I’m currently in the middle of a move. As anyone who has ever moved (pretty much everyone) knows, it can be stressful and expensive. But throughout the last two months, I’ve discovered a few cheap ways to move and would like to pass them on. Hopefully you too can save some moolah when you’re moving!

1. Purge. Simple, yet one of the best frugal moving tips. The fewer boxes you have, the less time it takes the movers to load, so the less you have to pay. If there are things you love but don’t need, take a picture. That way you’ll have the memory of your favorite stuffed animal forever.

2. Find Free Boxes. I can never figure out why people pay for boxes. Sure they might be in better shape, but the world is full of free boxes! Drop by your local liquor store, call around to grocery stores, or ask friends. I’m sure they’ll love to get them off their hands.

3. Book Movers Early. When looking at how to move cheap, think about your movers. If you’re moving yourself, look for deals like our Budget Truck Rental coupons for 10%-15% off one-way rates. Considering I have three flights of stairs (ugh!), I hired a company. And by booking early I got a deal. Also, try NOT to book on the last weekend of the month. It may save you $30 to $100.

4. Use Free Packing Paper. For packing paper, try to find free newspapers or entertainment magazines. Just be careful, as sometimes the ink is cheaper and may smear all over your prized antique cup set. Use dish towels and bedding to wrap truly valuable merch.

5. Call to Disconnect Utilities Early. Procrastination is my middle name, but not when it comes to disconnecting utilities! Call as soon as you know when the move is, since most companies need as many as 30 days to disconnect everything. You don’t want to pay for the next person’s cable, do you?

Moving is full of stresses, but your budget shouldn’t be one of them. There are cheap ways to move, and hopefully you’ve found a few tips here. Happy moving!

Who said Valentine’s Day was only for couples? I say it’s a day to celebrate love in general. And who loves you more than your best friends? This Valentine’s Day, call on all your single ladies for a party at your place! It’ll be a night filled with laughter and good times when you check out these fun things to do on girls night. 

And the best part is: these Valentines party ideas for adults are very frugal! (You didn’t think I was gonna make the hostess with the mostess go broke now, did you?) I’m a frugal diva who loves to have fun just like you.

DVD Time

I don’t know about you, but I enjoy laughing as much as I can. And I’m not talking about a slight giggle; I’m talking about rolling-on-the-floor-holding-my-stomach laughing. And there isn’t one episode of Sex and the City that hasn’t done that for me.

Having these DVDs handy for some great laughs is perfect for celebrating Valentines Day at home. To keep things affordable, assign each girl a season (or seasons) to rent from a video store and bring over on party night!

Truth or Dare

Playing Truth or Dare with your girls is a great way to learn all their dirty little secrets. But if you want to add a twist to Valentines party games, then I suggest you make your own version.

Ask all the girls to write on a cue card – they must write down three questions that they’ve always wanted to ask each other and place them in a box that you have ready.

Everyone must spill the beans playing this game. It can get pretty shocking and hilarious – just like Truth or Dare. But you must all make a pact that the truth never leaves that room. Seriously, ladies!

Bad Girl Band

Sure, I sound like a hyena when I try hitting those high notes, but my girls don’t judge, and neither will yours! Creating a “bad girl” band is one of the most hilarious Valentines party ideas. If you have any clothes from years past, go through them for an 80s or 90s look.

If any of your friends owns games like Guitar Hero or Rock Band, ask them to bring it over. Otherwise, ask everyone to bring over CDs from years past (including Alanis Morissette and Ace of Base haha!) and sing along karaoke style.

I hope you all have a memorable Valentine’s Day!

The holidays are a blast, aren’t they? That is until we step on the scale in January…eek! Finding motivation to work out on cold, dark days can seem impossible, but we’re eternal optimists here at FabulousSavings!

We’ve compiled some realistic tips for keeping winter weight at bay – take a peek:

1. Healthy substitutions – Little changes like whole-wheat rice, pasta & bread do a body wonders. Choose low-fat & diet anywhere you can to cut out unnecessary calories.
2. Shovel snow – Do you know by shoveling snow manually you can burn up to 500 calories? Remember to warm up first!
3. Hydrate – More water means a faster metabolic rate & higher energy levels, so make sure to get the recommended daily dose of 8 glasses.
4. Morning exercise – Working out in the morning burns your stored fat as opposed to burning carbs accumulated throughout the day. The result? Optimized weight loss.
5. Cheat – With GNC coupons you can get 10% off everything. Why not invest in some supplements or healthy shakes to get the ball rolling?
6. Alcohol – If you don’t want to say no altogether, you can make healthier choices. Light beer, wine & vodka-based drinks are calorie-friendly choices!
7. Stay focused – Last winter I gained 15lbs, and I keep pictures around to remind myself not to gain it all back! It’s a great motivational tool.
8. Have fun! – Outdoor activities like tobogganing & snowball fights are great cardio!

Try out a couple of these tricks to avoid those pesky winter pounds. It’s a New Year and a New Decade…there’s no time like the present to start!< -->

The second half of the school year is upon us. This is good because it means new friends, new classes and new adventures. It’s bad because it means that school loan is seeming oh-so-much smaller than in September. So, I’ve compiled a few personal finance tips for college students that can help you achieve an “A” in savings!

English Lit.

Buying text books is one of the most expensive purchases a student has to consider. Huge money management tips for students include finding cheap books. Take advantage of used books stores. We offer FabulousSavings AbeBooks coupons for free shipping on a wide selection of affordable texts.

One of the ways I saved on textbooks is finding someone who had taken the same class. I asked her if she still wanted the text book, and since she didn’t, I ended up getting a greatly reduced price.

Home Economics

Cutting down on food is tough, but all it takes is a few creative budget ideas for students to make a difference. Instead of that $3 dollar coffee, try brewing your own or instant. True, it’s not as delicious as your favorite retail brand, but it’ll get you through your first class – at only 3 cents a cup.

Extra Credit

Juggling school in itself is a tough task, but if you can manage it, a part-time job is the best way to reduce student debt. If you can squeeze just 10-12 hours of work a week, not only will you be in the money, but that extra work experience will look great on a resume.

Sticking to your student budget is difficult, but if you use these money saving tips for students, the end is definitely worth it. You’ll be left with less debt and a lesson on saving you can use towards life after college too.

There’s no denying that NFL games are heating up. If you’ve already blown your weekly entertainment budget at the local pub, it’s time to bring the party home. Being a fan myself, I offer you tips on how and where to save on NFL party supplies.

If you’re looking for where to find NFL props for parties, your first stop is NFL Shop. Save 15% on $90 or more when you use NFL Shop coupons on jerseys, figurines, DVDs and collectibles.

Teamwork – A great option that works for big groups is to share hosting duties. Also, friends can bring food, drinks and snacks of their choice to share the costs. Just remember, when it comes to how to plan a football party, food and decor are the two most important things. So, let’s get ready to rumble (oops, wrong sport):

Decor & Supplies – Inject some liveliness into the place to give the guys and the gals an experience! The benefit of buying team themed decorations is that you can reuse them year after year if you’re a loyal fan, and get your full money’s worth.

If it’s your turn to host a tailgate party at home, check out our Target coupons to save $5 on $50 or more on a variety of home entertaining items for game day. Check out banners, beer pitchers and glasses, dip platters and slow cookers. Speaking of food…

Food – Have you tried sitting through a football game without munching on something? It’s virtually impossible! Most football fans expect some hearty grub like chili, meat and potatoes. However, who has the budget for this? I don’t recommend you trying making any of these dishes if you’ve never picked up a pan before in your life.

Here are some other ways to serve delicious food at a fraction of the cost:

• Get Some Help – Know someone who’s a whiz in the kitchen? You buy the groceries at a discount grocery store & have them cook the food for you. Thank them by offering them a small token or inviting them to the party!
• Pick Up the Order - Preorder the food and pick it up when you’re running other errands. Consider how many people you’re having & assume seconds for everyone. Don’t let your appetite order for you because you’ll have lots of leftovers.
• Use Coupons – Ah, my favorite. I’m always in for a good deal & when you use Omaha Steaks coupons you save 10% on $100 or more on burgers, roasts, appetizers & more.

Throw a foolproof NFL party at home and score a touchdown of savings.

After one glorious year of living the all-inclusive rent lifestyle, I’ve re-entered the world of the Plus-Hydro rental unit. Now it’s time to buckle up and get serious about how to save on electricity bills.

GHz Guzzling Gadgets

Okay, look around you. See everything plugged into the wall? Even when your charger or DVD player isn’t on, it still sucks hydro. So, the first step to a lower bill is to unplug all unnecessary units, even if it means learning how to change that blinking 12:00. Learning how to lower your electricity bill isn’t about monumental changes. It’s the littlest things that make a difference.

For instance, if your morning routine consists of primping with a hairdryer and curling iron, you’ll be shocked how much these essentials cost. I’m not saying you need to live a life of frizz, but try lowering the temperature to medium or half heat.

Electrical Heat Is the Root of All Evil

The most feared of all heating options is the (dun dun dun!) electrical heating unit. And with winter around the corner, here are a few ways to get ready for the big chill and still cut your electricity bill:

1. Go Solar – If you own your home, turn to solar heat. It’s much cheaper in the long run and better for the environment. Save up to 75% from Real Goods Solar coupons.
2. Check the Thermostat – Turning your thermostat down even one degree can make a huge difference on your bill.
3. Window Sealing – Drafts can be a drag. Make sure all areas around doors and windows are air-tight by sealing them with weather stripping.

Finding ways to reduce the electric bill takes vigilance. Shut off the lights, do full loads of laundry, and switch to energy efficient bulbs. But in the end, not only will it put more cash in your pocket, but a little more green in the Earth, too.

When October 31st rolls around, it’s time to have a little fun. Yet hunting for that discount Halloween costume for plus size figures can be anything but. Have no fear! Make this Halloween fun and affordable with these coupons towards plus size discount costumes:

• BuyCostumes Coupons - get 10% off $50 on witches, vampires, Coffin Bride & zombies
• Shindigz Coupons – free shipping & $10 off orders over $50 including pirates, nurses, El Diablo, Spider Queen & Wicked Jester

Spooky

(Insert cackle here.) In the true vein of the season, sometimes it’s fun to dress up in a scary costume. At BuyCostumes, check out some of the frightfully scary costumes including ghosts, ghouls, gore and the scariest of all…clowns (at least in my opinion)! For effect, BuyCostumes has creepy effects like fangs and spider web eyelashes.

Sultry

When deciding on a discount Halloween costume in plus size, find one that not only fits, but flatters your body too. Start by looking in your closet for that saucy evening dress and sass it up with a few props. Add some horns to a red dress and you’re a sexy devil. Thrift stores are great for guys. Check out the uniforms section for doctor scrubs or get a plaid shirt and western hat for that rugged cowboy look.

Slapstick

Kids love dressing up in silly costumes. When I was little, most of my costumes were on the scary side, but my favorite costume was a furry pink Ewok. Here are some great plus size discount costumes from BuyCostumes the kids will remember for years to come:

• Little Bo Peep – pink dress complete with staff
• Kim Possible – save the world in this outfit from the cartoon
• Captain America – full costume with added muscles

No matter whether you’re going trick or treating or heading out for an evening of fun, check out these sassy and silly costumes for a perfect fit.

Call me crazy, there’s nothing I won’t do to get the best deal out there. That’s why I love discount frugal shopping. If you’re like me and experience sticker shock every time you’re at a store, then check out my frugal shopping tips for nailing the best deal whether you’re buying a car or handbag. I have been able to master the art of frugal shopping when finances have been tight. The question is…can you?

Research & Being Smart

I can’t stress this enough when it comes to being frugal and cutting costs. In any situation, it’s important to have a plan. Here’s an example: a few years back, my car broke down. For many people who require a car, they would go out the next day and buy the first used car they see without doing much research. By doing this, you’re not only risking getting ripped off, you also might spend more time at the mechanic then driving your car! Don’t settle and keep your eyes and ears open. A great deal could be around the corner.

Discount & Outlet Centers

Shopping for name-brand clothes that I paid a fraction of the cost for is a thrilling experience. At a very young age, I was introduced to outlet shopping. I love it because you’re offered authentic merchandise between 30 to 75% off. Despite what you’ve seen or heard, not all outlet retailers offer seasonal merchandise, so your chances of finding something new at 20 or 30% off are pretty good and, more importantly, worth it!

Sales, Sales, Sales!

Next on my list of frugal shopping tips is the good ol’ sale! So what if it’s one of my favorite words in the English language? If you’re like me, you’re probably signed up to every mailing list from all your favorite stores, not to mention are aware of any big storewide sales happening in your city. In order to master the art of frugal shopping, you must be in tune with when sales are happening!

Discount Online Shopping

Although I don’t have much experience with this, many of my friends have. Discount online shopping is the process by which you research and scope out the best deals on the internet, order it and have it delivered to your home. To avoid buyer’s remorse and getting tricked into a fake, it’s important to stick to reliable sites like Amazon.com, Overstock.com and Buy.com, especially when shopping for electronics. And while you’re doing some online shopping, it doesn’t hurt to use free online coupons from FabulousSavings!

Shopping Used

I left this one till last because I know not everyone is crazy for thrift stores or yard sales. If it’s any consolation, I’ve had success in both of these shopping dynamics, and I’ve never been disappointed. These places are ideal for buying furniture and revamping it or something antique you know you can’t find anywhere else. When it comes to thrift shopping and yard sales, you should always keep your hazards on and try to bargain as much as you can.

I may claim to be the discount shopping diva that I am; however, there could be many more frugal shopping tips out there, so I’d love for you to share them with me…pretty please?! Until next time…happy shopping!