Wasting money on unnecessary purchases is a huge problem for many Americans.
These statistics prove my point:
From a personal viewpoint, the list of items below may come across as offensive or criticizing to you, especially if you buy many of these items.
From a financial and money-saving viewpoint, these are essential "eye-openers" that show the kinds of things people are spending money on that are unnecessary, wasteful, and sometimes plain stupid.
On average, Americans spend over 15% of their annual income on unnecessary items.
Let's put that into perspective:
If your household makes a total of $43,000 (the average income stated above), then 15% of your annual income would be $6,450.
What important and necessary things could that $6,450 be put toward? You could be SAVING it by putting it into your retirement, emergency, or kid's college fund. You could also invest it. There are so many ways put that 15% towards something better, smarter, and necessary in the long run (such as retirement).
Do you really want to waste an average of 15% of your income on stuff that won't benefit you in any way? Do you really want to go back to work after you retire because you didn't save up enough to live on?
If not, then you must keep yourself from wasting money on these unnecessary things. Below is a list of completely unnecessary items (not in order) that many Americans are spending their money on today:
1. Lottery
Why? Just look at the chances of you winning the lottery. I would say its pretty slim. Okay, that was an understatement... it's INCREDIBLY slim.
Alternative options: There are none. Unless you get a dollar scratch-off as a gift for someone, or receive a scratch-off as a gift, do not waste money on these.
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2. Casinos/Gambling
Have you ever noticed how there's usually a pawn shop and a cash loan service next to or inside a casino? It's for the addictive gamblers who spend and lose so much money that they don't have any left, causing them to turn to these places in order to obtain enough money to gamble more...because they "have a good feeling about this next time." Yes, chances of you winning at a casino are more likely than the lottery. But it's still "slim pickins." Click here to find out why: Why Gamblers Hardly Ever Win
Alternative options: Play poker at home using candy instead of money.
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3. Tanning Services
This includes tanning booths, spray tans, and tanning lotions. They are not cheap, don't last long, and booths are very dangerous for you. Being tan is still nice, but more people are being more conscious about their skin and health than ever before. Maybe Twilight started the "pale" trend, who knows? But being tan is no longer essential to be seen as "beautiful." Plus, you can tan for free OUTSIDE. Just protect your skin and wear sunscreen. The point I'm trying to make is that you don't need to pay to get tan if that's your primary concern.
Alternative options: Lay out by the pool, go swimming, play sand volleyball, play a sport outside, go running, go on a boat ride, go to the beach.
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4. Spa and Beauty Services
This includes waxing, manicures, massages, makeovers, body wraps, and everything in between. Why do people (mainly women) spend so much on these services that don't last very long, are usually expensive, and are considered luxury/unnecessary items? The service is temporary, the joyous feeling of feeling pampered is temporary, and these services are normally continuous (because of the temporary service, the customer will want or need to go back for more).
Alternative options: Learn to pluck your own eyebrows from YouTube, have a mani/pedi slumber party, ask your spouse or significant other to give you a massage, eat healthy foods, do trial runs of different looks of makeup and find out which look you like the most.
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5. Hair Maintenance Services
This includes expensive haircuts and coloring services. First of all, most hairdressers and barbers go through the same type of schooling and learn the same techniques. Prestigious beauty schools might teach hairdressers more techniques, but unless you're getting a highly detailed haircut to look like Niki Minaj, you don't need to spend big bucks to get your hair cut or colored. Secondly, a woman who regularly gets her hair done will spend an average of $50,000 over her lifetime getting her hair colored and styled. $50,000! Think of what important things you could put that money towards...such as RETIREMENT. This just blows my mind.
Alternative options: Be natural. It's better for your hair's follicles, growth, and texture, too. Dye your hair back to your natural color so as soon as your hair grows and roots show up, then you won't have to go back to the salon. If you're graying, then sport it out. It's really not that important to have a full head of colored hair when you're 80, so why keep getting your hair done now when you're going to eventually let it grow out to your natural grayness. Plus, look at George Clooney....full of gray hairs and still as handsome as can be.
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6. Dogs and Cats From A Breeder
Myth Buster #1: Full-bred dogs and cats are better pets. FALSE. A dog is a dog, and all dogs are different, whether it's a full-bred or mutt. One full-bred puppy isn't going to have the same personality or character as his/her brothers and sisters. One might be naturally disobedient than others, and one might be meaner than others. Same with cats. Just because you purchased an exotic full-bred cat for $400 doesn't mean it will be any better than a stray cat you saw in the parking lot. Myth Buster #2: exotic and full-bred cats are allergen free and don't shed. FALSE. Some breeds can have "less" allergens for owners, but may still experience enough allergies that you would need to take some medication. They also still shed. There may be a couple of breeds that don't shed much, but most cats do.
Alternative options: Save dogs and cats from the shelters! If they are not adopted within a certain time frame, many shelters will euthanize them (a.k.a "put down"). The picture above of a puppy is a mutt. Look how cute she is! There is no need to spend $400+ on a full-bred dog or cat. It's still a DOG or a CAT. It's not a human being. They won't live a long time and even mutts/free animals can be the best pets you ever had.
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7. Cigarettes/Tobacco
Do you know how much a pack of these things cost? An average of $7...for the cheap stuff. Even if you only smoked a pack a week, that would be $364. Who wants to pay that much for stuff that makes you wheeze, have bad breath, get lung cancer, and ruin your car/home/clothes? Who would even want to pay a dime to get lung cancer? It's just plain stupid. P.S. I know "looking cool" isn't the only or main reason people do smoke, but truthfully the only people that might think you look cool from smoking is essentially other smokers. To everyone else, it's disgusting and a huge turn off. On the side note, did you know that if you are a smoker, your life and health insurance cost will sky rocket? (for example, if regular life was insurance = $50/month, smokers insurance would be $140/month).
Alternative options: there's not really any. But there are options to getting you off of smoking habit. Try "vaping" or nicotine gum (which can be expensive, but in the long run will help your health and wallet from not spending a bunch of money on tobacco). Keep your mind off of smoking with plenty of exercise, healthy eating, gum chewing, or sunflower seed snacking.
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8. Illegal Drugs
It's plain and simple; doing illegal drugs is one of the most stupid things you can do in life. Illegal drugs are not only expensive (did I mention illegal?), but can really screw you up (physically, mentally, emotionally, and internally.) Then if you get caught with illegal drugs, you're really screwed and might have to spend 20 years in prison. Would it be worth it then? I don't think so. Illegal drugs can cost anywhere between $5-$5,000 per "pop." No wonder drug addicts are either homeless, bankrupt, or in prison. And the wealthy people who do drugs, they don't usually have much of a future, either. And they usually get caught.
Alternative options: Get a life. Drugs shouldn't be the source of your happiness in life or the only "high" you'll ever get, and it's only downhill from there if you continue to do them. If you're using drugs to fit in or because of peer pressure, find new friends. They're going to screw you over at some point and get you into trouble.
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9. Live Event Tickets
This includes sporting events, concerts, festivals, comedy shows, and more. The average ticket sale for a concert is $60. The average ticket sale for a sporting event is $50. The average ticket for an amusement park is $50. The average ticket sale for the entry of a festival is $5, and average purchase of food and other vendors at festivals is $25. The average ticket sale for a comedy show is $20. Many people go to a combination of these events multiple times a year. For example, if you only went to 1 concert, 5 festivals, 4 sporting events, and 1 comedy/misc. show, you would spend an average of $405 per year -- on just live entertainment. Just think how much people spend that go to live events more frequently throughout the year....
Alternative options: Find free local events in your area, such as live bands at a park or restaurant or free festivals (just watch how much you spend at the festival). Have a game-watching party at your house with friends (plus, you get to see the game up-close and hear all the details of the playbacks, unlike you would at the game itself). Watch a funny movie or TV show on Comedy Central. Check to see if a concert is streaming online or on TV.
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10. Starbucks
Did you know the average American spends over $1000 on buying coffee per year. JUST COFFEE. Yes, this is a huge part of the American culture, especially if you work. But spending $5 a day on a fancy coffee at Starbucks or other coffee shop will drain you wallet quicker than you realize, and then you'll wonder why you don't have any money in your bank account. Guess how much you would spend a year if you MADE IT YOURSELF at home? Only about $62 a year. Let's figure out the difference: you'll save $938, just by making your own coffee.
Alternative options: There are a million delicious coffee recipes online that you can find to make yourself a "gourmet" coffee if that's what you normally like to get at coffee shops. Don't have an espresso machine? You can get one for $25 at Walmart and save you a lot of money in the long run (espresso shots are over $1 each these days, so you'll already get your moneys worth in less than a month by purchasing your own espresso machine).
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11. Hotel Special Services
This includes the mini-bar or "snack" basket in your hotel room, special room service requests, food deliveries to your room, cocktails at the hotel bar, laundry services, and more. Warning: If you didn't know already, the mini-bar or "snack" basket in your hotel room is NOT free. If they see that you ate or drank something from the basket, the credit card you used to pay for the room will be charged for it. I know these items can be so tempting...but refrain! A water bottle can be up $5 in that basket, and sometimes they don't post the prices anywhere. You can buy a multiple water bottles for $5 at the store!
Alternative options: Bring your own snacks and a water bottle when you go on vacation. Since you can't bring large liquids on a plane, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it up at the water fountain inside the airport (once you check in). Once you get to your hotel and want alcohol, buy it at a local convenient store or liquor store instead of getting a cocktail at the hotel bar. A bottle of wine/beer/liquor is going to be cheaper than just a couple drinks at the bar.
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12. Plastic Surgery
Clearly, some people are addicted to plastic surgery, and there ain't nothing pretty about it. After too much plastic surgery, most of the addicts start to look like Michael Jackson...or at least related. Unless you were in a horrible accident that screwed up your facial structure, plastic surgery should not ever be considered. We are our own WORST critics, and all the flaws we see in ourself (most of the time) nobody else sees. Plastic surgery is unnecessary, extremely expensive, and a many times may look horrible. Of course your friends aren't going to tell you that after an expensive permanent procedure. Just don't do it. Plastic surgery ranges from $5,000 to $15,000.
Alternative options: Gain self-confidence and be thankful for how God made you...in His image. Learn makeup, clothing, and hair styles that complement your face and body. Confidence is attractive.
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13. Movie Drinks/Food/Candy
A fountain drink at the theater costs around $5. A box of candy at the theater costs around $4. A bowl of popcorn at the theatre costs around $4. Obviously it's overpriced. But when you buy popcorn or candy, you just gotta get a drink to go with it because the salty and sweet foods make you thirsty. Am I right? BOOM. That's what you call a successful marketing strategy for movie theaters.
Alternative options: Eat before you go to the movie. Bring some candy/snacks inside your purse or coat pocket (you can even go buy movie candy at Dollar Tree for $1 each). Bring a water bottle.
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14. Drinks/Food From A Vending Machine
Vending machines have been around for awhile. Their candy and chip bags on an average of $1.25 (drinks around $2 each) rack up sales because it's convenient, flashy, and draws you in to buy something with it's colorful display.
Alternative options: Convenient stores are usually cheaper than a vending machine, but the cheapest option is to buy drinks and snacks at a dollar store.
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15. Drinks/Food At An Event
We all know that food and drinks prices are at least doubled at an event's concession stand. Anytime we go to a sporting event or concert, everything is overpriced like it is at the movie theaters, but sometimes even more expensive. The cheapest you'll find here for a fountain drink is $5, beer is $8, and nachos are $7. Going to a SuperBowl or super large/popular event? Expect these prices to literally triple in price.
Alternative options: If the event allows, bring a water bottle. They won't allow any other drink to be entered in the stadium/venue, ever. Eat before you go to the event, especially because you don't want to miss out on the concert/game because you were hungry or thirsty. Plus, if you drink at the game/concert, you will have to go to the bathroom and wait in a super long line and miss out on even more of the event.
Alternative options: If the event allows, bring a water bottle. They won't allow any other drink to be entered in the stadium/venue, ever. Eat before you go to the event, especially because you don't want to miss out on the concert/game because you were hungry or thirsty. Plus, if you drink at the game/concert, you will have to go to the bathroom and wait in a super long line and miss out on even more of the event.
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16. Unused Memberships and Services
This includes everything from the gym, organizations, chamber of commerce, home phone line, Netflix, unlimited texting plan, or any other service you don't use often. Unless you work out at least 4 times a month at the gym, you're not getting your money's worth. Why pay all this money for stuff you don't even use? It's literally like tossing money out the window or in the trash. Cancel all memberships or services that you don't use often, or ones you can live without (such as the home phone line: you use it sometimes, but normally use your cell phone).
Alternative options: Work out at home, outside, or do a workout DVD. If you only got a gym membership to do the Zumba or yoga classes, find a separate place that only does classes like these. Hardly anyone really needs a home phone line anymore, so many have been canceling their services. Unless you watch over 12 movies (at home) per month, having a Netflix account really isn't worth it. Just go to a Redbox when you want to watch a movie.
Alternative options: Work out at home, outside, or do a workout DVD. If you only got a gym membership to do the Zumba or yoga classes, find a separate place that only does classes like these. Hardly anyone really needs a home phone line anymore, so many have been canceling their services. Unless you watch over 12 movies (at home) per month, having a Netflix account really isn't worth it. Just go to a Redbox when you want to watch a movie.
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17. First Class Plane Tickets
Unless you're flying overseas on a flight that lasts over 10 hours and it's essential that you get a really good sleep, getting first class is such a waste of money. Yes, it is really nice and luxurious. But SO expensive. A first class ticket (for a short flight) can cost anywhere between $950 and $1800 for one seat. OUCH. Is it really worth it? Can you not handle sitting in a regular seat for $350?
Alternative options: If you're going on a long flight, take a sleeping pill or ultra strength tylenol to help you relax and get rest on the trip in an economy seat. Wear earplugs and bring a neck pillow to help you sleep. Wear headphones and listen to your favorite music or watch a movie during the flight to help time pass quicker and keep you entertained. Bring a book, Kindle, iPad, crossword puzzle, or other game to keep you occupied during the long flight.
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18. Cocktails At The Bar/Club
The average price of a cocktail in a regular bar (usually not located in the big city) is $6. At a nice bar or a bar in a large metroplex city, the average cocktail is $10. Usually, a cocktail contains one shot of liquor. Sometimes two. I'm pretty sure you can buy a whole bottle at the store for that price. And what's worse, many who go to a bar or club will buy more than one drink.
Sometimes two. Sometimes five.
Alternative options: Pre-game/party. Drink before you go out and call a cab --it'll still be cheaper than drinking when you get to the club. If you're driving, only allow yourself one drink all night. The best option is one Red Bull + Vodka. It will keep you awake all night and give you a good buzz.
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19. Covers
Covers range from $5-15 at bars and clubs. For men, the cover always costs more than it does for women. Sorry boys! But bars with covers usually mean one of two things: the bar/club isn't doing well and needs extra income to get by (so why would you want to go somewhere that isn't good?) or it's so popular and high-end that everyone wants to go there (but again, why would you want to go somewhere that is going to be jam packed and insanely overpriced drink prices?) Not worth it in my opinion.
Alternative options: Go to a bar/club that doesn't have a cover charge. If you're with your friends, you should have a good time no matter where you go. Or have a party at your house instead of going out.
Alternative options: Go to a bar/club that doesn't have a cover charge. If you're with your friends, you should have a good time no matter where you go. Or have a party at your house instead of going out.
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20. Designer Labels/Brands
This includes everything from wedding dresses, clothes, shoes, watches, bags, jeans...you name it. This also includes baby/kids stuff. Why spend a lot of money on designer brands on kids stuff that they're going to grow out of soon or get tired of quickly? Designer brands and labels are like luxury cars: you're paying for the logo, not the item itself. You could buy the exact same type of item (such as a purse) for so much cheaper without the designer logo. For example, the Louis Vuitton bag above costs about $397. You can get this similar purse at TJMaxx for $20.
Alternative options: shop at Ross or TJ Maxx for designer items that are 10 times cheaper. Or don't buy a designer brand altogether. It's a waste of money to look "expensive" when in reality, it doesn't define who you are or make you any more "worthy." Humble yourself and buy more practical items.
Alternative options: shop at Ross or TJ Maxx for designer items that are 10 times cheaper. Or don't buy a designer brand altogether. It's a waste of money to look "expensive" when in reality, it doesn't define who you are or make you any more "worthy." Humble yourself and buy more practical items.
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21. Bottled Water
Water bottles cost over $1 at the gas station, over $3 at an event or airport, and around $6 for a 24 pack at the grocery store. Obviously when purchasing water bottles, buying in bulk is the cheapest way to go. But did you know bottled water costs 2000 times more than tap water (5 cents per ounce for bottled water, vs. 1 cent per gallon of tap water)? The average American spends $167 on bottled water per year. Let's compare: $167 for bottled water, vs. $40 for tap water filtered at home.
Alternative options: Buy a water filter and a durable/washable plastic water bottle, and fill it with tap water.
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22. Cokes / Speciality Drinks
Alternative options: Buy a water filter and a durable/washable plastic water bottle, and fill it with tap water.
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22. Cokes / Speciality Drinks
Americans spend an average of $350 on sodas every year. (And that's only those who drink a couple sodas per week!) It's an unhealthy drink that takes root in one of the many causes of obesity in America today. There are zero benefits to these drinks, so why pay extra for them? Why not get water (which is actually 100% healthy for you) for FREE at a restaurant?
Alternative options: Get free water when you go out to eat or to an event. Many places serve free water or have a water fountain that you can drink from. You can also buy Mio or drink enhancers to add to your drink if you don't like to drink plain water.
-----------------------------------------23. Luxury Car, New or Used
Yes, luxury cars are prettier, drive smoother, drive faster, and sometimes have better quality engines. But you're not really paying for those specific qualities. You're paying for the brand/model. It's the BMW or Mercedes logo on the back and front of the car. That's really what you want, because if you knew about all the great quality and long lasting cars out there for 3 times LESS the price, you'd save your money and put it to better use. Many new regular cars these days also have all the bells and whistles you get in luxury cars. But a car is a car, and the very moment you purchase a car, the quality and value of the car only goes downhill from there. It doesn't have an immune system. It's not invulnerable on the road. It's got similar (or sometimes worse) gas mileage than all other cars. But it has an expensive price tag...and it makes you feel like "royalty." Horray for you. I think I'll stick to my '03 Honda Accord (with 170,000 miles on it) that has been completely reliable, drives fast and smooth, and has great gas mileage.
I got it used for $16,000 in 2005 with less than 20,000 miles on it.
Alternative options: Do research and test drive cheaper cars that have really great quality engines and good gas mileage. Do you really need all the bells and whistles that come on luxury cars? If you do, all those bells and whistles come on new regular cars these days. According to Consumer Reports, Hyundai, Honda, and Toyota (on average) have the best quality, reliable and good gas mileage cars for the price tag.
Fact: Toyota and Lexus have the same engines.
I got it used for $16,000 in 2005 with less than 20,000 miles on it.
Alternative options: Do research and test drive cheaper cars that have really great quality engines and good gas mileage. Do you really need all the bells and whistles that come on luxury cars? If you do, all those bells and whistles come on new regular cars these days. According to Consumer Reports, Hyundai, Honda, and Toyota (on average) have the best quality, reliable and good gas mileage cars for the price tag.
Fact: Toyota and Lexus have the same engines.
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24. Luxury Boat --Especially For Fishing.
For fishers, luxury boats are 100% unnecessary. You're fishing, not laying out and partying on it all night long. You're not there to look pretty, you're there to fish. Fishing boats are not meant to be luxurious, or in fact very clean. A fancy fishing boat makes you look like a city boy in a country honky tonk. It just doesn't fit. But if you sail or go deep sea fishing for large fish, this is when having an expensive boat would be acceptable. Wake boarders would also argue that having a fancy wake boarding boat makes a huge difference due to the boat's specific wake boarding features, and I would have to agree. But mainly for fishers, you don't need a yacht, party boat, or something flashy. All you really need is a Jon Boat or something that you can sit on, store fish in, and get to where you need to go. Just ask the professional fishermen. They have plain boats and may say "the smaller the boat is, the better."
Alternative options: Get a Jon boat or regular fishing boat. Fish on a pond or from a fishing dock for free.
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Alternative options: Get a Jon boat or regular fishing boat. Fish on a pond or from a fishing dock for free.
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25. Fancy Rentals For Events/Parties
I'm talking mainly weddings, here. The average wedding is $26,000. WHAT!? That is literally the cost of a nice SUV....and way too much money to blow for one day. 100% unnecessary and stupid, if you ask me. You can do a nice wedding for under $5,000 if you try. I know, weddings are not cheap unless you go to the Justice of the Peace. But that doesn't mean you need to over-spend on unnecessary items such as fancy rentals and vendors. Catering, flowers, venue, and photography are usually the biggest expenses of a wedding. Do you really need those fancy gold plate settings and silverware for $20 a pop? Do you really need to spend $2,500 on just catering and servers for 150 guests? No. Decide what's MOST important to you (such as Photography) and let those things be the only things you allow yourself to splurge a little on. Everything else can be done for cheaper, free, or you can do without.
Alternative options: Have a DIY wedding. Check out Pinterest for all the DIY wedding ideas and decorations. Have your wedding in your backyard or a cheap park/field to cut on costs. Serve finger foods or soups instead of catering. Get friends to volunteer to help at the wedding instead of paying big bucks for servers/DJ/wedding planner/valet/etc. Play your iPod instead of hiring a DJ.
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Alternative options: Have a DIY wedding. Check out Pinterest for all the DIY wedding ideas and decorations. Have your wedding in your backyard or a cheap park/field to cut on costs. Serve finger foods or soups instead of catering. Get friends to volunteer to help at the wedding instead of paying big bucks for servers/DJ/wedding planner/valet/etc. Play your iPod instead of hiring a DJ.
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26. Brand New or Expensive Kids Toys
Kids are easily entertained, unless they're spoiled brats. Sorry. But you don't need to buy fancy toys that they will play with for a few months and get tired of, or stuff them away in their closet for a few years to collect dust. Toy trends come and go, and they can cost a fortune. Get toys from a garage sale or thrift shop (wash them first of course) and then donate back when the kids get tired of playing with them. Be smart about shopping for toys and deciding which toys you will allow your kid to play with. Will it be a toy that they can play with for a long time? Will siblings/cousins/friends enjoy playing with it too? Does the toy require more money or recurring purchases (such as recipes and ingredients for an Easy Bake oven)? Think about it before you buy it.
Alternative options: Buy toys from a garage sale or thrift shop. Always wash toys after purchase, no matter if it's brand new or used.
Alternative options: Buy toys from a garage sale or thrift shop. Always wash toys after purchase, no matter if it's brand new or used.
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27. Brand New or Expensive Pet Toys
Just like kid's toys, don't waste money especially on pet toys. Pets don't know the difference between a $5 ball and a 50 cent ball. A ball is a ball in their eyes. Yes, pets can have their favorite toy that they go crazy about. But that toy they are crazy about doesn't have to be an expensive toy. If you never give them the chance to fall in love with a toy that is expensive, they'll never know what they're missing out on and will fall in love with a different toy. Plus, dogs can tear apart toys in seconds, so why bother spending extra on something that's going to be torn to shreds anyway? And who said you need to go to a pet store to buy a toy? They won't know the difference between an "official" pet toy and a stuffed animal you got at the thrift store.
Alternative options: Get toys and items at a thrift store or yard sale. Pets will love anything that is furry, has a string, talks/beeps when squeezed, in the shape of a ball, or anything you can throw for them to fetch.
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Alternative options: Get toys and items at a thrift store or yard sale. Pets will love anything that is furry, has a string, talks/beeps when squeezed, in the shape of a ball, or anything you can throw for them to fetch.
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28. Groupon Goods
Don't get me wrong, I think Groupon can be great. In fact, I've saved money in the past by shopping on Groupon than elsewhere. But here's the catch: Groupon is a genius when it comes to sales and marketing. They send you constant updates on your email or phone of "great" deals that you "can't live without," including pretty pictures that draw you into the product. They make everything seem like a "sale" or a good deal. But is it really? Read here: Beware: Groupon Deals
Alternative options: Only buy Groupon items if you were already going to buy that item. Nothing else. Also, beware of shipping costs after purchasing the Groupon deal.
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Alternative options: Only buy Groupon items if you were already going to buy that item. Nothing else. Also, beware of shipping costs after purchasing the Groupon deal.
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29. Eating Out
The average American spends $7,500 per year on eating out. This includes fast food, breakfast to-go, sit-down restaurants, and snacks at the convenient store. The average American only spends about $4,000 on groceries. That's still a lot of money, but cheaper than eating out. Eating out is not only (most of the time) more fattening and unhealthy, but obviously more expensive. You're paying for the food, service, cooks, and tips. It's at least double what you'd pay to make it yourself. Yes, it may be cheaper to go to McDonald's and get the $1 cheeseburger for lunch, but it's not a win-win situation. It's cheap, but SO fattening and unhealthy for you. This is why many low income families are obese. It's not because they're eating feasts for every meal, it's because they're eating the cheapest foods available, which are normally at fast food restaurants.
Alternative options: Grocery shop with coupons. Go to http://www.themoneysavinggarden.com for tips on buying groceries and saving money.
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Alternative options: Grocery shop with coupons. Go to http://www.themoneysavinggarden.com for tips on buying groceries and saving money.
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30. Bets
Bets come in all shapes and sizes. Bets include everything from who wins a basketball game to seeing who can spit a sunflower seed the furthest. The point is, betting with money is the same thing as gambling. Betting takes place when there is not a 100% certainty on the outcome. This may not make sense to you and you may disagree, but think about it this way: If someone was 100% sure they would win the bet, there wouldn't be a bet in the first place. Why? Well, the other person thinks they will win the bet. Two people can't be 100% sure of a different outcome, which is why a bet takes place.
Alternative options: If you're going to bet on anything, bet with duties, things, or even a dare -- instead of hard cash. (i.e. loser has to clean garage, take winner out for a drink, dare to ask that girl out on a date, wash the car, etc.)
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31. Birthday Cards
Now, birthday cards can be special and joyful. But on average, 87% of Americans throw away their birthday cards after reading and a whopping 63% (majority of kids and young adults) don't even read the card --just look to see if there's anything inside or see who it's from. If this doesn't bother you and you just want to get a card to add a little "extra" to the gift, go right on ahead. But for kids and young adults, don't spend big bucks at Hallmark for a card they may or may not even read. Older folks may be the only ones who appreciate the "time" it took to find a card and may enjoy reading the card.
Alternative options: Make your own cards instead of buying them. It will show that you put more time and effort into their birthday instead of just stopping by the grocery store to pick up a $1 card that says "Happy Birthday" on the front. If you shop at Hallmark, only get cards for older folks or for really special occasions.
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Alternative options: Make your own cards instead of buying them. It will show that you put more time and effort into their birthday instead of just stopping by the grocery store to pick up a $1 card that says "Happy Birthday" on the front. If you shop at Hallmark, only get cards for older folks or for really special occasions.
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32. Magazines
What happens when you are done reading a magazine? Do you throw it away? Does it collect dust somewhere in your desk or closet that clutters over time? Magazines are over $4 at the store or at a magazine portal on the sidewalk. Magazine subscriptions are about $30 for 24 issues, so they are cheaper than buying them elsewhere, but unless you put old magazines to good use, don't waste your money on these.
Alternative options: Read magazines at Barnes and Noble or while waiting in line at the grocery store. Don't buy it, just flip through it. Most people just flip through anyway and don't read every story or look at all the advertisements. If you want to buy magazines, get a subscription. Reuse your magazines to cut out pictures and words and make mod-podge collages.
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Alternative options: Read magazines at Barnes and Noble or while waiting in line at the grocery store. Don't buy it, just flip through it. Most people just flip through anyway and don't read every story or look at all the advertisements. If you want to buy magazines, get a subscription. Reuse your magazines to cut out pictures and words and make mod-podge collages.
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33. Apps
It's not that apps are expensive or smartphone users even buy that many apps. The point I'm trying to make here is that smartphone users are paying money for apps that they don't really need. The only bad statistic I found is that Americans spend an average of 2.5 hours a day glued to their smartphones or tablets. Even if it was 1 hour, that is a lot of time wasted, looking down at a screen instead of interacting with the world and building relationships. Just like Albert Einstein said, "I fear the day when the technology overlaps with our humanity. The world will only have a generation of idiots." Sorry, Einstein. Looks like we're already there. Americans are always on their smartphones, tablets, or other technological devices. We rely on them for most of our communications and entertainment. It's sad.
Alternative options: There's plenty of free apps you can get, but think about the amount of time you spend looking at your computer (unless it's for work), tablet, or phone. It's gotta be bad for our eyes and posture.
34. 3D Movies
Yes, 3D movies can be really cool. But these days, 3D movies are not nearly as dynamic as a "true" 3D show like you see in Disneyland --where it looks like the characters are actually right in front of you or almost touching you. That's legit 3D. Nowadays, 3D is still cool, but practically hyped up HD (high definition). And the ticket cost is usually double than a standard ticket. Personally, I don't think it's worth it. Especially noting the fact that there are many movies coming out in 3D that are truly not worth paying the high price for. Usually animated movies are the only movies that have good 3D imaging and "pop-out" definition.
Alternative options: If you must see a movie in 3D, make sure other people have gone to see it first and hear their input on the 3D quality and the opinion on the movie itself. You don't want to pay big bucks for a movie that isn't very good, even if the 3D quality is really good. If you get motion sickness easily, stay away from all 3D movies. Don't go see an action packed (Avatar or Fast & Furious) or "homemade video" (like Paranormal Activity) as a 3D movie. These will surely make anyone get motion sickness or a headache.
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Alternative options: If you must see a movie in 3D, make sure other people have gone to see it first and hear their input on the 3D quality and the opinion on the movie itself. You don't want to pay big bucks for a movie that isn't very good, even if the 3D quality is really good. If you get motion sickness easily, stay away from all 3D movies. Don't go see an action packed (Avatar or Fast & Furious) or "homemade video" (like Paranormal Activity) as a 3D movie. These will surely make anyone get motion sickness or a headache.
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35. iTunes Store
Buying songs on iTunes isn't as popular as it used to be. Nowadays, there are many other sources to get cheaper songs or download/share songs for free. The price of songs on iTunes are now $1.29 each, so if you bought all of your songs from iTunes (say you had 1000 songs), that would be $1,290. Yikes.
Alternative options: download songs from YouTube for free by using "YouTube to MP3." You can Google it and download an application that will allow you to get songs from YouTube. *Hint: don't download songs with advertisements, because the advertisement will be played in your song download.
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36. Non-Bank ATM Fees
Non-bank ATM fees are at least a $3 charge each time you use it to retrieve cash. If you are going somewhere that you are unsure that there will be your bank's ATM machine available, get cash before you go from your bank so you don't have to pay a fee. Only use a non-bank's ATM if it is an emergency.
Alternative options: Prepare and get cash beforehand at your bank. Use your debit card instead.
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37. Late and Overdraft Fees
Due to forgetfulness, inadequate funds, or disorganization, late and overdraft fees are common. What a waste of money! Plus, with enough late or overdraft fees, your credit score can be affected negatively or you may get booted from your bank's account. Tisk, tisk.
Alternative options: Be organized with your spending habits and mark in your checking book all the things you purchase so you know how much you have left in the bank. Mark your calendar or planner with all the payment due dates so you are not forgetting about it.
Alternative options: Be organized with your spending habits and mark in your checking book all the things you purchase so you know how much you have left in the bank. Mark your calendar or planner with all the payment due dates so you are not forgetting about it.
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38. Cash Loans
Payday and cash advances are cruel. They obviously target lower income communities, but they drain them even more of their money. The average interest rate for these loans are 390%. Just type it in to an APR calculator online to see how much you would have to pay at the end of your payback period.
Alternative options: There are none. Stay away from these businesses. They will drain not just your wallet, but your bank account faster than you can blink.
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Alternative options: There are none. Stay away from these businesses. They will drain not just your wallet, but your bank account faster than you can blink.
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39. DVDs and CDs
How many times do you actually re-watch all those DVDs you have in your house? You probably haven't seen most of those DVDs for more than a couple years. It's not worth buying a DVD for any movie, considering all the easily accessible DVD rentals (Netflix, Hulu, RedBox, etc) that are everywhere now. If you must buy a DVD, only buy your absolute favorite movies that you know you can watch over and over again and never get bored of it. CDs are the same way. Most people don't even use CDs anymore, just their iPod. A lot of cars these days even have cords that you can hook up your iPod to so you can listen to it in the car. Why waste your money on CDs and DVDs that take up space and scratch easily?
Alternative options: download songs on your iPod and listen to it on the system in your car. Rent movies or watch them online/on the TV. Go to the movie theater to watch a new movie. Go to the dollar theater to watch an older movie.
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Alternative options: download songs on your iPod and listen to it on the system in your car. Rent movies or watch them online/on the TV. Go to the movie theater to watch a new movie. Go to the dollar theater to watch an older movie.
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40. Flowers During a Holiday
Flowers during the holidays become doubled in price, especially Valentine's and Mother's Day. A florist shop may also be more expensive than a grocery store or market. Flowers these days run from $50-$200 per bouquet.
Alternative options: When picking flowers for a wedding, choose seasonal flowers (which will cost less). Also, reuse flowers for multiple purposes (i.e. use the isle flowers/decor and move to the tables as centerpieces after the ceremony). Pick wildflowers for your mom or sweetheart during the spring season. Get them a different gift during the holidays, and surprise them with (cheaper) flowers on other days throughout the year; it will be more special when it's not expected, and you will save money on the same flowers.
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Alternative options: When picking flowers for a wedding, choose seasonal flowers (which will cost less). Also, reuse flowers for multiple purposes (i.e. use the isle flowers/decor and move to the tables as centerpieces after the ceremony). Pick wildflowers for your mom or sweetheart during the spring season. Get them a different gift during the holidays, and surprise them with (cheaper) flowers on other days throughout the year; it will be more special when it's not expected, and you will save money on the same flowers.
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41. Brand New Trendy Clothes
Definition of trend/fad: an intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially one that is short lived; a craze. Enough said. Trends don't last long. Trends are "hot" items that everyone wants, hence the expensive price tags. But then trends die and you're stuck with clothes or accessories that you no longer like or want anymore. You look back and wonder, "Why did I ever buy this?" Or realize that you only wore it several times before it went back out of style.
Alternative options: Trends are the definition of the fashion culture and market, but having your own style is "in style" too. Without uniqueness or differences, there wouldn't be an evolving fashion culture. Things that seemed SO ugly a few years ago are now popular items that everyone wants, or vice versa. I say just wear whatever the heck you want.
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42. Unnecessary Cosmetics
What are unnecessary cosmetics? Cosmetics that you don't use at least once a week. This can include glitter eyeshadow, crazy nail polish colors, bright red lipstick, blue eye liner, multiple types of face makeup, 2 extra powder brushes, body shimmer, hair teaser spray, peppermint foot scrub, and so on -- things you only use maybe once a month. They are a waste of space and money. The average American woman (especially younger adults) spends at least $60 a year on unnecessary cosmetics, not including the cosmetics they use every day.
Alternative options: If you're the type to try out multiple different looks of makeup and hair often, buy a makeup kit. It will have tons of eyeshadow colors, eyeliners, lipsticks, and more. Plus it won't take up as much space since it will be in an organized component. Natural is "the new black." Or at least more people are going for the natural look these days. Save money and be confident in your true beauty.
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Alternative options: If you're the type to try out multiple different looks of makeup and hair often, buy a makeup kit. It will have tons of eyeshadow colors, eyeliners, lipsticks, and more. Plus it won't take up as much space since it will be in an organized component. Natural is "the new black." Or at least more people are going for the natural look these days. Save money and be confident in your true beauty.
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43. Random or "Gag" Gifts
Random gifts are fun, but such a waste of money. Yes, the person you give that gift to may laugh and enjoy the random gift when they first open it, but in reality, it's just not practical to actually put to good use. It doesn't really benefit them in any way and it's more of a "gag" than anything else. And some random/funny gifts out there are actually not cheap at all. You may have received a random gift at one point, and as much as you liked it at first, did you actually use it? Did it become a waste of space? Did you end up throwing it in the trash or giving it away to someone else? Possibilities of one of these being true are pretty high --unless it was dollar bill toilet paper, they might've actually put it to "good use." But even then, that single roll of toilet paper probably cost the same as a 12 pack of cheap toilet paper.
Alternative options: if you get them a random or gag gift, make sure it's either really cheap or something you know for SURE they will love and use often. Some people, as goofy as they may seem, might actually rather have a gift card or a practical gift than something that is more of a "conversation starter" than actually beneficial to them in any way.
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Alternative options: if you get them a random or gag gift, make sure it's either really cheap or something you know for SURE they will love and use often. Some people, as goofy as they may seem, might actually rather have a gift card or a practical gift than something that is more of a "conversation starter" than actually beneficial to them in any way.
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44. Extravagant Vacations or Resorts
Now, everyone deserves a great vacation every once in awhile. But I'm absolutely not saying you can't go anywhere nice for vacation. All I'm saying is that many will spend big bucks to GET to their vacation destination, and then spend bigger bucks to STAY there at a resort or all-inclusive area. You can go to an island or special location without paying all-inclusive prices. Some people pay big bucks for a resort at a so-called "dangerous" country, such as Mexico or Cuba. But why would you want to do that? You can get the same ocean front view and beach experience at a "safe" country or location (such as Hawaii or the Virgin Islands) and have a much cheaper vacation because you didn't pay to stay at a resort. Plus, if you pay to be at a resort, that's all you get to see of the area. You're stuck there the whole time! Especially if you're in a "dangerous" area that you can't leave the resort premises. Boringggg. I think I'd get "resort fever."
Alternative options: Go to a nice destination that you feel safe enough in that you can get a cheaper hotel price and be able to explore the area. You don't want to be stuck in one area when you just paid big bucks to simply arrive to the destination (plane/boat ticket).
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45. Apparel Products and Services
Go to http://www.themoneysavinggarden.com for more tips on saving money on a tight budget.
Alternative options: Go to a nice destination that you feel safe enough in that you can get a cheaper hotel price and be able to explore the area. You don't want to be stuck in one area when you just paid big bucks to simply arrive to the destination (plane/boat ticket).
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45. Apparel Products and Services
This includes dry cleaning, storage rentals, clothing/shoe/watch repairs, clothing rentals, and more. The average person who pays for dry cleaning service will spend between $500-$1000 a year, just on dry cleaning. That's a lot of money to get a starched shirt. Rentals aren't as common, but when you do have to rent a tux or costume, they are not cheap.
Alternative options: Iron and starch your own clothes. DIY costume ideas on Pinterest. Learn how to repair your own items from YouTube.
Go to http://www.themoneysavinggarden.com for more tips on saving money on a tight budget.
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