Consumer News: Here are some hacks for stretching your household budget

The national average price is down nearly a dime in the last week

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• National average gasoline prices fell below $4 a gallon late Sunday for the first time since mid-April.

• Oil prices dropped sharply after reports of an emerging U.S.-Iran agreement that could restore crude flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

• Analysts say motorists could see additional price relief in the coming weeks, though risks remain if the agreement falters.

Gasoline prices had been declining for days in anticipation of an Iran deal. When one was announced, the price declines gained momentum.

According to GasBuddy, the national average price of gasoline fell 9.3 cents over the past week to $3.99 per gallon, marking the first time prices have dipped below the $4 threshold since mid-April. The decline comes as oil markets reacted positively to news that the United States and Iran are moving toward a deal that could ease tensions in the Middle East and restore disrupted energy supplies.

The agreement, while still preliminary, has fueled expectations that the Strait of Hormuz a critical shipping route for roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply could reopen fully, allowing more crude oil to reach global markets. Oil prices responded immediately, with benchmark crude falling more than 5% Monday as traders priced in the prospect of increased supply.

"Gas prices are now declining in most states, and the national average has finally fallen below $4 per gallon," GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan said in the company's weekly market update.

The drop extends a multi-week trend that has already pushed gasoline prices lower across much of the country.

Turbulent spring

The recent decline follows a turbulent spring in which gasoline prices surged, as conflict involving Iran disrupted global oil supplies and threatened shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. At one point, the national average climbed above $4.50 per gallon before beginning a steady retreat as hopes for diplomacy emerged.

More relief could be ahead. Energy analysts say lower oil prices should eventually translate into cheaper gasoline, although consumers may need to wait a bit longer to see the full benefit.

While crude oil markets react almost instantly to geopolitical developments, gasoline prices typically take days or weeks to catch up, as existing inventories move through refineries and distribution networks. Experts say the restoration of shipping routes and oil production will gradually improve supply conditions throughout the summer.

Some analysts believe the national average could fall into the upper-$3 range within the next two weeks if crude prices remain near current levels. However, the pace of decline will vary by region depending on local fuel taxes, refinery capacity, and transportation costs.

Risks remain

Despite the optimism, analysts caution that the situation remains fragile. Details of the U.S.-Iran agreement are still being finalized, and unresolved issues including future security arrangements and broader diplomatic negotiations could create renewed volatility in energy markets.

GasBuddy has previously warned that while prices have been falling, relief could prove temporary if geopolitical tensions flare again or if oil supply disruptions re-emerge. AAA has likewise noted that crude prices remain highly sensitive to developments in the Middle East.

Motorists are benefiting from the market's belief that the worst of the energy shock may be over. With oil prices at their lowest levels in months and gasoline averaging less than $4 per gallon nationwide, the outlook for summer driving costs appears considerably brighter than it did just a few weeks ago. But that all depends on the next few days.

Its also expanding its beverage lineup

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• KFC has unveiled a major global menu overhaul centered on boneless chicken, expanded sauce offerings, and a new beverage platform called Kwench.

• The chain plans to introduce more than 20 new sauces and a range of Dunked chicken items designed to appeal to younger consumers and changing eating habits.

• New drinks, including boba refreshers, lemonades, shakes, and iced coffees, will be rolled out as KFC seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive fast-food chicken market.

KFC is the latest restaurant chain to shake up its menu to keep up with the times. Its rolling out one of the most significant menu transformations in its history, signaling a shift in strategy as the iconic fried chicken chain adapts to changing consumer tastes and intensifying competition in the fast food industry.

The global overhaul centers on three key areas: expanded boneless chicken offerings, a broader lineup of sauces, and a new beverage platform known as Kwench by KFC. Company executives say the changes are designed to better align with modern dining habits, particularly among younger customers who increasingly favor snackable foods, customizable flavors, and specialty beverages.

Among the most notable additions are new chicken tenders and a collection of more than 20 sauces, including flavors, such as Chimichurri Ranch and Hot Honey Habanero. KFC also plans to introduce a series of Dunked menu items featuring chicken coated in signature sauces. The concept builds on lessons learned from Saucy, KFCs experimental chicken-tender-focused restaurant concept.

New beverage offerings

The beverage expansion marks another major departure from KFCs traditional menu. Under the Kwench brand, customers will see offerings such as boba refreshers, sparkling lemonades, iced coffees, and milkshake-style drinks. Several of the beverages have already been tested internationally and are expected to reach additional markets this year.

The menu changes come as KFC faces growing pressure from rivals including Chick-fil-A, Popeyes, Raising Canes, and Wingstop. While the chain remains one of the worlds largest restaurant brands, executives acknowledge that consumer preferences have evolved beyond the classic bucket of bone-in fried chicken that helped build KFCs reputation.

In addition to the food and beverage updates, KFC is introducing redesigned restaurant formats with a greater emphasis on digital ordering, customer experience, and sustainability. New prototype locations are expected to debut in Texas and Dubai later this year.

Despite the modernization efforts, KFC says it is not abandoning its heritage. The company plans to maintain its focus on the Colonel Sanders brand while updating its menu and restaurant experience for a new generation of customers. Executives describe the initiative as an evolution rather than a reinvention of the 74-year-old chain.

The measure has bipartisan support

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• The bipartisan Report.gov Act would create a single federal website where consumers can report and seek assistance, replacing what lawmakers describe as a confusing patchwork of reporting options.

• The legislation would also require the federal government to develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent , improve coordination among agencies, and support enforcement efforts.

• Sens. Maggie Hassan and Rick Scott say the measure is intended to make it easier for victims to report fraud while helping authorities identify trends and pursue scammers more effectively.

are proliferating, costing Americans millions of dollars in losses, and Congress has taken notice. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) are preparing to introduce bipartisan legislation that would establish a centralized federal portal for reporting and strengthen the governments overall response to fraud.

The measure, known as the Report.gov Act, would create a secure website where consumers could report , obtain information about available assistance, and be directed to the appropriate authorities. The proposal is designed to address what lawmakers say is a fragmented reporting system that often leaves victims uncertain about where to turn for help.

According to Hassan, consumers currently face a maze of reporting options that can include the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the FBIs Internet Crime Complaint Center, state agencies, and local law enforcement. During a recent congressional hearing on , Hassan said she was working with Scott on legislation that would create a central secure website for Americans to report and get assistance.

More federal protections

In addition to establishing the online portal, the bill would require the development of a comprehensive federal strategy to prevent , improve coordination among government agencies, and strengthen efforts to hold fraudsters accountable.

The legislation comes as lawmakers from both parties intensify efforts to combat increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes, including those that rely on artificial intelligence, impersonation tactics, and overseas criminal networks. Hassan has launched a broader Senate initiative examining the economic impact of , which she has said cost consumers worldwide an estimated $1 trillion in 2024.

Clearing up the confusion

Federal officials have acknowledged that the current reporting process can be confusing for consumers. During the March hearing, FBI and Federal Trade Commission representatives agreed to work with lawmakers on simplifying scam reporting and improving assistance for victims.

The FTC currently operates ReportFraud.ftc.gov, which collects fraud reports and shares them with thousands of law enforcement agencies, but the proposed legislation would seek to create a broader government-wide entry point for scam victims and improve coordination across agencies.

Supporters argue that a centralized reporting system could help authorities spot emerging fraud trends more quickly, improve information sharing, and make it easier for victims to navigate the aftermath of a scam. The bill is expected to be introduced in the coming days.

More travelers are choosing vacations with less screen time

• Travelers are unplugging: More people are seeking "digital detox" vacations to escape screens, social media, and constant notifications.

• Cheaper trips often work best: Cabins, campgrounds, state parks, and small towns naturally encourage less screen time and lower travel costs.

• Start small: Set phone-free hours, plan offline activities, and limit screen use instead of trying to disconnect completely.

For years, vacations were supposed to help us relax. But somewhere along the way, many travelers started bringing their stress with them.

Instead of disconnecting, we're checking work emails from the beach, scrolling social media while sitting around a campfire, and spending hours staring at screens while supposedly taking a break from everyday life.

Now a growing number of travelers are pushing back as interest in "digital detox" vacations is surging as people look for ways to escape constant notifications, social media feeds, and the pressure of always being available.

According to data shared by rail booking platform TrainPal, searches for "digital detox" have risen dramatically this year as travelers seek slower, simpler trips focused on rest and presence rather than screen time.

The trend comes as many Americans admit their digital habits may be taking a toll. Nearly half of adults ages 18 to 34 say their online behavior negatively affects their well-being, helping fuel interest in vacations designed specifically to encourage unplugging.

The good news? You don't need an expensive wellness retreat or a luxury resort to benefit from a digital detox. In many cases, the best digital detox vacations are also among the most affordable.

Why travelers are choosing to unplug

The appeal is simple. Phones have become alarm clocks, cameras, entertainment centers, GPS devices, shopping tools, workstations, and social hubs all rolled into one.

The downside is that many people rarely experience a moment when they're completely disconnected. That constant stimulation can make it difficult to relax, sleep, focus, or fully enjoy time with friends and family.

A digital detox vacation aims to reverse that by intentionally reducing screen use and encouraging travelers to engage with their surroundings.

Rather than documenting every moment online, the goal is to actually experience those moments.

Even a weekend away can help people reset unhealthy habits and return home feeling more refreshed.

The cheapest digital detox destinations are often the best

One surprising aspect of the trend is that many digital detox vacations cost less than traditional trips.

Rural destinations, state parks, cabins, campgrounds, lake houses, and small towns naturally encourage travelers to slow down.

They're also often significantly cheaper than major tourist destinations.

According to Airbnb's summer travel trends, many travelers are choosing closer-to-home destinations this year, partly because they offer lower costs and less stress.

Instead of flying across the country, some families are opting for:

• State park cabins

• Camping trips

• Mountain towns

• Lakeside rentals

• National forest campgrounds

• Rural Airbnb properties

Many of these locations have another built-in advantage: spotty cell service.

When scrolling isn't an option, unplugging becomes much easier.

Start with a realistic goal

One reason many digital detox attempts fail is because travelers try to quit technology completely, like 100% cold turkey.

Instead, decide what you're hoping to achieve and build your plan around that

For example, do you want to:

• Spend more time with family?

• Reduce stress?

• Improve sleep?

• Take a break from social media?

• Reconnect with nature?

Having a clear objective helps shape the trip and makes your success easier to measure.

For example, if youre looking to improve your connection with your spouse or kids, you might prioritize board games, hiking, and shared meals. Conversely, if youre more focused on reducing stress you might prefer reading, meditation, or yoga.

Pro tip: Consider starting with a "phone curfew." Instead of eliminating phone use entirely, establish specific hours when devices are off limits. For example, no phones during meals, hikes, or after 8 p.m. This feels far less restrictive while still reducing your screen exposure significantly.

Replace screen time with something better

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is simply putting their phone away and hoping for the best. Without an alternative activity, boredom often sends people right back to their screens.

Experts recommend planning offline activities ahead of time. Popular options include things like hiking, fishing, reading, journaling, photography, biking, yoga, and card/board games.

The goal isn't to stay busy every single minute. But rather it's to have enough meaningful activities available that scrolling becomes less appealing.

Pro tip: Choose lodging with limited Wi-Fi. If temptation is a concern, pick accommodations where internet access is intentionally limited or unavailable. Many cabins and campgrounds now market this as a feature rather than a drawback.

Tell people you're going offline

Many travelers remain tethered to their devices because they worry about missing messages.

A simple solution is to set expectations before leaving. Tell friends, family, and coworkers that you'll have limited access to your phone.

You can also:

• Set an email auto-response

• Enable Do Not Disturb mode

• Create an emergency contact plan

• Designate a specific check-in time each day

Once people know you're unavailable, the pressure to constantly monitor your phone often disappears or dissipates.

Pro tip: Make sure you pack plenty of the good ol fashioned analog entertainment. Stuff like books, magazines, puzzles, playing cards, and travel games provide easy alternatives when you encounter some downtime.

Use technology strategically

Ironically, if you use technology the right way, it can actually help support a digital detox.

Specifically, before you leave home, try a few of these options:

• Download maps for offline use

• Save travel reservations

• Download music playlists

• Screenshot important directions

• Save emergency contact information

This allows you to access essential information without repeatedly reconnecting to the internet.

Many travelers also temporarily remove social media apps from their phones before departure. The inconvenience of reinstalling and remembering usernames and passwords can help to keep you off the apps that encourage scrolling.

Pro tip: Bring an actual camera if you still own one. Many people reach for their phones to take photos and then get distracted by notifications. A basic digital camera allows you to capture memories without opening social media.

The goal isn't perfection

Using your phone to navigate, check weather forecasts, or contact family members isn't failure. The real objective is reducing the mindless screen time and becoming more present during your vacation.

If that means checking your phone once a day instead of once every ten minutes, that's still a win. In a world where we're constantly connected, even a small break from screens can feel surprisingly refreshing.

Pro tip: Try a 24-hour challenge first. You don't need a week-long retreat. A single day without social media or non-essential screen use can provide many of the same benefits.

New online rules aim to reshape childhood experiences

• The U.K. government plans to ban social media platforms from offering services to children under the age of 16.

• Additional restrictions would limit features such as livestreaming and communication with strangers for younger users.

• The proposed measures are expected to be introduced to Parliament before Christmas and could take effect in spring 2027.

The U.K. government has announced plans to prohibit children under the age of 16 from using major social media platforms.

The move is part of a broader effort to give young people more time away from screens and strengthen online protections. According to the government, the proposal would establish a new standard for future generations and represents one of the most significant changes to online child safety rules in recent years.

The announcement follows a nationwide consultation that generated more than 116,000 responses from parents, children, and experts. Government officials said the feedback showed strong support for tougher online safeguards, with nine in 10 parents backing a social media ban for under-16s. The government also reported that two-thirds of young people agreed that children younger than 16 should not be allowed to access at least some social media platforms.

Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a news release.

Ive heard firsthand from families crying out for change and we will do right by them. Thats why were going further than any country in the world by banning social media for under-16s and putting wider protections in place to give kids their childhood back. This is a line in the sand. Tech giants had their chance and failed, but were stepping in to protect children, back parents, and set a new normal for future generations.

What the proposal would do

Under the plan, platforms that are primarily designed for user interaction and content sharing would be prohibited from offering services to children under 16.

The government specifically identified platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X as examples that would fall within the scope of the ban. Messaging services like WhatsApp and Signal would not be included.

The proposal goes beyond social media access. The government also intends to restrict features it considers particularly risky for young users, including livestreaming and communication between children and strangers online.

These restrictions would apply across a broader range of online services, including some gaming platforms. Additionally, certain protections would remain enabled by default for 16- and 17-year-olds.

Officials also announced that AI chatbots designed to simulate romantic or sexual relationships would be required to enforce a minimum age of 18. The government said further details on potential measures, including overnight curfews and interruptions to infinite scrolling, will be released in July.

What this means for families

For parents, the proposed rules could create a clearer framework around what online services are considered appropriate for younger children. The government says the goal is to place more decision-making power in the hands of families while establishing consistent protections across online platforms.

The changes are not immediate. The government expects to bring the legislation before Parliament later this year, with the first regulations potentially taking effect in spring 2027.

If approved, the proposal would significantly change how children access social media and other online services in the U.K., while introducing a broader set of digital safety requirements aimed at younger users.

Tech companies have had countless opportunities to keep children safe, yet they have failed to act, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said in the release. That is why we are taking power away from the tech giants and putting it back in parents hands.

My driving force has always been to give every child, from every background, the best possible start in life. That is what these regulations will deliver.