5 must-have apps for the holiday season
Ready or not, here come the holidays and the accompanying hustle and bustle!
Need some help? We’ve scouted out some of the best holiday helpers in the form of free apps. They’ll help you save money as you check off gifts from your shopping list, assist in the kitchen, and get you in a zen state of mind (even if the in-laws extend their holiday stay).
Best app for savings, ShopAtHome.com:
Rudolph’s nose and Santa’s suit? Those look great in red. Your checking balance? Not so much. Not only save money this holiday season, but earn Cash Back while you shop.
Always have coupons and deals right at your fingertips with this Cash Back-earning app from ShopAtHome.com. You’ll have access to daily top coupons and deals at thousands of stores, plus earn up to 30 percent Cash Back on your purchases.
If you’re shopping online, you’ll access more than 350,000 online deals at 58,000-plus retailers, earning Cash Back at thousands of stores. (Once you earn $20 or more, you’ll get a check in the mail. And who couldn’t use a little extra cash in their pockets come January?) You can also earn rewards with ShopGold and free gift cards at your fave stores.
If you’re shopping in-store, you can receive notifications for deals and coupons. Coupons in the app can then be presented at the register with your mobile device.
Best app for holiday travel, Waze:
Over the hills and through the woods to grandmother’s house you go? Be sure not to get stuck in a big traffic delay or closure along the way. Whether you’re taking a road trip to see family and friends or are en route to the airport, let Waze be your trusty navigation buddy.
Waze users form a community, providing real-time road condition updates to notify their fellow drivers of slow downs, speed traps, and even the cheapest gas prices, saving you time and money.
Best app for peace of mind, Omvana:
The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most stressful time of the year. Take a few minutes out of your day to meditate. (Really, a few is all you need because Omvana has guided meditations that are anywhere from 3 minutes to 1 hour in duration).
You can also choose a theme and focus on an area you want to improve on — anything from productivity to happiness to relaxation.
The best part? You can bliss out anywhere — whether you take a break at your desk or are on the plane en route to visit family. Get the app here!
Best app for holiday cooking, Yummly
Foodies unite on this app that curates some of the best recipes from all the over the Internet.
This time of year, you’ll find timely recipes featured — we’re talking recipes for leftover turkey and cranberry sandwiches as well as sweet treats like hot chocolate mug cakes.
You can set up unique search filters to help you find the best recipes for you and your family — adjusting those filters based on cook time, allergies, diet and tastes.
The Ymmly app will also create a mobile shopping list for you.
Best app for holiday cheer, Christmas Music by Zaggle
Ready to rock around the Christmas tree?
If you’re hosting a party or just want to get into the holiday spirit, use this virtual jukebox to play all of your favorite holiday songs and discover new ones.
You’ll have access to more than 10,000 holiday songs, ranging from Christmas classics to new songs.
