Stephanie Faris

AP Buyline Shopping • September 2nd, 2024

Best backpacks for school: An option for every budget and student

Every school year, students load up on pencils, notebooks and paper, and they’ll need a way to carry all that stuff around. The best backpacks for students will hold textbooks and supplies, distributing their weight evenly to protect your kiddo's joints. But with so many functional (and stylish) options fighting for your attention, it’s important to look at the most crucial features and make sure you’re getting the right backpack to fit your needs.

The Penny Hoarder • August 31st, 2024

How to Change Your Estate Plan After Your Spouse Dies

Nobody lives forever, but death isn’t the most pleasant topic. So it can feel all too easy to put off estate planning, putting you at risk of dying without a will or directions for your final arrangements. But even if you’re among the 1 in 3 Americans who have a will, your work isn’t done. It’s important to regularly revisit your documents and change your estate plan to reflect your current circumstances. 
This is especially important after a spouse dies. But a spouse’s death can be complicated....

AP Buyline Shopping • August 30th, 2024

The best folding treadmills for hitting your daily step goal

A treadmill is a great way to get in your daily steps even when the weather isn’t ideal. But the equipment can take up significant space. The best folding treadmills give you the at-home workout you need while also freeing up space when it isn’t in use.

The Penny Hoarder • August 12th, 2024

Why Financial Literacy is Important

The importance of financial literacy goes beyond paying your bills. When you’re truly financially literate, you understand how to prepare for your future while also taking care of today’s finances. 
But if you don’t consider yourself financially literate, you aren’t alone. In fact, according to a recent survey by The Penny Hoarder, 32% of respondents either don’t consider themselves financially literate or don’t know what it means. Here’s what you need to know to improve your financial literacy....

AP Buyline Shopping • August 6th, 2024

Best iPhone VPNs for security, privacy and safer browsing

Your iPhone sends and receives information throughout the day, whether you’re on a safe Wi-Fi network or connected to cellphone towers while you’re out and about. A virtual private network (VPN) safeguards your communications with outside networks, keeping your data safe when you’re away from home. These are my picks for the best iPhone VPNs available.

AP Buyline Shopping • August 5th, 2024

Arzopa Z1RC 2.5K Portable Monitor review: Productivity on the go

Working from home means being able to log in from anywhere — that’s what I love about it. But it’s tough to get fully comfortable when working out of hotel rooms or relatives’ homes. That’s where a portable monitor can help, since you can create an office wherever you are. I tested the Arzopa Z1RC Portable Monitor and found it makes working away from home a breeze, with clear definition and accurate colors. Read the rest of my Arzopa Z1RC 2.5K Portable Monitor review to find out if it’s a good fit for your needs.

AP Buyline Shopping • July 29th, 2024

The 10 Best Volleyball Shoes in 2024

Volleyball isn’t just a sport, it’s a great and fun way to stay physically active. As with many high-intensity sports, though, volleyball can lead to injuries, particularly of the knees and ankles. The right pair of shoes can provide the traction and support you need to reduce those risks while enjoying your favorite sport. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up the best volleyball shoes for every kind of player.

AP Buyline Shopping • July 23rd, 2024

The 10 Best VR headsets of 2024

Virtual reality has long been billed as the next big thing. Instead of staring at a TV screen or computer monitor, you can slide a pair of goggles into place and immerse yourself in your favorite game, online content or entertainment. Whether you’re a serious gamer or you want to gamify your fitness routine, there’s a VR headset that can do the job. This roundup of the best VR headsets will help you find the right tech to fit your needs.

AP Buyline Shopping • July 18th, 2024

Arzopa A1 Portable Monitor review: A light, powerful screen

The Arzopa A1 Portable Monitor is a slim, lightweight screen that makes it easy to take work on the go with you. It can also be used for gaming and other entertainment and connects easily to your favorite devices, getting its power from your laptop. Keep reading for a lowdown on the features, pros and cons and specifications of this portable monitor in our Arzopa A1 Portable Monitor review.

TIME Stamped • July 7th, 2024

Stephanie Faris

I've always been a cool sleeper. My husband has a fan on high on the night table, blasting at the highest speed on him. But this year, that’s changed. Blame it on perimenopause, but I now can’t even sleep without a ceiling fan. That’s why I was so excited to try the Serta ThermaGel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper. Did it succeed in cooling me off? Let’s find out.