03.12.25 Attention Shoppers: The Retail Pricing Game / New Flight Requirements
Digest
This podcast episode covers a range of topics relevant to savvy consumers and travelers. It begins with a brief mention of Hilton Honors and luxurious outdoor stays. The main focus is on utilizing unit pricing to find the best deals, especially during times of economic uncertainty. The host emphasizes that larger quantities don't always equate to lower unit prices. The episode then shifts to the importance of obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver's license before the May 7, 2023 deadline to avoid travel disruptions. The need for Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) for travel to the UK and other European countries is also highlighted. Listener questions address frequent flyer account security, emphasizing the use of strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect against hacking. Advice is given on reigniting the travel bug after a pandemic pause, suggesting using accumulated points for trips. Finally, the safety of using Cash App for tax filing is discussed, with the recommendation to use free IRS options for simple returns.
Outlines

Smart Travel & Shopping Strategies
This segment introduces Hilton Honors and AutoCamp, then focuses on the importance of unit pricing for smart shopping, especially during economic uncertainty. It also covers the Real ID deadline and the need for Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) for international travel.

Account Security and Travel Concerns
This section addresses listener concerns about hacked frequent flyer accounts, offering advice on improving account security through strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and credit freezes. It also includes advice on getting back into traveling after a pandemic-induced break and using accumulated points.

Tax Filing and Cash App Safety
This segment answers a listener question about the safety of using Cash App for tax filing, recommending it for simple returns but suggesting free IRS options for more complex situations.
Keywords
Unit Pricing
Comparing prices based on a standard unit of measurement to determine the best value. Essential for savvy shopping, especially during inflation.
Real ID
A federally compliant driver's license or identification card required for domestic air travel in the US starting May 7, 2023.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
An electronic travel authorization required by some countries for entry. Needed for travel to the UK and many European countries.
Frequent Flyer Miles Security
Protecting frequent flyer accounts from hacking by using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and monitoring accounts.
Travel Tips
Advice on planning and enjoying trips, including using accumulated points and overcoming pandemic-related travel hesitations.
Tax Filing
Information on safe and efficient methods for filing taxes, including free IRS options and the use of Cash App for simple returns.
Q&A
How can I save money on everyday purchases?
Pay close attention to unit pricing. Don't assume larger packages are always cheaper.
What do I need to do to be able to fly domestically in the US after May 7, 2023?
Ensure you have a Real ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification.
My frequent flyer miles keep getting stolen. What can I do?
Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and consider freezing your credit. Regularly monitor your accounts.
I'm struggling to travel more. How can I get back into it?
Prioritize travel! Start small and use accumulated points.
Is it safe to use Cash App to file my taxes?
For simple tax returns, Cash App is generally safe. Explore free IRS options for more complex situations.
Show Notes
With the price of goods in flux, it helps to be in the know to protect your wallet. Clarkies know how Clark uses unit pricing to shop smart at the grocery store. You would think that the bigger the bag, the smaller the unit price. Not so. Clark fills you in on what manufacturers have been doing and what to keep in mind with all purchases moving forward. Also - Travelers be prepared: the Real ID flight requirement domestically, and travel authorizations for entry into Europe are upon us.
- The Retail Pricing Game Now: Segment 1
- Ask Clark: Segment 2
- Flyers: Real ID Kicks In: Segment 3
- Ask Clark: Segment 4
Mentioned on the show:
- Costco Hearing Aids: 5 Things To Know Before You Buy
- Miracle-Ear Hearing Aids: 5 Things To Know Before You Buy
- Sam's Club Hearing Aids: 5 Things To Know Before You Buy
- Connect Hearing: 5 Things To Know Before Your First Visit
- HearUSA: 5 Things To Know Before Your First Visit
- Travel Alert: REAL ID Deadline Coming Soon-Clark.com
What is ETIAS - European Union / Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)- 6 reasons to add your Passport to Google Wallet
- How Should I Safeguard My Passport When I Travel Abroad?
- Best Free Password Managers: 10 Top Picks
- How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion
- Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap
- 9 Free Federal and State Tax Filing Services for 2025
Clark.com resources
- Episode transcripts
Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark- Clark.com daily money newsletter
Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275
Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices



