Find a place to hang your hat. Then decorate it with the best of the West.
This might not be Texas or a hold-em, but you can still design a place fit for your “Cowboy Carter” era. Whether you’re renting a house in fast-paced Northeastern cities like Philadelphia or an apartment deep in the heart of San Antonio, TX, you can find the cowboy-inspired touches that give your house a rustic, down-home appeal that feels true to your lifestyle.
At Rent., we turned to the experts who specialize in Western design and curated our very best suggestions from them. Our roundup includes interior stylists, art specialists, lifestyle bloggers, and others, so keep reading to see their recommendations.
What’s cowboy chic? Why is it trending?
Western styles such as “cowboy chic” give apartment and home dwellers a mix of cozy, rugged, and lived-in that feels approachable. “After all, it’s the versatility of Western designs that makes this accessible trend popular in the first place, as Lacey Boyer of her eponymous Lacey Boyer Interior Design says. “The popularity of Western decor taps into a broader cultural fascination with nostalgia, authenticity, and a longing for connection to rugged landscapes and simpler times. The enduring appeal of cowboy-chic lies in its versatility. It’s not merely a fleeting trend but a timeless aesthetic that can be adapted to various design sensibilities, from modern rustic to eclectic bohemian.”
It seems that other designers agree. According to Alex Woulf of Sustainably Staged, ” Western decor is poised to make a stylish comeback, and there’s no better time to explore the intersection of heritage-inspired aesthetics and modern design principles. From rugged textures to earthy palettes, there’s a richness and authenticity to Western-inspired interiors that I find utterly captivating.
Laura Medicus of Laura Medicus Interiors, a premier home design studio in Denver, also weighs in: “When Beyonce sings about Levi Jeans and line dancing, we pay attention. Cowboy chic is a cool Western vibe that’s lived in, it embraces vintage finds and is pulled together with dark colors and metallic shine. In 2024, this is inclusive of Western Americana with moody colors, fringe, denim, and worn leather.”
Where to find the Western look and defining characteristics
While anyone can add elements of this aesthetic to their homes, it’s going to feel more authentic in Western or Western-adjacent areas, like the desert areas or the Midwest. With that said, anyone can introduce cowboy-chic to their interior design. No need to gatekeep here!
As Casey Coleford of the California-based design firm, Casey Coleford Interior Design, posits, “Western-themed elements will always have a place in interior design. Whether it be a cowhide rug, wrought iron hardware, or a collection of cowboy hats hung on the wall. Geography also has a lot to do with what you’ll find in any given room: It is expected in heartland states (think Cracker Barrel). Incorporating Western elements pays homage to our settlers, and won’t be affected by music trends.” he says.
According to studio mtn founder Sierra Fox, “Western influence is everywhere, permeating beyond interior design; models dating cowboys, beach girls in cowboy boots, and a vacation on a ranch to see a rodeo is reigning over tropical getaways and city stays.”
While Fox and her team are inclined to protect their own private Idaho, they are also embracing the Western movement as a whole. “For example, studio mtn loves seeing the resurgence of worn leather, the warmth of reclaimed wood and patinated metals, and the timeless allure of rustic finishes. Western style goes beyond just aesthetics — it captures the essence of adventure, resilience, and a connection to nature. When done right, any space can tap into the soulful energy of the American West.”
Try Western rugs for starters
One Western decor idea to try is pretty low-commitment: Simply add a cowboy-chic rug to the floor to see if you fancy this trend. For example, cowhide rugs provide a fresh take on an animal print that feels more on-trend than, say, leopard print.
According to Alicia at Rodeo Cowhide Rugs, “Affordability has also made cowhide rugs more accessible, once seen as luxury items, they are now within reach for a broader audience. Additionally, they align perfectly with the latest design trends, including bohemian chic and Scandinavian minimalism. In particular, as Western themes gain popularity each year, cowhide rugs have become essential for creating an authentic cowboy-inspired decor, enhancing the rugged yet refined aesthetic of Western-themed spaces.”
Add some artwork
Want to display your Western decor more prominently? Dress up your wall with some tapestries or art.
“Western art portrays a unique time in history,” explains renowned Arizona-based artist Miguel Camarena. “The modern western look is trending because of the simplicity and elegance of the rustic modern decor and its simple use of muted colors such as warm and cool greys of the whole hue scale.
An example of this would be my “White Horse” painting. At the same time, there is the opposite end of the spectrum where whimsical and high key colors can add a pop of color and accent to most homes, which is why my “Donkey Collection” has become famous worldwide.”
Look to rustic decor for inspiration
Rustic decor gives your space an unfinished look, whether or not you’re committing to a fully Western decor scheme. Think live-edge dining tables, reclaimed wood furniture, and well-worn leather when curating items.
This style exudes warmth and coziness through its use of organic textures and vintage-inspired furnishings, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of ranch side cottages or lodges set in the mountains. Some rustic decor bleeds into other down-home looks, such as modern farmhouse and shabby chic, allowing DIY designers to play around with different looks to find the self-expression sweet spot.
Bring fashion into your Western decor
“We love seeing ‘cowboy core’ emerging in both fashion and home design,” says Patrick Burch, co-owner of Cave + Post Trading Co., an Arizona-based men’s boutique specializing in American heritage brands. “In our store and in our home, we like to use authentic Western pieces as decor. For example, we love to use cowboy hats from Spur Hats or Lost River Hat Co. as wearable wall art. Guitars mounted on the wall are another fun way to introduce a Western vibe.”
Similarly, Libby Palmieri of House of L Designs talks about how the runway’s influence is energizing the trend beyond the Western states: “As a designer, the usual requests for Western embellishments are typically found in dusty cowboy towns tucked away in Colorado, Montana, and Utah where home design can embrace the fantasy and bring the landscape strokes inside.
Now, however, the influence of runway fashion in the house of Louis Vuitton (for starters) with Pharrell at the helm and his Western-themed men’s spring 2024 retro cowboy collection and the music industry, with Beyonce’s new release of ‘Cowboy Carter,’ that is all about to change.”
Just how much will pop culture influence Western decor?
“As a roofer who’s seen a fair share of houses over the years, I’d say trends come and go faster than a Texas tumbleweed,” says Brendan Anderson of Montana-based roofing company Brix Systems. “Now, this Beyonce country album buzz sure is something new. I wouldn’t say it’ll cause a full-on stampede toward Western decor, but it could definitely spur some folks on the fence. Here’s why…”
Celebrity influence is powerful: Anderson continues, “Beyonce’s a huge star, and when she shines a light on something, people notice. It can spark interest in people who might not have considered Western style before.”
Rustic charm allure: “Western decor already has a certain timeless appeal. The worn leather, natural textures, and warm colors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This might resonate with folks lookin’ for a more comfortable, down-home feel.”
Subtle shift, not a roundup: “I wouldn’t expect folks to overhaul their whole house. More likely, we’ll see a sprinkle of Western influence – fringe on throw pillows, a rustic coffee table, or maybe some weathered barnboard on an accent wall.”
Anderson goes on to explain why pop culture influence might not supersede more practical considerations, like maintenance needs, location, or budget:
Maintenance matters: “Western decor often features natural materials like leather and wood. These require more upkeep than, say, laminate flooring or synthetic fabrics. Folks gotta be prepared to put in the extra effort.”
Regional appeal: “The Western aesthetic might not translate everywhere. Sure, it fits perfectly in ranch houses and cabins, but might feel out of place in a beach bungalow or a modern loft.”
Budget considerations: “Genuine Western furniture and antiques can be pricey. Most folks will likely stick to accents and accessories, which can be more affordable.”
Commenting on the recent interest in Western decor ideas, Patrick Burch of Cave + Post Trading also adds, “Shows like Yellowstone were already popularizing Western fashion and design, and Beyonce’s “Cowboy Carter” is feeding that trend. Subtle Western touches go with so many styles — just like in fashion. You can add accent pieces to your home that don’t overwhelm, but add a cool Western touch.”
Maggie McCombs is the managing editor at Rent., where she oversees the content calendar and production schedule for three high-traffic websites. She studied linguistics and Spanish at the University of Georgia, where she learned the fundamentals of languages like Arabic, Latin, French and Old English and mastered Spanish literature. Since college, Maggie has developed a strong portfolio of blogs and journalistic pieces alike. Outside of work, Maggie spends time playing video games (especially anything Zelda!), competing in trivia contests, listening to audiobooks, exploring new cities and relaxing with her husband, dogs and cat.
Inside: Learn how to save money quickly, even on a tight budget. Get practical tips for how to save money fast on a low income. Simple savings ideas to implement today.
Saving money on a tight budget can feel like a high mountain to conquer, especially when you’re trying to do it fast.
Many people earn just enough to cover their essential costs, leaving little room for savings. However, with the right strategies, saving money fast on a low income doesn’t have to be a pipe dream.
This is something I started when we decided to pay off debt. Then, we choose to continue saving that money and investing it.
By understanding the flow of your money – where it’s coming from and where it’s going – you can make informed decisions that maximize your savings potential.
By prioritizing your spending and forecasting future expenses, budgeting can reduce the stress of financial uncertainty and introduce a sense of control and confidence in your money management skills. Thus, leading to you starting to save.
What is the best way to save money on a low income?
On a low income, the best way to save money is to thoroughly understand your expenses and prioritize your needs over wants.
In addition, by planning and tracking your finances meticulously, you can identify where each penny is going. Thus, allowing you to analyze your expenses. Once you have a clear picture of these, start looking for areas to trim down.
Remember, saving money is about being proactive and consistent. These small but steady steps can build up over time to help you save money fast, even on a low income.
How to Save Money on A Fast Income
1. Start with Clear Priorities
Before you can decide where to cut costs or how to allocate your funds, you need to know what’s most important to you.
What is your why for doing what you need to do? Is it building an emergency fund, saving for a down payment on a home, or maybe preparing for retirement?
Whatever your goals, outline them clearly. This is how you will save money.
2. Budgeting effectively to manage finances
To budget effectively on a low income, it all starts with a cold, hard look at your numbers.
Begin by listing all sources of income – that’s your foundation.
From each paycheck or income stream, subtract your non-negotiable expenses such as rent, utilities, transportation, and debt payments. What you have left is your discretionary income.
Then, it’s time to categorize and prioritize. Group your expenses into necessities and nice-to-haves. If your essentials consume most of your income, you’ll need to scrutinize the nice-to-haves list.
Every dollar saved from unnecessary splurges is a dollar that can be put towards your savings.
Use budgeting apps or tools to keep a real-time record of your spending. These can help you stay disciplined and provide a visual reminder of your progress.
3. Track and Slash Unnecessary Expenses
Now, you must meticulously and ruthlessly cut out the non-essentials.
Identify patterns and spot the recurrent, unnecessary expenses that are draining your funds.
Do you subscribe to multiple streaming platforms?
Are you forking out cash for a gym membership you barely use?
Are those daily specialty coffee drinks adding up?
It’s time to slash these expenditures.
Cutting these expenses is like giving yourself a raise.
4. Lower Housing Expenses Without Compromising Comfort
Living in smaller, more affordable housing to decrease rent or mortgage might be exactly what you need.
Opting for a smaller, more affordable space is a practical approach to significantly lower your rent or mortgage payments. When you choose to live in a compact setting, not only do you reduce the square footage costs, but often, utility and maintenance expenses decrease as well due to the reduced size of the living area.
If you are renting, try to negotiate your rent or lease terms with your landlord – they might be willing to offer a discount to keep a reliable tenant, or you may be able to agree on lower rent for a longer lease commitment.
If you’re a homeowner, explore the possibility of refinancing your mortgage to take advantage of lower interest rates. Alternatively, consider renting out a room or a portion of your living space, as the additional income can offset your mortgage or maintenance costs.
5. Save Money on Utilities with Simple Home Adjustments
Saving money on utilities might sound challenging, but you can often achieve substantial savings with a few strategic home adjustments. Let’s explore some cost-effective strategies and modifications you can make to your living space that could help reduce your bills.
Energy Efficient Appliances: Swapping out older appliances for Energy Star-rated ones leads to significant reductions in electricity use and water consumption.
Smart Thermostats: Installing a smart thermostat allows you to programmatically control your heating and cooling based on your schedule and preferences, potentially saving you a bundle on your energy bills.
LED Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs, which are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent ones and have a longer lifespan, saving you on replacement costs as well as your electric bill.
Insulation Upgrades: Proper insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or air conditioning.
Water-Saving Fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators reduce water usage, preserving this precious resource and lowering your water bill.
Not only do these simple home adjustments lead to savings on your utility bills, but they also contribute to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
6. Cooking at home instead of eating out
Cooking at home instead of dining out is an excellent way to save money, especially on a low income. When you eat at a restaurant, you’re not just paying for the food; you’re also covering the cost of service, ambiance, and the establishment’s overhead.
Plan a balance between meal prepped home-cooked meals and the occasional dinner out to keep your budget in check while still enjoying life’s little pleasures. Here are some frugal meals to get you started.
Remember, you don’t have to eliminate eating out entirely.
7. Canceling unused subscriptions and memberships
Stop draining money on services you don’t actively use. It’s surprisingly easy to forget about these auto-renewing expenses, so taking the time to audit your subscriptions can reveal opportunities for savings.
Recently, we tracked over $100 a month in my mother-in-law’s unused subscriptions and membership!
As such, it’s important to periodically evaluate your subscriptions and memberships to ensure they are still serving your interests and goals. If not, give yourself permission to cancel and save that money for something that offers tangible benefits in return.
8. Buying quality items that last longer
Investing in quality items that last longer is a strategic way to save money over time. While the initial cost may be higher, durable products can prevent the cycle of frequent replacements, ultimately contributing to long-term savings and less waste.
Remember, not every purchase necessitates the highest quality option. Examine which items you frequently use and can benefit from in the long run. For instance, driving a Toyota or buying higher quality shoes.
Once you’ve identified these, invest in quality for those and enjoy the satisfaction of a purchase that lasts.
9. Optimize Grocery Shopping
To optimize grocery shopping and manage your food budget effectively, start by thoroughly checking your current pantry supplies and making a precise shopping list to deter impulse purchases.
Utilize coupons and enroll in local store loyalty programs for exclusive discounts.
Embrace meal planning to avoid unnecessary spending.
Consider incorporating meatless meals, as this can contribute to consistent savings over time due to the typically higher cost of meat compared to vegetables and other plant-based options.
Plan meals around these cheap foods when you are broke.
By shopping smartly, you have the power to drastically lower your monthly food bill. Just remember, the key is preparation and discipline.
10. Repairing items instead of replacing them
Repairing items instead of replacing them can be a significant money-saving tactic, especially when budgets are tight. It’s often more cost-effective to fix a piece of furniture, mend a garment, or troubleshoot an appliance than it is to buy new one.
Consider the condition and value of each item before deciding to repair it. If the cost of repair approaches the price of a new item, or if it’s beyond your skill set, researching community resources or seeking professional help may be a wise choice.
11. Practicing the 30-day rule for non-essential purchases
Putting the brakes on impulsive buying can significantly boost your savings, and practicing the 30-day rule is a tried-and-true method to control those urges.
Before you make any non-essential purchase, wait 30 days.
If after a month you still feel the purchase is necessary or meaningful, then consider buying it.
Remember that the goal isn’t to deny yourself enjoyment but to ensure that each purchase is considered and valued. This conscious approach can lead to more satisfaction with the items you do choose to buy and a healthier bank balance.
12. Skip the Car Loan
Opting out of a car loan and finding alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling, walking, or using public transportation, can lead to significant financial savings.
Without a car payment, individuals can redirect the funds that would have gone towards monthly installments, insurance, and maintenance into their savings account.
This strategy can be particularly impactful for those with a goal in mind or working with a low income, as every dollar saved moves them closer to financial stability. Furthermore, the elimination of auto loan interest charges and potential debt can provide a more secure financial footing and peace of mind.
13. Using public transportation or carpooling to reduce fuel costs
Utilizing public transportation or carpooling can be significant in reducing fuel costs, particularly when you’re committed to saving money on a low income. These alternatives to solo driving not only save on fuel but also on parking fees, and wear and tear on your vehicle.
Another option is embracing car-sharing services, especially if you find that you don’t require a car on a daily basis. Services like Turo and Getaround offer the flexibility of having a car when you need one without the constant financial responsibility associated with ownership.
Remember, it’s all about what suits your lifestyle and frequency of need. By assessing how often you need a vehicle and comparing it with the total costs of ownership, car-sharing could be an excellent way to save money.
14. Selling unused or unwanted items for extra cash
Selling unused or unwanted items is a fantastic way to declutter your space and earn extra cash. You might be surprised how much money you can make by letting go of things you no longer use or need. From clothes you’ve outgrown to homeware that’s gathering dust, each item sold can inch you closer to your savings goal.
Take advantage of this opportunity; a thorough home audit could reveal a treasure trove of sellable items right under your nose. Not only does this increase your income, but it also helps you consider future purchases more carefully.
15. Taking advantage of free entertainment and community events
Leveraging free entertainment and community events is a delightfully frugal way to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. From concerts and exhibitions to workshops and meet-ups, there’s often a wealth of activities that won’t cost you a penny.
In fact, here at Money Bliss, I have the most popular list of things to do with no money.
With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can uncover a variety of enjoyable and inexpensive things to do.
16. Automating savings to ensure consistent contributions
Automating your savings is a hassle-free way to ensure you consistently contribute to your financial goals.
By setting up an automatic transfer from your checking account to a savings account, you’re essentially paying your future self first.
This ‘set and forget’ approach helps grow your wealth with minimal effort.
17. Negotiating bills and asking for better rates
Many service providers are open to negotiating prices if it means retaining a customer. Whether it’s your cable package, insurance, or even a credit card interest rate, it’s worth having the conversation.
Remember, the worst they can say is no. But often, companies will offer helpful options when they realize you are considering alternatives due to cost concerns.
One phone call could save you $1000 a year – just like when I decreased my cable bill!
18. Evaluating insurance policies for potential savings
When evaluating insurance policies, it’s critical to regularly assess your coverage needs and shop around for the best rates. Comparing policies from different providers annually can reveal opportunities for lowering premiums or finding more suitable coverage.
Utilize online tools and independent insurance agents to ensure a comprehensive review of available options.
Remember to inquire about bundling policies, as this can often lead to significant savings while consolidating your insurance needs effectively.
19. Meal Planning and Prep: Strategies to Reduce Food Waste
By allocating some time each week to plan your meals, you can ensure that you only buy what you need, thereby minimizing waste and cost.
Learning to meal plan starts with looking at a calendar and a local sales flyer to find the low cost deals.
By creating a weekly plan and incorporating budget-friendly recipes, you can not only eat healthier but also avoid the costlier option of dining out.
20. Forgo single use items
By choosing reusable items over single-use ones, you cut down on waste and habitual spending on disposables. This is also known as frugal green.
For instance, investing in a reusable water bottle, rather than buying single use water bottles.
By integrating sustainable products into your life, you also promote a culture of conservation and mindfulness, inspiring others to make eco-friendly choices.
21. Shopping for groceries with a list to avoid impulse buys
This is key! Especially when shopping with kids or a significant other!
Shopping for groceries with a list is a golden rule to avoid impulse buys, which can quickly derail your budget. By planning your purchases beforehand, you stick to the essentials and resist the temptation of sale items that aren’t on your list or don’t fit your meal plan.
Bonus Tip: Remember to always shop on a full stomach – hitting the grocery store hungry is a surefire way to end up with impulse purchases that aren’t on your list!
22. Buying generic brands instead of name brands
Opting for generic brands rather than name brands is a straightforward and effective way to save money on everything from groceries to over-the-counter medications. These products are often of similar quality and effectiveness but come at a significantly lower cost.
By making the switch to generics, especially for regularly used items, the aggregate savings can be substantial over time.
23. Making bulk purchases for commonly used items to save on cost-per-unit
When you buy in larger quantities, the cost per unit typically decreases, leading to savings that add up over time. Bulk buying works best for non-perishable goods or products you use consistently.
Make a point of buying non-perishable items or products with a long shelf life in bulk to avoid waste and ensure that you truly save money with each bulk purchase.
Just make sure you are going to use it!
24. Cutting costs on personal care by DIY methods
DIY methods for personal care are not just a trend – they’re a practical and often healthier alternative to store-bought products. By creating your own beauty and personal care items, you can significantly trim costs and take control of what goes on and into your body.
Even if you’re not the crafty type, consider starting small with something like a DIY sugar scrub or homemade toothpaste. This is something I did over ten years ago. You might discover a new hobby that enhances both your well-being and your budget.
25. Regular maintenance of vehicles and appliances to prevent costly repairs
Keeping on top of maintenance schedules helps prevent major breakdowns that can lead to expensive repairs down the line.
By making regular maintenance a non-negotiable part of your routine, you protect your investments and save yourself from future financial headaches.
I keep a list in my digital to do list, so I never lose track.
26. Shopping at thrift stores, garage sales, or second-hand websites
Shopping at thrift stores, garage sales, or second-hand websites is an excellent way to acquire items at a fraction of the retail cost. Not only are you being financially savvy, but you’re also participating in the circular economy, reducing waste, and often supporting charitable causes.
Shopping second-hand first is not just about saving money—it’s a lifestyle choice. With patience and persistence, it’s amazing what quality items you can find without impacting your wallet heavily.
27. Learning basic sewing to repair clothes
Mastering the basics of sewing to mend your clothes is a skill that pays off in multiple ways. You save money by extending the life of your garments, reducing waste, and developing a practical capability that can come in handy in various situations.
Honestly, sewing a piece of clothes is a very simple thing. Something that must be learned by the younger generations.
Consider setting aside some time to learn sewing basics via online tutorials, community classes, or even from a friend or family member—it’s a practical step toward financial savings and sustainable living.
28. Utilizing coupons and discounts for shopping
Using coupons and discounts strategically can lead to significant savings on your shopping bills. With a little planning and some savvy shopping techniques, you can ensure you never pay full price for essentials and other purchases.
Remember to only use coupons for items you were already planning to purchase; otherwise, you’re not saving money, you’re just spending less on something extra.
29. Consolidating debt to reduce interest rates
Debt consolidation can be a strategic financial move to lower your overall interest rates and simplify your monthly payments. By combining your debts into one loan with a lower interest rate, you can streamline your bills and potentially save significant amounts of money over time.
Make sure to shop around for the best debt consolidation options and read the fine print. The goal is to find a consolidation plan that truly puts you on a faster track to being debt-free without any hidden costs.
30. Tackle High-Interest Debts First to Free Up More Cash
Addressing high-interest debts is paramount in optimizing your financial strategy. Such debts, often from credit cards or payday loans, can spiral out of control if not managed promptly due to their compound interest rates, which can quickly exceed the original amounts borrowed.
This is known as the debt avalanche.
By zeroing in on high-cost debts, you ensure your income is spent more effectively and not wasted on steep interest fees, accelerating your path to financial freedom.
31. Choose the Right High-Yield Savings Account for Your Emergency Fund
Selecting the right high-yield savings account for your emergency fund is an essential move for growing your savings. High-yield accounts offer interest rates significantly higher than standard accounts, ensuring your emergency fund doesn’t stagnate and keeps pace with inflation as much as possible.
This is one of the bank accounts you need.
32. Implement The Envelope System
The Envelope System is a budgeting method that involves physically dividing your cash into envelopes for different spending categories.
Utilizing the cash envelope system promotes disciplined spending by providing a tangible limit on various expense categories, ensuring you stay within your pre-determined budget and facilitating more intentional money management.
This method also offers immediate visual feedback on spending patterns, which can lead to better financial habits and incremental savings as any leftover cash from each envelope can be added directly to a savings fund, making the act of saving more rewarding and motivating.
33. Using cash -back envelopes to track spending
The use of cash-back envelopes takes the traditional envelope budgeting system a step further by rewarding yourself with savings.
Whenever you spend less than the allocated amount in a budget category, you place the cash difference into a “cash-back” envelope, which can be used for saving or investing.
Adopting the cash-back envelope strategy can provide a rewarding twist to budgeting, making it a fun challenge to spend less and save more.
Boost Your Income: Creative Side Hustles and Opportunities
Boosting your income can provide substantial financial relief, particularly when you’ve maximized your ability to cut costs and still find your expenses stretching your budget thin.
Generating extra income, be it through a side hustle or achieving a raise enhances your ability to save and invest.
With additional streams of revenue, you gain more financial flexibility to achieve goals like paying off debt faster, saving for a significant purchase, or building an emergency fund.
Finding a side hustle or part-time job for additional income
Exploring a side hustle or part-time job is a proven way to supplement your income. In today’s gig economy, there are numerous opportunities for flexible work that can be customized to fit your skills and schedule.
A side hustle can not only pad your wallet but also provide an outlet for creativity and passion, possibly even offering a new career trajectory down the line.
Explore Gig Work and Passive Income Streams
Exploring gig work and passive income streams can accelerate your savings efforts, especially when your regular income isn’t enough to reach your financial goals. These alternative income ideas often provide the flexibility to work on your terms and build up earnings over time.
These revenue channels provide a proactive approach to increasing your disposable income. Researching and choosing the best options for your skills and financial situation can help you build a sound extra income strategy.
Take Advantage of Bank Bonuses and Credit Card Bonuses
Banks often offer attractive incentives to new customers, and high-interest savings accounts can grow your deposits at a faster rate than traditional accounts. The same is true for credit card issuers offering big bonuses.
Taking time to research the best offers and account terms can net you a nice bonus and put your money to work earning more money.
Learn How to Invest Your Money
Learning how to invest your money is paramount to building wealth over time. While it can seem intimidating at first, understanding the basics of investing can enable you to take advantage of compounding interest and market growth to increase your savings exponentially.
Start small, stay disciplined, and continually educate yourself as you grow your investment portfolio. Over time, your investments can become a significant source of wealth and financial security.
Learn how to invest in stocks for beginners.
FAQs: Navigating the Path to Low-Income Savings Success
Saving money when your income barely covers your fixed expenses requires a strategic approach. Begin by scrutinizing your budget to cut any non-essential costs.
Look for ways to reduce your fixed monthly expenses, like negotiating bills or refinancing loans.
Every small change can contribute to your savings, so focus on making incremental adjustments that together can enhance your financial situation.
Even when funds are tight, saving money is possible by making small but impactful changes.
Prioritize reviewing your expenses and identifying areas to cut back, such as non-essential subscriptions or eating out.
Round up loose change or small amounts from your daily transactions into savings.
Seek free entertainment options and consider generating additional income through side hustles or selling items you no longer need.
Each penny saved is a step towards your financial cushion.
Setting Realistic Savings Goals and Celebrating Milestones
Setting realistic savings goals is a key to financial success, particularly when managing a low income.
Determine what you can feasibly save without overstretching your budget. Whether it’s $5 or $50 per week, every bit helps.
Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, can inspire continued discipline and dedication towards your financial objectives.
Being realistic and flexible with your budget will help you manage your finances more efficiently, ensuring that you set aside money for future growth, even when funds are tight.
This is a great step towards habits of financially stable people!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast? Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen. You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that…
Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast?
Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen.
You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that bring in money regularly. And, sometimes, combining a few methods can help you reach $5,000 faster.
If you’re looking to make $5,000 fast, you’re not alone. Many people need a big amount of money quickly – for unexpected costs, important purchases, just to save up, or simply to make a stable amount of money regularly.
Best Ways To Make $5,000 Fast
Below is how you can make $5,000 fast.
1. Flip items for resale
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 without a job, then one way may be to flip items for resale.
Flipping items for resale means you buy things at a low price and sell them for more. This could be handmade goods, vintage items (like old games, cameras, clothing, etc.), furniture, sports equipment, appliances, and more.
Look for undervalued items at flea markets, garage sales, yard sales, and thrift stores, and then sell them for a profit. This job involves having an eye to spot valuable items that you think can be resold at a higher price.
You can resell items on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and more.
I have flipped many, many items for resale over the years, and I think it’s a great way to work from home and make money on your own schedule.
Recommended reading: How Melissa Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items
2. Freelance online work
Making $5,000 a month from home is possible by becoming a freelancer.
Freelancers are people who run their own businesses and provide services to other businesses or clients on a contract basis. As a freelancer, you might be hired for onetime projects by businesses or you could secure long-term contract work with a company.
Online freelancing jobs include:
And more.
You can find freelance gigs through networking, reaching out to possible clients through email or phone, creating a freelance listing on Fiverr, searching for gigs on Upwork, and more.
I have personally been a freelancer for years (mainly freelance writing, and, in the past, I have also done freelance social media management), and it’s a great way to earn income while still being your own boss with a flexible schedule.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Freelance Jobs & How To Get Started
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
3. Pet sit and dog walk
Rover is a website that connects pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can work this job on weekends all year round or choose to be available only during the summer months – it’s flexible and up to you.
Getting started on Rover is simple. You create a profile highlighting your experience with pets and the services you offer, such as dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
After setting up your profile, customers will send you requests, and you can discuss pricing with them. Rover handles payment processing, and you’ll receive payments directly into your account.
I have two close family members who are professional dog walkers, and they both love this side hustle.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
4. Short-term rental your home
If you have a spare room in your home that you’re not using, you may want to try renting it out either on a short-term basis through Airbnb or Vrbo or by finding a long-term roommate to make extra cash.
I’ve rented out rooms multiple times before to roommates, and it’s a great way to earn extra income from unused space.
Recommended reading: What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House
5. Deliver food
If you’re looking to make $5,000, finding a food delivery driving gig is a good option.
With companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart, you can start earning money by bringing people their favorite food. It’s flexible too, so you decide when you work and for how long.
Delivery services like Instacart hire personal grocery shoppers, and the average shopper earns $15 to $20 per hour delivering groceries. Drivers are paid per order, and you keep 100% of your tips. You can also pick your own schedule, which means teachers can work in the evenings or weekends, or only during the summer if they prefer.
6. Sell high-value items
If you’re looking to make a quick $5,000, selling high-value items can be a smart move. Take a look around your home; you might have things you don’t need that others are willing to buy for a good price.
You could sell an old cell phone, laptop, camera, designer clothes, your car, and more.
There are many different buyers for high-value items – from people like you and me on Facebook, to pawn shops, eBay, and more.
7. Tutor
Tutors who specialize in subjects such as math, language, science, graphic design, and more help students improve in those areas.
And, some tutors can make money rather quickly, such as one who specializes in college courses or high-level exams.
Becoming an online tutor depends on the subject you want to teach. Experience in the field is usually required, but there are opportunities for beginners as well. Tutors who teach advanced subjects like calculus or college entrance exams generally earn more than those teaching simpler topics.
Tutoring rates can range from $15 to over $100 per hour, depending on the subject and where you sell your tutoring services.
8. Stock photo photography
Stock image websites are popular platforms where photographers can sell their pictures. Customers can buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use, and these images are commonly used in websites, TV shows, books, social media, and more.
One advantage of using stock photo sites is that they can generate passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and potentially earn money from them for months or even years. You’ll earn a commission every time someone downloads your photos.
Some well-known stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Dreamstime.
In the world of stock photography, quality is important, but quantity matters too. The more pictures you have in your stock photo portfolio, the more potential you have to earn money.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
9. Sell an online course
Creating and selling an online course can be a great way to make money quickly, especially if you have knowledge or skills in a high-demand area.
If you have expertise in a certain subject, you can create and sell an online course. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy allow you to develop, host, and sell your course to students. While you may not earn $1,000 immediately, having students enroll over time can generate a substantial income.
I have an online course that I personally sell, Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. I have also taken many online courses, such as on helping my toddler get better sleep, speech therapy for parents, business courses, blogging courses, and so much more.
There are many different subjects you can teach in an online course, including:
Painting
Music lessons
Exercise
Parenting
Languages
Photography and photo editing
Plants and gardening
Baking and cooking
Arts and crafts
10. Rent out your unused storage space
Just like Airbnb transformed the way you can earn money from your spare room, peer-to-peer storage platforms are doing the same for your unused spaces.
If you have extra space at home, consider renting it out to local people for storage. This could be a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic.
While making $1,000 in a single day from this may be challenging, renting out your space can provide a steady, long-term income when combined with other income sources.
You can use a website like Neighbor to list your available space for rent, potentially earning up to $15,000 per year.
11. Sell your jewelry
If you need to learn how to make $5,000 dollars in a day, then one option is to sell any expensive jewelry that you may have.
If you’ve got jewelry you no longer wear, selling it can be a quick way to earn some cash. You might have pieces like engagement rings, necklaces, or bracelets tucked away.
Recommended reading: Where To Sell Jewelry: 12 Best Places For Extra Money
12. Flip real estate
Flipping real estate means buying homes that need fixing, making improvements, and selling them for a profit. This can be a way to make $5,000 (and well over that if you are smart and careful!).
To do this type of real estate investment successfully, you may start by focusing on making cost-effective improvements, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, and address any major structural or safety issues.
Recommended reading: 23 Best Real Estate Side Hustles To Make Extra Money
14. Sell printables
If you’re looking to make $5,000 online, selling printables is an option.
Printables are digital files that customers can download and print at home, such as grocery shopping checklists, monthly budget planners, wedding invitations, wall art, and more.
I buy printables all the time, and actively search them out at least a few times a month. And, I’m not alone – many people buy printables frequently as well!
I recommend signing up for the Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
15. Help businesses with their Facebook ads
Managing Facebook ads for local businesses is an online job where you can earn at least $1,000 per month per client.
Local businesses want to expand their audience through Facebook ads, but many don’t have the expertise to do it effectively. That’s where you come in. By learning this skill, you can sell your services to small businesses and help them reach more customers online.
Plus, this can be a part-time job that you do in your spare time or even a full-time job.
16. Write an ebook
Creating your own ebook can be a way to earn money online, and you likely have knowledge to share (even if you don’t realize it!) or a good story to write about.
Platforms like Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) allow you to reach a wide audience without a traditional publisher.
Examples of genres you can write in include romance, travel, self-help, sci-fi, and more.
17. Blog
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 from home, then one of my favorite ways is to start a blog.
Now, starting a blog doesn’t instantly make you $5,000 because it takes time to set it up. However, with time and effort, some bloggers can make $5,000 a month in the future.
A blog is a website filled with articles, similar to what you’re reading now. You can start a blog on various topics like personal finance, recipes, travel, pet care, family life, and more.
You can earn money from a blog by partnering with companies for sponsorships, displaying ads, engaging in affiliate marketing (like promoting products on Amazon), and selling items such as ebooks, candles, T-shirts, and other products directly through your blog.
Blogging is my primary source of income, and I make well over $5,000 a month online. It took about six months to earn my first $100 from my blog, so getting started requires some patience. It then took me about a year to reach a monthly income of around $5,000 from blogging.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
18. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a way to earn money by promoting products or services online, and it’s one of my favorite ways to make $5,000 (or more) fast online.
Affiliate marketing is when someone buys a product through a referral link you share, and you earn a commission.
To start, you will want to find products you genuinely like and believe others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program, which will provide you with a unique affiliate link. This link tracks the clicks and purchases made from your recommendation.
Recommended reading: Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook
19. Sell on Amazon
Starting your own Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) business can be a great way to make $5,000 fast.
You can sell items from household goods to clothes, games, electronics, and more.
Selling on Amazon FBA works by you sending the items you want to sell to an Amazon fulfillment warehouse. Amazon stores these items for you until they sell on their platform.
When an item sells, Amazon handles the shipping and sends it directly to the customer. This means you don’t have to worry about packing and shipping the sold items yourself.
Recommended reading: How To Sell Items On Amazon FBA
20. Start a YouTube channel
Creating content for your own YouTube channel can be a fun way to work toward making $5,000 fast.
You can create a YouTube channel about topics such as finance, home improvement, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost every interest these days.
Like blogging, this isn’t a guarantee that you’ll make money, and it will definitely take time to reach $5,000. But, it can be a lot of fun, and you get to be your own boss.
21. Buy a business that already makes income
Buying a business that’s already bringing in money is a way to possibly skip the tough start-up phase and have a business that is making over $5,000.
Now, existing businesses are typically expensive – someone has done a lot of hard work building a business over years and years, after all. They can cost anywhere from a few thousand to millions or even billions of dollars.
You can start by looking at online marketplaces like BizBuySell or Flippa. They list all kinds of businesses for sale, and you’ll see lots of options from online sites (like retail stores and blogs) to local shops (like bike shops, clothing stores, toy stores, and laundromats).
An example – I was recently in a small local bike shop, and they told me that it was for sale. They earned around $20,000 a month (I’m not sure if that was before or after expenses or anything else), and their shop was for sale for around $500,000. You got all the bikes, parts, customers, etc. with the sale. The building wasn’t owned by them, they had monthly rent and other bills to pay. I’m not going to say if this was a good or bad deal – it’s just an example of a real business that is for sale that I recently came across.
22. Consulting
Consulting is when you provide expert advice to individuals or businesses facing challenges. Consultants use their knowledge to understand problems, give advice, and help clients make better decisions from an outside perspective.
Consultants work in fields like management, finance, technology, or marketing. They focus on areas like strategy, process improvement, or restructuring to help clients achieve their goals effectively.
Here’s an example of how a consulting gig works: A company is struggling with managing its products and deliveries. They bring in a consultant who knows a lot about solving these issues. First, the consultant looks at how things are currently done. Then, they suggest better ways to store and ship items. The consultant helps put these ideas into action and teaches the company’s team how to use the new methods. Even after the changes, the consultant keeps an eye on things to make sure everything works well. This helps the company save money and makes sure that customers get what they need on time.
23. Detail cars
Starting a mobile car detailing business can be a way to earn money quickly. After all, you don’t need a lot to get started, and people are always wanting a good detailer to clean their car.
You’ll want to start by getting quality cleaning supplies like car shampoo, wax, and microfiber towels. You can then set fair prices based on what others charge nearby and promote your services on social media and with local businesses.
24. Rideshare driving gigs
Driving for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can be a way to reach your $5,000 goal quickly.
Here’s how you can work toward earning $5,000 with Uber or Lyft:
Drive during peak hours when demand is high, such as weekend nights, rush hours, or during busy events in your city.
Maximize your earnings by strategically positioning yourself in high-demand areas where there are plenty of potential riders, like near popular restaurants, bars, or events.
Take advantage of Uber’s driver bonuses, which may include incentives for completing a certain number of rides or driving during specific times. For example, you might earn an extra $10 for completing three rides in a row during rush hour.
While you won’t make $5,000 in one day, driving for a ride-sharing service can be a flexible way to earn money and work toward reaching your financial goal over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $5,000 fast.
What are some ways to earn an extra $5,000 quickly?
If you need to make an extra $5,000 quickly, then selling expensive items that you already own is usually the fastest thing that I recommend doing. This is because you may have expensive things in your home already – like jewelry or electronics – that you can sell and get paid for within just a few days.
Can I make $5,000 in a single day and how?
Making $5,000 in a single day is hard but not impossible. It may require a combination of having high-value items to sell or landing a big client for your freelance business. It’s about making the right move at the right time with the resources you have.
How can I double $5,000 dollars?
There are many ways to double $5,000 dollars, but it will depend on how much time you have to double your money, as well as how much risk you want to take on. Some ways will be much more risky than others, such as by investing in stocks or real estate. Due to this, it’s important to research and consider your risk tolerance before investing your money.
How can I make $5,000 in a month?
Ways to make $5,000 in a month can include freelance writing, blogging, proofreading, bookkeeping, and more.
How to make $5,000 fast without a job?
If you want to make $5,000 fast but not get a job, then the fastest thing to do is typically to sell items around your home that you already have, such as jewelry or electronics. You can also combine a bunch of different side hustles, such as freelancing, selling stuff, running a business, flipping real estate, and even small things like taking online surveys (like Survey Junkie for free gift cards).
How to make $5,000 a day online?
Some ways to make $5,000 a day online may include selling courses or other digital products. Now, this will not be an easy thing to do, and it will require a lot of hard work (as well as some luck).
How To Make $5,000 Fast – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $5,000 fast.
As you read above, there are many different ways to make $5,000. Some are faster than others (such as selling expensive items that you already own), and others may be more of a full-time career (such as freelance proofreading).
The disco ball, while always beautiful, has undergone a glow-up in the 21st century. No longer relegated to the nightlife scene that birthed it, the mirrorball crept into our weddings, our homes, our earlobes. Then it escaped its spherical form entirely—now martini glasses, cowgirl boots, even mushrooms gleam with silver-tiled radiance. What could they possibly disco next?
Sofie Berarducci has some ideas.
The 24-year-old entrepreneur honed her design savvy building furniture in her parents’ garage during the pandemic. When she returned to college in San Francisco, she had to settle for smaller projects. One night, while watching The Bachelor, she and a handful of friends covered a Styrofoam mushroom from Michaels in shiny, mirrored tiles. “Anytime someone would come over and see it in my room, they’d love it,” Berarducci recalls. “It was such a showstopper.”
After graduating in 2019, Berarducci started crafting more disco mushrooms as Christmas presents. She posted surplus ’shrooms on Facebook Marketplace, where they sold out overnight. “People were messaging me, ‘Where can I buy more?’” Berarducci recalls.
Berarducci capitalized on the disco fever with an Etsy shop and, eventually, a business account on Instagram. She developed new products, pivoting from Styrofoam bases to 3D-printed fruit, liquor bottles, and other fun shapes. Berarducci was still working full-time at a San Diego marketing agency, running her side hustle with help from family. “In the morning, my mom and I would pack orders together, go drop them off at UPS, and go do our nine-to-five,” she says. “Five would hit, and we would turn on a movie and get to tiling.”
Six months in, she decided to launch the brand’s e-commerce site and quit her job to focus on Sofiest Designs. “It was kind of a huge risk,” she adds, “but I haven’t looked back.” After all, the gamble paid off handsomely: In addition to 80,000 Instagram followers, Sofiest Designs boasts partnerships with Urban Outfitters, Free People, Dormify, and Aerie. Berarducci has designed custom disco doodads for celebs such as Lizzo, Kourtney Kardashian, and Shania Twain, and outlets like Architectural Digest, HGTV, Apartment Therapy, and Time have taken notice.
Though her company ships out 15 to 20 orders per day, Berarducci continues to hand-make each product in a San Marcos warehouse with the help of a small team of family and friends. “My business is part e-commerce manufacturer and part art,” she explains. “It’s still really time intensive. I’m touching every single [piece].”
All those hours tiling haven’t stopped her from pushing Sofiest Designs forward. She added additional, less shiny homewares in the form of surreal shelving and pastel lamps and partnered with other woman-owned small businesses to expand the company’s e-commerce offerings. You can shop seven other makers’ products on Berarducci’s site.
Nevertheless, what Berarducci calls “disco therapy” remains core to her company’s ethos. “The disco ball is timeless and gorgeous, but it hadn’t been remodeled in, like, 50 years,” she says. “We wanted to make something more appropriate for Gen Z. Our goal is to make disco items that double as art for your home that you can have forever.”
We tapped Berarducci to share some of her favorite home décor products from small businesses (including her own). Here are 10 fun finds to spruce up your bedroom, bar cart, or coffee table.
10 Unique Room Décor Accents to Spice Up Your Space
Big Night Clock, $110
Big Night
This cheeky clock is “so cute for your kitchen area—I love the pop of red,” Berarducci says. “The martini at the five o’clock hand is the perfect little detail.” The timepiece captures two trends: the fervor for food-centric décor and, of course, Gen Z’s love for disco-inspired details.
Glass Tile Decorative Tray, $65
Subtle Art Studio
“This tray makes for the most stunning accent piece on your vanity or bar cart,” Berarducci says. “It’s an easy way to elevate your space.” San Jose–based Subtle Art Studio slings several products made with retro-inspired glass tiles, including coasters, incense holders, and photo stands.
Olive Candle, $21
Nata Concept Store
“Why not add an olive candle to your home décor?” Berarducci suggests. “Style with your martini glasses and mixers on a bar cart. So cute!” Novelty candles have made a splash as a playful, affordable way to accessorize your house, and this one stands out for its lovely floral scent.
Checkered Ceramic Vase, $120
Alicja Ceramics
Another of Berarducci’s small business partners, Alicja Ceramics crafts and paints each of her funky vases by hand. “These are my go-to for all my flower arrangements,” Berarducci adds. “The checkered print against the florals makes for the coolest contrast.”
Disco Strawberry, $52.50
Sofiest Designs
TikTok’s beloved “unexpected red” theory holds that introducing a touch of crimson will enliven any room. Try out the technique with Berarducci’s sparkly strawberry. “My favorite way to show off this strawberry is to style it on a kitchen shelf or use it as a dining-table centerpiece,” she says.
Custom Icons Pillow, $155
Abbode
New York embroidery shop Abbode is all about customization. This pillow case takes things a step beyond monogramming, allowing customers to select and request symbols that represent their most formative experiences or favorite things. “These make for the perfect customized housewarming gift—for your friend or for yourself,” Berarducci says.
Buns Out, $40
Piecework Puzzles
“Boring puzzles are out,” Bararducci declares. “Challenge your brain and create a masterpiece with Piecework’s ‘Buns Out’ puzzle.” After you’ve put the final piece in place, brush Mod Podge over the lot and frame it as a conversation-starting work of art.
Custom Neon Sign, from $159
Yellowpop
Whatever your catchphrase is, immortalize it in neon lights. Yellowpop offers one-of-a-kind LED signs with 14 different color options. “This is a great way to personalize your space in a unique and timeless way,” Berarducci says. “I created a custom ‘Sofiest Designs’ sign for my warehouse and absolutely love it!”
Wobble Table Lamp, $120
Sofiest Designs
This wiggly lamp from Sofiest Designs comes in four easy-to-style colors: powder pink, muted orange, soft green, and creamsicle orange. You can select a lampshade in one of those same hues to mix and match. “This is my favorite of our lamps,” Berarducci says. “It looks good in any space and any colorway.”
Concrete Shelf, $650
Concrete Cat
This eye-catching shelf is an art piece in itself. “The concrete coloring brings [it] to the next level,” Berarducci adds. A groove at the back of the shelf helps secure thin items like records, photos, and (SDM’s personal favorite) magazines for display.
Because of certain persistent reputational challenges faced by the reverse mortgage industry, it can be challenging for borrowers to find objective informational sources about the product category.
That’s what drove a listener of the podcast “The Indicator from Planet Money,” a production of National Public Radio (NPR), to ask hosts Wailin Wong and Darian Woods about the product during a recent episode.
“I was wondering if you guys could explain reverse mortgages,” the listener asked the group. “I’m trying to understand all things housing with the market being so crazy these days.”
Wong and Woods introduced the segment by talking about notable reverse mortgage ad spokesmen like Tom Selleck and Henry Winkler, before offering an overview of the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) product backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
“[A] reverse mortgage is a loan where you can borrow money against the value of your house,” Woods explained. “So, the house’s title is still in your name, but you’re receiving payments while you start to owe more and more to the lender.”
Woods went on to explain the factors that determine the loan’s proceeds, including interest rates, the home’s value and age of the primary borrower.
“But theoretically, a borrower could get anything from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand tax-free dollars a month while also not needing to pay their mortgage,” he said.
The pair then discussed the perceptions of the products, with Wong asking if it was “too good to be true.” Woods said that such a loan isn’t “free money,” but added that it could be a viable solution for the right borrower.
“It is definitely appealing to folks who are strapped for cash day to day, but their home is maybe the only big asset that they have. But we should mention reverse mortgages don’t have the best reputation,” he said.
The show then played audio from a segment on “The Daily Show” that aired last year, which took a flippant look at reverse mortgages without an abundance of factual rigor, saying that most reverse mortgages end “with you losing your house, or dying and losing your house, or dying and losing your house and saddling your kids with debt.”
Woods, however, was quick to specify the context.
“This is a bit of an exaggeration for comedic effect,” he said. “Debt doesn’t go across generations, but it is up to whoever managed the estate to figure out how to pay this debt back. And usually, it’s by selling the house.”
The pair then asked Cora Hume with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau(CFPB) to weigh in. Hume said that reverse mortgages can be expensive compared to other home equity-tapping tools.
“A lot of older adults are very surprised about how quickly the amount they owe grows and how quickly their equity that they have in their home decreases,” Hume said on the show.
Woods also cited a 2023 CFPB report that said a majority of reverse mortgage direct-mail advertising is sent to “more financially vulnerable consumers, those of low or moderate income.”
Woods ended the segment by reiterating that reverse mortgages can work for people in the right situation, with Wong adding “people should do their homework” and “read the fine print.”
The move was risky. And I don’t regret it one bit.
For all my decorating life, decades, I thought animal prints were for other people. Although I coveted the exotic look of a leopard-print throw or a tiger-striped rug, I lacked the courage to put one in my home.
That was then.
I now have two zebra-striped chairs in my living room. With the blessing of a designer I trust, I tapped the animal within. Now I wonder what took me so long.
My odyssey began a few months ago when I looked at my adjoining dining and living rooms and decided they looked tired. I wanted to update them, make them come alive, but I couldn’t afford to start over.
So, I called Christopher Grubb, a notable designer based in Los Angeles whom I’ve known for years, and asked for a consult. I would do all the legwork, if he could just tell me what to keep, get rid of, add and revamp. We agreed I would keep the traditional dining table, but replace the stodgy tapestry dining side chairs, which I’ve had for nearly 30 years, with more modern ones.
We would also keep the two dining room armchairs but reupholster them in a more contemporary fabric and move them into the living room. I’m loving this plan.
I gathered nine fabric swatches to test drive. I sent photos of all nine to Grubb. Then, before he could answer, I narrowed the selection down to six and sent him a picture of the finalists. Among the three fabrics I’d eliminated was a bold zebra print I grabbed on a whim but ruled out. (It’s for other people.)
“What happened to the zebra?” Grubb asked.
“Oh, it seemed a little, well, wild.”
Marni Jameson: To combine colors at home with confidence cue the color wheel
“It would look fantastic on those chairs,” he said. “And paint the wood glossy lacquer black.”
Designers take risks where the rest of us fear to tread.
My little heart turned a somersault. “Really?” That permission felt like the time my Dad let me drive our family’s red Dodge Charger by myself.
Next day, the tired tapestry armchairs along with seven yards of zebra fabric and I were exuberantly off to the upholsterer, who took one look at the project, raised his eyebrows and said: “That will be fun.”
When the chairs came back, I sent Grubb a photo.
“Dang! Those look great!”
I had to agree.
“You just created art chairs,” he said. “You turned them into not just useful pieces of furniture, but pieces of art.”
Many homeowners have furniture pieces that would look great flipped, he added, they just don’t see it. “They have heavy Mediterranean furniture that they are trying to bust out of to make their homes more contemporary, but don’t think the pieces belong going forward. Then we give it a twist. Maybe we paint a humdrum brown end table robin’s egg blue and turn it into a fun and functional accessory.”
If they’re worried they will “ruin” the piece, he says, “You don’t like it anymore as it is, so what’s to lose?”
“I’m a big fan of doing what you did,” said Dean Stills, co-owner of Stills Upholstery in Longwood. “I love to see people repurpose old furniture to make it fit their homes today by recovering it with more-modern fabric and changing the finish. It’s so much better than taking it to the curb.”
Grubb encourages anyone who wants to take a risk with their décor to go for it, but to bounce it off a designer first. “Most people know what they like, they just don’t know how to get there. We can help them add the wow factor.”
He encourages DIY decorators to work with designers like I did. “Do the legwork, then hire a designer to consult for an hour or two,” he said. “People don’t take risks, so we walk through room after room of beige and grey.”
None of us wants to be that person.
If you’d like to add some pizzazz to your home, here are some risky moves Grubb and Stills suggest you consider.
Use the power of paint. A glossy fun color on a dull brown piece of wood furniture is an inexpensive way to modernize it and turn it into an art piece. (It’s also easier than refinishing.) Consider painting a chest glossy lime or the frame of a mirror bright orange. When painting my wood chairs gloss black, Stills usedCrystal Conversion Varnish because it creates a tough, hard finish that holds up.
Change the hardware. Switching out distressed iron knobs or ornate vintage pulls for sleek ones in brushed gold or polished chrome can instantly and inexpensively enliven old furniture.
Refresh fabrics. Before retiring a piece of upholstered furniture, think about recovering it with an updated fabric. Older furniture, Stills said, is typically much better made than newer furniture sold today. Upholsterers can also replace and repair worn inner springs and foam.
Add a wow fixture. Chandeliers are a great place to take an expressive risk, Grubb said. “These standalone accessories don’t have to go with anything. They could be covered in feathers and look great.”
Incorporate some Lucite. Because it leans contemporary, just one Lucite piece, such as a chair, end table or bar cart can bridge old and new looks, Grubb said.
Mix in some metal. Shiny metallic finishes also feel contemporary. Adding chrome table lamps, bookends or side tables can modernize an otherwise traditional room.
Reframe the art. Traditional art doesn’t need a traditional frame. Put an old painting in a contemporary frame or eliminate the frame altogether.
Marni Jameson is the author of seven books including the newly released Rightsize Today to Create Your Best Life Tomorrow, What to Do With Everything You Own to Leave the Legacy You Want, and Downsizing the Family Home. You may reach her at [email protected].
Do you want to learn how to make $10 a day? Whether you want to make an extra $10 every day or if you just need an extra $10 fast right now, you have options. Plus, if you are looking to make $10 a day every day, this is about $300 each month or $3,650…
Do you want to learn how to make $10 a day? Whether you want to make an extra $10 every day or if you just need an extra $10 fast right now, you have options.
Plus, if you are looking to make $10 a day every day, this is about $300 each month or $3,650 extra each year!
Surprisingly, you might not need to spend much time to reach this goal – maybe just an hour or less each day. The great thing about this is that many of the ways mentioned below are flexible and can be done on your own schedule.
Whether you work full-time, stay home with kids, or have a packed student schedule, there are lots of ways to make that extra $10. And even though $10 may seem small, if you do it every day for a month, it adds up to a few hundred dollars, which can be a big help for your budget or savings.
Getting some extra money can be easy by using what you already have online. You don’t need a second job to make $10 more each day. There are lots of online ways to do this. Maybe you want more money or just some spending cash without working a lot. Either way, you can find ways to meet your money goals.
Recommended reading: How To Get $20 PayPal Now
Best Ways To Make $10 a Day Fast
Below are the best ways to make $10 fast.
1. Paid online surveys
Earning $10 by taking surveys is a real possibility and a simple way to make money from home. Some survey companies will even give you $5 or $10 just for signing up and becoming a new member.
When I was repaying my student loans, I filled out surveys every week. I did this before work, during lunch, or after work. It was easy because I could do it whenever I had some free time and could do it on my own schedule. I enjoyed doing them because it was super flexible and would earn me some extra money without any physical labor or really even any brain power.
Survey companies pay you for answering surveys, watching videos, and trying out products. Sometimes, they might even send you free products to test. The best part is, signing up with these companies is completely free!
The paid online survey companies I recommend include:
These survey websites typically give out rewards as cash deposited into PayPal accounts or as free gift cards for places like Amazon.
2. Start a blog
Starting a blog is a creative way to make $10 a day.
Starting a blog won’t immediately earn you $10 a day because it takes time to set up. However, with time and effort, bloggers can usually start earning at least $10 a day in the future.
A blog is a website that contains articles, similar to what you’re reading now. You can start a blog on many different niches and topics like personal finance, recipes, travel, pet care, family life, and more. There are many different kinds of blogs available on the internet.
You can earn money from a blog by teaming up with companies for sponsorships, displaying ads, doing affiliate marketing (such as promoting products from Amazon), and selling items like ebooks, candles, T-shirts, and more directly on your blog.
This is how I make money online, earning well over $10 a day. It took me about 6 months to make my first $100 with my blog, so getting started does take time. It took around a year to reach about $5,000 a month and approximately 2 years to reach $10,000 a month.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
3. High-yield savings accounts
A high-yield bank account is a low-risk way to earn extra money. These accounts offer a higher interest rate than regular savings accounts, so your money grows faster.
While you might not earn $10 every day from a high-yield savings account, it’s quite easy to earn $10 or more over time. You can then stack this with other methods to make $10 every day or $300 a month.
I personally use Marcus by Goldman Sachs because they have a very high interest rate. At the time of this writing, you can get up to 5.40% through a referral link bonus. So, if you have $10,000 saved, you could earn $540 in a year with a high-yield savings account like this. In comparison, with normal banks, your earnings would only be around $50 for the same amount saved.
4. Sell printables on Etsy
One way to make $10 a day from home is by selling printables on Etsy. Printables are digital products that buyers can download and print at home. Think planners, art, or even educational materials.
You have probably used printables in your life, just like most people have. I purchase printables all the time because they make my life much easier. It’s convenient to print things out and have them readily accessible when needed. I recently downloaded a digital printable that is a calendar of new activities to do with my toddler, in fact. (It has a specific new activity to do each day for her age group.)
You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
5. Mystery shopping
Mystery shopping can be a fun way to earn money. If you enjoy shopping and going out, this option can help you make $10 a day.
Companies hire mystery shoppers to visit stores and behave like regular customers. You’ll make purchases, ask questions, and then give feedback on your experience.
Secret shoppers evaluate places like restaurants, stores, car dealerships, banks, and more.
My favorite mystery shopping company that I have personally used is BestMark. There are many other good mystery shopping companies as well.
I have mystery shopped a lot over the years. At one point, I was earning around $150 to $200 a month from it, as well as getting free restaurant meals, free retail items, and more. Most of the shops were very easy to complete and I could do them on my own schedule.
6. Get a raise at work
If you’re wanting to increase your daily earnings by $10, asking for a raise at your current job can be a great strategy as you would be simply continuing the job you already have and not having to find a second job.
Start by evaluating how your skills and experience contribute value to the company. Are you taking on additional responsibilities? Have you achieved any big goals or improved anything at work lately?
Remember, timing is everything when it comes to asking for a raise. I recommend setting up a private meeting with your boss to talk about your raise and make sure it’s a calm period in the work cycle, not the middle of a big project or problem.
Then, during your meeting, be direct about your request and explain how your hard work deserves additional compensation and talk about the value you bring to the company.
7. Answer questions in a focus group
Joining a focus group is a great way to earn $10 quickly, or potentially more! Now, you typically won’t be able to make $10 every single day with a focus group because they are more limited in availability, but you can make well over $10 in a single day with them.
A focus group is a small gathering of people who share their opinions about new products or services. Companies use these insights to improve their offerings.
I have participated in a focus group that paid me approximately $400 for just 75 minutes of my time. While this payment was higher than usual, most focus groups typically pay anywhere from around $50 to over $100 per hour. The amount you get paid can vary greatly depending on the length and topic of the study, but there are certainly studies that offer higher compensation than others.
One focus group company that I recommend joining is User Interviews.
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User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
8. Donate plasma
Donating plasma can earn you between $20 to $50 each time you donate, and you can earn up to $300 a month if you donate regularly.
Plasma is the liquid part of your blood, and it’s in high demand for medical treatments. Your plasma can help individuals with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, and other health problems.
The process is similar to donating blood, but it takes a bit longer – usually about an hour. You’ll be comfortably seated during the procedure, and a machine will take your blood, separate the plasma, and return the blood cells to your body.
Typically, you can donate plasma twice a week. Most donation centers require a 48-hour gap between sessions to make sure that your body has time to recover.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money in One Hour: 15 Real Ways
9. Food delivery
If you want to make an extra $10 a day, food delivery is a good choice. It’s a flexible way to earn cash by helping people get their meals delivered right to their doorstep. With apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates, you can sign up and start delivering right away.
When you choose to be a food delivery driver, you work on your schedule. All you need is a reliable way to get around, like a car, bike, or scooter, and a phone. The exact amount you’ll make can depend on the time of day, your location, and how many orders you take.
Typically, you receive more than $5 for each delivery. Plus, customers may tip you for your service as well.
Recommended reading: How To Make $5 Fast
10. Deliver groceries
If you’re looking for a way to make an extra $10 a day, delivering groceries might be the perfect side gig for you. With many people busy or preferring to stay home, you can help by bringing their food shopping right to their doorstep.
Popular apps like Instacart and Shipt are always looking for shoppers. You’ll need to meet some basic requirements, like having a car and a phone. After you’re approved, you can start to accept delivery jobs through the app.
You can choose when you want to work. Maybe it’s after your day job or just on weekends. Each trip to the store and delivery earns you money, and you can see your earnings add up with every order you complete.
I have ordered groceries through Instacart many times when I’m too tired to shop, when I’m on vacation and want groceries delivered straight to the vacation home, and when I’m running low on time at home. It is a great service to have!
11. Transcribe
Transcribing is when you get paid to type out what you hear, and it’s a way to make $10 a day if you have a good ear and can type fast.
Transcription jobs are found online and offer flexible schedules. To start, you’ll need a computer and a solid internet connection.
As a beginner, you can earn around $15 an hour, but with more experience, that number can go up.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
12. Freelance on Fiverr
If you’re looking to earn an extra $10 a day, Fiverr is a platform to try out if you want to freelance.
Fiverr lets you sell skills you’re good at, such as graphic design, data entry, social media management, writing blog posts for others, and more. You can sell thousands of different kinds of freelance gigs, and you can make your service as customized as you want.
I have freelanced a ton over the years, and it’s a great way to make money from home without having to pay anything to get started. You just need your skills and time!
13. Walk dogs
If you love dogs and want to learn how to make $10 a day (or more) without paying, then walking dogs is a side hustle you can easily get started with.
Dog walking apps like Rover help you to list your dog walking services. This is an in-demand service where you may be able to earn $15 to $30 an hour walking dogs.
Once you’re signed up on a dog walking platform, you’ll get alerts for dog walking jobs in your area. You can choose the ones that fit your schedule. A typical session lasts about 30 minutes, and you might walk one or more dogs during this time.
If you have the chance to walk multiple dogs at once, then you may be able to earn more money by aligning many dog walking gigs at the same time. Some clients do pay more for their dog to be walked alone if that’s what they want.
I have two close family members who are dog walkers and they both really love it!
14. Invest in stocks for dividends
If you’re looking to make some extra money daily, you can try dividend stocks. These are shares of companies that give you money back, called dividends, just for owning them. This is like getting a “thank you” for investing in the company.
To make $10 a day, you’d need to earn around $300 a month from dividends.
Dividends work by paying shareholders a portion of a company’s earnings per share of stock they own. For example, if you own 10 shares of Company ABC and they pay $5 in cash dividends per share each year, you will receive $50 in dividends annually. Dividends are usually paid on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis, with quarterly payments being the most common (four times a year). In this scenario, the $5 in cash dividends per year would likely be distributed as $1.25 per quarter for each share of stock you own.
Recommended reading: What Are Dividends & How Do They Work? A Beginner’s Guide
15. Play games online
If you enjoy playing games, you can actually make money from it! While you might not consistently earn $10 every day, you can likely make $10 occasionally by doing something in your spare time.
Game apps can pay you real money because they generate revenue from ads and in-app purchases. They then share a portion of their earnings with players to keep them engaged and playing their games.
Here is a quick list of popular online game platforms that offer real cash rewards:
Swagbucks
KashKick
InboxDollars
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Swagbucks is a site where you can earn points for answering surveys, shopping online, watching videos, using coupons, and more. You can use your points for gift cards and cash.
16. Sell things you no longer need
A simple way to earn $10 quickly (or even more) is by selling items you no longer need around your home.
Everyone has things like old books, clothes, unused gift cards (to many places such as Walmart, Starbucks, Target, Amazon, and more), or electronics that they no longer use. Selling these items can help you make money fast.
You have several options for selling your old stuff, like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Mercari, Craigslist, or even holding a garage sale at your home.
17. Charge scooters
If you’re looking to make an extra $10 each day, then you may be able to find a side gig as a scooter charger for companies like Lime or Bird. These companies pay individuals to pick up, charge, and redeploy their electric scooters around the city.
You can get started by signing up on the company’s website by submitting your name, email, and location. You’ll need to download an app that will guide you to scooters needing to be charged.
Typically, a single scooter gives you around $3 to $5 once fully charged. It might sound small, but charging just a couple of scooters can quickly add up to your $10 daily goal.
18. Babysit
Babysitting is a popular way to bring in some extra cash. If you enjoy spending time with children and have some free hours, this could be a smart pick for making $10 a day or even more.
On average, you could earn between $15 to $25+ per hour for watching kids. The rate might go up if you’re taking care of more than one child or if the children need special attention.
Jobs can range from a couple of hours after school to full days. This makes babysitting a flexible job that can fit into your schedule.
19. Sell on Amazon
If you’re looking to make some cash each day, you might try selling retail items on Amazon. Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program can be a great way. You send your products to Amazon, and they handle shipping and customer service for you.
Here’s a quick start guide:
Sign up – Creating an Amazon seller account is your first step. It’s pretty easy and you can do it online.
Choose your products – Find items you want to sell.
List your items – Describe what you’re selling, add pictures, and set your price. Make sure it looks good so people want to buy it.
Ship to Amazon – Box up your items and send them to an Amazon warehouse.
Sell and earn – Once your products are listed, you can start making sales. Amazon gives you a part of the sale price, and that’s how you make your money.
If you want to learn more about starting an Amazon business, I recommend signing up for this free training that will teach you how to sell products on Amazon and make $100 to $500 per day.
20. Rent out your storage space
If you have unused space in your home like a closet, garage, or even a spare bedroom, you can turn it into money! Yes, by renting out your storage space, you could easily make a payout of around $10 a day or $300 a month without much work.
A site to use to rent out your space is Neighbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $10 a day fast.
How can I make $10 a day?
You can make $10 a day by doing small freelance gigs, completing online surveys, or selling items that you no longer need. Another way could be to save your spare change from everyday purchases (such as with the Acorns app).
How to make $10 an hour online?
You might be able to earn $10 an hour online by selling virtual assistant services, content writing, graphic design, or tutoring through platforms made for freelancers. Your hourly rate will depend on the skills you have and the demand for them.
How to make $10 a day for free? Can I make $10 daily without any upfront investment?
Making $10 a day for free is possible through apps that reward you for participating in surveys or completing certain tasks, freelancing services like writing or virtual assisting, and walking dogs. You can learn more about this at 22 Ways To Make Money Online Without Paying Anything.
How can kids make $10 each day?
Kids can make $10 a day by doing chores for neighbors (such as by going around the neighborhood and seeing who needs their lawn cut or leaves raked), setting up a lemonade stand, or pet sitting. It’s great for teaching them about the value of work and earning at a young age.
How To Make $10 a Day – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $10.
There are many ways to make an extra $10, whether you need $10 right now or if you want to make $10 each day.
Making an extra $10 can be helpful, whether you have a full-time job, are a stay-at-home parent and just need to make a little extra money, or whatever else.
If you like sharing your thoughts, you can make money doing online surveys. If you’re good at crafts and art, selling printable designs on Etsy could be a good fit. For those who love pets, walking dogs using apps can bring in extra cash. And if you prefer working at night, you can offer your skills on freelance websites after the day is over to make that extra $10.
These little bits of money each day can add up and give your budget more room to move each month.
Are you looking to learn how to make $10 a day or fast?
Many businesses show their appreciation for U.S. military service members, whether that’s via special parking privileges or exclusive discounts on goods and services. The same is true for many airlines, particularly when it comes to those who are active duty military.
Let’s take a closer look at flights with military discounts, including which airlines offer them and who’s eligible.
U.S. airlines with military discounts
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers military fares to eligible service members. This includes those who are:
On official leave.
Reservists on active orders.
Within seven days of discharging from active duty.
Alaska also offers military discounts to spouses and dependents of active duty service members. Those who are older than 10 years old need to show a dependent ID.
Alaska doesn’t publish a specific discount amount. Instead, you’ll have to call 800-252-7522 to get a quote and purchase the ticket.
Those who are enrolled in VetRewards can get a 5% discount. This discount is valid for up to six people booked together.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air doesn’t offer discounts on airfare to military members, but it does provide a host of other benefits to both active duty members and veterans. This includes two free checked bags up to 99 pounds each, early boarding and the ability to print your boarding pass at the airport for free. Service members also receive waived fees for in-cabin pets, oversized bags, ticket changes and flight cancellations.
Family members of the service member or veteran can also take advantage of these benefits if they’re flying together and hold a dependent ID card.
American Airlines
American Airlines’ military discount is for both active duty military and those who are members of the government. You’ll need to call to get this deal. The phone number is 800-433-7300.
Active duty military members also receive free checked bags (up to three for leisure travel and five for those traveling on orders) and can board in the first boarding group.
Additionally, American Airlines offers 10% off vacation packages to those with a VetRewards membership.
Delta Air Lines
You’ll get discount military flights with Delta Air Lines if you’re an active duty service member. This benefit extends to Delta Vacations packages as well. To score these deals, you’ll need to call 800-221-1212.
Active duty military members also receive between three and five checked bags, with varying weight limits, depending on your class of service and if you’re flying on military orders or for leisure.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways provides a 5% discount on airfare to those who are active duty in the military, and only applies when you’re not traveling on orders.
The discount applies to all fare classes and destinations, even when traveling abroad, and includes two free checked bags.
You’ll need a VetRewards member ID to take advantage of the discount. To book your tickets, call 800-538-2583. The typical $25 service fee for booking over the phone is also waived.
Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines partners exclusively with Veteran’s Advantage to offer discounts to the armed forces. Members of VetRewards can get 5% off economy fares for all flight destinations. Business class flights are not eligible for the promotion.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines offers military pricing to those who are active duty as well as eligible government employees. The exact discount is unpublished, and you’ll need to call 800-435-9792 to book with the discount.
Military members on active duty may also bring more than two checked bags for free when flying the airline, weighing up to 100 pounds each. The baggage limit for all passengers — military members included — is 20 bags per flight.
United Airlines
Like Hawaiian Airlines, you’ll need to be enrolled with VetRewards from Veteran’s Advantage if you’re a military member seeking discounts on United flights. The total discount amount is 5% and is valid on all fare classes except basic economy. This special pricing has several limitations:
Flight must originate in the United States or Canada.
Flights must be going to the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America or the Caribbean.
Valid only on United-operated flights.
United provides some benefits to active duty service members and those who have been discharged in the last seven days, including free extra checked bags. For those traveling in uniform or are on leave, complimentary United Club lounge access is also provided.
About Veteran’s Advantage, VetRewards
Many airlines have teamed up with Veteran’s Advantage and its associated VetRewards program to offer cheap flights for military veterans — in some cases, it’s the only way to receive a discount. So what is Veteran’s Advantage?
Veteran’s Advantage is a third-party membership website available to both active duty and veteran service members. A month-to-month plan will cost you $9.99. Otherwise, it’s possible to purchase several years of access for less.
For example, a five-year membership costs around $200, which constitutes a large savings versus a monthly plan. If you’re a frequent traveler, signing up for a VetRewards account can save you money overall.
Baggage discounts for military members
Nearly all airlines offer special perks for those traveling with luggage —even low-cost carriers such as Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines are willing to give you free checked bags if you’re in the military.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Some airlines, such as United, also provide complimentary airport lounge access to active duty military members, though requirements — such as traveling on official orders — can vary.
These waived bag fee benefits vary depending on whether you’re changing your duty station or simply traveling for leisure. Make sure you verify how it works with your airline of choice before showing up at the airport.
About American Forces Travel
Another way to receive travel discounts is through American Forces Travel, a specialty website available only to those who are serving or who have served. It’s an official Morale, Welfare and Recreation site and uses your personal information to verify eligibility.
American Forces Travel isn’t just limited to military flight discounts. The website also has hotels, rental cars, cruises, event tickets and travel packages available at a discount.
If you’re looking for flights with military discounts
Joining the military and serving your country is no small feat. Many companies, including airlines, recognize your service, which is why they’ve made special accommodations for those in the armed forces.
Many major U.S. airlines offer some form of discount for those in the military, while others have partnered with Veteran’s Advantage to provide savings to active duty and veterans alike.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Spring is a time for new life and new vibes and home décor is one of the best (and easiest) renewal tools you have for a fresh start. Your space should feel as comfortable and stylish as it is functional, so adding the perfect home décor accents is a great way to make that dream a reality.
Plus, this year has been ripe with trends as timeless as they are trendy. Whether you want to go full Barbie with a retro pink kitchen, incorporate Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year, or hope to soak up some sunshine with a tropical chic décor theme, the following list will take you wherever you want to go. And you’ll get there in style. From sprucing up your home coffee station to creating your dream eclectic kitchen, check out these trendy home décor ideas for an easy spring makeover.
For your home coffee station
1. Cuisinart Grind and Brew 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker
Cuisinart Grind and Brew 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker
Start your daily grind with the perfect cup of coffee. In fact, with this great grind and brew machine, you can start it with 12 cups.
2. Glass Coffee Containers
Glass Coffee Containers and Coffee Station Organizer
Keep your coffee ingredients in order with these airtight containers for maximum freshness. The coffee organizer means you’ll give off major barista vibes any time you invite friends over for a cup of joe.
Eclectic kitchen décor finds
3. MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Canister
MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Canister
This set of three checkerboard pattern canisters will make your kitchen look great, and keep your ingredients organized all at the same time. Because home décor is no game!
4. Softiest Designs UO Exclusive Disco Donut Sculpture
Softiest Designs UO Exclusive Disco Donut Sculpture
You’ll be ready to dance the day away with this sparkly disco donut sculpture to liven up your kitchen.
To refresh your coffee table décor
5. Anthropologie Less Ottomans Hand-painted Menagerie Tray
Less Ottomans Handpainted Menagerie Tray
With two color options, this hand-painted menagerie tray makes an interesting addition to any coffee table, whether it’s used for food and beverage service or just for holding your favorite nicknacks!
6. Annie Leibovitz XXL Coffee Table Book
Annie Leibovitz XXL Coffee Table Book
Annie Leibovitz is one of the most celebrated photographers of the 20th century. Now, you can have her most iconic photos gracing your living room coffee table.
For your retro pink kitchen
7. Pink Smeg Retro Stand Mixer
Smeg Retro Stand Mixer, Pink
Nothing’s more fun than mixing it up with this gorgeous pink retro mixer from Smeg.
8. Retro Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Pink
Retro Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Pink
This retro pink refrigerator makes a real statement. And that statement is “I’ve got style and I don’t care who knows it!”
For your work-from-home setup
9. Industrial Modular Wall Desk
Industrial Modular Wall Desk
If you want to set up the ultimate work-from-home area, check out this high-quality adaptable wall desk set. It has five wood finishes and changes constantly to suit your needs, unlike your boss.
10. Katsunori Ergonomic Executive Chair
Katsunori Big and Tall Ergonomic Executive Chair
While comfort is important, great looks can’t be underestimated when it comes to a quality executive chair. This one is as comfy on the eyes as it is on the back, especially for the big and tall.
For fans of tropical chic décor
11. Tropical Leaves Wall Art
Tropical Leaves Wall Art
You’ll swear you’ve landed in the South Seas with these trendy wooden tropical leaves. They offer a lovely tropical silhouette to your living room wall.
12. Tropical Bloom Removable Wallpaper
Tropical Bloom Removable Wallpaper
What’s better than beautiful tropical wallpaper? How about beautiful tropical wallpaper that you can take with you when you move?
To hop on the aluminum furniture trend
13. Deco 79 Aluminum Drip Accent Table
Deco 79 Aluminum Drip Accent Table
This aluminum table is dripping with style. It’ll be a real conversation piece in any room you choose to place it.
14. Leporis Aluminum Accent Stool
Leporis Aluminum Accent Stool
This aluminum table is absolutely dripping with style. This will be a real conversation piece in any room where you choose to place it.
For Vintage Americana vibes
15. American Flag Framed Print
American Flag Framed Print
Nothing gives off vintage Americana vibes like a weathered framed flag print adorning your wall. You’ll pledge allegiance to spring with this one!
16. American Art Décor Licensed Chevron Gas Pump Plaque
American Art Décor Licensed Chevron Gas Pump Plaque
This cool gas pump wall plaque takes you back to a time when gas was just fifty cents a gallon and you had to buy cool wall décor IN PERSON.
For fun chalk sign ideas
17. Rustic Magnetic Kitchen Chalkboard Sign
Rustic Magnetic Kitchen Chalkboard Sign
A farmhouse-style chalkboard is a great way to give your kitchen folksy charm while offering an easy method to leave notes to family. Just don’t let them add too many treats to that grocery list!
18. WiFi Chalk Board Sign
Simply Said, INC WiFi Chalk Board Sign
Perhaps the most common question in any modern home is “What’s the WiFi password?” Now you can answer the question before it’s even asked with this fun chalkboard.
For fish tank-themed fun
19. Maryjane Mirrored Wall Mounted Aquarium Tank
Maryjane Mirrored Wall Mounted Aquarium Tank
Here fishy fishy! Decorate your home with this lovely one-gallon fish tank without taking up any additional counter space.
20. Fantasy Jellyfish Aquarium
Fantasy Jellyfish Aquarium
Now you can have fish tank fun without the hassle of caring for…you know…fish! This aquarium is maintenance-free and features lifelike rubber jellyfish that move and sway.
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“I would say more than 60% of the furniture I own is vintage, upcycled, or handmade. Everything has a history, which I love,” says the designer. One case in point is the curved sectional in the living room, which, as she puts it, “screams me the loudest,” and which she thrifted and reupholstered in a House of Hackney fabric and embellished with a fringe. “I am obsessed with that fringe. There’s something about the way the light shines through it in the morning and at night,” she adds. Other novelties include decorative table lamps, accent pillows, and chandelier shades handmade by her sister, muralist and textile artist Dede Chiloiro, in the living room and bedroom.
The walls weren’t exempt from time travel. “They were too white and too new for my personal style,” says Francesca, who papered them through and through until there was no white left in sight. (Her favorite is the textured grasscloth House of Hackney wallpaper in the living room, which she says inspires the most beautiful warmth.) “What was once so sterile turned into a cozy, moody sanctuary that’s perfect for me and my chickens,” she muses. Some things, such as the natural oak floor, the living room fireplace, and the wainscoting in the dining room, were left the way they were in a deliberate effort to honor the home’s history.