winter

Ask the Readers: How Will You Prep Your Home for Winter?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 08:30:10 +0000

Editor's Note: Congratulations to Mary, sweepermom, and Donna for winning this week's contest!

Winter is coming! Sure, it's still a few months away, but now is actually the best time to get to work around the house so that you stay cozy and secure when the cold weather rolls around.

How will you prep your home for winter? What are some of the common seasonal hazards in your area, and what will you do to prevent any damage or accidents? Will you need to get any special gear or equipment?

Tell us how you'll prep your home for winter and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win:

Follow us on Twitter
Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
Visit our Facebook page for an entry.

Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, September 24th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after September 24th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us how you'll prep your home for winter and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Ways You're Wearing Out Your Furnace Too Soon

Carrie Kirby — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:30:08 +0000

This has been a brutally cold winter in many parts of the country, and furnaces from Maine all the way down to Florida have been working overtime. Having your furnace fail unexpectedly can be traumatic, leading to a night huddled under blankets, frozen and burst pipes, and even deadly house fires caused by using unsafe backup heating. It can also be traumatic for your wallet; HomeAdvisor puts the cost of a new furnace as high as $6,045, and repairs and part replacements can run up to $1,200.

You might think having the furnace go out is out of your control. Sure, it could be bad luck, or the furnace might just be at the end of its life span. Or, you might be hastening its demise by doing one of these things.

1. Skipping the annual checkup

If you didn't call your local HVAC company to check out your furnace at the beginning of the season, do it now (or inspect it yourself; Angie's List has DIY tips). The main things to check are that the furnace is getting power, and that nothing is blocking the fresh air intake and exhaust. Running the furnace with these parts compromised could lead to a larger repair bill down the road, or worse, danger to the people in your home.

2. Using a dirty filter

If your furnace isn't too old, the only thing that actually gets replaced during the annual inspection may be the filter. But that doesn't mean you're taken care of for the whole year. Filters need to be replaced regularly, and the frequency depends on the type of filter, the frequency that you run the furnace, and on your home; houses with pets, cigarette smoke, or a lot of dust need more frequent changes. If you replace your own furnace filter, set a Subscribe & Save order on Amazon to help remind you and save time. (See also: 10 Things You Should Always Order on Amazon)

Experts say you should also periodically make sure the filter is securely in place and dust the area around it. If you run the furnace on a dirty filter, you are compromising your indoor air quality, and you're also making the furnace work harder, potentially shortening its life.

3. Running the furnace more than necessary

The less you run your furnace, the longer it (and its component parts) will last. You may not be able to control the temperature outside, but you can control your thermostat.

One way to reduce how much the furnace runs is to turn down the temperature when you are out of the house or sleeping. My family sets the nighttime temperature to 60 degrees, and since we live in a moderate climate, that means that the furnace usually doesn't kick in at all at night. We have lots of blankets on our beds, and we find that we sleep better in cooler air and without the dryness and sound of the furnace blowing. If you have trouble remembering to turn down the heat before you leave or go to bed, get a programmable thermostat or a learning thermostat like the Nest Learning Thermostat.

Even if you work from home, you may be able to set the thermostat lower during your workday, since you are probably spending most of your time sitting in one place. Space heaters, electric blankets, heating pads, or even a kitty in your lap can help keep your home office or even just your desk chair cozy.

Even when you are using your whole house, you may find you can turn down the thermostat a couple of degrees and compensate by wearing a sweater. The lower the temperature, the less frequently the furnace will need to turn on. (See also: 6 Smart Ways to Help Your Appliances Retain Their Value)

4. Making the furnace work without help

Your dad said it best: "I'm not paying to heat the whole neighborhood!" If you leave the doors and windows open, or if your home doesn't have adequate insulation, the furnace is working harder than it needs to maintain the indoor temperature. Do your furnace — and your wallet — a favor and bundle up your house with additional insulation, higher-rated windows, and anything else you can do to keep the warm air in.

If you're not sure if you are letting out too much of the heat, get a home energy audit. (See also: 34 Smart Ways to Cut Your Electric Bill)

5. Trying to rush the furnace

We've all done it; you come home and the house is cold, so you set it to 80, hoping it wil warm the house up faster. The reality is, if you want your house to be 70 degrees, setting it to 80 won't get you there any faster. What it will do is force the furnace to keep running once it's achieved 70 degrees, leading to an overheated house and unnecessary wear and tear on the heater.

6. Blocking or closing vents

As a frugalista, I have often closed vents in unused rooms to save on heat. Little did I know I may have been wearing out or even damaging my furnace! It turns out, HVAC systems are set up to achieve optimal air pressure to heat the whole house. When you close vents, you raise the pressure in the system, forcing the blower to work harder, and wearing it out faster. The imbalance can even cause the heat exchanger to crack. Not only is this more costly in the long term, it's probably not even saving money in the short term, since closing vents can increase energy use rather than reducing it. If you really want to heat only certain areas of your home, look into getting a zoned system.Placing furniture and rugs over vents can cause the same problems. If you have to place furniture over a vent, use a deflector to route the air away from it.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

19 Free (or Cheap) Ways to Make Winter Hibernation Fun

Mikey Rox — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 09:31:08 +0000

Wild winter weather keeping you cooped up inside? Cabin fever got you down? You're not alone. Send your stuck-in-the-house blues packin' with these cheap or free ways to have fun indoors while Mother Nature does her thing.

1. Challenge your partner to a cook-off

My boyfriend and I love cooking at home together, but we also love junk food, which is why our recent chicken wings and cookie cook-off was such a fun success. With our new air fryer, wings are easier than ever to make (seriously, this appliance has changed our lives!), and the cookies were a sweet juxtaposition to all that salt and spice.

2. Rent this year's Academy Award Best Picture nominees

Every year before the Academy Awards, I attend the Best Picture Showcase hosted by AMC theaters, which screens all the nominated films during two full-day Saturday screenings, or one marathon 24-hour screening that shows the nominees back-to-back.

But you don't even need to step outside in order to catch some of this year's nominated films. Check to see which films are available to rent on-demand and have your own movie marathon from your couch or bed. And don't forget the candy and popcorn! It's a relaxing way to catch up on award-worthy flicks without having to brave the elements.

3. Host a puppy party

My dog Jaxon loves his life at the beach, especially during the warmer months when we go to the outdoor doggy happy hour to hang out and roll around in the sand. He misses that in the wintertime, which makes right now the perfect time to invite some of his furry friends over for a play date. It's a win-win for both of us; he gets to roughhouse with his pals, and I get to day drink with my buddies.

4. Start bullet journaling

My lovely friend Brooke recently introduced me to bullet journaling, in which you jot down quick bullet point notes or tasks, rather than writing out full sentences, and use different symbols as a way to prioritize goals and tasks that need to be completed at different times. It's a concept that any busy person can get down with to make themselves more productive. (See also: This Simple Journal May be the Fix for Your Finances)

5. Snuggle up with a podcast

Pour yourself a cup of tea, wrap up in a cozy throw, and climb into your comfiest chair to spend a couple hours listening to an engaging podcast, like the murder-mystery serials that have been so popular over the past few years. There's a podcast for everyone, and on pretty much any subject you can think of, so your options are endless. (See also: 12 Podcasts Bookworms Will Love)

6. Create a vision board for the future

Fortify your New Year's resolutions with a vision board that helps you "see" your goals on a regular basis while you think about how to achieve them. Use your old magazines and newspapers as source material.

7. Prep your taxes

Tax prep isn't exactly fun, but it has to be done. Motivate yourself with the prospect of that helpful refund. And even if you don't get a refund, it'll give you peace of mind to know what you owe and give you plenty of time to get your finances in order before Tax Day. (See also: 12 Things You Should Know About the New Tax Law)

8. Plan a cheap, adventurous weekend getaway

You don't have to go far to experience something exciting and new. It doesn't have to be expensive, either. Hop online to plan a local getaway filled with low- or no-cost activities like hiking, biking, open-mic nights, bingo, and bar trivia.

9. Put on your cold-weather gear and play in the snow

During a blizzard a couple years ago, I ventured outside in all my snow gear and made my way to the downtown area for brunch and drinks. I ran into friends along the way, helped a few folks get their vehicles out of precarious positions, and got in a pretty good workout from all the treacherous ground I covered. It was honestly one of my best winter memories to date.

10. Try a new soup recipe to warm your soul

What's more satisfying than a hearty homemade bowl of soup on a chilly day? From-scratch soups are kinda my thing lately, but if you're imagining slaving over a pot for hours, think again. The ones I like go from pot to table in about 30 minutes. A quick search on Pinterest will get you started. (See also: 20 Cheap and Easy Soup Recipes)

11. Build a grown-up fort

Tuck the corners of your extra flat sheets from one drawer to another around your room and act like a kid again. Make the covered space cozier with pillows, blankets, your favorite person, snacks, and devices to keep you two entertained.

12. Feed the birds

Gather a few pinecones, slather them with peanut butter, and roll in birdseed before hanging from your porch or trees. Watch all the beautiful birds — like colorful cardinals and jays — stop by for lunch.

13. Clean out your closets and sell what you don't want

Organizing closets and drawers is my idea of fun when there's a payoff involved. Gather your unwanted, in-great-condition clothing and send to an online consignment shop like Swap.com. I've made over $300 on the site just by selling the clothing I no longer want. (See also: Turn Old Clothes Into Money With These 4 Tools and Apps)

14. Treat yourself to a DIY spa day

Exfoliate your body, make a DIY facial, and give yourself a mani/pedi before slipping into a warm, bubbly bath with a glass of wine (or two), and your favorite reading material. (See also: 9 DIY Beauty Masks Made From Food)

15. Turn snow into ice cream

You only need three ingredients besides fresh snow to make snow ice cream: sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. It's worth a try at least. (See also: 9 Ways to Put All That Snow to Good Use)

16. Crank up a few of your neglected appliances

I have several appliances that don't get as much use as they should, like my popcorn and waffle makers, which makes a hibernation day the perfect time for a popcorn and waffle party.

17. Rearrange your furniture

Repositioning your furniture can give your place a whole new look and feel. Switch things up while you have some time on your hands.

18. Use your holiday gift cards to shop online

Shopping is definitely one of my favorite pastimes. And there are lots of great sales this time of year, including post-Christmas and winter clearance, and President's Day (which is one of the best shopping weekends of the year, by the way).

19. Start a scrapbook of your recent adventures

My boyfriend and I just went on an incredible trip to Colorado Springs. So much nature and adventure at every turn (I recommend getting out there if you have the opportunity; you won't regret it), and we have lots of photos of the memories we made, which is the perfect starter material for a scrapbook.

Of course, you don't have to go anywhere to start a scrapbook of your own. You probably have photos and mementos of past vacations and special occasions lying around the house right now that you can use to start your own scrapbooking project. Plus, Valentine's Day is coming up, and this would make a thoughtful gift.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Free Self-Care Rituals to Get You Through a Long Winter

Christa Avampato — Fri, 02 Feb 2018 10:00:06 +0000

We're getting deeper into winter and further into the new year. Was taking better care of yourself one of your New Year's resolutions? While the snow is falling outside and you're wrapped up in a blanket inside, why not get in some self-care for $0? Here are six healthy routines that'll get you through a long winter season. (See also: 14 Smartphone Apps That Make Self-Care a Snap)

1. Embrace the winter harvest

One of the best things about spring and summer is that the farmers markets come back to life with the fresh fruits and vegetables we love and crave. But don't let the winter blues hit your dinner plate. There is much to celebrate about the winter harvest, namely the incredible number of root vegetables that are satisfying, nutritious, and comforting. And they take almost no time to prep. One of my very favorite ways to put more color into my winter cooking is to chop up winter veggies that have been taking up space in my fridge or on the counter — carrots, beets, potatoes, etc. — coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then pop them into a 400-degree oven for 30-45 minutes. You can also roast and mash them, or puree them into a soup. (See also: 20 Cheap and Easy Soup Recipes)

2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Dry winter air saps the moisture from your body. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. And for your skin, feel free to use up those body lotions, body creams, and hydrating hair masks you have to treat yourself to as many at-home spa days as you want. Also, crank up the humidifer to counteract the drying effects of your heater in your home. (See also: 9 DIY Beauty Masks Made From Food)

3. Meditate and reflect

With cold winter weather, take the time to meditate, relax, and reflect in the comfort of your home. Turn on some relaxing music, close your eyes, and take a few moments every day to focus on your breath, check in with your mind and body, and think about the goodness in your life and the goodness you want to manifest. Winter is an excellent time for planning brighter, sunnier days that will be here soon, so take advantage of this down time to nourish yourself without spending a dime. (See also: 6 Meditation Alternatives for People With Busy Minds)

4. Surround yourself with inspiring reads and tunes

The winter is a perfect time to get inspired and share that inspiration with others. You finally have the time to read that book or magazine that's been on your bookshelf forever, and to tell others about them. Whether it's fiction or nonfiction, make sure your reading material during these darker days is uplifting to combat the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Do the same with the music or podcasts in your queue. (See also: 6 Podcasts for Travel Lovers)

5. Seek refuge in art

If you're going to be inside, there are few places better to be than in a museum. Surrounding yourself with beautiful images may even inspire you to create some art of your own, and that act of creation is guaranteed to boost your energy and sense of accomplishment. Going to a museum also gives you a chance to be surrounded by other art enthusiasts, and breaks that sense of isolation that you may feel during these chilly months. Many museums offer free entry, as well as free or discounted events and workshops during the winter months. (See also: How to Visit Museums for Free)

6. Snooze

Do you find that this winter weather makes you feel a little sleepier than you are at other times of the year? Don't fight it. Listen to your body. Give your body and mind the rest it's asking you to take. It's completely natural for us to want more sleep with the fewer hours of daylight. Nature settles in for a long winter's nap during these months, and we should feel free and empowered to follow that lead. (See also: Get Better Sleep With These 5 Great Sleep-Tracking Apps)

Winter can leave us wishing for warmer days. Rest assured, those days will be here soon enough. Winter is the perfect time for restoring ourselves phsyically, mentally, and emotionally so that when spring arrives, we will be ready to meet it with a fresh face and a fresh perspective.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Christa Avampato of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Winter Must-Haves to Keep in Your Car

Mikey Rox — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 10:00:06 +0000

Having your car break down in the winter sucks, but not as much as breaking down and being stranded without the proper supplies. You never know how long you'll be stuck on the side of the road, and without the right tools and survival supplies, you could be in serious danger. Avoid adding insult to injury (hopefully not literally) with these items that you should have in your car when winter weather is a threat to driving safety.

1. Ice scraper

Take it from someone who used to use debit cards to chip away at ice on my windshield, an ice scraper is worth the investment — if only so you don't have to keep calling your bank to request new cards.

2. Jumper cables

You can't go anywhere if your battery is dead, which means you could be stuck for a long time if you're in a secluded area with no cell service or a dead phone. Keep jumper cables in your car (at all times!) to avoid this precarious predicament.

Adds CARiD.com's product training director Richard Reina, "Another, lesser-known item that might be helpful during the winter is a battery blanket. Batteries lose their starting power in the cold and these blankets can help extend the life of your battery and help it start during cold conditions." (See also: The 5 Best Car Battery Warmers)

3. Foldable shovel

You can find relatively inexpensive, foldable snow shovels that can slide under seats and in the trunks of even the smallest cars. These are essential if you encounter an unexpected snowstorm that leaves your car buried.

4. Extra vehicle fluids

Having small amounts of vital vehicle fluids, like de-icing and wiper fluids, will help you avoid the very dangerous situation of running out and therefore not being able to see through your windows properly. Add wintry precipitation into the mix and you have a recipe for disaster.

"Many brands of de-icing fluid suggest using a 50/50 mix of fluid and water," adds Reina. "In the winter, particularly if you live somewhere that gets very cold, you may want to switch to using 100 percent fluid in your vehicle."

5. Snow salt

Keep a small amount of snow salt in the car to help with traction and melting if you encounter a slippery situation. It could mean the difference between working your car free from the snow and ice or not being to get out until someone arrives to help.

6. Flashlight

A lot of people rely on their phones as a flashlight, but you can't put all your eggs in that basket when it comes to car safety, because the phone could die, and you will need to preserve the battery until help arrives. Instead, keep a battery-operated or crank flashlight in your car. It's much more reliable and likely brighter.

7. Blankets

If your car's stuck in the cold winter weather, it may take a while for help to arrive. Blankets, particularly made of wool, will help you stay warm if your car is dead and without heat. I also like to carry those hand-warming packets to put in my gloves and shoes; they help me stay toasty out in the cold, and they'll make you more comfortable if you're stranded. (See also: How to Save on 12 Winter Essentials)

8. First-aid kit

I keep a first-aid kit in my car at all times, because you never know when you'll need a bandage or other quick-fix medical supplies. Exposed cuts and scrapes can get infected quickly, so it's better to be safe than sorry. (See also: The 5 Best First Aid Kits)

9. Tow Rope

A tow rope can get you out of those annoying snow ditches, but you also can help others when they're in the same situations. Sharing is caring.

10. An extra pair of clothes

If you're out in the snow, even for a short amount of time, you're going to get wet. Your shoes and gloves will be affected the most, and your hands and feet are extremities you want to keep the warmest. Keep an extra pair of clothing, including socks and shoes, in your trunk so you can change and warm up promptly. You don't want to run the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.

11. Water

You can live at least three weeks without food, but you'll be in pretty bad shape just a few days after your last sip of water. The upside to winter weather, of course, is that if there's snow on the ground, you can eat it to stay hydrated. Just stay away from the yellow patches.

12. Matches and lighters

I keep lighters and matches in a plastic bag in my car just in case I need to start a fire, whether for warmth or a smoke signal. The adventurer in me kind of looks forward to the opportunity, but not when it's teeth-chattering degrees outside.

13. Whistle

It may be hard for your cries for help to cut through wind and precipitation on a particularly stormy winter day. A whistle will do a much better job of that, and could lead potential rescuers to your location.

14. Gloves

You can't do anything helpful for yourself in the event your car breaks down if your hands are frozen.

Winter-preparedness advocate Paul Grattan, a sergeant with the NYPD's Transit Bureau, suggests carrying appropriate winter gloves or mittens.

"They'll help you during snow removal, towing, minor repairs, or tire changes, and they can help you recover and conserve body heat when you're stranded or returning to your vehicle from the cold. I don't rely on the pair I wear during the winter alone; I always carry an extra pair in the car."

15. Nonperishable snacks

Yeah, you can survive for a while without food, but you don't have to if you pack a few nonperishable snacks in your vehicle.

"Dried foods, such as jerky and fruit, as well as nuts, nut butters, and snack bars are great because they are energy-dense," says Emily Patterson, safety and security expert at ASecureLife.com. "They can keep you going if you're stuck in a storm or with a mechanical issue — or even just on a road trip with a significant distance between stops."

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How These 10 Winter Health Myths May Be Harming You

Paul Michael — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:00:06 +0000

Winter is here. Accompanying the cold, the rain, and the snow are a whole bunch of old wives tales that range from slightly inaccurate to downright dangerous. We generally believe these pieces of advice because they were passed down to us by parents, grandparents, and friends. But the truth is, most of these myths come from a misunderstanding of science, or a time when people just didn't know any better. Here are 10 of the biggest winter health myths — debunked.

1. You don't need to apply sunscreen

Wrong. Oh, so very wrong. When people feel the drop in temperature (which can be dramatic in some states), they think that the cold weather eliminates the need for UV protection. This is just untrue. "The sun's harmful rays are just as strong and damaging despite what your thermometer says — particularly the UVA rays which are responsible for aging skin," said Bruce E. Katz, the director of JUVA Skin and Laser Center in New York.

Now, with the winter months, you may be actively covering up a lot of your skin anyway with thick clothing, gloves, and scarves, but your face will still be exposed to harmful UV rays, and all it takes is one bad sunburn to increase your risk of getting skin cancer. And if you plan on going skiing, remember that the snow reflects up to 80 percent of the sun's rays right back at you, so use a good sunscreen and sunglasses.

2. Flu shots actually give you the flu

No, they don't. That's like saying a tetanus shot will give you tetanus, or a polio vaccine will give you polio. When you are injected with the flu vaccine, your body is introduced to an inactivated form of the flu virus. For all intents and purposes, it's dead (or at least in a deep coma). But your immune system learns to recognize the enemy virus, and produces antibodies to break it down and destroy it. When an active version of the flu virus enters your system, it recognizes it immediately and gets to work fighting it, destroying the antigens before they can do any harm. (See also: The High Cost of Catching a Cold or the Flu)

3. Cold weather makes you sick

For hundreds of years, parents and grandparents have told their little ones to bundle up and avoid going outside because it'll increase the chances of catching a cold, or becoming ill. This is pure fiction. The cold weather cannot make you sick in that way, unless you are trapped outside and develop hypothermia. In fact, when you venture out into the cold, the cells that fight infection in your body actually increase. And what's more, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, cold viruses thrive at a temperature of 91 degrees.

So, why do people think the cold weather brings colds and sickness? Well, there could be several reasons. One theory is that during the winter months, you spend way more time indoors, and heating systems make it easier for viruses to enter your dry nasal passages. What's more, you're spending way more time locked up inside with other people. If one of them gets sick, the chance of that disease spreading is greater than during the summer months. But the cold weather itself is not going to give you a cold or the flu.

4. You lose most of your body heat through your head

Military researchers in 1950s conducted studies that exposed subjects to frigid temperatures. Their heads were uncovered, and their bodies were bundled up nice and warm in cold-resistant clothing. These studies probably led to the U.S. Army Field Guide stating that 40-45 percent of heat being lost was through the head. Well yeah, because it's the only part of the body that was exposed during these experiments.

A 2006 study repeated the test, but did it with test subjects in wet suits in cold water. Sometimes they would fully submerge their heads, other times the head was left out of the water. The result was that heat loss through the head is proportionate to the rest of the body. So, yes, you should cover your head to keep warm. But you are not going to lose half your body heat if you don't wear a hat.

5. Huge amounts of vitamin C will prevent or cure a cold

During the winter months, the aisles in the supermarket are stocked with vitamin C boosters and supplements; some offering over 1,600 percent of the daily amount you are supposed to take. Can this massive intake of vitamin C really prevent a cold from forming? Or, can it kill a cold in its tracks? The answer from researchers and scientists is … probably not.

Vitamin C has been touted for decades as an essential supplement for health and vitality, and there is no doubt that vitamin C does the body good. It can have a kind of antihistamine effect, and a 2005 study from the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that it can reduce the frequency of catching a cold, but realistically, bingeing on vitamin C is not going to do much for you, other than having a placebo effect.

6. Winter weather makes you store fat and gain weight

Our bodies do not go into some kind of winter hibernation mode, stockpiling every ounce of fat to use for the lean times. It seems logical, like a throwback to our days living in caves foraging for food, but in reality, any weight gain comes from our winter habits. We tend to exercise less in winter. We eat more hearty meals and comfort foods, including more sugary snacks and desserts (especially around the holidays). We drink more coffee, hot chocolate, and tea, and some of those $6 beverages from Starbucks are loaded with high-calorie sweet syrups. Your body doesn't turn into some kind of fat-storing machine, though. We're not bears. (See also: 36 Workouts You Can Do in Your Living Room While It's Cold Out)

7. Alcohol will warm you up

My parents were guilty of believing this little myth. They would put a capful of whiskey in their tea or coffee, saying it would help them stay warm before going out in the cold. The effects of the alcohol may be tricking your body into feeling warmer, but it's not really happening. As the MythBusters proved, alcohol actually lowers your body's core temperature. The heat you think you're feeling comes from the alcohol causing your blood vessels to dilate, moving warm blood closer to the skin, and creating that flushed feeling.

8. Feed a cold, starve a fever

This is another myth that comes from a time when people didn't understand the science of body chemistry. The thought was that if you had a cold, food would warm you up. Conversely, if you had a high fever, not eating would cool you down. This is just patently bad medical advice. In both cases, good nutrition gives your body the fuel it needs to fight infections and recover from an illness. When you have a fever, your body is burning energy at a rapid rate, and that needs to be replenished. So, by all means feed your cold; but also feed your fever, or any other illness. Even if you have stomach issues, find a way to take in lost fluids and electrolytes.

9. Allergies disappear in winter

Tell that to all the people sneezing and itching at home right now. While summer allergies like hay fever may be gone, you are still going to suffer from allergies that thrive indoors. That includes mold and dust, fabric fibers, animal dander, mites, and even dead insect particles. And as you're spending more time indoors during the cold months, your body is bombarded with these allergens. One of the best ways to combat indoor allergies is by installing a furnace filter that traps them so they are not recirculated through your home. You may also want to invest in a UV light air purifier, and of course, stock up on antihistamines. (See also: 10 Cheap Ways to Improve the Air Quality in Your Home)

10. Going outside with wet hair makes you sick

This is just another myth that stems from cold weather increasing the chance of illness. Your head will certainly feel colder if you go out into the frigid air when it's wet, but you're not going to catch a cold, or the flu, by stepping outside after you just got out of the shower. Of course, you should probably dry it first because you are not going to feel comfortable with a head full of cold, wet hair. And if it's really cold, a hat is a good idea to stop any body heat from escaping. You will only catch a cold if there is a virus going around.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Ways to Tidy Up Your Finances Before the Holidays

Mikey Rox — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 08:30:12 +0000

Summer is over. This fall, fortify your finances to take the end of the year in stride. These helpful tips will get you back on track (and help you stay on track) budget-wise.

1. Start your holiday shopping now

Instead of making a mad rush for last-minute deals, spread out your gift buying over the course of the next couple months. Watch your local circulars and emails for discounts and promo codes, and strike while the proverbial iron seems hot.

For instance, I just purchased several packs of Calvin Klein undies as a Christmas gift for my boo because I received an email for 25 percent off, plus I had an additional 15 percent off coupon with free shipping. Will there be steeper discounts in the near future? I can't be sure, but I had enough savings stacked up to feel like I made a smart choice, and now I can check one more gift off my list.

2. Max out retirement plan contributions

If you haven't already — and your budget can tolerate it — try to max out your 401(k) and 403(b) contributions at work. The employee contribution limit for 2017 is $18,000, and if you haven't reached that, it's time to come as close as you can. Those over age 50 can contribute an additional $6,000 as a catch-up contribution. If your employer offers matching funds, this should be a top financial priority, lest you fail to claim thousands of dollars in free money.

3. Take advantage of layaway

Layaway has had its up and downs over the years. What was once a common practice during the Great Depression started to fall out of favor by the 1980s thanks to the rising popularity of credit cards. Walmart all but left the service for dead in 2006 when it announced it would stop offering it, but by 2012, many retailers were back on the layaway bandwagon to make buying easier on customers in a tumultuous economy. (See also: Is Layaway Still Worth It?)

Personally, I loved layaway in my early 20s when I was on a shoestring budget. It allowed me to plan ahead and make scheduled payments so everything would be ready to go by Christmas. It's certainly a helpful buying tactic to look into if your finances are tight but you still want to participate in gift giving.

3. Use or lose flexible spending dollars

If you're lucky enough to have a flexible spending account through your employer, your FSA may need to be spent by year's end. Try to use up the balance so you're not losing cash. In doing so, you'll free up funds elsewhere that you don't have to use on medical needs.

"Since 2013, your employer may offer one of two carry-over options," says Ryan McPherson, founder of the financial planning firm Intelligent Worth in Atlanta, Georgia. "One — roll up to $500 of unused funds into the following year or two, offer a two-and-a-half month grace period during which you may use your unspent FSA balance. Check with your employer, because offering one of these options is not a requirement. If you don't have either of these carry-over options and expect to have money left in your FSA, try to move appointments and medical/dental-related purchases (i.e., eye glasses or contacts) into 2017."

If you're unsure where your FSA funds apply, IRS publication 502 offers guidance on what counts as a "qualified medical expense." (See also: 8 Ways to Spend Your Last-Minute Health Care FSA Funds)

4. Make a gift list and check it twice

I use to get in this mindset — especially when I started making a little more money — that everybody needed a gift. That logic is false. Everybody doesn't need a gift for the sake of giving them a gift. Now, I make a list of the usual suspects with whom I exchange — immediate family, boyfriend, a few friends — but even then I give it a second glance to see where I can make cuts. Will I see this aunt or that buddy this year? If the answer is no, decide whether a gift is necessary at all to put some more money back in your pocket. (See also: 9 Gifts That Won't Become Clutter)

5. Revise your winter budget

Everything about winter costs more than other times of the year, and you should prepare by revising your budget to make sure all bases are covered.

"In addition to holiday expenses, as the weather gets colder, heating costs also increase," says Roslyn Lash, an accredited financial counselor. "It's imperative that you also set some money aside for inclement weather expenses. Unfortunately, when ice/snow is the forecast, schools typically close, and this could mean paying someone to baby-sit the kiddos. It could also prevent you from going to work, which means lost revenue." (See also: 5 Big Winter Expenses That Could Freeze Your Budget)

6. Determine what's necessary for the holidays and cut back from there

I love all things holiday — the decorations, the parties, the gifts, the endless array of baked goods — and if I'm not participating in someone else's festivities, I'm hosting my own. Of course that can get expensive, so I take a one-year-on, one-year-off approach to the latter part of that equation. Two years ago I hosted a holiday party in my home, but last year I didn't. I bought more holiday decorations for the house last year, but this year I won't. This practice not only helps me save money, but it also lets me cycle through things that I need to get rid of in a timely manner (like half-full bottles of liquor, for instance) and cut down on overall holiday clutter. (See also: Avoid These 5 Common Holiday Budget Pitfalls)

7. Get into a cash back state of mind

Upfront coupons and savings are great, but there's plenty more to be had on the back end if you know where to look. Apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards provide cash back on purchases made on preset items or at selected retailers. Last month I scored more than $50 cash back (which was on top of other savings I received on the front end) by shopping through Ibotta.

If you're responsible at managing credit, now's also a great time to take advantage of a cash back credit card on your day to day purchases. By using a cash back card on necessities like groceries or gas, you'll earn cash to bolster your budget. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full every month, or else this method isn't worth it. (See also: 11 Ways Your Credit Card Will Save You Money While Holiday Shopping)

8. Rebid your insurance policies

You may be able to shave some money off your bills this fall by reviewing your insurance coverage.

Michael Landsberg, CFP and founder of Landsberg Bennett Private Wealth Management in Punta Gorda, Florida, recommends rebidding your auto and home insurance policies to at least three independent agents (but not the online ones that are all owned by the same companies).

"Often times, this rebidding process puts hundreds if not thousands back in people's pockets right before the holidays," he explains. "It's very easy. Just take your current policy declaration page and send that to an independent agent and let them do the work. The worst that can happen is you find out you've got a good program in place already."

9. Book travel before demand pricing kicks in

If you're traveling this fall or holiday season, book your mode of transportation and accommodations as soon as possible so you're not looking at ultra expensive rates at the last minute. Hotels and rental cars in particular go fast, and they're subject to on-demand pricing, which means your wallet could end up getting walloped if you're not shut out altogether. (See also: Do These 9 Things Now to Make Holiday Air Travel Easier)

10. Investigate a balance transfer

If you're carrying a high balance on a credit card, now is a great time to give yourself a credit card checkup.

"Explore what's out there," advises Han Chang, co-founder of InvestmentZen. "Many lenders are beginning to offer deals now to get a jump on the holidays. Consolidating credit card debt via a balance transfer can be pretty enticing, especially with those 0 percent introductory APR offers, which usually last for six to 12 months. If you can find a good offer, you could potentially pay down a significant amount of debt before November and December."

But nothing is ever free; offers like this often come with a one-time balance transfer fee ranging from 3 percent to 10 percent of the total balance transfer. That can really add up and, if you're not careful, completely negate any savings that 0 percent APR offers. Be sure to make your payments on time. (See also: Is a Balance Transfer Offer a Good Deal?)

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: How to Prep Your Home for Fall and Winter

Amy Lu — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 08:00:09 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on how to prepare your home for fall and winter, money-saving beauty hacks, and a checklist to help you get ready for overnight guests.

14 Fun Ways to Spend a Snow Day Indoors

Emily Guy Birken — Mon, 27 Feb 2017 11:00:10 +0000

I'm what you would describe as the "indoorsy type." Not only is my skin capable of burning within five minutes on sunny days, but I am also a complete and utter wuss about any and all inclement weather, and my teeth tend to chatter when the temperature dips below 60 degrees F.

Suffice it to say, I prefer to spend the long winter months holed up inside, particularly now that I have moved to the wintry tundra that is Wisconsin. Thankfully, staying indoors over the winter doesn't have to be a drag. In fact, all the frugal and fun indoor activities can make winter the best season of all.

Here are 14 fun indoor activities you can enjoy while the wind is howling and the snow is falling outside.

1. Enjoy a Movie Marathon

There's no better time to watch movies at home than on a cold winter day. While you could just pop in your favorite DVD or pick something to stream on Netflix, it's even more fun to create a themed movie marathon. Some movie themes to consider:

Watch every film in a franchise. Maybe you've always wanted to see all of Freddie's Nightmare on Elm Street adventures or watch every single movie in the The Fast and The Furious franchise.
Watch several films by a specific director. Check out early, midcareer, and recent films by a director you love to see how their talents have grown and changed over the years.

Watch a remake back-to-back with the original.

Watch films from a best-of list.

Watch several of the most popular films from the year you were born.

2. Have a Spa Day at Home

A luxurious bath is a staple of indoor winter relaxation, but you can do much more than just stretch out in a hot tub with a book. Why not treat yourself to a mani/pedi, deep condition your hair, exfoliate your skin, and give yourself a facial while you're at it? These are all spa treatments you can easily give yourself at home without breaking the bank. You'll feel refreshed, and you'll be helping to protect your skin and hair from winter dryness.

3. Teach Yourself to Draw

You can probably remember spending hours at a time drawing when you were a child, but it's likely you haven't done so in a while. Pull out some pencils and paper, and you'll soon remember just how fun drawing is. Whether you simply find pictures online that you'd like to copy (which is how art students learn, after all), or you take the time to learn the fundamentals of drawing, your reintroduction to being an artist can be a thrilling way to spend your indoor hours during winter. The key is to let go of any perfectionist tendencies and draw the things that feel the most fun to you, whether that's unicorns, chain saws, or chainsaw-wielding unicorns.

4. Bake Some Treats

Nothing is more homey than the smell of fresh-baked cookies. Even if you have never made anything more complex than slice-and-bake cookies, following the recipe on the back of the bag of chocolate chips or oatmeal canister is an easy way to get started as a from-scratch baker.

If you're willing to try other types of baking, the time you spend indoors on a long winter day is perfect for allowing bread dough or pizza dough to rise. There is something very satisfying about spending the day working on something you can eat and share with others.

5. Put Your Photos in Albums

Whether you have physical photos stored in old shoe boxes, or a computer full of photo files, a winter day spent indoors is the perfect time to organize your pictures into albums. It will be fun to walk down memory lane looking at your old photos, and you'll end the day with an enviable sense of accomplishment.

6. Have a Dance Party

You may be cooped up inside, but that doesn't mean you can't get some exercise in. Move your couch out of the way, turn on your favorite station on Spotify, and get down in your own private dance club. This is also the perfect time to learn how to do all of your favorite dance moves. Find some tutorials on YouTube and hone your moves at home.

Finally, you probably still have that old Dance Dance Revolution video game and mat stashed somewhere. Dust them off and make your dance party an actual game challenge.

7. Break Out a Jigsaw Puzzle or Board Game

Whether you're rocking the snow day solo or with the whole family, you can have a lot of old-fashioned fun by dusting off a puzzle or board game.

8. Read by the Fire

One of my most cherished memories from my first house with my husband was the day I spent rereading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in the living room while snow fell just outside the windows beside me. There is something so cozy about curling up with a book on a cold day, especially if you are lucky enough to have a roaring fireplace next to you (not to mention a cup of hot chocolate).

9. Write a Letter

Receiving an actual letter in the mail is such a rare occurrence these days that we rarely think to sit down and write one ourselves. Taking the time to think of someone special you could write to and putting your thoughts into a handwritten note will make you (and them) feel great.

10. Take a Nap

Napping is one of life's pleasures, and adults don't often get to indulge. The only problem with napping is that it can sometimes leave you feeling groggier than you did beforehand. If you need to get anything done on your winter day inside (even if it's just making dinner later), then plan on following these scientifically approved tips:

Aim for a nap during your natural energy slump in the afternoon. This is usually between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Thirty- to 60 minutes is the length of naps most likely to make you groggy after you wake up. Try to sleep either longer or shorter than 30-60 minutes.
If you don't have more than an hour, plan on a quick 10-20-minute snooze, which will leave you feeling awake and alert afterward.
If you've got plenty of time to nap, a 90-minute siesta lets you go through a full sleep cycle, which will allow you to wake up easily and feel refreshed.

11. Catch Up With Friends and Family

Extroverts who might otherwise be climbing the walls on days they are stuck indoors now have many different ways to stay in touch with their nearest and dearest, no matter how frightful the weather might be. Phone calls, Skype, and FaceTime all give you the opportunity to connect, as do Facebook and Twitter. A day of nowhere-to-be is a great time to reach out to those you may have been thinking about but haven't had the time to connect with.

12. Rearrange Your Furniture

Not only does swapping your couch with that chair and moving your TV into a different corner help your home feel new and improved, it also gives you a chance to clean some neglected spots. It's likely that you'll unearth some stale Cheetos and pet hair tumbleweeds from beneath the couch, which you can easily sweep up when the couch is pulled away.

While cleaning is no one's idea of fun, rearranging furniture can bring new life to a tired room — and you can't help but clean while you go. It's immensely satisfying to throw yourself down on your newly moved chair and enjoy the new layout in your much cleaner living room.

13. Create Music Playlists for Your Every Mood

Putting together mix tapes is getting to be a lost art, but you can recreate the fun by creating playlists of tunes you love on your favorite digital music provider.

14. Channel Your Inner Bartender or Barista

Being stuck at home doesn't mean you have to miss out on happy hour or your favorite elaborate coffee drink. Use your indoor time to learn how to mix your favorite cocktails or brew your favorite coffee treats. You can find recipes and video tutorials online.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Emily Guy Birken of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

14 Things You Can Do Now to Prep for Your Best Summer Ever

Carrie Kirby — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 10:30:39 +0000

In the past week, I have experienced Polar Vortex-level temperatures in the upper Midwest and then back-to-back wind and rainstorms in California. I have not seen the sun in days. All this weather has got me dreaming about what my family will do this summer.

But I can't just dream an epic summer into existence. I need to plan and prepare. Here are some things you — and I — can do in the gloom of winter to lay the groundwork for the best summer ever.

1. Reserve a Campsite

In some states, like California, state park sites book up devilishly early. In fact, a quick search of a couple of favorite beach campgrounds found them already booked for weekends throughout the summer. So if you haven't already booked any summer camp-outs, go to Reserve America and snag them before it's too late.

2. Arrange a Home Exchange

If you're able to take a sabbatical or work from home, consider swapping your house with someone far away for a change of scenery, even without using vacation time. If you have to report to work every day, try a temporary relocation to a different part of your region. For instance, since my husband has a 40-mile commute to his Silicon Valley job, I'm eyeing swaps with families who live within the same distance from his work, but in other directions, on HomeExchange.

3. Send the Kids to Camp

If you're a parent, time away from your job might not be as relaxing as time away from your kids. I should know, I have three little buggers of my own. Fortunately, there exists a wonderful institution to give you a vacation from parenting: sleep-away camp. Camp catalogs go out soon. Girl Scout, Boy Scout, church, and YMCA camps offer some of the best values. (See also: How to Save Money on Child Care This Summer)

4. Book a National Park Trip

The big-name parks book up fast. In fact, a random check of Yellowstone lodges for June showed that rooms are already getting hard to find. If you're planning to stay in — or even near — a National Park this summer, get going.

5. Buy Baseball Tickets

It's not as if it will be impossible to get seats in most ballparks after Opening Day, but still, wouldn't it be nice to see a big circle on the calendar around a July day and know you'll be spending it at the ballgame? My family received tickets to a Cubs game as a Christmas gift, and I'm already looking forward to that August event.

6. Figure Out Where You'll Be for the Solar Eclipse

In case you haven't heard, there will be a total solar eclipse August 21, but the full monty will only be viewable from certain parts of the United States. You'd better believe that campgrounds and other lodging in the path, which will follow an arc from Oregon to South Carolina, are selling out fast. August 21 is a Monday, so if you can do a long weekend and get there, it should be a sight to see as the moon takes a big bite out of the sun and then blots it out entirely, bringing out the stars in the middle of the day. We haven't had a total eclipse cross the whole country like this for about 100 years.

7. Plan Your Garden

Your dirt may be buried under snow, but that doesn't mean you can't sketch out new garden beds (there's even gardening software to help you do that now), ordering seeds, and starting seedlings indoors.

8. Research Major Summer Purchases on Your Wishlist

Is this the year you buy a boat or a camper, or even an inflatable dinghy? Most of the boat and RV shows are in winter and spring. Even if you're just going to dream, walking through a boat show can help pass chilly days with dreams of fishing and snorkeling.

9. Get Medical Procedures Out of the Way

This may not be as fun as booking vacations or boat shopping, but think about it: If you need a knee replacement, do you want to be laid of up for six weeks in summer or now? Might as well get those bunions removed while you're stuck inside anyway.

10. Learn to Scuba Dive

If you live near water, you might love exploring the underside of it this summer. Did you know you can start learning even if it's too cold to jump in right now? First of all, scuba certification involves a classroom portion, which you can take online. Then, there are classes you can take in heated pools to get you ready for dive season.

11. Buy Tickets to a Summer Theater Festival

For me, one of the highlights of summer is watching Shakespeare out in nature, whether it's at Wisconsin's American Players Theatre or the Utah Shakespeare Festival. Tickets are already available for some of these festivals, and even if they're not, the schedule is probably posted, so you can decide which shows you'll see. And if you're unable to travel to see these, check for local shows in your area.

12. Book Amtrak Tickets

Even more than flights, Amtrak trains can fill up early, especially those sleeper cars that make the journey more pleasant. Buy it now or you may find yourself sleeping in a seat.

13. Buy Theme Park Season Passes

Early bird discounts can net you some real savings on these. For instance, Six Flags Great America in Chicago is selling season passes for $75-$93 right now; full price runs $189-$250.

14. Work Out

I'm not talking about a "get your beach body" weight-loss program, because all bodies are welcome at the beach. I'm talking about cardio and strength training to build your endurance for those summer hikes and swims you're going to do. You won't regret it.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Mental Tricks That Will Help You Hate Winter Less

Kentin Waits — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 10:00:10 +0000

I'm no stranger to winter. Raised in Iowa, I'm all too familiar with the extreme whiteouts and wind chills that start in November and don't reliably end until early April. It's the kind of weather that makes my nose hair freeze and my face hurt. But over the years, those of us from colder climates develop creative ways to thrive in winter's grip. If you find yourself tiring of the season, take heart and take heed! Here are seven mental tricks that might help you learn to love winter — or at least hate it a little less.

1. Understand Winter's Benefits

The purpose of cold winter months isn't simply to drive us all crazy with cabin fever. The long deep-freeze kills disease-carrying insects, interrupts the migration of invasive species, and slows the growth of nuisance vegetation. Ice buildup along lake shorelines even helps reduce soil erosion and protect wetland areas. At those moments when you feel frustrated by the frigid temps, remember — there's a beneficial cycle at play in nature.

2. Embrace All Things Domestic

Tired of winter interrupting your normal routine with freezing temps, snow, and icy roads? Maybe it's time to dominate domestically. Make a list of projects you can tackle and easily complete each week. My own list includes pricing items for a summertime yard sale, shredding stacks of personal paperwork, scanning and saving old family photos, and finally learning how to bake something — anything — from scratch. After two or three months of projects, I'll be more organized, more capable in the kitchen, and a few steps closer to spring.

3. Hang Out With Winter Enthusiasts

Misery loves company. If you want to beat your cold weather woes, don't look for the like-minded. Instead, seek out those folks who flourish in winter. With a little coaxing, you may find yourself enjoying the season with friends who love snowboarding, ice-fishing, or whiling away entire afternoons playing giant Jenga at a local pub.

4. Get Oh So Cozy

Roughly translated from Norwegian, "koselig" means "coziness." Instead of fighting winter, do what the Norwegians do: Shift your thinking and give in to the spirit of the season. On those cold winter nights, wrap yourself in a down comforter, enjoy a steaming mug of cider, and binge-watch a TV series or lose yourself a good book. (See also: 50 Fun Things to Do When You're Stuck Inside During Winter)

5. Indulge in Little Luxuries

Acquiring more stuff isn't the path to happiness, but a few strategic luxuries can help take the frost off winter. Treat yourself to some scented candles, good wine, high-end chocolate, or a monthly massage. While you're at it, spring for a temporary subscription to a video on-demand service like Netflix or Hulu to pass the time. (See also: 8 Little Luxuries That Go a Long Way)

6. Let the Light Shine In

Though it's a commodity during winter months, natural light is an essential mood lifter. Keep curtains and blinds open during the day, repaint dark or drab walls, clear clutter away from windows, and flood your space with as much natural light as possible.

7. Plan a Spring Fling

Having something to look forward to can make cold winter months seem like a mere blip on the calendar. Schedule a warm weather trip and countdown your departure date with an app like Days Until or Countdown+. Then, spend those snowy afternoons planning your itinerary, reserving a hotel, refining your vacation wardrobe, and finding new ways to squirrel away extra fun money. Spring will be here before you know it.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Ways to Put All That Snow to Good Use

Mikey Rox — Wed, 01 Feb 2017 11:00:09 +0000

Thanks to increasingly wacky weather patterns, most of the United States sees at least a dusting of snow once a year and, yes, that includes typically powder-free areas like Florida, Southern California, Texas, and Hawaii. In fact, the Big Island of Hawaii recently welcomed a winter storm that dropped about six inches of the white stuff on its higher elevations. Building an igloo in paradise — can you imagine?!

Besides building snowmen and having snow fights, here are several ideas to take advantage of your abundance of snow. Some may save you money, while others are just downright delicious.

1. Make Sweet Snow Treats

If you've never made snow ice cream (and I haven't; this is a tip from a friend), consider this very essential criteria: The snow must be fresh, clean, and untouched. I mean, you're going to eat it, so you'll want to steer clear of the yellow spots. Once you've identified a pristine area of freshly fallen snow, scoop up about eight cups or so, which you'll then combine with a quick-and-easy milk/sugar/salt/vanilla mixture. The author of the food blog Gimme Some Oven has prepared this recipe for snow ice cream that calls for sprinkles on top — because why not? Definitely gonna give this a try myself.

If you're a little more ambitious, check out this recipe for maple syrup snow candy, which apparently is also quite popular.

2. Store Extra Food and Drinks

I don't know about you, but I have more food than I can fit into my fridge over the holidays and into the winter. It's mostly space-taking containers full of soup and other hearty dishes. I also store liquor outside during the winter — the hard stuff isn't in danger of freezing. To keep the animals away from my stash, I put everything in a cooler and pack the snow around it for safe keeping for as long as it lasts.

3. Adult Snow Cones

Maybe it's the perpetual college kid in me, but when the news folk start yammering on about a major snowstorm that threatens to close down the schools, government, and roads for at least a day, I immediately start making plans for my icy bar crawl. That's just what you do as an adult on a snow day. I've even braved blizzard conditions to get to bars about half a mile away from my house on foot; that's how invested I am in this annual tradition. Just make sure you dress accordingly, of course.

If you're not the adventurous type, you can still enjoy a snow-day libation celebration in front of your own fireplace with homemade adult snow cones. Rob Clement over at Fansided recorded a how-to video on making grown-up snow cones, which feature thawed berries, a couple flavor extracts, and a shot of bourbon.

4. Scrub Your Winter Outerwear

If you have down- or poly-filled outerwear, particularly the nylon and polyester variety, it's best to keep them out of the washer and dryer. They'll either get all mangled and lumpy from the wash cycle, or damaged in the dry cycle, and then you'll be SOL for the next storm. Instead, take them outside for a "snow wash." Grab a sponge or firm-bristled brush and use the clean snow to rid the items of winter schmutz, like dirt and salt stains. You can likely do this without a cleanser, but a dab of dish soap will work so long as you properly rinse the item once you're done and hang it to dry.

5. Fortify Your Garden

I can't keep a houseplant alive — I honestly don't know what I'm doing wrong — but my friend and travel blogger/Huffington Post contributor Kevin Richberg knows a thing or two about botany.

"Garden enthusiasts will shovel [snow] on top of all the delicate summer bulbs they're trying to overwinter in the ground because snow is the ultimate insulation against delicate plant tissue freezing in the soil."

I don't suppose that'll work for my indoor dracaena?

6. Wash Your Hands and Face and Hair

I asked a bunch of my friends how they would use snow to save money, and one of them said that he'd fill up his toilet with it. I had so many other questions after that — like why, for instance (he said to converse water) — but I eventually digressed and promised myself that I'd draw the frugal line at dragging a bucket full of snow up my steps just so I could do my business in it.

Other people, however, have found more practical bathroom uses for snow — like Rosemary Clooney, who likes to wash her hands and face and hair in it… and then sing about it.

7. Replace Water in Your Hot Tub

If your hot tub or Jacuzzi is low on water in the winter because of all the half-naked people you're piling in it, take advantage of the snow by shoveling enough in to top it off so you don't have to turn on your outdoor faucet and use the hose. You should be turning this off in the winter to prevent freezing and pipe bursting, anyway.

8. Store Melted Snow for Future Yard, House, and Car Maintenance

If you have any large containers, perhaps coolers or barrels or really anything with multi-gallon capacity that can be sealed, you have the perfect vessel to store melted snow for future use watering your plants, pressure-washing your house, or washing your car. This tactic could come in handy if your area faces a particularly dry spring and summer, or drought conditions that force water restrictions.

9. Clean a Wool Rug

You'll save at least a hundred bucks on cleaning your large wool rug by placing it outside for at least 30 minutes in temps well below freezing before scrubbing it with snow. Apartment Therapy provides further details on how to clean a wool rug with snow. Just remember to bundle up.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Frugal Destinations for a Dreamy Winter Getaway

Holly Johnson — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 12:30:07 +0000

Winter is chock-full of fun activities and pastimes to enjoy with the whole family — including sledding, snowball fights, and watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve. But if you tire of the cold weather easily, the winter wonderland outside might get old quickly, especially after the holidays are over.

To break up the chilly monotony, a lot of families plan a winter getaway somewhere warm. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Thanksgiving and Christmas travel weeks are the busiest of the year.

If you're able to book your winter travel during the holidays, doing so should save you money. If you have kids in school, however, it might be hard to escape the higher price tag. Either way, it helps to know which warm weather destinations offer the best deals. Before you book your winter getaway, check out these eight cheap spots around the world.

1. Mexico

Mexico offers an array of activities for beach-lovers and adventure-seekers alike. Swim in a cenote, go zip-lining, or simply relax on a beautiful palm-lined beach.

Cities like Mazatlan offer beauty and comfort at crazy-low prices all winter long. Three-star hotels start at just $80 per night — even over the Christmas holiday. To get a beachfront room, however, rates start at around $98 per night. Since Mazatlan has its own airport, flights tend to be affordable, too. This winter, plan to pay around $400 for round-trip airfare to Mazatlan from most major cities.

2. Cuba

Now that travel to Cuba is more feasible for American tourists, a world of hotel and travel options have become available. Plenty of airlines including: Spirit, JetBlue, United, and Delta have flights to Cuba running or in the works with round-trip fares as low as $400 over winter break.

Cuban hotels run the gamut right along with the prices they charge. Count on paying around $50 per night, per person, for a lower end property, and more for something beachfront or all-inclusive.

3. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known for its beautiful beaches, fun and upbeat culture, and of course, low hotel rates. Even during the winter season, you can score a cheap deal on a hotel or all-inclusive resort. According to Expedia.com, you'll pay an average of $135 for a three-star hotel over winter break.

New flight options have made getting there a lot easier, and cheaper. Lots of major airlines fly to the Dominican Republic, including American Airlines, United, Delta, and even Southwest.

4. Florida

Don't overlook Florida as a cheap travel destination this winter. Outside of the big resort towns, there's a ton of value to be had. If you can drive there, you'll save a bundle. But even if you have to fly, you can find a low fare. With Southwest Airlines, for example, flights into Fort Lauderdale or Orlando from select U.S. cities cost as little as $240 over winter break.

Three-star hotels in towns like Hollywood, Florida start as low as $200, according to Expedia. You can also book a cheap, last minute rental through VRBO or Airbnb if you want to save money by preparing your own meals.

5. Arizona

There may not be any beaches in Arizona, but it is warm. Fortunately, Arizona is fairly cheap, too, even over winter break. If you can drive there, you can obviously save a lot of money.

A three-star hotel in Tempe, Scottsdale, Phoenix, or Mesa starts at around $122 per night. That leaves plenty of cash leftover to enjoy the great outdoors and the many natural marvels nearby.

6. Jamaica

Flights into Montego Bay cost as little as $400 during some parts of winter break, depending on where you're coming from. It helps to be flexible, both in terms of your travel dates and your departure city.

Meanwhile, three-star hotels in Montego Bay start at just $162 per night during winter break, while all-inclusive resorts (including food, drinks, and entertainment) offer rates as low as $199 per night. A beachfront stay at a property like Doctor's Cave Beach hotel starts at just $111 per night, and that's over the New Year's holiday!

7. Southern California

Flights into most southern California airports like LAX and SAN start at just $360 if you're flexible with travel dates over the winter holiday. This is partly because you're rushing against the crowd. Where most people are heading south or to the Caribbean, your southern Cali trip takes you in the opposite direction.

Hotel prices vary greatly depending on where you stay. If you need a beachfront spot, you can expect to pay more. Obviously, you'll pay less if you're slightly flexible.

8. Egypt

Feel like turning winter break into an adventure? Egypt is offering crazy-low prices on everything this holiday season. In the resort region of Sharm el-Sheikh, for example, three-star resorts start at around $33 USD per night and the average five-star hotel costs around $157. You can even stay at an all-inclusive hotel like the Club Reef for as little as $71 per night.

Flights into nearby Cairo also start as low as $780 from major U.S. cities like Boston and Chicago over the busy winter travel season.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Great Jobs for Snowbirds

Mikey Rox — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 10:00:10 +0000

Planning to hit the skies this winter and fly south? That's probably not a bad idea, considering that the trusty Farmer's Almanac says Old Man Winter plans to unleash an exceptionally cold and wet one. But between posting photos of palm trees and swimming pools to Facebook so your friends can curse the day you were born, you may need to pick up some work to pay the tab for such luxury. What kind of seasonal gigs can you get this winter? Take a look and start setting yourself up for success today.

1. Telecommute From Your Existing Job

Not everybody has the good fortune of being able to work from home, but if you work for a company that allows telecommuting, or you're an entrepreneur with mobility, take advantage of it. Earlier this year, I left my home in New York to spend a month dodging the cold in sunny, warm Los Angeles. It was just what I needed to recharge my winter-worn body and soul, and I returned home mid-spring excited and reinvigorated.

2. Pick Up Odd Jobs Around Town

There are plenty of ways to pick up odd jobs around the town you're visiting, especially if you're particularly skilled in a certain discipline. On Craigslist, for instance, you can find a decent amount of handyman jobs and other around-the-house work. In college, I used to help elderly folks around their homes, like weeding and planting in their gardens, and it was quite rewarding. If you're not as good with your hands, however, try picking up gigs as a freelancer. There are more than 70 sites from which to choose, ranging from generic, all-job types to more focused disciplines including: writing, photography, and design.

3. Become a Personal Taxi Service

I started driving for Uber and Lyft a couple months ago — signing into the apps occasionally when I have the extra time — and I've made well over $1,000 already. If you've brought your personal vehicle with you to your winter escape, consider this option. It's been a great way for me to make extra cash, but I also enjoy interacting with my riders and learning a little about their lives during the ride.

Pro tip: Offer candy — I use Starbursts and Dum-Dums — and small bottles of water to your riders for free. Everyone who gets in my car is instantly happier when they see the candy, and as a result, they leave an excellent review and a tip (the latter of which isn't required on these services) more often than not.

4. Offer to Watch People's Pets

Last winter, I signed up for DogVacay (Rover.com is another pet-sitting site that I can recommend) to make extra cash while I was working from home around the holidays or when it was too cold for me to go to my office. I've met so many awesome pets and pet parents using these services, I've put more than $500 in my bank account, and there's not a whole lot to it. All you have to do is make sure the pet is comfortable while their parent is away with lots of love and snuggles in between food and bathroom breaks. If you're snowbirding in a rental, you should check with the owners before you sign up, but for animal lovers, this is a great gig.

5. Apply for Seasonal Retail Work

Every mall in America needs extra hands on deck during the holiday season — and if you're a pro at customer service, pop into stores at which you think you'll enjoy working and inquire about opportunities. Don't limit yourself to the mall though. Lots of local businesses and stand-alone chains need additional help through the holidays and sometimes beyond, and you may be able to land a gig super close to home by broadening your search.

6. Wait Tables at a Local Restaurant

Like retailers, restaurants also often require additional staffing during the holidays to accommodate heavier traffic. You may not get prime hours, or even a spot on the floor if you don't have previous restaurant experience, but there may be a place for you behind the scenes or even as a host.

7. Investigate Substitute Teaching

Have a certified teaching certificate? Visit your local school district to identify opportunities that will put you in a classroom for a daily wage. Since requirements for substitute teachers vary from state-to-state, check out this guide on How to Become a Substitute Teacher.

8. Keep the Peace as a Part-Time Security Guard

Some states that have temperate weather year-round also play host to Major League Baseball training camps, and there are job opportunities at these small stadiums — like manning the concession stand or providing security. As a baseball fan, I couldn't pass up the chance for seasonal work in the southern states. You can also apply to become a security guard for apartment complexes, malls, or other public areas.

9. Look Into Opportunities at a Local Resort

Chances are, there are several resorts wherever you're heading for the winter, and just about the same time you plan to arrive is when they're in need for additional staff. There are lots of different types of jobs available at these resorts, including: front desk, night auditing, maid services, kitchen work, and more. If you happen to be close to an amusement park, you might even have a chance to walk around greeting guests at a costumed character, making you the hero of all your friends' children and grandchildren back home.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Windshield De-Icers

Andrea Cannon — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:00:07 +0000

In the middle of winter, it can be impossible to prevent the dreaded layer of ice or snow from building up on your car windows. Fortunately, a good windshield de-icer can clear away the ice and frost in no time, and even prevent it from returning.

There are a number of homemade remedies, including simple rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and water, which can reduce ice on your windshield. However, when you need more than a DIY remedy, try a professional windshield de-icer. (See also: “3 Cheap and Easy Formulas for Homemade Windshield De-Icer”)

What Is a Windshield De-Icer?

A windshield de-icer is an ice-melting liquid that can be applied to a frozen windshield. It will help melt the ice, frost, and snow, and can reduce your scraping time. It can also help reduce dangerous re-freeze, which in turn, will help increase visibility and driver safety.

Driving with a frosty window is dangerous, so you won’t want to be caught without this in harsh winter months. Most reviewers trend to agree that you need to use a lot of de-icer to get the results you’re looking for, so a bottle of windshield de-icer may only last you through two or three big snow days, depending on where you live.

Top 5 Windshield De-Icers

Prestone Windshield De-Icer

The Prestone Windshield De-Icer is made from a concentrated ice-melting formula that can quickly melt ice, snow, and frost, and prevent it from returning right away. The high-performance formula is effective at removing snow from your car doors, windows, wipers, and locks. You can feel good about using this because it won’t ruin your vehicle’s coating. This has a built-in ice scraper, which makes it a great value. Most auto stores recommend Prestone as the best windshield de-icer available. A number of independent online review sites also selected this as the best de-icer on the market.

This is very easy to use. Simply start your car and turn on the defroster. Then, use the easy-to-use trigger bottle to dispense the strong, wind-resistant spray on the icy area and wait 15 seconds. Then, you can use the windshield wipers or the scraper to clear off any ice. Reviewers agree that this solution is very effective and you likely won’t need a scraper, but in the event that you do, the attached scraper should work perfectly.

Currently $8.88 on Amazon

Rain-X De-Icer With Scraper

The Rain-X De-Icer can melt ice, snow, and frost from the windshield and wipers. The spray also includes a durable scraper on the bottom to help you break through any stubborn snow with ease. It will make your windshield ice, sleet, and snow repellent, so you won’t need to worry about re-icing. Rain-X also makes a popular rain repellent, so they know what it takes to keep your windshield clear and streak-free. Independent online review sites selected this as one of the best de-icers on the market.

It is so effective that you may not even need to scrape the windshield. To use it, you simply start the car, turn on the defroster, and spray the solution directly on the glass. Then, the windshield will begin de-icing itself, or you can use the scraper to remove the ice.

Currently $18.99 on Amazon

Splash Red Hot De-icer Windshield Trigger Spray

The Splash Red Hot De-icer Windshield Trigger Spray works by melting frost and ice on the windshield, wiper blades, locks, mirrors, and doors. It is very effective and some drivers won’t even need to scrape the windshield after using this easy-to-use trigger spray. This three pack of de-icers is a great deal, but if you only need one bottle right now, try the single Windshield Deicer.

Currently $23.41 on Amazon

einszett Eistau De-Icer Spray

The einszett Eistau De-Icer Spray can remove snow, ice, and frost from your vehicle. It is effective at defrosting mirrors, the windshield, wipers, and plastic headlight lenses. It can also help prevent re-icing, so you won’t need to deal with fog or glare from the cold. You can feel good about using this because it doesn't contain ammonia or toxic methanol and won’t harm your car’s paint, glass, or trim. It is also silicone-free, glare-free, and smear-free. Reviewers agree that this is so effective, you likely won’t need to use an ice scraper at all. Simply spray it on and watch the glass de-ice itself.

Currently $15.45 on Amazon

CRC Ice-Off Windshield Spray De-Icer

The CRC Ice-Off Windshield Spray De-Icer melts snow, ice, and frost on contact, so you won’t have to wait long before you can drive off. Along with defrosting your windshield, it can also thaw windows, frozen locks, and stuck doors. It is also very effective when you find a layer of film on your window from the cold. It will break through the fog and leave you with streak-free glass. This is extremely effective, can be used in sub-zero temperatures, and won’t harm your car finish. Many reviewers found that this is so effective that they don’t even need to use a scraper any longer. It has outstanding online reviews and is Amazon’s #1 bestseller in winter products.

Currently $5.93 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best windshield de-icers. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: