If you're an avid traveller, you'll know that a good travel backpack is one that makes travelling easier, more convenient, and capable of carrying all your essentials. In short, the ideal travel backpack should offer carry-on compatibility, comfort for long periods of wear, smart organisation, and durability.When it comes to travel backpacks, there are countless options available. Some cost upwards of $300 and are often marketed as the “perfect” travel bag, especially for business travellers or photographers who frequently carry expensive gear overseas. However, this story isn't about premium-priced backpacks.Instead, we're recommending five comfortable, budget-friendly, and functional backpacks that could become your next travel companion.Shop these Bags on Amazon and Enjoy Up to 4.5% Cashback!Cabin Zero Classic Cabin Backpack 44LAt a glance: Ultra lightweight, Multiple colours, Cabin approvedDown side: Not many compartmentsPriced at just under $100, the CabinZero backpack has earned a reputation as one of the best travel backpacks on the market, winning numerous awards over the years and consistently being rated among the best cabin backpacks available.Gone are the days when functional backpacks only came in dull shades of black and grey. CabinZero offers more than 20 colour options, allowing travellers to choose a style that suits their personality. Beyond its vibrant colourways, the backpack is also impressively lightweight, while offering ample storage space and thoughtfully designed compartments to help keep your essentials organised throughout your journey.Bagsmart Blast 38L Travel BackpackAt a glance: Many compartments, Wet & Dry compartment, Expandable, Cabin approvedDownside: Limited colours, Fabric gets dirty easily.  After going viral on TikTok, this backpack quickly became the talk of the town. The sheer number of compartments it offers is impressive, making it a practical choice not just for frequent travellers, but for anyone looking for a versatile everyday bag.Not only is it the perfect cabin-sized backpack that fits neatly under an airplane seat, but it's also an ideal companion for quick staycations and weekend trips to Johor Bahru. Whether you're packing for a flight or a short getaway, this backpack has you covered.Featuring seven zippered compartments, there's plenty of room to organise your clothes, laptop, passport, sunglasses, shoes, and other travel essentials. While the backpack has a standard capacity of 28L, it can be expanded to 38L whenever you need the extra space, giving you greater flexibility for different types of trips.Find Bagsmart Blast on Shopee & Enjoy 0.4% cashback!Bianca Backpack by Tocco TosacanoAt a glance: Fashionable, Many compartmentsDown side: Small in size This one's for the aesthetic girlies who want a travel backpack that perfectly balances functionality and style. Not only is it practical enough to bring on board as a carry-on, but it also doubles as a chic everyday bag for shopping, sightseeing, and daily outings.What sets this backpack apart is its thoughtfully designed organisation. From dedicated compartments for your lipstick and iPad to an easily accessible external clasp for frequently used items, every detail feels carefully considered. It's clear this bag was designed with organisation lovers in mind.If you're looking for a travel backpack that doesn't compromise on style, this is a strong contender. Be sure to check out the brand's other travel bags as well. They're equally functional, packed with smart compartments, and suitable for both business and leisure travel.NEW Go-Bag by Baboon to the Moon At a glance: Multiple colours, Cabin approved Down side: Not many compartmentAvailable in a range of sizes, we highly recommend the 32L version as the ideal balance between capacity and comfort. It's compact enough to fit under most airplane seats, while still offering ample room for your travel essentials. If you need more storage space, larger options are available, with many airlines allowing cabin bags of up to 40L.For young travellers who love a backpack with personality, the Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag is a standout choice. Available in a variety of bold and vibrant colours, it's as stylish as it is functional.The bag's outer shell is made from Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), a durable material that is resistant to abrasion, weather, and colour fading, while remaining lightweight and eco-friendly. Its tough exterior also makes it easy to place on the airplane floor without worrying too much about dirt or wear, making it a practical companion for any journey.tomtoc 40L Travel BackpackAt a glance: TSA friendly, Cabin approved, opens 180 degree for easy bag checks Down side: Limited coloursThis backpack is designed for the ultimate traveller who values organisation, TSA-friendly features, and enough space to pack everything needed for a weekend getaway.Its standout feature? The bag opens a full 180 degrees, providing easy access to the main compartment through the laptop section. This thoughtful design makes security checks much more convenient, allowing you to quickly retrieve items without having to rummage through your belongings or unpack the entire bag.While it may not come in a wide range of colours, it more than makes up for it with its practicality and travel-focused design. This is the epitome of a travel backpack: functional, efficient, and built for serious travellers who are always on the move.Find this Backpack on Amazon and Enjoy Up to 4.5% Cashback!A good travel backpack is an investment that can make every trip more comfortable and convenient. It keeps your essentials organised, supports your travels, and is built to last for years. We hope this list helps you find the perfect backpack for your next adventure. Happy travels, and here's to many memorable journeys ahead!Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. 

“What’s Cooking” is a series where we introduce the latest food promotions on board merewards. Beyond our exciting 1-for-1 dining deals, our Coupons page also features a wide range of popular offers. Enjoy discounts on meals, activity vouchers, and much more!In this story, discover some of the latest additions to our Coupons page that are well worth checking out.Everything 15% Off at W SingaporeIf you couldn't guess our favourite hangout spot in Singapore, here's a little hint: we love getting 15% off, and we definitely consider that a W(in).Whether you're in the mood for an elegant high tea or a weekend brunch, W Singapore has you covered. merewards members get to enjoy a 15% off at WOOBAR, the kitchen table, SKIRT, and WET DECK, making it the perfect excuse to indulge.Some of our favourites include handcrafted cocktails and high tea treats at WOOBAR, BBQ Angus sirloin steak from the kitchen table's grill buffet, and delicious à la carte poolside bites at WET DECK. For a relaxing getaway paired with an indulgent feast, W Singapore is the place to be.WOOBAR (W Singapore)15% Off Afternoon Tea (No Min. Spend)15% Off A La Carte Menu (No Min. Spend)An afternoon of high tea with your favourite girls has never been better than at WOOBAR. Pair sweet treats with expertly crafted cocktails as the mixologists take you on a gustatory journey, inspired by rocky seashores, winding mangroves, and the heart of the rainforest. It's the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon at W Singapore.the kitchen table (W Singapore)15% Off A La carte Menu (No Min. Spend)15% Off Sunday Brunch (No Min. Spend)15% Off Fire Up The Grill (No Min. Spend)Planning a romantic weekend brunch or a Friday night BBQ buffet with the boys? Whatever the occasion, you can count on the kitchen table to serve up delicious dishes, and count on us to help you save while you indulge. All that's left to do is sit back and enjoy the moment.WET Deck (W Singapore)15% Off A La carte Menu (No Min. Spend)If a staycation and lounging by the pool are your idea of the perfect getaway, make it even better with refreshing drinks and delicious bites at W Singapore's WET DECK. Sit back, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ultimate poolside experience with your loved ones.SKIRT Restaurant (W Singapore)15% Off A La carte Menu (No Min. Spend)15% Off Saturday Brunch (No Min. Spend)There's no reason to say no to a night out with friends, especially when it involves a meal at SKIRT. This contemporary open-fire steakhouse at W Singapore is renowned for its exceptional Wagyu, premium dry-aged beef, and signature wood-fired dishes that are sure to impress.Oddity15% Off Total Bill (Min. Spend $100)10% Off Total Bill (No Min. Spend)East meets West at Oddity, where Asian flavours are infused into Western favourites like Tom Yum Pasta, alongside classics such as Chicken & Waffles. It's no surprise this café has become a popular spot in Serangoon, and we can definitely see why. If you're looking for your next café to explore, Oddity should be at the top of your list.Cowpresso Coffee Roasters10% Off Classes (For 2 to 4 Participants in 1 Session)Gather your friends and create new memories as you learn the art of coffee-making from the professionals. At Cowpresso Coffee Roasters, you can do more than just enjoy quality coffee. Discover the craft through hands-on classes, including the Basic Barista Espresso Course, Latte Art Course, and Basic Filter Pourover Coffee Class.Sign up in groups of 2 or 4 and enjoy 10% off any of these coffee workshops.Read More About Our Favourite Coffee Roasters in JB Here!Smashed BurgerFree Fries Upgrade to Dirty, Truffle or Cheese (U.P Additional $2-$4)Love burgers but have never tried a smashed burger? You're seriously missing out. Watching the juicy beef sizzle and caramelise on the grill is a feast in itself, and every bite is packed with flavour.Head down to Smashed Burger with your buddies and sink your teeth into their mouth-watering burgers that will leave you craving more. Better yet, merewards members can enjoy a FREE fries upgrade, making every bite even more satisfying.Institute Illusions SG20% Off The Magic Playhouse (Kids & Families)20% Off After Hours Magic (Ages 16 & above)Experience a little magic right here in our Little Red Dot at Institute of Illusions SG. Delight your little ones with the ever-changing live performances at The Magic Playhouse, where a new magic show takes the stage every week.Planning a magical date night instead? Institute of Illusions SG has that covered too. Their After Hours Magic Show (recommended for ages 16 and above) features mind-bending illusions, creative performances, and jaw-dropping tricks that promise an unforgettable evening.Seoul Garden HOTPOT / Seoul Garden BuffetSeoul Garden Buffet: $50 for $60 Dining Voucher + FREE $20 Return VoucherSeoul Garden HOTPOT: $25 for $30 Dining Voucher + FREE Korean Seafood Pancake / 4 Pcs Fried Chicken Return Voucher (worth $8.90)Childhood favourites are even better with adult money and great deals from us! If Seoul Garden was one of your go-to spots growing up, it's time to rediscover it. With revamped menus and the addition of Seoul Garden HOTPOT, there's plenty to look forward to.One of our favourite upgrades? Seoul Garden HOTPOT offers individual hotpots, so everyone gets to enjoy their preferred soup base. No more debating over which flavour to choose!It's truly "Seoul" good, hearty, and the perfect place to gather with family and friends. Whether you're craving the classic buffet or a comforting hotpot meal, merewards has exciting dining vouchers, plus FREE vouchers and food to make your feast even more rewarding.At merewards, we're always bringing you the best deals, from dining offers to exciting activities, so you can make the most of every experience. Stay tuned to our Stories page for the latest promotions and download our app to unlock the full experience.Discover More 1-for-1 Dining Deals on merewards!

It's a weekend of wellness! Stock up at the Guardian Wellness Fiesta, happening now until 19 July. We headed down to check it out so we could share everything you need to know with you!What’s Guardian Wellness FiestaIf this is your first time hearing about the Guardian Wellness Fiesta, you're missing out on some incredible deals! Happening just once a year, this year's event is taking place at Suntec Convention Hall 401-402.The fiesta brings together more than 100 leading beauty and wellness brands available at Guardian. You'll also find exclusive brands and products that are only available at Guardian, all at attractive discounts.Best of all, entry is completely free. Besides shopping, you can also look forward to lucky draws, games, and other fun activities. So if you're still deciding what to do this weekend, we'd definitely recommend stopping by the Guardian Wellness Fiesta.Shopping For Wellness Products on merewards? Check out iHerb & Earn 2% Cashback! The Ultimate Guide to Maximising Your Time at Guardian Wellness FiestaIf you have limited time to explore this exhibition (like us), here’s the ultimate guide on what to prioritise. Our goal was simple: we wanted to target the K-beauty and K-wellness sections so that we could be K-beauty queens. Here’s what we recommend you do first.Also, before entering the hall, remember to grab a map!1. Skin and Hair analysisThe moment you enter the hall, head to the left side (beside House of Manning) and get a free skin & scalp assessment. As a value hunter, when will I get the chance to have my skin and hair analysed for free? Well, the Guardian Wellness Fiesta is offering a free assessment, and it’s definitely the first thing you should go for.2. House of ManningsBefore entering the hall, you should receive a stamp card that allows you to win free gifts as you visit different stores. House of Mannings by Guardian features some of their best 1-for-1 offers. Find daily necessities like toothbrushes, makeup brushes, sunblock, and travel essentials, all at an exceptionally great deal.3.  2aN (C10) and Teazen & Roastique (D10)Located just behind the gift redemption booth, these two booths are back to back and are the ultimate beauty combination – providing kombucha and teas for inner beauty, and makeup for exterior beauty.But more than just their products, at 2aN, you can do a quick colour analysis for FREE before purchasing your makeup products from them. And as a value hunter, how can you say no to a colour analysis? This store is a definite must-visit.4. Beauty Lane (G1 to G6)Here is where you’d play the most games to win prizes. The games are easy and fun, like cup stacking, picking flowers, and many more.Most importantly, the brands featured here are popular skincare brands like PO:DL, Round Lab, and SKIN1004. Find attractive discounts and 1-for-1 deals in this section and stock up on your skincare products.5. K-Beauty Lane (A5 to A9, A13 to A17, B4 to B8)If you’re a K-beauty queen like us, you’d probably spend the most time in these areas. It is like walking into Olive Young in Korea, just in booth style. Here, you’ll find popular K-beauty brands that you’re definitely not unfamiliar with, such as Torriden, Biodance, and even trending TikTok Live brands like Hetras.Brands like Torriden and Biodance have 1-for-1 deals and even offer free gifts when you spend a minimum amount, as low as $30! If this isn’t a steal, we don’t know what is. The value hunter in me was very happy to stock up on my Torriden skincare products (may be going back to buy more).Another special brand we have to shout out is Ellixi. If you’re facing gray hair or a lack of volume, this is the answer to your hair solution—a store that is one of our favourite and one of the underrated brands from Korea. We recommend you take time here to find out more about their products from their ambassadors!6.  Bring Your Man to the Men Zone (D8)The men's zone is equally important if you’re coming here with your partner. Ensure that they are well taken care of by getting their essentials too! Furthermore, you can get your stamp here as it is one of Guardian’s “must-visit” zones!Lastly, don’t forget to bring a big bag or a trolley so that you can bring home all your loot! You’ll definitely shop a lot here; we guarantee it!Shopping For Wellness Products on merewards? Check out iHerb & Earn 2% Cashback!Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.

There's plenty of information about weight loss out there. Eat this, don't eat that. Do this, don't do that. It can feel overwhelming.The truth is, the concept of weight loss is actually quite simple. I'm going to explain it in the most basic layman's terms. Once you've understood the concept, the next step is putting in the work, but not to the point where you're constantly unhappy or exhausted.Before we get into that, though, we need to break a few common myths.Kickstart Your Fitness Journey with Nike & Earn 6% Cashback!1. Food Is Fuel, Not Your EnemyMany people who want to lose weight think that eating less, or cutting out certain foods completely, is the key to success.Well, yes... and no.Yes, because eating less or eliminating certain foods can reduce the number of calories you consume. But no, because it's usually not sustainable. The moment you go back to eating those foods or return to your old habits, the weight often comes back.Instead of seeing food as the enemy, start seeing it as fuel. Your body needs food to function, recover, and perform at its best. The real challenge isn't avoiding food altogether. It's learning to choose the right foods and eating them in the right amounts.So let's start by understanding what eating the right foods actually means.2. Exercise Alone Is Enough to Lose WeightMany people believe they can lose weight simply by exercising without changing the way they eat.Exercise certainly helps. It burns calories, improves your fitness, and offers countless health benefits. However, exercise alone is often not enough for significant weight loss.After a workout, your body needs to recover, and you may feel hungrier than usual. If you consistently eat back more calories than you burn, it becomes much harder to lose weight.So, should you still exercise? Absolutely.The best results come from combining regular exercise with maintaining a calorie deficit. Think of exercise as a powerful tool that works alongside good nutrition, not as a replacement for it.3. Losing Weight Means Losing FatMany people use the terms "weight loss" and "fat loss" interchangeably, but they're not the same thing.When the number on the scale goes down, you're not just losing fat. You're also losing water, and if you're not eating enough protein or doing resistance training, you may lose muscle as well.Muscle helps shape your body, supports your metabolism, and makes everyday movement easier. That's why the goal shouldn't simply be to weigh less. The goal should be to lose fat while preserving as much muscle as possible.Now that we've cleared up some of the biggest myths about weight loss, let's look at how the body actually works in the simplest terms.Get Your Exercise Gears from Decathlon & Enjoy Up to 2% Cashback!CaloriesThis scary word is actually pretty simple to understand. The only way to lose weight is to be in a calorie deficit.Start by calculating your daily maintenance calories using an online calorie calculator. Before creating a calorie deficit, spend two weeks tracking your calorie intake to build the habit.Next, reduce your daily calorie intake by 200 to 500 calories below your maintenance level. This refers to your overall daily calorie intake, which takes into account exercises that help burn calories.ExerciseNow, what do we mean by "overall"?Let's say your maintenance calories are 2,200. If you burn 300 calories through exercise, you've already created a calorie deficit. However, exercising also means your body needs enough fuel to recover and perform well. After a workout, hunger hormones can make you crave foods that are high in calories but not very filling. This can easily lead to eating back more calories than you burned, preventing you from staying in a calorie deficit.This is why hitting your daily protein target is so important, which we'll explain in the next section.The right type of exercise also helps you build a body you'll love. The fundamentals are simple: cardio exercises, such as running or spin classes, burn calories and can lead to the loss of both fat and muscle if not paired with proper nutrition and strength training. Strength training, on the other hand, helps shape your physique while preserving and building lean muscle mass. It also boosts your resting metabolism, strengthens your joints, improves balance in everyday life, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases.In short, don't skip strength training as part of your exercise routine.Enjoy 15% Off Fun Cardio Games like Floor is Lava!DietDieting is often the hardest part of weight loss, yet it is also the most important. In fact, nutrition accounts for about 80% of successful weight loss because it's all about maintaining a calorie deficit while keeping your body fueled and satisfied.So, what are the best foods to eat? You've probably been hearing the term "protein maxxing" a lot lately. But what's all the hype about eating enough protein?First, calculate your daily protein intake based on your body weight and activity level. This is the amount of protein you should aim to consume each day to help maintain your muscle mass while losing weight. The goal of weight loss isn't just to lose weight. It's to lose body fat while preserving as much muscle as possible. Getting enough protein plays a key role in maintaining muscle, especially if you're exercising regularly.Protein also requires more energy for your body to digest and process than carbohydrates or fats, meaning you burn slightly more calories during digestion. More importantly, protein is the most filling macronutrient. It helps keep you full by slowing down digestion, stabilising blood sugar levels, and increasing the release of hormones that promote fullness.Does this mean you should only eat protein and avoid carbohydrates? Absolutely not! Carbohydrates are your body's primary source of energy. If you're staying consistent with your workouts, carbs are essential to fuel your training, helping you lift heavier, run farther, and perform at your best.Protein Max with Heybo and Enjoy 10% Off!If we were to break it down into simple steps, here's where you should start:Calculate your maintenance calories and begin tracking your daily calorie intake.Aim for a daily calorie deficit of 200 to 500 calories.Calculate your daily protein target and try to hit it consistently.Incorporate strength training into your routine to build lean muscle mass and boost your resting metabolic rate.Adjust these habits to fit your lifestyle so they remain realistic and sustainable.Lastly, remind yourself why you're choosing to build a healthier lifestyle and who you're doing it for in the years to come. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Weight loss and building muscle take time, and lasting results don't happen overnight.Enjoy the process, learn what works best for you, and celebrate the small wins along the way. Success starts by simply showing up, whether that's making it to the gym or choosing a healthier meal. You've got this.Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.