Smart Travel

Rental car companies love to sneak in extra charges, but knowing a few simple tricks can save you hundreds.

Booking a rental car should be straightforward, but hidden fees, overpriced insurance, and tricky upsells can quickly turn a good deal into an expensive mistake. Many travelers unknowingly pay far more than they should, either by missing out on discounts or falling for unnecessary add-ons. The difference between an overpriced rental and a budget-friendly one often comes down to knowing how the system works.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to avoid getting overcharged. Whether it’s booking at the right time, skipping unnecessary fees, or leveraging credit card perks, a little planning can make a huge difference in what you pay. Rental car companies won’t tell you their secrets, but we will.

Use these proven tips to keep more money in your pocket the next time you rent a car.

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High state debt can strain local economies, leading to reduced public services and increased taxes.

State debt isn’t just a number on a balance sheet—it directly impacts residents’ daily lives. High debt levels can lead to reduced funding for essential services like education and infrastructure, while also increasing the tax burden on citizens. Understanding which states carry the most debt and how it affects their economies is crucial for both policymakers and residents.

Below, we explore 12 states with the highest debt levels and examine how this financial burden influences their local economies.

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Travel credit cards can unlock incredible perks, but simple mistakes can cost you big time.

Using the right travel credit card can mean free flights, luxury hotel stays, and valuable perks that make your trips more comfortable. But if you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to miss out on rewards or rack up unnecessary fees. Many travelers assume their card will automatically work in their favor, only to realize later that they’ve lost points, paid hidden charges, or failed to take advantage of important benefits.

A great travel credit card is only as good as how you use it. Small errors—like using the wrong card abroad or missing a sign-up bonus—can leave money on the table or even put you in financial trouble. Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure you get the most out of your travel rewards while keeping your finances in check.

If you’re serious about maximizing your travel credit card, here’s what you need to watch out for.

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Living in these countries can free you from the daily grind without draining your savings.

The dream of ditching the traditional workweek and embracing a life of freedom isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. In fact, there are countries around the world where you can stretch your dollar so far that the idea of working less—or not at all—becomes a real possibility. By moving to a place with a low cost of living, you can make your savings or passive income go much further, opening the door to a life filled with adventure, relaxation, or creative pursuits.

Imagine waking up without an alarm, enjoying breakfast by the beach, or wandering through vibrant local markets—all without worrying about clocking in for a shift. The key is finding the right destination where housing, food, and everyday expenses won’t eat up your budget. These countries offer not only affordability but also rich cultures, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to live life on your own terms.

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