5 Easy Eco-Swaps with MightyFix
5-EASY eco-swaps ANYONE can do!
Can you believe how fast this year has gone by? It’s already the middle of October, and I’ve been reflecting on goals I set earlier this year. The biggest one was making eco-swaps in my home to reduce our waste, which is what I want to highlight today.
I want to share a part of my journey with you, and 5 of my favorite swaps I found with the help of MightyNest and their MightyFix subscription box. Keep reading for a special discount code :)
Immediately after signing the lease to our Japanese home, we were put into a trash organizing “crash course” at our realtor’s office. She explained how we needed to separate our trash into 9 categories, showed us how to break down packages, wash them, then put them in their designated bins. It was quite overwhelming and a big adjustment at first!
I am faced with my own waste over, and over, and over again. It’s hard to explain what this experience was like, but when your trash starts piling up because you can only take it out on certain days, and you're managing 9 trash bins… you get desperate to find ways to reduce it. I’m embarrassed it took something like this, as an adult, to realize just how wasteful the life I was living was.
Now.. I don’t want this to come off as I am perfect in any way or an expert, but I truly think the swaps I have found with the help of the MightyFix are easy enough that ANYONE can try them!
Get your first Fix for $3 here!
Funny story: I found out about MightyFix on instagram through one of you! She saw me struggling and overwhelmed with options to swap, and recommended their services. Soon, my mother-in-law gifted us a year of the MightyFix. Once I got my first box, I knew I had to integrate them into my lifestyle and my content.
WHAT IS THE MIGHTYFIX?
The MightyFix is a monthly subscription box that helps you reduce single-use plastic and eliminate toxins from your home! It’s an effortless way to become mindful. They also have a full shop on MightyNest.com where you can add sustainable items to your existing subscription (or shop separately). You can ship everything at once to save on shipping (and reduce waste!), they support small businesses, and most importantly, support your journey in a non-judgemental way.
I feel supported by their team through my journey, and never feel judged. They put emphasis on any small change to seek progress, not perfection. It has made a huge impact on our lives and we use these items every single day.
Let’s talk about my favorite swaps that we discovered through the MightyFix
REPLACE PAPER TOWELS with TIDY DISH CLOTHS! These are amazing and save about 3,000 single-use paper towels each year per person!!
REPLACE DISH SOAP IN A PLASTIC BOTTLE with the MELIORA DISH SOAP BAR. We got this dish soap and a cedar tray in one of our Fixes and prefer it for so many reasons. Not only gets rid of plastic bottles, but supports a small business and lasts much longer.
REPLACE ZIPLOCKS with STASHER SILICONE BAGS. These save so much money and single-use plastic. We use these for snacks, food while camping; I've even bought a larger size and used it to keep my phone safe during messy outdoor activities / weather. You can use these for so many things over and over again. PSST! They are really satisfying to open and close!
REPLACE SPONGES AND PAPER TOWELS with SWEDISH DISHCLOTHS. Not only are the patterns on this aesthetically pleasing, but this swap saves money and is compostable at the end of its life cycle.
REPLACE CHEMICAL CLEANERS with MELIORA ALL PURPOSE CLEANER: another favorite for us that we would not have found without the help of the MightyFix! This is an all-purpose cleaner that is non-toxic. When it runs out, you refill the glass bottle with soap flakes that come in a cardboard container. Another way to get rid of a household plastic item!
You can try the MightyFix for $3 by using this link or code ECOSWAPS at checkout on mightynest.com!
I hope you join me in making small changes in your home, too! It has been a lot of fun, and a great way to make a difference in small ways. Let's end this year with some positive changes, together!
xX, Caitlin
If you’re interested in learning more about my experience with the MightyFix or seeing some of these swaps in action, you can watch a video HERE about easy eco-swaps in my home, and how we are actively trying to reduce our waste in Japan.
WATCH ME!
Atlas at Home
Ladder shelf in the bedroom ; similar style, darker wood - other buying options: 1, 2,
Moon-phase rug - machine washable :))
Living Room Rug - free shipping. If you sign up for emails you get another 10% off.
Office Rug, Geometric white and black - free shipping. If you sign up for emails you get another 10% off.
Fruit stand in the kitchen - ours is old, but this is SO similar!
TV Stand - this has moved 3 times with us. It’s awesome!
Cozy-Clothes Master List
I love wearing my husbands over-sized t-shirts and pants, but it’s getting to the point where I feel like a bum, and not myself, lol. It was fun the first few weeks! I’m not usually in the mood to wear jeans or a dress, so anything other than his clothes seems to be a happy medium. I can get dressed and feel put together without sacrificing my comfort! Add a little sass to my life, right? I thought it was a great opportunity to create a Cozy Clothes Master List! I asked for your recommendations and favorite PJs on Instagram stories, and had a TON of great feedback. I compiled most of them into a “Cozy clothes master list” to share the knowledge (and will continue to add).
Each of these links are clickable, and will direct you to the “lounge-wear” landing page for that site/products. I included updated sales and promos, but if you notice a change, please comment below so I can update it :)) At the bottom I included things I bought today, and things I already own (like my ugg slippers… I also found a pair of dupes)!!
** active promos as of April 26, 2020 **
Nordstrom - up to 70% off
Nordstrom Rack - up to 69% off
Banana Republic - 40% 0ff
Zappos - reduced prices
Loft - 50% off use code CYBER
Old Navy - 20% off use code SWEET
Lou & Grey - select markdown items + additional 40% off - $25 off (reg price) when you sign up for emails!
Natori - up to 55% off
J. Crew - select items 25% off
Madewell - select items on sale
Gap - up to 70% off
Soma - up to 50% off sleep!
Barefoot dreams - select items up to 70% off
Moonlight Pjs - up to 60% off
Lunya - luxury sets
Aerie - up to 20% off
Eberyjey on Nordstrom - up to 40% off
Eberyjey on Shopbop (more options)
Show me your Mumu - select items marked down
Sentimental Gift Ideas
Hey everyone! I know giving gifts can be challenging, especially if you want to gift something with meaning behind it. I put this list together to make shopping a little easier for someone who has either lost a friend/loved one, or who has had a monumental event happen in their life (baby, wedding, big move, etc). If you have any other recommendations for this list please leave them in the comments so we can all share!
1) Custom framing and shadow boxes of personal photos, a keepsake, or a collage. My husband kept 2 prayer cards from my dads funeral, and had them framed for me with a coin that was given to me by his best friend. If for any reason you attend a loved ones funeral, and want to do something incredibly personal for them, this is one of my most precious gifts! He kept 2 prayer cards so we could display the front and the back. This is REALLY personal, and one of my favorite sentimental gifts. You can do the same thing with newspaper or article clippings, a precious letter, etc!
2) Consider donating to a foundation in their honor! Example: My father passed away from a heart attack, so we’ve had family and friends donate to the American Heart Association. What if this person did not pass away from an illness, but they were passionate about animals? You can donate to a shelter, or rescue. If they cared about the environment - there’s foundations where you can plant a tree in their honor. There are many ways to keep their memories alive and still share it with their family and friends.
3) Write them a letter! Even if you don’t know what to say, even if you don’t get a response (sometimes it’s just mentally hard to), the act of kindness and love is the best gift.
4) A Map of the night sky - use code STAR20 to get 20% off! // This is a wonderful gift to celebrate a significant date. My sister gave this to us as a wedding gift, and we have it hanging in our loving room with this simple frame $15. It is a coordinates map of the night sky above the coordinates of where we said, “I DO.” This is a beautiful gift to memorialize engagements, births, birthdays, etc.
5) Mapiful is a great website to create maps for loved ones who have a favorite city! 20% off // This is a great gift to give a friend who has moved away from work (get them this map from their home town, or where you met). This is also a great gift for someone who loves traveling, and again… to celebrate special occasions like where someone was married or gave birth!
6) I adore these personalized map ornaments! These are only $15.
7) A personalized bracelet from Alex and Ani, $15-30! I was given a similar bracelet to this one, and it’s meant to represent my dad always being with me. I don’t wear it all the time, but I do keep it on my dresser as a constant reminder - I cried when I opened it, since the person gifting it to me also wrote a note. This is a sweet gift for a dog owner, childs initial, or anything else you might find sentimental! They have a lot of options.
8) A locket! I know it sounds cliche, but a locket has been something on my list for myself for a long time. I would love something simple to keep a photo of a loved one close to my heart. I love this brand, Gorjana, too! I own many pieces from them, and the quality is fantastic for the price.
Here are a few more timeless lockets at other price points depending on your budget. Personally, I would want something that I wouldn’t have to take off, and these are all on major Cyber Monday Sale 50-65% off! My advice would be to go ahead and gift them the locket with a photo or note already on one side :)
9) Oval Locket // was $890, now $311.50
10) Simple Starburst Locket // was $275, now $137.50
11) Circle locket with moon // was $300, now $150
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDES
Thank you for joining me this year for my holiday gift guides. Everything is linked for you below, just click to shop :) let me know if you have any questions! Happy Holidays!
Noise canceling headphones - 20% off on Walmart and Target
Nintendo Switch - great family gift, too. Also sold at walmart and target
Dual USB-C and USB-A speedy charger - Great for people who travel, or for those who forget to charge their phones at night (me, always). I can charge my phone in a hurry!
Kindle Paperwhite - 35% off
Bluetooth Speaker.. also sold here and here
Wireless headphones - our favorite for the gym and commuting!
Travel speaker - we attach this to our hiking bags (comes with a clip) when it’s just us on the trail. We take it with us while traveling and like using it to play music in the hotel/airbnb.
Final Fantasy VII - Preorder - Play Station4 - $49
Wireless headphones - THESE ARE ON SALE FOR $89!!!
Soundbar - to get your tv sound BUMBPIN!
If you’re in the market to buy your S/O a gaming system, plan on purchasing it next year! Both Playstation and Xbox are slated to release new systems in the fall of 2020 :)
Kindle Oasis - $149.99… this is $200 off!
A Little Hatred (The Age of Madness) - was $27, now $18.41 // The first book in a new blockbuster fantasy trilogy where the age of the machine dawns, but the age of magic refuses to die.
Watchmen: Graphic Novel - $14.99 // Be sure to get the paperback! (A hit HBO original series) Watchmen, is considered the greatest graphic novel in the history of the medium, the Hugo Award-winning story chronicles the fall from grace of a group of superheroes plagued by all-too-human failings. Along the way, the concept of the superhero is dissected as an unknown assassin stalks the erstwhile heroes.
Saga: Compendium One - $41.32 // We have the one for kindle!
Harry Potter: Complete 8-Film Collection (Blu-ray) - $39.99 - on sale from $99.98
The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings: Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set Vinyl Bound - was $50, now $30.47
HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset - on sale 40% off for $59.99 // This is an amazing deal! My husband said this is the lowest he’s seen it. Good for Xbox, PSP, and PC, etc.
CYBERPUNK 2077 - on sale for $49.94 - originally $59.99 // PlayStation 4 and XBOX ONE - Pre-order for April 2020 release date
The Last of Us Part II - PlayStation 4- $59.99 // pre-order for May 2020 release
DualShock 4 Wireless Controller for PlayStation 4 - 40% off - on sale for $38.99 // tons of colors and patterns to choose from! My husband periodically gets a different controller when he sees a new color he likes, or his current one gets really dirty. Don’t think that just because he/she already has a controller, doesn’t mean a new one in a different color isn’t welcomed!! It’s like getting a new version of your fav pair of shoes :)
Nioh for PlayStation 4 - 50% off!! $9.99
God of War Hits - PlayStation 4 - $9.99 - $16
Final Fantasy VII: Remake PlayStation 4 - Sale $49.95, was $59.99 // Preorder for March
Xbox Wireless Controller - was $64.99, now $39 // lots of colors to choose from and customize
ASTRO Gaming A50 Wireless + Base Station - 20% off - on sale now for $240 // for Xbox One and Future Console, and PC. This headset would be a really exciting “surprise” gift. This will work on the next generation Xbox that is slated to release November 2020
Cozy socks - $12
Ugg Slippers $84.95
Faux fur robe - was $149, now $89 - comes in 5 colors
throw blanket - was $149, now $89
Cozy butter soft scarf - $38 + 30% off
Pajama set - on sale $50; I love the tie-dye, but it comes in 8 colors!
Capri Candle 30% OFF! (our favorite year-round!!!) This is the special scent of Anthropologie
Cozy sweater for the gym or at home - SALE $47.60
Ugg Jogger pants - on sale for $53
Frasier Fir candle - was $50, now $30 (this is the most realistic candle I’ve found to a Christmas tree!!)
Teddy Robe - was $79, now $38.99 - 7 colors
Dyson Vacuum - $260 off!
Instant Pot - was $99 now $49!!
Dyson Pure coollink - $220 off!
Faux throw blanket - $89 // our favorite!
Dyson Motorhead Vacuum cleaner - $200 off - wireless and handheld
not pictured FOUND A VITAMIX A 2300 FOR $315.. $235 OFF!
Stance Underwear - $30 individual OR Subscription $19/month // my husband recently subscribed to their services to try new things, and has been LOVING the underwear by them! I recommend the subscription as a gift so he can try a bunch of new things to find what he loves the most. The best part is you can customize it!
Beanie! Comes in 10 colors and is on sale $16-26
Polarized Wayfrarer Sunglasses - $40 // we LOVE these for any outdoor activity! They’re the perfect price for getting down and dirty on the trails or camping.
Yeti Mug -$24 // these are the BEST, and come in so many colors.
Lightweight trail shoes - price varies based on availability
Travel Backpack - Sale for $145 // my husband has this and says its the best carry-on pack for anyone who likes to travel minimalist. Check out the insane reviews!
Yeti Cooler - so many sizes! Every guy wants this cooler. It’s amazing for patio parties, game days, and camping.
Flannel lined with faux shearling - Super cool top layer! $110
Wool trail Socks - $20
Sporty Winter boot - On Sale for $97.50 **go up a half size** For Heavy Rain, Light Snow, Heavy Snow
Osprey daypack (hiking)
Patagonia Puffy Vest - 30% OFF
Trekking Poles - on sale for $75!!
Smartwool Socks 38% OFF
Colorful Beanie - $39
Yeti mug - $25 perfect for camping!
ultra soft print pullover - $148
Lightweight Puffer Jacket - 30% OFF
Patagonia layering vest - 30% OFF
REUSABLE BAMBOO UTENSILS: $15 // “Surf The Reusable Wave” and help end single-use plastic with STRW Co.! Small and convenient, these reusable bamboo utensils make the perfect stocking stuffer. Fueled by a love for the ocean and passion for the planet, the “Surf-preneurs” behind STRW Co. have created a line of products that not only combat climate change, but also make your holiday shopping that much easier.
Travel coffee cup - $18
BERKEY WATER PURIFIER - prices vary since there are many sizes. Berkey systems equipped with Black Berkey Purification Elements purify water—not just filter it—by removing greater than 99.999% of viruses and greater than 99.9999% of pathogenic bacteria, while also removing or dramatically reducing protozoa, etc.
Mejuri Jewelry - $65 // a great company for dainty everyday staples. Handcrafted ethical fine jewelry that is actually affordable thanks to their fair pricing model. Thank you Jules from @omandthcity for this recommendation!
Coconut Lip Gloss -$13 // Kopari beauty is a non-toxic line focusing on coconut as the theme of their products. Their deodorant and coconut lip gloss are my favorites! Dermatologist-Tested, Non-Irritating, Non-Allergenic, cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, & phthalate-free!!
REFORMATION - 30% SALE // a sustainable women’s brand. Their pieces are feminine, sexy, yet timeless. I love the fit of their clothes on petite frames. Check their website out!
Matcha Stick - $9 // the mymatcha all-over moisture stick helps rejuvenate dry spots, protect skin from free radical damage, and moisturize skin all day long.
ATHLETA - $108 // An eco-conscious women’s brand focusing of water conservation and minimizing waste.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE - $34 // this is my favorite brand
PANGEASEED CUSTOM VANS FOR OCEAN CONSERVATION: $149 // Across the two shoes is an enormous whale with the world-play "OH WHALE" created by Tracie Sugo. Sugo is a local artist who is the founder of Kohola Kai Creation which is known for its hand designed art pieces centered around appreciating the natural beauty and mystique of marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
A portion of the profits from these shoes will be donated to PangeaSeed Foundation in order to spread awareness of Ocean Conservation and preserve the marine life our planet needs to survive.
Mini Capri Blue Candle - $14 and 30% off
Catch-all toiletry pouch - $30
Texture spray - $25
Kopari Coconut lip gloss - $16 MY FAVORITE!
Bath Bombs from Lush - $8
Agate Monogram Coasters - $16 and 30% off
I always size up in jackets so I have room for layering + sweaters,
Short Down + Feather Fill coat 50% off - now $109 - comes in 10 colors
Long Down + Feather Fill coat 50% off - now $129 - comes in 8 colors. I have this in Navy Blue
Extra Long Down Feather Fill coat 50% off - now $150 - comes in 3 colors
J.Crew dupe - still a wool blend. 50% off, now $140- comes in 3 colors
Weatherproof jacket - 30% off - now $105 - this is my FAVORITE for traveling.. it makes for a super cute raincoat since it cinches at the waist.
GIFTS UNDER $50
Hydroflask - I love this deep teal! - $29.96 - get them this straw lid, too. It makes drinking on the go much easier ($7.46)
Electric blue water bottle - on sale for $33.71
Fleece sweatshirt - $48
UNDER $100
Sorel Boots - $97.50 .. lots of other styles on their site for 25% off! Go up a half size
Hunter Boots on sale for $99 from $150
Cute Weatherproof Jacket - 30% OFF - 5 colors
Grade A Cashmere scarf from Everlane (sustainable!) Was $180, on sale for $98
sh!t you didn't know you needed - FOR THE GYM
my go-to secret items for the gym! These are my ride-or-die products at the gym. From headphones to deodorant and no cameltoe thongs -I have you covered!
SPORTS BRA - I have it in white and black, slowly collecting the colors as the years go one. I have a small chest, and it is great for low impact things, yet is comfortable enough for lounging around the house. It feels like butter, and most importantly, doesn’t compress my chest hard or leave marks on my skin from being too tight. I’ve fallen asleep in this countless times because it is so comfortable, and is my go-to for travel. It really does it all, and has been worth the $ ten times over. The padding was really odd - so I took it out and it lays beautifully on me! I also love it because the way it rests on my chest looks like I have boobs (lol). This is a must for comfort and style.
NO CRIMP HAIR TIES by Invisibobble - don’t get a knock off brand, it’s not the same.. trust me. Get yourself these NOW!!! These hair ties STAY PUT, but also do not break, damage, pull, or “crimp” your hair. These are so amazing, you need to trust me. I know $8 seems like a lot for hair ties, but I’ve had the same ones for YEARS! If they stretch out, just put them in the sun (I usually put them on the dashboard of my car) and they go back to their normal size.
PERFECT GYM SOCKS BY Stance. I spent far too many years buying crappy socks from TJMaxx (which you can come across these periodically). They work as compression socks, and feel so comfortable. They never have a strong odor, and I love them for hiking, too. I’ve had the same pairs for years and they still have yet to stretch out on the ankle :)
LAVANILA NATURAL SPORTS DEODORANT - ! I love this deodorant because it’s the only one that equally works and doesn’t cause buildup of deodorant in my armpits. I’m going to be super honest.. sometimes I like to just ADD more deodorant on, and this stuff is the shiz! PERK- It’s a natural deodorant!
HYDROFLASK WATER BOTTLES are absolutely the best. There are certainly others on the market but nothing competes to the durability and hell my water bottles have survived while in my care.
THESE HEADPHONES HAVE CHANGED MY LIFE AT THE GYM! I specifically linked these through Nordstrom since Nordstrom has amazing customer service! These are totally wireless, so they fit like ear plugs. My last headphones were just that - bluetooth/wireless, but they still had a wire that connected around the neck. I was constantly (accidentally) pulling them out, they would get caught in my shirt, ponytail, or rip out with a squat bar on my back. This is just my personal experience - my husband swears by these, which are more wallet friendly. Since these are totally wireless, I haven’t had a single product issue or malfunction at the gym. ALSO the sound is amazzzzing - I can’t hear any of the weird grunting over my sick beats (ps here’s my gym hype playlist!). The case that comes with them is the charging and protection case, i believe it charges them up to 10 hours - so they’re even perfect for travel. These are worth it… trust me.
LEGGINGS - My ride or die gym leggings are these bad boys. They have just the right amount of compression that I feel secure at the gym for more high-intensity stuff, yet they still feel lightweight. I love these for hiking and outdoor activities, too! I have them in three colors because I love them SO much. Also this company has amazing customer service -free alterations, and if you product is ever damaged, they will work with you to find a solution.
NO CAMELTOE THONGS by JIV Athletics! (use code HERATLAS15 for a gift from me to you!) These are EVERYTHING! This is specifically a gym item you didn’t know you needed. It will keep your lady parts cute so you don’t have to feel self-conscious anymore. I’ve actually totally replaced all my underwear with these because they are so much more comfortable than anything else I own.
LORNA JANE ICONIC SWEAT TOWEL- This is where I get super specific (lol). Its LONG! I love that it’s actually a long and skinny towel, so when I use it on gym machinery, it ACTUALLY covers the whole back support pad. Its thick, fluffy, and lush - which I love because it feels gentle on my skin instead of harming it. It’s cute - like legit I don’t forget my own towel because I’m proud that I’m so detail oriented that I have a cute towel (whatever call me weird, but hey, it works).
Cute + cozy pullover! I love this pullover because it’s SO soft, and seems to get better with every wash. I own it in the oatmeal color, but I’m planning on adding all the other neutrals to my collection. It’s perfect to throw on if you have to run errands at the gym and has a cute detailing on the side. The side seam is cut really high - right above the waist - so it’s flowy. I also just love wearing it around the house.
These are hands-down MY FAVORITE GYM SHOE by Nike. I have the older version of these in white AND black ~ these are new-and-improved! Not only are they great for running, weights, boxing, and other types of physical activity… I also love them because they are CUTE! It is so hard to find a pair of black sneakers that are cute to wear outside the gym, right?! I love these for traveling and running errands -I also love that you can tie them, yet still slip therm off-and-on, so they’re also a great shoe to take to Pilates, yoga, or a spin class!
Give the Gift of Adventure!
You can also shop my amazon guide, here’s the link: Caitlin’s Amazon Adventure Gift Guide
TRAIL SHOES
MUDCLAW 300
TRAILTALON’S 235
I hiked Half Dome in these!
OUTWEAR
PATAGONIA PULLOVER
ASKING FOR THIS AS A LAYERING PIECE
LULULEMON
ALL THE RIGHT PLACES PANT ||
I OWN ABOUT 4 PAIRS OF THESE EXACT PANTS. GREAT FOR HIKING, AND HAS POCKETS FOR HOLDING YOUR PHONE ON THE TRAIL
NORTH FACE VEST
PART OF THE SALE AT NORDSTROM, LOVE THIS COLOR FOR THE TRAILS AND GOING TO THE GYM
ROKWOLF TOP
LAYOVER LONG SLEEVE FOR LAYERING AND LONG CAR RIDES
WAS $56, NOW $42
BAGS
OSPREY TEMPEST 20 HIKING BAG
THIS IS A GREAT BAG FOR BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATE HIKES!
WAS $110, NOW $81.99
OSPREY PORTER 46 TRAVEL BACKPACK
THE ONLY DURABLE CARRY-ON AND WEEKEND BAG YOU NEED.
WAS $140, NOW 104.95
TALON 22 HIKING PACK
GREAT FOR BEGINNERS, AND INTERMEDIATE HIKES
WAS $110, NOW $81.95
ACCESSORIES
GARMIN VIVOACTIVE 3
GPS SMARTWATCH WITH CONACTLESS PAYMESS AND BUILD-IN SPORTS APPS
WAS $270, NOW $199
INVISI BOBBLE
THEY WON’T BREAK, DAMAGE, OR CRINK YOUR HAIR! MY FAVORITE HAIR TIES OF ALL TIME!
HYDROFLASK
INSULATED CONTAINER TO TAKE.. EVERYWHERE! SO MANY SIZES AND COLORS FOR ENDLESS OCCASIONS.
Travel Credit Card Tips & Tricks
✅ MAXIMIZE YOUR CREDIT CARD POINTS
✅ UNDERSTAND HOW TO USE THE PORTAL
✅ DOUBLE DIP FOR EXTRA POINTS
✅ DON’T DO ANYTHING FOR FREE
Are you interested in getting a travel credit card, but are overwhelmed/ intimidated by ALL the options? Do you currently have a credit card, but aren’t sure if you’re maximizing your points?
I’m going to tell you a few things I've learned this year with my FIRST travel credit card, Chase Sapphire Preferred.
Before we get into tips/hacks, I by no means encourage anyone to get a credit card who doesn’t understand how they work. Here are the top rules of responsible credit card usage that ARE MY BIBLE (I’ll remind you of these at the end)!
NEVER buy anything you can’t pay cash for right then and there. EVER.
It’s simple! If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.
NEVER max out your card.
You only want to keep a balance that is 50% or LESS of your credit limit. If your limit is $2,000, and you spend $2,000, it doesn't look good to the credit card companies. You want to keep some type of balance (but obviously pay it off) without maxing it out.
ALWAYS pay your balance, every month, on time.
This tells the credit card companies that you will borrow their money and pay them back ASAP. This helps your credit, allows you to have higher limits in the future, and avoids interest charges.
NEVER use your credit card to make ends meet.
If the reason you want a credit card is to help you out of a bad situation, this will only make it worse.
Check your credit card statement REGULARLY.
Make sure you are aware of your spending and any fraudulent activities. Credit cards don’t require pin codes, and can be used anywhere.
DO make purchases you ALREADY make.
Make purchases on things that you would be buying ANYWAY. Don’t change your lifestyle by living above your means just because you have new plastic!
Extend your credit limit annually or bi-annually!
It doesn't cost anything or harm you by doing this EVER. If you only get approved for a $2,000 credit limit, in two years it could be extended to +$15,000 if you use it responsibly. My credit limit has tripled in a year because I use it correctly. I have the same spending habits I had a year ago, but my limit keeps extending.
EXAMPLE: Let’s say I only spend $20 on my credit card each month. Last year my limit was $100. I consistently spent and paid off that $20 each month. The next year I ask them to extend my limit. They see I have a good reputation, so they extend my limit to $500, then $1,000 the following year. I’m still only spending $20 a month on my credit card (the gap keeps getting bigger). This practice is crucial when you want to make a big purchase in the future. (see below when we bought our jeep!) Just because the credit limit is there NEVER means you should be using it!
MY FIRST CREDIT CARD: CHASE SAPPHIRE PREFERRED
A year ago I decided to get a credit card, and was overwhelmed with the options (which is why I’m sure you’re here). I did research on the internet, asked co-workers, friends, family; I dug deep, so you don’t have to. I didn’t want anything complicated, with a ton of fees, or a secret interest rate in the fine print. I just wanted something simple, easy, idiot proof (lol), and R-E-W-A-R-D-I-N-G! I’m writing this to tell you that if you are considering an entry-level credit card, Chase Sapphire Preferred is your answer (it was mine!).
They kept it simple, and easy to understand.
Current offerings when you use my referral link: New customers earn 50,000 BONUS points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. — that's $625 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards® on top of the points you already get for each purchase.
BENEFITS!
EASY TIPS/ TRICKS to MAXIMIZE POINTS!
💸 TRAVEL: My points are worth 25% more in travel redemption. This means that if I have 25,000 points ( = $500) sitting on my account, and decide to use them towards travel, Chase will recognize the points at 25% more (31,250 points, or $625)! I always use my points for travel because that’s where this Chase Sapphire Preferred is most maximized.
💸 SHOPPING HACK: PAY ATTENTION… Another way to earn extra points for travel/shopping is by purchasing your flights, hotel, shopping online, THROUGH your Chase Sapphire Preferred portal. EXAMPLE: I use a general travel site, I will only get +1 Point per $1 spent. HERE’S THE HACK: by purchasing a flight through my chase portal, I usually get EXTRA points. This goes for almost other shopping you do! Shop on AMAZON? Sears? Do it all through your portal first, to get points on top of points. DOUBLE DIP AND MAXIMIZE THAT ISH! Most people don’t know this feature exists, or take the time to go through the portal :)
Check that out! If I was going to shop at Neiman Marcus, their offering 3 PTS per $1 spent, and Kiehl’s is offering 6 PTS per $1 through the portal. If you’re an online shopper ANYWAY, be sure to check your portal, first. There’s a lot of other familiar stores like ASOS.com and Levi’s, Home Depot, etc.
💸 ALWAYS PAY AT THE RESTAURANT!! Out with a group of friends? EVEN BETTER! I always snatch the bill and make everyone Venmo me :) So many benefits… you get extra dining points, it saves the waitress a headache splitting the checks, AND I get to make sure he/she gets 20% gratuity (gratuity counts towards your points at dining! :)
This can be applied to many things! At this time in life, I’m constantly going on destination birthday trips and bachelorettes. I always offer to book the hotel, concert tickets, restaurants, airbnb’s, etc. so I get the points on these big purchases. There is a sense of responsibility that comes with it (tracking everyone down to pay you), but that little work is worth it when you get kicked back a bunch of points :)
💸 PUT EVERYTHING ON YOUR CREDIT CARD… as long as you can pay cash for it right then and there! Start off by putting your normal, non-negotiable expenses on your credit card. You are already paying for gas, groceries, a gym membership, you might as well be getting credit for it! Anything you have drafting from your debit card, or things you ALREADY spend money on. Keep it simple before going for it (I currently ONLY use my credit card. I refuse to use my debit card for anything. now).
MY FAVORITE ADVICE FROM YOU!
@victoriafrena_
“…I negotiated a credit card fee reduction my second year and Right before m third year I downgraded that credit card to a freedom card which has no cost and opened up the reserve to get even more points”
@traveltartare
“It’s my favorite card so far! Made this trip (traveling for a year around the world) so much better for us!… get into the lounges (at the airport), it’s the BEST! That’s the card I used to get priority pass lounge access! Go to the benefits page on Chase website. It’s instant, quick, and easy.”
@joannabertram : “Shop around for credit cars! I have different cards that give me different different amount of points for different things. EX: I have a credit card I only use for gas bc it gives me 4% back!!! Obviously you… want to have a few & use them to buy what gives you the most points/cash back for that card… Also set up email or text purchase notifications can really help protect agains fraud. REMEMBER: Also, like most things, the right credit card combo is going to be different for different people. IT really depends on what you spend your money on.”
BIG PURCHASES WE USED OUR CREDIT CARD FOR TO MAXIMIZE POINTS WITHOUT BEING IN DEBT
💸 WE PAID FOR OUR WEDDING without being in DEBT. Last year, my husband and I paid cash for our wedding. ZERO DEBT. As soon as we got engaged we started aggressively saving. Once we knew bigger purchases were in the near future, I applied for this credit card. We needed to spend $3,000 in the first 3 months to get back $1000 (promo at the time). We put everything for the wedding on the CC, and paid it off immediately!! This is a strategy we will always practice, and I encourage you to abide by. We were spending the money ANYWAY, so why not get rewarded for it? We EASILY hit our mark, and bought flights to Hawaii with the vouchers we got!
💸 SPONTANEOUSLY BOUGHT PLANE TICKETS TO JAPAN without being in DEBT. I went through the portal on Chase.com, and saw that I had $200 in travel points to use. The points accumulated just by using my credit card for normal purchases at the gas station, grocery store, and my gym membership. The flights were already cheap, but I got a extra points a few ways:
1.) Used my points to get $200 off total purchase
2.) I EARNED points just by purchasing the flights on my CC
3.) I earned EXTRA points by going through the portal instead of a regular airline
4.) I still got my loyalty flyer points through American Airlines
So.. YAAAA, we’re going to JAPAN ON FRIDAY!!
💸 WE USED OUR CREDIT CARD TO PUT A DOWN PAYMENT ON OUR JEEP, then we paid it off immediately (literally swiped my card then paid it off before we walked out of the building) ZERO DEBT. Earlier in the post, I talked about credit limit extensions and how they are important over time. Because I was able to keep extending my limit, we were able to use my credit card to put the down payment of our jeep on it. Had I not practiced good responsibility and loyalty to my Credit Card company, they would have never extended my limit! This was a huge purchase we planned ahead of time; we saved, we didn't use it to make ends meet. We did it because it was strategic, and earned a SH!T ton of points this way… :)
QUESTIONS FROM INSTAGRAM
Does the card you use have an annual fee?
YES! It was waived the first year. Now it is $95 a year. To be honest, using my card regularly for everyday expenses like gas, groceries, bills, gym membership, pays for the annual fee, easily!
What card do you have?
CHASE SAPPHIRE PREFERRED (for now :)
What in the heck did you mean when you said double dip?!
Going through the portal to make your purchases! You will get points for the purchases, and additional points for using the portal!
Any negatives to signing up?
I haven’t experienced any!
let’s revisit my (and hopefully one day, YOUR)…
CREDIT CARD BIBLE
NEVER buy anything you can’t pay cash for right then and there. EVER.
NEVER max out your card (this also show’s you’re responsible).
ALWAYS pay your balance, every month, on time.
NEVER use your credit card to make ends meet.
Check your credit card statement REGULARLY.
DO make purchases you ALREADY make.
Extend your credit limit annually or bi-annually!
💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸 💸
Earn 50,000 bonus points with Chase Sapphire Preferred. I can be rewarded too if you apply here and are approved for the card. Learn more.
MY REFERRAL LINK!!
https://www.referyourchasecard.com/6A/PXSTA7J3N0