Get Financially Fit! | Travel Food Costs

When it comes to travel, food costs can break the bank! Trent Hamm, contributor to U.S. News & World Report and writer on his website, TheSimpleDollar.com, shares with us How to Cut Food Costs While Traveling.

In a nation as big as the U.S., travel is often a big part of people's lives. Whether trekking to visit family or friends or simply to enjoy a national landmark, Americans frequently hit the road or fly the friendly skies.

Once you're away from home, however, one of the biggest financial challenges is food. Without the contents of your cupboard and the convenient tools of your kitchen, how exactly can you avoid spending a fortune on sustenance?

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Get Financially Fit! | Free Fun: Part 2

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? How about something to do for FREE?

Trent Hamm, writer on his website, TheSimpleDollar.com, shares with us 102 Things to Do for Free.

1. Check out the community calendar.
Look at your town’s website (as well as those of cities and towns nearby) or stop by city hall to find a list of events going on in the community, many of which are free. You’ll often be surprised at how many interesting (and free) activities are going on right now in your area.
 
2. Visit your local library.
Not only is a library a warehouse of books, most libraries also have extensive CD and DVD collections you can check out. Many libraries also have “story time” for young children, film nights, book clubs, concerts, author readings or lectures, and many other events that you may be unaware of – completely for free. Stop in and check out what they have to offer.
 
3. Get involved in community sports.
Many towns have community sports fields where both youth and adult sports leagues and activities are regularly going on throughout the weekend. Stop by, watch a game or two, and if something intrigues you, look into joining either as a participant or as a volunteer.

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Get Financially Fit! | Saving Money (Super Bowl)

Super Bowl 50 is just around the corner! For many this means a gathering of friends, family and lots of food. Throwing a Super Bowl part can quickly become expensive. Trent Hamm, contributor to U.S. News and World Report and writer on his website, TheSimpleDollar.com, shares 5 tips for saving money on a Super Bowl party.

It’s Super Bowl season, which means a lot of households are planning parties for this weekend. Of course, a big party can mean big expenses, but if you’re smart with your planning, you can save money and even increase the fun without detracting from your party. Here are five strategies to incorporate into your big party.

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