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If you're an avid outdoorsman or just love a casual hike, there's nothing more exciting than finding the next new trail to blaze. One great place to look is Norfolk, Virginia. Although it's not known as a hotspot for hikers, it has a surprising amount of trails that provide good exercise and amazing scenery. The next time you get an itch to go hiking, head to these Norfolk area trails. Elizabeth River Trail - Atlantic City Spur Although this trail doesn't take you through tons of remote wilderness, the Elizabeth River Trail offers 9.5 miles of paved walkways that wind their way along the Elizabeth River. Along the way, you'll get to see some of the local maritime wildlife including ducks, seagulls, cormorants, and skimmers. The trail is easily traversable for people of all fitness levels, including children. more Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve Just a short drive from Norfolk, you'll find Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, which offers hiking and kayaking. The trail is easy and spans only 1.8 miles as it encircles Lake Ballard, and it is full of local wildlife. Some of the creatures you'll encounter are raccoons, eagles, deer, woodpeckers, and pelicans. The preserve is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cape Henry Trail The Cape Henry Trail in nearby Virginia Beach offers 7.5 miles of paved trail for you to explore. Throughout the journey, you'll work your way through heavily forested areas, giving you a first-hand look at their enormous size and grandeur. Wildlife on the trail includes ospreys, foxes, deer, and great blue herons. If you don't want to hike the length of the trail, there are numerous exits into urban areas that feature shops and restaurants. Indian River Park Trail As the name would imply, the Indian River Park Trail curves along the banks of the Indian River. Unlike other trails in the area, however, this one offers steeper inclines that make it a more brisk hike; still, many with weaker fitness levels can still traverse it with a few breaks. If you want the ultimate challenge, hike one of the many BMX ramps throughout the park. Most of these ramps, used for stunts by BMX bikers, provide a challenge as they rise to almost eight feet in the air. If that doesn't sound like fun, just stick to the rest of the 1.6-mile loop. Osmanthus Trail The Osmanthus Trail is a must-do hike in Norfolk for many reasons. Perhaps the most exciting aspect is that it's full of local wildflowers that bloom throughout the year. Aside from this awesome view, there are also chances to learn about some of the foliage that's indigenous to the area. The loop itself stretches 3.2 miles, and the terrain changes from flat to steep, making it somewhat of a challenge. Dogs are also allowed on the Osmanthus Trail, although they must have a leash. Although Norfolk isn't known for the most beautiful hikes in the country, it does have some great opportunities if you know where to look. When the weather permits, head out to one of these picturesque trails. Image via Pixabay

There's nothing better than a road trip with your friends or family to a great destination. That is, if you have the right car to back it up. Thankfully, Toyota offers a number of vehicles that are up to the task. Whether you want great entertainment features, superb fuel economy, or some extra space for all of your luggage, you'll find what you're looking for. Here are just a few of the best road tripping Toyota vehicles. more Prius v This offshoot of the Prius is probably the best choice if you're looking for a vehicle with the perfect blend of fuel economy and cargo space. Under the hood, the Prius v sports a 134-horsepower 1.8 liter, four-cylinder engine. Although it's not a ton of power, it does boast a remarkable 44 miles per gallon city and 40 mpg on the highway. In addition, it has seating for five and 34 cubic feet of cargo space. However, you can fold the back seats down for an additional 33 cubic feet of room. Land Cruiser 2016 marks one of the best years ever for the Toyota Land Cruiser. Not only is this vehicle massive, it also has some of the best entertainment features in the industry. With seating for up to eight passengers or up to 81 cubic feet of cargo space, the spacious Land Cruiser is one of the most accommodating Toyota vehicles. The rear seat passengers will also love the sizable cooler, as well as two 11.6-inch display screens for DVD movies. Both screens are separate, meaning you won't have to hear arguments about what to watch. All in all, it's a great vehicle for a luxurious and roomy trip. RAV4 Sometimes you want a bit more room, but without having to pay an exorbitant amount to get it. The RAV4 is the answer to this quandary. With room for up to five passengers and up to 73 cubic feet of cargo space, the RAV4 has the interior for a smooth, comfortable journey. In addition, the RAV4 gets up to 30 mpg on the highway and 23 in the city. If you're looking to up the ante, the RAV4 also comes in a hybrid version that produces 34 mpg city and 31 on the highway. It's the complete package if you want something affordable and big enough for all of your gear. Plus, its four-wheel drive option allows for some exciting off-road excursions. Sienna Some people avoid minivans like the plague to avoid the "soccer mom" moniker. However, those people have obviously never driven the Sienna. Billed by Toyota as the "Original Swagger Wagon," the Sienna offers great features and the largest cabin in the Toyota lineup. You'll have no problem fitting seven passengers in the Sienna; or if you're planning on mountain biking, you can store your gear in the available 150 cubic foot cargo area. It also has a surprising amount of power with a 3.5 liter, V6 engine. A great road trip is the result of careful planning and amazing company. By adding a great Toyota to that mix, you're bound to have one of the most enjoyable and memorable road trips of all time. Image via Toyota.com

If you are like many parents whose teen is just starting to drive, finding a safe car is probably at the top of your to-do list. Fortunately, Toyota has a list of cars that are considered to be among the best-used Toyotas for teens. Finding the right Toyota needs to be the perfect blend of power, features, and safety. Here are five of the most popular Toyota models for you to consider: more Toyota Avalon Sure this is the top of the line luxury sedan in the Toyota fleet, but it is also a full-size sedan. This means plenty of sheet metal surrounding your teen during their first years behind the wheel. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Avalon scores its best rating of "Good" in overall testing including, structure and safety cage, side impact, and roof strength. Toyota Camry Like many Toyota vehicles, the Camry has earned a number of safety awards and accolades. The 2012 Camry was named an IIHS Top Safety pick scoring "Good" in important categories such as, moderate front overlap and side impact. The Camry has a built-in rollover sensor that deploys the side curtain airbags starting in 2015. It also features front knee airbags to reduce the risk of knee injury in the event of a frontal collision. The Toyota Corolla The Toyota Corolla may not be the hottest looking car on the market; however, when it comes to teen drivers, the Corolla makes the ideal teen car. With a stout four-cylinder engine under the hood, the Corolla has enough power to keep your teen driver out of trouble, but not so much power that they are likely to hit the drag races at night. On top of this, the engine itself is virtually bulletproof and will provide your teen with years of reliable service. Toyota Highlander The Toyota Highlander has the distinction of being the first crossover SUV to be taken seriously in the U.S. market. Since its introduction, the Highlander has also earned a reputation for being a very practical and-- above all -- safe vehicle. New drivers will find the inside controls have been laid out in a very logical and easy-to-learn array. The Highlander offers a stable platform that can handle practically any driving conditions. Toyota Tundra Not all teens want or need a car. Many prefer to have a truck that can carry their gear to the game, pack everything for that long camping trip, or simply offer the perfect spot for a tailgating party. The Toyota Tundra offers all of this and more. Inside you will find a complete suite of airbags including a front seat-mounted torso, front and rear head curtain, and side impact. The Tundra also features daytime running lights, antilock brakes, and a rollover sensor. The best way to keep your teens safe on the road is to buy them a truly safe vehicle. This includes practically any Toyota on the market as they all have an incredible range of safety features built right in. Image via Pixabay

Fuel efficiency is all the rage for car buyers, especially as manufacturers continue to improve the number of mpg that new models can get. When you are considering purchasing a new car, make sure to understand what the numbers and phrases mean so you can get the most for your money. more Assess the Size Smaller cars weigh less than bigger ones, obviously, but the size also impacts the fuel efficiency. In order to power and move a larger car or truck, the system uses more fuel and this decreases the efficiency. If you spend a lot of time in the car by yourself, commuting or running errands, you might not need to invest in an SUV or van. On the other hand, you won't be happy with your investment if you sacrifice the space you need for better fuel efficiency, so choose a car that will keep up with your daily routine. Do Your Homework Once you have decided what size vehicle will be best for your needs, start doing some research. There is a lot of variation in fuel economy, even between cars that fit into the same class. When you start looking at estimates, you may notice that the numbers come from the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA. This agency provides standard numbers based on testing, but they tend to be a bit higher than actual numbers that drivers get when they are on the roads. The estimates are better used as comparison points between cars instead of cold, hard facts. Skip Some of the Options While there are some features that won't alter the fuel economy, many upgrades actually decrease how many miles you can drive on a full tank. An automatic transmission or four-wheel drive can limit the fuel economy. If you add any extras after you purchase your new car, like a rooftop luggage rack or ski rack, you may also notice that the mpg number starts to drop, since these add weight and diminish the aerodynamics of the car. Look Into Diesel In the past, diesel was typically used in semi trucks and other large commercial vehicles. But in today's driving world, diesel is a great option that provides improved fuel efficiency in even compact sedans. Diesel engines use higher temperatures for combustion and higher compression ratios, which leads to more efficient operation. A gallon of diesel also contains more energy than the same gallon of gasoline. These diesel factors combine to provide up to 50 percent better fuel efficiency than gas. Shop Newer Cars Because technology continues to improve, auto manufacturers add extras that can often help improve fuel efficiency and overall miles driven per gallon. You don't necessarily have to buy brand new from the lot, but stick to cars made within the last couple of years. As you test drive vehicles to find out which car is the best for you, consider these factors to help you make an informed decision and protect your investment for years to come. Image via Toyota.com

Whether you are on vacation in Chesapeake, or you and your family live in the area, you can find plenty of activities that appeal to young children, their grandparents, and everyone in between. more Get on the Water With its proximity to the Elizabeth River, many activities in Chesapeake involve the surrounding water. If you have older kids, try renting a kayak or canoe for a vigorous day of rowing. You can also take a relaxing boat ride on an American Rover Sailing Cruise, where the boats feature signature tan bark sails. Cruises sail from the downtown area of nearby Norfolk between April and October. If you happen to be driving near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, be sure to take a detour so you can cross it and see the breathtaking surrounding views. Hands-On Fun Museums and historical sites aren't as appealing to younger children since they often don't have the patience to view exhibits. The recently renovated Children's Museum of Virginia is the perfect solution for a rainy day or when you'd rather spend time inside. It includes 12,000 square feet of expanded space with plenty of please touch exhibits and activities that make learning more fun. Cloud 9 Trampoline Park is also a local favorite, where kids can exert some of their energy in a fun and exciting way. If you have a builder in your family, take him or her to BRICKHEADZ Build, Play & Party Center for some creative fun. Chesapeake Planetarium Kids and adults can learn more about the wonders of our universe at Chesapeake Planetarium. It sits within the Chesapeake Municipal Center on Shea Drive. The planetarium was the first of its kind built by a local public school system within Virginia, and it now offers free exhibits and public programs to visitors. You can even take a look through a telescope and observe the surrounding stars, moon, and planets. Fun Forest One of the top outdoor attractions in Chesapeake is the Fun Forest, which sits on 3 acres within a city park. More than 1,800 volunteers participated in building the area, which is home to a family adventure park, expansive children's playground, and imagination center. The year after it opened, it received the Best New Facility award in the state of Virginia. Additionally, the playground has separate areas for older kids, where activities are more challenging and help them develop skills. Toddlers can play on the smaller swings and slides or practice steering a truck or a plane. Be sure to spend some time at the Children's Fossil Dig if you have a budding paleontologist in your family. Gum Tree Farm Animal lovers will enjoy spending the day at Gum Tree Farm, home to cats, dogs, a donkey, a rabbit, a horse, chickens, turkeys, ducks, sheep, and a baby pig. Families can watch demonstrations of wool dyeing, and learn more about farm life on the 50-acre property. When you are visiting the Chesapeake area, you can find plenty of activities that are family friendly and fun for all. Image via Pixabay

Chesapeake sits in the coastal part of the state of Virginia, with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. more Outdoor Fun For locals and visitors alike, spending time outside is a popular option when the weather is nice. If you want to learn more about the local wildlife, head out on a birdwatching excursion. Sports available in the area include golfing, biking, and fishing. You can also rent a canoe or kayak and enjoy a fun day on the water. Hiking is also popular, so check out the trails at Oak Grove Lake Park or Dismal Swamp Canal. Even if you aren't up for any of these exciting activities, you can just take a walk outside and watch the sunset. Shopping If you are in the mood for some retail therapy, check out the shopping areas located throughout Chesapeake. The Greenbrier Mall is always a favorite, with more than 120 stores and restaurants. It measures almost 900,000 square feet and sits near the metropolitan area of Hampton Roads. The mall also houses a movie theater for visitors wanting to catch a flick. You can pass on the chain stores and head to local shopping areas, which sit around the city. Stores include everything from unique souvenirs to help you remember your trip to Chesapeake, to fine jewelry and textiles, and everything in between. 3 Little Blackbirds is a favorite among locals, since it sells various handcrafted, repurposed, and vintage gifts. Visitors can also check out local art galleries. Historic Sites Colonial settlers arrived in Chesapeake nearly four centuries ago, in 1620. It made history when it became the site for the Battle of the Great Bridge, which occurred in 1775. Now, visitors can learn more about the history of the area by visiting the various historical sites. Battlefield Park is located on Historic Way and is a tribute to the famous battle. Its grounds include a recreation of the causeway from when the battle occurred, along with picnic areas and an outdoor auditorium. The Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial also pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the tragic terrorist attack. Dining When you go on vacation to Chesapeake, be sure to plan on eating well while you are in town. Bergey's Breadbasket Bakery & More is a local favorite, with homemade ice cream and baked goods available for anyone who has a sweet tooth. If you are looking for a place to sample local flavors, stop by Big Ugly Brewing Co., a microbrewery founded by residents who love craft beer. For some unique flavors and blends, visit Cutlass Grille, a Jamaican jerk barbecue restaurant serving up hefty portions of tasty favorites. Or you can take a step back in time at Rodger's Banana Pudding Sauce Retro Candy and Gift Shop to pick up some treats. When you plan your next vacation, be sure to consider Chesapeake, Virginia, as a destination. With something for everyone and reasonably priced accommodations, it is a fun spot to enjoy some downtime with loved ones. Image via Pixabay

If you haven't experienced the Charity Bowl before, this year will be better than EVER! This year's Priority Toyota Charity Bowl, charity football game, will be held on April 16, 2016 at S.B. Ballard Stadium at Old Dominion University at 1pm, and you can expect a full day of sports and activities with national sports legends, including Tony “Goose” Siragusa, Bruce Smith, DJ Dozier, and Aaron Rouse, along with local dignitaries, media personalities, and elected officials. For many the Charity Bowl is a family tradition that spans almost 50 years, and it's time that you add this yearly spectacle to your list! Here's a little history on the Charity Bowl and how far it has come. The Charity Bowl originated in 1968 to raise money for The Joy Fund, a charity sponsored by the Virginian-Pilot. The Joy Fund purchased and delivered Christmas gifts to children whose parents could not afford presents during the holidays. The game was originally played by former high school and college football players at Thanksgiving. Today, the event is officially named the Priority Toyota Charity Celebrity Football Game, a flag football game featuring celebrities, elected officials and football legends. The Charity Bowl continues to benefit a number of local charities including: Achievable Dreams Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Virginia CHKD Communities In Schools Hampton Road s Edmarc Hospice for Children Foodbank of SE Virginia and Eastern Shore ForKids I Need A Lighthouse JT's Camp Grom Life Rolls On ODU Scholarship Fund Recovery for Kids SPCA St. Mary's Children's Hospital Storehouse Food Pantry The Joy Fund As you can see the Charity Bowl is a vital source of charitable funding for important causes around Hampton Roads, and it's the wonderful citizens of our area that can make it a huge success. So mark your calendar and get ready for a day of great family fun. This year, Priority Toyota Charity Bowl attendees will have the opportunity to drive away in a brand new 2016 Toyota Corolla, courtesy of Priority. How can you win? Simple. Just fill out the form by midnight on Friday, April 15 th, or visit our booth on the morning of the game by Noon! We’ll announce the winner at halftime. Don’t forget: you must be 18 or older and in attendance at the 48 th Annual Priority Toyota Charity Bowl to win. Event Schedule WTKR Live Morning Show 9:00 am – 11:00 am Big Blue 1K and 5K 10:00 am – 11:30 am Post-Race Party in Silver Lot 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Priority Charity Bowl 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ODU Spring Football Game 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm ODU Baseball vs. UTSA 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm If you'd like to take a glimpse at last year's fun, here are a few photos from the 47th Annual Priority Charity Bowl. We hope to see all of you at the 48th Annual Priority Toyota Charity Bowl this year on April 16, 2016! Fore more information on the Charity Bowl or how to become a sponsor visit: http://goo.gl/8UgsK9 Directions to the stadium

There are many great things to do in Norfolk, Virginia, and some of them are free! Perfect for a family day together, or to keep you occupied on a business trip. So, whether you are new to the area or a long-time resident, take note of these top free things to do in Norfolk, VA for a fun time without spending a dime. more 1. Town Point Park Town Point Park sits along the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, Virginia. Spanning 7 acres of grassy, path-lined grounds, it offers pleasant views of the water and plenty of space for kids to run around and play. Take the day and relax, pack a picnic lunch and then stroll the grounds watching the river traffic cruise by. It is a great way to get away for the day without spending your money. This park hosts a number of events from May to September and some require entry fees. Some events are free including Puppy de Mayo Hour in May, where pets take center stage, but the Virginia Beer Festival requires an entrance fee. Check the festevents website for more details and times of events. 2. Ocean View Beach Want to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf? Head on down to Ocean View Beach. This long stretch of sandy beach borders Norfolk's eastern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. You can relax on the warm sand watching the waves roll in, or toss a frisbee around with the kids. Take a body surfing lesson, or just stroll around the shops and restaurants lining the beach's strip. 3. Pagoda and Oriental Garden A gift from the Taiwan Government, the Pagoda and Oriental Garden is a maritime observatory built in the harmonic styles of classic Chinese architecture. Enjoy the sights and sounds as you stroll this garden watching the Koi fish and birds in an authentic Chinese atmosphere. This garden is just minutes from downtown and run by a non-profit organization accepting donations only. Inside is an American-Asian fusion cuisine restaurant for dining. 4. Hampton Roads Naval Museum Experience an attraction that is truly Norfolk! The Hampton Roads Naval Museum, minutes from downtown right on the Elizabeth River, is the U.S. Navy's official museum featuring fascinating exhibits spanning centuries of rich naval history. See a real Naval cutlass, naval uniform items like shoulder boards, detailed models of naval vessels, an 18-pounder cannon, undersea mine, and vessels. 5. McArthur Memorial Museum The MacArthur Memorial Museum is downtown near Chrysler Hall and Town Point Park. The museum features extensive exhibits memorializing General Douglas McArthur and the millions of soldiers who fought alongside him. The museum features extensive pictorial exhibits, art collections including murals and sculptures, plus a large array of army awards, artifacts, and vehicles. See an army Jeep, motorcycle and General McArthur's limousine. Tours are always free and you can even download a podcast of a museum tour so you can enjoy the artifacts at your own pace. These are just a handful of free events in Norfolk, VA, we hope you enjoy them and explore the city to find many more. Image via Pixabay

When you visit Chesapeake, Virginia, you can find plenty of activities that don't cost a thing. This makes it a more affordable and enjoyable vacation destination for those who don't have a big budget for their trips. more Battleship Wisconsin This breathtaking ship was actually one of the last ships built by the U.S. Navy. It is also one of the largest Navy ships and is now on display at The Hampton Roads Naval Museum. While a guided Topside tour of the ship does cost a small fee, you can take a self-guided tour for free to learn more about this piece of naval history. It includes statistics, photos, and exhibits designed to educate people of all ages about its role in various military excursions. Oak Grove Lake Park If the weather outside is nice, you will find that parks tend to get more crowded with locals who want to take advantage of the sunshine. However, don't let that deter you from visiting Oak Grove Lake Park, an outdoor recreation area with an observation platform that gives beautiful views of the surrounding water. You can also fish off the dock, take a hike on the 1.5-mile trail, and let your kids play on the playground equipment. Picnic shelters also provide space to enjoy lunch or dinner outside. First Landing State Park Virginia Beach is less than a half hour from Chesapeake, so a trip to this area is always a favorite for visitors. It includes more than 18,000 acres of national parks, along with a wildlife refuge. The leading destination in this area is First Landing State Park, where you can participate in monthly educational programs to learn more about animal tracking, hiking, surf fishing, and more. You can also rent bikes for a small fee and take in the sights firsthand. The park is also home to a number of endangered species and migratory birds, along with pigs, wild horses, and other animal life. Battlefield Park This park is the site of the Battle of the Great Bridge, which took place in 1775. Free tours with a docent are available by appointment, where visitors can learn more about the history of the site. Other attractions include an interpretive historic pathway, family picnic area, and an outdoor auditorium. Early in 2007, members of The Daughters of the American Revolution aided in bringing a stone monument into the park that paid tribute to soldiers who fought in the battle. You can see this large monument from the Intracoastal Waterway as well as from the street. No matter what you are looking for during your trip to Chesapeake, you can find it in this culturally rich and historically interesting destination. With many different activities available for free, you won't have to pick and choose between the many fun places to go and things to see. Instead of feeling limited by your budget, you will only be limited by the amount of time you have to spend in and around Chesapeake. Image via Pixabay

Spring break is the time of year when people from around the country are excited about the change of seasons and are looking for a place to relax. Many schools have spring breaks, so top destinations tend to be packed with college students. While you may think of Florida and California when you consider spring break destinations, you can also think outside the box and check out the beautiful surroundings in Virginia. more Virginia Beach If you just can't stand the thought of a spring break vacation that doesn't involve plenty of time on the sand, Virginia Beach is a great option. The town is home to quite a few restaurants and bars that host events and serve tasty food and cold drinks. Unlike South Beach, which tends to get crowded around this time of the year, Virginia Beach is much more low-key. You can find hotel rooms and accommodations for less than other areas, and the beaches are pleasantly clean. Available activities include parasailing and other outdoor favorites, and it ranked No. 11 on a list of top sexiest places to visit on spring break. Williamsburg If you are looking for a family friendly destination, or somewhere that offers a look into American history, Williamsburg is always a favorite. This quaint area of the state includes a Historic Triangle that encompasses Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown. People of all ages can learn more about early American life and the history of our nation. You can also take a break from the historical facts and enjoy a day at Busch Gardens, a European-themed amusement park with plenty of rides and entertainment for all ages. Williamsburg also has a Great Wolf Lodge. Staunton Locals will tell you when you arrive that the name of their town is pronounced "Stan-ton" but that doesn't take away from the quaint and friendly feel. Ideal for a romantic couples' retreat, Staunton has nine different bed-and-breakfast locations, boasting comfy accommodations and hearty morning meals. You can browse through art galleries featuring the work of local artists and walk along the streets to several different restaurants. Catch an original Elizabethan play put on by the American Shakespeare Center at Blackfriars Playhouse. Loudoun County Wine connoisseurs will enjoy a trip to Loudoun County, located in the northern part of Virginia. It has more wineries than any other county throughout the state, each of which creates its own distinctive blends and flavors with the local grapes. You can also snap photographs in front of the beautiful backgrounds of rolling hills. If you're in the mood for something different, it's only an hour away from Washington, D.C. As you plan your spring break getaway, consider one of these unique places in Virginia as your destination. With plenty of options for all types of travelers, from spring breakers looking to party to families taking a break from everyday life, it is a more affordable solution than some of the top hot spots. With the money you save, you could shop for extra souvenirs or plan your trip for next year. Image via Pixabay

Not every person has the cash to pay for a car outright. In fact, as of 2013, 84.5 percent of drivers required some sort of financing before they could drive their car off the lot. With this in mind, it's even more important to know how financing works and the best ways to help secure it. If you're in the market for a new or used car, check out these handy tips to help you secure car financing. more Check Your Credit Score Before you march into a bank or other lender, you need to know your credit score and anything that's affecting it. Many times consumers find that there's an outstanding balance that needs payment, a bill they didn't know about, or at the very worst, credit fraud or identity theft. By knowing what's on your credit report beforehand, there are no surprises. Pay Off Outstanding Debts Although it's impossible to wipe out your mortgage in a single payment, smaller debts such as medical bills, credit cards, and lines of credit are easier to pay off because of the lower balance. However, paying them is important. Not only does it show your credit worthiness and willingness to pay, but it also lowers your debt-income ratio. This ratio is your total monthly debt payments divided by your monthly income. The lower the number is, the more likely you'll get the loan. The magic number here is 43 percent, so try to get to that level or lower. Shop Around Just like any other big purchase, it's important to shop around, not only with dealers, but lenders as well. What this does is give you an understanding of the typical rates that lenders provide. Usually, these lower rates tend to belong to credit unions, which operate as a non-profit and are able to offer lower interest rates. However, many online brokers and dealers themselves have started to run with lower rates, so it pays to check with them, too. Don't Apply Until You're Ready Another major pitfall for borrowers is that they apply to any business that offers a low rate, and are completely unaware of how this adversely affects their credit score. Each time you put in a loan request to a lender, they pull your credit, also known as a hard inquiry. One or two hard inquiries aren't bad, but multiple ones lower your credit score substantially. Therefore, it's imperative that you narrow the scope and keep this from happening. Choose the Right Car Lenders aren't stupid. If you walk into a bank and want a loan for a Ferrari but only make $50,000 per year, there's almost no chance it'll happen. Instead, find a car that fits your budget and needs. By doing this, you won't pay heaps of interest and your chances of getting approved skyrocket. Typically, you'll want to find a monthly payment that's no more than a few days' worth of pay. Securing car financing is a difficult and stressful venture if you don't do your homework beforehand. However, if you follow these tips, you'll find yourself in the driver's seat both figuratively and literally. Image provided by Shutterstock

Whether you are driving to the mountains, the beach, or just around town with the family, accessories for your Toyota can make the trip more fun and even safer. Choose from a variety of accessories to make your ride more comfortable, to help haul your load, or to keep the kids happy. Here are seven accessories you must have for your Toyota no matter where you go. more Universal Tablet Holder There are not many kids who don't have some sort of tablet these days, and they always take them in the car. Let the kids watch their device and keep their hands free with the new Universal Tablet Holder. It works with almost all tablets on the market with screens up to 10.1 inches, so even if they upgrade to a larger tablet, you can keep the same holder. OEM Toyota Floor Mats Make sure your floor mats fit the make and model of your Toyota perfectly with OEM Toyota floor mats. Because Toyota makes them exactly to the specifications of their vehicles, you get the just right fit and color to match your interior. OEM Trunk Trays Keep the floor of your trunk in good condition with an OEM Toyota trunk tray. Don't think twice about putting anything in the trunk of your car when you protect it with a tray that fits just right. When it comes time to clean it out, the tray washes down easily and fits right back in so it's ready for your next load. Roof Rail Cross Bars Genuine Toyota cross bars work with the factory roof rails already on the car. The additional bars provide a place for tying down all kinds of roof racks and accessories. The bars hold up to 100 pounds or more depending on the vehicle. They install easily and are adjustable without needing any tools. Antigravity Battery Make sure you can get the car started in an emergency with an antigravity battery and jump starter. This miniature power supply is so small it tucks right into your vehicle's glove compartment, but is powerful enough to start a truck or car. Toyota Bed Extender Don't limit the size of the load in your truck bed. A Toyota bed extender extends the length of the truck bed by up to two feet when the tailgate is open. When the tailgate closes, the extender helps contain smaller items. Use it to keep beach items, tools, or camping gear from sliding around. Cargo Net Keep grocery bags or gear from sliding around the trunk of your Toyota with a cargo net. The nets attach quickly when you have smaller items to secure and are easy to remove when you need to fit larger items in the trunk. The nets are made specifically for each Toyota make and model for a perfect fit. Make the most out of any trip with these Toyota accessories. No matter what vehicle you drive and what you like to do, accessorize your vehicle to fit your needs. Image provided by Shutterstock