Ways To Work out In The Spring On A Budget

The warm weather in spring calls for you to go outside and get active. You may want to shed off some winter weight or start your fitness journey. But how can you do this without breaking the bank? Here are some suggestions:

Outdoors Yoga

Yoga is a great way to start your day, and what could be more refreshing than practicing in the great outdoors? There are plenty of yoga poses that you can do outdoors without any special equipment. Find a park or nature trail near you and get your om on!

If you are new to yoga, it might be good to attend a class or workshop first. There are plenty of free courses offered in most cities. You can also use YouTube videos as a guide.

You can connect with nature and get your workout in simultaneously with outdoor yoga. It is cheap, easy, and fun!

Work out with Friends

You can get social and get fit by working out with friends. There are so many activities that you can do as a group. Soccer, basketball, baseball, hiking, and camping are all great activities to do with friends. Not only will you get a good workout, but you will also have fun!

If you are uncertain about where to start, ask your friends for suggestions. They probably will be more than happy to share their favorite activities with you.

Working out with friends will keep you motivated and have fun. It’s also a great way to save money because you can split the cost of gas or admission fees.

Join a Cheap Gym

Gyms can be expensive, but a few gyms offer low monthly rates. If you don’t mind working out in a group setting, then a cheap gym might be good.

Most gyms offer free trials, so you can test out the facility before signing up. Make sure to ask about the monthly rates and any other fees that might apply.

If you are looking for a more personalized workout experience, you might want to invest in a personal trainer. Personal trainers can be expensive, but there are also a few that offer affordable rates.

Now that you are on a budget, you can start with a cheap gym within your budget. Just be sure to check out the rates and fees before signing up. You don’t want any surprises down the road.

Work out at Home

If you want to save some money, consider working out at home. You can use your body weight as resistance or purchase some inexpensive equipment. Additionally, working out at home is an excellent option if you are short on time.

There are plenty of workouts that you can do in your own home. YouTube is an excellent resource for finding free exercises. Just type in the type of workout you are looking for, and find tons of videos.

Working out at home is a great way to get in a workout while they play if you have kids. You can also use this time to catch up on your favorite show or podcast.

Working out at home is cheap, convenient, and accessible. You can tailor the workout to fit your own needs and schedule.

Walk or Run in your Neighborhood

There are many ways to get fit in spring, but walking or running in your neighborhood is the cheapest and most accessible. It is free, and it is also a great way to see your area. If you are looking for a more challenging workout, try running hills.

If you are new to running, start by walking first. Then, slowly work your way up to running. You might also want to try out the Couch to 5k program.

The best part about walking or running in your neighborhood is that you can do it whenever you have time. There is no need to make reservations or drive somewhere. Just put on your shoes and go!

Get a Bike

Outdoor cycling will give you a great workout while enjoying the spring weather. You can find bikes relatively cheaply or even borrow one from a friend.

Cycles can offer a great cardio workout, and if you stick to hills and terrain that are a little more challenging, you can add strength training to your routine.

Research shows that cyclists also have lower rates of heart disease and cancer, so getting on your bike is a great way to improve your health! If you’re not used to cycling, start slowly and build up the distance and intensity of your rides. You don’t want to injure yourself before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Outdoor Sports

Spring is the best time to join the group sports or start a game that you have wanted to do. Many cities have free leagues for softball, soccer, or basketball. You can also find groups that play tag or frisbee golf.

Joining a group is a great way to make friends and have fun. Most of these sports are also very social, so you can chat with your friends while working up a sweat.

These sports are a great way to stay active, but they are also affordable. You don’t need any fancy equipment or gear, just a good pair of sneakers.

One of the sports that are growing in popularity is pick-up soccer. It is a great way to exercise and have fun with friends.

Swim at the Local Pool

Swimming is a great workout, and you can swim in any weather. Swimming is a low-impact exercise, so it is excellent for people just starting to get active.

Swimming is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health, and it is also a great way to tone your body. Not to mention, swimming is a lot of fun.

Most communities have public pools open during the spring and summer months.

Join a YMCA or Community Center Health Club

If you are looking for a more structured workout, joining a YMCA or community center might be the right option. These facilities offer a variety of classes and activities that can help you meet your fitness goals.

The best part about joining a YMCA or community center is that the cost is often meagre. In some cases, you can join for free. You also have the option of purchasing a membership that fits your budget.

The spring is a great time to get active and stay healthy. There are many ways to work out without spending a lot of money. You can walk, run, cycle, play sports, or swim at the local pool. You can also join a YMCA or community center health club. Whatever option you choose, make sure to fit it into your schedule and needs. It should also be safe and effective. Remember to have fun and stay healthy!

The benefits of an installment loan

Are you afraid to take out a loan? Do you worry that the payments will be too much, that the fees will be too far apart, or that the loan won’t make a difference? Consider taking out an installment loan. For many people, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to take out a loan.

However, there is not much to think about when it comes to installment loans. Installment loans provide you with many benefits that you will not find in another type of loan. Installment loans are personal loans that you can take out online and repay over time.

An installment loan breaks down the amount you borrow into equal payments spread out over several months. The installments are easier to pay back than a lump sum payment or a monthly credit card bill.

Here are some reasons why an installment loan might be right for you.

Installment loans can be customized

You can borrow just enough money to cover unexpected expenses or a life emergency, like a medical bill or car repair, without worrying about paying interest on a much larger loan than you need.

It’s also possible to take out an installment loan with a low-interest rate and fixed monthly payments if you don’t want to pay more than what’s necessary over the life of the loan. You’ll know exactly how much interest you’ll be paying by the end of the repayment period, so there won’t be any surprises with your monthly bills.

It is also possible to customize your repayment schedule to fit your needs even if you have seasonal income or work at an hourly job with different hours every week. Installment loans also allow borrowers with bad credit to get cheap personal loans.

They can show financial stability and pay back over time rather than in one lump sum payment as with payday loans. Installment loans with installment payments are flexible enough to support borrowers who prefer to make periodic payments rather than a lump-sum payment each month.

They are great if you need money fast

Getting a short-term loan with no credit check isn’t easy. But it’s possible with an installment loan.

Getting approved for the loan is fast because it doesn’t involve a credit check. You only need to provide information about your income and bank account to get started. In some cases, you can even get approved for an installment loan in minutes!

Installment loans can be short-term

With an installment loan, you have the freedom to choose how much money to borrow and for how long. The loan can help if you need emergency cash to pay for an unexpected car repair but don’t want to deal with paying back thousands of dollars over several years.

Short-term loans let you borrow what you need without paying very high-interest rates or being tied to a specific repayment schedule.

Installment loans are easy to understand and do not require extensive paperwork

The only information you need about your installment loan application is your name, address, income, and bank account information. These are all standard details in applying for a loan from your local bank.

There is no complicated paperwork to sign, no credit check, and no lengthy application process with long waiting periods. You can have money transferred straight into your bank account when you fill out a short application.

Installment Loans Help You Plan Your Budget and Track Your Spending

When you apply for an installment loan, your due date is set in stone at the beginning of your repayment period. It allows you to plan and build your budget around what you know will happen when it comes time to repay your bills.

Knowing exactly how much needs to go out of your bank account each month helps you avoid falling behind on your bills or spending more than you can afford. Installment loans allow you to monitor your spending and budget on a month-to-month basis.

An Installment Loan Can Help You Improve Your Credit Score

One of the biggest reasons people don’t want to take out a loan is because they’re afraid it will hurt their credit score. But if you have bad credit, especially if you have no credit history at all, then taking out an installment loan can help you improve your score by showing potential lenders that you’re responsible with money and can be trusted.

It can also help you re-establish your credit history to take out other loans later down the road when you need them.

Refinancing opportunities

When you take out an installment loan and repay the money each month, it improves your credit score, which means you can get approved for other types of loans in the future with lower interest rates and better terms.

Installment loans also have lower interest rates than most other loans, which means less money paid in interest over time. If you can get a better interest rate on an installment loan than what you’re getting on a current loan, you can refinance it to save money.

Multiple options available

There are many different types of installment loans available for you to choose from. Fixed-rate loans allow you to select a monthly payment that fits your budget. Unsecured installment loans are easy to get because they don’t require collateral, like a car title, to prove you’ll repay the money. Variable-rate loans allow you to pay off the loan early if you can afford it.

These options are available to you when you decide to take out an installment loan. You must choose the one that best fits your needs and your budget. Find out how each loan works and ask questions about other criteria before deciding which one to apply for.

With so many options available, the more you know about the various types of loans, the easier it will be to pick one that works with your current financial situation.

There are many benefits to taking out an installment loan. Installment loans give you the freedom to make significant purchases, including automobiles and homes, without worrying about being stuck with payment for years.

Call us at Cash For Whatever today to finalize your loan!

Top 10 Outdoor Spring Activities

Spring break is fast approaching, and you can’t wait to feel the warm sun and cool breeze on your face while you enjoy the outdoors. It is a time when you can enjoy various fun outdoor activities that create precious family memories. Many great ideas will keep your whole family entertained as you bond with your kids while they still think it’s a cool thing to hang out together. After the long cold winter, it would be nice to get out there and soak up the pleasant weather and celebrate spring.

Here are some simple ways to have a splendid time during spring break.

Go Camping

Although the weather might still be a little chilly at this time in some parts, camping is a great idea. Kids enjoy the real-life adventure that the woods offer, so grab a tent, pack your bags, and set out to camp. You will need proper camping gear, including sleeping bags and other camping equipment, to make this possible.

You do not necessarily have to leave the confines of your compound to camp as you can do it in your backyard. It can be fun setting up a tent together, sleeping outdoors, and cooking outdoors. You will get the feeling of being away from home without the stress of travelling or even forgetting stuff.

Go Sailing

Spring break is not a perfect time for the beach as the weather is not yet warm enough. However, if your family enjoys anything to do with water, then you can take a sailboat and sail to the horizon. It would be a perfect opportunity for your kids to have fun fishing and playing while the adults relax in the cool breeze and sunshine. You could bring some friends with you and spend your day barbequing and playing games.

Take a Road Trip

Road trips are always fun as you get to visit various cities while making stops for sightseeing. It is a budget-friendly family activity since you do not have to book expensive hotels to have a fabulous weekend away from home. Your kids will enjoy visiting new places, and you may as well take them to some famous places such as historical sites on the way.

Have a Picnic

Spring is a time when the outdoors are lush green, and you will enjoy playing and spending time on the grass fields. You can plan for a family picnic either in the park or elsewhere appropriate to enjoy eating and drinking while playing all kinds of outdoor games. As a parent, you can take this time to engross yourself in your favourite book while the kids enjoy playing around.

Treasure Hunting

All kids love treasure hunts where they compete to solve riddles, and they are pretty easy to set up. You only need to set aside one evening and get creative with clues while hiding things as they sleep. Have prizes and sweet treats for them when they solve the mystery to make the hunt worth their time. You can encourage them to have some friends over so that the game can be more fun.

Gardening

Home gardening is usually not done during the cold winter months, and spring is a perfect time to set up a garden if you want to have it all summer long. You can get creative on how you want to use or improve your outdoor space. You can choose to plant fruits and vegetables or privacy bushes, flowers, and shrubs in your backyard. Involve your kids in selecting the flowers to grow and teach them how to take care of the garden.

Bike Riding

Family bike riding can be a great pastime during summer if your family like sports. It is a great way to exercise and be outside together while your kids try out their new biking skills. Biking, just like hiking, can be easy or challenging depending on whether you choose to go for road biking or mountain biking along the trails. Make sure to have additional clothing and equipment if you ride in the chilly spring weather.

Go Hiking

Hiking can be a wonderful experience as your kids will enjoy seeing different plants and creatures while they savour breathtaking sceneries. It requires little equipment, but you need to wear proper hiking shoes and a backpack for the necessities. Just like biking, you will get a good workout. Pick a family-friendly trail that you are sure your kids will manage, and always let someone know where you are heading, and the time you expect to return.

Make a Splash in the rain

Have fun in the spring rain showers to the fullest by putting on your rain gear and heading out to play in the puddles. Make mud pies, see who makes the biggest splash, get dirty and revel in the boggy mess. You can have much fun in the rain, like singing, making boats from recycled items, and collecting the rain in different containers to produce different sounds. It may seem childish, but your kids will have a wonderful time sharing the experience with you.

Fly a Kite

The spring winds are great for kite flying in the park or open fields with no trees or power lines nearby. Kids love kites, and even when the wind is not favourable for the kites to fly, you will still find them having fun trying to get them to go up. You can combine this with other activities like creating a windsock, pinwheel or weather vane to catch the wind, and your kids will learn more about the wind.

Spring break is a time with lots of fun activities, and you only need to be creative enough to find something exciting to do. Much of the action takes place outside as the weather is perfect, and people are tired of the restrictions that come with winter. However, you can make good use of your time at home or in the neighborhood if you don’t feel like venturing to distant place to have fun. The kind of fun you decide to have depends on your budget and flexibility.

Spring Recipe and Grilling Ideas

For us, winter isn’t all bad, especially amid the chilly air in December. The change of season feels fun and comfy as we don our cozy scarfs and other early winter wears.

However, as we push through the first and second months of the year, things get nasty with the random snowstorms and the freezing temperatures. All you wish is for the shorter days and the weather they bring with them to be all gone.

All you can think about is an outdoor weekend behind the grill when spring kicks in. In this write-up, we’ve rounded up some of the best spring recipes and grilling ideas that will keep you outdoors and on a budget.

Fresh Grilled Corn on the Cob

For those who are yet to know the hallmarks of the spring and summer seasons, grilled corn on the cob is one of them. You can pair grilled corn with grilled vegetables, or if you want to take the budget a little higher occasionally, you can have smoked pork or grilled hamburgers.

You can pull back the husks to form a handle that you can hold while grilling or use it to hang the corn on the grill. Add on to the smoky flavor using flavor twists or pepper to take the sweetness to the next level.

Spring Onion Risotto and Fresh Peas

Frozen peas are an excellent recipe for any season, but the sweetness and firm tenderness that comes with fresh peas make them the best specialty for spring, and there is no better way than to accompany them with risotto.

Risotto can come with Parmesan cheese and Arborio rice, but you can add any other gems from the farm just to have a more comprehensive capture of the season on a plate. Substitutions can also be made based on what your local market offers.

Asparagus and Pizza

Asparagus is a perfect guest at your grill all spring long if you love veggies. It’s a quintessential vegetable for the spring, and welcoming pizza on the ingredients makes it a great spring recipe combination for the grill.

You can add to the spring pizza and fresh grilled asparagus’ crispness and sweetness with a mix of chives, garlic, and savory cheese.

Rigatoni with Grilled Veggies and Mozzarella

This vegetarian dish is among the summertime pasta dishes that are sure to keep you on your toes in the spring. You can use veggies like tomatoes or eggplant to bring the smoky note or even grilled herbs and cheese.

It is excellent for any time in spring and still feels perfect even when served cold.

Spring Salad and Potatoes

With so many delicacies ready for harvesting in spring, it’s always easy to create an entire green market-rich salad at the lowest budget. For this recipe, you can use the seasonal fresh potatoes for the better part then supplement them with aromatic ingredients like peas, onions, and radishes.

You can always substitute the veggies for anything your local market offers, including asparagus.

Sweet Potatoes with Chimichurri

If your pantry has some sweet potatoes left by spring, the grilled sweet potatoes with chimichurri recipe will provide you with a simple way to waste away a weekend behind the grill.

All you need is to wrap the sweet potatoes in packets of foil, and you can even grill them alongside the main dish. You will love how quickly and tender they cook up and will not even mess up your grill or dishes.

Curry Roasted Carrots

If you are more concerned about enjoying an outdoor grilling inexpensively, there is no better way to go than opt for roasted carrots. The little finessing you need is coating your carrots with a blend of spices and roasting them just enough to bring out the natural flavor.

Grilled Mushroom Skewers

Try grilled mushrooms on skewers, and you will deal with the cravings for the rest of the grilling season. You can serve them with grilled fish or meat for the main dish or an appetizer with grilled bread.

To add to the smoked mushroom flavor, you can add three cloves of chopped garlic for two pounds of mushroom and a little thyme, parsley, and red chili pepper flakes.

Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Bacon and Brussels form a great combination that you can always take to the next level by grilling. The mixture on the grill introduces an added savory feel to the sprouts and a whole new smoky flavor to the dish.

Pkhali

Pkhali is walnut and Georgian spinach dip that provides you with a pretty unique and cheap grilling recipe when you have plenty of spinach. However, you may not find it cheap considering the pricey walnuts, which is why sunflower or pumpkin seeds are still great options.

The fresh spinach pulls an excellent smoky aromatic, and you can still add some supporting spices like parsley, coriander, and garlic just for the flavor and aroma.

Grilled Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

You don’t have to spend an entire weekend afternoon behind the grill to enjoy this sophisticated grill recipe.  You can typically have it ready in a flash after tucking shrimp, veggies, and cilantro into lettuce leaves. However, it requires several ingredients, including shrimp, lettuce leaves, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar marinade, sugar, salt, radishes, and carrots.

Once everything gets set, it can take as little as 20 minutes, and you can have it as an appetizer or light lunch. The carrots and radishes may feel a little crunchy, but this adds to the charred flavor of the shrimp from the grill.

Lemon Pasta with Arugula

Lemon pasta is an excellent idea to lighten and brighten your spring on the grill. The pasta will get a fresh spicing kick from arugula. The larger the arugula leaf, the spicier your pasta feels. Most stores pack up arugula all year round, so you can still smoke some even beyond spring.

Grilling is always fun when you have your favorite ingredients and the time to do it all spring long. However, it’s easy to go out of options if not your pantry stock, and that’s why we prepared the above spring recipe and grilling ideas. They will help you try something different next spring and keep your grilling budget low. 

Where to shop for Spring Clothes on a budget

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to celebrate the season than by shopping for some new clothes! But if you’re on a budget, that can be a challenge. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This article will discuss some great places to shop for Spring clothes on a budget. It includes online and in-person stores, so you can find the best deal no matter where you are.

Let’s get started on nine places where to shop for Spring Clothes on a budget:

Amazon

Amazon’s selection is vast, and you can find everything from dresses to jeans to shoes. The best part? Prices are usually very reasonable, and they often have sales.

They often have great deals on clothing, so you can find what you’re looking for without breaking the bank. Be sure to check out their sale section for some fantastic deals on Spring clothing.

Target

Target always has great deals on clothing for the whole family – and you can usually find something for both men and women at a reasonable price. They also have a good return policy if you need to change your mind after buying something.

Additionally, if you use your Target REDcard, you can get an additional five percent off your purchase! That can add up when you’re buying many clothes.

If you’re looking for somewhere to shop in person, Target is a great option. They have stores all over the country, so chances are there’s one near you. And like we said before, their prices are very reasonable. So if you’re looking to do some Spring shopping on a budget, Target should be your first stop.

Old Navy

Old Navy always has the latest fashion trends, usually very stylish and trendy, perfect for Spring! Also, their prices are very reasonable. If shopping for spring clothes on a budget is what you’re looking for, then Old Navy should be your go-to store.

They typically have sales going on, so you can snag some fantastic deals on clothing. Old Navy is an excellent option if you’re looking for somewhere to shop in person. They have stores all over the United States, so you’re likely to find one near you. Old Navy is also a great choice if you’re looking for an online option.

They offer free shipping on orders over $50, so you can get your clothes delivered right to your door. Plus, they often have sales going on, so you can snag some fantastic deals on clothing.

No matter where you choose to shop, Old Navy is an excellent option for affordable Spring clothes.

Walmart

When it comes to finding affordable Spring clothes, it is essential to think outside the box, and Walmart is a great place to start. You can find everything you need for your Spring wardrobe at Walmart, including tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories.

They have a wide variety of styles and brands to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that you love. Plus, their prices are unbeatable. And, if you use your Walmart credit card, you can get an additional three percent off your purchase! That can add up when you’re buying many clothes.

Walmart is a fantastic alternative if you seek a store to go shopping in. They have shops all over the country, so you’ll be able to find one close by. If you’re searching for some low-cost Spring shopping, Walmart should be your first stop.

They also offer free shipping on orders over $35, so you can get your clothes delivered right to your door. And like we said before, they have a wide variety of clothing options, so you’re sure to find something you love.

Kohl’s

Kohl’s is a department store chain with more than 1,100 stores in 49 states. The company offers a wide range of affordable clothing for men, women, children, home goods, jewelry, and cosmetics. Kohl’s also has a generous return policy and often runs sales and promotions.

They always have great sales going on, and you can often find coupons online or in the Sunday paper. Their clearance section is also worth checking out – you can sometimes find some great deals!

Kohl’s is a fantastic place to go if you’re looking for somewhere to get some new spring clothes on a budget. They have frequent sales, so you might often discover something at an affordable price. Furthermore, their clearance area is always worth a look – you may happen upon a hidden treasure!

TJ Maxx

If you’re looking to save money on your spring wardrobe, TJ Maxx is the place to go. They always have a great selection of clothes at affordable prices. You can find everything from designer brands to everyday basics at TJ Maxx.

TJ Maxx store is great because they carry name-brand items at discounted prices. You can often find clothing, shoes, and accessories for up to 60% off the original price.

TJ Maxx is a great place to check out if you’re looking to save money on spring clothes. They have discounts on well-known brands, so you can often find something stylish without spending too much. Plus, they tend to have a good variety of sizes and styles available.

H&M

If your spring budget is tight, you might want to check out H&M. They always have a great selection of clothes for every season, and their prices are reasonable.

They have a wide variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children. You can often find good deals on clearance items as well.

If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends but don’t want to spend much money, H&M is the place for you. They offer reasonably priced clothes, shoes, and accessories for everyone in the family. Plus, their clearance section is always worth checking out!

These are just a few of the many places where you can find budget-friendly spring clothes. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to find everything you need to look great this season!

Macy’s

Macy’s is one of the most popular places to shop for clothes, and they offer a wide variety of items at various price points. Macy’s has some fantastic deals on clothing, especially if you’re looking for name brands.

They have a wide variety of items to choose from, and you can often find good deals on clearance items. Macy’s also has a rewards program that allows you to earn points for every purchase you make.

Macy’s is an excellent option if you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all your spring clothing needs. Not only do they have a wide selection of clothes, but you can also find some good deals on clearance items. Additionally, their rewards program lets you rack up points with every purchase – meaning even more savings down the road!

Lulus

Lulus is an online-only store that specializes in trendy and chic clothing. They offer a wide variety of items, and their prices are very reasonable.

They have a great selection of spring dresses, which are perfect if you’re looking for something to wear to a wedding or another formal event. Additionally, they have a good selection of casual clothes if you’re looking for something to wear around town.

One downside to Lulus is that they don’t have a physical store, so you can’t try on the clothes before you buy them. However, their return policy is very lenient. If you end up ordering the wrong size, you can always send it back.

Overall, Lulus is a great option if you’re looking for fashionable and affordable clothing. Their prices are reasonable, and they have a wide selection of items to choose from. Just be aware that you can’t try the clothes on before you buy them!

So there you have it, nine great places to shop for budget-friendly spring clothes! These are just a few of the many places where you can find budget-friendly spring clothes. No matter your style, you’re sure to find something you love at one of these stores. Happy shopping!

How to Start Saving for the Summer

The summer months will soon be upon us, and now is the time to start saving for your summer activities. Whether you’re planning to take a luxurious vacation or just want to spend extra time with the family, the following tips will help you save your money to have your best summer ever. Read on to learn what you should start implementing today.

Trim Your Budget

If you haven’t started already, now is the perfect time to get a budget in place and stick to it. While creating a budget can feel overwhelming, it’s significantly easier when you look at it as a financial check-up. Look for ways you can save, including cutting back on carry-out, skipping trips to the movies or getting rid of those streaming services you’re no longer using. These small cuts will save you hundreds of dollars before summer begins.

Start a Vacation Account

One of the prime things people look forward to during the summer is going on vacation. With the average American spending north of a thousand dollars on their seasonal trip, there is a possibility of going into debt to have a fun time. To avoid this common pitfall, it’s integral to save money for your vacation, and one of the best ways to do this is by opening an account strictly for vacation funds. A savings account will also increase in value thanks to favorable interest rates, allowing you to gain even more money for your trip.

Sell Extra Stuff

One of the benefits of spring cleaning is finding all those extra things you don’t need. However, just because you don’t need them doesn’t mean someone else doesn’t. To start raising money for summer, consider hosting a garage sale to get rid of all those knick-knacks, extra clothing and odds-and-ends. Not only will you earn some extra cash, but you’ll also be rehoming things that someone else could really use.

Check Appliances

How are your appliances holding up? During the winter months, you likely weren’t letting your AC unit blare, but problems may have set in that season. There’s nothing worse than turning on your unit for the first time only to discover it’s not working, or have it quit working on the hottest day of the year. Luckily, a certified AC specialist will be able to make sure your system will work properly. Your AC system isn’t the only thing you should examine either. Now is the perfect time to look at installing energy-efficient appliances as well as making small decisions like washing clothes in cold water to save money on your energy bills.

Book Your Vacation Now

You’re excited to take the kids on vacation this year as soon as school ends, and now is the perfect time to book those summer plans. Many hotels and attractions will offer early-bird discounts on their services, allowing you to save hundreds of dollars. The best part? Many prices are simply lock-in, meaning you won’t have to pay until you reach your destination, allowing you to spend your vacation fund.

Pay Down Debt

While not the most fun item on our list, paying down debt should be a top concern. Look at lowering your credit card bills and catching up on late items when you can to ensure you go into the summer either debt-free or with a significant reduction in your bills. Your bank account will thank you.

Shop Smarter and Coupon

One of the best things about Spring and Summer are all the fresh produce that comes in season. From apples to zucchini, you’ll find that a plethora of produce is now available to you. Take this as your sign to shop smarter, focusing on products that are in season to significantly lower your grocery bill. Consider couponing to save on essentials like hygiene products. By shopping sales and couponing, you can save hundreds of dollars a month. Finally, remember that many businesses will offer spring sales, so now is the perfect time to buy bigger ticket items you’ll utilize this summer.

Turn Off the Heater

Depending on where you are in the world, you may be experiencing some wonderful weather right now, even if for just a few hours a day. Take the time to turn off your heater and open up your windows to allow fresh air to flow in your home while keeping yourself at a comfortable temperature.

Look for Free Events

Does your town offer a Spring Festival? A collection of local musicians? As the weather warms up, more and more areas will be offering free events for families to attend. From fairs to park concerts, your town likely has an assortment of free or very low-cost events that you can spend a few hours at on the weekends. These events are an excellent option for those looking to have some fun without breaking the bank before their vacation.

Get Outside for Exercise

If the gym doesn’t motivate you, consider moving your workouts outside. Many people find outdoor exercise invigorating as well as worry-free. You’ll be getting your daily dose of vitamin D while also burning calories for swimsuit season. Furthermore, look to see if your neighborhood has a walking or hiking group so you can talk to your neighbors while getting fit.

Save Your Tax Refund

One thing most people look forward to is their annual tax refund, and it can help make your vacation the best yet. Take the time to save as much as your refund as you can to make the most of your trip. While it can feel like that money is burning a hole in your pocket, it can go far if you save it for a specific event.

Saving for your summer doesn’t have to be a painful process. Whether you create a vacation account to save money for your dream trip, shop seasonally to get the best grocery bills or attend your city’s free events, you can save plenty of money this year while also having the best summer possible.

Saving Money in the Spring

Spring cleaning will soon be upon us, but it’s also a perfect time to start saving and get your finances in order. From shopping within your own home to cooking what’s in season, Spring offers plenty of opportunities to save money for the rest of your year.

Shop in Your Own Home

While most people will take this as looking through their closets (which you should definitely do as well), shopping in your own home isn’t limited to clothing. When you start cleaning, really look at everything you have. Do you have a lot of kitchen gadgets? How about tools like hammers and screwdrivers? Shopping around your home allows you to see exactly what you have and narrow down what you actually need. You’ll be shocked by how many duplicates you have floating around the house, and Spring is the perfect time to clear everything out and find those hidden treasures you forgot you owned.

Make Your Cleaners

Cleaning supplies and organizers are expensive, but you don’t need to spend all your hard-earned money on them! You’d be shocked how far baking soda and white vinegar can get you, and most of the time these homemade cleaners are much cheaper than what you would find at the store. There are an assortment of recipes for cleaners online, and the best part is most of them are completely non-toxic, which means kids and pets won’t be taking a trip to the doctor if they get in your cleaning basket. As far as organizers, check out your local dollar store or get creative with old cereal and shipping boxes to create an organized home you’ll love.

Plan and Plant Your Garden

Gardening can be an extremely rewarding hobby. You’re not only getting your daily sunlight needs, but you’re nurturing, growing and harvesting your family’s food. The first thing to do if you decide to garden this year is to take a look at what you actually want to plant. Are you a tomato fiend? Want to have plenty of zucchini to last you the year? Think about what you and your family will actually eat before you start digging in the ground. If you have limited space, you can garden as well by using container gardening or aqua systems that allow you to garden indoors. Finally, if gardening outside, look at local planting guides to ensure your vegetables come in on time.

Stock Up for Winter Months

Stores carry an assortment of winter staples well into the spring, and many will get severely marked down in the Spring months as summer stock arrives. This is the perfect time for you to purchase jackets, gloves and boots for the following winter as well as snow gear like shovels and blowers. Finally, don’t forget holidays like Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter. Most decorations for these holidays will be severely marked down, and it’s the perfect time to get ready for next year by stocking up on décor and goodies now.

Make a Budget

With all your wonderful spring-cleaning finds, it’s important to start budgeting for the year by narrowing down what you actually need and looking for ways to fit it in. If you plan on gardening more this year, look at ways you can save on groceries over the coming months once your produce starts to come in. Also look to trim the fat on other areas of your life as well, such as entertainment costs or cell phone bills. You’ll find you’ll be spending less in no time.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Spring brings plenty of warmer weather, and it’s integral for you to enjoy the outdoors as things start to warm up. Many towns and cities will offer outdoor festivals, parades, fairs and other activities that allow you to spend the day outdoors for free or very cheaply. Not looking for social gatherings? No problem. Spring is the perfect time for family-based outdoor activities as well, such as hiking, to allow you to have fun in the sun without spending a dime.

Eat From Your Pantry

During the winter, you likely stocked up your pantry and slowly worked your way through your food stash. However, we’re willing to bet there are still plenty of canned and jarred goods hanging out in there. Spring is the perfect time to get through the last of your winter foods as you prepare space for what you’re going to can and buy for next winter over the coming months.

Open Some Windows

One of the best things about spring is the warming weather, and now is the perfect time to open up some windows and turn off your heating system. Not only will you be enjoying the weather and what it has to offer, but you’ll also get to air out your house which can remove odors that built up during the winter. Finally, further lower your electric bill by relying on natural lighting over turning on lightbulbs all the time.

Cook in Season

While many people think of spring as being for planting, it also welcomes a host of produce coming into season. Some food items you can expect to see coming into season include:

  • Apricots
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Collard Greens
  • Garlic
  • Lemons
  • Mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Pineapples
  • Spinach
  • Strawberries
  • Turnips

By shopping in season for your produce, you’ll be able to severely reduce your grocery bill each month. In-season produce will typically need to make a shorter journey to get to you; therefore, grocers won’t need to mark it up. Finally, you can save even more by visiting your local farmer’s market.

Spring is an excellent time to get your finances in order and start saving for the rest of the year. From cleaning out your home to find items you forgot you had to cooking with in-season produce, Spring offers a multitude of ways to lower your budget so you can save more money. Take the time to plan and save and start planning where you’ll spend!

Spring Holidays

Spring is just around the corner, and that means a full holiday season will soon be upon us. From making your own version of Mardi Gras on March 1st to commemorating Memorial Day on May 30th, the spring months hosts plenty of holidays for you to celebrate with your family and friends. Keep reading to learn ways to celebrate the spring holidays.

Mardi Gras – March 1st

Mardi Gras, meaning “Fat Tuesday” in French, is traditionally a time of excess as people fit in everything they want before Lent. Celebrated by religious and non-religious people alike, Mardi Gras has since become a big party for everyone. To celebrate at home, you’ll first want to make sure you have all the foods you’d eat in New Orleans, such as po’boys, hushpuppies and a king cake. The last one can be difficult to find, but it’s essentially a purple, yellow and green cake with a plastic baby inside. Whoever finds the baby is said to be bestowed with luck. If you drink alcohol, consider stocking up on some Louisiana brews or make some Sazernacs, the official cocktail of New Orleans. Next, get some masks and decorations that allow you and your friends to celebrate in style. Finally, play some jazz music in the background and celebrate the night away.

Saint Patrick’s Day – March 17th

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, and cities around the world celebrate in style. However, if your town doesn’t have an annual St. Patty’s Day celebration, you can still have a special event at home. Corned beef and cabbage is an easy meal to make on top of being the traditional dish served, especially with a few slices of soda bread on the side. Beer drinkers will love sampling different variations of green beer as well. More of a purist? Guinness is likely the right choice for you. Don’t like beer? Try an Irish Coffee with brown sugar for an extra dose of sweetness. Whether you put on green from head to toe or wear a little Shamrock somewhere on your outfit, Saint Patty’s Day is an easy holiday to get in the festive spirit.

Easter Sunday – April 17th

Easter is about the resurrection of Christ for Christians; however, many people from all backgrounds have their own Easter-themed celebrations—including a visit from the Easter Bunny. The night before is perfect for dying eggs with the kids before hosting an egg hunt in your yard or around the house. If you want to go the extra mile for kids, consider renting or purchasing an Easter Bunny costume for a memorable celebration that won’t be forgotten. Finally, consider whipping up some Easter staples, including cakes, deviled eggs, a roast turkey or ham and plenty of sides for a feast your friends and family will love.

Earth Day – April 22nd

Earth Day is all about working together to save our planet, and this is the perfect holiday to get your kids involved in making the world a better place. There is a multitude of different things you can do to help the planet, including being car-free for the day, starting a recycling program at home or even making a birdhouse for feathered friends. Regardless of how you choose to spend your Earth Day, it’s important to remember to take the time to make the world a better place for everyone.

Arbor Day – April 29th

Closely related to Earth Day (and only a week apart), Arbor Day revolves around trees. Of course, the most popular and traditional way to celebrate is by planting a tree. However, not everyone has the space to plant, especially if they live in an apartment. For those looking to celebrate, consider sponsoring a tree being planted, reading more about trees with the kids or volunteering somewhere in the community to complete tasks like cleaning up a park or making a group donation to a charity.

Cinco de Mayo – May 5th

Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s victory in the Battle of Puebla against the French, and it’s one of the most fun and festive holidays on our list. You can easily host your own holiday spectacular by decorating your home in bright, festive colors or by ordering decorations made just for the holiday. Of course, the most popular element of any Cinco de Mayo celebration is the food, and now is the perfect time to whip up some enchiladas and perfect your tamale-making skills. Finally, take the time to learn more about the history of our neighbors to the south and why the holiday means so much to the people of Mexico.

Mother’s Day – May 8th

Mother’s Day is the one say of the year to celebrate your mother (or mother figure), and you can come up with a myriad of ways to celebrate what makes your mom so great. If you still live with her, consider making her breakfast in bed and giving her a break from household chores. If you live nearby, throw a surprise party with her friends after you’ve spent the day together. Finally, if mom lives far away, take the time to give her a phone call and have flowers or chocolates delivered for a holiday neither one of you will forget.

Memorial Day – May 30th

Memorial Day tends to get used as the marker for summer beginning; however, it’s also time to remember the soldier who died for our country. Before the picnics and barbeques, take the time to attend a Memorial Day ceremony or parade and consider decorating the graves of fallen soldiers at your local cemetery.

The spring months offer plenty of holiday cheer for those looking to spend their time with family and friends. From donning your best purple, yellow and green mask for Mardi Gras to remembering our fallen soldiers on Memorial Day, you can make this spring a holiday season to remember. Whether you decide to throw a few parties or take time to celebrate each holiday with your family, remember that each day offers plenty of activities that everyone will love.

Shopping for Valentines Day on a Budget

Valentine’s Day is dedicated to romance, and one of the main ways people celebrate is by purchasing gifts for one another. However, if budgets are tight this year, it can feel difficult to find a gift that’s perfect for both your partner and your budget. Luckily, we’re here to help. Read on to learn how to shop for Valentine’s Day this year while staying within your budget.

Budget Before the Holiday

Look for ways to cut down on expenses by writing down your income and listing your expenses. Certain things like rent and utilities obviously need to be paid, but what can you cut down on? For example, if you get a coffee every day, consider making your caffeine fix at home for the month or get a basic weekly car wash rather than the deluxe. Small changes like this can save you a couple hundred dollars a month, which is perfect for your Valentine’s Day shopping budget.

Set Your Budget and Stick to It

You’ve carefully crafted your budget and are ready to go shopping. As you look around, you find the one item you know will blow your loved one’s socks off. The only problem? It’s a several hundred dollars over your price range. It can be tempting to go over your budget this one time to get the present; however, depending on your finances, you might be in a financial limbo for several weeks or months if you do. When you create your budget, attempt to stick to it as closely as possible rather than stretching yourself thin. You’ll find another perfect gift in your price range in no time.

Shop for Great Deals

Just because it’s Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean you only need to shop at expensive stores. Plenty of cheaper brands stock great gifts your loved one will cherish. For example, your local dollar store likely has an assortment of items just waiting to get placed in the perfect gift basket. Take the time to look at what cheaper stores have to offer and save some serious money while you’re shopping for the right gift for your loved one.

Turn to Staples

With the holiday upon us, many stores will happily put their wares on sale to become your loved one’s present. Jewelers, florists and candy makers consider February a big month for sales, and they’re all competing to get you through their doors. Take the time to see which brands are offering deep discounts for the holiday. You might find that perfect gift for much less than it would normally be.

Consider Personalization

Does your loved one drink coffee on a regular basis? Do they love to get the latest bestseller from their favorite bookstore? More and more companies are now offering personalization on their products, allowing you to create something that’s truly unique for the person you care about. From mugs to bookbags to wine bottles, your loved one can receive something that has themselves written all over it.

Get Creative

Many times, people are looking for a gift that’s from the heart rather than something you spent thousands of dollars on. This is where crafting comes in handy. Scroll through Pinterest or Instagram to get great ideas on something you can make for your loved one using tools and supplies you already have around the house. Think about what your recipient likes and will use as well. There’s little sense in giving someone something they’ll rarely use. Finally, remember that you don’t need to make something that’s big or elaborate either. Small things like a photo album or cookies are much appreciated as well.

Make a Date Night

Many people focus on gifts for Valentine’s Day, but a great date night can mean more to people than anything you purchase. Is your partner a devoted concertgoer? Do they spend hours on end looking at vintage cars? Think about things your partner likes doing and plan your Valentine’s Day date night around their favorite activity. Want to up the awe factor? Consider taking them to the first place you met for dinner or take them shopping to that antique store you know they love. They’ll get a fun night they’ll never forget while you’ll have created the perfect experience to show them how much you love them.

Buy Some Favorites

What’s your significant other’s favorite candy? Their t-shirt brand? Their wine brand? Oftentimes, it can be tempting to give someone something that’s new, exciting and expensive for Valentine’s Day, but favorites are much more likely to win over your lover. Take some time to think about what you know they love and go shopping for a few of these favorites to make a Valentine’s Day present that means more to your loved one than anything else you could purchase. By selecting things you know mean a lot to them, you’re showing that you notice the small details that keep your loved one going.

Look for Valentine’s Day-Themed Gifts

Just like other holidays, Valentine’s Day offers plenty of holiday-themed gifts. As the day creeps nearer and nearer, store owners start to worry about their themed stock selling and will commonly mark it down. While you probably won’t find that exact thing you were eying a couple weeks ago, you can find some low clearance prices that will fit into nearly anyone’s budget. Of course, the cheapest prices are after Valentine’s Day, so consider doing some after-holiday shopping as well.

Shopping for Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank. From creating a budget and shopping for great deals to creating a new, cherished possession and taking them to their favorite restaurant on date night, Valentine’s Day can become your loved one’s favorite holiday without you needing to spend a lot. Take the time to think about what your significant other loves, and shop for or make a gift you know they’ll love. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day and remember that it’s the thought that counts rather than how much you spend.

4 Friendly Banks

Are you looking for a new bank? With a seemingly endless number of banks looking to add you to their roster, it can feel overwhelming when deciding who to bank with. Some banks offer great benefits, like numerous locations, but charge high overdraft fees while others require large minimum deposits if you want to get the most benefits from your account. In short, choosing a bank is tough, and finding a quality bank that works for you is even tougher. Luckily, the online landscape has changed drastically over the years, with online-only banks causing brick-and-mortar locations to change their banking style to meet customer expectations. Keep reading to learn more about the five friendliest banks so you can bank with the right company sooner rather than later.

Bank of America

Let’s start with the negative: Bank of America is not in every state, interest rates on checking and savings accounts are minimal and $35 overdraft fees can be charged up to 4 times a day.

However, with a comprehensive and easy-to-use online banking system, Bank of America makes self-banking easier than ever before. You won’t need to worry about where your financial information is, nor will you wonder what all that complicated banking legalese actually means. With an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau website, you know you’re getting a quality banking experience (in comparison, Wells Fargo currently holds an F rating). You also will have access to over 16,000 ATMs and 4,200 branch locations. When you sign up, you’ll receive a $100 sign up bonus as well, giving your bank account a much-needed boost. Finally, you can avoid overdraft fees in a couple of ways (besides not over-drafting your account).

First, their overdraft protection is $12 per transaction. While this can add up quickly, it’s still significantly less than the $140 you can expect to spend if they charge you four times in a day. Second, depending on which account you choose, you can avoid overdraft fees completely. It’s not perfect by any stretch, but it is significantly better than most brick-and-mortar banks.

Ally

Ally truly is your ally in banking, providing some of the most comprehensive and rewarding banking on our list. As an online bank, you’re not going to have access to brick-and-mortar locations; however, you will have access to over 40,000 ATMs across the country via the Allpoint network.

Their high-yield savings accounts make your money grow quickly, while their interest checking accounts give you a little extra every month as well. One of the best reasons to bank with Ally? Their 24/7 customer service. Customers love that they can talk to a real person at any time versus needing to wait for someone in the morning at other banking locations.

Another benefit to Ally is that anyone can open an account with no minimum deposit for the account, and deposits can be made via popular methods like direct deposit, mobile check deposit or through their ATM network if you have cash. The main drawback to Ally is that their checking accounts offer lower interest rates that some of their competitors.

Discover

Discover isn’t just for credit cards; they also offer one of the best checking accounts on our list, with customers earning 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in qualifying purchases every month. With Discover, you can cover all of your financial needs in one institution, ranging from borrowing to investing to banking. With over 60,000 ATMs via Allpoint and MoneyPass, you’ll be able to access your account anywhere you go in the U.S., Canada or Carribean; however, you cannot use your debit card anyplace else in the world (sorry frequent travelers). Another drawback for some people is the single brick-and-mortar location.

Axos

Axos is a highly rated online bank that’s quickly picking up steam amongst those looking for a flexible banking solution. You won’t be able to access a physical location; however, you will have access to roughly 91,000 ATMs in addition to out-of-network ATM fee reimbursement. The main thing that makes Axos stand out from other companies is that they offer the following five different checking accounts:

  • First Checking (13-17)
  • Golden Checking (55+)
  • CashBack Checking (Earn up to 1% cash back on qualifying purchases)
  • Rewards Checking (High APY at 1%)
  • Essential Checking (Get paid 2 days early)

Axos also offers savings accounts in addition to never charging a monthly maintenance fee. All these benefits are great; but Axos does have a rather lengthy list of requirements for certain accounts, including a minimum of $250 to open a high-yield savings account, with a Rewards Checking account requires at least $1,500 in direct deposits, a minimum of 10 debit card transactions per month and investment requirements to get the full 1%.

Finding a new bank can feel like a difficult task, but more and more people are finding they can receive a great banking experience if they explore their options. From staple brick-and-mortar banks like Bank of America to online companies like Axos and Ally, you can easily find the right bank for your needs in no time. Look at the pros and cons of the banks you’re considering to find the right account for your needs, and remember that banking should be friendly and easy rather than scary or hard!