The CardCookie Blog

Find smart tips to make the best out of your monthly budget, industry trends, and much more in our weekly articles!

2024-09-18
It's true, part of going on vacation is shopping for gifts, and skipping out on it can feel like missing a significant part of the trip. However, to ensure your shopping doesn’t overshadow your vacation budget, keep these tips in mind:
2024-09-25
Caring for aging parents is challenging and often requires putting aside a significant part of your daily life. For the "sandwich generation," those still supporting their children, this can be an even greater financial strain. However, having a clear understanding of the financial, emotional, and family situation can make a big difference. Here are some key points to consider.
2024-10-02
"It's not like it used to be," says a TikToker over 65, talking about his new life after retirement. "In my grandparents' generation, you retired and never worked again, but today, that's not the case." Indeed, today is different—retirement is not an ending, but rather a beginning for whatever you want to pursue. However, whatever you have in mind, it's essential to plan financially to ensure your passion projects bring joy, not stress.
2024-12-04
They say you can’t manage what you don’t understand—and that couldn’t be more true when it comes to your finances! So, the first step before figuring out how to track your net worth is to understand what it is and then, of course, calculate it for yourself.
2024-11-20
Picture a holiday season where you stick to your financial goals, shop stress-free, and avoid starting the new year with a spending hangover. With holiday sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, tempting discounts can lead to overspending. But with a bit of planning and a thoughtful approach, you can keep your spending in check while enjoying the holiday season. Here’s how.
2024-09-10
Divorce happens, and while it’s tough, being prepared is key. We’ve put together essential tips to help you navigate this challenging time.
2024-08-28
Gift cards are a fantastic way to give a flexible gift or manage your spending, but they come with some questions. We've gathered the most common ones and have all the answers you need. Let's dive in!
2024-08-22
In the quest to stay on top of your finances, gift cards have emerged as a surprisingly effective tool for budgeting. Imagine using them not just as gifts but as a strategy to keep your spending in check. Here's how you can leverage gift cards to streamline your budget and even snag some extra savings.
2024-07-29
First of all, congratulations! If you're reading this, it means your kids have safely made it to adulthood, and that’s no small feat. But joke aside, we know that for some parents, this can be a tricky time. One thing's for sure: it's a time of change.
2024-07-22
According to the American Psychological Association's 2023 Stress in America survey, finances and the economy are the top stressors. The survey also highlights that money-related stress has increased since the pandemic, becoming a more pressing concern.
2024-07-15
If you're gearing up to expand your family, you're probably watching your life flash before your eyes—or at least your bank account! From diapers to college funds, the financial adventure of parenthood begins with a bang. But fear not! We've dived into the numbers (thanks, USDA) and provided you with some savvy financial tips to keep your sanity intact.
2024-07-08
You never imagined: clutter can be one of the reasons, if not a major reason, for wasting money. How so? We’ll explain with this list of alternatives to optimize your belongings, save more, and maybe even make a few bucks. But for now, remember this quote from Thoreau: “I make myself rich, by making my wants few.”
2024-07-01
Embrace the art of budget travel by carefully planning your trip. While you don’t need a strict schedule, knowing how long you’ll stay in each place and mapping out your route helps avoid costly surprises.
2024-06-24
No matter if you're looking to make a career change, thinking about leaving your current job for a better one, or wanting to specialize in something new to pursue it professionally—what HR often calls upskilling—if you want to make a shift in your career, the first obstacle that often holds us back is financial.
2024-06-18
Don't let the budget wake you up from the wedding of your dreams. Like all, dear readers, organization is key. That's why in this article, we'll cover all the aspects to ensure you can say "I do" without drowning in debt.
2024-06-11
Self-care—when we hear this word, we often think of spa salons. But it can—and should—also mean taking care of our finances, from short, medium, and long-term planning to saving for vacations or treating ourselves to little luxuries. In essence, it’s about enjoying life without financial stress.
2024-05-29
Here is the good and the bad news when it comes to saving: every penny counts. Why is that bad? Because when you’re conscious about all the “pennies” you’re wasting, you will probably feel too melancholy. And the good news? There’s always an opportunity to save even while sleeping. Wanna know? Keep reading.
2024-05-22
So, you’re diving into the wild world of personal finance – whether you're a greenhorn or think you've got it all figured out this read’s got your back. Let's talk about the mystical three-digit realm known as the credit score. Yep, those magic numbers that determine if you're rolling into your dream house, cruising in a fancy car, or just daydreaming about it.
2024-05-06
Most people think that big fixes lead to big results. In reality, big fixes are difficult to sustain and easy to abandon. There are small things you can do to reduce small expenses in the household that add up to significant yearly savings.
2024-04-17
Imagine if you grew up learning about personal finance from the get-go. Wouldn't that set the stage for a perfect scenario today? Well, maybe not a resounding "YES," but you catch my drift, right? Teaching your kids about personal finance can help them navigate the unexpected, turning surprises into planned wins. It's no secret that what you grasp as a kid not only sticks faster but becomes a part of your everyday life. So, let's chat about some fun ways to introduce your little ones to the ABCs of money matters!
2024-05-13
Compound interest is like a snowball rolling downhill—it starts small but gets bigger and faster as it goes. Saving doesn’t just add money, it multiplies it.
2024-04-04
If you fret facing your finances and feel a little lost about where to start, this article can help you ease your mind. Learn a simple and effective strategy that can transform your habits and set you on the right path to achieve your financial goals.
2024-03-21
Become a savvy buyer and navigate your finances like a pro.
2024-03-12
Believe it or not, millennials are the trailblazers when it comes to retirement planning ^1. Maybe it's in defiance of the criticism they often face, being accused of prioritizing the enjoyment of life. So, if you're one of them—or better yet, one of us—and haven't begun saving, here's a piece of advice you might not have heard before: the ideal time to start is now.
2024-03-06
Gadgets only hit their gadget status when tech strolled, especially when it comes to the "money management world." Financial advisors are still kicking, but now tons of tools are taking over those early chats with your accountant friend or the money-savvy pal in every group. And this article isn't for that rare 0.01% species (subjective estimate alert) but for those diving into the saving, managing, and investing money adventure.
2024-02-19
Ever wondered about financial freedom? It's the talk of the town, but what does it mean? If it's a new concept for you, no worries—consider it your ticket to peace of mind. In this blog, we'll walk you through 12 steps to make it a reality.
2024-01-30
Dive into this beginner's guide to investing and let your income start working for you.
2024-01-16
You might think the word "saving" sounds a bit dull, but saving for a Rainy Day, though not the trendiest topic, can be incredibly helpful and set you on the path to a healthy financial life. Let's explore what Rainy Day funds are all about and how you can start building one.
2023-12-27
Take inspiration from other customs and traditions and turn your holiday into a meaningful no-cost celebration.
2024-01-01
Just as we set New Year resolutions like joining the gym or learning a new skill, we should also focus on our financial goals.
2023-12-18
This Christmas, let the spirit of togetherness take center stage as you celebrate with family and friends. With budget-friendly decorations, shared meals, and thoughtful yet economical gifts, you can create lasting memories without the stress of overspending.
2023-12-11
'Tis the season to be jolly, but it can also be the season to get off budget. How can you navigate a season of expenses with ease?
2023-12-04
'Tis the season to be generous, but also frugal. There is no need for Christmas to defund you or lead you to lose sight of your financial goals.
2023-11-17
A simple guide that will get you through the holiday spending spree with a happy wallet.
2023-11-20
Did you know there’s a way to get even more savings on your Black Friday shopping? Secret: add discounted gift cards. Navigate the frenzy with this super hack to stretch your budget further, stack discounts, and access more retailers!
2023-11-06
If there ever was a season discount that requires a guide to survive it is Black Friday! Here's a survival guide to help you maximize discounts and have a stress-free Black Friday.
2023-11-07
If there is one thing that characterizes savvy shoppers is their ability to plan ahead. In today’s article, you will find ideas on how to maximize the opportunities for the upcoming season and how to minimize the dent the holidays can make in your budget.
2023-10-23
Are you the type that is always on the lookout for an opportunity to save and have control over your spending? Then, this quick guide is made for you. Buying discounted cards is an easy and hassle-free alternative for saving small amounts that can quickly add up and bulk your monthly budget.
2023-10-16
With fall already here, everyone is preparing for Halloween. Now, Halloween can be the spookiest time of the year. Here are some tips to make it the right kind of scary and avoid any frights in your finances.
2023-10-16
Enjoy the thrill of trick-or-treating without spooking your finances! Here we tell you how to make the most out of your Halloween budget by employing the gift card advantage.
2023-10-09
In a world filled with tempting purchases, when people see the word budgeting many think of restrictions. However, budgeting is not about restricting yourself from enjoying life; it's about making informed choices that allow you to enjoy life without financial stress.
2023-07-17
Keeping up with the latest scams you may be subject to is not an easy task. However, information is the key to protecting yourself. Here are some of the most common scams and tips on how to stay safe.
2023-07-13
For the last few months, we have been hearing about how AI is bound to change the way we do most things. How can Artificial Intelligence affect how we track our finances and set financial goals?
2023-07-04
We are midway through the year, and it is time to look at our saving goals. If we’ve stayed focused, looking at the numbers can get us pumped to keep up the work. If we have strayed a little from our saving goals, there is no better time to revise and set new goals.
2023-06-15
With 75% of consumers planning to celebrate Father’s Day and spend an average of $196, businesses are looking for ways to bring money their way. Sales and special discounts will flood the marketplace during Father’s Day, which will help consumers stay within budget.
2023-06-15
Most people would prefer not to work forever, but the expenses needed to sustain our livelihood will not magically disappear once we retire. A retirement plan is a must!
2022-11-14
It’s the time of year to give thanks and give gifts to our loved ones and, why not, ourselves.
2022-10-17
This holiday doesn’t have to be scary for your pocket if you’re ready to get creative.
2022-10-17
Autumn is synonymous with sugar, spice, and everything nice. But all that seasonal goodness can be hard on your finances. Learn to shop smarter with these helpful saving tips.
2022-09-22
With approximately 8 decades in the making, the video game industry is one of the biggest giants out there and is continually growing.
2023-04-04
Easter is a beloved holiday. How could it not if it mixes wonder, chocolate, and family meals? Make it special by incorporating new traditions or making them anew.
2023-03-07
Spring cleaning is a long-standing tradition that seeks to bring crisp and fresh energy into the home and marks a passage between seasons. We've made a list of benefits you can reap from keeping this tradition alive without overspending.
2023-03-07
Take a break from your routine without any added financial strain. Here are some ideas to make Spring Break memorable without breaking your wallet.
2023-02-13
Not sure what to do on Valentine’s Day? We have prepared 14 ideas for you so that your Valentine’s day is extra special!
2023-02-13
Do you know about the sad story behind Valentine’s Day? Do you know why we exchange cheesy cards and love letters? Learn more about how the Valentine’s Day celebration we know today came to be in this article!
2023-02-03
The gift card industry is expected to reach USD 1787 billion by 2026. Learn more about what is driving this growth and how businesses can benefit from it.
2023-01-19
Ten steps to start saving money this year.
2023-01-19
Looking for new ways to earn money? Start 2023 with a new income stream. Follow these tips to find additional income streams.
2022-12-02
Heading into Christmas with a budget can help you reduce your financial stress and make the best of the holiday season.
2022-11-09
As inflation continues to impact their finances, millions of Americans rely on Black Friday sales to save money.
2022-11-09
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. While the holidays are usually a source of anxiety over how much to spend, it is possible to enjoy a pleasant dinner without hurting your budget.
2022-10-24
The 2021 holiday season saw historic growth. What’s in it for 2022?
2022-10-24
Crafting a holiday budget will help you stay within your limits and avoid debt. It’s also a good way of getting ready for the following year.
2024-11-13
Imagine retiring within 20 years. Sound far-fetched? This article will introduce practical steps to reach financial independence, and if you’re looking to learn more, we’ll suggest some great books to help you dive into the topic. No matter your age, it’s never too late to plan for a future of financial freedom. Let’s start today!
2022-12-02
Millions of people around the world celebrate Christmas. But how did it become such a popular holiday? And how can you adapt Christmas spending to your budget? Keep reading to find out!
2022-09-19
30 years ago, the gift card industry took a turn and became one of America’s favorite gift. In the past decades, partly due to to the rise of eCommerce, gift cards have become multi billion dollar industry that keeps on growing.
2023-09-11
The way we spend is deeply linked to our emotions and feelings. Let’s explore why we love saving money and how our minds work when we see a good deal.
2023-08-30
Mindful living is no longer a hype, it’s a movement. If you can practice mindfulness and intentional living in other aspects of your life and have reaped the benefits, imagine what it can do to your finances. Here are tips on ways to change how you approach money and saving.
2023-08-10
When 50% of consumers say they are interested in buying gift cards, you listen! Businesses today cannot afford to miss out on the growing demand for gift cards.
2023-08-09
Student loans has remained a hot topic these last few years. More and more people are raising their voices, sharing their experiences, and calling for changes that can create less burden for those who finish college with unsurmountable debt. Here is some insight on how to cut corners and look for alternative ways of reaching your educational goals.
2022-09-22
Labor day weekend is filled with fun gatherings and social events. Unfortunately, this can put a strain on your spending. But don’t worry! We’ve gathered some tips to help you make the best of Labor Day without overspending.
2023-09-04
Most people find themselves needing mortgages to access ownership of a home. Apply these tips to create a bulletproof plan and repay your mortgage efficiently.
2023-05-29
Relaxing during summer vacation requires a little planning ahead. Here are some ideas on how to save for your summer vacation.
2023-05-29
Are you looking forward to showering your mother with love? Do not fret about the expense and consider these options
2023-05-09
Here is an overview of consumer trends for Mother’s Day 2023. Are your choices reflected in these trends?
2023-04-04
Just a few months back, we were looking at a bright new start by setting New Year's resolutions. In just a blink of an eye, Spring is here, and many of our goals have fallen to oblivion. Here are tips to get back on track and guarantee we keep the promise to improve our lives.
2023-02-03
2023 has arrived and brought with it some exciting changes in how we buy. Learn more about the top consumer habits for 2023 in this article!
2022-09-22
Managing your personal finances can be a daunting task. Unexpected expenses can be very damaging to your monthly spending. The key to not overspending is creating a budget. Learn how to create one in 5 simple steps.
2022-09-22
Holiday shopping can take a toll on your personal finances, especially when unplanned. This year, get ahead of the holiday rush and start saving in advance.
2022-09-22
It seems that they have been around forever, but gift cards didn't gain traction up to around 50 years ago. In the past decades, and thanks to the rise of e-commerce, the gift card industry has become a $160 billion-plus industry that keeps on growing.