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Airline Discounts You Should Be Using Now

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airline discountsEach and every day, approximately 2.6 million passengers board flights in the US. On average, airline customers spend around $340 for a round-trip domestic ticket, though some routes commonly exceed the average.

Even if you do spend the average amount, for a family of four, that means paying about $1,360. And, considering that extra costs like baggage fees can increase that total, finding discounts can be crucial if you are dealing with a tight budget.

However, many would-be passengers don’t take advantage of every discount that may be available to them, largely because they aren’t aware that they are available. Airlines don’t always advertise their discounts in obvious ways, so it’s important to know which ones you could be entitled to before you book your flight.

Government Employee and Military Discounts

Many airlines offer lower fares to government employees and military members, but you may have to contact the carrier to see if you and your flight qualify, as well as to find out the cost difference.

For example, American Airlines provides discounts to government and military personnel, but only in specific markets, which they don’t identify on their site. Additionally, they don’t outline how much of a price reduction you can receive, so you have to contact reservations to find out.

Delta Airlines has a similar benefit but also does not provide clear details about the entitlement online.

However, JetBlue is a little more open. Military fares for leisure travel are 5 percent cheaper than regular base fares.

Other airlines offer the benefit as well, so don’t hesitate to contact your preferred carrier directly if you are a government employee or member of the military. Just keep in mind that some airlines only provide discounts for official government travel, while others extend the benefit to leisure travel as well.

Large Party Discounts

In some cases, traveling in a large group makes you eligible for a discount, depending on the size of your party.

Alaska Airlines has two discount programs for groups, each with its own requirements. If you are traveling together on the same flight with 10 or more people in your party, you get a discount. If you are on separate flights, then you need a group of at least 20.

American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United have similar programs, mostly with a party minimum of 10 people. Plus, most of these programs provide at least one free name change per ticket, allowing you to choose a new party member if someone else can’t make it.

Senior Airline Discounts

AARP members tend to be eligible for a range of discounts, and flights are no exception. If you have AARP, British Airways offers one of the best discounts, allowing you to save up to $200 on a flight.

Senior fares are also available through numerous carriers, with the age requirement typically being 65 or older. American, Delta, Southwest, and United have lower fares available for seniors. However, they may only be available on certain routes, and you might have to call the carrier to secure the discount.

College Student Discounts

Students at colleges and universities may be eligible for cheaper fares through American Airlines. This is thanks to a partnership with StudentUniverse. This can make traveling home during the summer or heading to a spring break destination more affordable. Which is something that is incredibly beneficial for students with tight budgets. Plus, students may have access to hotel and tour discounts too, making a vacation easier on their wallets.

Lufthansa’s Generation Fly program provides a similar benefit to American students. They offer some of their lowest fares to students and an exceptional amount of flexibility. This flexibility includes date changes and the ability to schedule up to 12 months abroad as a round-trip.

Bereavement Fares

If you are scheduling an immediate flight. This is typically with only 24 to 48 hours’ notice, after the death of a loved one, you may be eligible for special bereavement fares.

These are meant to help travelers reach their destinations quickly should an immediate family member die, allowing them to attend funerals and similar events. In some cases, discounts are available. Additionally, the tickets may provide more flexibility, making it easier to change your return date should your plans change unexpectedly.

Conditions and requirement vary from one carrier to the next. Alaska offers a 10 percent discount based on the lowest available fare within seven days of travel to those who qualify. However, you have to be a member of their Mileage Plan. The plan is free to join and you have to call them directly.

Delta has a similar program, and being a SkyMiles Member is a requirement.

Ultimately, all of these discounts are frequently available. If you have a preferred carrier, contact them directly and inquire about their programs. You may also be able to find details on their websites.

Do you know of an amazing airline discount? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Looking for more ways to save on air travel? Check out these articles:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.

Back-to-School Lunch Ideas That Save Money and Time

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With the rising cost of school supplies, clothing, backpacks, and other items to get your children ready for school, finding a way to save money is a relief. One of the best ways to do that with your school-age children is packing their lunch. Below you’ll find 10 back-to-school lunch ideas that will save you money this year.

The Cost of School Lunch

According to the School Nutrition Association, the average prices for school-provided meals in the United States are as follows:

Lunch Breakfast
Elementary $2.34 $1.39
Middle $2.54 $1.47
High $2.60 $1.51

Only 8 million of the student in U.S. public schools pay full price, however. Individuals who meet the requirements are offered a reduced price lunch ($0.40). Of the 4.9 billion lunches served in public schools each year, 20 million are absolutely free.

Where breakfast is concerned, fewer children eat breakfast at school. They still manage to serve 2.4 billion breakfasts, more than 11 million of which are free.

However, if you don’t qualify for free lunch for your kids; the price of school lunch can stack up quickly, especially if you have a large family. For just one elementary school-aged student, you’ll spend about $45 per month on lunch alone (and $90 if you have two children).

10 Cheap Back-to-School Lunch Ideas

1. Lunch Kabobs

back-to-school lunch ideas

Lunch kabobs are an easy and fun lunch to prepare for your child. All you’ll need is cubed cheese, your choice of ham or turkey, and your child’s favorite veggie. With a pack of lunch meat averaging around $5, a block of cheese available for $2 and a single cucumber or tomato costs around $0.25. You’ll wind up paying less than $1 per lunch.

2. Quesadillas

lunch ideas for school

Cheese quesadillas are another great cheap lunch idea you can easily make at home and it will cost less than $1 per serving. You can get a pack of 8 tortillas for around $2 and shredded cheese for $2 as well. Each tortilla will provide a serving and there will be more than enough cheese for your child’s quesadillas through the week.

3. Egg Salad

back to school sandwiches

Egg salad is an extremely cost-friendly lunch idea as well. You can get one dozen eggs for around $1.30 and a loaf of bread around $2. If you don’t already have mayo in your fridge, you can also pick up a jar for less than $2, making each serving less than $1.

4. Pepperoni Bites

back to school lunch ideas

These pepperoni bites will take a little more effort than the options listed above. However, your kids will look forward to this meal in their lunch boxes. All you’ll need is a 4-count can of refrigerated flaky biscuits, a package of pepperoni, and pizza sauce. Altogether, the ingredients will cost around $7 and will make a single serving. You will have plenty of pepperoni and sauce leftover though!

5. Classic PB&J

back to school PB&J

Of course, there is always the trusty PB&J. A jar of peanut butter will cost around $2, and jelly and bread cost about the same. So, for $6 you can make as many sandwiches as a loaf will allow (less than $1 per serving).

6. Banana Burritos

back to school

You can buy a pound of bananas for about $0.56, peanut butter, jelly, and an 8-count package of cost $2 each, making each serving cost less than $1.

7. DIY Lunchables

back to school DIY lunchable

DIY Lunchables can save a ton of money too. Lunchables in the store cost about $3.50, while making your own version at home can cost less than $1 per serving.

8. Lunch Meat Rolls

back-to-school lunch

Lunch meat roll-ups are another great budget-friendly lunch idea. All you’ll need is ham or turkey, pickle spears, and the sauce of your choice. Each serving, as with the other options on this list, will cost less than $1.

9. Tuna Salad

school lunch ideas

Another classic back-to-school lunch idea is tuna salad. A can of tuna will run you about $0.50, a jar of mayo will cost you less than $2, and bread will also cost less than $2. A serving will cost less than $2.

10. Ants on a Log

school lunch

Ants on a log is another classic lunch/snack idea. You can buy a large bag of raisins for less than $3, peanut butter for around $2, and celery for less than $1. Each serving costs less than $1.

These are just 10 of many cheap and fun back-to-school lunch ideas. What would you add to the list?

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Is FreedomPop Legit? Here’s How to Get a Free WiFi Hotspot

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Is FreedomPop Legit
Wireless services from tech giants like AT&T and Verizon usually come with a high price. Especially if you don’t qualify for a family plan. However, what if there was a service that didn’t just offer blazing fast internet speeds through a mobile WiFi hotspot, but also wouldn’t cost you a dime? FreedomPop could be the answer. But, is FreedomPop legit?

FreedomPop is a wireless provider that’s working to turn the industry on its head. While most mobile carriers charge high prices for their service, FreedomPop offers the cheapest hotspot plan on the market today. One that’s entirely, 100 percent free.

Fast and Easy WiFi Setup

When you order a hotspot through FreedomPop, the first thing you’ll appreciate is the low cost shipping. You’re charged about $9.99 to get your device.

Once the mobile WiFi hotspot arrives, I found that the setup was a breeze. I just had to follow the instructions that came with the device and was ready to go in only a few minutes.

The instructions are so simple. You don’t need to be a tech genius to follow them. Practically anyone can handle the process.

After the hotspot was ready, it was time to get online. I grabbed my laptop (though it works for smartphones, tablets, or any other WiFi-enabled device), and headed over to my WiFi connections window. Then, I just had to find my hotspot on the list and enter my password. It’s that easy.

Using the FreedomPop Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Once you get online, you can enjoy the benefits of the genuine 4G LTE network. You get access to some of the fastest speeds around, so your time on social media, streaming music, or watching videos should proceed without a hitch.

I went ahead and tested it out with a few of my favorite sites and streaming a video. Overall, the experience was great. No long buffering or load times here.

Plus, FreedomPop’s mobile WiFi hotspots run on Sprint’s national network. Even if you travel completely across the country, you’ll likely have great 4G or 4G LTE service nearly the entire way. Since the device is incredibly portable (not much larger than a credit card), taking it with you is easy. You can put it in your pocket, place it in a purse, or even sit it in a car’s cup holder.

Lastly, let me say that I live in a rural area and never lost wifi while going through the same areas that I would have otherwise lost my signal and coverage. That meant a lot to me.

Essentially, when it comes to performance and portability, the FreedomPop mobile WiFi hotspot is hard to beat.

FreedomPop Internet Plans

When it comes to affordability, it’s practically impossible to beat FreedomPop’s $0 plan. After all, it’s entirely free, and nothing is better than free.

With the free basic plan, you get 200 MB of 4G LTE data every month. This can be ideal for low internet users or people who want an emergency backup for their home internet that costs them absolutely nothing.

But, if 200 MB doesn’t cover your needs, there are other FreedomPop internet plans that provide you with additional data at industry standard prices. They also offer premium plans depending on your needs.

Ultimately, the pricing is extremely competitive, and often below what other carriers would charge. Plus, you can change your plan at any time. If you need more data while traveling, just upgrade your plan. Need less now that you’re back at home? Then consider downgrading.

You get complete flexibility when it comes to choosing a plan that’s right for you, even if your needs change frequently.

No Contract Required

Additionally, FreedomPop’s services never require a contract. So, you don’t have to commit to a long-term arrangement like you do with some other carriers.

You can also try FreedomPop’s mobile WiFi hotspot out before you decide if you want to keep it. Just sign up for the 14-day free trial of the 2 GB plan, and you can use the device however you want within that limit. Then, you can decide if you’re going to keep the 2 GB or upgrade or downgrade. If you move over to the free basic plan within that 14-day window, you’ll receive continuous free service.

If, after the 14-day free trial is over, you decide that FreedomPop isn’t right for you, that’s okay too. You can cancel within 30 days, follow the instructions and get a refund.

So, is FreedomPop legit? Can you really get free WiFi? The answer is yes. You can have a plan that doesn’t cost you anything, including over the long-term.

What About Their Customer Service?

Is Freedom Pop Really Legit

Wireless providers aren’t always known for exceptional customer service. In fact, FreedomPop doesn’t really have a great reputation when it comes to customer service.

However, that wasn’t my experience. In fact, I found their customer service to be excellent. Here’s why:

After ordering the mobile WiFi hotspot from FreedomPop, the company accidentally sent me three devices. Yes, I was faced with a trio of matching hotspots, which isn’t something I was expecting.

I quickly realized that this must have been a mistake, so I reached out to customer service over the phone to remedy the issue. The customer service representative was incredibly easy to work with, listening carefully to my concerns and assisting me with my two returns.

Immediately after the call, I received a set of detailed instructions that covered my next steps. The entire process was easy and painless. Now, I do need to let you know that there is a small fee to return the product. My costs for returning the two I opened were $18.29. I felt this was a small price to pay, especially, since the product worked so well.

So, if you were wondering if FreedomPop is legit when it comes to customer service, I would have to say, yes.

What If You Exceed Your Allotment?

As with most plans with data limits, you can be subject to overage fees if you exceed your allotment. FreedomPop uses a “top-up” approach to help you manage your data. When you get close to your limit, you can top-up for an additional $15, giving you more data to use.

Before a top-up goes through, you do get an email from FreedomPop. This gives you a chance to opt out or to sign into your account and upgrade your plan.

If you decide not to top-up, your device won’t have any data if you hit your limit until the next month unless you use one of the other available options. This includes a per MB option, though that can get expensive.

However, you also get 50 MB of free data if you have friends or family sign up through the Freedom Friends program. Additionally, you can complete software downloads, offers, or surveys to get even more free data.

If FreedomPop Really Offers Free Service, How Do They Stay in Business?

When a product or service is provided at no cost, many potential customers wonder if they will simply be nickeled and dimed, giving the company a way to stay in business.

However, that isn’t the case with FreedomPop.

FreedomPop’s $0 plan functions as a form of loss leader. The company chooses to accept lower profit margins to secure customers.  They take a loss on their $0 paying customers to broaden their customer base.  A broader customer base means that FreedomPop can convert more of its free customers into paying customers.

You are never required to leave the free plan. However, FreedomPop hopes that, if your data needs increase, that your experience while using this $0 plan will lead you to think of them for your future wireless needs. Additionally, they do make money from free plan customers who choose to buy more data when they hit their limit, though this is entirely optional.

While FreedomPop has a lot of customers on the free plan, they also have plenty of paying customers too. This keeps their business model working.

Is FreedomPop Legit?

To put it simply, yes, FreedomPop is completely legit.

If you order a mobile WiFi hotspot from FreedomPop, you’ll get a device that comes with 100 percent free service – no tricks or false advertising.

Plus, if you’re a light internet user, the free plan might handle all of your needs. That means you get blazing fast internet for absolutely nothing, no matter where you go.

If you could use more data, the prices are incredibly reasonable and exceedingly competitive, so you can choose an option that meets your needs without breaking the bank. It really is that easy.

So, now it’s your turn. Go ahead and take advantage of the 14-day free trial. That way, you can experience it for yourself first and then decide what is right for you.

If you’ve used FreedomPop and believe FreedomPop is legit; let us know in the comments below.

Fine Print: We are an affiliate of FreedomPop. Although this posting contains affiliate links, the review and opinions expressed below are my own.

Going to the Mountains? Here’s Your Road Trip Checklist

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road trip checklist

Each year, around 2 million people head to Mount Rainier in Washington. Rocky Mountain State Park in Colorado sees approximately 4.4 million visitors a year, and Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an astonishing 11.3 million people come through. And that doesn’t cover every trip to the mountains across the country.

During warmer summer months and in early fall, when the leaves begin to change, families from all over the US head to the mountains. They go not only for the cooler temperatures, but also the amazing scenery. In some cases, the ability to see snow outside of winter makes these destinations attractive.

If you’re heading out to the mountains, it’s important that your vehicle is properly stocked. Before you head out, here’s a road trip checklist that can help you make sure you cover your bases.

Clothing and Shoes

The temperature difference between lowland areas and the mountains can be dramatic. In some cases, you’ll experience variances of 40 or more degrees, particularly if you stay until nightfall or choose to camp in the mountains.

When you pack for your road trip, make sure you have clothing for a range of climate conditions. Bring items that can be easily layered and don’t forget raincoats or heavier coats, depending on your chosen destination.

It’s also wise to bring extra socks, especially if you will be encountering snow or wet conditions. Wet feet can quickly make you miserable, particularly if it is also cold, and could increase your risk of hypothermia or frostbite.

Additionally, hiking boots are usually ideal. Not only can they handle challenging terrain more effectively, but they may also be waterproof. Just make sure you break them in before your trip. Otherwise, you may be plagued by blisters. And consider bringing a backup pair in case your first one gets wet.

Sunscreen, Hats, and Sunglasses

Even if the temperature is cooler in the mountains, that doesn’t mean you won’t be dealing with the sun. Sunglasses can protect your eyes, making it easier to see under bright conditions.

Hats can both provide shade for your eyes while also keeping the sun rays off of your face and head. Since UV rays happen regardless of the temperature, sunscreen is also a must. While it may seem odd that you can get a sunburn on a 50-degree day, it is possible. Plus, if sunlight reflects off of snow, you may get a burn in some unexpected places.

Food and Beverages

When you head out on a road trip, it’s wise to have food and beverages available. Not only can this help save you money during your journey, allowing you to avoid costly gas station snack or restaurant prices, but it can make your time in the mountains more enjoyable.

In most cases, you aren’t going to find many (if any) shops once you head into the mountains. Make sure you have enough food and drink, especially water, on-hand to handle your needs. It may even be wise to bring more than you anticipate needing. After all, significant snowfall could hinder your ability to drive off the mountain, incidentally extending your stay until conditions improve.

Electronics

While you might not have a cell signal on the mountain, it is wise to have one in your car. That way, if you need assistance and happen to be able to place a call, you have that option. Bring along a backup battery-based charger as well, preferably a solar one, letting you power up your device if the need arises.

Additionally, bringing a hiking GPS is a smart decision. These function in deep woods and on high peaks, letting you get your bearings if you get turned around.

If you are heading off the beaten path, you might also want an emergency beacon. These can broadcast your location, making it easier for emergency crews to find you if you need assistance. It also functions as a distress signal, letting someone know that you are in trouble.

Car Supplies

Even if your car is in good repair, having certain items with you is a must. First, check your spare tire to make sure it is properly inflated and in good shape. If not, replace it before you leave.

Also, make sure you have the ability to change a tire. Take a look and confirm that your jack and tire iron are in the right place. That way, should you get a flat, you can handle it.

You can also get puncture repair kits. Some include a variety of tools and plugs while others rely on sealants to repair holes. No matter which you prefer, make sure you can reinflate the tire once you fix the hole. Otherwise, you might not be able to drive out.

Additionally, invest in an emergency battery charger. These go beyond jumper cables, allowing you to charge a dead battery on your own. However, you do need to charge it in advance, so make sure to plug it in for a while before you head out on the road.

Activity Gear

What you need as far as gear varies depending on your goal. If you want to hike, then you’ll need a pack to carry food, drinks, and similar items. Campers will also need tents and sleeping bags, and possibly things like fire starter, grills, or other helpful tools.

If you want to document your trip, then you may need a camera. If the idea of kicking back and reading is attractive, then books and a book light might be necessities. In the winter, skis, snowshoes, or ice skates might be fun additions.

When it comes to packing for this category, plan out what you want to do while you are in the mountains. Then, consider what you need to have to make that happen, and add those items to your mountain road trip checklist.

By covering the areas above, you can increase your odds of having everything you need to enjoy your time in the mountains. However, even the best-laid plans can be derailed by weather, so, before you hit the road, make sure the conditions support a visit. Otherwise, it is always better to be safe than sorry, so you may need to reschedule.

Do you know of any helpful items that should be on every road trip checklist? Tell us about them in the comments below.

Looking for more great travel tips? Check out these articles:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.

Stores with the Best Deals for Back to School Clothing

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back to school clothing deals

There are approximately 50.7 million public school students in the US. There are an additional 5.2 million private school students across the country too.

In July, back to school spending reached $82.8 billion, and many families have yet to finish all of their shopping. They are still on the hunt for great back to school clothing deals, looking to finish up before class is back in session.

Luckily, there are still deals to be hand. In fact, you can find clothing discounts as late as October. Since the back to school rush usually ends in late August or early September, many retailers off-load anything that remains in early fall.

Whether you need to finish up now or are willing to wait until October, it pays to shop in the right places. For back to school clothing deals, here are a few stores you shouldn’t ignore.

Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops

When it comes to finding back to school clothing deals, it’s hard to beat thrift stores and consignment shops. Younger children tend to outgrow their clothes quickly, so parents often donate pieces their child can no longer wear. This means you can find items in good repair at discount prices.

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, consider heading to stores in affluent neighborhoods. People tend to donate to local shops, so you may find higher quality items by taking a trip to the right area. Just bear in mind that consignment shops tend to be more expensive than genuine thrift stores, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t deals to be had.

Additionally, don’t overlook online options that follow similar principles. You may find great back to school clothing deals on eBay, thredUp, Swap, and other sites. Just make sure to read the descriptions carefully and pour over the pictures. Since you can’t physically handle these items in advance, you need to make sure you are actually getting an item in good repair.

Walmart

A leader in the discount department store space, Walmart is an excellent option for back to school clothing deals. Not only are their base prices reasonable, but sales are also common.

Plus, you may find great items on clearance from the last season that can help you build a wardrobe for less. For example, t-shirts and tanks may be cheaper in the fall. But, if you layer them under a flannel, hoodie, or cardigan, they work for autumn, winter, and spring.

Walmart typically has a sale around the Labor Day holiday. Since this is usually near the beginning of the school year, discounts can be plentiful. If you want to have an efficient trip, check the sale flyer before you head to the store. That way you know exactly what items you want to target.

Old Navy

A great place for back to school basics, Old Navy typically has an excellent sale before kids head back to class. Plus, their base prices are generally very reasonable, so even items that aren’t on sale can be affordable.

Old Navy also has school uniform pieces available in-store and online. They cover the majority of the colors schools use, so you should be able to find back to school items with relative ease.

At times, these items go on sale as well, but their regular prices are also incredibly reasonable.

Amazon For Back To School Clothing Deals

When it comes to back to school clothing deals, Amazon should be on your list. While pricing on individual items can vary, the retailer has such as large selection, finding pieces at discount prices is always possible.

Plus, they do have a back to school sale every year that includes children’s clothes. If you are a Prime member, you may also have access to free shipping, making it a convenient option.

Additionally, Amazon’s returns policy is usually fairly generous for items shipped by the online retail giant. That means, if you accidentally get the wrong size, you can return or exchange it with relative ease. However, third-party sellers aren’t always as easy to work with, so exercise caution and read the seller reviews before you purchase items that aren’t sold directly by Amazon.

Ross Dress for Less, TJMaxx, and Marshalls

These discount retailers usually focus on overstocks and off-season items. However, you can find great back to school clothing deals if you are willing to hunt through the racks. Plus, like most retailers, Labor Day and back to school sales can happen at these stores too.

Before you go shopping, contact the store to see which day they typically stock new items. Then, try to make a trip on that particular day, so you get the best selection of sizes.

Additionally, don’t forget to check the clearance racks. While their usual prices are typically affordable, the clearance items can be downright steals. This can be ideal for base layers, like t-shirt and tank tops, that may be going out of season now that summer is drawing to a close.

Hold a Clothing Swap

While not technically a back to school shopping option, hosting a clothing swap gives you and other parents a chance to exchange items their kids no longer need.

Have everyone bring their items and divide everything by size on-site. Then, let everyone look through what’s available in their children’s sizes. You can even get the kids involved by allowing them to pick out some clothes. Since everything is free, there really isn’t any harm in doing so.

Once the swap is over, the remaining items are boxed and ready for donating. Ultimately, it’s a simple solution for cleaning out closets and finding new clothes all rolled into one.

Ultimately, all of the options above can help you save big thanks to their back to school clothing deals. You may need to dig through some racks and embrace the clearance aisles to find the biggest discounts, but it can be worth the effort if you genuinely need to reduce your clothing costs.

If you still need to finish up your shopping, give these stores a try, especially over the Labor Day holiday when discounts are plentiful. But, if you can’t shop right now, keep an eye on sale and clearance racks in late September and early October. You may find just the bargains you need to keep your budget under control.

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.

Can You Get Your Tires Rotated for Free at Costco?

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Cars are expensive to own. Not only do we have to concern ourselves with the monthly payment. We also have to be able to afford the normal maintenance that each car requires. From air filter changes to tire rotations, vehicles need a lot of attention. Costco offers great deals on just about everything, but what about maintenance for your vehicle. Would you believe that you can get free tire rotations at Costco? Now there are some things you need to know before running over to your nearest Costco. So keep reading.

So, How Do You Get A  Free Tire Rotation at Costco?

First, Let’s answer the burning question. Yes, Costco does perform free tire rotations.

However, there are two criteria you must meet in order to get a free tire rotations at Costco.

First, you must be a Costco Wholesale member.

Second, in order to receive free tire rotations, you must buy your tires from Costco.

Drawbacks of Free Tire Rotations at Costco

While Costco does perform free tire rotations, reviews on the services have not been stellar. According hundreds of reviews on ConsumerAffairs, Costco Tire Centers only have a rating of 1.5 stars out of a possible 5.

For example, a review from this user reported a common complaint of slow service:

Terrible! The Pleasant Prairie Wisconsin location is slow as can be. We purchased 4 tires online and expected tire professionals to be able to simply install them. They told us that there was a 3-4 hour backlog. I’m here checking in after 5 1/2 hours and they say it’s still 30 to 40 mins. What a joke. Never. Never again. They need to hire professionals that can work at a decent pace. Not these lowly paid kids that have no idea what they’re doing. The inconvenience is not worth the money saved. Never again. Costco is a joke! – Paschen of Kenosha, Wisconsin

Another common complaint is general carelessness, or harm that was done to vehicles while receiving a tire rotation. Many consumers, like this one who shared a review on Yelp, commented at the poor level of customer service and difficulty to reach anyone when calling the Costco Tire Centers.

Costco has the best prices on tires. Sadly, the customer service at this Center is not good. The poor installers also have to handle the front end so they take a long time to handle the influx of customers checking in in addition to changing tires. Also, 2 of my tires had large green spots of paint on them and a lot of lube left around the tires.

Also, I tried calling multiple times with no answer or being hung up on. They even answered once, put me on hold for 5 minutes, then I got hung up on. As a whole, I’d say try a different Costco Tire Center. – Kelly R. of Mission Viejo, California

Benefits of  Free Tire Rotations at Costco

The biggest benefit of Costco tire rotations is the price. Tire rotations are free if you purchase tires through Costco. Consumers report that they are often able to score the best deals on tires through Costco Tire Centers. The affordability of the tires plus the additional services offered through Costco Tire Centers may be worth it to some people, such as the individual who left the following 5-star review on ConsumerAffairs:

Ordered 4 90,000 mile tires online with delivery to local Costco and installation. Excellent price – about $40 lower per tire including savings from installation less than Sears. Installation cost was $15 per tire. This included mounting on rims, balancing, old tire disposal fee, road hazard ins, flat repair for 5 years. Lifetime rotation and pressure check, and nitrogen top off. The only disappointment was that they had no appointments available. I showed up just before opening time, but tire department was already open. There were 3 cars ahead of me. I asked how long was the wait. She said 1 hour to 1 1/4 hr. At one hour 16 min, the car was ready to go. Everybody working there were excellent in customer service. Will buy next time at Costco again for sure. –Charles of Lorton, Virginia

So yes, you can get free tire rotations at Costco if you have a Costco membership and purchased your tires through their Tire Centers. If you use them for this service, don’t forget about all the other maintenance that your car requires. Take great care of your car and it will take care of you.

If you need a tire rotation and don’t have a Costco membership or purchased tires through their tire center, then there are other options. See if the business where you purchased your tires offers free tire rotations. Many do like Pep Boys, Sam Club’s and Discount Tires. You can also use services like Groupon to get great deals on tire rotations, although they may not be free they will be cheaper and normally come with an oil change.

Have you gotten  free  tire rotations at Costco? If so, tell us about it in the comments below.

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