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Planning a road trip? This step-by-step road trip planner is here to help as you get ready to embark.Whether you’re hitting the road with your family or going for a solo adventure, road trips are an iconic summer experience. Planning a road trip, however, can be a bit daunting, and many people have trouble figuring out all of the details that will guarantee a successful vacation. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to planning a road trip. From picking the best destination to budgeting accordingly, here’s everything you need to know to hit the road.Here’s your ultimate guide to planning the perfect road trip.Step One: Outline your trip.This might be the easiest – or hardest – decision to make. While you should have a destination in mind, it’s important to remember that the road trip is not about the destination. A road trip is about the experience of travelling, the joy of the open road, and the stops you make along the way. It can be helpful to pick a theme for your road trip. You may want to hit a bunch of national parks to see the views and enjoy the hikes, or go on a food tour of a certain area. Once you figure out what you want your road trip to entail, you will be able to focus more on the actual route and map. Ask yourself the following questions to define your trip:How long do you have?Are you planning on a three day road trip or a month long road trip? This will greatly affect what options are available to you.Is your car in good shape?Another important consideration is the car you plan on using. Is your car able to handle a road trip that is a significant distance, or should you keep your trip a bit closer to home?How long can you drive in one stretch?If you are driving alone, it’s important to remember that you cannot drive 24 hours a day. Consider how much time you truly feel comfortable driving before taking a break. Can you go three hours? Five hours? Eight hours? If you have another driver in the car you can trade off driving, but make sure you have a clear understanding of what each other’s limits are when it comes to sitting behind the wheel. And remember–road trips are about enjoying the whole trip, not just getting from point A to point B as fast as possible.Where’s your final destination?Once you know your road trip theme and the amount of time you have you will be able to determine your final destination. From there, you can map out an alternate route home so that you can hit different stops on your way home. Step Two: Determine your budget.Like everything in life, your road trip plan will depend heavily on your budget. Are you trying to do this for as little money as possible, or are you willing to spend some cash to enjoy all the trip has to offer? While driving is usually cheaper than flying (especially when there are multiple people involved) there are still several expenses to consider. Gas, accommodations, food, attractions – everything comes with a price tag that needs to be considered.Gas: Look at the average gas prices along the way to get a rough idea of how much money you will spend on gas.Accommodations: Think about where you want to sleep for the duration of your road trip. Are you sleeping in your RV or resting at a campground overnight? Would you prefer to stay at a motel or hotel instead? Factor in the cost per night that you will need to budget.Food: Eating out at restaurants adds up very quickly, especially if you are doing it three times per day. Consider how often you’d like to eat out and what other options you may have along the way. Are you able to cook at any of your accommodations? What snacks and quick meals can you bring along with you? Look at each day of your trip and determine how much you will spend per day on food.Attractions: There are bound to be attractions along the way that will have entrance fees and other miscellaneous costs. Consider this as you map out your route, knowing that all of the attractions may not fit into your budget.Step Three: Map it all out.Once you have the bones of your trip figured out (the timeline, the final destination, the theme, and the budget) you can get down to the real heart of the road trip – the map. There are several ways to create the perfect road trip map for yourself. Of course, you can go old school and plan your map with a paper and pen, looking at a map and figuring out what towns and sights you’d like to see. But if you want to make your life a little easier, there are several apps such as Roadtrippers and Wanderlog that can help you create the perfect road trip. You can even create a road trip map on Google Maps, which may be more intuitive for some travelers. All of these apps can help you plan what attractions, accommodations, and routes you should use. And when you use them during your trip, they can provide live traffic updates and help keep your trip on schedule. Want to know the easiest way to save money for your road trip? Refinance your loan with Auto Approve!Refinancing your loan with Auto Approve can save you hundreds (if not thousands) – it might even fund your summer road trip!Get a free quote to see how much you could save.Step Four: Get organized and make your reservations.While road trips can provide some much-needed spontaneity, it is important to have your ducks in a row as much as possible. Imagine planning a route out only to find that the hotel you were planning on using is sold out for the night. Making a timeline for each day and booking your reservations ahead of time will help ensure your road trip stays on track for your timeline and your budget.Step Five: Prepare your car.It’s not every day that we ask our car to endure such a trip, so it’s important to make sure your car is up to the task. Be sure to check the following before heading out (or take your car to be inspected by a professional):Check that all fluids are topped off. This includes transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and wiper fluid. Change your oil and oil filter.Inspect your tires. Do they maintain proper pressure and have good tread? Check that the brakes are working well. Inspect the brake pads and rotators and replace as needed.Inspect the lights and ensure that they are all working properly.Change the wiper blades if they are not working perfectly.It’s also a good idea to start with a car that is clean inside and out. It will help keep you organized during the long drive and create a more peaceful environment. Give your car a good wash and vacuum and have a plan for collecting garbage while on the road. Our recommendation? Keeping a small garbage bag in the car is always a good idea!Step Six: Pack everything up.One of the many advantages of road tripping is that you can take anything and everything you might need – as long as it fits in your car. Since you’ll be on the road for so long, there are some unique things that you should consider bringing along, especially if you’re traveling with kids. In addition to the regular packing you’d do for a trip (clothes, toiletries, etc), consider packing up the following:Road trip essentials for youDriver’s license, insurance, and registrationExtra key for the carCar manualEmergency cashFirst aid kitAntibacterial wipesRoad map (in case you are unable to use your phone for some reason)Snacks – loads and loads of snacks!Reusable water bottleCell phone mountCell phone chargerHand sanitizerGallon of water, soap, and paper towels (for when you really need to wash your hands)SunglassesUmbrellaExtra blanketsCoolerFolding camp chairsSunscreenBug sprayPen, pencil, and a notebookTrash bags for the carRoad trip essentials for kidsSnacks (yes, even more snacks)Travel gamesHeadphones TabletColoring booksBooksToys, such as sticker books, Water Wow Books, travel play mats, and fidget toys (note: avoid packing a ton of toys – instead, try to select two or three to rotate through)Road trip essentials for the carSpare tireCar jackJumper cablesTire pressure gaugeFlaresTool kitWiper fluidGlovesFlashlightTire patch kitIf in doubt, check out our guide to putting together an emergency kit for your car.Step Seven: Enjoy the ride!When your car is packed and your map is loaded up and ready to go, you can finally enjoy your trip. Drive safely and be sure to take breaks when you feel tired or distracted. Engage in conversation or games if you have passengers, or crank up the music if you are driving solo. Whatever you do, enjoy the drive as well as the destination.That’s everything you need to know to plan a road trip.A successful road trip needs a good route, a thoughtful packing list, and a budget that can make your dream trip a reality. And if your budget has you feeling stuck at home, Auto Approve may be able to help. Discover how much you can save by refinancing your car loan with Auto Approve today!Get your free quote now.

Let’s talk about how to clean your car.Spring is finally here – and so is spring cleaning. While you most likely clean your car more than once a year, spring is a great time to get into all of the nitty gritty car cleaning that may fall by the wayside throughout the year. Taking the time to clean your car at home is much more effective than a retail car wash, not to mention less expensive. So let’s roll up our sleeves and break out the hose for a car spring cleaning that will leave your vehicle fresh and shiny as new.Here Are Our Top Tips To Spring Clean Your Car.Interior car cleaning kit essentialsWhat is the best way to clean the interior of a car? When it comes to your car’s interior, you may need a few more things to get it into tip-top shape, but you most likely have all of these things in your house already. VacuumA vacuum is essential for cleaning floor mats, car seats, and underneath seats.ToothbrushRunning a new toothbrush along the dashboard can help you find collected debris and get dust out of hard to reach places.\Microfiber clothsUsing a microfiber cloth with an interior cleaner (see below) can help clean, polish, and protect your interior.Interior cleanerMost dashboards are made of plastic (although high end models may use wood), so there are several options when it comes to the best cleaner. Find a cleaner that will not only clean but protect your interior as well. Consider the scent, cost, and reviews of effectiveness before purchasing. Foam glass cleanerA foam glass cleaner such as Invisible Glass does not drip like other liquid glass cleaners, resulting in a clearer finish with less streaks.Exterior car cleaning kit essentialsWhen looking through the car wash aisle, there may seem like an endless number of products at your disposal. You may find yourself asking “what is the best thing to use to clean a car?” The truth is, you only need a few products to get your car squeaky clean. For the exterior, a simple car cleaning kit that includes quality car soap, a car washing mitt, and several microfiber cloths will serve you well.Car soapWhile it is acceptable to use dish soap to wash your car, experts recommend using a specialty automotive soap instead. Dish soaps can actually strip the wax off of your car’s exterior and dull the finish. Automotive soap is designed specifically for automotive paint so it won’t cause any damage.Microfiber mittBe sure to use a microfiber mitt instead of a sponge when washing your car. Microfiber is much more gentle on paint than traditional sponges, which can trap dirt and scratch the paint. Microfibers have long and porous strands that help lift the dirt off of your car and avoid scratching.Microfiber cloths Drying your car with a microfiber cloth will help minimize water spots and streaks, giving it a shine and polished look that you can’t get with air drying alone. Pay less on your refreshed wheels with a refinanced loan from Auto Approve. Most people are overpaying on their auto loans. Refinancing your car loan could save you thousands. But don’t just take our word for it…Get a free quote to see how much you could save.What is the best way to wash your car?Follow these steps for ultimate car spring cleaning.Step 1: Choose the right time and placeWashing your car when the sun is shining bright and there is no shade will make your job much harder. Your car will dry much quicker in the direct sun, leaving streaks and water spots. Park in the shade or wash your car in the morning or evening when the sun isn’t glaring to give yourself the best results.Step 2: Gather your supplies (and prepare to get wet)Preparation is key for an effective car cleaning. Gather your car cleaning kit and dress appropriately in flip flops and clothes that can (and will) get wet.Step 3: Declutter and vacuum the interiorA good first step is to take everything out of your car, from trash on the floor to your emergency kit to your floor mats. Vacuum the carpets, seats, and every nook and cranny that the hose can fit. Vacuum and wipe down your floor mats outside of the car.Step 4: Clean the interior dash, windows, and upholstery (if needed)Use a dry, new toothbrush to clean dirt out of hard to reach places. Brushing textured plastic can help loosen dirt that is stuck in the grooves. Then, use an automotive interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean and polish the dashboard, center console, and the door panels. After the plastic is cleaned, use a foam glass cleaner and microfiber cloth to clean all glass, including the windows, windshield, sunroof, moonroof, and mirrors. Then vacuum your seats and any other upholstered surfaces using a small handheld vacuum or attachment to ensure you can get into all your vehicles nooks and crannies.Once your seats have been vacuumed, assess if there are any areas that need spot cleaning and use an appropriate cleaning solution.Step 5: Replace mats and personal itemsPut everything back where it should be, making note that your emergency kit has everything you may need in the future. Step 6: Hose the car downOnce the car interior cleaning is done, it’s time to move on to the exterior. Hose down the entire car from top to bottom, including the wheels and wheel wells.Step 7: Use the two bucket method to wash your carFill two large buckets with water and put your soap in one while leaving the other bucket with regular water. Starting at the top of the car and working your way down, use a car cleaning mitt to lather the car. Every now and then, rinse off your mitt in the clear water before reapplying more soap. Break your car down into sections (i.e. roof, windshield, hood, front driver’s side panel, etc) and rinse each section off after thoroughly cleaning it. This will help ensure that an area does not dry with soapy residue.Step 8: Clean your wheels and tiresAfter washing the body of the car, it’s time to focus on the wheels and tires. You can use the same mitt, rinsing often in the clean water, but may find that a toothbrush works best for getting in between the spokes of the wheel.Step 9: Rinse and dryHose down the car one final time and use a microfiber towel to dry off the car section by section. This will give your car a polished look and get rid of any water marks or streaks.Other Car Cleaning TipsWe scoured the internet for the top car cleaning tips you may have never heard before. Try the following to get your car in top shape if they apply, being cognizant of any elements of your unique vehicle that might make some cleaning applications ill-advised or not applicable.While washing and drying your car, use long, sweeping motions rather than circular motions. This will help ensure there are no circular drying marks. Use a low pressure setting on your hose to avoid spraying soap and dirt to other parts of the car. This will also decrease the amount of direct pressure on the car (which can be bad for the body and for the paint)Use a small amount of concentrated soap directly on your headlights and bumper to remove stubborn bug residue, tar, bird poop, or tree sap.Cleaning your headlights with a small amount of toothpaste will help restore their clarity. Simply rub a small amount on a paper towel and buff it onto each headlight.Use a separate cloth entirely for the glass area. This will help avoid scratches on the glass from dirt that may get trapped while washing the body.Apply Rain-X to your windshield and windows. The coating helps repel water, reducing the need for car wipers. Keep a container of black tea in your car. This can help absorb bad odors and keep your car smelling fresh.You can make a DIY air freshener by mixing your favorite essential oil with baking soda and leaving it in the car. The baking soda will absorb bad odors while the essential oils keep your car smelling nice.For a deep interior clean, try renting a steam cleaner. They are incredibly effective at removing stains and getting your carpets and seats thoroughly clean.If you have leather seats, use a small amount of olive oil to condition the leather. This will help keep the leather moisturized and protect it from fading or cracking in the sun.Keep interior car cleaning wipes in your glove compartment to help maintain a clean car year round.Use these tips to spring clean your car and get a fresh start this season.Giving your car a deep clean this spring can serve as a great reset for your and your car. It will also help you keep your car clean in the coming months. No one wants a car with old odors in the summer sun!Another great way to reset this spring is by refinancing your car loan with Auto Approve. Get your free, no strings attached quote from Auto Approve today and find out how much money you could be saving!CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE

When is the right time to refinance a car loan? Well, one could argue that it’s never a bad time to consider a car loan refinance. Too many people assume that their auto loan is something they are locked into from the day they finance a vehicle until the end of the loan. But not so! Many people are overpaying on their auto loans, paying higher rates than they’re eligible for, or otherwise stuck with terms that may no longer make sense for their lives. That’s where car refinancing can come to the rescue.So, Is Now a Good Time to Refinance A Vehicle?In terms of timing, it’s always wise to check to make sure you’re not paying more than you need to be. Given that rates and auto values have fluctuated dramatically over the last decade, and that many dealerships mark up prices so you end up paying a higher rate than you were eligible for even at the time of purchase, there’s a good chance you can lower your monthly car payment. And if your life situation has changed, you similarly may be able to save money by refinancing to a better loan for you and your needs. To help you decide if this might apply to you, let’s take a look at some broad guidelines and FAQs for deciding when to refinance your vehicle.When Can I Refinance My Car Loan?Contrary to popular belief, you are not obligated to wait any amount of time before refinancing your car loan. You have to, instead, meet the requirements for the new loan to refinance it. Time is not part of those requirements – you can refinance immediately after buying the vehicle if you want and meet eligibility requirements. Just make sure that you are pursuing a better deal than the one you already have! (That said, in some states, you need your new registration before refinancing, which may slow down the process by 4 to 6 weeks.)If you’re unsure about your eligibility or whether or not the new loan would be better than your existing one, using Auto Approve can help.When Can Refinancing Benefit Me?Refinancing is basically paying off your old loan with a new one. A beneficial refinance could mean a lower interest rate, a lower monthly payment, or both. You may be eligible for a lower interest rate if:Rates have gone down since you financed your vehicleYour credit score has gone up, orYou didn’t get a good deal in the first placeMost auto loans are amortizing loans, which means you pay a fixed monthly payment with interest that is already built into that payment. Lower interest would mean a lower monthly payment, if the terms of the length of the loan stay the same. Some people instead choose to refinance to change the length of their loan, so they pay less monthly but over a longer period of time, or pay more monthly in order to have their loan paid off sooner. Refinancing also allows you to add or drop a co-borrower from the loan and can give you up to three month’s break in payments while the loans change over.When you use Auto Approve to refinance, an Auto Approve representative will help you understand your options and make sure you get the right deal for your unique situation – then do the paperwork for you.Get your free, no-commitment quote today to see how much you could save.How can I improve my credit score? This happens when you make on-time loan payments for multiple months – or years. About 10-12 months is enough time to see a change in your credit score, which you can use as leverage to negotiate a better loan rate. Learn more about credit scores and refinancing here.When Should I Try to Refinance My Car Loan?NOW! Now is always the best time, if you think it might be beneficial to you. The refinance process is simple, there is no risk for you to find out your available options, and in most cases, you will be very glad you elected to move forward. With the right refinance, you can start saving money immediately.In general, the two main reasons why people refinance their vehicles are to lower their monthly payment or lower their interest rate. So if you’re still thinking about timing, consider: whether paying less monthly or overall could help you outwhether your circumstances have changedwhether vehicle values or interest rates have changed The ability to borrow at a lower interest rate means you will pay less for your car after taking all of your borrowing costs into account. Since an interest rate is part of the monthly payment you agree to in the loan, it’s something that you should keep in mind as interest rates change over time. What Do I Need for Refinancing My Car?Generally, you are going to need to collect the following:Information about the current loan and lender, your account numberYour current total loan balanceVehicle information including the make, model, year, and VINRead more about the requirements to refinance a car.Refinancing Mistakes to AvoidHere are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid when refinancing an auto loan:Prepayment penalties do exist, which means you may have to pay extra if you pay off a loan before a term is up. Look up the details of your loan and inquire what this fee is going to be.Waiting too long to refinance. The longer you wait in the life of the loan, the less sense it makes to refinance. Lastly, don’t miss any payments. Even if you think that the refinancing process has paused your payments, triple-check before you halt payment for the previous loan. And that’s An Overview Of When To Refinance A CarSo, when should I try to refinance my car? Start now and discover if you’re eligible! We’re here to help. Hopefully this guide has answered all you burning questions. As always, do your due diligence and call up your lender with questions before you make any decisions. Hidden fees, contractual obligations, and the actual value of the car should all be factored into any refinancing agreements. But, if the stars align, then there is no reason why you should not allow yourself to benefit from auto refinancing. It’s never a bad time to check your options commitment free and discover how much you could lower your monthly payment or your interest rate.GET A QUOTE IN 60 SECONDS

It looks like tariffs – or at least the looming possibility of tariffs – are here to stay. But how do they work? And how can tariffs affect car prices? Let’s take a quick look at everything you need to know about car tariffs: meaning, how they work, and what to expect if you’re hoping to purchase or repair a vehicle.All About Car Tariffs (and How They Could Affect You)Let’s start with the basics.What are tariffs?You may have heard the word a lot lately, but what exactly does “tariff” mean?The simplest explanation is this: a tariff is a tax that is charged on something when it is imported. Think of it like the sales tax on a purchase when you check out at a store. It’s typically a percent of the total you’ve already paid on top of your bill. This money goes, as a tax, to the government.Here’s a practical example of how tariffs work.For example, let’s say you’re a ketchup maker. You live in Kentucky, and cook and bottle your ketchup in Kentucky, but you buy your tomatoes from Italy. You buy your tomatoes from the person that grows them in Italy, then pay to have them shipped to Kentucky. Once your tomatoes arrive in the United States, they’re inspected to make sure they’re safe and legal, and at the same time, you, the ketchup maker who imported them, would pay any required tariffs to the customs officers at the port. See? Just like a tax at check out. Tariffs can be applied by a government in different ways. You can tariff a specific item, items to do with a specific industry, or items from a specific place. They can be broad, blanket tariffs – for example, “all goods from Italy will be tariffed at 15%” – or more complicated and targeted. For example, you could have a rule where, after $1 billion worth of Italian tomatoes have been imported by everyone in the US who imports Italian tomatoes, the tariff percent goes up from 15% to 30%.Worried about rising prices?Here’s one price that doesn’t have to go up: your monthly car payment. Most people are overpaying on their vehicle loan. Auto Approve can help.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.What makes tariffs good or bad?Tariffs themselves are not inherently good or bad. Every country has tariffs on some goods. They can be applied to protect a specific industry – say New Jersey tomatoes were suffering because too many people were importing Italian tomatoes, adding a tax on Italian tomatoes might make it easier for New Jersey tomatoes to get more business. Italian tomatoes would become more expensive. You, as a ketchup maker, might pivot to New Jersey tomatoes to keep your prices the same. If enough people do this, New Jersey tomato farmers will have a more stable industry, and ideally, it’ll have a positive effect on their local and national economy.On the other hand, tariffs can cause problems for importers and consumers. Maybe you’re not willing to change your ingredients and choose instead to raise your prices. Maybe New Jersey tomatoes are more expensive than your Italian ones were. Or, having less competition, New Jersey producers might choose to raise their prices. Situations like these can mean tough decisions for people who make products that use imported goods, and higher prices for consumers. Similarly, say you can get your tomatoes from New Jersey for a better price (yay!), but your ketchup is packaged in Canadian aluminum bottles, and there are no aluminum bottle makers in all of the United States that can make your bottle. The aluminum comes from Canada and there’s no aluminum here to be had. What then? Do you change your packaging and your ingredients all at once? Look for ways to cut costs elsewhere, or simply raise your prices?This is why tariffs are usually used in a targeted way – to avoid hurting companies working inside of a country that have to pay them and to keep consumer prices from soaring.How tariffs affect American car pricesWith all of that out of the way, what does all of this have to do with cars? Well, right now, there are new tariffs being imposed on internationally-made vehicles and auto parts, plus some of the materials used to make vehicles. Will car prices go up due to tariffs?These new tariffs mean it’s likely that consumer costs will go up across the board in the auto industry. Here’s why:Because foreign cars and car parts will simply be more expensive to importBecause not all car parts or materials have domestic replacements availableIt’s easy to see why foreign cars will likely be more expensive. Since the vehicles are manufactured elsewhere, there’s no way to dodge the tariffs by changing to an American supplier. While a motivated company could choose to open an American plant, time and cost to start manufacturing in a new country and source domestic labor, space, parts, and materials might outweigh the benefits, versus simply attaching a higher price tag.But what about American-made cars and trucks?Very few, if any, vehicles are made entirely in America with American parts made from American vehicles. It is common for vehicles to have some parts made or manufacturing done in other countries, and materials like steel may be imported, either in their raw or ready-to-use form. Batteries for electric cars, for example, start with raw materials gathered from all over the world, like cobalt from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, nickel from Australia, and lithium from Argentina, and then are often manufactured in China before being shipped to the United States.Closer to home, auto manufacturing has crossed the border between Michigan and nearby Ontario, Canada, since the car was in its infancy. In 1904, 117 Ford Model Cs were produced in Walkerville, Ontario. General Motors – the Detroit-based manufacturing company that makes Chevrolets, Buicks, and Cadillacs, purchased one of Canada’s early domestic auto brands and used it to found General Motors of Canada in 1918, which is still the company’s Canadian subsidiary. There has hardly been a time when American auto manufacturing was not a cross-border affair – so it’s no surprise that there are still factories making different auto parts or performing assembly on either side of the US-Canada border. That means that tariffs on Canadian-made auto parts may well affect even familiar American automakers.Do tariffs affect car repairs?They can! If you need a replacement part, your costs may go up if that part or the materials used to make it come from somewhere else. If you’re just getting routine check-ups or happen to need something domestically produced, you should be in the clear.That said, not everyone will pass every cost increase directly onto the consumer purchasing that particle part or vehicle. Some may choose to raise all prices a little bit instead of some prices drastically to help spread out the tax burden. How each company or person in the supply chain chooses to handle changes will make a difference for if, how, and when the end consumer is affected.How to save money under new car tariffsThis might make it sound like costs will skyrocket, but there are things you can do to limit how much you feel these changes. First, you can choose to buy American wherever possible – or at least weigh the cost differential and any pros and cons of your options, whether you’re thinking about a new car or just purchasing new tires. While many American-made vehicles will still see some price increase, it’ll likely be less than what you’ll see on vehicles entirely manufactured abroad.Second, you can choose to focus on repairing your vehicle instead of replacing it. While a 25% tariff on a car part might raise its price, 25% of $200 is only a $50 increase, while a 25% tariff on a whole car could be tens of thousands of dollars. If you have the option to hold off and see how things shake out, you can ensure you get the best vehicle for your needs and budget.Be Prepared For How Tariffs May Affect CarsNow you know the basics of how tariffs work and why vehicle costs may be affected. However, in the end, the future can’t be perfectly predicted.Car tariffs are coming into place, but they may ultimately be changed or fine tuned in reaction to the market and industry. These tariffs may not have the predicted effects, depending on a variety of factors. But being prepared for a possible rise in cost is only prudent as the U.S. tariffs cars.Get the best auto loan for your budgetPrices may rise and fall, but getting a better deal on your car payment by refinancing with Auto Approve is just about always a good idea. Discover whether you’re eligible for a lower monthly payment in a few clicks – no commitment required.Get your free quote now.

Spring is a great time to think about making changes and refreshing your life – from spring cleaning to getting outdoors more. But it can also be a great time to check in with your finances. Right now especially, money is tight for a lot of average folks in the U.S., thanks to rising grocery and gas prices. If you have a car that is financed, you may be wondering whether a car loan refinance could help you save some cash. Here’s how you can tell if you should refinance your car loan in 2025. What is car loan refinancing?Car loan refinancing is when you get a new car loan that will replace your existing loan. Refinancing a loan will help you to get a better interest rate, change your repayment period, and change who is or is not a cosigner on the loan.When you refinance your loan you will go through the same process as you did during your initial financing. You will research lenders, apply for a loan, and select the loan that has the best terms, conditions, and car loan interest rate. And that’s it! It’s incredibly simple, and there are companies out there like Auto Approve who can help you navigate the world of refinance and help you through the application process. When you select a loan that is right for you, your new lender will pay off your old loan directly and you will begin making payments to your new lender. And voila–your loan is refinanced and you can start saving money immediately. When should you refinance your car loan?There are a number of signs that the time is right to refinance your car loan. Make sure you know the terms and conditions of your existing loan before you decide whether to refinance, as it’ll help ensure that the new loan you get will be better.Your credit score has improved.The car loan APR that you are offered is very dependent on your credit score. In fact, your credit score is the biggest factor that you have control over when it comes to securing a loan. The rate that you are offered will be based on which credit tier you are in. Your credit score will fall into one the following categories:800 to 850: Excellent740 to 799: Very good670 to 739: Good580 to 669: Fair300 to 579: Poor In general, you will be offered a good car loan interest rate if your credit score is in the very good or excellent range. As your score decreases, the interest rate that you will be offered will increase. Your credit score is based on five key factors in your personal finance: your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit accounts. There are many reasons why your credit may have increased since your initial financing:You paid off some debt.You have been making consistent on time payments.Your available credit increased.You had a negative event expire.And more.Any improvement to your credit score can help save you a lot of money in interest, especially if it bumps you into a different category. But in general, if there has been an increase to your credit score, it is a good idea to think about car loan refinancing.The market rates have decreased Or Your Original Rate Was Higher Than Necessary.The refinance rate that you will be offered will be based in part on the current market rates. If the current rates are lower than they were when you initially financed your car, you may be offered a lower car loan refinance rate.Many people find that, even if little has changed in terms of their credit or the market rates, they may be able to pay less if they financed initial with a car dealer. Dealerships frequently mark up the market rate, so the financing received through them might not reflect the best pricing available to you. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check whether you could lower your rate – even if you don’t decide to move to the next step and refinance.You want to change your repayment period.Another benefit of refinancing is that you can change your repayment period. There are two ways that this can help you: it can either save you money in the longterm or buy you some breathing room in your monthly finances. If you shorten your repayment period, you will be paying off your loan quicker and you will therefore spend less money overall on interest. This will make your monthly payments higher, but you will save money in the long run. On the other hand, if you are having trouble making your payments every month, lengthening your repayment period will allow you to reduce your monthly payments. Since you will be paying the loan off over a longer period, the principal will stretch out and easily cut your payment by hundreds per month. You will likely be paying more interest over the life of the loan, but this may be worth it if it can make your monthly budget work for you. In general, if something big is happening (like a wedding or a personal emergency) and you need a little breathing room, refinancing may be a help – as well as lowering your monthly rate or overall interest, refinancing often means a few months’ break from paying while you make the switch.You are in a bad relationship with your current lender.Sometimes we end up in bad relationships. Maybe you don’t like the customer service and have had a few too many bad interactions. Maybe they have hit you with fees and penalties that you do not find fair. Maybe they have been unresponsive and unhelpful. Whatever the reason is, refinancing your car loan can help you get out of a bad spot with your current lender.You want to add or remove a cosigner. If you want to add or remove a cosigner from your current loan, refinancing your loan is going to be your best option. What do I need to refinance my car loan?In order to refinance your loan, you will need to have the following documents: Proof of employment or income (a paycheck stub or tax return)Proof of car insurance.A valid driver’s license.Proof of residence. This is required if your driver’s license and credit report address don’t match. A utility bill is usually sufficient for this.  Your car’s registration.Your vehicle’s information: model, make, year and vehicle identification number (VIN)Your current lender’s information and loan information, including the payoff amount.A photo of your car’s odometer Some lenders may require more information or paperwork, but these are the standard documents that most lenders will want. Is 2025 a good time to refinance my car loan?So is now a good time for car loan refinance? It really depends on your situation. Market rates are not exceptionally low, but they have fallen a bit since their peak in 2023-24. But more importantly, global circumstances might not matter for your unique situation. The rates might be lower than when you originally financed, or you might be eligible for a better interest rate than you were previously.  The best thing you can do is to look at your finances and determine if you could benefit from car loan refinance. Additionally, the rapidly changing car tariff situation makes planning to purchase a new car a bit confusing right now, so those who have the option to hold onto a vehicle a little longer rather than worry about car prices might be wise to do so – for example, if you’re thinking about an auto lease buyback. That’s how you can know if car loan refinancing is right for you in 2025. Think a car refinance might be right for you? Get your free, no-commitment quote from Auto Approve today to find out how much money you could be saving!GET A QUOTE IN 60 SECONDS

Want to know how you can improve your money management? If you’re looking to make smarter financial decisions this year, take a peek at these common suggestions from financial advisors. The reality is, as of 2022, the federal reserve reported that roughly half of Americans hadn’t saved for retirement at all and the combined household debt of all Americans rose to over $18 trillion in 2024.While reckless spending or avoiding thinking about money can feel good in the short term, taking control of your finances means a better quality of life and lower stress levels in the long run.Plus, better budgeting can mean more money in your pocket for the things that really matter. One way to spend smarter and save? Refinance your vehicle loan with Auto Approve and find a rate that works for you.Shore Up Your Personal Finances with These TipsEach of these suggestions comes from reliable online sources in the money management world. For personalized advice and to make sure you’re making the right moves for your unique situation, be sure to speak with a financial advisor directly.1. Save more for the futureUnless you happen to be one of the less than 9% of Americans with at least $500k saved for retirement – which is, by the way, estimated to cost about $1 million, depending on personal circumstances and spending habits – most financial professions would likely suggest you make a plan to save more as soon as possible.There are many different ways to save for emergencies and retirement – Health Savings Plans, 401Ks, Roth IRAs, simply buying bonds to grow your cash – and choosing the right one for you depends on your job. But however you do it, saving money in case something happens or to allow you to eventually retire is one of the most responsible financial actions you can take.2. Make and keep a budgetWhether you’re looking to actively save more or one of the roughly half of all Americans who’ve had to carry credit card debt within the last year, sitting down and making a budget can be a huge help.Many financial gurus recommend subscribing to the 50/30/20 rule – meaning 50% of your income goes to needs, 30% to wants, 20% to savings or paying down debt.For many people, simply taking a close look at their finances can be intimidating. However, the more you know what’s coming in and going out of your accounts, the better a handle you’ll have on your finances. Having more control over where you’re spending and when means you can choose when to splurge and on what so you get the most out of your money.3. Learn about investing – and then do it!First, you should know that every investment comes with a certain level of risk, and that you should only take the risk you’re comfortable with and can afford. That said, broadly speaking, investing – especially in relatively stable places like index funds and ETFs – is the easiest way to make sure the money you save keeps up with the market over time. To be clear, you should still keep an emergency cash fund on hand, plus enough for your expenses. But once you’ve done some saving, it’s financially wise to start thinking about putting some of those savings into a diverse portfolio of investments, whether that includes Certificates of Deposit with guaranteed interest, buying property, or entering the stock market. A good financial advisor will make sure you understand the risks of any choices you make and sound investing principles, but for now, you can read up on the basics.4. Manage debt thoughtfullyMost finance folks would agree that there is good debt and bad debt. Good debt typically includes debt that acts as an investment in your future – think student loans and mortgages. Bad debt includes things like payday loans and credit card debt – high interest borrowing that can get you caught in a debt cycle. These debts can drag you down financially without offering much benefit to you in the long term.Paying down a credit card every month and building your credit can be a good thing, but be careful about borrowing for discretionary purposes like vacations. If you’re someone who has struggled with debt, there are tons of resources available to help you figure out how to set yourself up for success in terms of paying down your debt and getting your finances back on track.5. Pay attention to your spendingAs well as keeping a broad budget, it’s always a good idea to actually audit your individual costs, especially if money is tight. You can save money at the grocery store, at the pump, and throughout your budget with a little bit of care and attention. Subscriptions and other recurring fees are one of the easiest places to get dinged by forgetting about a free trial or not noticing the creep up of a monthly bill. If you want to reduce your spending, you can look for forgotten subscriptions, see if there are ways to get your bill lowered, or cancel certain subscriptions until you need them.You may also be able to lower your monthly expenses by lowering your payments on leases and mortgages through refinancing. At Auto Approve, we work with you to find the best deal for you on your vehicle loan refinance. Then we do the paperwork for you, making it easy switch loan providers. Most people are overpaying on their auto loan, because car dealerships typically markup their rates. That means, if you got your loan through a dealership, you’re likely eligible to pay less per month with a lower rate.Get Your Finances In Tip-Top Shape With These Money Management TipsMoney matters don’t have to be difficult or intimidating. The best thing you can do for your financial health is to take a close look at what you’re earning, what you’re spending, and how you’re spending it. Once you’re intimately familiar with your personal finances, you can take charge and make sure your money is working for you, today and for years to come.Consider saving for your future, keeping a close eye on your budget, investing wisely, avoiding or paying down bad debt, and exercising discretion in your spending. With thoughtful application of these tips, guided by your financial advisor, your finances can be healthier than ever.Want to Lower your monthly car payment?Take charge of one monthly expense right now. Find out how much you could save on your car loan by refinancing with Auto Approve today. Getting a quote only takes a few minutes, costs nothing, and requires zero commitment.Get your free quote now.

What are the best podcasts to listen to on a road trip? Read on to find out!There are many things to consider when planning a road trip, but perhaps one of the most important things – short of where you’ll stay when you get where you’re going – is what you’ll listen to along the way. After all, even the most scenic drive can get monotonous after an hour or two if you don’t have something to listen to. And a great story or the perfect tunes can turn even a blah drive into a memorable adventure!For this list, we compiled some of the most recommended podcasts from around the interest, across a spectrum of genres, to help you find the perfect podcast for your taste and trip plan.The Top Podcasts For Road TripsGripping stories, hilarious jokes, fascinating science – if you want to know the best podcasts for road trips, check out this list of recommendations from a ton of different genres that’ll keep you engaged from mile 1 to your destination. Note: The podcasts on this list are generally targeted toward adult listeners and may contain strong language. For kid-friendly recommendations, scroll down!1. SerialSerial made a huge splash when it first came out, paving the way for a slew of true crime podcasts and a resurgence in true crime documentaries. If you missed it early on, you’ll see right away what made the show so popular, with gripping stories and well-put together journalism. Each season covers one nonfiction story. And if you were one of the early listeners, it might surprise you to know that the show has spun off into a whole group of podcasts under Serial Productions, including S-Town and The Coldest Case In Laramie, so if you’re not caught up, there’s plenty of audio content to fill a long drive.2. Against The RulesHosted by Michael Lewis – a journalist perhaps based known for his books Moneyball and The Big Short – Against the Rules looks at fairness and rules in American life through a range of topics season to season. Sports fans might be interested in his seasons focusing on referees, coaches, and sports gambling – all of which are well-researched and totally fascinating. Plus, since each season has roughly 8 episodes around a singular theme, a season can make for a perfect road trip binge.3. RevolutionsHistory buffs who haven’t yet delved into the world of Mike Duncan’s Revolutions are in for a treat. Now up to season 12, Revolutions features – as the name might suggest – a different historical revolution each season (with the exception of the most recent season, which is a fictional account of a sci-fi revolution in the future set on Mars!). The series starts with the English Civil Wars of the 1600s, then looks at the American, French, and Haitian revolutions, among others. Duncan has amassed a huge following for his riveting storytelling, and for road trips, it’s an especially great choice thanks to the bite-sized 30ish minute episodes, making it easy to break up over a long drive.4. Sold A StorySold A Story is one of the most recommended podcasts on internet chat forums, especially in the education space. A mix of journalism, science, and news, Sold a Story reported in 2022 on the low literacy rate among American elementary school students, and ended up, in part, inspiring a change in how we teach reading nationwide. If you’re interested in the science of how we learn and the ways education can be changed for the better or worse, it’s a great listen.5. OlogiesWhile the other podcasts so far focus on single stories over the course of a season, Ologies is made up of episodes that stand alone. Each episode of Ologies focuses on a different, highly specific scientific topic, ranging from cardiology to the sociology of reality TV to erethizonology  – that’s the study of porcupines.Each episode features an interview with an expert, conducted by host Alie Ward. And for road trippers, it’s an especially handy podcast because episodes range in length from around half an hour to over 2 hours, so you can decide how long you want to listen and find an episode that fits.We’re into auto loan refinance-ology.Your vehicle takes you where you need to go, but is it also taking money out of your pocket? Most people are overpaying on their auto loan, thanks to markups at dealerships. You may be eligible to pay less on your monthly payment and get a better rate. All it takes to find out is a few clicks – no commitment required.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.6. Ghost StoryThis 7-episode miniseries podcast combines family drama, the paranormal, and true crime as journalist Tristan Redman – who doesn’t believe in ghosts – investigates strange things that happened in his house when he was a teen. While supernatural elements come into play, Ghost Story is ultimately a story about a family facing their own ghosts. Warning that this podcast contains discussion of PTSD and domestic violence.7. Dolly Parton’s AmericaOn the other end of the emotional spectrum, Dolly Parton’s America is one the rare uplifting nonfiction narrative podcasts, and a complete delight. Fans of Dolly, the Dolly-curious, and the uninitiated will all find something to enjoy in this 9-episode “journey through the Dollyverse”  from WNYC, hosted by Jad Abumrad. Released in 2019, Dolly Parton’s America examines Parton’s life – with interviews with the woman herself – along with her impact, her work, and the people who love her.8. The Happiness LabThe Happiness Lab is inspired by the popular course taught at Yale by host and professor Dr. Laurie Santos. It looks at the science of what makes us happy and how to be happy and offers both insights into human behavior and actionable ideas that might just help you live happier. With 7 seasons and roughly 200 episodes, ranging generally from 30 minutes to an hour, you’re not likely to finish it in one road trip (unless that’s one long road trip!, but since it’s episodic rather than narrative, there’s no need to. Few podcasts in the self-help realm or otherwise offer as much potential impact as this fascinating and well-put-together series, so if you’re looking for a self-help option for your road trip, The Happiness Lab is really the only choice.9. 99% InvisibleIf you want a podcast that changes the way you see the world around you, 99% Invisible can do just that. It’s a podcast all about architecture, design, and the thought that goes into names, products, buildings, systems, and so much more. Essentially, it’s about the things we see and interact with every day but might not spend much time thinking about how they came to be. With roughly 700 episodes, the topics have ranged widely, from the invention of dynamite, to the history of Brutalist architecture, to how supply chains work (or don’t), to the naming of a Slovenian beetle. Suffice to say, if you’re interested in how the world is built, there’s something for everyone.10. The SporkfulLast but certainly not least, The Sporkful is a great podcast for cooks and food fans. It features a combination of stories on current events in the food world and interviews about food with chefs, food writers, and people interested in food, from celebrities to relative unknowns – like Weird Al, Chef Bobby Flay, or a Catholic priest who moonlights as a mixologist.Generally lighthearted and always informative, The Sporkful is hosted amiably by Dan Pashman and has around 150 episodes ready for your next long drive – whether that’s a Guy Fieri-inspired road trip or a pilgrimage to a local farm. It’s a great listen for anyone curious about the wide world of eating.Honorable MentionsListened to all the podcasts above already? Just not finding something that sings to you? Here are a few more high quality and well-reviewed podcasts to consider across a wide variety of genres.I Am Not A MonsterSomeone Knows Something Personally: Toy Soldier S-TownThe MothRadioLabRevisionist HistoryCautionary TalesHow Did This Get Made?Who Shat At My Wedding?My Dad Wrote A PornoSmartlessThe Screenwriting LifeEverything CookbooksThis American LifeWait Wait Don’t Tell MeStuff You Should KnowAnd as a bonus, if you just want a delightful half hour listen, check out Towel of Song from CBC’s The Doc Project.Kid-Friendly Road Trip Podcast RecommendationsLooking for some of the best podcasts for children on a road trip? Here are a few popular and delightful options:Story PiratesSmash Boom BestGreeking OutCircle RoundWow in the WorldAmerica’s Test Kitchen for KidsNoodle LoafABC Kids (Australia)And Those Are Some of The Best Podcast Options for Your Next Long DriveThese podcasts are so good, they could inspire another road trip just to listen to them all! Whether you want to learn something or be transported by a great story, there’s something here for everyone. Unless of course you’d rather a good audiobook for a long drive.Road trips can take a long time. Refinancing your auto loan doesn’t have to.When you choose to refinance your vehicle with Auto Approve, we help you find the right deal for your unique situation, then do the paperwork for you. It’s easy – all it takes is a few minutes of your time to help you pay less on your auto loan.Get your free quote now.

You probably wear one every time you’re in a car, but how much do you really know about seat belts?The very first safety belt was invented in the 1800s, but seat belts weren’t a required accessory in cars until the late 1960s, and laws mandating seat belt usage didn't arrive for another 20 years. And they weren’t exactly popular. In fact, regulations that required the automotive industry to provide seat belts were initially fought by the Reagan administration! Today, however, seat belt usage in the United States is around 92% and seatbelts are believed to save around 15,000 American lives per year.In this article, we’ll take a look at the humble seat belt: how seat belts work, seat belt history, and the safety statistics for seat belt usage today.(And yes, according to AP Style, it’s “seat belt” – two words!)Your Complete Guide to Seat BeltsSeat belts are everywhere. But why do we have to wear them, how do they work, and where did they come from? Read on to learn more about this life-saving device.Seat Belts: Essential FactsLet’s start with the basics. Seat belts are usually made up of:Anchors, the places where the seat belt is securely attached to the carWebbing, the actual fabric belt itself (or belts), usually made from a strong and elastic tightly woven polyesterBuckle(s), the socket and tongue system that secure the webbing around the seat occupantRetractor(s), the mechanism that controls the amount of webbing in use and its fit, sometimes equipped with a pre-tensioner that reacts to sudden pulls and locks the belt in place for safetyGenerally, seat belts are classed by “points” – meaning anchors, the places where the belt is attached to the vehicle. You may have seen a few different kinds of seat belts around. The seatbelts on planes are typically two-point lap belts, variations of which are also sometimes still seen in the rear seats of older vehicle models. These seat belts are attached to the vehicle at two points, one on either side of your hips, thus the name.The most ubiquitous seatbelts in the United States, however, are what are called three point seat belts – think car seat belts with both a lap and shoulder (sash) strap, meeting together at one point with a buckle. These three-point belts – first invented by engineer Nils Bohlin for Volvo in the 1950s – are legally mandated by the U.S., U.K., and Canada, among others, for their improved safety.That said, seat belt types don’t end at three points! If you’ve ever watched NASCAR or fastened a child’s car seat, you might be familiar with 4, 5, and 6-point belts, and some aerial artists even use a 7-point system to make sure they’re protected from falls.How Seat Belts WorkThinking back to physics class, you might remember that an object in motion tends to stay in motion. In an accident, if your car hits something and suddenly stops, your body – if not attached to the car – will continue moving forward. Many of the worst injuries and fatalities on the road come when a person is ejected from the vehicle or hits the dashboard or vehicle ceiling. While seat belts might not be perfect at preventing all injuries, they significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death by holding a person in place.Interestingly, Nils Bohlin, the Volvo engineer who invented the 3 point seat belt, had previously been employed in aviation as an engineer working on systems for safely ejecting from fighter jets. He applied many of the same principles of motion when he was charged with making vehicles safer.You may be overpaying on your auto loanCar dealerships mark up their prices, leaving you paying more than you need to be. It’s easy to find out how much money you could save with a better rate and lower car payment through Auto Approve. All it takes is a few clicks – no commitment required. Better safe than sorry, right?Get a free quote to see how much you could save.Seat Belt History The First Seat BeltsAs mentioned above, the very first safety belt was arguably invented in the early 1800s. Sir George Cayley, an English aerial pioneer who designed the first successful glider to carry a human being, included a rudimentary harness on the glider. The line, however, from that harness to today’s ubiquitous seat belts is not a straight one. While Cayley may have been the first to think strapping in made safety sense as new vehicles developed, his idea didn’t catch on like wildfire. Seat belts don’t appear again until, separately, a New Yorker named Edward J. Claghorn patented an idea for a harness for taxi passengers in 1885, and it wasn’t until the 1920s that similar devices came into the public consciousness when race car pioneer Barney Oldfield commissioned a parachute manufacturer to create a system to strap him into his vehicle for the Indy 500.Even then, seatbelts remained deeply unpopular. According to AAA, there was a belief at the time that it was safer to be ejected from the vehicle, and car manufacturers worried that too many safety features would imply that their vehicles weren’t safe to drive.For those reasons, it wasn’t until Nils Bohlin invented the three-point belt – much as we know it today, with one continuous belt to protect both the upper and lower body, attached by a single buckle – that seat belts really took off.Seat Belts As We Know ThemBohlin’s three-point belts improved vehicle safety greatly and started to become commonplace in some parts of the world. This expansion was greatly aided by the fact that Bohlin and Volvo decided to give the design for the seat belt away for free, making it available to all vehicle manufacturers in the late 1950s.In 1961, Wisconsin became the first U.S. state to require seat belts be installed in the front seats of cars, and in 1968, some sort of belt in the front seat was a federal requirement. But that’s not the end of the story, by far! It might be strange now to think of, but as recently as the 1970s and ‘80s, seat belts were controversial and faced legal challenges in the United States. The Reagan administration tried to turn the tide on regulations requiring manufacturers to include seat belts, revoking the existing regulations. In an unexpected twist, it was insurers who sued to get the seat belt requirements reinstated in the interest of passenger safety. They won their case in the Supreme Court, and seat belts became a required part of each new vehicle produced or sold in the United States.From there, states began rolling out different regulations requiring drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts, starting with New York mandating those in the front seat of a vehicle wear a seat belt or face a fine. These laws were seen by some as government overreach and an infringement on personal freedoms, but as study after study showed that belts reduced the risk of fatalities, head injury, and other serious injuries, public opinion came around.Today, every state except New Hampshire has some sort of law on the books requiring seat belt usage, though details, enforcement, and possible consequences vary.Seat Belt Safety StatisticsFor many people, the biggest question is. Do seat belts actually make you safer? And the answer is a resounding yes.According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, part of the US Department of Transportation, in 2017 alone, seat belts saved 14,955 lives and could have saved 2,549 more.Here are a few more key facts from the NHTSA:Being ejected from a car in a crash is almost always fatal.If you’re not buckled up, air bags not only won’t be enough to protect you, but can do serious injury. Air bags are designed to be used in conjunction with seat belts – not instead of them.Improper seat belt use – using only one part of the belt or placing it under your arm – is less effective and can be dangerous.Most importantly, correctly wearing your three-point seat belt when in a passenger car reduces your risk of fatal injury by 45% and of moderate or critical injury by 50%. These numbers are even higher for light truck drivers and passengers (60% and 65%, respectively).In Short, Seat Belts Make Riding In A Car SaferNow you know so much more about the what, how, and why of seat belt safety! Make sure you buckle up on your next ride, whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store or an epic road trip, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.Put more money in your pocket for the things that matterFind out how much you can save by refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve. Getting a quote is easy. We’ll help you find the best deal for you, then handle the paperwork for you.Get your free quote now.

Looking for ways to save money on groceries? You’re not alone. Lots of people are on the hunt for tricks to spend less this year.Grocery prices are up, and for a wide number of reasons – from supply chain challenges to corporations raising prices to changes in international trade. But the why doesn’t matter when you’re in the check out line – only how to lower your bill.Fortunately, there are many simple ways you can pay less for groceries in 2025, despite higher price tags on many essentials.In this article, we’ve gathered 8 simple tips and tricks you can apply right away to start reducing your grocery store costs.8 Tips For Saving Money at the Grocery StoreWhile not all of these ideas will work for everyone (and there will likely be some things here you’re already doing!), there should be something here for anyone wondering how to save money on groceries in 2025.1. Plan, Plan, PlanThe number one most important thing to do when trying to spend less at the grocery store is plan ahead. Planning allows you to create a budget and stick to it.Make a meal plan for the week and then a grocery list based on that meal plan. Doing this can help avoid unnecessary or splurge purchases and stay on track at the grocery store. Planning for several days in a row can also help ensure you’re getting enough variety, not planning too many expensive items in one week, and not overestimating how much cooking you can handle.Being realistic when planning can help you stay on track. If you know one day will be busy, plan a simple and quick recipe for that day. If you usually get take away several nights a week, choose one night to pick-up pre-made food, or include frozen meals in your planning. Yes, making food from scratch will generally cost less than pre-made or take away options, but you’re allowed to work up to it. It’s ok if you don’t turn into Julia Child overnight – the idea is to make small, sustainable steps toward spending less in the long term!Pro Tip: Finding that your meal plans are still leaving you over budget? The problem might be a too-expensive menu at the foundation. Consider adding more affordable dishes to your recipe rotation.2. Keep Track Of What You HaveBetween 30 and 40 percent of food in the US turns into food waste, including 31 percent at the customer and retail level. That means a lot of us are buying more food than we eat. Obviously, that means there’s room for improvement in how we collectively shop and use the food we buy.The first way to combat food waste is by making sure you know what’s already in your fridge and cabinets. If one dish will only use part of something perishable, make sure your menu for the week uses up the other half of it. If multiple people in the house buy groceries, keep a shared grocery list and update it regularly to avoid double buying. And, to save money, occasionally do an audit – of your fridge, freezer, and dry and canned goods – and make sure to work what you already have into your menu.You’ll pay less at the store, and you might find a new recipe or combination of things you like!3. Buy What You’ll UseOn a similar note, you can avoid food waste (and tossing hard-earned dollars in the trash!) by buying only what you need and know you will use. If you’re someone who (like your humble blog writer) can only really plan 3 or 4 days out before you start getting restless, don’t buy 7 days of groceries knowing you’ll likely deviate from your plans. Buy 3 or 4 days of ingredients and make another trip later in the week. If two smaller trips can work for your schedule, you’ll be more likely to use what you buy – and, as a bonus, your fruit, vegetables, dairy, and proteins will be fresher when you get to them.This also applies to buying in bulk or buying smaller containers of things. Buy what you’ll use. That means, if you know you use a lot of something and you can get it cheaper per unit by buying in bulk, do it! If you know you use only a little of something in the course of a year, buying a smaller package might make sense. While it’s true that buying in bulk usually saves money, when things are tight, if you almost never use balsamic vinegar and just ran out, it’s ok to pay $5 for a small bottle instead of $9 for one twice the size – sometimes holding onto $4 now is more precious than paying one less dollar in six months or a year.Buying 6 giant bottles of olive oil might mean paying less for olive oil by volume, but if it costs $70 that you can’t now use on other things, have you made the right choice for your budget?4. Look Out For DiscountsThis is a simple solution, but no less effective!There are tons of ways to get discounts on food. You can join store membership programs that allow you to collect points or qualify you for member prices. You can shop weekly sales and collect coupons. And you can join programs designed to combat food waste to connect you to stores with excess products or food they think will expire before it sells, like Olio, FlashFood, and Too Good To Go.Leaving a little flexibility or using weekly sale flyers to make your meal plan can help you pay less for your ingredients and meals.Looking for another way to put more money in your pocket?Consider refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve. Many people are paying more than they need to on their monthly car payment, thanks to dealer markups and volatile interest rates. Discover how much you could save on your monthly car payment in just a few minutes.Get your free quote now.5. Don’t Be Afraid To Get GranularPrice comparing every item you shop might feel maddening at first, but if you’re not putting a lot of thought into the brands you choose or how much of something you buy, now’s a good time to start. While 70 cents here and 30 cents there might seem too small to be worth considering, you can shift your total costs for the year significantly by making those small choices over and over.Sure, sometimes the extra dollar comes with a huge jump in quality, but in many cases, store brands and generic brands are essentially identical to their pricier counterparts. If you have wiggle room, it’s generally best to pick your battles so you never feel like you’re depriving yourself. Financial psychologists suggest that using up too much self control on little things can make you more likely to splurge on something bigger over time.Pro tip: If you go looking, most grocery stores have a scale for customer use in the produce aisle, so if you want to get extra nitpicky, you can start weighing your fruits and vegetables to make sure you stay under budget.6. Branch Out From RoutineAnother way to save money at the grocery store is to look for lower cost options in new places. This can mean trying a vegetable or protein you haven’t made before from your regular store, or trying out new stores. Price comparing your favorite items at competitor stores can help you find deals – and so can branching out to specialty stores. Try visiting local markets that tailor to specific international or regional cuisines, retailers’ cooperatives, or small stores and markets that work directly with local producers. You might find that there are things that cost much less there, and you might find new affordable ingredients that excite you!7. Buy Local & SeasonalOn a similar note, while farmers’ markets have a reputation for organic produce and higher prices, you can sometimes find great deals on produce when dealing directly with the people that grow and harvest it. Keeping track of what’s in season and abundant can give you a clue as to what’s likely to be most affordable.Plus, with prices to import goods from other countries potentially fluctuating, you can avoid sticker shock by keeping track of what’s grown in your area and planning to buy and eat what’s readily available and unaffected by any potential shifts.8. Never Shop Hungry!Last but certainly not least, this is old wisdom, but it holds true. Don’t go to the grocery store hungry! Simply don’t do it! It’s a recipe for coming home with a pile of unplanned snacks and a half baked dinner plan.And Those Are The Best Ways To Save Money on GroceriesNow you know how to save money at the grocery store – all that’s left is to put these tips to work. Did you find something in here that inspired you to get creative with your menu planning and shopping?Get more money for groceries with Auto Approve.If you want a little more wiggle room in your food budget, consider an auto refinance. Auto Approve helps you find the best possible rate for you. Then, once you choose your new loan, we handle the paperwork – it’s easy.It only takes a few minutes to find out how much you can save.Get your free quote now.

Looking for one of the best road trip movies ever to watch? We’ve got you covered.Whether you’re hitting the road yourself or just dreaming of a cross country drive, this list of some of the best road trip movies of all time can help you get in a road trip state of mind.Here at Auto Approve, we love cars – even fictional ones. From wacky hijinks to serious dramas, kids movies to zombie flicks, this list of some of the top rated road trip movies according to critics and audiences alike. (And if you want a no drama way to refinance your vehicle and pay less on your auto loan, we’re here to help!)What to Watch: Best Road Trip MoviesWhile not all of these movies will be to everyone’s taste, there should be something here for everyone.1. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)One of the rare movies equally beloved by both critics and audiences, this quirky comedy about a family driving across the US together in a VW bus to support a little girl who makes the finals of a beauty pageant is heart-warming, poignant, and funny.2. Nomadland (2020)Nomadland is a visually striking drama about a woman, played with depth and subtlety by Frances McDormand, who loses everything and moves into an RV. Based on a true story, it was a critical darling when it was released in 2020, and while the quiet pacing may not be for everyone, it’s a stunning portrait of a difficult life juxtaposed with incredible views of the American West.3. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)This post-apocalyptic action movie may not exactly inspire your next road trip, but it’s certainly a thrilling and well-made action adventure. The movie follows a warrior (Charlize Theron) in a tyrannical society leading a daring escape and trying to drive herself and her companions to safety in a lengthy high speed chase.Got a bad rate on your car loan? It’s not the end of the world.Most people are paying too much on their auto loan, thanks to dealer markups. If you want to lower your monthly car payment, Auto Approve can help find your best possible deal. And if you decide you’re ready to refinance, we do the paperwork for you.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.4. Paper Moon (1973)With a 91% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and 94% audience score, Paper Moon is a gem of a movie. It’s a crime comedy with a heart that was released in 1973 but shot in black and white and styled to look like an old Hollywood classic. It stars real life father and daughter Ryan O'Neal and Tatum O'Neal as a con-man tasked with bringing a little girl to relatives after the death of her mother, only to find that the little girl has a natural knack for confidence tricks.5. Smokey and The Bandit (1977)While perhaps less of a critical darling, no road trip movie list would be complete without Smokey and the Bandit. This classic action trucker comedy – which was a box office hit, to be clear, despite lukewarm reviews – follows notorious truckers Bandit and Snowman (played by Burt Reynolds and Jerry Reid) as they attempt to smuggle 400 cases of Coors beer from Texas to Atlanta.6. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)Arguably the only major Thanksgiving movie, Planes, Trains and Automobiles is an annual rewatch for many. It’s a deeply goofy comedy with a heart of gold starring superstar funnymen Steve Martin and John Candy as two strangers who do everything to make it to Chicago for Thanksgiving.7. The Muppet Movie (1979)If you’ve ever heard Kermit the Frog sing about a rainbow connection, then you already know a little bit about The Muppet Movie. The first movie starring the iconic Muppet characters, this road trip movie takes Kermit and Fozzie across the U.S. (and perhaps briefly Canada) in search of fame and fortune in Hollywood. Along the way, they meet new friends, face dangers, and even, in the case of a particular lady pig, fall in love.8. Chef (2014)This uplifting dramedy was a passion project of Jon Favreau, who wrote, produced, directed and starred – quite the feat! Chef tells the story of a chef at a fine dining restaurant in Los Angeles who clashes with the restaurant’s owner, quits in spectacular fashion, and ends up traveling to Miami after a viral meltdown. There, he’s given a broken down old food truck, which he restores with the help of family and community, then sets out on the road to drive back to Los Angeles.9. Sideways (2004)Sideways is a critically acclaimed road trip film in the tradition of smart but depressing dramedies about midlife. It follows two men in their forties going on a two-man bachelor party weekend in California’s wine country. Thomas Haden Church stars as a washed up actor about to be married and Paul Giamatti plays his friend, a divorced teacher and unpublished author.10. Zombieland (2009)Last but certainly not least, Zombieland is a comedic horror movie set in a future where a zombie plague has taken hold, starring Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin. They play survivors of the plague who work together to drive to a rumored safe zone in California.Special MentionsThese are the 10 films we selected as the best road trip movies, but there are many more great movies (and a few beloved movies of dubious quality) that feature a road trip. Here are a few that didn’t make the cut but are still well worth a watch if they’re up your alley:Will and HarperRoad TripCrossroadsRoad HouseConvoyThe Blues BrothersAnd Those Are Our Top Movies With Road TripsMake some popcorn and hit the couch with your next favorite road movie – and who knows, you might just find yourself inspired to take off for an adventure of your own! After all, there are plenty of great reasons to make your next vacation a road trip. Road trips offer great scenery and activities close to home, and can offer a great getaway at a lower cost. And who doesn’t want to save a few bucks?If you want more money in your pocket, consider refinancing with Auto Approve.Auto Approve can help you find savings on your monthly car payment. Simply fill out our no-commitment form, and in a matter of minutes, find out how much you could save with a lower payment, lower rate, or both.Get your free quote now.