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Black Friday 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Deals and Discounts

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Black Friday 2024 is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to score incredible deals on everything from electronics to home goods, fashion, and more. Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts or snagging something for yourself, this ultimate guide will help you navigate the frenzy, compare online vs. in-store strategies, and maximize your savings.

Please note: this post may contain affiliate or referral links which means that if you click through them and make a purchase or sign up for a service, we may be financially compensated for directing you there.

Black Friday Ultimate Guide to Deals and Discounts

Best Stores for Black Friday Deals

From major retailers to niche shops, here’s where you should look for the best discounts:

Related: Join our daily deals group on Facebook to get see some of the best deals from these stores and local Mid-Michigan businesses too on a regularly basis.

Join us on Facebook

Online vs. In-Store: Which is Better?

Choosing between online and in-store shopping depends on your priorities.

  • Online Shopping:
    • Pros: Convenience, no need to brave the crowds, and exclusive online-only deals. Many retailers also offer free shipping or curbside pickup.
    • Cons: Limited stock may sell out quickly, and delivery delays are possible for popular items.
  • In-Store Shopping:
    • Pros: Immediate access to products and the ability to see items in person before buying.
    • Cons: Crowds, long lines, and the risk of some items being sold out before you get there.

Pro Tip: Use retailer apps to snag doorbuster deals online before the stores open, then visit in-store for any items still on your list.

Strategies to Maximize Savings

  1. Start Early: Many stores launch Black Friday sales as early as November 1, with additional discounts on Thanksgiving Day or Cyber Monday.
  2. Plan Your List: Write down what you need, compare prices across multiple stores, and prioritize high-ticket items.
  3. Set a Budget: Avoid overspending by setting a clear spending limit and sticking to it.
  4. Leverage Rewards Programs: Use store rewards, credit card cash back, or points to stretch your dollars further.
  5. Shop Small Businesses: Many local stores participate in Black Friday promotions and may offer unique items and deals you won’t find at major retailers. You may also have good luck on Small Business Saturday too which comes right after, you guessed it, Black Friday.
  6. Price Match: Many retailers honor competitor prices during Black Friday. Check their price match policies and come prepared with proof.

Pro Shopping Tools and Apps

  • Honey or Rakuten: Add-on browser extensions that apply coupons and cashback rewards at checkout.
  • Flipp: Scan weekly ads for the best deals near you.
  • Pepper (app.gopepper.com): Before you make a purchase, buy a gift card through Pepper and use that at checkout. Most major retailers can be found on this app and you’ll earn gift cards with the points you redeem. This has been a great super hack when shopping on Amazon which typically doesn’t qualify for most other cashback reward programs.

Bonus Tips for Success

  • Check Reviews: Don’t get swept up in low prices without checking product reviews to ensure quality.
  • Keep Receipts: Many stores offer extended holiday return policies, so save your receipts just in case. Plus, you’ll want to scan them for extra cash back and gift card opportunities.
  • Stay Safe: If shopping in-store, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid over-packed areas during peak times.
  • Go in with a Plan: Remember, it can be easy to actually overspend when you see numerous great deals posted. That’s why it is always important to have a plan and stick to it. For us, we usually budget out the amount we are going to spend per person so that we know what parameters we have to work within. This helps us to actually save money, instead of spending more money than we would have otherwise.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday 2024 promises something for everyone, from unbeatable prices to the thrill of finding that perfect deal. By planning ahead, staying flexible, and using smart shopping strategies, you can score big while keeping your budget intact.

How to Save on Thanksgiving Dinner Without Sacrificing Flavor

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Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy good food, and express gratitude. But let’s face it—hosting a holiday meal can quickly add up. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank to serve a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Here are some budget-friendly tips to help you plan your holiday meal without sacrificing flavor or quality.

1. Plan Ahead and Make a Budget

Before you start shopping, decide on a realistic budget for your Thanksgiving dinner. Plan your menu around affordable staples, seasonal ingredients, and sales. By knowing what you want to serve and how much you can spend, you’ll avoid unnecessary expenses.

Related: Not Sure How to Budget? Start With These Four Simple Steps

2. Shop Sales and Use Coupons

Keep an eye on grocery store flyers and apps for Thanksgiving promotions. Many stores offer discounts on turkeys and traditional sides like stuffing, potatoes, and cranberry sauce during the holiday season. For our midwestern folks, did you know that Meijer is offering their frozen Grade A turkeys for only $0.33/lb if you are a Meijer mperks member!?! Pair these deals with coupons for extra savings.

Related: Our Ultimate Money Saving Grocery Shopping App List

3. Get Creative with Ingredients

Traditional recipes are great, but you can tweak them to save money. For example:

  • Stuffing: Replace expensive artisan bread with day-old baguettes or sandwich bread. Add flavorful vegetables like onions and celery to bulk it up.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Stick to basic russet potatoes instead of pricier varieties. Add flavor with homemade garlic butter or cream cheese.
  • Desserts: Instead of multiple pies, serve a single pie alongside less expensive desserts like cookies or spiced applesauce.

4. DIY Where You Can

Pre-made items can be convenient but come with a higher price tag. Making dishes from scratch saves money and often tastes better. For example:

  • Cranberry Sauce: A bag of fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice makes a sauce that’s cheaper and tastier than canned versions.
  • Gravy: Use turkey drippings to create a rich, homemade gravy without needing to buy pre-made jars or packets.

5. Host a Potluck-Style Meal

If you’re hosting for a crowd, don’t hesitate to ask guests to contribute a dish. You can coordinate ahead of time to ensure variety while saving yourself both time and money. Guests are often happy to bring a side dish, dessert, or drinks and it can be a great way to incorporate others favorites into the big meal. Our family has done this now for the past couple of years and it always makes the day a little less stressful.

6. Incorporate Seasonal Produce

Seasonal fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, and apples are often cheaper in November. Highlight these ingredients in your side dishes to keep costs low while adding vibrant flavors to your meal.

7. Reduce Food Waste

Make just enough food for your guests to avoid overbuying and wasting. If you love leftovers, plan them into your menu. For example, use leftover turkey for sandwiches or soup.

8. Buy Generic Brands

For pantry staples like flour, sugar, and canned vegetables, opt for store brands instead of name brands. The quality is usually comparable, and the savings can be significant.

Sample Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Menu

  • Appetizer: Veggie platter with homemade dip.
  • Main Course: Roast turkey or turkey breast.
  • Sides: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted carrots, cranberry sauce and rolls.
  • Dessert: Pumpkin pie and baked apples.

Thanksgiving is about togetherness, not extravagance. By planning carefully and focusing on affordable, flavorful ingredients, you can host a memorable meal that won’t stress your wallet. With these tips, your Thanksgiving dinner can be both delicious and budget-friendly.

How to Save on Holiday Travel: Tips to Save on Flights, Accommodations and Car Rentals

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The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive gatherings—but it can also be one of the most expensive times of the year to travel. Whether you’re booking flights, reserving accommodations, or securing a rental car, the cost of holiday travel can add up fast. But with a little planning and strategy, you can still make it to your destination without blowing your budget.

Here’s how you can save money on flights, accommodations, and car rentals this holiday season.

Please note: this post may contain affiliate and referral links which means that if you click through the link and make a purchase or sign up for a service, we may be financially compensated for directing you there.

Save on Holiday Travel Image

1. Save Money on Flights

Book Early (But Not Too Early)
The earlier you book, the better—but there’s a sweet spot. Aim to book flights about 1-3 months before your trip for domestic flights and 2-6 months for international travel. Use flight tracking tools like Google Flights or Hopper to monitor price changes and snag the best deal.

Be Flexible with Travel Dates
Traveling a day or two before or after major holidays can save you big bucks. Avoid peak travel days, such as the day before Thanksgiving or December 23rd, and consider flying on the holiday itself when prices tend to be lower. Non-holiday travel? Consider booking flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays – we’ve often had good luck saving money on fares that way.

Use Points and Miles
If you’ve been racking up credit card points or frequent flyer miles, the holiday season is a great time to cash them in. Check for reward availability as early as possible, as these spots tend to fill up quickly. We’ve had good luck with Southwest Rewards and are currently trying out Delta Miles – both through American Express. Another program you may want to consider checking out is Built – you can earn points that can be redeemed point for point through a variety of airlines and other travel services.

Consider Alternative Airports
If you’re flying to a major city, consider nearby airports instead. A short drive or train ride could save you hundreds of dollars on your flight.

2. Save Money on Accommodations

Book Directly with Hotels
While third-party booking sites can offer deals, sometimes booking directly with the hotel gives you access to exclusive discounts, perks like free breakfast, or flexible cancellation policies.

Try Vacation Rentals and Home Shares
Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com can sometimes be cheaper than hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Look for properties with kitchens so you can save on dining expenses as well.

Traveling through Mid Michigan? Stay with us at our short-term rental in Lake, MI.

Use Loyalty Programs and Rewards
If you’re a member of hotel loyalty programs (like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or IHG Rewards), you can unlock discounted rates, free nights, and other benefits. Check if you’re eligible to use your points for holiday stays.

Look for Last-Minute Deals
If your travel plans are flexible, apps like HotelTonight offer steep discounts on last-minute hotel bookings. Just be prepared to act fast since availability may be limited.

Related: Visiting Orlando, FL? Creative Ways to Save $$ On Travel

3. Save Money on Car Rentals

Book Early and Lock in the Rate
Just like flights, rental car rates can increase closer to the holiday season. Book early and look for rental companies that offer free cancellations or rate adjustments so you can rebook if prices drop.

Check Off-Site Locations
Rental car prices at airport locations are often higher due to airport fees. Consider renting from an off-site location and taking a shuttle or rideshare to the rental agency.

Use Membership Discounts
If you’re a member of AAA, AARP, or certain credit card programs, you may be eligible for rental car discounts. Check for coupon codes and partnerships with rental agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.

Avoid Unnecessary Upgrades and Add-Ons
Rental agencies may try to upsell you on larger vehicles, GPS devices, or insurance. Decline these extras if you don’t need them. If you have rental car insurance through your credit card or auto insurance policy, you may not need the agency’s coverage.

Compare Prices Across Multiple Sites
Don’t settle for the first price you see. Compare rental prices across multiple sites like Kayak, Expedia, and the car rental’s direct website. Also, consider aggregator sites like AutoSlash, which can apply available discounts automatically.

Additional Tips to Save on Holiday Travel

  • Pack Light: Avoid checked bag fees by packing everything into a carry-on. This also helps you avoid potential delays if luggage gets lost.
  • Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance, especially if you’re flying during the winter when weather delays are more common.
  • Check Your Credit Card Perks: Some credit cards offer travel-related benefits like free checked bags, travel insurance, or access to airport lounges—all of which can make your holiday travel experience smoother.

Related: How to Redeem FREE Travel Miles When Your Luggage Is Late

Holiday travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By following these tips for flights, accommodations, and car rentals, you’ll be on your way to a more affordable, stress-free holiday trip. With a little flexibility, early planning, and smart use of loyalty programs and travel tools, you can keep your travel budget intact and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.

How to Redeem FREE Travel Miles When Your Luggage Is Late

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Travel can be an exciting adventure, but nothing dampens the mood faster than waiting endlessly at the airport carousel for luggage that just won’t show up. Luckily, several airlines offer compensation in the form of free travel miles when your luggage is delayed. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps for how to redeem these miles and which airlines offer this perk.

Redeem FREE Travel Miles when luggage is late

Step 1: Check if Your Airline Offers Compensation

First, find out if your airline participates in compensating passengers for delayed luggage. The following airlines are known to offer free travel miles for this inconvenience:

  • Delta Airlines: Delta’s “Bags on Time” guarantee offers 2,500 SkyMiles if your checked bags don’t arrive at the carousel within 20 minutes of your flight landing.
  • Alaska Airlines: If your bag doesn’t show up within 20 minutes of your flight’s arrival, Alaska Airlines will compensate you with 2,500 Mileage Plan miles.
  • JetBlue Airways: JetBlue also offers 1,500 TrueBlue points for delayed luggage, though there’s no specific time frame, so it’s important to check with the airline when you’re at the airport.

Step 2: Time Your Wait

Once your flight lands, note the time. Most airlines begin counting the luggage delay from the moment your flight arrives at the gate. To claim your free miles, you need to be sure your luggage is officially delayed by the airline’s standards. Generally, this means your bag must arrive at the baggage claim after 20 minutes.

  • Tip: Use your phone to set a timer when your flight lands so you can track the time easily.

Step 3: File Your Claim

If your luggage is delayed, you’ll need to file a claim to receive your free miles. Here’s how to do it with each airline:

  • Delta Airlines: Visit Delta’s dedicated “Bags on Time” page. You’ll need to enter your bag tag number and flight information. If eligible, the miles will be credited to your SkyMiles account within a few days.
  • Alaska Airlines: You can contact the appropriate Airport Baggage Office to make your claim. Make sure you have your flight number, baggage tag number, and the time your luggage arrived to ensure quick processing.
  • JetBlue Airways: You’ll need to contact JetBlue’s customer service either by phone or in person at the airport to request your compensation.

Step 4: Monitor Your Mileage Account

Once you’ve filed your claim, keep an eye on your frequent flyer account to make sure the miles are credited. Depending on the airline, this can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

  • Tip: If your miles haven’t been credited after the specified time frame, follow up with the airline’s customer service team to resolve the issue.

Additional Tips

  • Be proactive: Always keep your baggage claim ticket handy, as you’ll need it to file your claim.
  • Sign up for mileage programs: Ensure you’re a member of your airline’s frequent flyer program before your trip. Otherwise, you won’t be eligible for free miles.
  • Know your rights: Some airlines will also compensate you with vouchers, meals, or hotel accommodations if your bag is delayed for an extended period—so it’s worth asking!

Delayed luggage is never fun, but redeeming free travel miles is a small silver lining to help soften the blow that many people don’t realize they can benefit from. By keeping track of time, knowing which airlines offer this perk, and filing your claim promptly, you can turn a luggage delay into your next travel reward!

Happy saving—and happy travels!

This Week’s Top Toy Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!

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Have you begun your holiday shopping yet? If you are looking to spend less this holiday season, its never a bad idea to plan ahead and keep an eye out for good deals throughout the year to save as much as you can while still giving great gifts. Here are a few of our top children’s gift ideas we found this week that are still active!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click through the links and make a purchase, we may be financially compensated. Thanks for supporting MSD!

Jurassic World RC Car and Accessories

Jurassic World RC Car and Accessories
credit: Amazon.com

If you have any dinosaur fans in the house, this is a great find! Marked down 69% its also a great money saving find! Currently only $13.49 (Regularly $42.99) affiliate link

Grab this deal

Mattel Buzz Lightyear 12″ Action Figure with Accessories

Buzz Lightyear 12" Action Figure
credit: Amazon.com

To infinity and beyond! This Buzz Lightyear action figure is – wait for it – ONLY $4.49! Regularly $21.99, meaning that you’re saving 80% on this fun toy. affiliate link

Grab this deal

Got2Glow Fairy Pet Finder – Magic Fairy Toy Jar with 40+ Virtual Pets

Got2Glow Fairy Pet Finder
credit: Amazon.com

This adorable toy will entertain your kids for hours. Moving around the room, your kids can find over 40 pets around them. Only $10.49 (Regularly $44.99). affiliate link

Grab this deal

Bitty Boomers Darth Vader Bluetooth Speaker with Removable Helmet

Bitty Boomers Darth Vader Bluetooth Speaker
credit: Amazon.com

This gift would make a great stocking stuffer for your favorite Star Wars fan. Regularly $24.99 – on sale for $5.99! That’s 76% off! affiliate link

Grab this deal

Thomas and Friends Take-a-Long Train Set

Thomas the Train Take-a-Long Set
credit: Amazon.com

Who doesn’t love Thomas the Train? When our boys were little, this was one of their go-to toys. We love that these sets are easy to pack and play too. Regularly $43.99, this set is currently on sale for only $15.49 (that’s 65% off!) affiliate link

Grab this deal

Barbie Play ‘n Wash Pets Doll Set

Barbie Play 'n Wash Pets Doll Set
credit: Amazon.com

Barbies are a classic Christmas gift in the Duo household and we think they’ll be even more popular this year across the board thanks to the highly successful Barbie movie that came out earlier this year. This Barbie Play ‘n Wash Set is on sale for only $7.99 (Regularly $22.99) – that’s 65% off! affiliate link

Grab this deal

Let us know which of these deals you grab! You can also join our NEW Facebook Group, Christmas Gifts & Toy DEALS, and never miss a great deal again this holiday season.

Purchasing Your First Home? Money Savvy Tips to Keep In Mind

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Purchasing your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a significant financial investment. Saving money during this process is crucial to make the most of your budget and ensure a smooth transition into homeownership. In this blog post, we will provide you with essential tips to help you save money when looking to purchase your first home. By following these practical strategies, you can maximize your savings and make a more informed decision.

Money Savvy Tips to Keep in Mind When Purchasing Your First Home

Start Saving Early

One of the best ways to save money when purchasing your first home is to start saving as early as possible. This allows you to build a substantial down payment, which can lower your monthly mortgage payments and potentially eliminate the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Set up a separate savings account specifically for your home purchase and contribute to it regularly. Automating your savings can be an effective way to ensure consistent progress.

Establish a Realistic Budget

Before diving into the home-buying process, it’s essential to establish a realistic budget. Consider your income, expenses, and financial goals to determine how much you can comfortably afford. Factor in not only the down payment but also other costs such as closing costs, moving expenses, and potential renovations or repairs. By having a clear budget in mind, you can avoid the temptation of overspending and ensure you’re financially prepared for homeownership.

Be sure to look for a high interest rate savings account to maximize your savings. Right now, Wealthfront is offering 4.55% APY (annual percentage yield) – one of the highest rates of return we’ve seen. Sign up for an account through our referral link and we’ll both get a +0.50% bump on the current APY.

Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a significant role in determining the interest rate on your mortgage. A higher credit score can qualify you for more favorable loan terms and potentially save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Start by reviewing your credit report for any errors or discrepancies and address them promptly. Make all payments on time and reduce your credit card balances to improve your credit utilization ratio. Avoid opening new lines of credit or making major purchases before applying for a mortgage, as this can negatively impact your credit score.

Shop Around for the Best Mortgage

When it comes to securing a mortgage, don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Shop around and compare rates and terms from different lenders to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Even a slightly lower interest rate can save you a significant amount of money over time. Consider working with a mortgage broker who can help you navigate the process and negotiate on your behalf. Be sure to read and understand the terms and conditions of any mortgage agreement before signing.

Consider First-Time Homebuyer Programs and Assistance

Many governments, organizations, and financial institutions offer programs specifically designed to assist first-time homebuyers. These programs often provide financial assistance, down payment assistance, or reduced interest rates. When we purchased our first house, we qualified for such a program and this helped us afford our first home.

Research and explore the options in your area to see if you qualify for any programs. Additionally, some employers offer employer-assisted housing programs or down payment assistance as part of their employee benefits. Take advantage of these opportunities to save money and make homeownership more attainable.

If you live in Michigan, first time homebuyers may want to look at the following programs to see if they qualify:

  • MI Home Loan – eligible individuals may qualify for a $10,000 loan
  • Mortgage Credit Certificate Program – first time homebuyers may also be eligible for a federal tax credit which would allow qualified homebuyers the ability to credit 20% of their annual mortgage interest paid against their year-end tax liability.

Other programs to consider include:

  • Chase Bank’s Grant Program for eligible homebuyers. These grants range from $2,500 – $5,000 and Veterans may be eligible for additional benefits.

Be Mindful of Additional Costs

When budgeting for your first home purchase, it’s essential to consider not only the upfront costs but also the ongoing expenses. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance, and utilities are all ongoing costs that should be factored into your budget. Consider the location and condition of the property when estimating potential maintenance costs. Look for energy-efficient homes or appliances to save on utility bills over time.

There is nothing wrong with renting. If you are looking for something with more of a ‘known’ cost or something that allows a little more flexibility, renting may be the right option for you. The mortgage cost is usually the bare-minimum cost you will spend on a house each month and this is important to keep in mind. Yes, a house can be a good investment, but there are a lot of factors to keep in mind when making this big decision. Make the decision that’s best for you and the money goals you hope to achieve.

Purchasing your first home is a significant financial decision, and saving money throughout the process is vital. By following these tips, starting from early savings and establishing a realistic budget, to improving your credit score and shopping around for the best mortgage, you can save money and make a more informed choice.