The expense of dining out has hit an all-time high! And that even includes the usually budget-friendly fast-food restaurants. There was a time when you could easily feed a family of four for under $20 at just about any fast-food restaurant.

However, nowadays, $20 may barely be enough to feed two people. That’s why any meal deal under $5 now is truly a big deal.

Image: Burger King

For a limited time, Burger King is offering a $4.99 Double Cheeseburger Meal at participating locations.

The meal deal is available in-restaurant and online via BK’s site or app.

There is no limit, so a family of four could feast for under $20!

The meal deal includes the following:

Regular prices vary by location. 

Double Cheeseburger — reg. $3.99

Value Size Fries — reg. $2.89

Value Size Soft Drink — reg. $1.99

The total value is $8.87, so it’s a savings of nearly $4 — 44% off the regular price.

Hungry for more food deals?

   

Start searching for pennies in the couch or under the car mats. Finding a penny has always meant good luck for the person fortunate to find it. And now a penny is even luckier for bowling fans!

Leaving billions of coins still in circulation, the U.S. Mint recently announced that it will be retiring the penny this year. And Lucky Strike is giving fans an opportunity to put their extra pennies to good use for a little fun.

Photo: Lucky Strike

Lucky Strike and Boomers are hosting a one-day celebration, The Penny Retirement Party, with an opportunity for fans to spend their extra pennies. 

Lucky Strike Penny Special

On Jan. 25, 2026, Lucky Strike is offering one game of bowling for just one cent with the purchase of two additional games at participating locations.

Find locations nationwide here. 

Boomers Penny Special

At Boomers, customers who purchase an Unlimited Attractions Pass will receive a 16-oz. ICEE for one penny on Jan. 25, 2026 at participating locations. 

   

Buying new clothes usually means spending money, no matter where you shop.

One thing I learned not long ago was how to consign clothes for sale in order to better afford new ones. This is also a great way to ensure your closet, drawers, and other storage areas are clutter-free.

Let’s dive into the best way to learn how to consign clothes. You can earn money easily, reduce clutter, and make room for new styles. 

Before heading to my first consignment store, I researched and had lengthy conversations with multiple store owners throughout Baltimore. Each store is different in terms of what it’s looking for, but here are a few tips for successful consigning:

How to sell to consignment shops

Call first. Many consignment stores will only take designer names, and most will take clothes by appointment only. Some fill up so quickly that they won’t meet with you until they’re ready for more stock. Calling first saves you time, energy, and frustration. 

Think about the time of year. Most consignment shops take only in-season clothes. It’s best to plan as early as possible because, just like other stores, consignment stores put clothes out on the racks seasonally. They may already have spring/summer clothing out, even though it’s still winter coat weather.

Make sure your clothes are washed and wrinkle-free. Most places will not take your used garments if they have the slightest stain.  If you have even just a couple of wrinkles, they will most likely ask you to get your piece dry-cleaned before bringing it back.

Start with some of your best pieces. That way, the next time you call, the store owner may be more inclined to meet with you sooner rather than later.

Don’t have any expectations. Don’t put a price on a piece of clothing unless you’re considering keeping it. The store owners know their own inventory and customers best, so leave the pricing up to them. Also, don’t expect them to like a piece of clothing as much as you might. It’s best to come to the store owners with an open mind.

Find out how and when you will receive payment. Each store works differently. Some may cut you a check for every item sold, or some may decide to cut you a check for items sold within a given period. They may even be able to set it up to pay you electronically. Also, not all stores will offer cash for your clothes – some may offer only store credit. Decide which one is more important.

Don’t bring anything to consign that you wouldn’t buy yourself. You are truly your best critic. If you bought something on a whim with unusual patterns or that was part of a trend that has been out of style for quite some time, consigning the item may not work. Most consignment store owners are very selective.

Every time I have consigned my clothing, it’s been a huge success. I continue to donate pieces I can’t consign to local charities. Working with a new consignment store to sell clothing is definitely a process, but it’s worthwhile. Who doesn’t love having extra spending money in exchange for something that could be just collecting dust?

More clothing posts

• How to find high-quality clothes for less
• The best ways to find discounts for clothing

   

Photo: Deposit Photos

Spending some time preparing your car for winter cannot only help prevent a breakdown or accident but can also save you money on repair costs and gas. If you don’t know how to get your car ready for plummeting temperatures and icy roads, this preparing your car for winter checklist of 12 quick and easy fall and winter car maintenance tips. Some things you can do yourself, while others require a mechanic.  All will save you money down the road.

How to prepare your car for winter

Cold weather car maintenance doesn’t have to be hard! As you can see, there are easy steps that you can take to ensure that your car is running the best way possible. 

Learn how to take care of your car in winter to keep it running and reliable! 

1. Get a tune-up.

If you’re due for a tune-up, schedule it for the fall. Cold winter weather magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance and rough idling.  Check your owner’s manual for the tune-up schedule and follow it.

2. Change the fluids.

Six fluids should be changed before the chilly winter temperatures come. These include brake system fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid, and suspension differential fluid.

Sediment and other impurities can find their way into brake fluid, so a routine change is a smart idea. Some manufacturers don’t suggest a transmission fluid change until the car has logged 100,000 miles. But ask your mechanic if a change might be a good idea, considering the age and wear of your car.

Use cold-weather washer fluid in the winter and keep the reservoir full. Keep a bottle in the trunk; it will come in handy when grimy snow or road salt smears your windshield. As a general rule of thumb, this should be done every two years, advises the nonprofit Car Care Council.

3. Change your oil and oil filters.

Okay, we know oil is another fluid, but it deserves its own category. Regular oil changes prevent overheating and grime buildup. Changing the oil also improves fuel efficiency and reduces the risk of engine failure.

It’s especially important to plan a pre-winter oil change because oil thickens and becomes sluggish in winter temperatures. Consider changing to “winter weight” oil if you live in a cold climate. Want to keep your oil warm in wintry climates? Consider purchasing an electric blanket for your car’s oil system.

Don’t think you can ignore oil changes if you only drive in town. Those starts and stops can be tougher on the engine than highway road trips. Also, be diligent about changing the oil filter at recommended intervals.

Photo: Deposit Photos

4. Check your brakes.

Brakes are your car’s most important safety system (after you, the driver). Before ice and snow put your brakes to the test, make sure to get your brakes and brake fluid checked. Replace brake pads if  necessary, so you’ll be able to stop on a dime, even on slippery winter roads.

Tell your mechanic to check the emergency brake as well. Even if your brake pads are good, the cables or mechanical elements can seize or break, especially if they are unused.

5. Clean and check your car battery.

Cold weather is hard on batteries. Have the battery and charging system checked for optimum performance each fall. It’s especially important because so many computerized safety systems run off battery power.

You can use a tester to determine whether your battery is weak. If you aren’t comfortable doing this, go to an auto retailer like AutoZone or O’Reilly Auto Parts. They will test your battery for free.

In addition, you’ll want to clean your car battery. Check the battery posts for residue, then use a wire brush to remove it. Wipe down the battery case to remove grease and grime.

Photo: Deposit Photos

6. Make sure your heater and defroster still work.

Winter car care shouldn’t start the day temperatures plunge below freezing  and you discover your heater isn’t doing its job. Check the heater and defroster in the fall, before you need them, to determine if they are working properly. If they’re not, get them fixed ASAP.

Check the heated seats, too, if you are lucky enough to have them. If you’re not, check out this 12-volt travel throw that plugs into the cigarette lighter to keep passengers toasty on cold car rides.

7. Replace windshield wiper blades.

As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six months. If yours have been leaving patches on your windshield, replace them now before the cold weather stiffens the rubber even more.  If you are in a climate where you use snow tires, consider using winter wiper blades, as well.  

It’s also a good idea to check the rubber seals around your car’s doors and windows.  If necessary, use a silicone treatment specially made for vehicles to reinvigorate them.

De-ice your windshield the same way the airlines do: Mix 2/3 rubbing alcohol and 1/3 water, then spray it from a spray bottle. Works like a charm. To prevent ice from forming on your wiper blades, use a rag to soak them with rubbing alcohol.

8. Test your headlights.

Shorter days in winter lead to more driving in the dark. Before Daylight Savings Time ends, check that your car’s exterior and interior lights and headlights work and are properly aimed. If headlights seem to be less powerful than they used to be, clean them. Use only a special cleaner that won’t scratch the finish, such as the 3M Headlight Restoration Kit.

9. Prep car tires for winter.

To prepare your car’s wheels for winter, plan to rotate the tires in the fall for even wear and a more comfortable ride. Or switch to winter tires, which offer better traction and help clear snow from the track.

In winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly. Always check tire pressure in the driveway, since driving as little as a mile to the supermarket can affect the reading.  And don’t forget to test the spare, too, especially if you’ve been lucky and haven’t needed it for a while.

Photo: Deposit Photos

10. Check the exhaust system.

Check your car for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed. A detector made for vehicles will alert you to problems.

11. Keep your gas tank full.

When winter comes, keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to reduce the chance of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing. Plus, you never know when a sudden snow squall will stretch your commute to hours on the road. You’ll be thankful not to have to worry about running out of gas as you try to get home safely.

12. Put together a winter emergency kit.

Many drivers have been surprised by a sudden storm or stranded for a few hours in a vehicle that slid off the icy roads into a secluded area. For these unexpected situations, put together an emergency kit to store in your car. You’ll want to include an ice scraper and snow brush, jumper cables or a jump starter that works on a variety of devices. Other items to carry are a flashlight, flares, blanket, extra warm clothes (including gloves and hat), candles/matches, bottled water, dry food snacks and medications.

Another must have for winter driving? A fully charged cell phone. Though you can’t leave it in your car, try never to leave home without one.

What should I keep in a winter emergency car kit? 

A well-prepared winter emergency car kit is essential for ensuring safety and convenience when driving in unpredictable winter conditions. Here’s a comprehensive list of items to include:

• First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, and having one ensures you’re equipped to handle minor injuries until professional help arrives.

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• Convenient Packaging: An ideal office first aid kit, home first aid kit, or car first aid kit, this set of safety-oriented office essentials comes in a durable plastic case complete with easy slide latches
• Easy Access: This convenient and versatile work, home and car emergency kit features a clear cover and individual compartments that keep supplies neatly organized and easy to locate

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• Blankets: If you’re stranded in cold weather, they provide crucial warmth and comfort while you wait for assistance.
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Essential for visibility and signaling in the dark, especially during power outages or when inspecting your vehicle at night.

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• 【5 MODES & ZOOMABLE FUNCTION】Rechargeable flashlight has 5 modes: High/medium/low/strobe/SOS. We can stretch the head to change the bright flashlight focal length and beam size, enduring flashlight rechargeable with multiple lighting methods can effectively cope with complex environments at night. For outdoor use, linterna recargable wide beam is used to illuminate a large area and the narrow beam is used for long distance viewing.

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• Non-Perishable Snacks and Water: Staying nourished and hydrated is vital if you’re stuck for an extended period. Pack energy bars, nuts, and bottled water.
• Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: Quickly clear ice and snow from your windshield and windows to maintain visibility and safety.

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• Paint Protection Design: The bristle head looks lighter in color and finer because we polished the head of the bristle, and each bristle head was split into several strands for being softer (not faded and worn) to avoid scratching the car paint.
• Built to Last: You’ll only need one, the high-strength ABS shaft, PC bristles, and EVA cotton handle have been engineered to withstand heavy snowstorms and temperatures as low as -40°F. Gifts for Women Men Dad Mom.
• Push and Scrape: Brush off snow and scrape the ice without damaging your windshield! Break up ice with integrated knuckles and easily scrape it away. It can quickly help you brush off loose snow from car windshields, roofs, doors, hoods, and side mirrors.

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• Jumper Cables: Cold weather can weaken car batteries. Jumper cables are essential for giving your battery a boost or helping others in need.
• Portable Phone Charger: Keeping your phone charged is crucial for contacting emergency services or loved ones if you encounter trouble.
• Reflective Triangle or Flares: These items alert other drivers to your presence if you’re stopped on the side of the road, reducing the risk of accidents.

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• Specified and approved by the Bureau of Explosives and Underwriters Laboratories
• No expiration date on road flares, the date shown on the flare is manufactured date
• Orion flares will burn in all weather conditions, waxed Flare w/Plastic Cap

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• Multi-Tool: A versatile tool can assist with a variety of small repairs or adjustments that might be needed in an emergency.
• Warm Clothing: Extra layers, hats, and gloves are vital for maintaining body heat if you need to leave your vehicle.
• Shovel: A compact shovel can help you dig out of snow if your car gets stuck.
• Sand or Cat Litter: Providing traction under tires, sand or cat litter can help you get moving if you’re stuck on ice.

By stocking your car with these essentials, you ensure that you’re prepared to face winter’s challenges with safety and peace of mind.

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• Comparing roadside assistance programs

   

The heating season is back in most of the country, and heating costs are expected to rise. Here’s what energy experts say you can do to save on utilities this winter. Most of these ideas won’t cost you anything, but they will save you money.

Bottom line: Know that there are ways to mitigate some of that energy use in winter and lower your utility costs every month.

We consulted several experts, and the tips they shared to save on winter bills are universal. Some you’ve heard – and maybe some are new to you. Find out how to lower your electric bill in winter with these easy tips. 

Winter energy saving tips – How to save on utilities

We’ve organized these tips for saving on winter utilities into sections that answer the most common questions. Within each section, we put the cheapest and easiest options first, so you can get started right away and lower your winter bills. 

How do I set my thermostat to save money in the winter?

Lower thermostat settings at night and when no one is home. This is especially important when you go on vacation.  Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust your indoor temperature settings.

Set your thermostat no higher than 68°F when at home and 60°F when away or sleeping.

How can I save electricity in winter?

Appliances and electronics make up about 20 percent of a typical household’s energy costs. Read our article on how to save money year-round by saving on electricity, and check out these tips that will help you save electricity in the winter.

Electric heating systems, like gas furnaces, will cost less if you set your thermostat lower, especially at night when you’re under warm blankets or when everyone is gone for the day. But don’t set it so low that it has to run constantly to catch up later. 

Avoid using portable electric heaters, as they can consume a large amount of electricity in a short time.

Use the stovetop instead of the oven when you have a choice, or invest in a toaster oven for small jobs, such as reheating a slice of pizza. The crock-pot also is a great energy-saving device. If you do need to use the oven, be sure to capitalize on the heat it produces by opening doors to other rooms and encouraging the warm air to flow to them too.

Fill the clothes dryer before using it, but don’t overload it. Keep the lint screen in the clothes dryer clean. 

Keep refrigerator/freezer coils free from lint and dust build-up.

Turn off lights and other appliances when not in use. Where it makes sense, turn off and unplug electronics that are not in use. This applies to computers, too. If it’s truly inconvenient to turn off your computer, at least turn off the screen.

Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs or compact fluorescent bulbs, which use 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer. A CFL used four hours every day will save you $7 per year compared to a standard incandescent bulb.

Use one large light bulb instead of several small ones in areas that need bright light. Using lighting controls, such as dimmers, can help reduce energy use.

How can I keep my house warmer in winter?

Open the drapes on sunny winter days; keep them closed in summer. Insulated drapes will help even more.

Keep windows and exterior doors shut tight when they are supposed to be closed.

Check for open fireplace dampers to ensure cold air is being kept out of your home. Obviously, you’ll need to open them again when you use your fireplace; just remember to close them again after the coals are out.

Weatherization is a cost-effective way to reduce energy use and improve your home’s comfort. Up to 20 percent savings on heating bills can be achieved by caulking around windows and weather-stripping around doors. This is definitely a DIY project if you’re handy — and a fairly inexpensive one at that.

The same type of savings can be achieved on heating bills by upgrading from 3 inches to 12 inches of insulation. 

You can also insulate accessible heating ducts that run through unheated areas such as a garage, and blanket your hot water heater. 

(For more ideas and information about weatherization and insulation, check out our list of 14 home improvements that save on your heating bill.)

Proper maintenance of heating systems and appliances will also keep your house warmer and more efficient. Furnaces should be professionally inspected annually, and filters should be changed every 30 days during the winter months. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning electronic filters.

What is the most efficient temperature for a hot water heater?

Set your hot water heater temperature between 120 and 140 degrees. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, for every 10ºF reduction in temperature, you can save from 3%–5% on your water heating costs. Don’t go too far, though; if you use a dishwasher, the hot water temperature should be at least 120 degrees (and no more than 150).

Speaking of dishwashers, if you have an Energy Star dishwasher, you’ll likely save hot water by using it each night rather than hand-washing dishes several times a day.

Repair water leaks on faucets and toilets. One drip per minute can waste up to 220 gallons of water per month, and you’ll literally be flushing money down the toilet. If it’s the hot water that is dripping, it will cost you even more.

For more information, see our list of 33 ways you can save water and reduce your water bill.

What other ways can I save on winter bills?

Choose energy-efficient appliances, and you’ll save in two ways: you’ll reduce your utility costs by using more efficient appliances, and you might also get a cash rebate on your purchase, making it even more affordable to replace an old and less-efficient one. 

Before purchasing home improvement equipment and appliances, review available rebates on EnergyStar.gov to see if your purchase qualifies. That same website, EnergyStar.gov, also provides information about the various energy-saving appliances available and lots of other good money-saving tips.

Get an energy audit if your city offers them. Many municipal utilities offer free or low-cost energy audits. If so, take advantage of that service. You can also check with your local utility provider, which may have tips specific to your area. 

What are the most popular tips on how to save on the electric bill in winter?

While the above tips will save on utilities, these are the most popular to keep in mind. If you’re wondering how to keep your electric bill down in winter, these tips can help. 

• Seal Drafts: Use weatherstripping and caulking around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out.
• Insulate Windows: Install thermal curtains or plastic film over windows to reduce heat loss.
• Programmable Thermostat: Lower the thermostat while sleeping or away (even by a few degrees) to cut costs.
• Zone Heating: Heat only the rooms you use with space heaters, and keep doors closed to contain warmth.
• Ceiling Fans: Reverse the direction to clockwise to push warm air back down.
• Maximize Sunlight: Open curtains during the day to let the sun heat your home, then close them at night to retain warmth.
• Upgrade Heating Systems: Service your furnace or boiler to ensure it runs efficiently.
• Energy-Efficient Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs, which use less energy and generate less heat.
• Unplug Devices: Reduce phantom power usage by unplugging idle electronics or using power strips.
• Dress Warmly: Layer up with sweaters, socks, and blankets to stay cozy without relying on the thermostat.

If you liked this post, you may also like:

• 31 ways to stay warm and cozy this winter
• Cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects