Many of you have probably seen cars barreling down the Interstate, their gas fumes vanishing in the air behind them. Their excessive speeds also cost them at the gas pump, assuming the law doesn't find them as well. Traveling with today's gas prices has become a strategy game aimed at saving the most at the pump. We've compiled some tips to save gas and other strategies for you the next time you're driving. Learn Your Route Home and the Best Time to Drive
Probably the biggest gas saver comes in the form of knowledge. If we know the quickest route home, then we can shave miles off our weekly travel, which correlates to gas saved. Many of us drive the same route every day. We can study our route and gauge the best time to leave the office. It might mean staying late to beat rush hour traffic or arriving early to the office, both of which should result in a side benefit of kudos from the boss.
When we travel, our habits reflect with our gas savings. The faster our speed the more gas we consume. Activating cruise control can really help lower fuel consumption on a long trip. Once again a direct route using an online map service like Mapquest or Google Maps should help us save gas too.
Ride Together to Save Gas
The carpool lane might do more than get you to work faster - it can actually save you money. If two people drive fifteen miles to work each day, then they're both going to spend the money to get them there. Those two people driving together could save a nice amount of money each week, and they could use the carpool lane with no fears of reprisal. Don't have anyone to ride with to work? There are websites designed to match you with a person traveling to a nearby location, like www.icarpool.com. These services should flourish in the next few years, assuming they're matching you with safe - not reckless - drivers.
Avoid Speeding
In an EPA list for saving money on gas, the most misunderstood tip related to the speed you drive on average. According to their information, driving 55 to 65mph can save approximately 15% more gas than traveling at high rates of speed. To stay at lower speeds than normal, use cruise control and relax a little. To make sense of your lower rate of speed, consider the distance you'll be traveling. Are you going ten miles? If you travel 75mph you will arrive at your destination in 13 minutes as opposed to 15.5 minutes going 65mph. Is two minutes really worth it?
Regular Maintenance on Your Car
A car has more than a gas tank and bucket seat. Regular maintenance on your car can reduce miles per gallon and increase the car's life. Tune-ups on the car can result in a smoother ride. An experienced mechanic can assist you with the details of the tune up, which may include new spark plugs, filters, and fluid changes. Your owner's manual should detail a likely schedule for regular tune-ups.
Before you leave for a long road trip, check your car's tire pressure. A low tire can create drag on the car. This forces the car to make up the difference in gas usage. Improperly aligned tires can also hinder a car's forward momentum. Be sure to have your tires aligned if you feel it pulling to one side or the other.
Remember to Shift
Most cars nowadays have automatic overdrive. It's fairly easy to turn this extra gear on and off. It's a matter of putting the car in the right gear in a manual car, while automatics often times have a button to push. If you travel in a low gear at high rates of speed, your car will use significantly more gas to get you to your destination than if you used overdrive. Make sure you travel in overdrive whenever possible.
Get Rid of the Dead Weight
Have you been traveling with a box of books in your trunk? The excess weight you might be toting around can actually cause minor gas mileage losses. Be sure to keep your car neat, tidy, and as light as possible.
Cold Weather Driving
If you live in a cold weather climate, then you know snow and ice can build up around the tires of your car. It's best to remove these chunks of snow to reduce drag and also to lower your car's weight. The ice and snow can build up and actually become quite heavy. It's also best to avoid warming a car up for extended periods too. A car can waste more gas idling in a driveway than it would on the drive to work.
Conclusion
Oil companies hope we lose the strategy game of saving gas. The more informed, passionate, and determined we are, the better off our gas mileage will be. If you have other tips to save gas, you can create an account to write a short article on your experience. We offer people just like you a way to express your experiences and showcase it for us all to read.
2009年3月24日星期二
Tips on Finding Places for Lowest Gas Prices
When will high gas prices come down? In the US, high gas prices have increased even more to almost a dollar more per gallon from last year's prices according to the Energy Information Administration. Families have felt the pain of high cost of gas at the pumps. The Internet has opened up avenues for consumers to combat rising gas prices. We can seek out the best prices before leaving our home. Let's take a look at a few of the services available today and take a peek at the future of gasoline prices. Why Saving Money on Gas Makes a Difference
A car was once a status symbol, but certain models have become burdens. We can no longer deny an SUV uses way too much gasoline. We've become more aware and more determined to save money at the gas pump. So where do we start?
If we're thinking of investing any amount of time driving our cars, then we should consider the cost of driving. The fuel efficiency of a car should be a deciding factor on a purchase, but many of us cannot afford to trade in our car for a more fuel efficient model, we must learn to save money on gas.
How much can ten cents a gallon save on gas throughout a year? In 2004, Energy Information Association (EIA) projected average miles traveled per car at 11,000 a year. The average car performed at 20 miles per gallon. This equates to 550 gallons of gasoline used to power the average American car. At prices exceeding four dollars per gallon today, the cost for the year would be $2,200 dollars at $4 per gallon. If the cost was $3.90 per gallon the average driver would save $65 in one year. While this may not seem like much, a quick look at some online sites can help you save that money spending only a few minutes each week.
Using the Internet to Find the Best Gas Prices
Many sites have cropped up in the past few years. These sites allow consumers to enter the price for gas in their area. One such site, GasBuddy.com, shows users the cost of gas in different areas of the US. The GasBuddy.com site states, "Gasoline prices change frequently and may vary by as much as 20 percent within only a few blocks. It's important to be able find the service station with the lowest priced fuel." Twenty percent on a purchase can be huge with gas prices the way they are.
GasBuddy.com owns and operates over 180 different websites with prices for petroleum according to region. If you live in Illinois, then you would visit www.illinoisgasprices.com for the latest prices in your area. This type of site helps consumers find the cheapest gas without driving around looking for the best price, which of course wastes fuel.
Of course, to save money on gas you have to be motivated to do the legwork. If you would rather lock in today's prices, because you speculate tomorrow's gas prices may increase, then you can take charge with a membership through MyGallons.com.
MyGallons.com is a new site offering members today's gas prices for tomorrow's purchase. So if you believe gas will continue going on the rise, you can simply purchase gas at today's price and use the special credit card they give when you go to buy gas. You can refill the card at any time - similar to a prepaid phone card or credit card. Once you have the card, you can use it at participating locations. Their site has a map displaying the gas stations in every area of the US that accepts the card. From my search, most gas stations in my area will accept the card.
Buying today's prices really can save money on gas, but it relies entirely on speculation. If a person buys gas at $4.02 and the price drops ten cents on their next visit to the pump, then this tip to save gas doesn't work. The person would instead buy the gas at the pump price and save the card for a rainy day. The MyGallons.com site does charge an annual fee of $29.99, but if you can save money on gas, then it will probably be beneficial in the long run. Imagine if you had bought 100 gallons at $3.25 a gallon, with today's prices you would be saving $75.00 off that purchase alone.
A consumer stepping into a gas station should no longer be uninformed about the way gas prices fluctuate. As GasBuddy.com attempts to show everyone the prices of the corner gas station, so have tried and true automobile service companies, like AAA, done their part in showing gas prices. AAA has a fuel price search, which works similar to GasBuddy.com. You type in city and state or a zip code and a map returns results for the region. If you scroll down, each gas station's price is entered with the corresponding date. Some prices may be outdated, so be sure to look at the date each one was entered.
How to Save Money on Gas
It's no surprise sites like GasBuddy, MyGallons, and others have emerged on the Internet. What should surprise is the number of people who don't use the tools they have to save money on gas. The sites take only a little time to understand, and then you can be on your way to saving money on gas. We hope this article helped you find places for lowest gas prices.
A car was once a status symbol, but certain models have become burdens. We can no longer deny an SUV uses way too much gasoline. We've become more aware and more determined to save money at the gas pump. So where do we start?
If we're thinking of investing any amount of time driving our cars, then we should consider the cost of driving. The fuel efficiency of a car should be a deciding factor on a purchase, but many of us cannot afford to trade in our car for a more fuel efficient model, we must learn to save money on gas.
How much can ten cents a gallon save on gas throughout a year? In 2004, Energy Information Association (EIA) projected average miles traveled per car at 11,000 a year. The average car performed at 20 miles per gallon. This equates to 550 gallons of gasoline used to power the average American car. At prices exceeding four dollars per gallon today, the cost for the year would be $2,200 dollars at $4 per gallon. If the cost was $3.90 per gallon the average driver would save $65 in one year. While this may not seem like much, a quick look at some online sites can help you save that money spending only a few minutes each week.
Using the Internet to Find the Best Gas Prices
Many sites have cropped up in the past few years. These sites allow consumers to enter the price for gas in their area. One such site, GasBuddy.com, shows users the cost of gas in different areas of the US. The GasBuddy.com site states, "Gasoline prices change frequently and may vary by as much as 20 percent within only a few blocks. It's important to be able find the service station with the lowest priced fuel." Twenty percent on a purchase can be huge with gas prices the way they are.
GasBuddy.com owns and operates over 180 different websites with prices for petroleum according to region. If you live in Illinois, then you would visit www.illinoisgasprices.com for the latest prices in your area. This type of site helps consumers find the cheapest gas without driving around looking for the best price, which of course wastes fuel.
Of course, to save money on gas you have to be motivated to do the legwork. If you would rather lock in today's prices, because you speculate tomorrow's gas prices may increase, then you can take charge with a membership through MyGallons.com.
MyGallons.com is a new site offering members today's gas prices for tomorrow's purchase. So if you believe gas will continue going on the rise, you can simply purchase gas at today's price and use the special credit card they give when you go to buy gas. You can refill the card at any time - similar to a prepaid phone card or credit card. Once you have the card, you can use it at participating locations. Their site has a map displaying the gas stations in every area of the US that accepts the card. From my search, most gas stations in my area will accept the card.
Buying today's prices really can save money on gas, but it relies entirely on speculation. If a person buys gas at $4.02 and the price drops ten cents on their next visit to the pump, then this tip to save gas doesn't work. The person would instead buy the gas at the pump price and save the card for a rainy day. The MyGallons.com site does charge an annual fee of $29.99, but if you can save money on gas, then it will probably be beneficial in the long run. Imagine if you had bought 100 gallons at $3.25 a gallon, with today's prices you would be saving $75.00 off that purchase alone.
A consumer stepping into a gas station should no longer be uninformed about the way gas prices fluctuate. As GasBuddy.com attempts to show everyone the prices of the corner gas station, so have tried and true automobile service companies, like AAA, done their part in showing gas prices. AAA has a fuel price search, which works similar to GasBuddy.com. You type in city and state or a zip code and a map returns results for the region. If you scroll down, each gas station's price is entered with the corresponding date. Some prices may be outdated, so be sure to look at the date each one was entered.
How to Save Money on Gas
It's no surprise sites like GasBuddy, MyGallons, and others have emerged on the Internet. What should surprise is the number of people who don't use the tools they have to save money on gas. The sites take only a little time to understand, and then you can be on your way to saving money on gas. We hope this article helped you find places for lowest gas prices.
The Truth of Hybrid Cars Fuel Efficiency
The hybrid car has long been touted as the savior from oil dependency. The first mass produced models, like the Toyota Prius, came onto the market with loads of fanfare. Stunned manufacturers saw the market shift towards these hybrid cars' fuel efficiency. In 2004, Toyota and Honda sold over 88,000 hybrid model cars in the US. This was only 0.5% of the total lightweight vehicle sales in the US, but the number has doubled and tripled since that time. What makes Americans hungry for the hybrid vehicle? Has the world actually shifted from the lightweight economy car to a more versatile, albeit more expensive, hybrid counterpart?
A Short History of Hybrid Cars
It's often believed that hybrid cars catapulted into modern culture circa 1997. However, many may be surprised to learn hybrids actually appeared as early as 1902 with the "Lohner-Porsche petrol-electric ‘Mixte' built by Ferdinand Porsche" [Source: Hybrid Cars Guide]. The demise of the early hybrids came from Henry Ford's automated assembly line, which pumped out far more cars in less amount of time. The hybrid did not die, but soon became second best to the more efficient manufacturing methods of American auto makers.
In 1997 Toyota revealed the Prius to the Japanese market. As a result, the new era of hybrid cars had begun. It would take a few years, but the Prius model would begin to show up in American auto showrooms and introduce a whole new line of cars during a time when Americans wanted something new and fresh.
A Few Myths of Hybrid Cars
In today's pop culture, hybrids carry a reputation of being owned by tree-huggers, liberals, and activists. It could be because early adopters of the vehicle all came from these particular camps. Nevertheless, mainstream media has long since equated hybrid ownership to thoughtful, environmentally friendly personalities. Recently, as gas prices have surged, many have jumped ship to purchase these lovable hybrid vehicles. As they buy them up by the hundreds of thousands, new and more powerful models have emerged, including SUV and sedan models. The new technology has more than a few consumers questioning their purchase when they hear of faulty batteries, poor performance, and more expensive price tags at the time of sale.
The folks at HybridCars.com have a comprehensive list of myths related to hybrid cars. The reaction to hybrid cars seems to stem from ignorance or common misunderstandings, like the faulty battery charge. It's unknown who circulates these rumors, but the fact remains that most modern hybrids carry an 80,000 to 100,000 mile warranty on the battery. The life of hybrid batteries should last well after the warranty expires. Documented cases appear more and more each day.
Hybrid Cars and Saving Money on Gas
Do hybrid cars save money on gas? Absolutely. Do they cost more to purchase? Most definitely. Most hybrid car manufacturers show ads where the cars not only save money on gas, but also the environment. A few short years ago, before the new EPA fuel estimates hit the market, many hybrid owners carried a grudge as their new hybrid didn't live up to mileage estimates pasted to their car's window. The outdated methods used to test vehicles have been improved for 2008. The purpose was to show more accurate estimates so consumers would not feel cheated by their new hybrid model. The results are a more accurate account of a car's day to day performance.
The new EPA standards show a Toyota Prius at 48mpg in the city and 46mpg on the highway [Source: Edmunds.com]. The lower highway miles relate to engine using gas to achieve higher speeds on the highway. 48mpg for city driving is still phenomenal. Many would trade in for such a valuable asset. However, trading in a gas guzzler doesn't always amount to big savings. You can use the Edmunds.com gas guzzler trade-in calculator to figure when the move to a hybrid would pay you back.
For those who still like to hit the open road, a modern hybrid car will do wonders for your wallet. A five hundred mile trip could see you shave 40% off a comparable economy car's gas mileage for the trip. Hybrid cars definitely save money on gas, but make sure you can afford to make the change. A one sided trade at the auto dealer might do your finances more harm than good.
Get to the Streets
Many auto manufacturers have pushed long and hard to not produce hybrid vehicles. With the clamoring from consumers for more fuel efficiency, we can only imagine the lineup of future models will have more electric shock than combustible spark.
A Short History of Hybrid Cars
It's often believed that hybrid cars catapulted into modern culture circa 1997. However, many may be surprised to learn hybrids actually appeared as early as 1902 with the "Lohner-Porsche petrol-electric ‘Mixte' built by Ferdinand Porsche" [Source: Hybrid Cars Guide]. The demise of the early hybrids came from Henry Ford's automated assembly line, which pumped out far more cars in less amount of time. The hybrid did not die, but soon became second best to the more efficient manufacturing methods of American auto makers.
In 1997 Toyota revealed the Prius to the Japanese market. As a result, the new era of hybrid cars had begun. It would take a few years, but the Prius model would begin to show up in American auto showrooms and introduce a whole new line of cars during a time when Americans wanted something new and fresh.
A Few Myths of Hybrid Cars
In today's pop culture, hybrids carry a reputation of being owned by tree-huggers, liberals, and activists. It could be because early adopters of the vehicle all came from these particular camps. Nevertheless, mainstream media has long since equated hybrid ownership to thoughtful, environmentally friendly personalities. Recently, as gas prices have surged, many have jumped ship to purchase these lovable hybrid vehicles. As they buy them up by the hundreds of thousands, new and more powerful models have emerged, including SUV and sedan models. The new technology has more than a few consumers questioning their purchase when they hear of faulty batteries, poor performance, and more expensive price tags at the time of sale.
The folks at HybridCars.com have a comprehensive list of myths related to hybrid cars. The reaction to hybrid cars seems to stem from ignorance or common misunderstandings, like the faulty battery charge. It's unknown who circulates these rumors, but the fact remains that most modern hybrids carry an 80,000 to 100,000 mile warranty on the battery. The life of hybrid batteries should last well after the warranty expires. Documented cases appear more and more each day.
Hybrid Cars and Saving Money on Gas
Do hybrid cars save money on gas? Absolutely. Do they cost more to purchase? Most definitely. Most hybrid car manufacturers show ads where the cars not only save money on gas, but also the environment. A few short years ago, before the new EPA fuel estimates hit the market, many hybrid owners carried a grudge as their new hybrid didn't live up to mileage estimates pasted to their car's window. The outdated methods used to test vehicles have been improved for 2008. The purpose was to show more accurate estimates so consumers would not feel cheated by their new hybrid model. The results are a more accurate account of a car's day to day performance.
The new EPA standards show a Toyota Prius at 48mpg in the city and 46mpg on the highway [Source: Edmunds.com]. The lower highway miles relate to engine using gas to achieve higher speeds on the highway. 48mpg for city driving is still phenomenal. Many would trade in for such a valuable asset. However, trading in a gas guzzler doesn't always amount to big savings. You can use the Edmunds.com gas guzzler trade-in calculator to figure when the move to a hybrid would pay you back.
For those who still like to hit the open road, a modern hybrid car will do wonders for your wallet. A five hundred mile trip could see you shave 40% off a comparable economy car's gas mileage for the trip. Hybrid cars definitely save money on gas, but make sure you can afford to make the change. A one sided trade at the auto dealer might do your finances more harm than good.
Get to the Streets
Many auto manufacturers have pushed long and hard to not produce hybrid vehicles. With the clamoring from consumers for more fuel efficiency, we can only imagine the lineup of future models will have more electric shock than combustible spark.
Myths on How to Save Gas
We all have a neighbor, coworker or family member who insists they know the secret to save gas. They read in an obscure magazine or heard from a friend that if you do this then you'll save more at the pump. In this article, we challenge Uncle Fred and dispel some of the common myths on how to save gas. 1. Buy Your Gas Early or Late in the Day
This myth relies on a simple theory; the hottest times of day will yield less dense gas, so a smart consumer should buy their gas during the cool periods of the day. Those lucky Alaskans! The theory falls apart when you consider all gasoline storage tanks are underground and extremely well insulated. According to Edmunds.com, it matters more whether the tanker truck brought the gas in warm or cool. The temperature of the gas stays the same as when it was in the tanker truck.
2. Roll Up Your Windows on the Highway
The myth suggests that you create drag by rolling down your windows at high speeds. The drag theory definitely holds weight, but it's more for cargo and luggage racks on the roof. These devices greatly reduce the mpg of a vehicle. Consumer Reports found that empty cargo racks reduced gas mileage as well. If you don't need those racks, uninstall them. It does create drag to have the window down, but not enough to severely impact your mpg.
3. Pour in a Little of This Chemical and You'll Get Much Fuel Efficiency
CNN Money debunks this myth with some common sense. Why would putting an additive in the gas tank help fuel efficiency and get you better mileage? If it actually worked, wouldn't gas companies add the chemicals themselves? If it sounds too good to be true...
4. Use Premium Grade Gasoline
This myth sounds nice. Pay for the higher grade gasoline at the pump and it'll benefit your car in fuel efficiency. The reality is most cars perform the same using either grade of gas. Only high performance autos or luxury models needs the higher octane gasoline.
5. Turn off the AC to Save Gas
Fortunately this one proves to be false. According to Edmunds.com, the savings are negligible. Who wants to arrive at work sweating from the drive? Keep the air conditioning turned on and the windows rolled up on your morning and evening commute.
6. Pickup Trucks Should Drive with the Tailgate Down
This one seems logical, the tailgate has a lot of wind resistance right? It's like a blockade for wind to pass through on the way out the back of the truck. At Interstate speeds, this could mean less fuel efficiency and MPG, right? Wrong. Episode 43 of Mythbusters tackles this very topic. They found that a truck with the tailgate down created more drag and resulted in less MPG than the same model truck driven with the tailgate up. It's counterintuitive, but from their (and presumably Ford's experiments) we can gather that driving with the tailgate up should save gas and money.
7. Change Your Air Filter
Who hasn't fallen for this one? The person changing our oil claims a new air filter will increase our gas mileage. Of course, we want to save gas and money, so we tell them to go ahead and change the air filter. We later come to realize that Consumer Reports tested this theory. The technicians duct taped the air filter mostly closed and the onboard computer system regulated the air filtering accordingly. These smart cars. Now if you own an older model car, then maybe this would matter.
8. Purchase Gas During the Middle of the Week
The consumer wins when they buy gas during the middle of the week, as prices tend to increase for weekend traffic. The theory relates to the constant fluctuation of gas prices. The prices sometimes do tend to increase over weekends and holidays. But the prices can also increase during the middle of the week. Many feel the run-up of gas prices during these times means we need strict regulations on how we price our gasoline. If you want to save money on gas at the pump, try using a credit card that gives a gas rebate.
A person with the will to save money on gas can find a way. There's likely to be new myths as gas prices continue to break records. Just remember to use some common sense and don't part with your money until you have done the research.
This myth relies on a simple theory; the hottest times of day will yield less dense gas, so a smart consumer should buy their gas during the cool periods of the day. Those lucky Alaskans! The theory falls apart when you consider all gasoline storage tanks are underground and extremely well insulated. According to Edmunds.com, it matters more whether the tanker truck brought the gas in warm or cool. The temperature of the gas stays the same as when it was in the tanker truck.
2. Roll Up Your Windows on the Highway
The myth suggests that you create drag by rolling down your windows at high speeds. The drag theory definitely holds weight, but it's more for cargo and luggage racks on the roof. These devices greatly reduce the mpg of a vehicle. Consumer Reports found that empty cargo racks reduced gas mileage as well. If you don't need those racks, uninstall them. It does create drag to have the window down, but not enough to severely impact your mpg.
3. Pour in a Little of This Chemical and You'll Get Much Fuel Efficiency
CNN Money debunks this myth with some common sense. Why would putting an additive in the gas tank help fuel efficiency and get you better mileage? If it actually worked, wouldn't gas companies add the chemicals themselves? If it sounds too good to be true...
4. Use Premium Grade Gasoline
This myth sounds nice. Pay for the higher grade gasoline at the pump and it'll benefit your car in fuel efficiency. The reality is most cars perform the same using either grade of gas. Only high performance autos or luxury models needs the higher octane gasoline.
5. Turn off the AC to Save Gas
Fortunately this one proves to be false. According to Edmunds.com, the savings are negligible. Who wants to arrive at work sweating from the drive? Keep the air conditioning turned on and the windows rolled up on your morning and evening commute.
6. Pickup Trucks Should Drive with the Tailgate Down
This one seems logical, the tailgate has a lot of wind resistance right? It's like a blockade for wind to pass through on the way out the back of the truck. At Interstate speeds, this could mean less fuel efficiency and MPG, right? Wrong. Episode 43 of Mythbusters tackles this very topic. They found that a truck with the tailgate down created more drag and resulted in less MPG than the same model truck driven with the tailgate up. It's counterintuitive, but from their (and presumably Ford's experiments) we can gather that driving with the tailgate up should save gas and money.
7. Change Your Air Filter
Who hasn't fallen for this one? The person changing our oil claims a new air filter will increase our gas mileage. Of course, we want to save gas and money, so we tell them to go ahead and change the air filter. We later come to realize that Consumer Reports tested this theory. The technicians duct taped the air filter mostly closed and the onboard computer system regulated the air filtering accordingly. These smart cars. Now if you own an older model car, then maybe this would matter.
8. Purchase Gas During the Middle of the Week
The consumer wins when they buy gas during the middle of the week, as prices tend to increase for weekend traffic. The theory relates to the constant fluctuation of gas prices. The prices sometimes do tend to increase over weekends and holidays. But the prices can also increase during the middle of the week. Many feel the run-up of gas prices during these times means we need strict regulations on how we price our gasoline. If you want to save money on gas at the pump, try using a credit card that gives a gas rebate.
A person with the will to save money on gas can find a way. There's likely to be new myths as gas prices continue to break records. Just remember to use some common sense and don't part with your money until you have done the research.
Most Fuel Efficient Cars
Gas prices have soared to an all time high. In the first half of 2008, oil companies posted record breaking earnings and US car manufacturers, like Ford, posted record losses. The message sent to car manufacturers - make more gas friendly models. Why not look at car models that currently get the best gas mileage. Ford and others will likely start bringing European models and introducing new high MPG calls to the market, but we do have decent MPG models on the market now.
Although Ford might have lost a lot of money during their second quarter, they also have a stellar model - the Ford Focus - that competes with the ever-popular import compacts. The Ford Focus has a 24/35 (city/highway) MPG rating when it's a manual, and a 24/33 rating when it's an automatic. To put this into perspective, the 2009 Ford Mustang V6 received a 19/26 MPG rating. Fuel efficiency seems to be a major concern of many buying newer model cars, and while Ford makes steps in the right direction with the Focus, other manufacturers have created fuel efficient juggernauts.
Toyota has seen tremendous success with their hybrid and compact line of cars. The Prius hybrid has amazing MPG rating at 48/45. This means the Prius can drive twice as far, on the same amount of gas, as a Ford Focus (in the city). The mechanics of the hybrid don't give it better mileage on the highway, but it still outpaces most compacts on the market at 45 MPG. The Toyota Corolla comes in at 27/35 MPG with an automatic. This markets the Corolla alongside the domestic Ford Focus.
Who says fuel efficiency equals compact sized cars? The Nissan Altima comes in to the picture with 23/32 MPG (manual) and 23/31 (automatic). At just over 30 MPG, this fuel efficient car bests many other four door model cars in its class. You may be saying, it's only getting four more MPG than the 2009 Mustang we talked about earlier. You would be right, but 4 MPG can make a huge difference when it comes to a year's supply of gas.
Calculating a Year's Supply of Gas
Let's do a little math. The average car travels 12,000 miles per year. Let's assume all those 12,000 miles would be city driving. The 2009 Ford Mustang owner would be using 632 gallons of gas, while the Nissan Altima would be using 522 gallons. At $4 per gallon, the Altima owner would pay $2,088, while the Mustang owner would fork over $2,528. The close to five hundred dollar savings could be two car payments on the Altima, which retails for less than the Mustang.
But let's not compare apples to oranges - let's look at the Toyota Prius against the Ford Focus. We've established the Focus would take 522 gallons to travel 12,000 city miles in a year. The Prius would take less than half that, with 250 gallons to make the 12,000 miles. This means the Prius owner would spend a cool thousand dollars on gasoline, as compare to over two thousand for the Altima owner. What a difference a battery makes!
Other Fuel Efficient Cars
We've named some of the front runners and mass marketed models. Now let's look at a few of the newcomers to the market, and review their ratings.
The Mini Cooper has become an instant classic since its rebirth on the US market. The tiny compact comes in at 28/37 (manual) and 26/34 (automatic). The speedy Mini Cooper can reach excellent MPG ratings if you can keep from accelerating too much.
It's no surprise that high-end car makers have been combining luxury with fuel economy - it's a birth of efficiency and reward. The latest line of hybrid Lexus models shows us exactly what can be accomplished with more combustible bang for our buck. Of course, Lexus has been criticized for their lack of informative commercials and the fact their hybrids don't reduce pollution. Coming from the makers of the Prius, we can only hope they improve.
The Lexus 600h L model is the first mass produced V8 fully hybrid vehicle, according to a Wikipedia article. The car gets 20/22 MPG - not exactly terrific numbers - but for a V8 with this type of luxury and power Lexus has made great strides towards fuel economy in a car class more consumed with status accoutrements.
Learn to Drive Stick
The models we talked about usually have better mileage when they're manual. Automatic transmissions usually perform the same for city driving, but not highway. If you truly want to be fuel efficient, then you should buy one of the models we suggested (or a car with similar MPG rating) and learn to drive stick. It's never too late to learn a new skill.
Although Ford might have lost a lot of money during their second quarter, they also have a stellar model - the Ford Focus - that competes with the ever-popular import compacts. The Ford Focus has a 24/35 (city/highway) MPG rating when it's a manual, and a 24/33 rating when it's an automatic. To put this into perspective, the 2009 Ford Mustang V6 received a 19/26 MPG rating. Fuel efficiency seems to be a major concern of many buying newer model cars, and while Ford makes steps in the right direction with the Focus, other manufacturers have created fuel efficient juggernauts.
Toyota has seen tremendous success with their hybrid and compact line of cars. The Prius hybrid has amazing MPG rating at 48/45. This means the Prius can drive twice as far, on the same amount of gas, as a Ford Focus (in the city). The mechanics of the hybrid don't give it better mileage on the highway, but it still outpaces most compacts on the market at 45 MPG. The Toyota Corolla comes in at 27/35 MPG with an automatic. This markets the Corolla alongside the domestic Ford Focus.
Who says fuel efficiency equals compact sized cars? The Nissan Altima comes in to the picture with 23/32 MPG (manual) and 23/31 (automatic). At just over 30 MPG, this fuel efficient car bests many other four door model cars in its class. You may be saying, it's only getting four more MPG than the 2009 Mustang we talked about earlier. You would be right, but 4 MPG can make a huge difference when it comes to a year's supply of gas.
Calculating a Year's Supply of Gas
Let's do a little math. The average car travels 12,000 miles per year. Let's assume all those 12,000 miles would be city driving. The 2009 Ford Mustang owner would be using 632 gallons of gas, while the Nissan Altima would be using 522 gallons. At $4 per gallon, the Altima owner would pay $2,088, while the Mustang owner would fork over $2,528. The close to five hundred dollar savings could be two car payments on the Altima, which retails for less than the Mustang.
But let's not compare apples to oranges - let's look at the Toyota Prius against the Ford Focus. We've established the Focus would take 522 gallons to travel 12,000 city miles in a year. The Prius would take less than half that, with 250 gallons to make the 12,000 miles. This means the Prius owner would spend a cool thousand dollars on gasoline, as compare to over two thousand for the Altima owner. What a difference a battery makes!
Other Fuel Efficient Cars
We've named some of the front runners and mass marketed models. Now let's look at a few of the newcomers to the market, and review their ratings.
The Mini Cooper has become an instant classic since its rebirth on the US market. The tiny compact comes in at 28/37 (manual) and 26/34 (automatic). The speedy Mini Cooper can reach excellent MPG ratings if you can keep from accelerating too much.
It's no surprise that high-end car makers have been combining luxury with fuel economy - it's a birth of efficiency and reward. The latest line of hybrid Lexus models shows us exactly what can be accomplished with more combustible bang for our buck. Of course, Lexus has been criticized for their lack of informative commercials and the fact their hybrids don't reduce pollution. Coming from the makers of the Prius, we can only hope they improve.
The Lexus 600h L model is the first mass produced V8 fully hybrid vehicle, according to a Wikipedia article. The car gets 20/22 MPG - not exactly terrific numbers - but for a V8 with this type of luxury and power Lexus has made great strides towards fuel economy in a car class more consumed with status accoutrements.
Learn to Drive Stick
The models we talked about usually have better mileage when they're manual. Automatic transmissions usually perform the same for city driving, but not highway. If you truly want to be fuel efficient, then you should buy one of the models we suggested (or a car with similar MPG rating) and learn to drive stick. It's never too late to learn a new skill.
How to Save Money at the Gas Pump
With gas prices climbing higher and higher, each stop to fill up the tank takes more and more out of our wallets. We can almost hear the audible whirl of the gas ticker as we fill up with 10, 15, 20 gallons of gasoline. So how can we combat the rising prices of gasoline? We must be informed consumers, knowing what our options are before committing ourselves to spending more and more at the gas pump.
Seeing Green in Your Car and Wallet
The recent gas price climb has influenced many car makers. As we all know, hybrids came screaming onto the market, promising cheap gas usage, more miles to the gallon, and slick designs. These cars have more than doubled in production numbers, as car makers who failed to introduce a hybrid were caught by surprise at their instant success. Many people looking to save gas money started buying these cars and touting their genius when they reached 40, 50, even 60 miles per gallon. So it is no surprise that many 2008 model cars have introduced the kinetic energy alternative alongside the combustion engine. These new hybrid models promise to save money at the pump and to look good while doing it. The hybrids have become more powerful, with many new SUVs—a traditional gas guzzler. There are many sites online that can help you find the perfect hybrid vehicle, including Hybrid-car.org and GreenHybrid.com.
What if you cannot take the financial leap that comes with purchasing a new car? We take a look at alternative means to save money on gas.
Save Money on Gas with Common Sense and without Myths
Have you ever been told that to let your car run when stopped for a few minutes is better than stopping and starting the car? This myth may have come down from the wisdom of your father or grandfather, but it is actually not true with newer fuel injection engines. The injectors eliminate wasteful gas use when starting, as compared to older cars. This means if you are stopped for a few minutes, you would actually be saving gas money by stopping and starting the car.
There are many common sense tips that can help you save money on gas. If you are in a cold weather climate, modern cars respond to cold much faster than older cars, so there is no need to “warm” the car up for as long. If you are traveling this summer, then take into consideration the route you will take. A websites entitled Traffic.com can help you avoid traffic jams, construction, and many other gas guzzling disasters of travel. Have you checked the air pressure in your tires? Having under-inflated tires can increase gas usage on a long trip, just as over-inflated tires can do the same.
Discount Gas and the Law
Hey, Lead-Foot! Slow it down! We have all seen the guy in his SUV barreling down the interstate at fifteen miles or more over the speed limit. The lead-foot drivers are losing money on gas faster than their car is moving. Studies have shown that traveling at or close to the speed limit can actually reduce gas usage. This includes drivers who enable cruise control to maintain a steady 65 or 70 miles an hour on the interstate. Give yourself plenty of time to get to where you need to be and do it at the speed limit. It will save you money at the gas pump.
Your Comfort and How to Save Money on Gas
When the air conditioner is turned on, we think we see the gas line drop every few seconds. Why not put the windows down and enjoy the fresh air? A recent study revealed that gas usage on a car running the air conditioner stayed the same as the same car motoring with the air off. This tells us that it is ok to run the air conditioner. And the myth that having windows down while traveling creates unnecessary drag on the car, thus increasing the gas usage, can be thrown straight out the open window. The drag created does not matter as much as the terrain, wind, weight of the car, and mechanical stability of the car. Feel free to roll the window down, or blast the air conditioner, because neither makes much difference when it comes to saving money on gas.
If it was up to the oil companies, we would all drive large Hummers with safes full of money strapped to the roofs. The majority of us, though, would rather drive an economical car and pay attention to common mechanical needs of that car in order to save money on gasoline. We can make a difference in our own finances by using common sense, and not giving in to the marketing of a giant, gas guzzling automobile manufacturer.
Seeing Green in Your Car and Wallet
The recent gas price climb has influenced many car makers. As we all know, hybrids came screaming onto the market, promising cheap gas usage, more miles to the gallon, and slick designs. These cars have more than doubled in production numbers, as car makers who failed to introduce a hybrid were caught by surprise at their instant success. Many people looking to save gas money started buying these cars and touting their genius when they reached 40, 50, even 60 miles per gallon. So it is no surprise that many 2008 model cars have introduced the kinetic energy alternative alongside the combustion engine. These new hybrid models promise to save money at the pump and to look good while doing it. The hybrids have become more powerful, with many new SUVs—a traditional gas guzzler. There are many sites online that can help you find the perfect hybrid vehicle, including Hybrid-car.org and GreenHybrid.com.
What if you cannot take the financial leap that comes with purchasing a new car? We take a look at alternative means to save money on gas.
Save Money on Gas with Common Sense and without Myths
Have you ever been told that to let your car run when stopped for a few minutes is better than stopping and starting the car? This myth may have come down from the wisdom of your father or grandfather, but it is actually not true with newer fuel injection engines. The injectors eliminate wasteful gas use when starting, as compared to older cars. This means if you are stopped for a few minutes, you would actually be saving gas money by stopping and starting the car.
There are many common sense tips that can help you save money on gas. If you are in a cold weather climate, modern cars respond to cold much faster than older cars, so there is no need to “warm” the car up for as long. If you are traveling this summer, then take into consideration the route you will take. A websites entitled Traffic.com can help you avoid traffic jams, construction, and many other gas guzzling disasters of travel. Have you checked the air pressure in your tires? Having under-inflated tires can increase gas usage on a long trip, just as over-inflated tires can do the same.
Discount Gas and the Law
Hey, Lead-Foot! Slow it down! We have all seen the guy in his SUV barreling down the interstate at fifteen miles or more over the speed limit. The lead-foot drivers are losing money on gas faster than their car is moving. Studies have shown that traveling at or close to the speed limit can actually reduce gas usage. This includes drivers who enable cruise control to maintain a steady 65 or 70 miles an hour on the interstate. Give yourself plenty of time to get to where you need to be and do it at the speed limit. It will save you money at the gas pump.
Your Comfort and How to Save Money on Gas
When the air conditioner is turned on, we think we see the gas line drop every few seconds. Why not put the windows down and enjoy the fresh air? A recent study revealed that gas usage on a car running the air conditioner stayed the same as the same car motoring with the air off. This tells us that it is ok to run the air conditioner. And the myth that having windows down while traveling creates unnecessary drag on the car, thus increasing the gas usage, can be thrown straight out the open window. The drag created does not matter as much as the terrain, wind, weight of the car, and mechanical stability of the car. Feel free to roll the window down, or blast the air conditioner, because neither makes much difference when it comes to saving money on gas.
If it was up to the oil companies, we would all drive large Hummers with safes full of money strapped to the roofs. The majority of us, though, would rather drive an economical car and pay attention to common mechanical needs of that car in order to save money on gasoline. We can make a difference in our own finances by using common sense, and not giving in to the marketing of a giant, gas guzzling automobile manufacturer.
Cheap Used Cars while avoiding Lemons
Buying a used car is scary. To save money and make sure you don’t end up with a lemon, research the different methods and order a CARFAX report.
Cheap Used Cars while avoiding Lemons
Buying a used car is a major investment for most families. A reliable vehicle is needed to get back and forth from work, to carry children to important events and for all kinds of errands and emergencies. In most small towns in America, you will have major automobile dealerships that sell new cars and a selection of used cars and that is where most families go first. Many of these used cars are trade ins from people who purchased a new car at the dealership. Buying from a reputable dealer is a good move, because many of them rely on their reputation to establish repeat customers.
There are more used car salespeople that are not tied to a dealership. These small businesses sell cars they purchase at an auction for from trade ins. For consumers with challenged credit, many of these dealerships offer a ‘buy here, pay here’ program that does not require a credit check. It gives those who really need a cheap used car but can’t get traditional bank financing an option. Unfortunately, many of these dealers are not honest and take advantage of consumers with high interest rates and “lemons.”
If you are unsure about the history of a used car you want to purchase, CARFAX offers detailed reports on the vehicle’s history. The company began in 1984 and exploded in the early 1990s. Many used car dealers offer a CARFAX report with their vehicles. While some buyers are not swayed by a car’s history, many people have avoided purchasing a lemon by using the CARFAX history. The company has also taken many lemons off the road by making them unattractive to buyers.
With the Internet, you can purchase a used car from a seller in California, even if you live in Georgia. The popular Internet auction site EBay has a site called EBay Motors. Used vehicles of all makes and models are sold on the site. Many are auctioned off to the lowest bidder, so it is easy for some buyers to find a great deal on a vehicle. Consumers need to make sure they understand the long lists of terms and conditions before purchasing the vehicle. If the car is 3,000 miles away, the method of getting the car to you should be negotiated up front.
Many car enthusiasts know about www.autotrader.com. The site allows consumers to search for a car by zip code. Consumers can also research their options for purchasing insurance for the vehicle, which is mandatory in most states.
Many consumers find the best deals in used cars in their local newspaper. Many people simply want to get rid of a car they have outgrown and did not feel as if they were receiving enough money if they used it as a trade in. The seller may have purchased a new car with cash and now has an extra car to sell. Be careful, because many people will try to make money by selling you a lemon.
If you want advice of purchasing a used car, you can get if from an unlikely source—the federal government. You can get a publication with helpful tips at www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/autos/usedcar.shtm. If you don’t want to sort through all of the advice, here are some of their most helpful tips when buying a used car.
Buying from a dealer? Look for the Buyers Guide. It’s required by a federal regulation called the Used Car Rule.
Make sure all oral promises are written into the Buyers Guide.
You have the right to see a copy of the dealer’s warranty before you buy.
Warranties are included in the price of the product; service contracts cost extra and are sold separately. Check out the car’s repair record, maintenance costs, and safety and mileage ratings in consumer magazines or online. Look up the "blue book" value, and be prepared to negotiate the price.
Ask for the car’s maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.
Test the car on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic.
Have the car inspected by a mechanic you hire.
Check out the dealer with local consumer protection officials.
If you buy a car "as is," you’ll have to pay for anything that goes wrong after the sale.
The Used Car Rule generally doesn’t apply to private sales.
Cheap Used Cars while avoiding Lemons
Buying a used car is a major investment for most families. A reliable vehicle is needed to get back and forth from work, to carry children to important events and for all kinds of errands and emergencies. In most small towns in America, you will have major automobile dealerships that sell new cars and a selection of used cars and that is where most families go first. Many of these used cars are trade ins from people who purchased a new car at the dealership. Buying from a reputable dealer is a good move, because many of them rely on their reputation to establish repeat customers.
There are more used car salespeople that are not tied to a dealership. These small businesses sell cars they purchase at an auction for from trade ins. For consumers with challenged credit, many of these dealerships offer a ‘buy here, pay here’ program that does not require a credit check. It gives those who really need a cheap used car but can’t get traditional bank financing an option. Unfortunately, many of these dealers are not honest and take advantage of consumers with high interest rates and “lemons.”
If you are unsure about the history of a used car you want to purchase, CARFAX offers detailed reports on the vehicle’s history. The company began in 1984 and exploded in the early 1990s. Many used car dealers offer a CARFAX report with their vehicles. While some buyers are not swayed by a car’s history, many people have avoided purchasing a lemon by using the CARFAX history. The company has also taken many lemons off the road by making them unattractive to buyers.
With the Internet, you can purchase a used car from a seller in California, even if you live in Georgia. The popular Internet auction site EBay has a site called EBay Motors. Used vehicles of all makes and models are sold on the site. Many are auctioned off to the lowest bidder, so it is easy for some buyers to find a great deal on a vehicle. Consumers need to make sure they understand the long lists of terms and conditions before purchasing the vehicle. If the car is 3,000 miles away, the method of getting the car to you should be negotiated up front.
Many car enthusiasts know about www.autotrader.com. The site allows consumers to search for a car by zip code. Consumers can also research their options for purchasing insurance for the vehicle, which is mandatory in most states.
Many consumers find the best deals in used cars in their local newspaper. Many people simply want to get rid of a car they have outgrown and did not feel as if they were receiving enough money if they used it as a trade in. The seller may have purchased a new car with cash and now has an extra car to sell. Be careful, because many people will try to make money by selling you a lemon.
If you want advice of purchasing a used car, you can get if from an unlikely source—the federal government. You can get a publication with helpful tips at www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/autos/usedcar.shtm. If you don’t want to sort through all of the advice, here are some of their most helpful tips when buying a used car.
Buying from a dealer? Look for the Buyers Guide. It’s required by a federal regulation called the Used Car Rule.
Make sure all oral promises are written into the Buyers Guide.
You have the right to see a copy of the dealer’s warranty before you buy.
Warranties are included in the price of the product; service contracts cost extra and are sold separately. Check out the car’s repair record, maintenance costs, and safety and mileage ratings in consumer magazines or online. Look up the "blue book" value, and be prepared to negotiate the price.
Ask for the car’s maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.
Test the car on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic.
Have the car inspected by a mechanic you hire.
Check out the dealer with local consumer protection officials.
If you buy a car "as is," you’ll have to pay for anything that goes wrong after the sale.
The Used Car Rule generally doesn’t apply to private sales.
Cheap Car Rentals
Renting a car can be expensive. It is easy to find cheap car rentals, but you must make sure you have all the paperwork necessary to save time and money.
Cheap Car Rentals
Renting a car for business or pleasure can be a daunting task with all the limitations car rental companies have these days, but knowing how to navigate the system can save you both time and money.
The Car Rental Procedure
Generally, you will to meet at least three criteria to rent a car:
1. You should meet the car companies minimum age requirement.
2. You should have a valid driver’s license.
3. You should have a valid credit card.
Most car rental companies require a renter to be at least 25-years-old, though some companies will charge extra for young drivers (18-24 of age). Since the young driver rates vary by company, and the type of car you want to rent it is always best to check first.
Car rental companies will usually keep your credit card on file as a guarantee of payment and also in case there is any damage to the car and you have declined their insurance. Some companies have cancellation policies where you are charged if you do not cancel within a certain time period (normally 24 to 48 hours).
The Best Car Rental Deals
The best car rental discounts usually occur on the weekends--Friday through Sunday--but remember some locations and companies like Enterprise aren't open on Sunday outside of their airport locations so you will have to either return the car early or pay for an extra day.
Two of the best sites for finding deals on rental cars are Hotwire (www.hotwire.com) or Priceline (www.priceline.com) where you can bid on the price of your car. However these sites are more effective for renting cars in larger cities and at airports. Remember that cars rented at the airports typically have some sort of airport tax or surcharge added in the fine print of your contract. So it is sometimes cheaper renting cars from another location.
In most cases the smaller the car, the cheaper the price though if you check the individual websites of places like Hertz (www.hertz.com), Enterprise (www.enterprise.com), Budget (www.budget.com), Alamo (www.alamo.com) or Dollar car rental (www.dollar.com) you can find extras like coupons for free upgrades. Some rental places also discount rental cars for AAA members, military personnel and include bonus air miles points on certain airlines.
Another good place to comparison shop for the latest deals is at TravelZoo (http://car-rental.travelzoo.com).
Things To Consider when Seeking a budget Car Rental
As always, booking in advance is always best as some smaller locations will run out of the smaller "economy" or “compact" cars first, leaving the higher priced gas-guzzling SUV's in the lot.
Another thing to take into consideration is the length of your trip. Some Car rental companies will charge by mileage, while others will give you a certain number of miles free. But there are companies out there with unlimited miles which is much more practical and cost saving for people driving long distances. Most companies will have a daily, weekend and weekly rate available so make sure you ask if you are going to be driving a long distance or have the car for a few days.
If you plan on taking the car into another state or another country across the border make sure to ask the company about their policy. Some companies will not allow renters to take their cars into Canada or Mexico and some will charge extra for cars going out-of-state, so be sure to double check when you rent.
Where the rental companies will try to get you to pay more is on the gas and the insurance. In most cases your own personal auto insurance policy will cover you driving a rental car. There are also a number of credit card providers that include car rental coverage, if you use their card. However, it is imperative that you check with both your insurance company and credit card company first but you should NEVER, under any circumstance, drive without being covered by insurance.
Car rental companies usually offer the option to either pre-pay for your gas or fill it up yourself. In most cases, whatever the fuel gauge reads when you drive off the lot is what you are expected to return it with. With pre-paying, car companies usually charge a much higher rate for gas and it is usually cheaper to fill it up yourself. However, if time is going to be a problem and you won't have time to stop at a gas station before you return the car, pre-paying for fuel is a good idea.
Just remember, in most cases you're responsible for speeding tickets, so drive smart and safe when you rent.
Cheap Car Rentals
Renting a car for business or pleasure can be a daunting task with all the limitations car rental companies have these days, but knowing how to navigate the system can save you both time and money.
The Car Rental Procedure
Generally, you will to meet at least three criteria to rent a car:
1. You should meet the car companies minimum age requirement.
2. You should have a valid driver’s license.
3. You should have a valid credit card.
Most car rental companies require a renter to be at least 25-years-old, though some companies will charge extra for young drivers (18-24 of age). Since the young driver rates vary by company, and the type of car you want to rent it is always best to check first.
Car rental companies will usually keep your credit card on file as a guarantee of payment and also in case there is any damage to the car and you have declined their insurance. Some companies have cancellation policies where you are charged if you do not cancel within a certain time period (normally 24 to 48 hours).
The Best Car Rental Deals
The best car rental discounts usually occur on the weekends--Friday through Sunday--but remember some locations and companies like Enterprise aren't open on Sunday outside of their airport locations so you will have to either return the car early or pay for an extra day.
Two of the best sites for finding deals on rental cars are Hotwire (www.hotwire.com) or Priceline (www.priceline.com) where you can bid on the price of your car. However these sites are more effective for renting cars in larger cities and at airports. Remember that cars rented at the airports typically have some sort of airport tax or surcharge added in the fine print of your contract. So it is sometimes cheaper renting cars from another location.
In most cases the smaller the car, the cheaper the price though if you check the individual websites of places like Hertz (www.hertz.com), Enterprise (www.enterprise.com), Budget (www.budget.com), Alamo (www.alamo.com) or Dollar car rental (www.dollar.com) you can find extras like coupons for free upgrades. Some rental places also discount rental cars for AAA members, military personnel and include bonus air miles points on certain airlines.
Another good place to comparison shop for the latest deals is at TravelZoo (http://car-rental.travelzoo.com).
Things To Consider when Seeking a budget Car Rental
As always, booking in advance is always best as some smaller locations will run out of the smaller "economy" or “compact" cars first, leaving the higher priced gas-guzzling SUV's in the lot.
Another thing to take into consideration is the length of your trip. Some Car rental companies will charge by mileage, while others will give you a certain number of miles free. But there are companies out there with unlimited miles which is much more practical and cost saving for people driving long distances. Most companies will have a daily, weekend and weekly rate available so make sure you ask if you are going to be driving a long distance or have the car for a few days.
If you plan on taking the car into another state or another country across the border make sure to ask the company about their policy. Some companies will not allow renters to take their cars into Canada or Mexico and some will charge extra for cars going out-of-state, so be sure to double check when you rent.
Where the rental companies will try to get you to pay more is on the gas and the insurance. In most cases your own personal auto insurance policy will cover you driving a rental car. There are also a number of credit card providers that include car rental coverage, if you use their card. However, it is imperative that you check with both your insurance company and credit card company first but you should NEVER, under any circumstance, drive without being covered by insurance.
Car rental companies usually offer the option to either pre-pay for your gas or fill it up yourself. In most cases, whatever the fuel gauge reads when you drive off the lot is what you are expected to return it with. With pre-paying, car companies usually charge a much higher rate for gas and it is usually cheaper to fill it up yourself. However, if time is going to be a problem and you won't have time to stop at a gas station before you return the car, pre-paying for fuel is a good idea.
Just remember, in most cases you're responsible for speeding tickets, so drive smart and safe when you rent.
A New Way to Save Money Buying a New Car
Just ten years ago, the thought of buying a new car sight unseen would seem like an unwise purchase. But the explosion of the Internet has even reached car dealers and potential buyers. Before you buy your car
Whether you buy online or drive to your local car dealer, you want to research. Ask yourself these questions:
How much can I afford?
What type of car do I want-SUV, sedan, sports car, etc...
What options do I want-CD player, satellite radio, GPS, cruise control, etc...
Is color important to me?
Do I want an automatic or manual transmission? What about engine size?
What type of warranty do I want?
Once you know what you want, you can earnestly begin your research. One of the well-respected sites is www.consumerreports.org. Their opinions make news every year they are released.
Many car dealers proudly boast that their vehicle is the "Motor Trend Car of the Year." Their website is www.motortrend.com. This is another great resource to use when you are researching a new car.
You can also research in your neighborhood. Do you neighbors, family or friends have a similar car? Are they happy with their purchase?
How to buy a new car online
There are many websites that feature new cars. Many will link you to a dealership in your local area, so you many want to Google your local dealership and see if they have a website with new car listings. If you want to search within 100 miles of your area for the car of your dreams, several websites will accommodate you. The websites include:
www.cars.com
www.NewCar.com
www.carsbelowinvoice.com
These websites offer you a chance to fantasize about your dream car without leaving your home. You can chose the make, model, color (both interior and exterior) and other features. You will get an estimated price and be able to view a picture of the car.
Once you have found the dream car, you will be able to contact the dealer who has the car in stock. In some cases, you can order your car from the factory if what you want is not available. Be warned-this can be expensive and not a good idea if you are trying to save money on your car purchase.
Tips on buying a new car
If you are buying a new car, remember you will get a better deal in December, when car dealer are trying to get rid of last year's new models. And you will also find more eager salesmen if you buy toward the end of the month, when salesmen are trying to reach their quotas.
Because many car dealers can use unscrupulous tactics, many states have "Lemon Laws" which protect consumers if they buy a "lemon." The federal Consumer Action website (www.consumeraction.com), has these tips for anyone wanting to purchase a new car.
Check out different vehicles.
Several Internet sites can help you compare features and prices on new motor vehicles. Visit www.where-can-I-buy-a-car-online.com for links to these sites. A scorecard reports on the features of each site including whether quotes are free, the availability of financing, and site security. Two magazines offer information in print and online concerning vehicle performance, service and safety: Consumer Reports (www.consumerreports.org) and Motor Trend (www.motortrend.com).
Research the dealer's price for the car and options.
It's easier to get the best price when you know what the dealer paid for a vehicle. The dealer invoice price is available at a number of websites and in printed pricing guides. Consumer Reports offers the wholesale price. Lower than the invoice price, this figure factors in dealer incentives from a manufacturer and is a more accurate estimate of what a dealer is paying for a vehicle.
Find out if the manufacturer is offering rebates that will lower the cost.
Two websites that offer this information are www.carsdirect.com and www.autopedia.com/html/Rebate.html.
Get price quotes from several dealers.
Find out if the amounts quoted are the prices before or after rebates are deducted.
Avoid high-profit, low-value extras such as credit insurance, extended warranties, auto club memberships, rust proofing and upholstery finishes. You do not have to purchase credit insurance in order to get a loan.
Whether you buy online or drive to your local car dealer, you want to research. Ask yourself these questions:
How much can I afford?
What type of car do I want-SUV, sedan, sports car, etc...
What options do I want-CD player, satellite radio, GPS, cruise control, etc...
Is color important to me?
Do I want an automatic or manual transmission? What about engine size?
What type of warranty do I want?
Once you know what you want, you can earnestly begin your research. One of the well-respected sites is www.consumerreports.org. Their opinions make news every year they are released.
Many car dealers proudly boast that their vehicle is the "Motor Trend Car of the Year." Their website is www.motortrend.com. This is another great resource to use when you are researching a new car.
You can also research in your neighborhood. Do you neighbors, family or friends have a similar car? Are they happy with their purchase?
How to buy a new car online
There are many websites that feature new cars. Many will link you to a dealership in your local area, so you many want to Google your local dealership and see if they have a website with new car listings. If you want to search within 100 miles of your area for the car of your dreams, several websites will accommodate you. The websites include:
www.cars.com
www.NewCar.com
www.carsbelowinvoice.com
These websites offer you a chance to fantasize about your dream car without leaving your home. You can chose the make, model, color (both interior and exterior) and other features. You will get an estimated price and be able to view a picture of the car.
Once you have found the dream car, you will be able to contact the dealer who has the car in stock. In some cases, you can order your car from the factory if what you want is not available. Be warned-this can be expensive and not a good idea if you are trying to save money on your car purchase.
Tips on buying a new car
If you are buying a new car, remember you will get a better deal in December, when car dealer are trying to get rid of last year's new models. And you will also find more eager salesmen if you buy toward the end of the month, when salesmen are trying to reach their quotas.
Because many car dealers can use unscrupulous tactics, many states have "Lemon Laws" which protect consumers if they buy a "lemon." The federal Consumer Action website (www.consumeraction.com), has these tips for anyone wanting to purchase a new car.
Check out different vehicles.
Several Internet sites can help you compare features and prices on new motor vehicles. Visit www.where-can-I-buy-a-car-online.com for links to these sites. A scorecard reports on the features of each site including whether quotes are free, the availability of financing, and site security. Two magazines offer information in print and online concerning vehicle performance, service and safety: Consumer Reports (www.consumerreports.org) and Motor Trend (www.motortrend.com).
Research the dealer's price for the car and options.
It's easier to get the best price when you know what the dealer paid for a vehicle. The dealer invoice price is available at a number of websites and in printed pricing guides. Consumer Reports offers the wholesale price. Lower than the invoice price, this figure factors in dealer incentives from a manufacturer and is a more accurate estimate of what a dealer is paying for a vehicle.
Find out if the manufacturer is offering rebates that will lower the cost.
Two websites that offer this information are www.carsdirect.com and www.autopedia.com/html/Rebate.html.
Get price quotes from several dealers.
Find out if the amounts quoted are the prices before or after rebates are deducted.
Avoid high-profit, low-value extras such as credit insurance, extended warranties, auto club memberships, rust proofing and upholstery finishes. You do not have to purchase credit insurance in order to get a loan.
How to Battle Credit Card Debt and Win
It may seem like an unsavory chore when talking to someone about the credit card debt that has piled up like Fall's leaves on your front step. A simple brush of the foot does not make this go away. Just as cleaning one's own yard takes patience and the right tools, so too does eliminating credit card debt take time and tools.
Save Money Special: Get Your Free Credit Report and Score!
Credit Card Debt in America
You may be surprised to learn that the majority of Americans are not encumbered by large credit card debt, as many would like you to believe. The median balance for those with credit cards in 2004 rose 10% from 2001, to $2,200, according to The Federal Reserve's 2004 Survey of Consumer Finance. The mean rose to $5,100 a total increase of 15.9% over 2001's numbers. This means that while credit card debt has risen in the country, there are still many people with manageable amounts of credit card debt. From the study, we can see that only 1 in 20 individuals have credit card debt over $20,000. If people learn to use credit wisely, then building up so much debt that it appears we are drowning will never happen again. By being responsible with our credit, we save ourselves money that would have been paid to interest, annual fees, or membership fees.
Stamping out Credit Debt
Credit debt is the antitheses of saving money. To purchase a new couch, lawnmower, computer, curtains, or other such home items using a credit card can be costly in the long run. If we look at the math we may decide not to purchase the new lawnmower using credit debt. Assuming we have the median interest rate of 11.9% on our credit card, we can purchase a $300 lawnmower in August and still owe on it in December. If we take one year to pay the lawnmower off then we can end up paying back around $33 more for the lawnmower. This may seem like a good deal, but if we use credit debt for all our purchases, then we are always racing ahead of our paychecks to increase our future debt. It means we never actually get into the black. Credit debt acts as the bridle to our long term savings, always pulling back quickly when we begin to surge ahead.
Credit Card Debt Consolidation
Like many people, the credit card debt may be setting too high to be considered manageable. This is where some outside tools may come in to play. For instance, credit card debt consolidation can be a very helpful and forgiving mechanism for any individual battling credit card debt. The credit card debt consolidation programs essentially pay off your existing credit debt, thus making you responsible to one person to pay off the debt. This can lower monthly payments, keep individuals from being harassed by creditors wanting their monthly payment (which presumably you cannot afford to pay), and lower the debt payments by a considerable amount. To explore more information on credit card debt consolidation, visit the Consumer Credit site to understand more about the process and how it will affect your finances and credit history.
Unsecured Debt Consolidation Loans
These types of loans do away with credit card debt, but have no strings attached to any asset, like a home or other investment. A person can effectively eliminate credit card debt through the use of an unsecured debt consolidation loan, but like its sister solution-credit card debt consolidation-it can be more expensive and costly to credit history in the long run. If you are interested in exploring this avenue, we recommend reading through the debt consolidation loan consumer guide found on the Debt Workout site. It is a comprehensive approach to understanding debt consolidation loans and can better assist you with understanding all the nuances of that avenue.
Other Alternatives to Consolidation
Credit card debt reduction does not have to be a solitary battle. There are many people out there who have experience coming back from extreme credit debt. Join them in forums online and learn from their experiences. They will offer encouragement as well as provide hope in troubling times. A site like Credit Help Forums can point you in the right direction, or any other forums like Credit Net or Credit Boards. Wherever you decide, become involved and share with others in the community. It will help out in the long run.
According to the 2004 Federal Reserve's Consumer Finance Survey, the median credit limit rose 25% to $13,500, while the median interest rate fell 3%. Not to paint credit card companies as bad, but they seem to be coming after people with renewed vigor. They give more credit to try to entice individuals into spending more. Just look at how low the interest rate is, they say. It cannot hurt to put all the household expenses on the card. Just use the card and receive these rewards. See how good we are to you? All of these things are lies. Credit card debt when used responsibly can enable someone to pick up a costly expense and pay it out over a few months, but the darker side of credit debt is that it can hinder economic security. Do not buy into the credit card lies. If you buy on credit, have a plan to pay off that amount, knowing full well where it will end. It may just save you money.
Save Money Special: Get Your Free Credit Report and Score!
Credit Card Debt in America
You may be surprised to learn that the majority of Americans are not encumbered by large credit card debt, as many would like you to believe. The median balance for those with credit cards in 2004 rose 10% from 2001, to $2,200, according to The Federal Reserve's 2004 Survey of Consumer Finance. The mean rose to $5,100 a total increase of 15.9% over 2001's numbers. This means that while credit card debt has risen in the country, there are still many people with manageable amounts of credit card debt. From the study, we can see that only 1 in 20 individuals have credit card debt over $20,000. If people learn to use credit wisely, then building up so much debt that it appears we are drowning will never happen again. By being responsible with our credit, we save ourselves money that would have been paid to interest, annual fees, or membership fees.
Stamping out Credit Debt
Credit debt is the antitheses of saving money. To purchase a new couch, lawnmower, computer, curtains, or other such home items using a credit card can be costly in the long run. If we look at the math we may decide not to purchase the new lawnmower using credit debt. Assuming we have the median interest rate of 11.9% on our credit card, we can purchase a $300 lawnmower in August and still owe on it in December. If we take one year to pay the lawnmower off then we can end up paying back around $33 more for the lawnmower. This may seem like a good deal, but if we use credit debt for all our purchases, then we are always racing ahead of our paychecks to increase our future debt. It means we never actually get into the black. Credit debt acts as the bridle to our long term savings, always pulling back quickly when we begin to surge ahead.
Credit Card Debt Consolidation
Like many people, the credit card debt may be setting too high to be considered manageable. This is where some outside tools may come in to play. For instance, credit card debt consolidation can be a very helpful and forgiving mechanism for any individual battling credit card debt. The credit card debt consolidation programs essentially pay off your existing credit debt, thus making you responsible to one person to pay off the debt. This can lower monthly payments, keep individuals from being harassed by creditors wanting their monthly payment (which presumably you cannot afford to pay), and lower the debt payments by a considerable amount. To explore more information on credit card debt consolidation, visit the Consumer Credit site to understand more about the process and how it will affect your finances and credit history.
Unsecured Debt Consolidation Loans
These types of loans do away with credit card debt, but have no strings attached to any asset, like a home or other investment. A person can effectively eliminate credit card debt through the use of an unsecured debt consolidation loan, but like its sister solution-credit card debt consolidation-it can be more expensive and costly to credit history in the long run. If you are interested in exploring this avenue, we recommend reading through the debt consolidation loan consumer guide found on the Debt Workout site. It is a comprehensive approach to understanding debt consolidation loans and can better assist you with understanding all the nuances of that avenue.
Other Alternatives to Consolidation
Credit card debt reduction does not have to be a solitary battle. There are many people out there who have experience coming back from extreme credit debt. Join them in forums online and learn from their experiences. They will offer encouragement as well as provide hope in troubling times. A site like Credit Help Forums can point you in the right direction, or any other forums like Credit Net or Credit Boards. Wherever you decide, become involved and share with others in the community. It will help out in the long run.
According to the 2004 Federal Reserve's Consumer Finance Survey, the median credit limit rose 25% to $13,500, while the median interest rate fell 3%. Not to paint credit card companies as bad, but they seem to be coming after people with renewed vigor. They give more credit to try to entice individuals into spending more. Just look at how low the interest rate is, they say. It cannot hurt to put all the household expenses on the card. Just use the card and receive these rewards. See how good we are to you? All of these things are lies. Credit card debt when used responsibly can enable someone to pick up a costly expense and pay it out over a few months, but the darker side of credit debt is that it can hinder economic security. Do not buy into the credit card lies. If you buy on credit, have a plan to pay off that amount, knowing full well where it will end. It may just save you money.
Finding Great Mortgage Loans in a challenged Housing Market
Consumers wanting to save money on their mortgage payments will find challenges due to a recent downturn in the housing market. Many companies continue to offer good rates but consumers with credit challenges will have a hard time finding a good deal. Finding Great Mortgage Loans in a challenged Housing Market
With the home buying market bottoming out in late 2006 and early 2007 and foreclosures reaching record numbers, mortgage lenders began to change the way they did business. Many mortgage lenders stopped offering subprime loans-----the mortgage loans that were offered to home owners with credit problems.
Because of these changes, mortgage loans that consumers could receive just last year are unavailable. Future homeowners with great credit will still be able to get a loan from traditional lenders such as banks and national mortgage companies. But even those with seemingly high credit scores are finding challenges.
Research is the only way to find the best interest rate and deal on a mortgage and consumers can find great information on the Internet. Yahoo has a plethora of financial information on mortgages. Another popular search engine, http://www.msn.com/, also has a financial section for those looking for a home purchase loan or take out a second mortgage. Most of the news affiliates have financial sections such as CNN, also known as Cable News Network, which has the latest in mortgage news at http://www.money.cnn.com/.
Some websites offer financial advice and direct links to home lenders. The website, http://www.efinancedirectory.com/, has information about first and second mortgages. The site also has information on lending companies.
Lending Tree is one of the most familiar mortgage brokers in the business. During the boom in the real estate market, their commercials were very prominent on television. The company’s website, http://www.lendingtree.com/, has a site where lenders can type in their information and get information in their email inbox.
GuideToLenders.com allows consumers to compare loan packages. With the market in turmoil, the offers are less lucrative and the interest rates are higher.
A financial advisor is always on call at http://www.myfinancialadvice.com/. The site also offers informative articles on how consumers can save money on their mortgage and get the best interest rates.
To simplify the search for a mortgage company, Mortgage Banker Magazine recently named their top ten mortgage companies.
1. Countrywide Financial Corp
2. Wells Fargo Bank
3. Bank of America
4. Washington Mutual Bank
5. JP Morgan Chase Bank
6. World Savings Bank
7. Suntrust Mortgage/Suntrust Bank
8. Citimortgage/Citibank
9. New City Mortgage
10. Private lenders
All of the companies have websites that describe their mortgage programs. Consumers can make a pre-application online. Many of these companies no longer offer subprime loans due to the recent rise in foreclosures.
Some companies are still offering subprime loans. A directory of subprime lenders can be found at http://www.mywholesalelenders.com/. This is a great site but is available only for real estate agents and mortgage brokers. Future homeowners can ask their financial professionals if they have access to the site.
Many subprime lenders are also listed on http://www.lenderlab.com/. The website had list of subprime lenders that anyone can access.
People with challenged credit may lost money instead of saving money if they don’t thoroughly research the companies they choose. Mortgage fraud has increased in recent years and the federal government has made several arrests.
Loan fraud includes any false statement made to a lender. Those statements can be made by the consumer, real estate agent, appraiser, mortgage broker, attorney, closing agent or anyone associated with the loan.
False information about the borrower is just on common mortgage fraud scheme. Others include false information about the source of the buyer’s downpayment and the amount of closing costs paid by the buyer. Often someone associated with the loan will ask the borrower to falsify so that they can get the loan and the commission. Mortgage fraud resulted in $946 million in losses in 2006, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. These losses are often passed on to other consumers in the forms of higher interest rates and increases in home sales.
If you have questions about whether or not your loan is legitimate, consult an attorney or call law enforcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (http://www.fbi.gov/) partnered with the Mortgage Bankers Association in March 2007 to combat mortgage fraud. You can find more information on the agency’s website. You stand to lose more money if you are caught up in a mortgage fraud scheme than if you pay a bit more in interest with a legitimate company.
With the home buying market bottoming out in late 2006 and early 2007 and foreclosures reaching record numbers, mortgage lenders began to change the way they did business. Many mortgage lenders stopped offering subprime loans-----the mortgage loans that were offered to home owners with credit problems.
Because of these changes, mortgage loans that consumers could receive just last year are unavailable. Future homeowners with great credit will still be able to get a loan from traditional lenders such as banks and national mortgage companies. But even those with seemingly high credit scores are finding challenges.
Research is the only way to find the best interest rate and deal on a mortgage and consumers can find great information on the Internet. Yahoo has a plethora of financial information on mortgages. Another popular search engine, http://www.msn.com/, also has a financial section for those looking for a home purchase loan or take out a second mortgage. Most of the news affiliates have financial sections such as CNN, also known as Cable News Network, which has the latest in mortgage news at http://www.money.cnn.com/.
Some websites offer financial advice and direct links to home lenders. The website, http://www.efinancedirectory.com/, has information about first and second mortgages. The site also has information on lending companies.
Lending Tree is one of the most familiar mortgage brokers in the business. During the boom in the real estate market, their commercials were very prominent on television. The company’s website, http://www.lendingtree.com/, has a site where lenders can type in their information and get information in their email inbox.
GuideToLenders.com allows consumers to compare loan packages. With the market in turmoil, the offers are less lucrative and the interest rates are higher.
A financial advisor is always on call at http://www.myfinancialadvice.com/. The site also offers informative articles on how consumers can save money on their mortgage and get the best interest rates.
To simplify the search for a mortgage company, Mortgage Banker Magazine recently named their top ten mortgage companies.
1. Countrywide Financial Corp
2. Wells Fargo Bank
3. Bank of America
4. Washington Mutual Bank
5. JP Morgan Chase Bank
6. World Savings Bank
7. Suntrust Mortgage/Suntrust Bank
8. Citimortgage/Citibank
9. New City Mortgage
10. Private lenders
All of the companies have websites that describe their mortgage programs. Consumers can make a pre-application online. Many of these companies no longer offer subprime loans due to the recent rise in foreclosures.
Some companies are still offering subprime loans. A directory of subprime lenders can be found at http://www.mywholesalelenders.com/. This is a great site but is available only for real estate agents and mortgage brokers. Future homeowners can ask their financial professionals if they have access to the site.
Many subprime lenders are also listed on http://www.lenderlab.com/. The website had list of subprime lenders that anyone can access.
People with challenged credit may lost money instead of saving money if they don’t thoroughly research the companies they choose. Mortgage fraud has increased in recent years and the federal government has made several arrests.
Loan fraud includes any false statement made to a lender. Those statements can be made by the consumer, real estate agent, appraiser, mortgage broker, attorney, closing agent or anyone associated with the loan.
False information about the borrower is just on common mortgage fraud scheme. Others include false information about the source of the buyer’s downpayment and the amount of closing costs paid by the buyer. Often someone associated with the loan will ask the borrower to falsify so that they can get the loan and the commission. Mortgage fraud resulted in $946 million in losses in 2006, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. These losses are often passed on to other consumers in the forms of higher interest rates and increases in home sales.
If you have questions about whether or not your loan is legitimate, consult an attorney or call law enforcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (http://www.fbi.gov/) partnered with the Mortgage Bankers Association in March 2007 to combat mortgage fraud. You can find more information on the agency’s website. You stand to lose more money if you are caught up in a mortgage fraud scheme than if you pay a bit more in interest with a legitimate company.
Spa Treatments not for the Rich and Famous
Just 30 years ago, massages and facials were thought to be for the rich and famous. An increase in the number of day spas has made these services available to nearly everyone. With the increases in everyday expenses such as gas and groceries, spa treatments are not affordable to everyone. However, there are options for those who still want to indulge in some "me time" without going broke. You can get a massage, facial or pedicure for an extremely low price at a beauty school. Students will perform the treatments under the supervision of their instructors. This is a great way to get a cheap spa treatment for half the price. To add to the savings, many of these beauty schools will advertise specials in the local newspaper in hopes of attracting clients. These may be in the form of coupons you take to the school. If you are worried about quality, remember these are students who are hoping to build a clientele. These students will most likely try to do a good job in hopes you will come to see them once they graduate. These students are also likely to be graded based on your comments.
If you do not want to go to a beauty school, you can try to find a discount at a popular spa in your hometown. Many spas will offer coupons in the local newspaper. If the spa has a website, you can check online for special offers and discounts. Some masseurs, nail technicians and beauticians offer two for one discounts if you bring a friend. In addition, you can see if the spa offers a referral bonus for referring new clients.
You can get some of the best spa treatments in the comfort of your home. You can purchase facials at most department stores. These come in many different textures such as the traditional chemical peels or a "mud pack." Before trying these products, you should perform an allergy test to make sure you will not have an adverse reaction. No at-home spa treatment is cheap if you end up paying exorbitant doctor bills because of rashes or illnesses that happened because you used the product.
You can also find nail treatments, such as pedicures and manicures in department stores. Most retailers carry as many different nail colors and decorations as the local manicurist. You can also find cuticle treatments and clippers. If you are interested in an at-home pedicure, there are many products, that are priced at less than $2 a treatment that will soften your feet and make them ready for summer sandals.
Some beauty products claim to give you results that are as good as spa treatments. Products like Oil of Olay and Neutrogena have microdermabrasion kits, facials and moisturizers. You can find coupons for these products on some of the top coupon clipper websites such as http://www.smartsource.com/ and http://www.eversave.com/. You can also check the product websites for special deals. Many of the manufacturers will give free samples so you can try the products before buying them.
There are some spa treatments you cannot get out of a bottle. You can find spa appliances at http://www.about.pricegrabbers.com/. This site will compare the prices from retailers worldwide. Once you have found the product you want at the price you can afford, you can link directly to the website. Some of the products include:
Paraffin baths for the hands
Footbaths
Poor cleansers
Microdermabrasion kits
While you can find body massagers in department stores, it will not take the place of having a personal massage. This one treatment can only be done at a spa. In some cities, even the best spas offer discounts and packages. Shop around and find out which spa has the best deal.
Sometimes you want to get away and pamper yourself. If you have the money, a spa vacation is a great way to relax. You can find some of the cheapest spa getaways at http://www.spafinder.com/. This website not only covers spas in the United States, but spas around the world. You can often get a discount if you bring a friend.
If you do not want to go to a beauty school, you can try to find a discount at a popular spa in your hometown. Many spas will offer coupons in the local newspaper. If the spa has a website, you can check online for special offers and discounts. Some masseurs, nail technicians and beauticians offer two for one discounts if you bring a friend. In addition, you can see if the spa offers a referral bonus for referring new clients.
You can get some of the best spa treatments in the comfort of your home. You can purchase facials at most department stores. These come in many different textures such as the traditional chemical peels or a "mud pack." Before trying these products, you should perform an allergy test to make sure you will not have an adverse reaction. No at-home spa treatment is cheap if you end up paying exorbitant doctor bills because of rashes or illnesses that happened because you used the product.
You can also find nail treatments, such as pedicures and manicures in department stores. Most retailers carry as many different nail colors and decorations as the local manicurist. You can also find cuticle treatments and clippers. If you are interested in an at-home pedicure, there are many products, that are priced at less than $2 a treatment that will soften your feet and make them ready for summer sandals.
Some beauty products claim to give you results that are as good as spa treatments. Products like Oil of Olay and Neutrogena have microdermabrasion kits, facials and moisturizers. You can find coupons for these products on some of the top coupon clipper websites such as http://www.smartsource.com/ and http://www.eversave.com/. You can also check the product websites for special deals. Many of the manufacturers will give free samples so you can try the products before buying them.
There are some spa treatments you cannot get out of a bottle. You can find spa appliances at http://www.about.pricegrabbers.com/. This site will compare the prices from retailers worldwide. Once you have found the product you want at the price you can afford, you can link directly to the website. Some of the products include:
Paraffin baths for the hands
Footbaths
Poor cleansers
Microdermabrasion kits
While you can find body massagers in department stores, it will not take the place of having a personal massage. This one treatment can only be done at a spa. In some cities, even the best spas offer discounts and packages. Shop around and find out which spa has the best deal.
Sometimes you want to get away and pamper yourself. If you have the money, a spa vacation is a great way to relax. You can find some of the cheapest spa getaways at http://www.spafinder.com/. This website not only covers spas in the United States, but spas around the world. You can often get a discount if you bring a friend.
Don't pull your hair out - cheap hair care products are out there!
Nothing can frustrate a woman more than having a "bad hair" day. Whether it is frizzy, looking dull and lifeless or just not parting the right way, hair can change a woman's entire look and feelings about herself. Salon treatments can be very expensive. Perms and color can cost up to several hundred dollars, not to mention the time you will spend in the salon. But there is an alternative to pricey salon treatments. Despite what your hairdresser may try to lead you to believe, cheap hair care products are relatively safe to use if you just follow the directions. You local discount retailer and drugstores are the best place to find cheap hair products. Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Target and Walgreens are the most popular stores in the United States. The shelves of these stores are lined with cheap hair care products--shampoos, conditioners and hair color. The products are often discounted in weekly sales, which are advertised in the local newspaper. The products are so inexpensive, you can afford to experiment with them until you find one you like. There are many brands available.
One of the most popular brands is Suave. Suave has a line of shampoos and conditioners that are based on more expensive salon brands. You can purchase the shampoo and conditioner for less than $4. Suave also has a line of hairsprays and styling products that are inexpensive. You can save more money on Suave products by looking for coupons, which are usually in your Sunday paper. Suave sell other cheap health and beauty products such as soap and deodorant.
Another popular cheap hair care product is L'Oreal hair color. Even though it is a bit more expensive than some brands on the shelf, L'Oreal has a reputation for long-lasting color. L'Oreal has introduced a new product recently that allows you to put in salon-quality highlights at home. This procedure will cost anywhere from $50 to $250 in the salon, but you can purchase the home version for less than $25. The only downside is it could make a mess if you are not careful when using it at home.
You can find salon quality products at Sally Beauty Supply. The company has stores throughout the country. Sally Beauty Supply provides cheap hair products to salons and consumers so you can purchase the same product your hair stylist uses. If you go to their website, www.sallybeauty.com, you can find coupons for special deals you can use in the store.
If you want to know what some of the best deals are in the department stores, check out www.makeupalley.com. While the site does not sell products directly, it does review cheap hair products. These reviews are based on cost, quality and results. The website also has a "swap" area where you can trade beauty products with others and save money. You will need to register with the site to swap or read the reviews.
One of the most popular sites for women is www.ivillage.com. This site has a shopping are where you can find several cheap hair care products. Some hair color is available for less than $2! You can find great deals on shampoos, conditioners and appliances used to style your hair like curlers, straighteners and blow dryers. This site also has articles about the latest in beauty trends. You can learn about what the best products on the market are and how to use them. You can register on the site and participate in discussions about beauty and hair products.
You can find unusual hair care products at a good price on www.beautybay.com. This site has some of the most popular salon products such as Redken and Bedhead. The site is based in the UK so some of the products may not be familiar to American consumers.
Before trying any hair care product, whether it is cheap or expensive, make sure you are not allergic. All products encourage you to try a "strand test." This is where you color a small amount of hair to determine if you will have an adverse reaction to the product. No matter how cheap the hair color product is, it is of no use to you if you are allergic and it causes a breakout or rash on your skin.
One of the most popular brands is Suave. Suave has a line of shampoos and conditioners that are based on more expensive salon brands. You can purchase the shampoo and conditioner for less than $4. Suave also has a line of hairsprays and styling products that are inexpensive. You can save more money on Suave products by looking for coupons, which are usually in your Sunday paper. Suave sell other cheap health and beauty products such as soap and deodorant.
Another popular cheap hair care product is L'Oreal hair color. Even though it is a bit more expensive than some brands on the shelf, L'Oreal has a reputation for long-lasting color. L'Oreal has introduced a new product recently that allows you to put in salon-quality highlights at home. This procedure will cost anywhere from $50 to $250 in the salon, but you can purchase the home version for less than $25. The only downside is it could make a mess if you are not careful when using it at home.
You can find salon quality products at Sally Beauty Supply. The company has stores throughout the country. Sally Beauty Supply provides cheap hair products to salons and consumers so you can purchase the same product your hair stylist uses. If you go to their website, www.sallybeauty.com, you can find coupons for special deals you can use in the store.
If you want to know what some of the best deals are in the department stores, check out www.makeupalley.com. While the site does not sell products directly, it does review cheap hair products. These reviews are based on cost, quality and results. The website also has a "swap" area where you can trade beauty products with others and save money. You will need to register with the site to swap or read the reviews.
One of the most popular sites for women is www.ivillage.com. This site has a shopping are where you can find several cheap hair care products. Some hair color is available for less than $2! You can find great deals on shampoos, conditioners and appliances used to style your hair like curlers, straighteners and blow dryers. This site also has articles about the latest in beauty trends. You can learn about what the best products on the market are and how to use them. You can register on the site and participate in discussions about beauty and hair products.
You can find unusual hair care products at a good price on www.beautybay.com. This site has some of the most popular salon products such as Redken and Bedhead. The site is based in the UK so some of the products may not be familiar to American consumers.
Before trying any hair care product, whether it is cheap or expensive, make sure you are not allergic. All products encourage you to try a "strand test." This is where you color a small amount of hair to determine if you will have an adverse reaction to the product. No matter how cheap the hair color product is, it is of no use to you if you are allergic and it causes a breakout or rash on your skin.
Discount Perfume - Finding your Perfect Scent for Less Cents
Perfume magnate Coco Chanel believed so strongly in the power of a scented woman that he once said, "A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future." Many women would not leave their homes without dabbing on a bit of their signature scent. But in tough final times, perfume is often considered a luxury by most women.
Perfume is a billion dollar industry with brands that are priced from under ten dollars to hundreds of dollars an ounce. Men also contribute to the pockets of perfume makers with their love of cologne and aftershave.
Finding cheap perfume that does not smell cheap is a challenge. However many websites are giving consumers sweet deals (literally) on some of the top perfume brands on the market. One of the most well-known, www.perfumeworldwide.com, has every brand from department store perfumes to some of the top scents from designers like Halston. The perfumes are priced an average from 25 to 65 percent off their retail price. On the weekends, this online retailer offers and additional ten percent off their low prices.
The company also offers a free perfume sample with each order. If you want samples of a certain scent but can't get down to the department store to try it, you can order a perfume sample from www.perfumeworldwide.com for $2.99 plus shipping. If there are several perfumes you think you would like to try, you can send for several samples.
Another website that features cheap perfume is www.perfumeempoium.com. This site features all of the major brands, also at discount prices. You can also find deals on skin care and other beauty products. The website has a program called "BeautyBucks" where you can earn credits every time you order. Those credits can be redeemed for free products. If you recommend others to the site, you can also earn "BeautyBucks." If you buy a lot of perfume or beauty products, "BeautyBucks" can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
At www.perfume.com, you will find all the latest fragrances at discount prices. The site also offers coupons, including a ten percent off special if you order three or more products. By registering on the site, you can sign up to receive other special offers. You can also order gift certificates for yourself or as a gift.
In business since 1997, www.fragance.net. Has more than 8,000 perfumes at up to 70 percent off their department store prices. By signing up with the site, you can receive special offers that can give you an extra ten percent off your purchase. The web site also offers free shipping on orders of $60 or more in the United States. You can also purchase candles, gift sets and skin care items at www.fragrance.net.
Another favorite site with excellent discounts is www.FragranceX.com. It pays to check out each site listed to see which offers the best price for the scent you're looking for. Depending on the manufacturer and how tightly they control the price the sites can offer the same discount or can actually vary widely.
You don't have to look at a perfume-only website to find the best deals on perfume. Many websites such as www.overstock.com offer perfume at clearance prices. You can also check out www.amazon.com for cheap perfume.
Remember if you order perfume online, you may have to pay shipping fees which can be expensive. You also face the possibility that your order could get lost in the mail or damaged. While most companies will replace a damaged or lost package, if you need your order fast, you may not want to wait for a replacement.
Don't get excited when you see a great deal on one website. Because the online perfume business is so competitive, you will want to shop several websites before making your purchase. Shopping around may cost you time but can save you money in the long run.
If you do not want to use the Internet to order your perfume, many department stores offer discounts or special sales on perfume. Some upscale department stores will offer free gifts such as beauty products or makeup with your fragrance purchase. You can search the newspaper for sales or check out the department stores' websites for special deals.
If you have a favorite fragrance, check out the designer's or manufacturer's website. Often you can find cheap perfume deals on those websites.
All of the websites and offers listed also apply to men's fragrances, too. Men purchase scents almost as often as women, a fact that is not lost on the major designers. Calvin Klein and Halston produce fragrances for men and women.
Perfume is a billion dollar industry with brands that are priced from under ten dollars to hundreds of dollars an ounce. Men also contribute to the pockets of perfume makers with their love of cologne and aftershave.
Finding cheap perfume that does not smell cheap is a challenge. However many websites are giving consumers sweet deals (literally) on some of the top perfume brands on the market. One of the most well-known, www.perfumeworldwide.com, has every brand from department store perfumes to some of the top scents from designers like Halston. The perfumes are priced an average from 25 to 65 percent off their retail price. On the weekends, this online retailer offers and additional ten percent off their low prices.
The company also offers a free perfume sample with each order. If you want samples of a certain scent but can't get down to the department store to try it, you can order a perfume sample from www.perfumeworldwide.com for $2.99 plus shipping. If there are several perfumes you think you would like to try, you can send for several samples.
Another website that features cheap perfume is www.perfumeempoium.com. This site features all of the major brands, also at discount prices. You can also find deals on skin care and other beauty products. The website has a program called "BeautyBucks" where you can earn credits every time you order. Those credits can be redeemed for free products. If you recommend others to the site, you can also earn "BeautyBucks." If you buy a lot of perfume or beauty products, "BeautyBucks" can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
At www.perfume.com, you will find all the latest fragrances at discount prices. The site also offers coupons, including a ten percent off special if you order three or more products. By registering on the site, you can sign up to receive other special offers. You can also order gift certificates for yourself or as a gift.
In business since 1997, www.fragance.net. Has more than 8,000 perfumes at up to 70 percent off their department store prices. By signing up with the site, you can receive special offers that can give you an extra ten percent off your purchase. The web site also offers free shipping on orders of $60 or more in the United States. You can also purchase candles, gift sets and skin care items at www.fragrance.net.
Another favorite site with excellent discounts is www.FragranceX.com. It pays to check out each site listed to see which offers the best price for the scent you're looking for. Depending on the manufacturer and how tightly they control the price the sites can offer the same discount or can actually vary widely.
You don't have to look at a perfume-only website to find the best deals on perfume. Many websites such as www.overstock.com offer perfume at clearance prices. You can also check out www.amazon.com for cheap perfume.
Remember if you order perfume online, you may have to pay shipping fees which can be expensive. You also face the possibility that your order could get lost in the mail or damaged. While most companies will replace a damaged or lost package, if you need your order fast, you may not want to wait for a replacement.
Don't get excited when you see a great deal on one website. Because the online perfume business is so competitive, you will want to shop several websites before making your purchase. Shopping around may cost you time but can save you money in the long run.
If you do not want to use the Internet to order your perfume, many department stores offer discounts or special sales on perfume. Some upscale department stores will offer free gifts such as beauty products or makeup with your fragrance purchase. You can search the newspaper for sales or check out the department stores' websites for special deals.
If you have a favorite fragrance, check out the designer's or manufacturer's website. Often you can find cheap perfume deals on those websites.
All of the websites and offers listed also apply to men's fragrances, too. Men purchase scents almost as often as women, a fact that is not lost on the major designers. Calvin Klein and Halston produce fragrances for men and women.
Best Deals in Makeup
Finding a way to look her best is challenge for any woman. While most women wear makeup at some point in their lives, the type of makeup they wear may change often. Many women buy make up at the department store only to find when they get it home it is just not their style. In fact, most women will tell you that they spend a lot of money on makeup that they never wore more than once or twice. Cheap makeup can allow women to try a color or product they are unsure of without them spending a lot of money. Before you spend hours walking through malls and meandering through crowds at discount retailers, consider searching the Internet for some of the best deals in cheap makeup. One of the most popular sites for cheap makeup is www.buymebeauty.com. This online store features a wide range of brands from L'Oreal to Maybelline. If your favorite makeup was discontinued by your local department store or discount retailer, you may find it on www.buybeauty.com. The store has hard-to-find discontinued items at cheap prices. The store also features clearance items on some of the top brands.
If shipping costs keep you from wanting to buy your makeup online, www.cosmeticlot.com offers free shipping on orders over $50. You can find the top names in cosmetics such as Estee Lauder, Lancôme and Clinque. The products are guaranteed fresh and genuine. You can also find a good selection of fragrances and skin care products.
You can also find cheap, department store brand makeup on www.strawberrynet.com. The site will feature newer products that may be hard to find in the department store. The site also has special offers and closeout specials.
If you want to compare cheap makeup prices, www.nexttag.com is the place to go. Simply type in the product you are looking for and the site will show you the cheapest prices and where you can find them online.
Remember that if you order your makeup on line, you need to add shipping costs. Many sites (like www.cosmeticlot.com) will offer free shipment after you have ordered a certain amount. To save on shipping costs, it is recommended you stock up to take advantage of the cheaper makeup prices and save on the shipping costs. Even though most companies will replace the product if it is lost or damaged in shipping, it can be frustrating to open your package and find a shattered bottle or broken cosmetic case. Find out the company's policy on items that are damaged in shipping. Some cosmetics come with an expiration date, so check the date on your package before you put it on your face. Find out if the company guarantees the products you receive will be fresh and not some overstock from a department store that is outdated.
If you have a favorite department store brand, check out the company's website. Often by registering on the company's website you will be alerted to special deals offered. You find out about the latest products before they are on the market and you can often purchase these at a discount price.
Many department stores offer free makeup with the purchase of a fragrance or other products. Check the in-store display or your local newspaper for these special offers. Sometimes these gifts are valued at $25 or more.
You can find the cheapest makeup at discount retailers. Brands like Maybelline and Cover Girl are priced 10 to 25 percent lower than more expensive department store brands. While many feel the cosmetics lack the quality of their higher price counterparts, many women would not change their brand even if they were offered a more expensive product for free. Many discount retailers also offer special sales on these products. You can also check your Sunday newspaper for coupons.
Before purchasing any makeup product, see if you can get a sample either online or in the store. Many women are allergic to certain makeup products and often do not find out until they have purchased and opened the product, making it difficult to return to the retailer. No matter how cheap the makeup is, it is not a good deal if it causes itching or rashes.
Finding a way to look her best is challenge for any woman. While most women wear makeup at some point in their lives, the type of makeup they wear may change often. Many women buy make up at the department store only to find when they get it home it is just not their style. In fact, most women will tell you that they spend a lot of money on makeup that they never wore more than once or twice. Cheap makeup can allow women to try a color or product they are unsure of without them spending a lot of money.
If shipping costs keep you from wanting to buy your makeup online, www.cosmeticlot.com offers free shipping on orders over $50. You can find the top names in cosmetics such as Estee Lauder, Lancôme and Clinque. The products are guaranteed fresh and genuine. You can also find a good selection of fragrances and skin care products.
You can also find cheap, department store brand makeup on www.strawberrynet.com. The site will feature newer products that may be hard to find in the department store. The site also has special offers and closeout specials.
If you want to compare cheap makeup prices, www.nexttag.com is the place to go. Simply type in the product you are looking for and the site will show you the cheapest prices and where you can find them online.
Remember that if you order your makeup on line, you need to add shipping costs. Many sites (like www.cosmeticlot.com) will offer free shipment after you have ordered a certain amount. To save on shipping costs, it is recommended you stock up to take advantage of the cheaper makeup prices and save on the shipping costs. Even though most companies will replace the product if it is lost or damaged in shipping, it can be frustrating to open your package and find a shattered bottle or broken cosmetic case. Find out the company's policy on items that are damaged in shipping. Some cosmetics come with an expiration date, so check the date on your package before you put it on your face. Find out if the company guarantees the products you receive will be fresh and not some overstock from a department store that is outdated.
If you have a favorite department store brand, check out the company's website. Often by registering on the company's website you will be alerted to special deals offered. You find out about the latest products before they are on the market and you can often purchase these at a discount price.
Many department stores offer free makeup with the purchase of a fragrance or other products. Check the in-store display or your local newspaper for these special offers. Sometimes these gifts are valued at $25 or more.
You can find the cheapest makeup at discount retailers. Brands like Maybelline and Cover Girl are priced 10 to 25 percent lower than more expensive department store brands. While many feel the cosmetics lack the quality of their higher price counterparts, many women would not change their brand even if they were offered a more expensive product for free. Many discount retailers also offer special sales on these products. You can also check your Sunday newspaper for coupons.
Before purchasing any makeup product, see if you can get a sample either online or in the store. Many women are allergic to certain makeup products and often do not find out until they have purchased and opened the product, making it difficult to return to the retailer. No matter how cheap the makeup is, it is not a good deal if it causes itching or rashes.
Finding a way to look her best is challenge for any woman. While most women wear makeup at some point in their lives, the type of makeup they wear may change often. Many women buy make up at the department store only to find when they get it home it is just not their style. In fact, most women will tell you that they spend a lot of money on makeup that they never wore more than once or twice. Cheap makeup can allow women to try a color or product they are unsure of without them spending a lot of money.
The Best Pizza Coupons
The Americans seem to consume more Pizzas than anybody else in the world. It has become part and parcel of the American way of life and we cannot imagine life without Pizzas. We can find so many brands of pizzas and pizza outlets today that leads to cutthroat competition among top brands and to beat the competition these brands give discounts to attract customers. However discounts are possible only to a certain extent, a steep discount might mean lot of customers but at the same time it can also mean a sever loss. So they have to strike a balance between attractive discount and reasonable profit.
In the midst of this stiff competition all the famous pizza brands offer discount coupons printable from your computer that come with a wide range of discounts and offers. Free pizza coupons are very popular among the Americans as they are great money savers. Unlike before you are not dependent on the discount coupons that arrive through mail, you can get your pizza coupons online. Dominoes, Papa John, Pizza Hut and all the other popular brands have websites through which you can get your printable coupons. With each coupon you can get a certain percentage of discount and the discount and offers vary with season. Some of the pizza coupons are launched at national level and they can be used at any location. Some of the coupons can be used only in specific outlets. The coupons may carry either a cash discount, complementary toppings, soft drink, bread sticks etc. If you accumulate enough coupons then when you are ordering for a large number of pizzas you may be able to get a few extra pizzas for free using the coupons.
You can get your free pizza coupons from various sources. They come to us through regular mail posted by the pizza counters themselves from the database of existing customers; you can also collect those coupons that come with parking tickets; you can download and print coupons by going to the respective websites of your favorite pizza. You can get your free pizza coupons from the Yellow pages as well. When you visit a pizza outlet you will get a certain number of coupons with every pizza that you order depending on the offer that is currently running. This is to motivate you to go back to their outlet and you will be forced to visit them again at least to redeem your coupons. You also get your pizza coupons along with your newspaper or other magazines that you have subscribed to. Sometimes pizza outlets themselves run a specific online campaign and will have their banners displayed in websites promoting their pizzas along with offers and coupons.
There are countless ways through which you can get your best pizza coupons. As the competition increases pizza companies think of highly innovative ways to reach their customers. This in turn helps the customers to cut down the cost on their pizza expenses. You can also get your pizza coupons from websites that offer its members various discount coupons from websites like Coupons.com.
In the midst of this stiff competition all the famous pizza brands offer discount coupons printable from your computer that come with a wide range of discounts and offers. Free pizza coupons are very popular among the Americans as they are great money savers. Unlike before you are not dependent on the discount coupons that arrive through mail, you can get your pizza coupons online. Dominoes, Papa John, Pizza Hut and all the other popular brands have websites through which you can get your printable coupons. With each coupon you can get a certain percentage of discount and the discount and offers vary with season. Some of the pizza coupons are launched at national level and they can be used at any location. Some of the coupons can be used only in specific outlets. The coupons may carry either a cash discount, complementary toppings, soft drink, bread sticks etc. If you accumulate enough coupons then when you are ordering for a large number of pizzas you may be able to get a few extra pizzas for free using the coupons.
You can get your free pizza coupons from various sources. They come to us through regular mail posted by the pizza counters themselves from the database of existing customers; you can also collect those coupons that come with parking tickets; you can download and print coupons by going to the respective websites of your favorite pizza. You can get your free pizza coupons from the Yellow pages as well. When you visit a pizza outlet you will get a certain number of coupons with every pizza that you order depending on the offer that is currently running. This is to motivate you to go back to their outlet and you will be forced to visit them again at least to redeem your coupons. You also get your pizza coupons along with your newspaper or other magazines that you have subscribed to. Sometimes pizza outlets themselves run a specific online campaign and will have their banners displayed in websites promoting their pizzas along with offers and coupons.
There are countless ways through which you can get your best pizza coupons. As the competition increases pizza companies think of highly innovative ways to reach their customers. This in turn helps the customers to cut down the cost on their pizza expenses. You can also get your pizza coupons from websites that offer its members various discount coupons from websites like Coupons.com.
Restaurant coupons save families money
The days when mom stayed home and cooked the family meals are over. With both parents working and kids more active than ever, families rely on restaurants sometimes as much as five times a week. Eating out can strain a family's budget due to the high costs. Even a simple fast food meal for a family four can costs as much as $30! That equals at least $150 a week in food costs and $600 per month!
One way families try to stretch their dining out budget is with restaurant coupons, which are found in a variety of ways. The most popular and traditional way of finding restaurant coupons is in the Sunday newspaper. The coupons can be a "meal deal" from a local fast food restaurant or a coupon for a half price entrée at a higher-priced family restaurant. These coupons are often limited to certain restaurants that agree to list with the coupon service. Local restaurants may announce special deals or place coupons in any section of the paper, any day of the week.
The Internet has become the most popular place to find restaurant coupons. The national pizza and family entertainment restaurant Chuck E. Cheese has pizza coupons on almost every discount site, in the Sunday paper and on their website. Most major pizza retailers put coupons on their web sites and in local mailers each week. With the average American family eating take-out pizza at least once a week, these coupons can save families hundreds of dollars each year!
One of the most advertised sites for restaurant coupons is www.restaurants.com. This site features special offers not only from some major chains but from locally owned restaurants as well. You can find almost every type of cuisine on this site. Just type in your zip code to find special offers. The main discount featured is a $25 gift certificate for only $10. But most restaurants will require a minimum purchase in order for you to redeem your gift certificate.
You can also find a variety of restaurant coupons at www.wow-coupons.com. Almost every type of cuisine is available on this site, with coupons from restaurants including Arby's, Baskin Robbins, Pizza Hut and Red Lobster.
Two websites designed to help families save money also have many restaurant coupons online. The first is www.couponmom.com. Atlanta mom Stephanie Nelson started the site to help families find ways to save money on groceries, restaurants, college costs and just about anything else under the sun. Nelson also has advice on how to use coupons to save money on her site. The website has links to other restaurant coupon sites. You can also find restaurant coupons on www.momsview.com. This site also has links to many other sites that have restaurant coupons as well. The website www.couponcabin.com also has restaurant and pizza coupons.
Most people are busy and do not have time to sort through hundreds of websites looking for restaurant coupons. To save time you can type the name of your favorite restaurant into you search engine and see if it has a website. Most major restaurant chains and some "mom and pop" diners have websites that ask you to sign up online. By signing up, you may receive special offers and coupons in the mail.
There are some things you need to know before going online for restaurant coupons. Many of these websites that offer restaurant coupons require you to install their coupon printer in order to get their coupons. While most of these installations are safe and will not harm your computer, many people do not like to install any hardware from any website.
Second, most of the websites listed are offering the same deals from the same restaurants. The exceptions is www.restaurants.com, which partners with local restaurants to offer the above mentioned gift certificates. To save time, you may want to research the websites offering restaurant coupons and just check one regularly for special deals and offers.
Some of the deals listed on some coupon websites may require you to link to the restaurant website. Often you will find the special deal offered on the coupon website has expired. Make sure you check the expiration date before trying to use the coupons.
One way families try to stretch their dining out budget is with restaurant coupons, which are found in a variety of ways. The most popular and traditional way of finding restaurant coupons is in the Sunday newspaper. The coupons can be a "meal deal" from a local fast food restaurant or a coupon for a half price entrée at a higher-priced family restaurant. These coupons are often limited to certain restaurants that agree to list with the coupon service. Local restaurants may announce special deals or place coupons in any section of the paper, any day of the week.
The Internet has become the most popular place to find restaurant coupons. The national pizza and family entertainment restaurant Chuck E. Cheese has pizza coupons on almost every discount site, in the Sunday paper and on their website. Most major pizza retailers put coupons on their web sites and in local mailers each week. With the average American family eating take-out pizza at least once a week, these coupons can save families hundreds of dollars each year!
One of the most advertised sites for restaurant coupons is www.restaurants.com. This site features special offers not only from some major chains but from locally owned restaurants as well. You can find almost every type of cuisine on this site. Just type in your zip code to find special offers. The main discount featured is a $25 gift certificate for only $10. But most restaurants will require a minimum purchase in order for you to redeem your gift certificate.
You can also find a variety of restaurant coupons at www.wow-coupons.com. Almost every type of cuisine is available on this site, with coupons from restaurants including Arby's, Baskin Robbins, Pizza Hut and Red Lobster.
Two websites designed to help families save money also have many restaurant coupons online. The first is www.couponmom.com. Atlanta mom Stephanie Nelson started the site to help families find ways to save money on groceries, restaurants, college costs and just about anything else under the sun. Nelson also has advice on how to use coupons to save money on her site. The website has links to other restaurant coupon sites. You can also find restaurant coupons on www.momsview.com. This site also has links to many other sites that have restaurant coupons as well. The website www.couponcabin.com also has restaurant and pizza coupons.
Most people are busy and do not have time to sort through hundreds of websites looking for restaurant coupons. To save time you can type the name of your favorite restaurant into you search engine and see if it has a website. Most major restaurant chains and some "mom and pop" diners have websites that ask you to sign up online. By signing up, you may receive special offers and coupons in the mail.
There are some things you need to know before going online for restaurant coupons. Many of these websites that offer restaurant coupons require you to install their coupon printer in order to get their coupons. While most of these installations are safe and will not harm your computer, many people do not like to install any hardware from any website.
Second, most of the websites listed are offering the same deals from the same restaurants. The exceptions is www.restaurants.com, which partners with local restaurants to offer the above mentioned gift certificates. To save time, you may want to research the websites offering restaurant coupons and just check one regularly for special deals and offers.
Some of the deals listed on some coupon websites may require you to link to the restaurant website. Often you will find the special deal offered on the coupon website has expired. Make sure you check the expiration date before trying to use the coupons.
Printable coupons can save you time and money
For years, the Sunday paper has been the place American families looked for money saving coupons. But it takes time to sort through pages of coupons looking for the ones you will actually use. But coupons are worth the time. According to Stephanie Nelson, better known as “the coupon mom,” consumers save $3 billion annually by using grocery coupons. That doesn’t count the savings from other coupons like store discount, appliance coupons and restaurant coupons.
If you are still not convinced that coupons are worth it for you, a time-saving alternative is available. You can print coupons from websites featuring savings on groceries, restaurants and other items. Printing coupons you use can save you time flipping through the Sunday paper and clipping them out to take to the store later. You can find these printable coupons several ways. Many websites feature online coupons savings that you can print from your own computer.
One of the most popular sites on the Internet for printable coupons is www.coolsavings.com. Whether you want to save money on groceries, the family vacation or back-to-school clothes, you can find it on this site. The categories on www.coolsavings.com are extensive and include: groceries, pets, health and beauty, automotive, travel, babies and kids, home and garden, education, personal finance and entertainment.
Coolsavings features coupons from SmartSource, the most well known coupon company in the country. The coupons from most Sunday papers are from SmartSource. You can search www.smartsource.com for the coupons you want to print and skip the Sunday paper.
Another site with an extensive list of printable coupons is www.couponcabin.com. This site contains the same categories as www.coolsavings.com.
For savings on grocery, health and household products, printable online coupons are available at www.eversave.com. This site also has the SmartSource coupons that you can print. In some cases, more money can be saved by answering simple questions. For example, consumers who answer two questions for a Leggs/Just My Size coupon get an additional 25 cents in savings!
You can print coupons specifically for your area at www.couponpages.com. Simply type in your zip code or city and state and you will be directed to money saving coupons in your area.
Another great website for clipping coupons is www.valpak.com. You must register on this site to receive their offers.
Many stores, particularly pharmacies, will feature printable coupons you can take into their stores for more savings. Often this coupons are the same offered in their Sunday circular. You don't have to spend time or money searching through the Sunday newspaper for coupons.
If searching through online coupon sites still seems like a waste of time to you, try doing an Internet search for your favorite products. Many companies have printable coupons on their website. You can find savings on a lot of foods at www.bettycrocker.com. Many restaurants and fast food chains also have printable coupons available.
Before you begin printing online coupons, there are a few thing you should know. Many of the websites offering online, printable coupons will require you to download their coupon print manager. Most of these are safe. But if you are unsure or you are not comfortable downloading these print managers, go to your local library and print the coupons. You may be charged a small fee but it is possible that the savings from the coupons will make it worth the trip.
Some of the sites will only allow you to print one or two coupons for each offer you select. You will have to wait until the offer is renewed before printing more savings.
Some retailers will not accept online coupons. Before you present your printable coupons to the cashier, ask the store manager if they are accepted. Since printable coupons are so popular, most retailers are accepting them.
Just like the Sunday paper, you need to check often for the best deals in printable coupons. Printable coupons also come with an expiration date, so check the coupon before you take it to the store. You don't want to be embarrassed by trying to present a worthless coupon to the cashier!
Many of the coupon sites mentioned feature the same coupons. In order to save time, you may want to find the site that has the coupons you want most and check it often.
If you are still not convinced that coupons are worth it for you, a time-saving alternative is available. You can print coupons from websites featuring savings on groceries, restaurants and other items. Printing coupons you use can save you time flipping through the Sunday paper and clipping them out to take to the store later. You can find these printable coupons several ways. Many websites feature online coupons savings that you can print from your own computer.
One of the most popular sites on the Internet for printable coupons is www.coolsavings.com. Whether you want to save money on groceries, the family vacation or back-to-school clothes, you can find it on this site. The categories on www.coolsavings.com are extensive and include: groceries, pets, health and beauty, automotive, travel, babies and kids, home and garden, education, personal finance and entertainment.
Coolsavings features coupons from SmartSource, the most well known coupon company in the country. The coupons from most Sunday papers are from SmartSource. You can search www.smartsource.com for the coupons you want to print and skip the Sunday paper.
Another site with an extensive list of printable coupons is www.couponcabin.com. This site contains the same categories as www.coolsavings.com.
For savings on grocery, health and household products, printable online coupons are available at www.eversave.com. This site also has the SmartSource coupons that you can print. In some cases, more money can be saved by answering simple questions. For example, consumers who answer two questions for a Leggs/Just My Size coupon get an additional 25 cents in savings!
You can print coupons specifically for your area at www.couponpages.com. Simply type in your zip code or city and state and you will be directed to money saving coupons in your area.
Another great website for clipping coupons is www.valpak.com. You must register on this site to receive their offers.
Many stores, particularly pharmacies, will feature printable coupons you can take into their stores for more savings. Often this coupons are the same offered in their Sunday circular. You don't have to spend time or money searching through the Sunday newspaper for coupons.
If searching through online coupon sites still seems like a waste of time to you, try doing an Internet search for your favorite products. Many companies have printable coupons on their website. You can find savings on a lot of foods at www.bettycrocker.com. Many restaurants and fast food chains also have printable coupons available.
Before you begin printing online coupons, there are a few thing you should know. Many of the websites offering online, printable coupons will require you to download their coupon print manager. Most of these are safe. But if you are unsure or you are not comfortable downloading these print managers, go to your local library and print the coupons. You may be charged a small fee but it is possible that the savings from the coupons will make it worth the trip.
Some of the sites will only allow you to print one or two coupons for each offer you select. You will have to wait until the offer is renewed before printing more savings.
Some retailers will not accept online coupons. Before you present your printable coupons to the cashier, ask the store manager if they are accepted. Since printable coupons are so popular, most retailers are accepting them.
Just like the Sunday paper, you need to check often for the best deals in printable coupons. Printable coupons also come with an expiration date, so check the coupon before you take it to the store. You don't want to be embarrassed by trying to present a worthless coupon to the cashier!
Many of the coupon sites mentioned feature the same coupons. In order to save time, you may want to find the site that has the coupons you want most and check it often.
Online Coupons - A Convenient Way to Save Money
Many American families clip coupons to save money on groceries, health-related items and one-time purchases. For many years, the Sunday newspaper was the place to find these savings but as technology has exploded, so has coupon clipping. Coupons can be downloaded on the Internet or pulled from a machine in the store. One of the most popular coupon sites on the Internet is www.coolsavings.com. Whether or not you want to save money on groceries, the family vacation or back-to-school clothes, you can find it on this site. The categories on www.coolsavings.com are extensive and include: groceries, pets, health and beauty, automotive, travel, babies and kids, home and garden, education, personal finance and entertainment. You can print the coupons from the website.
Coolsavings features coupons from SmartSource, the most well known coupon company in the country. The coupons from most Sunday papers are from SmartSource. Coupons are inserted in 1,160 newspapers. The coupon machines in grocery stores are also a SmartSource product. These coupon machines help consumers who may be making that "impulse buy" save money by using the coupon. The coupons have also encouraged sales of products. The company has its own website, www.smartsource.com, which has its coupons for the week listed.
Another site with an extensive list of coupons is www.couponcabin.com. This site contains the same categories as www.coolsavings.com. As with www.coolsavings.com, you can print its coupons.
For savings on grocery, health and household products, online coupons are available at www.eversave.com. This site also has the SmartSource coupons. In some cases, more money can be saved by answering simple questions. For example, consumers who answer two questions for a Leggs/Just My Size coupon get an additional 25 cents in savings!
Many stores, particularly pharmacies, will have in-store coupons in the Sunday paper or online. If you don't get the newspaper and can't clip the coupons, you can print them from many of the store's website. If you see a good deal at a store that you don't shop, check with your favorite retailer to see if they will honor the competitor's coupons. This can not only save you money but also save you time by allowing you to shop in just one store.
For those who believe that coupon clipping is too time-consuming or is not the worth the savings, Stephanie Nelson, also known as the "coupon mom" has written a book about saving money with coupons. The book, called "The Secrets of the Coupon Mom," has tips and advice on how to save using coupons. Nelson has also shared her advice on "Good Morning America. She has a website, www.couponmom.com, which has tips and links to some of the best deals and offers available.
Nelson also knows the industry. According to Nelson, shoppers have saved nearly $3 billion annually just with grocery coupons! That doesn't count the countless number of coupons used for travel, clothing and electronic items. However, many consumers simply throw the coupons away and don't take advantage of the savings. According to Nelson, more than $315 billion dollars in coupons are being thrown away each year!
Even if you think clipping coupon is time consuming and you don't want the hassle of thumbing through the Sunday newspaper each week, you can still make coupons work for you. Many retail outlets feature coupons to save either on an online purchase or at the store. By book marking the store's website and checking it from time to time, you can find out what the latest deals are with or without a coupon.
If organization is your problem, you can find a small coupon organizer at most discount stores for about a dollar. This will allow you to group your coupons by category. You can also easily compare the coupons to the weekly sales advertisements for more savings.
How much can you save by clipping coupons? It really depends on you. If you want to take advantage of the hundreds of websites with coupons and special offers, it is possible to cut your grocery budget by 25 percent and save hundreds of dollars on other purchases. If you only look for coupons for special purchases like appliances or contact lenses, the annual savings to your budget will be less.
Coolsavings features coupons from SmartSource, the most well known coupon company in the country. The coupons from most Sunday papers are from SmartSource. Coupons are inserted in 1,160 newspapers. The coupon machines in grocery stores are also a SmartSource product. These coupon machines help consumers who may be making that "impulse buy" save money by using the coupon. The coupons have also encouraged sales of products. The company has its own website, www.smartsource.com, which has its coupons for the week listed.
Another site with an extensive list of coupons is www.couponcabin.com. This site contains the same categories as www.coolsavings.com. As with www.coolsavings.com, you can print its coupons.
For savings on grocery, health and household products, online coupons are available at www.eversave.com. This site also has the SmartSource coupons. In some cases, more money can be saved by answering simple questions. For example, consumers who answer two questions for a Leggs/Just My Size coupon get an additional 25 cents in savings!
Many stores, particularly pharmacies, will have in-store coupons in the Sunday paper or online. If you don't get the newspaper and can't clip the coupons, you can print them from many of the store's website. If you see a good deal at a store that you don't shop, check with your favorite retailer to see if they will honor the competitor's coupons. This can not only save you money but also save you time by allowing you to shop in just one store.
For those who believe that coupon clipping is too time-consuming or is not the worth the savings, Stephanie Nelson, also known as the "coupon mom" has written a book about saving money with coupons. The book, called "The Secrets of the Coupon Mom," has tips and advice on how to save using coupons. Nelson has also shared her advice on "Good Morning America. She has a website, www.couponmom.com, which has tips and links to some of the best deals and offers available.
Nelson also knows the industry. According to Nelson, shoppers have saved nearly $3 billion annually just with grocery coupons! That doesn't count the countless number of coupons used for travel, clothing and electronic items. However, many consumers simply throw the coupons away and don't take advantage of the savings. According to Nelson, more than $315 billion dollars in coupons are being thrown away each year!
Even if you think clipping coupon is time consuming and you don't want the hassle of thumbing through the Sunday newspaper each week, you can still make coupons work for you. Many retail outlets feature coupons to save either on an online purchase or at the store. By book marking the store's website and checking it from time to time, you can find out what the latest deals are with or without a coupon.
If organization is your problem, you can find a small coupon organizer at most discount stores for about a dollar. This will allow you to group your coupons by category. You can also easily compare the coupons to the weekly sales advertisements for more savings.
How much can you save by clipping coupons? It really depends on you. If you want to take advantage of the hundreds of websites with coupons and special offers, it is possible to cut your grocery budget by 25 percent and save hundreds of dollars on other purchases. If you only look for coupons for special purchases like appliances or contact lenses, the annual savings to your budget will be less.
Grocery Coupons equals Grocery Savings
Whether you spend $200 or $400 a month on groceries, you probably wish you could save more money on your food bill. Food coupons are a good way to cut down on costs. You may think it is not worth it to clip that "25 cents off" coupon, but coupon users save anywhere from 10 to 25 percent on their annual grocery bills by clipping coupons. If you use the product or eat the food, that "25 cents off" coupon is like having a quarter in your hand. That quarter could increase to 50 or 75 cents if your grocery store doubles coupons.
You can find coupons on almost any product you use if you just know where to look. More than 80 percent of consumers will find grocery coupons in their Sunday newspaper. The newspaper often advertises that you can save a certain amount of money by buying the newspaper, but that is only if you use the coupons for the products included. Most consumers will only see a few grocery coupons for items they actually use.
Many grocery stores and pharmacies have in-store coupons with discounts on food, cleaning and health products. Often, a store's competitor will honor the in-store coupon to keep you shopping at their store. Check with your store for its policy on competitor's coupons.
The Internet has the best selection for food coupons and you can be selective about what you choose. The first place you can look is your favorite grocery store's website. Many major retailers have online coupons on certain products. These printable coupons can be taken to the store for more savings. Retailers also help consumers save even more by doubling or tripling coupons. Some stores do this daily, some only on certain days of the week. You need one of the store's discount cards to have your coupons doubled. Most stores will not double coupons that are more than 50 cents. Check your store's policy for more information.
If you want to see if there are coupons on your favorite foods and products, many manufacturers have coupons on their website. You can find them by simply typing in the brand name into your search engine. Proctor and Gamble makes many foods and other products and has online promotions and coupons at www.pg.com. Betty Crocker coupons can also be found at www.bettycrocker.com. Some of the companies will require you to register with their site to receive special offers and promotions.
If you don't have the time to look at each manufacturer and grocery store for savings, many websites have grocery coupons for a variety of products. SmartSource, which delivers coupons in most Sunday newspapers, has website at www.smartsource.com. On the website, you can find printable coupons. You can pick and choose which coupons you want to print. SmartSource coupons are also found at www.coolsavings.com. Coolsavings also has other coupons listed and is a great source for finding coupons and money saving offers. Another website, www.eversave.com, also has coupons on groceries and other items. You can add to your savings by choosing to complete short product surveys or reading more about the product. If you print coupons, you may need to download a coupon printer. This usually takes only a few seconds.
If you are concerned that many of the products have preservatives, keep searching. Many health food stores and organic food manufacturers know that consumers want to stay healthy and save money. You can find many coupons for organic foods at www.organiccoupons.com. You can also check the website of your favorite organic food store for more offers.
If you want to learn more about how to save money using grocery coupons, an Atlanta woman has set up a website called www.CouponMom.com. Stephanie Nelson has written books and appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" touting the savings you can get by using coupons. Many people say they don't use coupons because it takes too much time. Nelson advises that organizing your coupons is important to getting you on the way to saving big with food coupons. You can purchase a coupon organizer at most discount stores for about $1. Being organized can save you time at home and at the grocery store. If you have the time to organize your savings online, Nelson's website has a Virtual Coupon Organizer. She also has advice about the best coupons available.
You can find coupons on almost any product you use if you just know where to look. More than 80 percent of consumers will find grocery coupons in their Sunday newspaper. The newspaper often advertises that you can save a certain amount of money by buying the newspaper, but that is only if you use the coupons for the products included. Most consumers will only see a few grocery coupons for items they actually use.
Many grocery stores and pharmacies have in-store coupons with discounts on food, cleaning and health products. Often, a store's competitor will honor the in-store coupon to keep you shopping at their store. Check with your store for its policy on competitor's coupons.
The Internet has the best selection for food coupons and you can be selective about what you choose. The first place you can look is your favorite grocery store's website. Many major retailers have online coupons on certain products. These printable coupons can be taken to the store for more savings. Retailers also help consumers save even more by doubling or tripling coupons. Some stores do this daily, some only on certain days of the week. You need one of the store's discount cards to have your coupons doubled. Most stores will not double coupons that are more than 50 cents. Check your store's policy for more information.
If you want to see if there are coupons on your favorite foods and products, many manufacturers have coupons on their website. You can find them by simply typing in the brand name into your search engine. Proctor and Gamble makes many foods and other products and has online promotions and coupons at www.pg.com. Betty Crocker coupons can also be found at www.bettycrocker.com. Some of the companies will require you to register with their site to receive special offers and promotions.
If you don't have the time to look at each manufacturer and grocery store for savings, many websites have grocery coupons for a variety of products. SmartSource, which delivers coupons in most Sunday newspapers, has website at www.smartsource.com. On the website, you can find printable coupons. You can pick and choose which coupons you want to print. SmartSource coupons are also found at www.coolsavings.com. Coolsavings also has other coupons listed and is a great source for finding coupons and money saving offers. Another website, www.eversave.com, also has coupons on groceries and other items. You can add to your savings by choosing to complete short product surveys or reading more about the product. If you print coupons, you may need to download a coupon printer. This usually takes only a few seconds.
If you are concerned that many of the products have preservatives, keep searching. Many health food stores and organic food manufacturers know that consumers want to stay healthy and save money. You can find many coupons for organic foods at www.organiccoupons.com. You can also check the website of your favorite organic food store for more offers.
If you want to learn more about how to save money using grocery coupons, an Atlanta woman has set up a website called www.CouponMom.com. Stephanie Nelson has written books and appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" touting the savings you can get by using coupons. Many people say they don't use coupons because it takes too much time. Nelson advises that organizing your coupons is important to getting you on the way to saving big with food coupons. You can purchase a coupon organizer at most discount stores for about $1. Being organized can save you time at home and at the grocery store. If you have the time to organize your savings online, Nelson's website has a Virtual Coupon Organizer. She also has advice about the best coupons available.
Encouraging your Child to Read without Breaking the Piggy Bank
Reading is an important skill and the earlier a child develops a love for books, the more time they will spend away from the television and video games. With so many parents feeling the financial pressures of maintaining a home and paying for the basics of food and clothing, books may not be at the top of the list of important purchases. Sadly, many impoverished children in the United States do not own a single book and many do not go to a public library where children can "borrow' books.
Finding cheap books in your neighborhood
Families have many options to save money when purchasing a book collection that their children can pass on to future generations. Most major booksellers like Books-A-Million and Waldenbooks have discount book bins to help you find books very cheaply. You may not find the latest "Harry Potter" but you will find some great, colorful reads. If you purchase a lot of books, many of these bookstores have programs where if you buy a lot of books you can get one free.
Discount book retailers like Wal-Mart and Kmart also sell major titles at good prices. You can find some book titles featuring major characters like "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Winnie the Pooh" in small paperbacks for less than $5. Who can forget the "Little Golden Books" we read as a child? These books are a staple of discount book retailers. Many of these books are now collectibles and worth more than the $2.99 or less that parents paid when they bought them.
Many people want to get rid of their old books and will sell them at garage sales. You can check your local paper for sales in your neighborhood. You can also find good deals at used books stores or thrift stores. Many collectible and valuable old books have been found at yard sales or thrift stores.
Most schools have book fairs. While most of the books are not discounted and some can be pricey, usually a portion of the sales are donated to the school. This makes it a good value despite the high costs.
Finding books online
The Internet has opened up a wealth of resources to parents. Many companies offer great deals to parents. Some of these companies offer low cost or free shipping to parents. Like anything, you should be wary of deals that seem "too good to be true." Some reputable companies have some great offers.
One company, Usborne Books, (http://www.ubah.com/), not only offers parents discounts on books but also offers moms and dads a chance to earn an extra income by selling the books. The company is well established. The company also donates books for charity events and has a free book programs. The website has more details.
Another company, Wilbooks (http://www.wilbooks.com/), has a free book program for students in kindergarten through second grade. The company offers a 15 percent discount on select books and products.
If you are looking for a variety of books, including craft and educational, you can find them at http://www.teacherwide.com/. The site has many specials, including some for as low as 99 cents. Parents and teachers can participate in the bonus points rewards program. The points can be cashed in for great prizes such as DVDs and other books.
For a list of other children's books and retailers, about.com is a great resource. You can find a listing along with reviews at http://www.childrensbooks.about.com/. There are also links to offers for discounted books as well as free books.
Finding cheap books in your neighborhood
Families have many options to save money when purchasing a book collection that their children can pass on to future generations. Most major booksellers like Books-A-Million and Waldenbooks have discount book bins to help you find books very cheaply. You may not find the latest "Harry Potter" but you will find some great, colorful reads. If you purchase a lot of books, many of these bookstores have programs where if you buy a lot of books you can get one free.
Discount book retailers like Wal-Mart and Kmart also sell major titles at good prices. You can find some book titles featuring major characters like "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Winnie the Pooh" in small paperbacks for less than $5. Who can forget the "Little Golden Books" we read as a child? These books are a staple of discount book retailers. Many of these books are now collectibles and worth more than the $2.99 or less that parents paid when they bought them.
Many people want to get rid of their old books and will sell them at garage sales. You can check your local paper for sales in your neighborhood. You can also find good deals at used books stores or thrift stores. Many collectible and valuable old books have been found at yard sales or thrift stores.
Most schools have book fairs. While most of the books are not discounted and some can be pricey, usually a portion of the sales are donated to the school. This makes it a good value despite the high costs.
Finding books online
The Internet has opened up a wealth of resources to parents. Many companies offer great deals to parents. Some of these companies offer low cost or free shipping to parents. Like anything, you should be wary of deals that seem "too good to be true." Some reputable companies have some great offers.
One company, Usborne Books, (http://www.ubah.com/), not only offers parents discounts on books but also offers moms and dads a chance to earn an extra income by selling the books. The company is well established. The company also donates books for charity events and has a free book programs. The website has more details.
Another company, Wilbooks (http://www.wilbooks.com/), has a free book program for students in kindergarten through second grade. The company offers a 15 percent discount on select books and products.
If you are looking for a variety of books, including craft and educational, you can find them at http://www.teacherwide.com/. The site has many specials, including some for as low as 99 cents. Parents and teachers can participate in the bonus points rewards program. The points can be cashed in for great prizes such as DVDs and other books.
For a list of other children's books and retailers, about.com is a great resource. You can find a listing along with reviews at http://www.childrensbooks.about.com/. There are also links to offers for discounted books as well as free books.
Cheap Textbooks and Money for College: Some student alternatives
In the final semester of college, reality hits many students with the expense of their academic life. The high pile of student loan debt, expensive textbooks, and loans for living expenses all make leaving college less exciting than necessary. But this could have been lessened with foresight and gainful alternatives to existing standards. Cheap textbooks and student loan consolidation can make leaving the university life behind seem not as arduous a course in itself.
In order to even attend college, many students need money or scholarships. This money can come from various sources within one's own social network, parents, grandparents, or even from work. Money for college can also be obtained from government programs, including traditional financial aid and various grants. The more popular Pell grants provide money for college, as well as a stipend for either buying cheap textbooks or for paying rent. With student loan debt seemingly so oppressive, the grants provide a large amount of money for which students need not repay.
Save Money by Buying Cheap Textbooks
Every campus across America has bookstores lined with the expensive textbooks of every professional field out there. The cheap books normally do not line the walls of these giant bookstores, but are found nestled in the more unlikely areas. Online cheap text books can be found on many different sites. These sites either cater to the student looking for the cheap books or simply cater to online auctions and the like.
There are a multitude of sites catering cheap textbooks to the thrifty student. Websites like eBay you would expect to have many cheap text books available, but the sites like ecampus.com tout thousands of textbooks with prices reduced up to 90%. With cheap books available at savings like that, many students can find what they need without dipping into savings or having to take out more student loan debt.
Network with Upper Classmen
Another way to save money by finding cheap textbooks, would be to locate students who have taken the course you are registered for and try to buy back their textbooks. The rate you can pay them may vary, if they have not cashed in on the books yet, but should be less than a Used cheap textbook would cost. A quick post to a local Craigs List can net some discount textbook deals in your area.
Student Debt Help
We have already outlined the options available to a student in universities across America, but what about when those same students leave and need student debt help? To consolidate student debt, students would need to contact one of the many different loan consolidation firms to negotiate the deal. Basically these firms would agree to pay off all existing loans, which would result in the student loan monthly payment being reduced exponentially. However, these firms usually require the new consolidated student debt be at a fixed rate for the life of the loan. Of course, there are normally no penalties for paying off the loan early, but with interest rates fluctuating constantly, it may pay to hold off on when considering consolidate student debt until the time is right.
Student debt help can come directly from the student with the choices they make during their college tenure and immediately afterwards with their student debt considerations. Many students make the right choice when they consolidate student debt. When they consider the alternative, paying sometimes high monthly payments with up and down interest rates, the choice to consolidate student debt makes the most sense.
Finding the Right Student Debt Consolidation Program
The first thing to look at is the interest rate they are offering on a loan. Also the current loan rate should be considered, both of your existing loan and the financial market percentage. This can guide you to the right student debt consolidation firm. Be sure to check the fine print before agreeing to anything. After all, this is a student debt that will be with you for a long time to come.
A resourceful student can leave a University without the rigmarole of paying hefty fees every month. The grants from many states can alleviate living expenses, as well as help a student pay for pricey textbooks. Knowing where to look for cheap textbooks can also benefit the student. Saving money by finding discount textbooks, knowing how to consolidate the student loan debt, and making the right choices regarding finances can make leaving college the exciting time it should be.
In order to even attend college, many students need money or scholarships. This money can come from various sources within one's own social network, parents, grandparents, or even from work. Money for college can also be obtained from government programs, including traditional financial aid and various grants. The more popular Pell grants provide money for college, as well as a stipend for either buying cheap textbooks or for paying rent. With student loan debt seemingly so oppressive, the grants provide a large amount of money for which students need not repay.
Save Money by Buying Cheap Textbooks
Every campus across America has bookstores lined with the expensive textbooks of every professional field out there. The cheap books normally do not line the walls of these giant bookstores, but are found nestled in the more unlikely areas. Online cheap text books can be found on many different sites. These sites either cater to the student looking for the cheap books or simply cater to online auctions and the like.
There are a multitude of sites catering cheap textbooks to the thrifty student. Websites like eBay you would expect to have many cheap text books available, but the sites like ecampus.com tout thousands of textbooks with prices reduced up to 90%. With cheap books available at savings like that, many students can find what they need without dipping into savings or having to take out more student loan debt.
Network with Upper Classmen
Another way to save money by finding cheap textbooks, would be to locate students who have taken the course you are registered for and try to buy back their textbooks. The rate you can pay them may vary, if they have not cashed in on the books yet, but should be less than a Used cheap textbook would cost. A quick post to a local Craigs List can net some discount textbook deals in your area.
Student Debt Help
We have already outlined the options available to a student in universities across America, but what about when those same students leave and need student debt help? To consolidate student debt, students would need to contact one of the many different loan consolidation firms to negotiate the deal. Basically these firms would agree to pay off all existing loans, which would result in the student loan monthly payment being reduced exponentially. However, these firms usually require the new consolidated student debt be at a fixed rate for the life of the loan. Of course, there are normally no penalties for paying off the loan early, but with interest rates fluctuating constantly, it may pay to hold off on when considering consolidate student debt until the time is right.
Student debt help can come directly from the student with the choices they make during their college tenure and immediately afterwards with their student debt considerations. Many students make the right choice when they consolidate student debt. When they consider the alternative, paying sometimes high monthly payments with up and down interest rates, the choice to consolidate student debt makes the most sense.
Finding the Right Student Debt Consolidation Program
The first thing to look at is the interest rate they are offering on a loan. Also the current loan rate should be considered, both of your existing loan and the financial market percentage. This can guide you to the right student debt consolidation firm. Be sure to check the fine print before agreeing to anything. After all, this is a student debt that will be with you for a long time to come.
A resourceful student can leave a University without the rigmarole of paying hefty fees every month. The grants from many states can alleviate living expenses, as well as help a student pay for pricey textbooks. Knowing where to look for cheap textbooks can also benefit the student. Saving money by finding discount textbooks, knowing how to consolidate the student loan debt, and making the right choices regarding finances can make leaving college the exciting time it should be.
How to Save Money on Disney World Vacations
At the conclusion of most popular sporting events, athletes on the winning team smile gleefully at the camera and claim they will be going to Disney World! What better way to celebrate a victory than to retreat to a world of fantasy and childlike excitement that is Disney. But what of the expensive Disney tickets? Can a family of four find discount Disney tickets or discount Disney vacations? If you want to save money at Disney World, then online websites may hold the key to your fantastic adventure. Find Discount Disney Tickets Online
Disney theme parks have been a staple of vacation itineraries for many, many years. The influx of tourists to Orlando has brought on numerous ticket resellers and websites that cater to those wishing to save money by finding discount Disney tickets. Knowbeforeugo.com, a Florida based tourist company, allows customers to buy Disney World tickets in advance at steep discounts. The Disney magic tickets they have available are at steep discounts from the gate price. A person can also buy Flex tickets, Dinner Show tickets, as well as find hotel and rental car deals, all from their website. When planning your next Disney vacation, take a look at their site to compare the discount Disney tickets price to the competitors.
Another site, Great Orlando Discounts.com, also offers discount Disney tickets, along with other major theme parks in Orlando. Their discount ticket prices are clearly listed on the site, so you know how much you would save from the gate price. This gives customers a great opportunity to take that price and compare it to other competitors. Aside from that, the company has been in business for over 25 years, providing Orlando visitors with discount Disney tickets and other discounts for the Orlando area. It may save you money to visit their site, even if only to compare prices.
Online Travel Broker Sites
There are many ways to save money at Disney world, but first you must arrive there. Many travel sites like Travelocity offer discount Disney tickets for all the necessities of the trip, including air travel, hotel accommodations, and entry into the theme park of your choice. The discount Disney tickets provide an ideal way to plan a vacation all in one place, while still providing the ability to save money at Disney World.
How to Save Money at Disney World
There are other ways to save money at Disney World. A person could stay in an off-site hotel, instead of finding a Disney Resort room. This would greatly reduce the daily cost of the trip. The cost of food and beverages inside the park are astronomical in comparison to local restaurants outside the park. Before going to Disney World in the morning, prepare a meal in the hotel or eat at a restaurant on the way. This way you can save money by not eating the expensive food inside the park. Mouse Planet.com has compiled an incomplete list of off-site restaurants for the traveler. The park also offers discounts when you use an AMEX card, so be sure to ask before you buy anything.
Discount Broadway Tickets
New York City is the cultural center of the Western society. One of the main attractions is the famed Broadway shows. These shows, including Cats, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and much more, can be expensive to attend. However, a person with enough foresight can purchase discount Broadway tickets online through the many sites catering to tourists of New York City.
Broadwaybox.com is one site offering discount Broadway tickets to consumers. The site has tickets for virtually every show, even the sold out Broadway shows. A person can find tickets to the Blue Man Group, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, and much more at discount rates. The site also offers reviews of the shows for the more discerning. They offer discount codes to help you save money on Broadway tickets. Before traveling to New York City, take some time to look through their ticket selection. It will save you money and time on your trip, making it more enjoyable.
Discounts and Planning
By taking the time to look through the internet sites before traveling, a person can save money by finding discount Disney tickets or discount Broadway tickets. With a little planning, saving money at Disney World can happen. Simply shop outside the theme park and find tickets online before traveling. Many businesses were created to help you save money. It only takes a little time to find the best deal and begin planning for a magical vacation.
Disney theme parks have been a staple of vacation itineraries for many, many years. The influx of tourists to Orlando has brought on numerous ticket resellers and websites that cater to those wishing to save money by finding discount Disney tickets. Knowbeforeugo.com, a Florida based tourist company, allows customers to buy Disney World tickets in advance at steep discounts. The Disney magic tickets they have available are at steep discounts from the gate price. A person can also buy Flex tickets, Dinner Show tickets, as well as find hotel and rental car deals, all from their website. When planning your next Disney vacation, take a look at their site to compare the discount Disney tickets price to the competitors.
Another site, Great Orlando Discounts.com, also offers discount Disney tickets, along with other major theme parks in Orlando. Their discount ticket prices are clearly listed on the site, so you know how much you would save from the gate price. This gives customers a great opportunity to take that price and compare it to other competitors. Aside from that, the company has been in business for over 25 years, providing Orlando visitors with discount Disney tickets and other discounts for the Orlando area. It may save you money to visit their site, even if only to compare prices.
Online Travel Broker Sites
There are many ways to save money at Disney world, but first you must arrive there. Many travel sites like Travelocity offer discount Disney tickets for all the necessities of the trip, including air travel, hotel accommodations, and entry into the theme park of your choice. The discount Disney tickets provide an ideal way to plan a vacation all in one place, while still providing the ability to save money at Disney World.
How to Save Money at Disney World
There are other ways to save money at Disney World. A person could stay in an off-site hotel, instead of finding a Disney Resort room. This would greatly reduce the daily cost of the trip. The cost of food and beverages inside the park are astronomical in comparison to local restaurants outside the park. Before going to Disney World in the morning, prepare a meal in the hotel or eat at a restaurant on the way. This way you can save money by not eating the expensive food inside the park. Mouse Planet.com has compiled an incomplete list of off-site restaurants for the traveler. The park also offers discounts when you use an AMEX card, so be sure to ask before you buy anything.
Discount Broadway Tickets
New York City is the cultural center of the Western society. One of the main attractions is the famed Broadway shows. These shows, including Cats, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and much more, can be expensive to attend. However, a person with enough foresight can purchase discount Broadway tickets online through the many sites catering to tourists of New York City.
Broadwaybox.com is one site offering discount Broadway tickets to consumers. The site has tickets for virtually every show, even the sold out Broadway shows. A person can find tickets to the Blue Man Group, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, and much more at discount rates. The site also offers reviews of the shows for the more discerning. They offer discount codes to help you save money on Broadway tickets. Before traveling to New York City, take some time to look through their ticket selection. It will save you money and time on your trip, making it more enjoyable.
Discounts and Planning
By taking the time to look through the internet sites before traveling, a person can save money by finding discount Disney tickets or discount Broadway tickets. With a little planning, saving money at Disney World can happen. Simply shop outside the theme park and find tickets online before traveling. Many businesses were created to help you save money. It only takes a little time to find the best deal and begin planning for a magical vacation.
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