Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2022-11-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Millions of college students are making a budget for school for the new year and taking charge of their finances for the first time. Managing money and homework can be stressful, especially with trying to make your money go further with recent inflation causing price hikes that may hit cash-strapped college students especially hard.

One of the best ways to get the most for your money is to make a plan from the very start. Here are some ways to make sure to stay on track financially this year:

Choose the best way to pay for things

When spending money, most people tend to think about how best to maximize their rewards. Rewards and cashback are great, but how you pay for things influences how much money you spend. That is especially true for college students who often manage their finances for the first time. Students can benefit from using a cash or debit card to get comfortable with spending, including keeping a budget and tracking expenditures, before moving on to a credit card.

This doesn’t mean giving up on earning rewards — many banks offer cashback for spending at certain retailers or offer rewards for using their products consistently. It’s critical to look at what each bank or debit card offers, as well as what types of fees they charge.

Make a budget & identify savings goals

Many people automatically assume budgeting means you cannot have any fun or enjoy things, but having a budget can give you the freedom to enjoy things that matter as long as you keep the other things in check. One of the essential parts of an effective budget is figuring out what expenses to plan around. For college students, the most common expenses include:

• Apartment or dorm rent
• Utilities (such as phone, electricity, water and internet bills)
• Books
• Food/bars
• Gas
• Car maintenance
• Clothes
• Greek life or other social organization dues
• Season athletic tickets

Every budget is unique to an individual, and so each person should make sure they are setting aside what they need for essentials but then prioritizing what is most important to them.

Outside of a core budget, the other essential to consider is savings goals. Having an emergency fund is vital for everyone, but in college, students need to plan for things like Spring Break or significant Greek life events or outings. Most people only have two buckets of money, their spending in their checking account and all the money set aside for various goals in their savings. But most need more than that to help save money for multiple purposes. For instance, SoFi Checking & Savings¹ offers Vaults, allowing students to set cash into specific goal-related funds within their savings account so they can easily monitor their savings toward each particular goal.

Use technology to help monitor spending & stay on track

Managing money can feel overwhelming, but college can be extra stressful with managing classes and navigating money management for the first time. But every college student has a phone in their hand more often than not, so it’s an excellent opportunity to deputize said phone to make monitoring spending and budgeting easier.

For instance, SoFi Relay², a financial insights tool, shows individual purchases made across bank accounts and credit cards linked to the platform, as well as spending trends throughout the month, categories people spend the most in, and how it compares to previous months and how someone is saving each month. This takes the burden of tracking spending and purchases manually off of students and makes it simple to keep an eye on spending habits and adjust budgets as needed.

Identifying the best financial partner

For students looking for a simple, all-in-one way to spend and budget, SoFi Checking & Savings provides students flexibility, low costs and access to financial education and resources. When you bank with SoFi, members pay zero account fees and receive automatic savings features, as well as vital resources on financial literacy and access to credentialed financial planners for bespoke advice on managing money.

Students can also earn up to 15% cash back at local establishments³ and access fee-free ATMs via the Allpoint network⁴, which offers over 55,000 ATMs across the country, allowing students to avoid fees, whether at home or on-campus. SoFi offers all these perks to both students and post-grads.

For more information, you can visit: https://www.sofi.com/banking/.

Disclosures

1. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A.
2. SoFi’s Relay tool offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc’s service. The credit score provided to you is a VantageScore^® based on TransUnion^® (the “Processing Agent”) data.
3. Earn up to 15% cash back on local retailers. List of retailers may vary. See our terms and conditions.
4. We’ve partnered with Allpoint to provide you with ATM access at any of the 55,000+ ATMs within the Allpoint network. You will not be charged a fee when using an in-network ATM, however, third-party fees incurred when using out-of-network ATMs are not subject to reimbursement. SoFi’s ATM policies are subject to change at our discretion at any time.

2022-11-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re dressing your baby for their very first holiday or asking your oldest to pick out their own outfit, for parents, half the stress of the holiday season is getting kids dressed and out the door. This year, Carter’s CMO Hilary Duff is sharing her favorite holiday picks to help make festive dressing less stressful.

Kids generally have a lot of activities, and it doubles during the holiday season, from school plays to parties and all the family gatherings, holiday photos, and outdoor activities in-between, there is a lot to shop for and Carter’s, the most trusted brand in baby and children’s apparel, has families covered no matter what you are shopping for this season.

Hilary Duff has curated an assortment of Carter’s holiday essentials as well as a few tips and tricks to make this holiday season the best part of the year.

Stay Warm, Keep Cool

We all know that when kids are cold, no one is happy — preparation is always key. These adorable winter pieces are perfect for bundling up as the wind chill drops. These jackets and vests make for the perfect layering piece when you are in a pinch. Just throw it over any outfit to guarantee your kids will be dressed for any last-minute functions of the day (that you may or may not have forgotten to put on the calendar!).

PJs All Day, Why Not?

From the Merry Fair Isle to the White Christmas pattern, these must-have Carter’s matching family pajamas are a holiday season staple no matter the occasion. Whether you are gathered in front of a fire, watching holiday movies, or just spending time together, once your family has these PJs on, there is no taking them off. Complete the look with cozy holiday socks and you have a picture-perfect family photo at your fingertips.

From casual playdates with friends to formal dinners with family, you want your kids dressed to impress while still staying comfortable. Choosing a few formal tops to match with leggings or denim will make putting together outfits a breeze!

Easy Festive Fashion

If you’re looking for one outfit to dress your kids this holiday season, go with a Carter’s two-piece set. CMO Hilary Duff loves these outfits as they are the perfect choice for families that are always on the go. Saving one step in the morning gives you and your kids more time to catch a few extra ZZZs before taking on the winter cold. Why not just wake up with an outfit you know will look great every time?

2022-11-10T02:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are coming up, which means your life will be full of family, friends and many delicious meals. To keep everything running along merrily this year, why not take steps to make hosting less stressful, and a lot more joyful?

Here are 5 key tips and a few must-have kitchen essentials that can make your holiday hosting easier than ever.

1. Stock your pantry before the holidays

Even before finalizing your holiday menus, ensuring that your pantry staples are well stocked will prevent last-minute panic runs to the store for things like flour, salt, cooking oil and chocolate, lots of chocolate. Take inventory of your cupboards to see if any of those kitchen necessities are running low — then you’ll be ready for all kinds of tasty recipes.

2. Don’t underestimate your prep time

If your recipe says a dish takes 45 minutes to prepare and cook, build in an extra 30 minutes when scheduling your meal prep time before guests arrive. Even better, prep or cook some items (or components) ahead, so they’re pre-chopped or ready to take from the fridge and reheat. Everything always takes longer than expected, so you’ll relieve a lot of stress if you know you’ll have time to do it well. Then you can relax, put on your favorite music, gather your ingredients and get ready to make holiday magic.

3. Let many hands make light work

Holiday cooking and baking memories with friends and relatives may be some of the best memories from your own childhood, so go ahead and let your family and friends help out with some of your meal preparation, cooking and table setting. Even little hands can do a few simple tasks to help, and the more the merrier!

4. Use the right tools for the job

Cooking and baking are so much easier (and much more fun) if you have the best tools possible for the job. Here are some kitchen must-haves that can make your holiday hosting seem effortless:

GoodCook Quick-Baste Roasting Pan — You’ll be ready for any major holiday gathering with this 13×17 pan that comes with a locking rack. It’s large enough for all your favorite chicken, beef and pork roasts, and it can even handle a 25-pound turkey. Constructed with a unique v-shape that allows for the collecting of juices and liquids, you can safely baste in half the time and leave the oven door open for a shorter time to keep cooking temperature consistent. Made from heavy-duty steel, it has a durable nonstick coating that is safe for metal utensils.

GoodCook Meat Tenderizer — Worried about serving tough meat? Worry no more. This double-sided mallet features a textured side for breaking up fibers in tougher meat and a smooth side for flattening cutlets. It’s also the ultimate tool to ensure that your seasonings and toppings are perfectly pulverized, as it’s suitable for crushing nuts, smashing garlic, or mincing ginger spices that will add a delicious dash of flavor to your recipes. Plus, with the single-piece, cast aluminum construction, it is ideal for sanitary use and cleanup.

GoodCook Digital Thermometer — Make sure all your food is properly cooked with an accurate thermometer that has an easy-to-read digital display so you can read the temperature quickly. Its stainless probe has a protective sleeve with a rotating temperature guide for quick reference. As simple to clean as it is to use, when your work is done, you can easily sanitize, fold and store away until next time.

GoodCook AirPerfect Nonstick Baking Sheet — Be ready for cookie swaps or spontaneous baking moments with these insulated cookie sheets that provide even baking and moister cookies. Available in two sizes, you’ll have your pick of perfecting a small or larger batch. Even better, the sheets are designed to keep cookies from burning on the bottom, delivering golden brown results every time — and with the slide-off surface and secure indented handle, cookies are easier than ever to remove. As an added bonus, the nonstick surface makes it a snap to clean.

5. Clean as you go

If you can do some of the cleanup during the preparation and cooking process, you’ll not only maximize your prep surface, but you’ll also make it a lot easier to finish the cleaning after the festivities have wound down for the day.

There’s nothing more satisfying than collaborating with loved ones to prepare a celebration, so take time to have fun and savor the moment. Taste your own food, spend time with the people you care about and enjoy the wonderful holiday feeling you’ve helped to create.

Between the best tools, help from family and friends, plus your upbeat, can-do attitude, your holidays this year can be more fun, festive and flavorful than ever. Find more products to help your holidays be merry at GoodCook.com.

2022-11-09T23:01:00

(BPT) – For many people, gift-giving during the holiday season is an important way they show their appreciation for their loved ones. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 62% of holiday shoppers agree it’s important to spend on holiday gifts and celebrations this year, and they’re even willing to cut back in other areas to celebrate like they usually do. However, with the continued rise of inflation in the U.S., it may be challenging for many to stick to their holiday budgets.

Before you make plans to go out and shop after you’ve enjoyed your Thanksgiving meal, remember that there are downsides to shopping in-store on Black Friday. Everyone has their own rendition of this story: standing in line for hours, shivering, only to be told at the front that the smart TV you’ve been eyeing was already sold out. Even worse: once you’re inside, you’re bombarded with so many offers that you have no idea if you are really getting the best price. These situations can be stressful and even make you go over your budget, despite your best efforts!

So how can you maximize savings on those special holiday gifts for each person on your list? And how can you find discounts and deals without wasting time searching for coupons that might not work at checkout? This year, avoid unnecessary stress and score the top deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday by shopping online with PayPal Honey. The PayPal Honey mobile and desktop browser extensions automatically discover and apply coupons at checkout and you can also earn points that can be redeemed for cash back and other rewards to make your holiday shopping even more rewarding.

If you’re looking to start shopping early, you can take advantage of PayPal Honey’s Droplist feature, which lets you add items you’re interested in to a watchlist and get automatically notified if the price drops so you can buy at a lower price. Your early holiday purchasing can be even more rewarding and done all from the comfort of your own home, so that you can focus on what matters most — your friends and family.

Get your shopping done easily, stay within your budget and make the holidays more enjoyable by shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday with PayPal Honey. To learn more and download the mobile and desktop extensions, visit JoinHoney.com/PayPal.

2022-11-09T13:01:00

(BPT) – Controlling the operations of a home with a finger tap seemed out of reach only a few years ago. Today, homeowners are unlocking doors, setting alarms, adjusting the temperature and even turning on lights with a tap on a smartphone. Are we now living in George Jetson’s world?

“Smart homeowners are inquisitive about what is going on with their property,” said Mercury Insurance product manager for homeowners Adam Bakonis. “Smart devices not only notify homeowners of issues earlier, they make you more aware of what is happening with different systems and can help prevent a costly disaster.”

When investing in any smart home system, you should speak to an insurance agent to see if the device may qualify you for an insurance discount.

Water leak detection systems

Excluding weather events, water leaks are the most common cause of property damage and can easily go undetected. By the time a leak has made itself known, it may have done some extensive damage. Water leak detection devices can discover all types of leaks, including hidden ones — though functionality and capabilities will vary by device.

“Sensors that monitor water flow, for example, can send a notification to a homeowner’s device periodically and let them know of a potential issue,” said Bakonis. “Many of these systems will notify homeowners through their smartphones, allowing them to view and monitor water use both indoors and outdoors and be alerted to a potential problem before it gets worse.”

Homeowners may be able to lower the cost of their water bills by preventing water waste while also avoiding catastrophic damage due to a leak. Some water districts and insurers provide rebates or other incentives for a water leak detection device. Homeowners should check with both their insurance agent and local water district to see if they qualify for any discounts.

Smart fire detection system

Smart smoke detectors take fire prevention a step further than standard smoke detectors. Smart smoke detectors can be wired into home security systems and be monitored to notify both the homeowner and the local fire department or a monitoring service of an alarm. Some alarms can detect unsafe carbon monoxide levels in the air and prevent the spread of smoke by shutting down air ventilation systems. They may also provide notification to a homeowner’s smartphone if the battery is getting low.

Cyber protection and security

While smart home technology provides homeowners with a sense of security and convenience, there can still be risks, especially from cyberattacks. Homeowners should stay vigilant and protect their systems with strong passwords, encryption and connecting devices only to their own network. Homeowners should also make sure they don’t share any sensitive login information since these devices may rely on a password or specific device access.

Cyber protection is an additional type of coverage that homeowners who incorporate smart technology into their home should seriously consider as the coverage may be designed to protect any electronic device connected to the internet.

“It’s important for homeowners to remember that home cyber is not just computers, it’s all electronic devices,” said Bakonis. “A cyber-attack on a connected home device would be covered by cyber protection coverage that is available to be bundled with many homeowners policies. This protection would pay to recover data and restore systems that have been lost or damaged due to a hack, including connected home devices.” Homeowners should check with their insurance agent to see what options are available and what is covered.

Investing in a smart home doesn’t have to be expensive. Many systems work together so homeowners can start with smaller devices and expand their systems as their needs increase.

“If you are investing in smart home devices know that there are often insurance benefits that come in the forms of discounts for devices that monitor some of the most common claims which are fire, water and theft,” said Bakonis. “Over time, the amount you save on your premium may be even greater with devices that help with monitoring safety and prevention.”

2022-11-09T12:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is quickly approaching and the masses are busy building shopping lists and planning their family celebrations and travel schedules. Last year, consumers learned to shop smart and early while dealing with supply chain disruptions and delivery delays nationwide. The shopping season will once again require some adaptation with inflation pushing prices upward. As shoppers strive to discover that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift for those on their list, there are still discounts to be found and savings for shopping, traveling, delivery options and staying in touch with those who matter most. If you’re an AARP member, you have access to a range of deals on products and services to take advantage of this holiday season.

“With increasing prices due to inflation, it’s wise to start making your shopping list early and compare prices among retailers,” said Trae Bodge, Money-Saving Expert at truetrae.com. “Smart holiday shoppers are taking advantage of the best deals and discounts, including benefits available to AARP members, which can offer additional savings on holiday gifts and shipping fees.”

Here are four hacks to help you discover some smart savings for the holiday season.

1. Stock up. One sure way to cause unnecessary stress around the gift giving season is to realize you’re out of wrapping paper just before a holiday gathering. Stock up early on wrapping paper, stocking stuffers, gift cards and more at Walgreens, and when you link your AARP and myWalgreens^® memberships you can earn additional benefits on your purchase. You can earn 10% Walgreens Cash rewards on Walgreens branded health and wellness products, 7% Walgreens Cash rewards on Walgreens branded beauty products and 3% Walgreens Cash rewards on other eligible beauty purchases. Exclusions and restrictions apply. Walgreens truly can be your one-stop-shop for those easily overlooked essentials.

2. Travel smartly. If you’re planning to travel to visit out-of-town friends and family for the seasonal gatherings and need a larger vehicle to accommodate a road trip, consider renting a car from Budget. This doesn’t just make your drive more spacious, but you can avoid putting additional miles on your personal vehicle. Not only will your car thank you for less wear and tear, but your wallet will too. AARP members can save up to 30% off base rates and receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, you get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability), an additional driver at no cost and more.

As you prepare to hit the road, fill your tank and pick up some snacks at an Exxon™ or Mobil™ station. When you link your Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ account to your AARP membership, you earn extra points every day on the things you already buy, like fuel, car washes and convenience store items, and 2x the points on fuel on member days. AARP members who are new to the Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ program will also receive a 500-point bonus ($5 in savings) after their first fill-up to redeem toward fuel or convenience store items. Every 100 points you earn is the equivalent of $1 in savings on eligible purchases.

3. Sleep soundly. With extended family traveling in for gatherings, the house may get a bit overcrowded. If you’re someone who needs a quiet space to unwind and recover from the festivities but budget conscious, look no further than the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. AARP members get a $50 Visa prepaid card when they book a flight + hotel, flight + car, or flight + hotel + car vacation package. Members always save on hotel stays and get an extra 10% off at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts when booking online or by phone through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia.

4. Connect with loved ones. If you’re unable to travel to see friends and family for the holiday, there are many ways you can spread cheer and feel connected. Package up your gifts and holiday treats early with UPS Store^® Shipping Services. Pro tip: if you are traveling for gatherings but need to save space in your luggage, ship the gifts ahead of time so it’s there when you arrive. AARP members save 5% off domestic and international UPS shipping services, plus 15% off eligible products and services.

Another holiday savings hack to stay connected is to jump onboard with Consumer Cellular. AARP members can always save 5% on monthly service and usage charges and 30% on accessories. And for a limited time, get unlimited talk, text, and data for two lines for just $55/month with code AARP55*. Plans require no contract and include free activation and an extended risk-free guarantee. This isn’t just a great way to see grandkids and share a virtual hot cup of cocoa together, but it’s also an excellent gift idea if you have a parent or grandparent looking for a new phone service. To access these savings, visit Target stores and have your AARP membership number or card handy.

The holiday season is just around the corner, but with some smart shopping and advance planning you can save in unexpected ways. Check out aarp.org/holiday to view more benefits available to AARP members.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2022-11-09T10:31:00

(BPT) – Veterans are frequently underserved or abandoned while facing opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), homelessness, physical disability and other issues. Too often many veterans turn to opioids for relief or self-medication with other drugs or alcohol.

Dave Walden, a veteran injured in combat who served two tours in Iraq, became addicted to opioids to help ease back pain and PTSD, until he came across hemp-derived Delta-8 products. “I know how much these products help me, and they need to be readily available to anyone who needs them,” says Walden, who testified last year on behalf of Hometown Hero CBD, which helped the Texas-based cannabusiness win a court injunction to keep these products on the shelves in their home state.

Walden’s challenges are shared by many fellow veterans, who have been heavily impacted by the opioid crises.

A study published in the July Annals of Medicine reported drug overdose mortality rates among U.S. military veterans increased by 53% from 2010 to 2019. Among Afghanistan and Iraq war veterans, 63% diagnosed with substance abuse disorders also met PTSD criteria, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Rather than rely on addictive drugs, thousands of veterans like Walden turn to hemp-derived CBD products to seek relief from pain, depression and other challenges.

Growing Adoption of Hemp

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a nonpsychoactive component of hemp. Hemp is defined as any part of the cannabis sativa plant with no more than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in marijuana.

A known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, CBD has been shown to help ease chronic pain. There have also been studies that indicate CBD oil and other CBD products may help reduce depression. Veterans are among the millions benefitting from hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Hometown Hero CBD is helping to fill that demand with a variety of hemp-derived THC and cannabidiol-based products geared for every consumer, from soccer moms and corporate executives to cannabis enthusiasts and service professionals.

U.S. Farm Bill

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, otherwise known as the Farm Bill, laid the groundwork for the introduction of hemp-derived products nationwide. The law removed hemp from the Drug Enforcement Administration list of controlled substances, legalizing it nationally.

Jody McGuinness, executive director of the Hemp Industries Association, says it’s vital to keep the Farm Bill intact. “Unlike most other crops, hemp is entirely unsubsidized, so it’s essential that hemp farmers can rely on stability in the marketplace,” he says. “What hemp needs from the next Farm Bill is long-term investments in the infrastructure that exists to support all of our agricultural commodities.”

Support and Advocacy

Founded in 2015 by U.S. Coast Guard veteran Lukas Gilkey and Lewis Hamer, Hometown Hero CBD donates a portion of proceeds from every product sold to nonprofits that help veterans in need. It recently gave $10,000 to VFW Post 10427 in Leander, Texas, for necessary infrastructure repairs and to raise awareness and support for veterans across the state.

Last year the company donated over $100,000 to veteran causes and organizations.

Mitch Fuller, national and state legislative chairman for the Texas VFW, says one of the top priorities of his organization is to ensure hemp-derived CBD products remain legal and accessible to veterans, their families and other caregivers.

“They are effective and affordable and save lives and help thousands of veterans,” he adds.

Hometown Hero is committed to fostering and supporting the continued success of the hemp industry.

“Hometown Hero CBD has been an industry advocate, advancing the availability of hemp-derived products,” says Gilkey, who was attached to a counter-narcotics unit with the U.S. Coast Guard. “It is vital that these products remain on the market for veterans like Dave Walden, and the millions of other adults who deserve the option to continue safely using hemp-derived cannabinoids.”

2022-11-09T13:01:00

(BPT) – Love your porch or deck and wish you could enjoy it all year long (but with fewer bugs and less time spent fighting the elements)?

Enclosing an existing porch or patio is the perfect way to add year-round functionality, value and space for what matters most to you. And doing so is more affordable than you might think, costing a fraction of what a new addition to your home would and adding just as much to its value.

If you’re looking for the best way to enclose your patio, whether with screens or glass, the decision comes with a long list of benefits. Patio Enclosures, part of the Great Day Improvements family of brands, offers a variety of versatile products that are custom manufactured to fit your existing space, providing:

• The most room possible per square foot
• Quick and simple installation
• A more affordable and noninvasive solution to a home addition
• Convenient indoor/outdoor transitions between spaces

However, the four most rewarding aspects of enclosing your porch or patio have more to do with what goes on inside your home already with the people and pastimes that mean most to you.

1. Room for more of what matters.

From holiday celebrations and other family gatherings to staycations and mental retreats, this space is ideal for resting, recharging and making memories — regardless of weather. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature year-round (grab a beverage or cozy throw and enjoy!), do more of what you love or create your own family fun space by adding a hot tub, bar or pool table. Your enclosed patio can serve as a guest room, entertaining space, a place to unwind or even a staycation destination when you need some time “away.”

2. More functional everyday living space.

Enclosing a porch, deck or other seasonal outdoor area is also the perfect way to expand your functional indoor space. Glass and screens create a great sunlit environment that can be enjoyed as a dining room, family room or kids’ playroom. Plus, the longevity of costly furniture and décor will be extended since they’ll be protected from the elements year-round.

3. A boost in your home’s value.

Enclosing this outdoor space adds more functional square footage to your property and increases its value. Speaking of value, it’s also more affordable and noninvasive than a home renovation or building project, meaning your life can continue as usual, free from contractors and their construction equipment taking over your house. Win-win. Focus on boosting your own mental health and well-being by using it as a yoga or workout room or home office space.

4. Lots of natural light and a closer connection to nature.

A patio enclosure is ideal for embracing indoor-outdoor living. It helps bridge the gap between the feeling of being outside while still enjoying the comforts of being in, with lots of light and fresh air, but no bugs, inclement weather, yard debris, dust or pollen — does it get better than that? If you’re in need of the perfect spot for enjoying your morning coffee, crafting, napping or sunbathing with your pets, this is it.

Gaining valuable space to do more of the things you enjoy with the people you love transforms how you think about and use your home’s interior. Learn more about the many ways to enclose a porch or patio and explore Patio Enclosures’ complete line of quality home improvement solutions for your patio and outdoor living spaces, including sunrooms and other enclosures.

2022-11-08T09:51:00

(BPT) – When checking your holiday list, you’re searching for gifts that inspire joy and delight, and electronic items often fit that description. But what if that gift also happens to have a positive impact on your loved one’s life and the world at large? With all that has happened in the last couple of years, many of us have a greater appreciation for the things that protect the health of the planet for everyone.

Whether you’re shopping for a shiny new appliance or gadgets to make someone’s life easier, here’s how your gift can do a world of good: look for products that have earned the ENERGY STAR label. These are independently certified to use less energy than standard products, which not only saves money on energy costs, but also makes a difference for the climate.

To inspire you, here are a few holiday shopping list ideas:

Cool savings on the hottest electronic devices: Did you know the average household owns 24 consumer electronics products? The more you invest in items designed to save energy, the more the savings will rack up. That has become even more important these days as families continue to use multiple electronics for work and school. For catching up on favorite shows, tablets use four times less energy than streaming to a laptop and 15 times less than a desktop computer. An energy-efficient sound bar offers a sleek solution to achieving that rich stereo effect, but uses 70% less energy than a conventional model.

A smarter solution to save heating costs: Families are still spending more time at home and energy bills have skyrocketed. Smart thermostats take the guesswork out of maximizing energy efficiency, and choosing an ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat means savings you can trust. Plus, they make great gifts. Were everyone to make the switch, we’d save 56 trillion BTUs of energy and $740 million a year, offsetting 13 billion pounds of annual greenhouse gas emissions.

Appliances with noticeable cost savings: Even when the purchase price is nice, don’t overlook this hidden cost of owning appliances: the cost of operating the product. So, if you’re eyeing a new washer/dryer set as the perfect holiday gift, make sure it’s energy efficient. You’ll feel good helping your loved one realize more than 20% savings on their electric bill while using one-third less water compared to the standard models.

A bright idea for stocking stuffers: Here’s a small gift that can light up their lives and save some serious bucks. Just one energy-efficient, LED light bulb can save more than $50 in electricity costs over its lifetime. If each American home replaced just a single bulb with one that earned the ENERGY STAR certification, we’d prevent more than 7 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions.

A charger to go with that new electric car: And if big gifts are part of your holiday plan, remember to check out electric vehicles (EVs) and an ENERGY STAR certified charger. EVs are the future of driving and you (or your loved one) can save an average of $800 to $1,000 a year on fuel and an average of $4,600 on maintenance over the lifetime of the vehicle. An ENERGY STAR certified charger completes the gift and uses 40% less energy in standby mode than the standard. Be sure to check for federal tax credits and utility rebates to sweeten the deal.

Still looking for a great gift that is both innovative and energy efficient? Check out energystar.gov/holiday for everything you need to help your loved ones save money and protect the climate all year long.

2022-11-07T05:13:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an amazing fall adventure, you know that every aspect of your journey could put a serious dent in your wallet these days. Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to help make your trip less costly — as well as safer and more convenient.

As a member of BJ’s Wholesale Club, you’ll be able to enjoy exclusive benefits that can help you with a variety of aspects of your next vacation, such as gas to fuel your road trip, the best tires for your car or special travel deals, wherever you’re headed.

Here’s how the benefits can help you enjoy your next vacation even more.

1. Less pain at the pump and more fun on the road

There’s nothing like an epic road trip to bring the family together and create amazing memories that will last a lifetime. But today’s gas prices could make your trip a lot less fun. What can you do about it?

If you’re a BJ’s Wholesale Club member, quite a lot. BJ’s Fuel Saver Program is the easiest way to lower the price at the pump for your next road trip — or just getting wherever you need to go. Every BJ’s member can save 10 cents per gallon at BJ’s Gas with the purchase of eligible products in-club or online*. You can even stack savings over multiple trips, making your next vacation that much more affordable.

2. Get safely back on the road again with new tires before your next trip

Making sure that your tires are in the best possible condition before hitting the road for a long trip is essential, not just for safety and comfort, but also for improved fuel efficiency. If your car needs new tires, BJ’s Tire Center has got your back. Members can have access to a wide assortment of new tires that are in stock to fit your car’s needs and have you rolling again in no time, thanks to huge savings on top tire brands such as Michelin, Bridgestone, BF Goodrich, Goodyear, Pirelli and more.

Even better, BJ’s provides free maintenance for the life of the tires**, including:

• Tire rotation
• Flat repair
• Tire balancing
• Inflation check
• Road hazard warranty

Don’t head out on the road without making sure your tires are up for the journey.

3. Ready for your next big adventure? Don’t overpay for your travels!

Whatever kind of adventure you and your family have been dreaming of, you can enjoy bigger savings plus better choices by booking your next trip through BJ’s Travel, which offers members exclusive deals on everything from hotels to cruises and more. You’ll be able to find options for every budget that can take you wherever you want to go, whether that’s a local trip or across the globe. Cruises and vacation packages come with a 110% Best Price Guarantee*** plus 5% back^†.

You can book your next adventure directly with BJ’s Travel to receive exclusive benefits like up to 50% off hotel bookings, up to 35% off car rentals — plus 24/7 access to travel experts so you can book your next amazing vaycay with confidence.

Interested in learning more about the exclusive benefits of being a BJ’s member? Visit BJs.com to join today.

*For each eligible fuel saver item purchased in-club, save 10¢/gal. at BJ’s Gas® on your next fill-up, within 30 days of your purchase. If you have multiple checkout transactions containing fuel saver items within that 30-day, your fuel discount will reflect all gas savings items purchased in all transactions for that calendar month prior to your next fill-up. Fuel purchases are subject to a required minimum price of 2¢/gal., and you cannot apply your fuel discount to such minimum price. Redemption of the discount is capped at the fuel cost per gallon less 2¢/gal. at the time of redemption (e.g., if fuel cost is $2.00/gal. and you have earned a $2.10/gal. discount, your redemption is capped at $1.98/gal.). Maximum fuel quantity is 30 gallons per redemption or $100. Your earned fuel discount will be reset to zero, and any remaining discount balance will be forfeited, after each use at the pump. Membership card and payment card must be scanned or swiped in order for discounted price per gallon to be reflected on pump dispenser and applied to your fill-up. Promotional savings may not appear at pump for fifteen minutes from checkout. Offer is valid for purchases in club, buy online pick up in club, Same Day Delivery, Express Pay & other BJs.com orders. Offer is not valid on Instacart including purchases at delivery.BJs.com or BJs.com/SameDayDelivery. Offer may be combined with select BJ’s Gas fuel discount offers and, where applicable, 10¢/gal. My BJ’s Perks^® Mastercard^® discount; however, total discounts may not reduce the price per gal. below 2¢/gal. Unused discounts at the end of that 30-day period will be forfeited, and do not roll over and are not transferable. Discount can be used on any type of fuel — regular, premium and diesel (where available). Approved fuel containers only. BJ’s Gas locations may occasionally close for site maintenance, during which the promotional discounts will not be available. If you redeem your fuel discount, BJ’s has the right to reject the return of the purchased fuel saver items that contributed to the redeemed fuel discount. In addition, in the event BJ’s suspects abuse of the fuel saver program (e.g., returns of purchased gas savings items following redemption of the corresponding fuel discount), BJ’s reserves the right to suspend or terminate your participation in the fuel saver program and to terminate your membership without refund.

***Our 110% Best Rate Guarantee applies only to rates available to the general public. It does not apply to consolidator, group, incentive, interline, meeting, or convention rates that are not available to the general public. 110% Best Rate Guarantee applies only to the cost of the vacation or cruise (including port charges). Promotional packages, group deals, air or land components, shipboard credit, travel insurance, transfers, pre- or post-cruise hotel stays, and shore excursions are not eligible. Does not apply to car rentals. Taxes and fees, which vary by itinerary, are not included. BJ’s Travel reserves the right to refuse the refund should you not be able to provide us with positive proof of a competitor’s lower price. BJ’s Travel reserves the right to refuse the refund for any errors in prices by the competition. If your refund request is approved, the credit card used to purchase your vacation package or cruise will be credited 110% of the price difference within 7-10 business days of final approval. BJ’s Travel reserves the right to modify or cancel the 110% Best Rate Guarantee at any time without prior notice or liability to you.

†5% back on cruises: 5% Back is in the form of a digital BJ’s Wholesale Club® e-Gift Card (GC) and is awarded to one passenger per new 3+ night cruise booking made by 12/31/22 and departing by 12/31/24. Minimum purchase price of $250 to qualify. GC will be emailed to lead passenger 6–10 weeks after departure and is only available to active BJ’s members. To receive GC, the membership number must be included on the booking. GC amount is based on the Total Charges of booking as seen on your booking confirmation, after any applicable rebates have been applied. Offer is per stateroom and is not reflected in advertised prices. Not valid on Viking^® or Virgin Voyages cruises. GC will be rounded down to the nearest dollar and may have a maximum based on vendor policies. Rewards over $1,200 will be issued through multiple GCs. Offer is not valid on things to do, car rentals or standalone hotel reservations. Offer and participating vendors are subject to change at any time. GC is redeemable only for membership fees at BJ’s Club front-end registers and for merchandise at BJ’s Club front-end registers or at checkout at BJs.com. Card is not redeemable at BJ’s Gas^® locations or on travel purchased through BJ’s Travel. Additional restrictions may apply. US/CA residents only.

5% back on vacation packages: 5% Back is in the form of a digital BJ’s Wholesale Club^® e-Gift Card (GC) and is awarded to one guest per new 3+ night vacation package booking made by 12/31/22 and departing by 12/31/24. Minimum purchase price of $250 to qualify. GC will be emailed to lead guest 6–10 weeks after departure and is only available to active BJ’s members. To receive GC, the membership number must be included on the booking. GC amount is based on the Total Cost of the booking as seen on your booking confirmation, minus any Hotel or Resort fee (due at hotel) and after any applicable rebates have been applied. Offer is per booking and is not reflected in advertised prices. A vacation package is a bundled purchase of air + hotel or air + hotel + car. Separate or standalone purchase of these components do not qualify. Escorted Tours with Trafalgar, Globus or Collette also qualify. Collette Tours are capped at a value of $100 back. GC will be rounded down to the nearest dollar and may have a maximum based on vendor policies. Rewards over $1,200 will be issued through multiple GCs. Offer is not valid on things to do, standalone car rentals or standalone hotel reservations. Offer and participating vendors are subject to change at any time. GC is redeemable only for membership fees at BJ’s Club front-end registers and for merchandise at BJ’s Club front-end registers or at checkout at BJs.com. Card is not redeemable at BJ’s Gas^® locations or on travel purchased through BJ’s Travel. Additional restrictions may apply. US/CA residents only.