A new year often sparks urges for a refresh — toward healthy habits, goal setting, clutter clearing and bringing in more positive energy. For home decor enthusiasts, that all translates to the home, and often means clearing out the old and bringing in the new. Unlike fashion, though, home decor trends tend to take their time easing into major seasonal shifts (it’s easier and cheaper to swap out your wardrobe than your decor — sustainable too!). Some home decor trends that are here to stay going into 2024? Sustainability and indoor-outdoor living, the former driven by millennials and Gen Z, according to a new design report by global surfacing company Cosentino.
They pulled designer and homeowner data to forecast top trends for 2024 and beyond, along with insights from some of the country’s top designers. We asked some of our favorite designers too what they think will be hot next year. Here are new trends to watch and incorporate into your home – plus, rental hacks to try if you’re not down with a whole renovation!
Spas are all about relaxation and self care, not rushing out in the morning to work. Big bathtubs, open showers, saunas, and spa-like amenities are all going to be a big trend in 2024. According to the report, designers and homeowners agreed that a spa-inspired bathroom was among their top 3 home priorities overall.
Photo by Viktorya Sergeeva for Pexels
Rental hack: If you’re not ready to remodel or you rent, things like marble or stone accessories, plants, and if there’s room, a chair or settee will give your bath an elevated sanctuary feel. Adding a bath shelf is an easy and affordable way to create an ultimate spa bath too!
Bold Dramatic Moves
Design: Maestri Studio | Photo: Jenifer McNeil Baker
The neutral trend transitioned into more earthy tones in 2023 and will get even bolder come the new year. “I think 2024 is going to be all about bold, dramatic moves,” says Devon Wegman, founder and design director of Devon Grace Interiors in Chicago. “People are tired of playing it safe and sticking with neutrals, soft textures everywhere. Today, we’re incorporating more and more graphic stone, provocative artwork, area rugs and large statement chandeliers in spaces.”
Glam Metallics Are A Go
Cosentino Le Chic Eclectic Pearl Collection
Metallics always add a bit of luxe glamour to a space and 2024 takes them up a notch, using them in areas like kitchens and baths. According to the design report, designers chose metallic accents as their top up-and-coming trend, while homeowners rated it number two.
Photo by Sammsara Luxury Modern Home for Pexels
Rental hack:Add a vintage mirror, gold-based vase or lamps, or metallic drawer pulls to upgrade your decor.
Hotel Vibes
Design: JOSHUA SMITH | Photo: Lance Gerber
Travel can bring major inspo to your decor. According to the report, 70 percent of designers find inspiration from resorts and hotels. Look at bedding, art, and elegant details next time you’re staying at or just dining at a resort or hotel. Even a thoughtfully designed Airbnb can inspire your design to upgrade your personal home style.
Photo by Kader D. Kahraman for Pexels
Rental hack:“Grand, luxurious floral arrangements are a hallmark of hotel lobbies,” says Sarah Eilers of Houston-based Lucas/Eilers Design Associates. “Placing a floral arrangement on a console table or in an elegant vase in your entryway can set the tone for your entire home.”
Kitchen Is King
Design: Living with Lolo | Photo: Life Created
The central headquarters of any home, the kitchen remains a focal point for design. Homeowners are looking to upgrade their kitchens for their own use (the best appliances and conveniences) but also for entertaining their guests with comfortable spaces to sit and have conversation.
Investment in the kitchen remains the number one priority for homeowners and designers in terms of budget too. More than 80 percent of designers are now bringing kitchens to the backyard as well, says the Cosentino report.
Photo by Alexy Almond for Pexels
Rental hack: Bring in furniture you can take with you that creates an inviting space for you and your guest; add a chandelier or pendant to replace rental “boob” lights; and create a counter “scape” with cutting board, vase, and cookbooks as a focal point.
Brown In All Its Shades
Design: Living with Lolo | Photo: Life Created
“We’ll be drowning in brown in all the best ways in 2024,” says Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Nashville-based Brad Ramsey Interiors. “Think about coffee, cappuccino, and lattes and how those warm colors hit the spot just like your afternoon Starbucks fix.”
Design: Living with Lolo | Photo: Life Created
Look to make brown your next color accent. Pair your woods and leathers with a complimentary color to offset the mix of brown tones. Greenery always helps to infuse more color too!
Patterns and Bold Marble
Design: Urbanology Designs | Photo: Matti Gresham
Designers all agree that the rustic farmhouse aesthetic is out for 2024. “I think it’s time for the coastal California look to step aside. This came in hot after Modern Farmhouse faded away, and I think people are ready for more drama and uniqueness,” adds Wegman. Don’t second guess yourself in 2024 in all the ways, including decor — the bolder you are, the better!
Biophilic Design Elements
Photo by Charlotte May for Pexels
Bring the outdoors in for a healthy, happy home in 2024. “Biophilic design will thrive in 2024,” says Ginger Curtis, CEO and founder of Urbanology Designs in Dallas. “This trend centers around bringing the outdoors inside, creating spaces that foster a stronger connection with nature. Expect to see more indoor plants, living green walls, natural materials like stone and wood, and large windows to maximize natural light and reduce the barrier between the interior and exterior.”
What trends are you most excited about? For even more home decor inspo, sign up for our weekly email newsletter!
Inside: Looking for the best travel essentials? Look no further! This guide has everything you need to pack for a trip.
There’s no feeling quite like the thrill of embarking on a new adventure, and with these top-notch travel essentials, your journey is set to be an absolute blast!
These travel essentials play a crucial role in not just enhancing your travel experience but also in keeping your trip organized, efficient, and absolutely “funner”!
Prepare to soar into hassle-free travel filled with joy, convenience, and unforgettable moments.
Many of my readers diligently save for their vacation and sometimes forget the small details like – travel essentials.
Traveling can transform from a stressful ordeal into an exciting escapade when armed with these must-haves that smart travelers swear by.
So, buckle up for an exhilarating journey ahead, knowing you’re perfectly prepared to take on the world. Let the adventures begin!
What are Travel Essentials?
Getting back to travel? Isn’t it just lovely!
Well, travel essentials are your new best friend! Waves of seasoned globetrotters have prepared this special guide for your benefit.
These items qualify as essentials because they streamline the packing process, afford comfort while traveling, and add a dash of fun to your adventures.
Also, there are so many cool gadgets available now that make traveling seamless.
What things are essential for Travelling?
Before you head off on the trip of your dreams, pack the right travel essentials to maximize your fun!
Meds: Don’t forget your prescriptions and common medicines for allergies or pain. Remember, health first!
Travel Insurance: Give yourself peace of mind by buying travel insurance – especially if you are traveling internationally.
Travel Credit Card: Credit cards are a simple way to pay when traveling. Make sure you have no foreign transaction fees!
Document Copies: Keep digital copies of essential documents to minimize panic and ensure quick verification in case of loss. And share this with someone in case you lose your phone!
Joyous journeys come from well-prepared travelers!
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What are 3 items to take on vacation?
Embrace the exhilarating aura of preparing for your much-awaited vacation!
Tuning into your needs and wants as a traveler, three crucial items stand out as top priority:
Anti-Theft Bag: This is an ideal travel companion – it comes with built-in security features that keep your belongings secure, reducing the risk of theft during your travels. With advancements in fashion, you can now find stylish options with exceptional functionality, making them perfect for vacations where style and security are priorities.
eReader: like the Kindle Paperwhite, makes the perfect vacation companion as it combines the portability and weightlessness of a single book while providing the capacity to store thousands of novels for entertainment. Moreover, its adjustable light settings and long battery life facilitate reading during transit, whether it’s mid-flight or at night, without disturbing others – a luxury traditional books can’t offer.
Tech Organizer Case: ensures all essential tech accessories like cables, adapters, and devices are neatly organized and easily accessible. This not only eliminates the hassle of rummaging through your bag for a tangled cord but also helps to maximize the efficient use of space within the bag.
Remember, the key is to pack smart and embrace savvy travel essentials that optimize comfort and convenience!
Best Travel Essentials Everyone Wants
Planning for a trip often entails the excitement-charged task of selecting the right essentials to pack.
This section highlights the best travel essentials that everyone craves, from the appropriate attire to tech gadgets, that go a long way in enhancing convenience during your journey.
These items, carefully curated by experienced travelers, promise to make every trip, whether short or long, a hassle-free experience.
1. Apple AirTags
Get ready for your next adventure with a travel essential that’s as smart as it is useful – the Apple AirTag.
This tiny gadget can make your trips stress-free by preventing the harrowing instances of lost luggage.
As a modern-day traveler, you’ll love the security it brings to your journeys. Simply sync the AirTag with your ‘Find My map’ and place it in your luggage to keep track of your belongings from point A to point B.
Lost luggage is increasingly common, but with an Apple AirTag, you’re covered.
Don’t forget these handy AirTag holders!
2. Travel Backpack
A travel backpack is your next must-have travel essential!
It’s an easy and convenient way to keep all your essentials – think wallet, phone, keys, passport – in one place, and with some even featuring a built-in USB port, you’ll never run out of battery on the move.
Its versatility and functionality, such as several compartments for organization and a separate section for shoes, are just unbeatable. Seriously, these travel backpacks are way cooler than your backpack from high school!
3. Luggage Scale
Traveling soon? Don’t even think about neglecting the trusty luggage scale!
This small but mighty tool, loved by frequent travelers like us, is your ticket to a stress-free journey.
With this compact gadget, say goodbye to dreaded overweight baggage fees.
Pack it in your carry-on for on-the-go convenience and weigh it with precision every time. One of my best gifts ever!
4. Anti-Theft Bag
An Anti-Theft Bag offers peace of mind when traveling, with built-in safety features deterring theft. These bags aren’t just secure but also fashionable, which is perfect!
The locking zippers act as a deterrent against potential theft as they add an additional barrier of protection.
Moreover, the incorporation of RFID blocking technology in these bags ensures your valuable information stays protected. This technology prevents identity theft by safeguarding any object with an RFID chip, such as passports issued after 2006 and credit/debit cards, from being read through your bag.
While traditionally, anti-theft bags have been seen as lacking in style, new versions of these bags are coming up in several fashionable options. As stated, they are now available in various colors like navy, charcoal, merlot, and blush apart from the usual black.
5. Underwater Action Camera
As a travel essentials superstar, the Underwater Action Camera ensures you never miss capturing a thrilling aquatic adventure. Turning ordinary snapshots into extraordinary keepsakes, this camera becomes a must-have for wanderlust souls.
Remarkably sealed, this camera captures stunning photos even from underwater.
Perfect for beachy holidays, and even more beneficial for snorkelers and swimmers.
Get for a tech-free vacation!
Pro tip: Master using this camera during daylight for better results.
6. Bluetooth Earbud Transmitter – Perfect to Use Your Airpods Pro
Head off on your next adventure armed with the Twelve South Bluetooth Audio Transmitter. This coveted travel essential turns your flight into a personal cinema!
Its superb features include high-quality sound transmission, pairing capabilities with airplane TVs, and functioning as a headphone splitter.
Ideal for tech-savvy travelers and those who love using their own headphones.
7. External Portable Charger
Don’t forget your portable charger – it’s a true travel hero! Imagine never running out of battery while navigating unfamiliar territories or capturing memorable moments.
This external power bank ensures your devices always stay juiced up.
Lightweight and compact size
Fast-charging capability
Can charge multiple devices at once.
Expert tip: Choose a charger that can power your device type at least 4x from zero battery.
8. Lightweight Luggage
Investing in lightweight luggage helps travelers avoid excessive baggage fees.
This is what we did over ten years ago and I can truly say we have saved thousands of dollars.
Look for luggage that weighs less than ten pounds. With most airlines capping luggage weight between 40-50 pounds that gives you 30-40 pounds of your stuff that you can pack.
While it is an upfront investment in new luggage, you will significantly reduce the risk of incurring additional fees.
9. Travel Wallet
This is something I picked up right before my last flight (teal of course)! I loved it because it was lightweight and compact size for easy carrying. Even in my yoga pant pocket!
Heald exactly what I needed with organized compartments for ID, cash, and credit cards
Sleek design that suits any style
RFID protection to keep your information safe
Travel wallets are perfect for minimalist travelers who love simplicity and security.
Learn how much cash can you fly with. It is more than your travel wallet!
10. Passport Holder
A passport holder: the travel essential you never knew you needed.
It’s the perfect companion for safeguarding your most priceless travel accessory – your passport.
Super convenient, passport holders come equipped with slots for important IDs, boarding passes, and even stashed currency.
The RFiD-blocking feature ensures your personal details remain secure from potential scams.
If you are traveling internationally, then this is something you want to seriously consider.
11. Tech Organizer Case
It’s a must-have to neatly stash all your tech essentials. Never be frazzled by tangled cords or lost chargers again.
The Tech Organizer Case, like the top pick FYY Electronic Organizer, is your ultimate travel buddy ensuring a clutter-free trip.
Ample space for multiple chargers, durable, and easy-to-use zippered compartments.
Be the organized traveler everyone envies!
12. Portable Door Lock
You mustn’t miss out on the Portable Door Lock when packing your travel essentials! This compact lock adds top-notch security and peace of mind to your trips.
Portable door locks are hot on the list of travel essentials because of their simplicity – easy to use, install, and pack in your luggage.
Best for solo travelers and Airbnb guests, this device prevents unexpected entrance even with a key.
Pro tip: Always test the lock right after installation for foolproof safety.
13. Carry-On Rolling Luggage
With precise packing, it is feasible to fit everything you need into this one carry-on, thereby ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Picking the best carry-on rolling luggage for your needs requires careful consideration. Rolling luggage with 4-wheels can be ideal as it takes the weight off your wrist and can be rolled effortlessly by your side.
Spacious enough to accommodate all your travel essentials like laptop, shoes, etc.
Opt for brands that offer a good warranty to ensure the durability of your luggage.
If your travel involves different types of terrain or switching from airports to cobblestones, you might want to consider a wheeled backpack which can be rolled or carried as needed. Lastly, always ensure that your chosen luggage is lightweight, versatile, and
These suitcases not only provide convenience due to their mobility but also allow the freedom to avoid checked luggage.
14. Toiletry Bag
Toiletry bags have become an essential part of smart packing for travel.
Hanging toiletry bags, like the Bagsmart option, represent a game changer, contributing significantly to an organized, convenient, and hassle-free travel experience.
Pick one that has the ability to accommodate a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries.
15. Travel Duffel Bag
Whether it’s a long adventure or a weekend getaway, a travel duffel bag is incredibly useful.
It holds your essentials—clothes, tech gadgets, toiletry bag, keys, phone—safely and conveniently.
Remember the thrill of keeping all your belongings organized? You get that with the multiple compartments.
Also, let’s not forget about that separate section for shoe storage—talk about clutch!
Best feature? Some come with a built-in USB port to ensure your devices are always charged.
Expert tip: Look for a bag that’s airline-compliant, lightweight, and durable.
16. Travel Pillow
Ready for your next adventure? Don’t forget your travel pillow – it’s your key to ultimate comfort!
Many popular Travel Pillows offer tailor-made support for your head and neck, especially on those long-haul flights. It’s lightweight and packs easily, meaning less hassle for you.
Best for those who value a peaceful in-flight snooze, this game-changing essential comes with a memory-foam wall offering unmatched comfort.
Pro Tip: Pair it with the EverSnug travel blanket, It doesn’t just keep you cozy but doubles as a compact cushion too! Now, that’s travel made comfy and convenient!
17. Sunglasses Case
Off to a sun-soaked adventure, you need a nifty sunglasses case! It’s a must-have to safeguard your shades from damage while in transit.
Perfect for those eyeing to pack multiple pairs of sunglasses, you’d love this.
Expert tip – Choose a case that securely holds your glasses snugly, ensuring no damage takes place during the journey.
18. Contact Lens Case Kit
After my last late night flight, I was determined to find a better system for my contact. Enter the Contact Lens Case Kit.
Perfect for maintaining your vision care away from home, this kit boasts a mirror, mini solution bottle for your contacts, lens case, tweezer, and remover tool.
You can also get a contact lens and glasses case combo travel kit!
This handy, compact kit is an asset to anyone wearing contacts. Not only will it make your travel simpler, but it’s also affordable, priced under $10.
19. Reusable Water Bottle
Set off on your travels with the ultimate companion, a reusable water bottle!
Refill at any airport water fountain and save on plastic and expenditure – a savvy choice for our planet and wallet!
Plus this is a frugal green item with less plastic waste and sustainable hydration.
Expert Tip: Pack Liquid IV or Nuun tabs to make your drink a fun experience!
20. Packing Cubes
Say goodbye to disorganized luggage with packing cubes—your best travel buddy!
They’re a lifesaver for the frequent flyer seeking an organized and hassle-free travel experience. Especially those traveling with kids!
With features like shoe sleeves and compressibility, they’re ideal for chronic over-packers or shared-luggage travelers. I cannot say how helpful packing cubes are for trips!
21. Luggage Straps
Luggage straps are a travel essential you shouldn’t overlook! These handy accessories offer added security and ease for every traveler.
Designed with durability and convenience in mind, luggage straps, such as the TSA-approved luggage nylon straps, keep your checked bags secure during long flights. You’ll also love their visibility feature – bright neon colors that make your suitcase easily identifiable!
Ideal for people frequently on the go, they’ve garnered solid endorsements from seasoned travelers.
22. Travel Pill Box
Say goodbye to loose pills and experience medication portability at its finest with the Travel Pill Box – a real game changer for travel essentials!
The sheer convenience it offers makes it a must-have for every traveler.
The Travel Pill Box keeps your medications organized with multiple compartments that can be labeled as you wish.
Ideal for people on the go, it eliminates the need for bulky pill boxes and plastic bags.
Expert Tip: Allocate distinct sections for different medications and times of the day to ensure regularity even when your travel schedule is unpredictable.
23. Universal Travel Adapter
This top-quality adapter is a jet-setter’s delight, ensuring you’re always powered up on your globe-trotting adventures.
A travel adapter is a useful device that allows travelers to use their electronic devices in countries where different plug standards are used. It provides a hassle-free way to keep electronic devices like laptops, phones, or cameras powered up, vital for staying connected and entertained during international travels.
With its functionality in over 150 countries and capacity to charge six devices simultaneously, it’s perfect for the tech-savvy traveler.
Remember, it’s not a voltage converter, so ensure your devices are dual-voltage. If not, pack an adapter that converts voltage.
24. TSA Approved Luggage Lock
Secure your luggage with the TSA Approved Luggage Lock, an absolute must-have for every savvy traveler.
With this lock, enjoy peace of mind on your journeys, assured your luggage is safe and no one has been through your stuff!
Featuring easy-to-read dials, an inspection indicator, and a durable zinc alloy design, it’s perfect for frequent flyers and security-conscious travelers.
Expert Tip – Always lock your suitcase when unattended to deter theft. And carry an extra in case yours is lost.
25. TSA Approved Travel Bottles
These TSA Approved Travel Bottles are magnificent game-changers for any frequent flier.
They’re precisely designed, with an easy dispensing mechanism, and leak-proof tops, plus conform to TSA size limits.
A supreme choice for savvy travelers, they’re reusable, eco-friendly, and wallet-friendly.
26. Luggage Cup Holder
The Luggage Cup Holder is about to be your new jet-setting best friend. (In fact, I’m buying this for my son for Christmas.)
This genius accessory deftly holds your coffee or water bottle, freeing you up to maneuver through busy airports effortlessly.
Even better, it features a handy pouch for storing essentials like ID’s or credit cards.
Juggle less and travel more, with this brilliant travel necessity!
27. Compression Socks
Long-haul flights call for compression socks! They increase blood flow while reducing swelling and the risk of blood clotting which may occur due to prolonged periods of sitting, such as during long flights.
Thankfully, they are way more stylish than the traditional hospital-issued white compression socks. This has caused their popularity to soar, providing pressure from the ankle upwards, making them essential for flights.
These socks provide graduated compression especially high at the ankles and reduce upwards towards the knee, facilitating increased blood flow.
Moreover, they are not only meant for those with medical conditions, but also beneficial for travelers, athletes, and those who stand for long hours at work. They enhance overall leg health by minimizing swelling, fatigue, and discomfort, thus improving the quality of your daily activities and sleep.
28. Cruise Luggage Tags
Get ready to sail in style and convenience with one indispensable travel essential – cruise luggage tags.
It’s that little gadget you never knew you needed until you’ve used one and seen its magic.
Here’s why: These tags make your bags unmistakable, reducing the risk of losing them amidst a sea of sameness. It’s a godsend for frequent cruisers as your company-issued tags won’t fall off.
Go for brightly-colored, durable tags. A simple trick, but could save you from a world of lost luggage stress.
29. Laundry soap sheets
One of the best ways to pack less is to run a quick load of luggage on your trip. So, these laundry soap sheets come in handy! We also pack two dryer balls as well.
Ready to pack for your next adventure? Don’t forget laundry soap sheets, a travel game-changer! –
They’re lightweight and occupy minimal space. This is great when packing a minimalist capsule wardrobe.
No time to find a laundromat? Then, use SinkSuds which can be used anywhere!
30. Security Cameras at Home
Securing your home with surveillance cameras while traveling is a crucial precaution.
The peace of mind offered by a vigilant “electronic eye” is incomparable. These cameras capture real-time footage, aiding in deterring burglaries and providing evidence if needed. Perfect for frequent travelers, it assures your abode’s safety from afar.
When we travel, we install one inside our house with an instant notification on our phones. As motion is detected, a siren noise goes off, which I’m sure would terrify any intruder!
Expert tip: Opt for cameras with remote-access features, so you’re always a glance away from your home.
What are the five most important items you need for these vacations?
Setting off for your much-anticipated vacation?
Here are the top five must-have travel essentials for an easy-going and memorable adventure.
Travel Planner and Journal: This bundle is essential for planning your trip and keeping track of your daily activities. The planner helps organize your itinerary, while the journal provides a wonderful means to record memories and experiences from your trip.
Multipurpose Clothing: Items like versatile shoes or pants that are ideal for multiple activities such as hiking and sightseeing are crucial to pack. Such items can save you space in your baggage, simplify your travel outfits, and cover a variety of travel occasions or activities.
All-in-One Travel Bag: A multipurpose bag, like a fanny pack or backpack, is an important versatile travel essential. This item keeps your essentials within easy reach, aids organization, and can adapt to a variety of travel situations.
Personal Care Essentials: Depending on your destination and planned activities, personal care items may include sunblock, moisturizer, or insect repellant. They ensure you are prepared for the environmental conditions you may face and can greatly enhance your overall comfort and well-being during your travels.
Travel Luggage: This trendy luggage piece thrills travelers with its durability and sleek design. Make sure your suitcases are lightweight!
Remember, a well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler. Aim for comfort, protection, and convenience!
Which Essentials for Travelling are your Next Purchase?
Ready to embark on your next adventure?
Don’t let unexpected situations curb your enthusiasm – it all starts with being prepared.
Remember, travel isn’t just about the destination but the journey, and the journey includes packing well!
With these travel essentials ideas, you can load up your bags with high-quality travel gear, ensuring comfort and stress-free experiences during your trip and beyond. Many of which are actually Amazon travel must haves.
Investing in essentials now will not just save you money down the line, but also help avoid irritating travel hitches.
Whether it’s tangle-free cords, smart luggage, or convenient packing tools – each item on our list has earned its spot by proving its worth on countless journeys for me.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, remember to refer back to this list. Good preparation equals to great journeys!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Does being an authorized user affect your credit? Well, becoming an authorized user can help you build your credit under the right circumstances. Before you agree to be an authorized user or add an authorized user to your account, it’s important to understand the potential risks and benefits. This article provides more information about how adding an authorized user works and how it could impact your credit.
In This Piece
What Is an Authorized User?
An authorized user is a person who has the authority to use another person’s credit card account. In many cases, the authorized user receives a credit card in their name. Unlike co-signers and joint account holders, authorized users aren’t financially responsible for making payments.
Typically, cardholders only add someone they trust, such as a child or significant other, as an authorized user. There are a few reasons a cardholder might want to add an authorized user to their account, including:
To help the person build their credit history
To make it easier for the authorized user to make payments when the cardholder isn’t available
To allow someone to make purchases on the cardholder’s behalf
The primary reason a person wants to become an authorized user is that they’re unable to secure a credit card on their own. For example, a child may not have the established credit to get a credit card, so a parent adds their child as an authorized user under their account.
Authorized Users Versus Joint Accounts
Authorized users aren’t the same as joint account holders. Authorized users can charge money to your account, but they can’t add other authorized users and they can’t dispute charges. They also can’t request credit limit increases, transfer balances, or close your account.
In contrast, joint account holders can do all of those things and more. Joint account holders are jointly liable for the account, and they’re also jointly liable for repayments.
How Do Authorized Users Work?
The process of adding an authorized user to your account varies between credit card companies. Some credit card providers may have age and other requirements that must be met before you can add an authorized user. You may also be able to set limits on how much the authorized user can charge to your credit card.
You’ll need basic information about the person you’re adding, such as name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You should contact your credit card company directly to see how this process works.
Once the application process is complete, the authorized user receives their card. They can use it just like any other credit card. Depending on the specific credit card company and your preferences, you may be able to give the authorized user access to your account information so they can track packages and report a lost card, errors, or potential fraud. Keep in mind that giving the authorized user access to your account may also allow them to see your purchase history and redeem special rewards.
It’s important to note that authorized users don’t receive credit card bills and aren’t responsible for making payments. This responsibility lies solely with the cardholder.
Can I Build Credit as an Authorized User?
For a long time, authorized users were able to build credit by “piggybacking” on the primary account holder’s own good credit record. Many modern scoring models no longer recognize this loophole—but a few still do. If you’re hoping to build credit by becoming an authorized user, you need to do two things:
Check if the card company reports authorized users to credit bureaus.
See if authorized users are reported as if they’re account holders.
If the account holder’s card company does report authorized user activity, you’ll see an individual account on your credit report. Providing the primary cardholder continues to make payments and handle the account responsibly, you’ll likely benefit from the listing.
Can Adding Authorized Users Hurt Your Credit?
Before adding an authorized user to your credit card account, you need to ask yourself several questions.
Does adding an authorized user affect my credit?
Will adding an authorized user hurt my account?
Will adding an authorized user help their credit?
The answer to these questions depends a lot on your specific credit card company. Not all credit card companies report authorized users to the credit bureaus. If your credit card company doesn’t report authorized users, adding them to your account will have no impact on their credit score. If, on the other hand, your credit card company does report authorized users, it can help them start building up credit.
Either way, adding an authorized user to your credit card account shouldn’t automatically effect your credit history. However, there are several ways taking this step could hurt your credit score over time.
First, if the authorized user charges too much to your credit card, you may have difficulty making your monthly payments. Payment history makes up 35% of your FICO score. So if you can’t make your monthly payment because of charges accrued by an authorized user, your credit profile, and wallet, could take a hit. If possible, set limits for how much your authorized user can charge to your credit card account. This step can help to reduce the risk of overspending.
Secondly, additional charges to your credit card account can also increase your credit utilization ratio. The more you charge to your credit card, the higher your credit utilization ratio is. Your outstanding debt accounts for about 30% of your overall credit score. You should try to keep your debt ratio under 30%.
What if an Authorized User Misuses Their Card?
Let’s imagine you are the primary account holder, and your teenager is the authorized user. What would happen if they decided to buy a new wardrobe without telling you? The answer is simple—you’d be on the hook for the whole amount. Your wallet could take a serious hit.
Does Removing an Authorized User Hurt Their Credit?
If your authorized user doesn’t behave, you can remove them from your account pretty quickly. At that point, they can no longer use their card and can’t charge any more money to your account.
Credit age history makes up 15% of your credit score. If your credit card company previously reported the authorized user as an individual account holder and they suddenly get removed from your account, the removal might look like a closed account, regardless, it will likely be removed for age calculations. In that case, the formerly authorized user’s credit score could dip.
Does Being an Authorized User Affect Your Credit?
Becoming an authorized user could affect your credit if the credit card company reports your status to the credit reporting agencies. If the credit card company doesn’t report your authorized user status, taking this step won’t impact your credit score at all. However, you’ll still have the benefit of charging purchases to a credit card.
How being an authorized user impacts your credit depends largely on the cardholder’s payment history. If the cardholder has a strong history of making on-time credit card payments, it could help you build your credit and increase your credit score. On the other hand, if the cardholder has frequent missed or late payments, it could hurt your credit score.
It’s important to understand the cardholder’s credit history before agreeing to become an authorized user. It’s also important to repay the cardholder for any purchases you make as quickly as possible. This step will help the cardholder make their payments on time.
How Long Does It Take an Authorized User to Show Up on Credit Report?
It takes about 30 days for your authorized user status to reflect on your credit report. However, not all credit card companies report authorized users to the credit bureaus. In these cases, your credit report may never show that you’re an authorized user.
What to Consider About Authorized Users
If you want to build your credit by becoming an authorized user, start by talking to friends and family members you trust. Be sure the cardholder has good credit and makes on-time payments.
If a friend or family member agrees to add you as an authorized user, it’s important to set clear boundaries right from the start. For example, determine your specific credit limit right away and whether the cardholder wants you to ask for permission before using the card.
You also need to make a clear payment agreement. Determine exactly how much you’ll pay each month and the date monthly payments are due. Make sure you create a budget so you know exactly how much you can afford to pay each month. Also, be sure to track your purchases so you know exactly how much you owe.
It’s crucial to have this agreement in place before becoming an authorized cardholder. This agreement allows you to know exactly what’s expected of you. It can also help you determine if this is the right option for you.
Four Tips to Bear in Mind
Set clear spending rules before you make family members authorized users.
Talk to prospective authorized users about credit, including credit utilization.
Set up text message alerts to make sure you know when authorized users make purchases.
Remove authorized users if they don’t stick to the rules you make.
Simply Adding Authorized Users Won’t Hurt Your Credit—but Be Careful
Ultimately, authorized users aren’t a threat to your credit unless they misuse your credit card account. Many authorized users coexist happily with main account holders for many years. Problematic authorized users, unlike joint account holders, can be easily removed.
If you’re thinking of adding an authorized user and you want to keep track of your credit, why not subscribe to ExtraCredit from Credit.com? ExtraCredit is great if you’re an authorized user—tools like Build It can help you strengthen your credit profile by letting you add rent and utilities as trade lines to your credit history.
For many people, college is the first time they’re truly in charge of their own finances. While it’s often a challenge, creating and maintaining a savings account for students is a foundational lesson for building healthy financial habits that last a lifetime.
And saving money as a student has its short-term, practical benefits, too.
“Life throws a lot of expenses our way that are hard to plan for—like when your car suddenly refuses to start when you’re running late for class,” says Jacqueline DeMarco, a freelance writer specializing in personal finance content. “That’s why building out a solid emergency fund is something that every college student should prioritize.”
So, how can you save money as a student in college? These savings tips can help give you some monetary breathing room and a financially secure start in adulthood.
Can you make your bank accounts work for you?
First things first: Make sure you have a good place to keep your savings. That means finding a bank that’s convenient and offers the features and benefits that work best for you.
DeMarco notes that students may feel limited to banks available on or near campus.
“If they aren’t happy with their on-campus bank options, college students may find that an online bank is a better fit for them,” DeMarco says. “Not only do online-only banks offer all of their services digitally, they also tend to have lower fees and offer higher interest rates than banks with expensive brick-and-mortar locations to pay for.”
Whichever bank you choose, DeMarco says there are two accounts every new student should strongly consider opening: a checking account and a savings account.
Setting up both a savings account and a checking account can be done online within a few hours at the bank of your choice.
How can students save money?
Once you’ve set up your checking and saving accounts, it’s time to take the next step toward financial responsibility. One of the best ways to save money for students is by setting up a budget.
How much should a college student spend per month? To determine that, DeMarco recommends subtracting your monthly expenses (essentials like food, utility bills, etc.) from your monthly income (whether it’s from a part-time job, student loans, or money from a parent). Doing this simple math will help reveal how much you can safely spend each month on fun stuff like new clothes or going to the movies—after you’ve put aside a portion for your savings, of course.
Looking to add more wiggle room to your budget? Try these money-saving tips for students:
Shop at consignment and thrift stores
Consignment and thrift stores offer previously owned clothes and other items at a discount. The primary differences are that thrift stores tend to be nonprofit organizations, accept more donations, and are generally less selective in what they choose to sell. Consignment stores are often more selective about the donations they accept, and they pass a portion of the sale to the person who donated—or consigned—the product.
DeMarco notes that consignment stores are not only a smart option for saving money—they’re also a way for students to make extra money by selling unwanted items.
Buy used textbooks
Textbooks can cost students hundreds of dollars if they’re new. Instead of paying full price, consider buying or renting used textbooks. “Many college bookstores offer used options, and online platforms often provide affordable alternatives,” DeMarco says.
You might also be able to recoup some of the money you spent once you’ve finished a class by reselling your textbooks to a used bookstore or an online vendor. “Sometimes I could even sell a book for more than I bought it,” DeMarco says, referencing her time as a student. Cha-ching!
Think about meal planning
So busy with classes and assignments that you find spending money at vending machines for on-the-go snacks easier than planning ahead? Stop, shop, and save. Set aside a few hours each weekend to prepare all of your meals for the week to come. Or, if you live in a dorm, hoard some extra items from the dining hall so you’re ready when those late-night study session cravings inevitably strike.
“Planning meals in advance gives students the chance to make a shopping list and stick to it,” DeMarco says. “As a bonus, having their meals planned will make it easier to avoid the temptation to dine out after a long day of classes.”
Explore free activities
Who says you need to splurge to have a good time? There are plenty of ways to have fun without spending money. Chances are, multiple free activities are happening on and around your campus on any given night. You can look up event calendars online or keep an eye out for announcements. Groups and clubs are always looking for participants and potential new members, so you can bet they’ll be happy to have you. (Plus, a lot of these events have free food.)
Ask for student discounts
It’s common for stores on and off campus to offer student discounts. To reap the benefits, always keep your student ID in your wallet, purse, or cellphone case so you can flash it and save some money.
“You’d be surprised how many retailers, restaurants, theaters, and entertainment venues offer discounts specifically for students,” says DeMarco, who relied on student discounts to help build her professional wardrobe as she neared graduation. “Plenty of major mall brands offer these discounts.”
Get a cheap coffee maker
Relying on caffeine to get through those late-night study sessions—or just to get moving each morning? Save money on java by buying a coffee maker and becoming your own barista. DeMarco says that a cheap or used French press is easy to use and could save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
Rethink the car
It can be tempting to bring a car to college—whether for grocery runs or the occasional road trip. But the costs of gas, maintenance, and parking can add up quickly, DeMarco says. So leaving that set of wheels at home is another way for students to save money. Most college campuses are great for biking and walking. And many also provide shuttle buses and rides to essential off-campus places like grocery stores—as well as safe rides at night.
Track your savings
As you put these ways for students to save money into practice, DeMarco suggests tracking their positive impact on your budget. That way, you can see how your small saving techniques can add up over time. There are even money-saving apps for students you can download to measure your progress.
Where should college students keep their savings?
As you’re finding new ways to trim your budget, where should you put the money you’ve set aside? DeMarco says you’ve got a few options to consider:
Rewards checking account
While there are better places for long-term savings, rewards checking accounts are a valuable tool for college students as they begin to manage their own finances. Certain online checking accounts will provide cash back rewards based on how much you spend. For example, the Discover® Cashback Debit Account provides a 1% cash back bonus1 as well as overdraft protection if you overdraw your account.
Checking accounts are an ideal place to keep your spending money, funds for paying bills, and income earnings from part-time jobs or side hustles since they allow you to access the cash you need at any time.
High-yield savings account
Starting a high-yield savings account, like the Discover Online Savings Account, in college can make a dramatically positive impact on the rest of your financial life.
DeMarco recommends a high-yield savings account for any money that students may not immediately need but still want to keep available. “That way, their savings can earn interest, but they can access those funds if needed,” she says.
Call it a sunny day fund—online savings with no monthly fees
Discover Bank, Member FDIC
And putting aside a set amount of money each month into a high-yield savings account can start earning you compound interest. Even depositing a small amount of savings while you’re in college can add up over the years to make a sizable stash down the line.
CD
CDs, or certificates of deposit—especially those with a longer maturity term—can provide a higher return than a savings account. Use CDs for savings that you don’t expect to need over the CD’s term. The term length for CDs can vary widely. For example, Discover Certificate of Deposit terms range between three months and 10 years, with competitive annual percentage yields.
“If a student has a solid chunk of savings they know they won’t touch for a while, they may want to consider keeping their money safe in a CD, where it’s guaranteed to experience growth,” DeMarco suggests.
Retirement account
If you’re ready to start preparing for the more distant future (always a good idea), you can start by contributing money to an IRA, or individual retirement account. While some college students wait until they have a full-time job that offers a 401(k) plan to begin saving for retirement, the sooner you can get a head start, the better.
Discover offers both IRA CDs and IRA savings accounts.
Why not start saving while in college?
There’s really no better time to start saving than in college. To make your savings dreams a reality, set goals at the start of each semester and check your progress periodically. Maybe even reward yourself (nothing too extravagant, of course) for staying on track. Something as small as the occasional special meal or an activity that doesn’t blow your budget can be a fun way to celebrate those financial milestones.
Saving money can also create some amazing memories with the new friends you’ll be making. Ramen might seem dull, but challenging friends to see who can come up with the best recipe using cheap instant noodles can spice up the fun.
College can be a wonderful experience. And weaving these saving tips into that experience can help build the foundation for a comfortable and secure financial future. Just think: It could all start with a high-yield savings account.
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third-party or information.
1 ATM transactions, the purchase of money orders or other cash equivalents, cash over portions of point-of-sale transactions, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) payments (such as Apple Pay Cash), online sports betting and internet gambling transactions, and loan payments or account funding made with your debit card are not eligible for cash back rewards. In addition, purchases made using third-party payment accounts (services such as Venmo® and PayPal®, who also provide P2P payments) may not be eligible for cash back rewards. Apple Pay® is a trademark of Apple Inc. Venmo and PayPal are registered trademarks of PayPal, Inc. Samsung Pay is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Google, Google Pay, and Android are trademarks of Google LLC.
Do you want to learn how to get free clothes? There are many ways to get free clothes online and in-person, which means you can save money and have a new outfit. From online shopping to community groups and social media, there are many platforms where you can find free clothes for yourself and your…
Do you want to learn how to get free clothes?
There are many ways to get free clothes online and in-person, which means you can save money and have a new outfit.
From online shopping to community groups and social media, there are many platforms where you can find free clothes for yourself and your family. In this article, I will help you find free clothing both online and near you.
Whether you’re an expert bargain hunter or just learning the ropes, taking advantage of free outfits can be the key to sprucing up your wardrobe without spending a ton of money. Read on to learn more about how to get free clothes, discounts, and clever hacks to get free clothes while maintaining your budget.
Key Takeaways
Explore online platforms, like Facebook Buy Nothing groups, Craigslist, and Freecycle.org, for free clothing options.
Connect with friends and communities to organize clothing swaps.
Blogging or social media can lead to free clothing items and discounts.
How To Get Free Clothes
1. Facebook Buy Nothing Groups
If you’re looking for the easiest way to learn how to get free clothes, Facebook Buy Nothing groups can be one of the best options in your local area. These local groups on Facebook are part of the Buy Nothing Project, which aims to connect neighbors who are willing to give items away for free, including clothing.
I have given away many, many things in my Facebook Buy Nothing group, and I see lots of clothes given away all the time. You can find free clothes for women, men, children, and babies in your local Facebook Buy Nothing group.
To get started with Facebook Buy Nothing groups, simply search for a Buy Nothing group in your town or city. If you live in a large city, there might be multiple groups for different neighborhoods. Once you find the right group, send a request to join. You can start by searching “your city name Buy Nothing Group” as an example.
After you’ve been accepted into the group, you can start looking for free clothes. Keep an eye out for posts from group members offering clothing items they no longer need, and don’t hesitate to ask questions and state your interest in the items you like. When you find something you’d like to have, simply comment on the post to let the person know that you’re interested. The person may choose to gift the item to the first person who comments, or they might decide to draw names at random.
Another way you can learn how to get free clothes on Buy Nothing is by hosting a clothing round-robin. This is when people put together a box of clothes together that goes person to person. You can try items on in your home, take clothing you like, add to the box, and pass it along to the next person.
Facebook Marketplace may also have free clothing listed as well.
2. Look at Craigslist for free clothing
Craigslist has a free section on their website where you can find clothing and other items that people are giving away.
To get started, go to Craigslist.org and head to the free section of the website. Then type “clothes” or whatever specific article of clothing you are looking for in the Craigslist search bar.
Then when you find a free clothing listing that you like, simply click on the title or image to view more information about the offer and send an email to the person.
Note: For your safety, it is a good idea to meet the person in a public place and bring a friend along when you pick up the clothes.
3. Check Freecycle.org for clothing and shoes
Freecycle.org is a great resource for where to get free clothes online.
Freecycle is a nonprofit movement/website that allows members to give away and receive items for free in their local area. Freecycle is all about reducing waste and keeping items out of landfills.
To get started, create a free account on Freecycle.org and start looking at what is available in your area.
When you find something you like, simply respond to the listing, and the person will give you details on how to pick up the items.
For more content related to how to get free clothes, check out: 15 Awesome Ways To Get Free Stuff.
4. Organize a swap with friends to get free clothes
Setting up a clothing swap with friends and family is a fun way to refresh your wardrobe while also learning how to get free clothes.
Here are some steps to host a fun clothing swap:
Set a date and location – Choose a date and time that works for you and your friends. It’s a good idea to host the swap at your home or another comfortable space where everyone feels welcome. Make sure there is enough room for everyone to display and try on clothes.
Invite your friends – Create a guest list and send out invites. You can use social media, email, or text message to invite your friends. Make some ground rules for how the swap will work, and ask everyone to bring clean, gently used clothes that they no longer wear.
Prepare the space – Set up an area where friends can display their clothing items. This can be as simple as just using a dining room table or everyone sitting on the couch in the living room.
You can make it even more fun by asking everyone to bring snacks and food as well and make it more of a potluck.
I also recommend checking out the website Rehash. This is an online swap website where you can trade clothing with others online.
5. Birthday freebies
Many stores give you discounts or free stuff on your birthday when you sign up for their email lists or by joining customer loyalty programs.
These offers can be in the form of discounts, coupons, or even free items for a limited time.
Related: 31 Birthday Freebies You Should Sign Up For
6. Participate in sweepstakes and contests
If you want to learn how to get free clothes from companies, participating in sweepstakes and contests is a great option. Many stores and clothing brands have contests on their social media platforms, offering free clothing or clothing gift cards.
You can often find these by simply following your favorite stores and brands on social media – like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – to see when they hold a giveaway.
Another way to find sweepstakes and giveaways to enter is to search related hashtags on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Many times, sweepstakes and giveaways are tagged with these hashtags in order to grow even more and so that people can find them. I used to enter giveaways all the time, and this is exactly how I would find giveaways to enter. Some hashtags to find free online clothing giveaways include:
#sweepstakes
#giveaway
#clothinggiveaway
#contest
7. Find money-making apps that will pay you in clothing gift cards
If you’re looking to add some new clothing to your wardrobe without spending a lot of money, you can try using money-making apps that give you free gift cards or PayPal cash.
This may include taking surveys and shopping online, you can earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards to popular clothing stores. Here are some apps to consider using for free gift cards:
Swagbucks is a popular site that rewards you for completing tasks, such as watching videos, taking surveys, and shopping online. You can earn points and redeem them for gift cards from popular stores, like Amazon, Target, Walmart, Adidas, and Under Armour, where you can purchase clothing.
American Consumer Opinion is a popular survey website where you can get paid around $1 to $5 (longer surveys pay more than shorter ones) for each survey you answer.
Branded Surveys is an online survey company that pays around from $0.50 to $5.00 per survey that you answer. Like with all survey companies that I recommend, it is free to join.
Fetch Rewards is a grocery rewards app where you can redeem your points for clothing gift cards. You scan your receipts from grocery shopping and earn points that can be exchanged for gift cards at various clothing stores, like American Eagle, Gap, Lululemon, Old Navy, and more.
Upside is a cell phone app that gives you cash back for using the gas stations that are listed in their app. You simply sign up for a free account, and then look at the Upside app to find gas stations located near you. With Upside, you can make up to $0.25 per gallon cash back at gas stations. You can then redeem your earnings for cash to your bank account, but also for free gift cards to H&M, Nike, Target, Walmart, and more.
Ibotta is an app where you can unlock rebates and rewards, go shopping, verify your purchases, and then get cash.
By using these apps, you can earn gift cards to clothing stores without spending a dime.
Related: 16 Real Ways To Earn Free Gift Cards (Amazon, Target, Visa)
8. Redeem credit card rewards points to put towards free gift cards for clothes
You can benefit from using your credit card rewards points to score free gift cards for clothes!
Many credit card issuers offer reward programs, which give you points for every dollar you spend. By accumulating these points, you can redeem them for various rewards, including gift cards to your favorite clothing stores.
The way that rewards credit cards work is that every time you use your credit card, you can earn points for spending money. Yes, spending money just like how you normally spend money.
Two rewards credit cards that I personally like include:
Note: Using credit cards for their rewards is only wise if you are a responsible credit card user. You do not want to add debt to your life to earn credit card rewards, as debt that gains interest is not free or worth it! You need to make sure you’re paying your credit card balance in full each month for the gift card rewards to be worth it so that you are not taking on debt that you don’t need.
9. Start a clothing blog or social media account
Starting a clothing blog or social media account can be a fun way to get free clothes to promote. By building a following, clothing brands may want to partner with you and give you free clothing.
To begin, choose a platform where you want to focus your time, such as starting a fashion blog or setting up an Instagram account. For example, if you’re passionate about taking pictures, Instagram can be a perfect platform for this. If you want to focus on writing, then a blog may be better. If you prefer video, then starting a YouTube channel or TikTok may be for you.
Next, you’ll want to focus on growing your audience. You can grow your following by regularly posting high-quality content and replying to comments.
Once you are ready, you can start reaching out to clothing brands for possible partnerships by sending emails or social media messages, telling them that you are interested in promoting their products and discussing how the collaboration can benefit the both of you. You may be asked to share statistics about your blog or social media account, including your follower count and engagement rate to show that the partnership would be worthwhile.
In addition to receiving free clothing, partnering with clothing companies can lead to other benefits, such as promo codes for your readers or even earning referral income for any purchases from followers made through your affiliate links.
You can learn how to start a blog in my free How To Start a Blog Course.
Note: Please keep in mind that being a trustworthy blogger or social media influencer means always disclosing when a post is sponsored or when you receive a product for free. Adding disclaimers is also the law when using affiliate links or sharing sponsored posts.
10. Get a job at a clothing store
When I was younger, I worked at a clothing store. If we beat our monthly sales goals, we were given a percentage of that in a gift card to the store. This was a great way to get free clothing!
Now, not all clothing stores have this perk, but you may be able to ask around and see if others do.
Another perk of working at a clothing store is the employee discount that you can get. As an employee, you typically receive a good employee discount – sometimes up to 50% off. This could be a great way for you to save money on clothes while earning a paycheck.
11. Reach out to a local nonprofit or charitable group
Many nonprofits or charitable groups offer free clothing to those in need.
Shelters, religious organizations, and other groups often have clothing banks available. Don’t be afraid to reach out to these organizations if you find yourself needing how to get free clothes for everyday or work.
12. School donation programs
Some schools and universities host clothing donation programs, which can help students who may be struggling financially.
You can keep an eye out for these events to get free clothes for yourself or your children. Schools might even have partnerships with local retailers, providing designer clothing at no cost, along with essentials.
I recommend reaching out to your school and asking what options are available for you.
13. Local yard sales
Yard sales are a great place to find cheap or even free clothes. Some homeowners may be willing to part with clothes for very cheap or free, especially towards the end of the day when they are packing up and they want to get rid of the items that are remaining.
14. Pregnancy and baby sample boxes
If you are pregnant, then you can probably get a free baby box filled with items you’ll want and need.
You typically get a free baby box when you create a baby registry. These boxes are often filled with free baby samples, such as a baby onesie, baby bottles, diapers, pacifiers, and more.
I got both the Amazon baby box and the Babylist baby box when I was pregnant, and they were both great and free! I simply created a registry through both sites (which is something that I was already doing), and I received the free baby box once someone purchased something off my baby registry.
In each, there was one baby onesie. So it wasn’t a lot of free baby clothing, but it was fun to receive and there were lots of other free items in the box as well.
Related: Best Baby Gear – Guide For New Parents
15. Refer friends to your favorite stores
Referral programs are offered by many online clothing companies, and this may get you some free clothing.
When you refer a friend to the website, both you and your friend often receive a discount or credit towards your next purchase. You can share your unique referral link with friends and family, or promote it on social media to reach a larger audience.
Some online stores which have a referral program include Lulus, Poshmark, ThreadUP, Stitch Fix, Rent The Runway, and many more.
Make the most of online shopping to get money to put towards clothes
When shopping online, there are ways that you can save money. While these won’t lead you to getting entirely free clothing, these tips can make clothing more affordable.
Use coupons and promo codes –Always keep an eye out for coupons and promo codes before making a purchase to save money on clothes. Websites, like Honey, often have promo codes available for online stores. This way, you can save on your purchases and have more money to put towards new clothes. You can install the Honey browser extension, which automatically finds and applies available coupon codes and promo codes when you shop online. Then shop like normal and when you’re ready to checkout, Honey will instantly find and apply the best coupon codes directly to your shopping cart.
Cash-back sites –Using cash-back sites is another smart way to save money on your apparel purchases. Rakuten offers cash back (up to 40% cash back!) for shopping at many different online retailers (they have thousands of options). Simply browse the Rakuten website, find stores you normally shop at, and earn a percentage of cash back for every purchase.
Loyalty programs –Signing up for loyalty programs can be a great way to earn points or rewards that can be put towards new clothes. Many clothing stores offer rewards programs for their customers. As a member, you can earn points with each purchase that can be redeemed for discounts or even free clothing items.
Shop at thrift stores and consignment shops –Thrift stores can be a great source of free or inexpensive clothes. There are even online thrift stores, such as ThredUP and OfferUp.
Frequently asked questions about how to get free clothes
Below, I answer common questions about ways to get clothing for free.
Where can I find free clothing giveaways?
One way to find free clothes that are being given away is to search for online giveaways and contests. You can find these by going to giveaway websites, or searching hashtags on Twitter and Instagram, such as #giveaway and #clothinggiveaway.
There are many if you want to learn how to get free clothes, such as reaching out to nonprofit organizations, shelters, and churches in your local area. You can also check out websites, like Freecycle.org or Craigslist, for listings of free clothing resources in your community. Also, joining local Facebook Groups for clothing swaps or free items may help you find free clothes near you.
How can I receive free clothes delivered to my door?
By participating in referral programs, product testing programs, or signing up for clothing site rewards, you can potentially receive free clothes delivered to your door.
How to get free items from SHEIN?
There are a few ways to get free Shein clothes, and this is a very popular question about how to get free clothes!
There is a Shein Free Trial Center where you may be able to test out outfits for free. You will have to write a product review for the item you get for free with the Shein product testing program.
There are also Shein giveaways on social media all the time that you can enter as well.
How do I manage to have a great wardrobe on a tight budget?
To have a great wardrobe on a tight budget, you may want to focus on versatile and timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. This may include shopping sales, clearance sections, and secondhand stores to find affordable clothing items. You can also swap clothes with friends or attend clothing swap events to save money.
How can I get a lot of clothes with little money?
You can get a lot of clothes with little money by shopping at thrift stores, discount stores, and clearance sales.
How do I get free athletic wear?
Many running shoes have a product testing program for athletes and runners, such as the Saucony product testing program, Reebok product testing program, New Balance tester community, and the Nike product testing program.
These companies will need your shoe size and some other information from you before they can send you anything. There will most likely be an in-depth questionnaire for you to answer after you try the shoes.
In some cases, you will not be able to keep the shoes, just so you know.
How To Get Free Clothes Online Without Paying – Summary
I hope you enjoyed today’s article on my best tips and tricks on how to get free clothing. As you can see, there are many ways to get started!
Whether you are looking for free t-shirts, jeans, shoes, work clothes, or something else, there is plenty of free apparel if you look around.
With Facebook Buy Nothing groups, Craigslist, and Freecycle.org, you can connect with like-minded individuals and exchange items without needing to pay. Also, connecting with friends, family, and online communities by organizing clothing swaps, working with money-making apps that offer gift cards, and blogging or engaging on social media can lead to free clothing items as well.
Remember, when you maximize your online shopping by using loyalty programs, cash-back apps, referral programs, and coupons, you’ll have more money to put towards new clothing items.
Do you know how to get free clothes? What’s your favorite way?
Inside: Are you moving into your first apartment? Planning a move can be daunting, but with this checklist, everything will be ready for your bed and bathroom you arrive. From a mattress, pots and towels to cleaning supplies and furniture, this list has it all. This is a huge deal!
Moving into your first apartment is an exciting time!
You’re finally out on your own, and you get to decorate and furnish your space however you want.
But before you can start shopping for all the cute home décor, there’s one very important task that needs to be taken care of first: creating a First Apartment Checklist.
This comprehensive checklist will ensure that you don’t forget any essential items when furnishing your new place. From kitchen supplies to bathroom necessities, we’ve got you covered.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
My First Apartment Mistakes
Moving into your first apartment indeed marks an exciting milestone in life.
However, it is also a moment of awakening when realizing that filling the apartment with all the necessities is not child’s play. My lesson learned the hard way.
It requires great planning and acute mindfulness of one’s budget. While the thrill of setting up your own place can easily lead to overspending, it’s important to keep the budget in check and be judicious about your purchases.
Here are some aspects to consider:
It’s easy to forget that there’s a huge list of big and small things you’ll still need to buy to fully equip your space. However, the keyword here is “need” and not “want”. I should have been better at differentiating between what is absolutely necessary for your immediate living situations and what can be procured later.
Define what you can spend right away by considering the moving costs and other related expenses. After setting the budget, the next most important step is to stick with it. You will be tempted to stretch your limit, but remember that financial restraint is key.
Moreover, remember that you don’t need to get everything right away, certain things can wait. Spend wisely, and stick to immediate needs. You might be surprised to find out that some items you thought were essential, in fact, can be comfortably lived without.
Your home is meant to give comfort, not financial stress.
The above statement is a lesson that stick with you for a long while. Keeping track of your expenses and making wise decisions can help establish your first apartment without breaking the bank.
Learn is $5000 enough to move out?
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Big Items for Your First Apartment Checklist
You’re finally out of your parents’ house and ready to start your own life. Congrats!
This is an important step when you want to move out at 18.
Moving into a new place is both exciting and daunting. To help you make sure you have everything you need for your new digs, we’ve put together a first apartment checklist of all the big items you’ll need to buy.
This is where to focus your money or look to find free items.
1. Mattress
Living in your first apartment?
Do not underestimate the importance of a good mattress.
It’s the foundation for quality sleep, which is crucial for your health and daily performance. Investing in one is non-negotiable even if budget is a constraint.
Personally, this. is the one item I would say to buy new! Thankfully you can find affordable mattresses now.
2. Bed Frame & Headboard
You may be tempted to skip the bed frame in your first apartment, but it’s a key piece that offers myriad benefits.
In full honesty, I didn’t get a headboard for my mattress until well after I was married. But, it was one small thing that made me happy.
Popular bed frame options vary in price from $60 for a simple metal frame to over $200 for wooden or upholstered models. Make sure to evaluate your needs and budget before buying.
3. Couch
Your first apartment is exciting, and the right couch can really set the tone. It’s not only a seating arrangement but also a place for relaxing, entertaining, and unleashing your personality.
When setting up your first apartment, you might be conflicted about whether to buy a new couch or look for a used one. Here are some factors to consider:
For those living by themselves:
A new couch can be a significant investment, but it is worth the cost if you value personal comfort, hygiene, and aesthetics.
Utilize discount stores to find quality furniture that is within your budget. A new couch often comes with warranties or protection plans that can give you peace of mind for any potential repairs or damages.
Investigate measurements and delivery options thoroughly to ensure your new couch comfortably fits your apartment layout.
If you are planning to live with a roommate:
You can consider getting a used couch. This is a great way to cut costs during a time when budgeting and saving money are important.
To make sure the couch you’re acquiring is clean and pest-free, buy or get it for free from trusted sources. Friends or family are often the best people to approach when looking for used furniture.
Look into garage sales or online platforms like Craigslist for options. However, always inspect the couch thoroughly before purchasing it from these sources.
Whether you choose new or used, ensure that the couch fulfills your needs.
4. End Tables and Lamps
End tables and lamps are essentials you need in your first apartment. They offer functionality along with a touch of class to your space.
There are many reasons why they should be on every first apartment checklist.
Versatility: Side tables can be used in various ways, from serving as a coffee holder, providing a place for books and magazines, or showcasing photo frames and indoor plants. It can also function as an extension of your workspace when you need to create an impromptu office setup.
Convenience: Having a side table next to your bed or sofa allows you to have important items within easy reach. This may include your phone charger, eyeglasses, or remote controls.
Decorative Value: Side tables contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. They come in different styles, shapes, and designs that can complement various types of interior décor themes.
More than likely with lamps, you will notice where you need them the most after you move. So, it is okay to wait and buy them.
5. Dining Room Table
Your first apartment isn’t complete without a dining room table. It’s the multi-tasking hero of your living space, essential for meals, socializing, and possibly working or studying.
Finding the right dining room table for your apartment can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it may be daunting for some, given the myriad of options available in the market.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find your ideal fit:
Determine the Size Needed: The first step in finding the right dining room table is to measure the space it will occupy. Knowing the size helps narrow down the options and ensures a comfortable fit. Consider the number of people you plan on hosting on a regular basis – that should dictate the size of the table you need.
Consider the Shape: Dining tables come in various shapes, including square, rectangle, round, and oval. Identifying the shape that suits your space and lifestyle is crucial. Rectangular tables are the most common, but circular ones are great for maintaining an intimate dining experience, while an oval one can be a middle ground between a square and a round table.
Decide on Style: Whether you lean more towards a modern, contemporary, or rustic look, there are countless styles of dining tables to choose from. Ensure that the style of the table resonates with the rest of your home decor for a harmonious look.
Remember, choosing the right dining table is a balance of both form and function. Considering these aspects will surely help you find the dining room table that fits your lifestyle and space.
A good friend of mine had great luck finding a dining room table at a Restore resale shop. Something to definitely check out!
6. Kitchenware
Moving into your first apartment often comes with the challenge of equipping your kitchen efficiently.
To help guide you in making thoughtful purchases without breaking the bank, here are some important kitchen items you should consider investing in.
Basic Cooking Equipment: A Starter kitchen at the bare minimum requires at least two pots and a frying pan. These should be supplemented with necessary cooking utensils like a ladle, spatula, whisk, etc. You also need a high-quality knife set, at least one cutting board, and measuring cups and spoons to help you prepare and portion your meals accurately.
Food Storage & Serving Items: Get microwave-safe food storage containers to store leftovers efficiently. Additionally, invest in a good set of plates, bowls, glasses, and coffee mugs.
Countertop Appliances: While these can be a bit costly, consider getting a microwave, an InstantPot, and a coffee maker. These can vastly simplify and speed up your daily meal prep.
These are the basic items for a minimalistic kitchen.
7. Patio Furniture
Patio furniture can be an excellent cost-effective addition to your first apartment. Often overlooked, patio furniture can provide advantages for a first-time tenant:
Getting patio furniture as hand-me-downs or buying used ones can save you lots of expenses.
Plus patio furniture can be easily refurbished or painted to match your apartment’s interior design. You can showcase your creativity and add a personal touch without spending much.
8. Grill
One must-have in your first apartment is undoubtedly a grill. Nothing beats the flavor of a good grill and it’s perfect for friendly gatherings or quiet evenings.
Having a grill can add a sense of fun and adventure to your living situation. It allows for new culinary experiences and outdoor entertaining, especially during warmer months when you can have a delightful barbecue party in your yard or balcony.
Grilling can also act as a social catalyst. Whether it’s a relaxed summer evening cookout with neighbors or a gathering of friends for a sporting event, grilling can bring people together in a fun and casual way.
Thanks to websites like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace, second-hand grills in good condition are often available locally and at a much lower cost than brand-new grills.
9. Storage Items
Stepping into your first apartment, huh? The organization will be your closest ally.
Crisp and neat storage items can help you stay clutter-free and make your space feel like home.
This is something I would wait to buy until you are in your space and know what you need. There are so many storage ideas and organization items.
10. Decor
Making your first apartment feel like home is both exciting and challenging. Decor plays a crucial role, transforming an empty space into a cozy, personal refuge.
You want the decor to reflect your style, but the cost may be more than you can afford.
Enter thrift shopping for some of your favorite items.
You can always splurge on that one item you want!
How do I prepare for my first apartment?
Getting your first apartment can be incredibly thrilling, but let us guide you through a smooth transition.
Before making any purchases, it’s critical to create a budget that takes into account moving costs and other associated expenses.
Additionally, make a checklist of essential items to ensure a smooth move, but remember to prioritize immediate needs as some items may not be necessary initially.
Being prepared and methodical about your approach can help significantly in making your first apartment feel like home. It’s all about spending wisely and sticking to your plan.
First Apartment Checklist for Bedroom
Ready to move into your first apartment and need help setting up your bedroom?
This checklist will ensure you won’t miss any essentials.
Bed: Choose a full or queen-size bed to maximize space.
Mattress: Select the right firmness for your sleep style. Don’t forget a mattress pad and bedding.
Nightstand: You need this to place essentials like a reading lamp and a glass of water.
Dresser: An essential piece of furniture for your clothing storage.
Lamp: A softer lighting option for your bedroom. Don’t forget light bulbs!
Closet Organizers: Invest in baskets or cloth storage cubes for easy organization.
Desk and Chair: A small workspace if your room allows. Opt for a stool or folding chair to save money.
Remember every space is unique, tailor this list to your needs and budget.
First Apartment Checklist for Kitchen
As you embark on your solo living adventure, setting up your kitchen shouldn’t be a brain tease.
Here’s a lifesaver list of must-haves:
Remember, your kitchen is not just for cooking, but for hosting toasts and storing eats. Cheers to your new apartment kitchen!
First Apartment Checklist for Living Room
When setting up your first apartment living room, remember to shop for these essential items:
A Cool Lamp or Two: Lighting is crucial. Pick unique lamps that add both light and character to your space.
Side Tables: Grab a couple; these provide additional surfaces for decorations or mugs of tea.
Storage Solutions: Think TV cabinets or bookshelves where you can neatly store your belongings.
Extra Seating: More seats for more guests.
Window Treatments: Curtains or blinds not only offer privacy but can also tie a room together.
Decorative Pillows and Throw Blankets: For aesthetics and comfort.
Decor Items: This includes wall art, picture frames, coffee table books, houseplants, candles and vases. Make your space you.
Be smart in your selections, ensuring each item marries functionality with aesthetics. Holistic harmony is key in a living space.
Technology for Your First Apartment
In today’s digital era, modern apartments are nearly incomplete without a range of essential tech items.
These add convenience, entertainment, and a sense of security to your cozy abode.
Smart TV: This is essential for entertainment and relaxation. It can be a source of news, sports, movies, and shows that make your apartment a much more enjoyable living space.
Roku Stick: If you opt for a basic TV, then these devices enable you to stream content like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu directly to your TV. This is much needed if you prefer digital streaming over traditional network channels.
Computer / Laptop: This is useful for work, learning, entertainment, and communications in the current digital era. It helps you stay connected to the world and perform various tasks easily.
Wifi Router: A Wi-Fi router is a must-have in this age as it provides an internet connection for all your devices. It enables you to stay connected to the world, shop from home, stream entertainment, or work remotely.
Chargers: Chargers for phones, laptops, and other electronics are essential. They keep your devices powered up and ready for use at any moment.
Speakers: They enhance your entertainment experience by providing high-quality sound for music, TV shows, and movies. They can also be useful for work or study, for instance when participating in video conferences or online courses.
Thankfully prices have dropped significantly on TVs since I bought my first one!
First Apartment Checklist for Bathroom
One key area to consider is your bathroom – it’s essential to have all the basis to make your daily routines smooth and simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cleaning Your First Apartment
Ready to take that first crucial clean sweep in your very first apartment? Here’s how you’ll nail it!
Start with unpacking your cleaning essentials, preferably even before you start arranging your furniture. This will make it easier to spot dust, stains, and dirty spots that are usually hidden.
Now, let’s dig into your basic apartment clean-up kit:
Honestly, these frugal green items are perfect to keep things clean and on budget.
Things you need for an apartment that you wouldn’t think of
Moving into your first apartment is an exciting milestone, but it’s also full of small details that are easy to overlook.
Some essential items might not make it on your moving checklist, leaving you scrambling on your first day in your new place.
Basic Handyman Tools: A Leatherman or small toolkit is essential for assembling furniture and making minor repairs.
Hangers: You’ll need more of these than you think for your wardrobe.
Extension cords and surge strips: You’ll need these to plug in all your electronics in spaces with limited outlets.
Drawer organizers: Helps keep your belongings categorized and easy to find. Especially important in small spaces where efficient storage is key.
Flashlight: You never know when a power outage may happen. A flashlight is a crucial tool for safety and navigation in the dark.
Batteries: Handy for various gadgets like remote controls, flashlights, and smoke detectors.
First aid kit: Accidents can happen anywhere, and having a first aid kit handy can make dealing with minor injuries easier and more efficient.
Light bulbs: Essential for maintaining good lighting in your apartment. You don’t want to be left in the dark when a bulb burns out.
Matches and/or lighters: Useful not only for candles and gas stoves but also a necessity in case of a power outage.
Pen and paper: Although we live in a digital age, pen, and paper are still handy for jotting down quick notes, lists, or reminders.
Fire Extinguisher: Better to be safe than sorry!
Carbon Monoxide Detector: Extremely important to have in your apartment
Duct Tape: It solves every DIY project – while almost any.
Security Cameras: It bums me out completely to add this to the list, but in today’s society it is a must-have.
Renter’s insurance is instrumental for various reasons
It provides financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances like theft, damage due to disasters like fires, or liability if someone gets hurt in your apartment.
Additionally, considering the value of electronics, furniture, clothing, and other personal belongings, investing in renter’s insurance helps safeguard one’s possessions, making it invaluable, especially for first-time renters.
How do I budget for my first apartment?
Managing your expenses while moving into your first apartment is crucial since it’s usually an expensive endeavor with many large and small essentials needed to fully complete your home.
Having a budget not only helps you to control your finances effectively but also assists in prioritizing immediate needs, avoiding unnecessary items, and managing moving costs and related expenses.
Step 1: Make a Budget
Budgeting is, unquestionably, a crucial strategy to manage your personal finances efficiently, particularly while setting up a new apartment.
Begin by detailing your annual net income.
Subsequently, list down all your essential expenditures, such as food, household supplies, phone bills, car payments, credit card bills, clothing, transportation costs, internet charges, healthcare expenses, school loans, and entertainment.
Don’t forget to add a section for “miscellaneous” to cover any unanticipated expenses.
Make sure your expenses are less than your income.
While rent will be your biggest expense, you want to make sure you can truly afford the amount without going broke.
If you observe that your expenses are relatively high, it’s time to analyze your spending patterns and cut down on unnecessary spending.
Step 2: Save Money
Saving money and living frugally requires strategic thinking and discipline.
Honestly, the simplest thing you can do is to set aside 20% of your income each paycheck. That will ensure you are on your way to becoming financially independent.
Simply remember, frugal living doesn’t equate to deprivation, it’s about making informed choices to optimize your resources.
The 100 envelope challenge is extremely popular!
Step 3: Start a Side Hustle
Side hustles can be a flexible and rewarding way to supplement your income, and they’ve become much more popular in recent years.
Manage your time wisely and ensure the side hustle is something you enjoy or are passionate about. It should be a source of additional income without causing stress or burnout.
Here are ways to make money online for beginners.
First Apartment Tips
Embarking on the journey of renting your first apartment can be both exciting and daunting, hence having some essential tips can be quite handy.
1. Make a list of apartment essentials
A list of apartment essentials plays a crucial role, particularly for first-time movers.
The benefits and significance cannot be overstated. Here’s why:
Prevents Overspending: Moving into a new apartment is already expensive. There are lease deposits, rent due, utility set-ups, and other hidden expenditures that can easily catch first-time movers off guard. Having a list of apartment essentials can keep your spending in check, ensuring that you only purchase what’s necessary and avoid unnecessary or impulsive purchases.
Minimizes Stress: The task of moving can be overwhelming, and missing essential items only adds to the stress. A well-thought-out list can not only help you keep track of what you’ve already acquired but also what you need to purchase or source.
Ensures You’re Prepared and Organized: By carefully creating an apartment checklist, you’re ensuring that you have everything you need in your new home, from cleaning supplies and toilet paper to the necessary items for your furry friends.
Saves Time: A concise and focused list saves you time by clearly stating what needs to be acquired, allowing you to focus on other important matters related to the move.
Follow this approach, and you’ll have a comfy, well-equipped apartment in no time.
2. Consider your budget
Experts advise rent shouldn’t exceed 25-30% of your income. But, don’t forget to include your other costs like food, bills, loans, etc
Remember, your dream apartment isn’t worth it if it’s a financial nightmare. Think smart, save hard, and enjoy your new home’s comforts without breaking the bank.
Learn the ideal household percentages.
3. Research apartments
Researching apartments requires careful consideration of numerous factors such as the proximity to vital facilities like workplaces, grocery stores, hospitals, and entertainment joints.
Try to physically tour potential residences where possible to examine amenities and gauge the atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Don’t forget to make inquiries and view the apartment personally or through a floor plan, all these will help you make a wise decision.
4. Check apartment listings for features and amenities
When searching for the perfect apartment, consider features and amenities that align with your lifestyle.
If there is a sym space, you could eliminate your monthly gym membership.
Just make sure the cost of the upgraded amenities is worth the price tag.
While checking apartment listings, ensure to evaluate the location, amenities, available space, and physical integrity.
5. Think about the size and layout of the apartment
Understanding the size and layout of your new apartment is crucial before you start styling and furnishing it.
Acquire a floor plan from the apartment management, and if possible, tour the apartment physically to note the positioning of rooms, doorways, hallways, and stairwells. Take measurements of these areas and visualize the kind of furniture and fixtures they can accommodate fittingly, taking into account maneuverability around corners as well.
Moving to your first apartment is exciting, yet demands careful consideration of the size and layout.
6. Look for apartments with good security
When you’re hunting for your next apartment, don’t forget to check out its security features. This is crucial for your peace of mind.
Ensure the apartment is in a safe neighborhood, close to amenities like hospitals or public transport.
Ask if the apartment complex has features like controlled access gates, security guards, and CCTV surveillance.
Check the apartment for proper alarm systems, well-functioning locks on doors and windows, and that fire safety measures are in place.
Verify the cell phone reception inside the apartment for any emergency calls.
Lastly, always ensure that the parking area is secure and well-lit.
Remember, your apartment isn’t just a place, it’s your sanctuary. It should feel like one, too.
7. Make sure you get a good deal
Before signing a lease, it’s crucial to ensure the rent price is a good deal.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent from 2015-2019 was approximately $1,097 per month.
8. Talk to the management and make sure you understand the rules
Get to grips with your apartment’s rules by thoroughly reading your lease. Take note of any restrictions, and don’t fear to ask for clarifications. Data indicates that understanding lease terms significantly reduces tenant-landlord conflicts.
It is important you understand your lease as it is a binding contract.
First Apartment Checklist PDF
Moving into your first apartment is exciting but daunting. The First Apartment Checklist PDF helps simplify the process.
Take it at your own pace—don’t rush. This is your journey to your new home. Enjoy!
FAQ
Moving into a new apartment can be quite exciting yet daunting. It’s crucial to carefully inspect the space to ensure it meets your needs and is in optimal condition.
Check the overall cleanliness. Despite initial cleaning, apartments often accumulate dust while vacant. Ensure you have cleaning supplies handy to tackle any overlooked dirt or grime.
Inspect the utilities. Ensure the availability of necessary technology setups and provisions for all your electronic gadgets. And make sure no wires are hanging from the ceiling.
Verify the safety features. Always have a working lock on the door as well as a well lit entrance.
Examine appliances. Make sure essential household appliances like washers, dryers, and a dishwasher are provided and in working condition.
The comfort and safety of your new apartment rely hugely on these checks.
When determining how much you should spend on rent, it’s generally suggested that your allotment should be no more than 25-30% of your after-tax income.
For instance, if your yearly income after taxes is $40,000 per year, your rent should be about $833-$1,000 per month.
Keep in mind, this amount should cover:
Your rent
Utilities (unless they’re included in your rent)
Rental insurance
It’s essential to create a realistic budget by considering your other necessary expenses like food, transport, healthcare, and entertainment. If needed, find ways to cut some of these costs to afford your dream apartment.
Now Get Moving with your Apartment Shopping List!
In conclusion, creating and managing a first apartment checklist requires a judicious mix of prudence and patience.
It’s an exciting journey of setting up your first independent space but it’s also a test of properly managing your resources without compromising on your basic needs.
It’s crucial to remember that you do not need to get everything at once, and it’s okay to take your time to gradually fill your apartment.
Remember, be mindful of your budget and prioritize based on your specific needs and preferences.
And don’t forget, you’re not just setting up an apartment, you’re creating your own unique sanctuary.
With patience and careful planning, you’ll soon have an apartment that’s not only functionally equipped but also a reflection of your personal style. The experience, in the end, will prove to be as rewarding as it is educational.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Have you ever seen Buzz Lightyear or Cinderella walking around the Disney World theme parks and wondered what it was like to be an actor living out those iconic roles? Or maybe you’ve dreamt of playing these classic characters for a day? Well, we talked to former actors from Disney parks who experienced first-hand what it’s actually like.
From having tourists ask strange questions to deal with wardrobe malfunctions – they had plenty of stories to share. Get ready for some wild experiences as you read all about their adventures.
1. Nick Wilde from Zootopia
A Redditor shared his experience as Nick Wilde from Zootopia and posted, “I was one of the performers for Nick Wilde from Zootopia a few years ago, And if you’re not aware; a large number of people in the furry community find him highly attractive.You can just imagine the number of people in that community who flirted with me and/or Judy and whispered some pretty [nasty] things to us. I think I also had a guy grab Nick’s tie like in that flirty way, we had to get him escorted out of the park. The moral of the story is: don’t be inappropriate with the characters, we are real people underneath, and there are legitimate consequences for that kind of behaviour.”
One user replied, “You wouldn’t go up to a random stranger in public and assault them; them being dressed as a cartoon character doesn’t make that okay.”
Another responded,”People assault random strangers in public all the time. I work in retail, and it happens almost daily. I think you, like most people, overestimate the goodness in others.”
2. Piglet
A user posted, “Dated an actress, the weirdest she had was a man asking for him to be in the suit for an hour. He offered her 3k.”
One user asked, “Which suit?”
The original poster answered, “Piglet.”
One user exclaimed, “OMG.”
Another user added, “What the actual heck!”
Another user also asked, “Did she do it? 3k is 3k.”
One replied, “I doubt Disney would let her take the costume off property, lol.”
One user also shared, “Not exactly the same situation, but where I work, there was this girl working on a golf course who got fired because a group of old guys bribed her with $200 to flash them and she did. One of the guys took a picture and their wife found it, which almost got the resort into major trouble. So the question is do you take $3k and lose your job or not?”
3. Goofy
A user shared, “I was playing Goofy inside a restaurant and I got swarmed Aliens-style by a hoard of kids [less than 10 years old]. Unfortunately, while I was playing around with them the inner hood below the mask slipped over my eyes, and I was completely blinded. We had assistants around whom we could signal for help by flapping our arms, but the kids had made it a game of attaching themselves Tarzan-like to both my arms, and to raise them I would have had to lift 3-4 kids per arm (dangerous even if I’d been strong enough to do that).
“I found myself blind and completely rooted to the spot, unable to ask for help and with nobody realizing that I was in trouble. I spent like a solid 10-15 minutes in that sort of limbo reflecting on the life decisions that had taken me there until the assistant came over and whispered, ‘Set is over, dude,’ and I finally managed to signal something was wrong.”
Another user chuckled and replied, “I’m sorry, but I’m laughing imagining Goofy, rooted in place, contemplating life decisions in the middle of a restaurant.”
The original poster answered, “There’s remarkable room for thinking inside those suits.”
“Damn. That sounds exhausting,” one user replied.
The original poster shared, “Playing Goofy in general, was mostly physically ok other than the big weight of the mask on your neck. The real grind was Sully from Monsters & Co. The mask is so big it’s basically an architecture strapped to your waist and shoulders, the boots are huge and flatfooted, and there are no gloves, instead, you hold these two artificial arms from inside the costume and wave them about (not too bad at first but do it for 30 minutes straight and those things really begin to weigh). That shift was a proper workout.”
4. Tinkerbell
One user posted, “I dated a girl that played one of the fairies for the Tinkerbell place. Beyond the pretty much daily occurrence of old dads hitting on her (she was 19 at the time), the weirdest thing to happen to her was a woman with a 4yr old little girl was all excited to get a picture with Tinkerbell, who was busy, so my ex volunteered to do pictures and entertain the little girl while they waited.
“The woman was [very rude] about that idea, rudely saying she was here to see Tinkerbell and not ‘off-brand’ fairies. So just shrugging it off, my ex moved on. A bit later, she hears a commotion, and Tinkerbell is obviously upset, and security shows up. Apparently, this woman was Tinkerbell’s bio mom and had taken her granddaughter to Disney, just to violate the restraining order against her. Disney Jail is a real place.”
5. Mickey Mouse
One user stated, “I was a ‘mouse height’ performer at Disney World around 2013. Can unfortunately confirm groping happened from time to time, and it was incredibly uncomfortable. We were trained to move away if we could and signal to the character attendants to escort the guest away if it happened. One time some guy thought it appropriate to pick me up completely off the ground in a bear hug. The head pushed back and because the inside is connected to us with headgear and a chin strap, my neck bent back with it, and it hurt like hell.
Not a weird story, but one of my most memorable guest experiences was meeting a little blind boy as Mickey in Epcot. I gently guided his hands to the soft ears, then the nose, and bow tie, and he was laughing, and his smile lit up the whole room. I still get emotional thinking about it! Interactions like that made it all worth it to me at the time.”
Another added, “The second story, the blind kid… great story. Thanks for making his day.”
Another user asked, “I’m slow… what’s a “mouse height” performer?”
A Redditor answered, “It was to imply they played Mickey or Minnie in the Parks, probably due to their height being right for the costumes. Also, Disney can get weird about performers mentioning their past work, so a lot of times, people will hint at who they played rather than outright say.”
One user also added, “They’re not supposed to ever say who they played, just that they were friends with the character.”
6. Minnie Mouse
One user commented, “I knew a friend (a guy) who wore a Minnie Mouse costume. He told me almost all guys would put their hands around his waist. He wouldn’t dare to talk, or else they will hear his manly voice, and that might [make them mad]. Edit: this blows up quickly. I feel I need to let people know that it’s not okay to grope the Disney characters… All I can tell you is that they will make a disgusting face under the mask and talk… about you later after work.”
One added, “I’d have waited till they groped then in my deepest gruffest voice said “how YOU doin’?”
The original commenter replied, “He sometimes wanted to take off the Minnie Mouse headpiece off and look straight at the guy’s eye with a straight face and say ‘Stop it.’”
7. Pluto
One of the Redditors posted, “I had a female friend who played Pluto for a few years. Even though her gender was indistinguishable because it’s a fully body Pluto costume, she would regularly share how often she was groped by kids and adults alike. In costume, she looked like she was 6’6”, but was only 5’8” in real life. You couldn’t tell the gender of any of the 3-4 in Pluto rotation and you could barely tell them apart.”
Another user also shared, “We met an absolutely amazing Pluto… many years ago. Our daughter was about 5, and was absolutely besotted with Pluto, to the extent that was all she asked for for Christmas. Just Pluto… The whole time we were at Disney, she was looking out for him without any luck. On our last full day there, we booked a character breakfast, but he didn’t turn up there, either. But as we were leaving and about to go down the stairs to the exit, who should be coming up them but the dog himself?
“I have no way of knowing who was in that costume, but I am so grateful to them. They must have seen something in our daughter’s face, because they got to the landing, went down on one knee and opened their arms to her. She absolutely FLEW down the stairs, and was given the longest hug. We took a photo (this was before cell phones, when everybody had those little disposable digital cameras). It’s one of my favorites; you can’t see her face because it’s buried in orange plush, but you can tell how much it means to her. So whoever you were—thank you. You absolutely made her day—she still mentions it now.”
“Reminds me of Marry Poppins. My daughter had just watched the original and learned the supercalifragilistic song. She was obsessed. Then when we were on It’s a Wonderful World ride, we saw her walking away. She couldn’t get off the ride fast enough. And ran to find her at the carousel. They waved at each other, and when Mary and Bert got off the ride, they came over. She walked with my daughter hand in hand, and they had a conversation…
“She invited her to come to the show in front of the castle and brought her up to sing and dance. Then later there was a parade. Mary spotted her in a nearby balcony we were watching from. She seemed genuinely excited to see my daughter. Mary made the trip awesome,” one user responded.
8. Easter bunny
One user posted, “I used to be the Easter Bunny at a function hall, and people were just…weird. I’ve been threatened by a guy that told me he was going to throw me down the stairs. It’s hot, too. Some kids were really happy to get a picture, so it made it all worthwhile.”
One added, “I read that second sentence as a completely different kind of ‘hot’ in the context of the prior sentence, and was deeply concerned for about a second.”
Another user confirmed, “I’ve done some volunteer work in costume, and I agree. People are weird. And adults are always worse than the kids.”
9. Goofy, Mickey, and the Parade
One Redditor shared, “Repost from a guy who played Goofy from a couple of years ago. ‘I have one moment that stands out above all the rest. I was waiting for someone to ask me this question. It’s the reason I left a good job as a VIP Tourguide and moved to the Character Department.
“I was working at City Hall… when two guests came in with two little girls. One was in a wheelchair, and the other one looked like she had just seen death. Both were cut and bruised and the one in the wheelchair had her arm in a cast. The two women were… nurses from a hospital and were asking for a refund on the girl’s tickets… When I asked why they told me the story. The two girls were with their mom and dad at Epcot and on the way home they got into a horrible car accident. The mother [passed away] right in front of them. The father… died too, but the two girls didn’t know that yet.
“They were from overseas and had no money and no contact information for anyone they knew. They were bringing the tickets back to get the girls some much-needed money to help get them back home. My heart absolutely sunk. [Those girls] were truly traumatized. I refunded their tickets and got permission to be their private tour guide for the rest of the day… I walked them to the VIP viewing area for the parade which was as far as I could walk them in the costume we used to wear at City Hall… On the way down I pulled out every kid joke I could think of. I was a REALLY good tour guide… and I knew how to make kids smile.
“Nothing worked. These girls were too far gone for that. I left them at the bridge to go change… and bawled my eyes out. I just had never seen something so horrible. I [had] a terrible feeling of powerlessness not being able to fix the situation. When I came back I brought them to get ice-cream, take them on rides… but they never smiled, not once. The nurses were loving it and were trying to get them into it but it just wasn’t working. We went back to the bridge to watch the parade. It was there that I honestly saw true magic. Real magic, not [fake].
“I… called the parade department to… set up a private meet and greet after the parade. As the parade was coming around Liberty Square I told the girls that I had called Mickey and told him all about them. I told them that Mickey asked to meet them after the parade. The little girl in the wheelchair smiled. “Really?” she asked. My heart skipped. “Yes, really! He told me to tell you to look out for him in the parade and to follow the float back to City Hall.” The other girl smiled. “You mean right now?” she asked.
“It worked. They were talking… It was the first time I had heard them speak. Every single parade performer came up to them on the bridge and told them to look out for Mickey. Every one of them told them that. When Mickey’s float came up Mickey (who was attached to a pole at the top of the float) managed to turn her body sideways, look down at the girls and point towards Main Street. That was all it took. The girls were excited now. They had forgotten about death. They were lost in a magical world and… I was watching it unfold in front of my eyes.
“We followed that float all the way back to City Hall, singing “Mickey Mania” the whole way. I took them in [the VIP celebrity lounge] and showed them the book where all of the autographs were. They were eating it up. The girl who was Mickey that day got down off her float and without even taking her head off walked up to me backstage and said “Let’s go.”
I walked in with Mickey behind me so I got to see the exact moment the girls met their new friend. They got shy but Mickey was in control now. Those girls met the REAL Mickey Mouse that day. Every single parade character stayed dressed to meet those girls. One by one they’d come in and play… We were in that lounge for over an hour. Mickey stayed in costume the entire time (which is hard to do after a parade). When Mickey finally said goodbye I had two excited girls on my hands that couldn’t stop smiling… We had a wonderful day after that but what I remember most is when we walked by the rose garden, the older one said “Oh, my mommy loves roses! I mean…” and she stopped.
“I held out my hand and walked her to the gate, picked her up and put her on the other side and said “Pick one!” She looked happy as she picked out her favorite rose. She didn’t say anything more and she didn’t need to. I said goodbye to the wonderful nurses and the wonderful girls then walked backstage behind the train station. This time I didn’t cry. It felt so good to be a part of that. I realized that as much as I liked helping guests at City Hall, the true magic of Disney was in the character department. I auditioned, transferred, and never looked back. Thanks for letting me relive this. It was a special day for me.”
One user replied, “I can’t imagine it… I lost both my parents last year and I’m in my 30s. The pain, impossibility of it, loneliness, fear, the MISSING them is all so intense. I can’t imagine being that young and witnessing such a thing and then having to walk through it. My first birthday without them is coming in 10 days, and I feel as devastated as when they first passed. I hope those girls have found comfort and love.”
“I’m so sorry. Much love to you on your birthday,” another user responded.
10. Chip ‘n Dale
One user said, “I was Chip ‘n Dale in Land, and some dad came up with his kids, I was doin my thang and having fun with them. When it came time for pics the dad came over to join us and all was well until after the picture when he asked for a hug so I gave him one. He squeezed, pulled away, grabbed his kids hands, smiled and said, ‘I didn’t know Dale was a girl under all that fur.’
“I played it off at the time but it made me really uncomfortable that he had actually squeezed hard enough to feel me under my costume… decided to wear binders while I was in character so that no one else could ever feel my boobs again through the suit. This was back in 2019.”
Another one responded, “I have a similar story as Smokey Bear. I used to work for the US Forest service and when I was an intern I got to be Smokey (I thought it was a high honor, turns out I was just the unlucky fool to volunteer). Still there was a bunch of training and rules before I was allowed to do it. Regardless I had a few dads grab my waist, which was actually just a pair of massive jeans and realize I was a girl and make really lewd comments. It was weirder with the handful of women who would try to grab my cr***h and make jokes about what I had down there.
“Being Smokey was a lot of fun otherwise (except also that every dog hated you) but it had its moments. Lots of weird comments, luckily I wasn’t allowed to talk at all and had handlers (fellow employees) to manage the people. It definitely always made me uncomfortable how weird people can be with someone in that situation where you’re kind of held hostage by your environment and the persona you’re inhabiting.
“Although the scariest moment was when one overzealous person tried to tackle me and the head almost came off, I don’t know what I would have done since it was in front of a crowd of like 150 children.”
One added, “That’s a gross way to phrase it, but as a teen I was shocked to realize I could see through the mesh of the character heads when close up. It looks so opaque from a distance and the accidental eye contact inside a cartoon animal’s mouth felt super awkward.”
Another user concluded, “As someone who does a lot of different character work, kids love to press their faces against the mesh mouth and try to get a look of whoever’s inside. Nothing I can really do about that, unfortunately.”
Source: Reddit.
Who is one actress you can never stand watching, no matter their role? After polling the internet, these were the top-voted actresses that people couldn’t stand watching.
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We’ve all heard the famous adage that “no publicity is bad publicity,” and while it tends to be accurate, there are certainly exceptions. But what about those few stars who stay out of the limelight and get along without a hint of trouble?
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
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People will always have preferences and something to say about celebrities. What you might love may not be the same for others. Whether it’s about their past behaviors, legal issues, or feuds with other celebrities, here is a list of celebrities people just cannot stand.
10 Celebrities Who Are Universally Disliked
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Sometimes, we just love to watch a favorite vampire movie; one of the ones that never get old. It piques our imagination with the unknown, story of two teenagers fighting for their love, the incredible and creepy scenes, and the bloodsucking classics.
11 Vampire Movies That Will Leave You Yearning for More
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Every once in a while, a movie sequel or remake surpasses the original film. After polling the internet, “Name a single movie where the sequel or remake was better than the original?” Here are the top-voted responses.
25 Extraordinary Sequels and Remakes That Outshine the Originals
I am fat, but I am not obese. I do not pause to catch my breath when climbing stairs. I do not avoid hikes or sports for fear of failure. But — no mistake — I am fat. I am far above my normal weight. I carry 205 pounds on a frame built for someone forty pounds lighter. [PDF: Body mass index and health, from the USDA.]
How does this relate to personal finance? Your health is your most important asset. Not your house. Not your car. Not your job. Not your retirement account. These are secondary. Your health is your most important asset. Even someone as young as I am (37) can face serious financial repercussions from being overweight.
According to the USDA, “overweight or obese people are more likely than those at normal weight to have medical problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, diabetes, and heart disease.” Furthermore:
According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, in 2003-2004, an estimated 66 percent of U.S. adults were overweight or obese, along with 17 percent of children and adolescents. The total annual cost of obesity was an estimated $117 billion in 2000.
Another USDA publication [PDF: “Health Insurance, Obesity, and Its Economic Costs”], breaks down the individual cost of being fat:
The lifetime medical costs related to diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, and stroke among the obese are $10,000 higher than among the non-obese. Among the overweight, lifetime medical costs can be reduced by $2,200 to $5,300 following a 10-percent reduction in body weight.
Being fat costs money. It costs time. (Overweight people have shorter lifespans.) And it costs mental capital, too. I have experienced these costs in my own life.
Four years ago, I destroyed the ACL in my right knee while playing city-league soccer. I was out of shape and overweight, and my body betrayed me. I spent six months hobbling around, unaware of the injury’s extent. Ultimately, after several doctor’s visits, I had an MRI, surgery, and physical therapy. Even with insurance, this was expensive, especially considering I hadn’t yet wised-up financially. (Cost: roughly $2,000, and a loss of mobility in my right knee.)
Like many who are overweight, I suffer from sleep apnea. Last summer, I spent two nights in a sleep lab. I was given a prescription for a C-PAP machine. (Cost: $734.54, and that damned mask strapped to my face every night for the past year.)
When overweight, I suffer from mild depression. It afflicts my self-esteem and saps my will. (Cost: more mental than financial, thus far.)
Whenever I get heavy, I always join a gym. I pay for a year in advance, go for a couple weeks, and then gradually lose interest. Soon the guilt of having paid hundreds of dollars for a service I am not using becomes overwhelming, which makes matters worse. (Cost: Nothing out-of-pocket — paid by employer. I used to pay $300-$500/year.)
As I get bigger, I’m forced to buy new clothes. My wardrobe increases as I do. I tell myself that I’ll have lots of clothes when I lose the weight, but so far I’m only buying new. (Cost: about $200/year.)
Ultimately I spend more on food to subsidize my fat than I do when I eat healthfully. I’ve never examined the actual costs, but I’m sure all the candy and chips and soda are a steady drain on my funds.
In the past four years, I have paid $4500 because I am fat. And that doesn’t include food.
This post is not a pity party. It is a rallying cry for anyone who is out of shape, who has allowed their physical fitness to lapse. I know many adults who are at a healthy weight but who do not exercise. Just half an hour of exercise every day promotes better fitness. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of cancer and improves self-esteem. Just do it!
If you would like to pursue a course of fitness, here are some helpful tools.
Joe’s Goals, a free online goal tracker.
FitDay, a free web-based diet and weight loss journal. I’ve used this on-and-off for several years. I recommend it.
The book that helped me defeat the fat in 1997 is Realities of Nutrition. It’s fantastic. It doesn’t try to convince you one diet is better than another. It lays out the facts about nutrition. It describes what carbohydrates are, what fat is, what protein is, and explains how they work in concert to give the body energy.
The 29 healthiest foods on the planet
The world’s healthiest foods
When I stood on the scales on the evening of 07 May 1997, I was horrified. I weighed 200 pounds. I was 28 years old. How had I grown so heavy? I steeled my mind. Over the course of the next six months, I dedicated myself to eating healthy and exercising daily. I lost 42 pounds before falling off the wagon on Halloween night. Despite continued battles with food, for two years I remained fit. But then the weight came back.
I am ready to lose it again.
Extra Weight, Higher Costs
I’ve been working with Lauren Muney, a wellness coach (about which more later). This morning, Muney sent me a New York Times article by Damon Darlin which describes how extra weight leads to higher costs.
Being fat costs money — tens of thousands of dollars over a lifetime. Heavy people do not spend more than normal-size people on food, but their life insurance premiums are two to four times as large. They can expect higher medical expenses, and they tend to make less money and accumulate less wealth in their shortened lifetimes. They can have a harder time being hired, and then a harder time winning plum assignments and promotions.
Darlin’s article does a great job of summarizing the financial impact of being overweight. It’s these financial costs (resulting from health problems) that most worry me about being fat. Many find fat people unattractive, but I’m not one of them: I was raised in a family where fat was the norm, and it does not bother me. But the health risks and the associated costs do bother me.
For example, Darlin cites a study from the University of Wisconsin which demonstrated that by supersizing a fast-food order (at an average cost of 67 cents) leads to $6.64 in future medical costs for an obese man, and $3.46 in future medical costs for an obese woman. Super-sizing does not save money.
Many people do find the overweight unattractive, and consciously or not, they treat them differently. There is a social cost to being fat. (More here.) Studies have repeatedly demonstrated that “weight bias”, discrimination against the obese, is at least as strong as race bias. (The article points to Harvard University’s Implicit Association Test, where you can check your own internal biases.)
Studies have also demonstrated that there’s a direct correlation between obesity and net worth. The heavier the person, the less they earn. My initial reaction is that it’s impossible to determine which is the cause and which is the effect — does obesity lead to low net worth, or does low net worth lead to obesity? — but apparently this is a known problem with the research. Regardless, significant weight loss can lead to an increase in wealth.
A baby boomer whose [Body Mass Index (B.M.I.)] drops from 27.5, the middle of the overweight category, to 21.7, the middle of the normal category, sees an increase in wealth of $4,085.
Since first writing about my weight problem in October, I’ve made tremendous progress. This is largely due to Muney, a reader of this site. She wrote that because I had helped her make progress on her wealth, she’d like to help me make progress on my health. After working with her for a month, the results have been outstanding. I’ve lost weight. But more than that I feel great: my physical and mental well-being are the best they’ve been in years.
I look forward to continued progress, and to removing myself from the risks and costs associated with obesity. Right now, I’m going for a walk!
Do you ever wish you knew the secrets to attract wealth because your 9 to 5 isn’t paying the bills very well? You’re not alone! Today, we’ll talk about the 11 secret life hacks that rich people are doing to make gaining wealth easier.
We’ve compiled the best answers from Reddit, so you don’t have to do it yourself. Read this blog and shift your mindset with these lessons from the wealthy.
1. Organize Everything
If you’re familiar with Marie Kondo, she specifically emphasizes that organizing and decluttering will have a huge impact our lives. It turns out that’s one of the life hacks of truly rich people.
One person said, “Allow me to ramble passionately about a hack of small consequence. Something I noticed about all the rich people’s houses is they have storage containers everywhere. The pantry isn’t piles of groceries shoved inside, it’s all in tidy bins, often matching, sometimes labeled. Their closets have shelves and drawers, not a single pole to hang items. Under their sinks are multiple bins and containers, sometimes on a pullout shelf/drawer. Their spices are ALL on racks, not just the few that fit in a singular rack with the rest piled on top or haphazardly in an adjacent cabinet.
“Their jewelry is organized like a utensil drawer and not shoved in a single box. There are trays or giant bowls by every entry door to toss your mail and keys instead of cluttering every flat surface. Imagine how much calmer your brain would be if you didn’t have to hunt through what feels like a disorganized garage sale everywhere you turn. You don’t have to bend over to rife through objects, you can bring a bin to you.
“I’m just a povvo, but I started ramping up my organizational game and it’s made a subtle but impactful difference in my daily life. Started with matching-sized Amazon boxes in the pantry and Dollar Tree fabric collapsible boxes for toiletries under the sinks and the closet floors, and built up from there. I’ve been slowly converting all my bathroom and kitchen shelves to pull-out drawers (this one is expensive).”
2. Buying in Bulk
This life hack may not be applicable to every body because, in order to save a lot of money on purchases, particularly groceries, you must have the money to shell out first.
One user shared, “Rich people can afford to save money on purchases if they want. I guess if you are rich and don’t care about saving $ it doesn’t apply to you, but it’s definitely a big benefit if you’re a frugal rich person. If that makes sense. A small tiny example. Most would categorize me as wealthy. I buy high-end groceries but aim to do it for as cheap as possible. When our Whole Foods has a sale on our favorite frozen pizzas, normally $12.99 and on sale for $7.99, I buy 10 of them and load up my deep freezer. The fact that I was able to save $50 is only possible because 1) I have enough money to shell out $80 for the upfront cost on the pizzas, and 2) I have a deep freezer to store it in. Neither of those things would be possible without money.”
3. Semi-Permanent Cosmetics
Beauty, in whatever form, is expensive—and only the rich don’t think twice about spending such a huge amount on beautifying themselves or their surroundings.
“…I think a lot of beauty at that level is faked, just like the lawns are faked. Spray tans, teeth caps, really expensive hair extensions and plugs, professional makeup, tailoring, even surgery, etc. etc. I was shocked when I learned about caps for teeth. I didn’t even know that was a thing. Feels like a total cheat code. Can even avoid the expense and discomfort of braces. There are a lot of beauty ‘hacks’ that are not accessible unless you have $$$,” someone shared.
4. Hacking Expensive Purchases
One person commented, “I’ve worked for a rich family and learned a couple hacks. Everyone else is correct. They just hire things out. If you’re genuinely curious, then I’ll share two things I learned in my job that are specific to the wealthy lifestyle. First, moths love real cashmere so you have to keep cedar in your closets to keep them away from eating your sweaters. Second, if you are flying private and only medium-wealthy not truly a fan of throwing money down the drain unnecessarily, it is actually more affordable to ship your luggage via UPS than pay for the additional fuel it will take to carry it in the plane with you.”
Another one shared, “I knew a lady who was, let’s just say she was in a different tax bracket. She and her late husband never took a road trip. They flew everywhere. He was a pilot, and they owned their own plane. They would fly somewhere, and if she ran out of clean clothes, she would just buy more. She’d ship her dirty clothes back home, and the maid would have everything dry-cleaned by the time the lady got back. I can’t imagine how many clothes this lady had. Or maybe she donated them on a regular basis?”
5. Networking
We’re familiar with networking, but it really is one of the life hacks that truly rich people are doing. They leverage the people they know who are also rich and powerful, and that’s what makes them too.
One person shared, “Networking. Powerful people have a large network of connections to get what they want. If you aren’t going out of your way to build ties with people who have things you want like wealth or power, the alternative is working very hard and hoping you get noticed—which doesn’t work most of the time because, unfortunately, the meritocracy is a lie. Learn to meet people and maintain professional connections, not just friendships. And no modesty, that’s a killer.”
The second person replied, “The best network—Politicians, Thieves, Police, Money Laundering—Mafia. Exist all around.”
6. Know What’s Worth Your Time
“When you are good at what you do to make money, you hire pros to do things that you need and get them properly done. That’s classic economics of the division of labor. You focus on what you do well and make more money. That’s the opposite of downward spiral. The concrete example is that I unblock my toilets and fix leaks. I also change my engine oil. Because it’s cheaper for me to do it. If my pay rate is higher than the pros, if course I’ll hire someone. That saves me money,” one person said.
“Sure… but I kind of hate how many people try to apply this to a typical salary worker. No one is gonna pay me to work overtime on a Saturday at my hourly rate (and I don’t want to), and it’s easier to work on a house project for a few hours than find a 2nd job. Many people point to your example, but they either don’t have time for projects cause they work 60 hours a week or prefer to use their disposable income and do something else with their free time. They are not financial wizards, they just make other choices based on circumstances, and that is fine,” argued another commenter.
Another user added, “Yeah, not every minute of my day is monetize-able. Someone once said Bill Gates is so rich that he loses money if he stops to pick up a penny in the street. No, he doesn’t. He didn’t cease to earn money for doing it. Rich people hire others to change their oil because it gives them back time for leisure.”
7. Buy Quality the First Time
One person said, “I was taught to always buy the best of anything I can the first time so I don’t waste my time, money, or efforts on junk. That bled over into everything. Relationships. Experiences. It becomes a mindset and lifestyle. I think that’s what you’re seeing when you look at that neighborhood.”
Another one replied, “This right here. If you want to buy a new piece of furniture, TV, car, etc… Buy nice things and buy quality. It’ll last for years and years. Also, pay cash. Don’t bother financing it. That’s just more wasted money.”
Another user quipped, “Buy once, cry once.”
8. Weigh your Options
“Not really a hack but spending dollars so they count. If there’s a gym that’s $50 a month but is 20 mins away and they’ll only go once a week, and there’s one 2 mins away that’s $200 but they’ll go every day, spend the extra money. The $50 option is a waste. This can be applied in many circumstances,” one person shared.
9. Elegant Appearance
One person shared their experience while working with truly rich people, “A few things I’ve noticed when working for wealthy people. They look rich even in casual clothes because they get everything tailored, even simple white shirts and jeans so they look expensive even when they aren’t.
“A lot of accessories like shoes, bags and jewelry are custom made which can be a better option if you’re going to spend a lot on designer brands anyway, and they will be unique. They don’t just go to the gym, they have a personal trainer who focuses on that toned without being too muscular look, so they look naturally hot without trying.
“Getting blow dry right before an event makes you look polished. I worked for a woman who never washed her own hair, and she always looked amazing. I saw people spend a lot of money on wardrobe staples like jackets and classics, but they would only buy high street seasonal pieces to keep them in style.
“They sell designer pieces to concession stores after wearing them a few times and basically get 50-80% of the cost back depending on the designer. Having lunch at a Michelin-star restaraunt can be slightly more affordable than dinner but you still get the experience. Having drinks at the restaurant bar so you can be ‘seen’ and mingle but don’t have to buy dinner. Going to clubs and events on weekdays means you are more likely to get in, get a table/ticket and it can be less expensive.”
10. Excellent “Talkers”
One person shared, “When I was doing my first startup I saw ‘new money’ people. In school I saw ‘old money’ people. There are all types of rich people and these types have their own ways. They do live in the same areas though. They recognize each other by their watch, type of clothes and behavior. And you can see if they are new rich, old rich, dem or rep by these things too. Their kids go to an endless amount of extracurricular activities. Here it is hockey and tennis, sometimes baseball. The parents do it so their kids build their network (I mean 5year olds).
“Rich people have some skills, but the main skill is talking. They are great at talking. It used to put me off. So and so became the director of yadayada. Why? The only thing he can do is talk. And that is precisely the point. They don’t get so stressed. They just talk for a living. Everything comes from their network. People like listening to their stories. But they cannot do anything of value other than talking. They hire people for that. Duh. Don’t be apologetic. Don’t do stuff worth 10$ an hour if you can make more. Do lots of self-care. And be a professional talker. Listen to people, look at their behavior and clothing, and copy that in your own way.”
Someone added, “I agree with this comment but will extend it further. You call it ‘just talking’ to anyone that will listen, but what they really are doing is ‘selling.’ They are selling their latest ideas, pitches, schemes, problems, solutions, whatever, etc. And their audience (other rich people) love to talk too, so the audience then adds on to those ideas, sometimes with money or introductions to other people with money. And it snowballs because of the network effect.”
11. Etiquette and Mannerisms
“You have a lot of time for personal maintenance and improvement if you don’t have to worry about cooking dinner or doing laundry. Some things, like good etiquette, are made very important from a very young age (hence the napkin folding, knowing what course to use which fork, how to properly address folks in a formal setting, etc) it’s a social code that helps identify who is and who isn’t,” one person stated.
Another one added in agreement, “Exactly. It’s very subtle and says a great deal.”
Source: Reddit.
Who is one actress you can never stand watching, no matter their role? After polling the internet, these were the top-voted actresses that people couldn’t stand watching.
10 Actresses People Despise Watching Regardless of Their Role
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
We’ve all heard the famous adage that “no publicity is bad publicity,” and while it tends to be accurate, there are certainly exceptions. But what about those few stars who stay out of the limelight and get along without a hint of trouble?
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
Have you ever known someone and thought you liked them—until you learned about their hobbies? Then you get to know them and then you’re like, “Wow, red flag.” Well, you’re not alone.
These 10 Activities Are an Immediate Red Flag
Some celebrities definitely seem to enjoy the limelight and keep working to stay in the public eye. While others quickly move out of the spotlight. Many of these actors and actresses stepped out of the spotlight to live a more private life without constant media pressures.
10 Celebrities That Made the Big Times Then Disappeared Off The Face of the Earth
We’ve all been there – sitting through a movie that we can’t help but cringe at, but somehow it still manages to hold a special place in our hearts.
These 10 Terrible Movies Are Still People’s Favorites
Finding a new space or new city to live in is very exciting, however, getting all your belongings to the new apartment is no fun. You have to spend your free time packing, finding a moving company and going through that hall closet you’ve been avoiding for months. Don’t worry too much because we have you covered with these packing hacks and tips.
29 packing hacks to make packing and moving a breeze
Where do you even begin packing? What size boxes do you need? What should you get rid of? These are questions we’ve all had before. The truth is there’s no right way or place to start. Here are 29 packing hacks to make your move smoother and more efficient.
1. Create a schedule
The beginning of any move is overwhelming, to say the least. There’s so much to do, but where do you start? That’s where creating a moving schedule comes into play. If you have a busy life — and most of us do — then a schedule is going to help you get everything done in time for moving day. You could pack one room a day. You could back all similar items — blankets, linens, towels — each day. Or, you could assign different items to each family member to pack as part of the schedule.
2. Have a checklist
After you’ve created your moving schedule, create a moving checklist of everything important you need to remember to do. Write down everything from hiring movers to canceling your Wi-Fi plan. By doing this, you’ll feel more in control while moving.
3. Change your address
Before you’re anywhere near being completely packed, you should change your address. Give the post office a two-week notice so they can send your mail to the correct address.
4. Fill nail holes with a bar of soap
Every renter wants their security deposit back when they move out. To do that, you have to make sure your apartment looks great when you leave it. When you go to take down the art you’ve hung on the wall, you’ll find a couple of nail holes left behind. An easy way to fix this is by using a bar of soap to fill the hole. Rub the bar of soap over the hole until it’s completely filled in.
5. Color code
Color coding is a great way to keep all your boxed organized. All you need is different colored packing tape. As long as you remember which color means and the original box you put each item in, you’re good to go. For example, the yellow tape could mean dishware and blue tape is bedding.
6. Make an overnight bag
Before you pack any boxes, start by packing an overnight bag. The unpacking process takes a couple of days at least. In the meantime, you’ll want some of your essentials. It’s a good idea to have a change of clothes, one pair of shoes, some toiletries, toilet paper and maybe even a first aid kit on hand for those first couple of days in your new place. You can also put the valuable electronics you need access to in your overnight bag.
7. Purge
You know that old sweater in the back of your closet that you swear you’ll wear one day but deep inside know you won’t? It’s time to rid yourself of it and give it a new home. When you start to pack, consider going through your belongings and getting rid of unwanted items. It’s best to do this before you pack as it saves space in the long run. Plus, you’ll move into your new space with fewer items and feel more organized.
8. Sell what you don’t want
Once you have a pile of items to get rid of, consider selling them or giving them away. You could let your friends have first dibs, sell them on eBay or donate them to places like Goodwill.
9. Pre-clean your new home
Once you start unloading your things into your new home it’s nothing but a sea of boxes. If you have access to your apartment, take some time before moving to clean all your new home’s empty spaces. This way when you get there you might have a lot of boxes but everything is clean and ready to go.
10. Eat up
It’s enough to have to pack all your things but packing food is a monster in its own right. If you can, it’s a good idea to try to eat what you can before you move. This way you won’t have to try and pack your pantry or worry about your perishables going bad along the way.
11. Take photos of your furniture assembly
As you start to unassemble the bigger items of your home, such as couches or bedframes, take photos along the way. This will help you later on when you’re re-assembling them in your new space. You could also video yourself disassembling furniture so you know where all the screws go so you’re left with one stray screw.
12. Group the boxes
Now it’s time to put things into boxes. No matter if you’re using cardboard boxes, wardrobe boxes or plastic bins, it’s a great idea to group them. Have all the bathroom and bedroom items in separate boxes. You’ll probably need multiple boxes for each room. When you’re done packing everything by group, put all the boxes together by room or use. This will make unpacking so much easier.
13. Label, label, label
Labeling your boxes is one of those tried and true packing hacks. If you need to find things, labeling will make each box easily accessible. Staying organized ahead of time will make all the difference in your move.
14. Use clear bins
Pack things you’ll need or want first in clear bins. Seeing through them will give you easy access to your belongings. Pack items, such as clothes, toiletries or important documents, in these bins.
15. Roll your clothes
A good moving and travel packing hack is to roll your clothing instead of folding them. This will save you a lot of space and will allow you to put more in each box.
16. Make your own handles
We all know boxes are not the easiest things to carry. However, you can cut your own handles.
First, you’ll need a box cutter. Next, you’re going to cut a small rectangle on each side of the box. Once you’ve cut through the cardboard, you’ll now have two rectangular holes, which are now your handles. You can do this with large boxes and small boxes alike and will save your fingers in the long run.
17. Pack your jewelry tangle-free
While jewelry is pretty to wear, it’s a pain to untangle. There’s nothing worse than going to grab your necklace and realizing it’s attached to every other piece of jewelry you own.
To avoid this, get a couple of ice cube trays, depending on how much jewelry you have. Fill each slot with your jewelry, giving everything its own space. Once you have it all organized, cover it with plastic wrap and boom you’re good to go.
Say you have all your jewelry already organized on hangers well, there’s a way to pack that, too. Just plastic wrap the entire thing and pack it as one. That way when you get to your new home it’s all ready to go.
18. Keep clothes on hangers
Do not, under any circumstances, take your hanging clothes off their hangers when packing. Keeping them hanging up will save time and maximize space during your move. Put plastic bags around the bottom of the clothes to keep them together and organized. When you get into your new apartment, all you have to hang them up in the new closet you’re done.
19. Don’t empty your dresser drawers
Instead of taking the time to empty and refill your dresser drawers, just leave them how they are. Just put a piece of tape on the drawers or cabinets to ensure they stay closed. Just pack the dresser carefully and you’re all set.
20. Plastic wrap
Plastic wrap is your new best friend when you’re moving. You can use it for so many things, from keeping items together to adding an extra layer of protection to boxes. Make sure to have some on hand before you start packing.
21. Say goodbye to bubble wrap
Let’s be honest, who hasn’t enjoyed popping a few sheets of bubble wrap here and there? While it’s a fun pastime and oddly satisfying, it’s also expensive. There are some other ways to ensure your fragile items make it in one piece.
Instead of using air-filled plastic, consider using your own clothing or your kids’ stuffed animals. Pack your fragile goods in between two sweatshirts or put your china next to Mr. Bear and Ms. Bunny. You can also consider packing paper to pack glasses or plates. This will save you from having to use more moving boxes than you need to.
22. Use garbage bags or any plastic bag to save space
Garbage bags and plastic bags are good ways to pack things, such as bed sheets, blankets, comforters or pillows. This will allow you to keep all your bedding together without having to use a single box.
23. Use cotton balls for makeup safety
As a lot of us know, make-up is expensive and to save money, we want it to last as long as possible. When moving, there’s always the risk of items, such as blush or other powders, breaking in transport. A way to avoid this is to put a cotton ball or pad inside the make-up case.
24. Make your bottles spill-proof
Having your skincare or make-up explode while moving is the worst. Your best bet to keep this from happening is cotton balls. Put either one on the top of the bottle before screwing on the lid. This way, if it does decide to explode, you’ll at least trap moisture on the cotton ball or plastic will catch it. For a bit of extra caution, wrap your bottles in packing paper to catch any liquid that might escape the cotton balls under the lids.
25. Take a photo of your electronics
Before you unplug your T.V. and other electronics creating a mountain of cords, take a photo first of how it should look. You’ll be so grateful you did when you go to plug it all back in. You won’t waste time trying to figure out which cord goes where.
26. Make use of laundry bins and suitcases
While you can use moving boxes, it’s also a good idea to use bins you already have on hand, such as bags, suitcases and laundry bins. You can use these to put your clothing in to make it a bit easier when you unpack. Or, put your lighter items like toilet paper or paper towels in them instead of taking up space in other boxes.
27. Feed your friends
If you have friends that will help you move, congrats! You’re winning at life. While your friends are generous, it’s also important for you to thank them. A great way of doing this is by feeding them. On moving day, have some things to snack on to keep your friends full and happy while they’re helping you.
If you still have things you want to use up in your pantry, now is a great time to do that. You can also always order a pizza or have a little get-together at the end of moving day to show thanks.
28. Hire a moving truck
Even if you have friends that are willing to help, it’s still a good tip to use a truck and or movers. A moving truck ensures you have enough space to fit all your boxes and bags. It can also save you from making multiple trips to get your things.
If you don’t have friends that can help you out, then, hiring professional movers or a moving company is another one of the best moving tips to consider. You should always do your homework, though, before hiring anyone. Check out a couple of different companies to see who has the best pricing and remember to always read reviews. This will save you a lot of hassle in the end.
29. Load your moving truck correctly
When the time comes to load up the truck, make sure to do it correctly. Start by putting the things you need last towards the back and the boxes you’ll need first in the front.
Stress-free packing for your next move
We all know that packing and moving is a hassle. While we can’t take all the stress away, we know that these 29 packing hacks will make your move smoother, more organized and efficient and, hopefully, stress-free.