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  • We’re Living in a Material World. This Christmas, Give an Experience Instead

    We’re Living in a Material World. This Christmas, Give an Experience Instead

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    The perfect holiday gift doesn’t have to be something you buy from the store, cover in wrapping paper and place under the tree.

    Giving friends and family members an experience gift is just as wonderful — and it’ll create memories that last far beyond the holiday season.

    Gifting experiences like concert tickets, a trip to a theme park or an overseas vacation, however, can get pricy. This list of affordable experience gifts will give you ideas for everyone on your Christmas list without having to spend a ton of money.

    38 Experience Gifts That Won’t Break Your Budget

    Move beyond material presents with these affordable experience gift ideas.

    1. DIY Spa Treatment

    Recreate a spa day experience at home using ingredients you already have on hand. Make a moisturizing face mask with yogurt, honey or oatmeal. Or create a sugar scrub to exfoliate the feet. Really sell the DIY spa experience by lighting candles, putting on some calming music and serving cucumber water.

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    2. Cook a Gourmet Meal

    Take the burden of cooking dinner off your loved one’s plate for the day. Offer to whip up their favorite meal — or the best dish you make. Make it a truly remarkable dinner by adding an appetizer and dessert. Or set it up as a cooking class, and teach them to make your signature dish.

    3. Plan a Picnic

    Luxury picnics are pretty trendy now, but you can create your own on a budget. Pack a sampling of your gift recipient’s favorite foods, bring a bubbly beverage and use blankets and pillows you have at home. Choose a location with nice scenery or a place that holds special meaning to your loved one.

    4. Make a Charcuterie Board

    A charcuterie board is a great gift to bring to your co-worker’s annual Christmas party — or really for anyone who appreciates a nice spread of fancy cheese and meat. This article will show you how to make a nice charcuterie board for under $30.

    5. Wine Tasting

    Buy a few affordable bottles of wine and invite your friends over for a wine tasting. Share information about each beverage and why you selected it. Serve appetizers or snacks that pair nicely with the wine.

    6. Gift a Special Recipe

    Share your favorite recipe with a loved one. Bonus points if you give them all the ingredients needed to make the dish.

    7. Teach a Skill

    Time to tap into your talents and share what you know. If you can play the guitar, decorate cakes, take amazing photos — or whatever your area of expertise is — offer to give free lessons to your loved ones.

    8. Teach a Language

    DIY your own Rosetta Stone classes. If you’re fluent in another language, offer to teach basic vocabulary words and phrases as a free introductory language class.

    9. Clean Their House

    Help your friend or family member rid their home of the holiday clutter by offering free house cleaning services. Help them take down all the holiday decor in addition to mopping, vacuuming and dusting.

    10. Yard Service

    Pitch in to boost the curb appeal of your loved one’s home. Offer to rake leaves, shovel snow, mow the lawn or trim hedges. Your hard work is sure to be appreciated!

    11. Beauty Session

    If you’ve picked up some styling skills over the past couple years, put them to good use. Offer to give your friend a manicure, style their hair or do their makeup before attending a holiday party.

    12. Room Makeover

    Play interior designer and offer to renovate or refresh a room in your friend or family member’s house. Check out these tips for how to upgrade a kitchen or bathroom on a budget.

    13. Free Babysitting

    Give the busy moms and dads in your life a little break by offering to watch their kids. You could give them a coupon book so they can redeem the free babysitting whenever they need. Or set up an arrangement where you take the kids off their hands on a scheduled basis — like every Saturday morning for the next four weeks.

    A couple have a movie marathon night while wearing Santa hats around Christmas time.
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    14. Themed Movie Marathon

    Whether your friend is into action flicks, ‘80s rom coms or foreign films, curate a short list of movies in their favorite genre and invite them over for a special screening. Don’t forget the popcorn and soda.

    15. Day Trip

    Gift a travel experience that doesn’t require plane tickets or a hotel stay. Plan a trip to a nearby city less than a day’s drive away. Research notable landmarks to visit and inexpensive things to do while you’re there.

    16. Camping Trip

    Camping can be a nice low-budget trip — if you do it right. Depending on where you live in the country, this gift might be one your recipient won’t redeem until the weather’s more conducive to sleeping outdoors.

    17. National Parks Pass

    Gift outdoor lovers with free entry year round to any of the national parks. An annual National Park pass is $80 — or $20 for those age 62 and up.

    18. Free Photo Shoot

    If you take nice photos, offer to give a free photography session to a friend or family member. Maybe they could use professional headshots for work or perhaps their last family photo is seriously outdated. Send them digital copies from the photo shoot plus print out a couple favorites they can frame.

    19. Score Cheap Tickets to a Local Attraction

    Offer to take your loved one to a museum, indoor skydiving, an escape room or another local attraction as an experience gift. But you don’t have to pay full price. Sites like Groupon offer discounted admission to local activities and attractions. Your local library may even provide free museum passes to library card holders.

    20. ClassPass Gift Card

    A ClassPass gift card is a perfect gift for a friend who likes to keep active and try different fitness classes. ClassPass gives people access to thousands of gyms, fitness studios, spas and salons all over the country. It also offers virtual classes.

    21. Sign Up for a Race

    Surprise a pal who’s into fitness by signing them — and yourself — up for a 5K, 10K and another upcoming race and paying for their registration fees. Make it more of an experience by scheduling time to train with them before the event.

    22. Dance Lessons

    If you know how to waltz or swing dance or can master all the latest TikTok moves, dance lessons can make for a nice experience gift.

    A couple sings songs together while one of them plays the guitar.
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    23. Perform a Song

    If you’re musically inclined, sing or play a song for your loved one as a gift. Pick a song that has meaningful lyrics or is one of their favorites — or write a song of your own!

    24. Scrapbook

    The best gifts are the ones that are meaningful and personal. Create a scrapbook for your loved one to reflect on all the memories you’ve had together. Personalize it with photos, mementos, handwritten notes and more.

    25. Create Your Own Guided Journal

    Buy a blank journal and customize it with daily writing prompts or encouraging words to reflect on each day. This is a gift the recipient can use all throughout the year.

    26. Positive Thoughts Jar

    Purchase a bunch of popsicle sticks from your local craft store and write positive thoughts, well wishes or affirmations on each one. Decorate the outside of an empty clear jar and then add the popsicle sticks inside. Gift to a loved one with instructions to read the message from one stick each day.

    27. Cameo Video

    Cameo lets you arrange for your loved one’s favorite celebrity to send them a personal video message. Depending on which celebrity you choose, this gift could get pretty expensive. However, there are some actors, influencers and reality TV stars available to create messages for $25 or less.

    28. The Adventure Challenge

    The Adventure Challenge is a book filled with prompts to encourage couples, friends, family members or individuals to go on random, fun-filled adventures. It’s scratch-off style, so you won’t know what gift experiences you’ve signed yourself up for until you scratch off the adventure prompt. Each book costs $50.

    29. Scavenger Hunt

    This idea makes a great experience gift for kids. Set up clues all around the house eventually leading to a treat or small gift as the treasure. Bonus points if you incorporate a pirate theme.

    Why not take the scavenger hunt online? Use this list of internet freebies to see who can score the most free stuff in a day.
    A family make snow angles in the snow while laughing.
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    30. Yes Day

    Based on the book and subsequent movie “Yes Day,” you can create your own Yes Day where you agree to do whatever the recipient asks of you for an entire day. This would be a perfect gift for the kiddos who are used to having to follow the rules and do what they’re told. For 24 hours, the tables will be turned!

    31. Craft Kit

    This is a great idea for an artsy or creative person. Gather together materials to create a craft project — like yarn and knitting needles for making a scarf or beads and string for jewelry making — or purchase a craft kit online or at an arts and crafts store. The experience is making it together.

    32. Paint by Number Kit

    A paint-by-numbers kit is great for someone who is artistic but needs a little assistance to create the masterpiece they imagine. You can find one online or at arts and crafts stores for under $20.

    33. Herb Garden Starter Kit

    Nurture someone’s green thumb by giving them an herb garden starter kit — a couple of nice pots, potting soil, seed packets and a small watering can. Rather than assembling your own kit, you could purchase one online or from a local home and garden store.

    34. Subscription Box

    With so many different subscription boxes out there, you can find something for anyone on your Christmas list. There are subscription boxes for foodies, beauty addicts, travel fiends and even murder mystery fans. An annual subscription can get costly, but many subscription box companies will let you purchase one box as a gift or sign up for a shorter subscription, like three months.

    35. Mini Golf

    You don’t need any real golfing skills to play — and enjoy — a round of mini golf. This activity is typically low-budget. Prices vary depending on location, but you can often play for less than $20 per person — making it a pretty affordable experience gift.

    A couple stand next to each other while one holds a bowling ball at a bowling alley.
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    36. Bowling

    Bowling is another low-budget experience that’s good for the whole family. Costs vary, but you can usually play a game for less than $20 per person.

    37. Skating

    ‘Tis the season for ice skating — but a trip to the roller skating rink would also be nice.

    38. Airbnb Experiences

    Airbnb experiences help visitors and locals alike explore something new or interesting in any given city. The prices of these experiences vary by location and type of activity, but you can find options for under $50.

    Nicole Dow is a former senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. Deputy editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors updated this post for 2022.


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    nicole@thepennyhoarder.com (Nicole Dow)

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  • The Best 57 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free All Week

    The Best 57 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free All Week

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    Having kids is expensive. The cost of everything goes up: Clothing, shelter and — of course — food.

    We’ve brought you ways to save on clothes and housing in recent months. Today we’re going to show you how to get free kids meals any day of the week.

    Some of the restaurants that we’ve rounded up have locations around the country and others are regional. Many of the following restaurants provide one free kids meal per adult entree ordered.

    If you don’t see a favorite restaurant here, make sure to ask your server about free meals for kids the next time you stop in.

    Places Where Kids Eat Free All Week

    Here’s our roundup of 57 restaurants that offer free meals to kids on at least one day a week.

    Restaurants That Cater to Your Family’s Needs

    Whether you need curbside meals or have multiple kids to feed, let’s take a minute to highlight restaurants that make your life easier.

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    Free Kids’ Meals for Takeout or Curbside

    Most offers for kids’ eat free promotions are limited to dine-in customers only. This is problematic if you’re high-risk, or otherwise still being careful with the pandemic even though many restaurants have returned to business as usual.

    However, there are a handful of restaurants allowing customers to claim their free kids’ meals without dining at the restaurant.

    If you have concerns with indoor dining, another safer place to take advantage of kids eating free is Bruster’s, as there is no “inside” to worry about. You just order from the window while standing outside.

    Check out our list of 100 free things to do for you and your family.

    More Than One Free Kids Meal With Purchase of Adult Entree

    Most restaurants only allow you to get one free kid meal per adult entree. This is a problem if you’re a single parent with more than one child, or if you are a dual-parent household with more than two children.

    To ensure all the littles eat for free, check out these restaurants that explicitly allow for two free kids’ meals per adult entree:

    • Fox & Turtle
    • MCL Restaurant & Bakery
    • Holiday Inn

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    A little boy eats pasta.
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    Where Kids Eat Free on Sunday

    Sunday is the most popular day of the week for kids eat free promotions. Check out these 13 restaurants where kids eat free on Sundays!

    Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 

    The Dickey's BBQ Pit logo.

    To qualify for this deal, your total order must be at least $12. You can only qualify for one free kids’ meal per order.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Ages 12 and younger.
    • Number of free kids meals per adult purchase: 1

    Unlike many restaurants, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit lets you take advantage of the kids eat free promotion whether you dine in or not! Takeout and delivery orders are eligible when you use this promo code at checkout: KEFOLO.

    Find a Dickey’s Barbecue Pit location.

    Moe’s Southwest Grill 

    The Moe's Southwest Grill logo.

    To qualify for the Kids Eat Free deal at Moe’s Southwest Grill, your adult meal must cost at least six dollars.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult purchase: 1

    Find a Moe’s Southwest Grill location.

    Nantucket Grill 

    The Nantucket Grill logo.

    Kids eat free at Nantucket Grill in the Triangle — the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area of North Carolina — every Sunday.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.

    Find a Nantucket Grill location.

    Rush Street 

    The Rush Street logo.

    Kids eat free every Sunday night at Rush Street in Culver City, California.

    • When: Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.

    Roosterfish Grill 

    The logo for Rooster Fish Grill.

    Roosterfish Grill in Largo, Florida, offers free kids’ meals every Sunday.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Salsarita’s 

    The logo for Salsarita's.

    Most Salsarita’s offer two, kids-eat-free nights per week. One of them is often on Sunday. You will want to call your location ahead of time to make sure you dine there on the right night.

    • When: Every Sunday and usually one additional day per week. Time varies by location.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find a Salsarita’s location.

    Nueva Cantina 

    The logo for Nueva Cantina.

    Nueva Cantina has multiple participating locations in St. Petersburg, Florida, and offers free kids’ meals every Sunday.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Arriba Mexican Grill 

    The logo for Arriba Mexican Grill.

    Arriba Mexican Grill in Arizona offers kids’ eat free day every Sunday.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find an Arriba Mexican Grill location.

    Stoney Point Grill 

    The logo for Stoney Point Grill.

    Stoney Point Grill in Chicago offers free kids’ meals on Sundays.

    • When: Sundays.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per purchase of an adult entree: 1

    Pi Craft Pizza 

    The logo for Pi Craft Pizza

    In upstate New York, Pi Craft Pizza offers a kids’ eat free day on Sundays.

    • When: Every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find a Pi Craft Pizza location.

    Esplendido 

    The logo for Esplendido.

    Just outside Detroit, Esplendido Mexican Cuisine has a free kid’s meal promotion every Sunday.

    • When: All day every Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per purchase of adult entree: 1

    This offer is for dine-in customers only.

    Other Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free on Sunday

    Some restaurants offer promotions multiple days of the week. Here are some restaurants where kids eat free on Sunday and other days:

    • Bravo Mexican Grill
    • HOBNOB
    • Cafe Brazil
    • Bruster’s
    • Fricker’s
    • Holiday Inn
    • Tony Roma’s
    • 99 Restaurants
    • Texas de Brazil
    • Fogo de Chao
    • JJ’s Grill
    • Frasca’s Pizzeria & Bistro

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    A boy eats a rack of ribs.
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    Where Kids Eat Free on Monday

    Monday is another popular day to offer free kids meals. Here are 10 restaurants where kids eat free on Monday.

    Arooga’s Grille House & Sportsbar 

    The logo for Arroga's.

    Arooga’s was the first Certified Green Restaurant in Pennsylvania, and it welcomes kids to eat free every Monday.

    • When: All day every Monday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult meal: 1

    This offer is dine-in only.

    Find an Arooga’s Grille House location.

    Woody’s BBQ 

    The logo for Woody's BBQ.

    Not every Woody’s BBQ participates in Kids Eat Free Days, but of those that do, they most commonly offer the promotion on Mondays. A few locations offer it on a different day of the week. You will want to call ahead to ensure you’ve got the right date for participating locations.

    • When: Most locations offer this promotion on Mondays.
    • Age limitations: Either 12 and under or 10 and under depending on location.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per purchase of an adult entrée: 1

    Find a Woody’s BBQ location. 

    Las Margaritas 

    The logo for Las Magaritas.

    Las Margaritas of Columbus, Ohio, offers a kids eat free promotion during lunch on Mondays at its two locations.

    • When: Every Monday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: One, and the adult also has to order a drink.

    Colonial Cafe 

    Colonial Cafe in Illinois offers kids eat free days every Monday.

    • When: Mondays.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per purchase of an adult entree: 1

    Find a Colonial Cafe location.

    Cody’s Original Steakhouse 

    The logo for Cody's Original Roadhouse.

    Cody’s Original Steakhouse in Florida offers free kids meals with the purchase of an adult entree every Monday and Tuesday.

    • When: Every Monday and Tuesday.
    • Age limitations: Kids ages 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids meal per adult entree: 1

    Find a Cody’s Original Steakhouse location.

    The Warbler Chicago

    Monday through Friday, The Warbler in Chicago offers Supper Club for families. Each person over the age of 9 pays $27 for family-style dining including one salad, two appetizers, vegetable dishes or house made pastas, flatbread and a dessert. Kids age 9 and under enjoy the meal for free.

    • When: Monday through Friday from 4:30p to 6p.
    • Age limitations: Kids ages 9 and under.

    HuHot Mongolian Grill

    Kids under 3 eat free everyday at HuHot. But most locations also offer a kids’ eat free night for everyone under 10, with many of them offering it on Monday. Contact the restaurant to make sure you’ve got the right day of the week for your location before packing everyone up in the car.

    • When: Varies by location, but often Mondays.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.

    Find a HuHot location. 

    Grand Hacienda 

    The logo for Grand Hacienda.

    Monday evenings are kids eat free night at Grand Hacienda locations in Florida’s Tampa Bay area.

    • When: Monday from 5p to close.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find a Grand Hacienda location,

    Moretti’s 

    The logo for Moretti's.

    At Moretti’s, it’s not so much an adult entree that gets you a free kids’ meal, but an adult spending at least $20 on food at its Illinois locations.

    • When: Every Monday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: Must spend $20 to get one free kids’ meal.

    Find a Moretti’s location. 

    Buffalo Wings & Rings 

    The logo for Buffalo Wild Wings.

    Kids eat free on Mondays at almost all Buffalo Wings & Rings. There are a couple locations that don’t participate, though. So be sure to contact your specific location before your visit.

    • When: Every Monday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    The adult must spend at least $5 to be eligible for this offer.

    Find a Buffalo Wings and Rings location.

    Fox & Turtle 

    The logo for Fox & Turtle

    Monday nights are kids eat free nights at Chicago’s Fox & Turtle.

    • When: Every Monday after 4 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 2

    Want even more free stuff? Be sure to check out these 100+ birthday freebies!

    Other Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free on Monday

    Some restaurants offer promotions multiple days of the week. Here are some restaurants where kids eat free on Monday and other days:

    • Rumbi Island Grill
    • HOBNOB
    • MCL Restaurant & Bakery
    • Cafe Brazil
    • Bruster’s
    • Fricker’s
    • Holiday Inn
    • Tony Roma’s
    • 99 Restaurants
    • Texas de Brazil
    • Fogo de Chao
    • JJ’s Grill
    • Frasca’s Pizzeria & Bistro

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    A little girl eats a hamburger.
    Getty Images

    Where Kids Eat Free on Tuesday

    You don’t have to look far to find kids eat free promotions on Tuesdays, either. We’ve rounded up 10 restaurants where kids eat free on Tuesday.

    Ruby’s Diner 

    The logo for Ruby's Diner.

    Tuesday evenings are kids eat free night at Ruby’s Diner. Most of the locations are in Southern California but there are a few sprinkled in other states.

    • When: Every Tuesday from 4 p.m. until close.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.

    Find a Ruby’s location. 

    Atlanta Bread 

    The logo for Atlanta Bread.

    Some Atlanta Bread locations offer a kids’ night on Tuesday evenings, but you’ll want to call ahead of time to make sure yours is one of the participating locations.

    • When: Tuesdays after 5 p.m. though not all locations participate.
    • Number of free kids meals per adult entrée: 1

    Find an Atlanta Bread location.

    The Mac House

    If you’re looking for restaurants where kids eat free in the Triangle area of North Carolina, check out The Mac House in Raleigh on Tuesdays.

    When: Tuesdays

    Number of free kids meals per adult entree: 1

    This offer is for dine-in only.

    Jason’s Deli

    To get free kids’ meals at Jason’s Deli, you’ll have to check which night of the week your location offers kids eat free nights. We’ve seen them on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Mondays, but we’ve most commonly seen them offered on Tuesday.

    One thing that does remain fairly consistent across locations is that the offer tends to be limited to just a few hours, usually somewhere around 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Be sure to contact your location to make sure you have the right time and day of the week.

    • When: Varies by location, but usually Tuesday evenings from about 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entrée: 1

    Find a Jason’s Deli location.

    Rumbi Island Grill 

    The logo for Rumbi Island Grill.

    Rumbi Island Grill is a Utah restaurant chain that offers kids’ nights on both Mondays and Tuesdays.

    • When: Mondays and Tuesdays after 4 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per purchase of an adult meal: 1

    Find a Rumbi Island Grill location.

    Bob Evans 

    The logo for Bob Evan's.

    Kids eat free at Bob Evans on Tuesday evenings.

    • When: Tuesdays after 4 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    This offer is available to dine-in customers only.

    Find a Bob Evans location.

    BurgerFi 

    The logo for Burgerfi.

    Not all BurgerFi locations offer a kids eat free day. But when they do, it’s usually on Tuesdays.

    • When: Varies by location, but it is Tuesday at most participating locations.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entrée: 1.

    Find a BurgerFI location.

    Alessio’s 

    The logo for Alessio's.

    Kids eat free on Tuesdays at one of the three Georgia locations of Alessio’s Restaurant & Pizzeria.

    • When: Every Tuesday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: One. Adult meal must cost $10+.

    Find an Alessio’s location. 

    Evviva Bar and Eatery 

    The logo for Evvia's.

    Tuesdays are kids’ eat free day at Evviva Bar and Eatery in Chicago.

    • When: Every Tuesday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult meal purchase: 1

    Stack’d

    Not every Stack’d Burgers location in Western Pennsylvania offers free kids days, so be sure to call ahead to find participating locations.

    • When: Every Tuesday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.

    This offer is for dine-in customers only.

    Find a Stack’d location.

    Other Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free on Tuesday

    Some restaurants offer promotions multiple days of the week. Here are some restaurants where kids eat free on Tuesday and other days:

    • Cafe Brazil
    • Cody’s Original Steakhouse
    • The Warbler Chicago
    • Community Tavern
    • HOBNOB
    • Woody’s BBQ
    • Bruster’s
    • Fricker’s
    • Holiday Inn
    • Tony Roma’s
    • 99 Restaurants
    • Texas de Brazil
    • Fogo de Chao
    • JJ’s Grill
    • MCL Restaurant & Bakery
    • Frasca’s Pizzeria & Bistro

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    A little girl eats pasta at a restaurant.
    Getty Images

    Where Kids Eat Free on Wednesday

    On Wednesdays you can still find some kids eat free offers. Check out these six restaurants where kids eat free on Wednesday.

    MCL Restaurant & Bakery

    MCL Restaurant & Bakery in the Midwest offers free kids meals all day every Monday through Wednesday.

    • When: All day Monday through Wednesday.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 2

    This offer is for dine-in customers only.

    Find an MCL Restaurant & Bakery location.

    IKEA 

    The Ikea logo.

    At IKEA, kids eat free or cheap throughout the week depending on their age. IKEA has free baby food available every day for children age 2 and under.

    On Wednesdays, kids’ meals for children 12 and under are half off when you purchase an adult entree.

    You must be dining in the restaurant to take advantage of these discounts and freebies.

    Find an IKEA location.

    Luby’s 

    The Luby's logo.

    Kids eat free on both Wednesday and Saturday at Luby’s, which has more than 50 locations in Texas.

    • When: Wednesdays and Saturdays at participating locations.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    This offer is good for dine-in only.

    Find a Luby’s location.

    Bravo Mexican Grill 

    The Bravo Mexican Grill logo.

    Kids eat free on Wednesday evenings and all day Sunday at Bravo Mexican Grill in Buford outside Atlanta.

    • When: After 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, and all day Sunday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    This offer is valid for dine-in only.

    Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles

    Wednesdays are kids eat free day at Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles.

    • When: All day Wednesday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Each qualifying adult entree must be at least $18 in order to qualify for this dine-in only offer.

    Red Robin

    Free kids night schedules change from location to location at Red Robin. But typically, kids eat free on the first Wednesday of every month.

    • When: Varies by location, but usually from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    For the sake of Red Robin’s program, an “entree” can be an actual entree – or it could be a gourmet burger, entree salad, a sandwich or a wrap.

    Find a Red Robin location.

    Other Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free on Wednesdays

    Some restaurants offer promotions multiple days of the week. Here are some restaurants where offering a free kid’s meal on Wednesday and other days:

    • Cafe Brazil
    • Community Tavern
    • HOBNOB
    • Bruster’s
    • Fricker’s
    • Holiday Inn
    • Tony Roma’s
    • 99 Restaurants
    • The Warbler Chicago
    • Texas de Brazil
    • Fogo de Chao
    • JJ’s Grill
    • Frasca’s Pizzeria & Bistro

    Back to top ↑

    A little girl eats grilled cheese and fries.
    Getty Images

    Where Kids Eat Free on Thursday

    Thursday is a less popular day for kids eat free promotions, but you can still find them if you know where to look. Here are five restaurants where kids eat free on Thursdays.

    Rookies All American Pub and Grill 

    Rookie's American Pub logo.

    You can get one free kid’s meal with the purchase of adult entrees on Thursdays at Rookies All American Pub and Grill at Illinois locations.

    • When: Every Thursday.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find a Rookies All American Pub and Grill location.

    Mama’s Comfort Food & Cocktails 

    Mama's Comfort Food & Cocktails logo.

    Thursdays are kids eat free day at Mama’s Comfort Food & Cocktails in Southern California.

    • When: All day every Thursday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    Find a Mama’s Comfort Food location.

    HOBNOB 

    The logo for Hobnob.

    Most evenings, including Thursdays, kids eat free at four Atlanta area HOBNOB locations.

    • When: Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 1

    You must be a member of the loyalty club to take advantage of Kids Eat Free Nights.

    Find a HOBNOB location.

    Cafe Brazil 

    The logo for Cafe Brazil.

    For most of the week, including Thursdays, kids eat free at Cafe Brazil locations in Texas.

    • When: Sunday through Thursday from 5p to 10p.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.

    Find a Cafe Brazil location.

    Community Tavern 

    The logo for Community Tavern.

    Tuesday through Thursday, kids eat free at Chicago’s Community Tavern.

    • When: Every Tuesday through Thursday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entrée purchase: One. Each adult must spend $16+.

    Community Tavern is one of the few restaurants that lets you use this offer on carryout orders as well as dine-in orders.

    Other Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free on Thursdays

    Some restaurants offer promotions multiple days of the week. Here are some restaurants where kids eat free on Thursday and other days:

    • Bruster’s
    • Fricker’s
    • Holiday Inn
    • Tony Roma’s
    • The Warbler Chicago
    • 99 Restaurants
    • Texas de Brazil
    • Fogo de Chao
    • JJ’s Grill
    • Frasca’s Pizzeria & Bistro

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    Where Kids Eat Free Friday 

    A lot of people go out to eat on Fridays and Saturdays. So it’s harder to find restaurants that offer kids eat free promotions on these days. There is one, though: Ruby Tuesday.

    Ruby Tuesday 

    The logo for Ruby Tuesday's.

    Ruby Tuesday offers free kids’ meals all day on Fridays.

    • When: All day every Friday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entrée: 1

    This offer is limited to dine-in customers only.

    Find a Ruby Tuesday location.

    A little boy eats ice cream outside.
    Getty Images 

    Where Kids Eat Free Everyday

    There are plenty of restaurants that offer kids eat free days every day of the week, though, including Fridays and Saturdays! Here are nine restaurants where kids eat free every day.

    Bruster’s Ice Cream 

    The logo for Bruster's ice cream.

    If you have younger kids, it’s good to know that Bruster’s Ice Cream will give them free baby cones all the time — as long as they meet certain height requirements.

    • When: Everyday.
    • Age limitations: No age limitations, but your child must be under 40” tall.

    Find a Bruster’s location. 

    Fricker’s 

    The logo for Fricker's.

    At Fricker’s, kids eat free all day everyday. In order to qualify for this offer, you will have to purchase a kids’ drink in addition to an adult meal. There are a number of outlets in Ohio plus one each in Indiana and Michigan.

    • When: Everyday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 10 and under.
    • Number of kids’ meals free with an adult meal purchase: 1

    This offer applies to dine-in customers only.

    Find a Fricker’s location.

    Holiday Inn  

    The logo for Holiday Inn.

    If you’re staying at a Holiday Inn, not only do your kids get free meals, but they’ll be able to stay at the hotel for free, too.

    There are different stipulations for the Kids Eat Free program depending on which region you’re visiting. While most Holiday Inns are participating locations, there may be few that aren’t. Call your location ahead of time to check before balancing your vacation budget on free kids meals.

    North, South & Central America

    In the Americas and all countries, you can get two free kids’ meals per adult entree. In the Americas and most other countries, you may also be capped at four free kids’ meals per family.

    • Age limitations: Kids age 11 or under.
    • Number of kids meals free with purchase of one adult entree: 2 to 4

    Europe

    Europe is the only market where you can potentially get free kids meals through room service.

    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per one adult entrée: 2 to 4

    Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa

    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 2 to 4

    China

    If you are staying in China, there will be only one on-site restaurant that offers the kids eat free promotion. Check with the front desk to learn which one is the qualifying, all-day dining option.

    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per adult entree: 2

    Find Holiday Inn locations.

    Tony Roma’s 

    The logo for Tony Roma's.

    Kids eat free everyday at Tony Roma’s. And with more than locations on five continents, that’s a good deal.

    • When: Everyday.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.

    Find a Tony Roma’s location.

    99 Restaurants 

    The logo for 99 Restaurant.

    To qualify for 99 Restaurants’ kids eat free day, you’ll need to be a member of the 99 Rewards program. This promotion is good any day of the week — as long as the Redsox won a game the day before. There are dozens of locations in New England and the Northeast.

    • When: The day after a Red Sox win — any day of the week. 
    • Age limitations: Kids age 10 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per one adult entrée purchase: 1

    Find a 99 Restaurants location.

    Texas de Brazil

    The logo for Texas de Brazil.

    Depending on how old your child is, they can dine at Texas de Brazil for free everyday. Regardless of age, you won’t ever pay full price.

    • Under 3 years old: Free everyday.
    • Ages 3 – 5: $5
    • Ages 6 – 12: Half of adult pricing.

    Find a Texas de Brazil location.

    Fogo de Chao 

    The logo for Fogo de Chao.

    Kids eat for free or at a reduced price everyday at Fogo de Chao, too.

    • Age 6 and under: Free all the time.
    • Age 7 – 12: Half of adult pricing. 

    Find a Fogo de Chao location.

    JJ’s Grill

    The logo for JJ's Bar and Grill.

    Kids eat free all day everyday at JJ’s Grill, with locations spread across Arkansas.

    • When: All day. Everyday.
    • Age limitations: Kids 12 and under.

    This offer is for dine-in customers only.

    Find a JJ’s Grill location. 

    Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar

    Kids eat free everyday at Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Chicago from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

    • When: Everyday from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
    • Age limitations: Kids age 12 and under.
    • Number of free kids’ meals per one adult entrée purchase: 1

    This offer is for dine-in only.

    Pittsburgh-based writer Brynne Conroy is the founder of the Femme Frugality blog and the author of “The Feminist Financial Handbook.” She is a regular contributor to The Penny Hoarder.


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  • Spoiler Alert: Outlet Malls Actually Aren’t a Great Deal — Here’s Why

    Spoiler Alert: Outlet Malls Actually Aren’t a Great Deal — Here’s Why

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    What Penny Hoarder hasn’t been tempted by the thrill of a good deal?

    If you’re into brand name goods, you’ve probably been lured to the local outlet mall in the hopes of snagging some luxury items at deep, deep discounts.

    Whether you’re shopping for mid-range brands like Gap and Banana Republic, or the higher-end houses, like Coach and Burberry — outlet malls seem like great places to splurge at a fraction of the cost.

    But are you really getting huge discounts at outlet stores? Unfortunately, the answer is usually no.

    Here’s the truth about outlet stores that they don’t want you to know.

    Do Outlet Stores Offer High Quality at Low Prices?

    One reason to consider luxury labels (albeit at a wildly discounted cost) is because they’re made to last. Yes, part of their jacked-up price is due to the brand name, but it’s also because luxury goods are often made of higher-quality fabrics in a higher-quality manner.

    If you don’t care that the Coach bag you got at an outlet is “so last season,” you can probably expect it to weather several seasons and still look fabulous, unlike the cute bags you might pick up for a steal at Target that last less than a year if you’re lucky.

    Right?

    Not necessarily.

    Most consumers assume outlet malls stock their shelves — and clearance racks — with excess inventory, end-of-season or slightly flawed factory seconds (think: a seam with a few errant stitches). In other words, the same stuff you’d find at full-price retail stores.

    But the truth is, many outlet stores sell their items cheaper than their retail counterparts because their quality is cheaper, too.

    Say hello to a dirty little industry secret: made-for-outlet products.

    As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports on its Consumer Information blog:

    “Many stores sell products at their outlets made exclusively for those outlets. These items may be of lower quality than what’s sold in the regular stores. For example, a jacket might not be fully lined, the stripes on a shirt may not match up at the seams, a t-shirt may be made of a lighter-weight fabric, and shoes might be made with synthetic materials rather than real leather. If top quality is important, you may want to shop elsewhere. But if it’s the brand, style, or look that’s key, you may be in the right place.”

    This fact is so little known that four members of Congress wrote the FTC in 2014 requesting it investigate the “potentially misleading marketing practices” of outlet stores.

    And in 2017, when outlet shopping was dominating, Forbes also highlighted “that outlet malls fail to offer real deals since much of the product is specifically made for the locations.”

    In essence, luxury brands are knocking off themselves, then selling those knockoffs to you — whether you realize it or not. At least when you buy a knockoff from a street vendor in New York City, you enter into the transaction fully aware you’re not getting the real deal.

    The Lure of the Experience at Outlet Malls

    So maybe the quality of outlet items isn’t on par with what you’d find in a traditional store — but some outlet retailers are focused on shopper experience over the lure of the label.

    That means you can still sport something made by brands you normally couldn’t afford and enjoy a great outlet store experience.

    According to Retail Leader, not only are outlet malls moving ahead of regular malls in terms of size and selection, some outlet retailers are designing immersive shopping experiences that encourage consumers to stay longer and shop more.

    We talked to Richard Laermer, public relations guru and author of eight books on marketing and bargain hunting, including “Trendspotting.”

    “What does an outlet provide in a good way? Well, probably a good time,” he said. “It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, hanging with friends and buying cheap goods.”

    But I’m Still Getting a Discount at Outlet Stores … Right?

    All right, so you’re getting potentially lower-quality items that may not even be manufactured by the brand whose label is on them. But at the very least, you get the thrill of buying something for a fraction of its original cost, right?

    Maybe.

    Some outlet stores like Dooney & Bourke have a reputation for brand quality legitimacy. We asked Catherine Koziol, a savvy shopper who used to work at a high-end outlet shopping mall in South Florida.

    “Although prices may not be that much better, in terms of the bags, they appear to be the same as the ones on the regular website,” Koziol said.

    In her experience, sometimes outlet shops get “retail transfers” which is the same brand name, same quality merchandise that sells at regular stores, just marked down.

    “But most of the stuff is ‘made for outlet,’ which means cheaper quality,” Koziol said.

    Not so at Dooney & Bourke, according to Richard Laermer.

    “As for Dooney & Bourke, this is a totally unique idea. It’s almost all online and that is really cool,” he said. “They also seem to sell more quality.”

    What About Online Outlet Stores?

    If it’s the discount you’re after and not the breezy, outdoor, browsing-for-hours shopping experience, why not shop at an online outlet store?

    Fact: Comparing prices online can save you money. Especially when you’re not tempted with in-person impulse buys.

    So, if you turn your outlet mall obsession virtual, you can save yourself the gas money and still score some great deals, especially at these 10 online outlet stores.

    • Amazon Outlet
    • J. Crew Factory
    • Best Buy Outlet
    • 6pm
    • Neiman Marcus Last Call
    • REI Outlet
    • Zales Outlet
    • Reebok Outlet
    • Nordstrom Rack
    • Burkes Outlet

    So Are Outlet Stores Even Worth Visiting?

    While all this info may feel a bit doom-and-gloom, there’s still nothing wrong with shopping at an outlet store — so long as you do so with your eyes wide open as a savvy consumer.

    “Most people go to outlet malls as sport,” said Laermer. “But just don’t think there’s a bargain in poor-selling old models of clothing and other goods.”

    Despite a downturn in consumers flocking to physical stores, retailers are increasing their outlet presence.

    So if you still love the idea of fooling your fashionista friends with a “luxury” item they think you spent a fortune on, go right ahead. Your secret’s safe with us.

    Contributor Veronica Leone Matthews is a North Carolina-based freelance writer with 11 years of experience writing for non-profits and higher education. She covers lifestyle topics for The Penny Hoarder. Freelance blogger Kelly Ernst and deputy editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors contributed.


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  • The Best Package Tracking Apps to Keep Up With All Your Holiday Gift Orders

    The Best Package Tracking Apps to Keep Up With All Your Holiday Gift Orders

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    This holiday season, there will be packages aplenty on people’s doorsteps.

    With many of us gearing up (or already starting) to purchase gifts online, we all need a better way to track packages headed to our front door.

    There is no shortage of available apps to help you track packages when you have a tracking number, but with so many options available, which are the best?

    We’ve made the decision easy by highlighting the best package tracking apps to keep an eye on your packages this holiday season. Just download a package tracker app and grab your tracking number.

    What Is a Package Tracking App?

    Rather than switching between shopping apps to track your packages or searching the tracking numbers on the web, you can use tracking apps.

    Installing a package tracking app on your smartphone allows you to view all your shipments from multiple sources in one place — no shuffling apps on your iOS or Android device.

    Package tracking apps offer varied features, but many share a few similarities that we’ll cover. Our favorite package tracking apps will automatically add new packages to your watch list by linking with your Amazon account or scanning your email for tracking numbers.

    We’ve emphasized tracking apps that are free or offer the majority of their features at no cost — just plug in a tracking number to get started.

    While all of these package tracking apps are highly recommended, be sure to check out the details of each to find the perfect option for your shopping habits.

    Route: The Best Package Tracking App

    After hands-on testing with a multitude of package tracking apps for iOS and Android, we selected Route as our favorite. This great package tracking app is free and offers a visual map to see where your packages are in transit.

    Route offers a beautiful and simplistic interface that is easy to use and integrates well with several email services, including Gmail, Outlook and iCloud. Route will automatically add the package if a tracking number is discovered within a received email.

    Route also integrates easily with Amazon, allowing you to keep an eye on packages. Amazon has made it increasingly challenging to track packages with third-party apps, but solutions such as Route employ clever tricks to enable the feature.

    The Route app even includes a built-in feature for dealing with order issues. With only a few taps, you can report packages that were stolen, arrived damaged or were lost in transit. Route is truly our favorite package tracker app this year for the holiday season.

    Download for iOS or Android.

    Package Tracking App Honorable Mentions

    We found our top package tracking app, Route, to deliver an optimal experience we believe everyone will love. However, as opinions are just opinions, we have listed a few honorable mentions for those seeking something different to track shipments.

    Shop

    The Shop app has become increasingly popular thanks to its tight integration with many independent online stores, thanks to the Shopify platform. But, in addition to integrating with small shops, the Shop app can import packages directly from Amazon.

    If Amazon or the independent online store you purchased from doesn’t work with the Shop app, you can have the app scan your emails for tracking numbers. The Shop app supports Gmail and Outlook email accounts. (Sorry, iCloud fans, no luck here.)

    Opening the Shop app does directly place you in a shopping tab in an attempt to show you shops and items you may wish to purchase, but navigating to your orders is only a tap away. If you decide to purchase with the Shop app, you can even pay later with monthly installments.

    Download for iOS or Android.

    Deliveries

    The Deliveries package tracker is the only paid app in our lineup, but at only $4.99 a year or 99 cents a month, it’s a worthy recommendation. If you choose to unsubscribe to the app at any time, you’ll be able to view package history but cannot add new deliveries.

    Like the other apps we recommended, Deliveries allows you to track all your packages in a single location. For automated tracking, you can set up any email service to forward tracking numbers to the app.

    Deliveries you add will be synced across your devices using iCloud, so you can track your packages across multiple devices. We also love that Deliveries allows you to add delivery dates to your calendar for easy tracking.

    Oh, and the best part? The Deliveries package tracker doesn’t try to sell you products when you open the app like all of the other best package tracking apps on this list.

    Download for iOS (not available for Android).

    FedEx, Postal Service, UPS and DHL Tracking

    Don’t care about viewing all of your packages in a single app? You can download individual apps for delivery couriers, such as FedEx, the U.S. Postal Service, UPS and DHL.

    While these apps won’t allow you to track everything, you generally gain access to more advanced tracking information, such as rescheduling deliveries and adding shipment notes.

    If you don’t have a tracking number, many official postal services will enable you to see incoming packages merely based on your address.

    Here are delivery apps for some of the most popular courier services:

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Can I See Exactly Where My Package Is?

    Package tracking apps use tracking information provided by postal services, such as USPS or FedEx, to display location information. You generally won’t be able to see the location of your package in real time, but you’ll see approximate locations based on recent updates from the couriers.

    Can I Track a Package With an Order Number?

    In most situations, you won’t be able to track a package with an order number. However, if you have an order number, you may be able to reach out to the retailer of your shipment and obtain a package tracking number.

    How Do I Track a Package I Ordered?

    We recommend downloading and installing a package tracking app on your Android or iOS device to track the packages you ordered. Our favorite package tracking app is Route.

    Can Google Track a Package?

    If you perform a Google search with your tracking number, Google will provide you with your tracking information. However, we recommend using a package tracking app for a more organized approach.

    Michael Archambault is a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder specializing in technology.


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  • Are Appliance Extended Warranties Worth It?

    Are Appliance Extended Warranties Worth It?

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    When you reach a certain age, home appliance shopping is something to be excited about. It’s easy to drop a significant chunk of money on that new fridge with french doors, and it’s really rather odd how delighted you can be over a standard household appliance. 

    As you finalize the purchase and arrange delivery, the store will likely ask if you want to pony up some extra cash for an appliance extended warranty to supplement the manufacturer’s warranty.  

    But should you spring for the extended warranty or go with a home appliance warranty? And which warranty provider is best?

    If you do your research beforehand (i.e., read this article because we did the research for you), you can go to the store armed with an answer.

    We discovered the differences between a manufacturer’s warranty, a retailer appliance extended warranty and home appliance warranties. Here’s what we learned.

    What Is an Appliance Extended Warranty?

    The main differences between a manufacturer’s warranty and a retailer’s extended warranty are who provides the coverage and what the warranties cover.

    A manufacturer’s warranty generally will only cover replacement or repair if the issues existed prior to the purchase. These warranties are also included in the price of the appliance and are usually valid for one year to cover the costs associated with functional parts and labor.

    An appliance extended warranty is issued by the store selling the item and offers a wide range of benefits over several years. So, when the original manufacturer’s warranty expires, you have an extended appliance warranty to fall back on.

    In addition to 24/7 online support or covering the cost of parts and labor, some appliance extended warranty plans will even reimburse the cost of food spoilage or laundry services if your refrigerator or washing machine goes on the fritz.

    Some extended appliance warranties also partially repay customers who don’t use the plan or allow customers to transfer coverage to a new owner if they sell an appliance covered under a protection plan. 

    Home warranties cover partial service costs for normal wear and tear on appliances — things like repair of mechanical components that might break down over time. Think of it like insurance (even though it’s not). You pay a monthly fee or annual premium and if (when) your fridge breaks down, you get discounted repair service on covered appliances.

    Retailer Appliance Protection Plans

    Which warranty provider has the best comprehensive appliance coverage? To see what extended warranties have to offer and which stores might have the best deal, we crunched some numbers to see if they’re worth it. 

    Here’s a look at the extended warranty option from four nationwide stores that sell major appliances, and what they have to offer. 

    (Note: Since some stores base the cost of extended warranties on the price of the appliance, we used a $1,000-$2,000 price range for all four examples.)

    Best Buy Geek Squad Extended Warranty

    Not only does this extended warranty protect your appliances after the manufacturer’s warranty ends, but it also enhances the coverage while the manufacturer’s warranty is still in place.

    3-year: $159.99; 5-year: $349.99

    Benefits:

    • 24/7 phone and online support: No
    • Food loss reimbursement: Up to $300
    • Cost to transfer coverage to a new owner: Free
    • Power surge protection: Yes
    • Reimbursement on preventative maintenance parts: No
    • Payback reward for not using plan: No

    Read here for more details on Best Buy’s extended warranty.

    Home Depot Major Appliance Extended Warranty

    Home Depot’s extended warranty even covers 50% reimbursement for the replacement costs of some cosmetic parts and features a two-day service guarantee for some metro areas.

    For appliances between $1,000 and $1,499.99: 3-year: $130; 5-year: $195

    For appliances between $1,500 and $1,999.99: 3-year: $155; 5-year: $235

    Benefits:

    • 24/7 phone and online support: Yes
    • Food loss reimbursement: Up to $300
    • Cost to transfer coverage to a new owner: Free
    • Power surge protection: Yes
    • Reimbursement on preventative maintenance parts: 50%
    • Payback reward for not using plan: Yes. If there are no repair claims, the customer is eligible for 30% back.
    • If your product can’t be repaired, Home Depot will provide you with a replacement or reimburse you for the product purchase price, plus tax.

    Read more about Home Depot’s appliance warranty.

    Lowe’s Major Appliance Extended Warranty

    Lowe’s offers an appliance warranty that helps you pay the cost of reinstallation when you need to hook your appliance back up. The extended warranty also provides replacement coverage if you end up with a lemon.

    2-year: $90; 4-year: $150

    Benefits:

    • 24/7 phone and online support: No
    • Food loss reimbursement: Up to $300
    • Cost to transfer coverage to a new owner: Free
    • Power surge protection: Yes
    • Reimbursement on preventative maintenance parts: 50%
    • Payback reward for not using plan: Yes

    Read more about Lowe’s extended warranties.

    Costco Appliance Extended Warranty

    Appliance extended warranties are built into the purchase price of home appliances for Costco members. Various levels of membership alter the warranty’s terms, but basic coverage details for appliance extended warranties include home delivery, installation, fast replacements and haul-away services.

    3-year: $119.99; 5-year: $229.97

    Benefits:

    • 24/7 phone and online support: No
    • Food loss reimbursement: Yes, the amount depends on the plan
    • Cost to transfer coverage to a new owner: Free
    • Power surge protection: Yes
    • Reimbursement on preventative maintenance parts: No
    • Payback reward for not using plan: No

    Read more about Costco’s extended warranties.

    Home Warranty Plans

    A home appliance warranty is similar to an insurance plan, and just like retailer extended warranties, it will vary depending on the coverage details of the different home warranty providers. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best home warranty companies.

    American Home Shield

    Rated in the top five home warranty companies by thisoldhouse.com and consumer advocate.org, American Home Shield was founded way back in 1971, so the company offers customers reliable coverage.

    • 24/7 phone and online support: Yes
    • Price range: $500-$700 per year
    • Most popular plan: ShieldGold
    • Covers preexisting conditions: Yes
    • Service fees: Yes

    Select Home Warranty

    Consumer Affairs accredited home warranty provider Select Home Warranty works with an impressive network of authorized service technicians and assigns you a local professional. It offers three levels of warranty protection.

    • 24/7 phone and online support: Yes
    • Price range: Starts at less than $1 per day
    • Most popular plan: Platinum Care
    • Covers preexisting conditions: Yes
    • Service fees: Yes

    Choice Home Warranty

    An Inc. 5000 company, Choice Home Warranty allows you to tailor your home appliance warranty to your needs.

    • 24/7 phone and online support: Yes
    • Price range: $560-$660 per year
    • Most popular plan: Heavyweight Protection Plan
    • Covers preexisting conditions: No
    • Service fees: Yes

    Alternatives to Home Appliance Protection Plans

    If you’re ready to skip the expense of an extended protection plan but don’t want to entirely fly by the seat of your pants and hope your appliance never breaks down, you’ve got some alternatives.

    Which Major Appliance Warranty Is Right for You?

    To decide which warranty provider is the best choice for your major appliances, ask yourself a few questions.

    What does the manufacturer’s warranty cover, and how long will my new appliance be covered? Do I need more coverage?

    Will paying upfront for the extended warranty give you peace of mind for when your appliances inevitably break down? If you are able to save some money every month, you could forgo this expense in favor of a rainy day fund. Parking the money in an interest-bearing savings account earns you a bit of interest, but you’ll need to be diligent about setting those dollars aside.

    Do I have a house with older appliances that are likely to break down in the next few years? If yes, a home warranty might be right for you.

    Contributor Veronica Leone Matthews is a North Carolina-based freelance writer with 11 years of experience writing for nonprofits and higher education. She covers lifestyle topics for The Penny Hoarder. Former staff writer Lisa McGreevey and freelancer Kent McDill contributed. 


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  • 19 Unique Ways to Give Cash

    19 Unique Ways to Give Cash

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    Stuffing cash in an envelope in lieu of buying a gift often gets a bad rap.

    But let’s be real: Who couldn’t use some extra cash? You’ve never heard of anyone trying to return a cash gift because it wasn’t their size or didn’t suit their taste.

    And giving money doesn’t have to be impersonal or boring if you use one of these fun money gift ideas.

    19 Creative Money Gift Ideas

    Stop stressing about gifts during the holidays or other special occasions. Give the thing everyone is sure to love — cash!

    1. All Boxed Up

    Mimic the look of a traditional gift by putting some cash in a box, wrapping it and topping it off with a bow. A small box, like the kind jewelry comes in, works perfectly. But if you’re a jokester, put the cash in a small box and put that box in a medium-sized box and put that box in a larger box. All the unboxing will be like opening up nesting dolls — but with a monetary reward at the end.

    2. Money Origami

    Turn dollar bills into hearts, butterflies or cranes with some crafty folding skills. With origami, you can turn paper currency into so many different objects or designs. The Spruce Crafts shares nine origami projects for you to transform dollars into creative money gift ideas. You can use bills of any denomination.

    3. Money Photo Book

    Turn a small photo album into a creative money gift by slipping dollar bills into the slots of each page instead of photos. You may choose to include prompts, such as “treat yourself to something sweet” or “pick out a fun nail polish color.”

    4. Framed Money

    Put a dollar bill (ideally a $20 bill or higher) into a picture frame with instructions to “break in case of emergency.” No one says the “emergency” can’t be a new pair of shoes!

    Getty Images

    5. Money in a Pizza Box

    Special delivery! Serve up some real dough by overlapping dollar bills into the shape of a circle to resemble a pizza pie. To carry out this cash gift idea, buy an empty pizza box on Amazon or from a restaurant supply store.

    6. Money in a Candy Box

    Another money gift idea is to put different dollar bills into an empty box of assorted chocolates, folding or arranging each bill in a unique way. Your gift recipients can use the money to “treat” themselves to something nice.

    7. Money Cake

    Similar to a diaper cake given to expecting parents at a baby shower, a money cake is formed by rolling dollar bills into cylinders and then arranging them vertically to form a circle, stacking a smaller circle of rolled-up dollars on top to create what resembles a tiered cake. This fun gift idea is great for birthdays but can also be used as a way to gift cash on other special occasions.

    8. Money Roll

    Gift recipients will have fun with this money gift idea. To create a money roll, lay out a line of dollar bills and tape them end to end. Tape the first of the connected bills to an empty toilet paper roll and roll the money up.

    9. Money Lei

    Making a necklace out of dollar bills is definitely a creative way to gift money. Inspired by the Hawaiian lei, a money lei is a necklace made out of dollar bills shaped into flowers. This YouTube video from the Classy Cheapskate shows you how to make one.

    10. Money Wreath

    This money gift idea is particularly festive. You can make a mini money wreath to give to someone on your Christmas wish list. This project requires 15 dollar bills, but you can mix different denominations of bills if you choose. Watch this video from NProkuda Origami for the steps to make one.

    Money is shaped as money trees.
    Getty Images

    11. Money Tree

    Another creative way to gift money around the holidays is to fold a dollar bill up like a Christmas tree. This tutorial from Curbly shows you how to do it in just eight steps.

    12. Money Bouquet

    Everyone loves getting a bouquet of flowers. Make your bouquet even more special by creating the flowers out of dollar bills. This tutorial video from Stanford Federal Credit Union shows you how using four dollar bills per flower. To complete the bouquet, add artificial stems and leaves, which you can purchase from a craft store.

    13. Money Notepad

    Wow your loved ones by creating a notepad out of money. This is a fun gift idea for kids or teens — just make sure to tell them the notepad is made from real dollar bills and not fake ones they can write on! The blog What Mommy Does gives step-by-step instructions for how to create a money notepad. All you’ll need is a stack of crisp dollar bills, a piece of cardboard, a paper trimmer or scissors, two small binder clips, some padding compound adhesive and a glue brush.

    14. Money in a Balloon

    Putting dollar bills inside a balloon is a fun idea for giving money. To do so, roll up a dollar bill and stuff it inside a deflated latex balloon. You can also add confetti if you’d like. Then inflate the balloon, preferably using a hand pump instead of your mouth. Tie the balloon closed and give it to your gift recipient with instructions to pop for a nice surprise.

    15. Piggy Bank With a Cash Gift

    A piggy bank is a great personal finance gift for kids — but don’t leave them with a $0 starting balance. Add some bills and coins to the bank before wrapping it up and encourage them to get in the habit of saving money.

    16. Scavenger Hunt

    Send your loved one on a scavenger hunt with a real treasure — money! — waiting for them at the end. Do a Google search for scavenger hunt clue ideas if you’re not able to come up with your own.

    A couple look happy as a bill is paid off.
    Getty Images

    17. Pay Off a Bill

    This is a money gift idea that is sure to be well appreciated. If you have the account information for the bill, you could pay it off as a surprise. That’s a nice idea for a romantic partner, roommate, adult child or parent. However, you can also send a note inside a card promising to pay a specific upcoming bill as a gift — and forward the gift recipient the money for it once they tell you the amount.

    18. Contribute to a 529 Plan

    Make college more affordable for a special kid in your life by making a financial contribution to their 529 college savings plan. The child doesn’t have to be your dependent for you to add money to their account. This would make a nice gift for a grandchild, niece, nephew or friend’s kid — as well as your own.

    19. Gift Card

    We couldn’t end this list without mentioning one of the most traditional ways to gift money to someone: a gift card. Select gift cards from your loved ones favorite stores. Many retailers offer gift cards with special designs for holidays or other occasions.

    Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.


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  • Why December Is the Most Wonderful Time of Year to Buy a Car

    Why December Is the Most Wonderful Time of Year to Buy a Car

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    When’s the best time of year to buy a car? Let’s see what all the experts say.

    Edmunds: “Data shows that December is the best time of the year to buy.”

    Autotrader: “The best time to buy a car is in late December when yearly, quarterly, and monthly sales goals converge.”

    Cars.com: “Shoppers looking for the best deal on a new vehicle are typically advised to wait until the end of the year.”

    Carfax: “The time of year you shop for a car is important, and analysts agree that consumers who go car shopping in December could obtain the best deals of all.”

    Hmmm, how about that? IT’S ALMOST LIKE WE’RE SENSING A THEME HERE. It appears that December is the best time of year to buy a car — as long as you’re looking for the best deal, that is.

    And it’s vital to get the best deal you possibly can because cars are getting ridiculously expensive these days.

    In fact, the average sticker price of a new automobile just hit an all-time high of nearly $46,000, according to the market research company J.D. Power. Cars and trucks have never been this expensive before, and all that sticker shock helps explain a couple of other pertinent facts:

    • We’re all driving our cars as long as we possibly can. The average age of vehicles on the road just hit an all-time high of 12.2 years.
    • We’re making car payments for longer than ever. There’s been a spike in the number of car buyers signing up for six- and seven-year loans, instead of the traditional five-year auto loan. As a matter of fact, the six-year car loan has become the most popular option, with the seven-year loan coming in second, according to Edmunds.

    What does all of this mean for you? Let’s go over the details.

    Why December? And When in December?

    Traditionally, the end of December is when automakers offer their most generous sales incentives, like cash rebates or zero percent financing, according to Cars.com. It’s also when dealerships are most likely to give you a deeper discount on the sticker price.

    If you’re looking for a deal, try the year-end sales events at dealerships in your area.

    “Automakers and dealerships want to close the year with strong sales,” Edmunds says. “They also want to get rid of the prior model-year cars that are taking up space, so they’re motivated.”

    Dealerships and salespeople will be in a negotiating mood because they’re trying to meet their quotas. After all, there are year-end bonuses at stake.

    “The biggest bargains are usually up for grabs on New Year’s Eve,” Carfax advises. “If you can’t make it on New Year’s Eve, the best days to visit a dealership are December 24 and December 27-30. Christmas Eve, when customer volume is light, is especially good.”

    What If You’re Not Ready to Buy Right Now?

    Of course, maybe you won’t be buying a car this month. Maybe the holidays are running you ragged. Maybe you’re going broke paying for Christmas. Maybe it’s too cold outside. Or maybe your current car is purring like a kitten and you’re not quite ready to replace it.

    No problem! December isn’t the only strategically good time to purchase a vehicle.

    Just in general, try the end of the month or the end of the quarter. Dealerships and salespeople typically have monthly or quarterly sales targets, and they often get a bonus for meeting their goals, Carfax says.

    Can’t shop for cars on Christmas or New Year’s? Try a different holiday instead.

    “Many other holidays on the calendar work to your advantage for car buying,” Autotrader advises. “Dealerships use just about any holiday with a three-day weekend attached to it, like Presidents Day, Memorial Day or Labor Day, for incentives to entice potential car buyers.”

    Navigating the Trickiness of Today’s Car Loans

    At your local auto dealership these days, the incredibly high sticker prices are making things tricky.

    For example: Financial experts recommend prequalifying for a loan at a bank or credit union before visiting a dealership. That way, you can compare your bank’s offer with the dealer’s offer for better negotiating leverage.

    However, we’ve been getting reports from car buyers who found that a dealership wouldn’t sell them the car they wanted unless they went with the dealer’s financing. Now, how firmly they hold to that will depend on the dealership. Just be prepared for that.

    The stakes are high here. The terms of your auto loan are really important because you’re probably going to be making car payments for a long time.

    To offset the high cost of today’s cars, more people are lengthening their loan terms to lower their monthly payments. A five-year car loan used to be the standard, but now it’s the exception. Today, nearly three-fourths of all new car loans are for longer than five years, according to Edmunds.

    Here’s What Else You Should Know

    Four final pieces of car buying advice:

    Mike Brassfield ([email protected]) is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.


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  • 7 Ways to Score Cheap or Free Dental Work for Seniors on Medicare

    7 Ways to Score Cheap or Free Dental Work for Seniors on Medicare

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    Affording dental work can be tough if you’re an older American on Medicare.

    That’s because Original Medicare — which covers a majority of beneficiaries — doesn’t include routine dental care.

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced plans to begin covering limited dental services starting January 2023. But the scope is narrow: Dental work must be linked to a covered medical procedure, such as before an organ transplant, to qualify for coverage.

    For now, older adults are mostly on the hook when it comes to paying for their own oral health care.

    Here are seven ways to get free or reduced dental care. We’ll also explain what limited dental benefits Medicare coverage provides, along with other options like private insurers and Medicaid.

    7 Places To Get Cheap or Free Dental Care for Seniors

    Medicare beneficiaries who use dental services spent an average of $874 a year out-of-pocket, according to an analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

    That’s a lot of money, especially if you’re on a fixed income.

    Here are a few tips and tricks to get free dental work and save big on oral health.

    1. The Dental Lifeline Network

    This program by the American Dental Association offers free, comprehensive dental treatment to specific groups, including people ages 65 and older.

    You can use this tool on the Dental Lifeline Network website to learn about the specific program details in your state.

    Heads up: Due to long wait lists, several states and counties are no longer accepting new applications for the Dental Lifeline Network program. When we did a quick search, Nevada and Wisconsin weren’t accepting new applications.

    2. Community Health Clinics

    Federally funded community health clinics provide reduced-cost or free dental care services to people with low incomes.

    Many operate on a sliding scale system while others offer flexible payment plans.

    Wait lists can be long, so it’s important to reach out to your local clinic early.

    Follow this link to find the nearest community health clinic near you.

    3. Dental Schools

    Some dental schools offer low-cost cleanings and other routine care to members of the community.

    Most of these teaching facilities have clinics that give dentists-in-training an opportunity to practice their skills while providing low-cost dental care to the public.

    You can search for dental schools and programs in your area by visiting the American Dental Association website.

    There’s no guarantee that a dental program in your area currently offers free or reduced dental care. You’ll need to contact each program individually to see what’s available.

    When you call, make sure to ask about any fees up front.

    4. NeedyMeds.com

    This website offers a comprehensive list of dental offices with sliding scale payment options, community health center locations and dental school clinics.

    It does a great job breaking down requirements and eligibility (if any) for services in your area, and provides contact information for each service.

    Just enter your zip code into this search tool to get started.

    5. Talk With Your Dentist

    It might be difficult to ask for help, but being honest with your dentist about your financial situation can help.

    Your dentist may be able to offer a less expensive treatment, help you set up a payment plan or provide a sliding scale payment option.

    Ask if you can receive a discount for referring a friend. Or, see if it’s possible to knock off a few bucks in exchange for a positive online review of the dentist office.

    6. Sign Up for a Dental Savings Plan

    Dental savings plans aren’t dental insurance, but they may still be able to save you money.

    Here’s how it works.

    With a dental savings plan, you pay an annual fee, then get a 10% to 60% discount on most dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals and crowns.

    The plan contracts with dentists who agree to reduce their fees, then you pay the participating dentist directly using your discount.

    You’ll still pay out of pocket for those services, but the idea is that you won’t pay as much as you would without the plan.

    But let’s be clear: Dental discount plans aren’t free. The average cost for plans in Orlando, Florida, for example, ranged between $135 to $170 a year.

    You can visit DentalPlans to find a plan in your area.

    7. Shop Around

    Dentists can charge widely different prices for the same exact procedure.

    When it’s coming out of your pocket, it pays to shop around.

    You can find average prices in your area by using FAIR Health, a national nonprofit organization. The site lets you search by specific procedures, so you get the average cost for a root canal or teeth cleanings in your area.

    Armed with knowledge, call around to different dentist offices for quotes. Ask about senior discounts.

    You can also look for discounted dental care on sites like Groupon.

    A quick search on Groupon for dental services in Houston, Texas, showed numerous X-ray, exam and cleaning packages for $25 to $50. One office even offered $700 toward dental implants for just $50!

    If you reside in a high cost-of-living area, driving to a less expensive area is another smart way to find low-cost dental care.

    Getty Images

    Does Medicare Cover Dental Care?

    Yes and no.

    Original Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for routine dental, vision or hearing benefits.

    Original Medicare will only cover dental work if it’s deemed medically necessary, i.e. you were hospitalized after a traumatic injury that also affected your jaw, teeth or mouth.

    Starting Jan. 1, Medicare will begin covering the following dental procedures:

    • Reconstruction of a ridge when performed at the same time as the surgical removal of a tumor.
    • Stabilization or immobilization of teeth when done in connection with the reduction of a jaw fracture.
    • Dental splints when used in conjunction with a medically necessary treatment.

    Here are the other dental services covered by Medicare Part B:

    • Dental services that are critical to a larger procedure like facial reconstruction after an accident.
    • Tooth extraction that is needed to prepare for radiation treatment.
    • Oral exams and treatments that are done to prepare for a kidney transplant, heart valve replacement or organ transplant procedures.

    So if you’re looking for standard dental care like teeth cleaning, X-rays, fillings, extractions, dentures and more — the cost comes out of your pocket.

    Medicare Advantage

    Medicare Advantage plans are administered by private insurance companies. They must provide the same basic coverage as Original Medicare, but plans may offer additional benefits, such as dental.

    About 94% of private Medicare Advantage plans provide some dental coverage, but the amount of coverage varies by plan.

    Nearly all Medicare Advantage plans that include dental offer coverage for oral exams, cleanings and X-rays, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

    But benefits for more advanced dental work like root canals, implants and dentures can carry substantial copays, depending on the plan.

    Medicare Advantage plans almost always impose restrictions, including annual dollar caps and how often you can get certain benefits, such as dental implants.

    The average annual limit on dental benefits among Medicare Advantage plans that offer more extensive benefits was about $1,300 in 2021, according to KFF.

    If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s important to check the plan’s summary of benefits or evidence of coverage to see exactly what dental work is covered. It can vary widely from plan to plan.

    Other Dental Insurance for Seniors

    About half of all Medicare beneficiaries — 47% — did not have any form of dental coverage in 2019, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

    Besides Medicare Advantage plans, other sources of dental coverage for seniors include Medicaid and private plans, such as employer-sponsored retiree plans and individually purchased dental plans.

    Private Dental Insurance for Seniors

    A standalone dental policy for people 65 and older is typically $20 to $50 a month, according to AARP. You can expect an annual deductible of $50 to $100 with these policies.

    Dental insurance plans usually cover checkups and cleanings 100% but you will probably owe 20% to 50% for other services, such as tooth extractions or dentures.

    The devil is in the details with private dental plans: It’s important to shop around and carefully compare benefits to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

    Here are a few other things to keep in mind about private dental insurance plans:

    • You can’t enroll in a dental plan through the federal ACA Marketplace if you’re already enrolled in Medicare.
    • ​​Private dental policies usually don’t charge higher monthly premiums if you’re over 65 or in poor health.
    • An insurance company may require you to undergo a waiting period before you can get expensive procedures.
    • Some plans won’t cover pre-existing dental conditions you had before enrolling in coverage.
    • You may be restricted to an in-network dentist, so check to see if your dentist is on the list.

    Medicaid

    About one in five Medicare beneficiaries is also enrolled in Medicaid, sometimes referred to as being “dual enrolled.”

    Medicare usually pays as your primary insurance when you’re dual enrolled. But if you need dental work done or even a yearly cleaning, consulting your Medicaid handbook is a smart move.

    If you meet Medicaid low-income requirements in your state, you may be able to receive free or low-cost dental care for certain procedures and services.

    But it’s not a guarantee. While most states provide at least some emergency dental services, only 39 states and Washington, D.C. offer limited or comprehensive dental benefits for adults, according to the National Academy of State Health Policy.

    Even if your state Medicaid program includes dental, it may not pay out much. Of the 39 states with routine dental care coverage, only 25 states offer an annual expenditure cap of $1,000 or more.

    Adult Medicaid recipients in Arkansas, for example, only receive annually up to $500 of dental services, and that excludes dentures and tooth extractions. So if you need a $3,000 root canal and you’re dual enrolled with Original Medicare, you can expect to pay $2,500 out of pocket in that state.

    According to Medicaid’s national website, “States have flexibility to determine what dental benefits are provided…There are no minimum requirements for adult dental coverage.”

    To find the Medicaid office contact information for your state, click here.

    Rachel Christian is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder.


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  • Welcome to the New Penny Hoarder Community!

    Welcome to the New Penny Hoarder Community!

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    Hey Penny Hoarders! As many of you know, we have a Community site that’s a gathering place for folks to discuss all things money. Through the support of fellow Community members, the site has helped people tackle their debt, increase their credit score and even book a dream vacation.

    We’re excited to announce our Community site just got a makeover – one in which we feel provides a much more user-friendly experience. We wanted to share some things you can expect when you visit the new Community site.

    What to Expect in the New Penny Hoarder Community

    First up, The Penny Hoarder Community is still the place to share tips and find support on all-things money. Besides contributions from other Community members, you’ll also find our staff sharing personal stories on topics like frugal finds, money wins and fails, and more.

    Earn Badges

    So many badges. On the Community site, you can now earn badges for all sorts of things – creating or commenting on a post, or liking someone else’s post. Even just visiting the Community site on a regular basis. Also, the more badges you earn, the more things you’ll unlock on the Community site. Do you have what it takes to be a top contributor? You’ll not only earn the respect of your peers, but also gain access to exclusive opportunities and offers from The Penny Hoarder.

    Events, Feedback and More

    Badges are just the beginning. Throughout 2023, we’ll be adding more new elements to the Community site. We’ll use it as a spot to post and host regular Penny Hoarder events where we dive into pressing money topics together and let attendees connect with experts from The Penny Hoarder (and elsewhere).

    There’s also a new section specifically for feedback where we welcome your suggestions for ways to continue to improve ThePennyHoarder.com, the Community site, our email newsletters and our social media spaces.

    Already a member of The Penny Hoarder Community? Be sure to read our post on logging in to the new site. We hope to see you there!

    Will Simons is a community marketing product manager at The Penny Hoarder. Originally from Omaha, Neb., Will loves to help people get talking about bettering their finances.


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  • Here’s How To Make A Charcuterie Board For $30 With Aldi Ingredients

    Here’s How To Make A Charcuterie Board For $30 With Aldi Ingredients

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    Want to please a crowd on a budget? The ever-popular charcuterie board is great for picnics, dinner on the deck or a patio happy hour.

    It’s surprisingly easy to assemble your own board with grocery store ingredients that cost less than you might think. In fact, you can make a tray full of cured meats, cheese and complementary snacking accompaniments for less than $30.

    How to Make a Meat and Cheese Board on a Budget

    Meat and cheese boards are super easy to make.

    The staples for a proper charcuterie board are cured meats with cheese options, plus a selection of dried or fresh fruits, nuts, crackers, spreads, olives and pickled vegetables. Think of it as a glorified snack tray and choose what appeals to you.

    Here’s a shopping list of essentials from Aldi, but you can also find a great selection of affordable options at Trader Joe’s, Walmart and Sam’s Club.

    Aldi Charcuterie Shopping List

    Item Price
    1 16-ounce jar kosher baby dill pickles $1.39
    1 jar Spanish Manzanilla green olives $1.59
    1 box garlic chiva pita crackers $1.99
    1 French baguette $1.69
    3-ounce package dry-cured salami $3.99
    1 4-ounce package prosciutto $2.95
    1/2 pound green grape $0.85
    1 pint box blueberries $2.49
    1 10-ounce jar blackberry fruit spread $3.29
    1 8-ounce block apple smoked gouda $3.89
    1 8-ounce Brie round $2.99
    1 4-ounce goat cheese log $2.49
    TOTAL $29.60

    This much food will easily serve 10 people, with extra for replenishing the board.

    Sharon Steinmann/The Penny Hoarder

    How to Choose Items for Your Charcuterie Platter

    Ready to make your own cheese board with all the fixings?

    Heap on the Cured Meats

    These can get pricey if you’re not careful.

    Common charcuterie board meats include prosciutto, Genoa salami, pepperoni, pancetta and soppressata, a leaner Italian salami.

    Prosciutto disappears from the board first and it’s the most expensive, but get it when your budget allows.

    Pepperoni and salami generally yield more pieces per dollar. Explore what pairs well, and ultimately get whatever gives you the most bang for your buck, or taste buds. People will eat it regardless.

    Cheese, Please

    It’s good to have about four cheeses on a board with a variety of soft cheese and hard cheese from mild and medium to sharp.

    You can’t go wrong with mozzarella, goat cheese or a white cheddar. They’re all affordable and have agreeable flavors compared with pungent cheese, most notably blue such as Italian Gorgonzola and English Stilton. But if those are your jam — add ’em — along with a drizzle of honey.

    To get the most fromage for your buck, buy cheese by the block rather than sliced. You can also use the block with a grater and further save on the cost of pre-packaged shredded varieties. (Prepackaged grated cheese also has more preservatives and additives to keep the shreds from sticking together.)

    Try to include a goat or sheep cheese for those with milk intolerance, but it really depends on your situation. Don’t fret too much over getting the best cheeses. Buy what you like — and do a taste test if you can!  — or grab what’s on sale.

    Now Add the Fresh Fruit, Mini Pickles and Personality

    This is the fun part because anything goes (short of barbecue ribs). The “side foods” are what make your plentiful charcuterie platter much more than a humble cheese tray.

    Complement sweet with savory to delight all palates. Add mixed nuts, jellies, mustard, pickles and olives to the array.

    Fruit is a must. If you use grapes, cut the stems ahead of time with a pair of scissors so that your guests can pick up two to four at a time and not have to wrestle them free. Strawberries are starting to be in season in the south and other warmer states so they are plentiful and well priced. The berries will be at their peak in June and even July in the north. Kiwi is also very colorful and easy to serve in slices.

    When you are making a board on a budget, start with things you have on hand like candied nuts, banana chips, pretzels, cherry peppers, honey or cucumbers. You can always stock up on inexpensive charcuterie board items from grocery stores that will keep for a while so you always have some components on hand.

    Don’t forget fresh bread and/or crackers — gluten free crackers are a nice touch for your guests.

    Here are a few more items to keep on hand for your charcuterie boards.

    Trader Joe’s Shopping List

    • Trio pack of dried apricots
    • Individual packs of chocolate covered almonds
    • Fruit leather for creating letters and shapes with knives or cookie cutters

    To personalize a charcuterie board, you can spell out someone’s name with fruit leather or cut out a heart, candles or any shape to place on top of a round of cheese.

    A Great Cheese Board Needs Great Presentation

    The charcuterie board ingredients you choose give your creation personality and distinguish it from an average cheese plate. So do the serving utensils and the board on which you serve your delicious spread.

    You can find distinctive cheese knives, tongs, sugar shells, pickle forks and baby silverware at thrift stores and estate sales for a bargain.

    You can also find a large cutting board or an old-school turning Lazy Susan the same way. Scout stores such as Ikea, HomeGoods, T.J. Maxx and Tuesday Morning for a wooden board in any shape and size.

    Arrange Your Cheap Charcuterie Board to Look Expensive

    There’s an art to arranging a charcuterie board, and you’ll get better with practice. Prep time is minimal, and there are really no rules. But here are a few helpful tips for preparing a delicious board.

    • Prepare and pre-cut ingredients at home, but assemble the board at your destination. An arranged charcuterie board won’t travel well.
    • Place bowls, ramekins or short glass jars holding jams, spreads or olives spaced apart on your charcuterie plate.
    • Lay out whole fruits or blocks of cheese.
    • Arrange sliced meats and cheeses in circles, rows or semicircles. You can overlap, stack or spread out your masterpiece. It’s your creation, and there’s no limit to what you can do — aside from physical space. (Layering can make it appear more bountiful, but may not appeal to those with dietary restrictions.)
    • Fill in open spaces with smaller groupings of items such as dried fruit, chocolate almonds or stuffed olives.

    Contributor Katherine Snow Smith covers ways to make money, save money and other topics. Her work has appeared in the Tampa Bay Times, Charlotte Business Journal and Greenville (S.C.) News. She is the author of” Rules for the Southern Rulebreaker: Missteps & Lessons Learned.”


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  • How to Host a Holiday Cookie Exchange

    How to Host a Holiday Cookie Exchange

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    Who knew that saving money could be so delicious?

    Holidays are often associated with certain foods. Both Christmas and Hanukkah bring to mind visions of cookies and other sweet treats. However, the holidays also bring a lot of time and money pressures.

    Why not consider a holiday cookie exchange? It could be a fun, inexpensive and simple way to celebrate the season.

    What Exactly Is a Cookie Exchange?

    For a cookie swap, a handful of people organize their holiday baking ahead of time and exchange their treats — and the recipes for them.

    Each participant makes a different kind of cookie or dessert.

    There are a few directions you can go from there. You could host a cookie exchange party, where all of the participants come and fill up their boxes. Or, you can box up each dozen and make cookie deliveries. It’s up to each group to set its cookie swap rules.

    How Does a Holiday Cookie Exchange Save Money and Time?

    Cookie recipes often share basic ingredients — eggs, flour, salt and baking soda. Then, depending on the recipe, there are spices and nuts and chocolate chips, candied fruits and butterscotch, peppermint and sour cream and a myriad of ingredients to purchase. Christmas cookies often have higher-end or harder-to-find ingredients, since they can be gifts.

    Participating in a cookie swap limits how many ingredients you have to buy, and can help you stay within your holiday budget. Getting a bigger amount of the same ingredients likely won’t cost as much as getting a variety of items.

    For example, the cost of ingredients to make chocolate chip cookies for the home baker comes out to about $2.40 a dozen. If you also want to make gingerbread cookies, the different ingredients will cost you about $2.90 per dozen. Butter cookies, if you use good butter, will cost $3.50 a dozen. These recipes don’t have any special ingredients in them.

    Recipes with special ingredients like pecans, mint, food coloring, crème fraiche, pumpkin, etc. will cost more than plain sugar cookies.

    Making a single type of cookie also saves prep and clean up time, though the baking time might be the same.

    How to Set Up a Holiday Cookie Exchange

    Ready to set up your first cookie exchange? Here are our step-by-step instructions:

    Poll Your Friends 

    You can start by polling your baking-friendly friends to see who would like to participate. While you’re at it, find out if your participants have any specific dietary restrictions or time-based needs.

    Set the Rules and a Cookie Swap Date 

    Settling on a time frame may be the most difficult part of this process. Cookies can go stale, and not everything freezes well. Setting a cookie exchange date should happen at the beginning of the process.

    You’ll also need to set the most important guideline for the cookie swap: How many cookies should each person make?

    That’s totally up to you. Some people only make a couple dozen cookies for the swap, and others make a dozen per person. (So if there are eight people participating, then each person makes eight dozen cookies.)

    Either way, make sure the expectations are set up front.

    Pick Your Bakers 

    Now it’s time to invite friends who want to participate in a cookie swap. When considering your participants, make sure you have enough people in case someone drops out. But remember, too many bakers can be an issue, too. A cookie exchange can get unwieldy if you have more than 10 people.

    If you are going to send invitations, you can find and use some great ones online. Canva has a ton of cookie swap party invitations to use. A helpful hint is to have the cookie exchange rules on one side of the invitation.

    Make the Call: Are You Hosting a Party or Just Swapping?

    One of the biggest decisions to make is whether this will be a full-blown social occasion or a utilitarian drop-off/pick-up event. This might affect who you invite to join the cookie swap, and when and how you do it.

    Most people turn a cookie swap into a party. There are lots of opportunities to spend time with family over the holiday season. It’s nice to have a chance to party with friends too.

    There are a few steps you can take right at the beginning of the planning process to make sure things go smoothly, whichever way you choose to exchange cookies.

    Hosting a Party? Nail Down the Nitty Gritty

    Most of the time, people have cookie exchange parties. As they should! Life can be hard and hanging out with friends makes things better.

    If you’re going the party route, create a guest list, think about party supplies, send invitations and plan some light snacks.

    From there, you’ll have a few more decisions you’ll have to make. For instance:

    • Do you want guests to bring their own containers or pool money for cookie boxes? (Thrift stores almost always have cheap tins.)
    • Would you like folks to also bring snacks and drinks?
    • How many guests can a guest bring?
    • Do you want to have a cookie tasting as part of the party? (If so, you may want to ask people bring a few extra cookies.).

    Don’t Forget to Get the Recipes

    Yes, having delicious cookies for the season is a huge draw of cookie exchanges. But the recipes themselves are just as valuable.

    Everyone should give you their cookie recipe ahead of time, or should be instructed to provide recipe cards to each of the participants. (Plus a few extras if you’re hosting a party.)

    Keep in Touch 

    What is the easiest way to communicate with everyone? You could start an email chain or text group. You also may want to set up a page on a social networking site, so everyone can interact and coordinate. Facebook has hundreds of cookie swaps and events, so make sure everyone has the right one.

    How to Host a Holiday Cookie Exchange Party 

    So you’ve decided on a party — great! Just like with any party, when you’re hosting a cookie swap, you want to make a fun space with plenty of food, drinks and fun.

    Here are some tips to set up your cookie exchange party.

    Make a Menu

    The host can serve some savory appetizers or finger sandwiches to offset the sweetness of the cookies. (Side note: Wouldn’t it be fun to have an appetizer swap?)

    It’s not necessary, though. If you want to keep your expenses low, stick to the cookies.

    Create a Cookie Exchange Wonderland

    If you are hosting a Christmas cookie exchange, you can go all out with cookie decor. Is that a gingerbread family on your front lawn? Are those real Christmas cookies hanging on your tree? You can even make Christmas cards printed with cookie recipes.

    Set a Festive (and Functional) Cookie Exchange Table

    Clear off the dining room table, it’s time to use that holiday tablecloth!

    Then, set up as many cake stands as you can. (Feel free to ask your guests to bring cake stands if you need more than you have.) If there aren’t enough cake stands, use serving platters. You’ll need to make sure there’s space in front of each for recipe cards.

    Looking for something more interactive? Set up a cookie decorating station with some plain sugar cookies.

    Get Your Guests to Contribute 

    The person hosting the cookie exchange party will be supplying party food, their own cookies, festive decor and some cookie platters. But guests should bring stuff too.

    Ask guests to bring additional cake stands, cookie platters, their own cookie containers to take home and copies of their cookie recipes. As a backup, you may want to have some ziplock bags on hand, but cookie tins and boxes are nicer.

    Be flexible in case a guest forgets to bring any of these items.

    Set the Cookie Swap Rules

    You can have guests fill up their cookie tins at any point during the party, but you have to clearly tell them when that will be and how many cookies they can take.

    Once you’ve set the stage, have fun and indulge your sweet tooth.

    Make It a Tradition

    Cookie swap parties can turn into an annual tradition. If you give a lot of Christmas cookies to friends and family, it is a fantastic way to save a little money (unless you’re the host and decide to go it alone, to be honest), and spend time with people you care about.

    The Penny Hoarder contributor JoEllen Schilke writes on lifestyle and culture topics. She is the former owner of a coffee shop in St. Petersburg, Florida, and has hosted an arts show on WMNF community radio for nearly 30 years. 


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  • Streaming Services Adding Up? Here’s How to Save on Home Entertainment

    Streaming Services Adding Up? Here’s How to Save on Home Entertainment

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    Cuddling up on the couch and watching television is one of life’s pure pleasures. But what if you could enjoy blockbuster movies and stellar TV shows while saving money on your home entertainment? We’ve got great news for you — you can do just that.

    We explore ways to save money on home entertainment expenses, from downloading free TV apps to ditching your cable service altogether. We also have options for book and audiobook lovers.

    6 Ways to Save Money on Home Entertainment

    Whether you’re a big bookworm, love to watch live sports or can’t get enough of your reality TV shows, there are ways for everyone to cut costs.

    1. Download Free TV Apps

    With the plethora of streaming options available now, there’s no reason to be stuck paying a pricy cable bill. While many streaming services do charge their own subscription fees, there are some TV apps that are completely free.

    Download these free TV apps if you want to keep your costs at $0. You may not get access to the latest shows airing, but there are offerings for movie lovers, kids, gamers, anime fans and those who enjoy classic TV shows.

    2. Ditch Cable for Streaming Services

    Cutting the cord is a great way to cut down on monthly expenses, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up the perks of viewing live shows and programs.

    These streaming options allow you to watch live TV starting at $40 a month — and at half that price for your first month. Many also offer DVR capabilities, just like cable companies do, so you can record episodes if you aren’t able to watch them when they air.

    3. Watch NFL Games Without Cable

    If you’re a sports fan, you might be holding onto cable so that you’re able to catch all the games of the season. However, there are many ways to watch NFL games without an expensive cable package.

    You can stream games from the NFL Network or purchase the NFL Game Pass or NFL Sunday Ticket. Plus there are several streaming services starting at $5 a month that’ll let you catch football games.

    4. The Great Debate: Fire Stick vs. Roku

    For those switching from cable to streaming for the first time, one of the questions you’ll have is which platform you should use to stream content.

    Amazon Fire Stick and Roku are two popular options. We break down the highlights of the Fire Stick and Roku so you can choose what’s best for you.

    5. Score Cheap Audiobooks

    Reading an interesting book is a great way to pass the time. Audiobooks are even better because you can essentially have the book read to you while you’re driving, out for a jog, doing chores around the house or whatever.

    These nine options for finding affordable audiobooks let you build out your private (virtual) library without having to drop $25 for each hardcover book.

    6. Discover Free Library Apps

    Public libraries offer a wealth of resources, but you don’t have to get in your car and drive to your nearest branch to benefit from it all.

    Free library apps like Hoopla, OverDrive and more let you access books, movies, music and online training programs at no cost. And there’ll be no one to tell you “shhhh” if you talk too loudly while deciding what to check out first.

    Michael Archambault and Robert Bruce are senior writers at The Penny Hoarder.

    Nicole Dow, a former senior writer at The Penny Hoarder, contributed.


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  • Furniture Polish? Flea Remover? 27 Uses for Coffee You’ve Never Heard of

    Furniture Polish? Flea Remover? 27 Uses for Coffee You’ve Never Heard of

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    If you can’t make it through the day without a morning (and an afternoon) caffeine fix, you’re not alone. The National Coffee Association says 66% of Americans, or seven out of 10, wake up to a cup ’o joe daily. Whether you drink drip coffee at home or fancy lattes from the local coffee shop, caffeine tops the list as everyone’s favorite beverage.

    You’ve probably seen studies about the health benefits of coffee’s antioxidants, but did you know coffee (and specifically coffee grounds) can be useful in other areas of daily life? From buffing furniture to pest control, coffee has some secret superpowers that should make you think twice about dumping those grounds into the trash.

    Pro Tip

    Learn how to make pricey coffeehouse drinks for cheap with our guide to making lattes and good coffee home.

    27 Uses for Coffee Grounds & Coffee That Go Beyond the Cup

    Many of the applications for coffee that don’t involve guzzling it (no judgment) rely on a byproduct of your morning caffeine fix — coffee grounds. If you’d like more grounds than your coffeemaker can provide, consider swinging by your local coffee shop and asking for their used coffee grounds. They usually hand out the day’s leftover grounds for free.

    Here are 27 uses for coffee grounds and coffee.

    1. Meat rub and tenderizer
    2. Chili companion
    3. Chocolate cake enhancer
    4. Secret sauce
    5. Compost and fertilizer
    6. Pest control
    7. Flower food
    8. Growing mushrooms
    9. Hand, foot and body scrub
    10. Hand cleaner
    11. Hair conditioner
    12. Treatment for dark circles under eyes
    13. Reduce the appearance of cellulite
    14. Traction on ice
    15. Bug repellant
    16. Roach trap
    17. Deodorizer
    18. Kitchen scrubber
    19. Fireplace helper
    20. Wood stain
    21. Furniture repair
    22. Air freshener
    23. Flea remover
    24. Fabric dye
    25. Pincushion filler
    26. Painting and antiquing treatment
    27. Beer brewing

    Using Coffee in the Kitchen

    Coffee’s unique combination of acidity and flavor helps it bring a lot to the table both in and out of the kitchen.

    1. Meat Rub and Tenderizer

    Use fresh coffee grounds as a dry rub or a marinade to enhance the flavor of meat, especially steaks and ribs. The acidity and enzymes in the coffee double as a tenderizer for tougher cuts, both softening and providing a more robust taste profile to seared, grilled and roasted meats.

    2. Chili Companion

    Many chili cook-off winners swear by a handful of ground coffee to bring out the savory profile of chili. Try this award-winning recipe that combines both coffee and bourbon for a smoky chili base.

    3. Chocolate Cake Enhancer

    Some bakers insist a splash of coffee or espresso or a teaspoon of instant coffee is the secret ingredient to the best chocolate cakes. Paired with chocolate and other sweet desserts, it’s hard to beat the rich undertones coffee brings to the palate.

    4. Secret Sauce

    Not to be cliche, but coffee is literally the secret sauce to … well, sauces. From barbecue sauces to drizzles for desserts, coffee’s earthy notes bring out the best in sauces without distracting from the main dish. Red-eye gravy anyone?

    Adobe Stock

    Gardening With Coffee and Coffee Grounds

    One of the main uses for used coffee grounds is compost, but if you haven’t tried it around the garden in other ways, you’re missing out on what coffee’s green thumb provides.

    5. Compost and Fertilizer

    Many gardeners save spent coffee grounds to use both as compost and fertilizer. This is because coffee not only can help with PH levels in the soil, but lures in worms that provide nitrogen. Coffee grounds are especially good at nurturing carrots and fast-growing plants.

    Pro Tip

    Before using old coffee grounds, check the PH of your soil to ensure you won’t be adding too much acidity to the mix.

    6. Pest Control

    Most yards are in a constant battle with pests of one variety or another. The strong smell of damp coffee grounds is a good deterrent for ants, slugs, snails and even pests of the four-footed variety like cats. If you discover particular plants are attracting pests, simply sprinkle coffee grounds at the base.

    7. Flower Food

    Some flowers, like roses, appreciate lots of organic matter to break down so coffee grounds can help blooms thrive when used in moderation. Just take care when and how much dried coffee grounds you use. Too much nitrogen applied directly to the soil of some plants can burn the roots.

    8. Growing Mushrooms

    Mushrooms are notoriously difficult to grow and require a special kind of soil called substrate. Fortunately, used coffee grounds make an ideal substrate for growing and fertilizing fungi, including flavorful shiitake and oyster mushrooms.

    Health and Beauty Uses for Coffee

    Slather it on as a scrub or leverage its antioxidant properties to fight signs of aging. However you use it, coffee is a popular ingredient in many health and beauty products.

    9. Hand, Foot and Body Scrub

    As a common ingredient in bath and body scrubs, ground coffee is ideal for exfoliation. You can make your own coffee scrubs at home by combining used coffee grounds with some coconut or olive oil and a pinch of citrus zest or essential oil. Keep it in your shower so you can slough off the dead skin cells and enjoy the steamy smell of caffeine.

    Pro Tip

    There are lots of beauty products you can make with ingredients in your pantry. Check out these six homemade beauties from volumizing spray to facial toner.

    10. Hand Cleaner

    Some smells are difficult to mask, such as the pungent lingerings of garlic or onions after you’ve been chopping during meal prep. Use leftover coffee grounds to scrub off the stink and leave your hands smelling soothingly fragrant and a little softer.

    11. Hair Conditioner

    The thought of dumping coffee grounds on your own head might sound crazy, but the oils in coffee not only provide extra shine but also stimulate circulation and potentially hair growth. A word of warning to blondes, however. Coffee grounds can temporarily darken light hair a smidge, so use them with caution.

    A woman uses coffee grounds as an under eye treatment.
    Getty Images

    12. Under-Eye Treatment

    If you’ve refreshed that coffee cup well into the afternoon lately, you might also benefit from applying a little of the morning’s coffee grounds under your eyes. Delicate blood vessels, swelling and fatigue can cause dark circles and puffy eyes, but applying a coffee treatment under the eyes tightens the skin and increases circulation.

    13. Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite

    While the dips and divots of cellulite are natural, the beauty industry has convinced consumers to spend millions every year fighting it. However, one of the rumored cures for cellulite is sitting right in your kitchen. Mixing coffee grounds and oil and applying it to problem areas twice weekly may help temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite.

    Using Coffee and Coffee Grounds Outside

    If you want to get more out of your coffee, take it outside with these applications that make the most of our favorite morning companion.

    14. Traction on Ice

    Run out of rock salt for your walk or the trunk of your car? Sprinkle used coffee grounds from your morning brew instead. Coffee grounds work to provide traction on icy walks and are easier on plants, paws and your budget.

    15. Bug Repellent

    Coffee is a deterrent for many gardening pests, but the strong smell is also not a favorite of other types of insects like mosquitoes, fruit flies and even beetles. While you probably don’t want to slather yourself in coffee grounds for a few hours, using some coffee-scented oils might help drive away bugs. Some people even burn coffee grounds as insect repellent.

    16. Roach Trap

    Cockroaches always defy our expectations and their attraction to coffee is no exception. They seem to love a caffeine fix as much as the next human, so use it to your advantage. Grab some glass jars and use these instructions to fashion a coffee hotel that roaches will check into but never leave.

    Cleaning With Coffee and Coffee Grounds

    In the kitchen or the bathroom, adding coffee grounds gets the job done. This caffeine powerhouse deodorizes, scours, and cleans without harsh chemicals.

    17. Deodorizer

    Like its better-known pantry companion baking soda, coffee grounds are a natural deodorizer. Put a few small bowls out and the coffee will soak up other smells both in your fridge, under the sink and even in the garbage disposal. Or you can make small satchels of ground coffee and use them in stinky shoes or gym bags.

    18. Kitchen Scrubber

    Put the abrasiveness of coffee grounds to the test on your hard-to-clean grout, tiles and other kitchen surfaces. Coffee is particularly adept at banishing soap scum and food film, so don’t hesitate to use it to clean your pots and pans to a spic-n-span shine. But take care to use the grounds from your coffee filter on non-porous surfaces to avoid staining.

    19. Fireplace Helper

    One of the trickiest parts of cleaning a fireplace is watching all your hard work go up in smoke when the ashes get stirred up and form dust clouds. Instead, sprinkle some coffee grounds around to weigh down the ashes and make them easier to sweep up.

    Using Coffee Around the House

    Get your caffeine fix around the house by using coffee grounds and coffee to do minor repairs and rehab from staining wood to buffing furniture.

    20. Wood Stain

    For the same reason that coffee can stain your hair and porous surfaces, it can also be a great, all-natural ingredient for a gentle wood stain. Gather a little steel wool, mix coffee grounds with vinegar and follow these steps to give a gentle, burnished glow to unfinished wood.

    21. Furniture Repair

    Scratched and scuffed furniture can look unsightly, but buffing away marks on dark wood furniture just takes a little elbow grease and a coffee rub. The exfoliating properties of coffee work well on wood and the natural oils left behind in the grounds give a little moisture to buff out furniture flaws.

    Get more tips on furniture rehab in our guide on turning garage sale trash into resale treasure.

    22. Air Freshener

    Do you walk through the coffee aisle at the grocery store with your eyes closed, breathing deep and savoring the smell? As bizarre as it sounds, you can recreate that experience at home using ground coffee and old socks as a natural air freshener. Not into creating coffee sachets? That’s OK. Melt some wax and sprinkle coffee beans in it to create your own coffee-scented candles.

    Random Uses for Coffee Grounds and Coffee

    23. Flea Remover

    Removing a flea infestation usually takes some harsh chemicals and strips your pet’s coat of its natural oils. Enter coffee grounds as a viable alternative for flea removal. Simply combine with oil and use it as a scrub and the abrasive action will remove those pesky critters and leave behind a shiny coat. Just be sure to rinse well and never ever let your canine companions consume coffee or coffee grounds as they can be toxic.

    24. Fabric Dye

    Coffee can dye your hair and stain wood, so why not fabrics? A mixture of coffee grounds and water can gently dye fabric, but be sure to do this by hand and not in your washing machine. Your laundry won’t appreciate the coffee residue and it could clog the tub drains.

    25. Pincushion Filler

    Know someone who loves coffee and sewing? Craft a coffee pincushion as a gift. Fill a pin cushion with coffee grounds and they’ll get the fragrant smell of their favorite thing every time they stick a pin in it.

    26. Paint and Antiquing Treatment

    Using liquid coffee or coffee grounds mixed with water can create a subtle tan or brown color perfect for watercolor painting and other applications. For crafty coffee drinkers, applying coffee to paper and other surfaces creates a coveted antique look that’s timeless.

    27. Beer Brewing

    Homemade and professional brewers alike know coffee is the perfect companion for stouts and porters. Adding a little java introduces complexity, especially to dark beers that are in danger of tasting one-dimensional. Brewers suggest either introducing fresh coffee to the brew or steeping it in bags of ground coffee for several days.

    Coffee drinkers looking to offset the indulgence of their caffeine addiction have many ways to ensure their morning cup ’o joe pulls double duty around the house. The caffeine fixes above — from furniture repair to gardening compost — ensure that java’s liquid gold doesn’t go to waste.

    Kaz Weida is a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder.


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  • 50 Cheap Gifts Your Friends Will Never Know Cost Less Than $10

    50 Cheap Gifts Your Friends Will Never Know Cost Less Than $10

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    It’s the most wonderful time of the year and for many of us, it’s also the most expensive. Finding a thoughtful gift can be challenging and end up hurting your wallet more than you’d like. It’s enough to fill even the most savvy shopper with dread.

    This year in particular promises to present some challenges. Supply chain shortages may prevent some gifts from making it under the tree in time. Inflation continues to affect the cost of everyday items, including things you might give as gifts.

    Despite all this, finding fun ideas for the best gifts and stocking stuffers for your friend or family member doesn’t have to stress you out. (Although it’s a good idea to start shopping early — if you haven’t already — to make sure the gifts you want to buy are in stock.)

    Here are 50 of the best cheap gifts for $10 or less that will please even the pickiest of recipients at your next gift exchange.

    Note: Prices may fluctuate.

    Gifts for Around the House

    These great holiday gift ideas will please everyone on your Christmas gift list — not just the homebodies. And to make it even better, these are all practical gifts as well! Pretty much anyone on your gift list would be thrilled to unwrap one of these presents this year.

    1. Novelty Tea Infusers: $8.99

    Got a tea enthusiast on your list? This tea infuser is dishwasher-safe, super cute and will make the next cup of tea a whale of a good time.

    Or try these adorable owls who look like they’re having a real hoot in your cup ($9.99).

    There are several tea infuser options to choose from depending on the tea lover’s interests. This is one of the best gifts (and the most practical) for your friend who sips tea all winter long

    2. Cat Coffee Cup Cozy: $7

    Who doesn’t love sipping a hot cuppa while curled up on a frosty day?

    For the friend whose lap cat will inevitably complete that picture, consider this cute hand-crocheted cozy. They could even use it at coffee shops and help save paper sleeves.

    Friend not into cats? The same Etsy seller has options for LGTBQ pride, unicorn fans and even aspiring pirates, all for $7 to $8 apiece.

    3. Little Bird Wine Stopper: $8.99

    If your friend is more of a bird person than a cat person, these bird-shaped wine stoppers are the perfect present for keeping bottles of wine fresh between glasses.

    A wine stopper makes the perfect stocking stuffer for a gift recipient who loves wine, and you can find affordable ones to match your friend’s personality.

    Oh, and don’t forget …

    4. Glass Markers: $8.66

    Help your friends keep their paws off other people’s glasses at the next party with these adorable cat glass markers.

    If your friend isn’t into cats (shocking), there are plenty of other glass markers to choose from, including koalas ($10) and emojis ($8.95).

    5. Cheese Knives: $8.95 each

    If you thought the best gift for the cheese-lover in your life didn’t exist, think again!

    Just one of these cheese knives takes a plate of cheese from an appetizer to a display worthy of any get-together.

    Or, you know, a fancy Friday night by yourself. We don’t judge!

    6. Kitty Ice Cube Molds: $9.99

    Did you know that you can get ice cube molds in a variety of fun shapes, including kittens? You can also choose from penguins ($4.99), fish ($7.99) or even seashells ($7.99).

    In addition to using the molds for ice, you can also use them to make novelty chocolate or gummies! Talk about a two-for-one deal.

    7. Glass Plant Mister: $7.78

    For the plant person in your life, this old-fashioned glass mister is something you can leave on the counter without hesitation.

    And if you know any gardeners in training, these elephant watering cans ($8.69) are a delightful way to encourage little green thumbs.

    8. Rustic Dog Dish Towel: $6.59

    Don’t throw in the towel on finding a cheap gift for dog lovers just yet. These rustic kitchen towels are on sale and there are also versions for cat people as well.

    Need more dogs in the kitchen? These dog-shaped bottle openers are on standby with a different version for every breed.

    9. Reusable Silicone Baking Cups: $7.99

    Give the baker in your life something sweet with this set of 12 silicone baking cups in rainbow colors. They’re safe to reuse and put in the microwave, dishwasher, and oven.

    You can also get silicone baking cups in all sorts of shapes, like roses ($9.39) and colors, like this understated ombre set ($9.98).

    10. Scarf Hanger: $9.97

    If your loved one struggles with storage tactics for a plethora of scarves, here’s a gift that’ll help get them organized. They likely don’t even know they need a scarf hanger.

    This hanger displays and organizes scarves (or belts! or ties!) in your closet so they’re easily accessible and wrinkle-free. Plus, it’ll make your closet look much more tidy and organized, and might even encourage you to organize the rest of it!

    11. Succulent Plant Set: $9.99

    Trendy succulents look like a cactus, but they’re quite a bit harder to care for. For those of us without a green thumb, enter this fake mini-succulent set with all of the same style and none of the hard work.

    You can also get hanging glass planters ($8.99) and make your own succulent terrariums with a little sand and ingenuity.

    12. Scented Candles: $7.19

    A beautiful soy wax scented candle can brighten any space. You can find them in a variety of scents with essential oils to fit any mood or preference.

    If you’re shopping for several people, you could even check out listings for wedding favors and get a really nice gift quite cheaply (like a bit over $2 a piece).

    13. Moon-Shaped Ceramic Dish: $7.75

    Whether it’s to wrangle stray jewelry or set down a spent tea bag, these little moon-shaped dishes come in a variety of colors and work for anyone on your list. As an added bonus, they won’t cost you much at all.

    14. Personal Photos: 12 Cents+ Each

    There’s just something about a tangible personal photo that the digital file lacks. You can get prints of your best memories online at vendors like Mpix for cents on the dollar or you can check out what Target and Walmart have to offer.

    You don’t even have to buy a frame. You could string up your photos with wooden clothespins for a cheap, but romantic, option. Many vendors also sell canvas prints or other configurations of your photos at good prices.

    If you do go shopping for frames, though, you can find cheap ones in a variety of sizes. They make the best gifts for the friend who loves to display photos around the house.

    15. Just Crunch Anti-Soggy Cereal Bowl: $7.99

    Nothing ruins your Raisin Bran like a slightly too-long milk bath. Get the breakfast lover in your life the Just Crunch Anti-Soggy cereal bowl to keep them crunching all the way through the Saturday morning news — or cartoons.

    On a similar note …

    16. French Fry Dipping Cone: $5.99

    Dishwasher safe and not just for fries, the french fry dipping cone is a convenient and attractive way to serve finger foods and dip. Your lucky recipient can make burger and fry night at home feel like a night out at the local diner!

    Less mess on the cheap! What’s not to love?

    17. Spoon Rests: $7.99

    On-the-pot spoon rests are a great gift for your aspiring-chef friend who’s still a little messy in the kitchen. Help them get organized and stop splattering chili on their countertops with this convenient gadget.

    You might even want to add an extra one to your cart if your cooking style tends to leave stirring spoons behind.

    Health & Beauty Gifts

    Everyone deserves a little pampering, so why not wrap some up for your favorite people this year. These luxurious products all promise the gift of self-care at a price that won’t break your budget.

    18. Handmade Soaps or Bath Bombs: $3.67+

    Receiving handmade soap or bath bombs as a gift is far from insulting when the products look good enough to eat!

    There are tons of options for sensitive skin on Etsy, but higher-traffic brick-and-mortar stores offer quality products at only slightly higher prices. You may even be lucky enough to find cruelty-free handmade beauty items at your local grocery store.

    19. Lip Balm Set: $9.49

    Lip balm is a great gift because it’s practical, but you can also get lip gloss with fancy scents and packaging to make it feel more special.

    This organic lip balm six pack is a steal at $9.49. You can also check out this one, which is around $10. Alternatively, check out the beauty aisle next time you go grocery shopping for even more options. You can even grab a pack of hair ties for a couple of bucks to make a super practical beauty gift.

    20. Hand Sanitizer Holder: $8.50

    Carrying hand sanitizer around is just a thing we do now. Make it classy with a coordinated holder in a fashionable fabric like this floral keychain version.

    If flowers feel a little fancy, you can opt for this low-key black leather squeeze  ($5.95) that also includes a no-touch door opener attachment.

    21. Face Masks: $8

    Indulge in a little luxury tied up in a tres chic package with this mini-house of masks kit. This set has five hyaluronic sheet masks that are said to boost elasticity and smooth wrinkles.

    Looking for something trendy? These Facestory sheet masks ($9.95) are the talk of the town and come in a variety pack that includes intriguing names like “Moon Velvet” and “Glow Baby, Glow.”

    Food

    The way to pretty much anyone’s heart is through the stomach. Even if you’re no gourmand, you can give awesome edible gifts this holiday season! These are sure to be the favorite gifts for the foodies in your life.

    22. Beer Marshmallows: $8.75

    Um, yum? You can get a dozen Guinness beer marshmallows for less than $10. If beer isn’t your style, you can choose from peppermint, Fluffernutter or even maple bacon.

    While you’re at it, grab a few sets for yourself to roast over an open fire this holiday season!

    23. Good Chocolate: $3.60 to $10

    This listing on Amazon for Ghirardelli chocolate with sea salt is $43.15 for 12 extra dark chocolate bars, which means you’d spend about $3.60 on each lucky recipient — and maybe even keep a bar for yourself. But you can head to your local grocery store and stalk the candy aisle for lots of options for less than $5.

    If you want to get really fancy, some single-origin, small-batch chocolate bars can cost up to $10 or even more — but are well worth the price to the true chocolate snob on your list.

    24. Good Tea: $10

    Shop around; there are tons of flavors available for good teas. You can find a large selection of flavored tea bags online or even at the store while you’re grabbing your weekly food haul.

    Plus, lots of tea bags come in pretty, reusable tins that serve as decorative organization — all for around $15.

    25. Cookie or Brownie Mix in a Jar: $3

    You don’t have to be super-crafty to DIY a great gift like cookie or brownie mix in jars. Mason jars usually come in packages of 12 for a couple of bucks apiece — or check out your local thrift store to find ’em for as low as a quarter.

    Then, scour the web for tons of creative recipe ideas. In most cases, the ingredients for a single jar shouldn’t cost you more than a dollar, especially if you’re planning to make quite a few and buy your sugar and flour in bulk.

    Write an instruction card for your recipient and decorate the jar with ribbon. You just gave someone a cheap, useful and beautiful gift!

    26. Movie Theater Popcorn Seasoning: $9.25

    Make movie night feel like the big screen with this theater popcorn seasoning foodies swear by. Or dip your toes into a little flavor experience with this set of artisan popcorn and seasonings ($7.34).

    And what would movie night be without the old school popcorn carton. You can get a reusable, plastic set of 4 popcorn containers for ($8.99).

    27. Really (Really) Good Honey: $7.50

    Stubbees specializes in raw, creamed, flavored honeys. Pioneered by a 21-year-old beekeeper in the Jacksonville, Florida, area, this honey isn’t just delicious; it also supports a cool small business co-founded by a young entrepreneur.

    The cinnamon flavor is a popular one, but there are tons of flavors to choose from, including seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice and vanilla bean.

    If you’d rather shop for local honey, check out this website to help you find honey farmers in your area. Local honey is said to be good for seasonal allergies, so this can be a wonderful gift if your friend or relative suffers from allergies.

    28. Hot Sauce Set: $10

    Know someone who likes the hot stuff? Give a little sample with this hot sauce set that runs the gamut from spicy sweet to super hot.

    And for team Sriracha, there’s no shortage of options from this Sriracha-flavored pink salt ($4.99) to this Sriracha on-the-go mini keychain ($5.99).

    29.  Gourmet Barbecue Sauces: $8.95+

    There’s nothing like a good barbecue sauce to put the finishing touch on a backyard grilling session.

    And with options like boozy bacon and roasted peach whiskey, there’s no way your recipient’s smile will be anything but genuine.

    For Friends at Work or Secret Santa

    You might not know some folks on your list that well. Maybe you only see them around the office. Here are some non-Starbucks-gift-card gift options.

    30. Picture Message Desktop Flipbook: $9.97

    Looking for the perfect gift for your office worker friend? Look no further than this desktop picture flipbook.

    This flipbook is a cute cubicle addition with 29 messages to choose from, from “Out of Office” to “Longest Day Ever!”

    31. The Seven-Year Pen: $8.95

    Work with someone who takes a ton of notes? This unassuming, eco-friendly seven-year pen can write 6.5 feet per day for seven years — and it’s refillable. That’s a lot of on-hold scribbling for a bit over a buck a year.

    32. Desktop Boxing: $9.95

    Know a coworker who could use a moment to vent? Tell them to knock themselves out with this desktop boxing set complete with a mini punching bag.

    33. Cute Food-Themed Erasers: $6.99

    Come on, these food-themed erasers are pretty adorable, right? A quick, cheap, safe bet for any secret Santa recipient — even if you only ever exchange niceties around the Keurig.

    Wearables and Accessories

    Buying for a fashionista this year? Here are some independently selected options that make the best gifts.

    34. Scarves: $10 or less

    You can never go wrong with scarves. They’re fashionable, versatile and come in enough fun colors to get your loved ones a couple.

    Plus, your recipient will have a use for the scarf hanger listed above!

    35. Magnetic Wristband: $7.05

    Put what you wear to work for you with this magnetic wristband. Perfect for holding screws and nails, this little piece of velcro can save a lot of hassle during the next IKEA project.

    And if that’s not the right tool for the job, you can also get this magnetic wristband ($9.91) for hair stylists designed to hold bobby pins, scissors, and more.

    36. Heart Earrings: $10

    Tiny heart earrings are unassuming and adorable, plus they’d go with anything.

    You can also find tiny flowers ($3.99) or even these adorable tiny dinosaur earrings ($10) for the pierced person on your shopping list.

    37. Wildflower Crown Knitting Pattern: $4

    If you’re crafty, you could make a friend this everlasting flower crown for $4 plus the cost of yarn. If you know a crafty person, you could give her the pattern itself as a gift!

    38. T-Shirts: $6.50

    Since there are so many options for novelty T-shirts, you’re sure to find something for anyone on your list. Even those hard-to-buy-for folks who seem to have everything need T-shirts!

    Etsy has lots of funky designs and sellers often take their tees to less than $10 to clear out overstocked shops

    Tech Gifts Under $10

    You might assume that tech gifts are expensive, but there are plenty of cute (and useful) accessories and gear that run on the cheap side.

    39. Cell Phone Stand: $9.99

    Is your techy friend getting carpal tunnel from holding her phone so much? Enter the hands-free cell phone stand, which is great at a desk or for following a recipe in the kitchen.

    Try this snarky silhouette at the office, the hilarious “iPlunge” for $8.45 or this red sparkly smartphone stand ($11, well worth the extra dollar) for the shoe lover on your list.

    40. Cable Management System: $8.99

    Wires, wires everywhere. How many of us suffer from this problem?

    This cable management system is sleek and would help streamline anyone’s workspace.

    41. Novelty USB Flash Drive: $9.99

    Everyone needs portable storage these days, so why not pick a cute flash drive?

    Even better: Fill it with fun personal stuff, like date photos or favorite songs. It’s the 21st-century mix tape!

    42. AirPods Case: $8.99

    Adorable doesn’t seem to quite cover this avocado AirPods case, which comes with its own case and keychain.

    And if fruit and veggies aren’t your thing, there are ramen cups ($8.99), boba tea cases ($8.99), and even farmyard animals — holy cow ($8.99)!

    43. Blue Light Blocking Glasses: $6.99

    For screen addicts, blue light pollution can be a real thing. Enter blue light blocking glasses like these trendy, clear-framed ones. They come in multiple colors and promise to filter out up to 35% of blue light.

    And for the older crowd, you can get this set of blue light blocking glasses ($9.99) that also double as readers.

    44. Winter Touchscreen Gloves: $8.99

    One of the most obnoxious problems of the modern world is using touchscreens when you’re wearing gloves. Enter touchscreen-friendly gloves in several colors that keep your digits warm and your digital world connected.

    If the silicon gel gloves aren’t stylish enough, rock a pair of fingerless gloves ($6.99) over on Etsy instead.

    Novelty Gifts

    From an on-the-go light to blank pages to carry in your pocket, these gifts will make anyone on your list grin.

    45. Pocket Light: $10

    Ever get home late at night and can’t get your key in the door? Or maybe you’re out at a bar and someone loses an earring?

    No more scrambling to keep your cell phone screen active with a credit card pocket light that’s the side of a credit card. Flip open your wallet and save the day!

    46. Harry Potter Platform 9 3/4 Keychain: $4.99

    For the die-hard Harry Potter fan on your list, you can’t go wrong with a Platform 9¾ keychain that costs $5.

    Or you can opt for one that shows off their Hogwarts house from Ravenclaw ($7.49) to Gryffindor or even Slytherin ($7.75). Don’t worry, Hufflepuffs ($9). You weren’t forgotten this time.

    47. Notebooks: $4.97 for six

    You can never go wrong with a cute notebook, even in our deeply digital days. There are still plenty of people out there who like to use notebooks for journaling or writing lists. A notebook might even be the place where your bestie starts the great American novel or your honey scribbles a poem for you.

    Moleskines are quality, beautiful and come in lots of different colors, and you get three for less than $10!

    48. Crossword Puzzle Book: $9.39

    If you don’t have a clue what to get a crossword puzzle guru, this New York Times Greatest Hits Crossword Puzzle book would like a word.

    There’s a version for every day of the week — yes, even Monday ($8.99). And if crosswords don’t fill the right spaces, you can always lean into freeform word formation with a magnetic poetry set ($8.95).

    49. Travel Utensils Set: $9.99

    The luxury of having your own washable utensils is really quite affordable with utensil sets like these that include reusable straws, a cleaning brush to wash them and even chopsticks. They even come in fun colors.

    And if you want to add a personal touch, there are a slew of options on Etsy for customizing silverware like this engraved spoon ($9.99).

    50. Gift Cards: $10 or less

    A $10 gift card to Starbucks or Panera can actually get you a decent amount of stuff (hello, iced coffee or cold brew). You could even buy a discounted gift card for less than face value and save even more money.

    With a little creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, you can find the perfect holiday gift without breaking the bank. Sometimes, the best gifts don’t necessarily cost you an arm and a leg.

    Good luck, and happy shopping.

    Kaz Weida is a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder. Freelance writer Catherine Hiles contributed.


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  • Inflation-Proof Your Grocery Budget With a $65 Two-Week Meal Plan for Two

    Inflation-Proof Your Grocery Budget With a $65 Two-Week Meal Plan for Two

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    It’s not just the rising cost of housing that is pricing some families out of the market. It’s also the ballooning expenses for daily essentials at the grocery store and beyond. While some food costs are beginning to ease, staples like meat, eggs and dairy products are expected to tip the scales at historic highs well into 2023.

    Because keeping the pantry full takes a big bite out of the average budget, we wondered if it’s still possible to keep your grocery bill to a few dollars a day. The answer might surprise you, but this food budget comes packaged with the caveat that you’ll be sacrificing some convenience to bring low-cost meals to the table.

    Can You Spend $33 or Less Per Week on Groceries?

    If a $33 weekly grocery bill for a couple ($16.50 per person) to afford three square meals a day sounds a little crazy, you’re not wrong. It’s well below what the USDA recommends in its weekly grocery shopping spending guidelines for a household of two adults. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s budget puts spending at least  $119.40 per week for two adults to meet daily nutritional needs.

    While you could get by eating ramen and peanut butter sandwiches for a while, scrounging like a college student indefinitely doesn’t have much appeal. Instead, we put together a $65 two-week grocery budget that nets two adults fairly well-rounded meals without skimping too much on the good stuff.

    This two-week grocery spending plan can be stretched to accommodate a family of four simply by doubling up on ingredients — and cost. Or expand this plan to a month if you prefer to track your family’s budget and compile a shopping list on a monthly basis.

    Want to slash your grocery costs up to $100 or more? Check out our 28 tips for getting more out of what you put in your cart.

    The Two-Week $65 Grocery Budget Shopping List

    Before diving into the grocery budget calculator, it’s worth mentioning that this two-week grocery budget assumes you have basic staples on hand, including salt and pepper, cooking oil and a few common spices and flavorings. It also requires that you have space and a stove to cook with to reduce food waste and save money.

    We’ve focused on whole grains instead of other starches and sugars that provide empty calories and can leave you feeling hungrier later. Note that prices were current as of mid-November and compiled from online store directories for Walmart and Target.

    What to Buy for Two Weeks of Groceries

    Item Cost
    Quick oats (16 oz.) $1.39
    Bananas (4) $1.00
    Corn flakes (18 oz.) $1.43
    Whole wheat bread (20 oz.) $1.10
    Creamy peanut butter (16 oz.) $1.69
    Sliced ham (16 oz.) $4.57
    Peach preserves (18 oz.) $2.32
    Brown rice (32 oz.) $1.48
    Blueberries (11.4 oz.) $2.89
    Baby carrots (2 lbs.) $1.48
    Light brown sugar (32 oz.) $1.78
    Fresh spinach (10 oz.) $2.28
    Bell peppers (3) $2.55
    Chicken thighs (6 lbs.) $8.96
    Black beans ( 2, 15 oz. cans) $1.56
    Spaghetti (16 oz.) $0.95
    Yellow onions (2) $0.92
    Pasta sauce with meat (24 oz.) $1.48
    2% milk (half gallon) $1.96
    Eggs (2 dozen) $3.32
    Salsa verde (16 oz.) $2.59
    Great Northern beans ( 2, 15.5 oz. cans) $1.56
    Vanilla yogurt (32 oz.) $2.36
    Mayonnaise (15 oz.) $2.36
    All-purpose flour (2 lb.) $1.16
    Frozen corn (12 oz.) $0.88
    Cheddar cheese (16 oz.) $3.98
    Tuna (4, 5 oz. cans) $3.14
    Head of lettuce $1.88
    Total $65.02

    You’ll be amazed to find how much more you have to spend on groceries if you buy store brands. Shopping sales or finding coupons helps lower costs further and creates room for a little indulgence in this grocery budget. Many items also have cheaper prices per ounce when you buy larger packages of store brands, so pay a little more upfront and total up the savings later.

    Another way to add more fresh fruits and veggies for cheap is to skip the grocery stores and hit the local farmers market. Not only will prices for local produce generally be cheaper, but you’ll get to eat healthy while saving money. For canned goods, one strategy is to hit up discount stores to find dented cans or to compare prices.

    Pro Tip

    Want to stretch your staples even further? Lean into frozen veggies, dried beans and other pantry essentials that with extra effort, can make a little go a long way.

    The Two-Week $65 Grocery Budget Menu

    Wondering how the slim grocery list above can actually serve two people for two weeks? We’ve done the math and laid out a menu so you don’t have to, giving two options for each meal to get you through all 14 days.

    Here’s exactly how to get 84 meals for two out of your two-week $65 grocery budget plan. That’s a cost of 71 cents per meal or $2.13 per day per person. And if you have a little extra money to spend when you’re doing your grocery budgeting, you can work in a few splurges.

    Monday

    Breakfast

    • Oatmeal with sugar and cinnamon, chopped apples
    • Blueberry and toasted oatmeal yogurt parfait

    Lunch

    • Grilled ham and cheese with baby carrots
    • Cobb salad with diced ham, cheese and hard-boiled egg

    Dinner

    • Spaghetti with pasta sauce and spinach
    • Corn fritters with salsa

    Tuesday

    Breakfast

    • Banana spinach smoothie
    • Peanut butter toast with apples

    Lunch 

    • Spinach and cheese omelets
    • Grilled blueberry and cheese sandwich

    Dinner

    • Peachy chicken thighs with onions and roasted carrots
    • Quick fried brown rice

    Wednesday

    Breakfast 

    • Corn flakes with milk
    • Homemade peanut butter granola and bananas

    Lunch

    • Ham salad sandwich
    • White bean salad

    Dinner 

    • Burrito bowls
    • Budget spaghetti carbonara

    Thursday

    Breakfast 

    • Peanut butter toast with bananas
    • Blueberry banana smoothie

    Lunch

    • Santa Fe salad (black beans or leftover chicken)
    • Tuna fish sandwich

    Dinner 

    • Brown rice stir fry
    • Ham and spinach quiche

    Friday

    Breakfast 

    • Yogurt parfait with apples and oats
    • Blueberry mug coffee cake

    Lunch 

    • Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
    • Ham hash (rice, ham, onion, fried egg)

    Dinner 

    • Salsa verde soup
    • Cornflake-crusted fried chicken

    Saturday

    Breakfast 

    • Fried eggs on toast
    • Peach and granola parfait

    Lunch 

    • Santa Fe salad with salsa dressing
    • Tuna melt

    Dinner 

    • Ham casserole
    • Budget spaghetti alfredo

    Sunday

    Breakfast 

    • Easy crepes with yogurt and fruit
    • Overnight oats with blueberries

    Lunch

    • Egg sandwiches
    • Thai carrot salad with peanut dressing

    Dinner

    • Stuffed bell peppers
    • Peanut butter Thai stir-fried rice

    While this grocery budget won’t give you the opportunity to eat leftovers, most of these meals are easy to prepare and rely on overlapping ingredients to avoid food waste. While it requires a little effort in the kitchen, the goal is to spend as little time shopping and cooking as you spend eating.

    A Two-Week $65 Grocery Budget Slashes Costs, But Mind Your Nutritional Intake

    While eating fortified cereals and bread can supplement some of the nutritional value you’re lacking, medical experts agree it’s best to have a variety of protein sources and fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Using a bare-bones grocery budget plan like the one we’ve outlined should be done to solve a short-term cash flow problem, not long-term food insecurity.

    If you or your family consistently face hunger and can’t afford basic supplies and food, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. You may qualify for food stamps and most areas have food banks or community pantries to assist those in need. Here are some resources to help:

    Kaz Weida is a senior writer for The Penny Hoarder.


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  • Lovin’ It: Win a Fabled McGold Card and Get Free McDonald’s for Life

    Lovin’ It: Win a Fabled McGold Card and Get Free McDonald’s for Life

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    The McGold card is photographed against a green background.


    Photo courtesy of McDonald’s

    Picture a never-ending river of McNuggets, all for you. A vast lake of Shamrock shakes. A bottomless supply of Big Macs, Quarter Pounders and Egg McMuffins.

    What’s that? Free McDonald’s for life, you say? Sign us up. Our arteries won’t mind, honest!

    The fast-food giant just announced it’s making its fabled McGold Card the grand prize in its latest contest, meaning that you’ll have a shot at winning free Mickey D’s for the rest of your days. December will also bring plenty of meal deals like BOGO Big Macs.

    Beginning Monday, Dec. 5, every time you order food in the McDonald’s app, you’ll be entered into a drawing. After Christmas, three randomly selected winners will each get a McGold Card. Each winner also gets three extra cards to hand out to friends and family.

    Technically, “free McDonald’s for life” means you get two free meals a week for 50 years. Still, that’s a whole bunch of Happy Meals. We’re talking 5,200 trips to the Golden Arches.

    The McGold Card is apparently something of an urban legend among followers of Ronald McDonald. A card that gets you free McDonald’s forever, woooaaahhh. Supposedly, big shots like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett each possess one of these cards.

    “Our fans have been fascinated by the lore of the McGold Card and if it really exists,” said Tariq Hassan, McDonald’s chief marketing and customer experience officer.

    (OK, fine, let’s assume that’s true.)

    “Now we’ll make this McDonald’s legend a reality for our fans by giving them the ultimate holiday gift — a chance to win a card and then share access to it with three of their family or friends,” Hassan added.

    Meal Deals and Merchandise

    This new contest is centered around the McDonald’s app, which lets you order ahead and pay online. It also gives you access to exclusive deals and a rewards program.

    Aside from the McGold Card drawing, McDonald’s is trying to lure customers to its app all through December with three weeks of food deals and exclusive merchandise.

    The deals: They vary by day and include buy one, get one free Big Macs; free six-piece nuggets with a $1 purchase; and a 50-cent double cheeseburger. There’s a list of deals by date here.

    The merch: These include a Chicken McNuggets Christmas stocking, an Egg McMuffin hoodie and a Hamburglar T-shirt. Mickey D’s says they’ll be available in “two exclusive merch drops on Dec. 7 and 14” as long as you make a $1 purchase.

    Of course the grand prize in this online Big Mac attack is the McGold Card, which we think of as the biggest Happy Meal in the world. It means free McDonald’s twice a week for 50 years — of course, that’s assuming you’ll actually live for 50 years if you eat McDonald’s twice a week.

    Supersize me, baby.

    Mike Brassfield ([email protected]) is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. 


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  • These 13 Free TV Apps Let You Watch Your Favorite Shows — Without the Bill

    These 13 Free TV Apps Let You Watch Your Favorite Shows — Without the Bill

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    Disillusioned by Netflix’s rate hikes?

    Luckily, there are more options than ever for replacing your traditional cable setup without shelling out cash. Many free streaming services have stepped up to offer access to content overlooked by subscription-based services.

    And you aren’t confined to squinting at your phone’s screen or gathering the family around the old iPad to watch your favorite TV series and movies — you can download apps to your Smart TV or even your Xbox or PlayStation consoles.

    Of course, there are some rather shady options out there that stream pirated content. But we’ve rounded up free, legal streaming apps that provide no-strings-attached cable-cutting solutions.

    13 Free TV Apps That Will Help You Cut Cable

    • Crackle
    • Tubi TV
    • Pluto TV
    • NewsON
    • PBS Kids
    • Xumo
    • Crunchyroll
    • Twitch
    • IMDb TV
    • YouTube
    • Peacock
    • The Roku Channel
    • Popcornflix

    Whether you’re looking to keep up with the news, find a good movie for date night or entertain your kids with educational content, a streaming service exists to ensure you can do so without paying a dime.

    Try these free TV apps out and see which works best for you.

    1. Crackle

    One of the go-to names not just in free streaming but in streaming video in general is Crackle. The cost-free service has a variety of content, ranging from classic TV shows like “Just Shoot Me!” and “The Doris Day Show,” as well as the newer “Going from Broke” series. It also has hundreds of films from major studios.

    For a free streaming service, Crackle’s library is truly impressive. Crackle even has a handful of original series to its name. Best of all, Crackle works on nearly all mobile devices, streaming boxes and smart TVs.

    2. Tubi TV

    A division of FOX Entertainment, Tubi TV has deals with major studios like Paramount Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and Lionsgate. It also features lots of foreign and independent productions.

    Tubi TV’s library is updated regularly, and the service claims to add new content every week. The Tubi TV app works on more than 21 devices, including Android and iOS, Roku, Apple TV, Xbox, Samsung Smart TVs and Amazon Fire TV.

    The library is solid and has started offering popular Fox TV series like “The Masked Singer” and “Master Chef: Back to Win.”

    Since the service is ad-supported, you can expect to watch a couple minutes of ads every 10 minutes or so. The experience is pretty similar to watching normal television.

    3. Pluto TV

    Pluto TV offers TV channels of linear content much like a cable package

    There are dozens of classic TV, movie and sports channels — and even some highly curated streams of niche content.

    If you’re looking for breaking news, you can choose from an assortment of major network news channels that are live streaming.

    The kids (or kids at heart) can check out movies like “Barnyard” and “Rock Dog 2.”

    Those who are a little older can watch classics from their past, like “Titanic” or “Forrest Gump.”

    Pluto TV boasts a large list of supported devices including iOS and Android devices, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV,  Chromecast devices, and Android TV.

    Like Tubi TV, Pluto TV has advertisements similar to the ad load of normal TV.

    4. NewsON

    Streaming video isn’t always just about entertainment. The NewsON app provides hundreds of local and national news streams.

    Both live TV and on-demand news broadcasts can be streamed from over 275 local news affiliates in 165 markets. The broadcasts are available for up to 48 hours after they air, so even if you don’t catch the news as it happens, you can catch up later.

    Users can then select which news segments they want to watch from categories like sports, weather or entertainment. NewsON is compatible with iOS and Android phones and tablets, as well as Roku, Samsung Smart TVs and Amazon Fire TV.

    5. PBS Kids

    Kids need free streaming content, too. PBS has a PBS Kids Video app that provides hundreds of hours of educational and enriching content for the youngest members of the family. The app has a colorful, child-friendly interface, which makes it easy for kids to take control themselves.

    You can even tap the “Live TV” button to watch what’s currently airing on your local PBS station.

    Pro Tip

    Almost all of the networks and cable TV channels have their own free apps for you to download — although many charge you to actually watch current content.

    Videos from many of PBS’s most popular series are available for streaming including “Curious George,” “Wild Kratts” and “Sesame Street.” The PBS Kids app is supported for Android phones and tablets, iOS phones and tablets, and the Amazon Kindle.

    6. Xumo

    Whether you want it now or later, Xumo offers live TV and on-demand options.

    Like Pluto, you can choose from an assortment of major network news channels like NBC News that are live streaming.

    But it also includes more than 180 free channels, including themed ones in case you’re in the mood for action movies or comedies.

    Xumo is available on most smart TVs. It’s also available on Roku and for download on iOS and Android devices.

    Pro Tip

    Many of the free TV apps offer “premium” channels — if you see that word, expect to pay for those services.

    7. Crunchyroll

    Anime and manga fans are likely already familiar with Crunchyroll. It specializes in mostly Japanese content, but it also features films and series from all over the world. Crunchyroll boasts a library of thousands of anime films and series, many of which are hard to find on other streaming services.

    There is a paid premium feature, but the free Crunchyroll service has thousands of hours of popular series like the “Dragon Ball” franchise, “Attack on Titan,” “Naruto” and “One Piece.”

    The Crunchyroll app is supported by Apple, Android and Windows mobile devices, as well as by gaming consoles, Chromecast, Apple TV, Fire TV and Roku.

    Crunchyroll is a great app for anyone with an interest in anime. Of course, when it comes to anime content, you have to be watchful with your younger children, as a lot of it is geared toward teens (and sometimes even adults.)

    8. Twitch

    For anyone with even a passing interest in gaming and esports, Twitch is the go-to free streaming service.

    Twitch hosts user-created channels and streams focused on video games and other esports. It features a built-in chat feature, so users can chat with other streamers in real time.

    Pro Tip

    You’re there anyway — why not get paid to play video games? Here are four simple ways to start earning real cash for virtual play.

    While there are thousands of free streams, Twitch also features premium features for a monthly subscription. Twitch apps are compatible with PCs, iOS and Android devices, game consoles, Chromecast, Apple TV and Fire TV.

    While Twitch is popular with children, parents should be aware: Twitch streams are somewhat unregulated and can sometimes contain adult language or content.

    9. Freevee

    Owned by Amazon, Freevee (formerly IMDb TV) features a host of full episodes of your favorite current and classic TV shows as well as an array of movies.

    The catalog includes some binge-worthy sci-fi hits like “Lost” and “Fringe.”

    Freevee is ad-supported, so you’ll have to sit through a few commercial breaks.

    It is available in the United States on a host of devices, including Apple TVs, Rokus, Xbox, and iOS and Android devices. Oh, and on FireTV and Prime Video. Obviously.

    10. YouTube

    Yes, YouTube. YouTube apps are compatible with just about every device that has a screen, and the service features videos to choose from on nearly any topic imaginable.

    Most of those videos are not exactly premium content, but there are still plenty of full-length films, documentary series and curated channels that provide cost-free entertainment for the whole family.

    While there are ways to download YouTube content for offline viewing, proceed with caution: Many of these sites and apps are full of malware.

    11. Peacock

    NBCUniversal launched this streaming service, which includes over 80,000 hours of free content, in July 2020.

    Although Peacock offers paid premium options, the free version includes current and classic TV shows, movies, news, sports, kids’ shows, Spanish-language programs and even select episodes of Peacock originals.

    If you’re a fan of shows like “Suits,” “Law and Order: Criminal Intent,” or “Comedy in Color,” you can watch them on this streaming service. You will have to sign up for an account, but there is a free option with no credit card required.

    Customers can stream Peacock on a variety of platforms, including LG TVs, Vizio Smart TVs, Roku, Android and Apple devices, and Playstation and Xbox consoles.

    12. The Roku Channel

    Even if you don’t have a Roku, you can download the free Roku app. This channel hosts a rotating selection of free movies and TV series. Past offerings have included options like 24, Alias and Army Wives.

    The Roku Channel is also home to slew of Roku Originals, like Martha Gardens, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, and a new version of Punk’d hosted by Chance the Rapper. Those in the US in Canada can also stream live news 24/7.  The Roku Channel does have ads, but it doesn’t require a subscription.

    You can access the Roku Channel from your Roku device.

    13. Popcornflix

    If you’re into action flicks, sci-fi or horror, you might want to check out Popcornflix. Some of the categories of free movies and free tv shows on this platform include: “Legends of Action,” “Creature Features” and “Carpe Dien.”

    You can access Popcornflix on any Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV or Roku device. You can also access it via Xbox One, or any Apple or iOS mobile devices. While you won’t need a subscription for Popcornflix, you will have to watch a few ads spread throughout the content.

    Pittsburgh-based writer Brynne Conroy is the founder of the Femme Frugality blog and the author of “The Feminist Financial Handbook.” She is a regular contributor to The Penny Hoarder. Former staff writer Nicole Dow contributed to this report.


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    femmefrugality@gmail.com (Brynne Conroy)

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  • Insider Decorator Advice on How to Refresh Your Home for Nothing

    Insider Decorator Advice on How to Refresh Your Home for Nothing

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    If you think you don’t have the time or the money to refresh your home for the holidays, think again.

    You don’t have to tackle every room, but it’s easy to refresh one, two or three rooms. It only takes a few hours a couple of evenings or a Saturday afternoon to get a new look and a new feel. You can refresh something in every room without even leaving the house, except maybe to fetch a can of spray paint or a new shower curtain.

    ‘Shop’ What You Already Have

    “I always tell people to ‘shop’ in your home,” said decorator Stephanie Everhart, owner of So Be It Interiors in St. Petersburg, Florida. “Redesign and refresh your rooms using the items you already have.”

    Joseph Marini, an interior decorator and owner of At Home With Joseph, is also a proponent of keeping original pieces when redecorating. Rearranging a room with the same furniture can make a big difference.

    “Say you have a sofa and two easy chairs that are kitty corner to the sofa,” Marini said. “Try taking them and facing them across from the sofa, or putting them beside each other at a right angle to the sofa. Just changing the angles of furniture in your living room can give a room a whole new look.”

    Re-Evaluate Your Current Layout

    If you already have to move a chair or coffee table to make room for a Christmas tree, consider rearranging another piece or two to refresh your home. Try placing an upholstered chair in a corner of a kitchen so the cook can enjoy the company of a grandchild or friend when prepping all that food. Add a side table or arrange it next to a kitchen table to hold a glass of wine or mug of hot chocolate.

    Or make that kitchen table into a game table between meals. Stick all but your essential cookbooks in a box in the attic or coat closet, then fill the shelf that formerly held the books with a stack of Rummikub, Checkers or Candy Land. It’s also fine to fill a laundry basket with boxes of games and stick it under the table.

    Yet another idea is to move the kitchen table into the family room where folks gather around the TV to stream a movie or watch a game and make it a puzzle table. Move the coffee table into the kitchen next to that easy chair or loveseat. You’ve got a cozy sitting area in the kitchen and another form of entertainment in the family room that brings all ages together.

    If you aren’t hosting guests, you can still create new spaces that give you a change of pace. A puzzle table for one is a meditative treat while listening to music, a podcast or watching a movie.

    Clear out a bookshelf and make it into a hot chocolate bar or holiday tea cabinet. Assemble some fun flavors, honey and toppings next to a few favorite mugs.

    Whether it’s rearranging heavy furniture or stashing some books in a closet to create a special little space, revamp something big or small in a few rooms for a new feel and look this holiday.

    9 More Free Ways to Refresh Your Home

    Here are some more suggestions from Marini and Everhart:

    1. Create an inviting outdoor area.

    A string of lights  and a few potted plants can make for a fun, festive holiday space. Whether it’s in your own yard or on a shared back stoop, fresh air is good. Take potted plants, a little evergreen from inside to a space outdoors to enhance a sitting area. If you don’t have outdoor furniture, move a kitchen chair and end table outside for a couple days if rain isn’t in the forecast.

    String the lights on the little tree or gather them in a circle within a pot. If you don’t have battery operated lights or an outside outlet, let the stars and sun illuminate your special spot.

    2. Try a different way of making your bed.

    Fold the duvet or bedspread down to the bottom third of the mattress and drape a blanket over the upper portion. (Think hotel style.) If you usually layer pillows against the headboard, place them flat on the bed stacked on top of each other. Or try moving throw pillows from the living room into your bedroom.

    3. Break out the paint and brushes to refresh furniture.

    “If I get bored with furniture, I never mind painting it,” Marini said. “Take some paint you have lying around. Most furniture can be painted really nicely with two coats. If it’s really, really glossy, you can sand it.” Picture your brown coffee table as white, cornsilk yellow or a bold orange.

    4. Tend to window treatments.

    “One thing I always find that refreshes a home is labor-intensive washing,” Marini said. “Take curtains down and wash them, dry them and iron them. It gives you a sense of accomplishment.”

    5. Bring the outside in.

    You don’t have to have an elaborate rose garden behind your home to make a holiday centerpiece or fill a vase on a bedside table for you or your guests.

    “Just go out and pick some greenery from your bushes or your trees if you don’t have flowers,” Marini said. “This always freshens a room and adds a personal touch.”

    6. Redo your bookshelves.

    Everhart shared some ideas, including:

    • Use a spare quart of paint sitting under the laundry room sink to put a new coat of paint in a contrasting color on the back of the shelves.
    • Arrange books by color. “I love taking those slick jackets off of books so you can see the real color and texture of the books,” she said. “It’s really nice to see their spine. Especially older books.”
    • Place some books vertically, but stack some on their sides. Now you have a little space for a picture frame or favorite memento. “Your bookcases need to have items that tell the story of your life,” Everhart said.

    7. Highlight collections by gathering pieces in one place.

    Take your father’s cufflinks out of the felt bag in your top drawer and place them in a small glass dish. Line your favorite  snow globes up in a window sill. String your grandmother’s old cookie cutters on a piece of ribbon and hang it from a doorknob. These are collections that tell stories and make old memories into new memories.

    8. Rework frames and photos.

    Photos are a key part of the home., Replace a few of your older photos with a few newer ones. Put a smaller photo in a frame and use fabric as the background. If frames are crowding a shelf or desk, try hanging a few on the wall.

    9. Re-cover a chair to give it a new look

    You can refresh your living room or den by updating just one piece of furniture. Add a soft cozy blanket to a sofa or recover a chair  You can do this if you have a staple gun and a couple of yards of fabric a cloth shower curtain or vintage tablecloth. For more home decor tips, follow Everhart (SoBeItInteriors) on Instagram and Facebook and Marini (AtHomeWithJoseph) on Instagram and Facebook.

    Contributor Katherine Snow Smith covers ways to make money, save money and other topics. Her work has appeared in the Tampa Bay Times, Charlotte (N.C.) Business Journal and Greenville (S.C.) News. She is the author of “Rules for the Southern Rulebreaker: Missteps & Lessons Learned.”


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    kvsnowsmith@gmail.com (Katherine Snow Smith)

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  • 10 Cost-Saving Ideas For Businesses

    10 Cost-Saving Ideas For Businesses

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    None of us is immune to what’s currently happening in the economy, forcing many business owners and executives to consider ways to cut costs. I recently asked my leadership team to take a good, hard look at their expenses to determine what can and should be cut and gauge the effects those specific savings would have on the business.

    Finding ways to save money in your business is not always as obvious as you think and can come from a few places that are not typically looked at. Here I outline ten money-saving ideas all business owners should consider.

    Related: 7 Outdated Habits That Will Paralyze Your Business

    1. Root out process inefficiencies

    Take a look at how technology can play a role in improving efficiencies. How can you utilize technology to minimize time, effort and money spent where it doesn’t need to be? Whether it’s analytical data that helps you be quicker to market or process improvements that make your supply chain run more efficiently — plus having good processes around where you spend money.

    For larger projects, obtain three quotes from separate vendors before placing an order. Make sure you negotiate the best possible cost on a meaningful purchase. Be assured that what you are buying is right for your business.

    Related: How to Ditch the Inefficiencies That Are Eating Your Revenue

    2. Reduce office expenses

    I think that the mentality of being scrappy is essential. What I mean by scrappy is being pugnacious and determined not to be wasteful. Think local and establish relationships with local businesses. In our industry, for example, we buy, manufacture and print labels for our customers and brands. Fortunately, our label vendor is literally down the street, so we’re saving money on transit costs. Utilizing your local network ensures you’re getting the best price, not just in direct costs but also in time and effort.

    3. Make sure you have the right employees for the right roles

    This boils down to “right people, right seats.” When you look at the world today and how the labor pool has, for various reasons, contracted, having the right person in a role who’s passionately engaged is vital. They get it, they want it and they can do it. Over the long haul, that spells increased efficiency and savings. Running a business where you don’t have the right people in the right seats makes everything cumbersome and challenging.

    In most businesses, marketing tends to be something companies can overspend on. That’s why it’s essential to have the right marketing person in the right seat. This person has relationships and expertise and knows when a consultant can do something and when something should be handled in-house.

    Employee retention helps, too. Teams have chemistry, they understand how people operate and they play off each other’s strengths and weaknesses. When you’re constantly replacing people on the team, that’s all learning that must be done over again instead of doing the job.

    Related: 5 Effective Strategies for Employee Retention

    4. Expand on social media and community engagement

    I’ve seen brands effectively connect the organization to the consumer through social media. One thing to understand is that your content should be organic and user-generated, not scripted or overly polished. Recording content on your own versus paying an influencer or agency thousands of dollars has a cost-benefit. But there’s an even bigger reason why you want to choose this path.

    Today’s consumers see right through content that’s heavily produced and edited. Instead, they follow, work with, purchase from and remain loyal to easily relatable brands that don’t take themselves too seriously and have no problem being transparent about every aspect of their business.

    Sit with your marketing and finance teams to determine what percentage of the annual budget needs to be allocated toward purchasing equipment and boosting posts. Use data and analytics to determine what posts help you meet your goals (e.g., engagements, views, conversions, etc.) and place your bets accordingly.

    5. Refine, then automate

    When you’re talking about logistics and shipping and the operational piece of the business, the more automated you get your orders in and out the door, the more efficient you’ll be. This hopefully means you’ll have more bandwidth to spend time doing other things, right?

    I also believe in minimizing clicks and pain points within your sales process. Have information readily available, so employees don’t have to click five different screens to get to what they need to get through. You want to free up the time to sell and reduce the time spent on administrative tasks. For example, you could automate invoicing or utilize a service that consolidates your accounts payable, so you don’t have to pay somebody for that.

    Related: Want to Improve Workplace Efficiency? Improve Your Team Dynamics First.

    6. Slice operational costs

    If you can operate all aspects of your business under one roof, that’s ideal. For example, if you complete the shipping or manufacturing of your products in-house, you don’t want to be in three different buildings — you want to be in one building so you can organize things, get the best use of your staff, maximum use of the space and highest possible output.

    You don’t want to sit on tons of office space because that is bleeding money. Whatever you can do to get out of those situations as soon as possible, the better off you’ll be. Looking into co-working spaces might be worthwhile in certain cases, too.

    7. Look at insurance and cash flow

    You need to have somebody who has the experience, knows the right questions to ask, understands your business needs, and is bound to save you money regarding insurance. For employee health benefits, make sure people have a choice and have an option that makes sense for both the business and the employee. Over and above making sure you’re not under-insured or over-insured, it’s more important that you’re insured correctly.

    Avoid short-term loans, cash advances and borrowing on high interest. If you’re buying things on credit, pay it off. And don’t get smashed with interest. Make sure you’re only buying what you need. All of those things factor into good cash flow.

    One of the things my CEO mentor always used to say is that there always needs to be a certain number in the bank. So, if we even got close to that number, he would send out fire alarms. It was all hands on deck evaluating things, cutting things we didn’t need and making sure that the company’s cash position was one we felt comfortable with. This way, we could sleep at night and know we were in good shape. That’s just one of those old-school mentalities that have always stuck with me.

    8. Staff up or hire out?

    If you don’t have the expertise, you need to be ultra-selective in ensuring you’re not just being penny-wise and pound-foolish. I always say you don’t want to step over the dollar bills to pick up pennies. If you can save money on wages and other things, that’s great, but you must set KPIs.

    You have to understand (and communicate) what your expectations are from these independent contractors; otherwise, you’re just going to be spending good money without seeing any benefit from it. And that’s throwing money out the window. So, there’s a little bit of a catch-22 there. You’ll save money on the fringe but must have measurables to ensure they’re performing.

    Related: 8 People You Should Hire to Grow Your Startup Fast

    9. Reduce travel expenses

    If you don’t have to travel, don’t. But when you do need to travel, travel effectively. Make sure that there’s a good travel policy about meals, hotels, flights, etc. These expenses can go through the roof if you don’t have some control. Use Zoom, Teams and other messaging applications when possible, but also be cost-effective in managing travel.

    Related: 9 Business Expenses You Can Reduce or Eliminate to Save Thousands

    10. Specialize in what you’re good at

    So, you’re a sales and marketing operation, and you’re struggling. Then you, all of a sudden, decide you’re going to start doing packaging, but you have no clue how to do it. This is probably a recipe for failure because you’re not focusing on the areas you’re good at, and you’re taking time and effort away to try and learn something you don’t need to. But the nice thing about the way the world is that somebody out there can do it; you need to find the right partner.

    Being careful with money doesn’t mean being cheap — quite the opposite. It means honoring the value of the money entrusted to your company by customers for goods and services they care about.

    Related: How to Specialize Without Locking Your Startup Out of the Market

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    Vincent Tricarico

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  • 10 Companies That Offer Holiday Greeting Cards — And What You Can Expect to Pay

    10 Companies That Offer Holiday Greeting Cards — And What You Can Expect to Pay

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    It’s almost time.

    Before long, you’ll see the holiday greeting cards trickling in every day — filled with the smiling faces and coordinated outfits from your family members and friends all over.

    If you haven’t begun creating your holiday card yet, you still have plenty of time. To help you focus on what company’s card offerings work best for you, we put together this list of holiday greeting card companies and how much you can expect to pay.

    10 Companies to Order Your Holiday Greeting Cards From This Year

    These card companies have deals and discounts going on all throughout the holiday season. So much so that you’ll probably never pay “100%” of the costs, whatever that may be.

    To help you figure out what you’re getting into, we went through the ordering process for some of the most popular holiday card companies currently. We looked at how much it cost to order 50 standard stock cards. Nothing fancy or extra. Just the basics.

    Remember, these prices were for a random Tuesday in November. By the time you order, the prices may have changed. But these examples should give you a good idea of a ballpark price with each card brand, as well as which ones typically are more affordable or considered higher end.

    We include shipping when possible in the cost per card but didn’t calculate sales tax since that varies greatly.

    With that disclaimer out of the way, let’s get started.

    1. Shutterfly

    Shutterfly has been involved in the holiday card game for a while now, so they have a vast selection of quality cards that highlight you and your family.

    We made a sample order for 50 5×7 cards at $2.15 each, some of the more expensive cards we found. That totals $107.50 and includes envelopes. There was a deal for free shipping when checked and Shutterfly often runs sales, so let’s call it at $107.50 for a 50-card order. Your total may be a lot less depending on what deals you find.

    Cost per card: $2.15

    2. Snapfish

    The folks at Snapfish also offer you a wide variety of options when it comes to personalized Christmas cards and holiday photo cards. Their offerings start as low as $1 per card and can go as high as $3.70 per card, if you want a card with a fancy embossed gold foil typography.

    For our 50-card example, we chose a set of 20 standard stock 5×7 cards that run $1 each. Since our chosen theme only comes in sets of 20, we need to order 60 photo cards for a total of $60. Standard shipping on three sets of cards is $11.49.

    That puts the total spend for 60 cards through Snapfish at $71.49.

    Cost per card: $1.19

    3. Minted

    Minted gives you plenty of options when it comes to choosing your Christmas holiday card. You can add a photo and make your own design, or go with an already designed card. You can pick a style and a format. You can pick religious Christmas cards or non-religious ones.

    Minted’s holiday greeting cards definitely run on the pricier end, but come with higher quality. For our card, we chose a basic non-foil 5×7 card (foil is pricier). For 50 cards, the cost comes to $114 or $2.28 each.

    Shipping ranges between $3.95 to $9.95, making the total price in the neighborhood of $120.

    Cost per card: $2.40

    4. Vistaprint

    Vistaprint offers pages full of card designs to showcase you and your lovely family. Prices for many start at $11.99 per 10 cards. Many of their holiday photo cards also have embossed foil options that may cost extra.

    For a 50-card order on 5×7 standard stock, Vistaprint will charge you $59.95. Standard eight-day shipping runs $11.99 on an order that amount.

    That would bring your order with Vistaprint to a total of $71.94.

    Cost per card: $1.44

    5. Paper Culture

    Like almost every company we researched, Paper Culture also had holiday cards discounted in November.

    For our basic 5×7 50-card order, Paper Culture only offers premium stock cards. That comes to a total of $66 at a price of $1.32 per card. They also offer 4×6 cards for $1.20 each.

    With shipping costs of a standard flat rate of $8.99, the total cost of our cards through Paper Culture comes to $74.99.

    Cost per card: $1.50

    6. Zazzle

    Zazzle offers quite a few designed as well as heavily custom Christmas card options.

    We “ordered” 50 basic flat 5×7 cards for $1.22 each. That came to a total of $61. While Zazzle didn’t provide a lot of shipping rate information, we estimate around $9 to $12, based on other companies’ costs.

    After shipping, our order would run somewhere around $70 total.

    Cost per card: $1.40

    7. Etsy

    Etsy offers a lot more in the way of traditional, designed cards without building around a family photo if you don’t want to. Although they have those options as well. Even better, you get to support small businesses and independent designers while you’re at it.

    That said, many of these cards come in smaller quantities per set, making them more expensive. This lovely 12-card set of snowy village cards costs $18 per set, which would cost us about $72 for 48 cards.

    The particular Etsy seller we chose offers free shipping over $35, so we’re good to go at $72 flat for holiday cards through Etsy.

    Cost per card: $1.50

    8. Papier

    Papier has a nice selection of pre-designed cards, as well as customizable Christmas greeting cards ready for your family photo.

    Most of Papier’s options range between $18 to $24 for a set of 10 to 12 cards. We selected the Bold and Bright Border flat holiday card set. This set starts at $22 for 10 cards. The price per card drops as your order increases. Our total was $90 for 50 cards.

    Shipping costs a very reasonable $4.99, which brings the total costs of our 50 5×7 card set from Papier to $94.99.

    Cost per card: $1.90

    9. Artifact Uprising

    Artifact Uprising also has quite a few options when it comes to customizable holiday photo card themes.

    Like other companies, the more cards you order, the cheaper your total is per card. Most 50 card orders come to around $2 per card. For our order, we chose a Minimal Greeting Holiday Card, which costs $100 total for 50 5×7 cards.

    Artifact Uprising doesn’t provide estimated shipping costs, but we would estimate around $110 for our order after shipping.

    Cost per card: $2.20

    10. Amazon

    If you’re just looking for something simple without the family photo, Amazon has plenty of no-frills options.

    This basic “Happy Holidays” card comes in a set of 40, with envelopes, for only $12.14. You could double that amount and still come to less than $25 — much cheaper than any of the other options. But, again, there is no beaming photo of your beautiful family with these card options. These are basic Christmas greeting cards.

    Cost per card: 30 cents

    Pro Tip

    Don’t forget about postage, which will add to your cost. The good news is that you can buy stamps for less than face value if you know where to look.

    5 Ways to Save on Holiday Greeting Cards

    We’ve established that you can get 50 Christmas cards (without photos) for less than $30, and you can find 50 photo Christmas cards for well over $100. Plus, there are many options in between.

    But what if you’re looking to save a little bit more? We’ve got ideas.

    1. Look Out for Deals

    Deals. Many of these companies are always offering discounts of some sort. Our examples above were just that — examples. By the time you read this, the discounts we found could be replaced by even better, or worse, options. The point is to visit all these sites and compare prices to see what best works for your budget. Waiting for a better deal? Sign up for email notifications.

    2. Go With Digital Cards

    There’s no shame in saying “Happy Holidays” or “Merry Christmas” via email. Not only are these digital cards quite merry and charming, many companies offer them free! Sites like American Greetings, Blue Mountain and PunchBowl have plenty of free options to send your holiday cards online.

    3. Cut Back on Your List

    Do you really need to send 50 cards this year? Maybe 25 would do just fine? Think about trimming your list to the most important people in your life or the ones you don’t see often. You might spend a little more per card, but overall you will save money.

    4. Hand Deliver When Possible

    Save on shipping costs by simply skipping them altogether when you can. Drop off cards at a co-worker’s desk, place them in your neighbor’s mailbox or hand deliver them with a smile to the front doorstep.

    5. Buy as Early as You Can

    This advice is for next year, but go ahead and start comparing prices early in the fall for next year’s personalized holiday cards. If you’re not including a family photo, go ahead and order next year’s cards right after Christmas this year. You’ll usually save more the earlier you order, especially after retailers mark down holiday items.

    Robert Bruce is senior writer for The Penny Hoarder.


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    robert.bruce@thepennyhoarder.com (Robert Bruce)

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