Are you ready for another round of Splurge vs. Save? Like last time, I’ll feature two similar products but one is the ‘splurge’ version and the other is the ‘save’ version.
This week I'll be featuring a genuine Free People crewneck and an alternative. As we all know, the Free People brand is very trendy right now, but also quite costly! If the genuine brand isn't in your budget right now, I think I've found a pretty darn good alternative!
On that note, this week, I'm featuring two striped crewneck sweaters. Before reading further, can you guess which one is the splurge and which one is the save?
If you guessed that the ‘save’ version is on the right and the ‘splurge’ version is on the left, then you are correct!
Planning a family vacation this year? Meals, snacks and drinks can really add up during those days away from home. While food is one of the most expensive areas of a vacation budget, I have some tips and ideas to help keep those costs down.
Plan ahead
Will you be eating out? Preparing your meals in the hotel? By having an idea of what you intend to do about the meals on your vacation, you have to opportunity to plan ahead by researching restaurants, grocery stores within walking distance, and even compile a meal plan if you're cooking in!
Use those daily deal sites
Sign up for the email list for your vacation destination on daily deal sites like WagJag, Groupon and Living Social. Keep an eye open for deals featuring restaurants you may enjoy eating at. Might as well get a deal if you'll be eating out anyways!
Be a local
By simply asking locals where the best place to grab an affordable meal is, they'll most likely point you in the direction of a fantastic, hole in the wall restaurant that will give you more bang for your buck. Stay away from those tourist traps!
Entertainment coupon books
Sign up for the Entertainment coupon membership! Not only are there tons of coupons for discounted meals, you'll find coupons for local attractions and shopping. 🙂 It's only $34 per year or $4.99 per month.
Search out restaurants where Kids eat free
I have a list available on Simply Frugal where Kids Eat Free in Canada that might be worth checking out. Or visit Family Money School for a huge list of restaurants in the United States!
Stop in at the local tourist bureau
Stop in at the local tourist bureau and peruse the brochures they have available because you might find some great coupons inside! Most likely, the staff on hand will gladly point you in the direction of money saving coupons and even help you find affordable eating options.
Stay at a hotel that offers free breakfast
My husband and I love staying at hotels that offer free breakfast. It's so nice to walk down, grab from the variety they have available, then get on with our day! When we're on vacation, we like to eat a big breakfast so that we can skip lunch, which helps to keep our food budget lower.
Pack a cooler full of food
If you're road tripping, bring along a cooler full of food. Buns, meat, fruit, vegetables and snacks are all great things to have readily available in case you come across the perfect picnic location. Consider freezing some milk to use as an ice pack. You can then use it the next day for cereal!
Hit up the local grocery store
Once you've arrived at your destination, hit up a local grocery store to stock up on snacks, drinks and simple meals. Even if you intend on eating out at restaurants, by incorporating a few grocery store meals, you'll be saving a bundle.
Bring a slow cooker or air fryer
If you can, consider bringing along a slow cooker or air fryer. Put something together in the morning, head out sight seeing for the day, then arrive back at the hotel with dinner already made! Or whip up something quickly in the air fryer!
Meal plan
If your intention is to not eat out at restaurants while you're vacationing, create a meal plan before you leave home that will help take the stress out of deciding what to eat. Keep it simple and allow for some leftovers.
Buy pre-made meals
Once again, if you have access to a kitchen, consider purchasing pre-made meals. While this is more expensive then cooking from scratch, you'll still save quite a bit of money if you take this route.
Now it's your turn, how do you save money on food while you're on vacation?
Are you ready for another round of Splurge vs. Save? Like last time, I’ll feature two similar products but one is the ‘splurge’ version and the other is the ‘save’ version.
This week is a bit different. In actuality, the splurge version is the Adidas Samba sneaker that is really trendy right now. However, it's often out of stock in most sizes and costs $130.
On that note, this week, I'm featuring two alternatives to the Adidas Samba sneaker. While these are both more affordable, one pair is less than the other. Before reading further, can you guess which one is the splurge and which one is the save?
If you guessed that the ‘save’ version is on the right and the ‘splurge’ version is on the left, then you are correct!
If you are looking for a fun activity to do with the family, The Home Depot has a great workshop for kids that will teach them about building. Kids can learn how to build their very own Butterfly House!
The free workshop is happening Saturday, Saturday, March 9, 2024 - 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
It's time to start thinking about Easter baskets and all the goodies you can fill them up with. Nothing is quite as exciting as watching children open their Easter baskets, but, what if you are on a limited budget this year? The good news is you can still fill those Easter baskets with tons of fun without going overboard on your budget.
Look at these 30 fun and frugal Easter basket ideas so you can fill those Easter baskets without breaking the bank! You will find lots of ideas perfect for making your Easter baskets sweet and special.
The ideas here are all things that I will or would love to gift my kids. Over the years as a mom, I have become increasingly annoyed by all the itty bitty "disposable" toys. So with that in mind, I have rounded up what I believe, to be thoughtful "long term" ideas. I hope you enjoy and find perfect frugal Easter basket ideas!
1. Lip balm or lip gloss.
Lip balm is perfect for both boys and girls. Little ones will love their own lip gloss.
2. Sunglasses or sun hats
Now that spring is here, hats or sunglasses will no doubt get some use.
3. Candy, chocolate, gum
You can’t have an Easter basket without some candy and treats, right? I was recently told by my dentist that gum with xylitol is great for fighting cavities.
4. Fruit snacks, nuts, dried fruit
For a healthier option, try fruit snacks, nuts, or even dried fruit for a snack.
5. Playing cards or trading cards
Kids love trading cards and playing cards! This Monopoly Deal card game has been a hot seller!
6. Toothbrush, kid’s toothpaste
A new battery operated toothbrush is more fun than a regular toothbrush. You can always feel good with gifting that! Pair it with kid friendly toothpaste.
7. Water Wow!
These Melissa & Doug Water Wow books are so much fun for younger kids. Great for road trips and a good quiet activity.
8. Hair ties, headbands, hair accessories
Girls will love having a fresh selection of hair accessories. Choose from a wide variety at your local dollar store.
9. Kid’s gardening supplies like seeds, small pots and gloves
With spring’s arrival this will allow kids to get out and get active in the yard and garden. This seed variety pack looks great!
10. Paint with Diamonds
I am all for a creative activity that will keep kids involved for a long time! These Paint by Diamond kits are sure to be a hit! I also really like these Diamond Painting stickers. They're a smaller project to complete.
11. Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty
These Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putties are a little pricey, but oh so mesmerizing. Your local toy store might be a good place to look for these as well!
12. Kid themed drinking cups
Find kid themed plates, cups, and dishes. Kids enjoy having their own dishes to snack on! These construction themed utensils are so cool!
13. Push Bubble fidget Toy
So fidget toys are a hit with any kid. This one in particular, I think, would be great for counting activities for younger kids.
14. Nail polish, nail files, nail art
This idea is perfect for the little fashionista. These nail stickers are cute!
15. Umbrella
My kids love having their very own fun umbrella for rainy spring days.
16. Pens
I find gel pens, or any type of pen is a hit with my kids! Especially fun coloured ones.
17. Kid Fanny Pack
Fanny packs of our youth are coming back in style! Pick up a kid friendly one for all your spring adventures!
18. Puzzles
Puzzles are perfect for keeping kids busy on a rainy spring day. This LEGO Minifigures puzzle looks fun!
19. Children’s books
Find some fun children’s books perfect for cuddling up with each night. This is a cute one!
20. Coloring books and activity books
Keep kids busy with an assortment of coloring and activity books and crayons. These Paint by Sticker booksare so much fun.
21. Crayons, markers, colored pencils
Let the little artist out of your child with an assortment of crayons and other coloring supplies. Or a different alternative is these Invisible ink pens!
22. Stickers, sticker pads, sticker books
Kids never get tired of stickers. Give them a fun spring selection to get creative with.
A fun classic game of Pick Up Sticksis always a good idea and will last a long time!
25. Playdough, cookie cutters, dough roller
Encourage fine motor skills with an assortment of dough and accessories.
26. Craft kits, mini painting kits, craft supplies
For the budding artist, craft supplies are always fun. I always find little craft kits at the dollar store.
27. Writing Tablet
LCD writing tablets have been a favorite in our house for several years now! Ours actually live in the car and get pulled out and played with every time we go somewhere!
28. Sidewalk chalk
Sidewalk chalk is perfect for staying busy on a spring day!
29. Beach toys, beach buckets, sand castle tools
Summer is just around the corner and kids will no doubt love having beach toys on hand.
A new water bottle will be going in my kids baskets this year. They are in dire need of new ones!
32. Squishmallows
I'm not sure I've ever met a kid that does not love a Squishmallow. They are just so...squishy and soft! I'd link to Amazon, but I find they are cheaper at other stores. I'm sure any stuffed animal would be a hit!
33. Pajamas
Pajamas are always a good idea! I find with the season changes and the growth spurts, my kids are always in need of new pajamas to wear.
34. Swim Suit
Same reason as above, I find that spring is a good time for a bigger swim suit.
As you can see, these Easter Basket options are fun and affordable. Head to your local dollar store or Amazonto see these treats and so many more. These are all frugal Easter basket ideas perfect for filling up your baskets this year!
Are you ready for another round of Splurge vs. Save? Like last time, I’ll feature two similar products with good reviews, but one is the ‘splurge’ version and the other is the ‘save’ version.
Let’s get on with it shall we? This week I’m featuring two different Sunrise Alarm Clocks. These alarm clocks are great for heavy sleepers! Or those that are looking for an alarm that is not their phone. So here are two highly rated sunrise alarm clocks available on Amazon.ca. Before reading further, can you guess which one is the splurge and which one is the save?
If you guessed that the ‘save’ version is on the left and the ‘splurge’ version is on the right, then you are correct!
Are you ready for another round of Splurge vs. Save? Like last time, I’ll feature two similar products with good reviews, but one is the ‘splurge’ version and the other is the ‘save’ version.
Let’s get on with it shall we? This week I’m featuring two different 6'x9' Washable Area Rugs. With washable rugs being a popular home item these days, I thought I'd show you two variations that are both available on Amazon.ca. Before reading further, can you guess which is which?
If you guessed that the ‘save’ version is on the left and the ‘splurge’ version is on the right, then you are correct!
If your child is between the age of 5 and 9, you can get them a FREE subscription to LEGO® Life Magazine. It is filled with awesome stuff such as comics, activities, competitions, sneak peaks & the latest LEGO news, all shipped to your door 4 times a year!
Will you be heading on the road with your family this summer? Road trips can be a great way to spend time with your loved ones or to get a brief respite from this crazy world. Whatever your reason for the trip, planning is key.
One of the most challenging things for a family road trip is just getting to your destination. Anyone who has taken a trip with kids knows there are constant stops for snacks, bathroom breaks and meltdowns over a toy or blanket that may have fallen beyond their reach. If you prepare for the situations you can control, your trip to your destination will go smoothly (and hopefully with as few stops as possible).
Before you hit the road, be sure to take a look at these cheap road trip hacks. The dollar store or even Amazon are great places to look for inexpensive items that can be used to make your trip run as smooth as possible. Here are some cheap road trip hacks using simple items that will ensure your next road trip adventure is a success.
Shower Caddies
These mesh plastic caddies are great for snacking in the vehicle. Use the compartments to put a juice box or water bottle, bags of snacks, napkins and utensils. Each person in the car should have their own. No more making stops to get everyone their snacks. They can help themselves as you drive. Or even a plastic Shower caddy would be great and more sturdy for meals from the drive thru.
Mesh Pop Up Hamper
These small hampers fold up into a disc so they don’t take up much room in the car. Pop one up to be a catch all for larger toys or put a plastic bag in a small one and place in the back seat with the kids so they can throw their trash in it (and not on the floor).
Elastic Sheet Straps
Elastic sheet straps have little tabs that affix to fabric on each end. Tired of your kid losing their blanket and you have to pull the car over to find it? Do you want them to have a sweatshirt or jacket readily available? Attach one end to their clothes or fabric of their car seat and attach the other end to the blanket or jacket.
Plastic Mattress Protector
Plastic mattress protectors are a must have in your road trip arsenal. You can use them as a picnic table cover in a pinch if you stop to eat at a rest area or park. You can also use them to catch sand and dirt in the trunk or cargo area on gear, clothes or shoes. If your lodging on the way to your trip isn’t up to your usual standards, you can use these mattress protectors to keep you and the sheets separated.
Mesh Bags
Mesh bagsare great for road trips. Most dollar stores sell them in a pack of two or three and they have so many uses. You can tie one to the back of a headrest and put your child's blanket and stuffed animals for easy reach. You can also use mesh bags to air dry wet items or collect dirty laundry.
Accordion Files
Sometimes your car can become a dumping ground on a road trip and before you know it you find yourself looking for everything from sunscreen to bug spray. Accordion files can keep everything in one place. Place the item in a gallon size plastic bag and label the top. This also works for games, coloring sheets, puzzles and other activities for the kids. Empty the pieces into a gallon zipped bag, label and place in each compartment.
Shower Trays with Suction Cups
Are you tired of picking up Legos or small toys and want to keep them together and in arm's reach of your kids? Suction holders can be the perfect solution. Just suction the trays to your kids' window and they have a place to store their favorite things.
Stacking Pill Organizer
When you take a road trip, space can be limited. One way you can save space is by using the stackable pill bottles. Put your eye cream, toothpaste and lotions in them to avoid having to bring larger containers. You can put over the counter medications in them. Or if you like to bring your favorite spices along, you can put them in there too. The possibilities are endless.
Shower Caps
Shower caps are also a great staple to have on hand. If you make stops and your kids get their shoes dirty, you can place them in the shower caps. Or if you don’t want to take their shoes off, place the caps around their shoes. If you stop to have a picnic, you can also use these to snap around a plate to keep the bugs away from your food.
Cupcake Liners
Grab a pack of cupcake liners to help keep cup holders clean! Place cupcake liners in each cup holder, and when they start getting filled with crumbs and dirt, you can replace them in just a few seconds. It will save you so much time not having to wipe your car down. Let alone avoiding possible sticky messes.
Cereal Container
Plastic cereal containers make for surprisingly good garbage cans. They're narrow enough to squeeze into a smaller space, and the lids snap tightly into place. Plus, there will be minimal spillage if it gets knocked over.
Fishing Lure Box/ Small Hardware Storage Box
These small boxes can be used to keep things together in the car during travel, whether it is small parts for crafts, spare change or earbuds to your devices.
Cookie Sheets
No need for any of those fancy car desks for activities! Just grab some cookie sheets! The raised edges keep crayons from rolling off and the metallic surface is great for playing magnetic games and puzzles of all kinds.
Clip-on LED Light
For night driving, you may get distracted by turning the overhead lamps on for the kids to read. The clip-on LED reading light can come in handy. Clip onto seat belts so kids can have a reading light at their disposal. Clip onto your kids if you have to get out of your car at night to stretch your legs or go into a dark rest stop. These are portable and give just enough light for them to read, but not enough that it will distract you from driving.
Do you have any cheap road trip hacks to share? Leave them in the comments below!
It's extremely important for any family to intentionally take the time once in a while to have fun as a family. Life can be very busy so making a conscious effort to slow down together without the demands of other friends/family/work/school can be so beneficial.
Family fun, however, does not have to cost a lot! Sure, there are activities that can cost a lot (and those are fun!), but there are so many fun cheap family activities too.
With Family Day in Canada quickly approaching, I thought I'd share some ideas for cheap family fun!
Cheap Family Activities:
Have a picnic inside
Start your garden seeds inside – Use this as an opportunity to teach your children about patience, responsibility and how things grow!
Movie night – Pick a movie that you haven’t watched in a while and make some homemade microwave popcorn! We've been having fun watching some of the movies my husband and I watched when we were kids.
Have a theme night/day – Mexican, Italian, pirate…the list goes on. Plan dinners and activities around your theme!
Have a craft night – paint, sew, make bracelets, draw…etc!
Head to your local library – stock up on reading material or even sit in on story time!
Have a game night – pull out those board games and cards!
Unplug – Turn off the cell phone, TV, computer and just reconnect with your wonderful family!
Shop at a thrift store together.
Have a dance party.
Build stuff with Lego.
Make everyone a nice warm drink, then read together with your own books.
Go bird watching – see how many different types of birds you can spot. Maybe bring along a bird book from the library.
Go ice skating – many ice rinks offer free skating on certain days
Build an indoor fort – camp out in it or have a picnic in it!
Have another family over for dinner – this is way cheaper then eating out!
If it's a holiday weekend, see if there are any free events taking place.
Visit a local ski hill and wander around. Maybe grab an inexpensive treat to enjoy.
