Costco and Sam’s Club are often compared based on membership prices, product selection and food-court favorites. Those things matter, but they do not tell you much about what it is actually like to complete a shopping trip.

For this comparison, I wanted to go deeper into two specific parts of the experience: checking out and buying gasoline. That includes the mix of cashiers and self-checkout lanes, accepted payment methods, receipt checks, fuel-station layouts, gas prices and fuel quality.

The short version is that neither club wins across the board. Costco provides the better traditional checkout experience, while Sam’s Club makes it faster to leave the building. Their gas stations are close enough that I consider the category a tie.

Checkout Lanes: Costco Wins the Traditional Experience

The biggest difference between the two clubs is how they approach the checkout process.

At the Sam’s Club locations I have visited, most lanes are dedicated to self-checkout, with a much smaller area reserved for traditional cashiers. This works well if you like scanning your own items or using Scan & Go in the Sam’s Club app. However, members who want to pay with cash or prefer having an employee handle the transaction may have fewer lanes to choose from and a longer wait.

Costco generally maintains a more traditional checkout setup, with more staffed registers available alongside self-checkout. Lines can still become long during busy periods, but the process feels better organized for customers who want a cashier.

This category ultimately comes down to personal preference. Sam’s Club provides more ways to avoid a cashier altogether, while Costco offers the stronger conventional register experience. For my typical shopping trip, Costco gets the win.

Winner: Costco

Payment Options: Both Have Frustrating Limitations

Sam’s Club has the advantage when it comes to credit-card choice. According to the company’s current payment policy, its U.S. clubs accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. Cash, checks, debit cards, Walmart and Sam’s Club gift cards, SNAP/EBT and Sam’s Cash are also accepted where eligible.

Costco is more restrictive with credit cards inside its U.S. warehouses. It accepts Visa credit cards, most PIN-based debit and ATM cards, Costco Shop Cards, cash, checks, EBT and several other payment types.

Sam’s Club’s lack of ordinary tap-to-pay support at the register remains an inconvenience for shoppers who depend on Apple Pay or a contactless card. The Sam’s Club app and Scan & Go provide a separate digital checkout option, but that is not the same as tapping your preferred wallet at a standard payment terminal.

So, Sam’s Club accepts a wider range of major credit cards but does not offer standard Apple Pay support at the register. Costco, meanwhile, restricts warehouse credit-card payments to Visa. Each club has a frustrating limitation, which is why neither gets the win.

Verdict: Both fail

Leaving the Store: Sam’s Club Wins Easily

Both clubs verify purchases before members leave, but the experience can be very different.

Costco usually relies on an employee to review the receipt and visually inspect the cart. The system is straightforward, but a line can form near the exit when the store is busy or several customers have large orders.

Sam’s Club has been rolling out AI-powered exit technology that combines computer vision and digital tools to confirm that items in a cart were paid for. Instead of stopping every customer for a traditional item-by-item receipt review, the blue exit arches scan the cart as the member walks toward the door. An employee can then focus on transactions that require additional attention.

In practice, this can make leaving Sam’s Club noticeably faster. It also fits with the company’s broader Scan & Go strategy, which lets members scan products and pay through the app without using a checkout lane.

This is not a close category. Sam’s Club has taken one of the most annoying parts of warehouse-club shopping and made it quicker.

Winner: Sam’s Club

Costco vs. Sam’s Club Gas Stations

The fuel stations share several important features. Both are designed around one-way traffic, which helps keep cars moving in an orderly direction. The pumps also have extra-long hoses, so it generally does not matter which side of the vehicle contains the fuel door. You can pull into the shortest suitable lane instead of waiting only for a pump on one particular side.

Neither club accepts cash directly at the pump. Costco’s current U.S. gas-station payment options include Visa cards, most PIN-based debit and ATM cards, and Costco Shop Cards. Sam’s Club fuel centers accept eligible cards and Walmart or Sam’s Club gift cards, although accepted payment options can vary by location. Sam’s Club members can also use the app’s Scan & Go Fuel feature at participating stations.

Pump Availability Lights Give Costco an Edge

Costco has added red and green indicator lights at many of its gas stations. These lights show drivers which pumps are occupied and which are available, including pumps that may be difficult to see from the back of a long line.

It sounds like a small improvement, but it makes choosing a lane easier and helps traffic move more efficiently. Sam’s Club fuel stations are generally easy to navigate as well, but Costco’s availability lights are a practical advantage.

Gas Prices: Sam’s Club May Be Slightly Cheaper

In my local comparison, Sam’s Club had a slight edge on price. Both clubs were roughly 30 cents per gallon cheaper than nearby conventional gas stations, although prices can change daily and results will vary considerably by region.

That means it is worth comparing the actual price difference before driving out of your way. Saving two or three cents per gallon probably does not justify a special trip. A larger discount may be worthwhile, especially if the fuel station is already part of your regular shopping route.

Fuel Quality: Costco Has the Advantage

Price is only one part of the value equation. Costco’s Kirkland Signature gasoline is certified as TOP TIER fuel. The TOP TIER program sets detergent and performance standards supported by major automakers, and all octane grades sold by an approved retailer must meet its requirements.

Sam’s Club fuel can still be a perfectly reasonable choice, but Sam’s Club is not currently listed among the nationally approved TOP TIER gasoline brands. If the prices are nearly identical, Costco’s fuel-quality certification gives it a meaningful advantage. If Sam’s Club is noticeably cheaper, some drivers may decide that its lower price matters more.

Final Score: Costco vs. Sam’s Club

Here is how the four categories break down:

• Traditional cash-register experience: Costco wins
• Payment options: Both fail
• Receipt check and store exit: Sam’s Club wins
• Gasoline: Tie

Costco offers the better experience for shoppers who prefer staffed checkout lanes and certified TOP TIER gasoline. Sam’s Club is stronger for members who want broad credit-card acceptance, app-based checkout and a much faster exit from the building.

There is no universal winner because the right choice depends on which inconveniences bother you most. If you value a traditional register and fuel quality, Costco probably has the edge. If you prefer self-checkout, Scan & Go and a quicker exit, Sam’s Club may be the better fit.

Which warehouse club gives you the better overall experience?

If you grew up in the ’90s, there are certain things that instantly take you back. Starter jackets are definitely one of them.

Target is leaning hard into ’90s sports nostalgia right now with Starter jackets, Zubaz pants and other retro NFL gear. I spotted the Philadelphia Eagles collection, and the classic Starter pullover immediately stood out. It has the half-zip front, oversized pocket, Starter zipper pull and the kind of bold color blocking that made these jackets so recognizable 30 years ago.

The Eagles Starter pullover is $150, which was enough for Target to put a security tag on the one I found in the store. That initially surprised me, but these jackets have a serious nostalgia factor, and I could easily see certain teams and sizes becoming popular.

Starter Jackets Weren’t Always About Your Favorite Team

One of the funny things about Starter jackets in the ’90s was that you didn’t necessarily wear the team you actually rooted for. Sometimes you just wanted the jacket with the best colors. The Charlotte Hornets were a perfect example. Teal and purple were about as ’90s as you could get. The Miami Dolphins had aqua and orange, the Lakers had purple and gold, the Bulls had red and black, and the Raiders had their unmistakable silver-and-black combination. Starter essentially turned team colors into fashion.

That’s also what made seeing a whole rack of Starter jackets so memorable. Every team offered a completely different look, with oversized logos, contrasting sleeves and bright color combinations. Hornets, Dolphins, Eagles, Bulls, Lakers and Raiders jackets could appeal to kids who weren’t particularly interested in those teams at all. Sometimes the coolest jacket simply won.

Target’s New Starter Jacket Gets the ’90s Look Right

The new Eagles jacket isn’t an exact reproduction of one particular vintage Starter jacket, but that’s probably not the point. It brings back the elements people actually remember.

The half-zip pullover design is there, along with the large front pocket and big EAGLES lettering. There’s also a Starter zipper pull, while the green, black and white sleeves give it the bold color-blocked look you’d expect from a Starter jacket.

It feels familiar without looking like something that has literally been sitting in someone’s closet since 1994.

Old vs. New: The Eagles Starter Jacket

Put an original Eagles Starter jacket next to the new 2026 Target version and you can definitely see the differences. Some ’90s fans will probably say to skip the remake and buy a vintage Starter instead, and there’s an argument for that. The originals have that unmistakable oversized, crinkly nylon appearance, more unusual color blocking and the character that comes with owning an actual piece of ’90s sportswear.

But the new version has some advantages too. It keeps the classic half-zip silhouette and big front pocket while looking cleaner and less wrinkled than many vintage examples. It also appears more substantial, which will likely make it the better choice if you actually want a jacket to keep you warm and wear regularly, rather than something you’re primarily buying as a vintage collectible. The remake isn’t trying to replace the original. It’s a modern jacket that does a pretty convincing job of bringing the old Starter look back.

Zubaz Are Back Too

Starter isn’t the only ’90s sportswear name showing up at Target.

There are also Zubaz pants, including the wonderfully ridiculous tiger-stripe patterns that were everywhere during the era. The Eagles version I found was only $30, making these a much cheaper way to get in on the nostalgia.

There are stonewashed shirts and other throwback pieces as well, including a full button-down Eagles jacket for around $130. But if you’re looking for the item that most immediately screams 1990s, I still think the half-zip Starter jacket wins.

There’s a Good Way to Save If You Want a Starter Jacket

Here’s one tip worth knowing before paying $150.

When I found the jackets, Target was running a buy one NFL item, get a second NFL item 30% off promotion. If the Starter jackets are included and you have a friend who wants one too, buying them together could make the price a little easier to swallow.

Two $150 jackets normally cost $300. Taking 30% off the second jacket saves $45, bringing the total to $255. Split the purchase evenly and you’re effectively paying $127.50 each, saving $22.50 per person.

Target promotions can change, so obviously check the current offer and eligibility before buying.

Are the New Target Starter Jackets Worth $150?

At $150, this isn’t cheap nostalgia. If all you want is the original thing, there’s also a huge vintage Starter market out there, and hunting down an authentic ’90s jacket can be part of the fun.

But I think Target’s version makes sense for someone who wants the Starter look without necessarily wanting a 30-year-old jacket. You get a brand-new jacket, modern construction and a cleaner appearance while still getting the half zip, big pocket, Starter branding and oversized ’90s styling.

More than anything, it’s fun seeing this stuff back on store shelves. Starter jackets and Zubaz sitting together at Target feels like someone recreated a corner of a sporting goods store from 1993.

And if history repeats itself, don’t be surprised if people start choosing their jackets the same way we did back then:

Forget the standings. Which team has the best colors?

Henning’s Breakfast, Lunch and Weekend Brunch

The buffet is surprisingly affordable:

• Weekday breakfast buffet: $11
• Weekday lunch buffet: $15
• Weekend brunch buffet: $17, served until 3 p.m.

That makes Henning’s worth knowing about if you’re searching for a breakfast buffet near Lansdale, Harleysville, or Kulpsville, especially if you’re traveling on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

The selection varies depending on when you visit, so you won’t necessarily find the exact same foods each time.

If you’re looking for food near the Lansdale exit of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, there’s an unexpected option just a few minutes away in Harleysville. Inside Henning’s Market you’ll find a café and all-you-can-eat buffet serving breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch.

The Lansdale exit is Exit 31 on I-476, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension, and signs around the interchange also point travelers toward Harleysville and Kulpsville via Route 63. If you know I-476 as the Blue Route from traveling closer to Philadelphia, this is the same interstate number continuing north as the Turnpike’s Northeast Extension.

That makes Henning’s a particularly convenient food stop if you’re getting off I-476 at Lansdale, Harleysville, or Kulpsville and want something besides the usual highway fast-food options.

A Buffet Inside Henning’s Market

Yes, there’s actually a buffet inside the grocery store.

Henning’s is an independent grocery store in Harleysville, PA, just a short drive west from the Lansdale Turnpike interchange. When you arrive, enter on the right side of the building to get to the café, buffet, and seating area.

There are several ways to grab something to eat depending on how much time you have.

If you’re making a quick stop off I-476, the coffee shop has drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and other grab-and-go options. You can also fill a takeout container from the buffet and pay by the pound.

I recently went with the takeout option and grabbed three egg bites for about $5.

If you’re hungry and have a little more time, though, the all-you-can-eat buffet is probably the better deal.

Don’t Miss the Back Wall

One thing that’s easy to overlook is the back wall of the dining area.

This is where you’ll find many of the extras that go along with your buffet meal, including different toppings, salad dressings, sodas, orange juice, milk, coffee, and other drink options.

If it’s your first visit, make sure you check this area before assuming you’ve seen everything that’s included.

Plenty of Places to Sit

Most people simply grab one of the tables next to the buffet, but Henning’s has a couple of other seating options.

There’s additional seating on the second-level terrace, along with a number of outdoor tables. That’s a nice bonus if you’re not in a rush and want something that feels a little less like eating inside a grocery store.

There’s Even a Birthday Buffet Deal

One of the fun things about Henning’s being an independent grocery store is that you’ll occasionally find promotions you probably wouldn’t see at a typical chain.

One of the more interesting offers is its birthday deal. You can get a free breakfast or lunch buffet with the purchase of another buffet meal on your birthday.

Promotions can change, so it’s worth confirming the current offer with Henning’s before making a special trip just for the deal.

Looking for Food Near the Lansdale, Harleysville or Kulpsville Turnpike Exit?

This is where I think Henning’s really deserves more attention.

If you’re traveling on I-476 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension and searching for somewhere to eat near the Lansdale Exit 31, Henning’s Market is only a short drive away in Harleysville.

Depending on what you’re searching for or what you see on highway signs, you might think of this area as Lansdale, Harleysville, Kulpsville, Route 63, the Northeast Extension, or simply I-476. They’re all useful reference points for finding this part of Montgomery County.

Instead of grabbing fast food immediately around the interchange, Henning’s gives you several choices in one stop. You can grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich, build a takeout meal from the buffet and pay by weight, or sit down for the full all-you-can-eat breakfast, lunch, or weekend brunch.

For travelers, it’s especially useful as a breakfast or lunch stop near the Lansdale PA Turnpike exit because it’s close enough to the highway to be convenient while offering something considerably different from a typical rest-stop meal.

And one last tip for your first visit: head to the right side of Henning’s Market when you arrive. That’s the easiest way to find the café and buffet area.

For many Wawa fans, Hoagiefest has become an annual summer tradition. In recent years, customers became accustomed to grabbing a $5 Shorti or a $6 Classic hoagie, without needing to purchase anything else.

For summer 2026, however, Wawa has changed the formula. Instead of offering discounted hoagies by themselves, the company has turned Hoagiefest into a meal-deal promotion.

What Is Included in the 2026 Hoagiefest Meal Deal?

To receive this year’s promotional pricing, customers need to purchase a complete meal that includes a sandwich, a small bag of Herr’s potato chips and a small Coca-Cola Freestyle fountain drink.

• $6 Meal Deal: Any Shorti hoagie, wrap or chicken sandwich, a small bag of Herr’s chips and a small fountain drink
• $8 Meal Deal: Any Classic hoagie, a small bag of Herr’s chips and a small fountain drink

The 2026 promotion runs from June 22 through July 26 at participating Wawa locations.

Is the New Hoagiefest Meal Deal a Better Value?

Whether the new promotion is a better deal depends largely on how you normally order.

For customers who typically purchase a hoagie, a bag of chips and a drink, the meal deal could represent substantial savings. A Classic hoagie previously cost $6 during Hoagiefest, while adding a drink and chips could raise the total by another $5 or $6. Getting all three items for $8 could save those customers several dollars during each visit.

However, the promotion may not feel like much of a deal for customers who only want a hoagie.

Instead of paying $6 for a discounted Classic, those customers must now pay $8 to receive the Hoagiefest price. They are getting chips and a drink for the additional money, but those items may not be valuable to someone who never planned to buy them.

You could always save the chips for later or give the chips and drink to someone else. Still, the change means Wawa is no longer promoting the lowest possible price for the hoagie itself.

Herr’s Chips Are a Major Part of This Year’s Promotion

One of the most noticeable parts of the 2026 promotion is the large selection of Herr’s potato chips available in stores.

At one Wawa I visited, displays featuring different varieties of Herr’s chips appeared throughout nearly every corner of the store. The selection makes the chip portion of the meal more appealing, particularly for customers who enjoy trying different flavors.

The fountain drink part of the deal may be more complicated during busy periods. During my visit, nearly every size of fountain soda cup at the beverage station was sold out. Because the promotion specifically includes a small fountain drink, stores will need to keep cups and beverage supplies stocked as demand increases.

Hoagiefest Started With $2.99 Shortis

Wawa first introduced Hoagiefest in 2008 with the tagline, “Peace, Savings and Shortis.”

At the time, the promotion offered select Shorti hoagies for $2.99. Hoagiefest eventually grew into one of Wawa’s most recognizable seasonal promotions, complete with colorful characters, tie-dye artwork, music and discounted summer hoagies.

More recently, customers became familiar with the promotion offering $5 Shortis and $6 Classics. Even with prices rising over the years, those prices still felt like a solid deal for a freshly made sandwich.

Customer Complaints Do Not Seem to Be Hurting Traffic

The reaction online has been mixed. Some customers say the meal deal offers more total food for the money, while others argue that it does not feel like Hoagiefest if they cannot purchase just the discounted hoagie.

Despite the complaints, comments from Wawa employees and customers on Reddit suggest stores are still very busy and that the meal deals remain popular. Some employees have described Hoagiefest as generating major rushes, while another commenter discussing the 2026 promotion said the current deal has been very popular.

Those comments are anecdotal and do not represent official sales or foot-traffic data. Still, they suggest that the change has not stopped customers from visiting Wawa. People may complain about the new format online, but plenty of them appear to be ordering the meals anyway.

Why Would Wawa Replace the Hoagie Discount With a Meal Deal?

Bundling the hoagie with chips and a fountain drink allows Wawa to advertise a complete lunch at a relatively low price. It also makes the promotion appealing to customers who might otherwise compare Wawa with fast-food value meals.

The ingredients included with the sandwich may also help Wawa maintain the perceived value of Hoagiefest without offering as large of a discount on the hoagie itself.

From a marketing perspective, the wording matters. Wawa is no longer simply advertising a sale on hoagies. It is advertising the overall value of a complete meal.

Is This the End of the Traditional Wawa Hoagiefest?

The 2026 Hoagiefest promotion does not necessarily offer less value. For customers who already purchase chips and a drink, it may be one of the better lunch deals available this summer.

But it does mark the end of something familiar. You can still purchase a hoagie by itself at Wawa, but you will pay the regular menu price. To receive the advertised Hoagiefest discount, you now need to order the meal.

For customers who looked forward to a simple discounted hoagie every summer, the savings era may feel like it is coming to an end.

What do you think? Would you rather have the new $6 or $8 Hoagiefest meal deal, or would you prefer that Wawa bring back the discounted hoagies by themselves? Share your opinion in the comments.

Apple’s $500 MacBook Neo Could Be the Ideal Laptop for Students

Apple is now selling a MacBook that students can get for about $500. The new MacBook Neo normally starts at $599, but eligible students and educators can purchase the base model for $499 through Apple’s education store.

At that price, the MacBook Neo could be one of the best basic laptops available for students, first-time Mac users and anyone who wants an affordable way to enter the Apple ecosystem.

If you have been considering a Chromebook but already own an iPhone, the MacBook Neo may make considerably more sense.

Think of It as Apple’s Version of a Chromebook

The easiest way to understand the MacBook Neo is to think of it as Apple’s answer to a Chromebook. It is designed for people who need a straightforward computer for everyday tasks rather than a high-end machine for professional video editing, advanced design work or demanding software.

For most students, a laptop needs to handle things such as:

• Web browsing and online research
• Google Docs and Microsoft Office
• Email and messaging
• School websites and learning platforms
• Video calls
• Streaming movies and videos
• Presentations and basic creative projects
• Everyday multitasking

That is exactly where the MacBook Neo fits. It offers a traditional laptop design, a built-in keyboard and trackpad, and the full macOS experience.

Apple says the Neo has a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro processor and up to 16 hours of battery life. It is not meant to compete with a MacBook Pro, but it should be more than capable enough for the work an average student does each day.

It Is Somewhat Like an iPad in Laptop Form

Another way to think about the MacBook Neo is as an iPad-class Apple device built into the form factor of a laptop.

This is not a direct side-by-side comparison. The MacBook Neo uses Apple’s A18 Pro chip, while the current entry-level 11-inch iPad uses the A16 chip. However, the two products occupy a similar part of Apple’s lineup. Both are intended to provide capable everyday performance without the more expensive processors found in the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iPad Air or iPad Pro.

The major advantage of the MacBook Neo is macOS. An iPad can handle many laptop-style tasks, but iPadOS can still feel restrictive when you are managing multiple windows, organizing files, using desktop websites or running traditional computer applications.

The Neo gives you that relatively simple, efficient Apple hardware experience while still operating like a real laptop.

Why It May Be a Better Value Than an iPad and Keyboard

An iPad can appear to be the more affordable choice until you begin adding the accessories required to use it like a laptop.

For example, imagine spending approximately $450 on an iPad with 256GB of storage. If your plan is to use it as your main school computer, you may also want a keyboard case. Apple’s keyboard options can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost.

You can view Apple’s current iPad keyboard options here.

Depending on the iPad and keyboard you select, the combined price can approach or exceed $700. At that point, a $499 MacBook Neo starts to look like the better deal.

With the MacBook, the keyboard and trackpad are already included. You also receive macOS instead of iPadOS, which makes the computer better suited for traditional schoolwork and everyday productivity.

Should You Get 256GB or 512GB?

For many students, the base MacBook Neo with 256GB of storage should be sufficient.

If you primarily use cloud storage, stream your entertainment and save mostly documents and presentations, 256GB should provide enough room. Someone purchasing the laptop at the beginning of high school or college could reasonably use it throughout those four years.

However, if you expect to keep the MacBook for longer than four years, I would seriously consider paying the additional $100 for the 512GB version.

Storage needs tend to grow over time. Applications become larger, photos and videos accumulate, and you may eventually use the laptop for more than you originally expected. You generally cannot upgrade the internal storage later, so spending another $100 at the time of purchase may extend the useful life of the computer.

My basic recommendation is:

• Choose 256GB if you need an affordable school laptop for approximately four years and primarily use cloud-based services.
• Choose 512GB if you plan to keep it beyond school, store a large number of photos or videos, or want more flexibility in the future.

How to Get the $499 Education Price

There are two main ways to purchase the MacBook Neo with Apple’s education pricing.

Option 1: Shop Through the Apple Education Store

The easiest option is to visit the Apple Education Store online. Apple lists the MacBook Neo starting at $499 with education savings.

You can also go directly to the MacBook Neo education purchasing page to select your color and storage capacity.

Apple may not require immediate verification during every online purchase, but the education store is intended for eligible students, parents purchasing for students, faculty, staff and certain education employees. Buyers should review Apple’s current eligibility requirements before ordering.

Option 2: Visit an Apple Store

You can also visit a physical Apple Store and ask about education pricing.

When purchasing in person, the store may ask for a student ID or another form of verification. It is a good idea to bring proof of eligibility rather than assuming the discount will automatically be applied.

Are There Purchase Limits?

Apple places annual limits on products purchased through its education store. According to Apple’s education sales policies, an eligible buyer may generally purchase one MacBook and up to two iPads per year using education pricing.

You can read the full Apple Education Store sales and purchase policies here.

The MacBook Neo Comes in Four Colors

The MacBook Neo is available in four colors:

• Silver
• Blush
• Citrus
• Indigo

The brighter colors help distinguish the Neo from Apple’s more traditional MacBook models and make it feel particularly well suited for students and younger buyers.

Who Should Buy the MacBook Neo?

The MacBook Neo makes the most sense for:

• High school and college students
• Families shopping for a student laptop
• People replacing an older Chromebook
• First-time Mac buyers
• iPhone owners who want a computer in the Apple ecosystem
• Casual users who mainly browse the internet, stream content and work with documents

It may not be the right computer for professional video editors, serious gamers, engineers or people who regularly use demanding desktop software. Those buyers should compare it with the MacBook Air or MacBook Pro.

Final Thoughts

The MacBook Neo fills a gap that has existed in Apple’s lineup for years. It offers a true Mac laptop experience without requiring buyers to spend close to $1,000.

At the regular $599 price, it is already an interesting alternative to a Chromebook or an iPad with a keyboard. At the $499 education price, it becomes an especially strong value for students.

I think most students will be perfectly comfortable with the 256GB model. However, anyone planning to use the computer beyond four years should consider spending the extra $100 for 512GB.

For someone who already has an iPhone and just needs a dependable laptop for school and everyday use, this may be the most practical entry point into the Apple ecosystem.

Which MacBook Neo color would you choose: silver, blush, citrus or indigo?

When people hear “Wildwood,” they often picture the busy boardwalk, amusement rides, loud crowds and late-night energy. That is definitely part of the Wildwoods, but Wildwood Crest feels like its own separate beach town.

Wildwood Crest is closer to Cape May and generally has a calmer feel than central Wildwood. For our family, it works best as a home base. Stay in Wildwood Crest, enjoy the quieter beach-town feel, then adventure out to the boardwalk, Diamond Beach, Cape May, breweries, restaurants and nearby parks.

Where to Stay in Wildwood Crest

Madison Resort

Address: 7201 Ocean Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

Madison Resort is a strong choice if you want a fun beach hotel with good pools, convenient amenities and enough room to spread out.

One thing the website could explain better is that Madison is split between two buildings with another building in between them. At first, that sounds confusing, but it works. Both buildings have pools, guests can use either one, pool chairs are interchangeable and the resort shuttle makes it easy to move between the properties.

The pool area is one of the best parts. The water is heated, the lounge chairs are comfortable, towels are provided and there is usually good music playing, which gives the place a nice vacation vibe.

A suite with a kitchenette was a major plus. It let us bring food we knew the kids would eat, save money and avoid waiting in restaurant lines for every single meal. They also had plenty of luggage carts, which made unloading much easier.

Madison also has an ice cream shop on property, which is a nice little bonus when you are traveling with kids. Just make sure to check the hours before promising anyone ice cream.

Mahalo Resort

Address: 9501 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

Mahalo Resort is another good family-friendly option, especially if you want to be closer to Diamond Beach and ICONA.

The rooms are tighter, so there is less space to hang out, watch TV or relax in the room. That matters more on rainy days. The tradeoff is that Mahalo has a more family-focused feel and is connected to ICONA as a sister property, so you can take advantage of some shared access between the two.

ICONA Diamond Beach

Address: 9701 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

If budget is not the main concern, ICONA is probably the top choice in the area. You pay for it, but it feels like the most polished resort option.

Where ICONA really stands out is the kids programming. They offer activities ranging from basic coloring to more creative crafts and events. It gives families something to plan around during the day, especially when the weather is not perfect.

ICONA also has a shuttle, which can be helpful if you are moving between nearby properties or trying to make your stay feel a little easier without constantly getting back in the car.

Playgrounds and Parks

Sunrise Park Near Madison Resort

Address: Ocean Avenue between Rambler Road and Lotus Road, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

If you are staying at Madison, one of the best family perks is how close you are to Sunrise Park.

Sunrise Park has children’s playgrounds, a splash park, adult fitness equipment, a large gazebo, sitting areas, bike racks, walking paths, grassy landscaped areas, a bicycle rental shop and access to the Wildwood Crest Bike Path.

It is also near the beginning or end of the boardwalk, depending on how you look at it. That makes it a great spot for a quiet walk, bike ride or quick playground stop with the kids.

Another bonus: it is close to Kobe’s Backbeach Cafe, which is a nice stop for coffee or ice cream.

Diamond Beach Park

Address: Corner of Seaview Avenue and E. Rochester Avenue, Lower Township, NJ

If you are staying near ICONA or Mahalo in Diamond Beach, check out Diamond Beach Park.

It has playground equipment for kids, workout equipment for adults and pickleball courts. It is a nice nearby option when you want something easy to do without turning it into a full outing.

Things to Do Around Wildwood Crest

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge

Address: 24 Kimbles Beach Road, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

The Cape May National Wildlife Refuge is a good break from the busier beach areas.

The beach is closed for much of the warmer season to protect wildlife, but it is still a quiet place to walk or bike around. There is also a building with a gift shop and kids activities. My kids were able to do a scavenger hunt and earn a badge, which was a nice little bonus activity.

Friday Night Fireworks

Location: Wildwood Boardwalk, fireworks launch near Pine Avenue and the beach

During the summer, Wildwood has fireworks every Friday night at 10 p.m. on the boardwalk.

It is one of those classic shore traditions that is worth planning around at least once.

Cape May Brewing Company

Address: 1250 Hornet Road, Cape May, NJ 08204

Cape May Brewing Company is an easy add-on if you are heading toward Cape May. It gives you another nearby destination beyond the beach and boardwalk, especially if you want an afternoon stop with drinks, space to hang out and a more relaxed pace.

Getting Around

Coastal Cruiser Shuttle

The Coastal Cruiser is a hop-on, hop-off shuttle connecting the Wildwoods to Cape May.

The shuttle stops at popular wineries, breweries, distilleries and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal. It runs Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. starting Memorial Day weekend. A day pass costs $40 in advance or $45 at the shuttle.

If you want to explore beyond Wildwood Crest without driving everywhere, this is worth looking into.

Where to Eat and Drink

Vinyl at Madison Resort

Address: 7201 Ocean Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

If you are staying at Madison, Vinyl is a convenient on-site option. I especially liked the breakfast sandwiches. I did not try enough of the full menu to recommend everything, but what I had was very good.

Star Beach Bar at ICONA

Address: 402 E Rochester Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

Star Beach Bar is part of ICONA Diamond Beach, but it is open to the public. Some seating is semi-indoors and some is outside, giving you that beach restaurant feel without needing to stay at the resort.

MudHen Brewing and The Station House

Address: 127 W Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

MudHen Brewing and The Station House take up a large part of a city block and feel like more than just a restaurant stop.

There are a ton of picnic tables between the two buildings, outdoor games, live music and plenty of space to hang out. Kids can dance around or play while adults grab another drink. It feels more like a destination than a place trying to rush you out after dinner.

Mad Viking Dock Bar and Grill

Address: 926 Ocean Drive, Cape May Harbor, NJ

If you head toward Cape May, check out Mad Viking Dock Bar and Grill. It is in a more remote location, but that is part of the appeal.

They have a full playground for kids, which makes it a place you can stay for a while instead of rushing through a meal. This is a good option when you want food, drinks and something built-in for the kids to do.

Captain Jack’s

Address: 3800 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260

Captain Jack’s is a good boardwalk-area stop, especially if you can get upstairs.

The patio is great for an after-dinner drink where you can enjoy the beach breeze while being a little tucked away from the full boardwalk craziness.

Cork ‘N’ Bottle and The Corkyard

Address: 4601 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

Cork ‘N’ Bottle has an outdoor area called The Corkyard, and it is one of those places that helps you forget where you are for a bit.

They often have a singer or live music, outdoor seating and a relaxed setup that works well for a pre-dinner drink.

Copper Dog

Address: 4400 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

Copper Dog is a great choice if you want a nicer dinner, either with kids or for a date night.

Do not sleep on the specials. Everything we ordered came from the specials list, and it ended up being some of the best food we had. The setup also gives you the outdoor beach dinner vibe while still being under cover, which is exactly what a lot of people want at the shore when the weather is questionable.

Final Take

If you want a traditional, quieter family beach vacation, Ocean City may still be the safer bet.

But if you are okay with a more fun and lively atmosphere, Wildwood Crest is a great choice. It gives you easier access to the Wildwood Boardwalk, Diamond Beach, Cape May, breweries, restaurants, parks and playgrounds, while still feeling calmer than central Wildwood.

That is really the best way to approach it. Stay in Wildwood Crest, then adventure out to the surrounding areas.

For our family, that balance works really well.

How to Update Daylight Saving Time Settings in a Toyota

If the clock in your Toyota is suddenly off by an hour, the daylight saving time setting may need to be adjusted. Luckily, Toyota makes this pretty easy to change through the vehicle’s settings menu.

Here’s how to update the daylight saving time setting in a Toyota.

Step 1: Open the Toyota App in CarPlay

Start by opening the Toyota app from your CarPlay screen. This will take you into the vehicle’s settings menu.

Step 2: Go to General Settings

Once you are in the Toyota app, select General.

Step 3: Select Date and Time

From the General menu, choose Date and Time. This is where you can adjust your vehicle’s clock settings.

Step 4: Turn Daylight Saving Time On or Off

Inside the Date and Time settings, you should see an option for Daylight Saving Time. It is a simple on/off toggle.

When you turn the setting on, you should see the clock move forward by one hour. For example, the time may change from 8:50 to 9:50.

When Should You Use This Setting?

A quick reminder, daylight saving time begins in the spring and ends in the fall.

That means you typically turn the setting on in the spring and off in the fall.

Final Tip

If your Toyota’s clock is off by exactly one hour, this is one of the first settings worth checking. It only takes a few seconds, and it can save you from manually changing the time when the daylight saving time setting is the real issue.

One of my favorite used-bike finds is a Specialized Sequoia that is more than 20 years old. Despite its age, it remains one of the best all-around bikes I have owned.

I was lucky enough to pick this one up for only $150. For someone who wants one affordable bike that can handle road rides, gravel paths, commuting, and casual family rides, an older Sequoia is hard to beat.

Plenty of Room for Wider Tires

The bike originally came with 25mm tires, but I replaced them with 30mm tires for a little more comfort and stability.

Looking at the available clearance, I think the bike could potentially handle tires up to around 35mm. That is impressive for an older road-style bike that does not use cantilever brakes.

Wider tires make the Sequoia much more capable on gravel trails, rough roads, and crushed-stone paths. They also make everyday rides more comfortable.

A More Comfortable Riding Position

The Sequoia has inline brake levers on the top section of the handlebars. These give you another braking position and allow you to sit more upright.

That makes the bike feel almost like a hybrid when you are taking a relaxed ride. You can still use the drop handlebars when you want a faster or more aerodynamic position, but you are not forced to ride that way all the time.

Plenty of Accessory Mounts

This bike has three different areas where you can attach water bottle cages, a pump, or other accessories.

It is also easy to add a rear rack. That makes it a good option for commuting, carrying groceries, hauling bike bags, or attaching a child seat.

Many newer road bikes focus heavily on speed and leave out these practical mounting points. The Sequoia gives you more flexibility.

A Drivetrain Built for Hills

My Sequoia has Shimano 105 components and a triple crankset.

Some cyclists may make fun of the smallest chainring and call it a granny gear, but ignore them. Having those extra-low gears makes climbing hills much easier, especially for newer riders or anyone carrying extra weight on the bike.

Not every ride needs to be a race. Sometimes you simply want gearing that helps you make it to the top of the hill.

Surprisingly Lightweight Materials

The bike also has a carbon fork and carbon rear stays, which help reduce weight and absorb some vibration from rough roads.

I already removed the original shock-absorbing seat post. Those suspension-style posts can add a surprising amount of weight and do not always improve the riding experience.

Someone trying to make the bike lighter could also install a carbon seat post and replace the heavy adjustable stem with a simpler fixed stem.

Could You Convert It to a One-By?

For someone who enjoys modifying bikes, this Sequoia may also be a good candidate for a one-by drivetrain.

You could remove the front derailleur and triple crankset, then install a single front chainring. The bike already has a fairly long rear derailleur cage, so there may be enough capacity to use a larger cassette, potentially something around 36 teeth.

That could create a cleaner and simpler setup while still providing enough range for hills.

A lighter wheelset would also reduce weight and improve the ride, although that upgrade may cost more than some people want to spend on a $150 bike.

One Bike for Almost Everything

The biggest advantage of the Specialized Sequoia is its versatility.

• Road rides
• Gravel trails
• Commuting
• Recreational rides
• Family bike rides
• Light touring
• Everyday errands

There are faster road bikes and more capable gravel bikes, but few affordable used bikes can comfortably cover this many different types of riding.

If you only plan to own one bike and do not want to spend a fortune, look for an older Specialized Sequoia. Even after more than 20 years, it can still be a practical, comfortable, and surprisingly capable bike.

I’m always a little skeptical when celebrities put their names on food, drinks, or other products. Sometimes it feels like they simply approved the packaging, collected a check, and moved on.

But after looking at Snoop Dogg’s Rap Snacks, I’m starting to think he may have actually participated in the product development.

The first flavor is Maple Bar-B-Que. That one sounds fairly normal, a slightly sweeter version of a traditional barbecue chip. Nothing too surprising yet.

Then you get to Sour Cream, Cheddar, and Ranch.

That is not one flavor. That is three popular chip flavors packed into the same bag. At this point, it starts to feel like Snoop was sitting in the product development meeting and simply refused to choose.

But the real standout is the combination featuring salt and vinegar, cheddar, barbecue, onion, garlic, and even more flavors.

That is basically the entire chip aisle mixed together.

Whether Snoop actually helped create the flavor or simply approved it, the combination certainly fits his personality. It is bold, unusual, and probably the type of snack idea someone comes up with late at night when choosing just one flavor no longer seems necessary.

Rap Snacks Have Apparently Gone Healthy

The other surprise is that these chips are trying to offer a slightly healthier twist.

The packaging says they are:

• Made with avocado oil
• Gluten-free
• Non-GMO

Of course, they are still potato chips, so nobody should mistake them for a salad. Still, using avocado oil and removing certain ingredients may appeal to shoppers who are paying closer attention to what is in their snacks.

Rap Snacks has managed to create something that feels both over the top and surprisingly modern. You get the ridiculous flavor combinations associated with Snoop Dogg, along with packaging that highlights ingredients such as avocado oil.

Are They Worth Trying?

These probably are not the chips for someone who only eats plain or lightly salted snacks. There is a lot happening in every bag.

But if you enjoy strong flavors, or you have ever wished you could combine several different bags of chips without buying them separately, these may be worth a try.

Celebrity products can often feel forced, but these chips at least seem to match the celebrity attached to them. They are creative, a little excessive, and difficult to ignore.

Thanks, Snoop.

Don’t Call That Number: A Common Facebook Marketplace Scam to Watch For

If you sell items on Facebook Marketplace, you’ve probably seen a comment that looks something like this:

“I’m interested. Call or text me at this number so we can arrange pickup.”

At first glance, it seems harmless. After all, some people still prefer talking on the phone. But this is also a tactic commonly used by scammers to get sellers off Facebook’s platform.

Why They Want You to Leave Messenger

Facebook Messenger provides some protection for buyers and sellers. The platform can identify suspicious accounts, detect known scam patterns, and give users warnings when something doesn’t seem right.

Once you move the conversation to text messages or a phone call, those protections are gone.

That doesn’t automatically mean the person is a scammer, but it’s a good reason to be cautious.

What to Do Instead

Whenever possible, keep all communication inside Facebook Messenger.

Not only does it create a record of your conversation, but it also makes it easier to report suspicious behavior if something doesn’t seem right.

If someone insists that you call or text instead, consider it a red flag and ask them to continue the conversation in Messenger.

A Few Other Warning Signs

While every situation is different, be cautious if a buyer:

• Wants your phone number right away.
• Asks you to share a verification code.
• Sends a screenshot claiming they’ve already paid.
• Says someone else will pick up the item after payment.
• Pressures you to move quickly.

The Bottom Line

Most buyers on Facebook Marketplace are legitimate, but scammers are always looking for ways to get people off the platform and around Facebook’s built-in safeguards.

My advice is simple: keep conversations in Messenger whenever you can. It’s one of the easiest ways to protect yourself while buying or selling online.

Have you run into this type of comment on one of your Marketplace listings? Share your experience in the comments. It may help someone else avoid a scam.