How to Save Money on Your Holiday Travels

The season to be jolly is right around the corner, and you’re anxious to see your loved ones.

You may have thought about what to pack, what presents you are going to buy and many other things, but you haven’t had the time to decide anything yet. Before thinking about everything at once, start with how you’re going to travel during this busy time of year.

Just remember, where there’s a will, there’s a way. Here are a few ways to curb travel expenses this season.

Travel By Plane

It’s best to book your domestic airline ticket 54 days prior to departure to secure the best deal, reports Cheap Air. Here are a few more cost-cutting strategies:

  • Email alerts: Whether you want to be alerted when the particular price of a flight fluctuates or a group of flights, an email alert website such as Airfarewatchdog has you covered.
  • Compare airports: It may be more sensible to drive 30 miles to catch a plane at a neighboring airport, especially if the price is right.
  • Travel during off-peak periods: The first and last flight of the day as well as those that fall on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday typically have the least amount of passengers, so airlines lower prices to fill the seats. So, if you can leave during the middle of the week, do it.
  • Pack lightly: The more you pack, the more you pay. Unless your luggage is permitted on board free of charge, aim to pack lighter.

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People Need Traction Control, Too

“Winter is coming” is much more than a scary premonition uttered constantly on Game of Thrones.

For much of the country, it’s actually the cold, hard truth. And, of course, nothing warms a body up like a hearty laugh at someone else’s expense. Those who live in the icy parts of the U.S. are well aware that winter offers some of the best fodder out there. So, if the air is feeling a bit brisk where you live, watch these videos on human traction control to see what we mean.

Toddler Falls and Can’t Get Up

This child may never forgive her parents when she realizes they set her up to fail and videotaped the whole thing for a laugh. At least she’s adorable. Continue reading…

37 Unexpected Things to Be Thankful For

Celebrating Thanksgiving isn’t just about cooler weather, eating food and getting together with family. It’s also a time to be thankful for everything we have in our lives—even the seemingly small or silly things.

Here are 37 unexpected things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

1. Glasses: Before eyeglasses were invented in the late 1200s, many people suffered from poor eyesight. Now, glasses make driving, reading and seeing a much clearer experience.

2. Telling time: Technology makes it easy to know what time it is. But, when my device isn’t charged or the electricity goes out, I’m thankful for manual watches as well.

3. Hot water: Taking a cold shower will definitely wake you up each morning, but it’s not a fun experience. Hot water (and water heaters) are definitely on my list of things I’m grateful for. How about you?

4. Indoor plumbing: Speaking of showering in cold water, have you ever had to use the bathroom outside? Let’s just say it’s not easy dropping your pants when you’re freezing. Also, the smells are horrible.

5. Silverware: Imagine eating with your hands all the time. Well, that’s how it used to be before flatware was widely accepted in the 1800s. I’m thankful we don’t have to slurp or scoop food with our hands.

6. Calculators: I’m not a math whiz and would feel very overwhelmed without a calculator. Can you imagine if everything was calculated out in long-hand form? That would take forever.

7. Dentists: They may not be our favorite people, but dentists make our teeth bright, clean and strong. Because of them we have good oral hygiene and free toothbrushes each year. (I’m also personally thankful for braces!)

Image via Wikimedia.

Image via Wikimedia.

8. Latte designs: Hearts on lattes? Yes please! Whichever barista started that trend, I will always be thankful for. There’s nothing quite like a bit of love and coffee rolled into one. Continue reading…

Be Thankful This Thanksgiving

Image via Wikipedia.

Image via Wikipedia.

It’s easy to get stressed about the holidays and let it wear you down. Sure, there is a delicious meal to look forward to, but there is also horrendous traffic and dealing with extended lines at supermarkets and shops. But these are just details that people choose to focus on. Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be hectic. It’s a holiday to sit and relax with friends and family, to share a meal and reflect on all you have.

This Thanksgiving, don’t forget the point of the holiday. Enjoy it to the fullest. Keep the following items in mind when preparing for this Thanksgiving:

Breathe

There is nothing as important as breathing. But be mindful of your breathing this year. Take deep, slow breaths, even if the traffic is bumper to bumper. Getting upset is not going to move those cars along any faster. Slow yourself down and just be patient. You’ll get to where you are going, and when you do arrive, continue this slow pace. Take in every moment of the day. Continue reading…