Many forget their multiple discounts online for restaurants and plays and amusement parks and events. I have to train myself to look first and I got lion King tickets much cheaper than I was going to get them years ago
@@robertoramirez1069 have you ever seen the price for a tow or to get your keys out of the car? It’s worth it at that point It’s also worth it if you’re older or in a situation where you can’t change the tires yourself.
I have elderly parents, my son lives 4 states away, widowed, yes, I needed AAA to jump start the battery one hot afternoon - worth every penny! Also, free towing (up to a point but quite reasonable after that).
Regarding the AAA, I am an older single person with no (reliable) family that I can call if something goes wrong when I drive, AAA provides me so much security that someone will come to help if I need it. And they do.
AAA: I’ve had this for over 40 years & have used it many times. But just the basic, not the plus. Also, they will mail you up to 10 paper maps or guide books at a time which I prefer for planning road trips.
@@AndrielleHillis I have both my auto and homeowners insurance through AAA. They are very reasonably priced and give good service. I saved over $1000 per year when I switched auto insurance to AAA.
AAA has saved me so many times. From a tire blowout to a dead battery to towing services, my whole family has AAA and we use it. There's a sense of security while traveling when you know help is available. We've also had discounts on hotel rooms with our AAA membership.
@@nibekus Some do, sometimes extra, sometimes included but I'm comfortable with AAA for now and how fast they respond and some of the perks (if I remember) I get with discounts.
AAA is a Keeper! One year I didn’t renew my membership because my auto insurance provided roadside service as well. When I used the roadside service through my insurance, the insurance company considered it a claim and my premium went up! Needless to say I went back to AAA and moved my auto insurance to AAA as well.
I don't want to call my auto insurance, I haven't heard good things about them, they vary by reviews. AAA isn't perfect but it's one call, they'll help friends without AAA and I've been blessed to only having to wait the most an hour in a busy time.
Yes, for us too, flat tires, I thought the nails were hunting for my car one year, happened twice (construction on roads didn't help) My husband and I both had dead batteries and once our van going to college just died. Blessed we never had a long wait and things worked out well.
I've been all in with AAA since my dad bought my first subscription in 1976. Less than $100 year - it's saved my life a few times when stranded. Definitely a keeper and money well spent. 🎉
Thanks for this comment. I've been thinking about getting AAA. Anybody knows what a horrible experience it is to be stuck somewhere and trying to find a company that will come and take care of you. I have been there, and it was a nightmare because it took them hours to finally find someone and get them out to me.
@@CoachClyde that's true but how good and fast they are is debatable with anecdotal stories. I'm sure it varies by company. One site compared, some had towing restrictions 15 miles or didn't do gas if needed (Geico I think) I've used AAA about 10-15 times and my kids and we've been lucky, never had to wait long, last guy was super nice and I got a battery from him right from the truck, no extra visit to garage. He even gave me some tips on maintenance. For now, I'll stick with them. .
@@workinprogress-ye5or That makes sense and you're right I'm sure it varies depending on the company and also location. I've needed a tow and didn't have to wait long. I stay on top of maintenance and never let my car get so low on gas that I run out so that part would never be an issue for me. I'm happy it works for you all.
Re: Premium Gas, your car will usually tell you if Reg, Mid, or Premium gasoline is needed. It has nothing to do with how "nice" the car is but how the engine is designed and tuned. Premium gas is not necessarily "higher quality" and is a waste of money on a car that is designed to burn regular 87 (in the US/Canada) octane. Premium gas sometimes IS bundled with a different additive pack that is better than the standard in regular gasoline, but even that is not worth paying extra for. You can buy those additives and run them once per oil change or so and get the same benefits for less money. In short: If your car recommends premium or you get a 10% (or better) bump in fuel economy, run premium. Otherwise, stick to regular.
We have a 16 year old Toyota and an 11 year old Mazda. AAA is a must if you have older vehicles. Whether the alternator goes out on the highway (it did), the batteries on both need jumped or replaced in the same year (yep) or you just need a tow. It’s not that much annually and can save you thousands.
If you haven't already, review your car insurance policy. I have towing and roadside assistance with mine and I've used both. AAA would just be an added expense for coverage I already have.
And while Rachel and her dad are not fans of credit cards and I am not if one carries a balance....3 of my credit cards provide it free along with hotel discounts, car rental insurance, and lost baggage insurance.
A AAA guy stopped when my daughter's kia caught on fire (one of millions from what we heard) and helped her even though she didn't call. They have helped my family with dead batteries, instant replacement if you want, flat tires, car dying on highway.
@@CoachClyde If they cover the same and are responsive, great, but I saw comparisons where some, for instance Geico didn't include gas help if needed , some had towing restrictions of 15 miles which could be an issue. Read the small print first.
Books, magazines, landline phone, cable TV....dang Rachel, that's old school. I'm 63 and haven't spent money on any of these in over a decade. One money-saving tip I just learned is to cycle streaming services and only pay for one at a time. Saves me at least $50 month and I still get to watch everything I want.
Cycling services by watching for discounts helps save even more! We typically get the more expensive streaming services in November and get to use the black Friday or Cyber Monday discount
AAA has come to my rescue time and time again! I would not want to be without it. I use my gym membership (basic fee) much more than if I used free options. Having to pay actually motivates me to get to the gym and work out.
I work out in my home office with a variety of TH-cam videos. All for free! Cardio, weights, pilates, wall pilates is all available in that room. My husband and I get our books from the local library (I read traditional hardback books, my husband reads on his tablet). I've only had one manicure in my life, and it was free. They're not for me.
As long as there's a Sam's/Costco in the vicinity! I moved away from Costco and totally forgot to cancel my membership... Not a huge overspend but that did hurt a little when I realized I was still paying for it and not getting any benefits. 😬
Yes. Costco gas here is more than .50 a gallon less than at the regular stations. That's more than $300 a year in savings for my car. I only buy what I truly need at Costco.
Premium gas is required for some vehicles (such as those with a turbo), but most cars are designed to run on regular, so use what your car was designed to run on. AAA is a good thing to have, especially if you are running an older vehicle.
AAA is an absolute must have! Peace of mind for a 71 year old. No cable for 30 years! At the present I don't have a landline but I would actually appreciate one. Rachel, please please please stop using bottled water. One time use plastic is destroying our planet and making us sick. Paper towels are in that category as well. Your list of things is great for people to think about when it comes to money. When it comes to all life on earth, there's even more reason to consider what we're doing.
i still buy magazines for my hair studio… and pass them on to “ someone “ who wants them.. when the next months comes in🤓) yep..ppl flip thru them …. i LOVE paper towels….i also keep them in my bathrooms for guests to use❣️
AAA has been a life saver to my family. As a widow, I feel better knowing I will get roadside assistance - flat tire change, gas, and tows (up to 100 miles) since I have no one to call to help when broken down. The membership is reasonable, considering a single tow can be upwards of $60 or more when a year membership is $100-$150 (depending on your level of membership). Just a few things to consider, Rachel.
Yeah, AAA should just be considered part of your car insurance. An extra $6 a month for piece of mind and an easy to use service is well worth the price. Being stuck on the side of the road and googling for an open service company in your area is not fun.
I don't have it, but I have thought about getting it. I've been in a situation where it was a nightmare trying to get someone out to get my car started when the battery died. It's been years, but I think it would be a good peace of mind to have something like that.
Have to keep Costco, if you arent using it the solution is to USE it then. For infinite use / no expiration items (garbage bags, dishwasher tablets, laundry detergent, toilet paper... ) you will save the membership fee. Certainly the case in Canada.
Costco is not the deal everyone thinks it is. Had a membership for a while. Let it expire don't miss it. Shop around and you'll find Costco's prices are really not that great on 99% of their products. They have a few loss leader products but not enough to justify the cost of membership.
She's talking about if you don't use it. Most have a gym membership and they don't even use it. If you go 3 times a week, you are definitely getting your money's worth out of it.
I lift weights Monday through Friday on my concrete patio year around in Florida. I save 700 dollars a year. That's what Anytime Fitness charges now where I live . I have no pay TV. Between the 2, I save over 2000 dollars a year. And that money buys 2000 more dollars in silver that I add to the rest that I buy. Keep working out. Fitness is for life.
My husband bought a portable jumper for car but if we aren't home I don't know how long it stays charged. I like to be fully covered. I've had dead batteries replaced by them, tires changed multiple times and a stalled engine towed to my mechanic not auto insurances.
@@janelleg597 Been there done that even had two of them but the portable jump dont work on the coldest days the charge is too weak was total waste of money when i ended up getting Triple AAA instead anyways.
For me AAA is a must! We have a 1996 Impala SS, 2001 Honda Accord and a 2004 Jeep Wrangler LJ, have used AAA 5 times in the last 8 years and for what it costs it’s been well worth it the peace of mind it provides.
But if you’re smart, you are setting aside money monthly in order to have the yearly payment ready when it’s due. Either way, you’re paying extra money for a membership and it could be something to drop if needed.
@@geetaraub I work for Costco, so if people upgrade to the Executive Membership then they would be saving money by getting 2% back onto a check that corporate sends in the mail 2 months prior to your expiration time. It’s a great deal.
I love AAA they have saved me with flat tires, dead batteries etc. I did stop gym and have a multitude of weights at home and walk and do online videos. I do like bottled water having hard water and Evian on sale is my fav. ; ) My one treat at times with drinks, not a Starbucks person. My daughter did her first non checked bag trip, she did it with very careful packing for a week,God bless her, not sure I could do it. I do love real books.
My Triple A membership is a keeper. In fact, I just paid it yesterday, $92. Makes me feel safe just to have their services. Peace of mind. No more clothes for me this year. I got plenty this past Christmas. Need to save money & invest. Plus, gas & food is so expensive in California. 🥰
My road side assistance costs $4.95/month thru my auto insurance. Check prices with your auto insurance next time. I think gas and groceries are expensive all up and down the west coast! So I feel you there! We’re moving to Idaho lol
I agree with most of this. The one item that is questionable is Rental Car Insurance. I get the collision damage waiver which covers damage to the rental car itself. My personal auto Comp and Collision will cover the vehicle if it’s damaged. The rental car company will charge you the daily rental fee while the car is out of service. Depending on the details, this could be for a few weeks or longer. Your personal insurance will not cover this. Plus you’ll be paying a deductible also from your own insurance. So it’s ultimately about your comfort level. Just something to consider.
AAA - keep Magazines - I've reduced but still get a few favorites Landline phones - its all we use in our home. Cell phones stay in the car, turned off, only used for on the road & travels.
I waited to cut my cable and when I finally did, it was the best decision and I have not missed it at all. Looking back I now regret not cutting that cord earlier. I could have saved a lot of money.
I had all my Christmas groceries in my car, stopped to get gas and then my car wouldn’t start. It only had 23,000 miles but my husband turned on an inside light a few days before and didn’t turn it off. AAA to the rescue. They were there so quick and now I won’t be without.
Good tip, look up Halo Bolt on amazing. It’s a little battery that has little jump cables to jumpstart your car. Buy one and carry it in each vehicle you have. It has saved my wife maybe 2 times now from needing to ask a stranger for help while she has a van full of our little kids. I also carry a little Ryobi air pump with a battery in each vehicle in case we need an emergency air up on a tire. They are life savers in a pinch.
I'm really stunned Rachel uses bottled water. I have a water filter. It was expensive initially, but worth it. These will stay on my list, because I can finally afford them, and I budget for them. AAA Gym membership - I use my gym regularly Cable TV Checked bags Landline Manicure Car Wash Paper Towels
I have horrible water and brita doesn't cut it but I can try others. I buy big gallons. When you are rich though, you don't really need to budget for nails and hair and books and tows, you can, you can put them down but 99.99% of the time, you have the money. Rachel likes expensive drinks, George teases her but she can afford them. No shame but it's hard to tell others maybe they shouldn't do this and that.
Bottled water: we keep 2 old half gallon glass apple juice jugs in the fridge so there is always cold water, & carry a stainless steel water bottle with us to stay hydrated. That water bottle was a freebie from a work conference. However, our water district has excellent tasting water, so we are lucky.
I just got a new battery, came to house, tested it, showed me options and in half an hour, had a new battery and nice conversation. No going to garage, taking time off from work or calling my auto ins.
*Wow😁, it's crazy how some people can become multimillionaires by investing just $10K in trading within a few months, while others have to work for 40 years to reach $1M in retirement savings. The power of smart investing, right?*
That's true. a lot of people today have been having a ton of disappointments in forex and crypto trading in light of helpless direction and awful specialists
The only streaming services I use are Spotify ($11) for music and our local public tv station ($5). The PBS membership is fabulous because I can watch various masterpiece theatre shows without having to wait for the next episode to be released. It’s great tv watching especially for the winter months in Chicago when I’m stuck indoors. By summer I’ve binge-watched most everything I want to see and it’s time to go out and garden! It’s such a great value. Worth every penny.
we stopped buying paper towels and napkins a few years ago (even with a puppy) and went with cloth rags and cloth napkins and it's simple! Better for environment and your finances :)
Sam's club is a non-negotiable. I buy in bulk, don't have to buy soap, lotion, paper towels, TP, for months @ a time, the gas is always cheaper than other places & annual the membership fee is cheap. AAA is amazing too. Towed my car when it broke down 180 miles from home last year.
Premium gas.... higher octane (89 or 91) is for high performance engines (usually sport brands with high compression like BMW). If you have a normal vehicle like Chevy, Honda, Toyota... you're good to go as the engine is designed for standard 87 Octane.
I use the Premier membership wit AAA. I don't have any regrets. I travel for work often. It has paid for itself in hotel discounts. It is also comforting to know I will never have another $440 bill for towing again.
I have AAA and being an older single woman now, I have used it many times and the fact that I live in NY and travel to Indiana, Tennessee & Massachusetts, I feel safer out on the road. As for car wash Yes! because it cost me $24.99 a month and I get my car washed at least 2/3 times a week and in winter almost everyday also I live in an apt so I have no way to was my car otherwise.😊
I only now do carry on luggage. The point to spend money on a large suitcase where don’t use half the items no thank you. Recently did a 10 day Europe trip and only carry on with no issues
26 years of AAA and will always have it. AAA has saved us many times. I certainly, if out alone, want someone to come change my tire or tow my paid for used car to my mechanic.
Are there really good benefits with AAA that you use besides the car stuff? I'm asking because for a very minimal amount a month my auto insurance will tow my car, give me a jump, change my flat tire, unlock the door if keys get locked inside etc. If AAA doesn't offer other things that I would actually use them I would be wasting my money. If they do offer things that would be useful for me I would be all for that.
Great idea to have a landline for your children! When my Grand Daughter is older, I’d like to get one for her! Also good for back up in case there is a cell phone outage.
Over the years AAA has been a great to help me. Some years I don't use but sometimes need 5 times in a year. Never have new cars. I live in the mtns and needing a tow can cove the one yr expense.
@@davidmason777 I know. But we all have our vices. Thats mine. And I’m working on it. Edit: but also for context, it’s not a total crisis since I am debt free, do hold to a budget, contribute 25% of my income to savings, and have 15% going towards retirement. So I’m doing pretty well. And none of my purchases go on a credit card. I do budget hard, but my fun money category is still mostly spent on workout gear. So it’s not RUINING me, per se. I did have to get new shorts this season because a side effect of going to the gym is body changes. So I guess it’s working lol
Replace bottled water with refillable jugs. Yes it has to be paid for but its cheap depending on where you are. I just cannot drink tap water. It's just not drinking water for me.
You are absolutely right. Read your owners manual and it will tell you what octane level you need. Most cars need 87 octane gas but cars with high-performance engines require 91 octane to get full performance from the engine. However, even those engines will run on 87 - the car’s computer can adjust for the “cheap” gas and operate without problems.
AAA is a keeper , you NEVER KNOW when something is going to happen on the road . If possible please gift to your grand children for birthdays or Christmas
Used them often for hubby, me and kids cars. I can cut back now that we don't need out of state as much with kids back from college but still think a long car trip might be in future so I'm waiting.
We've had AAA for years and it aways helps when the car battery is dead, etc. It's a SAFETY thing. What if you pay and don't use it that year, then consider it a BLESSING that you DIDN"T have an emergency!
You can get roadside assistance through your insurance company and many times its cheaper than AAA. Also, you should only use premium gas if your cars owners manual advises to do so.
I always have AAA. I drive a 2007 Toyota Sienna with over 250K miles on it. I commute out of town twice a week. I need that 100 mile tow once in a while. It also covers me when I am driving someone else’s car that breaks down
I am a 77 year old gimpy man. I keep AAA as my paid for pristine 1999 Buick occasionally needs to go to the shop. 50 Bucks annual fee is a deal Now back in the day when I did my own wrenching and repair I did not need it. Now I pay to get my oil changed. ( I cannot get up and down from the driveway) I never did that before pay for service and repair. I have earned this benefit.
This past January I was with my mother in law and a friend. My mother in law accidentally locked the keys in the car. I called AAA to come unlock the door. They came, but we had to wait about 3 hours. I'm glad that we had a warm place to wait in. It was definitely worth having AAA and not having to pay out of pocket.
yes, my husband's battery died, was old, guy came to house, in 30 minutes had a new battery from AAA battery truck and price was fair. Never had to leave home, priceless ; )
The day you need AAA,you"ll be very glad that you have it.For me it"s just peace of mind knowing that no matter where you are you"ve got "a guy".By the way,read your owners manual and buy the correct gasoline that your vehicle requires.More expensive fuel is a total waste of money.Does nothing for your ride or it"s longevity.
I found the secret of Costco. I go there often to get my essentials. So because I go there often, I don’t feel the need to impulse buy everything I see! I just wait until next time and, if I see it’s not going to be carried at the store anymore, and if I can afford it, I might just go ahead and purchase it. Paper towels and toilet paper are a good buy as well. Gas is also cheaper there and there are staples of organic products that Costco carries that are cheaper than buying at another store.
One of 7 children I was raised on Thrift Store clothes. Still shop there. Find AMAZING clothes..some with Original price tags at low prices. Can't really see you shopping there though, Rachel. My guess is you are a new or not at all kinda girl. However, I am pretty sure there are some folks with a good piece of change in the bank that have their ego in check and shop thrift stores.
Premium gas isnt really about whether its expensive or a nice car, its about whether the car engine excels at that octane level. Most people drive a car that is designed to run on unleaded 87, but the owners manual will tell you if your car is supposed to be at 89 or higher.
Whenever I begin to evaluate my budget for potential savings, such as reducing costs on services like Netflix or rental car insurance, I am quickly reminded of the substantial expenses of college tuition and apartment rent. These significant costs overshadow the smaller expenses, rendering any minor savings seemingly insignificant. The scale of these major expenditures diminishes the value of attempting to economize on the lesser ones.
For streaming services, we subscribe only when we know there’s a show we want to watch, then cut it off when it’s over. Kind of a pay per view model but it works for us so we get to see the shows we want without the recurring monthly fee from all the services every month.
I’m glad all I have to worry about is rent and groceries. Who needs cable or satellite with thousands of channels in which you can only watch one. 40 bucks for internet free Roku and that’s all I need, 25 dollar a month phone. I live as cheap as I can.
Tell me you live in the South without telling me you live in the South: Cut out car washes. You've got a hose and some soap. I do, but I'm not washing my car in the driveway in the winter, which is arguably the more important time to wash your car in the north to get the salt off your car
Keep AAA and if you are going to the gym regularly and your complex or condo has no gym or you don’t have a home gym don’t cut it. Gym membership keeps you motivated and you want to keep your body in top shape. Plus most gyms have other perks pools hot tub and you can take classes and make some new friends!
I've been a AAA member for over 20 years. I've used them for a variety of service needs - from blown out tires, to electrical malfunctuons, dead batteries, free notary services (Premier Member) and getting my registration tags for my vehicles and so much more. If anything, I'll cancel roadside assistance through my auto insurance company as well as car rental coverage through the same. But not AAA. I travel long distance and it's been a huge help for me. Otherwise, I can see how most of the list could be a money-saver.
As for cleaning products that are safe, I use Branch Basics. It is not cheap per day but you can use one product at different dilutions in place of every single cleaner.
These lists are always things I already don't spend money on. LOL. Except I do have AAA, although you should look at your credit cards and auto insurance and make sure they don't already have some kind of coverage. Some do. However, it can be useful to look at such lists. When I was struggling, I read such a list and realized I had nothing to cut. I HAD to increase income and got a part-time job. Looking at things on paper (or onscreen) can wake you up.
On cleaning products: So much can be replaced with some mixture of 2 or 3 of the following: distilled water, rubbing alcohol, dish soap, white vinegar, basic shampoo. I mixed up a liter of eyeglass cleaning solution back in 2014 that I'm *_still_* working through, using a 500ml bottle of rubbing alcohol, same amount of distilled water, and a few drops of dish soap. Works like a charm, I use it twice a week just to get rid of whatever resists my shirt tail.
About rental car insurance: It's helpful because you don't have to submit a claim to your own car insurance company and go through all the hassle of that. Plus the rental company may charge you for lost revenue, which your own company probably will not pay. I bought it on one trip, and the car got dented in the motel parking lot. The rental insurance took care of it---I made no claim, it didn't go on my car insurance. Just turned the car in, noting the accident, and went home. Easy.
My mom needs the landline for her pacemaker. They update it from the phone. How about coffee places! I only use the paper towels from the list. No TV for 10 years. Just watch TH-cam or Tubi, which are free. Thanks Rachel!! 😊
I'm going to rebut the rental car insurance one. The reason is that if you're in an accident, you may get the damage covered by your insurance company or the credit card you used to pay for the rental, but the rental car company will also likely charge you for the days the rental car is out of service. So, if it takes a couple weeks for the car to get fixed you might be charged a daily rental fee for that time which your credit card or your insurance company might not cover. I don't think many people think of that when renting a vehicle.
I had AAA for years and loved having both the road service and the travel products, like the guidebooks and maps. Dropped AAA about 5 years ago when they were closing the physical office so no more access to maps etc and of course GPS access and online resources have replaced that. Also, my auto insurance carrier has roadside service included in our policy, although I cannot vouch for it as I have not used it yet. I also have a portable auto battery charger that I have used for a family member when their battery died. No secondary vehicle needed and it worked great. For travel discounts I have AARP which covers most of the ground that AAA does.
@@sstephens2175 We just check to see if there is an AARP discount when we go to museums or other attractions and also check it to see when we book a hotel as well. My husband earns points on their site by doing puzzles and quizzes I think and then uses those points to get discounts on gift cards for places we would be spending money anyway. I do read their magazines and other publications.
We use our Costco card for my husband's business travel expenses. He gets reimbursed by his company and the Costco statement provides easy tracking plus we get money back from Costco (a couple hundred a year).
FYI if you use a gas station that allows multiple fuel grades per dispenser then the line will have whatever the last customer selected. So if you put in premium gas and the previous customer used low grade then you get some low grade in your car
AAA is absolutely worth it! It's like insurance, you don't need it until you do, but when you do, you're going to be glad you have it.
yes, I paid for the out of state one while kids were in college, worth it for sure.
Many forget their multiple discounts online for restaurants and plays and amusement parks and events. I have to train myself to look first and I got lion King tickets much cheaper than I was going to get them years ago
Learn to change a tire and keep a battery jumper in the car 🚗
@@deb9806 I am going to check out the ticket discounts soon for plays etc.
@@robertoramirez1069 have you ever seen the price for a tow or to get your keys out of the car? It’s worth it at that point
It’s also worth it if you’re older or in a situation where you can’t change the tires yourself.
No way I'm leaving my family stranded on the highway or in a dangerous part of town at night. AAA saved me 4 times last year.
my husband passed, and this issue scared me, no Phil to rescue me, my aunt just bought me a membership, glad you have good luck with it!
They have replaced my battery for free several times.
I have elderly parents, my son lives 4 states away, widowed, yes, I needed AAA to jump start the battery one hot afternoon - worth every penny! Also, free towing (up to a point but quite reasonable after that).
@@3653cdw AAA Plus gives free towing to 100 miles.
B😊😊
I will never give up AAA. It’s a lifesaver , not having to rely on strangers.
Had AAA since 2004 and trust me you need it when you have a flat tire and it’s freezing outside…👍
I am a third generation AAA user. I’ll never be without. My car battery went out twice earlier this year. AAA to the rescue each time. I love them.
Regarding the AAA, I am an older single person with no (reliable) family that I can call if something goes wrong when I drive, AAA provides me so much security that someone will come to help if I need it. And they do.
AAA: I’ve had this for over 40 years & have used it many times. But just the basic, not the plus. Also, they will mail you up to 10 paper maps or guide books at a time which I prefer for planning road trips.
I am older and eventually found out my auto insurance covered towing.
@@karinhart489 I have my auto and homeowners insurance through AAA. It saved me money.
What you might want to do is see if your car insurance offers roadside assistance. Mine does, and it's only an extra $20 a year.
@@AndrielleHillis I have both my auto and homeowners insurance through AAA. They are very reasonably priced and give good service. I saved over $1000 per year when I switched auto insurance to AAA.
AAA has saved me so many times. From a tire blowout to a dead battery to towing services, my whole family has AAA and we use it. There's a sense of security while traveling when you know help is available. We've also had discounts on hotel rooms with our AAA membership.
I agree 100%.
Me too, just used them for dead battery and flat tire earlier in the year
My auto insurance comes with roadside assistance.
@@nibekus Some do, sometimes extra, sometimes included but I'm comfortable with AAA for now and how fast they respond and some of the perks (if I remember) I get with discounts.
You can add a very very similar product to your car insurance for way cheaper.
AAA is a Keeper! One year I didn’t renew my membership because my auto insurance provided roadside service as well. When I used the roadside service through my insurance, the insurance company considered it a claim and my premium went up! Needless to say I went back to AAA and moved my auto insurance to AAA as well.
Then it's time to get a new auto insurance company if that's the case.
I don't want to call my auto insurance, I haven't heard good things about them, they vary by reviews. AAA isn't perfect but it's one call, they'll help friends without AAA and I've been blessed to only having to wait the most an hour in a busy time.
AAA has saved me many times!! MANY 🙌
Yes, for us too, flat tires, I thought the nails were hunting for my car one year, happened twice (construction on roads didn't help) My husband and I both had dead batteries and once our van going to college just died. Blessed we never had a long wait and things worked out well.
Costco savings in gas alone is around $325/year for me when used consistently (which I do). So that is totally worth it!
Mini storage rentals. If you don’t need it in your house, you don’t need it
For long-term anyway....sometimes during a move or during a remodel, but if you keep one month after month sell the stuff.
Not practical especially if you're renting a room with limited space.
One of the largest growing businesses. Just think , buy stuff and then pay to keep it somewhere. 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Storage units are an American thing. Other countries are baffled by them.
@@musicman7297 mini storage only exists in America.
You can get any workout you need on TH-cam. Cardio, weights, Pilates, anything. That's where I get my workouts.
We have trolled thrift shops for exercise equipment. Found quite a few
I could never get anywhere near the workout that I get at home as I get at the gym but my wife does simple workouts so could skip gym
Maybe you can b invest in a program and then do it at home?
I've been all in with AAA since my dad bought my first subscription in 1976. Less than $100 year - it's saved my life a few times when stranded. Definitely a keeper and money well spent. 🎉
3:12 AAA is non debatable for me. The cost of the membership is way less than what I’d pay to tow it third party. And the peace of mind is priceless.
Yea we are going to get our AAA again had it years ago and it came in handy so many times , I think everyone should get it if they can
Thanks for this comment. I've been thinking about getting AAA. Anybody knows what a horrible experience it is to be stuck somewhere and trying to find a company that will come and take care of you. I have been there, and it was a nightmare because it took them hours to finally find someone and get them out to me.
Towing is included in my car insurance along with roadside assistance. You may want to double check your policy if you haven't already.
@@CoachClyde that's true but how good and fast they are is debatable with anecdotal stories. I'm sure it varies by company. One site compared, some had towing restrictions 15 miles or didn't do gas if needed (Geico I think) I've used AAA about 10-15 times and my kids and we've been lucky, never had to wait long, last guy was super nice and I got a battery from him right from the truck, no extra visit to garage. He even gave me some tips on maintenance. For now, I'll stick with them. .
@@workinprogress-ye5or That makes sense and you're right I'm sure it varies depending on the company and also location. I've needed a tow and didn't have to wait long. I stay on top of maintenance and never let my car get so low on gas that I run out so that part would never be an issue for me. I'm happy it works for you all.
Re: Premium Gas, your car will usually tell you if Reg, Mid, or Premium gasoline is needed. It has nothing to do with how "nice" the car is but how the engine is designed and tuned. Premium gas is not necessarily "higher quality" and is a waste of money on a car that is designed to burn regular 87 (in the US/Canada) octane. Premium gas sometimes IS bundled with a different additive pack that is better than the standard in regular gasoline, but even that is not worth paying extra for. You can buy those additives and run them once per oil change or so and get the same benefits for less money.
In short: If your car recommends premium or you get a 10% (or better) bump in fuel economy, run premium. Otherwise, stick to regular.
We have a 16 year old Toyota and an 11 year old Mazda. AAA is a must if you have older vehicles. Whether the alternator goes out on the highway (it did), the batteries on both need jumped or replaced in the same year (yep) or you just need a tow. It’s not that much annually and can save you thousands.
Yup so true!
If you haven't already, review your car insurance policy. I have towing and roadside assistance with mine and I've used both. AAA would just be an added expense for coverage I already have.
And while Rachel and her dad are not fans of credit cards and I am not if one carries a balance....3 of my credit cards provide it free along with hotel discounts, car rental insurance, and lost baggage insurance.
A AAA guy stopped when my daughter's kia caught on fire (one of millions from what we heard) and helped her even though she didn't call. They have helped my family with dead batteries, instant replacement if you want, flat tires, car dying on highway.
@@CoachClyde If they cover the same and are responsive, great, but I saw comparisons where some, for instance Geico didn't include gas help if needed , some had towing restrictions of 15 miles which could be an issue. Read the small print first.
I don't agree with ditching the auto club membership. When you need it you NEED it! AAA never disappoints :-)
Rich people don't care about how much a tow costs etc but other people do
Books, magazines, landline phone, cable TV....dang Rachel, that's old school. I'm 63 and haven't spent money on any of these in over a decade. One money-saving tip I just learned is to cycle streaming services and only pay for one at a time. Saves me at least $50 month and I still get to watch everything I want.
Books can be bought at garage library sales
Cycling services by watching for discounts helps save even more! We typically get the more expensive streaming services in November and get to use the black Friday or Cyber Monday discount
I have antenna TV and watch Pluto for free on my tablet. I have a flip phone and tablet with unlimited service for 95 a month.
AAA has come to my rescue time and time again! I would not want to be without it.
I use my gym membership (basic fee) much more than if I used free options. Having to pay actually motivates me to get to the gym and work out.
There are so many free options and discounts with AAA and I forget. Even on tickets for plays etc.
yes and you still have to pay more if you get it with auto and who do they use?
I work out in my home office with a variety of TH-cam videos. All for free! Cardio, weights, pilates, wall pilates is all available in that room. My husband and I get our books from the local library (I read traditional hardback books, my husband reads on his tablet). I've only had one manicure in my life, and it was free. They're not for me.
It sure is.
Sams/Costco memberships are worth it just for the discount on gas.
Yes!!!😂❤
As long as there's a Sam's/Costco in the vicinity! I moved away from Costco and totally forgot to cancel my membership... Not a huge overspend but that did hurt a little when I realized I was still paying for it and not getting any benefits. 😬
Depends on how much you drive and how close one is.
Yes. Costco gas here is more than .50 a gallon less than at the regular stations. That's more than $300 a year in savings for my car. I only buy what I truly need at Costco.
My family used our Costco membership for gas only. 👍🏾
Premium gas is required for some vehicles (such as those with a turbo), but most cars are designed to run on regular, so use what your car was designed to run on. AAA is a good thing to have, especially if you are running an older vehicle.
AAA has helped me in the past and now that my son’s car road side assistance is over, I bought this for him. He’s had to use it 2 times already
AAA is an absolute must have! Peace of mind for a 71 year old. No cable for 30 years! At the present I don't have a landline but I would actually appreciate one. Rachel, please please please stop using bottled water. One time use plastic is destroying our planet and making us sick. Paper towels are in that category as well. Your list of things is great for people to think about when it comes to money. When it comes to all life on earth, there's even more reason to consider what we're doing.
agree with paper towels and plastic bottle water bottles
i still buy magazines for my hair studio… and pass them on to “ someone “ who wants them.. when the next months comes in🤓) yep..ppl flip thru them …. i LOVE paper towels….i also keep them in my bathrooms for guests to use❣️
I agree
Get a reverse osmosis filter in the house. RO is how most bottled water is purified
AAA has been a life saver to my family. As a widow, I feel better knowing I will get roadside assistance - flat tire change, gas, and tows (up to 100 miles) since I have no one to call to help when broken down. The membership is reasonable, considering a single tow can be upwards of $60 or more when a year membership is $100-$150 (depending on your level of membership). Just a few things to consider, Rachel.
I say keep AAA.
Especially if you have an older car. or Carshield !
Yeah, AAA should just be considered part of your car insurance. An extra $6 a month for piece of mind and an easy to use service is well worth the price. Being stuck on the side of the road and googling for an open service company in your area is not fun.
Absolutely! It’s much cheaper than a tow!
Yes I agree I have an older car and I made sure AAA was part of my budget (annual cost)
I don't have it, but I have thought about getting it. I've been in a situation where it was a nightmare trying to get someone out to get my car started when the battery died. It's been years, but I think it would be a good peace of mind to have something like that.
Have to keep Costco, if you arent using it the solution is to USE it then. For infinite use / no expiration items (garbage bags, dishwasher tablets, laundry detergent, toilet paper... ) you will save the membership fee. Certainly the case in Canada.
Your solution to justifying the cost of a wholesale membership club is to use it and spend MORE? 🤯
Costco is not the deal everyone thinks it is.
Had a membership for a while. Let it expire don't miss it.
Shop around and you'll find Costco's prices are really not that great on 99% of their products.
They have a few loss leader products but not enough to justify the cost of membership.
Health is wealth! I hit the gym 3x a week. Also have treadmill at house.
She's talking about if you don't use it. Most have a gym membership and they don't even use it. If you go 3 times a week, you are definitely getting your money's worth out of it.
If you don't use it she said. Also building a home gym isn't expensive and no crowd hogging gym equipment lol
@@MrTmenzoI go at 4am. Not usually a problem!
I lift weights Monday through Friday on my concrete patio year around in Florida. I save 700 dollars a year. That's what Anytime Fitness charges now where I live . I have no pay TV. Between the 2, I save over 2000 dollars a year. And that money buys 2000 more dollars in silver that I add to the rest that I buy. Keep working out. Fitness is for life.
@@musicman7297I'm jealous! I need to move south! I'm up north where you can't do that!
AAA memberships yes are a must have especially when you live in the north with all the freezing cold and need the jump starts in winter time.
Better to get a portable jumper for the winter. Then you don't have to wait
My husband bought a portable jumper for car but if we aren't home I don't know how long it stays charged. I like to be fully covered. I've had dead batteries replaced by them, tires changed multiple times and a stalled engine towed to my mechanic not auto insurances.
@@janelleg597 Been there done that even had two of them but the portable jump dont work on the coldest days the charge is too weak was total waste of money when i ended up getting Triple AAA instead anyways.
I have AAA for a long time , and the reason is because we always had old cars .
Great video
For me AAA is a must! We have a 1996 Impala SS, 2001 Honda Accord and a 2004 Jeep Wrangler LJ, have used AAA 5 times in the last 8 years and for what it costs it’s been well worth it the peace of mind it provides.
Costco is a YEARLY membership NOT monthly
Costco prices are great
But if you’re smart, you are setting aside money monthly in order to have the yearly payment ready when it’s due. Either way, you’re paying extra money for a membership and it could be something to drop if needed.
@@geetaraub I work for Costco, so if people upgrade to the Executive Membership then they would be saving money by getting 2% back onto a check that corporate sends in the mail 2 months prior to your expiration time. It’s a great deal.
@@ryandimento6351 Good advice. We have the Executive Membership and our cash back check is always more than the cost of the membership
Costco is $60/year which is $5/month.
I love AAA they have saved me with flat tires, dead batteries etc. I did stop gym and have a multitude of weights at home and walk and do online videos. I do like bottled water having hard water and Evian on sale is my fav. ; ) My one treat at times with drinks, not a Starbucks person. My daughter did her first non checked bag trip, she did it with very careful packing for a week,God bless her, not sure I could do it. I do love real books.
There are non negotiables with any budget and AAA and books are on mine. ; )
My Triple A membership is a keeper. In fact, I just paid it yesterday, $92. Makes me feel safe just to have their services. Peace of mind. No more clothes for me this year. I got plenty this past Christmas. Need to save money & invest. Plus, gas & food is so expensive in California. 🥰
My road side assistance costs $4.95/month thru my auto insurance. Check prices with your auto insurance next time.
I think gas and groceries are expensive all up and down the west coast! So I feel you there! We’re moving to Idaho lol
I agree with most of this. The one item that is questionable is Rental Car Insurance. I get the collision damage waiver which covers damage to the rental car itself. My personal auto Comp and Collision will cover the vehicle if it’s damaged. The rental car company will charge you the daily rental fee while the car is out of service. Depending on the details, this could be for a few weeks or longer. Your personal insurance will not cover this. Plus you’ll be paying a deductible also from your own insurance. So it’s ultimately about your comfort level. Just something to consider.
AAA - keep
Magazines - I've reduced but still get a few favorites
Landline phones - its all we use in our home. Cell phones stay in the car, turned off, only used for on the road & travels.
AAA is fabulous. We've used our membership for all sorts of things. We have never done a bunch of the things on this list, however.
I got Lion King tickets pretty cheap many years ago from their discount and restaurant discounts.
I waited to cut my cable and when I finally did, it was the best decision and I have not missed it at all. Looking back I now regret not cutting that cord earlier. I could have saved a lot of money.
I had all my Christmas groceries in my car, stopped to get gas and then my car wouldn’t start. It only had 23,000 miles but my husband turned on an inside light a few days before and didn’t turn it off. AAA to the rescue. They were there so quick and now I won’t be without.
Good tip, look up Halo Bolt on amazing. It’s a little battery that has little jump cables to jumpstart your car. Buy one and carry it in each vehicle you have. It has saved my wife maybe 2 times now from needing to ask a stranger for help while she has a van full of our little kids. I also carry a little Ryobi air pump with a battery in each vehicle in case we need an emergency air up on a tire. They are life savers in a pinch.
AAA is definitely a keeper for locking my keys in my car!
I'm really stunned Rachel uses bottled water. I have a water filter. It was expensive initially, but worth it.
These will stay on my list, because I can finally afford them, and I budget for them.
AAA
Gym membership - I use my gym regularly
Cable TV
Checked bags
Landline
Manicure
Car Wash
Paper Towels
I have horrible water and brita doesn't cut it but I can try others. I buy big gallons. When you are rich though, you don't really need to budget for nails and hair and books and tows, you can, you can put them down but 99.99% of the time, you have the money. Rachel likes expensive drinks, George teases her but she can afford them. No shame but it's hard to tell others maybe they shouldn't do this and that.
Bottled water: we keep 2 old half gallon glass apple juice jugs in the fridge so there is always cold water, & carry a stainless steel water bottle with us to stay hydrated. That water bottle was a freebie from a work conference. However, our water district has excellent tasting water, so we are lucky.
Not giving up AAA. Saved me by having it months ago. You also should share on here what people can do instead on these.
I just got a new battery, came to house, tested it, showed me options and in half an hour, had a new battery and nice conversation. No going to garage, taking time off from work or calling my auto ins.
*Wow😁, it's crazy how some people can become multimillionaires by investing just $10K in trading within a few months, while others have to work for 40 years to reach $1M in retirement savings. The power of smart investing, right?*
That's awesome!!! I know nothing about investment and l'm keen on getting started. What are your strategies?
@@RebeccaEmily-s8hAs a beginner, it's essential for you to have a guide. Myself I'm guided by Mrs Victoria K Walter, a widely known consultant
If you are using really a good broker or account manager is easier to earn from the market
That's true. a lot of people today have been
having a ton of disappointments in forex and crypto trading in light of helpless direction and awful specialists
I've been trying to trade but I keep making losses and it's frustrating
How cute are you? You are one of those people that just make us smile watching you. Keep it up, fun content.
The only streaming services I use are Spotify ($11) for music and our local public tv station ($5). The PBS membership is fabulous because I can watch various masterpiece theatre shows without having to wait for the next episode to be released. It’s great tv watching especially for the winter months in Chicago when I’m stuck indoors. By summer I’ve binge-watched most everything I want to see and it’s time to go out and garden! It’s such a great value. Worth every penny.
we stopped buying paper towels and napkins a few years ago (even with a puppy) and went with cloth rags and cloth napkins and it's simple! Better for environment and your finances :)
Sam's club is a non-negotiable. I buy in bulk, don't have to buy soap, lotion, paper towels, TP, for months @ a time, the gas is always cheaper than other places & annual the membership fee is cheap. AAA is amazing too. Towed my car when it broke down 180 miles from home last year.
I had to get towed 3 times last year! AAA was a lifesaver!!!
Premium gas.... higher octane (89 or 91) is for high performance engines (usually sport brands with high compression like BMW). If you have a normal vehicle like Chevy, Honda, Toyota... you're good to go as the engine is designed for standard 87 Octane.
I use the Premier membership wit AAA. I don't have any regrets. I travel for work often. It has paid for itself in hotel discounts.
It is also comforting to know I will never have another $440 bill for towing again.
I have AAA and being an older single woman now, I have used it many times and the fact that I live in NY and travel to Indiana, Tennessee & Massachusetts, I feel safer out on the road. As for car wash Yes! because it cost me $24.99 a month and I get my car washed at least 2/3 times a week and in winter almost everyday also I live in an apt so I have no way to was my car otherwise.😊
I only now do carry on luggage. The point to spend money on a large suitcase where don’t use half the items no thank you. Recently did a 10 day Europe trip and only carry on with no issues
26 years of AAA and will always have it. AAA has saved us many times. I certainly, if out alone, want someone to come change my tire or tow my paid for used car to my mechanic.
Are there really good benefits with AAA that you use besides the car stuff? I'm asking because for a very minimal amount a month my auto insurance will tow my car, give me a jump, change my flat tire, unlock the door if keys get locked inside etc. If AAA doesn't offer other things that I would actually use them I would be wasting my money. If they do offer things that would be useful for me I would be all for that.
My library system is wonderful. I very rarely buy a book.
Great idea to have a landline for your children! When my Grand Daughter is older, I’d like to get one for her! Also good for back up in case there is a cell phone outage.
Over the years AAA has been a great to help me. Some years I don't use but sometimes need 5 times in a year. Never have new cars. I live in the mtns and needing a tow can cove the one yr expense.
The gym membership isn’t the problem. I use the heck out of mine. My problem is workout gear. They are my kryptonite. My ultimate weakness these days
Shorts and a plain t shirt
@@davidmason777 I know. But we all have our vices. Thats mine. And I’m working on it.
Edit: but also for context, it’s not a total crisis since I am debt free, do hold to a budget, contribute 25% of my income to savings, and have 15% going towards retirement. So I’m doing pretty well. And none of my purchases go on a credit card. I do budget hard, but my fun money category is still mostly spent on workout gear. So it’s not RUINING me, per se. I did have to get new shorts this season because a side effect of going to the gym is body changes. So I guess it’s working lol
Replace bottled water with refillable jugs. Yes it has to be paid for but its cheap depending on where you are. I just cannot drink tap water. It's just not drinking water for me.
As far as gas goes, get what your manufacturer of the vehicle suggests you should get! ❤
You are absolutely right. Read your owners manual and it will tell you what octane level you need. Most cars need 87 octane gas but cars with high-performance engines require 91 octane to get full performance from the engine. However, even those engines will run on 87 - the car’s computer can adjust for the “cheap” gas and operate without problems.
I pay extra for non ethanol. Just like I gave up eating corn .... I don't put corn in my pickup truck.
Fabric Softener.
Not with hard water. It’s a must. Otherwise the clothes come out super full of static and such.
We use vinegar, fabric softner is bad for the washing machine
Dryer balls work well in hard water. Except that I have to keep them away from the dog.
AAA is a keeper , you NEVER KNOW when something is going to happen on the road . If possible please gift to your grand children for birthdays or Christmas
Used them often for hubby, me and kids cars. I can cut back now that we don't need out of state as much with kids back from college but still think a long car trip might be in future so I'm waiting.
We just cut our Costco membership. No regrets. In fact, we are even more thankful for our free membership to countless other grocery stores!
I cut my spouse's expenses and don't miss them at all.
Excellent. Well done.
We've had AAA for years and it aways helps when the car battery is dead, etc. It's a SAFETY thing. What if you pay and don't use it that year, then consider it a BLESSING that you DIDN"T have an emergency!
Premium gas only if your car recommends/requires it. It is pointless to use it otherwise.
You can get roadside assistance through your insurance company and many times its cheaper than AAA. Also, you should only use premium gas if your cars owners manual advises to do so.
AAA is important we had to use for towing or battery
I haven't had to buy gift wrap or bags. I have a bin where I save all wrapping & bags.
Same!
I dumped Sams, AAA, Costco, cable, brand named items, and much more. Saving $700 annually.
I love costco. They do have good deals. The gas alone is worth savings. I share a membership slots better for us!
@@tduck828I didn’t know you could share memberships 😮
Agree. Sam’s and Costco are decent for larger families.
I always have AAA. I drive a 2007 Toyota Sienna with over 250K miles on it. I commute out of town twice a week. I need that 100 mile tow once in a while. It also covers me when I am driving someone else’s car that breaks down
I disagree with getting rid of costco. The clothing is priced cheaper than the goodwill and it's the cheapest place in town for gas
I agree with everyone in the comments that AAA is totally worth it and I won’t give mine up.
I still buy paper towels but way less! We only use them as napkins. We use rags for cleaning/spills and hand towels to dry our hands.
I am a 77 year old gimpy man. I keep AAA as my paid for pristine 1999 Buick occasionally needs to go to the shop. 50 Bucks annual fee is a deal
Now back in the day when I did my own wrenching and repair I did not need it. Now I pay to get my oil changed. ( I cannot get up and down from the driveway) I never did that before pay for service and repair. I have earned this benefit.
This past January I was with my mother in law and a friend. My mother in law accidentally locked the keys in the car. I called AAA to come unlock the door. They came, but we had to wait about 3 hours. I'm glad that we had a warm place to wait in. It was definitely worth having AAA and not having to pay out of pocket.
yes, my husband's battery died, was old, guy came to house, in 30 minutes had a new battery from AAA battery truck and price was fair. Never had to leave home, priceless ; )
Rachel’s inner preacher came out when she said, forever and ever amen! 😂😂
The day you need AAA,you"ll be very glad that you have it.For me it"s just peace of mind knowing that no matter where you are you"ve got "a guy".By the way,read your owners manual and buy the correct gasoline that your vehicle requires.More expensive fuel is a total waste of money.Does nothing for your ride or it"s longevity.
I found the secret of Costco.
I go there often to get my essentials. So because I go there often, I don’t feel the need to impulse buy everything I see! I just wait until next time and, if I see it’s not going to be carried at the store anymore, and if I can afford it, I might just go ahead and purchase it.
Paper towels and toilet paper are a good buy as well.
Gas is also cheaper there and there are staples of organic products that Costco carries that are cheaper than buying at another store.
One of 7 children I was raised on Thrift Store clothes. Still shop there. Find AMAZING clothes..some with Original price tags at low prices. Can't really see you shopping there though, Rachel. My guess is you are a new or not at all kinda girl. However, I am pretty sure there are some folks with a good piece of change in the bank that have their ego in check and shop thrift stores.
Premium gas isnt really about whether its expensive or a nice car, its about whether the car engine excels at that octane level. Most people drive a car that is designed to run on unleaded 87, but the owners manual will tell you if your car is supposed to be at 89 or higher.
I have to keep AAA & my gym membership since I go 6 days a week for the last 4 years and it has helped me lose over 40+ pounds.
Whenever I begin to evaluate my budget for potential savings, such as reducing costs on services like Netflix or rental car insurance, I am quickly reminded of the substantial expenses of college tuition and apartment rent. These significant costs overshadow the smaller expenses, rendering any minor savings seemingly insignificant. The scale of these major expenditures diminishes the value of attempting to economize on the lesser ones.
For streaming services, we subscribe only when we know there’s a show we want to watch, then cut it off when it’s over. Kind of a pay per view model but it works for us so we get to see the shows we want without the recurring monthly fee from all the services every month.
I’m glad all I have to worry about is rent and groceries. Who needs cable or satellite with thousands of channels in which you can only watch one. 40 bucks for internet free Roku and that’s all I need, 25 dollar a month phone. I live as cheap as I can.
Check your car insurance and see if roadside assistance is included, or available for a lower cost than AAA.
Agreed. My AAA membership has paid for itself over the years and gotten me through many auto emergencies. Would never be without it!
Refer to your car owners manual for the best gas for that vehicle. Mine is regular, but some are not best with regular.
Tell me you live in the South without telling me you live in the South:
Cut out car washes. You've got a hose and some soap.
I do, but I'm not washing my car in the driveway in the winter, which is arguably the more important time to wash your car in the north to get the salt off your car
Keep AAA and if you are going to the gym regularly and your complex or condo has no gym or you don’t have a home gym don’t cut it. Gym membership keeps you motivated and you want to keep your body in top shape. Plus most gyms have other perks pools hot tub and you can take classes and make some new friends!
For those of you with AAA, just an FYI, they won’t help if you’re on a turnpike - so try to take an exit and then call them.
I've been a AAA member for over 20 years. I've used them for a variety of service needs - from blown out tires, to electrical malfunctuons, dead batteries, free notary services (Premier Member) and getting my registration tags for my vehicles and so much more. If anything, I'll cancel roadside assistance through my auto insurance company as well as car rental coverage through the same. But not AAA. I travel long distance and it's been a huge help for me. Otherwise, I can see how most of the list could be a money-saver.
As for cleaning products that are safe, I use Branch Basics. It is not cheap per day but you can use one product at different dilutions in place of every single cleaner.
Swap cable for streaming services. You'll still enjoy the entertainment of cable but you'll save tons of money a month.
These lists are always things I already don't spend money on. LOL. Except I do have AAA, although you should look at your credit cards and auto insurance and make sure they don't already have some kind of coverage. Some do. However, it can be useful to look at such lists. When I was struggling, I read such a list and realized I had nothing to cut. I HAD to increase income and got a part-time job. Looking at things on paper (or onscreen) can wake you up.
On cleaning products: So much can be replaced with some mixture of 2 or 3 of the following: distilled water, rubbing alcohol, dish soap, white vinegar, basic shampoo. I mixed up a liter of eyeglass cleaning solution back in 2014 that I'm *_still_* working through, using a 500ml bottle of rubbing alcohol, same amount of distilled water, and a few drops of dish soap. Works like a charm, I use it twice a week just to get rid of whatever resists my shirt tail.
AAA is a keeper for discounts on travel and towing
About rental car insurance: It's helpful because you don't have to submit a claim to your own car insurance company and go through all the hassle of that. Plus the rental company may charge you for lost revenue, which your own company probably will not pay. I bought it on one trip, and the car got dented in the motel parking lot. The rental insurance took care of it---I made no claim, it didn't go on my car insurance. Just turned the car in, noting the accident, and went home. Easy.
My mom needs the landline for her pacemaker. They update it from the phone. How about coffee places! I only use the paper towels from the list. No TV for 10 years. Just watch TH-cam or Tubi, which are free. Thanks Rachel!! 😊
I'm going to rebut the rental car insurance one. The reason is that if you're in an accident, you may get the damage covered by your insurance company or the credit card you used to pay for the rental, but the rental car company will also likely charge you for the days the rental car is out of service. So, if it takes a couple weeks for the car to get fixed you might be charged a daily rental fee for that time which your credit card or your insurance company might not cover. I don't think many people think of that when renting a vehicle.
I had AAA for years and loved having both the road service and the travel products, like the guidebooks and maps. Dropped AAA about 5 years ago when they were closing the physical office so no more access to maps etc and of course GPS access and online resources have replaced that. Also, my auto insurance carrier has roadside service included in our policy, although I cannot vouch for it as I have not used it yet. I also have a portable auto battery charger that I have used for a family member when their battery died. No secondary vehicle needed and it worked great. For travel discounts I have AARP which covers most of the ground that AAA does.
Good to know. I just signed up for AARP. Are there any perks that you've really liked using with them?
@@sstephens2175 We just check to see if there is an AARP discount when we go to museums or other attractions and also check it to see when we book a hotel as well. My husband earns points on their site by doing puzzles and quizzes I think and then uses those points to get discounts on gift cards for places we would be spending money anyway. I do read their magazines and other publications.
We use our Costco card for my husband's business travel expenses. He gets reimbursed by his company and the Costco statement provides easy tracking plus we get money back from Costco (a couple hundred a year).
FYI if you use a gas station that allows multiple fuel grades per dispenser then the line will have whatever the last customer selected. So if you put in premium gas and the previous customer used low grade then you get some low grade in your car