April 2015 – Page 2 – user's Blog!

April 27, 2015

Meet the 5 Perfect Carry-On Bags

For me, the perfect carry-on bag has to be compact, versatile and stylish. It needs to be roomy enough to hold all of my essentials but small enough to actually fit in the overhead compartment, especially since space comes at a premium on flights these days. Below, you’ll find five perfect bags for any type of traveler. Whether you like to pack sparingly or need something that’ll hold a hefty portion of your wardrobe, there’s an option for you. And, when you shop for any of them through Ebates, you’ll be earning Cash Back.

The Take-Anywhere Tote

If you like to travel light, the Tumi Voyageur M-Tote is the carry-on bag for you. Roomy and stylish, this tote has a 13″ laptop pocket, one zip pocket and three open pockets for storing chargers, headphones and other accessories. If you learn how to roll your clothes, you can fit at least two outfits in this carry-on, which makes it ideal for quick business trips or a compact way to carry your essentials.

Tumi Voyageur M-Tote
from Tumi Luggage
Buy Now

The Do-It-All Duffel

The bag I reach for the most, for any sort of travel plans, is my Chrome Industries Surveyor duffel bag. I have the predecessor to this model, and it’s a tank. I’ve taken it on dozens of flights, weekend trips and camping adventures. I even used it as a cooler for oysters and beer once when I lived in the Bay Area. Chrome has made some nice upgrades with the addition of a strap and interior organization. There’s even an added shoe compartment. It’s crafted from ballistic nylon, which is incredibly tough, so it can handle being squished into an overhead bin with ease. After years of abuse, my bag still looks brand-new.

Chrome Industries Surveyor Duffel Bag
from eBags
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The Weekend Workhorse

A weekender bag is a must-have in your carry-on luggage arsenal. This one from Vera Bradley has a classic profile and plenty of room for all of your staples. Vera Bradley says it can hold anywhere from four to six outfits. It can also double as your go-to bag when you’re not flying, which makes it a fantastic investment. I particularly like the navy colorway, but there are four additional colors to choose from if navy’s not your thing.

Iconic Weekender Travel Bag
from Vera Bradley
Buy Now

The Compact Compartment

How many times have you boarded a plane only to find that the overhead storage is completely full? It happens to me all the time, which is why I often reach for something like this under-seat bag. Sure, it’s not as roomy as other carry-on luggage, but it’ll get the job done if you pack smart like I mentioned earlier. If you find that the overhead compartments are full, simply slip this bag under your seat, sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

Eco-Glide Wheeled Underseater Carry On
from eBags
Buy Now

The Certified Classic

There’s something to be said for a classic, and this spinner suitcase from Samsonite is a modern take on a tried and true design. It’s expandable, so you’ll be able to fit much more in this bag than you would the other picks above, but it still complies with carry-on luggage rules, so you’ll be all clear when you board. Simple, sleek and stylish. What more could you ask for?

Hyperspace XLT 30-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase
from Overstock.com
Buy Now

April 27, 2015

Announcing the Ebates Apple Watch App

We’re sure that many of you know that the Apple Watch was released on Friday, April 24th. But what you may not know is that our team here at Ebates also released our Apple Watch app last Friday to all those early adapters.

The Ebates app for the Apple Watch makes finding the best deals and savings easier than ever before. The app gives our members the ability to find coupons and the current Cash Back at their favorites stores, see their total Cash Back earned, and integrate seamlessly with their iOS devices to shop on the spot.

The key features of the Ebates Apple Watch app include:

Current Cash Back Offers and Coupon Codes
- Shoppers are able to quickly find the best deals at their favorite stores.
My Ebates To Go
- Ebates members can access their account to view their Cash Back they’ve earned
Handoff Support
- Shoppers can start shopping on their Apple Watch and quickly finish off where they left off on any iOS device.

The Ebates app for Apple Watch is available for free from the App Store.

April 27, 2015

5 DIY Mother’s Day Gifts She’ll Love

Remember the good old days when you went to school and crafted DIY Mother’s Day gifts with your tiny hands that made her lose her mind because they were way too cute? Who says we can’t do that just because we’re all grown up? Whether you feel like creating personalized handmade gifts for your own mom or helping your little ones up their gift game this Mother’s Day, here are five super easy DIY gifts for mom anyone can make no matter what your artistry level may be.

Mason Jar Picture Frame

mason_jar_frame — via Home Stories A to Z

Ditch the fancy crystal vase she probably already has and give her something with a little more heart. Mom loves pictures of her kids (or grandkids) at any age and this darling mason jar picture frame is a creative way to display her favorite photo.

Mini Polaroid Magnets

Another way to use family photos for your DIY gifts is this fun batch of mini photo magnets. Use this handy little template to print out your photos and glue them onto mounting board to create a practical gift she can use every day!

Homemade Bath Bombs

A luxurious bath with a bomb of essential oils will leave mom feeling invigorated and renewed after a long day of saving the world (like she does every day). Plus, these bath bombs are completely customizable so you can make bombs in her favorite scents and colors.

Handmade Terrariums

Terrariums4 — via Saved By Love Creations

Put a spin on traditional flowers and make mom something that will actually last with minimal upkeep. These gorgeous terrariums take less than an hour to make and will bring a little bit of the garden indoors to spruce her living space and make her smile.

Footprint Step Stool

Perfect for the mom of little kids (or grandma), this small piece of practical furniture is like a memory frozen in time. Mom will be reminded of the pitter patter of little feet for years to come.

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April 22, 2015

Mother’s Day Gift Guide Over $50

Thinking of dishing out the big bucks on Mother’s Day gifts this year? Whether she’s been the ultimate Supermom or she’s a first-timer who has taken the world’s most important job in stride, Mom is due for a special surprise. These gifts for Mom over $50 cover it all–sweet treats, pampering, a little fashion and more. Read on for the ultimate Mother’s Day gift guide for the ultimate mommy.

1. Leatherbay Leather Mini Backpack Purse (eBags) | $98.99
Purses are great but backpacks are perfect for busy moms to keep them hands-free and ready to take on the day. This stylish leather backpack is as practical as it is fashionable.

2. ‘Dylan’ Stone Pendant Necklace (Nordstrom) | $60
This sleek black stone pendant will go with literally any outfit in her closet, even those favorite yoga pants she wears way too often.

3. At Home Spa Kit (Perfume Emporium) | $67.99
This kit includes a peeling mask, hand and foot therapy cream and a luxurious body balm to help her grow her glow and feel fabulous.

4. Sterling Silver Infinity Charm Bracelet (Zales) | $58.65
A mother’s love is infinite and knows no bounds. Show your endless appreciation with this elegant charm bracelet in stunning sterling silver.

5. Godiva Mother’s Day Gift Box (Brookstone) | $59
Every mom needs a little something sweet every now and then. A BIG something sweet is always good, too. Give her a delicious death by chocolate with this Godiva gift box.

6. TOMS Calypso Wedge Pumps (Jildor) | $55.20
Adding a little spring print to her looks will be easy with these unbelievably comfortable TOMS wedges. Her feet and her OOTDs will thank you.

7. Massage Cushion (Light in the Box) | $62.99
The best gifts for Mom are things she can actually use and who couldn’t use a massage every now and then? Help soothe her hard-working muscles with this gentle rolling massage cushion.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

April 22, 2015

Mother’s Day Gift Guide Under $50

Every mom is special in her own way, which can make it hard to find the right gift to show you care. However, we think we’ve picked out some pretty awesome Mother’s Day gifts under $50. From something pretty to wear everyday to luxury gift sets that will make her feel as beautiful as you see her, these gifts for mom have you covered with your budget in mind.

1. Rose Gloves (Gardener’s Supply Company) | $39.95
If Mom’s idea of heaven is a Sunday spent in the garden, show that you care about her interests and get her something she can actually use like these high-quality rose gloves.

2. Prettiest Portions Measuring Cups (ModCloth) | $29.99
Cute kitchen items are usually a safe bet for Mother’s Day, especially if your mom is a culinary wiz. These printed measuring cups will make her think of you every time she’s whipping up another tasty treat. Maybe she’ll even share it with you.

3. Carol Brodie: Accessorize Your Life Perforated Patent Tote (HSN) | $39.95
Most women also need a reliable tote bag, especially if she’s a busy mom on the go. Help keep her organized yet ever fashionable with this on-trend bag.

4. Elephant Reversible Yoga Mat (Gaiam) | $34.98
Whether Mom is a novice yogi or a zen master, encourage her to take some time to center herself and do something good for her body with this festive yoga mat.

5. Wine Bites Cookbook (Crate & Barrel) | $24.95
If Mom has been known to throw one heck of a party, this cook book of small plates expertly paired with fine wines will help her take her next get-together to new levels.

6. L’Occitane Pretty en Provence Set (Sephora) | $38
Nothing will make Mom want to take care of her skin more than a basket full of high-end bath products. Help her grow her glow with luxurious bath oils and moisturizing creams from L’Occitane.

7. Alex and Ani ‘Mom’ Adjustable Wire Bangle (Nordstrom) | $28
Give Mom a gift straight from the heart with this gorgeous yet simple Alex and Ani bangle. She can wear this little token of your affection every day for years to come.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 21, 2015

Mother’s Day Gift Guide Under $25

Mother’s Day will be here before you know it and while many moms out there love flowers, why not try something a little different this year? If you’re looking to keep things simple this Mother’s Day but want to still give her something small that says a lot, we’ve got the perfect gift guide for you. Items that will help her relax, pamper herself or help preserve memories will make this Mother’s Day extra special.

1. Prada Candy Florale Rollerball (Sephora) | $25
Research your mom’s favorite perfume scent (or introduce her to something new) and give her a rollerball version of it. These are great for travel or a busy mom on the go.

2. Posy Court Small Heart Dish (Kate Spade) | $20
Losing an earring or the keys can happen daily in a mother’s life. This heart shaped dish is a great solution for commonly misplaced small objects. And it’s so darn cute!

3. Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Wash & Foam Bath (Bath & Body Works) | $13
Setting aside some “me time” can be hard to schedule in. This body wash will remind her to take at least five minutes for herself daily.

4. Kate Spade ‘Asteroid Stones’ Stud Earrings (Overstock) | $22.99
Jewelry tends to be a typical Mother’s Day gift, but when it’s something she can wear daily (like these earrings) she’ll remember you every time she puts them on.

5. Pacifica Soy Candle in Malibu Lemon Blossom (Beauty.com) | $16
Soy candles are a great alternative to traditional candles as they burn clean and longer. The Malibu Lemon Blossom scent captures the Pacific Ocean perfectly, allowing her to escape for a few moments during the day.

6. Formula X The Match CLIX (Sephora) | $16
These fun nail polishes take the guessing out of which shades will flatter the skin tone. The best part of giving her this gift is you can offer to spend time giving her a manicure.

7. Mom’s Five-second Memory Journal (Walmart) | $6
This gift is perfect for the mom with only five seconds to spare. Full of fun prompts for her to jot down thoughts on life, after time it’ll be a great keepsake for her to look back on.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 21, 2015

Celebrating Earth Day with Ebates!

Earth Day 2015 is just around the corner on April 22. Do you know what you’ll be doing to celebrate the 45th anniversary this year? According to the Earth Day Network’s official website, the holiday serves as a lightning rod for environmental discussion and change. “Growing out of the first Earth Day, Earth Day Network (EDN) works with over 22,000 partners in 192 countries to broaden, diversify and mobilize the environmental movement. More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world.”

While the organization is sparking a global conversation about the environment, you can do your part and bring the Earth Day message to your local community by making small changes. Not sure where to get started? Check out some of our ways to celebrate Earth Day this year!

Research Easy Changes
Getting started with Earth Day is as easy as taking a look at your daily habits and see what small changes you can make to reduce, reuse, and recycle. For most people, something as simple as reducing the amount of time you spend in the shower, remembering to shut off the water when you brush your teeth, and sorting out recyclables before you take out the trash. When you’re mindful about your consumption habits, small changes can add up to a big difference over time.

Switch Out Your Lightbulbs
One of the best small changes you can make is to switch out the incandescent lightbulbs in your home to environmentally friendly alternatives. The energy-efficient, green lightbulbs are known as CFL’s or Compact Florescent Lamp bulbs, and they can use around 75% less energy than traditional bulbs. So you’re not only saving the environment, but you’re saving money on your electricity bill while you’re at it. If you want to save even more, you can order you CFL bulbs using Walmart coupons and Ebates for discounted pricing and Cash Back on your purchase!

Start a Compost
Another way to redirect your waste toward productive uses is to start a compost. It’s easy to set up and can work wonders for your garden once you’re finished. Designate a bin in your yard for your compost heap and add organic waste like fruit and vegetables, weeds, and coffee grounds instead of throwing them out. Over time, the materials will decompose to create a nutrient rich fertilizer or your garden and reduce the amount of garbage your household generates. It’s a win-win!

Plan an Afternoon of Volunteering
If you’re looking for ways to get your office or family involved, an afternoon of volunteering is a great way to do that. There are local volunteer events around the country ranging from community clean-up to public gardening opportunities. Find an event in your area to contribute this year!

Take on a few of these projects for an enriching Earth Day, because changing the world happens one small step at a time!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 17, 2015

How To Drink More Water Every Day

Drinking water is one of the best things you can do for your health, with myriad benefits to both your digestive and immune systems. While it’s easy to find reasons why we should be drinking more water, it’s a little trickier trying to put those plans into action. If you’re looking for some inspiration with new ways to incorporate more water in your daily routine, we’re here to help!

1. Make a Drinking Schedule
It may seem silly at first, but making a schedule for increasing your water intake can actually be a great strategy. Like everything else you can imagine, there’s an app for that. Waterlogged is a fun way to track your daily water intake with reminders on your phone, making it super easy to stick to your schedule. If you’re on Android, Water Your Body is number one water app to record and remind you to drink water.

2. Keep a Glass of Water on Your Bedside Table
The tried and true method of keeping a glass of water on your bedside table is a good way to stay hydrated before you go to bed and first thing when you wake up in the morning.

3. Carry a Bottle with You Wherever You Go
It might seem like a simple solution, but the biggest reason we don’t all carry water bottles with us everywhere we go is for their lack of style. Luckily water bottle designs are getting trendier these days. If you’re in the market for a more elegant drinking solution, there are plenty of chic solutions like the high tech Vessyl that you won’t feel self-conscious carrying around.

4. Punch Up the Flavor
We know, water isn’t the most exciting drink, but you can always punch up the flavor to start drinking more. Try citrus infused water with the Citrus Zinger Water Bottle Infuser (available in pink, orange and green). When you use drugstore.com coupons from Ebates, you can take advantage of 4% Cash Back on the purchase and free shipping on orders over $35.

5. Eat Fruits and Veggies Containing Water
Increasing your water intake doesn’t necessarily even need to entail drinking water. Fruits and veggies contain high concentrations of water, providing up to 20% of the average person’s fluid intake. They also provide essential fiber and nutrients while they’re at it. While a glass of water is your best bet to stay hydrated, the added benefits of eating your veggies makes it a worthwhile addition to the routine.

And as far as the benefits of drinking water? They’re innumerable. For those looking to get in shape, WebMD advises that drinking more water is a good way to control your calorie intake and energize your muscles before and after a hearty workout. You’ll prevent fatigue and have an easier time staying fit. Curing your cravings, preventing headaches, improving your skin’s complexion and helping out your metabolism all seem like good enough reasons to start drinking more water!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 16, 2015

Gardening Tips for Beginners

Spring is the time of new beginnings. And if you’re thinking of taking advantage of the new season by spending time in your yard and starting a garden, we have a few tips for you. Make sure to check out all the stores that have Double Cash Back during Home and Garden Week over at Ebates! You’ll find some great deals on all the gardening tools you need a stores like Home Depot, Sears, and Walmart.

1. Plan
The first step may seem obvious but it is important! Plan what you want. Do you want a flower garden, vegetable garden or herb garden? Keep in mind that it is better to start small. You can always add more once your garden starts to be successful.

2. Choose a place to plant
Do you have a sunny or shady space to plant? This can be a deciding factor on what to plant as most vegetables and some flowers require about six hours of sun each day. So if you don’t have a lot of sun, look for plants that can tolerate the shade. Make sure that you plant your garden where you can’t ignore it. If your garden starts to need attention, you’ll notice it faster than if you put it in an area you rarely see daily.

3. Prepare the ground
Get rid of the sod that is covering the area you want to plant and spread compost to improve the soil. Using an organic material will boost your soil. Using compost, dry grass clippings, decayed leaves, or old manure will improve the soil and make a perfect starting point for your garden.

4. Decide on your plants
Now that you’ve picked your area and what type of garden you want to have, you’ll want to pick what you want to plant. Some plants are harder to grow and maintain than others, so we suggest these easy-to-grow plants for beginners. If you’re planning to plant flowers, try out marigolds, geraniums, pansies, or daylilies. If you’re planning to plant vegetables, go for peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers.

5. Put them in the ground
Learn about which plant you’ve chosen and when the best time to plant them is. Some plants and vegetables are picky about the cold and you will want to wait until all frost has passed. Some plants will fare better planted in autumn or late winter. Some plants, such as lettuce and sunflowers, are easy to grow from seeds. But you may find that it is easier for some flowers to buy a set plant or transplant and just pop it in the ground and grow from there.

6. Water your plants
You’ll want to water your seedlings daily, as they should never dry out. As they grow, you can taper this off. The new transplants will need watering every other day until their roots become established into the ground. After the initial process, watering depends on the humidity of your climate, soil, and how often it rains. If you see that your plants are starting to wilt, they are in need of water. Slowly water so that it is absorbed and does not run off.

7. Keep it up
You’ve started your garden! Keep in mind that the garden will take work. You need to water when needed and pull weeds before they grow large and overtake your garden. In the end, just stop and smell the roses. Or whatever you choose to plant!

Do you enjoy gardening? Are you planning to start one this year? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 14, 2015

Win $250 to Shop at Build.com!

Is spring not the perfect time for tackling those home renovation projects? Not only is the weather mild so you can work both outdoors and inside the home, but the season itself is all about refreshing your outlook and renewing your spirit. What better way to do that than to spruce up your surroundings? Let us help you love where you live with a $250 gift card from Build.com!

Always count on Build.com for the best prices on everything you need to renovate your kitchen, bathroom and beyond with the perfect lighting, fixtures, fans, flooring and home decor to make your dream home a reality. Build.com also covers the basics including hardware, appliances, heating and cooling to keep your castle running in tip-top shape. Enter the Build.com giveaway today to get $250 closer to a better home.

It’s April clearance time at Build.com! For even more savings, check out the Savings and Clearance Center, where you’ll find big discounts on name brand products. Plus, take an additional 7% off Clearance items with code: CLEARANCE7 through 4/30/2015.

How to Enter the Build.com Giveaway:

1. If you’re not already an Ebates member, join over 8 million other savvy shoppers who earn up to 40% Cash Back on almost everything they buy. Joining Ebates is free and you’ll receive a $10 Welcome Bonus when you join today at www.ebates.com.

2. After you enter your Ebates email, you can earn extra entries for each type of entry. Comment, tweet, pin, follow us, like us, circle us — the more you do, the more entries you get! This sweepstakes ends on Thursday, April 23, 2015 at 11:59 PM PST. The winner will be randomly picked through Rafflecopter, and will be posted on Facebook and this blog. Please be aware of the Giveaway Rules.

Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, as the winner will have 24 hours to accept the prize before we will choose another winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.