DailyFinance.com

DailyFinance.comhttp://www.dailyfinance.comDailyFinance.comhttp://o.aolcdn.com/os/df/2013/img/2-dailyfinance_logo_m.pngDailyFinance.comhttp://www.dailyfinance.comen-usCopyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Budget Valentine's Day Ideas -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/31/savings-experiment-valentines-day/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/31/savings-experiment-valentines-day/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/31/savings-experiment-valentines-day/#commentsFiled under: Holiday Shopping, Savings Experiment

Related Savings Experiments

Valentine's Day is a time when you can show your loved one how much you care, but you don't have to dig deep into your wallet to do it. Here are some great tips on how to switch things up this year, and save in the process.

Let's Do Lunch
A Valentine's lunch is a sweet treat, especially if you and your mate don't get enough one-on-one time during the day. Restaurants often offer cheaper versions of the same items during lunch hour, so you'll get a delicious meal for a budget-friendly price. Impress your date and try more exotic fare, like sushi or Korean BBQ, without breaking your piggy bank.

Fast Food Nation
If your true love truly loves fast food, then head on over to White Castle. That's right, White Castle. You may need to make a reservation, but you'll get the royal treatment, complete with a plastic red table cloth, free dessert and a photo opportunity. It can be a fun and unique experience for a can't-beat price.

View Poll
Research Romance

You can treat yourself and your mate to great food, just do your research beforehand. Many restaurants have Valentine's Day specials, including chains like Ruby Tuesday, which offers a three-course Valentine's special for $19.99 per person. Also, check out Restaurant.com, a site that offers coupons for up to 80 percent off of your favorite places to eat. Just remember to check the fine print to ensure you can use your voucher on the holiday.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>cheap valentines day ideasCheapValentinesDayIdeasgiftsholidaysSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentvalentines day datesvalentines day ideasValentinesDayDatesValentinesDayIdeaswhite castle valentines dayWhiteCastleValentinesDayC. LazarusTue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 ESTMoney-Saving Freezer Tips -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/24/savings-experiment-freezers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/24/savings-experiment-freezers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/24/savings-experiment-freezers/#comments

Freezers don't come with an expiration date, but you don't have to wait to upgrade until you feel like the only one on your block with an old fashioned ice box. There are some easy ways to figure out whether or not you need a new freezer.

Frozen in Time

If your freezer stops freezing food, it's probably time to invest in a new one. Most freezers should last 10 years; divide the original purchase price of the freezer/fridge by the average cost of electricity over that time to see what it's currently worth.

When it's time to get a different unit, you don't necessarily need to buy a brand new one. Ask family and friends if they've got any leads, or check out Craigslist, eBay, or Freecycle.org to see if someone is selling a freezer below retail rates. Make sure to ask if the freezer is still under warranty, as well as its year, make and model. You can look it up on Consumer Reports to see how that particular freezer stacks up. If you're buying secondhand, you'll want to negotiate. Typically, newer freezers are more energy efficient, so avoid buying a used (or previously owned) freezer that is over 5 years old.

The Cold Truth

Another way to save is to purchase a smaller, stand-alone unit. The smaller the freezer (and fridge), the less your electricity bills will run. When you buy any major appliance, your first question should be about the initial price, but your second major financial consideration should always be the unit's operating costs over time -- i.e., what it will cost you in electricity. Freezer models' operating costs can range widely, so you can find yourself paying anywhere from $5 to $15 a month depending on age, size, energy efficiency of the model, how it's operated, and the overall cost of electricity in your area.

Freezer Blocking

Lastly, if you're not using all of the space in the freezer, you can try "freezer blocking." Basically, freezer blocking means filling up any unused space inside the freezer, as the less air inside the freezer, the less electricity required. The theory is that the compressor will spend less time and, therefore, energy keeping the interior cold.

To freezer block, simply take empty cardboard boxes and fill them with leftover wall insulation. Any form of insulation can do the trick, but most folks stick to basic household wall insulation (fiberglass), as it's both inexpensive and easy to get. You can also use the insulating Styrofoam peanuts used for shipping and packaging, although those aren't environmentally friendly. Once the boxes are completely filled, seal them shut with tape and place them in the empty areas of the freezer.

Since freezer blocking hasn't been scientifically tested, the only evidence that it's working will be your electricity bill. Give it a couple months, and if it is working, you'll probably warm up to the idea of freezer blocking. Otherwise, you'll have some pretty chilly boxes on hand, which may work as cold compresses if you're running low on frozen peas.

Gallery: 13 Ways to Get Free Money

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>best priceBestPriceFoam peanutfoodfood and drinkfreezersfreezingfreezing foodFreezingFoodfrozen foodFrozenFoodgreat priceGreatPriceleftoversrefrigeratorssaving moneySavingMoneySavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentSci/TechC. LazarusTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 ESTSupe Up Your Super Bowl Party -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/19/savings-experiment-super-bowl-parties/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/19/savings-experiment-super-bowl-parties/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/19/savings-experiment-super-bowl-parties/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Savings Experiment

Related Savings Experiments

Cutting the Cord on Cable TV's Pricey Monthly Bill -- Savings Experiment

If competing with hundreds of strangers to snag a bar stool to catch a glimpse of the Super Bowl doesn't appeal, you're not alone. In fact, your friends all probably hope you'll be the one to throw a Super Bowl party! The pros are that you'll get to sit comfortably, eat and drink, be around only people you like, and control the TV remote. On the off-chance you bet on a losing team in your office pool, there are ways to plan a party without blowing all your money.

Ready, Set, Wait -- We Forgot the Streamers?

Super Bowl Sunday is anything but fancy: You don't need to worry about decorations, renting a monkey suit, or getting your hair done. That said, a lot of folks throw parties, so it's worth making your event fun and inviting. According to Bloomberg News, an estimated 34.9 million Americans threw their own Super Bowl parties in 2011, and 61.2 million people indicated that they had planned to attend a Super Bowl party.

You'll want to have enough food, utensils, and bathroom towels (as well as toilet paper) for your guests, but party supplies like streamers are extras. If you really want to decorate, Coupon Mountain offers deals on party supplies coupon codes. (http://www.couponmountain.com/super-bowl-deals-sales.html) You can also visit a local dollar store for some cheap decorations and essentials like TP. Try to use real flatware and silverware at your party, since the disposable stuff is wasteful.

Catering to Your Guests

A small party can still be catered. You can save money on catering staff by advertising for someone to man the bar or a couple of cater-waiters on Craigslist, or by advertising on bulletin boards at a local university, gym, or community center. Bottom line: factor in costs like prep time (if you cook) and tipping your wait staff, should you decide to cater.

Cooking vs. Delivery

If you cook, your guests will eat healthier, as you can avoid cooking with lard and will automatically cut out the grease that's caked on industrial ovens. Still, you'll have to clean up before your guests arrive, and after. (This is the case even if your team loses).

Before you even send out an e-vite, calculate potential party costs, such as cleaning and cooking versus delivery. You may want to supplement your main dishes by buying snacks, like carrot sticks and cheese and crackers. You'll want to factor in those seemingly small costs, as well as the ingredients for cooking as compared to ordering food. There are other factors to consider which may be harder to quantify: Write down how much time it takes to order delivery versus shop, cook, and clean twice -- once for when you cook and, again, after your guests leave.

Deals on food directly related to the Super Bowl may not always offer the savings they advertise, as the size of your order will dictate the net savings. Still, it's worth doing some comparison-shopping ahead of time. Also, delivery allows you to save money on things like plates and napkins. Using plastic take-out silverware isn't the most environmentally-friendly option, so you can encourage your guests to write their names on their plastic cups. This way they hold onto the same cup throughout the show.

If you already have a membership to discount wholesale clubs like Sam's Club and Costco, you will easily be able to pick up heat-and-serve type snacks like pizzas or appetizer trays. Of course, grocery stores, such as Trader Joe's, may offer competitive saving options as well, especially on drinks.

Delivery vs. Pick-up

If you go for delivery, keep in mind that you aren't the only one placing an order. According to Bloomberg, Super Bowl Sunday is the busiest day of the year for pizza delivery. If you do order delivery, don't forget to tip!

When possible, pick up your orders. You'll save money on extras (like tipping). Of course, if you do order delivery, remember to tip your delivery person, and ideally to do so generously. You can save time and sometimes money by ordering food online. If you place your order ahead of time, you may be able to research special discounts online. For instance, Groupon, Retail Me Not and local restaurants and grocery stores often offer promo codes, some targeted for the Super Bowl.

Ultimately you may do a combination of things -- ordering pizza (but picking it up), buying pre-made snacks at the grocery store, and cooking a couple ostaples.

New TV Time?

It's not smart, no matter how enticing, to let yourself upgrade your television right before the big game. Retailers know that people will use any excuse to spend money, even if they can (and should) wait for better deals that are a few short months away. Just before the Super Bowl, retailers try to entice consumers into upgrading for the big game. Stores mark down TVs by about 20% before the Super Bowl, sometimes even 30%; but CNN Money reports that the discounts will only get bigger next month. New TV models tend to be released to market in late January and February, which means retailers will cut the prices on last year's models at the beginning of March.

View Poll
Game Plan

So wait out on investing in new technology if you can until the spring. You'll be all set for next year's Super Bowl party, and your guests can appreciate the huge improvement in HD technology then. Meanwhile, they can enjoy the pizzas you picked up, the brownies or lasagna you prepared, and the assortment of healthy and not-so-healthy snacks you bought.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>best price on tvsBestPriceOnTvsentertainingflatscreen tvsFlatscreenTvsfoodfor the homeLifestyleSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentSuper Bowlsuper bowl partysuper bowl party ideasSuperBowlPartySuperBowlPartyIdeasTVC. LazarusThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:45:00 ESTCut Back on the Cost of Using Ovens -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/17/savings-experiment-ovens/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/17/savings-experiment-ovens/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/17/savings-experiment-ovens/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Home & Garden

To toast or not to toast? Chances are you probably don't weigh the costs of using the microwave, toaster oven, or conventional full-size oven, but you should. You can save money by considering the costs of energy when you cook or reheat food.

If It's Good Enough for Hansel & Gretel...

The old standby remains the best way to cook and reheat large dishes. A conventional oven will also heat food without turning it into some wilted, soggy, mushy mess, like a microwave does. It's better to use a conventional oven when baking generous portions or large meals. That said, conventional ovens can cost more, if you don't use energy efficiently.

There are simple steps you can take to make using a full-size oven more cost-effective. Some you may know, others may be new. For instance, you want to always use ceramic and glass dishes when baking in a conventional oven. You don't need to pre-heat the oven, unless you're baking. You also don't need to line the racks with tin foil, as this will block the flow of air. Stagger your dishes on the top and bottom racks to improve airflow. If you can cook a few dishes at the same time, do.

Ovens

Ovens

Taking care of your appliances will also help you save money. If you clean your oven's front window, you can check on your dish without having to open the oven door. Each time you open the door, the temperature inside drops by 25 degrees. When cleaning your stove, do check the seal on your oven door for cracks or tears, as these holes enable heat to escape.

Ultimately, full-size ovens are not as efficient at cooking small-sized meals, so it's worth investing in a good toaster oven as well. Check with Consumer Reports and friends when comparing brands, sizes, models, and types of ovens (electric or gas). You'll want to try out the oven first, albeit not the way Hansel and Gretel did.

Toaster Ovens

Toaster ovens save some time, as they take around five minutes to pre-heat compared to the fifteen minutes supposedly needed with conventional ovens. They're also significantly easier to clean. Toaster ovens have a smaller surface area-to-speed of clean up ratio, and some higher-end versions offer self-cleaning. The bottom line is that you should use the toaster if you want to quickly cook small meals or reheat leftovers. You'll spend less time cooking, and more time enjoying your food.

Microwaves

They can save some money with preheating, but they do tend to alter the taste and consistency of fresh foods. They definitely make popcorn and re-heating hot beverages easy. Plus, more and more foods can be microwaved, so you'll want to factor time into your budget!

Turn It Off

When you're done cooking and eating, be sure to turn off your electrical devices. Keep small appliances like the toaster, coffee grinder, and phone chargers plugged into one power strip. This will allow you to cut down on vampire power. Electronics that are plugged in, even if they are off, still suck power from the electric grid.

Whatever you decide, cooking at home already saves you more money that eating out.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>Best ovensBestOvensconvection ovensConvectionOvensconventional ovenConventionalOvenenergy savingsfor the homekitchenMICROWAVESsaving moneySavingMoneysavings on cookingSavingsExperimentSavingsOnCookingTOASTER OVENSToasterOvensC. LazarusTue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:00 ESTThe Coffee Grind -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/10/savings-experiment-coffee/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/10/savings-experiment-coffee/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/10/savings-experiment-coffee/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Food & Beverage

There are those of us who should not be allowed in public without having a cup of coffee first. That said, java is also an expensive habit. Luckily, you can have your cup and drink it too by cutting certain corners.

Look Before You Leap

Abstinence is the best policy with respect to saving money; but for most of us, when it comes to coffee, that's neither possible nor desirable. So before you take any drastic measures, simply track what you spend. Don't alter your buying habits; just spend a week chronicling your expenses. Though it may feel cumbersome at first, it can be illuminating to learn how, when, why and where you spend money.

You don't have to save all of your receipts, as there are so many apps to help you track your spending right on your phone as you make your purchase. One favorite is the Latte Factor, which helps you add up your total daily expenses and average spending over time. The app's calculator can generate your daily, weekly, and monthly average. Once you measure your averages, you can click on the Latte Factor's "see savings" button to see what you could be earning, albeit approximately, in one, five or ten years time if you invested that money instead of drinking it. It may help you look before you leap, or at least before you lap up another latte.

Test Your Taste

Expensive doesn't necessarily mean you're getting a better bean, or a tastier one. Starbucks (SBUX) is getting more expensive -- the company recently announced a price hike -- but New York Magazine food critic Adam Platt found that patronizing the Seattle-based chain might not be worth it: In a blind taste test, Platt discovered that Starbucks ranked last in termed of taste -- and it's 31 cents more per cup than Dunkin Donuts. Opting for Dunkin Donuts (DNKN) over Starbucks could save you almost $230 a year. But it's always possible to be penny wise and pound foolish. There are also hidden costs: For instance, investing in fair trade coffee will save you and the planet more money in the long run. Common sense can also result in saving cents.

BYOM

Bring your own mug. You'll be kinder to the environment and waste fewer plastic, paper, or -- gasp! -- styrofoam cups. It might also prevent you from impulse buys at overpriced cafes. The same can be said for owning the other tools of the trade, like a coffee maker, to avoid the temptation to always go out.

If you're out and craving coffee, bringing your mug may also result in saving some money. Many mom-and-pop coffee shops, as well as chains like Starbucks, will deduct anywhere from a dollar to ten cents for sparing them an extra cup. If you did that 360 days out of the year, you would save -- you guessed it -- $36.

Customer Care

Always ask if your favorite mom-and-pop coffee shop offers a punch card for regular customers, or free refills or other deals. If you purchase whole bean or ground Starbucks coffee to brew at home, you can bring in your empty bag and receive a free small cup of joe. Some places offer rewards on your birthday. And it's not just major chains like Cosi that reward returning customers. Small, local coffee stores like Joyce Bakeshop in Brooklyn thank patrons for their routine business with a free coffee after a certain number of purchases. Other coffee shops, like The Mustard Seed Cafe in Los Angeles, offer free refills! When it comes to coffee, customer loyalty incentives abound.

View Poll
Skim the Top

Why waste money on a lousy latte or questionably concocted cappuccino when you can save by buying a regular coffee and adding milk yourself? Another thing to remember is that iced coffee tends to be more expensive, so when you can get a hot coffee and an extra cup with ice, do. At Starbucks, you can order a tall coffee and a cup of ice for free and mix them. You'll save about forty cents a cup.

Coffee isn't the worst impulse buy, nor should it break the bank. Like all things that taste or feel good, you'll want to use moderation. It's easier to think straight after one or two cups of coffee, but the inverse can be true if you've had three or four.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>coffeedrinksDunkin' DonutsFinancefood and drinkLifestylesaving on coffeeSavingOnCoffeesavings experimentSavingsExperimentStarbucksC. LazarusTue, 10 Jan 2012 10:00:00 ESTNew Year, New You! -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/03/savings-experiment-new-years-resolutions/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/03/savings-experiment-new-years-resolutions/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/01/03/savings-experiment-new-years-resolutions/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment

As you ring in the New Year, you'll probably make some personal resolutions to lose weight, volunteer more, and clean behind (and not just around) the furniture. (That last one may just be me!) These are all sound goals, but don't forget to add saving money to the list. Learning how to save money will offer you peace of mind, so you'll basically be checking off two resolutions for the price of one.

Take Back Your Expenses

Considering that most of us are part of the 99%, it's critical to budget. It's also as simple as setting up and checking your Facebook account. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to start budgeting: If you begin now, it'll be easy as the year goes on to track your expenses and make more conscious decisions about what you spend.

There are a number of ways to budget. There's also an app for it; in fact, there are several. For starters, try TipB or Mint. Mint enables you to upload your bank, credit, loan, and retirement accounts to help you categorize your transactions. It's also free. Some credit cards, like American Express (AXP), provide tools to see where you're spending money. Of course, you can always set up a budget on a Microsoft (MSFT) Excel spreadsheet, or the old fashioned way, with a pen and paper.

Take back your expenses

Take back your expenses

Financial experts recommend creating a pie chart of your spending ratios. The basic rule of thumb is to cut your expenses

into a 50/30/20 budget, divvying your monthly household income into essentials, savings, and splurges.

To get started, add up your total monthly household income, including your salary (after taxes) and any other sources such as child support, tenants, consulting and freelance gigs, and even selling stuff on eBay (EBAY). Next, you'll need to add up your essentials.

Then break down your expenses. Fifty percent of your total income will go to basic necessities such as rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, health insurance and student loans. After you account for these essential items, set aside thirty percent of your income for what you enjoy doing, such as buying seasonal basketball tickets or having cocktails with friends. Sometimes it's difficult to determine what goes into this column: You may need internet access if you work from home, but do you need cable? If it's merely a burning desire, the item is considered inessential. Most of your purchases are inessential -- even clothes, gym memberships, gifts for friends, and vacations.

Last, but not least, find out what the remaining twenty-percent of your total income is, and siphon off that amount for savings and emergency funds. It's easier to save money if you deposit it directly into a savings account as soon as you get it. There's no need to tempt yourself, and that money can accrue interest, so you'll actually grow your savings.

Budgeting is a lot like dieting: Everyone has different needs and approaches it with different constraints, challenges, and choices to make. Some folks need to weigh in every day, others weigh themselves a couple times a week (or even month), and there are those who don't need an external reminder. You may want to keep a diary at first to see how you're spending. Initially you might find yourself obsessed or hesitant, until thinking frugally becomes second nature. And you might fall off the wagon. But generally speaking, the more disciplined you are, the easier it will get. It's a critical skill to master, and, luckily, a straightforward one. If only winning the lotto was this simple.

What's your 50/30/20 budget? Use this worksheet to figure it out.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>emergency fundEmergencyFundlifestylemonthly savingsMonthlySavingsNear Years resolutionsNearYearsResolutionsnew budgetNew Years budgetNewBudgetNewYearsBudgetsaving moneySavingMoneysavings experimentSavingsExperimentC. LazarusTue, 03 Jan 2012 11:15:00 ESTStretching Your Budget on Women's Intimates -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/27/savings-experiment-womens-intimates/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/27/savings-experiment-womens-intimates/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/27/savings-experiment-womens-intimates/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Beauty

View Poll

There is a saying that a good man is hard to find, and the same should be said about a bra. Considering the rules of gravity, women will find that a well-fitting bra is a worthwhile investment. Luckily, there are ways to stretch your budget without ruining the fabric of your life.

My Cup Runneth Over

A bra that provides adequate support can help alleviate back pain, general discomfort and poor posture, not to mention your look. Some may make you seem more endowed or less, so depending on your neurosis, you do have options.

Fit for Life

The first step in buying a bra is to get fitted. Many boutique lingerie shops and department stores don't charge for the service. Of course, if you're disappointed by what the expert deems as your size, you can always get a second opinion.

Once you're fitted, you'll still need to try on the bra to check your measurements against manufacturer guides, as there are often variations among retailers. Plus, it's a good way to see if the fabric works well under your clothes.

Cheap Chip

Whether you go to a local shop or chain store, like Nordstrom (JWN), the salespeople will encourage you to purchase a bra, typically at retail value. Investing in a form-fitting bra will pay off, so it might be a worthwhile purchase. That said, you can always check online first to compare prices and see if a particular brand's style (and size) is offered elsewhere. You can also ask the salespeople whether their bras will go on sale soon. Since fit is fundamental, it's worth going to the store to try it on, even if you snag a cheaper deal online later. Regardless, there are ways to save if you have the time to look for deals.

Types of Bras

Your cup size and shape change as you age, just like your needs (and budget). Skinny straps may be fine when you're young, or for a fun evening, but basic nudes and black bras, as well as adjustable straps, enable you to use the same bra with a variety of outfits. Victoria's Secret, Natori, and other major labels sell bras that can be worn traditionally or as a cross back, one-strap, or strapless. Always try adjusting it at the store before you come home to find that the strap is actually hard to refit.

A Caring Touch

The average lifespan of a bra is purportedly around 6 months, depending on the elasticity. (Bra makers and stores may give that statistic as a way to encourage you to shop more often.) Regardless, it's crucial to take care of your lingerie. The better care you take of your bras, the fewer you'll need to buy. Many lingerie websites recommend that you rotate your bras often to reduce stretching and allow the garment to recover its elasticity.

In terms of washing, always follow the care label. For bras that require hand washing, use a cleaning product designed for delicate fabrics. If you're using a washing machine, avoid harsh detergents. Make sure to clasp bras before you put them in the wash, so they don't catch. It's best to zip them up in a lingerie bag, even if you're machine-washing them at home. Whatever you do, there is one major don't: Don't dry bras in the dryer, as doing so can cause shrinkage. (If only going in the dryer worked as a form of weight loss!)

Buy a Great Bra or Bust!

Bras come in so many colors, fabrics, and sizes that you're sure to be able to find deals on ones that you can take care of over the long haul. Sometimes shopping with a friend, relative or boyfriend can help, by providing a second opinion. Just make sure that person truly qualifies as a bosom buddy.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>bra careBraCarebrasbuying brasBuyingBrasfashion and beautylingerielingerie carelingerie shopsLingerieCareLingerieShopssaving moneySavingMoneySavingsExperimentundergarmentundergarmentsunderwearC. LazarusTue, 27 Dec 2011 14:30:00 ESTNab a Great Deal During Post-Holiday Sales -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/20/savings-experiment-post-holiday-sales/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/20/savings-experiment-post-holiday-sales/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/20/savings-experiment-post-holiday-sales/#commentsFiled under: Holiday Shopping, Savings Experiment, Shopping

Soon enough, the holidays will have come and gone. You'll have given, you'll have received; it will then be time to cash in. The best deals fall between Christmas and the new year, so when you go to return those itchy yellow polka-dotted wool socks, get yourself something you'll really enjoy instead.

Top 5 Buys After the Holidaze

1. The Bubbly!

Champagne and fine wines tend to go on sale before New Year's, and are even further reduced afterward. Evidently, there will be even bigger savings this year. "The recession has been hard on the high-end winemaker," says Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart Magazine. "French wines that were going for $50 you can get for $20."

2. Sugar & Spice

If your vice is sugar, you're in luck: Baking ingredients are also marked down after the holidays. Freeman explains that stores have to cut prices on perishable items or risk losing all the value of their inventories. "It's a great time to stock up on chocolates, spices, flour, sugar, the basics," she says. Knowing that most folks don't want yet another reminder of seasonal cheer, Freeman reminds post-holiday shoppers that "chocolate may be colored green and red, but it tastes the same!"

3. Electronics

Gadgets go down in price after the holiday shopping season. A reliable way to comparison shop is to log onto Consumer Reports, where you can evaluate prices of electronic items, whether hardware or software, and determine what's being overvalued. In January, most electronic retailers release new models, often debuting them at the annual International Consumer Electronics Show in the first week of the year. Even companies like Apple that don't follow a set calendar for releasing new models offer savings on their website for refurbished devices. Make sure that whatever you purchase comes with a manufacturer's warranty, preferably one that doesn't expire in the next week.

4. Gifts

Post holiday Sales

Post holiday Sales

It is better to give than to receive, and that saying holds true throughout out the year, not just during the holiday crunch. So stock up on gifts, such as spa treatments, restaurant gift certificates, winter clothes, cards, and even wrapping paper at post-holiday sales. It can save you money and time in the long run to have some simple gifts on hand for weddings, birthdays and dinner parties.

Most stores offer deals on their more "evergreen" products, although truly seasonal items, like wrapping paper covered in reindeer, will surely have a better mark-down price. Still, there's no need to be penny wise and pound foolish as a consumer. Retailers often offer discounts on items in certain colors associated with the holidays, even though wrapping paper in gold, green, blue, red, and silver can be used throughout the year.

5. Cars

The greatest time to buy a car is after the holidays, when dealerships need to make way for newer models. Consumer Reports offers excellent tips on how dealerships operate and how to negotiate with them. For instance, car salesmen are expected to meet certain monthly sales quotas; the beginning of the month, therefore, is when you're least likely to snag a deal. Holding off until the end of the month, when car salesmen are hungrier, is a good idea, but an even better option is to wait till the end of the year, when manufacturers are hoping to unload last year's models. (Edmunds.com is also an excellent resource on how to negotiate with car dealers.)

Online and Offline Shopping

If you're willing to sift through bins and racks for deals, you can find big discounts on small gifts and luxury items, like designer handbags at stores that are now considered "so last season." You can also find coupons online, both for in-store and online purchases. There are websites dedicated to Olympic shopletes, like Bargainist.com and Retailmenot.com. These sites aggregate coupons from popular stores so you can get even greater savings. Whether you shop online or off, it's always useful to do some research first to save time. After all, the present is a gift.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>gift return tipsgift returnsGiftReturnsGiftReturnTipsgiftsholiday shoppingholidayspost-holiday salepost-holiday salesPost-holidaySalePost-holidaySalessaving moneysaving money during the holidaysSavingMoneySavingMoneyDuringTheHolidaysSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentshoppingC. LazarusTue, 20 Dec 2011 15:00:00 ESTWhat to Do With Unwanted Gift Cards -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/13/savings-experiment-gift-cards/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/13/savings-experiment-gift-cards/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/13/savings-experiment-gift-cards/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Shopping

If you can't use a gift card and don't want to shove it off on someone else, there are options besides letting it take up space in your wallet.

Getting Cash Back

You can always try to sell your card for free on Craigslist, or even on your Facebook page. Before you sell it, be mindful of where and how you do so: If you received the card from a Facebook friend, you may want to avoid selling it on your wall.

If you're willing to lose some of the card's value, but still get some cash back, Plastic Jungle and Swapagift.com will buy your gift card for 60 to 80 percent of its retail value. Plastic Jungle says that it pays out up to 92% of the verified balance and provides a prepaid shipping label for you to send in your card, so you won't have to spend extra time or money on mailing.

You'll need to become a registered member of these sites in order to use them. To avoid the annoyance of getting stuck on their mailing lists, simply unsubscribe after you've completed your transaction.

Re-Gifting

savings experiment gift cards

savings experiment gift cards

Why not donate your card to charity, or give it to someone you know who's in need? American Express (AXP) and other credit cards often allow you to redeem rewards points for gift cards, which you can give to a favorite cause. Charities like the Make-A-Wish Foundation will often accept unused gift cards as donations. Schools, community centers, synagogues, mosques, and churches can often use gift cards in raffle items as part of their fundraising drives.

Gift cards can also brighten the day of someone you know, like a coworker. It makes a nice, small surprise and sweetens an already thoughtful greeting card. Plus, re-gifting can be a win-win. Say you get a gift card for coffee, but have cut caffeine from your diet: Give it to a colleague, boss, or an intern who still enjoys their java.

Swapping Gift Cards

There are also great ways to trade in your gift cards. (Do read the fine print, as there may be listing fees.) Some places, like Plastic Jungle, will also offer other ways to convert a gift card's value towards other merchants' wares. You can also exchange your unwanted or partially used gift cards at Amazon.com (AMZN).

Giving Gift Cards

When selecting a gift card for someone you know, choose a store that they frequent. You might be surprised at how many local and major retailers offer gift cards, and how helpful it can be to use gift cards to supplement purchases of necessary items like groceries. For instance, Trader Joe's offers gift cards, which can be combined with cash at the checkout counter. You can also get a gift card for something a friend really wants but would never buy for themselves, like a massage at a spa such as Bliss Spa.

If you are buying a gift for someone you don't know, stick to major stores that offer more flexibility with expiration dates, such as The Gap (GPS). Gift cards from a chain like The Gap can be used online or at other stores owned by the same parent company, including Old Navy and Banana Republic. Sears's (SHLD) is another major retail chain that offers great deals on its eGift Cards. Plus they arrive by e-mail, in case you forgot someone's birthday and need a quick gift ASAP! Sears eGift Cards can be used online, over the phone, in any of the 2,000 Sears stores, and at Land's End and Kmart.

The Fine Print

A store-issued gift card tends to be a better deal than a bank-issued card. But wherever the card comes from -- be it a bank, chain, or local boutique -- always check the terms and conditions. When in doubt, ask if there are fees and expiration dates. Unsurprisingly, bank-issued gift cards tend to have more restrictions.

There are new laws that offer better protection for consumers, but bear in mind that regulations vary greatly from state to state. The Credit Card Act of 2009 protects gift cards for at least five years after the date they are issued; it also prevents monthly maintenance or dormancy fees, unless the card has been inactive for at least one year. Still, unused gift cards are considered abandoned property in over 35 states.

View Poll
If You Snooze You Lose

There are approximately $30 billion in unused gift cards sitting in kitchens, wallets, car doors, and sock drawers. Consumer Reports found that gift cards go unused because 58% of consumers do not have time to shop, 35% said they did not find anything that they want to buy, 32% forgot about it, and 7% didn't redeem it in time or lost it! Don't be a statistic. According to Deloitte, retailers get a great deal when folks don't use their gift cards.

Remember, a present is a gift: If you don't think you can use it, give it someone who can, or redeem it for something you really want. When it comes to gift cards, use them or lose them.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>gift cardsgift certificatesGiftCardsGiftCertificatesgiftsholidayshow to sell gift cardsHowToSellGiftCardsregiftregiftingSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentselling gift cardsSellingGiftCardsshoppingunwanted giftsUnwantedGiftsC. LazarusTue, 13 Dec 2011 12:30:00 ESTHow to Save and Splurge at the Spa -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/09/savings-experiment-a-day-at-the-spa/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/09/savings-experiment-a-day-at-the-spa/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/09/savings-experiment-a-day-at-the-spa/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Beauty

There's no easier way to temporarily get off the grid than blocking off a spa day. According to Reuters, spas need you as much you want them, since people tend to cut back on luxurious splurges when times are tough. There are bargains out there, so do seek them out.

Ongoing Spa Discounts

It's always a good time to get a massage. That's why websites like Groupon and Spawish.com offer discounts all year long. The popular website SpaFinder offers deals on thousands of spas around the globe, as well as gift certificates. Your health insurance carrier, union, or office may already have a special discount with SpaFinder, so inquire with the powers that be. If you are a Costco (COST) member, you can buy a $100 pack of Spafinder gift certificates for $80.

If you sign up on Groupon or SpaFinder's mailing lists or check in with the sites regularly enough, you'll stumble upon additional promos. At SpaFinder, for instance, the code ALIST gives you an additional 10% off your next purchase. Become a member of the site's Spa Club, and you'll receive additional deals and gift certificates.

Fun and Frugal

If you're up for fantastic deals and a truly fun spa experience, Korean spas, Russian bathhouses and Rocky Mountain hot springs often offer all- and half-day packages. A lot of these specialty "spas" welcome kids, so you can bring your family and still get away from it all.

Korean spas, which you can find in almost any metropolitan area, typically include an array of services -- sauna and steam rooms, pools, showers, internet, public and private rest areas to unwind in, and tasty food to boot. Most offer additional scrubs, massages, and beauty treatments, and are open in the evenings. Do some research to find out where the nearest spas, bathhouses, and hot springs are located in your area. Spa Castle in Flushing, New York, Spa World in Centreville, Virginia, and Olympic Spa in Los Angeles, California are popular Korean spas.

Off-Peak Perks

If you can play hooky from work (and life), boutique spas often offer discounts during the weekday, especially on Monday and Tuesday mornings. There is also a national Spa Week in the fall and Wellness Week in the spring, when many chain spas offer introductory treatments or specials hoping you'll get hooked and come again (at their regular rates).

Take It Home

The best way to save is to have a specialist come to your house. Maurice Henderson, who has provided spa services for major sports teams and hotels, offers reasonable rates, and has a devoted clientele in Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, New York, and even California. An expert, licensed professional, Henderson provides a table, candles, and music, in addition to his skilled, steady hands. You don't need to worry about paying for parking or dealing with traffic; just shut your eyes and enjoy. So if you get a massage that you really like, ask if the masseuse makes house calls too.

Schools

Massage schools offer lowered rates from their students, so check out the rosters at sites like Natural Healers. Sometimes community centers, boutique spas and schools offer workshops for laypeople, like Sal Anthony's Movement Salon chain in New York. You can go on your own, or make a massage workshop into a romantic date. What you learn may come in handy (pun intended) later.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>beauty treatmentbeauty treatmentsBeautyTreatmentBeautyTreatmentscheap spa dealsCheapSpaDealsfashion and beautyhot springhot spring spasHot SpringsHotSpringHotSpringsHotSpringSpashow torussian bathsRussianBathssaving moneySavingMoneySavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentspaspa treatmentsC. LazarusFri, 09 Dec 2011 15:30:00 ESTHow to Pick a Tablet -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/06/savings-experiment-how-to-pick-a-tablet/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/06/savings-experiment-how-to-pick-a-tablet/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/06/savings-experiment-how-to-pick-a-tablet/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Savings Experiment, iPad

Not since The Ten Commandments have tablets been in such demand. While you probably don't need a tablet, once you use one, you'll probably want to own one.

What Exactly Is a Tablet?

A tablet is a touch-screen media device, a cross between a computer and a phone. Tablets lack the memory and operating system of computers, but enable you to consume all sorts of media -- books, emails, movies, videos, games, and music. In essence, tablets are lightweight versions of laptops: They weigh less and are lighter on features.

Researching the Researchers

Like with dating, you'll probably want to a get a feel for a few tablets before you commit to one. You can first compare tablets at websites like Tablet Comparison and Tablet Leader. Do check out the blogs by tech junkies and journalists, like David Pogue of The New York Times, as well as tech-focused sites like Gizmodo and Wired. (Of course, Consumer Reports can be useful here too.) These folks constantly review the latest gadgets, so reading them will help you decide if it's better to hold out for a soon-to-be released model or to buy right now.

Operating Systems Et Al.

Ultimately, the brand, model, and, most importantly, the OS (operating system) you choose will largely depend on your personal comfort, as well as what operating system you use for your phone and home or work computer(s). Once you pick an OS, you may want to buy some bells and whistles, like a Bluetooth add-on keyboard. No expert can tell you whether you're more comfortable with a slide-out keyboard or a virtual keyboard, but, luckily, you can try them out at major retailers, such as Best Buy (BBY) and Apple (AAPL).

Is There an App for That?

It's hard to know what there isn't an app for, but depending on your passions and profession, certain apps will matter more to you than others. The chief benefit of the iPad is that it offers the greatest number of apps, with 90,000 (and counting) tablet-specific titles and applications. Google's Android, on the other hand, requires in most cases that you sideload apps. Android 3.0 does have its benefits -- configurability, Adobe Flash support, and easy integration with Google applications; it just features fewer apps. Evidently, no competitor can come close to the iPad, because apps made for Android OS must function across multiple screen size, whereas iPad apps are designed for a single tablet. Check out Wired to see some fun video demonstrations of these apps.

Size Matters

Size will always be an issue of personal preference. Do know, going in, that a "10-inch tablet" typically refers to the size of the screen, measured diagonally, but not the size of the tablet itself. Apple only offers the iPad in one-size fits all (9.7-inch screen). The BlackBerry PlayBook also comes in a single 7-inch screen size. However, Samsung offers its Android Galaxy Tab in multiple screen sizes: 7, 8.9, and 10.1 inches.

Storage Space

In order to store all those apps, you'll need a lot of space. As of now, tablet storage capacity is relatively limited, with around 64 GB of flash-based memory. Tablets with greater storage capacity can be as expensive as full-featured laptops, especially when you factor in the costs of cellular service plans. A top-end 64 GB iPad with Verizon (VZ) or AT&T (T) wireless service can cost around $830, plus a monthly fee, and that figure doesn't even include taxes!

Wi-Fi Only vs. Cellular Models

If you want your tablet to function like your cell phone or laptop and get online anywhere, opt for a model with a cell radio, such as the Verizon Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 or the AT&T Acer Iconia Tab A501. You'll need to pay for cellular service, so, as with your phone, try and stay within data-usage limits to avoid additional fees.

You can sometimes use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your tablet, but check with your carrier. Definitely find out if the tablet enables you to use either Wi-Fi or cellular service, as few offer both options.

Lastly, ask friends who own tablets and have similar buying patterns or work in similar fields to get a sense of their experience. You may find out that you want a tablet more than you realized, or that you'd rather hold out until they build a model that also files your taxes and nails.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>gadgetsipadipad2IpadAppkindlenooksamsung galaxySamsungGalaxySavings ExperimentSavingsExperimenttablettablet pcTabletPctabletstechnologyC. LazarusTue, 06 Dec 2011 14:00:00 ESTHoliday Travel on a Budget -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/02/savings-experiment-holiday-travel/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/02/savings-experiment-holiday-travel/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/12/02/savings-experiment-holiday-travel/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Travel Industry

Whether you're spending the holidays with family or getting away from everything (and everyone), there are several factors to weigh when traveling this season.

Boy Are My Arms Tired

As airline tickets and gas prices soar, it can be difficult to gauge whether it's more economical to fly or drive. Luckily, Befrugal.com's "Fly or Drive Calculator" helps you calculate hidden costs, like overnight pit stops or time spent commuting to the airport.

If you're driving, AAA, Costco, and Travelmath all offer fuel calculators, so you can figure out about how much gas will run, before you run out of it. According to Mint, a personal finance application, any drive that takes less than four hours is a better budgetary bet than flying.

In addition to the dollar value, there are other elements to factor in, like time. The New York Times has a calculator to help you assess how much your time is worth to you.

How to save on holiday travel

How to save on holiday travel

Of course, there are emotional costs, which only you will be able to weigh. Does sitting on the road in bumper-to-bumper conditions make you want to hurl yourself into oncoming traffic? If you fly, are you willing to deal with the possibility of cancelled flights, long security lines, and baggage premiums? If you have kids, you'll also want to factor in how well your children behave in the car versus on a plane. (This may also be an issue with pets, spouses, and in-laws.)

Public Transportation

Most of the world takes the train for short and long trips. Amtrak offers different levels of trains and some routes include sleeper cars. Be mindful that ticket prices go up, sometimes outrageously, closer to the dates of travel. However, if you book in advance, you can find great deals.

Trains offer a surprising amount of amenities. Amtrak is also currently upgrading to include wireless on certain routes, like along its Northeast Corridor. Even the standard trains provide spacious seats, bathrooms, and electric outlets, so you don't have to worry about your computer dying. Of course, you may grow weary of the food selection or being trapped indoors. Still, it's a fantastic alternative to driving, especially if you prefer to use travel time to catch up on reading a book (or writing one).

Then there's the bus, which in recent years has seen a resurgence in popularity due to rising costs of planes, trains, and automobiles. (Not to be confused with the old Steven Martin and John Candy movie.) Bolt and Megabus sometimes offer deals as cheap as a $1 a ride (you read that correctly!).

Check your route, as there may be a plethora of options. Greyhound can get you just about anywhere, but it can be surprisingly expensive on smaller routes between major cities, like Boston, Washington, DC, and New York. It's worth comparing the cost of Greyhound to the Chinatown buses, Megabus, DC2NY, and Bolt. There are also "luxurious" bus lines, like Vamoose, which may be more expensive but have less competition for seats. Most importantly, always check the individual companies' driving records! Google is a beautiful tool.

Getting There Is Half the Battle

Once you've decided on a mode of transportation, don't forget to calculate the price of lodging, food, sundries, and, most importantly, fun. The Professional Hobo enables you to get some idea of how much each day might cost you. After you've done the math, you may really be in need of a vacation. When the time comes, the most objectively important thing to do, no matter what happens, is to enjoy the trip.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>best dealsholiday travelholiday travel guideholiday travel tipsholidaysHolidayTravelHolidayTravelGuideHolidayTravelTipsSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimenttravelTravel & Autostravel and autoC. LazarusFri, 02 Dec 2011 13:30:00 ESTCutting the Cost of Diapers -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/29/savings-experiment-diapers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/29/savings-experiment-diapers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/29/savings-experiment-diapers/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment

Once you discover how much diapers cost, you may want to fasten your baby to a clothing line to drip-dry. But luckily for both parent and child, there are easy ways to save money on diapers.

Deciding on a Diaper

According to Consumer Reports, you can spend almost two thousand dollars on disposable diapers before your baby turns two.

Before you can start to save, you'll need to factor in what type of diaper you want to use. Each type has its sticking points (no pun intended): Cloth diapers, chlorine-free, eco-friendly brands, designer disposables, and generics all come with upsides and down. One of the easiest and most overlooked ways to save money and reduce your family's carbon footprint is to choose cloth diapers. In comparison to disposables, cloth can cost you as little as $300 for three years, and can be reused for future children.

Cloth Diapers

For cloth diapering, you'll need to buy around six-dozen diapers. The cost can vary considerably, so do compare prices. Organic cotton fitted diapers and wool covers are more expensive than more generic pre-folded ones, although they may reduce the need to purchase diaper cream.

There are myths about cloth diapers, despite a recent resurgence in popularity. Some ask if cloth diapers are less sanitary than disposables, but websites like Diaper Jungle debunk this notion. Cloth diapers certainly don't smell worse, and in any case new diaper pails with odor reducing fragrances have made this problem negligible.

Cloth diapers may require another load of laundry a week, but they're still a more environmentally friendly choice than plastic diapers. Cloth diapers don't need to be sterilized or washed with more care than their adult counterparts, or underpants, for that matter.

All Hail the Mommy Bloggers

Whether you go with cloth or disposable, name brand or generic, you can always find out how to get the best bang for your buck from mommy bloggers. They're thorough and thrifty. Take Amy Suzari, who created Frugal Mama and has painstakingly analyzed the cost of name brand disposable diapers so you don't have to. Suzari offers tips like starting with a generic brand first, then upgrading only if necessary.

If you decide to go with a designer label, she also suggests Luvs. Luvs are owned by Proctor & Gamble (PG), the parent company of Pampers, but are about five cents cheaper than Pampers or Huggies.

Mommy blogs can help you weigh what matters most to you and your child, without the pressure that asking your own folks or friends might bring, should you not take their advice. Plus, there are great pithy reviews of diapers out there, so be sure to check out blogs and websites like Babble, Babycheapskate and Thrifty Mama.

Coupons

Log onto the websites for name brand diapers and you'll find offers like giveaways, discounts for buying in bulk and more. Pampers, Luvs , Huggies and Seventh Generation offer a variety of saving options, as do Target (TGT), Babies R Us, Amazon (AMZN), and Costco (COST).

You're Not Alone

Even the most stylish parents try to cut costs when it comes to diapers. SaSaDi Odunsi, a mother of three and owner of the chic maternity clothing boutique Bump Brooklyn, says, "It's well worth trying to save a bit here and there when you have 2-3 years of diapers ahead of you, however many kiddos you plan to have!"

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>baby careBabyCarecloth diaperingcloth diapersClothDiaperingClothDiaperscost of babiescost of babyCostOfBabiesCostOfBabydiapershuggieshygienelifestyleluvsPamperssaving moneySavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentseventh generationSeventhGenerationC. LazarusTue, 29 Nov 2011 11:35:00 ESTHow to Save on Car Insurance -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/22/savings-experiment-car-insurance/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/22/savings-experiment-car-insurance/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/22/savings-experiment-car-insurance/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Travel Industry

Park It

Before you drive off and make an impulse buy, park yourself in front of your computer and research rates. It's not at all hard to learn which cars are easier to insure, not to mention which ones often get pulled over by highway patrol for speeding! Make an informed decision, whether you end up going for a dependable sedan or indulging in a fun sports car. MSN enables you to compare cars to see which ones are cheaper to insure, so you can make a proper cost-benefit analysis. You can also compare prices at Edmunds.com, which is a go-to pit stop for checking out ratings before you purchase a new or used car.

Compare Coverage

how to save money on car insurance

how to save money on car insurance

Avoid duplicate results. If you're already shelling out for comprehensive life or health insurance, there's a chance that you may be covered as a driver and might not need the premiums or add-ons from your car insurance. Consumer Reports is also an excellent tried-and-true resource, as well your credit union and credit cards. If you belong to a union or automotive group, like AAA, find out what coverage they offer, if any.

Bargain

Call your current insurance company and see if you can negotiate a better deal, especially if you find that a competitor beats their rates. Be sure to let them know if you have a clean driving record and a good credit rating, as these can easily be documented.

If you've had it with your present insurer, try bargaining with other companies to see if you can get a low rate right off the bat. Once you analyze premiums and coverage, you'll see how much these costs can add up.

Cut 'Em Off

One obvious way to cut costs is to take advantage of discounts. Jason, creator of Frugal Dad, suggests examining the discounts you might already qualify for, by virtue of having a low-risk occupation, belonging to a professional organization (such as AAA), or, of course, being a senior citizen.

You might also save if you insure your cars with the same company that insures your home or business. According to Phillip Reed, Senior Advice Columnist at Edmunds.com, you could end up making "your homeowner's policy cheaper too."

Offensive Driving

Lastly, take control of your coverage by assuming a higher risk. For instance: If you have an old car, is your collision insurance really worth its price? You can easily ask your present insurance company for a higher deductible. That means you'll have to pay for the scrapes yourself, and only use your insurance company if you have a major accident. It's a lot like what health insurance companies offer as alternative health plan options. Worst comes to worst, you can always invest the change floating around your car towards your insurance. You might be surprised at how much that change adds up.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>aaacar insurancecar insurance costscar insurance premiumsCarInsuranceCarInsuranceCostsCarInsurancePremiumscarshow tosaving on car insuranceSavingOnCarInsuranceSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentTravel & Autostravel and autotriple ATripleAC. LazarusTue, 22 Nov 2011 10:10:00 ESTStock Up and Save on Men's Basics -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/21/savings-experiment-mens-basics/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/21/savings-experiment-mens-basics/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/21/savings-experiment-mens-basics/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Beauty

The best way to look good in your briefs is to look good in your birthday suit. Luckily, the trend of men running around with pants around their calves, wearing underwear as outerwear, has started to die down. But if you're looking for underwear that you can wear as, well, underwear, that also fits well and feels comfortable, there are several ways you can save money.

Stocking Up

I'll keep this brief: Buy in bulk. The easiest way to save is to stock up. You'll always need underwear, so there's no reason not to buy a lot. Department and other chain stores, like Macy's, Costco and Target, typically offer discounts year-round when you buy packs of underwear. If there's a particular style, say boxers or briefs, that you like, it's worth buying a bunch before the designer switches it up and suddenly starts selling pantaloons or whatever else is the newest trend.

Shop Online

While it's smarter to buy shoes, jeans, and suits in person, buying underwear online is easy, if you already know what you want. If there is a particular style you already know fits, you'll probably find the best deals on the web. That's because you can compare prices online, at Overstock.com, Amazon and any major department store website.

It's best not to buy a style or brand you've never tried before, because if it doesn't fit, you probably can't return it. In fact, any store that lets you try on the underwear, buy it, wear it, and then return it, is not a place where you should be shopping.

Designer Labels

Sometimes you can't judge a pair of underwear by its label. Now that designers are opening multiple lines, with varying production value, the brand name doesn't determine the quality as much as the stitching and type of materials used. Still, some designers are more diligent than others, even with their "lower" lines.

You can snatch up legitimate deals on name brands if you go to outlet stores, especially on what are called "discontinued" designs. Discontinued simply means that the clothier is introducing a new design and ending that particular line, or introducing a slightly newer color because it's a new season. (If anyone makes fun of you for sporting underwear that is "so last season," than they have no business being that close to you.)

Before You Buy

Check out the stitching, seams and sizing. If you spot pulls, holes, loose threads, or even spots, you'll know not to buy them. Since men's underwear often comes sealed, especially when you buy in bulk, at least look at the briefs through the plastic. This way you won't come home and find that a small is significantly smaller than you had anticipated.

Now can anyone explain why underwear, which is a single item of clothing, is referred to as a pair?

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>boxer shortsBoxers or BriefsBoxerShortsbriefsfashion and beautymens underwearMensUnderwearmenswearSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentunderwearunderwear shoppingC. LazarusMon, 21 Nov 2011 13:30:00 ESTTaking Control of the Cost of Video Games -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/15/savings-experiment-video-games/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/15/savings-experiment-video-games/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/15/savings-experiment-video-games/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Savings Experiment, Entertainment Industry

Any legit gamer knows that the billion dollar gaming industry has to compete for your business. There are stores and websites that specialize in trading, discounts and rentals, as well as plenty of free online games and downloadable titles. When certain games are released, they may be nearly impossible to buy cheap. Still, with a little ingenuity, you may be able to beat this industry at their own game.

Time Out

Before making a move, research the ever-changing digital market. Check out sites like Consumer Reports, Wired, and TekGoblin, where passionate gamers such as Aaron Cooley provide an insider perspective. Of course, user-generated reviews from gaming junkies can also save you a bundle, especially if they've already given the game a spin at home and dealt with any kinks.

Second Life

Savings Experiment: Video Games

Savings Experiment: Video Games

Amazon (AMZN), Best Buy (BBY), GameStop (GME) and local mom-and-pop video game stores all sell used -- or, as Mercedes would have it, "pre-owned" -- titles. Certain genres, such as sports games, are cheaper than others. Definitely research the stores before you go -- for instance, Best Buy may be pickier about which titles they take, but word on the street is that they generally pay more than GameStop does.

Rent or Own?

GameFly, GottaPlay, Netflix (NFLX), iTunes and Gamerang are just a few of the several services that rent games online. Plans, like budgets, come in all shapes and sizes. You can cross check their monthly, ongoing membership and rent-by-the-game plans. There are still a few online retailers that will send games via snail mail. (Remember when getting a DVD in the mail was the new thing?) Most have switched to online distribution methods, or will do so soon. You can also visit your public library to see if they allow you to "check out" games. Assuming you return them on time, you won't have to spend a dime.

Get in the Game

You can also buy -- wait for it -- fewer games. There are titles geared toward the whole family, like the online and offline multi-players that enable a bunch of people to engage simultaneously. Nintendo's multiplayer games, such as Mario Kart, Wii Sports, and New Super Mario Bros., tend to be popular. You can also make up rules for yourself, like resolving to sell or trade a game you own before buying a new one. Or consider swapping with friends: Trading is almost always a win-win, cost-wise.

Free For All

Last and least, financially speaking, you can easily find free-to-play games and apps on the Internet. Some companies offer intros and demos to entice you. Plus, you'll be able to figure out if a given game is going to be addictive or yawn inducing.

As of now, bargain hunting, even off of websites, has not yet crossed over to being considered a video game... yet.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>entertainmentgameflygamestopSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentselling video gamesSellingVideoGamesTVused video gamesused videogamesUsedVideoGamesvideo gamevideo game rentalvideo gamesVideoGameVideoGameRentalVideoGamesVideoGameTrade-inC. LazarusTue, 15 Nov 2011 11:00:00 ESTBetter Bangs for Your Buck -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/11/savings-experiment-get-the-most-bangs-for-your-buck/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/11/savings-experiment-get-the-most-bangs-for-your-buck/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/11/savings-experiment-get-the-most-bangs-for-your-buck/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Beauty

Getting a great hair cut is like winning a vacation, and luckily, there are ways to trim down the cost of the haircut, at least. Besides, you can spend a lot of money and still end up with a lousy haircut. (Trust me, this happens.) So why not cut costs?

Cut to the Chase (and Ask Around)

To get the most bangs for your buck -- err, bang for your buck, ask folks you trust where they get their hair cut. Talk to friends with hairstyles and (ideally) budgets similar to yours. You can learn a lot about the general vibe of a salon, its cleanliness, and even pick up tips for other friends and family members. Of course, you can always check out community crowd-sourcing and social networking websites to see what people in your neighborhood think, such as Yelp, Citysearch, and even Facebook.

Be a Hair Model

how to save on haircuts

how to save on haircuts

If you're set on going to a high-end salon, see if it offers training days for schools and institutes, as they need hair models. It's even possible to get your hair cut for free from name brand salons, such as Aveda, Bumble & Bumble, and Frederic Fekkai, if you volunteer as a hair model. Plus, how flattering is it to be considered a model? (You don't have to divulge that just anyone qualifies...)

Deals on 'Dos

There are a growing number of websites with deals, coupons, and cost-cutting options. If you're willing to wait or go last minute, then check out sites like Groupon. Also, chains like The Hair Cuttery often offer deals as well.

Senior Styling from Junior Stylists

Just because someone is relatively young in their career doesn't mean they can't be good at what they do. In fact, junior stylists may be hungrier career-wise, since they're building up clientele. So if you're admiring your boss's slick pageboy or your sister-in-law's fringe bangs, it's worth asking where they get their hair cut and if there are junior stylists working there. If it's a close friend, you can even ask how much guidance and supervision the junior stylists get. At certain barbershops, stylists simply rent space, but higher-end salons tend to offer training and mentorship.

Haircutting is an art form, but it's also a skill. That's why Damaris, a junior stylist at Miwa and Alex, a boutique salon in New York, credits her boss Miwa for giving mentorship and guidance. While Miwa, who served as the Creative Director of Vidal Sassoon at its height and went on to co-found her own salon in 1996, has since passed on, her stylists continue her legacy. Loyalty is also a great recommendation.

I 'Do

Regardless of who does your hair, remember it's your 'do. Always communicate to the stylist what you want. Just a trim, or five inches off the bottom? Do you wash-and-go or use a hair dryer?

Some stylists like it when a client brings in pictures of celebrities, or just cuts and styles one might want. During the cut, keep your feet flat on the ground, to help keep your body movement to a minimum. You can also skip out on thumbing through a fashion or gossip rag and watch how your hair is being cut and styled. You may pick up some pointers, which means you can look like you just walked out of a salon every day.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>cheap haircutsCheapHaircutsfashion and beautyhairhaircutsHairStylessaving on haircutsSavingOnHaircutsSavingsExperimentC. LazarusFri, 11 Nov 2011 10:00:00 ESTGobble Up Savings With Turkey Leftovers -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/08/savings-experiment-turkey-leftovers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/08/savings-experiment-turkey-leftovers/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/08/savings-experiment-turkey-leftovers/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Food & Beverage

You can't pick your family, but you can pick your Thanksgiving turkey. And if you keep Thanksgiving leftovers, you can pick at it again and again.

Early Bird Special

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for all the good things, but you may want to guard those leftovers from your nearest and dearest, no matter how selfish it sounds. Right after the Thanksgiving feast -- when everyone says they can't imagine eating another bite -- is the perfect moment to salvage the remaining meat.

First, extract the meat from the carcass. Then store it in sealed containers or plastic bags. Do save the skin, scraps, and brown bits from the bottom of the roasting pan in a separate container, as the oils and juice can be used later as well. If you do this the day of the meal, you'll also save room in the fridge. Prepping turkey leftovers is a good excuse to snag some alone time or catch up one-on-one with a relative while you pick away.

Once you have all that turkey meat, you'll need to take stock of your -- well, stock.

Savings Experiment: Turkey Leftovers

Savings Experiment: Turkey Leftovers

Stocking Up

There are several easy ways to make stock, a base that can then be used for soups. Mark Bittman, The New York Times food columnist and esteemed author, says to just throw the leftover meat and veggies into a pot with water. You can simmer it, according to Bittman, until "the meat falls off the bones -- a technique that produces decent if somewhat crude results." For a rich turkey stock, Bittman recommends using the very pan in which you initially roasted the turkey. Cooking the stock in that pan, Bittman writes, will generate "a strong, sweet, and meaty turkey stock -- good enough to eat unadulterated as plain broth, and a perfect base for almost any other soup."

Of course, making soups from leftovers doesn't have to be bland. Wendy Weiden, a Sustainable Food Specialist, recommends Turkey Tortilla Soup. Weiden, who studies food systems at Presidio Graduate School, says it's possible to cut costs, and make healthy, environmentally sound meals, that are, most importantly, delicious.

For the Turkey Tortilla Soup, Weiden says to start by simply shredding the turkey. Then add the sliced and diced meat to what Weiden calls "a basic (and usually pretty cheap) tortilla soup recipe." Freezing the stock extends its expiration date, so that, as Weiden jokes, "you can enjoy it later, when you're less sick of turkey."

Love Birds

In addition to a host of yummy soup options, Joan Nathan, a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, recommends substituting shredded turkey for ground beef in dishes. Weiden agrees and says that "turkey pot pie is a good way to use leftover vegetables that didn't make it into Thanksgiving dinner." Post-Thanksgiving, Nathan makes Pasta del Papa, a potato meat pie that she has the recipe for in her cookbook, The Flavor of Jersulem. Pasta Del Papa is a perfect recipe for Turkey leftovers, as well as leftover veggies. As Nathan says, during the holiday season, "Most people will have mashed potatoes on hand."

To start cooking, Nathan preheats the oven to 400 degrees. She then peels and boils the potatoes in a covered pot, if she doesn't already have them cooked on hand. As the potatoes simmer, typically for around twenty minutes, Nathan sautés the tomatoes, green pepper, and turkey in hot oil until the turkey browns. By then the potatoes are ready to be mashed, so Nathan adds warm milk, butter, and salt. She then beats the potatoes until they are creamy.

Once the mashed potatoes are ready, Nathan removes the vegetable and turkey from the heat and stirs in paprika, salt, pepper, eggs, raisins, and olives. She blends them, pours the resulting mixture into an ovenproof casserole, and covers it with mashed potatoes, a sprinkle of paprika and a dot of butter. It takes about 20 minutes to bake and serves eight.

That's a lot of good food to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Of course, the most important ingredient in whatever dish you prepare is fun. Mark Bittman says that when you start to feel overwhelmed, remember: "Nearly everyone -- the in-laws' odd friends aside -- is appreciative of your time and effort. They really don't care if your serving spoon is a spatula." Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some leftovers, I'd like to eat in peace.

Pastel de Papa (Potato Meat Pie) from The Flavor of Jerusalem (Little, Brown) by Joan Nathan
8 medium sized potatoes
1 tomato, chopped
2 large onions, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
1.5 pounds shredded turkey
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup warm milk
4 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
salt and pepper to taste
4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1-cup raisins
1 1/2 cups pitted green olives, halved
1-teaspoon butter

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>foodfood and drinkleftoversSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentthanksgiving leftoversThanksgivingLeftoversturkey leftoversturkey recipesTurkeyLeftoversTurkeyRecipeTurkeyRecipesC. LazarusTue, 08 Nov 2011 18:15:00 ESTKeeping Your Boots in Walking Condition -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/01/savings-experiment-keeping-your-boots-in-walking-condition/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/01/savings-experiment-keeping-your-boots-in-walking-condition/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/11/01/savings-experiment-keeping-your-boots-in-walking-condition/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Beauty

A pair of great leather boots -- like the perfect jeans, or a dear friendship -- is always worth the investment, but requires work. The easiest way to save money is to take your soles into your own hands.

At Home Care

There are a range of products sold, but only a few staples that you need. Mink oil is great for water resistance, waterproofing spray works wonders for suede, and saddle soap conditions and treats leather. Rick Lee, the owner of Soula (a boutique Brooklyn shoe store chain), recommends the brands Kiwi, Meltonian, and Moneysworthinvest. "You absolutely have to protect your boots and you can easily find products for under fifteen dollars," says Ashley Tschudin, social media director for DNA Footwear.

In addition to treating the outside of the boots, you'll want to protect against odor, mildew, and wetness in the inside. According to Consumer Reports, the 250,000 sweat glands in your feet produce an impressive amount of sweat even during a routine walk. Lee, who has worked with Barneys, Charles Jourdan and Cole Haan, recommends buying "cedar shoe trees to maintain the shoe shape and deodorize them." In addition, you can always stuff shoes with newspaper.

Inevitably, boots will get wet, from the rain, snow, salt and whatever muck the sidewalk kicks up. This can loosen the leather and the shape of the boot. Tschudin says she'll "stick damp boots under the heater because they tend to smell if they get wet." You can clean and care for your boots even when you don't have the right cream or spray on hand. Tschudin says, "If my boots get dirty, I wash them off with just a damp wash cloth."

Get Thee to a Cobbler

There are things you can't cobble together yourself, which is why there are cobblers. You'll save money in the long run if you get soles and heels put in right away. Gavriel Maxsumov, a cobbler who owns Professional Italian Shoe Repair, says, "You have to come to the cobblers when you buy new shoes for soles and taps."

A thin, rubber sole, even a half sole, protects leather boots. Textured soles protect the boot base, which will inevitably get knocked up from grimy, hard sidewalks, slippery rain, and salt and snow woes. Maxsumov also recommends rotating your boots.

How often you should bring your boots into the cobbler depends on where you stand. Maxsumov says, "Everyone walks differently so it depends on how you walk in them. Some people come in every week, others twice a year." A good litmus test is the bottom of your heels, because as soon as a heel loses its tip, the boot is permanently damaged. The heel gets shredded, which you can sometimes hear since metal screws on concrete make nails on a chalkboard sound pleasant. If you feel, hear or see that your heels are uneven, run don't walk to a cobbler. (Just not in your boots!)

Check the Store

Lastly, check online if your boots offer a warranty or policy about shoe repair. Most fine leather shoe companies, like Coach (COH) and Frye, do. Higher-end retailers like Nordstrom (JWN) and Bloomingdales may help with repairs, if you have proof of purchase. Frye even offers some help if your boots are no longer under warranty. It's worth checking out what the brands and retailers offer. If they don't offer much, you can always give them, well, you know...

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>extending the life of bootsExtendingTheLifeOfBootsfashion and beautyleather bootsLeatherBootsouterwearSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentshoesC. LazarusTue, 01 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST