Money Saving Duo

Discovering how to live a glorious life on less

Travel & Staycations

Free Winter Weekend Activities for Families to Do Together

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With Christmas over, it’s possible that you and your family are looking for ways to maximize the time you have together now that break is over. If this sounds like you, here are a few of our favorite ways to spend time together this time of year without spending lots of money:

1. Sledding

Grab your sled or borrow one, but this can be a great way to spend the afternoon. Bundle up and find your local sledding hill and get ready for some fun. Most communities have a go-to freebie spot, so be sure to ask around before you head out.

2. Visit Your Local Library

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, we always enjoy trips to our local library. The library features a variety of books, magazines, puzzles, computer games, and more to explore. Check your library’s website to see if any family activities are taking place over break—many libraries host free events like storytime, craft sessions, or movie screenings throughout the year.

3. Go for a Winter Wonderland Scavenger Hunt

Head outdoors and create a scavenger hunt list of winter-themed items to find—think icicles, pinecones, animal tracks, or a red cardinal. This is a great way to keep everyone active while exploring your neighborhood or a nearby park. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot cocoa to warm up afterward!

4. Break Out a Board Game

Dust off those board games in the closet and host a family game day. Whether it’s a classic like Monopoly or a quick round of Uno, playing games together can spark lots of laughs and friendly competition.

5. Host a Movie Night

Transform your living room into a cozy theater with blankets, popcorn, and everyone’s favorite movies. You could even pick a theme for the night, like classic winter films or animated favorites.

6. Volunteer at a Local Non-Profit

Spend time giving back as a family by volunteering at a local non-profit organization. Soup kitchens, animal shelters, or food banks often welcome extra hands, especially during the winter months. It’s a wonderful way to bond while making a difference in your community.

7. Go Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink

Many communities offer free or low-cost access to outdoor skating rinks. Bring your own skates if you have them, or check if there are affordable rentals available. It’s a fun way to enjoy the crisp winter air together.

8. Take a Winter Nature Walk

Bundle up and take a leisurely walk through a local park, nature trail, or nearby woods. Bring along binoculars for birdwatching or see how many different types of trees and plants you can spot in their winter state.

9. Have a Snowman or Snow Fort Building Contest

If there’s snow on the ground, challenge each other to build the most creative snowman or sturdy snow fort. Add props like hats, scarves, or old buttons to bring your creations to life.

10. Create Homemade Winter Crafts

Gather supplies from around the house (or your local dollar store) and spend an afternoon making winter-themed crafts. Try paper snowflakes, pinecone bird feeders, or DIY hot cocoa kits.

11. Organize a Winter-Themed Photo Challenge

Take turns snapping pictures of winter scenes like frosted windows, snow-covered branches, or playful family moments. Create a mini photo album or slideshow at the end of the day.

12. Bake Together as a Family

Spend time in the kitchen baking cookies, bread, or a fun winter-themed treat. Kids can help decorate baked goods, and everyone will enjoy the delicious rewards!

13. Visit a Local Museum or Community Center

Check out free admission days at local museums or see if your community center is hosting any winter-themed events. Many places offer family-friendly options that are engaging and educational.

15. Set Up an Indoor Obstacle Course

Use pillows, chairs, blankets, and other household items to create a fun obstacle course indoors. Time each family member to see who can complete it the fastest!

With these fun and budget-friendly ideas, you’re sure to make the most of your family time this winter! Which of these activities will you try first?

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!

Budget Friendly Fall Fun For Families

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Now that fall is officially here, you may be looking for ways to keep your family entertained without spending a lot of money. We’ve got you covered! Here are some of our favorite family-friendly activities that will cost you very little, if anything at all.

  1. Head to your local library and pick up some new books that are fall-themed to read together.
  2. Go on a nature walk in your neighborhood or local park and take pictures of falling leaves, bugs, and anything else you find interesting along the way—then bring those pictures home and make a collage or photo book about your adventure!
  3. Visit a local apple orchard or pumpkin patch. Let your kids pick out their favorite pumpkin or enjoy a glass of apple cider.
  4. Carve pumpkins – the ones your kids picked up at the pumpkin patch! And don’t forget to roast the seeds too.
  5. Print out fall-themed activity sheets and have an ‘art night.’
  6. Check out your local bike trails.
  7. Attend community events hosted throughout your town.
  8. Visit a local farmers’ market and pick up some fresh produce. It’s a great way to support local farmers while getting some exercise at the same time.
  9. Have an adventure day! Set aside one day this fall where everyone goes off on their own to explore something new—a museum, an art gallery, or even just another part of town that hasn’t been explored before. It’ll be fun for everyone involved!

What are your favorite ways to enjoy the fall season? Share in the comments.

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

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Our family just recently traveled to Orlando, FL and if you are looking to plan your next visit to the family-friendly Florida city, we have a few tips to help you do so more affordably.

Our family at Disney World during our trip to Orlando

Visit Universal Studios City Walk at night or Disney Springs for FREE!

Did you know that you can visit the Universal Studios City Walk for free in the evenings? Or Disney Springs at no cost? Even parking is free! This is a fun way to get a taste of either park. We enjoyed taking in all the sites and window shopping while there.

Use your reciprocal membership at the Sea Life Aquarium and get 50% off

If you’ve been reading our blog for awhile, you are probably already aware that we are big fans of reciprocal memberships. These truly are the best way to get the biggest bang for your buck no matter where you go. If you have a zoo membership, check to see if it gives you access to the Sea Life aquarium through a reciprocal membership. If so, you’ll get 50% off the admission price.

PLUS, we were even able to apply it to the already discounted two-attraction deal that was being offered. We got into both the Sea Life Aquarium and Madam Tussaud’s wax museum for under $25 a person.

Stay at a hotel or an Air BNB location with a kitchen and save on meals

Orlando has a wide variety of accommodations to choose from, but we highly recommend selecting a location that includes a kitchen or kitchenette. We chose to stay at a Air BNB rental that was big enough for our family and Aaron’s parents who traveled with us. We were so grateful that it included a full kitchen so that we could pick up groceries for breakfasts and lunches. This saved us a ton of money and our guts (at least for those of us 30 and up!) thanked us for it too.

Download restaurant apps to get exclusive app savings and coupons

When you do go out to eat, be sure to look for restaurant apps you can download to your phone. We saved half off at Uno’s Pizzeria and got exclusive savings at Popeye’s too. Mind you, we ate at plenty of local restaurants too, but mixed it up a little bit with a few most cost-effective options as well.

Use the Checkout 51 cash back app to save on gas

Although we flew to Orlando, we had to drive to the airport and utilized a rental car to get around to all our excursions. To save on gas, we used one of our favorite apps – Checkout 51. Its pretty common for us to get anywhere from $0.05 to $0.15 off per gallon through this app.

Pack reusable $1 water bottles to fill up at the parks

We traveled to Florida in June, so it was pretty hot when we visited the Magic Kingdom. Instead of relying on in-park purchases to stay hydrated, we packed reusable water bottles we picked up for a dollar at a nearby store. Yes, you CAN take water bottles into Disney World parks but they have to be empty at time of entry. Fill them up at water fountains throughout the park (usually located near the restrooms) to stay hydrated all day long.

Shop for souvenirs off-site

Another great tip – shop for souvenirs off-site. Our kids had fun identifying items they liked at the in-park stores; however, we found the prices to be quiet high. So instead, we took the kids to a few souvenir shops off-site and saved a ton! For example, we found autograph books for only $1.97 and Minnie purses for only $8.97. Way cheaper than what we saw in the parks!

Look for more affordable tourist stops – like Old Town Orlando

One of our favorite stops was at Old Town Orlando. Our kids were able to ride a few rides and we enjoyed walking through the old town shops. Parking was free and you only have to pay for the attractions you want. Our kids rode go-karts, a roller coaster and some smaller carnival rides. Compared to some of the amusement parks, this might be a fun, more cost-friendly alternative if you’re looking for something the family will enjoy.

Visit the Orlando Science Museum for FREE with, you guessed it, a reciprocal museum membership!

Although it may seem like EVERYTHING in Orlando costs money, we are happy to report that with another type of reciprocal membership, you can get into the Science Museum at no cost if you have a museum membership.

If you are traveling to Orlando, we hope you have a fantastic time no matter your budget! Hopefully, these tips will help you keep things a little more affordable as you travel.

Enter to Win $1000 for your Staycation!

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Please note: This post contains a referral link and we may receive an extra entry into the giveaway if you click through the links and enter yourself. We just thought you should know!

Want a little extra spending cash to make the most of your staycation? Enter to win $1000 from Vrbo to spend on family activities during these uncertain times.

Enter to Win a $1000 Staycation
credit: Vrbo.com

Five lucky winners will receive a $1000 prepaid VISA reward card to spend on family activities during these uncertain times.

Use yours to stock up on board games, a backyard tent, or maybe even a trampoline… that’s what we decided to spend our spring break money on this year since we had to cancel our original plans.

April 12th, 2020 is the last day to enter so act fast!