FINANCIALLY FOCUSED

February 2026 Newsletter

TRAVEL SMARTER IN RETIREMENT

A recent Kiplinger article, 15 Money-Saving Travel Tips for Retirees, highlights how retirees can explore new destinations without overspending. By focusing on a few core strategies and keeping everyday costs in check, travel can remain both enjoyable and budget-conscious.

WATCH CURRENCY AND TIMING 

Kiplinger notes that changes in currency values can significantly affect travel costs. When the U.S. dollar is strong relative to local currencies, everyday expenses abroad may feel more affordable. In addition, retirees who plan ahead by tracking airfare trends rather than booking too early may be better positioned to recognize a good deal when it appears.

BE FLEXIBLE WITH FLIGHTS

Flying midweek or at off-peak times can often reduce airfare. Being open to departing from alternative airports may also uncover lower fares, even if it requires a short connecting flight. Flexibility, one of retirement’s greatest perks, can translate directly into savings.

AVOID UNNECESSARY FEES

Foreign transaction fees and ATM charges can quietly add up while traveling. Using credit cards without foreign transaction fees and understanding your bank’s ATM policies before departure may help minimize avoidable costs.

MORE WAYS TO SAVE ON THE ROAD 

Kiplinger also suggests these additional strategies:

• Use rewards credit cards to earn points or miles
• Skip car rentals when public transit or rideshares are available
• Consider vacation rentals, hostels, or house-sitting
• Shop at grocery stores or local markets for some meals
• Leverage memberships like AAA for discounts
• Ask about upgrades or waived hotel fees
• Connect with locals instead of booking pricey tours
• Travel during shoulder seasons
• Compare lodging outside city centers
• Consider travel and health insurance for added protection

SOURCE

https://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/spending/leisure/travel/604132/a-penny-pinchers-guide-to-travel

WHAT WE’RE READING

At least, spring is so close you can see it on the horizon! But luckily, we’ve kept ourselves busy this winter by staying up to date on the financial news. Here’s some of our favorite recent news pieces:

• As we age, speaking to our children and other loved ones about our health, finances, and other important matters can be challenging, but a U.S. News and World Report article, The Talk You Need to Have With Your Kids has some useful tips.
• For many retirees and near retirees, Social Security is an essential component of their broader financial strategy, so the USA Today article, Don’t forget this Social Security rule that could cost you thousands, is a must read. 
• If you’re curious about what exactly Federal Reserve rate cuts can mean for your finances in both the short-term and long-term, this Yahoo! Finance article, How a Fed rate cut affects your bank accounts, loans, credit cards, and investments, has some answers. 
• It’s no secret that healthcare costs are rising, which can cause financial anxiety for both younger workers and workers close to retirement. A CNBC article, Higher health-care costs force financial trade-offs: Investors ‘worry about all these moving pieces’ top advisor says, dives into the topic. 
• How about a bit of good news? An AARP article, Second Round of Medicare-Negotiated Price Cuts Expected to Save Billions in Drug Costs in 2027, describes how you might be able to save a bit of money in the near future. 

SOURCES

https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/the-important-talk-to-have-with-your-kids-as-you-age

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/12/12/dont-forget-this-social-security-rule/87657648007/

https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/banking/article/how-a-fed-rate-cut-affects-your-bank-accounts-loans-credit-cards-and-investments-220526212.html

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/01/-health-care-expenses-trade-offs.html

https://www.aarp.org/medicare/medicare-2027-drug-price-negotiations-list/

https://www.aarp.org/medicare/medicare-2027-drug-price-negotiations-list/

Links to third-party articles are provided for convenience; we do not control or guarantee the accuracy of third-party content, and such links should not be viewed as an endorsement.

RED VELVET TRUFFLES

Bite-sized and irresistible, these festive treats start with moist red velvet cake mixed with cream cheese, rolled into balls, and dipped in creamy white chocolate. They add a pop of color to your dessert table and are perfect for Valentine’s Day, parties, or whenever you want a sweet, elegant confection.

Let's Get Cooking

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