Consumer News: How to keep your home safe this season

Give a gift card, but with clear effort baked in

• The hack: do a gift card + inexpensiveuseful thing + a short note so it looks planned, not rushed

• 3 rules: pick a useful item (no filler), use a small box (not an envelope), add a 12 sentence note

• It stops last-minute overspending, and you keep 8090% of the budget on the gift card

Last-minute gift ideas are some of the hardest to come up with, and you often end up spending more on the person that you planned just to cross them off your list. If youre like me, you start grabbing random junk that looks fine just to get it done. Then to make matters worse, you spend $15 on a gift bag and card to complete the drill.

Heres the last-minute gift idea fix that works every single time, even when youre down to the wire.

The hack: make a gift card look like a real present

The problem with giving only a gift card is it doesnt show much effort. But if you can combine the boring gift card with one highly practical (yet inexpensive) item youre onto something.

Then you just have to pull it all together with a clever hand-written note. Believe me, it will reflect effort on your part, which is the overall goal for any procrastinator.

To clear things up, think of it like this:

• First, the gift card acts as the real gift.
• Second, think of the add-on item as your I actually thought about you part of the package.
• Lastly, the hand-written note you include is what pulls it all together and makes the whole thing feel personal.

This combo also has a sneaky bonus thats not to be underestimated. It stops you from wandering the aisles until you talk yourself into overspending on something youre not even sure theyll like.

Here are the 3 rules (so it doesnt look like you gave up)

Before we get into the ideas, follow these three simple rules:

Rule #1: The tiny item should be useful, not filler.

Skip the boring candle or scarf that will just be added to the pile. Try to think of something you know theyll get a kick out of and actually use.

Rule #2: Put the gift card in a box, NOT an envelope.

A small box will make it feel like a present. Theres something about ripping open a present that elevates it. Especially if you put a nice ribbon or bow on it. Sometimes its all about the presentation and thats true here.

Rule #3: Add a 12 sentence note. Always.

Dont write an entire paragraph that theyll end up awkwardly skimming. Just write a clever and clear purpose to the gift, it makes all the difference. It basically turns a I didnt know what to get you gift into a I know exactly what you like present.

10 last-minute gift card combos that are thoughtful

1. Coffee shop gift card + reusable cup (or a holiday mug)

Lets be honest here, this is the safest gift on earth. Almost everyone drinks something warm.

Make it feel premium:Consider a note like, Your next 5 lattes are on me.

Budget tip: The mug can come from a dollar spot or discount aisle at Ross or TJ Maxx. That way you can keep more money in the gift card which will be more appreciated.

2. Streaming gift card + popcorn + candy

Grab a gift card for Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ and create an instant movie night kit. Its fun and it totally looks like a planned gift.

Make it feel premium: Add a clever note: One weekend. Zero responsibilities.

3. Target/Walmart gift card + batteries

This sounds boring until you realize its the most young parent approved gift move of all time.

Make it feel premium: Attach the batteries with a note: For the toys youre about to assemble at 11 p.m.

4. Amazon gift card + charging cable (USB-C or Lightning)

This idea is useful, universally needed, and youll never order the wrong size.

Make it feel premium: Say something clever like, For the thing youll order at 2 a.m. when you cant sleep.

5. Gas station gift card + car air freshener + microfiber cloth

Its practical as we all need to gas up. It will also be weirdly appreciated as the air freshener and cloth are things we are usually hesitant to spend money on. Its also super-fast to assemble.

Make it feel premium: Say something like, A little less pain at the pump.

6. Grocery store gift card + fancy chocolate or snacks

This is the perfect last-minute gift for a young adult when you dont know what they want. But youre 100% certain they eat and the cost of groceries is ridiculous right now.

Make it feel premium: Come up with something like, Dinners on you, groceries are on me.

7. Bookstore gift card + bookmark + nice pen

If you still have a Barnes & Noble in your town, this gift idea will read as a very thoughtful, not last-minute, gift.

Make it feel premium: Heres a fun idea, Because doomscrolling needs a rival.

8. Ulta/Sephora/CVS gift card + travel-size hand cream

Make a fun self-care vibe gift that requires zero guessing on shade, favorite color, or skin tone.

Make it feel premium: Try this, Spend it on you, not on errands.

9. Pet store gift card + chew toy or treats

For friends and family who own pets, this gift idea is basically guaranteed joy.

Make it feel premium: Include a note like, For your pets next unnecessary but completely adorable purchase.

10. Home improvement store gift card + mini tape measure

This is the perfect dad or uncle gift. Id even call it a cheat code, especially for the dude who seems to already own everything. Not only is it highly useful and funny, but it comes with zero clutter.

Make it feel premium: Add a note saying, For the next DIY project you swear will be quick.

Make it even cheaper with one smart trick

If you want this tip to stay frugal, flip your spending priorities:

• Spend 8090% of your budget on the card.
• Spend 1020% on the tiny item + packaging.

Most people end up doing the exact opposite. They buy a $30 gift and toss in a $10 gift card as an afterthought. Thats how you end up basically giving clutter in the form of a gift.

Lets say your budget is $50, heres a strong version to consider:

• $40 gift card
• $5$8 small item
• $2$5 packaging

It looks like a gift set, but you didnt pay gift-set prices and you know it will be used and appreciated.

The it still feels personal upgrade worth considering

If you want this to feel really custom without any extra effort, make the note specific to the persons current reality.

Here are some fun examples to think about:

• New parent: For your next we survived today Walmart run.
• Stressed friend: This is for a coffee and 10 minutes of peace.
• Teen: Buy something fun and dont overthink it.
• Host/hostess: Thank you for feeding us like were family that wont leave.

Think of it this way, the card gives flexibility, and the note gives meaning. The bottom-line is to have fun with it and let your creativity flow, if you do that, your last-minute gift will surely be a hit.

Find open restaurants and essentials before you leave the couch

• Some restaurants + a few select location chains stay open onChristmas Day. Check OpenTable/Resy fast, and still call ahead

• Essentials: Walgreens/CVS + 7-Eleven/Circle K/ampm can cover basics in a pinch (pharmacy hours vary by location)

• Dont waste a trip: Most grocery stores + Walmart/Target/Costco are typically closedcheck the store locator before you drive

Christmas Day can easily turn into a scavenger hunt if you find yourself missing one key ingredient or youre phone charger died while you were wrapping presents at 11pm.

But I have some good news for you. You can still find food and essentials on Christmas Day, but you need to know where to look. Many big-name stores and restaurants close their doors completely or have reduced hours.

Restaurants open on Christmas Day

If cooking is not happening (or youre tapped out), Christmas Day dining is usually a mix of classic diners, some chain restaurants, and some spots that take reservations.

• Diners/breakfast:
  • Dennys
  • Dunkin (6am 2pm)
  • IHOP
  • Starbucks (many close by noon)
  • Waffle House
• Sit-down chain restaurants:
  • Applebees (select locations)
  • Benihana
  • Buca di Beppo
  • Buffalo Wild Wings
  • Fogo de Cho
  • P.F. Changs
  • Marie Callenders (takeout only)
  • Red Lobster
  • Romanos Macaroni Grill
  • Shoneys
• High-end restaurants (reservations recommended):
  • Mortons
  • Ruths Chris
  • STK
  • Legal Sea Foods
• Fast food:
  • McDonalds (some locations)
  • Wendys (some locations)
  • Burger King (some locations)
  • Sonic Drive-In (some locations)

Pro tip: For sit-down dining, your fastest whats actually open near me answer is usually a reservations platform like OpenTable or Resy.

Your best bet for groceries: think essentials, not full grocery run

If you need basics (milk, ice, batteries, medicine, paper towels, snacks), the most reliable places to check are pharmacies and convenience stores.

Pharmacies:

• Walgreens:Stores are open on Christmas Day, but pharmacy hours can vary by location, so check the store locator before you drive.
• CVS: Expect location-by-location variation (some open, some reduced hours, some may close), so the safest move is to confirm your specific stores hours.

Convenience stores:

• 7-Eleven: Many locations keep their normal schedule (including 24/7 stores), but franchise locations can vary, so double-check your closest one.
• Circle K: They also keep their regular schedule of being open 24/7.
• AM/PM: Same, theyll be open all day on Christmas.

Grocery stores:

The vast majority of grocery stores will be closed on Christmas Day.

The only grocery store that I could find that is open on Christmas is Albertsons. And not every location will be open, so be sure to check store hours if you have an Albertsons in your neck of the woods.

Whats always closed (so you dont waste a trip)

A few big names are clear about being shut down for Christmas Day:

• Whole Foods Market
• Olive Garden
• Cracker Barrel
• Chipotle
• Subway
• Taco Bell
• Outback
• Texas Roadhouse
• Walmart
• Target
• Costco

The 60-second dont get burned checklist

• Its a good rule of thumb to always check the store locator before you leave as holiday hours can differ by location.
• Definitely call ahead if its a long drive or youre hunting for something specific.
• Aim for pharmacies and convenience stores for your quick essentials. Restaurants, not grocery stores, will be your best bet if you need an actual meal.

From existing debt to emotional burnout, Americans are feeling the pressure before the first gift is wrapped

• New data shows 60% feel financial stress heading into the season, and more than half including 65% of parents start the holidays carrying credit card balances.

• Pressure to create meaningful experiences and get it right leads many consumers to avoid checking balances, feel guilt about spending, and protect travel and traditions even while cutting back elsewhere.

• Experts say reviewing balances, automating payments, and focusing on high-interest debt can quickly restore a sense of control and confidence after the holidays.

For many Americans, the holiday season doesnt begin with twinkling lights or shopping lists it starts with stress.

Between rising costs, family expectations, and the pressure to make it magical, holiday spending has become as emotional as it is financial.

New data from Citizens shows that 60% of Americans feel stressed heading into the holidays, and fewer than one in three feel confident about managing their money during this time. Even more striking: more than half of consumers start the season already carrying credit card debt including nearly two-thirds of parents.

ConsumerAffairs interviewed Adam Boyd, Head of Consumer Lending at Citizens, to understand the emotional pressures behind spending and how to balance joy, expectations, and financial reality.

Tackling credit card debt after the holidays

The Citizens survey found that 54% of Americans and 65% of parents start the holidays with existing credit card debt. That then turns into mounting debt after the holidays, and starting the new year stressed about finances.

Boyd shared some of the most effective strategies for chipping away at that debt after the holidays.

• Get clear on the numbers. January is the time to review balances, interest rates, and minimum payments so there are no blind spots. Avoidance only prolongs the problem, while visibility gives you options.

• Lock in a plan early. Setting up payments for January and February helps turn good intentions into action before spending habits normalize again. Putting structure in place quickly is often what separates progress from procrastination.

• Focus on efficiency. Prioritizing high-interest balances first, often called the debt avalanche method, can significantly reduce how much you pay over time. Even modest extra payments directed to the highest-rate debt can make a meaningful difference.

Reducing financial anxiety

With 60% of Americans feeling stressed about holiday finances, there are ways to overcome that financial anxiety in the new year.

Financial stress usually comes from uncertainty, Boyd said. January is about restoring structure. That can be as simple as creating a short reset periodpausing discretionary spending, reviewing finances weekly, and setting one clear goal for the month.

For people carrying higher-interest balances, reducing the cost of debt can also lower stress quickly. In some cases, consolidating balances or using a balance transfer to a lower-interest card can help create breathing room, as long as theres a clear plan to pay it down rather than add new debt.

Boyd also explained that every step forward can make a positive difference to reducing debt and the stress that comes along with it.

"Progress doesnt have to be dramatic to matter, he said. Paying down a small balance or setting aside even a modest amount of savings can rebuild confidence fast. Tools that improve visibility, like Budget trackers and savings dashboards, also help reduce anxiety by removing guesswork, which is often more stressful than the numbers themselves.

Be in control of your finances

Boyd explained that these survey findings dont point to reckless overspending. Instead, the pressure to get the perfect gift or make the most special memories creates high stress and extra debt.

But as we prepare for the new year, there are ways to feel better about your finances. Here are Boyds top three tips:

• Be intentional about how you use credit. That means knowing which expenses you put on a card, understanding the interest youre paying, and having a clear plan for paying balances down, not just carrying them forward.

• Protect flexibility. Building even a modest emergency buffer helps prevent everyday surprises from turning into new credit card debt, which is often where stress compounds.

• Reduce friction around payments. Automating at least the minimum payment helps protect credit health, avoid fees, and take emotion out of the process. When credit is managed proactively instead of reactively, confidence follows.

Consumers may see the earliest results in emergency response

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• A new federal strategy could bring air taxis, medical transport aircraft and cargo drones into everyday use, with the Department of Transportation laying out a national roadmap to safely integrate advanced air mobility into U.S. airspace.

• Consumers may see the earliest benefits in emergency response, healthcare access and faster deliveries, especially in rural and underserved areas where short-range automated aircraft could fill transportation gaps.

• Safety, community input and gradual rollout are central to the plan, with federal agencies coordinating with states, local governments and industry to introduce the technology in phases rather than all at once.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has unveiled a new national strategy that could change how Americans travel, receive emergency care and get goods delivered not on highways, but in the air just above them.

Transportation Secretary SeanDuffy has announced the nations first Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Strategy, a roadmap designed to bring highly automated aircraft including electric air taxis and cargo drones safely into everyday use across the country.

These advanced air mobility vehicles will benefit the American people, Duffy said, noting they could transform travel, emergency response and access to healthcare. We have a bold strategy to unlock the future of our skies and unleash this next chapter of aviation safely and efficiently.

What is advanced air mobility?

Advanced air mobility refers to a new generation of aircraft that typically fly below 5,000 feet and rely heavily on automation. Unlike traditional airplanes, these vehicles are designed for short trips such as flying patients to hospitals, delivering time-sensitive cargo or transporting passengers across congested cities or remote rural areas.

Federal officials say AAM could help close transportation gaps in underserved communities, speed up first-responder response times and reduce congestion on roads, all while maintaining strict safety standards.

The strategy lays out 40 recommendations across six key areas, including airspace management, infrastructure, security, workforce training and community engagement. A companion implementation plan outlines how federal agencies will work with state governments, local communities and private companies to gradually introduce these aircraft.

Importantly for consumers, the plan emphasizes public acceptance and local planning signaling that new air services wont simply appear overnight without input from the communities below them.

Economic impact and jobs

Todays aviation industry already supports about $1.8 trillion in economic activity and accounts for roughly 4% of U.S. GDP. Federal officials say advanced air mobility could add new jobs, boost domestic manufacturing and keep the U.S. competitive as other countries race to develop similar technologies.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr said the strategy reflects a commitment to innovation while protecting the public interest.

From electric aircraft to AI-powered air traffic systems, this strategy reflects Americas commitment to lead in next-gen aerospace innovation, Carr said. The FCC looks forward to continued collaboration with DOT to make this important vision a reality.

What consumers may notice first

While flying taxis grabbing commuters from rooftops may still be years away, consumers are more likely to see early AAM uses in medical transport, cargo delivery and regional travel. Rural communities could see faster access to hospitals, while businesses may use automated aircraft to move goods more efficiently.

Federal officials stress that widespread deployment will only happen once safety, infrastructure and regulatory requirements are fully met a process expected to unfold in stages over the coming years.

For now, the new strategy signals that the federal government is preparing for a future where the sky just above American neighborhoods becomes a new transportation frontier one designed, officials say, with safety and public benefit at the forefront.