MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

7 Purchases to Always Charge to Your Credit Card

Using a credit card can be a savvy move for various purchases, thanks to the added security and potential perks. Beyond building a strong credit history, some purchases are best made with a credit card to maximize these benefits.

Many cards offer rewards like points or cashback, which can accumulate over time, essentially giving you “free money” if you consistently pay off your balance without incurring interest fees. Remember to use your credit card wisely!

SCORING EVENT TICKETS

Credit cards often offer special access to event tickets. Many card companies have partnerships with event promoters or venues, giving cardholders the chance to buy tickets for concerts, sports events, and other activities before the general public. Sometimes, there are even exclusive events just for cardholders.

For instance, when Taylor Swift’s concert tickets in Singapore went on early sale, UOB cardholders had the advantage of grabbing tickets before others.

PURCHASE BIG-TICKET ITEMS

When buying big-ticket items like refrigerators, laptops, or other electronics, using a credit card is a great idea. Not only can you earn significant rewards points, but many credit cards also provide additional insurance on these items.

This might include extended warranties that double the manufacturer’s warranty or price protection if the item’s price drops shortly after purchase.

MAKE TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Booking travel with a credit card can offer substantial benefits. Many cards provide travel-related perks such as trip cancellation or interruption coverage, lost luggage insurance, and even emergency medical coverage. These benefits can save you from purchasing separate travel insurance.

Travel-themed credit cards typically offer higher rewards points for travel-related expenses. Plus, a credit card is often required to secure bookings for flights, accommodations, and car rentals.

SECURE OVERSEAS PURCHASES

Credit cards are generally more widely accepted than debit cards when traveling abroad. They are also safer to carry compared to large amounts of cash, as lost or stolen credit cards can be cancelled easily. Some credit card companies offer favorable exchange rates, providing additional savings.

Before traveling, notify your credit card provider of your itinerary to avoid any security issues or hindrances with your card while overseas.

ADD TO CART

Using a credit card for online shopping offers several advantages. Credit card transactions are easier to trace and often come with protections against fraudulent charges. Many cards also provide insurance for items lost or damaged in transit.

Always ensure that you never send your credit card information over email or text to safeguard your details.

CHARGE YOUR BUSINESS PURCHASES

For business owners, using a credit card to manage expenses can simplify accounting and help build business credit. Many business credit cards offer cash-back rewards or statement credits for purchases like internet services, cell phone plans, and office supplies, which can aid in tracking and managing cash flow.

Using a dedicated business card for recurring expenses can also help with tax deductions.

PROTECT PHONE PURCHASES

If you enjoy buying products via home shopping channels or infomercials, always use your credit card. This provides protection if you don’t receive the item or if it doesn’t match what was advertised. Credit card protections can save you from potential scams or disappointments from phone orders.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Using your credit card for these types of purchases can provide additional security, rewards, and peace of mind, making it a smart choice for managing your finances.

Sources: 1 & 2

4 instant cameras under $200 to buy for that friend who loves capturing the moment

Take a back seat, digital snapshots, for instant photography will be making a comeback.

If you’ve got a shutterbug in your life who relish the tactile satisfaction of a photo magically developing right before their eyes, this article is for you.

For your friend who lives to capture the moment and hold it in their hands, the instant cameras we’re about to introduce under $200 will be a portal to nostalgia.

Lomo’Instant Camera White Edition

Price: $139

First up, you will want to unleash your friend’s inner shutterbug with the Lomo’Instant Camera White Edition.

This instant camera comes with three shooting modes from dreamy fisheye shots to crisp portraits.

Its ultra-advanced lens system is ready for experimentation, so you can screw on attachments like the Lomo’Instant Lens Combo and get creative.

With easy-to-use features and affordable Fujifilm Instax Mini film, the Lomo’Instant Camera makes instant photography a breeze.

Suitable for both seasoned snappers and novices, this camera will capture vivid instants in no time.

Let the Lomo’Instant Camera inspire your friend’s next photo-filled journey.

Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera Black Edition

Price: $169

Or what about capturing stunning square frames with the Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera?

This adventure-friendly instant camera boasts a foldable design and a precision glass lens that delivers the sharpest Instax Square photos possible.

Automatic exposure ensures your shots are perfectly lit, while advanced settings like zone-focusing and exposure compensation let you fine-tune creativity.

With its array of attachments, this adaptable camera is ready for symmetrical cityscapes or candid moments on the go.

Affordable Fujifilm Instax Square film means the fun never has to end even without a huge budget.

Diana Instant Square Camera with Flash Classic Edition

Price: $188

Inspired by the iconic 1960s medium format original, this cult classic sprinkles your shots with striking effects from saturated colors to moody vignettes.

Fully manual controls give the photographer unrivaled creative freedom, while the built-in Diana F+ Flash lights up your after-dark instant photos.

There’s no re-take, no post-production polishing so just snap the shot, and seconds later, hold a beautiful, one-of-a-kind picture in your hands.

Whether your friend’s a seasoned analog shooter or new to instant photography, the Diana Instant Square Camera will have them capturing history.

Lomo’Instant Camera & Lenses Song’s Palette Edition

Price: $199

Last but not least, this fuss-free instant camera is dressed in an exclusive artwork by South Korean artist Park Song Lee, showcasing her signature pastel-pop palette.

With three versatile shooting modes including auto flash and two manual settings, as well as fisheye, portrait, and close-up lens attachments, your buddy can easily immortalize every moment, from landscapes to portraits.

Just point, shoot, and watch the film unfold.

It is a must-have for any fan of instant photography or limited edition colorful, contemporary design.

And here’s a wrap-up of our snapshot tour through the best instant cameras under $200. Every single one offers a creative outlet, a way to capture life’s moments, and a tangible piece of time that your friend can treasure forever. Whether it’s for a seasoned photographer or a novice eager to see through a fresh lens, one of these instant cameras is sure to inspire a new collection of priceless, personal art. Grab one today!

3 best-rated art-jamming studios in Singapore to let your inner artist shine through

A canvas is before you, and you’ve got a palette of bright colors by your side…

What do you do?

If a room filled with creative energy excites you, then you might want to try a hand at art jamming, where strokes are made through self-expression.

It’s a good way to explore your creativity without the pressure of perfection.

In this article, we will introduce you to some of the best-rated art-jamming studios in Singapore where you can let your inner artist roam free and create your very own masterpiece.

Ready or not, let’s roll.

Motion Art Space

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Website: motionartspace.com

Google Rating: 5 (1160+ reviews)

First up, we have this space where you can discover your inner Picasso.

At Motion Art Space, no artistic talent is required as their motion-based technique allows anyone to create gallery-worthy masterpieces in just one hour.

Choose your package, get set up with all the necessary materials, and follow their short 5-minute intro before you start.

Then let the magic of motion guide your brush as you produce a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Collect your painting in 3 days and proudly display your new creation anywhere you wish.

Prices start at just $59 for children and $69 for adults, with various packages and add-ons available.

Motion Art Space makes everyone an artist (and quite a good one)

Wildflower Studio

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Website: wildflowerstudio.sg

Google Rating: 5 (450+ reviews)

Or consider Wildflower Studio, a place where cats and creativity collide.

This heartwarming haven partners with cat rescuers to nurse felines back to health and socialize them with art enthusiasts and pet lovers alike.

Choose from a ‘Semi-Guided Art Jam with Cats’, where facilitators guide your brushstrokes, or the more casual ‘Chill Out with Cats’ session to paint at your own pace and snuggle with your feline muses.

With prices starting at just $20/hour, it’s a purr-fect adventure for all ages—from kids to the kids at heart.

We promise it’s a welcoming community that celebrates both art and animal welfare.

Artify Studio

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Website: artifystudio.com

Google Rating: 5 (110+ reviews)

Last but not least, you may want to spark your creative spirit at Artify Studio, where art is an open door to everyone.

This studio is a hub that offers a judgment-free zone to unleash your inner artist.

From guided art jamming sessions starting at just $35 to unguided sessions from $25, you will find endless ways to get your paint on, exploring colors, textures, and self-expression.

Artify Studio’s welcoming community and guidance make art-making accessible to all.

So, grab your brushes and get ready to create your next masterpiece in this unrestricting space.

Art is more than just paint and canvas, it’s also about creativity and a respite from the hustle. Whether it’s a therapeutic afternoon, a chance to develop your artistic skills, or simply a time to bond with friends and family, these studios are sure to add a splash of color to your otherwise mundane life. So just pick up a brush, don’t overthink things, and let your creativity lead the way to your next masterpiece. Enjoy your session(s)!

8 Ways to Lose Weight and Still Keep Your Budget

Losing weight often comes with the concern of high costs. From expensive gym memberships to pricey diet foods, the financial burden can seem daunting. However, shedding pounds doesn’t have to make you broke.

Here are eight practical ways to lose weight while keeping your finances in check, especially for those living in Singapore.

EMBRACE HOME WORKOUTS

You don’t need a gym membership to get fit. There are countless free resources online, from YouTube workout videos to fitness apps that offer comprehensive routines.

COOK AT HOME

Eating out or buying pre-packaged diet meals can quickly become expensive. Cooking at home allows you to control ingredients and portions while saving money. Websites like Noob Cook offer recipes that are both healthy and budget-friendly.

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Meal planning helps you avoid impulse purchases and reduce food waste. Buy only what you need, which means fewer trips to NTUC and less temptation to buy snacks. You can keep a journal to plan your weekly meals.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

UTILIZE LOCAL PRODUCE

Buying fruits and vegetables in season from wet markets or local farms can be cheaper than purchasing out-of-season produce at the grocery store. Additionally, local produce is often fresher and more nutritious.

DRINK MORE WATER

Sometimes, hunger is confused with thirst. Drinking a glass of water before meals can help you feel fuller and prevent overeating. Plus, it’s free!

WALK OR CYCLE AROUND

Incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym. Try walking or cycling to work, or get off the bus or MRT one stop earlier to get those extra steps in.

JOIN FREE FITNESS COMMUNITIES

There are numerous online communities and local groups dedicated to fitness and health. These can offer support, motivation, and accountability without any cost. Check Eventbrite for free fitness events.

MAKE USE OF WHAT YOU HAVE

You don’t need fancy equipment to get a good workout. Use what you have at home – chairs for tricep dips, stairs for step-ups, or even canned goods as weights.

IN A NUTSHELL

Losing weight on a budget in Singapore is all about creativity and commitment. By making small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle, you can achieve your fitness goals without emptying your wallet.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Share your own budget-friendly weight loss tips and stories in the comments!

Tips for motivating yourself to follow through on your gym membership

You joined the gym with the best intentions early this year.

The New Year’s resolution to get in shape, the vision of the beach body you’ve always wanted…

You were ready to crush it!

But fast forward to June 2024, the motivation faded.

Suddenly your schedule is too busy or you need to be more energized after work.

We’ve all been there and that’s why this article is for you.

Get in the right mindset

Start small and build up slowly

Don’t feel overwhelmed by the thought of a full-hour workout.

Use a 15-minute rule and commit to just 15 minutes of exercise.

This can help overcome the mental barrier of “I don’t have time for the gym today.”

Once you complete the first 15 minutes, you’re likely to feel motivated to continue for longer.

Set clear and realistic goals

Figure out why you want to go to the gym and set specific and realistic goals to work towards.

Maybe you want to lose 5 kg in 3 months or build enough strength to do 10 pushups.

Whatever it is, having a goal and tracking your progress towards it can enhance your motivation.

Celebrate small wins along the way.

Helpful tips to encourage yourself to go to the gym

Dress for a workout, even if you’re not feeling up to it

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Put on your gym clothes and sneakers as soon as you leave work.

You will likely feel more in the mood to work out and clock in that session.

Get a workout partner to keep you accountable

Find a friend with similar goals and arrange to meet a group at the gym.

You will be more inclined to show up so you don’t leave them waiting, and you can spur each other on during your workout.

If you can’t find a real-life partner, consider hiring a personal trainer (though that will mean forking out more $$$).

Reward yourself for going to the gym

Set small rewards along the way to stay motivated, like treating yourself to a healthy smoothie after every 3 visits to the gym or a massage after hitting 10 visits.

Having these rewards to work towards will make you want to keep going back.

Proper nutrition and rest are essential for workout motivation

Eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep every night will fuel your motivation.

When your body feels good, you will be eager to get to the gym and make the most of your workout.

Staying in shape and building strength requires commitment, so do what you can to help set yourself up for success.

Now, we hope you have no excuse not to get to the gym anymore! Start by setting realistic goals and tracking progress. Reward yourself for hitting milestones. Find an accountability partner to help keep you motivated. And once the routine is in, those endorphins will get flowing and you will be excited to keep at it. So put on your favorite shoes/outfit, grab your water bottle, and go get the body you want!

Motion Art Space

Wildflower Studio

Artify Studio

Get in the right mindset

Helpful tips to encourage yourself to go to the gym

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