kohl’s

October 8, 2016

6 Men’s Essentials Every Fall Wardrobe Needs

Temperatures are dropping, which means it’s time to freshen up your wardrobe. Layer like a pro with funnel necks and polos and stay cozy with the most stylish men’s essentials around, all while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Prepare to beat the brrr and stock your closet with key fall and winter clothes for men with our list of favorite finds.

Classic Pea Coat

Guess Wool Blended Pea Coat, $150 | Macy’s

A must-have style staple, pea coats offer a sharp, tailored look and the warmth you crave from fall through winter. From wool-blends and heavyweight styles to unique prints and colors, swing by Macy’s for your go-to winter coat on a budget when you use a men’s essentials coupon. Black, grey, navy and olive colors offer amazing versatility for any fall or winter outfit but copper is the lead trending color this year.

Cold Weather Scarf

Blanket Strip Scarf, $20 | Banana Republic

There are no better men’s essentials for those chilly days than stylish scarves! Add a touch of casual to your business attire and work a chunky scarf into your weekend wardrobe. Go wild with a colorful, thick knit or stick to the basics with stripes or checked patterns. In one simple wrap, a cold weather scarf will keep your neck warm and ready to face the elements. Shop Banana Republic for men’s scarves in an array of styles and colors. From classic looks and bold solids to ultra-warm and roomy blanket scarves, these effortless accessories are the ultimate winter essentials for men.

Thick Sole Boots

Eastland High Fidelity Men’s Boots, $120 | Kohl’s

Trek through fall and winter flawlessly when you find your perfect pair of men’s boots. Soles are thick this year and hiking boots are set to be an essential part of your fall and winter wardrobe. Combining outdoor utility and modern design, Kohl’s makes it simple to find your new favorite footwear. Waterproof styles, tough soles, warm lace-ups and wool-lined looks mean your feet will never freeze as you wander through any weather looking as stylish as ever.

Slouchy Trousers

Sharpshot Slouchy Skinny Fit Chinos, $119 | Nordstrom

Pants are loosening up this season. Without getting sloppy, men’s hems are looser and easy to wear. Pair with a knitted polo shirt or even a silk button down as high shine items are part of this season’s look as well. Shop dress trousers and casual pants at Nordstrom for a tailored look that will bring you into fall effortlessly and comfortably.

Soft Knit Beanie

Waffle Beanie, $20 | Puma

Yes, beanies are in. From chunky, soft, knit styles to head-hugging hats with slogans, you’ll find it all this fall. Face whatever Mother Nature sends your way head on with the perfect beanie. Whether you’re into slouchy styles or a more fitted look, Puma offers an incredible collection of men’s hats to keep your head and ears nice and toasty. Shop the materials and colors you want from all your favorite brands, all while staying in style this season.

Warm Parka

Perry Ellis Big & Tall Microfiber Parka, $180 |Belk.com

A key addition to your men’s essentials, the right parka will keep the chill out like a champ. No matter your style, Belk.com offers men’s parkas with quilted lining, fur trim and waterproof looks. Browse tons of colors and cuts while saving with a promo code. Score a look with plenty of pockets to give your hands a little extra warmth! Hoods also keep your head warm and help you battle rain and snow in style. Layer with a ‘90s knit sweater to add some fun patterns and nostalgia to your everyday outerwear essentials and carry along some bright colors under your new winter look.

October 6, 2016

Complete List of Columbus Day Sales

Columbus sailed the ocean blue looking for more than the New World – he was looking to make his sponsor, Spain, a whole lot of money. This Columbus Day, commemorate the discovery of the Americas authentically by saving yourself plenty of cash.

This Columbus Day weekend will have some killer sales. Here is a complete list of the best among the batch.

1. Brookstone

Save on electronics because Brookstone’s Columbus Day sale is offering $30 off $99 orders with promo code 1492. Check out even more coupons and promo codes for endless savings.

Get Deal >

2. Kohl’s

Get ready for Halloween with Kohl’s sale, offering an extra 20% off any order if you use the promo code GET20.

Get Deal >

3. Macy’s

No Columbus Day sale is complete without Macy’s throwing their hat into the ring, and they hit all of fall’s savings with an extra 20% off their normal holiday price cuts with the code FUN.

Get Deal >

4. Sears

Update all your appliances and grab a little something special for yourself with Sears’ 10% off sale, including an extra $5 kicked off every $50 you spend with the code SEARS5OFF50. To make the savings even better, you can pair those deals with even more coupons for the potential to not only save money, but get Cash Back as well.

Get Deal >

5. Dell

Starting the new year with those business upgrades you need or getting that perfect electronic gift is pricey, but you can get in early and save more with Dell’s up to 38% off deal on select PCs and free shipping.

Get Deal >

6. Office Depot

Office supplies aren’t always cheap, and you can get your kids’ school supplies early this Columbus Day with Office Depot’s 20% off deal if you use the code 20OFFEBATES41.

Get Deal >

7. Finish Line

Finish Line is offering savings with up to 50% off new markdowns and $10 off $100 or more with coupon code AUTUMN10.

Get Deal >

8. Expedia

Looking to book that New Year’s or Christmas vacation? Get out of town without breaking the bank thanks to Expedia’s 50% off on flights and hotels.

Get Deal >

9. Hertz

You’ll need a car for your gallivanting abroad, so take advantage of 45% off rentals and a free extra day, plus up to $30 back on weekly rentals with the code 111473.

Get Deal >

10. Hotwire

Grab your vacation packages and flight with as much as $570 kicked off the deal with Hotwire.

Get Deal >

11. Travelocity

With an additional 13% off $300 at participating hotels with the code EbatesThirteen, you can do some exploring of your own this Columbus Day.

Get Deal >

12. JCPenney

You can be a lot better dressed than the explorer, and for a lot less, with JCPenney’s pre-holiday sale of 25% off with promo code BUYNOW42. Plus, if your grand total is more than $25, you can add in the code SHOPSALE for an extra $10 off.

Get Deal >

13. Nordstrom

You can afford to splurge a little with Nordstrom’s pre-Columbus Day sale of as much as 60% off all things fashion with shoes, outfits, and accessories. Plus they offer free shipping on everything this holiday!

Get Deal >

14. Carter’s

Get the kids a little something fun by stopping by for 20% off any $50 order at Carter’s with promo code CAROCT20.

Get Deal >

15. Ace Hardware

Maybe your weekend was a little too fun – if you need supplies for repairs, then it’s the perfect time with $15 off $100 orders with the code EBATESFALL15.

Get Deal >

16. Barnes & Noble

Those books you’ve been craving all summer? You can add them to your collection with 20% off any single item on top of Barnes & Noble’s normal pre-Columbus Day sale as long as you use the code BNFRIEND.

Get Deal >

17. Bloomingdale’s

If you’ve been missing that pair of fall booties, cozy sweater, or another fall fashion must-have, head to Bloomingdale’s for 25% off with promo code FRIENDS, plus up to 75% off sale items.

Get Deal >

September 14, 2016

The Best Fall Fashion Trends Hot off the Runway

High fashion runways may seem too far removed from everyday style to really inspire your own closet. But this season has a bevy of easy-to-adapt trends to take your fall looks up a notch. Before you start shopping for your fall outfits, take a look at our favorite designer trends and head-turning pieces you can get in all price points with Cash Back at Ebates. From dresses to shoes and accessories, we’ve got the most important fall styles all in one place. Here’s our complete guide to Fall 2016 trends hot off the runway.

Velvet has been a holiday style staple for as long as we can remember. However, wearing velvet from top to bottom is a new statement maker. Push the envelope with your fall outfit ideas and add some of these stylish pieces to your collection.

FRENCH CONNECTION Dilyla Velvet Booties, $165 (Bloomingdale’s)

You can literally pair a velvet bootie with anything, from jeans to a sassy leather skirt.

Lauren Ralph Flared Velvet Pants, $115 (Macy’s)

These pants evoke some serious 70s style with a flared leg that’s perfect with block heels.

Pleated Velvet Wrap Dress, $74 (Topshop)

You won’t have to leave this velvet dress hanging until holiday gatherings. Its simple wrap style is totally office-appropriate.

Puffer jackets are a cold-weather necessity for many. Now, designers have turned them into a fall trends staple for all climates. From full-length fabulous to cute and cropped, check out these must-own puffer coats.

S13 ‘Kylie’ Quilted Jacket with Removable Hood, $200 (Nordstrom)

Metallic outerwear is one of the most popular fall fashion trends in and of itself. So this coat is completely on point.

Rampage Faux-Fur-Trim Puffer Coat, $61.99 (Macy’s)

Fear not the bulky silhouette. This belted piece won’t hide your waist while keeping you warm.

Cropped Puffer Jacket, $ 348.00 (Brooks Brothers)

A cropped style like this is perfect for maxi dresses and high-waisted pants.

Hello 80s! 90s nostaligia may still be riding a high wave but 80s trends are peeking through in the form of one-sleeved and -shouldered cuts. What’s more, these styles are not just for evening. You can find asymmetrical styles for everything from brunch to band practices.

Asymmetrical Top, $19.90 (Forever 21)

Rock it as a dress or a tunic with leather-look leggings to really commit to this throwback style.

David Meister Patterned One-Shoulder Dress, $249.99 (Saks OFF 5TH)

For evening, go bold with black leather and a pattern or texture that will make a lasting impression.

Kourtney Bodycon Dress, $31 (Tobi)

Your weekend casuals have plenty of room for an off-kilter cut. This dress is just as adorable with sneakers as it is with pumps.

Get ready to rock. Guitar strap purses are the new go-to accessory. With lavish embroidery and sparkling embellishments, these bags and straps will turn any look up to 11.

Rebecca Minkoff Embroidered Guitar Bag Strap, $95 (Nordstrom)

Take your favorite bag up a notch in seconds flat with this gorgeous strap to give your OOTD a psychadelic 60s vibe.

STEVE MADDEN Swiss Faux Leather Crossbody, $88 (Nordstrom)

This crossbody bag is perfect for your weekend chambray shirts and dresses. A little bit of fringe thrown in makes this the quintessential retro bag for fall.

SONOMA Guitar Strap Crossbody Bag, $36 (Kohl’s)

This designer look doesn’t have to come with the designer price tag! Add this simple yet stylish purse to your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Dainty pendants and skinny chokers, your number is up. Big and bold collars are the new centerpiece to your fall styles. Get ready to deck your neck with these no-nonsense pieces.

Tucker Statement Necklace, $58 (Nasty Gal)

Tribal inspired in glimmering gold, this choker is the perfect finishing touch to any deep V in your wardrobe.

Oceane Choker, $68 (BaubleBar)

Add some bling to your office blazers and tops with this jeweled choker.

Faux Rose Choker, $5.90 (Forever 21)

Indulge your inner flower child with this precious rose choker. This necklace pairs fabulously with off-shoulder tops.

Which of these pieces is now at the top of your wishlist? Let us know with a comment below!

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change.

September 7, 2016

6 Basics Every Fall Wardrobe Can’t Go Without

Fall is upon us and some of us are more prepared than ever to start enjoying all that the season brings. But it’s not all pumpkin flavored everything and bonfires. It’s also time to dress for the season and we have just what you need to get you started. Before you deplete your bank account while updating your closet, head to Ebates to earn Cash Back on these fall wardrobe essentials.

Ripped Jeans

Fall trends are pointing to the ripped jeans style of decades past. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, distressed at the knees jeans. These are ripped in every way imaginable. Sure, you’ll find the standard rips and tears, but you’ll also discover Silver Jeans come in a wonderful variety of washes to add to the distressed appeal. If you thought fringe was just for your dad’s hippie suede jacket, think again, because this tip fall trend is also making its way to your jeans too.

Suit Jackets

The suit jacket is a power symbol and women are embracing it this fall. And no matter the attire at your place of work, the suit jacket is versatile enough to play the part. Dress up jeans or layer with a skirt. Pair with slacks or layer with scarves and chunky statement necklaces. The options are endless. Head to Kohl’s and snag a promo code, then find the one you’ll love to wear to work and pair with other fall pieces.

Floral Maxi Dresses

Parade of Poppies Maxi Dress, $68 (LuLu*s)

Love may be in the air during spring, but fall is the season of romance. Floral prints and flouncy maxi dresses are reigning this season at LuLu*s. Rich, bold jewel tones, lovely reds and of course neutral tones are big as we enter the new season. Don’t be surprised to find long-sleeved dresses with a 70s-era bell sleeve. Find the right dress and you could be wearing a bell-sleeved floral maxi that ticks all of the right boxes.

Bomber Jackets

Shine On You Crazy Bomber, $68 (Nasty Gal)

Once worn by fighter pilots to stay warm, the bomber jacket has come a long way. Now, while you can still find it in thicker varieties and various shades of military tones, you’ll also find a plethora of other options. Head to Nasty Gal for options in satin, floral, appliqued – you name it. Embrace fall trends and go for a statement piece or stick to a neutral tone for fall wardrobe essentials.

Tall Boots

When it comes to fall basics, the tall boot is key in women’s clothing. They keep you cozy and instantly up the style factor for any outfit. It’s really difficult for them to steer your fall wardrobe off course and Macy’s has plenty of options to choose from. It is so easy to want to fill your closet with a pair in every shade. Boots are the perfect quintessential fall fashion accessory.

Blanket Scarves

A hot wardrobe essential you’re sure to get wrapped up in (pardon the pun) is the blanket scarf from Grace and Lace. Sure, that scarf could double as a nice picnic blanket, but right now it is doing the job of keeping you comfy and cozy at work or during an outing. And since the warm colors and plaid styling are on point with classic but trending fall fashion, you’re going to want to grab a few of these. They’re versatile and you can earn Cash Back at Ebates. What more can you ask for?!

September 1, 2016

Labor Day Sales and Coupons Roundup

Celebrate the last weeks of summer in style while saving a buck or 10 with coupons, promo codes and Double Cash Back at Ebates. Take full advantage of free shipping offers from top stores while you soak up the sun, take a load off and lounge before fall comes knocking on your door. Whether you’re in the market for a new outfit, smartphone, furniture or something fun to do for the weekend, make Ebates your first stop for fantastic Labor Day sales. Check out these can’t-miss sales, grab a promo code or two and stack your savings with Cash Back.

Bloomingdale’s

$25 off $125, $50 off $250, $125 off $500, and more! (9/7-9/18)

Shop deal with 6% Cash Back >

Carter’s

50% off sitewide, use code LABORDAY (9/2-9/5)

Shop deal with 2.5% Cash Back >

EXPRESS

Take an additional 50% off already-reduced clearance (9/4 only)

Shop deal with 5% Cash Back >

Finish Line

End of Season Sale, up to 50% off (9/1-10/1)

Shop deal with 8% Cash Back >

Gilt

Extra 20% off, use code LONGWKND (9/1-9/4)

Shop deal with 4% Cash Back >

Groupon

Markdowns up to 80% off sitewide (9/3-9/5)

Shop deal with 6% Cash Back >

Hotels.com

Up to 40% off + extra 10% off select hotels, use code SAVE10SEP15 (9/5-9/18)

Shop deal with up to 6% Cash Back >

J.Crew

25% off $125 or 30% off $200 and free shipping (9/4-9/5)

Shop deal with 3% Cash Back >

JCPenney

Extra 25% off select items, use code BIGSALE2 (9/4-9/5)
Use your JCPenney credit card and get 20% off orders under $100, 25% off orders over $100, use code 32SAVE (9/7-9/12)

Shop deals with 6% Cash Back >

$10 off $30 order, use code MONDAYONLY (9/4-9/5)

Shop deal with 6% Cash Back >

LOFT

60% off all sale styles, use code FLASH (9/4-9/5)

Shop deal with 2% Cash Back >

Nordstrom

Up to 40% off clothing, shoes, accessories and home products (9/2-9/11)

Shop deal with 2% Cash Back >

Office Depot and OfficeMax

Save up to 60% (9/4-9/10)

Shop deal with 3% Cash Back >

Old Navy

50% off jeans, tees, and dresses (9/1-9/5)

Shop deal with 2% Cash Back >

Overstock.com

10% off for all customers (9/5-9/10)

Shop deal with 2% Cash Back >

Saks OFF 5th

Extra 20% off select styles, use code DFS20 (9/4-9/5)

Shop deal with 8% Cash Back >

August 31, 2016

How to Mix Summer Clothes Into Your Fall Wardrobe

You’ve finally rounded out your closet to create the perfect summer wardrobe for your signature style. The bad news? You blinked and then *poof* it’s fall. Don’t panic. That collection of sassy summer frocks can still take you well into the chillier months ahead with a few fashion hacks. Here are a few super easy ways to take summer staples into fall fashion while earning Cash Back at Ebates, of course.

Maxi Dress

Plus Jane Maxi Dress, $30 (Boohoo) | Round Neck Knitwear, $31 (ChicNova) | Qupid Slingback Ankle Boots, $64.99 (Kohl’s)

That statement-making maxi dress your lived in this summer can easily add a little color to your fall wardrobe with a chunky cropped sweater and ankle boots. This sweater from ChicNova is the perfect length to make your maxi look like just another high-waisted skirt.

Tee and Jeans

Simplex Apparel Deep V Tee, $18.99 (eBags) | Let Down Hem Mom Jean, $80 (Topshop) | Pinstripe Bomber Jacket, $88 (Banana Republic) | STEVEN by Steve Madden Hilda Platform Sneakers, $69 (Macy’s)

Your go-to casual combo for the summer can totally get warmed up for fall. Swap your Birks for some ultra-cool velvet slip-ons. A stylish bomber jacket, like this one from Banana Republic, will perfectly complete the look without making it too dressed up. After all, this is your weekend jam.

Plunging Jumpsuit

Backless Palazoo Jumpsuit, $27.90 (Choies.com) | Animal Print Long Sleeve Top, $33 (Dorothy Perkins) | Journee Collection Dolup Wedge, $59.99 (Kohl’s)

You may think a jumpsuit that shows some skin may be too little coverage for the fall chill (and too much sex-appeal for the office). But you can easily make turn it into a power suit with a printed long-sleeve top, like this one from Dorothy Perkins, and a popping wedge. Just make sure the top is fitted so it can easily tuck into the jumpsuit. That way, it will look like one seamless (and stunning) professional piece.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

August 29, 2016

17 Guest Bedroom Essentials You Probably Never Thought Of

When hosting overnight guests, the most important thing is to make your guests feel comfortable in your home. A great way to do this is to take some tips from the hotel industry. A hotel room is specifically designed with amenities for making guests feel comfortable. Use these same guest room ideas to welcome guests into your home. To get you started, here are our top picks for guest bedroom ideas and accessories from stores where you can earn Cash Back at Ebates. Remember to use a guest room promo code to save big when you shop for everything from guest bedding to hand soaps.

Tulip Bouquet With Glass Vase

There is no better way to make a guest room feel luxurious and welcoming than with fresh flowers. This beautiful bouquet comes with its own vase and can be delivered right to your door with next-day delivery.

Cable Knit Decorative Throw

This 100% cotton throw creates a warm, inviting look and brings comfort to any guest bed, no matter how humble.

Straight Leg Luggage Rack

Living out of a suitcase can be awkward, but this sturdy, attractive luggage rack makes it a cinch. This luggage rack can hold any size suitcase, has a rack for shoes and can even double as a bedside table.

LED Lighted Vanity Mirror

Help your guests put their best face forward with this 1x magnifying mirror from Beauty.com that will look stylish on a bureau, end table or bathroom counter.

Ambient Light/LED Reading Light

Good lighting is a key element for any comfortable guest room. With this lamp, your guests can enjoy ambient or direct LED light to help them find their way or read in bed.

Laminated Bamboo Serving Tray

Nothing compares to breakfast in bed. Your guests will be wowed with morning coffee on this elegant natural bamboo tray which can also be used as a convenient lap desk for a laptop or book.

Bedside Water Carafe Set

Save your guests the trouble of finding their way through a dark house at night for a drink of water. This beautiful customizable carafe and glass combo is convenient, beautiful and strong and would look lovely at any bedside.

Places to Go, People to See Coffee Table Book

With vibrant photographs, inspirational quotes and words of wisdom from world travelers, this coffee table book from kate spade new york makes a visual statement and is sure to spark great conversations.

Belkin MIXIT ChargeSync Dock

Give your guests a convenient place to charge their phones, tablets and other digital gadgets as well as a simple way to dock and sync them with this handy gadget from PCM.

Breezie Tabletop Bladeless Fan

Your guests can keep cool without the noise of fan blades with this portable bladeless fan. For those scorching hot days, dampen the included cooling sponge and the fan becomes a personal air conditioner.

Park B. Smith Ultra Spa Robe

Just like the finest hotels and spas, you can give your guests a sense of personal luxury with this mini-waffle weave cotton robe. Just don’t be surprised if they don’t want to give it back!

NEST Fragrances Reed Diffuser

A reed diffuser is a great way to bring aromatherapy into your guest room without overwhelming your guests with perfumes. The blend of orange blossom, orchid, lemon and musk is slowly diffused throughout your guest room for a subtle but memorable scent that is both relaxing and calming.

Neatfreak Clothes Hanger

Your guests will feel right at home with these professional, non-slip felt hangers that keep clothes wrinkle-free and neatly organized.

Bath Towels

This luxurious Turkish cotton towel set makes for elegant guest towels that feel rich and lush. Shop the Kohl’s Linum collection with a linens promo code to save on everything you need for your guest bath.

Surge Protector

This surge protector protects your guests from unexpected power fluctuations and also provides maximum protection for all of your sensitive electronic devices.

Hadley Notepad Holder

Memo pads are a quick and convenient way to jot down notes for your guests and this stylish notepad holder makes it easy while keeping surfaces uncluttered.

Philip Kingsley Jet Set Smooth & Shiny

Help your guests look their best with this three pack of moisturizing shampoo, conditioner and elasticizing product from LookFantastic. Way better than tiny hotel bottles, this miracle set helps keep hair frizz-free, shiny and manageable.

August 29, 2016

Fun Ways to Spend Your Labor Day

Labor Day is practically made for fun. Landing right at the heels of summer, it’s a chance for one last hurrah before autumn sets in and we begin to bundle up and bunker down for a few months spent evading the chill by binge-watching Netflix and preparing for the less leisurely holidays to come. It’s the perfect respite from back-to-school preparations and the daily 8-5 grind. Here is a list of awesome ways to make the most of your Labor Day weekend.

1. Take a hike.

From amber waves of grain to majestic purple mountains, the U.S. is filled with natural treasures. The three-day weekend is the perfect opportunity to venture out and get in tune with your wild side. Pack up your tackle box and head to the lake for some late-season fishing, or take a trip to the seaside to enjoy one last dip in the waves before the weather turns too chilly.

State and national parks are also great places to visit for a day or the weekend. The early September weather is perfect for a long hike, with typically clear skies and moderate temperatures. It’s also ideal for camping. Many parks and lake sites include camping and cabin rentals, and there’s nothing quite as relaxing as a warm late-summer night spent roasting s’mores under the stars. Check out Cabela’s and Backcountry.com for awesome deals on everything from fishing rods to knapsacks before you head out.

2. Shop the sales.

Everyone needs a little retail therapy now and again, and what better time to get some than on one of the biggest sale days of the year? It’s an especially great time to shop for back-to-school supplies and clothes, so if you are a student or parent of a matriculating student, check out stores like Old Navy, Target, and Kohl’s for some killer deals on everything from backpacks to blue jeans.

On the other hand, if you’re evading the dreaded “s” word, or aren’t a student or parent of a student, there’s no shortage of awesome deals on a variety of other products as well. Labor Day is also the best time of year to buy summer clothes at deeply discounted prices. To make the most of your purchases, check out the clearance racks at shops that are also offering storewide deals or Cash Back so you can double-dip on some savings. And just because you’re buying a tank top in September doesn’t mean you won’t be able to wear it until June. Consider picking pieces that you can layer underneath cardigans and jackets so you can start enjoying your savvy shopping haul right away, and all year long. Some stores touting killer Labor Day sales include Banana Republic, Macy’s, and Amazon.

3. Host a backyard cookout.

Break out the grill for one last cookout before summer’s end. Barbecues are the perfect weekend get-together, a chance for you and your friends to really kick back, relax, and enjoy some backyard volleyball or badminton. Don’t have a ball or a net? You can grab one from Dick’s Sporting Goods while enjoying 5% Cash Back and some killer discounts through Ebates.

Since nobody wants to work on Labor Day, make things easy on yourself and your wallet by asking your guests to bring a dish to share, potluck style. With everyone pitching in, there’s no need to worry that any one partygoer won’t have something to eat, which is especially helpful if you’ve got friends with dietary restrictions or allergies. You can provide the entrees, which you can get some awesome deals on from Safeway. If you’re providing the alcohol, you can also ask guests to bring a mixer, or if you’re going BYOB, provide a few mixers yourself. If you’re planning far enough in advance, order online at Amazon to save yourself some time.

July 29, 2016

Dorm Room Decor Essentials to Create an Inspiring Space

When it comes to the college experience, it is hard to overstate the importance of dorm room décor. The classic college dorm room is usually cramped, awkward and short on privacy, but one thing it does offer is a blank slate for self-expression. A dorm room has to be a lot of things at once: a bedroom, living room, study spot, closet and sometimes even a kitchen. To cram all that function into one space while maintaining comfort and a sense of style can be hard. So we’ve put together a list of dorm room essentials and unique finds to inspire you. It’s also important to not break the bank on dorm room decorations. While you look through our dorm room ideas, remember that you can earn Cash Back on all your dorm furniture when you shop with Ebates. Get the dorm room decor you need without draining your savings. Now that’s a class act!

Himalayan Ionic Salt Lamp

When space is at a premium, it’s important to make sure everything you decorate with is multi-functional. When heated, this hand-carved Himalayan salt crystal lamp glows with a beautiful natural light and emits negative ions that help clear the air and dilute odors. A bedside lamp that neutralizes your roommate’s gym socks? Genius.

Emoji Pillow

There’s no reason your dorm bedding has to be super serious. This comfy, squishy pillow from Sears is not only the perfect size for a dorm bed, but it’s a quirky way to express yourself in an unmistakable way and show off your silly side.

Sunset Tapestry

Use this handmade fine art photography print as a bedspread, wall hanging or curtain and bring the beauty of nature inside. Shop Etsy for unique handmade goods and tons of other bedroom ideas and use a bedroom décor promo code from Ebates to save on everything you buy.

Nebula Duvet Cover

An ultra soft microfiber blanket that’s easy to wash and features a photo of distant planets is an amazing way of bringing space into your dorm room. Literally.

Gold Diamond Throw Blanket

Show ‘em what a gem you are with this custom gold sparkle fleece blanket. Snuggle up while you make a statement.

Dots and Feelings Stapler

Desktop essentials can double as décor if you find one with enough style, like this cute stapler that’s practically a work of art. Find this and more desk friends at ModCloth.

Alma Otter Tape Dispenser

Who said a tape dispenser can’t be impossibly cute? Get a case of the warm fuzzies every time you need tape and spread some smiles in your dorm room with this unique tape dispenser.

Brilliant Resilience Hoop Art

Not only is this itty bitty wall art adorable and dorm-sized, but it might just help you stay motivated during late night cram sessions.

Simple By Design LED Desk Lamp

Talk about multi-purpose, this battery-powered lamp doubles as an emergency charging station for two phones and even has a dish to hold paperclips or keys.

Mountain Wall Decal

Removable wall art like vinyl wall decals are a great, temporary way to decorate without damaging walls. Even if you can’t paint or hang pictures, you can easily put up movable décor wall stickers and then take them down later.

July 12, 2016

School Backpacks on Fleek for Teens and Tweens

My one splurge for school supplies is a good backpack; I like to think of it as an investment. Have you seen how kids treat backpacks? They’re not nice to them. I invest in backpacks that will last a whole school year — that will withstand more than 180 days of getting tossed, trampled on, rained on and chewed on, and will get the job done without giving my kids aches and pains.

Whether you’re sending your older teen off to college or your tween to his last year of elementary school, invest in a backpack your kids will love and that won’t fall apart after a couple of months.

Teens

Timbuk2 Tuck Pack

This bag has a lifetime warranty! It’s a straightforward roll-top with sturdy pockets and laptop protection. It’s comfortable for walking on campus, having on your back while you ride a bike or running to catch the bus.

North Face Women’s Electra Backpack

Another great pack with a lifetime warranty. This pack is specially designed to fit a woman’s torso, making it a comfortable fit for getting to and from class.

JanSport Overexposed Backpack

Some high-schoolers like to make a statement. This bright pack has all the classic features of a JanSport pack, with comfortable shoulder straps and lots of pockets.

Case Logic Huxton Daypack

Then there are the teenagers who like to keep a low profile. This unassuming solid-color pack has a padded back panel and shoulder straps, a laptop compartment and overlapping front pockets that provide easy access to phones, wallets and other accessories.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Tweens

Cotopaxi Kilimanjaro Backpack

No one is rougher on backpacks than middle-school kids. They’re out and about more, going to sports practice and solo library trips. You want to make sure you get a sturdy backpack that will withstand all the rough-and-tumble activities of an average seventh-grader. The Kilimanjaro has a padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, an internal laptop sleeve, multiple zippered pockets and side water bottle pockets.

Patagonia Lightweight Black Hole

This weather-resistant pack comes in many different colors — perfect for any taste. It’s hydration compatible, perfect for busy kids and comfortable for kids who ride their bikes to school.

Thule Departer 21L Daypack

This water-resistant pack accommodates laptops and tablets. It’s big enough to carry your child’s school lunch and, on sleepover days, their extra clothes. It’s a sturdy pack with high-visibility interior details to help your child quickly locate everything they need.

Augusta Large Dri-Color Dance Backpack

Your child doesn’t need to be a dancer to sport this pack. It comes in many different colors, and includes two compartments with separate zippers and padded pockets with an opening for earphones. It’s a great pack to help keep your elementary-school kid organized.

What are some features you look for in backpacks, and why?