Sellers, beware of this new eBay scam

September 25, 2024

People are buying high-ticket items on eBay, filing returns, then sending back thank-you cards instead of the product. Sellers are reporting the scam (with proof the return label is on a tiny envelope) but get stuck in an endless appeals process. Good luck getting eBay on the phone to help. I’d steer clear for now.

Tags: buying, cards, clear, eBay, items, new, Now, phone, product, scam

Do you need the latest and greatest phone?

Do you need the latest and greatest phone?

Shiny, new things sure have their appeal — take the brand-new Apple iPhone 16. But are the newest flagship phones and laptops worth the extra premium you pay to get them?

Most of the time, and for most people, no. There are a few good reasons why. If you’re tempted by a new smartphone that costs more than a mortgage payment, keep reading. I’ll help you figure out what’s right for you.

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Deals on deals on deals

🦸 Finding good sales is my superpower.

I found a fantastic 4-pack of AirTag holders perfect for keeping track of everything from keys to luggage. Click the coupon for 20% off.
Ladies, if you wear flats, you need no-show shoe liners instead of socks. Comfy, discreet and no more sweaty feet (ew).
For cozy days at home, slouchy socks (12% off) are my new go-to. Yes, Barry makes fun of me.
This wireless Bluetooth sleep mask plays calming sounds, white noise or your favorite tunes without disturbing your partner.
Your pet deserves the best, and this pet water fountain will keep ‘em hydrated and happy.
For all-day comfort, try the groundbreaking insoles with NASA foam technology (10% off). They never flatten!
Made right here in the USA, this fluoride-free whitening toothpaste is packed with natural ingredients and under $10.
Snag a cable organizer pouch (40% off) to keep all your chargers and gadgets neat and protected.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

EVs are cheap right now: You can score the Hyundai Ioniq 5 for $259 a month or lease a Nissan Leaf for just $20 a month (paywall link). How the heck? Dealer incentives. Leased EVs are classified as “commercial vehicles,” qualifying them for a full $7,500 tax credit, which gets passed on to you.

More early Prime Big Deal Days scores

You don’t want to miss these deals!

AirTags are 14% off. I have one on, well, everything. Really! I think I have 10, between me and Barry (and the dog).
Super-sweet deal on a Pixel 8a — only $399. It’s one of the best midrange Android phones around right now.
This portable charger is strong enough to power your computer on the go. Click the coupon box for an extra 20% off.
Clothes are on sale, too, if you need some new threads. Score up to 60% off.
The right gear makes cleaning up after your furry friends so much easier. Bissell’s SpotClean Pet Pro portable carpet cleaner is 29% off.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

It’s a deal today

Yep, I’m still scouring the early Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sales. Hit this link if you want to see ‘em all.

Kasa smart light switches for less than $13, dang.
Gift yourself a snazzy, new iPad for under $200.
The Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet is only $60!
Ring video doorbells have HD video and are easy to install. Plus, right now, they’re as cheap as they get, at $60.
Electric lighters are the best. Only $7? Heck, yeah! I’m never going back to one that takes lighter fluid.
Pillow slippers are so comfy around the house and 43% off now.
A stone bath mat absorbs water without getting slippery. Uh, 90% off? Now’s the time.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

You deserve a nice ride

🏁 Look inside your car. It needs a little TLC, right? Yeah, I thought so.

This tiny cordless car vacuum charges by USB.
A nice dust brush (29% off) tackles the fuzz on your dashboard and vents.
Hang your bags instead of tossing them on the floor with these $5 headrest hooks.
These cupholder coasters (21% off) can catch Diet Coke or anything else that drips.
Washable cloth garbage bags for $8 keep trash contained and out of sight.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

💯 OK, that’s a bargain

The early Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sales continue! To score these deals, you’ll need a Prime membership. Use this link for a 30-day free trial.

Mesh routers are the answer for larger homes with dead zones. The latest eero model is 36% off.
Treat yourself to a cozy new blanket to welcome fall. Tons of sizes and colors — and 58% off. Some colors of the throw version are under $9!
Always wanted a nice robo vac? The iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO is 32% off.
Gals, these leggings look and feel just like Lululemons for a fraction of the price.
These are the screen protectors I use on my iPhone. At the top, use the menu to choose your model. Sweet.
A fan-favorite set of rustproof shower caddies, 76% off right now!

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Stuff I use a lot and like

🤔 I’m not sure what this list says about me other than I like exercise, good food, nice smells, white teeth and no peach fuzz.

I wear this weighted vest when I walk to burn more calories and increase bone density. Order one that’s 10% of your body weight.
I love to make a pot of soup and freeze it in this silicone container. I have lunch for the whole week.
This large aromatherapy candle makes my house smell so good.
This tooth whitener and polisher kit is like going to the dentist to get your teeth cleaned.
I use these $2 blades to shape my eyebrows and get rid of the fuzz on my face, along with those hairs that pop up out of nowhere.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Safety first

I bet you or someone you know has a scary travel story. These gadgets are no-brainers to bring on your next trip to protect yourself and your stuff.

Major security flaws have compromised a huge portion of keycard hotel locks. Easy fix: This doorstop with a built-in alarm (17% off).
Traveling with valuables? Bring your own safe. Hotel rooms don’t always have one. This little portable option is under $24.
Whether you’re traveling abroad or just going out at night, take a personal alarm. This sleek option is 20% off and goes right on your keychain.
Only one in four U.S. homes has a carbon monoxide detector. Bet your Airbnb doesn’t. This one’s 33% off!
Two words: Fanny pack. Wear it across your chest for extra street cred (I do!). This one’s inexpensive and looks great.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Speaking of Temu and Shein: Their cheap wares are for sale on Etsy, a site meant for vintage and handmade goods. Sellers are breaking the rules by listing mass-produced items, sometimes at 10 times the original price. Don’t get duped: Do a reverse image search to see if the same product pops up elsewhere.