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October 27, 2016

8 Things You Probably Forgot for Your Winter Beach Getaway

Winter is fast approaching, which means you’ll soon be longing for the beach. Give in to your desires and head somewhere warm for the ultimate winter beach getaway. Your off-season vacay means you’ll score plenty of getaway deals on everything you need to make it an enjoyable escape. Plus, thanks to holiday sales events, you can save big on some of the items that will make your vacation even more memorable. Start planning your beach-trip packing list, and don’t forget these must-have items that will earn you Cash Back at Ebates so you can have even more money in your pocket during your beach getaway.

Amazon Kindle

Reading a book at the beach with sand in your toes is the epitome of relaxation. The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite gives you a glare-free screen even on the brightest of beach days. It can last weeks on a single charge, so you can read to your heart’s delight on the plane and on the beach. Best of all, with electronics at the top of the Cyber Monday sale list, you can save on your purchase when you shop during the winter.

Waterproof Tablet Bag

The beach is full of everything your electronics hate — namely sand and water. Do yourself a favor and plan ahead with a protective case designed to keep your beach reading material clean and dry. The vinyl case offers layers of protection so you can spend a long day in the sun knowing your tablet will make it home in one fully functioning piece.

Portable Security Case

The beach can be a haven for opportunists, but with a travel safe you won’t fall victim. Keep your valuables safely stowed away so you can enjoy the beach without constant worry. The strap allows it to be secured to a nearby item and uses a combination for access.

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Baby Powder

Even if you don’t have a tot in tow, baby powder is a beach must-have. You can use it to keep your body sand-free so you can go from oceanfront lounging to sipping cocktails in the hotel cabana without having to stop for a sand wash!

Scarf

Coming from a colder climate means you’re going to need to pack a few items that may seem silly for a beach trip, including the scarf you wore on the plane. But trust us: This pashmina scarf will find its way into your beach essentials. The scarf can be worn on a nice romantic night out or tied around your waist as a cover-up. It is the ultimate accessory for any occasion!

Open-Front Cardigan

Don’t give up on wearing sweaters just yet. Although you may be basking in the warm sun all day, the beach gets pretty chilly at night. You won’t want to forget a cozy sweater to keep you comfy during an evening stroll. Find a nice neutral sweater that’ll pair with several outfits and add a splash of color with space-saving scarves.

Floppy Hat

Trade in your earmuffs for a beach-friendly hat. Although most people are busy shopping for cold-weather accessories, you’ll get big savings on the perfect beach getaway attire. Maximize your out-of-season purchase with a promo code and rake in savings that will have you basking in the sun – while wearing your new floppy beach hat, of course.

Swimsuit

This seems like a no-brainer, but buying a swimsuit in the post-summer off-season will get you a great deal — often saving you 50 percent or more. Score cute swimwear so cheap you can bring multiple options for your beach vacations. For all you plus-size beauties, check out this fabulous list of 11 plus-size swimsuits to rock your curves.

July 8, 2016

Travel-Ready Clothing Staples Every Adventurer Needs

The summer travel season is here and with it comes the chance to save on some of the most versatile clothing styles you’ll find all year. Travel apparel is full of fabulous year-round pieces with great easy-care features like quick-dry and no-iron fabrics, secure hidden pockets and convertible styles. Here are Ebates‘ top picks for the best easy care clothes for travel that you can also use for everyday work and play.

Merino Midweight Hoody

This beautifully-tailored jersey-knit Patagonia hoody combines recycled polyester Capilene fiber with Merino wool to create a baselayer with a wide comfort range and lightning fast drying time, making it perfect to wear under backpack straps or over jogging gear.

Traveler’s Classic Rosemary Wrap Dress

This dress has it all: a figure-flattering cut, breathable and comfortable fabric, and a classic look that can transition straight from the desk to the dining table. Check out the rest of the Traveler’s Classic line at Chico’s for other stylish travel-ready clothing and wrinkle free clothes.

Resolve Waterproof Jacket

The mesh-lined Resolve jacket from The North Face has all the best comfort features like an adjustable hood, elastic cuffs and zip-closure front welt pockets. Plus the Resolve is so lightweight, it wears like a windbreaker. Always be prepared with this or another one of the great travel-friendly jackets available at Macy’s and earn Cash Back at Ebates while you shop for all your adventures.

Dakota Scarf With Hidden Pocket

This incredible accessory is made by travelers for travelers but it is a must have for anyone who could always use one more pocket. This comfy, lightweight scarf hides a secure, double-stitched pocket with a self-locking zipper that’s big enough for keys, phone and passport. Check out the upgrade option to include a custom prohibition-style flask that fits the pocket perfectly.

Foldable Flats

Essential Apparel is a one-stop shop for great, high quality American-made brands and features performance wear, travel clothing, outdoor gear and sporty intimates. Shop here for moisture-wicking clothing, wrinkle-resistant clothing, sun protective clothing and more. Start shopping at Ebates to earn Cash Back and find great savings with an Essential Apparel promo code.

Ella Packable Tote

From the same name that brought you the iconic Minne travel ballet flat, Tory Burch offers a packable tote that’s big enough to fit a laptop but packs small enough to fit in a pocket. This durable, water-repellent and lightweight nylon tote is great for travel, shopping and beachgoing.

Remember to pick up a clothing promo code at Ebates to save big when you shop our top stores for the best in travel apparel. Shop with Ebates and you’ll earn Cash Back when you buy and save even more!

June 29, 2016

The Ultimate Water Park Survival Guide

Summer is here and it’s a great time to load up the gang and head out for a day of family fun at a water park! Water parks are a great place for families to get outside, hit the water slides and have a seriously exciting time together. With some proper preparation, your day at the water park can be a splashing success. If you’re wondering what to bring to a water park, look over this handy checklist for water park tips, tricks and even learn how to earn Cash Back at Ebates when you’re planning for your big day out on those water rides.

Sunscreen: Wondering what to wear to a water park? Your first order of business should be a healthy layer of sunscreen. Before you hit the slides for the day, protect your skin and your family with a good sunscreen.
Swim Suit: This one may seem like a no brainer, but best to double check that everyone has packed their suits before heading out to the water park. Need a new size or style? Check for a swimsuit promo code and save a bundle on your new look.
UV Protection Swim Shirt: Add an extra layer of protection from the sun, even when the sunscreen starts to wear off.
Plenty of Water and Snacks: Whether you buy them at the park or can bring your own, be sure to keep your family hydrated and feeling great.
Waterproof Cellphone Case: Like to keep your phone on you at all times? A watertight pouch or case is a great investment for a day at the water park.
Phone Charger or Spare Battery: After a long day at the park, your battery will likely be a little low.
Hair Brush & Hair Ties: If anyone in your group has long hair, they’ll thank you!
Waterproof Camera: Snap some great shots of the kids at the water park without worrying about the splashes hitting your lens.
Goggles: If your water park pack likes to spend time underwater, make sure to bring them a pair of goggles to protect their eyes.
Unique Beach Towels: With the huge crowds at water parks, towels can easily get lost in the fray. A unique or customized towel can really pay off at the end of the day when you can dry off with your own dedicated towel.
Hat With a Brim: A hat might not stay on for the fast rides, but you’ll be happy to have it when you’re riding the lazy river!
Bug Spray: If you live in a particularly buggy area, this can be a lifesaver.
Cheap Sunglasses: Don’t worry about losing or ruining your fancy shades during your day on the water slides.
Toiletries & Medications: If you plan to be away from home all day, make sure you pack the toiletries and medications your group will need throughout the day.
Pouch for Valuables: Leave anything other than the essentials at home, but keep a small pouch or bag on you with stuff like money and car keys if the park doesn’t provide lockers.
Water Shoes: Protect your family’s feet from concrete catastrophes with a bright, fun pair of water shoes that add traction to prevent dangerous slips and falls.
Band-Aids: In case an accident does happen, it’s best to be prepared with a mini first aid arsenal of your own.
Picture of the Kids: You probably already have one in your wallet or phone, but a photo can help water park staff find your kids if they wander off.
Dry Clothes: Make sure everyone has a set of dry clothes that are kept dry throughout the day for when it’s time to pack up and head home.
Packable Bag: A big bag that you can fill with all your summer fun essentials is a critical part of your water park checklist and is a good investment for all your summer outings.

Editor’s Picks

July 13, 2015

Top 10 Things to Bring to an Amusement Park

No summer would be complete without at least one visit to a super fun theme park. A day full of rides, sweet treats and sunshine may be right up your alley but it will only go well if you are fully prepared. Whether you’re hitting the local carnival with your besties or piling the kids into the car and heading to Disneyland, here are 10 must-haves you will need to pack to make your day as sane as possible.

1. Smartphone – We know you don’t normally leave home without your phone but you may be tempted to store your phone while you hit the rides. Resist this urge and get yourself a trauma-resistant, water-proof smartphone case. You never know when you’ll be accidentally separated from your crew and need to get in touch.

2. Spare socks – Water rides = Wet socks. Wet socks + you = 🙁 You might want to bring a whole change of clothes but at the very least, socks are essential.

3. Hat and sunglasses – The sun is not always your friend. Protect your eyes and face with a kickin’ pair of sunglasses and practical yet fashionable hat like this cute fedora from Express!

4. Aspirin/pain reliever – Decibels will definitely be on the rise, making headaches very possible. Don’t let it take you out of the game and bring a tablet or two.

5. Hand sanitizer – This is always a must if you’re traveling with little humans who like to touch everything then put their hands in their mouth.
6. Poncho – Not the most fashionable of accessories, but this baby is a life-saver on water rides if you are set on leaving the park dry. Plus, how cute is this Hello Kitty poncho for the kids?

7. Water bottle – Everything at the park is expensive, including bottled water. Plus, using your own bottle is also more eco-friendly obviously.

8. Snacks – Bring along a few granola bars or some trail mix to keep your energy up. You’ll already spend an arm and a leg for a full meal so cut costs by supplying your own snacks.

9. A sensible bag – A crossbody bag is great to keep your hands free but a foldover crossbody bag is a one-two punch. This Backcountry bag takes up less space but expands to carry more when you need it. Can you say room for souvenirs?

10. Sunscreen – Even if it doesn’t feel particularly hot outside, ALWAYS wear sunscreen. Sunburn sneaks up out of nowhere and is never fun.

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Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

March 25, 2015

Music Festival Survival Guide

Festival season is upon us and if you’re new to the world of all-day music extravaganzas, a little planning will go a long way in terms of what you should bring along. You’ll be in it for the long haul all in the name of rocking out and spending quality time with your best buds. Get prepared with our festival checklist of essential items including a few tried and true life hacks that will make your experience just a little easier.

music_festival_packing — via Bows and Sequins

Festival Packing List:

Mini flashlight – Don’t get caught in a porta-potty after dark without one.
Hand sanitizer – Because porta-potties are gross
Tissues – Because porta-potties run out of TP way too fast
Baby wipes – For messes and spills
Portable cellphone charger
Earplugs
Water bottle – Pro Tip: Freeze it first and use it as an ice pack for quick relief from the heat.
Lip balm with SPF – Nothing worse than sunburn on your lips
Sunscreen
Snacks – Food at festivals is expensive with very long lines. Pack a couple of energy bars to keep you fueled between jumbo hot dogs.
Plastic rain poncho – Because rain happens. Lightweight, easily folds into a tiny square.
Cheap sunglasses – Leave the designer shades at home. Things get rowdy.

Quick Festival Tips:

1. Carry a mini shoulder bag. All of the above items are small enough to cram into it, plus backpacks are invitations for theft since you don’t have eyes in the back of your head.

2. Make a custom staff or flag. If you’re going with a large group, avoid getting broken up in the crowd by letting your freak flag fly high for all to see.

3. Wear closed-toe shoes. You may be tempted to sport sandals but your toes WILL get stepped on. Better protect those piggies.

4. Use hair ties to secure maxi skirts during calls of nature. Wear them on your wrist (they’ll hardly stand out among your bangles and friendship bracelets) and use them to bundle up your maxi skirt so it doesn’t get in the way while in the confined space of a porta-potty. Genius, right?

5. Tie a lightweight scarf around your waist or bag strap. It will be perfect for sitting on in the grass instead of a bulky blanket or towel.

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February 26, 2015

Packing for the Perfect Spring Weekend Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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February 24, 2015

Travel Essentials: 11 Items to Make Any Trip Easier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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