(StatePoint) Whether you’re traveling far and wide, enjoying local attractions on a staycation, or shuttling kids to camp (and yourself to work), summer can be as hectic as any other time of year.
To help you save time and money while maintaining your cool, here are a few simple tips from some top lifestyle bloggers who are always on-the-go.
Save Time and Money Shopping
Finding great deals on needed items doesn’t have to be a hassle. These days, certain retailers offer apps that can help you find deals and “clip” coupons to be used in-store.
“When making note of all the items I need to shop for, I pull up my Walgreens mobile app to check out what coupons are available for my favorite brands,” says Seri Kertzner, blogger and founder of “Little Miss Party Planner.”
Whether it’s sunscreen for the pool or nail polish for your summer pedicure, you can save money by accessing such shopping tools as the Weekly Ad, a searchable database offering hundreds of coupons in a variety of categories. Those with the app can also zip through checkout by paying for in-store purchases with the app’s mobile pay tool directly from their smartphones. To learn more or to download the app, visit the Walgreens website.
Create a Buffer
Kertzner, who knows how hard it can be to transition from fun to work, recommends taking some time on summer Sunday evenings or the last day of vacation to do some prep for the week ahead, but also to give yourself plenty of time to unwind with a movie and popcorn.
It’s all about balance, say those who successfully lead hectic but enjoyable lives.
Capture Memories
Posting photos to social media is fun, but the joy can feel ephemeral. Make your summer memories last longer by printing your favorite photos to be framed, saved in an album or scrapbook or even just displayed on the fridge.
Using new tools, making prints is a lot more convenient than it was in the past. Fashion blogger Danielle Gray of “The Style and Beauty Doctor” also recommends using the Walgreens app to order prints of your favorite photos directly from your phone, Facebook, Instagram and more. Prints will be ready for pickup in about an hour. Photos of your summer vacation can also be turned into cards, posters, canvas prints, wood panels and other personalized products.
Try New Things
Traveling somewhere new? Be friendly and try everything — from foods, to experiences, to people.
“My advice: be open-minded, be yourself and be available. People tend to get comfy with friends who have the exact same interests, but be open and you might meet new friends,” says Gray who is sharing her top tips on social media via #MyWalgreensApp, along with other lifestyle bloggers.
It may be the lazy hazy days of summer for some people, but if your days are filled with places to go and people to see, make more of your summer days with a few smart strategies.
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Photo Credit: (c) Katie’s Bliss
