Save on hotel stays by using rewards cards

On a recent trip my family and I took to Disneyland, we discovered a way to save on our hotel stay. For a room at Best Western that was going to cost us about $129 each night, we were able to get the room at a rate of $99 — just by signing up for their rewards program. Of course, only the first stay is discounted but after 10 visits to that hotel, we will get the next stay free. Next time you go on a vacation, make sure to ask if the hotel you are staying at has this type of card. There are other hotels that offer such programs, like the Marriott Hotels.

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Last week, I wrote about using the ten second rule when trying to decide whether or not to purchase unnecessary items. There are actually a couple Web sites that will help you avoid impulse buys. By visiting ziplist.com or grocerywiz.com, you can skim through the items, enter what you need and print it out or send send it to your Blackberry. For more information about these sites, visit http://cbs13.com/savewithdave/save.with.dave.2.1114907.html.

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Need lunch item ideas for your school-aged children? Don’t spend money on those costly pre-packaged items. Buy a box of 100-count sandwich bags and fill each will individual-sized portions of pretzels or popcorn. You can also fill re-useable containers with applesauce or pudding. For more information, visit http://mommysavers.com/frugal-food-recipes/saving-school-lunches.shtml.

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Do you know of a way to save money or know of a great resource that explains how to save money? Contact Pam Bauserman at 369-7035 or send an e-mail to pamelab@lodinews.com.