Savings.com Blog - Money Saving Tips

Zact: The best no-contract wireless plan yet?

Rick.Broida — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:00:00 GMT

Is owning a smarthpone smart if the monthly bills put you in the poorhouse? Not so much.

Thankfully, a growing number of upstart carriers are trying to make smartphone pricing cheaper and more manageable. Republic Wireless, for example, offers service for just $19 per month, and as I mentioned a couple weeks ago, you can save big bucks by taking your unlocked phone to another carrier.

Now comes ItsOn's Zact, a new wireless service offering customized no-contract plans.

Like cable companies that charge you the same amount even if you don't watch every channel, most phone companies charge you the same amount even if you don't, say, talk a lot, or use a lot of data, or send a lot of text messages.

Zact affords a more a-la-carte approach, letting you adjust (right on your phone!) the number of minutes, messages, and megabytes you get each month. Better still, each Zact plan will notify you if you need to add more service, and will actually give you a refund at the end of the month if you stayed under the limits of a cheaper plan.

The service also caters deftly to parents, offering device-specific limits for your kids' phones and tablets. You can also easily add or remove devices from your plan.

Speaking of which, check out Zact's plan chart, which shows you the various configurations. For example, I could easily get by with 100 talk minutes, 500 text messages, and 1GB of data--which would cost me $31.44 per month. That. Is. Awesome.

So, what's the catch with all this? As of now, Zact offers only two older, somewhat underpowered phones: the LG Optimus Elite ($199) and LG Viper ($399). Both run Android, and both run on Sprint's sagging 3G network.

Even so, I have to agree with Gizmodo's assessment that this is how every wireless plan should work. I talk very little on my iPhone, use a medium amount of data, and send a lot of text messages. Yet AT&T charges me an arm and leg for all three, every month. Here's hoping Zact catches on in a big way, prompting other carriers to adopt similar a-la-carte billing.

And while we're at it, here's hoping cable companies will do the same. I mean, seriously, Comcast, I don't watch Lifetime. Why must I pay for it?!

Veteran technology writer Rick Broida is the author of numerous books, blogs, and features. He lends his money-saving expertise to CNET and Savings.com, and also writes for PC World and Wired.

(Source: Savings.com)

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How to send expired coupons to the Military

CrystalECollins — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Did you know that you can send your expired coupons to the Military? Military personnel and their families around the world shop at on-base stores called Commissaries, and can use coupons up to six month past their expiration date.

This means that you don't have to throw out all of your expired coupons! You can actually put those expired coupons to good use by sending them out to military families. Here's how to do it:

1. Visit The Overseas Program website.

2. Choose a Base from the "Base List."

3. Follow the instructions on the "Adoption" page in order to adopt a base.

4. Mail your expired coupons off to the base that you adopted, by using the instructions on the "Mailing" page.

That's it! It's pretty simple! And if you really want to make an impact, pull together a group of couponers in your area and donate your expired coupons together! This is a great way to give back, and an easy way at that!

Crystal Collins is an Atlanta local, adventurer, a health advocate and thrifty as can be. Check her out on her blog at TheThriftyMama.com.

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How to take your couponing to the next level by giving back

CrystalECollins — Wed, 15 May 2013 15:47:00 GMT

We have some amazing people in the Savings.com DealPro network. From the blogger that's a total thrift store fashionista, to the somewhat "extreme" couponer - there's one thing in common with all of our DealPros: they all care about others and want to give back in any way possible!

As I was perusing the DealPro blog content this week as it relates to giving to Military families, my heart was extremely touched and I hope yours will be as well as you read these posts.

We all like to save money, but we remain true to the fact that we all want to help others above all! Read on and be inspired.

Lynette Rice from CleverlySimple.com (photo above courtesy of Lynette) has set it up so that her readers can help her support a Military base overseas. Her readers can mail her their expired coupons, and she will send them overseas to a base!

If you're really wanting to get involved, Dian at Grocery Shop for Free has some great tips for getting involved, and how you can make sure you're sending the right kinds of coupons.

And if you're looking for even more programs to get involved with (you got lotsa coupons, eh?), check out Mary's resources at Mission To Save.

Looking for a group of couponers in your area to create a swap with, or group for sending off expired coupons to the Military? Join us at a local grocery savings workshop in your area so that you can connect with fellow couponers and give back together!

Crystal Collins is an Atlanta local, adventurer, a health advocate and thrifty as can be. Check her out on her blog at TheThriftyMama.com.

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This week in deals: 30% off all baby and toddler at Old Navy

SavingsMommie — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Hope you had a wonderful Mother's Day!

I thought I was going to get waited on hand and foot, but boy was I wrong. In the morning, my husband had to go into work because one of the cooks was sick (no breakfast in bed :-(). And then, I was left with a huge mess from the night before, so I was cleaning for half of the day. Oh well, I look forward to next year's Mother's Day.

With Memorial Day and Graduation all taking place very soon, there are some really really incredible offers out there. If you haven't been able to take advantage of these deals, I've got 5 that you will appreciate:

Deal #1: You cannot miss this deal, especially if you need to stock up on clothing for your growing young child. During the Big Baby Sale, you can save 30% on all baby and toddler items by using this Old Navy offer. Expires 5/22/2013.

Deal #2: It's almost summer and it's time to get those dresses out of your closet. If you've changed sizes within the last year or you feel the ones you have are out of style, use this coupon from Ann Taylor to save an extra 40% on all dresses on sale. Expires 5/25/2013.

Deal #3: I love deal sites. You can try out everything from new restaurants to new yoga studios by saving up to 90% off. Right now, you can get 10% off your purchase with this coupon from Plum District. If you have children, this deal site is amazing. Limited time offer.

Deal #4: If you need to stock up on some cute children's attire, use this coupon from Naartjie Kids to save $20 off your next purchase over $40. The clothes at this store are playful and adorable. Expires Today!

Deal #5: Do you wash your fruits and vegetables? If you do, what do you use? Use this coupon from Eat Cleaner to save 15% on your entire purchase. I've been using their stuff for almost 4 years and love it. Expires 5/26/2013.

(Source: Savings.com)
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Savings Secrets: 4 little-known shopping tips to save you 50% at the grocery store

CrystalECollins — Mon, 13 May 2013 16:13:00 GMT

Saving money at the grocery store can seem like a huge task. You've gotta clip and organize coupons, plan out your trip and then hit the ground running at the store and the check-out counter. But it doesn't have to be too difficult to save at least 50% at the store. With these little-known tips, you're sure to save some money, and it won't take you a whole lot of prep time to do it!

1. Look for those "buy one get one free" deals. When something is on sale for buy one get one free, you're automatically saving 50% on your items. And at some stores, each item rings up half price, so you only have to buy one to get the discount!

2. Look for the mark downs and manager's specials. A lot of stores will mark items down when they are either going to be discontinued or going out of date. Usually the discount is at least 50% or more!

3. Look for those loss-leaders on the front of the sales flier. These are items heavily discounted to attract customers into the store. These deals are usually the best to be had. If you will focus on these deals, you'll really be saving some money!

4. Stock up when necessities are on sale. When items like bread, milk, butter, etc are on sale, it's time to stock up and use that freezer space if you need to. Grabbing items when they are on sale means you won't have to pay full-price at a later date!

What are some of your little-known tips for easily saving money at the grocery store?

Want to learn how to save even more? Join us at a grocery savings class in your area!

Crystal Collins is an Atlanta local, adventurer, a health advocate and thrifty as can be. Check her out on her blog at TheThriftyMama.com.

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Simple Mother's Day gifts that your mom will love

bargainshoppermom — Fri, 10 May 2013 19:58:00 GMT

Mother's Day is this Sunday and it isn't too late too find the perfect gift and not break the bank. Moms just want to feel appreciated and celebrated for all they do.

Moms love personalized gifts. One great idea is to head to your local craft store and get a stepping stone kit. Have the kids put in their handprints and add Happy Mother's Day and then the year. Most kits include some gems and other decorations too. This makes a great memento and will make any mom smile. This will help her remember a special Mother's Day each time she sees it. You could even make one every few years and make a little path. You will be amazed how fast those little handprints become big.

One other great Mother's day idea is to let her spend a bit of time by herself. You could give her a Starbucks gift card and a magazine and send her off for a bit of time to recharge. If she loves to shop, you could send her to the mall for a few hours with a gift card. If you want to make this time extra special, you and the kids can clean the house while she is away. Can you imagine her delight to coming home to a freshly cleaned home?

Next it is a great idea to spend some time as a family. This doesn't have to cost anything. You could go on a family bike ride or walk. Making happy memories is always a favorite for Moms.

I also love those coupon books that can be made and used throughout the year. Here is a great printable Mother's day coupon book. There are even spots to make your own coupons so be sure to think about what your Mom would like best. You can print it out on some cardstock and you have a great and inexpensive Mother's day gift.

Be sure to let your Mom know how much you appreciate every thing she does. She will love that you made her feel special and helped create a fabulous Mother's Day.

Melissa Buckles is the founder of BargainShoppermom.com where she loves to help others learn how to save money and live well. She sometimes isn't frugal but she rarely pays full price. She is also a Savings.com DealPro and teaches Savings Nation workshops that help people learn how to save up to 50% off their grocery bills.

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Five smart tech tools to bring on your next trip

Rick.Broida — Thu, 09 May 2013 18:45:00 GMT

Summertime is nearly upon us, and for most folks that means travel. Whether you're packing up the minivan for a cross-country road trip or hopping a flight to visit far-flung family, you'll want to throw a few key tech tools into your bag.

MyCharge Peak 6000
The last thing you need during a trip is for your phone or tablet to run out of juice. The MyCharge Peak 6000 is a portable power supply with built-in connectors for the most common gear—and a USB port for the less-common stuff.

The half-pound Peak packs enough mobile power to charge not only small devices like phones and Bluetooth headsets, but also larger tablets like the iPad. I've been using one for months, and it has quickly become my most indispensable travel accessory. Read my original review if you want to learn more.

The Peak 6000 lists for $99.99, but AT&T currently has it on sale for $69 shipped.

FreedomPop Overdrive Pro
How's the Wi-Fi in your hotel? If you answered "flaky" or "non-existent," just pull out the Overdrive Pro. This mobile Wi-Fi hotspot connects to Sprint's 3G or 4G network (whatever's available), then shares that signal with up to eight devices (your phone, your tablet, etc.).

Lots of mobile hotspots do likewise; what's so special about FreedomPop's? The unit itself (which is refurbished) costs only $39.99 and requires no contract. In fact, you get 500MB of data absolutely free every month, with the option of earning more by referring friends. And if you do need to purchase extra data, you'll find FreedomPop's prices far below other carriers'.

I think of this as "emergency Wi-Fi," the perfect backup for those times when I need to get online but can't find a working hotspot.

Logitech M125
When I travel with my laptop, I always pack a retractable mouse—meaning one with a spring-loaded cord that coils back into the mouse when not in use. Why not go with something wireless? Simple: It's one less thing to keep charged, and one less connectivity hassle. (Bluetooth mice work pretty well most of the time, but when they don't, it can be maddening.)

The Logitech M125 optical wheel-mouse is just about perfect. It's large enough to grip comfortably but small enough to earn a spot in your carry-on bag. It runs on USB, comes in a variety of colors, and costs only $18—though Rakuten.com currently sells it (in silver) for $11.95 shipped.

Klipsch Image S4
Whether you're trying to watch a movie on your flight or block out noisy neighbors in your hotel, nothing beats a good pair of noise-isolating earphones. And I've long been partial to the Klipsch Image S4, which combine great sound-blocking with great sound. Plus, they're not crazy-expensive.

Indeed, although they have a list price of $79.99, Amazon currently sells the Klipsch Image S4 earbuds for $49.89 shipped.

Logitech UE Mobile Boombox
If you like music, nothing makes a hotel room feel more like home than a playlist of your favorite tunes. And for that you'll need a portable Bluetooth speaker, one that can run on battery power for your excursions to the patio, pool, or beach.

One of my favorites: the Logitech UE Mobile Boombox, a surprisingly compact but surprisingly loud speaker that doubles as a speakerphone. It comes in a handful of festive colors and pairs with any phone or tablet that supports Bluetooth. There's also a line-in jack for those devices that don't.

The UE is already a pretty good deal at $99.99, but you can often find them refurbished for $20-30 less.

Veteran technology writer Rick Broida is the author of numerous books, blogs, and features. He lends his money-saving expertise to CNET and Savings.com, and also writes for PC World and Wired.

(Source: Savings.com)
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Free printables for Mother's Day

CrystalECollins — Thu, 09 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

My kids are still young, so nothing is more special to me than when my son or daughter brings me a flower from the yard or colors me a special picture. Finding a free printable is a great way to get the younger kids involved with celebrating Mom for Mother's Day.

If you're looking for some cool printables to get the kids involved in honoring Mom for Mother's Day, here's a list of freebies for ya, enjoy!

1. The Scoop! Mother's Day Edition

2. Sweet, Why I Love My Mom Mother's Day Note

3. Mother's Day Acrostic

4. Free Printable Cards in Various Colors

5. 7 Downloadable Mother's Day Cards

6. Free Mother's Day Printable for Photos

7. Free Party Favor/Decoration Printables

8. Mother's Day Certificate

9. Mother's Day Questionnaire Download

10. M is for Marvelous Mom

Have you found any great free printable for Mother's Day? Please share so we can all check them out!

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What Moms really want this Mother's Day

CrystalECollins — Wed, 08 May 2013 16:56:00 GMT

Last night we had a hoppin' Twitter party to celebrate all our awesome Moms in the #SavingsMom hash tag. I had the exciting job of handing out the prizes - man it's a tough job but someone's gotta do it, right? ;) But the most exciting thing for me? See what all of you Moms out there want for Mother's Day, or seeing what you plan to do to honor the Mom in your life!

1. Mom wants you to get a deal.

Sure Moms want to be spoiled, and they want something nice, but they also want you to be frugal about it! Need some ideas? Check out these budget-friendly gift ideas.

2. Mam wants you to think of her.

Don't just go get anything that pops into your head. Put some thought into what you are getting. Do you have a fashionista Mom or an Earthy Mom? Cater what you get to what she likes. Check out these videos and pins on Pinterest from Valpak.com for some good inspiration.

3. Madre definitely wants some flowers!

Unless of course you have the rare Mom that is allergic or just plain hates flowers, most Moms would appreciate some beautiful flowers for Mother's Day! Check out these tips for how to save on Mother's Day flowers.

4. She wants to go out to eat.

She doesn't want to cook, clean...she just wants to go to her favorite restaurant! And you can still save some money with these Restaurant and Gift Card Bonus Deals. And if you can't find enough deals, check out these Restaurant Deals for Mother's Day 2013.

5. Mama seriously just wants a break!

Give Mom the day off for Mother's Day. She wants to kick back, relax, and enjoy some time where she doesn't have to cook or clean. And if you really want to live a little, give her the entire weekend off, not just Mother's Day!

6. Ma really wants some pampering!

If you can afford it or find a good Groupon deal, get her a day at the spa. Or for the budget conscious, shoot for a mani/pedi combo at the local salon. And if the budget is even more tight than that, make her a homemade sugar scrub for Mother's Day.

Looking for even more ideas for Mother's Day? Check out our free PDF download of the Mother's Day Twitter Party. And Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms out there!

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This week in deals: 60% off at Easy Canvas Prints, plus more Mother's Day offers

SavingsMommie — Wed, 08 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Mother's Day is only 4 days away! If you haven't gotten your token of appreciation for mom which can be a variety of things, it's time to get moving.

While Mother's Day shopping can be stressful because mom's got everything, it can also be a lot fun to see what you can come up with. Whether you're sending a homemade card or a bouquet of flowers to her door step, your mom is going to be smiling from ear to ear (remember, you're still 3 in her eyes). Nothing is too big or too little.

With that in mind, I've got the 5 best deals that will help you with your Mother's Day shopping:

Deal #1: Make Mother's Day a memorable one. With this coupon from Easy Canvas Prints, you can do just that by saving 60% off your canvas and getting free shipping. Expires 5/12/2013.

Deal #2: I'm a mom and I love shoes. If your mom is a shoe connoisseur, try getting her a cute pair of shoes for Mother's Day. Use this coupon from Nine West to save 30% off your entire order and get free shipping. Expires 5/15/2013.

Deal #3: If you need a one stop shop to get your Mother's Day gift, use this coupon from JCPenney to save 15% on your entire purchase. Expires 5/09/2013.

Deal #4: Not sure about what to get your mother? A nice gift basket can bring a huge smile to your momma's face. Use this coupon from Gevalia to save 30% off Mother's Day gift baskets. Expires 5/12/2013.

Deal #5: Last but not least, diamonds are a girl's best friend. If you've got the dough to spend, this will definitely make your mom feel really special. With this coupon from Ross-Simons, save 30% on your entire purchase. Expires 5/12/2013.

UPDATE: We have a last-minute exclusive coupon from 1-800-Flowers.com for 20% off your purchase over $49.99. Spectacular! Expires 5/10/2013.

Whether your mom is in a different state or close-by, let your mom know that you care and thank her for all that she's done for you because it's priceless. If you're still contemplating a gift, read what real moms had to say about their most meaningful gift for Mother's Day. Happy Mother's Day!

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Budget savvy Mother's Day blooms: How to save on Mother's Day flowers

UltimateCouponClub — Mon, 06 May 2013 17:00:00 GMT

With Mother's Day quickly approaching, you might be wondering how you can really impress Mom this year while being mindful of your budget at the same time. After all, Mom taught you to save your pennies right? So, make her proud this Mother's Day with something colorful and fresh while still saving some cash in the process.

If Mom loves flowers, and I am pretty sure it's a rule that all mom's do, you can't go wrong with giving your mother fresh flowers on Mother's Day! Fresh flowers are fragrant, visually appealing, and make her feel so special. Luckily, you don't need to go broke buying your mom a nice arrangement this year. Instead, follow these tips to make sure you know how to save on Mother's Day flowers.

How to Save on Mother's Day Flowers

1. Buy what's in season
This tip is often overlooked, but is one of the smartest! Throughout the month of May, you'll find that tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths are all in season. Since all three of these varieties are in season during the month of May they will be more budget friendly. Flowers that aren't in season will cost a lot more. Try to avoid roses, lilies, and exotics.

2. See it in person
Typically, florists also are more costly than a grocery or discount chain store. You can find flowers that are just as fresh at these grocery and chain stores at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you can see them first hand and know exactly what you're getting! Of course, if mom lives out of town, you'll have to use a delivery service. So, trust a well-known online retailer such as ProFlowers to find exactly what you are looking for.

3. Avoid fancy and exotic blooms
They are so pretty, but exotic blooms will always cost you more. They cost more to transport and that cost is passed on to consumers. So instead, look to buy flowers that grow locally in your area. They'll be more friendly for your budget and will get you more blooms for your buck. If Mom is truly in love with an exotic variety, try several of the big online delivery services such as 1-800-Flowers for great deals on exotic flowers shipped.

4. Consider potted plants
Potted bulb varieties are just as beautiful and put on quite a display for less. Potted varieties such as tulips can be saved and replanted and last year after year. Give your recipient instructions on how to transfer their bulb outdoors when it is done growing so they can enjoy it for years to come. Potted plants can be a cheaper alternative to flowers as well. Consider an herb or aloe plant this Mother's Day instead which are both functional and beautiful.

5. Use your own vase
Thrift stores and dollar stores sell bud vases and flowers bases by the dozen for just a dollar or two. Buy your flowers fresh cut and then put them in your own vase. You can save up to $10! Some online retailers offer free vases during the Mother's Day season, so be sure to check those out and see what might be available to you for free.

6. Grab a free card
Look for the freebies given out by florists and flower shops. Many floral departments offer free greeting cards and novelty picks with your purchase. They add more bang for your buck and save you from having to buy such accessories.

7. Make them last
Once you have your flowers, do everything you can to make them last. By adding a crushed aspirin to the water of your bouquet, it will help them remain in bloom longer.

See how easy it is to save on Mother's Day? By following these simple strategies, you'll be able to give your mom a fresh arrangement that she will love and that will last. Why not treat her to a nice dinner with all of the money you just saved? It's sure to make it a fun and frugal Mother's Day that you both can enjoy!

Ryan Preston is the founder of Ultimate Coupon Club, a frugal living blog helping others learn how to live well and save more – all while having fun! He is also a Savings.com DealPro and teaches Savings Nation workshops in New Jersey that help people learn how to save up to 50% off their grocery bills.

(Source: Savings.com)
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Savings Secrets: 5 budget-friendly Mother's Day gift ideas

CrystalECollins — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 GMT

It's the week before Mother's Day, and that means procrastinators unite to figure out what to do for Mom. And if you're on a budget, it might be difficult to come up with some good ideas for a gift. Well DealPro Mary from MissionToSave.com has some great tips for us!

Be sure to watch her video and tips for 5 budget-friendly Mother's Day gift ideas.

1. Instead of flowers that won't last longer than a few days, go for a hanging basket or other potted plant. It will last longer and may possibly be cheaper than a bouquet.

2. Put together a pampering gift basket. Use coupons and sales to find some pampering items, and put it together in a nice basket for Mom.

3. Get her a 12-month magazine subscription. It's the gift that keeps on giving! It will keep coming every month. Pick up the latest copy of her favorite magazine off the shelf, purchase a subscription, and write her a special note letting her know that the subscription will be showing up in her mail shortly.

4. Enlarge a family photo for a memorable gift that won't cost a lot.

5. Give Mom the day off from cooking. Plan to cook for Mom for the day, or go out and take advantage of a local restaurant deal for Mother's Day.

Check out these tips and more from our DealPros and Valpak.com with these Mother's Day Gift ideas.

What are some of your favorite budget-friendly gift ideas for Mom?

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