Non-Girly Gifts for the Practical Mom

Young happy African American mother playing with her little girl at home

It seems that, since the dawn of time, Mother’s Day gifts have involved a bouquet of blooms and a box of chocolates. Sometimes you think outside the candy box and go for something cozy like a pair of fuzzy slippers. But if your mom was cut from a no-nonsense mold or her idea of R&R is watching a baseball game on the couch, these Mother’s Day gift ideas just might hit a home run. Check out our hand-picked selections, from must-have electronics to home goods she’ll actually use — all available with Cash Back at Ebates.

Insulated Lunch Tote

Insulated Lunch Tote

If you’ve been watching your mom take the same wrinkled-paper-bag lunch to work for years, this insulated tote is perfect. It looks like a purse while working double duty to keep the lettuce on her BLT crisp.

Chunky Chenille Throw

Mint blanket throw folded

One of the easiest but most overlooked gift ideas for mom is a nice, comfy blanket. Who doesn’t love a blanket and who doesn’t need more of them?

Gold Pig Bookends

Gold pig bookends holding a blue book

If you’re looking for unique gifts your mom will actually use, this piggy bookend set is perfect — especially if she has a home office or beloved bookshelf that could use a little pizzazz.

Mama Bear T-shirt

Grey mama bear t-shirt mother's day gift

A T-shirt may not come to mind when you think of cool gifts, but you have to admit this one is adorable. No novelty here, just a proud badge of being a mighty mom to some cute cubs.

Date Night

Two wine glasses and candles on dinner tableShe may be your mom, but she’s also someone’s sweetheart. And, chances are, it has been a while since this lovely couple hit the town. Give them a date night to remember with local deals on dining and entertainment from Groupon. If dinner and a movie is their jam, top it off with a gift card from Fandango.

3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

This one just speaks for itself. A tool that can cut, pit and slice an avocado in seconds? Mom will be wondering where this has been her whole life.

WD My Passport Ulta 1 TB External Hard Drive

WD My Passport Ulta 1 TB External Hard Drive

How many times have you heard your mom complaining about filling up her DVR? Maybe enough to suggest she has a TV addiction. But instead of getting into that conversation, why not just give her some extra storage space so she’ll never miss another episode of “The Bachelor”?

Philips Wake-Up Light

Philips Wake-up Light

Getting up in the morning can be the worst. Make her a.m. a little more pleasant with this simulated sunlight alarm that will gradually wake her up without panicked beeping or annoying radio hosts.

Seamless Belly Support Band

Seamless Belly Support Band

If you’re shopping for a mom-to-be, there is nothing — I repeat, nothing — more practical than a belly band. Not only does it support your belly, but it also holds your pre-maternity jeans up without having to button them. It’s pretty much a miracle.

Throw the Ultimate Party for the Big Game

Throw the Ultimate Party for the Big Game 6

Hosting a viewing party for the big game? Don’t fumble — score big points with your guests with these tips for ensuring a football party touchdown!

1. Set the mood.

Go beyond wearing your team’s jersey. For your bash, set out themed football party decorations, such as these paper plates. Depending on how your team performs, you’ll be too psyched — or sad! — to do the dishes after the game is over anyway.

Football Tailgate Navy & Silver Party Pack

Football Tailgate Navy and Silver Party Pack (Target)

2. Keep kids (and some adults) occupied.

Hosting some kids? How about some grown-ups who just aren’t into football? Set them up with a bean bag football game that’s in keeping with the spirit of the day and will keep them entertained throughout the night.

Wild Sports Football Field Tailgate Toss Cornhole Set

Wild Sports Football Field Tailgate Toss Cornhole Set (Walmart)

3. Get creative with the drinks.

Beer may seem like the go-to beverage to serve during the big game, but the designated drivers and non-drinkers in attendance would appreciate something other than water to drink. Mix up some fun mocktails for the teetotalers at the party (this recipe book can help) that are themed to team colors!

Mocktails The Complete Bartender's Guide

Mocktails: The Complete Bartender’s Guide (Book Depository)

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

4. Keep those game-day snacks coming!

You don’t need to research elaborate, Pinterest-worthy game-day party recipes to keep guests happy. Football food is fried food, so think chicken wings, mozzarella sticks or pizza rolls. And keep those fried treats hot and fresh — and plentiful! — with a deep fryer. (And, let’s face it, nobody eats salad during the big game.)

3.7 Liter Professional Style Stainless Steel Deep Fryer

3.7-Liter Professional Style Stainless Steel Deep Fryer (Oster)

5. Don’t forget about what’s most important: the game!

Make sure everyone can hear what’s going on by ramping up your home theater game with top-quality speakers.

LG 3.1 Channel Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer and Amplifier

LG 3.1 Channel Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer and Digital Amplifier (Best Buy)

 

Related Links: 

Kmart Coupons
Samsung Promo Codes
Overstock Coupons
Macy’s Offers
Deals on Sports & Recreation

The Best Things to Buy in January

Woman Holding Shopping Bags

Now that the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping is over, you may be looking for ways to save more than you would at any other time of the year. Some strategic shopping in January will set you up for serious savings in the long term. For example, while everyone else is paying top dollar on spring clothing, you’ll find amazing prices on winter staples you’ll still need for the cold months ahead. Here’s our complete list of the most affordable things to buy this month, most of which you can find with Cash Back at Ebates.

Keep Your Fitness Resolutions

Looking to get ripped and trim for 2017? Retailers know this is prime time for clearing out their stock of fitness equipment, and it’s priced to move. Look for sitewide sales and discounts from sporting goods brands and department stores alike. We’ve also noticed many gyms offer amazing New Year’s discounts on memberships that could keep you motivated to move.

Stores to Watch: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sears

Woman in Winter Forest

Grow Your Winter Wardrobe

As we mentioned, most people are ready to start shopping for spring clothes this time of year simply because they’re starting to appear in favorite stores. Don’t be tempted to purchase your entire warm-weather wardrobe now. Instead, find amazing clearance sales on winter staples. In fact, with warmer-than-normal temperatures this season, many brands are experiencing an overstock on coats and sweaters. This means big savings for you!

Stores to Watch: Nordstrom, Columbia

File For Less

Tax season may be months away, but those W-2s will be in your mailbox in no time, and it’s always a good idea to get a jump start on filing. We’ve seen great deals in past Januaries on income tax software and services, so keep an eye out. Just be sure the deal includes the cost of filing your state taxes as well—that often requires an extra fee. Always read the fine print.

Stores to Watch: TaxACTFreeTaxUSA

Modern Interior Decor

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Update With Fine Furnishings

January is also notorious for bringing major furniture clearance sales. Some sales go from 40- to even 75 percent off regular prices. New year, new living room!

Stores to Watch: Ashley Furniture, Horchow

Deck the Halls Next Year

Obviously, retailers will be almost giving away holiday decor this time of year just to clear it out of stores. Take advantage and get ambitious about next year’s decorating! This is the perfect time to splurge on that 20-foot LED reindeer.

Stores to Watch: Walmart, Kmart.

Take Your TV Watching Up a Notch

4K TV prices are bound to plummet after CES early this month, when new models are slated to be announced. Black Friday was the first time we saw significant savings on 4K TVs as well, which usually means the savings will continue.

Stores to Watch: Best BuySam’s Club

April Parks And Rec GIFTake a Hike

On January 16, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, all national parks will offer admission for precisely zero dollars. This means you can visit popular parks including Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon and Olympic National Park—which all normally charge fees of around $12 per person. Explore wide open spaces without leaving one in your wallet.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change. 

18 Stores Offering Paid and Free Gift Wrapping

giftwrappingheaderOnline shopping makes gift buying all the more easier. But what about when all those packages come to your door? Whether you’re wrapping-challenged or just don’t have the time, it always helps to know which stores offer free gift wrapping or at least will wrap them for a nominal cost. Believe us, you want to take advantage of all the freebies you can get on top of holiday deals to make the most out of your money. Here are 18 top stores you can shop through Ebates that offer free or reasonably-priced gift wrapping.

Paid Gift Wrapping With Online Purchase

Barnes & Noble

See Barnes & Noble coupons
Shop Barnes & Noble with 1% Cash Back>

Bed Bath & Beyond

See Bed Bath & Beyond coupons
Shop Bed Bath & Beyond with 4% Cash Back>

 Nordstrom

See Nordstrom coupons
Shop Nordstrom with 6% Cash Back>

 Sephora

See Sephora coupons
Shop Sephora with 4% Cash Back>

Best Buy

See Best Buy coupons
Shop Best Buy with up to 1% Cash Back>

JCPenney

See JCPenney coupons
Shop JCPenney with 6% Cash Back>

Kohl’s

See Kohl’s coupons
Shop Kohl’s with 6% Cash Back>

Lord & Taylor

See Lord & Taylor coupons
Shop Lord & Taylor with 8% Cash Back>

Macy’s

See Macy’s coupons
Shop Macy’s with 8% Cash Back>

Sears

See Sears coupons
Shop Sears with 6% Cash Back>

Walmart

See Walmart coupons
Shop Walmart with 2% Cash Back>

Lands’ End

See Lands’ End coupons
Shop Lands’ End with 6% Cash Back>

Sur La Table

See Sur La Table coupons
Shop Sur La Table with 4% Cash Back>

Things Remembered

See Things Remembered coupons
Shop Things Remembered with 6.5% Cash Back>

Victoria’s Secret

See Victoria’s Secret coupons

Free Gift Box With Online Purchase

Brooks Brothers

See Brooks Brothers coupons
Shop Brooks Brothers with 5% Cash Back>

Jared

They’ll even wrap it for you, too!

See Jared coupons
Shop Jared with 14% Cash Back> 

Saks Fifth Avenue

Box comes with ribbon. There is an additional charge for wrapping your gift box.

See Saks Fifth Avenue coupons
Shop Saks Fifth Avenue with 8% Cash Back>

 

 

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change. 

Strike Cash Back Gold! Get 1% Cash Back With the Best Buy In-Store Coupon

Best Buy In Store Cash Back Coupon

 

It’s back! The second in a series of in-store coupons for Best Buy, available exclusively in the Ebates App. Whether you’re shopping for TVs, cell phones, speakers or dishwashers, here’s the skinny on how to get Cash Back at Best Buy:

1. Make sure you’ve installed the Ebates App. Once you’ve signed in to Ebates, Best Buy can be found in the Stores tab.

2. Click “Redeem Code” to unlock the Best Buy coupon code. A special QR code will appear.

 

Tech It Out! Get 1% Cash Back at Best Buy With a Mobile In-Store Coupon 1

3. Share the QR code with your cashier. She’ll scan the code, and you’ll be on your way to earning 1% Cash Back*.

That’s it! Keep checking the app to find more in-store coupons for Best Buy—they’re a perfect way to rack up Cash Back when you need to pick up your gadgets today.

If online shopping is more your speed, you can still use the Best Buy promo codes and coupons directly in the app. With Ebates, earning Cash Back is always just a few clicks away.

 

Disclaimer:
*1% Cash Back can be earned on in-store purchases only and may differ from Cash Back for online orders. Offer valid in participating US stores only. Each code generated is good for a one-time purchase per member, per day. Offer excludes purchases of Best Buy gift cards, warranties, Laptops, Tablets, Desktops, Video Game Hardware (Including Virtual Reality Hardware), Point Of Sale Activation (POSA) Cards, Apple branded watches, services (including but not limited to Geek Squad services, etc.) and transactions on third party (i.e. non-BestBuy.com) websites or properties, even if such transactions occurred as a result of a Customer clicking a link from a Best Buy Property.

 

 

 

The Latest Black Friday Trends You Can’t Miss

Latest Black Friday Product Trends 2016

Black Friday is one of the most anticipated days of the year for many a savvy shopper. With crazy deep discounts on the hottest merchandise, you can see why this day after Thanksgiving has become a veritable holiday in its own right. It’s the ideal opportunity to check off everything on your wish list. We’re all waiting to see this year’s Black Friday ads and check out what’s in store. In the meantime, here’s a list of some of this year’s most popular Black Friday trends. Get ready to plan ahead for the biggest shopping day of the year while getting Cash Back with Ebates.

Get in the Game

Black Friday 2016 is going to be a good one for gamers. Some Black Friday experts are suggesting that the release of the Xbox One S, and the rumored release of Sony’s PlayStation Neo, along with the discontinuation of Xbox 360s and Disney Infinity, will lead to major steals on various gaming consoles. Consumers anticipate that The Xbox One bundle will be on sale for a deep discount at Walmart.

There is also a host of remastered video games to be released. Titles include Bethesda, Call of Duty: Infinite, and Pokémon Sun and Moon, suggesting that games will be a major Black Friday focal point.

Teeming With Toys

Recently, Toys ‘R’ Us and Walmart released their lists of some of the hottest toys of 2016.

Some of the items sure to light up the faces of many a child this Christmas include the Paw Patrol Zoomer Marshall, Shopkins Tall Mall Storage Case, Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck, the SelfieMic Music Set, Dreamworks Animation’s Trolls Hug Time Poppy Doll, Hatchimals, the Light ‘n Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker, Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy, PJ Masks Headquarter Playset, Pokémon Z-Ring Set with glow, Power Wheels Wild Thing, Star Wars Interactech Stormtrooper Figure and the Think and Learn Code-a-pillar.

Black Friday Toys

While most are variations on the classics, there are also a couple of new items on the toy scene: drones. Two of the hottest toys of 2016 are the the Sky Viper v2400 HD Streaming Drone with FPV Headset and the Nerf N-Strike Elite Terrascout RC Drone Blaster.

Excellent Electronics

As usual, electronics are likely going to be some of the most sought-after Black Friday items nationwide. Traditionally, flat-screen TVs are a huge seller on Black Friday. This year will likely follow suit, particularly with flat-screen HD and smart TVs. Rumor has it that Best Buy will have some such items on sale in the $500 range for name-brand models and in the $200 range for off-brand.

In addition, laptops and tablets are always huge on both Black Friday and Cyber Monday. One of the projected hits this year is a 15.6-inch HP laptop with 4GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive and Intel Pentium-class processor from Walmart.

Apple is always one of the heavy hitters as well. Items like iPhones, tablets and laptops will be on the top of many a shopper’s list. Predictions expect Amazon to offer some major steals on Amazon Fire TV, Echo and Fire tablets.

Fabulous Fashions

As Heidi Klum reminds us each season on “Project Runway,” fashion can be fickle. “One day you’re in, the next you’re out.” However, Black Friday offers an excellent opportunity to stock up on the mainstays while also snagging the latest trends to grace the pages of style glossies.

Black Friday Deals - Fashion

Stores like Macy’s, ASOS, Nordstrom, Belk and Gap will stock up on the latest and greatest in hot looks. You’ll want to keep an eye out for deals on hot trend pieces like striped fitted sweaters, knee-high boots and leather skinnies.

Top Toys Gift Guide: Best Selling Toys of 2016

Gift Guide: Top Best Selling Toys of 2016

From Toys R US to Target, retailers this year pulled out all the stops by creating some of the most inventive and curious kids toys on the market. There are eggs that hatch into blended animals, caterpillars that teach kids to code, and mini-trucks that dispense flavored lipgloss. With an endless array of gift ideas for kids, finding that popular or educational toy for your child is tough. Luckily, we have curated a list of this year’s top toys for kids – complete with Cash Back at Ebates — so you can focus on perfecting your holiday season!

Hatchimals, $49.99

Hatchimals toys

The hottest new toy on the market, this furry little creature is a surprise until it hatches, keeping your kids guessing until the first crack.

Go! Go! Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace, $39.99

Go! Go! Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace

Spanning more than four feet wide, this beautiful play set comes with all the ballrooms and baubles to make your child’s princess palace dreams come true.

Sky Viper V2400HD Streaming Video Drone, $99.99

Sky Viper V2400HD Streaming Video Drone

Let your kid show off her filming skills with this high flying drone. Up, up, and away!

Shopkins Happy Places Miniature Decor with Popette and Puppy Parlor Petkins – Happy Home, $25.99

Shopkins Happy Places Miniature Decor

Bursting with cute furniture, happy Shoppies, and adorable Petkins, this puppy parlor toy will keep the kiddies endlessly entertained.

Doc McStuffins Hospital Care Cart, $37.99

Doc McStuffins Hospital Care Cart

Perfect for all the little doctors-to-be, this top toy comes with a light and sound patient scanner, a talking EKG area, and even its own patient, Findo.

Paw Patrol Monkey Temple Play Set, $59.49

Paw Patrol Monkey Temple Play Set

Complete with lights, sounds, a trap door, and Mandy the Monkey, this play set takes jungle adventures to new heights.

Little Live Pets My Dream Puppy, $49.99

Little Live Pets My Dream Puppy

No slobber, shedding, or barking! Just maximum cuteness. This fully interactive little puppy will melt your heart.

Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck, $27.99

Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck

What could be cuter than a mini lip gloss maker? A mini lipgloss-making ice cream truck, of course! Pick your favorite flavors, blend with glitter dust, and serve. Yum!

Speak Out Game, $19.99

Speak Out Game

This game takes Chubby Bunny to hilarious new levels with its mouthpiece challenge games. Even your teenagers will like it.

Shopkins Tall Mall Playset, $24.99

Shopkins Tall Mall Playset

When your Shoppies get bored of their Happy Homes, they can pop over to the mall, complete with a food court and home & garden section. Adorable!

Fisher Price Code-A-Pillar, $37.96

Fisher Price Code-A-Pillar

Start your kids coding careers early with this little bug’s removable coded parts.

FurReal Friends Torch My Blazin Dragon, $62.42

FurReal Friends Torch My Blazin Dragon

With over 50 sounds and motions, this fluffy fire breather will light play time up. Literally.

Simon Air Game, $14.99

Simon Air Game

Who knew this thing was still around? This revamped version has even more features with motion sensors to swoop up high scores.

Furby Connect Friend, $89.99

  Furby Connect Friend

More terrifyingly adorable than ever before, the newest version of Furby features a light-up antenna that connects to smartphones for music and videos.

CHiP the Lovable Robot Dog, $199.99

CHiP the Lovable Robot Dog

This uniquely programed pup responds to your kid’s personal play style, so no two pups are ever alike.

Star Wars First Order TIE Pilot Sixth Scale Figure, $219.95

Star Wars First Order TIE Pilot Sixth Scale Figure

For all the little star wars fanatics, this TIE Pilot action figure comes with full battle gear and its own hex stand.

 

Related Links:
Baby & Kids’ Toys Shopping Guide
Walmart Coupons
Toys R Us Coupon Codes
Toys R Us Shopping Guide

90’s Throwback: Black Friday 1996

Ah, the ‘90s. The era of bucket hats, butterfly clips, the first Macintosh computers, “Friends,” and phones made for the sole purpose of actually making calls. A lot has changed in the decades since, and Black Friday is no exception.

Though the biggest sale day of the year has always drawn hearty crowds of savings-hungry shoppers, the craze of the holiday has increased tenfold in the past two decades. What was once a day of wildly low prices on the year’s most-wanted items is now a cultural phenomenon spanning an entire week, with its cousin Cyber Monday immediately following.

black friday deals 2016

 

In 1996, we could watch the morning news broadcast live interviews with those few dedicated shoppers camped outside of electronics stores, determined to be the first to grab one of a limited stock of coveted Macintosh computers or Nintendo 64s. 

This year, we’ll scroll through Twitter to see online versions of local news broadcasts showing interviews with scores of similar dedicated Black Friday veterans, though they’re more likely to be awaiting a chance to snag a new 50-inch TV, or an Apple product exponentially more advanced than that of its ’96 predecessors.

To see just how much things have really changed, check out this list of comparisons between Black Friday ads and sales in 1996 to projected Black Friday ads in 2016.

Electronics

Not only did technology — and the world — not come to a screeching halt in the year 2000, but the world’s fascination with and reliance upon technological innovation has increased tenfold in the years since.  

Aside from the aforementioned Macintosh desktop, some of the other biggest electronics buys in ’96 were the 1.2 GB hard drive ($220 after rebate); the Motorola flip phone (free with contract); the Walkman (between $15 and $60); the 4MB memory upgrade ($30); 28.8 kbps modem ($280); 13-inch TV with built-in VCR ($300); CD Rom drive ($150); pagers ($70); and the Packard Bell desktop computer ($1,467 after rebate).

Black Friday 1996 vs. Black Friday 2016

This year’s list of most-wanted tech items looks pretty similar to that from 1996, though much more advanced. Although most Black Friday 2016 ads aren’t live yet, there are some predictions based on previous years and current sales. According to TheBlackFriday.com, one of the hottest items on sale at Best Buy right now is the LG 55-inch 4K Ultra Smart HD TV, which may also be a Black Friday favorite. In 1996, we could barely fathom a smart TV, let alone an ultra-smart one. Also, some Black Friday aficionados are suggesting drones will be a big hit this year, though these are a bit of a wild card.

 

black friday deals on TVs

 

Games

Games, too, are traditionally a huge draw for Black Friday shoppers. In 1996, besides the Nintendo 64, the Sega Saturn was a major deal, selling for $200. The Super Game Boy was advertised at $40, as were PlayStation games. And lest we forget, before there were smartphone apps like Pokémon Go, there was the Tamagotchi, which, in ’96, sold for just a few weeks’ allowance, or $15.

black friday deals on video games

This year, some Black Friday experts are suggesting the release of the Xbox One S and the rumored release of Sony’s PlayStation Neo, along with the discontinuation of Xbox 360s and Disney Infinity, will lead to major steals on gaming consoles. There are also a host of remastered video games about to be released, such as Bethesda, Call of Duty: Infinite, and Pokémon Sun and Moon, leading many to suggest that games will be a major Black Friday focal point.
black friday deals on xbox

Toys

Of course, no Black Friday would be complete without a mad dash to the toy aisle for the season’s most beloved toy. In 1996, the champions of children’s hearts everywhere were by far the Tickle Me Elmo doll and Beanie Babies. As for the latter, these were also a big hit with many teens and adults, rumored to gain significant value over time.

 

black friday toys

Today, some of the hottest toys of 2016, as named by Walmart, include the Nerf N-Strike Elite HyperFire Blaster, Razor Scooter, Paw Patrol Zooming Marshall, and the Sky Viper Streaming Drone. No word yet on which of these will be available for deep Black Friday discounts, but it’s likely the drone won’t be the only one flying off the shelves.

black friday deals on toys

Entertainment

When it comes to pop culture, though the faces have changed, our hunger for it has stayed the same. While most of us nowadays watch TV and movies from our computers or flat-screens, back in ‘96 the wide-screen TV marked the dawn of a new era. Some of the hottest Black Friday deals on movies included films like “Forrest Gump,” “True Lies,” and “Braveheart” available from $9.99 to $15.95—or about the price of one month’s subscription to Netflix. When it came to the still-popular VHS, some of the coolest buys were “Buffy,” “Young Frankenstein,” “The Good Son” and “Alien Nation,” all on sale for $5.99 a piece.

Black Friday deals on DVDs 1996This year, predictions for some hot entertainment buys include DVDs of popular movies like “Anchorman 2”  and “Magic Mike XXL” on Blu-Ray for $9.72. You’ll also be able to grab titles like “The Walking Dead” and “True Detective”—full box sets for about $10 each.

Black Friday Deals on DVDs

Clearly, Black Friday has changed quite a bit over the past 20 years, but our love of shopping will never end.

 

Related Links:
Walmart Coupons
Walmart Black Friday Guide
Walmart Shopping Tips
Groupon Coupon Codes

9 Things You Need If You Are Obsessed With Pokémon GO

Woman smiling at iPhone

It’s the latest craze taking smartphone users to Candy Crush obsessive levels. Pokémon GO has enthralled people of all ages, getting them off of their couches and out of their office chairs to enjoy a little sunshine while capturing mythical creatures and battling complete strangers. You don’t even have to have been a collector of Pokémon cards or an avid watcher of Pokémon movies to be taken over by this mobile phenomenon. If you, or someone you know, are ready to take your playing to the next level, check out these top 10 essentials with Cash Back at Ebates. From showing off your Poké pride to keeping you powered up to catch ’em all, we’ve got you covered so you can become a Pokémon Pro.

Chic Buds Phone Charger

Chic Buds - Slim Power Phone Charger

This is an obvious one but you’d be surprised how you can lose track of time AND battery life while adding to your Pokédex.

Ecco Damara Strap Sandal

Ecco Damara Strap Sandal

People are actually starting to complain about sore feet and knees because they are walking more than ever in search of rare Pokémon. So investing in a cute pair of comfort sandals is key.

3M Safety Vest

Orange safety vest reflective

For the night players, visibility is oh so important. While we encourage you to look up from your phones as much as possible to avoid walking into traffic, making yourself glow also helps. Plus, orange is your color.

Ozark Trail Headlamp

Ozark Trail 150-Lumen Multi-Color Headlamp

You never know when those Pokémon will lead you down some poorly lit streets. Keep it hands-free with a headlamp. If you get weird looks, just tell people you wandered away from your camp ground.

 Charizard Accessory Kit

Pokemon Charizard Accessory Kit costume

We promise you won’t be confused for a virtual Pokémon. No one will try to catch you. AND you’ll look adorable. Do it. Full committal.

SABRE RED Pepper Spray

SABRE RED Red Pepper Spray pink

On a serious note, this game has brought out some unsavory real-life characters. Stay vigilant and protect yourself!

LifeProof FRE Case for iPhone 6 and 6s

LifeProof - FRE Case for iPhone 6 and 6s

Listen, we’re not saying you’re going to fall into a fountain or anything but just in case you get distracted and have a surprise encounter with a body of water, this case will make sure your phone will live another day.

Snacks

graze chocolate pecan pie snack

If you’re planning for a long day at the PokéGym, it’s important to keep yourself fueled. Don’t forget your graze snacks packed with protein to keep you full and energy-giving, healthy carbs to help you go for Pokémon gold.

 

 

 

The Complete Family Road Trip Packing Checklist

Family taking a selfie before a summer roadtripThe kids are out of school and summer vacation is upon us. Road trip season is in full swing. But before you pile everyone into the vehicle for the excursion, there are a few road trip essentials you should make sure you have on hand. This checklist of what to bring on a road trip will make the trip much easier. So take your trusty vehicle in for routine maintenance and make any necessary arrangements so you can get started on packing all of the road trip must haves. Best of all, you can save with a promo code on your necessities and earn Cash Back at Ebates on your purchases from our easy road trip packing checklist.

  1. Snacks: No road trip is complete without a nice supply of snacks. Just steer clear of chocolate and other meltables that may be destroyed during pit stops.
  2. Water: Keep some extra bottles of water on hand for when stopping isn’t an option.
  3. First Aid: Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit that includes supplies for any number of situations. Be prepared with everything from anti-nausea medicine to band-aids for scrapped knees from roadside adventures.
  4. Hand Sanitizer: This miracle concoction will not only rescue you from questionable bathroom selections but will also help clear up any sticky residue left behind from snacks.
  5. Tissues, Napkins & Baby Wipes: Baby wipes aren’t just for babies. Baby wipes, tissues and napkins are handy for cleaning up messes from the kiddos or from the adults.
  6. Small Cooler: Keep your beverages and other goods cool with a small cooler and a steady refill of ice.
  7. Sandwich Supplies: Ditch the fast food joints and create your own roadside picnics instead. You’ll save money and be able to take in the local scenery at the same time.
  8. Sunscreen: Wherever you end up, you’re going to need broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30. Don’t forget to reapply often for proper protection.
  9. Sunglasses: Protect your peepers with the proper eyewear so you can take in all of the sights for years to come.
  10. Auto Documents: Make sure you’re prepared with copies of your registration, insurance and roadside assistance contact information.
  11. Hat: Protect yourself from the sun with a hat that provides a nice amount of shade.
  12. Empty Bags & Baggies: Keep trash off your floorboards and protect your valuables from splashes with a good stock of empty bags.
  13. Tickets & Confirmations: Bring along printed copies of all of your tickets and confirmation pages in case there are any mixups.
  14. Coin Purse & Change: There might be many toll roads in your future so plan accordingly. It also doesn’t hurt to have a few extras for smashed penny souvenirs.
  15. Poncho or Umbrella: Plan for the unexpected with rain gear for the whole family. An umbrella can also double as additional sun protection.
  16. Jacket: Account for cooler nights or unexpected cool fronts with jackets for all of your passengers.
  17. Headphones: Headphones allow each passenger to enjoy their own road trip entertainment while the driver can maintain control of the main radio.
  18. Device Cords & Batteries: Your electronic devices are only as good as their battery supply if you forget the power cords. Spare batteries allow you to keep non-rechargeable devices going as well.
  19. Travel Games: Quell boredom with travel-friendly games for the backseat crew.
  20. Children’s Lovies: Pack your children’s favorite toys to fend off complete meltdowns far away from home, especially around bedtime.
  21. Travel Pillow: Enjoy a mobile nap with a comfy travel pillow that will allow you to rest while on the go.
  22. Earplugs & Eye Mask: Whether it’s to curb the sounds of other passengers during a nap or to fend off unfamiliar sights and sounds at your destinations, these items can be very handy.
  23. GPS navigation unit: Don’t rely on cellular reception that can be spotty during road trips. Pick up a stand-alone GPS navigation unit with traffic updates and lifetime maps.
  24. Roadside Safety Kit: Don’t get caught in a difficult situation. An emergency roadside safety kit should definitely make it onto your road trip packing list.
  25. Books: Ditch the digital and grab some old-fashioned bound books for everyone to enjoy.
  26. Music: Your streaming service may not work everywhere and radio selection can be questionable. Bring along some downloaded music or CDs so you can jam out wherever you are.
  27. Camera: Capture all of those memories on a rugged camera that can stand up to all of your adventures.
  28. DVD Player: Fight boredom with a DVD player and some household favorite movies.
  29. Footwear: Whether you’re hiking mountain trails or sandy beaches, make sure you have the proper footwear for the occasion.
  30. Bug Spray: Get rid of pests like mosquitos with bug spray so you can truly enjoy your adventures.
  31. Beach Gear: Last but not least for our road trip list, if you’re hitting the beach, be sure to pack swimsuits, towels and sand toys to enjoy.

Editor’s Picks