How to keep the winter woes at bay

What do we mean by winter woes, you might be asking? Well, whether you’re one of those who loves or loathes the colder months, you can’t tell us that catching a cold isn’t even the slightest bit annoying. Or that having to drag your shopping back from the supermarket in freezing cold temperatures is even remotely tempting. As I write this, there is a storm imminent and I know I’d much rather be sitting here at the kitchen table rather than out there trying to battle my way through the strong winds. So what winter-themed advice can we offer?

First up, if you haven’t caught one already, here’s a few tips on how not to. Yes, we’re talking the sniffles. Winter colds are a right pain in the sinuses, but if you want to reduce your chances of catching the virus, it’s mainly a case of having a bit of common sense rather than spending a fortune. And what about all those warm and hearty winter food essentials that should be lining your shelves? It’s not about spending loads of dosh on posh nosh, but more about smarter shopping.

You may or may not have noticed that half term is upon us. If you have children that is. If you don’t please feel free to skip to the next paragraph, or you still might want to read our half term blog post so you know the places to avoid over the next week (mainly online toy shops).

And let’s talk about the other winter-related activity that you either love or loathe. Yes, the annual compiling of the Christmas shopping list. What in heaven’s name are you going to buy your mum/dad/partner/kids etc etc??? Well, we haven’t got all bases covered just yet, but here are few tips to get you started on your gift buying for daddy dearest.

And don’t forget, you’ve still got a chance to win £250 worth of vouchers for either Marks and Spencers, Cath Kidston or Mint Velvet when you download our excellent money saving app to you browser of choice. It will help with all that online Christmas shopping and will be especially welcomed by those who like to spend time as little as possible on this activity as well as those who like to spend as little money as possible.

Here comes autumn...

…and isn’t it great? We may have been blessed with some slightly higher than average temperatures for the last month, but I think it’s safe to say we’ll all be turning on the central heating in the next week or so. But whether you think this is a good thing or a bad thing, there’s still plenty to look forward to in the next couple of months…

If you’re one of those that does not enjoy the cold in the slightest, we predict what your next move might be… a spot of winter sun, perhaps? If you’re about to start searching for the best late deals, here’s our guide to the potential pitfalls and hidden gems that you need to keep your eyes peeled for.

But while those sunseekers are off seeking sun in foreign climbs, what can we look forward to at home? Everything! Not only do we have Halloween and Bonfire Night treats to scoff, but there’s also the general all-encompassing warm glow that autumn brings. Here’s our guide to all your autumnal advantages, including warm fires, extra reading and telly time and boxsets and baking galore.

If your kids are now happily ensconced in the new school term and you’re spying an opportunity to undertake a bit more healthy exercise, here are a few ways to include health and fitness into your daily routine that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to join a gym. Which is always good news.

While we like to sing the benefits of downloading our money saving app to your browser, there are now a few more fantastic reasons to get our icon onto your toolbar. Not only can it help you save on your online shopping more easily, but now you also have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win £250 worth of vouchers for Marks and Spencer’s, Cath Kidston or Mint Velvet. And just think what floral-themed goodness you could buy with those…

Hobbies, Halloween and...Hamsters

We’re going to go on about autumn again, sorry. Actually, we’re not in the least bit sorry, because autumn is brilliant. Not only do you have an excuse to be lazy and stay indoors, but you also have Halloween and Bonfire Night to look forward to, and we all know what these two celebrations mean – that’s right, sweets and food! So here are a few more autumnal tips and tricks for you to peruse…

Of course, reading can be enjoyed throughout the year, whatever the weather – sitting under a tree in the park with your favourite paperback, or sunning yourself on the beach with your eReader in hand. But there’s nothing quite like curling up in front of an open fire (or radiator if you don’t have one) with a lovely absorbing, engaging book. So to celebrate the staying in and the reading, here’s our guide on how to enjoy books again, as well as how to save a bit of money on them.

Oh yes, Halloween! Not only have we given you cupcakes in the past, but we’re now here to give you costume ideas. Whether you want to save some money by making your own, or save some money when buying your own, there’s no shortage of Halloween voucher codes to take advantage of. So get in early and plan your family’s spooky outfits so they’re scary to the max.

Filling your weekends with family activities might be slightly problematic when the rain is pouring down, so take up some crafty craft pastimes to keep yourself and the kids entertained. Here are a few ideas for autumnal-themed craft activities that won’t break the bank and will result in a bit more clutter in your home. But we don’t mind clutter when the children are otherwise occupied.

Ok, this one’s not completely autumn-related, but no less important and useful. If you have a pet, you might appreciate the fact that even the smallest hamster costs a bit of money to keep happy. So have you thought about purchasing your pet goods online? You might be able to save yourself a few quid and a bit of hassle. Here’s a few ideas on where to start saving on your small furry animal luxuries and essentials.

Our money saving app is ALWAYS worth installing on your browser, but now more than ever, because as well as helping you save with a large selection of online retailers, you can also enter a draw to win £250 worth of Marks and Spencer’s vouchers. Everyone’s a winner then. But obviously the person who wins the vouchers is a bit more a of winner…