• Oil prices have fallen to about $70 a barrel amid a US-Iran peace deal, but fares likely won't drop.
• Analysts say carriers are seeing favorable supply-and-demand dynamics, partly driven by the war.
• US airline stocks are rallying as investors expect lower oil prices to boost profitability.

Flyers hoping for cheaper flights this summer may be disappointed.

Oil prices — airlines' second-largest expense after labor — have tumbled to nearly $70 a barrel from highs above $100 after the US and Iran announced a preliminary agreement to end the nearly four-month war that closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments.

Aviation analysts say airlines won't rush to cut ticket prices or their lucrative checked-bag fees even if the war between the US and Iran ends. Israel is also not a direct party to the agreement.

Since the US and Israel launched the conflict in late February, carriers have cut unprofitable routes and raised fares and ancillary fees to offset higher fuel costs.

Richard Aboulafia, aviation analyst and the managing director of AeroDynamic Advisory, told Business Insider that tight seat supply, combined with resilient demand, has given airlines little incentive to reverse course on pricing.

"Things are pretty good, maybe traffic is down a little, but profits aren't, right?" he said. "So why would you? Inflation is a great excuse to get more pricing power."

US airline stocks are rallying as investors expect the favorable mix of lower fuel costs and sustainable high fares to boost profitability.

Data from KAYAK flight search shows that average domestic airfares are up about 8% since the war started; average international airfares are up about 18%. Fares from the US to Amsterdam and London, for example, have increased by more than $200 roundtrip.

US airlines have also raised checked bag fees by as much as $50 one-way to offset soaring oil prices, with most major carriers now charging between $40 and $50 per bag each way.

Airline CEOs at Delta, United, and Southwest aren't disputing analysts' warnings, saying resilient demand, tight capacity, and durable pricing power are reasons fares are likely to remain elevated even if oil prices ease further.

"We and our competitors are all focused on ratable production of results, steady production of results, sustainable margins, and so I do think that produces a backdrop where we'll certainly not attempt to give some of these fare increases back," Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said at the Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference in May.

Don't expect flight prices to drop

Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth told Business Insider that for airline ticket prices to fall, supply needs to increase or demand needs to soften — but she said that's unlikely, especially since oil is still up 50% year-over-year and oil shocks may continue even with a deal.

"Capacity through August is likely mostly finalized by now, so the opportunity to gain confidence to add back more capacity (or get back to the prior plan) would be in 4Q at the earliest," she said, referring to the fourth quarter that begins in October.

US airline stocks have surged in recent days as oil prices fall and investors anticipate wider profit margins. Delta Air Lines' stock has risen above $90 since Wednesday, surpassing its pre-war high of about $75 in early February.

United Airlines' stock is trading at about $134 on Thursday, up from roughly $117 before the conflict. The carrier has outperformed its legacy rivals on Wall Street in recent years as it adds new aircraft, expands premium cabins, and grows its international network.

American Airlines has also gained ground, though its stock remains well behind its larger rivals at about $17 a share as of Thursday. The carrier has historically trailed Delta and United in profitability.

These rallies could quickly fade if tensions in the Middle East escalate again and the Strait shuts back down.

The Trump administration has repeatedly announced possible deals to end the war, but many ultimately fell through. The latest agreement, signed last week, extends the ceasefire for 60 days as the sides negotiate on the thorniest issues, including the whereabouts of Iran's highly enriched uranium.

Officials have spoken about the deal in broad statements, but its specific terms remain secret. On Tuesday, President Donald Trump warned that if Iran were to acquire a nuclear weapon, "all hell will rain down on them."

Time will tell how durable the US-Iran agreement proves to be, and some airlines may be hedging their bets. United CEO Scott Kirby told Bloomberg at an industry conference in early June that he is not confident any deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would last.

Syth said that airlines in general may also be hesitant to add capacity after a series of shocks over the past two years, including persistent inflation that has driven up operating costs and two government shutdowns that caused mass flight delays and cancellations.

NerdWallet travel analyst Sally French told Business Insider that the pricing picture also has to factor in Spirit Airlines' collapse in May and the loss of its cheaper tickets.

"With fewer seats and one fewer ultra-low-cost carrier, we're generally not seeing the kind of downward pressure on fares that budget-conscious travelers want," she said.

As for checked bag fees, all three analysts say they are unlikely to drop. Data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shows US airlines made roughly $5.5 billion in revenue from checked bag fees in 2025.

"Changes there tend to be stickier regardless of the demand environment," Syth said, adding that it should be a while before bag fees increase further if oil prices are lower.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Monday and has been updated.

I've reported on Cozy Earth for about as long as I've covered Amazon Prime Day sales as a shopping editor, which is seven years, so I'm very familiar with the brand's sale rhythms. Cozy Earth always matches Amazon's deals and adds an incentive to shop on its own site (typically a bigger discount if you buy multiple items), and this year was no different. But Amazon just tipped the scales in its favor: Every Cozy Earth Prime Day deal is now 25% off, up from 20% off at the start of the sale.

Why the Cozy Earth Waffle bath towels are the deal I'd shop first

I received the Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Towels from the brand for editorial consideration around three years ago — just after it landed on Oprah's Favorite Things list — and I haven't wrapped myself in anything else post-shower since. One side is like your standard towel, and that's what hits my body first, quickly absorbing moisture without getting wet itself. The other side has that luxurious waffle weave, and that's what I use to rub down my skin until it's completely dry. Like most Cozy Earth products, the fabric blend contains viscose derived from bamboo, which gives the towels their soft, luxurious feel.

They're also pretty attractive, as far as towels go. Before receiving these, my multicolored cotton towels were giving "dorm bathroom." Now, the soft, subtle color and waffle texture of the Cozy Earth towels — especially the hand towels — lend the space a more adult, sophisticated feel. They have no problems with the washing machine, and I have yet to pull out a loose thread, which signals their structural integrity.

Things to Consider

While the towels have softened over time, they're still not the softest towels I've ever used. Those would be the Frontgate Resort Collection towels, which Business Insider happened to name the best bath towel. But personally, I find them a bit too plush — I prefer the weight and feel of Cozy Earth's. If you do like a plush towel, the Frontgate towels are on sale for 30% off.

Also, they're pricey. Even with this Prime Day deal, the set is still over $200, which is a lot for towels. If you don't need the whole 10-piece set, the towels are available in sets of two for $81. Still, the Cozy Earth waffle towels are a meaningful upgrade to everyday life that you won't have to think about replacing for several months, and I don't think you'll see a discount like this again for several months.

Check out more of my recommendations for taking advantage of Cozy Earth's worth-it Prime Day deals below.

More of the best Cozy Earth Prime Day Deals

If I'm not planning to get dressed for a while after showering, I'll reach for the waffle robe after drying off with the bath sheet. It's much thicker than the towels and thus more plush, which is what I want in a towel bathrobe, and I love the coordinated look.

These bamboo sheets are the first thing I tried from Cozy Earth, and I prefer them to other cooling sheets I've tested. Even though they wrinkle pretty easily, they have a rich, silky feel. They're certainly a splurge for sheets, but their high price tag is reflected in the quality.

I almost never see these cooling pajamas for under $100. They're made almost entirely with bamboo viscose, plus a touch of spandex for stretch, so they're basically a wearable version of the brand's award-winning sheets. I sleep too hot for real pajamas in the summer, but I love my long-sleeve-and-pants sets in the winter.

These are the travel pants Business Insider editors recommend for long flights. Personally, I wear them for long sits on the couch, but I should wear them out of the house more often — they're actually really flattering on my curvy shape.

Prime Day saves you nearly $100 on this oversized faux-fur throw blanket. I've seen this one sell out before, so even if you won't use it until the fall, I'd grab it now to beat the holiday shopping rush. It's fur-lined on both sides, insanely soft, and has a slightly weighted feel.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon for the full selection.

Amazon's Prime Day sale is full of excellent TV deals, but one model stands out from the pack: the Samsung S90F. This OLED is already a great value at its typical street price, but for Prime Day, the 55-, 65-, and 77-inch sizes are at all-time lows. It's easily one of the top Prime Day deals this year.

My team and I review TVs year-round, and the S90F is my pick for the best TV overall. It's an OLED, so it features an infinite contrast ratio with deep, inky black levels and bold HDR highlights. It also has wide viewing angles, so you get a great view no matter where you sit. The 65-inch model is a particularly great buy at a record-low price of $1,198. And though Samsung has a newer 2026 version of this TV, the S90F actually delivers superior color performance. Since the S90F is a 2025 model, it will get harder to find as the year goes on. With that in mind, this could be your last chance to snag it at such a big discount.

There are other great OLED TVs on sale right now, but none can match the S90F's picture quality at this price. Here's why it's one of the best Prime Day TV deals right now.

Why we love the Samsung S90F TV

• It delivers the best balance of picture quality and price of any TV my team has reviewed.
• Offers pixel-level contrast and deep black levels that disappear into a dark room.
• The 55-, 65-, and 77-inch models feature quantum dots, which enable a wider color gamut than you'd get with the newer Samsung S90H or similar LG models.
• It has solid brightness for a midrange OLED, with a peak of around 1,460 nits, which is more than enough for a typical living room.
• Its combination of high contrast and brightness gives HDR scenes a bold look, with explosions and other highlights that really pop.
• Wide viewing angles maintain strong contrast and color accuracy from nearly any seat in the room.
• Great for gaming, with up to 144Hz on PC, and 120Hz on PS5 and Xbox Series X.
• Supports nearly every major streaming service and offers faster navigation than older Samsung TVs.

What about the 2026 S90H?

Samsung also sells a new 2026 edition of the S90 Series, called the S90H. The new model offers similar contrast and brightness, but its color capabilities are actually downgraded since its panel no longer uses quantum dots. On the other hand, the S90H does have a much more effective anti-glare screen than the S90F, so it can nearly eliminate reflections. This anti-glare screen does hurt contrast a bit in bright rooms, but it's otherwise a nice perk.

The S90H is also on sale for Prime Day, but it's still notably more expensive than the S90F. I give the S90F an edge since it's more affordable and delivers better HDR color, but if glare is a huge headache in your room, you may want to consider paying more for the newer S90H.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

It's the third day of Prime Day, and a great time to score big on pet supplies and gear. Many of the top Prime Day pet deals are on items that I have not only personally tested but also use in my day-to-day life, including one of my favorite automatic cat feeders: the Petlibro Granary Smart Camera Feeder. It has dropped by 35% to its lowest price ever, only the second time it's hit this all-time low.

If you've been on the fence about upgrading your pet's feeding setup, this is the moment. I've tested several automatic feeders for Business Insider's guide to the best cat feeders, and this is the only model I've used that combines precise scheduled feeding with a built-in wide-angle camera. It also has a tamper-proof lid that not even my toddler or my polydactyl, food-obsessed cat can break into.

This is a smart buy for pet parents who travel or work long hours and want scheduled meals plus real-time monitoring — without buying two separate devices. And while there are solid Prime Day pet camera deals out there, why buy both when this does it all?

Why we love it

The wide-angle lens lets you see more than just the feeder. The 1080p HD, 145-degree field of view covers most of a room, which means you're getting more than a close-up of a food bowl. I've strategically positioned mine so I can view my Feeder Robot (a great feeder that lacks a camera), and I still have a view of most of my dining room, where my cats are often lounging.

It fits your schedule — or more importantly, your cat's. Some cats do fine with two meals a day; others need smaller, more frequent feedings throughout. The Granary accommodates both, with portions as small as 1/12 cup (about a tablespoon) per feeding and up to 10 scheduled meals daily that can repeat on your selected days.

You can make adjustments on the go. Using the Petlibro companion app, you can dispense a meal in real time or adjust the feeding schedule from anywhere. I use this when we have a house sitter, and they realize they'll be out past dinner, so no meals are ever missed.

Night vision means you're never left in the dark. The infrared night vision lets you check in on your cats at any hour without turning on a light. As a self-described helicopter pet parent, seeing my cats happily snoozing at 2 a.m. helps me sleep better.

It has a large capacity and keeps food fresh. The Granary holds up to 32 cups of dry food, and the tightly sealed lid and included desiccant pack help keep kibble fresh for longer.

The twist-off lid is genuinely cat- and toddler-proof. I've used the Granary for about four years, and in that time, my cats have never once broken into it. Neither has my toddler, who would absolutely eat cat food given the chance.

It keeps feeding even during a power outage. Install backup batteries, and the Granary will continue dispensing meals on schedule even if the power and WiFi go out. D batteries are not included, but I found a great Prime Day deal on those, too.

Whether you need a feeder without a camera, a smart RFID model for two cats eating different diets, or a cat water fountain, PetLibro has options on sale across the board right now — making it a smart time to outfit your home.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Prime Day mattress sales can be a mess to shop. Amazon is flooded with unfamiliar bed-in-a-box brands, inflated list prices, and deals that are not always better than what you'll find directly from the manufacturer.

As Business Insider's sleep editor, I track mattress prices year-round, and I'm usually skeptical of buying a bed from Amazon for that exact reason. But after sorting through the Prime Day listings and comparing prices against competing brand-site sales, I found a handful of Amazon mattress deals that clear a higher bar: They're on best mattresses we've tested, recommend, and would actually buy at these prices.

I've also rounded up a few deals on great mattresses that aren't sold on Amazon but are discounted ahead of early 4th of July promotions. Still, the strongest mattress deals I found are on Amazon, including the Nectar Classic Mattress for $537, our pick for the best mattress under $1,000, and our favorite cheap foam mattress from Zinus, on sale for just $188.

If you're in the mood to fully upgrade your bed, consider one of the best pillow deals and savings on other bedding accessories, too.

• See all Prime Day mattress deals on Amazon

The best Prime Day mattress deals

Nectar Classic Mattress

Why we love this deal: As our top pick for a mattress under $1,000, the Nectar Classic is a well-rounded foam mattress with a medium-firm feel that should appeal to most sleep styles, including those struggling with back pain. For Prime Day, Nectar has dropped the price to $532 on Amazon. This beats buying directly from Nectar by more than $150 and is lower than the roughly $700 price we've seen around other major shopping holidays like Memorial Day. You still get Nectar's yearlong trial and lifetime warranty.

Who should buy it: Best for back, side, and combination sleepers who want a medium-firm foam mattress with broad appeal. It's also good for couples who want strong motion isolation, but don't need advanced cooling. Read our full Nectar review.

Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress

Why we love this deal: Leesa is offering 30% off mattresses right now, including the Leesa Sapira Hybrid, the comfiest mattress we've ever tested and the top pick in our best mattress guide. This premium bed-in-a-box costs more than many Amazon mattress deals, but it delivers a high-quality build with contouring foam, individually wrapped coils, excellent pressure relief, responsive support, and strong cooling.

Who should buy it: Best for side, back, and combination sleepers who want a medium-feel hybrid that balances pressure relief and support. It's also a strong pick for couples, hot sleepers, and people with back pain. Read our Leesa Sapira review.

DreamCloud Classic Hybrid Mattress

Why we love this deal: DreamCloud has pulled out all the stops for Prime Day, dropping the price of the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid mattress to $535 from its typical $700 price. You can also opt into Amazon's in-home setup for $80, which is far less than DreamCloud's $199 fee for White Glove Delivery. Plus, you still get the yearlong trial and lifetime warranty.

If you prefer to shop DreamCloud directly, it is offering an extra 15% off its typical pricing. We found slight price differences between Amazon and DreamCloud, so I suggest comparing prices based on the model you choose. For instance, the Premier is $849 instead of its typical $1,100 on DreamCloud (unavailable on Amazon), but the Amazon pricing on the more premium 14-inch Luxe beats DreamCloud direct ($966 versus $1,189).

Who should buy it: The Classic has the same essential construction as the Premier, which our testers liked, but lacks the additional foam support and a euro-top with a cashmere blend. Best for back and combination sleepers who want the support and bounce of a hybrid without a high price. Couples who prefer a more responsive feel should like it too. The yearlong sleep trial will give you peace of mind to try it out for yourself.

Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel Foam Mattress

Why we love this deal: Zinus makes some of the best cheap mattresses around. The all-foam Green Tea Cooling Gel Foam Mattress offers outstanding edge support and motion isolation, and sleeps cool too. Its medium-firm design appeals to all sleep types. While it's available in various depths, we recommend choosing at least 10 inches. Otherwise, you lose support.

Who should buy it: This is a solid option for budget shoppers, guest bedrooms, college apartments, and anyone who wants a no-frills foam mattress with better-than-expected cooling, edge support, and motion isolation.

Casper Original Hybrid Mattress

Why we love this deal: This is Casper's OG hybrid mattress, now exclusively sold on Amazon. Compared to its successor, the Casper Dream Hybrid, you're saving about $300 for a very similar construction. Amazon is also offering free in-home setup and mattress removal, which adds rare value for a bed-in-a-box deal. Compare the Casper lineup here.

Who should buy it: It's a good fit for combination sleepers, couples, and anyone who prefers an average-firmness mattress that feels more responsive than an all-foam bed. It's also a smart pick if you want zoned support and don't want to set up the mattress yourself.

Casper Element Mattress

Why we love this deal: The Element foam mattress is a cheaper alternative to some of Casper's other options and a rare chance to snag a mattress from the brand for under $500. It's only available through Amazon and offers a firm base and excellent edge support. It's made of two layers of foam: a base layer for support and durability, and a top layer for pressure relief and breathability.

Who should buy it: A good choice for back and stomach sleepers who want a firmer foam mattress from a recognizable brand for under $500. It's also a practical pick for guest rooms, teens, and first apartments. Side sleepers or anyone who needs deep cushioning around the shoulders and hips may want a softer, more pressure-relieving option.

Why we love this deal: An organic mattress for under $1,000 is pretty hard to come by, but this Awara deal on the Premier gets you very close, at $1,019 for a queen. It's made of GOLS & FSC-certified organic latex and individually wrapped coils, with a soft-to-the-touch cover made of wool and bamboo rayon. Read our Awara Premier review.

Who should buy it: The two extra inches of latex on the Premier create a luxurious hotel-style pillowtop that the Classic design lacks. We suggest it for back and stomach sleepers who like a tinge of plush, eco-conscious buyers on a budget, and those who sleep hot, as the bed exhibited excellent temperature regulation.

Serta Five Star Mattress

Why we love this deal: On our radar for testing, Serta's affordable bed-in-a-box innerspring offering is available in several different firmnesses (plush, medium, firm) and depths (8 to 16 inches) and features zoned support, a rarity in the budget mattress category. Very few budget mattresses also see price cuts this deep, making this pricing especially noteworthy.

Who should buy it: Those looking for an affordable option from a legacy mattress brand. It's also offered in various firmness levels and depths, something you don't typically see in affordable mattresses, though the pricing does creep up for the plusher, thicker options.

Tuft & Needle Original Hybrid Mattress

Why we love this deal: Tuft & Needle seldom goes on sale, so this 33% Prime Day price cut on its flagship Original Hybrid Mattress is a great option if you've been wanting to try the brand's adaptive foam.

Who should buy it: Our tester recommends this bed for side and back sleepers seeking a plusher sleep surface and highlights its excellent temperature regulation and motion isolation, but hopes for more advanced pressure relief. It's a strong choice for couples, hot sleepers, and anyone who prefers a more cushioned feel while still wanting coil support.

Beautyrest Silver Mattress

Why we love this deal: Several Beautyrest Silver mattresses are 15% off for Prime Day, which only happens occasionally. This classic option features an antimicrobial cooling cover and gel lumbar support over 900 individually wrapped coils. It's several hundred dollars less on Amazon than what we've seen from other retailers, and you can add on a free in-home setup.

Who should buy it: This is a good pick for shoppers who want a more traditional coil mattress from a legacy brand, especially if they value cooling features, lumbar support, and the option of in-home setup. It's best for people who prefer sturdy support over the slow-sinking feel of memory foam. It's also worth considering for anyone replacing an older innerspring mattress and wanting something familiar but more updated. It's available in multiple firmness options, offering a more tailored feel.

Sweetnight CoolNest Cooling Memory Foam Mattress

Why we love this deal: This 14-inch memory foam mattress combines phase change material foam with gel-infused memory foam for layered cooling comfort and five-zone support for pressure relief where you need it most. It's a thick mattress too, which feels more luxurious than thinner counterparts.

Who should buy it: This is best for shoppers who want a tall, cooling-focused memory foam mattress. Its medium feel makes it a practical option for couples with different sleep preferences, combination sleepers, and guest rooms. We haven't tested it firsthand yet, but 81% of Amazon reviews are 5-star, which is a very high approval rating in the mattress category.

Tuft & Needle Kin Foam Mattress

Why we love this deal: The Amazon-exclusive Kin by Tuft & Needle mattress features 10 inches of adaptive foam technology to help you sleep cooler and offers balanced support between soft and firm.

Who sold buy it: This is a good pick for shoppers who want Tuft & Needle's adaptive foam feel at a lower Amazon-exclusive price. It's best for people who want a balanced, not-too-soft, not-too-firm foam mattress with better breathability than traditional memory foam. It's also a smart option for guest rooms, teens, and anyone who wants a straightforward foam mattress with a 100-day trial and a 10-year warranty.

Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress

Why we love this deal: Helix mattresses are up to 30% off for Prime Day, and they truly have a mattress for everyone. I suggest taking the brand's mattress quiz to help you find the right option for your needs. Helix mattresses have a 120-night sleep trial and a limited lifetime guarantee.

Who should buy it: I like the Dusk Luxe for back, stomach, and combination sleepers who want a medium-feel hybrid with extra support around the hips and lower back. Side sleepers may prefer the softer Midnight Luxe. The cooling upgrades are also worth it if you're a hot sleeper.

Puffy Royal Mattress

Why we love this deal: Puffy frequently offers $1,350 off its mattresses, but the current free upgrade deal makes the sale even more compelling by letting shoppers get a more luxe model for less. For example, you can get the Puffy Royal for the price of the Puffy Lux. The way to "activate" the deal can be a little confusing, as you must go through the cheaper mattress's product page and opt in to the upgrade.

Who should buy: Our tester loved the Puffy Royal for side and petite sleepers, citing its plush, sink-in feel that was extremely pressure-relieving. It does sleep warmer, so it's better for cold sleepers or anyone who isn't temperature sensitive.

Avocado Green Mattress

Why we love this deal: Avocado offers sales around major holidays like July 4th, and its entire lineup of organic mattresses is 15% off. Avocado is one of the most trusted names in organic bedding, and backs its products with various third-party certifications. The beds have a one-year trial and 25-year warranty.

Who should buy it: If you're looking for an organic or latex hybrid bed backed by tons of eco-friendly certifications. The Avocado Green is available in three firmness options and sleeps cool. The tight-top medium is best for back, stomach, and combination sleepers who like a firmer, more lifted feel. Side sleepers should consider the pillow-top plush version for more pressure relief.

The best Prime Day mattress sales by retailer

Several amazing mattresses are available directly from the brands themselves. Here are some competing offers to consider

• Avocado: Get up to 15% off mattresses
• Awara: Save up to 50% on mattresses
• Bear: Get 35% off mattresses with code JULY35
• Big Fig: Get $500 off a mattress and 20% off sitewide
• Birch: Save up to 30% off sitewide
• Brooklyn Bedding: Get 25% off sitewide
• Casper: Save up to 30% off mattresses
• DreamCloud: Save up to 60%, plus an extra 15% off on mattresses and 66% on bundles
• Glacier: Save 15% off cooling mattresses
• Helix: Save up to 30% off mattresses
• Leesa: Save 30% off mattresses
• Mattress Firm: Save up to $700 off mattresses, plus a free adjustable base
• Nectar: Get up to 50% off mattresses, plus an extra 15% off and 66% off bundles
• Nolah: Get 35% off sitewide
• Plushbeds: Get up to 50% off mattresses and $99 white glove delivery
• Puffy: Save $1,350 off mattresses, plus a free mattress upgrade
• Purple: Save up to $800 off a mattress and a base
• Saatva: Save $300 off your $1,000 order
• Siena: Save up to 60% on mattresses
• Sleep Number: Up to 20% off, plus free delivery
• Tempur-Pedic: Save $500 on Tempur-Breeze mattresses
• Zoma: Get 30% off mattresses

Prime Day deals on other bedding accessories

If you're considering a new mattress, your bed is just one part of your sleep setup. I also found several of the best mattress protectors (an essential) and mattress toppers (an affordable way to add more comfort to a bed). Adjustable bases are growing in popularity, too, and are helpful for relieving back pain, reducing pressure, minimizing snoring and acid reflux, and making watching TV or reading in bed more comfortable.

Prime Day mattress deals FAQs

What are the best mattresses?

The top pick in our best mattress guide is the Leesa Sapira Hybrid, an excellent medium-firm bed that's currently 25% off on Leesa's site.

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a new mattress?

A mattress is a pricey investment, so we recommend buying one during a sale like Prime Day. For mattresses available exclusively through Amazon, you'll find the lowest prices there, but many other brands are running mattress sales that will carry into July 4th.

Why buy a mattress from Amazon?

There are some perks to buying a mattress from Amazon. Your purchase is backed by a sleep trial of at least 90 days and includes free shipping. Some models offer scheduled delivery, in-home setup, and removal of your old mattress for $80. I've even noticed offers for free in-home delivery on certain beds.

Can I use my HSA/FSA funds to buy a mattress?

People with a qualifying medical condition — like sleep apnea, chronic pain, or mental illness — are able to use pre-taxed dollars from their HSA/FSA funds to buy a mattress, meaning extra savings for you. Using these funds requires a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a doctor, but brands like Sleep Number and Purple partner with organizations like TrueMed and Sika to make the process easier. Read our guide to using HSA/FSA funds to buy a mattress for more information.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Amazon Prime Day is back for another year — and with it, thousands of red-tagged deals competing for your attention. But not every markdown is worth your time, let alone your money.

To cut through the noise, we turned to some of the internet's most discerning shoppers: Redditors. Between flashy gadgets, lookalike dupes, and an endless scroll of "limited-time" offers, even savvy shoppers can get lost in the chaos. But members of anti-consumption-minded communities like r/BuyItForLife and r/Frugal aren't easily swayed. They're some of the pickiest shoppers out there — so when they recommend something, we pay attention.

And it's not just the practical stuff that sparks Reddit's enthusiasm. Entire communities spring to life when a cult-favorite beauty product goes on sale, like the Aestura ATOBARRIER365 cream (which also happens to be the K-beauty cream that our editors swear by for fighting chapped winter skin).

So we mined these subreddits, compared notes with our in-house testing data, and compiled the standout deals worth your attention for Prime Day. In addition to product recommendations, we've also rounded up some of the best Prime Day shopping advice according to Redditors. The event runs from June 23 to 26, and you can find some of the best offers available across categories in our massive roundup of Prime Day deals.

Recommendations from the r/BuyItForLife community

The r/BuyItForLife community is ultra discerning in its recommendations. The group's central tenet is to purchase as few things as possible, with the goal of never having to buy a replacement.

Some of the most popular posts are odes to items that have lasted for years (or, ideally, decades), ranging from water bottles to pocket knives. So when the community rallies around a recommendation, you know you have a product that's made to go the distance. Here are some highlights.

Recommendations from the r/smarthome community

The r/smarthome community is a strong source for smart home recommendations because it's full of people troubleshooting, testing, and comparing devices in real homes — not just reviewing them out of the box.

Prime Day is a good time to upgrade the smart home devices that make your space more convenient, secure, and energy-efficient, so we looked at products that are highly recommended by us and the r/smarthome community.

Shop all Prime Day deals on smart home devices.

Budget-friendly recommendations from r/Frugal and r/SavingMoney

If you ask r/Frugal or r/SavingMoney what you should buy for Prime Day, you're almost guaranteed to get the same answer: Nothing you don't already need.

These thrifty communities caution strongly against falling for the lure of a red sale tag. For them, the only things worth buying are household essentials that you know you're going to need anyway.

Shop all Prime Day deals on household essentials.

Recommendations from the r/Backpacking community

Backpacking season is in full swing, and Prime Day is a good time to upgrade the gear people keep recommending across Reddit. Here are some products that come highly recommended by us and the r/backpacking community.

See all Prime Day deals on outdoor recreation.

Recommendations from r/KoreanSkincare

Korean skincare is still having a major moment, and Prime Day is a good time to try some of the K-beauty products people keep raving about on TikTok and Reddit. This year's Amazon deals include top-rated Korean moisturizers, barrier creams, ceramide masks, and other gentle, hydrating skincare essentials.

A huge favorite of ours is the K-beauty brand Aestura, which we swear by for intense hydration and bouncy skin. Here are some products that come highly recommended by us and the r/koreanskincare community.

See all Prime Day deals on Korean beauty and check out our spotlight of the best Medicube Prime Day deals.

Hero products from well-known beauty brands

The Redditors at r/beauty caution against buying unvetted Amazon brands that pop up on Big Deal Days sales (basically, if it has a collection of uppercase, unpronounceable letters, avoid it). Instead, they advise investing in personal care items from brands you already know.

See all Prime Day beauty deals and check out our roundup of editor-favorite makeup and skincare deals.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

• Target plans to introduce a new point-based attendance tracking system in the coming months.
• The approach is similar to those of other major retailers, including Walmart and Amazon.
• It's part of several recent changes aimed at improving store operations and customer experience.

Target is tightening enforcement of its attendance policy.

Starting in September, the bullseye retailer plans to begin tracking unexcused lateness and absences with a new point-based system for store and warehouse workers companywide, a spokesperson confirmed to Business Insider. The company is also switching to a unified scheduling app for employees and managers.

Going forward, workers will incur a quarter of a point for arriving more than eight minutes late, one point for missing a shift without approval, and three points for missing a shift without notifying a manager.

Discipline progresses from a check-in with a manager at three points to counseling at five points, to a final warning at nine points, and then to termination at 12. Points expire after 365 days.

The spokesperson said the new system does not change Target's commitment to comply with protected absence, leave, or accommodation laws.

Several other major retailers, including Walmart and Amazon, have similar point systems for employee attendance.

This latest move comes as Target's new CEO, Michael Fiddelke, is pushing to improve store operations and customer experiences.

"Target is focused on returning to growth, and elevating our guest experience is a key strategic priority," the spokesperson said. "We'll continue to focus on enabling our team to deliver the delightful experience that guests depend on every day."

Other recent initiatives include a revised dress code and a 10-4 rule that asks workers to smile at shoppers within 10 feet and say hello to those within four feet.

The early results have been positive for Target, with increased visits fueling comparable sales growth of 5.6% last quarter.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at dreuter@businessinsider.com or text/call/Signal at 646-768-4750. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• Micron's blowout earnings fueled a brief tech stock rally on Thursday before moves reversed.
• Apple officially raised prices due to higher memory chip costs, dragging down the Nasdaq.
• Investors are weighing the impact of memory price spikes and what it means for the AI trade.

It was a volatile day on Wall Street after a short-lived tech rally soured and abruptly reversed course.

Micron's stellar earnings report boosted the stock by nearly 20% and reignited the AI trade, helping the Nasdaq 100 jump 2% at Thursday's opening bell.

But it wasn't to last. Just a half an hour into regular trading, the tech-heavy Nasdaq's gains reversed, dragged lower by Apple stock, which dropped on news of price hikes on devices as it responds to the memory-supply crunch.

Apple officially raised price for Macs and iPads, a change outgoing CEO Tim Cook warned about earlier this month when discussing memory chip costs.

Here's where major indexes stood at the 4:00 p.m. ET closing bell:

• S&P 500: 7,357.50, down 0.01%
• Dow Jones Industrial Average: 51,920.62, up 0.14% (+71.72 points)
• Nasdaq 100: 29,440.32, up 0.75%

The premarket rally was led by the some of the stocks that saw the most dramatic declines earlier in the week, including Micron and other memory chipmakers.

Apple and other Magnificent Seven names were among the tech stocks in the red in Thursday's session.

Here were some of Thursday's most notable moves:

• Sandisk: +19.5%
• Micron: +16.3%
• Western Digital: +4.8%
• Dell: -6%
• Palantir: -5.4%
• Apple: -6.1%
• Microsoft: -3.5%
• Nvidia: -1.6%

Micron's earnings may have been "too good," Futurum CEO Daniel Newman told Business Insider.

"The pricing pressure is very real and it's landing in the laps of consumers with the likes of Apple raising prices due to memory," he said, adding, "Structurally the capex and AI trade got validation, but the knock on effects are being digested. This plus profit concentration are certainly contributors to volatility."

Baird investment strategist Ross Mayfield told Business Insider that Micron's strong results can't offset a tough technical setup.

"My sense is that even with strong A.I. fundamentals (e.g., Micron), positioning is still really lopsided so good news gets sold intraday. The rotation out of AI infrastructure and memory was never really about fundamentals – it was a technical move – so while Micron’s results reinforce the durability of the AI buildout, it doesn’t do much to relieve the immediate pressure of overcrowded positioning in the tech space," he outlined.

Ross Gerber, CEO of Gerber Kawasaki, explained Thursday's moves reflects investors realizing that the memory chip price surge is raising costs for consumer tech.

Ted Mortonson, a tech strategist at Baird, told BI that the market moves reflect worries about inflation within the tech sector as well as a broader rotation into other sectors from tech. "Pricing increases not sustainable," he said.

Amazon Prime Day is going strong on its third day, with deals aplenty, including great savings on computer monitors. I've been testing tech products for over a decade, and I've covered every Prime Day event since the first sale in 2015. All that experience helps me separate the good Prime Day deals from the duds. I'm keeping track of all the best Prime Day monitor deals for entertainment, work, gaming, and everyday web browsing.

A few discounts have gone up and down over the last few days, with some models getting slightly better prices and others slightly worse. For instance, Samsung's 34-inch ViewFinity UltraWide monitor is actually $15 less than it was at the start of Prime Day. It's now $385, which is just $5 shy of its all-time low of $380. Meanwhile, if you're shopping for a gaming monitor, I recommend checking out this 30% discount on Asus' 26.5-inch ROG Strix OLED display. This kind of panel delivers much higher contrast than a standard LED monitor.

Prime Day ends on June 26, and I'll be updating this guide throughout the rest of the sale. And if you're looking for savings on larger displays, be sure to check out my roundup of all the best Prime Day TV deals.

The best Prime Day computer monitor deals

If you're looking for a standard monitor suited for everyday tasks, these models from Samsung, Philips, Dell, Asus, and LG are all solid options, especially with these discounts.

The best Prime Day gaming monitor deals

These gaming monitors all deliver advanced features geared toward providing a smooth, high-contrast image. OLED models, like LG's 32-inch UltraGear, have especially strong picture quality, making them ideal for gamers and media enthusiasts.

Prime Day monitor FAQs

What's the difference between a standard monitor and a gaming monitor?

A standard monitor is built for everyday tasks like browsing the web, drafting documents, streaming videos, and basic photo editing. A gaming monitor is designed to display games with smooth motion and advanced features like HDR (high dynamic range). As such, gaming monitors offer higher refresh rates, faster response times, brighter panels, and additional features, such as adaptive sync, that you won't find in typical productivity monitors.

For casual use, a standard monitor with 1080p or QHD resolution, a basic LED panel, and a 60Hz refresh rate is fine. But if you play fast-paced games, you should invest in a gaming monitor that supports at least 120Hz. Monitors that use OLED, QLED, and Mini LED panels are also better suited for games since they deliver brighter, higher contrast images than basic LED screens. If your PC is powerful enough to handle higher resolutions, a 4K gaming monitor is also a good option since it'll deliver a sharper image.

Should you buy an ultrawide monitor?

Several monitors on sale for Prime Day feature an ultrawide design, giving you more horizontal space than a standard 16:9 or 16:10 monitor. This type of screen can be great for multitasking, productivity, and immersive gaming, but it takes up more desk space and usually costs more than a standard display. It's best for shoppers who want extra screen space without using two monitors.

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a computer monitor?

If you've been meaning to buy a new computer monitor, Prime Day is a great time to do so. The event is packed with good deals on monitors from top brands like Samsung, LG, Asus, Dell, and Alienware. That said, there are always a handful of mediocre deals to be wary of, but my recommendations cover notable discounts from quality brands.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Japan and Sweden have both put together strong World Cup campaigns, setting up a compelling Group F showdown in the tournament's final round of group-stage matches. Depending on the rest of the group's results, this game could decide first place or simply determine who enters the knockout rounds with momentum. Here's where to watch Japan vs. Sweden from anywhere in the world.

Two of the most organized and disciplined teams in the field, Japan and Sweden, have achieved success in different ways but share the same goal: extending their World Cup run. The match will stream on FOX via a live TV service in the US, on BBC iPlayer in the UK, and on SBS on Demand in Australia, among others.

We recommend using a VPN to stream the entire tournament (and future sporting events) from anywhere in the world, especially via the free international options below. Follow the full tournament and learn how to watch your team in our where to watch the World Cup guide, or try your chance at scoring a seat in person with our guide to buying World Cup tickets.

*Local channel coverage, like FOX, varies by region on Sling.

Where to watch Japan vs. Sweden for free

Luckily for fans, there are plenty of ways to catch this match at no cost. In Australia, tune in via SBS On Demand; in the UK, via BBC iPlayer. Want some more? Ok, how about Tabii in Turkey?

In the US, the best way to see it without incurring a fee is to sign up for a free trial of Fubo or YouTube TV. Or you can use a VPN, as detailed below, to access your free live streaming options from anywhere in the world.

How to watch Japan vs. Sweden from anywhere

Found yourself away during the match? Don't sweat the details — you can access the Japan vs. Sweden match from anywhere in the world using a VPN (virtual private network). This simple app lets users change their device's location, granting access to their favorite free streaming service from anywhere. It's a helpful tool outside of just streaming the game, especially for avid travelers hoping to access their usual services from abroad and folks interested in cybersecurity.

We recommend NordVPN, one of the top picks in our guide to the best VPNs, for catching the game. Fast, easy to use, and home to a variety of global servers, it'll have you covered for the whole tournament. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Where to watch Japan vs. Sweden in the US

Just like the rest of the World Cup, the Japan vs. Sweden game will air on FOX in the US (some other matches will be available through FS1). To tune into the channel, you'll need cable, an antenna, or a paid streaming subscription. For this game specifically, you can catch it for free by signing up for a free Fubo or YouTube TV trial.

A live TV package could be the right solution for your home, since it'll offer you more than just Fox — check out our guide to the best live TV streaming services to find your perfect fit.

Fubo Sports + News ($56 a month) is a great choice, offering Fox, FS1, and about 27 other channels. If you're hoping to find a more inclusive service, Fubo's pricier plans are a good choice with even more channels bundled in. All Fubo plans come with a free trial for new users.

YouTube TV is another solid option. Plans cost $83 a month, but a special deal will knock your first five months down to just $68 a month. Fox and FS1 are also available in YouTube TV's cheaper Sports Plan. All YouTube TV plans come with a free trial for new customers.

We also recommend Sling TV, but you'll need to double-check that the service covers FOX in your ZIP code to ensure World Cup coverage. If it does, Sling Select ($25 a month) or Sling Blue ($51 a month) are our suggestions, since both also include FS1. Sling Select plans without local channels start at just $20 a month.

Viewers looking for Spanish-language tournament coverage will be best served by Peacock. Plans with sports streaming start at $11 a month.

Where to watch Japan vs. Sweden in the UK

ITVX and the BBC have split rights for the World Cup. The Japan vs. Sweden game will be free to stream via BBC iPlayer for UK viewers. You'll just need to create an account.

Where to watch Japan vs. Sweden in Australia

Australian viewers can catch the entire World Cup tournament via SBS On Demand. The free service requires account creation, but no payment.

Note: VPN use is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content may constitute a breach of the terms of use for some services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

I'm the last person who needs another tote bag — my closet is stuffed with so many already. But as my collection grows, I've learned which design features makes a tote truly exceptional. Prime Day is one of the best times to upgrade to one with a padded laptop sleeve, a secure zip-top, or a spacious main compartment for those jam-packed days.

So far I've scouted a neat little foldable travel tote for as little as $13, all the way to rosy leather designer bag from Tory Burch on sale for $187 off. Some of our favorite summer-ready totes are also on sale, including a softside Yeti that's perfect for the beach (now $105 off it's usual $350).

Find related discounts in our guide to the best Prime Day travel deals. And for up-to-date deals across all categories, check out our main Prime Day deals hub.

The best work tote Prime Day deals

This Prime Day, we're seeing standout savings on structured leather totes, zip-top bags with padded laptop compartments, and intuitive designs to help you feel organized at the office. See more commuter-friendly options in our roundup of the best Prime Day backpack deals.

• Read more: The best affordable work bags we tested

The best travel tote Prime Day deals

We're also seeing under-$25 deals from our favorite budget-friendly travel brand, Bagsmart. These bags are lightweight with trolley sleeves, zip-top closures, plenty of pockets, and enough space for your on-the-go essentials. See more of our favorite travel bags on sale in our guide to the best Prime Day luggage deals.

• Read more: The best travel totes we tested

The best beach tote Prime Day deals

These spacious totes account for all the bulky towels, leaky sunscreen bottles, sandy shovels, and whatever else you need to make it a perfect day at the beach. Prime Day brings discounts on some of our favorite canvas bags and easy-to-clean carryalls.

• Read more: The best beach bags and canvas totes we tested

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Amazon Prime Day is more than halfway over, but it's not too late to grab huge savings on big-ticket items, like a new smartphone. Android users will especially benefit, with brands like Samsung and Google pitching in to the event's festivities. The best Prime Day smartphone deals are gathered below, featuring models we've tested, researched, and recommend.

At up to $230 off, the flagship Samsung Galaxy S26 is at an all-time low, while Google's Pixel 10 is 33% off — another record-breaking price drop. You can also find different specs and models from each brand on sale, making it easier for shoppers, no matter what their budget.

Though there's still another day of the event, we've already seen deals expire and had to remove some from the list below. If you see a model you want in a color you like, don't hesitate to snatch it up. For more great deals, check out our Amazon Prime Day hub.

The best Prime Day Samsung Galaxy phone deals

Samsung's flagship Galaxy S26 Series is on sale for Prime Day, with record discounts on the S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. You can select different colors and storage options from each Amazon listing. You can also shop deals on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7, with the latter reaching an all-time low price.

The best Prime Day Google Pixel phone deals

Google fans can save big on the brand's Pixel 10 Series of smartphones for Prime Day. Highlights include $100 off the entry-level Pixel 10a, which is already a good buy at full price. You can learn more in our complete Google Pixel 10a review.

The best Prime Day phone accessory deals

Still happy with your phone? You can still save big this Prime Day on cases, earbuds, power banks, and other accessories to make your device experience even better.

FAQs

Are iPhones on sale for Prime Day?

Amazon doesn't typically sell new iPhones directly, so you won't find Prime Day discounts on the latest iPhone models. You may see deals on renewed or refurbished iPhones, but shoppers looking for a brand-new iPhone are better off checking carriers like Mint Mobile, T-Mobile, and AT&T to see if they're running any promotions.

You can learn more about Apple's latest phones in our iPhone 17 review and iPhone 17 Pro review.

Should I get a case for my new phone?

As phone technology has advanced, durability has mostly improved, so now an accidental drop isn't always the end of the line for your phone. That said, given how pricey smartphones are, we typically recommend that people at least invest in a phone case. We also think that screen protectors (especially tempered glass ones) are worth it for certain models.

You can shop our curated guides to the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 cases, best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 cases, and best Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra cases.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

After six years of covering Prime Day deals and tracking prices year-round, I have a pretty good sense of what to expect from Amazon's biggest sale events. There are always plenty of vacuums, coffee makers, TVs, and Amazon devices marked down — the kinds of products that go on sale often, but may drop to new lows or fall within their usual deal-event price ranges.

Those discounts can still be worthwhile if you're ready to replace or upgrade something. But unless you already had one of those products on your wish list, there may not be much urgency to buy, especially when many of them will likely be on sale again by the next major holiday weekend.

Every so often, though, a few brands genuinely surprise me. These are the ones that rarely get discounted, go on sale only during major shopping events, or hit unusually low prices on Prime Day. I found 10 brands with rare deals worth paying attention to, along with a few standout products from each.

Supergoop!

Supergoop! is another one of those brands that only offers discounts a few times during the year. During the summer, it can be especially selective with deals because demand for sunscreen is already high. Our beauty editors found 365-day low prices on some cult classics, so you can protect your skin this summer.

Shop up to 30% off Supergoop!.

Summer Fridays

Prime Day is the perfect time to catch all the beauty deals on trendy, premium, and K-beauty products. Summer Fridays is one of the brands I'm seeing everywhere right now, and thanks to this deal, it might finally be time to try the Lip Butter Balm that helped put it on the map.

Shop all Summer Fridays deals.

Oura Ring

The Oura Ring 5 was just released earlier this month, making it the perfect time to save big on the previous generation. The Oura Ring 4 is at its lowest price ever at 35% off, and is our favorite smart ring for its accurate tracking, approachable advice, and lightweight design.

Skylight Calendar

The digital calendar organizer is absolutely beloved by parents trying to manage their family schedule. It only drops in price a few times a year, and $250 is the lowest we've ever seen this 15-inch touchscreen go for. Get a head start on the school year, and read our Skylight Calendar review about how it helped bring some calm to contributor Jamie Davis Smith's routine.

Yeti

This is the first time I've ever seen some of Yeti's popular coolers, like the Hopper M30, see any sort of discount. The soft-sided design makes transporting easier and keeps contents icy cold thanks to its top-tier insulation.

• See all Yeti Prime Day deals.

Coach

Some of Coach's most classic styles are up to 40% off for Prime Day. These styles are least likely to be marked down due to their trending status amid the Coach resurgence, but alas, we've been given a treat for Prime Day. The colorway options are more limited on the markdowns, though. Here are some of the designs I'm itching to add to my collection.

• See all Coach Prime Day deals.

Mackenzie-Childs

I dream of decorating my home head to toe in Mackenzie-Childs. A ton of the iconic brand's decor and kitchenwares are 25% off for Prime Day, including coveted teapots, useful canisters, serveware, rugs, and more in classic prints like Courtly Check and Butterfly Garden. It's the perfect time to add to or start your collection.

• See all Mackenzie-Childs Prime Day deals

Hatch

Few items have switched up my bedroom routine like the Hatch Restore 3. First presented to me as a customizable wake-up alarm clock, it's so much more than that. It has helped me create a wind-down routine with its content library of relaxing meditations, stories, and sounds. It also functions as a sound machine if you like white noise while you sleep. It only goes on sale during Prime Day and Black Friday, so this 20% discount is the best you'll find if you're trying to work on better sleep habits.

Ninja

Ok, hear me out, Ninja is always on sale, but their most viral products aren't. This Prime Day marks the first meaningful price drop of the Ninja Crispi Pro and the lowest price ever on the Ninja Cafe Pro. Sadly, the deal on the device of the summer, the Slushi, is sold out, but it is still available on Ninja direct.

Technivorm

In the same caffeinated vein, the Technivorm Moccamaster sees small 10% price cuts throughout the year but never drops by more than 35%. The Moccamaster is commonly regarded as a "buy-it-for-life" appliance and makes some of the richest drip coffee. The machine is hand-built in the Netherlands with a design that has barely changed since the 1970s, featuring modular parts that are easily repairable and a long five-year warranty. It can be found in a rainbow of colors, too.

What makes these Prime Day deals rare?

To qualify as rare, I dug into comparable price data and compared how often they go on sale and lowest historical prices. This may be the first time these products have been this price this year, or they only go on sale around key shopping events like Black Friday and now Prime Day. I also consider popular products that are at their lowest prices ever.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon for the full selection.

It's day three of Amazon's Prime Day sale, and there are still plenty of excellent discounts available. One of our favorite Prime Day deals is on the Oura Ring 4. Certain sizes and colors are down to all-time low prices, with the best Oura Ring 4 Prime Day discounts offering up to 48% off.

Specific prices vary by material, color, and size, but the Oura Ring 4 usually costs between $349 and $499 before any discounts. Right now, various metallic and ceramic configurations are under $300, matching or exceeding previous sales. The Ceramic Midnight Oura Ring 4 is up to 48% off, while the Metallic Silver Oura Ring 4 is up to 38% off. However, a few sizes and colors are no longer in stock, so you may need to try different combinations if you don't see a deal right away.

Our fitness expert tested the best smart rings and best fitness trackers, and the Oura Ring 4 made the cut as one of our top picks. It's lightweight and offers an impressive seven to eight days of battery life, so you typically get a full week between charges. You can learn more in our Oura Ring 4 review.

FAQ

Is there an Oura Ring 5?

Yes, Oura released the Oura Ring 5 in June 2026. However, the new model is not on sale for Prime Day. It ranges in price from $399 to $499. The Oura Ring 5 does offer some improvements, including a lighter design and longer battery life. But given current discounts, the Oura Ring 4 remains the better value overall.

You can also shop the older Oura Ring Gen3 Heritage and Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon at discounts in select sizes and colors.

When does Prime Day end?

Prime Day runs through June 26. While there's technically another full day to shop, popular items often sell out early. We've already seen certain Oura Ring 4 sizes and color combinations go out of stock, so if you're planning to purchase one, we recommend doing so sooner rather than later.

Do you need a subscription to use an Oura Ring?

You need a subscription to get the most out of an Oura Ring. While you can technically use basic features without a subscription (like daily Readiness, Sleep, and Activity scores), most tracking features and metrics require a membership. Subscriptions cost $6 a month or $70 a year.

Are other health and fitness trackers on sale for Prime Day?

If a ring isn't quite your speed, several other fitness wearables are getting big discounts for Prime Day, including smartwatches. Several Apple Watches are discounted, including a record-low 30% off the Series 11, our top pick for the best Apple Watch.

You can also find deals on Fitbits, Garmins, and other popular fitness watches. These watches might be better fits for serious athletes and runners since Oura Rings don't offer as many fitness metrics.

If you're looking for a cheaper smart ring, you can also get 37% off our top budget pick, the Amazfit Helio Ring.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Luggage can be expensive, but cheaping out can result in immediate regret once your roller wheels catch, zippers rip, and straps tear on your trip. With the right Prime Day luggage deals, you can save over a hundred dollars on our top-reviewed brands, making it easier than ever to invest in a travel companion you'll have for years.

Whether you're in need of a carry-on, checked bag, or personal item, the whole range of items is on sale right now. Some of our favorite names are participating in the sale, including Away, Travelpro, Samsonite, and many more. Colors and sizes are limited, so we highly recommend acting fast before your choice sells out.

Read on to find the best luggage we've tested at the lowest prices of the year. Don't forget to check our Amazon Prime Day hub for deals across every category, too.

This softside carry-on from Travelpro may not look as sleek as an Away or Monos hardshell, but we still think it's worth the splurge — especially while it's $95 off for Prime Day. Its wheels glided effortlessly over rough terrain better than any other carry-on we tested, and its many internal pockets make packing easier. Plus, you can use its USB ports to charge your phone on the go.

The best Amazon Prime Day carry-on luggage deals

A good carry-on can make quick trips much easier, especially if you're trying to skip the baggage carousel. The best Prime Day carry-on deals include compact suitcases that fit overhead bins while still offering useful features like spinner wheels, interior dividers, and front pockets.

• Read more: The best carry-on bags we tested

The best Amazon Prime Day luggage set deals

A luggage set can be a smarter buy than purchasing each suitcase separately, especially if you need bags for multiple stops or several family members. Prime Day brings discounts on matching sets that bundle carry-ons, checked bags, and sometimes smaller travel pieces into one purchase.

• Read more: The best luggage we tested

The best Amazon Prime Day checked luggage deals

Checked luggage is best for longer trips, heavy packers, or anyone who wants room for bulky shoes or souvenirs. Prime Day is a good time to look for deals on durable hardside and softside checked bags with expandable storage, compression straps, and sturdy handles.

• Read more: The best checked luggage we tested

More Amazon Prime Day travel bag deals

So you've got your roller bags handled, but your totes and backpacks still need to be taken care of. In that case, Prime Day is also offering tons of great deals on travel companions we've tested and love as personal items and carry-on bags.

• Read more: Weekender bags | Travel backpacks | Personal item bags

FAQs on Prime Day luggage deals

Is Prime Day a good time to buy luggage?

Definitely. We're still early in the summer travel season, so now's the perfect opportunity to save on a new carry-on or checked luggage. Plus, during this 4-day period, you can find plenty of luggage sales outside of Amazon.

As someone who travels at least once a month, I think the scarcity of all-black luggage deals this Prime Day is actually a good thing. I prefer when I can clearly see my bright teal hardshell coming around the baggage carousel, so don't be discouraged if you're noticing limited color variety.

What size carry-on should I buy?

Most domestic airlines have a maximum carry-on size requirement of 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and nine inches tall.

What are the best luggage brands on sale?

Some of our favorite luggage brands offer deep discounts on suitcases for Prime Day. Samsonite has slashed prices this Prime Day, with some bundles at over 50% off. Away now has carry-on and checked bags marked down 20%, and there are tons of other deals going live all the time.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

• A heat wave in Europe caused record-breaking temperatures across several countries.
• Much of Europe doesn't have air conditioning, so people used fountains and ice cream to cool off.
• The heat affected public transportation, grocery shopping, and other aspects of daily life.

Over 120 million people across 18 European countries are caught in a heat wave, with record-breaking temperatures exceeding 113 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas.

The extreme conditions, which began last week and continued to spike on Thursday, were caused by a heat dome, a high-pressure system that traps heat and humidity.

The World Meteorological Organization reported in April that Europe is warming at a rate that is twice the global average due to the climate crisis, with 95% of the continent experiencing above-average annual temperatures last year.

With no air conditioning in much of Europe, there is little relief to be found from the sweltering weather. Several European governments issued health warnings advising the public to minimize unnecessary travel and carry water while outdoors.

The heat has also proven fatal, with five dead from heat exposure in Italy and 40 drowning deaths reported in France, where many young people have taken to swimming unattended in lakes and canals, The New York Times reported.

Photos show how extreme heat is affecting businesses, infrastructure, and daily life across Europe — and how locals and tourists are doing their best to beat the heat.

On Tuesday, a thermometer in Brussels displayed a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, or 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dogs and humans alike splashed in sidewalk sprinklers and fountains around Brussels for a break from the heat.

Billboards in Venice, Italy, issued heat wave alerts on Tuesday, when temperatures reached 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tourists on the Ponte della Paglia bridge in Venice carried umbrellas for some relief from the sun.

The UK experienced its hottest June day on record on Wednesday, with temperatures reaching 97 degrees Fahrenheit, causing train cancellations.

Signs at King's Cross station in London advised train passengers to "only travel if absolutely necessary" on Wednesday and Thursday.

Riders on the tube in London carried fans to cool themselves off.

Sainsbury's supermarket locations covered their refrigerated sections with blinds to help keep food cold.

In Paris, the Louvre announced it would close early through June 27 due to the extreme temperatures.

Ice cream sold out at supermarkets across Paris amid skyrocketing demand for frozen treats.

Sea lions snacked on ice cubes at Paris Zoological Park.

Zookeepers at Safaripark Beekse Bergen in the Netherlands provided giraffe-friendly ice cream.

In Tilburg, the Netherlands, locals stocked up on fans.

In Germany, winter maintenance vehicles in Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis sprayed down roads to keep the asphalt from softening.

Parts of Germany's A2 highway still had to close on Thursday after the high temperatures damaged the road's surface.

A farm in Oberried, Germany, utilized a misting system to help alleviate heat stress for its cows.

Across Europe, government organizations advised people to stay hydrated.

Prime Day is in full swing, and there's no better time to save on luggage and travel accessories before you hit the road or fly this summer. One standout deal is on the Trtl Travel Pillow, a godsend for upright, middle, and aisle-seaters, or anyone seeking extra neck support. For Prime Day, it's $39.70, which is 38% off and its lowest price since 2023.

I bought this pillow back in April so I'd have it for my 8-hour flights to and from Italy. I'd seen the Trtl Pillow on many best-of lists but was always skeptical. Rather than a plush or inflatable pillow, it's an ergonomic design incorporating a piece of molded plastic wrapped in lightweight fleece. You position the plastic along one side of your neck, then wrap the fleece around to achieve a secure fit with your neck in a neutral position.

After Italy and a recent road trip where I took some hourslong naps, I'm happy to report that I won't leave home without this pillow in the future — my neck pain didn't creep up on me. Insider Reviews editor Gabi Chase feels the same. "This is the only travel pillow I've tried that fits my long, thin neck," she says. "The wrap is easily adjustable and kept my head in a fixed position, sparing me from the agonizing cycle of headbobbing and shocking myself awake."

Why we love the Trtl Travel Pillow

• Unmatched ergonomic support: Upright sleepers won't find the same level of support in other travel pillows. Some standard plush or inflatable pillows are designed for upright sleep, but none offer the structure of the Trtl. This is key for people with long, thin necks or chronic neck pain.
• Low profile means less bulk: If you dislike the standard, bulky U-ring pillows like I do, the Trtl Pillow has an incredibly thin profile and weighs just 4.6 ounces.
• Portability: The pillow fits neatly inside its convenient carry pouch, which features a carabiner for clipping to your luggage or backpack. Combined, the pillow and pouch weigh a mere 6.3 ounces.

• Easy to clean: I have yet to wash my pillow, but the care directions say you can remove the plastic support and toss the fleece wrap into the washer on cold. Then you'll want to air-dry it.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Amazon Prime Day is a great time to restock your beauty routine, but the sale can also be a lot to sort through. There are thousands of skincare, haircare, makeup, and sunscreen deals live at once, and not every viral product with a discount is actually worth buying.

That's why we're focusing on the Prime Day deals our editors already use, repurchase, or recommend after testing. The best deals we've found include K-beauty moisturizers that have earned permanent spots in our routines, sunscreen that makes reapplying feel fun, a shampoo I think is actually worth the higher price, and the pimple patches our executive editor calls her go-to. We also found discounts on internet-loved brands like Medicube, Laneige, OUAI, Aestura, Vacation, Paula's Choice, Hero Cosmetics, Sulwhasoo, and Tarte.

Below, we've rounded up the best Prime Day beauty and skincare deals to shop now, with quick notes on who each product is best for and why we think it deserves a spot in your cart.

For more Prime Day beauty deals, see our roundups of the best red light mask deals, the best Dyson deals, the best laser hair removal deals, and more.

The affordable K-beauty brand that's taking over the internet

Medicube has become one of the buzziest names in at-home K-beauty, and Prime Day is a good excuse to try the brand at a discount. Its products hit that sweet spot between viral and actually useful: the devices are made to help your skincare absorb better and leave skin looking glowier, while the topical formulas lean into hydration and the glass-skin ingredients people are already searching for, like niacinamide, collagen, exfoliating acids, and PDRN — a salmon-derived DNA ingredient that's become one of skincare's latest fixations..

• Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0, ($31 $15): Medicube's Zero Pore Pads are one of the brand's best-known products, and they're a practical Prime Day pickup if you want a quick exfoliating step for smoother-looking skin. "I have these on subscribe and save because every time I test out stopping them, my skin gets scaly again," says executive editor Sally Kaplan.

• Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum, ($22 $15): This lightweight pink serum taps into the PDRN trend with peptides and niacinamide for a more hydrated-looking finish.
• Medicube PDRN Pink Niacinamide Milky Toner, ($20 $14): A softening, milky toner with PDRN, ceramides, and peptides, this is the one to grab if your skin wants more cushion than exfoliation.
• Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream, ($22 $15): This pink peptide eye cream is designed for the under-eye area, with PDRN and niacinamide to target dryness, fine lines, and uneven tone.

See all Medicube products on sale for Amazon Prime Day and check out our roundup of our favorite Prime Day deals on Medicube.

A French pharmacy staple

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Sensitive, ($35 $28)

Embryolisse is a French pharmacy staple with a reputation that goes well beyond everyday moisturizing — makeup artists often use it as a primer by smoothing on a thicker layer before foundation.

Executive Editor Sally Kaplan likes the sensitive-skin version as a daily face cream and calls it "the most amazing daily moisturizer for dry skin." She has rosacea, so she's especially careful about formulas that can irritate her skin, and says this one hydrates "in a way that no other moisturizer ever has." It's a smart Prime Day pickup if you want a rich, comforting moisturizer that can also help makeup sit more smoothly.

The final boss of lip hydration

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask ($24 $16)

A family friend who works as a flight attendant turned me on to the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask years ago and told me it's a staple among her colleagues for dealing with dry cabin air. It's become a favorite on our team, too, especially in winter when regular lip balm doesn't always feel like enough. Despite the name, it's not just for sleeping — I use it anytime my lips feel chapped and need something thicker, glossier, and longer-lasting.

Pricey shampoo and conditioner at a discount

OUAI Thick Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set, ($64 $51)

OUAI's shampoo and conditioner sets are among the few haircare products I think are actually worth the higher price. I use the brand's shampoo exclusively, and while it's definitely more expensive than a drugstore bottle, the formulas make my hair feel cleaner, softer, and more manageable without leaving it stripped. That's why this is one of the Prime Day beauty deals I'd actually recommend stocking up on, especially since OUAI makes versions for fine, medium, and thick hair types.

A moisturizer so good, multiple editors have switched

Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream, ($32 $24)

This is my favorite moisturizer ever, full stop. It's rich without feeling greasy, makes my skin look immediately calmer and glowier, and has the kind of barrier-supporting texture that feels especially useful when my face is dry, irritated, or over-exfoliated.

Senior Associate Style Editor Gabrielle Chase is also a longtime fan: She says that it's "the only thing that keeps my extremely dry skin feeling hydrated for over 24 hours at a time," adding that the finish "almost feels like a wax seal, locking moisture in." Since it's usually pricier than a basic drugstore moisturizer, this is exactly the kind of beauty deal I'd use Prime Day to stock up on.

But we don't just love the moisturizer. The whole line is among our favorite hydrating products of all time. Here are our favorite products:

• Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream Mist ($24 $18): This ceramide-packed mist is a good desk or gym-bag product if your skin tends to feel dry midday and needs a quick refresh.
• Aestura Atobarrier 365 Hydro Cera-HA Serum ($34 $27): This lightweight serum has ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, making it a good pick if you want hydration and barrier support without adding another heavy cream.
• Aestura Atobarrier 365 Hydro Soothing Gel Cream ($32 $20): This is the lighter, cooling option in the Atobarrier lineup, and it makes the most sense for combination or oily skin that still needs barrier support.

Our go-to pimple patches

Mighty Patch Original from Hero Cosmetics, ($23 $17)

Hero Cosmetics' Mighty Patch is one of those products that makes the most sense to buy in bulk, since you never really know when a breakout is going to show up. Executive Editor Sally Kaplan calls it her "go-to pimple patch," and this 75-count pack is a practical Prime Day restock if you already know you'll go through them.

The most summery sunscreen

Vacation makes sunscreen feel less like a chore and more like something you actually want to keep reapplying, which is half the battle on pool and beach days. The brand's Classic scent is basically bottled summer: coconut, banana, pool water, pool toy, and swimsuit fabric (if that sounds strange, just wait 'til you smell it — it will make sense). The formulas are practical, too, with SPF 50 options that are water-resistant and designed to feel lightweight instead of gloopy.

• Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 Face Mist, ($24 $15): Face spray sunscreen is a game changer for pool and beach days because it makes reapplying SPF feel less annoying — no smearing, no gloopy mess, just a refreshing mist you can spritz on throughout the day. It's truly a game-changer for me.
• Vacation Classic SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion and Air Freshener Bundle, ($17 $14): This travel-size lotion is easy to throw in a beach bag, and it gives you Vacation's nostalgic summer scent in a more controlled sunscreen format than a spray.
• Vacation Classic SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion Family Size, ($48 $37): This 20-ounce pump bottle is the practical pick if you want a sunscreen everyone can use all summer without constantly running out.

Shop all of Vacation's Amazon Prime Day deals

The best cleanser for combination skin

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam, ($38 $29)

Sulwhasoo's foaming cleanser is a luxe K-beauty wash that feels more special than a basic morning cleanser, and Senior Home Editor Jaclyn Turner says it's held up as a repurchase since she bought it last Prime Day. "I love starting my morning with this cleanser," she says. "It foams up beautifully and feels velvety smooth on my skin. My skin feels so fresh afterward, and it has minimized breakouts on my combination oily skin."

The ultimate summer vitamin C serum

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum, ($20 $15)

This is my go-to affordable vitamin C serum for summer, when I want something lightweight that helps with uneven tone and gives my skin a little extra support against UV-related damage. I use Sunday Riley's CEO Glow Oil (also on sale) in the winter, but this feels better for hot weather — and you can actually feel that slight tightening effect right after applying it. It also has over 155,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star rating, which is reassuring for a serum that costs far less than most prestige vitamin C formulas.

A lip color with subtle plumping

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump, ($27 $16)

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm Gloss, ($27 $16)

The Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump or Balm Gloss are great Prime Day pickups if you like the look of a gloss but want something that feels more cushioned than sticky. Senior Home Editor Jaclyn Turner's go-to shade in the Plump formula is Rose Quartz Shimmer Glass, a sheer, sparkly pink that adds polish without looking overdone.

She likes that it has the "perfect amount of shimmer and shine," an easy click-up applicator, and a subtle tingle that makes her lips look fuller. It's the kind of low-effort lip product that works on its own, over liner, or tossed in a bag for touch-ups.

Sally is equally obsessed with her Juicy Lip Balm Glosses, which are hydrating and sheer enough for everyday wear.

A hyaluronic acid staple

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer, ($38 $27)

This Laneige moisturizer is a staple in Senior Home Editor Jaclyn Turner's skincare routine, and it's a good pick if you want something richer than a gel cream but not as heavy as a thick balm. It has squalane, ceramides, and blue hyaluronic acid to help hydrate normal to dry skin and support the moisture barrier, making it an easy everyday moisturizer if your skin tends to feel tight or dehydrated.

The ultimate exfoliant

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, ($37 $26)

I bought this cult-favorite exfoliant to try on my own dry skin, and it was a bit of a disaster — red, irritated, the whole thing. But when I passed it along to my fiancé, who has oily skin, it worked like a dream. I can tell when he's using it consistently because his skin looks smoother, brighter, and more even; when he's slacking, I can tell that, too. The formula uses 2% salicylic acid to clear pore congestion and smooth texture, so it's especially worth considering if your skin is oily or blackhead-prone.

A versatile hairbrush

FHI Heat UNbrush Detangling Brush ($18 $15)

The viral UNbrush is Senior Home Editor Jaclyn Turner's favorite detangling brush, with a lightweight, vented design and flexible dual-length bristles that work through knots on wet or dry hair without making detangling feel like a whole event.

• Most days, I found myself feeling exhausted, burned out, and glued to my phone after work.
• So, I began attending reading parties, laid-back hangs where people gather to read independently.
• It's the perfect low-pressure social activity for me to feel refreshed and get off my phone.

After work each day, I found myself feeling mentally exhausted and burned out.

Seemingly endless emails and a phone that buzzes long after 5 p.m. left me craving a more balanced lifestyle, particularly one that didn't make me feel constantly available.

However, I was struggling to find activities and plans that would actually stick.

I know exercise can be mood-boosting, so I tried going to the gym after work. Most of the time, though, I ended up canceling because I was too tired and it didn't sound like much fun.

I also attempted to make regular plans to go to happy hour with coworkers. This didn't stick, either, and I didn't exactly want all my social interactions to revolve around alcohol.

Instead, I continued spending most evenings sitting on my couch, doomscrolling on Instagram, waiting for my husband to get home from work.

At one point, after checking my screen-time settings, I was horrified to realize I was spending an average of four hours a day on my phone.

When I told my friend about my unsuccessful attempts to fix my post-work habits, she suggested I attend a reading party (or Silent Book Club).

I'd seen people around the world posting about attending these low-pressure events, where attendees gather to read books independently and silently, then have discussions afterward.

It seemed strange to turn an activity I usually do alone into a group one, but I was willing to give it a try.

I was skeptical, but the reading party helped me get off my phone in a fun way

Shortly after, I headed to a reading party at a café near me with a copy of "The Handmaid's Tale" in hand.

As I arrived, I was worried I'd be the only one in attendance. Instead, I was surprised to see about a dozen people spread out at tables in the back corner of the café — all with books in hand, coffees nearby, and no phones in sight.

A woman smiled at me and scooted over, so I could sit at the empty seat beside her. I pulled out my book, ordered an oat-milk latte, and tried to start reading.

Instead, I kept getting distracted and couldn't get comfortable in the chair. I shifted from side to side and had to reread the same page three times because I kept looking up at the sound of the espresso machine or someone walking by.

I wondered how long I could possibly sit here like this as I resisted the urge to grab my phone to check the time. Everyone else's were away, and I didn't want to be judged for having mine out.

After about 20 minutes, I finally got comfortable and was able to really dive into my book.

Our group read, uninterrupted, for one and a half hours, and then the woman who had organized the event got our attention and said the reading part of the event was finished. She motioned for us to go around in a circle, introduce ourselves, and share what we were reading.

Once everyone was through, attendees chatted with the people beside them. The conversations flowed naturally. We all liked reading and set aside time in our schedules to go there, so it was easy to break the ice.

I found out the girl next to me was also a big Bukowski fan, and it was nice to pick each other's brains about our favorite works of his. Shortly after, the event came to a close.

People began to leave, and I liked not feeling pressured to exchange Instagram handles or phone numbers with anyone. I simply thanked the host and said I'd be back.

I left feeling refreshed and calm.

It's nice having semi-regular plans that help me connect with others in a low-pressure way

Instead of looking down at my phone during my walk home, I found myself enjoying the beauty of my neighborhood — people walking their dogs, chatting in cafés.

As I continued, a buzz in my bag snapped me out of the present moment. Without thinking, my hand shot into my purse and grabbed it. I laughed when I saw that I had no important messages, only a promotional email about a sale at Ikea. I had missed nothing.

I won't say this event was a magic cure that's made me never reach for my phone or feel stressed after work. However, it helped me to connect with others and myself in a more present way.

I've now been attending these parties every other week or so for about six months. It's gotten easier to get comfortable, stay focused on the page I'm reading, make post-reading conversation, and not feel tempted to grab my phone.

And when I'm truly desperate to know what time it is, I just look at the watch that I'd forgotten I owned.

• Texas has become one of the top destinations for movers in the US.
• Its business-friendly climate and lower cost of living attract people from all walks of life.
• Supermodel Bella Hadid and actor Glen Powell are among the celebrities who have moved to Texas.

Texas is popular for many reasons.

The second-largest US state is the birthplace of the iconic musician Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, NFL star Michael Strahan, and actresses Selena Gomez and Reneé Zellweger.

It's also home to a beloved football team, the Dallas Cowboys, and internationally famous festivals, including South by Southwest.

Beyond its cultural significance, Texas has a reputation for its affordability, largely due to its relatively lower cost of living and absence of state income tax. This personal finance appeal, combined with a business-friendly environment, has attracted entrepreneurs and their companies over the years.

US Census Bureau data shows that Texas population growth has declined nationwide; Texas is still a leader in attracting movers. From July 1, 2024, to July 1, 2025, Texas had the highest number of new residents, adding 391,243.

Several celebrities are among the hordes of movers to Texas. This reflects a broader trend of wealth realignment in the United States, where even the proverbial Joneses are moving to areas where their money goes further, and the weather is more favorable.

Consider supermodel Bella Hadid, who moved to Fort Worth, Texas, or comedian Roseanne Barr and podcast host Joe Rogan, who have decamped from LA to Austin in recent years.

Business Insider has compiled a list of 20 notable celebrities and businesspeople who have moved themselves — and in some cases, their businesses — to the Lone Star State.

The list is presented in alphabetical order by last name.

Roseanne Barr traded Hollywood for 30 acres in Texas Hill Country.

Roseanne Barr's son, Jake Pentland, told Us Weekly in June 2025 that his famous mother had traded the Hollywood Hills for Texas Hill Country, a region in central Texas that includes cities like Austin and New Braunfels.

"My mom lives with me, my wife, and my two daughters — she's the best grandma," Pentland told the magazine.

In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Barr said living in Texas is a "dream come true."

"I'm doing a lot of mowing. I've got a really fantastic tractor out here, and I'm mowing," Barr said. "The only problem is I don't clear the trees quite as good as I should, and I'm always hitting a tree and knocking it over, and it always hits me in the head."

Haylie Duff said it took a while to realize she could still have an acting career without living in LA.

A native of Texas, Duff decided with her fiancé Matt Rosenberg to pack up the kids and leave California once the pandemic hit.

At first, she was nervous that the move would hurt her career.

"I think so much of my fear of moving out of Los Angeles was that my career was there and that I would never work again or something like that," she told Fox News Digital in 2022. "And, you know, I think this has all taught us that Zoom certainly can be a very powerful tool. And we can, you know, very luckily for me, get to continue to work from here, and I get to live near my dad. I haven't lived, here, near my dad in a really long time."

Scott Eastwood loves living in Texas because it 'slows life down.'

The son of Clint Eastwood, Scott has been methodically building his own career, showing up in the "Fast and Furious" franchise and Guy Ritchie movies.

During his downtime in Texas, he does everything from fishing to hunting.

"I think that's why people who come to Texas really can fall in love with it," he told Flaunt in 2021 from his home in Austin. "There's more community, people are more neighborly, people are nice. It slows life down a little bit. It's not this fast-paced living in a big city like New York or Los Angeles."

Adrian Grenier's acting career is thriving in Texas.

In 2020, "Entourage" and "The Devil Wears Prada" star Adrian Grenier left the Hollywood Hills for a 46-acre sustainable ranch in Bastrop, Texas, a city about 40 minutes southeast of Austin.

While in Texas, Grenier has continued acting and most recently appeared in the short film "Self Custody," about a struggling father who loses a cryptocurrency fortune. The film was shot in Austin, near his home.

In an interview with Page Six in March, Grenier said Texas' burgeoning film and television industry will keep him in the state.

"There's $2.5 billion that the Texas state government just put into film and television projects in Texas," Grenier said. "They're building three movie studios not too far from me. I don't see any reason why we wouldn't just continue to film in Texas."

Bella Hadid said she moved to Texas for her health.

After spending most of her life jet-setting around the world trying to conquer the modeling industry, Hadid decided recently to take some time away from the spotlight.

In early 2024, she spoke to Allure about moving to Texas to focus on her mental and physical health (she was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in 2013), and be with her then boyfriend, cowboy Adan Banuelos.

"Just as I have styled myself for years now — which I still do — I love being able to do my own hair and makeup, be happy with how I look, and get ready with my girlfriends here in Texas," Hadid told Allure. "We have the best time, and I never feel like I need to do too much."

"For the first time now, I'm not putting on a fake face. If I don't feel good, I won't go. If I don't feel good, I take time for myself. And I've never had the opportunity to do that or say that before," Hadid added. "Now, when anybody sees me in pictures, and they say I look happy, I genuinely am. I am feeling better; my bad days now were my old good days."

Woody Harrelson is lobbying to make Texas a hub for film and television production.

Harrelson lived in Hawaii for many years before moving back to his home state of Texas in 2023.

Now in the Lone Star State and living outside Austin, the actor has lobbied alongside longtime friend Matthew McConaughey to make Texas a hub for film and television production.

In 2025, the Texas House approved Senate Bill 22, which provides $300 million every two years through 2035 to support the local film industry.

Chanel Iman said Texas gives her more freedom.

Supermodel Chanel Iman and her husband, New Orleans Saints football player Davon Godchaux, purchased a spacious ranch about 90 minutes west of Dallas, Architectural Digest reported in June.

"Texas gave us the freedom to dream bigger," Iman told Architectural Digest. "We love the land, the openness, being surrounded by nature. That's really what brought us here, and it's a dream come true."

50 Cent is a New Yorker, but his primary residence is in Texas.

In 2021, the rapper-turned-television producer and entrepreneur announced on X that he was living in Houston.

Since James Marsden moved to Texas, he lives closer to his mother.

The star has enjoyed visiting Austin for decades but finally decided to live there in 2020.

"I love it. I've been coming here for 20 years," he told "Live with Kelly and Ryan" in 2020. "I'm much closer to my mom and everybody. I love it. It's great."

Former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick traded California for Texas.

The former Uber CEO announced on the daily live video and audio podcast TBPN in March that he had moved to Texas in December 2025.

Kalanick joins a slew of tech billionaires, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who have left California for greener pastures.

Keith Lee fell in love with Dallas' restaurants.

The former mixed martial arts fighter turned TikTok food critic has set up shop in Texas.

After living in Las Vegas, Lee relocated to Texas in November 2024. In a December video reviewing the downtown Dallas restaurant The Wicked Butcher, he revealed that he now lives in Dallas.

"One thing I do love about the Dallas food scene — we've been here a month, a month and a half — they do have some nice fine dining restaurants," Lee said.

Matthew McConaughey wanted to be closer to family.

Oscar-winner Matthew McConaughey and wife Camila Alves settled in Austin in 2012 after buying a 10,800-square-foot mansion.

According to a 2024 profile in Southern Living, the move to Texas was initially because of a "family crisis," when he needed to help his mother and two brothers. The couple decided to stay put and raise their three children there.

"Ritual came back," McConaughey said of being back in Texas. "Whether that was Sunday church, sports, dinner together as a family every night, or staying up after that telling stories in the kitchen, sitting at the island pouring drinks and nibbling while retelling them all in different ways than we told them before."

Elon Musk moved to Texas and brought his companies with him.

Elon Musk has moved both SpaceX and Tesla's headquarters out of California to Texas.

In 2020, Musk announced that he had moved to Texas at The Wall Street Journal's CEO Council summit.

Musk has said he owns a tiny home in Texas, and records show he bought a house in Austin in 2022.

Shaquille O'Neal has been buying up properties in North Texas.

In 2022, O'Neal bought a 5,269-square-foot home in Carrollton listed at $1,224,000 and sold it in 2024 for an undisclosed amount, though it was listed for $1.7 million, according to Realtor.com.

That year, Chexy Trust, tied to the Carrollton purchase, bought a 4,670-square-foot home in Rockwall County. In 2024, O'Neal opened a branch of his Big Chicken chain restaurant in Fort Worth.

As his footprint in the region grows, he told Dallas television station WFAA he plans to make the area his home base.

"I'm 75% going to move here full time," O'Neal said last June. "I have to see what's going on with TNT next year, but based on that, you'll probably be seeing a lot more of me."

Glen Powell got tired of the lack of freedom living in Los Angeles.

The "Twisters" star, who is also a native Texan, recently moved back to Austin from Los Angeles to be close to his family and improve his mental health.

"When all you do is consume movies and entertainment, you could become a little self-aware and maybe derivative of yourself," Powell told USA Today. "Your personal life, there's no sort of freedom there, there's storytelling around that, and I feel like that's just not good for you on the long term."

Jared Padalecki has a soft spot for Austin.

Padalecki ditched Hollywood for Texas before it was a trend. The "Supernatural" star, a San Antonio native, relocated from Los Angeles to Austin with his wife, Genevieve, in 2012.

In an Instagram video taken on Austin's 24th Street in 2020, he explained why he loves the city so much.

"Austin brings me a warmth and a happiness and a peace that I have been unable to find anywhere else in my travels," Padalecki said. "I love being here."

Jesse Plemons returned home and brought Kirsten Dunst with him.

Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons, who got engaged in 2017 and married in 2022, thought they'd temporarily go to Texas, Plemons' home state, during the pandemic, but have since grown accustomed to life there.

In an interview with CBS News Sunday Morning, Dunst said that she's enjoyed her time in Texas.

"It's everything," she said. "People care less because it's not a movie town. They're better with children, the parks are nicer."

Plemons told Texas Monthly in a 2024 cover story that the couple was renovating their home in East Austin, potentially to move into it for good.

"The people just look at you in a different way," Plemons told Texas Monthly. "They're not on the hamster wheel."

Christine Quinn's return to her home state has brought her closer to her family.

In 2025, former "Selling Sunset" star Christine Quinn relocated to her home state of Texas after splitting from her ex-husband, tech entrepreneur Christian Dumontet.

Quinn now lives in a suburb outside Dallas with her young son, Christian.

"I am really, really grateful to be living here," Quinn told People in January, adding that she's happy to be closer to family. "I have a sister who lives really close to me, and my son has a cousin. So it's really something that I needed as opposed to the chaos when I was in Los Angeles."

Joe Rogan ended up in Texas once the pandemic hit.

Like many other celebs, Rogan left Los Angeles once the pandemic hit.

In a 2023 episode of his popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," he explained why he ended up in Texas.

"Then we went to the lake, and people are playing music and jumping in the water," said Rogan, adding that his kids "were like, 'We want to live here!'"

"That was it. Two months later, I lived here," he said in the podcast episode.

Jamie Lynn Sigler has felt more connected to her craft since moving to Texas.

"The Sopranos" star moved to Austin in 2021 with her family, husband Cutter Dykstra, and sons Beau and Jack.

"I almost feel more connected to my craft and why I love acting," Sigler told The New York Times in 2021. "When the calls come in, it's a beautiful surprise. I'm still on things and I'm still a businesswoman and it's still my career, but I don't feel the pressure around it because we took a stand for ourselves and we made decisions for our families."

• Microsoft is the latest tech giant to raise prices due to the memory shortage; Xbox prices will go up $100-$150 on August 1.
• It said memory and storage prices have increased by "more than 2.5x" and it expects "another doubling by the fall of 2027."
• The news follows Apple raising MacBook and iPad prices by as much as $300 on Thursday.

Shoppers got a double whammy of bad news on Thursday as Microsoft announced yet another round of Xbox price hikes hours after Apple boosted prices.

Taken together, the price increases — which both companies say are due to spiking memory and storage costs — are set to make holiday shopping significantly more expensive. For gamers, it makes gaming increasingly feel like a luxury hobby.

Microsoft's popular Xbox game consoles are set to increase by $100-$150 on August 1. The 512 GB models will go up by $100, and the 1 TB versions will increase by $150. The Xbox with the highest available storage configuration of 2 TB will be discontinued entirely.

"Last October, we increased XBOX console price by $20-$70 in the U.S. We hoped another price increase would not be necessary, and we have spent the last several months working with suppliers on options," Microsoft said in a blog post. "Unfortunately, console storage and memory prices have increased by more than 2.5x and we expect another doubling by the fall of 2027."

The new price hikes will apply worldwide.

This is the third time Microsoft has raised prices on its latest Xbox generation, following increases in May and October 2025. The Xbox Series X is now $250 to $300 more expensive than it was when it launched in 2020.

The memory shortage has impacted a broad range of consumer electronics companies, many of which have raised prices in the last 8 months.

Microsoft's chief rivals in the gaming wars, PlayStation and Nintendo, have both previously announced price increases for the PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2, respectively.

Computers, which also rely on memory and storage chips, have also become more costly to produce, and Apple followed many of its peers in boosting MacBook and iMac prices, along with the iPad, Apple TV, HomePod, and Vision Pro, on Thursday — by as much as $300.

"The entire consumer electronics industry is struggling with the current components crisis, but the effects are particularly hard on consoles," Microsoft said. "Unlike phones, computers, speakers, and other consumer devices, consoles are typically not sold at a profit, but instead for less than they cost to make."

In its blog post announcing the coming price hikes, Microsoft shared details on programs it said "make XBOX consoles more accessible," such as buy-now-pay-later and interest-free financing services, along with efforts to make previously used game consoles available via retailers to purchase.

Don't have anything on your wish list this Prime Day? You don't have to feel pressured to buy big-ticket items, just because they're on sale — which they definitely are. Instead, don't forget that Amazon's deal event is an excellent occasion to stock up on essentials you'd otherwise pay full price for. The best Prime Day bulk buy deals are often consumables like paper towels, detergent pods, and the like.

• Shop Prime Day's everyday essential deals

These expendables are down to great prices while the sale continues. They won't save you hundreds of dollars the way laptop and TV shopping will, but savings of a few bucks can make a sweet dent while you restock your home on essentials. Not only that, but you're sparing yourself another trip to the grocery store by having them all delivered to your door.

Keep reading to find our roundup of the best bulk buy deals available this Prime Day. We're also keeping tabs on all sale categories, so if you are looking to spend big on a new stand mixer or MacBook, don't forget to check out our other roundups before adding to cart.

The best Amazon Prime Day deals to buy in bulk

While I can allow myself a little overspending on a new desk, I won't accept paying top dollar for a box of tissues (which my family and I will run through in less than a day anyway). Here are the everyday basics worth buying in bulk this Prime Day.

FAQs on buying in bulk for Prime Day

Is Prime Day a good time to buy in bulk?

Yes, if you're purchasing products you use regularly and would buy anyway. Household essentials, toiletries, and cleaning supplies are often among the strongest Prime Day values because they combine sale pricing with multi-pack discounts.

Which categories have the best bulk buy deals?

Paper products, cleaning supplies, personal care items, and pantry staples have the best deals. Paper products will give you the best return for your money because they don't expire and will be used consistently.

Should I choose "Subscribe & Save" if it's an option?

Amazon sometimes allows shoppers to stack Prime Day discounts with Subscribe & Save discounts, lowering the effective price further. Check your stock in a month and cancel future shipments if it turns out you don't run through as much as you expected.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Thanks to rising memory costs, Apple just increased prices on some of its most popular devices, including MacBooks and iPads. Some models now cost up to $500 more than they did before, which is definitely not the news shoppers wanted to hear. But there's a silver lining: Amazon still has many of these Apple products on sale for Prime Day.

Apple's new prices are already live on its site, so this is likely your last chance to grab these iPad and MacBook discounts before Amazon follows suit. Right now, the latest iPad Air is still down to $519 on Amazon, which is $230 less than Apple's new price of $749. The newest 13-inch MacBook Air now starts at $1,299, but Amazon has it marked down to $949. And if you're trying to spend as little as possible, the entry-level MacBook Neo is still an excellent value at $590, especially now that Apple lists it for $699.

Other Apple products not included in the brand's price hike, like AirPods and Apple Watches, are also still getting excellent Prime Day deals. Most notably, the AirPods Pro 3 are 28% off, and the Apple Watch Series 11 is at an all-time low of $279. Here's a full breakdown of the best Apple Prime Day deals you can still grab before prices increase.

Best Prime Day iPad deals still available

Apple just raised iPad prices by as much as $200, but there's still time to grab them on sale for Prime Day. It's not clear when Amazon will update its listings to reflect Apple's new prices, so I recommend snagging any deals you like while you still can. The brand-new iPad Air with M4 chip is an especially good buy at $519. You can learn more about Apple's tablets in our guide to the newest iPads.

Best Prime Day MacBook deals still available

MacBooks have also been hit by Apple's price hike, with models now carrying list prices up to $500 higher than before. Thankfully, Amazon hasn't changed its prices yet, and many models are still on sale at excellent Prime Day discounts. If you're shopping on a budget, I highly recommend locking in Amazon's $589 deal price on the entry-level MacBook Neo while you still can. This model now costs $699 on Apple's site. You can learn more about why it's so impressive for the money in our MacBook Neo review.

Best Prime Day AirPods deals

Apple hasn't increased the cost of AirPods, which is a relief, and you can still find great deals across the entire lineup for Prime Day. Right now, the AirPods Pro 3 are on sale for $180, just $10 above their all-time low. The Pro 3 are my pick for the best AirPods overall, as they deliver excellent noise cancellation and advanced features like heart rate tracking and hearing aid modes. The new AirPods Max 2 are also getting their first big deal since their April release, with an excellent $150 discount.

Best Prime Day Apple Watch deals

Apple's smartwatch lineup hasn't been impacted by any price increases, but now's still a great time to find the entire collection on sale. The Series 11, my team's pick for the best Apple Watch, is 30% off, which is the lowest I've seen it yet. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is also on sale, but if you don't mind going a generation back, you can get $300 off the Ultra 2.

Best Prime Day Apple accessory deals

Several Apple accessories are also on sale for Prime Day, including the brand's popular AirTag trackers. You can also save up to $30 on various Apple Pencil models. They've been even cheaper in the past, but these are still good prices. If you're unsure which Apple Pencil works with your iPad, check out our guide to Apple Pencil compatibility.

FAQs

Why did Apple increase the price of iPads and MacBooks?

Apple CEO Tim Cook previously cautioned that price increases were coming to some devices due to memory chip shortages. Surging costs for storage and memory have simply made it more expensive to produce certain Apple products, and the company has had to raise retail prices as a result.

Why aren't iPhones on sale for Prime Day?

Amazon has deals on plenty of Apple products during Prime Day, but new iPhones are the big exception. The retailer generally doesn't sell brand-new iPhones directly, and most of the iPhone listings you'll find there are refurbished models. Those can be fine in some cases, but we don't recommend them for most shoppers.

For a new iPhone, it's better to look at carrier deals from providers like Mint Mobile, T-Mobile, and AT&T. They often run their own phone promotions around major shopping events, so they're the places most likely to have a worthwhile iPhone discount.

You can read our iPhone 17 review and iPhone 17 Pro review for more details on Apple's newest models.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Everyone needs one good pair of beaters to enjoy summer to the fullest. Amazon's best deal on women's walking shoes, in my opinion, is the Rykä Devotion X. They're already affordable (usually $80 a pair), but are now $64.99 for Prime Day.

I put these on when I'm feeling unabashedly comfortable, whether it's to the airport or hoofing it to the other side of Brooklyn to satisfy a random craving. Our fitness gear expert Rachael Schultz put me onto them two years ago, and I've now worn them at least weekly since — including on a 10-day backpacking trip across Europe in the fall. I love that despite how cushioned they are, my feet don't feel muddied down after 20,000 steps.

For more of up-to-date sale coverage, see our main Prime Day deals hub.

Rachael spoke to podiatrist Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS in her research on the best walking shoes for women. Rykä's Devotion X sneakers check all Dr. Daughtry's boxes: a breathable knit upper to wick sweat, responsive cushioning for shock absorption, a firmness in the midfoot for stability and arch support, and a padded heel cup. Considering they're now just $64.99 on Amazon, you can't ask for much better.

I've tested walking shoes that cost as much as $275, but honestly, I still prefer the Rykäs every time. I've offered people (sometimes unsolicited) advice that they don't need Brooks or Hokas when shoes like these exist. More reasons to love them:

They're specifically designed for walking. Running sneakers usually have a meta-rocker, which propel your feet forward. These feel less bouncy so as to not disrupt your natural stride as you walk.

They stretch to fit wide feet. The mesh upper is elasticated just enough to stretch, but still retains its shape after years of wear. People with wide feet will appreciate the roomy toe box, which allows your toes to splay naturally.

They help balance your gait. A combination of high arches and weak ankles forces me to put an uneven amount of pressure on my foot tendons, but these have a stabilizing effect that helps correct my step.

The truth is, women tend to be more prone to stress fractures in our feet. My fellow style editor Samantha Crozier uses these as her recovery shoes when she's not testing heels. "Because these are specifically designed for walking, the superior shock absorption took away any fatigue my feet would usually feel after strolling a few miles," says Samantha.

The bottom line

These are the one pair of sneakers I'd buy for Prime Day if I didn't own them already. I've worn the Rykä Devotion X (now 19% off) shoes for two years, which is much longer than I expected them to last at this price point. If you don't want to overspend on shoes you plan to get dirty anyway, Prime Day is the best time to buy them.

More Prime Day deals on comfortable walking shoes for women

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

• Ford says AI and automation helped its quality turnaround, but they were not enough on their own.
• Execs told reporters they hired or brought back 350 technical specialists to catch defects earlier.
• The overhaul helped Ford top JD Power after years of quality problems and expensive recalls.

Ford staged a quality comeback. The automaker credits part of the turnaround to pairing AI with something more old-school: veteran engineers.

Executives at Ford told reporters this week that the company had hired, promoted, or brought back about 350 experienced technical specialists as part of a sweeping effort to fix vehicle-quality problems. Those engineering veterans have helped mentor younger staff, lead design reviews, and improve the AI and automated quality tools Ford uses to catch defects before vehicles reach customers, they said.

They also offered a striking admission: AI and automation were not enough on their own.

"Artificial intelligence is a fantastic tool, but it's only as good as information you use to train it," Charles Poon, Ford's vice president of vehicle hardware engineering, said. "Mistakenly, we thought that by just introducing artificial intelligence and ingesting the design requirements that we had, that would produce a high-quality product."

Poon said Ford had not done enough in prior years to preserve the knowledge of its most experienced engineers, some of whom left the company before their expertise was fully integrated into Ford's systems. He said quality problems often showed up at the boundaries between teams, where design, manufacturing, software, and hardware collide.

Quality win, recall hangover

The comments came as Ford celebrated a major milestone.

Consumer data analytics firm JD Power named Ford the top mass-market brand in its latest initial-quality study, trailing only Porsche and Genesis overall, according to the study released Thursday. Ford narrowly beat Lexus, which has long been one of the strongest performers in the rankings.

That's a big turnaround. Just three years ago, Ford ranked 15th out of 25 major automakers in the same study.

For years, Ford has faced headwinds on its product quality. In 2025, Ford issued 152 recalls, nearly doubling the previous record set by General Motors in 2014 with 77 safety bulletins.

As of Thursday, Ford had issued 51 recalls this year, according to the NHTSA's dashboard. That's still more than double Chrysler, the next-closest automaker, which had issued 19.

Ford executives said many of the continued recall issues are tied to vehicles and platforms designed between 2013 and 2020, calling recalls a "lagging indicator." They framed the JD Power win as proof that a new approach is taking hold, and said internal data shows "clear improvement" in newer vehicles.

Still, the initial-quality study measures problems in new vehicles, not long-term durability, making it an early signal rather than a full verdict on whether Ford has solved its recall problem.

Ford says it changed how it catches problems

Ford launched its quality reset in 2023.

In that time, Kumar Galhotra, Ford's COO, said the company has more than doubled its technical specialist population. Those specialists now lead mandatory design reviews and look for failure points before parts ever reach the plant floor.

"They hunt for failure points before a part ever reaches the plant floor," he said.

The company also created an industrial system team to bring engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain closer together. Before that approach, Galhotra said Ford had previously relied too heavily on a "find and fix" approach — identifying problems after they appeared and trying to resolve them quickly.

Now, Ford says it is trying to prevent problems before they happen.

Ford previously told Business Insider that it had developed two bespoke AI-enhanced scanning tools that helped validate that cars were properly assembled before rolling off the lot. The tools, called AiTriz and MAIVs, both debuted in 2024.

While Ford has previously said the tools are helping improve product quality, the company did not say whether the 350 specialists worked directly on them.

• I struggled with grief and identity loss after being laid off.
• The job search process often felt lonely and deeply personal.
• Freelancing helped me rebuild my confidence and redefine success.

Laid off. Let go. Dismissed. Released. Discharged. A casualty of corporate redundancy.

I know what it's called. But I didn't know I'd be told, via a mid-morning Zoom, that my publication was folding and I was no longer needed.

It took a while to sink in, and at first, I was just numb. I shuffled around my small Brooklyn apartment looking for something to do. There was a lot of cleaning and rearranging. There was also a lot of lying in bed awake. Then the crying started.

I blamed myself

Once I started crying, it was hard to stop. I blamed myself for not seeing the signs and for not being good enough to keep my dream job. I berated myself for believing I even deserved a job. I made it weird. I began looking at my former employer's current job postings and checking out online updates from former co-workers.

It didn't feel like a layoff. It felt like I'd been dumped.

In 2025, many people are going through what I went through due to mass layoffs. I don't know what it was like for everyone else, but for me, the experience was excruciatingly public. My company posted my farewell letter to readers on the magazine's homepage, and suddenly everyone knew. People I hadn't worked with in years sent me condolences. More than one ex reached out. "This must be what Taylor Swift feels like," I remember thinking, as I announced "a bit of personal news" on LinkedIn.

In the days after it happened, everyone was supportive and sympathetic. People told me to take some time for myself. I heard a lot of "it's not you," "they didn't deserve you," and "just get back out there."

So I did. I replaced work rituals with new habits. I made coffee, scanned job listings, tailored my résumé, worked on myself, certified for unemployment benefits, tailored my résumé again, and wrote heartfelt yet professional cover letters. I updated my online profile, hoping someone knew someone who could set me up with someone who might be looking for someone. I was ready for a little rebound dating.

I was lonely

And I was lonely. I missed the daily Slacks and conversations with colleagues. I missed my work friends. I even missed going to meetings. It's hard to go from being around people every day to being alone. I texted people during the workday. I stayed up too late. I drank too much. I sent back the company laptop. I kept the company-branded thermos.

Sometimes I cried in public. It would come on suddenly, like when I was doing something else and remembered I was unemployed. Sometimes I'd wake up and forget that I didn't have a job, and go through the whole cycle again. Sometimes I'd spiral, like when a former coworker posted about something great that happened at work.

I'm ashamed to admit I wasn't always happy for everyone.

Getting rejected for jobs didn't help

The job search apps made it worse, with their promises of available positions. Sometimes a bot would reject me a few hours after I'd submitted my painstakingly crafted resume. I've had softer rejections on dating sites. A few people told me something might happen for me if I just changed everything about myself and my aspirations. Journalism is in trouble, they helpfully reminded me. It's especially hard for a woman my age to find work, they supportively suggested.

The worst part was that a lot of people were right. 2025 into 2026 marked one of the worst periods for the US job market in two decades, apart from the pandemic.

Not long after my layoff, friends began calling me to tell me they'd been laid off, too. People who were still employed began giving me pressed lip pity smiles. I felt like maybe my dismissal was contagious. I took to crying in private, so as not to get my situation out to anyone. And then something changed.

It was slow, to be sure. I began freelancing to make ends meet, and thanks to the support of editor friends, I eventually found my footing. I also found my community again, although it wasn't where I'd left it.

I had spent so much energy mourning the loss of my dream job that I hadn't stopped to consider that maybe my soulmate career wasn't tied to one role or one company. I realized that maybe it was connected to how I wanted to live my life and how I wanted to be treated. After all, there was a me before this job, and there was still a me afterward.

Getting laid off taught me that corporate job security is a myth anyway. So yes, I'm no longer married to my dream job. But I can guarantee that in my self-employed office of one, there will never be a redundancy.

There's still time to bag a Prime Day deal on many of our favorite products we've tested over the years across our range of buying guides and reviews across home, tech, kitchen, style, and more.

Amazon's big summer sale ends on Friday night, though, and some of the earliest deals from the 4-day event have already started to sell out, so we'd act fast if you don't want to be disappointed.

First and foremost, Apple has just raised its MSRP prices overnight on its own store, adding hundreds of dollars to MacBooks and iPads, but they're still on sale at Amazon at their original discounts, marking what could be the last time you'll see them this low due to the RAM shortage.

Prime Day tech deals

Don't miss out on rare laptop deals, discounted foldables, high-performing budget Android phones, monitors, and more.

Prime Day headphone deals

Our favorite in-ear and over-ear models from Apple, Sony, and Bose are all at year-low prices

Struggling to choose between the two Sony models above? While the XM6 does sound a touch better, the XM5 topped multiple best headphones lists before its sequel came along. As such, we still think it's an excellent buy, especially at this price. If you travel a lot, the XM6 folds flatter and offers better noise cancellation and call quality, which could come in handy, but you're paying a lot extra today.

• See more Prime Day headphone and earbud deals

Prime Day TV deals

Samsung's finest lead the way, along with plenty of budget TV picks or supercheap Fire Sticks

• See more Prime Day TV deals

Prime Day fitness tracker deals

Smart rings and watches are ready to help your summer gains

Prime Day coffee deals

Pods or coffee grounds - we've got your next caffeine fix ready

This Keurig is an excellent purchase at this price, and I'm so glad I picked this model last year over the slightly cheaper Mini (also on sale for $50 today). The larger water reservoir means I don't have to fill it for every cup, and it features a strong brew mode and heats up a lot faster than the Mini, as I found out when using one at a hotel recently. Don't forget to stock up on some coffee pods for it today if you're buying as loads are on sale. — Brendan Griffiths

• See more Prime Day coffee deals

Prime Day kitchen deals

Air fryers and blenders are up to 40% off

I only picked up my first air fryer last year (this Instant Pot one that's down to $60 today, by the way). And it's been a good buy so far for things like wings, asparagus, and the like. But I do kind of wish I'd bought one like this Chefman model with a window, as I also use it for warming up/toasting bagels and need to constantly keep opening it to check I'm not burning them. Being able to look through the glass would be a clutch upgrade. However, glass is a bit harder to clean if oil spits onto it while cooking.

On the flip side of all that, I've also been tempted by something a bit bigger, like this Ninja model below! New York counter space says no, though. — Brendan Griffiths

• See more Prime Day air fryer deals

• See more Prime Day blender deals

I'm not much of a chef, but after seeing our kitchen editors praise the Caraway set, I gave it a shot a few years ago. More than being a pretty lineup on the range, this cookware really… cooks. They're a little heavy for my taste, but considerably lighter than cast iron and other viral brands I've tested. The surfaces heat evenly — and did I mention how nice they look on a countertop?

They're a regular participant during major deal holidays, but outside of that, it can be tough to find them on sale. — Sarah Saril

• See more Prime Day kitchen deals

Prime Day bedroom deals

Sheets, pillows, mattresses, beds, and more

• See more Prime Day pillow deals

• See more Prime Day mattress deals

Prime Day vacuum & cleaning deals

Cordless and robo vacs for every budget

• See more Prime Day vacuum deals | Pet vacuum deals

Prime Day home deals

Desks, air purifiers, baby items, and furniture are all on sale

• See more Prime Day furniture deals

• See more Prime Day luggage deals

Prime Day beauty deals

Time to stock up on a skincare haul or treat yourself to a fancy Dyson?

• See more Prime Day red light therapy deals

Dry California weather is not for the dry of skin, and the Laneige lip products above really carry me through the thick of it. They're more than just hype — I actually restocked and bought three Lip Glowy Balm tubes as soon as midnight struck and Prime Day kicked off. They're not often on sale, so now is really the time to stock up. — Sarah Saril

Prime Day style deals

There's still time for a summer wardrobe refresh with these offers

These sub-$20 Celine Triomphe dupes are having a good, long moment. Their versatility across different face shapes, chic design, and, of course, low price make them irresistible. Editor Sam Crozier will be sporting them all summer — and now you can too at this low price.

• See more Levi's Prime Day deals

I had the chance to test out this specific case after the iPhone 17 launched. It's a seriously sweet upgrade from your typical budget case: it uses premium materials with thoughtful features like pivoting loops and a clip for extra wallet security. At $100, it's still considered a pretty luxurious phone accessory, but this is a rare chance to save on a beloved brand. — Sarah Saril

Prime Day luggage & travel deals

Don't let low-quality luggage ruin a vacation

• See more Prime Day luggage deals

• See more Prime Day backpack deals

• See more Prime Day travel deals

• See all deals at Amazon

When does Prime Day end?

Prime Day 2026 ends at the end of the day on Friday, July 26. Some deals will expire beforehand, especially lightning deals, and some items will only have a limited number of units available at the discounted price, so you could see prices increase before the sale officially ends.

On the other hand, we also see a small number of deals stick around a few extra days after Prime Day, so it's certainly worth a late look over the weekend as well.

Is Prime Day only for members?

Yes, the vast majority of deals will require a Prime membership to enjoy the exclusive price.

Not a member? That's OK, as there's a 30-day free trial that you can use to enjoy the full sale, along with all the other perks like fast delivery, Prime Video streaming, and more. You're under no obligation to keep Prime, and are free to cancel it within the 30 days before you become a paid subscriber.

Is Prime Day worth it?

Yes, especially the Summer version - October Prime Day can be hit and miss, as it's too close to Black Friday, but we always find plenty of highlights in the summer.

So much so, we always tell our friends looking for a TV or laptop, a new air fryer or vacuum, or even just things for the apartment like pet items, cleaning supplies, coffee pods, and the like, to hold on for Prime Day if they can, as prices get slashed on every category around the site.

We might get some of the best prices of the year on some items, while other deals we highlight include items with what we'd consider a great price right now - one that we'd make a purchase on ourselves or recommend to a friend. Inflation, tariffs, and the RAM shortage have increased prices on a lot of things this year, for example, so we're taking all of that into account when recommending these deals in the current climate to try to help find you the best bang for your buck.

I'm an avid runner, and I've been using Garmin brand watches for years now. The watch I wear every day, the Garmin Forerunner 165, just hit a record-low discount price for Amazon Prime Day, but we don't expect the deal to hang around for long.

The black standard Garmin Forerunner 165, normally $250, dropped a whopping 48% to $129. This is the best deal I've ever seen for my current favorite running watch. Previous sales on the watch typically only discount it to $200, so this is a drastic drop.

The Forerunner 165 is a stellar watch for runners (I won't leave my house for a run without it), but athletes of all types will find something to love here. The watch's main purpose is to track runs, with options for three distinct types: standard outdoor, track, and treadmill. It's been efficient across the board for me, and I find the GPS much quicker and more accurate than my previous Garmin Forerunner 55. I'm coming off an injury, so I've been doing a lot more crosstraining than usual, and it's also able to track non-running workouts easily. Additionally, it's a great way to record your heart rate, recovery, sleep, and overall daily steps.

I've been keeping an eye on this deal throughout Prime Day, and I've seen the watch revert to $200 (20% off) from third-party sellers in the past couple of days, before going back to $129 at Amazon, so it looks like this deal is going fast. If you're definitely planning to purchase it, we recommend acting sooner rather than later. If you're hoping to shop more sales across other categories, check out our massive Prime Day deals guide.

FAQ

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a Garmin watch?

Garmin sales can be hit-or-miss on Amazon (and they're often only discounted under third-party sellers), but this is a great time to buy a Garmin Forerunner 165 from Amazon since the watch is listed at an all-time low. It's not even this cheap on the official Garmin website, which has it listed at $200.

Are other smartwatches on sale for Prime Day?

The Garmin Forerunner 165 isn't the only smartwatch on sale for Prime Day. Several Apple Watches and Fitbits are also up for grabs at solid discounts. You can learn more in our guides to the best Apple Prime Day deals. If you'd prefer a health and fitness tracker smaller than a watch, the Prime Day Oura Ring 4 deal is another all-time low price.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Germany and Ecuador close out Group E in what could be one of the most consequential matches of the group stage. Read on to learn where to watch Ecuador vs. Germany live.

The matchup features two teams with contrasting styles and plenty of attacking talent. Germany enters the World Cup as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, while Ecuador has had a rockier start to the tournament so far. The match will stream on FOX via a live TV service in the US, on BBC iPlayer in the UK, and on SBS on Demand in Australia, among others.

We recommend using a VPN to stream the entire tournament (and future sporting events) from anywhere in the world, especially via the free international options below. Follow the full tournament and learn how to watch your team in our where to watch the World Cup guide, or try your chance at scoring a seat in person with our guide to buying World Cup tickets.

*Local channel coverage, like FOX, varies by region on Sling.

Where to watch Ecuador vs. Germany for free

Luckily for fans, there are plenty of ways to catch this match at no cost. In Australia, tune in via SBS On Demand; in the UK, via BBC iPlayer. Want some more? Ok, how about Tabii in Turkey and Das Erste 1 in Germany?

In the US, the best way to see it without incurring a fee is to sign up for a free trial of Fubo or YouTube TV. Or you can use a VPN, as detailed below, to access your free live streaming options from anywhere in the world.

How to watch Ecuador vs. Germany from anywhere

Found yourself away during the match? Don't sweat the details — you can access the Ecuador vs. Germany match from anywhere in the world using a VPN (virtual private network). This simple app lets users change their device's location, granting access to their favorite free streaming service from anywhere. It's a helpful tool outside of just streaming the game, especially for avid travelers hoping to access their usual services from abroad and folks interested in cybersecurity.

We recommend NordVPN, one of the top picks in our guide to the best VPNs, for catching the game. Fast, easy to use, and home to a variety of global servers, it'll have you covered for the whole tournament. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Where to watch Ecuador vs. Germany in the US

Just like the rest of the World Cup, the Ecuador vs. Germany game will air on FOX in the US (some other matches will be available through FS1). To tune into the channel, you'll need cable, an antenna, or a paid streaming subscription. For this game specifically, you can catch it for free by signing up for a free Fubo or YouTube TV trial.

A live TV package could be the right solution for your home, since it'll offer you more than just Fox — check out our guide to the best live TV streaming services to find your perfect fit.

Fubo Sports + News ($56 a month) is a great choice, offering Fox, FS1, and about 27 other channels. If you're hoping to find a more inclusive service, Fubo's pricier plans are a good choice with even more channels bundled in. All Fubo plans come with a free trial for new users.

YouTube TV is another solid option. Plans cost $83 a month, but a special deal will knock your first five months down to just $68 a month. Fox and FS1 are also available in YouTube TV's cheaper Sports Plan. All YouTube TV plans come with a free trial for new customers.

We also recommend Sling TV, but you'll need to double-check that the service covers FOX in your ZIP code to ensure World Cup coverage. If it does, Sling Select ($25 a month) or Sling Blue ($51 a month) are our suggestions, since both also include FS1. Sling Select plans without local channels start at just $20 a month.

Viewers looking for Spanish-language tournament coverage will be best served by Peacock. Plans with sports streaming start at $11 a month.

Where to watch Ecuador vs. Germany in the UK

ITVX and the BBC have split rights for the World Cup. The Ecuador vs. Germany game will be free to stream via BBC iPlayer for UK viewers. You'll just need to create an account.

Where to watch Ecuador vs. Germany in Australia

Australian viewers can catch the entire World Cup tournament via SBS On Demand. The free service requires account creation, but no payment.

Note: VPN use is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content may constitute a breach of the terms of use for some services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi left his $450K job to open a halal BBQ restaurant in Texas.
• Kafi BBQ made nearly $2.3 million in its first year and is on track to make even more this year.
• Despite working longer hours and living off savings, Abdul-Kafi has no regrets about leaving tech.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi, 35, who owns and operates Kafi BBQ in Irving, Texas. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

I spent 14 years working in tech at companies including Microsoft, Google, YouTube, Shopify, and Cruise. At the peak, I was earning $450,000 a year. Over time, though, I became disillusioned with the industry.

It felt to me that the work had become increasingly focused on making money rather than improving people's lives or helping businesses.

So, at 33, I left San Francisco for a job at a religious nonprofit in Texas, taking a pay cut of more than 50%.

While working at the nonprofit, I continued hosting dinner parties and cooking barbecue for friends. I started making halal briskets, and they kept telling me they couldn't find anything like it.

Many also said that they avoided traditional barbecue restaurants because pork cross-contamination is common, even when beef is on the menu.

That's when I started wondering whether there was room for something Texas barbecue didn't already have.

The restaurant made over $2 million the first year, but I still haven't paid myself

Kafi BBQ opened in December 2024. We prepared enough barbecue to last three days, but we sold through all of it on the first day. We started cooking again that same night.

The restaurant later earned recognition. D Magazine named us one of the top 12 barbecue restaurants in Dallas-Fort Worth, and Eater named us one of the 15 best new restaurants in America.

Last year, we generated just under $2.3 million in revenue, and we're projected to reach up to $4 million this year.

That said, I still haven't paid myself a single dollar since opening and have been living off of my savings.

Barbecue is an expensive business

Our food costs run about $125,000 a month. Labor costs are about $50,000 a month. Rent is about $15,000, and utilities, marketing, spices, and disposables add thousands more. In total, we spend roughly $215,000 every month just to maintain.

We are now profitable in the sense that we are turning a monthly profit, but not in the sense that we're able to pay off all the initial investment of the restaurant, yet, which cost about $1 million.

Although I'm working more hours than I did in tech — about 70 to 80 hours a week — I find the work far more rewarding.

In tech, I worked closely with my engineering teams, designers, and other product managers, but my circle was relatively small. At the restaurant, I'm constantly meeting new people from different communities.

About half of our customers follow a halal diet and half don't. Because we don't serve pork and guarantee there is no pork cross-contamination, we attract people who often feel excluded from traditional barbecue restaurants.

At the same time, we get customers who are curious about the recipes and flavors we're developing. One of the most rewarding parts of my day is walking from table to table, talking with guests and hearing their feedback. When someone enjoys the food, that's super impactful for me.

Tech and BBQ aren't as different as some might think

Even though I left the tech industry, I brought many of the same skills with me into the restaurant business.

Before signing a lease, I spent months testing demand by selling brisket from my house, running events, and gathering data. My goal was to reduce as much uncertainty as possible before making a major investment.

I became meticulous about tracking numbers. I worked with meat suppliers before opening so I could understand my costs. I measured how much a brisket weighed when I bought it, how much it weighed after trimming and smoking, and how much I could ultimately sell. I wanted answers to every question I could think of before opening the doors.

Even after opening, I'm still meticulous. I have a spreadsheet that contains all of the restaurant's recipes, with every ingredient measured down to the gram. I wanted the recipes to be as precise and repeatable as possible. Whether it's a side dish, a dessert, or a barbecue rub, I know exactly how much of every ingredient goes into it.

I also use a product-development approach when creating new menu items. Every month, I'm developing new sausages, desserts, and specials. When I launch something new, I don't assume I've gotten it right the first time. Instead, I walk around the dining room and ask customers what they think. Then I make changes based on that feedback.

One example is our pomegranate beef belly burnt ends. I changed that recipe seven different times before arriving at the current version.

In a lot of ways, barbecue isn't as different from tech as people might think. I'm still experimenting, solving problems, and constantly trying to improve a product. I think that's why the transition felt so natural.

• Mark Zandi of Moody's Analytics did the math on how much the Iran war has cost US households.
• By his estimate, the total tab during the conflicts has been roughly $1,000 for the typical US family.
• Energy disruption have pushed up gas and diesel prices, leading to higher food and travel costs.

The Iran war may be nearing its conclusion, but it's been a costly conflict for US consumers.

Moody's Analytics chief economist Mark Zandi said on Wednesday that households have been feeling the pinch of higher consumer costs brought on by the war. He recently estimated that the four-month conflict has cost each household $750, but in a recent op-ed in the The Philadelphia Inquirer, Zandi upped that number.

"One thousand dollars," he wrote. "By my calculation, that's the effective cost of the Iran war to the typical American household—so far. While the U.S. and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire and are talking to end the war, the costs are still mounting."

Zandi broke down the math on his estimates, laying out the specific costs imposed on US consumers. He noted that they may still increase, even if the current ceasefire holds and fighting doesn't escalate again.

The war has already cost US households an additional $300 in higher gas costs but Zandi maintains that the figure will increase.

Fuel prices rose rapidly during the war as the Strait of Hormuz's closure disrupted global oil flows. While prices have dipped recently, Zandi doesn't expect to see them fall below the $3 per gallon level seen prior to the war.

"The road back to prewar prices will be long," he said. "The insurance that oil tankers require to operate will be much more expensive given that the Iranian regime can seemingly shut down the strait at will."

Zandi also discussed the possibility of Iran's government imposing new fees on oil tankers that can only pass through the Strait, leading to a higher per gallon cost for drivers.

If gas prices are rising, so is the cost of diesel, which powers much of the shipping industry.

"Higher diesel prices also mean that anything delivered to our homes on an Amazon or UPS truck is more expensive," Zandi said. "And if your household is anything like mine, that's a lot of stuff. In total, the higher diesel prices have cost households approximately $200."

The cost of jet fuel has increased, which, by Zandi's estimate, has imposed an additional $100 on typical US households as airlines increase fares.

With food, energy and travel costs all rising, the Federal Reserve's mandate to keep inflation low has become complicated, and will could push the central bank to raise interest rates, a mover that would impose an additional $150 cost, he said.

"Prosecuting such a complex war so far from home is expensive, particularly given the considerable volume of sophisticated munitions used," Zandi wrote. "While the military costs have moderated with the ceasefire, they still amount to nearly $50 million more per day. All told, the war's military cost has reached $250 per household."

That all adds up to a $1,000 price tag for US consumers stemming directly from the Iran war, though Zandi added that his estimate is likely conservative and that costs could rise further.

• A new organization called Raise US aims to help states prepare their workforces for AI disruption.
• The OpenAI Foundation, Anthropic, Amazon, and Microsoft are all supporting it.
• The group wants to do real-world pilots of policies like wage insurance.

Some of the biggest names in tech and AI are behind a new organization with ambitious plans to help workers navigate the AI transition.

The OpenAI Foundation, Anthropic, Amazon, and Microsoft are all "anchor partners" on Raise US, a new nonprofit that aims to raise $1 billion to build a national platform to advise governors on how best to prepare their workforces for AI disruption. According to the organization, they have already raised $500 million. (The OpenAI Foundation was a nonprofit created as part of OpenAI's restructuring, which holds a $100 billion equity stake in OpenAI's for-profit arm.)

"America has a technology strategy for leading the global AI competition. It does not yet have a people strategy — and we cannot lead without one," former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who is leading the group, said in a statement announcing the initiative.

Raise US' initial partnerships are with Arkansas, Connecticut, Maryland, and Utah, an even split between states run by Republican and Democratic governors.

"By working directly with state governments to pilot and scale new workforce models, we can move faster and reach more people than any of us could independently," David Zapolsky, Amazon's chief global affairs and legal officer, wrote in a post explaining the partnership.

In Arkansas, the group is working with Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders to stand up an "AI-powered career navigation platform called Arkansas LAUNCH that connects students and job seekers to personalized learning and employer-linked career pathways."

In Maryland, Raise US is working with Gov. Wes Moore to expand service-years for recent high school graduates into fields such as healthcare and education.

Of the initial group, Utah may be one of the most interesting. The state has found itself at the center of backlash over the buildout of AI data centers. Shark Tank star Kevin O'Leary scaled back his proposed data center by nearly half after intense public backlash and political pressure.

The organization said more states will join in the coming months. Elsewhere, Raise US said it wants to work on "real-world pilots" for policies like "short-time compensation and wage insurance."

Raimondo, who was governor of Rhode Island before joining the Biden administration, is leading the effort alongside former Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb. David Sze, a partner at Greylock, is among the four people who will serve on the organization's board of directors.

In addition to the AI partners, the Raise US advisory board includes a who's who of Corporate America, politics, labor, philanthropy, and economics, including Laurene Powell Jobs, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, Bank of America co-President Jim DeMare, former IBM CEO Samuel Palmisano, former House Speaker Paul Ryan, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, and renowned economist Raj Chetty.

The extent to which AI will disrupt the labor market is hotly contested. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has been outspoken in his warnings that AI could eliminate up to half of all entry-level white-collar jobs over the next 1 to 5 years.

AI and tech CEOs have recently sought to pivot away from the job "apocalypse" discussion amid concerns that the rhetoric has fueled AI's declining popularity in the US. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman went so far as to say he was "delighted to be wrong about this."

"I thought that there would have been more impact on entry-level white-collar work jobs being eliminated by now than it's actually happened," Altman said during a May event hosted by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

• Air conditioning is an essential amenity of modern US life during the hot summer months.
• Though it existed in different capacities, it didn't become common until the mid-20th century.
• People sometimes employed creative solutions to stay cool, like sitting on blocks of ice.

As record-breaking temperatures and severe heat waves become the new normal, air conditioning has become a necessity.

On Tuesday, France experienced its hottest day on record, while the United Kingdom recorded its highest temperature ever for June, the Associated Press reported.

And in the US, the nine hottest years on record have all occurred since 2012, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Its hottest year came in 2024, with 17 states breaking their individual records.

But only about 20% of households in Europe have air conditioning, and in previous heat waves throughout US history, the solution wasn't as simple as cranking up the AC.

Mechanical air-cooling techniques were used as early as the 1910s in the US, such as when the Missouri State Building was cooled at the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904, according to the Department of Energy. However, it wouldn't be until the mid-20th century that affordable window units and central air conditioning became common.

And even after it became a typical feature of modern homes, AC wasn't always people's primary means of beating the heat. Some people would turn to classics still widely used today, like eating ice cream to cool off, while others would get more creative.

Ice from iceboxes kept food cold — and people, too

Electric refrigeration didn't become common in American homes until the 1930s, meaning iceboxes were the norm for most families. This required delivery from an iceman, according to the National Museum of American History.

Because of the prevalence of ice, people would sit on ice blocks, fan themselves with the air it emitted, and even lick them, according to the Library of Congress.

Cold drinks and frozen treats were essential

Though beverages like lemonade are still summer staples, they were all the more important before AC. Cold drinks and ice cream were synonymous with relief in the summer. One newspaper recipe from 1915 said lemonade is "family's best friend when sun is sizzling hot," per the Library of Congress.

These treats were also important for other reasons. When booze was off the shelves during Prohibition, ice-cream soda was the country's favorite beverage, National Geographic reported. In 1922, Americans consumed 325 million gallons of the frozen treat.

Handheld fans were substitutes for their electric counterparts

Although the electric fan was invented in 1882 by the electrical engineer Schuyler Skaats Wheeler, early models were dangerous and expensive, and usually reserved for wealthier Americans, according to the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention.

Even as mass production made electric fans more affordable, their widespread use was halted by the Great Depression. It wasn't until the 1940s that they saw a boom, the Los Angeles Times reported.

This meant handheld fans were a necessity in most settings. Church fans, for example, were especially common in the humid South and would often display artwork or images of religious figures and notable people, per the National Museum of American History.

Families would change their cooking habits based on the heat

If a home didn't have AC, it usually meant preparing dinner would generate a lot of additional heat.

This meant people would plan around the outdoor temperature. Besides outdoor barbecues, they'd sometimes prepare meals in the cooler hours of the day. A 1919 US Department of Agriculture instruction booklet for homemade fireless cookers advises preparing meals "early in the morning," citing the convenience of keeping the kitchen cool in the summer.

Children would create makeshift sprinklers out of open fire hydrants

The tradition is perhaps best associated with New York City. The New York Times cited an article from the 20th century that described fire hydrants as "the lifeline of summer, spewing cooling excitement to all around it."

During a 1925 heat wave, New York City's fire commissioner even asked the police to guard fire hydrants because of how often children would bust them open.

In the city, the tradition has remained to this day. Residents can request a sprinkler cap, which turns fire hydrants into gentle sprinklers, from their local firehouse, according to the city's Department of Environmental Protection.

• I was born and raised in New Providence, one of the most popular islands in The Bahamas. 
• Many visitors make the same mistakes, from eating fast food to overpaying for basics at hotels.
• Tourists usually stick to one island, but I encourage them to explore — many aren't far from Nassau.

My family has lived in The Bahamas for centuries. Like my ancestors, I was born and raised in New Providence, one of The Bahamas' most heavily touristed islands.

Between this and several years spent working in the local tourism industry, I've spent a substantial amount of time around tourists and witnessed them make unfortunate missteps.

Here are a few common mistakes I wish travelers would avoid to best maximize their time visiting my home while showing it proper respect.

Only visiting New Providence and Paradise Island

New Providence and Paradise Island (the home of Atlantis Bahamas) are world-famous vacation destinations, leading many people to assume that the islands are the only places worth visiting here.

However, there's much more to see and do in The Bahamas.

The Bahamas are an archipelago of about 700 islands and 2,400 cays across the Atlantic Ocean — only about 30 of those islands are inhabited and open to visitors.

Some of those islands include The Exumas, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Bimini, Andros, Long Island, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and San Salvador. Each of the eight Bahamian islands I've visited in my lifetime has a distinct and unique feel.

Not island-hopping during your trip

At times, popular spots like New Providence can feel overcrowded by visitors. After all, tourism is The Bahamas' biggest industry.

So, if you want to see as much as possible and take breaks from the crowds, I recommend island-hopping to more remote locations during your visit instead of settling in one place.

Travelers can visit salt deposits in Inagua, swim with pigs in Exuma, and dive over 600 feet into the ocean to explore Dean's Blue Hole off of Long Island. 

As long as visitors are willing to explore beyond New Providence — Exuma and Rose Island are just a day trip away — they'll find that The Bahamas has something for everyone. 

Eating fast food instead of local Bahamian cuisine

Like many Western countries, The Bahamas has a lot of fast-food places like McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC.

Still, I get disheartened when I see tourists eat at these spots in downtown Nassau instead of grabbing a table at a local Bahamian eatery. 

The Bahamas has a rich cuisine, from fresh fish to ceviche made with a sea mollusk called conch (pronounced "conk").

Visitors who try to find real Bahamian food often fall into the trap of going to places that are marketed as authentic but are actually commercialized shells of what they used to be.

Luckily, there are still restaurants that serve great Bahamian food, like Gone Fish'n, Drifters, Frankie Gone Bananas, and Curly's. I always tell newcomers to find real, local dishes under the Paradise Island Bridge.

The Family Islands, the name for the islands outside New Providence, are also filled with excellent Bahamian food, like grouper fingers and fries.

Never leaving your resort to explore the surrounding areas

I've seen many travelers check into grand resorts — like Baha Mar, Atlantis, or Sandals — and remain there for the duration of their trip.

This hotel-centric itinerary is excellent for the properties, but it isn't great for the island. Plus, it's a missed opportunity for visitors to explore. 

Nassau has so many sites to see, so much culture to experience, and so many locals to interact with. Staying within the confines of a hotel is a common yet significant misstep.

Not preparing for prices that may be higher than what you're used to back home

The Bahamas is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Things like hotel rooms, groceries, and restaurants tend to be more expensive here than they are in places like the US or Canada.

Many tourists who don't research The Bahamas beforehand complain about the high cost of food, taxis, and cocktails upon arrival.

However, so much of what we have here is imported, which can result in high costs. Eating out at restaurants can be pretty pricey, especially considering most places add gratuity and VAT (value-added tax) on restaurant bills. 

Definitely do some number-crunching ahead of time so you can better budget for your trip.

Skipping local heritage sites and monuments

A lot of tourists fail to carve out time to learn about The Bahamas, but missing out on the local culture and history does them a disservice. 

In Nassau, you can visit places like Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, The Water Tower, The Queen's Staircase, Clifton Heritage National Park, and more. Many museums, like the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, house works created by talented local artists.

A visit to John Watling's Distillery, a historic building that's been converted into a rum distillery, is also a crucial stop in Nassau. 

Only going to downtown Nassau for duty-free shopping and luxury items

Many visitors walk through downtown Nassau in search of duty-free luxury items, but the area has more to offer than just designer handbags, Cuban cigars, fancy perfumes, and jewelry.

While there, also check out the locally crafted goods and souvenirs. Nassau has a well-known straw market. Plus, Bahamian artisans sell authentic straw bags, conch-shell jewelry, and handmade wood carvings, and other items.

Planning a visit during hurricane season … then complaining about the weather

Many visitors who arrive on our shores during the summer months — a popular time for tourists — have no idea they're coming in the middle of our hurricane season, which is June through November.

Ergo, it's probably going to rain a lot, and your beach days may not all be what you imagined.

When I worked at a souvenir stall in Nassau in the summer, I'd hear lots of tourists complain about the rain. To assuage their misgivings, I'd tell them the precipitation was "liquid sunshine."

Underestimating how easy it is to get a sunburn

The sun's strength in The Bahamas should never be underestimated. Since we tend to have a high UV index, people can get sunburned pretty badly by just walking around the island.

It's smart to wear (and reapply) sunscreen throughout the day. Additionally, remember to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid aerosol versions to help protect the natural environment.

Not staying vigilant and aware of their surroundings throughout their trip

Travelers, particularly female solo travelers, should always remain vigilant, keep a close eye on their belongings, and be aware of their surroundings as they explore new places. 

Like any big city, New Providence has crime, ranging from petty attempts to swindle tourists at the local straw market to armed robberies.

To mitigate these issues, the government of The Bahamas and The Royal Bahamas Police Force regularly station officers in downtown New Providence. 

Of course, it's always a good idea to stay alert wherever you go.

Forgetting to carve out enough time to watch the gorgeous sunsets

Visitors should build plenty of time just for watching sunsets into their itinerary.

Every island in The Bahamas offers its own special vantage point of the sunset. My all-time favorite place to watch the sun go down is on a beach in western New Providence. 

There's nothing more calming and tranquil than listening to the waves crash, watching the colors change across the sky, and seeing the sun dip beneath the horizon.

This story was originally published on July 19, 2022, and most recently updated on June 25, 2026.

My youngest sister heads off to college in a few short weeks, so I'm checking our family's Amazon wishlists for the best Prime Day backpack deals. So far, I've seen 30% off select backpacks from The North Face, Osprey, and JanSport.

On Tuesday, we saw The North Face's Borealis price drop by $30, and yesterday its Jester Backpack joined the deal lineup for a similar discount.

Troubadour's high-tech laptop backpacks are also on sale, including the new Troubadour Apex 4.0 at a rare $60 discount. It's an excellent choice for professionals who want a sleek commuter backpack with smart organizational features.

In anticipation of a jaunt-filled summer, we've tested several carry-on backpacks, the best of which is on sale today (see the Tortuga Travel Pro for $75 off). For more travel essentials, don't miss our roundup of the best Prime Day luggage deals. If you're hoping to shop additional sales across categories, you can check out our massive Prime Day deals guide, where we're rounding up the very best offers from the four-day sale event.

The best Amazon Prime Day laptop backpack deals

Some of our favorite college backpacks for students and work backpacks are on sale. There are rare deals on sleek backpacks from Troubadour that protect your laptop during office commutes. Plus, campus favorites like The North Face Borealis backpack are unlikely to be this cheap once class starts in the fall.

The best Prime Day backpack deals for travel

We've tested the best carry-on travel backpacks, logging flights from New York to Prague. Our top pick overall, the Tortuga Travel Backpack, is part of the sale at $75 off its usual price. It's an investment piece for sure, but it fits as much as our rolling carry-on and was comfortable to carry through crowded transit stations (even when chock full).

FAQs on the best Prime Day backpack deals

What are the best backpacks on sale for Prime Day?

The Troubadour Apex 4.0 is a sleek work backpack with waterproof seams, and it's now $60 off. Its Pioneer 3.0 is an older version, but one that impressed us nonetheless.

The North Face Borealis is great for students and hikers alike, as it comes with a padded laptop sleeve and a hip belt for comfortable carrying. We also suggest the minimalist Brevite Backpack if you're gifting a backpack to a student and aren't sure of their personal taste.

Bagsmart's Carry On Backpack is an already affordable travel bag that comes with a bonus waist bag, all for $32. For a more elevated pick, we suggest the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro while it's 30% off.

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a backpack?

If you're shopping for a travel bag to carry around on summer vacations, Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to save on a backpack. And while it may seem early for back-to-school shopping, now's the time to secure your preferred bag before prices go back up before the first day of class.

What should I look for in a backpack?

Spacious pockets. Stretchy side pockets that can fit a 40-ounce water bottle mean you never have to choose between staying hydrated and packing light.

Laptop protection. Look for backpacks with water-resistant zippers and nylon exteriors so your tech will be safe from spills or rain. The laptop sleeve should be padded and separate from the backpack's main compartment so your computer won't get scratched.

Airplane size compliance. We're scoping Prime Day backpack deals on bags that are compact enough to fit under your airplane seat.

Adjustable straps. A travel backpack that's built for all-day comfort will come with a sternum strap, hip belt, and load lifters, which are designed to shift weight off your shoulders.

Ventilated back panel. Your back can get sweaty if it's suffocating in polyester. Mesh back panels allow air to pass through.

Shoe compartment. If you're shopping for a travel backpack, look for those that can store a spare pair of shoes so you won't risk muddying up the rest of your belongings.

Key leash. This small but helpful feature will save you the trouble of having to dig to the bottom of your bag for your keys at the end of a long day.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

• I never planned to move back to my small hometown on the Space Coast of Florida.
• After a decade in corporate law in New York, though, I decided to return to raise my children.
• The move allowed me to pursue my dream job as an agented author and literary agent.

Growing up in Florida, I always pictured a future in New York City.

I attended law school in Manhattan, then worked my way up the corporate ladder after graduation. Big Law was never my dream, but it felt like a stable career path.

Over time, though, I started realizing that working as a literary agent would be a much better fit for me. Every part of the job aligned with my skill set and passions — I've always had a sharp editorial eye, and I'd gained so many negotiation and client-management skills as a lawyer.

While working full-time, I spent a year learning as much as I could about the publishing industry, until a workshop on becoming an agent stopped me in my tracks. I learned that the only way I could realistically make a career pivot was to become an intern or an assistant first.

As a Big Law associate, though, there weren't enough hours in the day to tack on an internship, and I couldn't afford the risk of starting over as an assistant while saving for our new baby in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

So, I took my husband out to lunch and broke the news: At 31, eight months pregnant with our first child, I was giving up on pursuing my dream job.

Leaving New York City for my Florida hometown helped me pursue my dream career

Everything changed when I gave birth to our son in October 2023. Suddenly, being closer to family outweighed my love for Manhattan.

A week before my due date, we put an offer on a house in my small beach hometown on Florida's Space Coast. The home was down the street from the house I grew up in, where my parents still live.

With a warmth and sense of community we'd been searching for, my hometown was everything we could've wanted for our growing family.

As happy as I was, there was one snag: I couldn't keep my New York-based legal job after moving. Thankfully, we had some flexibility — my husband's job was remote, so he could support us while I figured out my next steps.

Without the financial pressures that come with New York City's higher cost of living, we suddenly could afford for me not to work for a while, so I poured myself into caring for our son and writing.

Meanwhile, all of the publishing dreams I'd pushed aside came rushing back. With a lower cost of living and my mom helping with childcare, becoming a literary agent was suddenly on the table again.

I started a remote publishing internship, which only made me more passionate about this career path. As it wrapped up, while pregnant with our second child, I began emailing literary agencies in search of a full-time agenting role.

Everything fell into place the morning I woke up to an email from the CEO of my dream agency asking for a call. My family had coming plans to visit New York, so I followed up that call with an in-person meeting with the VP. At the end of that meeting, she offered me a remote job as a literary agent.

Two weeks after giving birth to our daughter in July 2025, I opened up to queries from writers looking for a literary agent and never looked back. The agency told me to take my time after having my baby, but I was too excited to wait.

I spent my postpartum months reading manuscripts and signing new clients. As I got the hang of being a mom of two under 2 while managing my dream career, I'd never felt more fulfilled.

The move has allowed me to fulfill my wildest career dreams while still growing our family

About a year later, I now represent over a dozen clients across fiction and non-fiction with multiple book deals closed or in the works.

When I left my hometown for college and then law school in New York City, I never planned to head back. In a plot twist that even I never saw coming, my hometown has allowed me to achieve the impossible.

Now, in a dream career in publishing as a literary agent and agented author, I represent and write the stories I spent a decade dreaming about.

Two and a half years after giving up on my dream, I am living it.

• I've been a father for my entire adult life, and now my youngest son has graduated from high school.
• I realized that my daily routine is completely over, and I have to start anew.
• I have to figure out who I am outside of my kids, so I'm moving to Bali.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Rodney Rikai. It's been edited for length and clarity.

I'm 40 years old, and for my entire adult life, I've been a father.

My youngest son is graduating from high school and heading to Morehouse College in Atlanta this fall. He's interested in psychology and hopes to become a clinical therapist one day. I'm incredibly proud of him.

Before that, my oldest son, technically my nephew (but I've raised him as my own), graduated and left for Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, where he's studying biomedical engineering and economics on a full scholarship.

By every measure, they're doing exactly what I hoped they would do.

What I wasn't prepared for was how much their leaving would force me to think about my own next chapter.

When my oldest son left for college, the house felt completely different

I moved to Los Angeles from New Jersey to pursue a career in television and entertainment. I've hosted television shows, acted in films, and had opportunities I never imagined when I was younger.

But when the kids came to live with me, Los Angeles stopped being a place where I worked and became home. Their presence gave me roots here. My days revolved around school schedules, meals, conversations, and all the little moments that come with raising teenagers.

When my oldest left for Bucknell two years ago, I wasn't prepared for how empty the house would feel.

I remember one time at the grocery store. I was shopping the way I always had, filling my cart with food for three grown men. Then I looked down and realized I didn't need nearly as much anymore. I wasn't feeding the same household. Standing there in the grocery store, it hit me that life had changed in a way I couldn't undo.

Back at home, I'd walk past his room and see it sitting empty. The room that had always been full of noise, activity, and life was suddenly quiet. Those little reminders were everywhere. For weeks after he left, I found myself emotional in ways I didn't expect.

My younger son's graduation made me realize my daily routine was ending

As difficult as it was when my oldest left, I still had my younger son at home. There was still school every morning, daily conversations, and the routines that naturally come with parenting.

Then graduation day arrived.

That morning, I was brushing my teeth when a thought hit me so hard I nearly choked on my mouthwash. I realized this was the last time I would go through the routine that had defined my mornings for years.

For the last six years, I've driven my son to school almost every day. We'd talk in the car, and when he got out, we'd end our conversations the same way. I'd tell him I loved him, tell him he was my favorite, and tell him to have a great day.

Then he'd walk away.

It sounds simple, but those small rituals become part of your life. They anchor your day. Standing there that morning, I realized that chapter was ending.

As a parent, you spend years preparing your children for independence. You want them to grow, succeed, and build lives of their own. Then one day you realize you've spent so much time preparing them that you haven't thought much about preparing yourself.

For the first time, I have to figure out who I am outside being a dad

My son will leave for college this summer. Around the same time, I'm leaving Los Angeles and relocating to Bali for a while.

For me, it's an opportunity to reset.

My entire adulthood has been filled with the responsibilities and routines of fatherhood. My schedule, priorities, and daily life have been built around raising children. Now, for the first time, I have to figure out what life looks like when they aren't physically with me every day.

I don't want my son carrying the weight of my personal struggles while he's beginning this exciting chapter of his life. He deserves the freedom to focus on college, make friends, and discover who he's becoming. That means I need to do my own work and create a new routine for myself.

I'll always be their father. That part will never change.

What is changing is the shape of my everyday life.

One son is thriving at Bucknell. The other is preparing for Morehouse. Watching them grow into young men has been the most meaningful accomplishment of my life.

Now, while they're starting their next chapter, I'm realizing it's time for me to start mine too.

• An $8 discounted Old Navy maternity dress has become an unlikely online talking point.
• It was worn by Second Lady Usha Vance and cited in a NYT report on pregnancy style among Republicans.
• Vance clapped back at the report, sparking online discourse.

A discounted Old Navy maternity dress is having a moment on the internet right now.

The bump-hugging coral dress, recently worn by Second Lady Usha Vance, who is pregnant with her fourth child, became the subject of discussion after The New York Times' Vanessa Friedman wrote about pregnancy and style among high-profile Republicans.

Friedman pointed out that three key women linked to Trump's administration — Karoline Leavitt, Katie Miller, and Usha Vance — have been pregnant at pretty much the same time this year.

While the pregnancies are coincidental, she writes, the way they have presented them is less so. Tight-fitting, bump-hugging dresses and Instagram posts telling women that it is "peak feminism to have babies" are examples of this, she says.

"Together, the women have created a notably consistent, and somewhat paradigm-shifting, picture of the White House's family and fertility platform," Friedman writes.

"If the bare-chested, muscled mixed martial arts fighters of the UFC match that President Trump hosted on Flag Day were the poster guys for MAGA's image of masculinity, then the pregnant women of Trump world are one half of their feminine counterparts," she said.

Usha Vance later shared a screenshot of her dress on Twitter, along with a video of her wearing it during her video podcast, "Storytime with the Second Lady," which her husband joined for a special Father's Day edition. Vance quipped at the NYT report and, more importantly, revealed the big discount she got at Old Navy.

"Now that we know the political significance of my $8.75 coral maternity dress from Old Navy, can't wait to hear what the New York Times has to say about my elastic-waistband pants and compression socks!," she wrote.

Twitter commenters couldn't get enough. "Beautiful and frugal and relatable!" one wrote. "You should be in charge of government spending," another said.

The dress, which originally cost $50 but was reduced to as little as $7.47 on Old Navy's website, is now sold out in all colors and sizes. It's not immediately clear when it sold out, and Old Navy did not respond to a request for comment.

The sell-out dynamic would be reminiscent of the "Kate Middleton effect" or "Meghan Markle effect," when a single public appearance could send shoppers racing to buy the same outfit, often causing it to sell out in hours.

• My first trip to Acadia National Park in Maine was exciting, but a bit outside my comfort zone.
• I was surprised by how much I loved my three-day trip, but there are a few things I wish I'd known.
• Next time I visit, I'll pack better sneakers, make more reservations, and try to avoid the crowds.

I'm many things, but I've never been a hiker.

This isn't to say I don't enjoy the outdoors — I love nothing more than a beach day spent in the sun with a good book and a quick dip in the ocean. A walk through the woods, however, usually isn't my speed.

So, when my boyfriend and I decided to plan a trip to Bar Harbor, Maine, in the summer of last year, I was skeptical about visiting Acadia National Park. Still, Acadia is one of the area's main attractions, so we knew we had to check it out.

To my surprise, the three-day trip changed my perspective on the outdoors. I didn't become a hiking aficionado overnight, but the scenery was beautiful, and I could've easily stayed longer.

Although we had a great time, we definitely made some mistakes as total national-park newbies — and next time we visit Acadia, we'll do a lot of things differently.

I wish we'd packed better for the weather and terrain.

When we visited last June, I packed lots of shorts, tank tops, and my brand-new Hokas.

However, I quickly realized that layers would have been much more ideal for the changing and sometimes unpredictable weather in northern Maine.

Our days started off cool but then turned muggy, especially when working up a sweat hiking.

My sneakers weren't optimal, either. After a few slips and near-falls on the park's muddy grounds and wet rocks, my boyfriend and I both agreed that we should've stopped at the store downtown for a pair of real hiking shoes with better grip.

We should have made reservations for restaurants and certain landmarks.

We arrived at Acadia National Park with a set itinerary, but we didn't realize how many restaurants — and even activities — required reservations.

One of our bucket-list items was watching the sunrise at the scenic Cadillac Mountain. While eating dinner at a restaurant, though, our server explained that we'd need a vehicle reservation to drive to the mountain.

A quick Google search taught us that, unfortunately, there were no available slots to watch the sunrise during our three-day trip.

Luckily, we were able to book a time to see the sunset, but catching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain will be a top priority on our next trip.

We hadn't made a reservation to visit the historic Jordan Pond House, either. When we stopped by after a 3-mile hike, we were told we'd have to wait over an hour to be seated.

As excited as we were to enjoy some popovers and tea with a view of the pond and mountains, we just couldn't wait to eat, and ended up going elsewhere.

Next time, we'll check out some of the less-crowded trails.

As first-time visitors, we made it to many of Acadia's famous, tourist-loved spots: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and Bar Island.

Although the views were stunning and well worth the hype, these places were all quite crowded, making it tough to find parking.

When visiting the quieter Gorham Trail, however, we were able to soak in the nature around us. We only saw a few other hikers as we trekked to the summit.

Now that we've visited all the big names in Acadia, we know that next time, we'll try to find some secluded spots for picnics, as well as some more advanced hikes with fewer travelers.

We should have stayed for more than three days.

Our biggest regret is not spending more time exploring the park and all of its beauty.

We saw and did a lot in three days, but there's still more we wish we could have explored, like Schoodic Peninsula and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.

Our national-park trip may have been spontaneous and out of my comfort zone, but it surprised me.

Despite our mishaps, regrets, and bona fide tourist moments, my boyfriend and I left Acadia already talking about going back — and luckily, we now know a lot about how to make our next visit smoother.

This story was originally published on July 23, 2025, and most recently updated on June 25, 2026.

• Air conditioning is common in much of the US but rare in the UK.
• Schools, homes, and public services struggle during heatwaves.
• Every day life becomes surprisingly difficult during extreme temperatures.

We all knew the heat wave was coming here in the UK; we were warned temperatures would reach up to 36 degrees Celsius (about 96 degrees Fahrenheit).

But it wasn't until the heat actually hit on Tuesday, getting worse throughout Wednesday and Thursday, that we fully appreciated just how boiling hot it would be.

Having moved to Wales from Maryland 15 years ago, and having previously lived in Louisiana, you'd think I would have been prepared to cope with the heat.

However, I'm very much not coping, and neither is anyone else, because we here in the UK are not prepared for heat in the way other parts of the world are.

We don't have AC at home

Whereas high temperatures can be found throughout the US, in most places, people know how to deal with them and have infrastructure in place to stay moderately cool.

I remember often dripping in sweat throughout the summer months in the South of the US, and then walking inside to collapse near the air conditioning vent, ideally also underneath a ceiling fan.

Here, our houses haven't historically needed air conditioning because it has never been this hot. Thursday has been the hottest June day on record, ever. There are air conditioning units for sale, but prices have risen during the heat wave — in some cases by hundreds of pounds.

Our rooms feel like saunas

It's hot in the day without air conditioning, but it's absolutely unbearable at night. Our bedrooms are actually like saunas. No one is sleeping, and we're all like zombies walking around miserable because of it the next day.

Some businesses have air conditioning — like supermarkets — and people are flocking to them to walk around or just stand and loiter. Other businesses without air conditioning have closed, unable to justify risking employees and customers who are struggling in the heat.

Most schools, which should be open until the middle of July, closed on Wednesday and Thursday, leaving parents like me to figure out how to entertain kids while still trying to work. Our schools are ancient, and even with the lights off, fans on, and windows open, kids and teachers would have a hard time focusing on math.

TV and video games have become our best friends this week as we desperately attempt to distract our kids while we power through with work. It feels like the pandemic all over again.

I take my kids to buy ice cream to keep them entertained

Whereas many neighborhoods in the US have pools that people can cool down in the summer — that was where I lived every summer — we don't have an outdoor pool near us. I tried to swim at an indoor pool on Tuesday in search of cooler temperatures, but was told the pool was closed because the lifeguards said it was 42 degrees Celsius (106 Fahrenheit) where they sit in their chairs.

Trains are being canceled because the tracks are too hot. Everyone, everyone, is very, very hot.

To survive, I have a small basement where my husband, three kids, and I have been retreating. We've put fans in nearly every room. The windows are staying closed, and the curtains are drawn, in hopes of keeping the hot air out and the cool air in. However, this is now causing wet condensation in nearly every room of the house.

Water bottles are in the freezer, but our freezer is slowly giving up, so that solution won't work for long. I've been taking the kids every afternoon to buy ice-creams. We have a little paddling pool in the back garden, and we're all taking turns sitting in it to cool off.

And at night, we all take cold showers before bed.

As an American who has lived in both places, I'm telling you — it's so much worse to live through a heat wave in the UK than it is in the US.

• The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has recently become the center of controversy and spectacle.
• A multimillion-dollar renovation by the Trump administration aimed to turn the pool "American flag blue."
• Instead, the pool looks green with growing algae and is being cleaned by NPS workers.

The Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, was designed to connect the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial with one long, serene visual line.

But today, more people are looking into the pool water than at the monuments it reflects and the history of America it's meant to frame.

A renovation by the Trump administration, reported to cost around $16 million, aimed to make the pool, which has long been plagued by algal blooms, look cleaner before America's 250th anniversary.

Instead, weeks after the conclusion of the project, which has come under scrutiny for its no-bid contracts, multimillion-dollar cost, and solutions to the algae growth, the pool has already turned green — again.

Now, the reflection of the 2,028-foot-long pool features visitors looking into the water, police officers and National Guard members monitoring the monument, National Park Service workers working long days to clean up the fast-growing algae, and protesters gathering with signs and chants.

Here's what I saw when I visited the Reflecting Pool.

I visited Washington, DC, ahead of America's 250th anniversary.

When I visited Washington, DC, on June 19, construction and repair work could be seen throughout much of the city, including at many of its most iconic landmarks, such as the White House, Lafayette Park, and the Reflecting Pool.

The Reflecting Pool was lined with National Park Service employees working on repairs.

The Reflecting Pool is usually one of the calmest places on the National Mall. During my visit, it looked like an active worksite.

Dozens of workers stood in and around the shallow water, with equipment, hoses, and cleaning systems spread across the pool floor. Some sections looked newly cleaned. Others were still covered in murky green patches.

A multimillion-dollar renovation had aimed to turn the pool floor "American Flag Blue."

The resurfacing of the pool with a dark-blue color was part of a fast-moving renovation ordered by Trump ahead of America's 250th-anniversary celebrations.

The administration initially announced it would cost $1.8 million, although the Associated Press reported Tuesday that the contracts to complete the work exceeded $16 million.

Instead, the pool has once again been overtaken by green algae.

Among other issues, the renovation was meant to help solve a problem that has long plagued the Reflecting Pool: algae blooms.

But days after the pool was refilled in early June, the algae returned, and green blooms reappeared in the water.

The structural issues causing the algae to grow so rapidly in the pool date back to its construction and the unstable mudflats on which it was built. The concrete slabs at the bottom of the pool have developed cracks and leaks over the past century, The New York Times reported.

The blue resurfacing from Trump's pool renovation coated the slabs with sealant but failed to address the structural issues, the Times reported.

Interior communications director Kate Martin has said the algae now visible is residual and came from reactivated supply lines after the repairs, calling it part of the pool's "normal startup process."

In some parts of the pool, the blue paint has started to crack and peel.

When I looked into the pool, I noticed what some people have already mentioned: The blue coating itself seemed to be cracking and peeling.

Some visitors have spotted large chips of the blue pool floor surfacing.

Peeled pieces of the blue liner, like the piece photographed by The Washington Post in the image above, have been seen breaking away and floating in the pool.

David Hearn, a 67-year-old former Olympic canoe racer from Bethesda, Maryland, told the Associated Press that he reached into the pool to examine the peeling coating on June 19, briefly touched a piece that was still attached, and let go after a park worker told him to.

"I reached down to see what it felt like," Hearn told AP. "It was very rubbery."

Soon after, he was arrested for vandalism, which he denied, telling ABC News he did not rip, damage, or take any part of the pool. He was later released from police custody and will appear in court on July 9.

While I was there, visitors were looking into the pool water more than at its surrounding monuments.

The Reflecting Pool is designed to pull the eye across the Mall. During my visit, it pulled people's eyes downward.

I talked to visitors who said they had come just to see what the water looked like.

"I've never seen so many people looking into the Reflecting Pool," one passerby said while on the phone.

I also saw a dad take a picture with his young daughter with the pool in the background. Their choice of pose? A big thumbs down.

Some even took water home with them.

One visitor from Michigan said he hoped to keep the algae alive at home, adding it to what he called a collection of "bad things the government has tried to hide from us," which he said includes various vintage artifacts, such as uranium glass and promotional mugs with dangerous levels of lead and cadmium.

Other visitors told Newsweek that National Guard members at the pool said they could be detained for touching the water.

National Park Service regulations state that people are prohibited from "bathing, swimming, or wading" in fountains or pools on the National Mall, with some limited exceptions that do not include the Reflecting Pool. The regulations do not specifically address briefly touching or collecting water from the Reflecting Pool.

Earlier this week, the administration announced the arrest of six people in connection with alleged vandalism of the pool, which the president said on Truth Social included a 250-foot gash in the pool floor made by "a very sharp knife or razors" in a Truth Social post. The administration has not provided evidence for the claims.

Cleanup efforts have gained as much attention as the initial renovation itself.

I watched as National Park Service workers took turns patiently cleaning the pool floor with a water-vacuuming device.

Strips of dark blue showed through the dense algae covering, and visitors gathered to witness a cleanup turned spectacle.

Workers are using systems to vacuum the algae off the pool floor.

The Interior Department has also deployed hydrogen peroxide and nanobubble ozone technology to address the algae.

Green algae-filled water is being pumped into nearby drains.

The vacuumed, algae-filled water was then disposed of into nearby drains, which drew just as much attention from visitors.

The Washington Post later reported that DC environmental officials planned to investigate the discharge of water into drains after visitors expressed concern.

Some protesters stood in support of the algae in opposition to the administration's renovation efforts.

The pool and its growing algae have become a protest background and, to some, an icon.

During my visit, a pair of protesters marched near the pool holding a "Team Algae" sign and chanting, "Grow, algae, grow."

Police officers and National Guard members are monitoring the area.

Along with workers, curious visitors, and protesters, dozens of US Park Police and National Guard members patrolled the areas surrounding the pool, adding to an already lively, tense image.

Meanwhile, federal employees are expecting long work days ahead of the nation's 250th birthday.

While the spectacle of the blue-green pool continues, it is the National Park Service workers who are getting the closest look at it.

One, who declined to share his name, said that until July 4, repairs were expected to be worked on for 16 hours a day, with crews changing between two shifts.

When I visited the scene, it was a hot, sunny, and humid day. I kept wondering whether being knee-deep in the murky water made the workers feel any cooler than I did.

"How fast does the algae take to grow back?" one visitor asked an NPS worker who was resting from vacuuming the pool floor.

"Seconds," he told her.

Supergoop is one of the few sunscreen brands that has managed to make daily SPF feel less like a chore. The formulas are lightweight, easy to layer, and designed for real-life use, whether you want a glowy base under makeup, a clear sunscreen that won't leave a white cast, or a body SPF you'll actually remember to reapply.

That's why these Prime Day deals are worth a look. Supergoop products usually cost more than a basic drugstore sunscreen, but the brand has some of the best face sunscreens we've tested, including formulas that work for oily skin, dry skin, and makeup wearers. Below, we rounded up the best Prime Day Supergoop deals worth shopping now, from editor-loved everyday SPFs to beach-bag staples you'll use all summer.

For invisible protection with no white cast

For oily skin that gets shiny under regular sunscreen

For sunscreen that doubles as a highlighter

For easy reapplication after a swim

For beach bags, gym bags, and backyard days

FAQs

Is Supergoop worth buying during Prime Day?

Yes, Supergoop is worth watching during Prime Day because the brand is usually more expensive than basic drugstore sunscreen. A sale makes it easier to stock up on a formula you already use or try one of the brand's best-known SPFs without paying full price

Which Supergoop sunscreen should I try first?

If you're new to Supergoop, Unseen Sunscreen is the safest starting point for most people because it goes on clear and doesn't leave a white cast. Glowscreen is better if you want a dewy finish, while Mineral Mattescreen is the one to try if your skin gets oily or shiny under sunscreen.

What are the best Prime Day Supergoop deals?

The best Prime Day Supergoop deals are the ones on formulas you'll actually use consistently. Face sunscreens like Unseen, Glowscreen, and Mineral Mattescreen are good daily picks, while Play Everyday Lotion and Play Body Mist make more sense for beach days, workouts, and summer travel.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

• I've traveled solo to all 50 states and nearly every US national park.
• Throughout my travels, I've come across many unique natural and human-made locations.
• A few of the unique places I've been to are Yellowstone National Park and Biosphere 2 in Arizona.

After traveling solo to all 50 states and every US national park, it's rare that I find a place that still surprises me or feels genuinely unique. But when I do, I never forget it.

Although uniqueness is somewhat subjective, here are eight places I've found to be unforgettable and one of a kind.

Yellowstone National Park is filled with natural wonders.

In my eyes, the first official US national park is still one of the most distinctive places in the country. Visiting the park feels like stepping onto another planet.

Yellowstone National Park, spread across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is known for being home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features.

From the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupting roughly 20 times a day to colorful hot springs bubbling with energy, it's a place travelers must see to believe.

Arizona's Biosphere 2 is a unique human-made destination.

Oracle, Arizona, isn't necessarily a unique destination, but the manufactured structure that exists there is.

Biosphere 2 is a 3-acre closed ecological system initially designed to study human life in an autonomous environment.

Complete with a tropical rainforest, ocean, wetlands, grassland, and fog desert, Biosphere 2 is like a miniature version of Earth under a giant glass dome.

The facility initially made headlines in the '90s with its two missions that saw crews living inside Biosphere 2 to study human survivability in a closed environment.

Now that it's focused on research, visitors can tour the facility and explore the biomes in an experience unlike any other.

Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park has distinctive rock formations.

Although Utah has five major national parks, one stands out to me as the most distinct: Bryce Canyon National Park.

This park is renowned for its hoodoos, which are tall, thin rock formations sculpted by wind and water erosion over millions of years.

In fact, Bryce Canyon has the highest concentration of hoodoos in the world, creating a mesmerizing landscape.

Assateague Island is home to gorgeous feral horses.

Along the Maryland and Virginia coasts, Assateague Island may seem like an average barrier island at first glance. However, there's something that makes it special — a herd of feral horses that roams freely over the island's dunes.

According to legend, these beautiful horses are descended from Spanish equines who were shipwrecked centuries ago.

Whether or not that's true, the horses are a breathtaking addition to the pristine, undeveloped ecosystem on Assateague Island.

Joshua Tree National Park in California offers a unique combination of plants and wildlife.

Although Joshua trees can be found in other parts of the Mojave Desert, California's Joshua Tree National Park offers a unique combination of memorable succulents and rock formations.

The park is the definition of otherworldly, offering a variety of plants and wildlife that make Joshua Tree one of a kind.

Visitors can hike, bird-watch, climb, or stargaze at this gem in the California desert.

Chimayo, New Mexico, is home to a vibrant pilgrimage site.

As a frequent visitor to Northern New Mexico, I could likely make the case that much of the state is unique compared with other US destinations. However, one place that stands out is Chimayo, New Mexico.

One of my favorite places to visit in the city is El Santuario de Chimayo. This Catholic church is a National Historic Landmark and a vibrant pilgrimage site that attracts about 300,000 visitors annually.

At over 200 years old, it's unlike any place I've seen in the US. During Holy Week, pilgrims will walk for miles to reach the church and the dirt underneath, which is believed to be healing.

The grounds are open for anyone to visit, with shops clustered around with art and artifacts.

Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming is both beautiful and sacred.

It's astonishing to see Wyoming's Devils Tower (also known as Bear Lodge) come into view abruptly from the surrounding plains.

The first national monument in the country, the tower is a mesmerizing spectacle that's sacred to many Native American tribes.

Measuring 867 feet from base to summit, Devils Tower feels both entirely out of place and perfectly situated in the stunning Black Hills of Wyoming.

Visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado feels like stepping into another world.

Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado is home to North America's tallest dunes. Still, that alone isn't what makes this such a distinctive part of the country.

The contrast between the towering dunes and the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains surrounding them turns an otherwise beautiful natural wonder into an otherworldly gem.

Visitors can hike or sled on the dunes for an outdoor adventure like no other.

This story was originally published on February 16, 2024, and most recently updated on June 25, 2026.

• A federal judge blocked Trump's narrowed definition of professional degrees in his student-loan overhaul.
• Healthcare advocates said the definition would block advanced healthcare programs, like nursing, from higher borrowing caps.
• Higher caps will still take effect July 1, while the narrowed professional degree definition is paused.

President Donald Trump's sweeping student-loan repayment overhaul just got dealt a blow in court.

On Wednesday night, US District Judge Beryl Howell temporarily blocked a provision that would establish stricter borrowing caps for advanced nursing and other healthcare-related programs.

The Department of Education set a $100,000 lifetime cap for graduate students and a $200,000 cap for professional students. It also limited the definition of "professional" to 11 programs —including law, dentistry, and medicine — while excluding advanced nursing and other healthcare-related programs.

That narrow definition prompted lawsuits by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the PA Education Association, which argued that it was unlawful and excluded professions that would benefit from the higher borrowing caps.

Howell's ruling pauses the department's definition of "professional" while the rest of the case is decided, and will still allow higher borrowing caps to take effect on July 1, using preexisting definitions that would include advanced healthcare programs in the caps.

The plaintiffs have shown they're likely to succeed on their "claim that the Rule's definition of 'professional degree' is contrary to law, that they would suffer irreparable harm should the Rule go into effect, and that the balance of equities and the public interest are in their favor," Howell wrote.

An Education Department spokesperson said that the department is "reviewing the order and will take appropriate action."

The American Academy of Physician Associates and the PA Education Association said in a joint statement that this ruling is "only the first step."

"The uncertainty created by this rule continues to threaten the future healthcare workforce at a time when communities across the country already face growing provider shortages," they said.

The borrowing caps have faced criticism from lawmakers across the aisle. House Republicans recently advanced a plan in their budget legislation that would make advanced nursing programs eligible for higher borrowing caps.

Have a story to share about student loans? Contact this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com, or fill out this form.

We're on day three of Amazon Prime Day and staying highly caffeinated to bring you the best deals. As a professional product tester (and coffee fan), I've had my hands on all types of machines and found several of the best Prime Day coffee maker and espresso machine deals on the best models we've tested, so you can get your caffeine fix, no matter how you take your coffee.

There are steep discounts across all categories, whether you are in the market for a single-serve coffee maker, an espresso machine for beginners or experts, or plenty of choices for classic drip coffee lovers. I am particularly fond of the deals coming from Breville and De'Longhi espresso machines, including the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo on sale for the new low of $399.95. That price feels unheard of for a barista-level machine with a built-in burr grinder and steam wand. Nespresso lovers shouldn't miss the tiny Nespresso Vertuo Pop+, which makes incredible espresso at the press of a button. You might be surprised that the lowest price isn't on Amazon, but on Walmart for $85.

For more of the best Prime Day deals, check out the best deals on kitchen accessories, including air fryers and blenders.

The best Amazon Prime Day coffee maker deals

Prime Day is one of the best times of the year to upgrade your coffee setup. There are major discounts and everything from basic brewers to premium specialty coffee makers. When you're shopping, it's important to consider how much coffee you brew each day, what features you may need, and whether extras like iced-coffee settings, built-in frothers, or smart connectivity are worth paying for. This year, the strongest deals include several of our favorite coffee makers from brands like Ninja, Cuisinart, OXO, and Braun.

OXO Brew 9-cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker

One of our favorite drip coffee makers, the OXO 9-Cup, is certified by the Specialty Coffee Association for consistently brewing rich, balanced coffee. It features controls that enable precise temperature and a rainmaker showerhead to ensure even extraction in every batch. At $150, it's one of the best prices we've seen on this excellent machine.

Ninja DualBrew Pro

Our pick for the most versatile coffee maker, the Ninja DualBrew Pro, can make full carafes, single servings, iced coffee, and concentrate for lattes and cappuccinos. The built-in fold-away frother adds extra value for coffee drinkers who like to make coffee-shop style beverages at home. Its Prime Day discount makes it a compelling all-in-one coffee solution under $200.

• See all Ninja coffee deals.

Moccamaster KBGV Select 10-Cup Coffee Maker

For coffee enthusiasts who are particular about their drip coffee, 35% off the iconic Moccamaster KBGV is a rare discount that only comes around key deal events, like Prime Day or Black Friday. Beloved for their durable build, simple one-switch operation, and consistently excellent drip coffee, this coffee maker brews a full 40-ounce pot in just 4 to 6 minutes and is available in several colors. If you find you want individual portions, consider the Cup One, which brews single servings without pods.

Cuisinart Perfectemp 14-cup Coffee Maker

The Cuisinart has long been a favorite thanks to its large capacity, customizable brew strengths, and programmable features. We find it consistently produces hot, flavorful coffee and works really well for households with multiple coffee drinkers. It's also $72, making it one of the strongest values in our roundup.

Braun BrewSense

The Braun BrewSense delivers consistently flavorful coffee thanks to its PureFlavor brewing system, which maintains optimal brewing extraction and temperature control. Its compact footprint and programmable features make it a practical choice for everyday use in any home. And at under $90, it's our favorite budget coffee maker and overall a solid Prime Day value from a trusted brand.

Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker is for households that need options on a budget. It can brew a full 12-cup pot of coffee, or a single cup using either grounds or pods. However, our tester noted that it can take about 20 minutes to brew a full pot, which isn't exactly super speedy and requires a paper filter unless you upgrade to the gold filter model.

The best Amazon Prime Day single-serve coffee maker deals

Single-serve coffee makers are ideal for anyone who wants a fresh cup of coffee without brewing an entire pot. Look for machines that offer fast brewing times, multiple cup sizes, and flexible pod options. This year's best deals include compact espresso machines, budget-friendly Keurigs that make mornings easier, and espresso pod brewers.

Nespresso Vertuo Pop+

The Nespresso Vertuo Pop is one of the smallest machines in Nespresso's lineup, but it still delivers rich coffee topped with the brand's signature crema. It can brew several Vertuo pod formats from 5 to 12 ounces with the touch of a button, while taking up little counter space, and has a 19-ounce water reservoir. Surprisingly, the best price we found on this cute model is $85 at Walmart. The Pop+ version, which has a slightly larger 25-ounce water tank, is on sale for $99 on Amazon, but if you're looking for the lowest price on a Nespresso, Walmart is your best option here. You can find a Pop bundled with a milk frother for $130 on Amazon, or the slightly older Vertuo Next has the deepest discount at 45% off.

• See all Nespresso Prime Day deals.

AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

Coffee is a serious necessity for some, and the AeroPress is a small, simple, portable, and easy-to-use way to brew a highly competitive, frothy cup of coffee somewhere between a French press and an espresso. This is our preferred method for a single cup of coffee that doesn't require the use of pods.

Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Express offers the convenience that made the brand famous in a compact, affordable package, perfect for first apartments and dorm rooms. The strong Brew feature adds extra flavor intensity, while the 42-ounce removable reservoir helps streamline busy mornings. At nearly half its original price, it's a standout value during Prime Day for Keurig lovers and is available in 6 colors. We prefer it over the small-size Keurig K-Mini, which is on sale for $49 and has a one-cup reservoir that needs to be refilled each time.

See all Keurig Prime Day deals.

Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Supreme means fewer frequent tank refills thanks to its 66-ounce reservoir. The introduction of mult-stream technology enables a more even water distribution for better extraction and aroma. Plus, you can customize your cup with strength and temperature control options. It's our favorite Keurig option for its versatility.

Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee Machine

This compact espresso machine is a favorite among espresso lovers who want an authentic Italian-style coffee without sacrificing kitchen space. It heats quickly, is easy to operate, and consistently produces flavorful espresso. The 50% discount makes it an especially attractive Prime Day buy.

The best Amazon Prime Day espresso machine deals

Prime Day is considered one of the best times to invest in an espresso machine because there are deep discounts on premium models from Breville, De'Longhi, KitchenAid, and more. When shopping, consider whether you want a built-in grinder, automatic milk frothing, or a more hands-on experience that lets you refine your technique. This year's deals range from beginner-friendly machines under $100 to advanced setups that produce cafe-quality drinks at the touch of a button.

Breville Barista Pro

Equipped with Breville's Smart Grinder Pro and everything you need to make espresso, save for the beans, the Breville Barista Pro is among the easiest and fastest ways you can get a close-to-café-quality pour at home. The Pro version is on lightning sale through midnight June 25 (or when it sells out), and is just $70 more than the Breville Barista Express Prime Day Deal of $499, but offers a more premium experience. The Barista Express has a fast 3-second heat-up time, 30 granular grinder settings, and a digital LCD, while the Barista Express is slower and has a simpler grinder, but relies on analog gauges and physical buttons, which could be preferred by beginners learning to dial in shots. Compare the Breville espresso lineup.

See all Breville deals.

Breville Barista Touch

The Barista Touch simplifies espresso-making with a color touchscreen and automatic milk texturing. It delivers excellent espresso drinks with a shorter learning curve than most manual machines. At a $250 discount, this premium Breville model is especially noteworthy.

Ninja's Luxe Cafe Pro

Ninja's Luxe Cafe Pro Series makes it fast and easy to whip up espresso, cold brew, and coffee in minutes with Barista Assist Technology, a guided experience featuring customized grind-size recommendations, weight-based dosing, and active brew adjustments for temperature & pressure to achieve balanced flavor. The Pro Series features an integrated tamper, hot water spout, and a frothing system with five froth presets. This is the lowest price this social-media darling has been offered at.

Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine

This all-in-one machine from Gevi combines a grinder, an espresso maker, and a milk frother at a more approachable price than many competitors'. It's a solid choice for shoppers who want more commercial features without spending four figures.

KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF2

KitchenAid's newly launched KF2, a fully automatic espresso machine, lets you make cold espresso beverages and features a more compact design. I tested a similar model, the KF6, and it brewed perfect espresso on the first pull, so I expect the same performance with the K2. It has an intelligent dosing system that adjusts the grind size for you, as well as a built-in milk frother.

De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo

The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo is one of the most standout Prime Day deals thanks to its massive 43% discount. It includes a built-in grinder, a commercial-style steam wand, and De'Longhi's cold-extraction technology for cold-brew drinks. At under $400, it's one of the strongest values in the category.

Casabrews Espresso Machine

The Casabrews Espresso Machine delivered incredible shot quality and timing that rivaled those of household names, making it one of the best cheap espresso machines. In our testing, there were no issues with bitter or watery shots, and every pull delivered nice body, robust flavor, and a beautiful crema. It's already a great value, but this limited-time discount during Prime Day is one of the lowest prices we'll see all year on this budget machine.

De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

The De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine really surprised me during our espresso machine testing. It offers manual control and a traditional steam wand with few bells and whistles. But it has an incredibly compact footprint, makes excellent espresso, and has superior frothing capabilities for such an inexpensive product. At under $100, it's one of the most affordable machines and also one of the best.

De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Automatic Espresso Machine

De'Longhi has so many deals for Prime Day, but this machine is a great buy for those users who just want to push a button. This machine does it all for you, with seven one-touch recipes, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, and iced coffee. Its precision conical burr grinder offers 13 different grind settings, ensuring the proper extraction for every cup. And its Latte Crema System can handle both plant and dairy milks.

The best Amazon Prime Day coffee accessory deals

The right accessories can dramatically improve your coffee routine, whether you're grinding beans, frothing milk for lattes, or keeping drinks hot longer. Prime Day is an excellent opportunity to pick up useful upgrades at a discount. This year's best accessory deals include grinders, milk frothers, temperature-controlled mugs, and espresso essentials.

OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder

The best coffee grinders are burr coffee grinders because they're an easy way to improve coffee flavor and extraction. This OXO burr grinder has durable construction and user-friendly control, making it a strong choice for both beginners and enthusiasts. Its Prime Day price makes it a worthwhile upgrade for anyone still using pre-ground coffee, looking to improve the taste of their morning brew.

Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Pour-Over Kettle

This stylish matte kettle has several features to give you the perfect pour-over: a precision pour spout, a counterbalanced handle, a 1,200-watt quick-heating element, and variable temperature control.

Zulay Milk Frother

This handheld electric whisk is one of my favorites thanks to its stand and performance. I can whip up foam for espresso drinks, but it is also great for gravies and salad dressing. It's a must-have kitchen tool, and it's over 50% off.

Nextmug Temperature-Controlled Coffee Mug

The days of putting your coffee or tea in the microwave are over with a self-heating mug like this from Nextmug. It's easy to use and does a great job keeping hot drinks hot. It's also easy to clean by hand, which is a plus.

Espresso Knock Box

Any espresso enthusiast will tell you that you need a knock box in some form, especially if you plan to make multiple espressos at once. We like this one because it is modern, shock-absorbent, and has a non-slip base.

Prime Day coffee maker FAQs

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a coffee maker?

Prime Day is one of the best times of the year to buy a coffee maker because many of the biggest brands offer discounts that rival Black Friday pricing. We found especially strong deals this year on espresso machines from Breville and De'Longhi, single-serve coffee makers from Nespresso and Keurig, and drip coffee makers from Oxo, Ninja, and Cuisinart.

What kind of coffee maker should I get?

The best coffee Maker depends on your habits and budget. Drip coffee makers are ideal for households that brew multiple cups throughout the day, while single-serve machines offer convenience and minimal cleanup for both home and work settings. Espresso machines are best for coffee enthusiasts who want lattes, cappuccinos, and specialty drinks at home. If versatility is your priority, look for a machine that can brew hot and iced coffee, as well as specialty drinks, from a single appliance.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon for the full selection.

• Last week Apple said it was going to raise prices, because the AI data center boom was making its chips more expensive.
• Today, Apple unveiled price hikes of at least 15% on many of its MacBooks and iPads.
• It's a milestone: a giant consumer company telling consumers prices are going up because of AI.

It's possible that AI will bring us all kinds of amazing things in the future.

In the present, AI is making things more expensive.

And Apple just showed us how much more expensive: It is raising prices on some of its Macs and iPads by at least 15% and directly attributing the hikes to the AI boom — specifically the buildout of data centers.

"The rapid expansion of AI data centers has created an extraordinary surge in demand for memory and storage," the company said in a statement. "We have never seen a component price increase this much, this quickly."

In real-world terms, that means Apple's entry-level MacBook Air now costs $1,299 — up from $1,099. Its cheapest iPad Air, which cost $599 on Wednesday, now costs $749.

Apple had previewed the price hikes last week, when CEO Tim Cook called them "unavoidable." The company hasn't raised the prices of new iPhones, though we'll see what happens when it introduces new models this fall. Apple's statement says it "need[s] to begin raising prices on a number of products," which suggests these may not be the only increases.

Apple's announcement is important for people who want to buy new computers and tablets. But I think it's much more meaningful than that: It's the first time a giant consumer company has come out and told consumers that prices are going up because of AI.

That feels like an important milestone. That's because so much of the AI debate centers around what people think could happen in the future. If you're an AI optimist, it could help us find new wonder drugs or supercharge new industries. If you're a skeptic, you worry that it will create new bioweapons, or hollow out big swaths of the economy.

But today, in the here and now, Apple is saying things are more expensive because of AI.

That idea has been banging around the tech and financial worlds for some time, as the data center push squeezes on computer chips. That's good for some companies, like chipmakers Micron and SK Hynix, and an issue for just about everyone that needs chips for their products, which is… a lot of companies.

Much of this has been opaque to normal people. Now lots of normal people — even those who aren't in the market for new iPads and MacBooks — are going to hear that AI is making iPads and MacBooks more expensive.

That's the kind of data point that sticks in your head. And it's very hard to dislodge.

The AI industry has plenty of money and influence. But tech usually succeeds by bringing people something new or making something radically cheaper. Now tech says the same stuff you bought yesterday costs much more today.

It's hard to argue your way out of that one.

• Apple raised prices for some Mac and iPad models on Thursday by as much as $300.
• There were no increases to iPhone prices.
• Apple CEO Tim Cook had earlier warned of price increases due to the memory chip shortage.

Tim Cook warned that Apple price rises were coming. Now we know just how much more expensive it is to buy a MacBook or iPad.

Apple on Thursday increased prices for Mac computers by as much as 20%, while iPads are now up to to 25% more expensive, according to the company's updated online store.

The cost of its iPhones remained unchanged.

Apple's stock dipped around 5% following the news.

The price jumps mean the entry-level MacBook Neo now costs $699, up from $599. A beefier 14-inch MacBook Pro now starts at $1,999 — a $300 increase over its previous $1,699 price tag. The iPad Pro went up by $200 to $1,199.

Earlier this month, Cook warned that price rises were coming due to a shortage of memory chips, calling the price fluctuation in memory "a hundred-year flood," and saying "price increases are unavoidable."

"We're doing our best to mitigate the huge increases that are being passed to us, and we've been trying to shield our customers from the increases, but the situation has become unsustainable," the Apple CEO told The Wall Street Journal in a statement at the time.

Tech companies have been ramping up purchases of the components for their AI buildouts, which has, in turn, driven up prices for the chips used in many consumer electronics.

That's led to broad price increases for laptops, desktop PCs, smartphones, and gaming consoles like the PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Apple held out on price hikes longer than some of its rival PC makers. Dell increased prices for its commercial products in December due to the memory chip shortage. Microsoft followed suit in April, raising prices for its Surface PC lineup by up to $500.

Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi left a 14-year career in tech to open Kafi BBQ, a halal Texas barbecue restaurant in Irving, Texas. In its first year, Kafi made about $2.3 million in revenue without serving pork, one of the highest-margin items in traditional Texas barbecue.

Kafi makes everything from scratch, including halal wagyu brisket, Iraqi-inspired sausage, beef-bacon Texas twinkies, fresh bread, and pistachio desserts. But running a halal barbecue spot comes with major challenges, including high meat costs, custom equipment, delicate lamb casings, and a menu built around expensive ingredients.

Still, Salahodeen believes that one day, his joint could earn a Michelin star.

Amazon Prime Day is now in its third day, and the four-day sale is still serving up some excellent TV discounts. I've spent more than a decade reviewing TVs, so I know which deals are actually worth your money and which ones are better left behind. The best Prime Day TV deals include big savings on some of my favorite OLED, Mini LED, and QLED displays from Samsung, TCL, LG, Hisense, Roku, Sony, and Amazon.

Many of the best discounts are on 2025 models, but I'm also seeing a few 2026 TVs get their first meaningful price cuts. One of the strongest deals right now is on the 65-inch Samsung S90F, which has dropped to a record low of $1,198. It's my pick for the best TV overall thanks to its superb contrast, wide viewing angles, and rich color performance. For shoppers looking to go extra large for movies, sports, or gaming, the 98-inch TCL QM7K is another highlight at an all-time low of $1,898.

I'll keep refreshing this guide as Prime Day continues, since prices and stock can change quickly. Some TV deals have already sold out, while others have gotten even better since the sale began. For more discounts beyond TVs, check out our Prime Day deals hub, where our expert deal hunters are tracking the best Amazon savings across every category.

The best Prime Day Samsung TV deals

Several of the best Samsung TVs have dropped to record-low prices for Prime Day. The S90F OLED is my top pick for shoppers who care most about picture quality, especially now that it's down to a new all-time low. Samsung's newer S90H is also seeing its first meaningful discount of the year. It costs more than the S90F and doesn't quite match its color performance, but its glare-free screen does a much better job cutting down reflections. For anyone who wants a TV that looks just as good when it's off, Samsung's Frame TVs remain a great choice, with a gallery-style design that helps them blend into a room like wall art.

The best Prime Day TCL TV deals

The best TCL TVs are already a great value year-round, but these Prime Day deals make them an even better buy. The extra-large 98-inch QM7K is a standout at an all-time low price of $1,898. The QM7K's brightness and contrast rival many pricier QLED models from Samsung, LG, and Sony. Prime Day is also your first chance to save big on TCL's brand-new QM8L SQD TV. This 2026 model is similar to the QM8K, but it offers an impressive boost in color performance. Though the cheaper QM8K is the better value buy, at these deal prices, the QM8L is an enticing option for enthusiasts. You can learn more in my TCL QM8L TV review.

The best Prime Day LG TV deals

LG makes some of the best OLED TVs I've reviewed, and Prime Day is bringing worthwhile discounts on several of its top sets, including the midrange C5. The newer C6H has also returned to its lowest price since launching this spring. Available in 77- and 83-inch sizes, the C6H delivers a noticeably brighter picture than the C5, making it a strong option for shoppers who want a bigger, more premium OLED. For more details, check out my LG C6H TV review and guide to the best LG TVs.

The best Prime Day Hisense TV deals

Hisense remains one of the best-value brands, with TVs that go toe-to-toe with TCL while often costing much less than premium models from Sony and Samsung. The U8QG is a great example. It's among the brightest TVs available, but it's priced well below many dimmer high-end sets. Just note that the 65- and 85-inch models use a different panel than the rest of the lineup, offering stronger contrast but more limited viewing angles. For more recommendations, see my guide to the best Hisense TVs.

The best Prime Day Roku TV deals

Roku is best known for its simple, user-friendly streaming devices, but the company also sells its own smart TVs with the same easy-to-navigate interface built in. The Roku Plus Series is one of my favorite budget-friendly picks, earning a spot in my guide to the best budget TVs for its straightforward smart platform and solid QLED picture quality. For Prime Day, both the 55- and 65-inch sizes have returned to their lowest prices yet. For more picks, see my guide to the best Roku TVs.

The best Prime Day Sony TV deals

Sony TVs aren't cheap, but they continue to stand out for their excellent image accuracy and top-tier processing. For Prime Day, several of the brand's top QLED models are on sale, including the Bravia 9, a high-end Mini LED TV that delivers a bright, refined picture. For a closer look at how Sony's current lineup compares, check out my guide to the best Sony TVs.

The best Prime Day Amazon Ember and Fire TV deals

Amazon makes its own lineup of smart TVs powered by the Fire TV platform. TCL and Hisense typically deliver stronger picture quality for the price, but Amazon's sets can still be solid budget buys when discounts are steep enough. The 50-inch Omni QLED is the top deal right now, since it's one of the few TVs in this size range with local dimming to improve contrast. For Prime Day, it's back down to an all-time low of $250. For more details on Amazon's lineup, see my Fire TV guide.

Prime Day TV FAQs

What type of TV should you buy?

TV shopping can be confusing since there are several display types to choose from, including LED, OLED, QLED, Mini LED, and RGB LED. Each technology has its own strengths, so the right pick depends on your budget, room setup, and viewing habits. Here's a simple breakdown:

• OLED TVs: OLEDs, including QD-OLED and tandem OLED models, offer the best overall picture quality, with perfect black levels, pixel-level contrast, and wide viewing angles. They're ideal for movie fans, but they cost more (especially in larger sizes), aren't as bright as top QLEDs, and carry a small risk of burn-in. You can learn more in our OLED vs. QLED comparison.
• QLED TVs: QLED TVs use quantum dots to deliver bright images and vibrant color. They're great for rooms with ambient light, come in many sizes and price points, and don't pose a burn-in risk. However, they can't match OLED contrast or viewing angles, and performance is best on models with Mini LED local dimming.
• LED TVs: Basic LED TVs are the cheapest choice and work well for casual viewing or getting a large screen on a budget. But they lack premium features like quantum dots, and usually lack local dimming and wide color support, so picture quality is limited.
• RGB LED TVs: Also called Micro RGB, RGB Mini LED, or True RGB, these TVs use separate red, green, and blue LEDs to deliver an expanded color range. The tech is promising, but options are limited, and OLED remains better for contrast. You can learn more in our RGB LED vs. Mini LED comparison.

How do I know if a TV deal is worthwhile?

I've been covering Prime Day events since the first sale in 2015, and I've been testing TVs for over a decade. I also keep track of TV prices year-round, so I know how much popular models typically sell for. When I recommend the best Prime Day TV deals, I also use price trackers to review historical deal data, ensuring the current discount is actually worthwhile.

When shopping Prime Day deals, you'll often see a product's list price crossed out and replaced by a deal price. However, this "list price" can be deceptive. In many cases, the list price Amazon shows is a TV's full retail price, but that doesn't mean it's the price the TV has been selling for recently. You can learn more about vetting discounts in our guide to tracking Prime Day deals.

Should you buy a 2025 or 2026 TV?

For most shoppers, a discounted 2025 TV offers the best value on Prime Day. Generally speaking, new 2026 TVs only offer modest upgrades but currently cost a lot more than last year's models. That said, certain 2026 TVs deliver bigger improvements that could be worth the extra money if you're an enthusiast who wants the latest panel technology. With that in mind, I've singled out a few particularly noteworthy 2026 TV models in this roundup.

What size TV is best?

The ideal TV size depends on your room, seating distance, and budget. Big-screen TVs larger than 65 inches can make movie nights, live sports, and gaming sessions feel more immersive, but don't let screen size be the only thing that sways you. A cheap TV with a huge display will often fall short in contrast, color, and brightness compared to a smaller, high-end model. As you compare Prime Day TV deals, pay close attention to the panel type, picture-quality features, and design perks, rather than just picking the largest screen at the lowest price.

Is Prime Day a good time to buy a TV?

Yes, Prime Day is a great time to purchase a new TV, as select models are reaching record-low or near-all-time-low prices. While there are a few dud deals out there, I spend my days tracking prices and testing TVs, so I'm careful to only recommend truly good deals on quality televisions.

Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.

Nick Jones is a former US Marine Raider who served in MARSOC, the Marine Corps' elite special operations unit.

After starting his career as an infantry mortarman and scout sniper, Jones went on to complete the rigorous Marine Raiders training and deployed multiple times to Iraq and Jordan. In 2020, Jones was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during a chaotic firefight with Islamic State fighters in northern Iraq in which he repeatedly charged into enemy fire to rescue wounded teammates despite being shot in the leg himself.

Jones speaks with Business Insider about Marine Raiders selection, advanced infantry tactics, and operating alongside allied forces. He goes into detail about the intense realities of close-quarters combat and the firefight that led to his Navy Cross. Jones also reveals the mental and physical toll of combat, detailing his personal struggles with trauma, injury recovery, and alcoholism.

Following his retirement from active service, Jones has dedicated his career to supporting the veteran community. He is the founder of the Talons Reach Foundation, a nonprofit based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

If you or someone you know is dealing with substance misuse or mental illness, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) for 24/7, free, confidential treatment referral and information.

For more:
https://www.talonsreachfoundation.org/
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