The Fourth of July weekend is a major opportunity to save on big-ticket items for the home, with retailers rolling out deep discounts on patio pieces, mattresses, appliances and more.

Shopper Janet Green went to the home furnishings store Watson's with a shopping list built for summer.

"Needed a new filter for a pool," she said, "and I need some patio furniture."

RELATED STORY | TVs to toothpaste: How to win big this Prime Day without overspending

Watson's is holding its Great American Sale with storewide savings of 30% to 50% off. The store's deals extend beyond furniture, covering pools, spas and patio umbrellas.

Sales manager John Kathmann said the holiday weekend is a strong time to buy in-stock furniture and other products. He warns that the next shipments could cost more due to higher shipping fees.

"We've bought a lot of inventory ahead of time before the petroleum prices went skyrocketing," he said. "The next round of inventory that we're going to get is going to see decent sized increase in prices."

Watch as we tour an outdoor store and find some great July markdowns:

What to buy now, and what can wait

Retail insights expert Stephanie Carls of RetailMeNot said shoppers should not overlook mattress deals this time of year.

"This is a mattress holiday wearing a cookout costume," she said.

Carls said mattresses hit their deepest markdowns of the year in July. Stores also discount washers, refrigerators and other appliances ahead of the arrival of fall models.

However, Carls said don't rush to buy a grill despite all the advertised deals.

"You'll see grill sales everywhere, but the real markdowns do come at the end of the summer when the stores need that space," Carls said. "Wait until September and then that same grill that price is going to drop very, very hard and very quickly."

RELATED STORY | Americans plan to embrace summer travel, despite inflation woes

Carls also said most back-to-school shopping can wait, as the bigger sales and sales tax holidays arrive later in July and August.

Shopping expert Claudia Lombana said July is also an ideal time to hit clearance racks for off-season items.

"Winter shopping, whether it's for new bedding or sweaters or socks or even holiday decor," Lombana said. "This is a really great time for consumers to take advantage of mid-year clearance sales."

More firework-worthy deals 

Other savings to find around July Fourth include:

This holiday weekend, beat the heat with some Independence Day browsing.

"We've got over 100 sets of furniture. We've got over 50 hot tubs on the floor, tons of pools on the pool lot," Kathmann said, so you don't waste your money.

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Drivers who file a car insurance claim after a collision may be shocked to find the check they receive is not enough to cover the full cost of repairs.

Lawrence Bailey learned that lesson after hitting an embankment and damaging his Mercedes.

"It bent the tie rod ... there is some damage to my wheel," Bailey said. "The lower control arm was bent."

The repair bill came to roughly $2,900.

But the shop Bailey chose used original Mercedes parts known as OEM, or "original equipment manufacturer," parts. His insurance policy only covered aftermarket parts, which are reproduced components made by a third party.

After his deductible, insurance sent Bailey a check for just $947. He had to take out a nearly $2,000 loan to cover the rest.

"I didn't know that it had to be aftermarket. Because I had never seen that clause on my insurance," Bailey said.

Watch as an auto body shop expert shows how to get the coverage you deserve:

Aftermarket parts in many repair estimates

Tyler Damron, manager of Glendale Body Shop, said many insurance companies base repair estimates on aftermarket parts rather than OEM parts largely because aftermarket parts are cheaper.

But Damron argues the cost-saving measure could put consumers and consumers' wallets at risk.

"None of those parts have been crash tested. None of those parts are warrantied under the manufacturer's warranty," Damron said.

RELATED STORY | People in this state pay 121% more for car insurance than US average

In his experience, Damron said an aftermarket part may not fit the same as a product that comes straight from the vehicle's original manufacturer.

"They're made with different plastics because they're copies of copies that don't seem to fit quite well," he said. "It ends up being bigger issues, longer times for repairs, and then send-backs or improperly repaired cars."

Insurance company Progressive, unaffiliated with Bailey's claim, explains on its website that companies write estimates with aftermarket parts, "because they can return a vehicle to pre-loss condition and usually cost less than OEM parts. This helps keep repair costs in check, resulting in lower premiums for all policyholders."

What to do if you want OEM parts

Damron said drivers who want OEM parts, but whose insurance won't cover them do have options. One way forward is hiring an independent appraiser.

"An appraiser definitely can get you original parts within reason or some way to get the funds to pay for the original parts," Damron said.

To be proactive, drivers can also add an OEM endorsement to their policy before they ever get into a wreck.

"You might be spending between $100 and $200 over the year for an OEM endorsement, but it's going to save you thousands in the long run if you have a claim," Damron said.

Drivers and their shops can always choose OEM parts, but if insurance won't cover the full price, the difference comes out of pocket.

"If you have two or three bills like that, it will wipe you out," Bailey said.

We reached out to Bailey's insurer to see if they could approve the use of OEM parts, but have not received a response.

So take a moment to understand the type of parts that are covered by your insurance policy in the event of a crash, so you don't waste your money.

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Despite the high price of groceries, Americans still waste 30% to 40% of the food supply, according to USDA estimates.

Confusion over food labels doesn't help.

Many consumers throw away food once it's beyond the "best if used by" date, assuming that means the product is expired and unsafe to eat.

But before tossing that package of salami, bread or yogurt, it pays to know what "sell by" or "use by" really means.

Watch as a nutritionist sorts out confusion over 'best by' and 'sell by' dates:

Understanding food labels

That food going in the trash may be perfectly safe to eat days or even weeks after the date you see on the label.

"That's more of a quality standard, and not necessarily a safety recommendation," said registered dietitian Kayla Pasquale. "Especially for shelf-stable foods. You are fine to consume after the 'best by' date. You don't need to throw that away."

In the U.S., there are no uniform or universally accepted descriptions used on food labels for date labeling, according to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. Except for infant formulas, product dating isn't even required by federal regulations.

Here are some examples of commonly used phrases and what they mean:

What all of these phrases have in common: None have anything to do with safety.

Signs that food is not safe to eat

For perishables like milk, fish or chicken "sell by" and "best if used by" dates matter more.

If your eggs or other fresh products are past their dates, check for signs of spoilage like a bad smell, mold or an unpleasant taste.

The Cleveland Clinic offers these simple guidelines for how long common foods stay safe:

If you have beef or chicken nearing its expiration date, Pasquale recommends freezing it.

"Your freezer is your friend, so just throw it in there and you can keep it safe a little bit longer, depending on the product," Pasquale said.

For the best quality, the USDA says ground meat can last three to four months in the freezer, while a roast can last up to a year.

For non-perishables, shopper Mary Leitzinger said she saves money by keeping food past the recommended date.

"If it's canned stuff, or stuff that hasn't been opened ... it's probably good for a few more months," she said.

Know the truth about food labels, so you don't throw good food away, and you don't waste your money.

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Booking a hotel months in advance may not be the money-saving strategy travelers think it is.

A new report found last-minute bookings are now one of the best ways to save on summer hotel stays.

"Hotels do not want those rooms to go unfilled, so prices do tend to drop closer to the stay," said Melanie Fish, travel expert and vice president of global PR at Hotels.com.

The Hotels.com 2026 Hotel Price Index found the sweet spot for booking is eight to 14 days before your stay, saving about 23% compared to booking four months out.

"Now there's some risk involved in that, so I always make sure that I have a refundable hotel booked and then if I can beat it, great," Fish said.

As of May, hotel and motel prices cost consumers 5.1% more compared to the same time last year, which means value is top of mind this summer travel season.

Watch as a travel expert shows how to book a hotel room for the lowest price:

Fish said travelers are increasingly using filters to find hotels and stretch their budgets.

"In the Hotel.com app, there are filters for family-friendly, for luxury, for LGBTQ-friendly, but the filter that is really attracting people's attention is that budget filter," she said. "The use of it has gone up 1,800% this summer."

Filters tied to free parking, meal plans and free breakfast are also drawing attention.

"Travelers are smart. They understand that the real cost is in the overall package of the stay, not just in the upfront price," she said.

Fish said today's travelers are also more flexible when it comes to hotel location.

"If that means staying outside a city center or a little farther away from the activity, they're willing to do it," she said.

Travelers can save about 15% by starting their stay on a Sunday rather than a Friday. Friday is the priciest check-in day in the U.S., while Saturday ranks highest for international stays.

Hotel rates are falling in a variety of domestic vacation destinations. To save on lodging, consider these markets:

Joining hotel rewards programs is another way to reduce costs. In the 2026 Hotel Price Index, "rewards" filters are up 820%, highlighting a growing reliance on points and other member benefits.

If you still need to book a hotel this summer, don't panic! Waiting to book and checking in on a Sunday could work in your favor, so you don't waste your money.

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Don't let porch pirates spoil the joy of finding a great Prime Day deal this week.

Amazon Prime Day, June 23-26 this year, has grown into one of the largest shopping events of the year, but the four-day sales marathon also brings a surge in package theft.

With competing sales from retailers like Walmart and Target adding to the flood of deliveries, porch pirates will be out in full force.

WATCH as experts show the best ways to protect your packages:

Porch piracy at a glance

Nearly one in three households experienced package theft last year, losing just over $100 on average, according to data from marketing platform Omnisend.

Some shoppers have found their own solutions.

"I actually get them delivered to my parents' house," shopper Katie Minning said, "because packages have been stolen in the past."

Shipping companies are deploying new technology to help. Omnisend's Greg Zakowicz said carriers like UPS are using artificial intelligence to get ahead of the thieves.

"Companies like UPS, they have their AI tools that try to predict the likelihood or the higher likelihood that a package will be stolen for that particular address in that particular area based on that time of the season," he said. "They might reroute that or give the consumer an option to reroute that."

Steps you can take to protect packages

Still, there are plenty of things shoppers can do on their own. According to Security.org, the best ways to protect packages include:

For retailers with physical locations, curbside pickup and in-store pickup are also smart options.

"Maybe it's just driving the two miles out of the way to go to a Target store to pick it up," Zakowicz said.

If other options aren't available, a doorbell camera can serve as both a deterrent and a record.

"I do let them know that I do have a camera," consumer Kennisha Artley said, "and that is the purpose of it, so they don't get stolen."

Don't let criminals wipe out your Prime Day savings, so you don't waste your money.

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Amazon Prime Day 2026 runs June 2326, and the biggest challenge won't be finding deals it'll be knowing which ones are actually worth it.

I went inside Amazon's largest air hub in the world to find out how and when shoppers can score the lowest prices.

The Amazon is already in high gear ahead of what Amazon calls its biggest sales event of the year.

RELATED STORY | Amazon to launch 30-minute delivery service in these US cities

"We're really excited about Prime Day, it really serves as a Super Bowl for us," Amazon spokesperson Andre Woodson said.

The best strategy is to get organized before the sale begins. Here's what to do right now:

Woodson said the preparation strategy is simple.

"Build a list, find the items you're looking for," Woodson said.

WATCH: How to prepare for Amazon Prime Day and find the best deals

Prime Day delivers four full days of member-exclusive deals starting June 23 at 3:01 a.m. ET. Here's how the schedule breaks down:

Woodson said the pace of deals will be relentless.

"We're gonna have deals every five minutes. We'll have lightning deals three times a day," Woods said.

Amazon's Alexa for Shopping can help maximize savings during Prime Day:

Some deals are short-lived, so if you see something you want in your cart, act quickly so you don't waste your money.

This article was originally produced by Taylor Nimmo for the Scripps News Group station in Cincinnati.

The official start of summer is just days away. As the temperatures rise, Peggy Layton is already bracing for higher energy bills.

"Normally, I never exceed $200, and it was close to $400," Layton said about her most recent utility bill.

So where should you set your thermostat?

For summer savings, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends an indoor temperature of 75 to 78 degrees during the day and increasing the temperature by 7 degrees when no one is home.

Damon Cantrell, a technician with Logan Services, said 72 to 74 degrees is more realistic for most households. He urges homeowners to avoid dropping the temperature below 70.

"When you get below 70, you're going to be using a lot of energy," Cantrell said.

When you leave the house, Cantrell recommends going just two degrees higher than your normal setting rather than cranking the temperature up significantly.

"It's going to have to work longer to get there," Cantrell said. "It can take one hour to go one degree."

Watch as an experienced AC technician shows how to set your thermostat for the best savings:

What is "supercooling" and does it help?

Another strategy for saving is called supercooling. Greg Field, owner and senior energy consultant at PGT Home Energy Solutions, said it works by cooling your home to around 68 degrees at the start of the day.

"You may have to throw on a sweater, but you're cooling the flooring, the drywall," Field said. "Everything in the house is getting nice and cold."

RELATED STORY | Keep summer cooling costs down as electricity bills climb

Then, as outdoor temperatures peak, turn the thermostat up. The idea is that the home's structure has absorbed enough cool air to reduce how hard the AC has to work.

"The thermal envelope is lowered enough that you get probably a good, depending on the home, hour to two hours where you're really not cycling the AC very hard," Field said.

Field said that supercooling works best in efficient, well-insulated homes with no duct leaks. Others warn it can be problematic in humid climates such as Florida.

More cooling tips

Cantrell also recommends an annual AC tune-up to keep your system running efficiently.

RELATED STORY | Study shows new homes save owners $25K in maintenance, energy bills

An annual AC tuneup costs between $60 and $200, depending on the type and size of your unit, according to the service site Angi.

Additional tips to cut cooling costs:

For Layton, those steps could help avoid another record-breaking bill.

"The highest I've ever had in my home," she said.

Combine insulation, energy efficiency, shade and ventilation with minimal air conditioning, so you dont waste your money.

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Shoppers looking to add to dad's tool collection this Father's Day will find prices running about 5% higher than last year.

But major retailers, including Lowe's, Home Depot and Ace Hardware are rolling out deals that can help offset rising prices.

Watch as shoppers hunt down some great Father's Day outdoor and tool sales:

Tool deals happening now

At Lowes, shoppers will find plenty of tool gifts for less than $100. Some of the top deals from Lowes include:

Deals at Home Depot include:

At Ace Hardware, Father's Day deals include:

Trendy outdoor gift options for dad

For shoppers considering lawn care gifts, Tyler Graham with The Lawn Review said robotic lawnmowers are growing in popularity and becoming more reliable with new technology.

"Some of them even have string trimmer-like attachment capabilities on it, so it's getting pretty close to hands off for your lawn," Graham said.

RELATED STORY | Upgrade Father's Day grilling with whole snapper and pineapple salsa

Graham recommends leaf blowers as a practical gift that can be found around the $100 mark.

For the dad who has everything, he said an extra battery for battery-powered tools is another reliable choice.

"Gas wins on runtime. But if you've got enough batteries, then you can just swap out the battery," Graham said.

The griddling craze

For dads who need a new grill, the big box retailers are all running grill sales, including new models featuring a grill-griddle combo. Ace Hardware's Tim Cable said the griddle models are $50 off.

"Griddling is becoming a craze across the United States right now," Cable said.

RELATED STORY | Poll finds nearly one-third of dads don't want any gifts for Father's Day

With a griddle feature, dads can fry bacon, pancakes and smash burgers a gift the whole family can enjoy, so you dont waste your money.

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Michael Saylor thought he had 30 days to return his new TV.

But he had just 15.

Saylor's 65-inch TV sits in the entranceway of his home a reminder of a costly lesson about return policies.

"They left it right on the porch, I took three steps in, and gently sat it down, and there it sat in the box for two and half weeks," Saylor said.

When he finally opened the box, the damage was already done.

"The entire top is shattered," Saylor said.

Not only had the screen been damaged in transit, but there was no picture when he plugged it in.

Saylor went back to Best Buy, where he purchased the TV, but quickly discovered the store's return window had already closed.

"They explained to me they have a 15-day return policy, and I was beyond it," Saylor said.

Watch as a shopper discovers he cannot return his shattered new TV:

Saylor said no one had warned him about the shorter window.

"Guess I am old school. I thought everyone still did 30 days, I was really shocked," Saylor said.

What you need to know about shorter return windows

Best Buy's website clearly states customers have 15 days to return most electronics. Rewards members receive 60 days.

The issue extends beyond Best Buy and televisions, however.

Kevin Brasler with Consumers' Checkbook said shoppers may have just weeks or days in some cases to return major appliances and electronics.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | 'Backwards shopping': A new strategy to cut your grocery bill

Apple has a similar two-week return window for MacBooks.

If you discover a problem after that, you have to contact the manufacturer and request a repair.

One reason retailers set shorter windows is the difficulty of reselling returned items.

"They usually have to sell them as a refurbished item or an open box item. It's more difficult for them to get the full value back," Brasler said.

Returns carry a significant cost across the retail industry. For every $100 in sales, consumers return nearly $16 a figure that adds up quickly for retailers.

To avoid getting caught outside a return window, shoppers should unbox items right away, plug them in to confirm they are working and hold on to their receipts.

If you are past the return window and something stops working, Brasler said it is still worth asking for a refund.

"Even though a retailer might have a shorter return window, they should stand behind the stuff they're selling," Brasler said.

RELATED STORY | Many retailers offer 'returnless refunds.' Just don't expect them to talk much about it

Best Buy offered Saylor a $75 gift card, but he is hoping for more. The company told us it is looking into his case while reiterating its two-week return policy.

Saylor's advice to other shoppers: do not wait to open a new purchase.

"If you are remodeling, you are doing something, you don't get around to opening it immediately," Saylor said.

He now knows to open the box on delivery, so you don't waste your money.

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High inflation is driving more shoppers to secondhand stores and not just for clothing or vintage finds. Tariffs and the high cost of shipping and materials have only made furniture and appliances more expensive in recent years.

So buying used could be the right move for your wallet if you don't mind a few minor scratches or dents.

RELATED STORY | From Rolex to Coach, big names launch buy-back and pre-owned programs

Budget-conscious shoppers are buying used at stores like Habitat for Humanity's ReStore, a nonprofit shop with locations nationwide.

Watch as shoppers show how much they save buying used:

Shopper Trish Hawkins said the savings at the ReStore can be significant.

"I've bought furniture, tchotchkes, paint and paint brushes, and more," she said while loading up her car.

Habitat's Sarah Reynolds said the quality of many items is as good as new, with inventory ranging from dining room sets and outdoor furniture to appliances, lighting and couches.

"You'll find things from $20 all the way up to brand new overstocked items for a couple of hundred dollars," Reynolds said.

ReStore manager Sonya Cooper said the prices are hard to beat. She showed us refrigerators, stoves and ovens, for a fraction of the original price.

RELATED STORY | Why 2 in 3 shoppers are turning to thrifting regularly

"You can't beat that price, $99 for double oven," she said, pointing to a Thermador wall oven.

Cooper said shoppers can almost furnish an entire house at the store, with a wide selection that includes:

Much of it is priced between $20 and $100. They have everything but the kitchen sink. Never mind, they have those too.

What to know before buying used

According to Consumer Reports, shoppers can save as much as 75% off by checking a used appliance store. But smart shopping expert Trae Bodge cautions that not every category is a sure bet.

"There are categories that I think are great for buying used," Bodge said. "And then there are other categories that, I'm not so sure about."

Bodge said with used appliances, you may not always know what's going on under the hood.

"That makes me a little bit nervous unless there's a really strong warranty," Bodge said.

She recommends reading the fine print and asking about the return policy if something doesn't work. There is nothing worse than buying a refrigerator off Craigslist or Marketplace and finding it doesn't keep your food cold.

Consumer Reports suggests opting for reliable brands or shopping for like-new, open-box or "scratch and dent" deals as alternatives

At the ReStore, however, used appliances are all tested and come with a 30-day guarantee one reason shoppers like Trish Hawkins keep coming back.

"You never know what you are going to find, there is something for everyone," she said.

That way, you don't waste your money.

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Prices at major retailers can now change dozens of times in a single day, thanks to something called dynamic pricing.

New data shows just how often that's happening and where. The practice uses algorithms to adjust prices in real time based on market conditions, demand and competitor pricing. It shows up on both electronic shelf labels in physical stores and on retailer websites.

Stores like Walmart, Aldi, and Kroger have been rolling out new digital shelf tags in stores, while web retailers like Amazon are able to constantly change prices online.

RELATED STORY | Maryland becomes first state to pass bill banning surveillance pricing

It is making dynamic pricing the new norm in retail.

WATCH as shoppers react to stores being able to change prices constantly:

Not everyone is happy about it.

"I don't see why it would help people at all; it just confuses people," shopper Bill Brockman said.

Steven Booker shares that frustration. "I don't like it, because it means they can switch it anytime," Booker said.

Shopper Diane Rankin said the new digital shelf tags in her grocery store are difficult to read.

"Well, I actually have taken a picture on my phone and increased it so I can read a couple of them," Rankin said.

RELATED STORY | Same groceries, same store: So why did you pay more than your neighbor?

But for retailers, the ability to adjust prices in real time is increasingly seen as a competitive necessity.

"Retailers that don't have the algorithmic pricing, they do face a structural disadvantage against the competitors who can respond to things like market conditions in real time," Gabriele Vitke, product marketing lead at data platform Decodo, said.

Which retailers use dynamic pricing the most

Decodo tracked price changes across major retailers and found Amazon is the undisputed leader in price adjustments including both discounts and price hikes.

"Amazon recorded over 116,000 price changes in our tracking period. That's 69% more than its nearest competitor," Vitke said.

After Amazon, the retailers with the most frequent price changes are:

Vitke said clothing and electronics see the most price swings, while DIY and home improvement items tend to stay the most stable.

She also said knowing when to shop can give consumers an edge.

"Wednesdays are the best days for Amazon; Monday for Walmart and Saturday for Target," Vitke said.

Some shoppers worry that stores could raise prices on bread and milk if a snowstorm is approaching, or on bottled water and plywood if a hurricane is forecast.

So far, though, there is little evidence of that happening. But the bottom line: Whether shopping online or in-store, if you see a good price, it may be worth buying right away because that price could go up or down within minutes.

That way, you don't waste your money.

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Fake rental listings are appearing on major platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, and some travelers are losing hundreds of dollars to scammers before they ever leave home.

Laura Gentry learned this the hard way.

She booked what appeared to be a perfect rental apartment only to have it vanish along with her deposit.

"It was a nice one bedroom, fully furnished, in a decent area," Gentry said.

The first red flag came when the owner asked her to pay the deposit through Zelle instead of via credit card through the rental platform's website.

"They recommended paying by Zelle, as opposed to paying online," Gentry said.

She paid a $950 deposit via Zelle, which unlike a credit card offers few fraud protections. She never heard from the owner again.

When she emailed, the message bounced back as "address not found." When she called, no one answered.

"I called them, all my calls went straight to voice mail," Gentry said.

The owner had disappeared with nearly $1,000 of her money, leaving Gentry needing to book a hotel instead.

Watch as a renter shows how easy it is to lose money booking a vacation rental:

How to avoid a bad rental listing

Kevin Brasler with Consumers' Checkbook said scammers are getting more sophisticated and some rental platforms aren't making it easy for victims to recover their money.

"The criminals have figured out ways to circumvent these obstacles that these companies have put up to prevent fake listings," Brasler said. "If you dig into their terms and conditions, they say basically, we're not really part of this transaction. We're just a forum."

Consumers' Checkbook recently conducted an investigation into fake rental listings and found "widespread problems" on major rental sites.

The organization says all sites claim that fraudulent listings are rare, and have policies for reporting fake listings.

VRBO has a "Book with Confidence" guarantee. Airbnb offers what it calls an AirCover guarantee.

But that doesn't guarantee a refund, Checkbook says.

Brasler said of all the platforms, Aibnb offers the most protections to renters if a listing turns out to be a fake.

Brasler recommends taking these steps before booking any rental:

"Make sure that there aren't any reviews that they say things like fraudulent listing or fake listing," Brasler said.

Gentry said she won't make the same mistake twice.

As for using Venmo or Zelle to pay for a rental home deposit, she said "I don't recommend that at all."

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Steak and other proteins are not cheap, with many cuts running more than $20 a pound. But there are ways to get quality protein for less this summer.

We visited a grocery store, ETC Produce, with dietitian Kayla Pasquale, to find some affordable alternatives to beef that can deliver the same nutritional value at a lower cost.

"Things like chicken, or pork, or even some of our fish like tuna and salmon are great options," she said. "Same protein but at a lower price point."

Pasquale said chicken is one of the best beef substitutes, and shoppers can save even more by skipping boneless skinless breasts in favor of whole birds or thighs.

"I know it can sound intimidating but knowing how to roast a whole chicken you really get a lot of bang for your buck," she said.

RELATED STORY | Consumer confidence dented with gas prices around $4.50 and inflation still elevated

If cooking a whole chicken is too much, she said, "Chicken thighs are very affordable and very flavorful."

Beans and lentils are also among the least expensive protein sources available and work well in soups and salads.

Pasquale also recommends dairy options for breakfast or lunch.

"We've also got Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, those are in the dairy group," she said.

WATCH: We go through a grocery store to find cheaper ways to get your protein:

Ways to save on summer cookouts

For summer parties and cookouts, Kristin McGrath of The Krazy Coupon Lady said shoppers should let weekly sales drive their menu planning.

"If chicken is on sale that week and you've got a barbecue coming up, well, you should plan your entire menu around chicken."

Timing matters as much as what you buy. McGrath recommends getting to know your local butcher and asking about manager specials discounted meat marked down near its best-by date.

"See which day of the week they mark those down so you can get in early in the morning and get first dibs."

Pasquale said those discounted cuts do not need to be used right away.

"Your freezer is your friend, so throw it in there," she said.

RELATED STORY | Why is beef and other meat so expensive right now?

According to McGrath, it will remain fresh for up to four months (some cuts of beef last longer, but four months is a good rule of thumb).

Stocking the freezer with marked-down steaks and chicken means affordable protein will be ready to grill all summer long.

And that way you don't waste your money.

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Whether you plan to sell your home in six months or further down the road, remodeling can appeal to today's homeowners and future buyers.

But some projects are worth a lot more than others when resale time finally arrives.

Hannah Klausing, CEO of REP General Contracting, said an updated kitchen, bathroom or basement is a major draw for buyers.

RELATED STORY | Beware of these contractor scams as spring project season begins

"In kitchen and bathroom remodeling, you are enriching a space that people use more than any other area of the home," Klausing said.

According to NerdWallet, a bathroom remodel typically costs $6,600 to $18,000, but a high-end remodel can cost as much as $80,000. Bathroom remodels often recoup at least 60% of their costs.

The cost of a kitchen remodel varies by size, floor plan and materials. NerdWallet puts a minor remodel at $28,458, midrange remodel at $82,793, and a major, upscale remodel at $164,104.

It found a minor kitchen remodel can recoup its full cost while a major midrange remodel, with custom cabinets and new appliances, may only recoup about 50% of the money homeowners put in.

Watch as a contractor shows which projects return the most on your investment:

Alternatives to costly renovations

According to Ace Handyman Services, smaller projects boost home value too, with the biggest return on investment (ROI) coming from the following projects:

When it comes to home efficiency, smart-home upgrades offer a return on investment of 87%.

For windows, vinyl windows offer stronger returns than wood models, with ROIs of 76% and 70%, respectively.

Instead of a major gut job, Klausing said trendy, practical updates can boost value at a lower cost like simple cabinet upgrades.

"Consider painting them or replacing the hardware. You can always upgrade to soft close, drawer glides," Klausing said.

Fun projects with smaller return

Not every project pays off at resale.

While desirable to many homeowners, Klausing said a home office, hot tub or pool may not add much value when it comes time to sell.

RELATED STORY | Kitchen remodeling now $80K? Check out these great budget alternatives

"Putting a pool in your back yard because you would like your children to have a pool doesn't necessarily mean it would appeal to a future buyer," Klausing said.

Ace Handyman Services finds that a closet remodel, for example, has an ROI of only 55-60%. Landscape lighting has an ROI of 59% while adding an outdoor fire feature offers an ROI of 56%.

Homeowner McKenzie Hafer keeps practicality top of mind when weighing renovations.

"The flooring that's important with three kids and a dog," she said.

It all comes down to wants versus needs and whether that renovation will pay off in the end, so you dont waste your money.

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From the fees and the gear to the hotels and flights, many families are forking over big money on travel sports.

According to the New York Times, it's a $40 billion industry. I talked with a couple of parents about the real costs involved and got advice from a financial advisor on how to budget it all.

When you signed up your kids for travel sports, did you have a complete understanding of how much it would cost? I asked Jeremy Sarnovsky, a Lake Orion father with two kids in travel sports.

"Yes and no," he replied.

His son Max plays travel hockey, and his daughter Savanna , plays travel softball.

"With softball, thankfully, the organization was very clear about how much the cost would be to start the season," Sarnovsky said. "They offered us the ability to find sponsors to kind of offset the cost. Hockey was a different story. We knew what the basic cost of the ice time would be. However, tournaments are added throughout the year that you have to pay for it. You don't know until, you know, kind of the last minute what you're going to be paying for.

"How much are you paying for travel sports on average a year?" I asked him.

"Probably between $10,000 to $15,000 a year between hockey and softball," he replied.

Sarnovsky said there are the upfront costs for participating, and then there are the hidden costs.

You have to pay for your own hotels, all of the dinners and meals on these trips, and then equipment," Sarnovsky said. You're paying $500 for the nicest bats or $500 for the nicest hockey stick. Equipment is really just a huge cost that a lot of people don't take into account."

He says to afford it all, they've cancelled several vacations and their lawn service, while also making other financial sacrifices.

We're not putting as much into savings anymore for sure. We have found ourselves using credit card a little bit more than we would like," he explained.

I asked Jennifer Bloom how many kids she has in travel sports.

I have one right now, but I have a few that are coming up," Bloom replied.

Bloom has an 8-year-old who plays in three travel sports, including golf, and she says that costs can be deceiving.

Every other day, there's a flyer about an extra clinic, an extra practice, an extra camp that's going to give your kid a better chance of making a better team or staying on those teams," Bloom said.

Bloom understands the pressures on parents. She's a financial advisor with Bloom Advisors in Farmington Hills.

She says families should avoid sacrificing emergency savings and retirement contributions, and ignoring overall financial stability, just to keep up with youth travel sports.

When you hear parents say, Hey, we're doing travel sports because we're hoping to get a college scholarship, what would you say to them? I asked Bloom.

I always say to them be careful using that I word, that it's an investment in their kids' future," she replied. I do not believe travel sports is an investment in your kid's future in the traditional sense of investing. The better investment is to invest in a college fund, to invest your own retirement, to make sure that your family's finances are on a really good path.

So, what's her advice to parents?

And Bloom encourages families to get their teens involved in the conversation about finances and saving for these activities when possible.

"So, I would encourage families to sit down with their teen and figure out, can they shovel snow? Can they mow a lawn? Can they babysit? Can they referee at games? Can they use birthday money, Christmas money, holiday money, and can they save that and start building towards an account that's going to help pay for some of these activities?" Bloom suggested.

For big tournaments for hockey, we've done neighborhood bottle drives," Sarnovsky said.

Sarnovsky said his daughter's softball team also sells sponsorships to offset costs. He said it's all worth it to get his kids active, outside, and part of a team working towards a common goal.

If you're thinking about getting your kids into travel sports in a few years, Nerd Wallet recommends setting up a sinking fund; that's where you regularly set aside money for future expenses. You determine the target amount, divide it by the number of months until you need it, and add that exact amount to your regular monthly budget, preferably deposited in a high-yield savings account.

A pop-up appears on your screen. It looks urgent. There's a phone number to call for help. So you call and within minutes, a hacker is inside your computer and draining your life savings.

It's a scheme that plays out every day, and retirement accounts are increasingly in the crosshairs.

"Various things popped up on my laptop," said Brenda, a retiree who asked that her last name not be published.

Brenda said she was on her computer when the unexpected pop-up appeared. It displayed a seemingly urgent security alert along with a phone number for Microsoft.

She said the agent who answered her phone call told her there was pornography on her computer.

"I'm thinking, 'How in the world did that get on my laptop?'" she said.

Brenda said she was instructed to download a program to remove the files, "and I guess that's what gave him access to my computer."

Within minutes, she said her financial accounts were targeted.

Criminals stole about $1,250 from her credit union account and more than $6,000 from her 401(k). Altogether, Brenda lost about $16,000.

Watch as a retiree shows how easily hackers got into her bank accounts:

Remote access a "flashing neon sign"

Amy Nofziger, senior director of victim support for AARP's Fraud Watch Network, said the organization's helpline receives calls about fake pop-ups every day.

"Sometimes it has alarms and so really gets people panicked and they really don't know what else to do but call that number," Nofziger said.

She said no legitimate company will ever ask for unsolicited remote access to your computer.

"That is not just a red flag, that is a flashing neon sign," Nofziger said.

She said it's no surprise that hackers are targeting retirement accounts, which typically hold more money than checking or savings accounts.

"The number one goal of any criminal is to steal as much money as quickly as they can from their victims," Nofziger said. "Oftentimes victims have a significant amount of money in their brokerage accounts and their retirements accounts, and so that's where the criminals are going to go."

Protect yourself from tech support scams

If you receive a suspicious pop-up on your device, experts with AARP recommend the following steps:

You can also talk to a fraud specialist by calling the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360.

Scripps News called the fake Microsoft tech support number Brenda was given. All we heard was a recording saying the number was unavailable.

Brenda's credit union said it is investigating her case.

Meantime, she is living off what money she has left, wishing she had never called the number on that bogus pop-up.

"What do I do now? I'm out almost $20,000 and can't recoup probably none of it," she said.

Be wary of any tech support message, pop-up, phone call or email, so you don't waste your money.

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Roller coasters are getting higher and higher, but so are ticket prices at some of the most popular amusement parks.

The personal finance site FinanceBuzz found that single-day tickets at 20 popular theme parks averaged $105 in 2025. That's 37% higher compared to 2015.

Whether you're planning to visit a regional park like Cedar Point, or a theme park giant like Universal or Disney, families this summer face serious financial planning before they ever step in line.

RELATED STORY | This amusement park will feature the fastest tilt coaster in North America

Travel experts say the right strategy from season passes to meal plans to timing your visit can help you save along the way and help you enjoy the thrills without massive bills.

Watch as two travel experts show how to save at theme parks:

Season passes and discount memberships

Nedra McDaniel, founder of the travel blog Adventure Mom, said a Six Flags season pass is one of the best values available, with the chain operating dozens of parks across the country.

Passes offer varying benefits, like food and bring-a-friend discounts, based on tier.

Certain memberships, such as Gold Passes, also grant access to other parks in your region.

"You definitely want to take advantage of those regional passports because you can visit multiple parks with that pass," McDaniel said. "If you love thrill rides and want to be able to visit multiple ones, then you get a great value."

McDaniel said a pass pays for itself in just two visits and usually includes free parking, a $25 value.

For additional discounts, McDaniel recommends checking with AAA, Costco and Sam's Club, and asking about military discounts.

Cutting food and drink costs

Food costs add up quickly inside the parks. Lunch can cost over $20 per person.

McDaniel recommends purchasing a meal plan, sharing meals or ordering kids' meals even for adults.

For drinks, she said the solution is simple.

RELATED STORY | Epic Universe opens at Universal, marking a new era in Orlando theme parks

"You can bring a refillable bottle in with you," McDaniel said, while warning you may need a locker rental if the park doesn't allow bags or bottles on rides.

Haley Reidmiller, a mom who uses a meal plan, said the meal plan savings are real.

"You get a free drink and a free meal every four hours while you are in the park," she said.

If an amusement park offers free re-entry, the cheapest option is packing a cooler with lunch, drinks and snacks, and eating for free in the parking lot.

Deals at Disney and Universal

Lesley Sawhook, an owner of Exclusive Travel Partners, whose specialties include Disney destinations and the Universal Orlando Resort, shared current promotions offered by the theme park giants.

Universal Orlando Resort is currently offering two days free with the purchase of a three-day ticket.

Many on-site hotels also include a $300 dining credit, as well as early access to the parks.

"I priced it out for a family of four this summer for five nights, and it was around $3,000 for all of the parks and that $300 dining credit, which is a huge value this summer," Sawhook said.

At Disney and other resorts, on-site perks can sometimes offset the higher cost of staying on property.

At Disney, for example, kids ages 3-9 get a free dining plan when their family books a qualifying Disney Resort hotel package.

"They're including a water park visit, the day you check in, complimentary," Sawhook said. "So lots going on for families over at Disney this summer, and some opportunities to save some money."

Skip the souvenir shops inside the park

NerdWallet travel expert Sally French says one of the easiest ways to save is to buy souvenirs before you go not inside the park.

"We see a lot of people go and spend a bunch of money on Disney souvenirs," French said. "Your child has no idea where that plush came from, and I guarantee you it's going to be so much cheaper at Target or Walmart versus actually buying it at Disney."

When to go

Timing matters. Dynamic pricing at many parks now makes summer weekends and peak holiday periods significantly more expensive.

Sawhook recommends visiting Disney or Universal Orlando in late August or early September, and advises families to avoid the Christmas season, when parks are most crowded and most expensive.

The same goes for regional amusement parks where lines can stretch for two hours on the weekends.

"I suggest midweek," McDaniel said. "Midweek for lower pricing and lower crowds."

Headed to a theme park this summer? Save hundreds on tickets, food, drinks, and souvenirs, so you don't waste your money.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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Keeping a yard and garden looking healthy during the hottest months of the year can come with a hefty price tag and big water bill.

"It's not as bad as I thought it would be, but it's still up," said Debby Manning, who's planning a large landscaping project for her yard this summer. "If we would have bought two years ago, we would have saved some money."

Inflation, high gas and diesel prices, and tariffs on imported goods all have the cost of making that backyard oasis higher than ever.

MORE MONEY-SAVING TIPS | Which fast food apps deliver the best rewards for your money?

Luckily, there are ways to have a beautiful outdoor space without spending a fortune.

Watch as a garden center owner shows how to have a beautiful yard on a budget:

Save on water

At Denny McKeown's Bloomin Garden Centre & Landscaping in Cincinnati, owner Chris McKeown can rattle off a list of plants and flowers that dont require much watering at all.

"Zinnias or periwinkle, once they're established, you're watering them once a week," McKeown said. "These aren't the plants for people that invested in a sprinkler system."

On the flip side, he said overwatering is a common mistake especially with hanging plants.

"They love them so much they kill them with kindness and they overwater them," McKeown said.

The garden "extras"

When shopping for your yard, McKeown believes fertilizer is a nice supplement, but not a necessity.

RELATED STORY | What to buy in June... and some things to wait on

Mulch is important for suppressing weeds and retaining moisture in hot temperatures, but just like water, it's possible to overdo it. Experts recommend keeping mulch to about 1 to 1.5 inches at most.

"You can have too much mulch and then it works against you," McKeown said. "Then the water can't penetrate down to the soil where it should be."

Know your region

To ensure your flowers and plants last all summer, avoid spending money on food for deer or other little foragers.

"We're looking for something that's native to the area and something that would be deer-resistant because that's a big problem in our area," said shopper Liz Mann.

If you live in a region dealing with an invasive species like the box tree moth that attacks boxwoods McKeown advises shoppers to ask about alternatives before buying.

"An inkberry holly is a great alternative, and you don't have to worry about the insect and the blight problems that are happening with the boxwood," McKeown said.

He also suggests "globe" or dwarf arborvitae, another plant that resembles a boxwood from the street, but is immune to the damaging box tree moth.

Get help from local experts

A local garden center expert can share insider knowledge to help you buy plants that are right for your yard and your budget.

Take rhododendrons that thrive in mature soil, for example.

"You've got to have really, really good soil to have rhododendrons," McKeown said. "If you live in a newer subdivision where they take away all the good soil and just leave the clay soil, rhododendrons aren't for you."

So take advice from the folks at your local garden center who know plants best, so you dont waste your money.

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This summer grilling season, ribeye steak might cost you $21.99 a pound. Ground chuck for burgers is $6.49 a pound or higher if you want leaner ground beef.

It's impacting everyone hoping to grill up a nice dinner.

"The food is expensive right now, but we make it work," said Sam Moore, owner of J&W Barbecue.

With beef prices up 14.8% year over year, the summer cookout is getting more expensive but there are ways to keep the grill fired up without overspending.

WATCH as a butcher shows how to save on grilling this summer:

Cookouts on a budget

At Luken Meats, owner Neil Luken said ribs are still a relatively affordable option for feeding a crowd.

"If you want to serve ribs, they are still reasonably priced because they go far," he said.

A pro tip for serving ribs: make sure to cut at every single bone, "So people dont get these great big portions," Luken said.

The shop owner also pointed to chicken as a budget-friendly alternative this spring and summer.

"You can get nice chicken breast at a very reasonable price -- you can serve people for less than $5 a person if you want to do wings and breast," he said.

Kristin McGrath, senior editor at The Krazy Coupon Lady, suggests buying a whole chicken for savings. A raw chicken will save about 20% over a pre-cut, skinless version.

"Cut it up for kebabs, shred the rest for tacos," she suggested.

Smart shopping strategies

McGrath said the key to saving money is flipping the traditional approach to meal planning check the sales first, then build the menu around what's discounted.

"If you're strategizing around what's on sale, you are going to save yourself a lot of money," she said.

McGrath also recommends stocking up and using the freezer to stretch deals across multiple holidays.

"If you buy something for Memorial Day, you find a great deal, freeze it for Fourth of July," she said.

For burgers specifically, McGrath said swapping out beef for other ground meats can lead to significant savings.

"Ground turkey and ground pork are about 30% less per pound compared to beef right now, which is very expensive," she said. Another option is to pad beef patties with cheaper alternatives like ground veggies or breadcrumbs.

Not everyone is letting prices change their plans. Shopper Cynthia Bates won't let inflation dampen her Memorial Day celebration.

"Just because the price is high, I'm still going to enjoy the holiday," she said.

Enjoy those barbecues even more by shopping the deals, and making simple swaps, so you dont waste your money.

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On Sunday, May 24, Spotlight on the News will preview the important 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference beginning on Tuesday. As hundreds of Michigan leaders, from all walks of life, convene on Mackinac Island, how will they pursue "A Quest for Common Ground?" Giving us a candid look at the issues they expect to be in the spotlight at the MPC will be Sandy Baruah, President & CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber and Robert (Bob) Riney, President & CEO of Henry Ford Health and Chair, 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference.

Spotlight on the News, now in its 61st season, is Michigan's longest-running weekly news and public affairs television program. It airs every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. on WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 in Detroit, is streamed live on wxyz.com and broadcast at 11:30 a.m. on 23.1 WKAR-HD in East Lansing.

With prices unpredictable this year, deal hunters are hitting the stores for Memorial Day weekend deals.

"I thought I'd stop by and see what I can get for a good buck," said Alexis Brennan, shopping for a new electric stove.

Recker & Boerger appliance store manager Chris Auel said her timing is on point.

"Any national holiday, you're going to have really, really big sales around the appliance industry," Auel said.

RELATED STORY | What to buy in June... and some things to wait on

At local hardware stores, deals are also plentiful.

Ace Hardware store owner Tim Cable showed markdowns on STIHL trimmers and CRAFTSMAN leaf blowers some priced at $49.99, down from $99.99.

"We have plenty of deals for the outdoors," Cable said.

WATCH as an appliance store and hardware store show us some amazing deals right now:

Strategies to save during a holiday weekend

At his store, Auel said shoppers will find manufacturer rebates, package deals, and hundreds of dollars off scratch-and-dent models that consumers can take advantage of for big savings.

"We can offer scratch-and-dent appliances at a really good deal, even on top of those sales youre getting on brand new appliances," he said.

With any large purchase, smart shopping expert Trae Bodge recommends a price comparison tool, like those offered by Google or Yahoo. She also urges consumers to shop with a target price in mind.

"You're really only going to see 40-60% off during a big sale moment, like a three-day weekend," Bodge said.

RELATED STORY | Which fast food apps deliver the best rewards for your money?

How you pay also matters.

"Make sure that you're using a credit card that gives you points or cash back. There's a really good one from Bread Financial called the Bread Cashback American Express. It gives you 2% cash back on everything," Bodge said.

Retail categories with the biggest discounts

According to the data-gathering company Decodo, Memorial Day shoppers will likely find the biggest discounts in the following categories:

Products with some of the steepest discounts include pre-season clearance furniture, athleisure and swimwear, and bundled kitchen appliance sets.

For grocery savings, Decodo points to cookout staples like burgers and hot dogs with average discounts of 25% leading up to the holiday.

Coupon tracking site SimplyCodes says Memorial Day weekend marks the end of a deal drought, with a 38% increase in the number of online discounts compared to any other point this year.

For shoppers like Alexis Brennan, the deals are already delivering.

"Honestly, some of the best prices I've seen," she said.

Shopping this weekend? Plan ahead, compare prices and utilize coupons and rebates, so you dont waste your money.

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Drivers are getting little relief at the gas pump. Now the war in Iran could make routine vehicle maintenance more expensive as well.

Certified mechanic and shop owner Marc Duebber said the cost of wholesale motor oil has gone up drastically this spring.

I think the biggest hit is coming on the synthetics, because synthetic oil prices are jumping up to 150%, he said.

RELATED STORY | Strait of Hormuz tensions threaten to push gas past $5 a gallon by June

He said supply is already an issue with his suppliers cutting back on how much motor oil theyre able to deliver.

Im calling and putting the hammer down on my sales guy and saying, 'Hey, we're running low on oil,' and he's telling me, 'I'm doing the best I can to get it there,' Duebber said.

Watch as a certified mechanic shows the impact of rising motor oil prices:

According to the trade journal The Drive, at least two automakers are allegedly sounding the alarm over a dwindling stock of motor oil due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Nissan reportedly drafted a bulletin notifying service departments of a supply crunch. According to The Drive, it hasnt been distributed.

Duebber, owner of Duebbers Automotive in Cincinnati, said hes adjusting prices daily, based on what his suppliers are charging each week.

We're just being honest with people and telling them up front, he said. This is what its going to cost you to have an oil change today.

Save on your oil changes

To save on an oil change, consider the following options:

But dont skip oil changes, or mechanics say you risk costly engine damage.

RELATED STORY | Oil companies look beyond Middle East for new supply sources

Duebber said some bigger chains may still offer the cheap $30 to $40 oil change, likely accepting oil changes as a loss leader to get drivers in the door.

"Can they afford to give that oil change away at that price? I personally can't, he said.

Nissan provided the following statement regarding a motor oil shortage:

Nissan is closely monitoring current oil supply constraints in coordination with our supplier partners. We remain fully committed to supporting our dealers and maintaining a high level of service for our customers.

Scripps News received the following statement from Valvoline Inc., which operates 2,400 retail oil change service centers:

Valvoline Inc. has adequate supply to serve our customers today and for the foreseeable future. We are working closely with our supplier to proactively manage any potential impact from the current market environment and ensure our customers continue to receive the quick, easy, trusted preventive maintenance we are known for.

If your vehicle needs an oil change, consider scheduling sooner than later, so you dont waste your money.

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Water damage, even from small leaks, is one of the most frequent types of insurance claims and it can happen anywhere in your home.

Behind the washing machine, under the bathroom or kitchen sink, or at the base of a water heater a small leak left undetected can turn into a costly problem.

That's exactly what happened to Keith Vearil. When water came up through a drainpipe, the lower level of his home was waterlogged.

"It just went in all directions," Vearil said. "There were family photos on shelves, furniture was ruined, electronics."

In most cases, pooling or dripping water isn't evident right away. It takes a brown water stain on the ceiling or a musty odor under the sink.

That's why water leak alarms are becoming a popular home safety accessory.

WATCH as a flood victim shows how water can destroy hundreds of personal items:

What is a water leak detector?

For about $1,500, companies can install a leak detection system that includes an automatic shut-off valve.

"Water leak detection is something that is going to help you if something goes catastrophically wrong," said Alex Nesbit with Apollo Home, which installs the alarms.

RELATED STORY | Beware of these contractor scams as spring project season begins

With most installed systems, homeowners or a plumber place alarms, or sensors, in any location prone to flooding or leaks, such as:

When your system detects a leak, your water valve will automatically close to prevent flooding, and an alert is sent to the homeowner's phone.

There are cheaper sensors on the market ranging from $30 to $100 from companies like D-Link, SimpliSafe, and YoLink -- which do not require professional installation.

Like a detection system, most of these sets connect to Wi-Fi and alert a homeowner when moisture is detected. They do not, however, turn the water off.

"All it is going to do is act like a smoke alarm," Nesbit said. "If you are out of town, it can be beeping the entire time, and you don't know."

Why spend money on water leak detectors?

Security company ADT says just a few inches of water can cause more than $10,000 in damage.

The water damage prevention company Water Damage Defense claims 14,000 people in the U.S. experience a water damage emergency at home or work each day.

And about one in 67 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water or freeze damage, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

For Nesbit, the value is clear.

"It's something that can save you a ton of money and honestly, heartache," he said.

Think of leak detectors as a small investment to potentially stop thousands of dollars in water damage. That way, you dont waste your money.

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Father and son mechanics PJ and Jim Schulten work together on cars. Now they're working together to save money on gas.

"Definitely as the prices have raised, we've increased our carpooling," Jim Schulten said.

When gas prices hit about $4.80 a gallon, the mechanics parked their gas-guzzling pickup trucks and started carpooling in dad's older, more fuel-efficient car, saving the duo about $50 a week.

RELATED STORY | Gas prices are driving a new interest in EVs, retailers say

"It's still cheaper for me to put premium gas in this and drive it to work, than it is for me to drive my truck," he said.

Watch as carpoolers explain the benefits of sharing a ride:

An old school fix

Between gas prices, car maintenance, tolls and downtown parking, the cost of getting to and from work adds up fast. Sharing the commute with a coworker could put a significant amount of money back in your pocket.

Jenny Newcomb, with the OKI Regional Council of Governments, said there are environmental benefits to carpooling, but saving money is the main attraction in recent months.

"With a larger car, if you're going downtown five days a week, it'll probably save you at least a tank of gas," Newcomb said.

OKI is a metropolitan planning agency serving Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. It offers several ways for local drivers to form connections with others who are interested in ridesharing. First, through the app Gohio Commute.

"It matches you with people near you, near your house who are going the same direction as you," Newcomb said, "with the same kind of schedule."

The organization also provides subsidies for workers who participate in a vanpool program. Through OKI's vanpools, coworkers rent a vehicle through Commute with Enterprise.

OKI provides an $800 monthly subsidy to eligible residents. Riders or their employers share the rest of the monthly rental fee.

Other states and cities offer similar programs.

Potential carpool savings

Carpool savings vary by commute, vehicle, location, and current gas prices.

In one estimate from Rideshare.org, a person with an average commute in a two-person carpool can save more than $1,500 by carpooling 250 days a year.

The more riders in a carpool, the bigger the savings.

RELATED STORY | Trump says he plans to suspend federal gas tax amid rising fuel prices

On days when you're not behind the wheel, Newcomb said the benefits go beyond the wallet. Being the passenger reduces stress and even allows you to get some work done.

"Just be the passenger princess, as they call it," Newcomb said.

The Schultens said they enjoy being able to doze on the way to work but the financial relief is what matters most.

"Unless you have pockets full of cash and money is no object, it's incredibly wasteful to not do that," Jim Schulten said.

Whether it be a family member, colleague, or friend, find someone to enjoy the morning commute alongside, so you dont waste your money.

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When your flight gets canceled, it can be a stressful experience; that's when scammers like to take advantage of people.

The Wall Street Journal recently reported that a man lost $12,000 after calling a fake airline customer service number found through a Google search. I dropped by Detroit Metro Airport to talk with travelers about the rebooking scam, and I reached out to an airline for the proper steps to keep your trip and your cash safe.

It's a typical day at DTW. The hustle and bustle at the bag drop and check-in counters was picking up. Thankfully, there were no major cancellations or delays. But what if there were?

Would you ever, if your flight was canceled, just search online to try to rebook? I asked one traveler.

Probably. I'd probably hit my phone like everybody else," said Warren resident Christa Cooper.

And that's what scammers are hoping you'll do start searching online for flights.

Bad actors use Search Engine Optimization. Some fraudsters create fake social media profiles, official-looking sponsored ads, or imposter websites to push customer service numbers that lead you to them and not a real airline or a legitimate online travel agency.

I used to think I could tell the difference. And as AI has improved, there's videos on the internet that I thought were real that turn out later to very much be fake," Cooper said.

"What's the red flag you would notice first?" I asked traveler John Tarver of Detroit.

Ridiculously cheap fares. It was too good to be true, it is," replied Tarver.

Sara Berry a Detroit native said that

has fallen victim to a travel scam.

"I think that I shouldn't have picked, I don't know, maybe a dodgy website. I should have (known)," said Berry, who said that the site appeared to have great deals.

In the re-booking scam, criminals posing as airline agents may claim your ticket is "not confirmed," or you're on "stand-by," and then demand a fee of hundreds or even thousands of dollars to rebook you.

If your flight was canceled, what's the first step you'd take? I asked one traveler.

"Call the airline," said Muzzamil Fadalla of Atlanta.

"How would you know if you had the right number for the airline?" I asked Fadalla.

Well, I'd access the official website. Right? And then look for their customer service number," he said.

If your flight is canceled, the airline is required to provide a free rebooking or a full refund to the original form of payment.

Delta is the dominant carrier at DTW, and I reached out to the airline for some advice.

A Delta spokesperson says the safest way to re-book is to contact Delta directly through the Fly Delta App, Delta.com, or through Deltas official phone number.

Delta's website recommends travelers remain vigilant to current fraudulent schemes and says "to ensure you are doing business with Delta Airlines and receive the best customer support, always visit Delta.com or call 1-800-221-1212."

If you're flying another airline, the same rule of thumb applies: use the airline's app or official website directly.

That way, you can avoid landing on the line with a fake customer service rep who's trying to squeeze sky-high fees from you to "fix" your flight.

Airlines generally will not refund losses in re-booking scams, but your credit card company may be able to help.

Remember, skip the online search.

Go directly to official airline channels.

And if you've been scammed, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at this link.

As the owner of an independent pet shop, Elisabeth Mayer knows rising prices are pushing some pet owners to their limits.

She tries to avoid price hikes, and help her customers find affordable food options.

"What we do carry, I feel very confident in their quality and also their price point," she said. "I try to do a combination of the two."

The average pet owner can expect to spend over $4,000 a year on routine expenses for a single cat or dog, according to pet insurance company Healthy Paws.

RELATED STORY | Having a pet is just as valuable to your life as having a spouse or friends, study says

Food alone can run $58 to $268 a month for a medium-sized dog, as tallied by the pet care app Rover.

But as pet care costs continue to climb, some simple changes can make caring for your beloved pet more affordable.

Watch as a a pet shop owner explains why cheaper food can really cost more:

Check your pet's food ingredients

Mayer, who owns Argos Pet Food & Supply in Cincinnati, said many brand-name foods are packed with fillers, like corn, soy and animal byproducts, that can cost pet owners more in the long run.

"There are a lot of cheap ingredients in the cheaper foods," Mayer said. "You end up having to feed more of it, in fact, because the dog is hungrier, the cat is hungrier than a higher quality food that has quality ingredients."

Mayer cautions a larger package doesnt always mean more food or better value, so check labels for both ingredients and weight.

"We dont have the fancy bag," she said. "As nice as the fancy bag is, who needs it?"

Pet living expert and author Kristen Levine said when switching your pet food, its ideal to switch slowly.

She also said you can add premium quality food to your pets diet without breaking the bank.

"Use it as a topper on top of what your pet is currently eating," she said. "Then you could slowly change the ratio so that your pet's getting better nutrition, but you don't necessarily have to spend a lot of money."

Prevent costly vet bills

Surprise veterinary bills can put the most strain on pet owners budgets.

Levine stressed that prevention is one of the most effective ways to avoid large vet bills, even if that means upfront costs.

To protect your pets outdoors, she recommends plant-based, pet-friendly products like Spruce Weed & Grass Killer to keep yards safe for animals, including bees.

She also recommends wearable health monitoring device like those offered by PetPace, to detect problems early on.

"Potentially saving you a costly trip to the veterinary ER clinic or to a vet visit," she said.

Pet insurance doesnt eliminate vet bills completely. But it can soften the blow.

According to Healthy Paws:

Take advantage of sales

For products you use regularly, stock up when you see a big sale. Amazons Pet Days, for example, runs May 11 through May 15, giving customers the chance to save on food, toys, health care products and grooming supplies.

Also join your favorite pet stores loyalty program for coupons or discounts.

Dont forget your local pet shops

Mayer said independent shops may be more affordable than shoppers expect.

"In many cases, we're actually less expensive than the big popular national brands," she said. "Argos Pet Food is our private label. We have 11 different formulas, and the food is made every couple of months in small batches."

She adds that small businesses offer something big-box retailers can't.

"Customers really appreciate having a relationship with the person that cares for their pet," she said.

This National Pet Month, take a good look at your pets food and what you spend on vet bills, so you dont waste your money.

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Many moms will wake up to fresh flowers this Mother's Day but without proper care, those blooms may not make it past Tuesday.

This year, shoppers are paying an average of $58 for flower bouquets, according to coupon tracking site CouponFollow. Thats a 7% increase over 2025.

With flower prices going up, a little effort can stretch the life of a bouquet from just a few days to a week or two.

Watch a florist and horticulture expert show how to make fresh lowers last for more than a week:

Buying a bouquet that lasts

Horticulture instructor Gwynn Hamilton of Virginia Tech recommends buying flowers in the early bloom stage before they've fully opened.

RELATED STORY | 2-ingredient fudge thats perfect for an easy Mothers Day treat

"If you need it to be on your table for a dinner party, buy it open and showy," she said. "If you want it to last in your mom's house, maybe buy it at the smaller stage."

Steps to make a bouquet last

A bouquet of cut flowers can last for two weeks when properly cared for. Experts suggest the following to keep your flowers fresh for as long as possible.

1. Clean vase

Once you have a bouquet at home, start with a clean vase. Bacteria can clog stems and shorten the life of your flowers.

"If you wouldn't drink out of it, don't make your flowers drink out of it," Hamilton said.

2. Flower food or an easy alternative

Follow the instructions on the packet of flower food that often comes with a bouquet to ensure youre adding the appropriate amount to the water. If you don't have one, there are two simple alternatives.

RELATED STORY | Why Mothers Day beats Valentines as the biggest dining holiday

"You can put in a little drop of lemon juice or vinegar and that acidifies the water," Hamilton said.

3. Change the water and trim

"Trimming and refreshing water is the number one thing to make them last," said Cleo Melvin, of Gia & the Blooms flower shop in Cincinnati.

Every time you change the water, wash the vase and trim a half inch to an inch off the bottom of the stems.

4. Choose a prime spot

Placement in the home also matters. Flowers thrive in sunlight while growing, but not after they've been cut.

"The dining room table is often the best spot in your house. It's a little cooler, not in the direct sun," Hamilton said.

Follow these steps and your Mothers Day bouquet could last for a week or two instead of just a few days so you dont waste your money.

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For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com

Filling up the tank is painful enough but if your car takes premium gas, you're consistently paying 50 to 80 cents more per gallon.

Larry Draper is spending well over $100 per fill up for his GMC Yukon, with gas prices close to $5 a gallon.

"When you put 30 gallons in here, its five times 30 you spend," he said.

RELATED STORY | Reasons behind recent gas price swings

With national gas prices up more than $1 compared to last year, does your vehicle really need premium fuel?

Watch as automotive experts show when you should buy premium gas, and when you don't need it:

Recommended vs. required

The answer depends on what your vehicle actually requires. There's a key difference between "premium recommended" and "premium required."

"If it says premium-required, you definitely want to run the premium," said Matt Overbeck, owner of Overbeck Auto Services. "Especially if youre under a manufacturers warranty."

Using regular fuel in a vehicle that requires premium could cause real harm.

"You don't want to get yourself in trouble because running the lower octane fuel could lead to internal engine damage," Overbeck said.

Premium gas typically rated at 91 to 94 octane is most recommended for high-performance vehicles.

RELATED STORY | Affordability concerns are weighing harder on consumer sentiment as Iran war drags on

"The engines tend to be higher technology engines. They tend to be more stressed engines, turbocharged, they make a lot of power," said Tony Quiroga, editor-in-chief of Car and Driver.

For vehicles where premium is recommended, not required, reduced power is the only potential downside.

"If you're somebody who enjoys accelerating hard in their car, enjoys the performance aspect of their car, you may notice that there's a little bit of a performance decrease when you switch to 87 [octane]," Quiroga said. "But in 99% of the cars on the road, you can get away with it."

Impact on fuel economy

In prior Car and Driver testing, higher-octane premium fuel made only a subtle impact on fuel economy.

For example, Quiroga said the fuel economy on a Honda CR-V was 27.3 mpg on regular gas, and 27.6 mpg on premium.

"The benefit is very, very minuscule. You'd be paying a lot more at the pump for a very tiny, tiny uptick," Quiroga said.

Whats best for your car?

While more expensive, premium gas does have its benefits.

Draper said he intends to keep filling up with premium fuel, averaging $5.38 per gallon, according to AAA.

"I avoid more problems if I just put the good gas in there and I don't have to worry about the fuel injectors messing up," Draper said.

The easiest way to know what your car actually needs is to check the fuel filler door or the owner's manual.

The national average for a gallon of regular gas hit $4.53 on Wednesday that's 85 cents cheaper than premium.

"An occasional tank of regular here or there is not going to hurt you," Overbeck said.

The bottom line: Dont feel guilty about putting regular gas in your car, if premium isn't required, so you dont waste your money.

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For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com

The toll scam is back again, but it's more than just a word text this time. A bunch of us in the newsroom have received it; I even got one late this afternoon.

You may remember in March of last year, I reported about the unpaid toll texts that were blowing up phones all across Michigan. More than 4300 people commented on our WXYZ Facebook post last year.

This latest version of the scam is a text of an official-looking document. At the top is a black-and-white state seal, and the words 'State of Michigan in the District Court of Wayne County Traffic Division'. Nowhere does it list 36th District Court; that's the first red flag.

The document claims to be a 'Final Enforcement Notice' for three violations: failure to pay an electronic toll or toll evasion, a parking violation and a speeding violation. This is the next red flag, as there are no toll roads on Michigan's highway system. Also, the document doesn't tell you where any of the violations occurred.

Neither my name nor the description of my car was anywhere to be found. This so-called 'mandatory compliance order' says you must remit full payment in total or appear before the court. The court hearing date at the bottom was for May 4 at 9 a.m., less than 15 hours from when I received the text. I was given the option to scan a QR code at the bottom right to pay the fine prior to the hearing date.

I did not do that, but I did scan the code to check it out. It asked if I was a real person, then it took me to a fake MDOT page, instructing me to fill out my personal information and pay the fine. But a few hours later when I checked the code, it took me to what looked like Connecticut's official state website, asking me to pay an unsettled toll charge there. Don't do it.

MDOT and the 36th District Court know they are being used in this imposter scam. A scam alert is listed at the top of both their home pages.

If you receive a text message that says you have traffic fines, an unpaid toll, speed, or parking tickets, here's what you need to know:

If you receive a text message like this, please report it to your local law enforcement agency, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Better Business Bureau's Scam Tracker.

Hoping to fly this summer?

Travelers are facing a significant rise in airfare as airlines respond to high fuel prices.

The average domestic flight now costs an average $361, according to data from Kayak. Thats up from $291 at the start of the year.

RELATED STORY | US gas prices jump to the highest average in nearly 4 years

Traveler Sherry Franks is seeing her dream destinations get less affordable.

"I looked at one, and it went from $300 to $1,000," she said.

Watch as a travel expert shows how you can still find decent airfares this year:

Summer prices unlikely to come down

United Airlines' CEO warned the company could raise prices as much as 20% this summer. Delta's CEO has implied higher prices could stick.

"I think a lot of us love to think we'll get that last-minute bargain. And maybe you can from time to time. We're not seeing it right now though," said Eric Rosen, director of content at The Points Guy.

Lauren David is feeling the impact while planning a wedding trip and a beach vacation.

"Both of those flights were expensive compared to normal, typical prices," she said.

It's not just airfare either. Rosen said checked bag fees are up about $5 across the board.

"All six of the largest U.S. airlines have raised those fees within the last couple of weeks," he said.

Fewer routes to choose from

Flight cuts are also possible, as airlines look to offset the rising cost of jet fuel. Rosen points out it may be more nuanced than entire routes disappearing.

"Maybe there are three daily frequencies on a route, and it's going to go down to two or even one," Rosen said.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | What to know if your flight is canceled amid rising jet fuel costs

In addition, the shutdown of Spirit Airlines has taken thousands of planned flights offline, forcing travelers to compete for seats on other airlines.

Flexibility is key this summer

There is still some relief available for travelers who can be flexible.

"We're still seeing some decent airfares for August if you can push your trip later in the summer," Rosen said.

More ways to stay ahead of rising costs:

For some travelers, flying still makes more financial sense than driving.

"Gas is so expensive, I would think it would always be cheaper to fly," said Avalon Gaston, who chose to pay for a short flight over gas for a 12-hour drive.

Before you book your next flight, track airfare to make sure the math works out in your favor, while keeping gas, tolls, and hotel prices in mind so you dont waste your money.

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For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com