The Best Things to Buy in January

Woman Holding Shopping Bags

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

Keep Your Fitness Resolutions

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

Stores to Watch: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sears

Woman in Winter Forest

Grow Your Winter Wardrobe

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

Stores to Watch: Nordstrom, Columbia

File For Less

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

Stores to Watch: TaxACTFreeTaxUSA

Modern Interior Decor

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Update With Fine Furnishings

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

Stores to Watch: Ashley Furniture, Horchow

Deck the Halls Next Year

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

Stores to Watch: Walmart, Kmart.

Take Your TV Watching Up a Notch

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

Stores to Watch: Best BuySam’s Club

April Parks And Rec GIFTake a Hike

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

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change. 

11 Easy Tips to Get Fit at Home

11 Easy Tips to Get Fit at Home 5

With a little self-discipline and the patience to sort through the wide world of online workouts, getting fit at home is easier than ever. Smarter, more efficient fitness starts at home with everyday activities that take only minutes and don’t require trudging to and from the gym. They key is regularity. Relying on a tough one-time workout is much less effective than including simple, healthy fitness in your daily routine. Some at-home workout equipment can earn you Cash Back at Ebates and will help you simplify your workouts and bring a little fitness to your home life.

1. To work on core strength and balance, try standing on a balance board instead of sitting on the couch next time you’re watching Netflix. Using a balance board works your back and abs, and enhances proprioception—your body’s tiny muscular corrections that help you stay balanced throughout the day.

Steppie Balance Board

Steppie Balance Board (Walmart)

 

2. A kettlebell is the perfect size for your workout at home. Carve out a few minutes of your day and 5 feet of space, and bring your squats to a new level. Try this exercise: Stand with your feet hip distance apart and the kettlebell on the floor between them. Squat and grab the kettlebell with one hand, and raise it up to shoulder level in front of you with a straight arm. Then squat to lower the kettlebell back to the ground, switch hands and repeat.

GoFit Contoured Kettlebell

GoFit Contoured Kettlebell (Target)

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3. Outside of basic squats, there are dozens of kettlebell exercises that can work the entire leg. Try speed skating: Start with both feet shoulder width apart and slide your right leg behind your left, bending your left leg at the same time, as if you’re ice skating. Holding the kettlebell with both hands, follow your arms’ natural swing down and to the right. Alternate legs and repeat for your preferred number of reps.

 

4. The next time you have a few minutes after work or just before bed, grab your yoga mat and turn on some yoga videos. A regular yoga practice is great for your heart, and it relieves pain and improves flexibility and brain function. Just 12 minutes of yoga at home each day can help your bones—and reverse osteoporosis.

Gaiam Yoga Mat

Yoga Mat (Gaiam)

5. Feel free to skip that next barre class. You can practice some of the strength-training barre techniques at home with just a yoga mat and a high-back chair. Kick off your shoes and socks, and get in a couple of plié squats or a few reps of ronds de jambe while dinner is cooking.

 

6. Rolling out your muscles is an easy way to keep them loose and prevent soreness. Lie down on the floor, placing a foam roller beneath you wherever there may be tightness. Foam rolling works best when the roller focuses on one location for a few seconds, rather than rolling quickly over the entire backside of the body.

Weider 18 Inch Foam Roller

Weider 18 Inch Foam Roller (Sears)

7. Take your rolling to the next level by using a few tennis balls to dig into more specific muscle areas. Place the tennis ball against the area that has tension and either press against a wall or use your body weight against the floor. The ball works to break up muscle tissue that can lead to tightness that’s often caused by poor posture or repetitive motions. Part of getting fit is making sure all your muscles are loose and blood can flow freely throughout the body.

 

8. Make time for a detox bath a few times a week to reduce inflammation in your muscles and throughout your body. Try scooping 2 cups of Epsom salt into your bathwater and soak for about 20 minutes. The warm water and Epsom salt will bring the toxins in your body to the surface of the skin. As the water cools, those toxins will leach out into the bathwater, leaving you with less inflammation.

 

9. Stability-ball crunches are an easy way to work your core without putting too much pressure on your neck. Lower your back onto the ball, and crunch up for a few reps of 10 to 20. This is an easy abdominal workout that requires only a few minutes and almost no space. Plus, this is another workout that works just as well in front of the TV—no gym required.

Gold's Gym 65cm Anti-Burst Body Ball

Gold’s Gym 65cm Anti-Burst Body Ball (Walmart)

10. Work your triceps with stability-ball push-ups. Using the ball elevates your feet and makes push-ups slightly easier. Start facedown in a plank position with your feet on top of the ball and your hands on the floor directly below your shoulders. Bend at the elbows for a few reps of 10 push-ups. Less intensity means you’ll be able to fit in more reps and tone those triceps even more.

 

11. The screen and phone time that takes up our days certainly doesn’t help our postures. Hunched backs and rounded necks—especially when they’re practiced over long periods of time—can lead to unnecessary body pain. Good posture is one way to help avoid muscle pain, which can often be the result of underutilized muscles shortening. Sitting and standing up straight also improves core strength while allowing blood to flow properly to the entire body.

 

Related Links:
Fitness & Diet Coupons
Discounts on Vitamins
Atkins Coupons
Discounts on Fitbits

18 Stores Offering Paid and Free Gift Wrapping

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

Paid Gift Wrapping With Online Purchase

Barnes & Noble

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Bed Bath & Beyond

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 Nordstrom

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 Sephora

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Best Buy

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JCPenney

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Kohl’s

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Lord & Taylor

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Macy’s

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Sears

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Walmart

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Lands’ End

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Sur La Table

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Things Remembered

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Victoria’s Secret

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Free Gift Box With Online Purchase

Brooks Brothers

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Jared

They’ll even wrap it for you, too!

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Saks Fifth Avenue

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

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Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change. 

Top Toys Gift Guide: Best Selling Toys of 2016

Gift Guide: Top Best Selling Toys of 2016

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

Hatchimals, $49.99

Hatchimals toys

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

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

Go! Go! Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace

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

Sky Viper V2400HD Streaming Video Drone, $99.99

Sky Viper V2400HD Streaming Video Drone

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

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

Shopkins Happy Places Miniature Decor

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

Doc McStuffins Hospital Care Cart, $37.99

Doc McStuffins Hospital Care Cart

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

Paw Patrol Monkey Temple Play Set, $59.49

Paw Patrol Monkey Temple Play Set

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

Little Live Pets My Dream Puppy, $49.99

Little Live Pets My Dream Puppy

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

Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck, $27.99

Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck

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

Speak Out Game, $19.99

Speak Out Game

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

Shopkins Tall Mall Playset, $24.99

Shopkins Tall Mall Playset

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

Fisher Price Code-A-Pillar, $37.96

Fisher Price Code-A-Pillar

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

FurReal Friends Torch My Blazin Dragon, $62.42

FurReal Friends Torch My Blazin Dragon

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

Simon Air Game, $14.99

Simon Air Game

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

Furby Connect Friend, $89.99

  Furby Connect Friend

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

CHiP the Lovable Robot Dog, $199.99

CHiP the Lovable Robot Dog

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

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

Star Wars First Order TIE Pilot Sixth Scale Figure

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

 

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

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.

Complete List of Columbus Day Sales

 

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.

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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 >

Complete List of Columbus Day Sales 1

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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10. Hotwire

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

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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.

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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 >

Complete List of Columbus Day Sales 2

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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Why Your Inner Child Needs to Throw a Lisa Frank Party

Woman wearing paper crown with confetti flying

Close your eyes and try to remember that era in your life when your everyday soundtrack was nothing but boy bands and everything you owned was covered in neon rainbows and cute baby animals. That was the time when Lisa Frank ruled the world of pre-teen girls and she’s making a major comeback. With a new line of Lisa Frank clothes at RageOn and even a few exclusive items at major department stores, we’re getting some serious nostalgia and we think this calls for a celebration. Why not throw yourself the dream party you never had at 13 with some rainbow eats and Lisa Frank party favors and decor that give you Cash Back at Ebates? Can’t think of a single reason? We didn’t think you could.

Fantasy Food

Tie Dye Smores
via Studio DIY

Homemade rainbow marshmallows and white chocolate make for some seriously psychedelic smores your guest will think are almost too pretty to eat.

Rainbow Bagels
via MomDot

Who says colorful food can’t be savory? These fresh-baked rainbow bagels may look like confection perfection but they’re just the carby goodness you know and love.

Tie Dye Cheesecake
via Sprinkles for Breakfast

Pastel and perfectly sweet, this cheesecake and its sprinkled crust will make your dessert table totally dreamy.

Rainbow Pizza
via Gimme Some Oven

Cut some of the sugar with a healthy yet delectable dish like this rainbow veggie pizza.

Rainbow Smoothies
via The First Year

Top it all off with hearty rainbow smoothies so your guests won’t feel like they spent the entire bash canceling out gym day.

Dazzling Decor

 

Lisa Frank party decorations

Lisa Frank Party Hats 8 Pack, $3.99 (Birthday in a Box) | Lisa Frank Banner, $2 (Walmart)

Party hats and banners aren’t just for birthday bashes. Spare no cheesy detail when throwing a “just for LOLs” gathering.

Fun Favors

Lisa Frank coloring and activity books

Bulk Lisa Frank Coloring and Activity Books Pack of 24, $34.55 (Sears)

Whether this is an adults-only or kid-friendly party, Lisa Frank coloring books will be a total hit.

Unicorn crayons

Unicorn Crayons, $5 (Etsy)

But we have to say that these unicorn crayons will be the show-stopper.

One Magical Outfit

Adult's Rainbow Grass Hula Skirt

Adult Rainbow Grass Hula Skirt, $4.48 (Oriental Trading)

Now that your house is doused with ALL the colors, you wearing everyday clothes just won’t do. We’re not saying you can’t spend the day in your leggings (with the generous waist to accommodate all those rainbow noms you are about to dig into). Just zazz it up a bit with a rainbow grass skirt…

Long rainbow mermaid wig

Rainbow Wig, $32 (Etsy)

…a dreamy mermaid wig you can totally reuse for Halloween (it’s right around the corner!)…

Lisa Frank Juniors' Patch Graphic Denim Vest

Lisa Frank Juniors’ Patch Denim Vest, $49 (Macy’s)

…and OMG A LISA FRANK DENIM VEST. It may be from the juniors’ department but that can be our little secret.

Ready to throw yourself a rainbow rager? Let us know what your dream Lisa Frank party would look like in the comments below!

 

Dorm Room Decor Essentials to Create an Inspiring Space

Modern decor college dorm room

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

Himalayan Glow Medium Ionic Natural Salt Crystal LampWhen 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

Emoji Pillow – Nerd

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

Pink 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

nebula duvet coverAn 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

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

Polka dot 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

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

Life is tough but so are you hoop wall 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

Simple By Design LED Desk LampTalk 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

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.

 

 

The Complete Family Road Trip Packing Checklist

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

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

Editor’s Picks

 

 

10 Best Drugstore Makeup Must-Haves

Overhead shot of makeup and brushes on blue backgroundA swipe of lip gloss and a dusting of eye shadow can make you feel like a whole new person. You can walk into a room ready to take on any obstacles thrown your way. But you don’t have to spend the department store prices to exude the same confidence. Before you write off the drugstore labels or drugstore makeup dupes, give these products a try and discover that you don’t have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks! These 10 makeup and skin care essentials are not only budget-friendly without compromising quality, they all give you Cash Back at Ebates. Take a look and see which ones you’ll be adding to your next beauty shopping list.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Professional Matte Lip Color

e.l.f. Matte Lip ColorGet the bold ruby red lip you long for or keep it neutral with a light rose shade with this drugstore makeup must have. The price is so nice you’ll be able to stock up on a few shades so you can match any outfit or mood.

New York Color Lovatics By Demi Eyeshadow Palette

New York Color Lovatics By Demi Eyeshadow PaletteSkip the overpriced neutral makeup kits in favor of this budget-friendly array that will help you get that glamorous look for less. You’ll love the shimmer this eye shadow palette offers and you’ll be looking good day or night.

NYX Studio Perfect Photo-Loving Primer

NYX Studio Perfect Photo-Loving PrimerRed-toned and acne-prone skin can be hard to cover but this primer will prep you for your day whether you’re facing a camera or not. Get rid of the redness and help your makeup glide on smoothly and last longer with this drugstore makeup must have that will get you great results at half of the price of other primers while earning you Cash Back at Ebates.

CoverGirl LashBlast Waterproof Volume Mascara

CoverGirl LashBlast Mega Volume MascaraShop at Walgreens to get long luscious lashes and incredible volume with CoverGirl LashBlast Waterproof Volume Mascara. This mascara is a favorite of makeup artists across the world and can be applied in layers to get the dramatic look you love. You can purchase it with a drugstore coupon and save even more making this a top notch buy.

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Contour Contour & Highlight Palette

L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Contour Contour & Highlight Palette, DeepThe hottest trend in makeup these days can’t go unmentioned. Get professional level contouring with this compact and simple contouring palette from drugstore.com. Accentuate all the right corners quickly and with ease while using a promo code from Ebates for extra savings.

BhCosmetics Studio Pro HD Brow Pencil

BhCosmetics Studio Pro HD Brow PencilGet the perfect brow with this pro-level eyebrow pencil and brush in one. Your brow will look full and flawless with five shades to choose from. Flip the pencil around and you’ll be able to use the brush end to blend and create a natural finish.

Wet n Wild Kabuki Powder Brush

Wet n Wild Kabuki Powder BrushThe same brand that made your favorite lip balms and nail polishes in middle school offer a nice selection of makeup brushes that aren’t going to cost you an arm and a leg. You won’t spend over $4, making the full makeup brush set extremely affordable.

Physicians Formula Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Trio

Physicians Formula Kohl Kajal Eyeliner TrioTake your smokey eye game to the next level with eye-popping liners from Physicians Formula. Trios come in multiple colors so you can go neutral for the office and bold for after hours.

Simple Cleansing Micellar Water

Simple Cleansing Micellar WaterAt the end of the day, you’re going to need to remove all of that glorious discount makeup. This fantastic product from ULTA Beauty gets the job done and also cleans and hydrates! Best off all, there’s no excuse for late night laziness because it doesn’t require any rinsing. Just grab a cotton ball and swipe and you’re done.

Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer

Cetaphil Daily Facial MoisturizerWhether your skin is dry, oily or somewhere in between, you should be moisturizing your skin every day. The same goes for sunscreen. And what better way to get the job done than a lightweight moisturizer with broad spectrum sun protection already added? Use this non-comedogenic lotion every day to keep your skin healthy and vibrant.

For even more drugstore makeup favorites, check out the huge selection of makeup brushes, bags and kits at stores like TargetSears, and Walmart (have you heard of Walmart’s Beauty Box? Check it out if you love trying new product samples for less.). What are your top picks for the best drugstore makeup products? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

 

 

The Best Things to Buy in May

Woman in floral dress holding red shopping bags

Spring is in the air! It’s the perfect time to freshen up your wardrobe, home and more while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Memorial Day deals pair with springtime specials to make stretching your budget a breeze. Jump into the season and get unbeatable deals on must-haves to buy in May! Check out some of our favorite ways to save this season.

Kitchen with wood cabinets and a marble counterKick up Your Kitchen

Spring cleaning sessions are a great time to evaluate what you really need and what you can live without. It’s also the perfect opportunity to upgrade those outdated kitchen appliances and start the season off right. Say goodbye to that sad stove and bid farewell to that funky fridge with super savings during May Memorial Day sales. With Cash Back at Ebates and a kitchen appliance promo code, you can score some of the best deals of the season. As the weather warms up, you’ll want to enjoy your morning cup of coffee on the balcony or drink up a refreshing smoothie, so stock up on discount kitchen appliances and enjoy those beautiful May days in style.

Stores to Watch: Best Buy, Blendtec, Keurig

Woman in white dress walking through flowersFreshen Your Fashion

Shorts, tees and tanks, oh my! You’ve been cooped up in cardigans and stifled by sweaters for months. It’s time to spruce things up with some new spring clothes. Wardrobe basics are among some of the best things to buy in May, with great spring sales and irresistible Memorial Day specials. Plus, you can score huge discounts on last season’s clothes and store them away for next year! Get deals on all the latest spring trends and save on fashions for the whole family when you shop at Ebates. With clothing promo codes, you don’t have to splurge to get the styles you want at perfect prices.

Stores to Watch: Nordstrom, Macy’s

Go, Go Gadget

Spring specials make electronics one of the best things to buy in May. Upgrade to a new phone or watch your favorite shows on a top-notch HD TV. Shop portable speakers so you can enjoy that spring breeze while listening to your favorite songs or use an electronics promo code to save on a discount digital camera to capture springtime snapshots. Browse discount tablets, computers and more amazing electronics on sale while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Be sure to keep gift buying in mind and stock up for holidays and special occasions, too!

Stores to Watch: Verizon, Logitech

Young man near white bedSweet Dreams

Typically, a mattress should be replaced about every seven years. Spring is one of the best times to leave lumpy mattresses behind and buy a brand new one. Snooze and save with Cash Back at Ebates on a cozy pillow top or foam mattress designed to give you a great night sleep. May is an ideal time to bring your guest bedrooms to life on a budget, too. When you buy in May you’ll even find plenty of ways to dress up mattresses with affordable bedding sets, discount sheets and more bedding buys through Ebates.

Stores to Watch: 1800Mattress, Sears

Admiral Akbar it's a trap star wars gifSTAR WARS EVERYTHING

It’s NOT a trap! May the fourth (be with you) is Star Wars Day and prices are going to be cut (or lightsabered) down so low, you’ll be able to add to your collection of shirts, toys, accessories and more without crossing over to the Debt Side.

Stores to Watch: Kohl’s, GameStop, Amazon