you money. Apart from shopping for exotic items, you may also find specialty things that will make your home seem even more you. This could also lead to spending too much money though, so make sure you keep up with spending to ensure you’re not going overboard on the cool stuff.

When it comes down to it, Amazon can save you money or make you pay more than you realize. So, when you’re shopping just exercise caution and don’t forget to shop around before adding something to your cart. Between the convenience of the online store and the prices, you should be fine shopping with Amazon as long as you are aware of your shopping restrictions.

Dinner parties are a great way to keep your friends and family close, butter up your boss for a promotion, or simply show off your amazing hosting skills. The art of the dinner party goes way back and has helped people socialize and have fun for generations. The only problem is; dinner parties can really be a bit of a drain on the budget. Between food and entertainment, you may find that your dinner party could lead you to rearrange your entire budget just to fit it in the party’s expenditures. These simple tips should guide you through the appetizers to the night cap, so you can enjoy your guests without stressing over the money.

1. Light Starters
There’s no law saying you have to create gourmet appetizers for your guests. In fact, your starters should be light and not as filling as you think. One of the best option is a nice soup. You can stick with seasonal ingredients to keep the price down. Vegetable soups are also a great way to work with your budget as they will stretch further while costing less to make. Salads are a pretty common option too. However, if you choose to go down this route then you may want to consider not buying premade salads. It’s much cheaper to buy the ingredients and do the work yourself, especially if you’re feeding a lot of people. Of course, there are plenty lighter and inexpensive appetizers to choose from if you’re not interesting in soup or salads. Bruschetta is one of your best options and tends to be enjoyed by all sorts of taste pallets. If you’re shy on ideas though, take to the internet, you should be able to find some outstanding recipes that will cost you next to nothing.

2. Cheap Themes
When you choose what to serve for your meal try not to pick foods that might cost you a lot of money. For instance, ethnic foods can be very costly because they often require special ingredients that are hard to find. Even if you do have stores that market to that type of food, the budget still may run you into the ground if you’re not familiar with preparing the dish. Thus, it might be easier to stick with something simple. Italian food can be very easy, especially if you keep with a pasta dish and affordable sauce. Another simple option is to choose a meat, like pot roast, that can go a long way. Of course, cheaper meats like chicken may help you meet your budgeting requirements too. Meals that call for cheaper starches like rice and beans are also a great option. Finally, if you really want to keep it cheap then you may want to stick with something like an omelet.

3. Beverages
A lot of guests will probably expect a cocktail hour if you’re planning a proper dinner party. Although serving no alcohol at all will save you the most money, it might be hard to avoid. If you stick to some basic drinks you can get away with using less alcohol, which will save you money. Of course, you don’t have to buy the finest alcohol out there either, stick to mixing drinks with cheaper alcohol and you should save more money. If you’re planning on having wine for a large group, then boxed wine is probably your safest option. You can always fill old bottles with this wine to make it look more luxurious. Of course, if you can avoid wine altogether then you might prefer to try out infused water with cheaper ingredients like lemons or cucumbers. It will be refreshing and a nice touch to each dish.

4. Desserts
When it comes to desserts, you don’t have to spend forever trying to whip up the perfect thing. You can keep it easy with a scoop of ice cream to add the perfect amount of sweetness while cleansing the pallet. If ice cream is on the pricey side then you can always try to make it homemade. Mini desserts are another fantastic option for dinner parties. They’re simplistic while not being overwhelming, which is a plus. They also won’t steal the show from the main course. Of course, you won’t have to go overboard with a dessert either. You can simply serve a thin mint. You may want to consider serving coffee during your dessert hour, especially if you served alcohol during the evening. This will help keep your guests sober, so they won’t have to worry about finding a way to get home.

5. Know Your Place Settings
One of the most important aspects of a dinner party is the setup. If you do it right, you’ll end up with a flawless display that will make your guests feel like you hired a professional. However, if you do it wrong, your place setting could look like a hot mess.Setting the table used to be a part of a standard curriculum, but it isn’t as commonly taught anymore unless you take special courses. Luckily, you can find the information online which is sure to guide you through just about any place setting you need. The best thing about knowing how to properly set a table is that you won’t have to spend a small fortune on center pieces or other décor. This will allow you to make more of your table with a loss less effort and money.

6. DIY Center Piece
Of course, if you do want to go all out for your table then you might want to consider making your own center piece. This will allow you to put some of your own creative energy into the table décor without forcing you to spend a small fortune. You can do a whole lot with your own centerpiece. For instance, you can use basic flower arranging techniques to create the perfect style for you. When you do choose flowers for this craft, you should be very careful to find the perfect flower by choosing one with a very subtle odor. Flowers that are pungent often work against the food you serve, which could make your dinner party a bust. You can also use older items that you find around the house to satisfy your décor needs. Old decorative items can be spray painted gold for a more luxurious feeling, for instance. If you’re short on ideas, there’s lot of great options online, so you may want to browse around on Pintrest or your other favorite home improvement websites.

7. Consider Lighting
One of the strongest components to your dinner party is the lighting, but you don’t have to worry about it being fancy here. If you already have control over your lighting them keep it dim and comfortable to promote a more intimate environment. This will help cut down on your power bill too, so you’ll be killing two birds with one stone. Another great way to create the perfect mood is to add candles to the table. This can also double as decoration on the table, so you’ll look fancier with less effort. You don’t have to spend a fortune on candles either. You should be able to find an assortment of cheap candles in department stores and general stores or you can even use simple tea lights. Of course if your meal is outside then consider eating by a bonfire or lighting torches that will help keep the bugs away too.

8. Keep it Renewable
Often, when it comes to dinner parties, people want to make clean up as easy as possible. This not only makes the quality of the table go down substantially, but it also will cost you and the environment quite a bit. You should always use proper plates, bowls and eating utensils when you have a dinner party. It helps create a refined look that is sure to knock your guests socks off. Utensils and plates aren’t the only thing you should be concerned about though when it comes to your party. Napkins are another big deal. For instance, if you end up using paper napkins you’ll waste a lot of money and you’ll be doing a major disservice to the planet. Plus, they will stand out like a sore thumb on your, otherwise, elegant table. Your best option is to find a set of low cost paper napkins for your party. For these, all you have to do is toss them in the washer and they’ll be ready to use for your next amazing dinner party.

9. Music
It’s always nice to enjoy a meal with the right kind of music going in the background. Some of the best options are probably classical or jazz if they’re played lightly in the background while your guests enjoy their meal. The music may even help stimulate conversation, which is sure to help everyone enjoy the party even more. After the meals is over you might want to hit the volume a little louder or play something faster or more contemporary. Of course, you shouldn’t have to buy all new CDs or download anything just to keep your guests musically entertained. There’s lots of free streaming music online if you know where to look for it. Most streaming services will have great jazz and classical playlist, which may even make your planning easier. Some, may even have dinner party playlists which will float your boat.

10. Entertainment
When it comes to a dinner party, one of the best things you can do is keep the conversation rolling. Try to have a list of topics available so that you can jump in whenever the conversation hits a dry point. If you’re introducing people for the first time, try to come up with some topics that will be of interest to each party, so they will find a quicker way to bond. If the conversation keeps tanking, then try to at least keep it flowing until the meal is over. Once everyone is full and ready to retire into the living room or game room, you can pull out a deck of cards or even a board game. Some groups may even enjoy livelier games like charades. This should help spice things up, especially as people begin to tire. Another great option is to encourage some dancing, so be prepared to throw on some fast music if the mood arises.

Dinner parties can be incredibly stressful when it comes to keeping your guests happy without forcing yourself to spend a pretty penny. These tips should guide you through each phase of the dinner party, so you won’t feel like you’re just winging it through each aspect of the party. Plus, with all of the money saved on your amazing meal, you’ll quickly find a few topics that will leave your guests taking notes in the money saving department.

The groundhog has spoken, which means spring should be bounding around the corner any day now. Some regions may be a bit skeptical of the change thanks to some recent cold fronts, but these snowy days may give you some time to plan out a few hobbies you might want to pick up when the weather is a whole lot nicer. Sometimes, activities can run a bit pricey though, but don’t stress out over spending a small fortune on your spring outings, because there’s lots of cheap to free options. These ten hobbies will help keep you busy as you enjoy the beautiful weather that spring brings. Of course, some of them you can even enjoy when the weather isn’t exactly cooperative. All in all, you should be able to find a bit of fun without opening your wallet.

1. Garden
Spring is the best time to enjoy gardening, which is why it is one of the top hobbies you should try out during the spring months. If you don’t already have a garden, then you might want to do a little research to see which items will grow best in your climate. From there, you can easily buy a variety of seeds while paying next to nothing. Gardening will also help bring a little more value to your home, especially if you’re concentrating on floral plants. Of course, if you plant food then it will help cut down on your grocery bill. Both of these methods of gardening can even earn you a bit of extra money as you can easily sell excess food or flowers. Of course, if you don’t have a yard, you can still do some gardening. Tomato hangers are very affordable and will allow you to garden with little effort. You can even plant seeds in some of your recycling items, such as milk jugs, oatmeal containers and even your coffee cups. You can also buy a bag of fertilizer and plant sees directly into it. It’ll help keep weeds out of your items while making your green thumb shine.

2. Cycling
Nothing will make you enjoy the fresh air quite like taking out your bicycle for a joyride and getting in a little exercise. Whether you enjoy mountain biking or taking a leisurely ride, cycling is a lot of fun for the entire family and will help burn off the extra weight you put on during the cold months. One of the best things about the nice weather is you can use your bike for commuting. This will help cut down on the amount of gas you use each week, while brightening the day and allowing you to keep your goals of staying healthier throughout the year. If you already have a bike, then this hobby shouldn’t cost you a penny unless you have maintenance to work on. If you don’t already have a bike, then the best way to work out the problem efficiently is to check out garage sales or even thrift stores. Before you know it, your small purchase should bring more savings to your life.

3. Clean
Spring cleaning is pretty much a given during this season, but you don’t have to get all of your cleaning in at once. Cleaning can be a great stress reducer, especially if you plan to clean in different sections. Try to approach each area of the home in sections so that you can make sure you clean everything that needs it. By taking your time, you won’t
miss some of the spots that tend to never get cleaned. Plus, you may even find some items you don’t need or want anymore. This, in itself could bring some extra money into the home. If you make sure to clean up everything properly then you may find items like your refrigerator run better too, which will save you a boatload of money on power as well. Not to mention, it will also allow you to find any problems that may cost you a lot of money if you don’t fix them right away.

4. Geocaching
A lot of people have jumped on the geocaching bandwagon because it combines exercise with a little investigation work. This amazing hobby can be done in many different areas and will allow you to spice up a boring afternoon without forcing you to spend a thing. The best thing about geocaching is you can get the entire family in on the fun, which will make it a great bonding experience. You can look up geocaching locations online and even have the whole family race to see who finds the location first. The best thing about geocaching is every location will hold a different item, so it will always be a surprise when you find the location. Your family may even want to create a scrapbook with some of the photos you take of each location.

5. Hiking
If you love to spend some time near the great outdoors, then hiking may be the best bet for you. This hobby only requires you to have a decent pair of shoes, which means you won’t have to fork over a lot of money in order to enjoy it. Hiking trails can be found all over the place, but if your local area doesn’t have one then you can probably find all sorts of places to walk, such as parks or even wooded areas. This activity is perfect if you’re looking for a cheap way to get some exercise, but it can also work as a way to teach children about the great outdoors. If you’re having a hard time getting the family interested in the hobby, then you may want to create a few scavenger hunts for the kids. You can even bring along a camera to document all of the exciting things you see. This season is perfect for special sightings, especially since baby animals will be frequently out and about and new flowers will be blooming.

6. Flower Arranging
Growing your own flowers can be rewarding in more ways than one, but if you learn how to arrange them you may find your hobby go from fun to financially rewarding. Anyone who has ever ordered a flower arrangement probably knows that they don’t come at a cheap price. Thus, flower arranging might be a great way to avoid spending money on flowers altogether. You can check out lots of tutorials online that won’t cost you a penny. This will allow you to practice and learn all sorts of tips and techniques. Once your flowers begin to come in more frequently then you might consider sharing your flower arrangements with the community or opening up a small stand to sell them off. If you don’t grow flowers, then you may even want to consider making paper flowers and using your arrangement skills to make them look fabulous. People will still pay for excellent arrangements like this, but they also make the perfect center piece for a special occasion or everyday décor.

7. Painting
Many believe that the natural world is at its best during the spring months, so why not get a little creative and capture the magic happening around you. Painting is one of the best ways to do this and it will allow you to kick back and relax while getting in a bit of fresh air. The best thing about painting is it can be a great stress reliever, especially if you pair it with relaxing music. Although paints may sound like an expensive option, you can save a lot of money if you stick with water colors. These paints last a whole lot longer than most of types of paint and they don’t require a special paper. The best thing is, you can take water colors with you without having to worry about a huge mess.

8. Volunteer
If there is ever a time to get busy in your community, the spring could be the perfect time. The weather is, typically, nicer and won’t force you to deal with extreme cold or heat, which is sure to make you feel more comfortable in your surroundings. This will make the volunteer experience even more fun. One of the best ways to volunteer is to join groups like Habitat for Humanity, who help build homes for people in need. If construction isn’t your thing, then you can still find lots of things to do. For instance, there is always trash in the community that can be picked up. You can work with a highway cleanup group, or have the family work to clean up your local park. You may even see if there are any groups willing to plant trees to help promote cleaner air. It doesn’t always have to be about the big picture though. You can start in your community by gardening for the elderly or helping others by walking their dogs and any other necessary chores.

9. Join a Sport
There’s lots of great sports going on during the spring months. For kids, the local community should have low cost or free leagues that will allow your child to join a soccer or baseball team. Of course, there’s plenty of sports for adults to enjoy too. For instance, tennis is one of the biggest sports during the spring months and will allow you to work out some frustration while getting in your exercise. If you like things a bit slower paced, then golf might be the perfect sport to pick up during this season. You can easily rent clubs or find a set at a thrift store if you’re looking to save money. Apart from these sports, you should also be able to find a low cost sports league for adults or a popular activity, like yoga, that you would otherwise do indoors.

10. Rock Collection
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. One way to encourage this may be to start rock collecting. You can find rocks just about anywhere you go, which makes this hobby incredibly convenient. You may find it a lot of fun to try to figure out which types of rocks you find in your area. Of course, if you travel then rock collecting is a hobby that can transform your little adventure into a big one. Best of all, there’s lots of maps online that can lead you to places that will allow you to collect arrowheads or other items worthy of your collection. If you really like the hobby, then you may want to get a rock polisher to help make your rocks really stand out in your collection. You may find, this hobby gets your family out of the house more and encourages the children to explore the world around them. You never know, you may even end up lucky and find a rock worth a pretty penny.

Spring is a great time to become one with Mother Nature. There’s lots of great things to do during this season, but if you’re on a budget you may end up missing some of the best things out of fear of overspending. These ten hobby ideas will allow you to have the fun you deserve without having to sacrifice too much of your hard earned money. So you can fall back in love with spring and enjoy every moment of this lively season.

Stress can be one of the worst things in your life. It can cause weight gain, other mental and physical health problems and often stands in the way of you meeting your goals. For many, stress takes a lot out of their life, which is why so many turn to expensive methods to help reduce the stress they feel. For those on a tight budget, stress can feel like a never ending burden that only grows bigger as time passes. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to help take care of your stress that won’t force you to feel like you’re going to go bankrupt over the problem. These ten suggestions may help you channel your own inner peace and won’t force you to give up a huge chunk of your money just to find relief from the problem.

1. Take a Tech Break
In our busy world, technology seems to take over our lives without us even realizing it. It doesn’t matter if you love chatting the day away with friends on social media or if you have to be tied to your phone or email for work because technology can bring you down no matter the reason you use it. If you want to deal with some of your stress, then try shutting down the devices in your home. The phones can be turned off as can the computers, gaming consoles, televisions sets and anything else that will steal away your attention. At first, you may feel a little anxious that you aren’t constantly being bombarded by the outside world, but after a day or two, you’ll find that living life without something attached to your face could help you feel invigorated. Of course, when it comes down to it, a lot of people can’t make this switch because of work. Although the office may require you to be connected during the work hours, you can turn your devices off the moment you clock out. If this isn’t the case, then limit the amount of times you look at your phone or check your email. While you’re enjoying your technological detox, keep yourself busy. Try going outside for some fun and fresh air. Another great option is to read a book, work on housework or begin the art project you’ve been thinking of.

2. Walk
For years, people walked just about anywhere they wanted to go. Now, we have cars that take away the physical burden. The only problem is, walking has been proven to reduce stress on the mind and body. Walking is one of the best ways to keep your body relaxed while burning calories. Plus, the soothing motions of the walk will give you time to clear your thoughts and get rid of any stress that has been building up during the day. In many cultures, especially with Buddhists, walking is a part of life that should be done every day because it helps with inner peace while helping the individual feel connected to the world as a whole. Of course, doctors also recommend that you walk at least 30 minutes a day, which might be a great indicator of the health benefits it brings. If you’re still not convinced, walking will help you lose weight, which is sure to help you ditch some of your extra stress anyway.

3. Meditate
Another great practice, taken from Buddhist culture, is meditation. Often, when a person is encouraged to mediate, they feel intimidated because the activity may seem boring or pointless. One of the major problems with meditation for most people is shutting down the mind so that they can relieve themselves of the stress that life brings. Sure, when you try meditation you may be less than an expert, but before you know it the activity will finally start to reveal some major benefits. If you’re having trouble with meditation, then consider your surroundings. Often, we have too many distractions going on, which makes it impossible to center ourselves. A room with less items in it, including technological devices, can help make this easier. You may even want to get your entire family in on meditation time. It is said that if we taught all 8 year olds to meditate, that violence would be eliminated from society in a mere generation. So, if this is the case, think about how much the activity would help reduce stress that’s eating away at your daily life and happiness.

4. Coloring Books
Adult coloring books are huge. If you’ve managed to miss out on the trend then now might be the time to grab yourself a coloring book so you can find some relaxation. There’s just something special about taking a walk down memory lane to the days of childhood coloring that will help you relax. They make coloring books in a wide assortment of themes, so you should be able to find something that catches your interest. The best thing about coloring books is you can have the kids sit down and color too, which means you’ll get some much needed quiet time while you sit down and relax. Of course, if you’re not willing to spend the money on a coloring book then you can always surf the web to see if there’s any coloring sheets that will suit you. Also, you can always scan and print the pages from a book so that you can keep using it over and over again.

5. Laugh
Of all of the cheap ways to help heal your stress, laughter is probably the best one of all. Laughter is so good for mental and physical health that it’s a wonder why so many people don’t laugh on a daily basis. So, if you’re really feeling down, try to work up a good laugh using past memories or joking around with your friends and family. If you’re feeling like you want some alone time, then go to the movies to see a comedy or simply put on your favorite comedic movie at home. Another great option is to take a night for yourself and see a stand-up comic. The more you laugh, the better you’ll feel so feel free to crack up even if the jokes aren’t exactly the best. Before you know it, you’ll feel energized and ready to take on whatever problems are getting you down.

6. Get a Massage
One of the most relaxing things you can do to help reduce stress and tension is to get a massage. Some people believe they have to spend a small fortune on a massage at a spa or through a masseuse, but there are ways around this problem. For instance, if you’re willing to spend some money on a massage then you might look at the prices of students in the area. Sometimes, you can even go to a massage school and receive a massage at no cost you. If you’re a student, then your on-campus health service might offer massages to help reduce stress during exam periods or throughout the semester. If free suits your budget even more then you may want to consider asking your partner for a massage. This can be a great way to bond with one another, especially if the stress has been getting in the way of your relationship. Apart from these methods, you may want to invest in a massage chair or back or foot massager. It may seem like the price is outrageous, but as you add up how much you’ll save in the long run you’ll see it’s a great investment.

7. Journal
Back in the day, journaling used to be a common thing for adults to do. Even teenagers enjoy the benefits of journaling. However, as we grow older we tend to find a number of things we’d rather do than journaling. It may be time to channel your inner teenager and get back into the activity. Whether you choose to write in a notebook or keep a personal blog, getting all of your feelings out can prove to be one of the best ways to relieve yourself of stress without paying a small fortune. Best of all, scientist have recently stated that writing and journaling can have great effects on the brain and mental health.

8. Ditch the Jolt
Although you may think that caffeine has a positive effect on your mood, you might find that your daily jolt could be causing you even more stress. Sugar can also be a quick way to make your stress elevate, which means the milk chocolate may not be a wise choice when you’re feel down due to your stress. In fact, anything that gets you moving faster than you normally would is a sure fire way to make your stress levels escalate, even if you do feel better after a couple of minutes of taking the stimulant. However, if you take a week or so away from coffee, tea, sweets and energy beverages then you may find your body relaxes faster. This will help you not sweat the small stuff, so you can get back to a stress free life.

9. Spend Time with the Fur Baby
It doesn’t matter if you have a cat or a dog, because spending time with animals can help cut back on your stress significantly. Dogs, for instance, tend to have a happy demeanor which will spread to you as the two of you play. Pets also encourage you to get outside more as you take them for walks or play games with them. This can help destress your body and mind, while allowing you to get healing exercise. Apart from play time, petting your animal can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure significantly. It is even proven that cats’ purrs will help heal the body while taking away stress. If you don’t have a fur baby then there’s still ways you can enjoy these benefits. Of course, adopting a pet is one of your best options as it will save a life and make you feel amazing. However, if you can’t have a pet then consider offering a pet-sitting service or volunteer to walk your neighbor’s dogs. If you love cats then see if there’s a cat café in your area, so you can enjoy play time while catching up on a good book or gossiping with a friend.

10. Enjoy Music
If there’s one way to get more out of life, it’s definitely listening to music. When you’re feeling stressed, try to put on your favorite songs and if you have the urge to dance then go for it. You may be surprised as to how much better you feel after a long day. If you’re feeling stressed at work, then see if you can listen to music quietly in your office or add headphones to your day. One of the best forms of music you can listen to is classical though because it promotes healthy brainwaves that may leave you feeling better faster. Music helps keep us entertained while promoting happiness that works against stress. So, make sure to create some awesome playlists to get you through the day when you’re feeling less than joyous due to stress.

Stress is a part of everyone’s life, but you don’t have to let it take control. These ten tips should help you to find a cheap and efficient way to get past your stress issues, so you can come out on the other side feeling so much better. So, now, money doesn’t have to stand in the way of your stress relief.

Spring is on its way, which means marathons should be following shortly after. If this is your first year of marathon running, then you may be a little stressed out about affording your current hobby. There’s no reason to fret your choice in activity though as there are many ways to work around the expensive price of your first marathon. Of course, if you’re a seasoned runner, you may still want to find a few ways to take away the high price of your marathon season. So, don’t skip out on the training because you’re afraid you won’t make the financial requirements. With these ten tips, you’ll be ready to get past the expensive bump in the road, so you can show the world what you’re made of.

1. Sign Up Early
They always say, the early bird gets the worm, which is certainly the case when it comes to registering for your marathon. You want to try to keep an eye on any marathon you’re interested in and then sign up and pay your fees as soon as the marathon takes submissions. Generally, the price of early admissions is much lower than it is when the race nears, so you’ll be saving some major money here. Sometimes, it can be hard to keep up with all of the dates, so you may want to come up with your own special marathon calendar, so you’ll know just when you need to start up the sign up process. You should also sign up for newsletters for every race you’re interested in. This will help get you the guidelines and prices well before the race, so you can decide if you’re going to participate and enjoy the early pricing. Plus, if you pay the fee ahead of time, you’ll be more likely to actually go through with the race.

2. Do a Charity Run
Charity runs can be a lot of fun because they aren’t all about winning, but earning money for a good cause. This can really be a great motivator when it comes down to it because it will allow you to feel inspired while running. Of course, it’s also great if you’re looking to save some money. Sure, there is still a fee during charity runs, but if you can find a sponsor then you may not have to worry about this fee at all. It does help if you already have a great running record though as this is sure to inspire more people to donate more money to your cause. However, if you’re just staring out then you should still be able to get some sponsors, but it may take a lot more work. Generally, if you take some time to walk around to local businesses and pitch your cause, you may be able to get a few people on board to help you with your charity run. Networking is key here, so make sure you make friends that may be able to lend a helping hand in the future too.

3. Make Sure You’re Ready
One major problem people run into is not being ready to take on a marathon. These races can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never run one before or if you’ve never seen one. One of the best things you can do is measure your progress while training and setting goals. If you’re nowhere near where you need to be when the race opens up for submissions, then don’t sign up. Instead, take the time to keep training like you’re going to the race. You should also attend the race just to see what it’s like. Generally, if you’re not on track for the race and you try to run it anyway, you may get discouraged and throw in the towel when it comes to marathons as a whole. So, ensuring you’re prepared for the challenge will save you some money and prevent you from giving up a healthy activity. You also don’t want to feel bad about wasting money if for whatever reason you find yourself unable to get through the race, as this may make you feel discouraged too.

4. Race Bags Are Awesome
When you sign up for a race, you usually get a race bag at the beginning. Typically, these are filled with crucial things you’ll need for the race; such as your number! Generally, the bags tend to be forgotten after the main course goodies are taken from it, which is no surprise considering most athletes would prefer to spend the time stretching and getting physically ready for the race. However, you may want to revisit your race bag when the race is over. You can usually find some amazing coupons that will help further your hobby. For instance, many race bags will offer coupons for other races, so you won’t have to pay full price on the upcoming races. You may even be able to get an early discount on next year’s race, which might leave you feeling pretty pumped up. Apart from race coupons, you may also find a few coupons for running accessories or trips to the spa to help you recover from your trip. Last but not least, some bags will even include hotel and restaurant discounts for those traveling for each race.

5. Fundraise
Don’t feel like you have to pay for your marathon fees out of pocket. In fact, one of the best ways to help you beat the price of the marathon is to run a few fundraisers. Make sure you let everyone know why you’re running the fundraiser, so they will feel more apt to want to help give to your cause. The fundraiser can be for just about anything too. If you’re into baking, then hit the kitchen and whip up some of your favorite recipes for a bake sale. Crafts are always a great opportunity to earn a bit of extra money. In fact, if you make t-shirts for the marathon promoting yourself then you may find the giving spirit will rise as many communities love to support their local athletes. Of course, coming up with your own race may also help bring in money, if you sell tickets and t-shirts. Your community’s school may even be willing to allow you to use their track if you go through the proper channels.

6. Join a Running Club
One of the best things you can do with any hobby is find a club to join. Of course, when it comes to running clubs, you may get more for your money if you take part in this social club. Often, running clubs can offer discounts on marathons, which will help keep your budget much lower. Not to mention, if you travel with your running club, you won’t have to spend as much on travel costs or accommodations, which will make your marathon even sweeter. Apart from reaping financial benefits, a running club can inspire you to get more out of your running. With seasoned marathon runners in your inner circle, you’ll be able to get all sorts of helpful advice to improve your running capabilities. Not to mention, you’ll have more motivation and fun when you have others to stand by your side in this often trying hobby.

7. Minimize Takeout
Many runners tend to think takeout is the solution to their calorie burning hobby. Since fast food can be cheap and it’s certainly fast, a lot of runners take these restaurants often, especially when they’re out of town for a marathon. Fast food can be a fast track to financial problems though. Sure, the calories in the food are pretty high, but after eating takeout more than once a day, the price tag will add up substantially. Also, these foods aren’t good for you in the slightest bit, which could lead to health problems down the line. This could end up running you even more money, which won’t help you out when it comes to your marathon budgets. Instead of eating take out, try to find wholesome snacks and drink protein drinks. When you’re traveling, make a point to head to the grocery store instead of a restaurant. You’ll find that you’ll save a lot more in the long run if you follow this method.

8. Volunteer
If you don’t mind stepping up and helping with the big event, then you may be able to reap some major benefits. In many cases, but not all, offering to volunteer to help kick off an event can help you get your marathon fees waived, which will cut down substantially on the cost of your marathon expenditures. If this is your plan, you should talk to the organizers of the event well in advance to help make this a reality though. Sometimes, volunteer slots fill up quickly, while other times the organization needs to discuss allowing you to waive fees for your services. All the same, if you can get the fees waived by putting in some work it could do you some favors in the long run. Plus, you’ll already gain a presence at the marathon, which could earn you sponsors in the future.

9. Train at Home
Don’t spend a fortune on a gym membership or a personal trainer when you can simply train at home. One of the best places to start your training is in your own neighborhood. You can easily begin by running around the block or a nearby park. This is also a great way to get a support team as neighbors make great running partners. As far as tips are concerned, you can easily look online to find most of the information you need. Some forums may even give you a personalized response to some of your problems, so you can improve with every run you take. Apart from using websites to customize your training and improve your skills, you can download a wide assortment of apps to help you keep track of your progress. From pedometers to calorie trackers, you’ll feel like you have a professional team helping you out.

10. Splurge on Supplies
A lot of people think they can get away with buying a cheap pair of running shoes or run in clothing that they already had lying around the house. Before you know it, you may find that you’re uncomfortable, covered in sweat and the clothes are pretty much ruined. Running accessories should be bought with quality in mind, rather than price. A good pair of running shoes won’t just last you a long time, but they’ll help support the body and encourage you to run faster and further. Another must have item for women is a good sports bra. This can make or break your run. Apart from that, running clothes should be designed to wick away sweat in order to prevent chaffing when your body begins to heat up. Also, you should think about items that offer compression to help with blood flow and convenience. When you have the right clothes and shoes, make sure you care for them properly by washing in cold or adding anti-bacterial and anti-fungal powders to the shoes.

Marathon running can be a lot of fun and can leave you feeling like a success. However, the price of these big events might make all of this dwindle away. These ten tips should have you running your way to happiness, while saving a pretty penny on your hobby. Before you know it, you’ll be a veteran in the marathon world and may even have a few tricks of your own to share with newcomers.

Winter in about to begin winding down, which means it’s time to start thinking about what you want to do for Spring Break. College students often struggle with this vacation period because there’s so many fabulous options, but so little cash to follow them through with. If you’re on a tight budget during this season, you may want to rethink your options. There’s actually a lot of fun things you can do over your Spring Break that will allow you to get in the relaxation you deserve while keeping to the budget that won’t leave you rustling up change for top ramen over the next few months. With these ten ideas, Spring Break may become a little more than your time to spend on the beach while handing over your only spending money for over priced goods.

1. Rethink Your Location
When it comes to college and Spring Break, you may feel the need to follow the crowd and go for some of the top Spring Break locations. You know, Cape Cod, Florida, Cancun and other way out of budget locations. There are other places you can go to have a good time though, which won’t force you to leave the country or even spend a small fortune. One great option is to find a beach town that isn’t going to be overcrowded with tourists. There’s actually many small towns that have perfect relaxing beaches that won’t force you to spend hours looking for a spot to catch up on your tan. You may want to look at states like Oregon, Washington, North or South Carolina for these sweet spots. Another fine option is to catch the tail end of ski and snowboard season. You won’t have to wait in huge lines here and you’ll be able to get in the last bit of fun in the snow before the heat wave begins. Finally, you could also search for things to do near you. Even if you travel to a nearby city, you could find that there’s lots of entertainment that won’t force you to spend extra money on a hotel room.

2. Split the Cost
Spring Break is always made better when you share the fun with your friends, so why not take the concept of sharing a little further? Rather than buying everything with your own money and having everyone take on their own expenses, you could end up saving big time if you just split all of the costs. For instance, booking your own hotel won’t be cost efficient on a college budget, but if you share your room with 2 to 4 people, you may feel like the room is even more affordable than you thought. Another great option is to look into Groupon deals, so you can get even more out of your stay without having to spend a small fortune. This is a great route to take if you plan on eating at restaurants. Of course, it may be more frugal to buy some groceries to get you through the trip. With the bill split with everyone, you’ll be eating on pennies a day if you shop right. Apart from that, it may be wise to drive to your location, so you can split the price of gas, rather than forcing everyone to pay for plane or bus tickets.

3. Don’t Be a Tourist
Most of the time, college students end up staying where all of the action is going to be happening. Between beach parties and the convenience of restaurants, it might seem wise to stay in tourist areas. However, you’re going to end up paying a lot more in these regions. If you can, find a hotel that isn’t in the spotlight. Inns and motels won’t charge you a fortune and tend to be close enough to public transit, so you can get around with ease. You should also avoid restaurants in the tourist zone too as they may end up charging you an arm and a leg for food that isn’t all that great. Instead, ask around to see where the locals eat. Beach towns are especially known for great little hole in the wall restaurants that offer great portions at a low price. Finally, don’t buy your family souvenirs in these areas as you won’t come out ahead. The stores generally hike up the prices because they know tourist will pay them.

4. Shop Ahead
It’s hard to plan for Spring Break, especially when you’re juggling classes, budgeting issues and the fear that one or all of your professors may spring a huge project on you just before the holiday. However, if you’re thinking about your budget more than anything else, then you may want to go ahead and plan out your Spring Break. Booking hotels, flights, bus tickets and rentals are always best done as early as possible, so you don’t end up spending a pretty penny on them. Although it’s only February, you should hurry and get in your reservations before the price goes way up and everything gets booked up. For some, Spring Break starts in March, so you’re looking at a very small window to get your room and flight prepped for the vacation. If you’re worried about not being able to go then book a room where there’s no cancellation fee and find an airline that offers refundable tickets. You’ll be thankful you planned early, especially when you have more spending cash on your trip.

5. Mid-Week Travel
Although a lot of students want to take in the full effect of Spring Break, it may be wise to cut your break a little short. Leaving in the middle of the week is the best way to enjoy savings when it comes to airlines and hotels. If you can plan your trip as just a short rendezvous, then you’ll end up spending less money anyway and you’ll have the much needed time to study. Of course, if you’re not cool with only going for a few short days then you may want to see if you have exams during the last days of class. If not, then you can skip a few classes and return during the middle of Spring Break week. This will give you a full week of fun, plus the savings. Then, you’ll even have time to unwind and work on projects before returning to class on Monday.

6. Buy a City Pass
If you’re not a huge fan of the beach life, then you may want to see what all the city has to offer. Of course, this can really cost you a lot, especially if you plan on going to museums, amusement parks and other attractions that actually cost money. One way to remedy this problem and to get more out of your vacation is to check out a City Pass. You can usually get one for around $50, and it will give you just about double the value. The pass often gets you into many locations and will give you front of the line access in most cases. One of the best things about investing in a city pass it will allow you to learn more about the city and check out things you never realized were in the city.

7. Camp
With the weather warming up, you may want to take this time to fully clear your mind from the stresses of college. One of the best ways to do this is to take to the great outdoors. Camping is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy yourself during the week. If you plan accordingly, it could be one of the cheapest ways to do so too. If you live near a free camp site then all you really need to get set up is some basic groceries and a tent. Sometimes, you can rent tents for fairly cheap, but if you know someone who may have one then it might be the better bet to ask around. While you’re camping, make sure to take precautions with the cold weather and try to bring a group with you or at least keep in touch with someone while you’re enjoying your tranquil time.

8. Go Home
When it comes down to it, one of the cheapest vacations you can take is heading home. Imagine how great you’ll feel after eating some good home cooking for the week and sleeping in a bed that doesn’t make you feel as if you woke up on a bed of rocks. Getting out of the dorm will help make the last portion of your vacation a little fresher, while hanging out with the parents for a while will make them happy. You can use your vacation time to get in touch with old friends who are still in town too. Before you know it, you’ll feel recharged and ready to make your final exams weep.

9. Watch for Bedbugs
Most college students try to find the best possible deal when it comes to accommodations when they travel. Although this is pretty normal, it could lead to a lot of expenditures down the line. A lot of cheap hotels and motels have bed bugs. That’s not saying all of them do, in fact, even a high class hotel could have bedbugs. So, before you book, make sure you check out the reviews to see if anyone else has recently had a problem with bedbugs. If you can’t find anything, then it’s probably safe to go ahead and book your room. However, when you arrive, don’t bring any of your items in before checking to see if there’s bedbugs in the room. They’re quite small, but you should be able to find husks or maybe even a few bugs on the mattress or in your chair cushions. Make sure you lift up the mattress before you call the room safe though. If you end up with these pests on a trip it could mean having to do lots of laundry or even replacing a mattress. Worse yet, you could have to pay for an exterminator to come in which ranges in the thousands!

10. Staycation
If you don’t really have a whole lot of money to spend on Spring Break then a staycation may be in order. You may be surprised by how many people end up leaving during the break, which will make the dorms one of the most peaceful places to be. This is perfect if you have a lot of projects to work on during your break. This will also give you a chance to go out and explore the city in which you are living. You may find brand new places to eat, some cool art exhibits or a new place to study when the library is full. Before you know it, you’ll forget all about spending break on the beach, especially when you have new places to show your friends when they get back from break.

College and Spring Break go hand in hand, but it’s hard to keep up with the hype when your budget isn’t on your side. With these ten tips and ideas, you should be able to find a way to make Spring Break memorable without having to tighten your budget even more.

The month of love is finally here, but with all of the expenses you could end up hating your budget. Luckily, February doesn’t have to be all about spending money on your loved ones. There’s actually some great purchases you can make during this short, yet sweet, month that can set your household budget up for success in the later months. With plenty of delayed holiday buys and a few travel surprises, you may find a lot more to love about February. So, grab your favorite Valentine and check out these deals before they’re long gone.

1. Jewelry
Valentine’s Day is a big deal during this month, so you’ll probably see sales everywhere for jewelry. The bad news is you probably won’t want to shop around for a piece of jewelry during the first half of the month. There may be some great Valentine’s Day sales going on, but if you’re patient you can save even more when this year’s must-have Valentine’s Day gift hits the clearance rack. February is also a popular month for proposals, which means rings should be at a high price prior to the holiday. Patience will become your best friend though if you wait for the engagement ring rush to disappear, as engagement season won’t pick up again for a couple of seasons. Of course President’s Day will also do you a huge favor, especially when it comes to online jewelers, so don’t feel bad about holding out until you find the perfect ring at the best possible price.

2. Flowers
You may want to steer clear of flowers for the first half of the month too, because everyone will be ordering them for the big day. However, the moment Valentine’s Day is over, you’ll be privy to some awesome deals on fresh flowers that are sure to make someone special. Of course, even if you’re not looking to gift the flowers, you’ll be able to find an assortment of flowers for your home or business. Bouquets of flowers aren’t the only floral purchases you should make during this month. Spring is right around the corner, so it might be wise to order your flower seeds and bulbs before planting season begins. You may be surprised by the discounts you’ll receive simply by shopping a little early. If you want, you can even get a head start on your planting by planting inside and using a grow light. This will allow you to have a burst of fresh colors the moment the warm weather arrives.

3. Gift Baskets
If you’re looking for an extra special gift for someone then you may want to consider a gift basket during this month. When Valentine’s Day is over, all of the romantic baskets will go on sale, which are generally filled with some pretty awesome wine and delectable chocolates. This will certainly make your day, even especially you aren’t planning on sharing with anyone. Apart from Valentine’s Day baskets, you should be able to get an incredible price on all of the old winter and Christmas baskets that went on clearance last month. As long as there’s no perishable items in the basket, you’ll be all set for Christmas gifting well before you even have to worry about gifts. Easter and summer inspired baskets should still be floating around on some gift basket websites too. Now is the perfect time for Easter baskets as last years will still on be clearance, so you can get stocked up before the holiday even rolls around. Also, summer barbeque or party supplies are always a must, especially when they’re clearanced. Of course, you also can’t go wrong with chocolate covered strawberries, cakes and cookie gift sets that drop in price after every holiday.

4. Furniture
Need to update the furnishings in your home? Now is the perfect time to do so. With President’s Day sales just around the corner, you may want to start looking around to see what your local stores have to offer. During this time of the year, all sorts of furnishing can be up to 60% off, which is sure to make your home renovation even more pleasing. Of course, you don’t have to just shop around locally. Many online stores will have deals that seem out of this world too. Some can even give up to 80% off retail price with free shipping included on certain items. You should always be aware when buying furniture online though. Make sure you’re shopping with a reputable website and that the dimensions will fit your home and are a proper size for what you’re buying. With a little careful shopping, you may find that it is possible to score a deal that will have all of your friends jealous. You might also want to consider shopping around for newlyweds or future grads on your list too, as furniture is a great gift for anyone getting a start in life.

5. Cellphones
If you’ve been waiting forever for new phone releases, then you’re probably on the edge of your seat because release dates are right around the corner. However, this also means you’ll have a great chance of getting a new phone at a reduced price. If you’ve been waiting to grab the latest Samsung or iPhone then February is going to be the perfect time. Since the new comers are about to hit shelves, retailers will be dropping prices to get the old models off of their shelves. This isn’t the only deal happening during the month of February, as many cell phone stores love to get on board with the Valentine’s Day magic by including 2 for 1 deals, or simply lowering the price for special gifts. You may even be able to get a good deal on your service.

6. Skis/Snowboards
Technically, ski and snowboard season isn’t over until April and since there’s still snow coming you may want to dive into some of the deals going on in the month of February. Generally, this is when stores try to clear out all of their gear for this season, so they can pack up and prepare for all of the goodies that next year will offer. Thus, you can probably get up to 60% off on a snowboard or a pair of skis if you look in the right places. Even if you don’t think you’ll be hitting the slopes again this season, you can still stock up for next season so you’ll be ready to go when the slopes open. If you don’t have a local snowboard or ski dealer around you then you can probably still get an outstanding deal. Just make sure you know what you’re buying and that you’re shopping with a reputable store. There’s lots of guides online to help you find your perfect size too.

7. Travel
Apart from a few romantic rendezvous, the travel world in February is pretty glum. Everyone is recovering from the holidays, paying off and debts and they simply don’t want to deal with the weather. So, now is the perfect time to get in a little traveling in if you have vacation time built up. Currently, you can find deals on hotels, cruises, rental cars and even airline tickets. Just about everything you need to book the perfect vacation will be a fraction of the price! Even some amusement parks will try to coax in travelers, so watch out for deals there too. If you’re not planning on traveling this month, you should pass up the chance to shop still. You may be able to find better deals on summer or Spring Break vacations as people still aren’t rushing to book just yet. Make sure you shop around though, as there’s lots of great hidden deals online!

8. Canned Foods
Did you know that February is actually National Canned Food Month? It’s a pretty exciting thing to celebrate considering canned foods have become a necessity in many households. This month, you should find some pretty awesome deals on some already cheap foods, so make sure to stock up as much as you can. You might even want to go through your pantry and donate old foods or foods your family didn’t like so you can clear up more space for the good stuff. You may also want to shop for some of the more expensive canned items you buy, like fruits, so you’ll never have to double-think on the canned pumpkin because it will already be waiting in your cabinet. If you’re a fan of canning your own foods, then you might want to check out supplies for this too as sometimes stores will loop them in for the holiday. No matter what you buy, you may want to use this time to stock up on your emergency food though, so you’ll be ready in case of an accident, financial problem or natural disaster.

9. Wedding
Although engagements are pretty big on Valentine’s Day, weddings aren’t exactly up there. This makes February a great month to get hitched. Sure, some days, like Valentine’s Day may be more expensive to book, but this period is a low point for the wedding industry. Most people prefer to get married in the spring or summer, which leaves a wide opportunity for the winter months. However, most of those who do marry in the winter do so in the early days because it’s easier to get people together and budgets aren’t as crunched as they are after the holiday season. You should be able to get a great price on a venue, caterers and even your dress. If you’re not looking to get married this month, then start booking everything now. You’ll beat the rush, which might save you a bit of money in the long run.

10. Air Conditioning/Humidifier
Although your heater may be going on full blast now, you’ll soon be longing for the days of the cold air. This is why it’s the perfect time to get an air conditioner. Whether you’re shopping for a small unit or looking to have a central air unit installed, you might want to consider getting it now. It’s too cold for most people to even consider an air conditioner, which means the business is slow. You should be able to get a discount on the unit itself as well as an install, so take advantage of the savings before everyone else catches on. Of course, be aware of the air conditioner you’re getting and how much it could affect your power bill. If an air conditioner isn’t what you’re after, then a humidifier might be just what you need. These especially come in handy during the allergy season as so many people suffer from pollen and other seasonal allergies. These are also great to have if your children get sick or are having respiratory problems.

February is a lovely month, but with such a big holiday on the horizon you may already be loathing it. Luckily, there’s a lot to love about this month when it comes to savings in many areas that will make the household happy. So, don’t let the high prices of chocolates get you down, you’ll find some pretty awesome savings when you look in these ten categories.

Spring Break and summer bathing suit season is rapidly approaching, which can cause a bit of a concern when it comes to your feet. The dry winter weather often leaves feet looking less than presentable, which may make you want to hide away during the season of sandals and flip flops. Others prefer to turn to costly treatments that may leave your wallet in a bind when Spring Break splurge time arrives. Worse yet, sometimes the winter weather can cause painful problems, which may require medical or over the counter treatments that add up. If you’re worried about your feet, there are a few ways you can inexpensively heal them before you go out flaunting your favorite sandals during the warm weather.

1. Change Your Diet
When it comes to your body, a lot of problems can be mended simply by changing the way you eat. It may seem like a miracle cure or a false promise, but choosing the right foods for your body can help you avoid foot problems while encouraging current problems to go away. Of course, eating healthy all year long is a must, but you may want to concentrate on certain foods in order to help your skin maintain its health. For instance, kale, broccoli, lemons, limes and wheat grass are some of the best foods you can consume if you plan on keeping your feet looking and feeling outstanding. If you’re not keen on these foods, then blend them into a nice smoothie to improve the taste while getting your fill of fruits and veggies in one single serving. If you’re having a problem with fungus of the nails or on the skin, then garlic will quickly become your best friend. This food naturally gets rid of these problems, which will make you feel better in no time. You may want to avoid spicy foods though, as they force the body to sweat, which can make a problem occur or spread.

2. DIY Foot Soak
Many people will spend an extraordinary amount when it comes to foot soaks. There’s a lot of companies that produce chemical based soaks designed to soften and deodorize with little effort on your end. There’s a better solution though and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. For instance, if you’re having trouble with fungus on your feet, or you simply want to get rid of some dead skin, then you may want to run some hot water and add salt and vinegar. A soak in this combination will help neutralize the foot while taking off the excess skin. Apple cider vinegar is another good option for fungal or bacterial infections and will soften the skin in no time. If you have Epsom salts around the house, then add these to a vinegar and water mix for a soak that will relax you while pampering your feet. A surprising soak to get rid of bacteria is tea. Simply run some hot water and add a few black tea bags and your feet should be on the mend soon. Finally, if you want to really get rid of the calluses and dry skin on your feet then add 1/3 cup vinegar, 1/3 cup Listerine and a teaspoon of salt into some hot water. After soaking for a few minutes you’ll be able to rub the rough skin away, revealing smooth sandal worthy feet.

3. Foot Powder
Keeping your feet sweat free can be one of the best ways to prevent problems, which is a bit hard to do when you wear thick socks and heavy shoes in the winter time. Foot powder is one of the best ways to help you master the art of dry and healthy feet though. However, these powders can really add up and some of them don’t help fight fungus or bacteria that may pop up during this time of the year. One of the best products to turn to in your time of need is baking powder. This is a fairly inexpensive item that most homes already have, which makes it accessible in an emergency. Simply add a little baking powder to your socks and you should stay dry all day. This can also help prevent bacteria from growing in your shoes, which will save you money in the shoe department too. If you’re having problems with fungus, which is common in the winter, then add a bit of garlic to your socks. You can use garlic powder or sliced fresh garlic. Although it might not feel comfortable, the garlic works to fight away the infection and prevents it from spreading.

4. Exfoliate
Exfoliating is one of the best ways to keep your skin as clean as can be and helps reduce the unsightly look of dried skin. However, foot exfoliates can really add up, which is why it might be best to take the DIY road if you can. Rather than simply buying a costly beauty product, it might be wise to take a walk down the food department instead. For instance, coconut salt can be one of the best exfoliates available. The healing properties of coconut have been renowned over the last few years. So, your special scrub won’t just get rid of the dead skin, but will also add nutrients to the fresh and healthy skin. Sugar is another great option, especially if you’re looking for a quick fix. Simply mix it with an oil, like coconut oil, and you’ll have an exfoliate that will outshine some of the expensive brands. Of course, one of the best things you can do is take a walk on the beach, if you live close by. This natural remedy has been used for generations.

5. Moisturize
If your skin isn’t too bad off, then applying a regular lotion after showering can help heal dry skin while also stopping it from returning. However, if you’re looking for a moisturizer that will heal deeply then you may want to avoid the beauty section altogether. You’ll end up throwing away money like it’s going out of style. Instead, take to the pantry. If you have Crisco or lard in your pantry, then you’re good to go. This will go deeply into the skin, which will help rejuvenate the area and heal all of the damage that winter caused. If you’d love a healthier food moisturizer then try out another oil, such as coconut oil. This amazing product will heal with its many nutrients and is very healthy for your body.

6. Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection that affects many people differently. In some it causes itchy skin that burns and flakes, while for others it can cause swelling, sores and other unsightly and uncomfortable problems. Usually, you don’t need a prescription to get rid of Athlete’s Foot, but you may need to buy something over the counter to get rid of the problem. This can add up, quite a bit especially if you end up buying creams which are often criticized for not helping the problem. Generally, the spray is the best option and tends to last longer, but there are natural ways to fix the problem. For starters, drop aspirin tablets into alcohol and then spread the mixture on the feet after a shower to dry out the area. Another option is soaking your feet in vinegar and salt. Adding garlic to your socks will help draw out the fungus too. The best thing you can do is keep your feet dry though. Also, avoiding heat in the area and sanitizing nail clippers can also do a world of good.

7. Healthy Nails
Toe nails that are dry, brittle or yellow can also be embarrassing during the sandal season. Keeping up with your nails can be tough though as many treatments are pricey. There’s a few natural ways to help heal your unsightly nails though. One of the best things you can do is buffer them daily. If you don’t want to spend money on a buffing set, then simply use your thumb! One great option to help your nails look great is a mixture of apple cider vinegar and baking soda. Transform this combination into a paste then let it rest on the nails. If you’re looking to heal your nails of fungus or bacteria then you can use coconut oil, which uses the healthy fatty acids to heal. Another great option is tea tree oil. If growing your nails is a problem then rub olive oil, orange juice or lemon juice to encourage health and growth.

8. Pedicures
When the weather begins to heat up, most people want to make their nails look fabulous which often means spending quite a bit of money on them, especially if you end up going to a high scale salon or spa. Rather than throwing away money on flawless nails, try to do them yourself. You can settle for a solid color for convenience or try your hand at doing patterns of appliques. If you’re not sure you want to tackle your nails by yourself then it might be fun to host a nail painting party. This will give everyone more options to choose from and will ensure you get a fabulous look you’ll be happy to show off. One thing to consider when painting your nails is using a separator, which will help make your nails look fabulous and flawless. There’s no need to splurge on expensive polish either. In fact, the best investment you can make is purchasing natural polishes, which are better for your nails.

9. Invest
A lot of food trouble has to do with being on your feet all day, or the way your feet fit into your shoes. If you’re having trouble here, it could end up getting worse which may cost you quite a bit of money in the long run. One thing you can do here is invest in the insoles that are designed to suit your particular problems. These insoles are designed based on your weight, your arches and other contributing factors, so you’ll get a comfortable fit that will make you feel like you’re walking on clouds. The insoles tend to last a while too, so you’ll get your money’s worth out of them before you have to replace them. Another great thing to invest in for the sake of your feet is a good pair of shoes. If you’re on your feet all day this may be a necessity. Exercise shoes are also a must. You should try to find something lightweight with plenty of ventilation and shock resistance to help you get through the workout without leaving your feet sweaty and in pain. Finally, a decent pair of socks are a must and should be bought to suit your work, exercise and relaxation needs.

10. Clip Your Nails
It may seem like common sense, but keeping your nails cut can help get rid of a lot of problems. For starters, it will stop bacteria from building up on your feet and under your nails. It will also help prevent painful ingrown toenails from occurring. This also helps you avoid odors that may become embarrassing when you switch to your summer footwear. Of course, the key here is to know how to cut your nails properly, in order to avoid major problems later on. Also, after clipping, make sure to keep your clippers and other nail supplies clean.

Taking care of your feet is essential, but spending a fortune on them isn’t. With these simple tips you should be able to be proud of your healthy feet without having to pay outrageous fees on them. Now, you can welcome summer without a second thought!