October Reading Roundup

Now that fall is in full swing, it may be tempting to break out your favorite knit sweater, pour some cider in a mug, and take in some of the fall foliage. While you can certainly take some time to relax, it may also be important to revisit your list of home renovations and start checking off some boxes on your home winterization list. Taking care of home repairs before the winter could help you save big by avoiding some big home repair costs.

But your home may not be the only thing you want to start prepping for the winter. As you plan your Halloween and fall fun, you may also want to take a look at your financial situation. Finding ways to enjoy the last bit of good weather while also being budget-savvy could help you when it comes time for gift-giving in December. (It could also be a good time to review some end-of-the-year tax moves, too, like making some end-of-year donations!)

How to Stick with Your Fall Plans & Goals

One way you could stay on track with your budget is by reviewing your financial goals. This may be especially important if you’re one of the many Americans who have reported being hit with unexpected expenses as prices on various goods and services continue to rise.

If you have a significant other, you might want to consider sitting down with them to discuss your finances as a couple. Doing so can help ensure you’re both on the same page about how you want to spend and save your money. And if you don’t already have a budget (or need to redo your current one), you can find tips on saving money and see which ones work best for your goals.

You may also make it easier to meet your goals if you find ways to cut your everyday expenses. For instance, you could learn how to negotiate to lower some bills . Do you plan on watching Netflix this fall? You may also want to sign up to be a Netflix tagger and get paid to watch Netflix content!

Another way of padding your budget is by stashing cash in your savings whenever you get an unexpected money windfall. Even having just a few extra bucks in your savings could help you stick to your budget and stay on track for your financial goals.

Looking for some planning inspiration? Consider researching the benefits of “living your budget” to help make sure you actually follow through with your plans!

Fall Travel Destinations

Traveling before the holidays may not only help you avoid crowded airports — it could also save you money during the more expensive holiday rush. If you’re planning some fall travel, you may want to look for some beautiful fall hiking trails, like Angel’s Rest Trail . Looking to leave the country? There is plenty to do in Singapore in the fall, too!
Still not sure if fall travel is in the budget? You can learn how to travel for free (or close to it!) . If you’re also looking for a career change or a side hustle, you may also want to find a part-time job or new career that will pay you to
travel .

Spooky (And Budget Friendly!) Halloween Fun

Halloween on a budget doesn’t have to be a drag. For those looking to dress up, you can find a cool family or group costume theme on any budget! Need something to do with your kids? You can do some easy Halloween crafts at home while watching some spooky movies. You can also save money by avoiding spending on candy your neighborhood kids won’t eat. You can check out your state’s favorite Halloween candy to help you while you shop for trick-or-treaters!

Looking for a spooky way to spend your next 10-minute break? Check out some ghost towns up for sale (although if you’re on a budget, you may just want to peruse!).

Getting Ready for the Holiday Season

While the holidays may feel far away, it’s never too early to prep for gifts, holiday parties, food, and holiday-related expenses. Not sure where to start? You may want to create a vision board to first plan your ideal holiday season. A bullet journal could also be a great way to keep track of your holiday plans and budget.

Another way you can prepare for the holiday season is by finding ways to save on holiday decor, fashion, and more. You could look for online flea markets to help you not only buy new stuff on the cheap, but also get rid of items you don’t use, thus increasing your savings even more! But before clicking “add to cart,” you may want to consider whether the items you’re browsing for are completely necessary. Even small purchases, like a new holiday sweater or a lottery ticket , could add up in the long haul.

More From Around the Web

Home repairs and finances may not be your only concerns this fall. With so many chances to eat cider donuts, Halloween candy, and other goodies, your health may also be on your mind. Besides your diet, you may also want to take some extra precautions during flu and cold season, so we’ve rounded up some tips on how to stay safe and healthy:

•  7 Tips To Stay Active & Healthy While Working From Home

•  How to avoid cold weather cost increases in your home

•  How to start a healthy morning routine — and stick with it

•  Here are the top apple picking spots in the US, per Yelp

•  13 Tips for a Healthy Fall

•  157 Flu Statistics and Facts You Should Know

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