holiday shopping – Page 2

December 7, 2015

18 Super Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Show-stopping presents are great, but sometimes it’s all about the little treats and surprises that warm holiday hearts. Plus, let’s face it, sticking to a holiday shopping budget can be hard when trying to find unique gifts for friends, coworkers and service providers. We’ve got you covered with some seriously adorable and useful stocking stuffer ideas, whether you’re topping off your selection of gifts for mom, gifts for dad or even gifts for teens. Check out these 18 stocking stuffers, all under $25, with Cash Back at Ebates.

Two’s Company ‘You Had Me at Clearance’ Coin Purse

Never has a coin purse so perfectly captured the thought process of Ebates members around the globe.

Elephant, Owl and Penguin Foldable Tote Bags

Reusable tote bags make grocery shopping both greener and easier. Bring joy to the store with these adorable foldable tote bags in the shape of cute animals. Set includes one of each animal.

Opening Ceremony ‘Dog’ Calfskin Leather Key Chain

Key chains are a great way to showcase personality and hobbies. For the dog lovers out there, this leather keychain is too adorable to pass up.

Easy Citrus Spritzer Fruit Sprayer

A spritz of lemon here. A spritz of orange there. This citrus spritzer is easy to use and allows the chef-in-training you know to perfect the final touches of their next gourmet masterpiece.

Hare and Now Ring Holder

Jewelry dishes, trays and holders make perfect stocking stuffers for any accessory lover. Factor in adorable bunnies and this ring holder will find a permanent home on any dresser.

Criss Cross minimergency Kit

Help someone avoid a crisis with the minimergency kit! With its compact size, zippered closure and 17 must-have items, this stocking stuffer is perfect for all.

Moscow Mule Hammered Mug

If you know someone who enjoys a good Moscow mule from time to time, this copper mug will make their hipster-loving heart melt.

Cordies Desktop Cable Cord Organizer

Tangled cords can annoy even the most relaxed and easy-going person. Easily organize all those laptop, phone and tablet cables with this cord organizer.

Colorful Letterpress Coaster

Colorful coasters can add a warming touch to any coffee table. This mix-matched set of six can easily be split between multiple stockings or gifted as a quirky set for one.

Dino and Drinks Wine Stopper

Some stocking stuffers are so good that you may be tempted to keep it for yourself. We have a feeling this dinosaur wine stopper falls into that category.

Voluspa ‘Maison Holiday – Blanc de Blancs’ Mini Tin Candle

Mini candles must have been made for stocking stuffers, especially when they boast a modern design. This Voluspa candles smell is a dry, crisp scent with notes of chardonnay and pinot noir.

Woodland a Hand Clips

Keep your delicious treats this season fresh with these cute critter clips. These forest friends will give you a smile as you place them atop your snack bags.

Lost Ocean: An Inky Adventure and Coloring Book

Coloring isn’t just for the kiddos anymore. This best selling coloring book features beautiful designs from under the sea. Discover new worlds and spark your creative side.

Whirly Hanging Candle Holder

Decorate any room with this whimsical spheres of handblown glass. Add a tea light and watch the room transform into a flickering and magical scene.

RFID-Blocking Passport & Credit Card Sleeves

The most practical of gifts on the list, this RFID protected sleeves will give a peace of mind to any one who travels with credit cards. They are designed to prevent thieves from being able to remotely scan the digital information stored on your passport or cards.

Every Drop Beauty Spatula

It doesn’t get much more annoying than when you know there is still foundation left in the bottle, but you just can’t get it out! This spatula will ensure that you get every last drop.

Mini Tabasco

Add a little spice to any meal with these miniature Tabasco bottles.

Pocket Pals Mini Journals – Monster Tales

Got a lot of stockings to give this year? These adorable monster mini journals come in an 8-pack, allowing everyone on your list to have a perfect place to jot down thoughts of brilliance.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 4, 2015

A Totally Fly 90s Holiday Gift Guide

If you’ve got a few millennials and Gen Xers on your holiday list this year, you should find gifts that, like, ya know, speak to them. This totally dope holiday gift guide features little pieces of 90s nostalgia that will take your holiday shopping from bland to boo ya! Add these to your online shopping list and get them with Cash Back at Ebates.

Jazz Solo Cup Shirt

OMG remember these cups?! If you ever went to a mall food court and asked for a cup for water then totally filled it with soda instead, this iconic print was staring you straight in the eye as you committed beverage theft.

“As If” Wall Print

This gift is actually a pretty useful tool. Let’s say your giftee has some friends over and they get into a heated discussion on which was the best high school movie of the 90s. When someone blurts out Can’t Hardly Wait or She’s All That, all your friend need do is point at this lovely wall print. *Mic drop*

Bayside Tigers Tee

Remind your giftee that you’ll be “friends forever” with this Bayside High sweatshirt as worn by the megababes on Saved by the Bell. Whether they were a jock or a Screech back in the day, they will appreciate this little bit of (fictional) school spirit.

Whatever Necklace

Remind them of a simpler time when you could convey your disgust and sarcasm with one non-offensive hand gesture. This little necklace will tell everyone around them that they have eyes and are not afraid to roll them.

Poké Ball Dress

Geo-print dress or perhaps the best cartoon reference ever? Gotta catch all the stares with this adorable Poké Ball skater dress.

As If! : The Oral History of Clueless

Know to complete story behind the legend. Celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Clueless with this book including original interviews with writer and director Amy Heckerling and key cast members.

Saved by the Bell Boardgame

Game night just got a little more excellent. Time warp yourself back to the fun of Bayside High with Zack, Screech, Lisa, Kelly, Jessie and AC from the hit television series, Saved by the Bell. Try to play three “pranks” on the other players, then go out on a special date to win! *cue audience woooooooos*

Whatever: The 90s Pop & Culture Box

Stop. Hammer Time. This seven-CD box set has 528 minutes and 41 seconds of all the songs you forgot you loved, from Can’t Touch This to Cumbersome. And now you have Cumbersome stuck in your head. You’re welcome.

Beverly Hills 90210 Perfume

Smell the sweet scent of being filthy rich with a bottle of 90210 perfume! Make your giftee feel like a Kelly in a world full of Brendas with vibrant blend of floral notes.

Seinfeld Festivus Mug

You won’t have to endure any airing of grievances over this gift, perfect for any Seinfeld enthusiast on your list. Oh, they’ve never seen Seinfeld? What IS the deal?

A Sexy Poster of The Hoff

Don’t you worry. It’s going to be alright. Because he’s always ready. He won’t let you out of his sight. Commemorate the greatest era in acting history with this tantalizing David Hasselhoff poster from Baywatch.

Mortal Kombat Pog Earrings

This is a twofer, guys. Mortal Kombat AND pogs?! Could these handmade earrings be the most 90s gift of them all? We think so.

Turn your holiday gifts into a 90s time warp while stacking your savings with coupons, promo codes and Cash Back at Ebates.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 27, 2015

Your Black Friday in 19 Gifs

Shopping in-store this Black Friday? You’re up to the challenge, right? Here’s how it’s gonna play out. (Take it from us, we’re psychic like that.)

You, being responsible and ever-prepared, do your homework. You browse Black Friday ads ahead of time and make, dare you say, the best game plan in Black Friday shopper history.

You give yourself a little pep talk. It’s a big day and you’re gonna kill it. Right?

Then you get yourself pumped. Whether with a run around the neighborhood, wrestle-sesh with your nieces and nephews, or…whatever this chick is doing.

You’re getting a little scared so you cordially invite your BFFs to come along to help you navigate your shopping list and grab those deals.

And when you arrive, the parking lot looks like this.

And if you can’t park like a boss the second a spot opens up, it’s circle-around city for you, my friend.

Then the crowds LOOK LIKE THIS OMG.

But you stay determined.

You have a little snack to keep your energy up and your game face on.

Just as you finish the smushed granola bar that you stashed in your purse, you spot the one item you came for.

After casually elbowing a few people, you successfully claim your prize.

You realize you’ve hit your fun ceiling and it’s time to go home.

Time to scoop up all your friends from whatever pile they’re hiding under and hit the checkout.

Be careful not to break your back as you gather up your things and head to the register.

You feel so accomplished as you head to the car.

But when you get home and see the pile of receipts, you have second thoughts.

But not for too long, because you have to get prepared for Cyber Monday and all the online shopping you’re going to do.

At least this time, you can do it in your pajamas.

Plus, when you get Cash Back at Ebates for the shopping in-store on Black Friday, you’ll be like…

Don’t Miss Out on Extra Savings:

Sign up for a free account with Ebates and start earning Cash Back on all your purchases. Find thousands of coupons, promo codes and discounts at over 1800 stores plus get Cash Back savings with online rebates.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 23, 2015

Small Business Saturday Stores

Ah, November, the month of best intentions. This is the year you’re going to get to the specialty stores early and get everyone sentimental gifts! But more often than not, all of the sudden it’s the third week of December and you find yourself at the grocery store at 11 p.m., frantically grabbing gift cards to restaurants you hope the recipients have in their town. Luckily, Small Business Saturday exists to help you save time and stress, and with more small specialty businesses participating, it’s easy to keep “sentiment” on your shopping list.

Handmade Gifts

Whether it’s a hand-carved puffin necklace for your bird-enthusiast cousin or crocheted toilet paper from your feisty Nana who likes a good joke, there are several companies that help artists and crafters sell their goods. Each individual seller sets his or her own Small Business Saturday discount, but most participate. Of these companies, Etsy is your first stop when it comes to finding original gifts. With more than 12.3 million products available, it has something for everyone. Another great resource for handmade goods by individual merchants is DaWanda. This company is based in Germany, so keep in mind that shipping could take a little longer if you’re in the United States. Zibbet is holding its own as well, and though it only has 145,000 products listed, its sellers offer unique merchandise. Bonanza has “everything but the ordinary” and is featured right here at Ebates. This site is a great place to find limited and vintage products. Finally, while significantly smaller than the aforementioned companies, iCraft sets itself apart by requiring all merchandise to be handmade.

Geeky T-shirts

Being a “geek” or a “nerd” has been cool for a while now, and wearing your “nerdy” interests on clever T-shirts is not only accepted in some circles but recommended. The Internet has you covered when you’re looking for gifts that feature the specific interests of your quirky friends and family. ThinkGeek is a fantastic nerd-friendly company that has great apparel, accessories, and gifts. Geeks Are Sexy is another great stop for non-mainstream T-shirts; like Etsy, Geeks Are Sexy supports individual sellers who create their own Small Business Saturday deals. You can find discounts to Zazzle throughout the year at Ebates. This site lets you personalize and customize apparel, and has terrific Small Business Saturday deals. Lastly, Busted Tees is a great, affordable place to grab clever apparel. It not only participates in Small Business Saturday but usually has ongoing deals where the more you buy, the more you save.

Board Games

Board games are not just a great holiday gift; they can also help create family traditions if you get a new game to play together as a family every year. Each year offers tons of new games to choose from. Boardgaming.com lists stores with new and unique games, and directs you to its individual sites, many of which have Small Business Saturday discounts. Boardgamesforme.com is a must for anyone uncertain about what games to get. This site not only offers a daily discount on various games but also has a questionnaire to help you find a game that’s just right for you. If you’re nostalgic and have a soft spot for the games you played as a kid, eBay is a great resource. Ebates offers many discounts, as do individual sellers, so you can find some great Small Business Saturday markdowns.

Jewelry

Whether you’re shopping on a budget or shopping for someone who likes interesting and unique jewelry, small-shop jewelry makers are the way to go. BaubleBar is a favorite for jewelry lovers because the accessories are unique and the prices are reasonable even before the Small Business Saturday discount. Bluefly, as seen on Ebates, has some of the best designer discounts in clothes and shoes, as well as a strong jewelry department. Uncommon Goods has some great, unique gifts for everyone in your family, but its jewelry is particularly interesting. And finally, By Boe is another small jewelry site that offers beautiful and unique jewelry with the added karma bonus being 5% of purchases goes to Women for Women, a charity that helps female survivors of war.

Although “it’s the thought that counts” is an old adage, it still rings true today. Don’t let yourself get bogged down with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Take advantage of these great novelty discounts the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and bask in the stress-free knowledge that your loved ones have great and thoughtful gifts this holiday season.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 20, 2015

Infographic: Cyber Monday Hour by Hour

You know Cyber Monday is a huge shopping day, but do you know exactly what time you should log on to score what you’re looking for? Here’s a breakdown of the key Cyber Monday shopping trends that online shoppers have created from 2012 until the present year.

2012

Cyber Monday shopping peaked at 11 a.m. EST, with another strong spike at 9 p.m.
These peaks are most likely due to commuting patterns of people working traditional hours; they shop online while at work and again when they’re home.
Cyber Monday sales increased by 30.3% from 2011.
18% of online shoppers used a mobile device to shop online, an increase of more than 70% from 2011.

2013

Like in 2012, average peak browsing time was 11 a.m. EST.
Afternoon browsing peaked around 1 p.m.
These numbers likely mean that shoppers were browsing during work hours and on their lunch breaks.
Use of mobile and tablet devices nearly doubled to 30% of all site traffic.

2014

The best deals were in the morning, with an average discount of 23%.
67% of all online deals were posted before 5 p.m. EST.
Average peak browsing time was 9 p.m.
Mobile and tablet devices accounted for 41% of all site traffic. These numbers represent a move away from lunchtime laptop (or desktop) browsing and toward “at home” browsing on mobile devices in the evening.
Cyber Monday shopping was at its lowest at 5 p.m.

Before Cyber Monday

With more retailers offering deals on and even before Thanksgiving, we’ve seen a large uptick in pre-Cyber Monday and even pre-Black Friday shopping. So make sure you’re keeping an eye out for deals in the days leading up to Thanksgiving!

In 2014, mobile web shopping at 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day accounted for 50% of retail traffic.
Also in 2014, the Monday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 24, saw a 100% year-over-year uptick in activity.

Did You Know?

Cyber Monday sales have increased every year since its inception in 2006.
Sales have grown by 14% or higher each year.
In 2014, Cyber Monday was recorded as the most popular shopping day of the season.
In 2014, retail traffic reached 13 million pageviews per minute, up 16% from 2013.

So What Should I Do?

Know that evening is the busiest online shopping time, so you’re competing with more shoppers and items are more likely to disappear faster.
If you’re shopping for a specific item, shop in the morning. You’re competing with fewer people and more items will still be in stock.
Shop after 10 p.m. EST on Cyber Monday if you’re just browsing or buying a variety of items. The rush will be over and retailers just may be willing to further discount items that haven’t sold.
Keep an eye out for deals starting the Monday before Thanksgiving — or even before. Online deals aren’t just relegated to Cyber Monday anymore!

Happy shopping!

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

<a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/cyber-monday-hour-by-hour/"><img alt="Cyber Monday - Hour By Hour" class="ngg_none" src="https://www.ebates.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/cyber-monday-hour-by-hour_IG.jpg" width="600px" height="4917px" /></a><br><a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/cyber-monday-hour-by-hour/">Cyber Monday - Hour By Hour</a> Created by:  <a href="https://www.ebates.com/cyber-monday-coupons.htm"> Ebates</a>

Sources:
https://www.akamai.com/us/en/about/news/press/2015-press/akamai-releases-2014-online-holiday-shopping-trends-and-traffic-report.jsp
http://www.fierceretail.com/story/holiday-web-traffic-peaked-cyber-monday-2014/2015-03-30
https://blogs.akamai.com/2012/11/huge-traffic-volumes-on-black-friday.html
https://blogs.akamai.com/2015/04/black-friday-and-cyber-monday-rum-insights—part-i.html
http://dealnews.com/features/About-Half-of-Shoppers-Will-Buy-Cyber-Monday-Deals-While-at-Work/1484785.html
http://money.cnn.com/2009/12/01/news/economy/cyber_monday_shopping/

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 20, 2015

The Best Cyber Monday Deals on Electronics

Once you’ve had your fill of turkey and dressing, it’s time to buckle in for all of the holiday deals and savings coming your way. Make this year the one that puts all others to shame with the monumental savings you’ll find at retailers all over. But if long lines and massive crowds aren’t your thing, you can shop from the comfort of your home with incredible online shopping discounts and earn Cash Back at Ebates for the upcoming Cyber Monday.

If electronics deals are at the top of your shopping list (and let’s face it, who doesn’t want the latest electronics around?!) then this guide is for you. Manned with this list of the best Cyber Monday deals around, you will reign supreme this holiday season.

Laptop Deals

This year’s laptop deals are bound to be pretty spectacular. Whether you’re looking for the latest 2-in-1 laptop deals or just want to get a reliable and durable laptop, the holiday season will have plenty of Cyber Monday deals.

Your favorite big box stores, like Best Buy, Staples and OfficeMax, will feature additional savings online. But don’t shy away from the likes of Arrow Direct, where you’ll find the ultimate selection of refurbished laptops that are sure to meet the needs of anyone on your list. You can even customize your gift with a laptop from Dell or Alienware. To bring you the best laptop deals, many stores will offer bundle specials, allowing you to get even more bang for your buck.

TV Deals

Televisions are always a holiday gift hot item, but there’s no need to shop doorbuster sales when the ultimate TV deals can be found through online shopping. Get savings on everything you need for your home entertainment system this Cyber Monday.

Walmart will feature TV deals on hot names like Samsung, LG, Panasonic, Vizio, Sony and more. You’ll even find special savings on surround sound systems and wall mounting hardware so your gifting experience can go to the next level. Overstock won’t disappoint either with deals on 4K Ultra HD televisions, Curved TVs, OLED televisions and even outdoor projection equipment.

Video Game Deals

Video games are always a favorite amongst kids, teens and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a deal on a new console or the latest video games, you’ll have plenty of special offers to choose from on Cyber Monday. You’ll find savings on the season’s hottest video games, like Rainbow 6 Siege, Just Cause 3 and more. Whether you’re looking for games for portable systems like Nintendo 3DS XL or Playstation Vita, or you want to add to their arsenal of games for Playstation 4, Xbox One or Nintendo Wii U, plenty of online retailers will have great Cyber Monday deals.

You’ll find incredible savings on video games when you shop at stores like GameStop, Best Buy and CD Universe. Walmart will be sure to extend their department store savings online, so keep a close eye on savings that keep you out of the cold and the chaos.

Smart Phone Deals

Step up your smart phone game with the latest from the big names in smart phone technology. Whether it’s Android, BlackBerry or Microsoft on the wish list, you’ll find incredible savings and earn Cash Back at Ebates. Best Buy will have fantastic pricing on the latest smart phones on the market.

You can even save directly through cellular providers. You can earn Cash Back at Ebates with the biggest names including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint and US Cellular. And don’t worry, Lifeproof and Skullcandy will be able to help you with all of the accessories you need to pair with your smart phone purchase.

Wearable Electronic Deals

Wearable electronics are one of the most popular items on online shopping lists. The tech junkie on your list will get their electronic fix on the go and you’ll save with Cyber Monday electronics coupons for the latest wearable technology. Expect to find savings on smartwatches, fitness trackers, action camcorders and headphones this upcoming Cyber Monday.

The biggest brands in electronics will have plenty of sales available. Best Buy, Crutchfield and Brookstone feature the latest hot brands. Garmin, Fitbit and more will be marked down with fantastic pricing for Cyber Monday deals. Samsung and Microsoft Store will have their own devices with special savings as well.

Camera Deals

If you’re shopping for a photographer, you’re bound to find items like cameras, lenses, lighting kits and flash units on your list. Get Cyber Monday deals on the hottest camera brands like Canon and Olympus, as well as the gear to go with them.

Adorama features deals on everything from simple point and shoot cameras to the finest full frame DSLR cameras on the market. You can save hundreds on camera bodies at Focus Camera and Beach Camera where you’ll also find free shipping offers and rebate options. You can even save on popular Canon products, including bodies and lenses.

Kids’ Deals

If kids are the top of your shopping list, there are bound to be plenty of hot electronic toys finding their way to your online shopping cart. Walmart will have plenty of Cyber Monday deals for the kiddos in your life. The Disney Store and Fisher Price will have special savings on toys for kids of all ages. Give great education gifts with Cyber Monday deals from Fat Brain Toys and Marbles: The Brain Store. Turn their special gifts into an educational experience that will brighten their day and lead to hours of entertainment.

Big Kids/Adult Deals

Adults love getting their hands on the latest gadgets and gizmos, just like the kids. Shop for the big kid at heart on your list and save with Cyber Monday electronics coupons. Whether you’re shopping for your spouse, your sibling or your parent, you’re bound to find exactly what you need at unbeatable prices.

Best Buy never disappoints with their great selection of Cyber Monday electronic deals. You’ll find savings on items like GPS navigation devices, Bluetooth speakers, KitchenAid mixers and more. Their deals go quickly though, so be sure to check their list of daily deals regularly throughout the day to get the best savings.

Give the gift of an amped up sound system with audio equipment from Crutchfield or find the latest tech innovations at Brookstone. Whatever the upgrade, big or small, great Cyber Monday deals are to be had.

If you have your heart set on a special item for someone, keep an eye out for the best Cyber Monday electronics coupons to pair with incredible daily deals. When you earn additional savings with Cash Back at Ebates, you’ll find the best Cyber Monday deals and save the most money.

November 19, 2015

Infographic: The Hottest Gifts of 2015

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and with it comes a whole set of questions. What are the hottest gifts? Who’s buying what for whom, and who’s hardest to shop for? The results of Ebates’ 2015 holiday survey are in. Here’s what we found out:

What Adults Want vs. What Teens Want

Clothing or shoes: 69% of adults vs. 68% of teens
Laptop: 35% of adults vs. 33% of teens
iPhone or Samsung Galaxy: 35% of adults and 35% of teens
Vacation: 32% of adults vs. 21% of teens

Star Wars Toys Are Not as Popular

Sorry, Star Wars. A mere 19% of adults would like to receive a Star Wars toy this year, and even fewer teens (only 9%).

60% of Americans Have Unrealistic Holiday Budgets

28% of Americans plan to spend between $250 and $500 on holiday gifts this year.
20% plan to spend between $100 and $250.
12% plan to spend less than $100.

A Small Percentage of Big Spenders

26% of Americans plan to spend between $500 and $1,000 this holiday season.
15% of Americans will go big this holiday season, with spending over $1,000.

Who Are We Spending the Most On?

35% of American adults said their children.
29% said significant others.
20% said they’d be spending the most on their parents.

Across the Board, Parents Are Hardest to Shop For

39% of teens say Mom is hardest to shop for.
42% say Dad is the most difficult.
31% of adults find Mom hardest to shop for.
30% of adults say Dad is hardest.
31% of adults say their significant other is the trickiest to shop for.

Bosses and Siblings Are Easiest

A whopping 95% of American adults said their bosses are easiest to shop for.
88% of adults and 87% of teens say their siblings give them the least trouble.

Takeaways

Our Holiday 2015 Survey left us with some interesting conclusions:

Bosses are some of the easiest people to shop for.
Parents’ and teens’ holiday gift preferences are not all that different.
No one wants Star Wars stuff this year. (Come on, seriously?)
Adults want a vacation way more than teens do.

OK, maybe that last one isn’t especially surprising.

Happy holidays from Ebates!

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

<a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/hottest-gifts-2015/"><img alt="Hottest Gifts 2015" class="ngg_none" src="https://www.ebates.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/hottest-gifts-2015_IG.png" width="600px" height="4366px" /></a><br><a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/hottest-gifts-2015/">Hottest Gifts 2015</a> Created by:  <a href="https://www.ebates.com/"> Ebates</a>

Source: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20151118005432/en/Ebates.com-Holiday-Survey-Clothes-Beat-Tech-Star

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 18, 2015

Infographic: Dad’s Black Friday Survival Guide

Dads. They’re the unsung heroes on Black Friday. They drive packs of kids to and from the mall that day. They wait in parking lots while their wives ransack favorite department stores. They do so much of the work that makes Black Friday possible and get none of the credit. Well, dads of the world, we can’t give you a trophy for your acts of Black Friday selflessness, but we can show you how to make your Black Friday a little bit more enjoyable and a whole lot less stressful.

Step 1: Be a Park Shark

There are a lot of things that are going to push you over the edge on Black Friday, but finding a parking spot has to be at the very top of the list. Spending hours circling a mall lot looking for a place to park can make you feel like you’re trapped in some kind of sedan-filled time loop. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep from going crazy. The first, and most important, tip is to let all the other riders out of the car first. It’s hard to stay calm with a bunch of back-seat drivers telling you what to do. Once they’re out and safely at the front of the store, don’t continuously circle the same spots — it’s Black Friday; no one is going anywhere for a while. Instead, try to find the spots other people are avoiding. The back of the lot may seem like a long walk, but you save a lot of time in the long run if you just take a spot and move on.

Step 2: Stay Away From Savings

If the rest of your family wants to kill themselves grappling with other shoppers to save a few bucks, that’s their business. You just want to get through the day avoiding serious bodily harm. The best way to do that is to stay away from any store that’s offering insane sales. JCPenney and Macy’s are the two prominent mall stores that typically have the biggest sales, which means they’ll attract the biggest crowds. Get as far away from them as you can if you want to stay out of danger. Better yet, why not seek out the stores that offer lower savings? Big Lots and Costco both offer statistically low savings on Black Friday. Head over there for a few hours and you should be able to avoid getting trampled.

Step 3: Become a Food Court King

The food court isn’t just a great place to kill some time dining on the finest pretzels and cheese the mall has to offer; it can also be a great place to really unwind. There are some fast food restaurants that will serve you alcohol with your mass-produced meals. Baja Fresh and Chipotle both offer beer and margaritas in the $4 to $7 range. Sbarro, meanwhile, will give you an entire bottle of wine for $23.99 (but maybe only go for that option if you’re sharing it with a few other dads). While we must stress that this tip is only for dads who are going to be spending at least three more hours at the mall, grabbing a few drinks could really help you get through Black Friday with a smile on your face.

Step 4: Catch a Movie

“Holiday Movie Season” is total “Dad Movie Season.” It’s when all the overly long, self-serious historical dramas that dads love come out. Thank goodness it lines up so perfectly with Black Friday. This year, there are a ton of awesome Dad movies out in theaters, including “Bridge of Spies,” a three-hour Cold War spy drama directed by Steven Spielberg; “The 33,” a testosterone-fueled true story epic about a bunch of miners trapped in a cave; and the Rocky sequel “Creed.” Best of all, there’s “Spectre,” and everyone knows that all dads are genetically predisposed to love James Bond movies; they just can’t help it. See one or two or all four of these movies on Black Friday and the day will be over before the final credits roll.

Extra Tips: If you really want to come out of Black Friday feeling like a million bucks (instead of just feeling like your family spent a million bucks), use the day to get some exercise in. The mall is actually a great place to get fit. The long corridors and hallways are perfect for power walking; you can use mall benches to assist in leg stretches, sit-ups or other small exercises; and if you look for it, you should even be able to find a staircase — climb it a few dozen times instead of taking the elevator or escalator. Bring an iPod along so you can drown out the crowds by listening to some of your favorite Dad rock (all of The Moody Blues’ albums are available on iTunes) or getting through a big chunk of the latest Tom Clancy audiobook.

Finally, the best Black Friday survival tip for dads? Skip it! Try and convince your family to just forget Black Friday altogether. After all, Cyber Monday is right around the corner — and your kids spend their entire life on the Internet anyway!

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Sources:
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-retailers-for-black-friday/8385/
http://www.slate.com/articles/life/food/2012/04/fast_food_restaurants…

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 18, 2015

10 Hottest Tech Gifts for 2015

If you’re a layman (or woman) when it comes to everything high-tech, shopping for the people who are always in the know on the hottest electronics can be daunting. We’ve rounded up some tech gifts that are guaranteed to be a big hit with everyday electronics users and technophiles alike.

For a Smarter Home:

Amazon Echo

There will be quite a few wish lists this holiday season with the Amazon Echo on it. Access information, music, audiobooks, news, weather, traffic, sports and more with this hands-free, voice-controlled device. Echo boasts 7 microphones so it can easily hear you from across the room, even when playing music. Alexa – the brain behind Echo – is built into the cloud, so it is always getting smarter. The more you use Echo, the more it adapts to your speech patters, vocabulary and personal preferences. Think of it as the personal assistant you always wanted!

Belkin WeMo Home Automation Switch and Motion Sensor Bundle

Does your mom ever leave the house without turning off the lights? Maybe your brother prefers to have the lights on when he gets home late? The WeMo Home Automation Switch and Motion Sensor Bundle is the perfect gift for anyone in your life. Set up your electronics to turn on or off from anywhere using your existing Wi-Fi router and any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. Receive notifications when someone enters or leaves, leaving your home safe and secure. It even helps save energy by powering down frequently used appliances when no motion is detected.

BISSELL SmartClean Robotic Vacuum

Gone are the days of following and picking up after kids, boyfriends and pets. The SmartClean Robotic Vacuum delivers automatic and effortless cleaning whenever you want. This vacuum gets it all too! Its powerful suction and unique brush roll design will gather all the dust, debris and hair so you don’t have to. Schedule your cleanings when its convenient for you and always return to a clean and happy home.

Philips Hue A19 Starter Kit

Set the perfect tone and enhance a moment with the Philips Hue. This personal wireless lighting system allows you to create and control light using your smartphone or tablet. Dim the lights after a long day to relax or celebrate on game day by synching the lights to match your team’s favorite colors. And don’t worry about leaving the house without turning off the lights ever again. Simply switch them off wherever you may be.

For the Gamer:

PlayStation 4 Star Wars Battlefront 500 GB Bundle

One of the most anticipated games of the year just hit the shelves and it is gracing the wish lists of children and adults alike. Star Wars Battlefront lets you fight as the Rebellion or the Empire in a variety of action-packed multiplayer modes. This limited edition PlayStation 4 bundle gets you console and wireless controller inspired by none other than Darth Vader himself. Want even more Star Wars action? This bundle also comes with a voucher containing four Star Wars Classics – Super Star Wars, Star Wars: Racer Revenge, Jedi Starfighter and Star Wars Bounty Hunter. The force is strong with this bundle.

Xbox One 1TB Fallout 4 Bundle

It’s been seven years since Bethesda gave the gaming world Fallout 3. Fallout 4 brings us the next generation of open-world gaming. A fantastic RPG for old fans and new ones alike, Fallout 4 will give players countless hours of entertainment. This Xbox One bundle gives you everything you need to enjoy Fallout 4 as well as a full download of Fallout 3. Grab your Pipboy and set out for a new adventure with this console bundle.

Elgato Game Capture HD60

Live-streaming video games via Twitch and YouTube has become increasingly popular. If someone in your life like to stream their games, the Elgato Game Capture HD60 is a must have. Stream in 1080p quality with 60 fps from your PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and WiiU. Built in live-streaming makes setup easy and ready to go out of the box.

Kingston HyperX Cloud II Headset

Just as a movie wouldn’t be complete without a great soundtrack, the video game experience isn’t complete without amazing surround sound. The HyperX Cloud II will enhance your gaming, movie or music experience with a newly designed USB sound card audio control box that amplifies audio and voice for the optimal gaming experience. Perfect for horror games late at night or team communication in-game, these headphones will take you to the next level.

For Tech Fun:

BB-8 App-Enabled Droid

One of the hottest tech gifts of the season happens to come from one of the most anticipated movies of the year. BB-8 is the perfect droid for any Jedi in your life. Kids and adults alike will love controlling BB-8 with their smartphone or tablet. Featuring voice controls, an adaptive personality, holographic communication and more, BB-8 will quickly capture the heart of many this holiday season.

GoPro Hero+ LCD Camera

The GoPro Hero+ LCD is the perfect gift for anyone hitting the slopes, catching air, or surfing a wave this holiday season. With built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, touch display and easy sharing to social media sites, the Hero+ LCD delivers 1080p60 video with ease. Capture all the incredibly moments of life and relive them time and time again.

Blue Yeti USB Microphone

If someone in your life is interest in playing instruments, singing or creating podcasts, then the gift of this microphone will change their life. The Yeti captures studio-quality records and features four different pattern settings to record audio that normally would require a setup with multiple microphones. Simple controls and plug and play setup makes it easy to use for the youngest and oldest of creative minds.

Parrot Airborne Cargo MiniDrone

Take to the skies with the Parrot MiniDrone. Customize your MiniDrone before twisting, turning and zooming through the air. Pilots of all ages will enjoy taking control of the MiniDrone with a smartphone or tablet. Take aerial photos in flight with the built-in VGA camera and share with all your family and friends.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

November 17, 2015

Stores That Will Be Closed on Thanksgiving

We all know that Black Friday sales have started earlier and earlier over the years. This means Thanksgiving has turned into a shopping event itself. However, these big-name retailers are keeping their stores locked tight all day on Thanksgiving 2015. So, if you’re planning on getting a head start on Black Friday deals, remember to shop these stores online only with Cash Back at Ebates.

You, being responsible and ever-prepared, do your homework. You browse Black Friday ads ahead of time and make, dare you say, the best game plan in Black Friday shopper history.

You give yourself a little pep talk. It’s a big day and you’re gonna kill it. Right?

Then you get yourself pumped. Whether with a run around the neighborhood, wrestle-sesh with your nieces and nephews, or…whatever this chick is doing.

You’re getting a little scared so you cordially invite your BFFs to come along to help you navigate your shopping list and grab those deals.

And when you arrive, the parking lot looks like this.

And if you can’t park like a boss the second a spot opens up, it’s circle-around city for you, my friend.

Then the crowds LOOK LIKE THIS OMG.

But you stay determined.

You have a little snack to keep your energy up and your game face on.

Just as you finish the smushed granola bar that you stashed in your purse, you spot the one item you came for.

After casually elbowing a few people, you successfully claim your prize.

You realize you’ve hit your fun ceiling and it’s time to go home.

Time to scoop up all your friends from whatever pile they’re hiding under and hit the checkout.

Be careful not to break your back as you gather up your things and head to the register.

You feel so accomplished as you head to the car.

But when you get home and see the pile of receipts, you have second thoughts.

But not for too long, because you have to get prepared for Cyber Monday and all the online shopping you’re going to do.

At least this time, you can do it in your pajamas.

Plus, when you get Cash Back at Ebates for the shopping in-store on Black Friday, you’ll be like…

Don’t Miss Out on Extra Savings:

Laptop Deals

TV Deals

Video Game Deals

Smart Phone Deals

Wearable Electronic Deals

Camera Deals

Kids’ Deals

Big Kids/Adult Deals

For a Smarter Home:

For the Gamer:

For Tech Fun:

Clothing & Accessories

Home & Garden

Electronics & Entertainment