February 2015 – user's Blog!

February 26, 2015

Packing for the Perfect Spring Weekend Trip

There’s nothing better than getting out of town for a fun springtime weekend trip. The weather is getting warmer and it’s nice to soak up some sun after the long winter. While most of us would love to be on a perma-vacation, it probably won’t happen any time soon. Instead, focus on making the vacation’s that you do have flawless.

To execute the perfect weekend getaway, it all boils down to planning. Planing what you’re going to do, what you want to see, what you are going to wear, the places you want to eat, and maybe a little room for spontaneity thrown into the mix. But perhaps the most essential component of planning for your weekend trip? Packing! We’ve put together a quick guide to help you pack confidently for your perfect weekend trip.

1. A Medium Sized Travel Bag
The first thing you need for your weekend trip is the bag to fit everything. A solid, durable weekend travel bag is essential. Save yourself the hassle of checking a bag and get something small enough to fit into an overhead compartment, lightweight enough to carry on stairs, and light enough to take in and out of a car trunk. The TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible from eBags is perfect for a short trip. With 7 colors available and tons of room (without being bulky) this bag will allow you to pack it all and go with ease.

2. The Lightweight Sweater
No matter what the season, a versatile lightweight sweater is a must. If the air conditioning is up too high on the flight, if its start to cool down at night, or for fashionable layering, your sweater is bound to come in handy. J. Crew has great sweaters and the Relaxed Merino Wool Sweater comes in an array of colors to choose from.

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes
This one should be a given, but it must be mentioned. Whenever you travel, you’re going to active, and that means doing more walking than you normally would. You don’t have to wear sneakers for the entire weekend, but you’ll want to bring along a pair of shoes that can be dressed up or dressed down for the occasion, and you won’t mind walking around in all day. Keds are classic as well as versatile, but the Champion Eyelet version from OnlineShoes takes them up another notch on the fashion scale.

4. A Button Down
A solid button down is a good go-to piece for both men and women. Arguably the most flexible piece of clothing you can bring, a button down can be styled in an endless number of ways from heading to a nice restaurant for dinner, going out at night, or just kicking around during the day. The chambray shirt is perfect for both men and women alike and this Levi’s Workwear Boyfriend Chambray Shirt from Nordstrom is easy to style with multiple outfits.

5. Dark Jeans
A nice pair of dark jeans is another essential if you’re aiming for versatility. The staple piece in any casual wardrobe, they’re the perfect thing to thrown on and head out the door, so you won’t be wasting any time on your short trip. Most people already have a pair of dark jeans but if you’re looking for a new pair, the Demi Curve Skinny Jeans from Levi’s are flattering and classic.

Pack these weekend trip essentials and you’ll have everything you need for a great time!

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February 25, 2015

Staycation Success: Tips & Tricks

The word vacation brings up images of escape, relaxation, and fun. Most traditional vacations take place away from the home. But when a traditional vacation isn’t an option, plan a staycation instead! You can easily take a break in the comfort of your own home and city. Staycations are a great choice for singles, couples, and families alike!

The Ground Rules
A staycation is meant to feel like a real getaway, so there are a few ground rules that need to be set. Deciding a start and end time to the vacation (whether it be a weekend or a whole week) and guidelines to follow ahead of time keep everyone involved and on the same page. NOTE: Not all of these examples will work for everyone, so pick and choose what works for you and your family!

No working from home
No cooking, cleaning, or laundry
Only check your phone or email when you absolutely have to (preferably not at all!)

Plan Your Staycation
Destination vacations usually include fun plans for dinners, activities, and ways to relax, so make sure you do the same for your staycation! Set a realistic budget with money set aside for eating out or a massage. Try to prep around the house in a way that makes your vacation at home as relaxing as possible. You can make sure all your laundry is done ahead of time, gathering local menus, preparing meals in advance, and using disposable dishware to cut down on doing the dishes.

Get Out and About
Just because it’s called a staycation doesn’t mean you need to stay in! There are most likely dozens of things to do around your hometown that you have never even thought of. Here’s a list of 10 ideas to get you started. Check out our Groupon and LivingSocial for coupons and discounts on local events, plus get 6% Cash Back at Ebates!

Visit your local museums
Check out your local library for activities
Root for your favorite major or minor league team
Have a board game tournament
Camp in the backyard
Catch a show at your local theater
Tour a local brewery
Take a painting or pottery class
Visit a local park
Go for a walk, hike, or bike ride

Relax and Refresh
While you’ll probably be tempted to tackle a few chores during your staycation, remind yourself to kick back and enjoy the moment. Whether you have a list full of activities or one or two picked out, the attitude and commitment you have to making this time about relaxing and having fun is ultimately the most important key to a successful staycation. Take the time to let your hair down and spend time with your partner, kids, or even catch up on some “me time!”

Have you ever taken a staycation? What activities around your town would you do? Let us know in a comment below!

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February 24, 2015

Travel Essentials: 11 Items to Make Any Trip Easier

Whether you are a solo adventurer or you’re traveling with your entire tribe, getting away has its hassles. From sensible packing to keeping little ones happy (and yourself from going insane), this ultimate list of travel essentials eliminates your questions on what to pack and guarantees smooth sailing during your next “bon voyage.”

1. SHOLDIT Infinity Wrap Purse
Forget fanny packs or even the hidden ones you strap under your clothes. How uncomfortable does that sound? Instead, carry your small essentials with easy access and stay in style with this infinity scarf-turned-purse.

2. Prince Lionheart Backseat Organizer & Kickmat
Long car rides with toddles can wreak havoc on the backs of your seats. This kickmat and organizer protects your upholstery with one easy install.

3. Snack and Play Travel Tray
Another must-have for family road trips, this travel tray will keep everything your little one needs within arm’s reach to reduce the need for pull-overs or dangerous reaching behind your seat.

4. Triangular Crayons
Whether you’re in a plane, train, or automobile, these crayons will not roll away so your kids can keep creating while you get closer to your destination.

5. Travel Jewelry Case
We’ve all opened a suitcase to reveal a tangled mess of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that we have to spend precious vacation minutes untangling. Avoid this time suck with a small and simple travel jewelry case with multiple compartments and ample protective cushioning.

6. Foldable Water Bottles
That hefty plastic water bottle is great when it’s full, but takes up precious cargo room when it’s empty. These foldable bottles are reusable and roll up for easy storage when not in use.

7. EarPlanes Flight Ear Plugs
The change in air pressure on flights can be painful for tiny ears. These ear plugs relieve the pressure and reduce harsh noise naturally with their exclusive CeramX Filter.

8. Tegu Blocks
Perfect for babies and toddlers, these wooden blocks are magnetic, making them hard to slip out of little hands.

9. Travel Compression Bags
There is really no other way to pack your clothes than with compression vacuum bags. The space they take up otherwise is just ridiculous, especially if you’re planning a long trip and don’t want to deal with a Laundromat.

10. Car Seat Transporter
Car seats are heavy and bulky but can easily roll along with this simple car seat transporter. You can even strap your little one in if you need to run and catch that next flight.

11. Colorescience Powdered Sunblock
Putting on extra sunblock on the go is always a sticky ordeal. This light and airy powdered sun protection goes in on a flash so you can get back to your getaway.

What are some items you never travel without? Let us know in the comments below!

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February 19, 2015

Tips on Filing Taxes

It’s that time of year again, the time to file your taxes. Whether you’re a veteran expert, a loophole whiz, or a first time filer, we can all use a little refresher on the best ways to maximize our returns and minimize our liabilities. It might not be the most fun thing in the world, but filing your taxes doesn’t need to be a total drag. We’ve got you covered with tips for filing your taxes this year as well as where to get Cash Back while doing so.

1. Don’t put it off until the last minute.
While taxpayers don’t need to file their 2014 taxes until April 15, 2015, it’s never a good idea to wait until the final days to do it. Aside from running the risk of penalties, you might not leave yourself enough time to look into all of your possible deductions and credits thoroughly. And if you’re eligible for a tax return, who wants to wait for that check? Once you’ve finished filling your taxes, it’ll be a huge relief, and you can look forward to spending those returns on Amazon using Ebates cash back and coupons!

2. Hunt for deductions.
Filing your taxes might seem exhausting, but hunting for the deductions you’re eligible to receive can be fun in its own way. Things like moving more than 50 miles for a new job, donating clothes and household items to charity, or even job hunting can help you save money on your taxes, so it’s worth tracking your expenses and holding onto those receipts.

3. Determine whether to file jointly or separately.
While the vast majority of married couples chose to file their taxes jointly to save time, it’s not always the best strategy to maximize your savings. Try calculating your taxes both ways to determine which will be more financially advisable. It might take more time, but the savings are totally worth the extra elbow grease.

4. Use TurboTax.
Around four out of five taxpayers file their taxes electronically, and have done so for the past three years. One of the most common ways they’re doing it? TurboTax. The super user-friendly tax filing service is clear, efficient with your time, and directs you to potential deductions.

5. Use TurboTax coupons & coupon codes.
While the basic TurboTax service is free of charge, additional features and premium services are charged accordingly. But fear not, TurboTax coupons and coupon codes from Ebates can give you substantial savings on your filing fees, so you don’t have to cut into your return before it even arrives.

Filing your taxes might take a while to wrap up, but you’ll feel great once it’s done!

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February 17, 2015

Spring Shoe Trends 2015

Spring has almost sprung and it’s just about time to trade in those knee-high boots for open-toe sandals. In honor of Shoes, Bags and Accessories Week at Ebates, we’ve researched the hottest shoe trends for this spring via POPSUGAR and Fashionisers.com and gathered our favorite pairs that are sure to tighten up your shoe game. Comment below and let us know which of these spring shoes is your favorite!

1. Power Pumps: Steve Madden ‘Whanda’ (Steve Madden) | $149.95
Classic pumps with pointed toes or stiletto heels are still around but even better this spring with added ankle straps or sling backs.

2. Lace It Up: Diane von Furstenberg ‘Susie’ Gladiator Sandal (Nordstrom) | $198
Lace-up sandals and heels make a great statement this spring. Keep it simple with sandals that tie to the ankle, or be bold with heels that tie to the calf or knee.

3. Block Heels: Steve Madden ‘Nolea’ (Steve Madden) | $99.95
Not a fan of stilettos? Give your feet a break with these chunky block heels. If you feel a tad clumsy on skinny heels, this style is perfect for the pump-impaired.

4. Masculine Inspired: Steve Madden ‘Lauurel’ (Steve Madden) | $79.95
Take charge by adding a menswear-inspired element to your outfit. Mix ulta-feminine details with a classic penny loafer for a powerful statement.

5. Flatforms: See by Chloé ‘Robin’ Flatform Sandal (Nordstrom) | $290
The 70’s inspired flatforms are back and better than ever, adding height without compromising comfort.

6. Colorblock: MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Nadja’ Cross Strap Colorblock Sandal (Nordstrom) | $149.95
Colorblocking is a daring yet simple way to spice up an outfit. If the idea seems intimidating, start simple with a colorblock shoe.

7. Cutout Flats: Steve Madden ‘Euphoria’ (Steve Madden) | $69.95
Cutout flats are far from basic and make for a fun and flirty statement.

8. Woven Details: Joe’s ‘Pearce’ Leather Sandal (Nordstrom) | $134.95
Woven details give a subtle dimension and boho flair to heels and sandals this spring.

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February 13, 2015

Monumental Presidents’ Day Coupons

See 2016 President’s Day Coupons>

It may not be Christmas or Black Friday, but Presidents’ Day is one of those holidays where shoppers can enjoy some of the best sales and discounts of the year. The 3-day Presidents’ Day weekend (which strangely coincides with Valentine’s Day this year) sees some of the best sales of the year on big ticket items like furniture and appliances, as well as clearance sales on clothing and major discounts on electronics.

We’ve brought together some of the best deals out there to help make your Presidents’ Day shopping easier. Stack these offers with Cash Back and you’ll surely maximize your savings!

Baby & Kids:

Carters

Presidents’ Day Sale: Extra 25% off!

Code: BIGSALE

(Exp. 02/16/2015)

Shop Deal with 2.5% Cash Back>

Gymboree

Presidents’ Day Sale! Entire site on sale: Save up to 80% when you take an extra 50% off markdowns.

(Exp. 02/15/2015)

Shop Deal with 1% Cash Back>

The Children’s Place

President’s Day Weekend Sale! 40 – 50% off most items, 25% off accessories & footwear!

(Exp. 02/15/2015)

Shop Deal with 2% Cash Back>

Crazy 8

President’s Day Sale: 30% off entire site, including markdowns!

(Exp. 02/15/2015)

Shop Deal with 1% Cash Back>

Travel:

CheapOAir

Up to $40 off Presidents Day Weekend Deals.

Code: PRES40

(Exp. 02/28/2015)

Shop Deal with up to $12.50 Cash Back>

Choice Hotels:

President’s Day Vacation Rates – View our Top 10 President’s Day Destinations and Save!

(Exp. 02/15/2015)

Shop Deal with 3.5% Cash Back>

Clothing, Shoes & Accessories:

Bluefly

Up to 80% off President’s Day Sale.

(Exp. 02/17/2015)

Shop Deal with 3.5% Cash Back>

eBags

Presidents’ Day Sale: Take an extra 15% off your entire purchase!

(Exp. 02/17/2015)

S hop Deal with 10% Cash Back>

Lands End

$10 off $50+, $25 off $100+ or $50 off $150+ Presidents’ Day Sale order.

Code: PRESIDENT Pin:1790

(Exp. 02/16/2015)

Shop Deal with 6% Cash Back>

Macy’s

Presidents’ Day Sale! Extra 20% off and Free Shipping at $75.

Code: PRES

(Exp. 02/15/2015)

Shop Deal with 3% Cash Back>

Saks Fifth OFF 5th

Pre-Presidents’ Day Sale: Extra 40% off! Exclusions Apply.

Code: PRESIDENT

(Exp. 02/13/2015)

Shop Deal with 3.5% Cash Back>

Overstock.com

Up to 70% off President’s Day Sale.

(Exp. 02/23/2015)

Shop Deal with 5% Cash Back>

Home:

Rooms to Go

King Mattress for the price of a Queen at the Presidents’ Day Mattress Sale.

(Exp. 02/16/2015)

Shop Deal with 1% Cash Back>

Best Buy

President’s Day Major Appliance Sale: Up to 25% off Top Buys + free delivery and haul away!

(Exp. 02/21/2015)

Shop Deal with 1% Cash Back>

Sears

Up to 60% off President’s Day Mattress Spectacular Sale.

(Exp. 02/22/2015)

Shop Deal with 6% Cash Back>

Sports & Outdoors:

The Sports Authority

Up to 60% off Presidents’ Day Savings Event.

(Exp. 02/21/2015)

Shop Deal with 3% Cash Back>

MLB.com

25% off Presidents Day Sale.

(Exp. 02/16/2015)

S hop Deal with 5% Cash Back>

Cabela’s

Up to 50% off President’s Day Sale.

(Exp. 02/18/2015)

Shop Deal with 2% Cash Back>

Electronics:

Abt Electronics

Extra $50 off $499+ President’s Day Sale order.

Code: PRESDAY50

(Exp. 02/16/2015)

Shop Deal with 2% Cash Back>

Best Buy:

Presidents Day Sale

(Exp. 02/17/2015)

Shop Deal with 1% Cash Back>

***Prices and Cash Back subject to change.

February 12, 2015

How to Wear Spring Clothes in Winter

According to our favorite furry friend, Punxsutawney Phil, we have a long winter to look forward to and shouldn’t pack away our cable knits just yet. However, if you got a jump on your spring shopping this year, don’t despair! Get ready to cut off those tags and strap in for our favorite blogger photos showing you how to wear sunny spring clothes in the winter chill.

Crop top and button-down

Protect your tum from the cold while still rocking that crop top by layering with a button-down shirt. Pop out the collar and feel free to play around with prints for a lively yet sophisticated look. (Kendi Everyday)

Crop top and giant coat

If you can still stand to show a little skin, just add a fabulous statement jacket like this amazing oversized pink coat. (Le Fashion)

Sweater over dress

Remember those cable knits we talked about? Use a chunky sweater to warm up a sundress, particularly one with a cute, flirty skirt. All you need is a good pair of tights and you’re ready for that cold morning commute. (She Finds)

Jumpsuit and faux fur vest

Give a printed flowing jumpsuit some serious depth with a turtleneck and faux fur vest. Now you’ve got a boho look that is perfect for blustery weather. (Thrifty Hunter)

Lace and leather

Take a lacy spring dress and add a little attitude with a leather jacket, leggings and booties for a perfect mix of naughty and nice. (FabFashionFix)

What’s your favorite winter-to-spring look and how will you make it your own? Comment below!

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February 7, 2015

Get the Facts About Valentine’s Day

Have you ever wondered what people really think about Valentine’s Day and how they celebrate it (or not)? Get the facts about Valentine’s Day in our infographic and uncover the fascinating truth about the most romantic day of the year.

Want to share our infographic on your site? Just copy and paste the text below!

<div style=”height:100% !important;width:100% !important;”><a style=”border:none !important;” href=https://www.ebates.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FINALEbates-Valentine%C2%B9s-day-v4.png” alt=”Ebates Valentines Day Gifts Infographic” height=”auto” width=”100%”></a><br><div style=”font-family:Arial !important; color:#A1A1A3 !important;font-size:10px !important;height:15px !important;width:100% !important;”>This infographic is provided to you by <a style=”font-size:10px !important; font-family:Arial !important; color:#A1A1A3 !important; text-decoration:underline !important;” href=”https://www.ebates.com/”>Ebates</a> – shop and earn Cash Back!</div></div><br>

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February 6, 2015

How to Survive Being a Single Girl on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day sure can be an unfriendly day for single women. At best, it can just feel exclusively not for you. Whether you are single and loving it or lonely and loathing it, we’ve got a list of 10 things you can do to get through the day in one piece with our singles’ guide to Valentine’s Day.

1. Log off social media – If you’d rather not see Facebook check-ins at fancy pants restaurants and “couplesies” on Instragram, just put your phone on lock and get off the grid. Also, it’ll keep you from throwing yourself a little pity party with bitter status updates.

2. Fast food feast – Treat yourself to a cheat meal with the added bonus of knowing no couple will be spending the most romantic day of the year at Wendy’s. At least not happy couples.

3. Shopping spree – Listen, you’re great and if no one is there to spoil you this Valentine’s Day, DIY. Get yourself a little something to help you strut your stuff.

4. Spa/salon day– Primp, pamper, perfection. Come out looking and feeling like a new woman.

5. Galentine’s Day – Leslie Knope had the right idea. Take your fellow singles out for brunch or dinner and dancing. Ladies celebrating ladies!

6. Get physical – Hiking, yoga, paintballing. These are all activities that will work up a sweat and maybe even unleash a little aggression, if needed.

7. Sports bar viewing party of one– If you’re already planning to catch a college basketball game or MMA fight on TV, why not take yourself out for some buffalo wings while you’re at it? You’ll get out of the house without the risk of coming face to face with unsightly PDA. Until someone scores a point, that is.

8. Library trip – Dive into a good book or two without spending a single dollar.

9. Guilty pleasure TV – Unless your guilty pleasure is Rom Com or anything else sappy, get your couch potato on. Perhaps some celebrities in rehab or overbearing stage moms will make you appreciate your current drama-free independence?

10. Traditional date night – We hope you’re just as comfortable as a single gal as you would be in a relationship. If you love you, shout it from a rooftop and take yourself out. Fancy dinner, chocolate dessert, romantic movie, the whole nine. You deserve it!

Bottom line, ladies—do YOU. Create a day filled with things that make you happy simply because you deserve it. Comment below and tell us your ideal single Valentine’s Day.

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February 5, 2015

DIY Valentine’s For Kids

Parents, first let us congratulate you on the extra time you happened to stumble upon in order to put any extra thought into your kids’ valentines cards this year. Doing anything other than picking up a box of punch-cut Charlie Brown cards (because Charlie Brown is still totally cool, right?) legitimately makes you a superhero. Let us help you in your quest to make Valentine’s Day too cool for school with these seven super-cute handmade gift ideas.

You Color My World
If you have more than a few broken crayons laying around the house, this Valentine craft is perfect for you. By melting up broken crayons in a heart-shaped silicon mold, you’ve created a colorful gift any child would love. Learn how to make these Heart Shaped Crayons from Cherished Bliss.

“Doh” You Want To Be My Valentine?
These Play-Doh Valentine’s from Random Thoughts of a SUPERMOM are a great alternative to chocolate or candy. Another alternative is to make your own Play-Doh with your child and put them into plastic containers. Feel free to add sparkles!

May The Force Be With You On Valentine’s Day
Let your tiny Jedi be the talk of the classroom with this Star Wars Valentine from Brassy Apple. Add a glowstick to this simple Valentine’s card and it’s now transformed into a glowing lightsaber.

Our Class Would Knot Be The Same Without You
If your child loves to make friendship bracelets (or you don’t mind helping them learn), this DIY craft is unique and special. Friendship Bracelet Valentines from Dandee Designs is a bit more time-consuming than the other crafts, but definitely will be a hit among the classroom.

Follow The Trail To My Heart
If your child is allowed to bring snacks for Valentine’s Day, opt for this yummy and healthy trail mix! A Spicy Perspective has ideas on how to perfectly make the Homemade Trail Mix Valentine Snack, complete with cute bird!

Be Mine Craft-y
Kids love Minecraft, that is a fact. So these adorable Minecraft Valentines from Lolly Jane are perfect for boys who complain about how “girly” Valentine gifts are. If that’s too much work, fill the bag with bricks and instructions with how to DIY their own.

You Blow My Mind
To finish off the list, we’ve taken a cue from wedding receptions and love the idea of bubbles. Bubble Valentines from Pretty Prudent are super easy to whip up. Best of all, these bubbles don’t make a mess!

Which of these DIY Valentine’s are perfect this year for your kids? Comment below!

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