Holiday planning doesn’t have to feel like a full-time job. Think of Skimm+ as your friendly little elf — armed with budget trackers, gift ideas, and tips from women who’ve been there, bought that, wrapped it twice. We get that personal finance is personal and that sometimes, you’ve got the relative who needs the $$$$ oversize throw just to ward off a temper tantrum. No guilt trips here. Just the tools you need to spend smarter this season.
Here’s the thing: Seven figures sounds huge. But factor in housing, childcare, inflation, and the fact that most people’s “wealth” isn’t liquid, and suddenly a lot of Americans fall into this weird middle zone: technically well-off, still stressed about money.
Sure, it’s easy to roll your eyes at millionaire problems. But the bigger takeaway is simpler: Money is messy for everyone. The silver lining? The basics of building wealth still work, no matter how much you may have in your account. Here’s how:
Talk with your family. Money conversations feel awkward, especially around inheritances or future caregiving. But they matter. Understanding whether you might receive money or be expected to provide support helps you plan realistically.
Remember: It’s your path to wealth. We get it: Hearing people complain about their millions can feel tone-deaf when you’re fighting your own financial battles. But your timeline doesn’t have to match anyone else’s. Small steps — upping your contributions, automating savings, paying down high-interest debt — still move the needle.
Ready or not, the holidays are here. This is your cheat sheet for everything you need to sail through the season without breaking the bank.
Whether it’s for Secret Santa or that obligatory gift you give your third cousin because of tradition, here’s what people actually want — with many suggestions around $20.
But aren’t lower rates good? Kinda. Cheaper borrowing can give the economy a boost and make it easier to get loans for homes, cars, or business projects.
Bottom line: It’s not the last we’ll hear about interest rates. President Trump will likely pick a new Fed chair in the coming weeks, and economists are watching this choice closely, as this person will impact future rate cuts in 2026.
That’s how much time people say they get back each week by bringing on a financial advisor.† That’s over 100 hours a year you can spend doing literally anything else.
Vanguard’s Digital Advisor is a low-cost, zero-stress tool to help you plan for the big stuff — like buying a home, saving for college, or retiring comfortably. It builds out a personalized plan for your future, so you can stay focused on the present. The best part? Fees start at just $15-$16 per year for every $10,000 in an all-index portfolio — but you won’t pay advisory fees for the first 90 days. So go ahead, reclaim your time.‡
One Good Buy
Going Places
Part of being money smart is knowing what’s worth the spend.
Our commerce team tests it all — so you only see the picks that deserve your time and your budget. And because everyone spends differently, we pick three different price points to help you find what works best for you.
This week: luggage. Yes, your college-era duffel still technically works. But these carry-ons protect your stuff and look good rolling through TSA.
Sized to meet stricter European carry-on rules, this one’s made with stain-resistant fabric and smooth-gliding wheels that handle everything from cobblestones to crowded concourses.
A durable piece that’ll carry you through the next decade: Away The Carry-On ($247)
Our editor’s been using hers for nearly a decade. From overhead bins to trunk tosses, it holds up to real-world travel. It also comes in a slightly bigger size that’s still carry-on friendly.
Expands up to two inches (because souvenirs happen), includes a built-in weight indicator to keep you honest, and has a padded handle that makes hauling extra stuff feel luxurious.
Just Trust Us
Trending products and brands our shopping team has been loving recently.
Take up to 40% off at Abercrombie & Fitch right now. This faux fur coat is what your holiday outfits are missing.
