Top Ways to Stick to Your Budget

Money stress is the worst kind of stress. And learning to manage your finances is something almost all of us have to face. It’s like getting up on a Monday morning – unavoidable, but necessary. So how do you enjoy a decent life without getting tangled in a mess of unnecessary expenses? Here’s how to approach non-essential items, cut unnecessary costs, and help stick to your budget while still living your best life.

1. Identify non-essential expenses to stick to your budget

The easiest way to start this discussion is with the non-essentials. You may be spending your hard earned money on things you just don’t need. This right here has to stop! I’m talking about those pricey luxury items, extravagant dinners out, all those subscriptions, and entertainment costs. These are the first areas you need to look at to trim the fat from your spending.

Next, list all your expenses and split them into two categories: essential (like rent, utilities, groceries) and non-essential (like your daily Starbucks run, or that gym membership you never use). And don’t worry, we’re not looking to banish all non-essential spending. We just want to keep an eye on where your money is sneaking off to. Remember – we still want to live an enjoyable life! But we can do that without breaking the bank on the things that we do treat ourselves to or by treating ourselves to too many things too often.

2. Eliminate unnecessary subscriptions

When was the last time you went through your bank statements line item by line item? If it’s been awhile, then it’s very possible you are paying for a subscription that you forgot about. Other than that, we may have subscriptions that we barely use! Those monthly charges may seem small, but over time they really start to add up. From magazines to streaming services, these little costs can cause you to not stick to your budget. So, sit yourself down, take a good hard look at each subscription and ask yourself how often you use it. If it’s barely or never, it’s time to cut ties. And for those of you gripping your Netflix subscription like it’s a life preserver, don’t worry. There’s a sneaky hack you can use – learning how to change Netflix location. This little trick can potentially reduce your monthly payment and give you access to a whole new world of content. Genius!

3. Cook at home

Eating out or ordering takeout regularly can quickly add up, making it very easy to not stick to your budget. How about trying your hand at preparing meals at home? Cooking doesn’t have to be as daunting as a season finale cliffhanger. There’s a treasure trove of quick, easy, and delicious recipes online waiting to be discovered. Consider meal prepping to save time and stress during the week. Before you know it, you’ll be astonished at how much money you’re saving, and you’ll have picked up some snazzy new culinary skills to boot. Plus, home-cooked meals are often healthier, leading to a win-win situation for your wallet and your waistline.

4. Shop smarter to stick to your budget

When it comes to shopping, always have a list and stick to it like glue. Going shopping without a plan can lead to impulse buying and unnecessary expenses. We all know how dangerous Target can be! Try shopping for items when they’re on sale or during off-peak seasons. There are tons of apps and websites that let you compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Make the most of this by buying in bulk when it makes sense. Bulk purchases often offer significant cost savings.

Thrifting or second-hand shopping apps like Mercari or Poshmark are also a great resource for buying new-to-you items. This can be a good way to treat yourself to something while still being able to stick your budget.

5. Prioritize experiences over things

Studies have shown that experiences bring people more happiness than material possessions. So instead of splurging on the latest gadgets or fashion items, why not invest in experiences like traveling, learning a new skill, or attending a concert? These memories will last longer and enrich your life more than any material item could. Plus, engaging in new experiences can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life.

6. Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

Roll up your sleeves and prepare to save a significant amount of money while also sticking to your budget. From home improvement tasks to personal care, the internet is chock-full of guides and tutorials to help you out. DIY projects can offer not only monetary savings but also a sense of accomplishment and a boost in self-confidence. Who knows, these new skills might even turn into hobbies or side gigs. And if you can’t do it yourself, identify whether or not the project is essential or not. Something like a leak in your roof is essential. Whereas your car’s AC being out might not be essential. It would be very annoying, but ultimately manageable.

7. Prioritize your spending to stick to your budget

It’s crucial to budget according to your lifestyle and priorities. Maybe your morning coffee at the café is a non-negotiable, or perhaps you can’t live without your gym membership. And that’s okay! The goal isn’t to live a bare-bones lifestyle, but to cut unnecessary costs. Set some boundaries for yourself but allow some wiggle room for the things you love. This way, you can enjoy life while still sticking to your budget. And if you can, investing a portion of your savings can help grow your wealth and elevate your lifestyle in the future.

Living your best life doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. It’s about making smart decisions that allow you to enjoy the things you love without stressing over finances. And remember, every little bit helps. Seemingly small savings can pile up over time, leading to substantial financial progress. After all, it’s your money, and it’s your life. Make it count!


Energy Saving Tips to Lower Your Bill

Homes are energy hogs. Sadly most are energy intensive and not set up for efficient heating and cooling methods. Although you can upgrade your current home to include more energy efficient features and appliances, that requires a lot of time and money. But there is a better way! You can use multiple energy saving tips to lower your bill that won’t burn a whole in your pocket. So where can you begin?

Service and repair broken appliances

Old, broken, or inadequately maintained appliances will consume more energy to function properly. As such, this puts more pressure on the appliance itself. Not only that, but this energy usage drives up your bills and increases the risk of more damage, or even failure. Carrying out regular service maintenance can minimize damage, lower repair bills, and keep your energy bills down. And it’s a hell of a lot cheaper to schedule regular maintenance than it is to replace an entire appliance because it failed. Things to consider getting checked are:

  • schedule HVAC repairs annually
  • have your dryer vents cleaned periodically
  • get regular roof inspections

These are just a few of the most common things to look out for!

Use Energy Star products – an energy saving tip

Now not every appliance is capable of being salvaged from a repair or regular maintenance. When that happens, you’ll need to invest in something a little more up to date. When you are looking to upgrade your appliances, look for those with the Energy Star Rating. To earn an energy star rating, the appliance must meet a strict set of criteria set out by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. This means you can guarantee they are more energy efficient to use, saving you both money and energy!

An easy energy saving tip is to insulate your home and prevent drafts

Insulate your home

You can insulate many parts of your home to help you regulate energy and lower your energy bill. The most common type of insulation is cavity insulation in roofing spaces. While this is a highly effective manner of insulating your home and one of the biggest energy saving tips, it isn’t your only option. You can insulate walls, floors, pipes, tanks, and even ducts. You can also draft-proof windows and doors to eliminate energy, escaping to lower your usage and bills too. A third of your energy is lost through inefficient wall options, so investing in wall insulation can be an excellent investment, along with draft proofing and loft insulation to help you cover as many bases as possible.

Switching to LED Lighting is an easy energy saving tip

Homeowners and renters alike can save over $200 per year by switching from incandescent lighting to energy-saving LED bulbs. LED bulbs are not only better for the environment and consume less energy, but they also last longer. This means you don’t have to worry about replacing them so frequently, making them more economical. For example, the ones that we just switched to in our home are good for 20 years! For someone with tall ceilings like we do, I don’t want to climb up there to constantly change them out. This recommendation is one of the easiest and most common energy saving tip.

Unplugging unused appliances will help you lower your energy bill

Have a “Turn It Off” mindset

If you think that keeping appliances plugged in doesn’t use energy, I’m sorry but you are wrong. Keeping unused appliances plugged in and switched on costs around $165 per year per household. If you find your energy bills are rising and you need to save money and reduce your usage, then ensure all unused outlets are turned off and unused appliances and devices are unplugged. The most common culprit is cell phone chargers. They can commonly be left plugged in and switched on for convenience. Not only does this damage your bank account, but the charger itself.

Lady switching off a light switch as an easy energy saving tip

Use OhmConnect to get rewarded

This tips goes hand in hand with the tip above. There are reward programs for quite literally anything nowadays. Saving energy is no exception to this rule! OhmConnect connects directly to your energy provider, tracks your energy usage, and gives you opportunities through Ohm Hours to get rewarded. Be aware though, not every person has an eligible energy provider to connect.

Ohm Hours happen frequently – especially during the summer. You will be alerted via email and/or text message for these Ohm Hours. In the message, they will tell you the date, time, and how much you could earn by reducing your energy during that time period. You are encouraged to turn off the AC, unplug unused appliances, and use this time to be as off the grid as possible. After a few days, your progress will be recorded and your reward will be given. You can use your rewards to cash out for your favorite brand giftcards or to cash out directly to PayPal. OhmConnect is a great way to save money both by lowering your energy bill and getting rewarded for doing it.

Use these energy saving tips regularly!

To conserve energy and reduce your usage, you can do many different things – from free actions such as turning off appliances to massive home renovations, to updating insulation and buying new appliances. But whatever you do, make sure you are making beneficial changes to see the savings add up!


Popular Coupon Codes to Use Now

Looking for the best deals on your favorite online stores? I have worked with a number of awesome brands that were kind enough to give me exclusive discount codes. You won’t be able to find these codes on any coupon site. Better yet, these codes are guaranteed to work! So no need to try out ten different codes in the pursuit of savings. Sit back, relax, and let the savings come to you!

Affiliate codes and links are provided in this blog.

Alphabetical List of Discounts

707 Street discount code: Use the code THANKYOU23 for 10% off of a purchase of $150+.

CASETiFY coupon code: Use the code MY15R for 15% off.

Corkcicle coupon code: Use the code WELCOME15 for 15% off.

Cozy Earth coupon code: Use the code DONNAGAIL40 for 40% off!

Expedition Roasters coupon code: Use the code DONNAGAILBLOG for 10% off.

Liquid IV coupon code: Use the code DONNAGAILBLOG for 20% off plus free shipping. During peak holidays, sometimes this code can even get up to 30% off!

Mingle Mocktail discount code: Use the code DONNAGAILBLOG for 15% off.

Rest Duvet coupon code: Use the code DGB for 30% off on anything, including their popular Evercool Cooling Comforter.

Vera Bradley coupon code: Use the code DONNAF for 10% off. This code will not work on third-party licensed products like Disney, Harry Potter, etc.

Vivaia coupon code: Use the code VIVAIA11 for 10% off.

Walking Pad coupon code: Use the code DONNAGAILBLOG for $100 off.

Wandering Bear discount code: Use the code WANDERING10 for 10% off on anything – even single cold brew boxes!

How to get more coupon codes

I am always looking to work with brands that make amazing and helpful products. I keep an updated list of discount codes on my blog for your reference! And if you’re a brand looking to work together, then let’s chat! I would love to continue offering my readers and followers the best deals.


The Royal Up Program: Royal Caribbean's Upgrade Experience

The Royal Up Program: Royal Caribbean’s Upgrade Experience

Imagine sailing away on a luxurious cruise, savoring the sea breeze and soaking up the sun. But wait, what if there’s a way to enhance your experience even further? Enter the Royal Up Program.

The Royal Up Program, offered by Royal Caribbean, allows you to potentially score an upgrade to a higher stateroom category. Just think of the possibilities. You might find yourself in a spacious suite with breathtaking ocean views. And you can hopefully do that for cheaper than regular price!

Royal Caribbean main pool deck 12 while docked near a city.

How does the Royal Up Program work?

When eligible, you’ll receive an email invitation to participate in the Royal Up Program. Once you receive the invitation, it’s time to channel your inner explorer and embark on an upgrade journey. In the email, it will list possible staterooms that you can bid on. You will select the monetary amount that you are willing to pay for a specific stateroom upgrade. Be aware though! You are bidding on a “per person” amount. But it only applies to the first and second guest on the booking reservation. You will not be charged for third or higher guests if your offer is accepted. Additionally, if you are in a single occupancy booking, you will be charged for double occupancy.

You are also more than welcome to big on multiple rooms to increase your chances of getting upgraded. You will however only be able to bid on one room per category. But don’t worry – you will only pay for one upgrade if accepted.

Royal Caribbean will notify you via email prior to your sailing departure if your bid was accepted. If you win the upgrade, you’ll be charged the bid amount, and voilà, you’re off to a more opulent abode onboard. It’s like stepping into a hidden treasure trove of comfort and luxury. And if you don’t get your bid accepted, you will not be charged for any upgrades and you will keep the stateroom that you originally had.

It’s important to note that the program is subject to availability, so grab your chance while you can. Remember, luck favors the adventurous!

What stateroom categories are up for grabs in the Royal Up program?

Potential Royal Caribbean Royal Up program offers for suites

Well, it can vary depending on the sailing and availability. You might have the opportunity to elevate your experience from a cozy interior room to a spacious balcony stateroom, or even ascend to the heights of a magnificent suite.

Now, you might be wondering, “Are there any restrictions?” The Royal Up Program does have a few. For instance, if you’ve already paid in full or are within a certain time frame before departure, you won’t be eligible to participate. But fear not, other adventures await!

Remember, the Royal Up Program is all about adding that extra touch of grandeur to your cruise experience. It’s an opportunity to seize, a chance to make your journey even more unforgettable. And every time you book a suite on Royal Caribbean, you will automatically earn twice the amount of points on your cruise. Be sure to use those points to tier match to MGM Rewards!

So embrace the thrill of the Royal Up Program! Why wouldn’t you want to cruise to CocoCay in style? Upgrade your adventure, elevate your expectations, and let the waves of luxury sweep you off your feet. Your upgraded stateroom is just a bid away. Bon voyage!


4 Park Magic Ticket for Walt Disney World

NEW Summer Walt Disney World Ticket Special

Summer travels to Walt Disney World Resort this year are about to get crazy fun. Summer brings longer park hours, nightly fireworks, exciting entertainment, and a NEW special offer! There are SO many reasons to visit Walt Disney World Resort this summer. The beloved Happily Ever After fireworks show is back, lighting up the night sky with enchantment. And have you heard about the new TRON Lightcycle at Magic Kingdom? Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also celebrating 25 years of welcoming guests, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to the spectacular Fantasmic! It’s the perfect place for unforgettable summer nights. It’s a thrilling ride you won’t want to miss! Keep reading because you will definitely need this discount to save big money on your Walt Disney World tickets.

Get Away Today's special ticket pricing for Walt Disney World is the 4 Parks Magic Ticket

Special Pricing on Walt Disney World Tickets

Walt Disney World Resort has just released a 4-Day/4-Park ticket that allows guests to visit each theme park once this summer at an amazing price. This special ticket is roughly $150+ LESS than a regular 4-Day Base Ticket! Can you believe it? Get a day at each Walt Disney World Resort Park for even less with huge savings on a 4-Park Magic Ticket from Get Away Today! From June 1 to September 29, you can enjoy a day at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios while saving big! No need to worry about making theme park reservations with these tickets. You can just breeze into each park whenever you want. However, keep in mind that there are two sets of blackout dates around the 4th of July and Labor Day. But that’s not all.

Would you believe that I have an even better deal for you? Get Away Today is selling this special ticket offer at an even lower price than Disney. And be sure to check out my page about Get Away Today deals to see if you my coupon code can help you save more money.

If you prefer a more relaxed vacation, they’ve got you covered there too. Soak up the magic with our 2 Days FREE Walt Disney World tickets! That’s right, you’ll get a full week of theme park admission for the price of a five-day ticket. It’s like getting two days for absolutely free!

The 4 Park Magic Ticket from Get Away Today is the best price guaranteed for Walt Disney World tickets.

Important dates to remember

These special Walt Disney World ticket prices are only available for travel from June 1, 2023 to September 29, 2023. They also have two blackout dates that apply: (1) July 1 – July 4, 2023, and (2) September 1 – September 4, 2023.

As for special events at WDW, be sure to check out the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, running until July 5th. And mark your calendars because the Food and Wine Festival kicks off on July 27th. It’s a paradise for foodies and a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings. Halloween season is fast approaching. As such, the villains are coming out to play! See the different dates on the most special Halloween event, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

So, why are you still reading this? Get ready for an incredible summer adventure at Walt Disney World Resort. And don’t worry, you can also score big on some Disneyland tickets too. Buy your tickets now at Get Away Today. Remember, the early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the best Disney deal!