Lifestyle
14 Purchases That Aren’t Worth the Cost
By Jake Beardslee · September 6, 2025
14 Purchases That Aren’t Worth the Cost
In today’s consumer culture, it’s easy to believe that every new gadget, subscription, or lifestyle product will make life easier or more enjoyable. But often, these purchases turn into clutter, drain your wallet, or leave you with regret. Many Americans spend hard-earned money on items that provide little long-term value, while the things that matter most—like savings, travel, or paying down debt—get pushed aside.Being more intentional with spending means recognizing which purchases don’t pay off. Sometimes, the best way to save is simply not to buy.
Here's 14 common money traps that may be worth skipping. Alexander Mils / Unsplash
1. High-End Fitness Equipment
That treadmill or elliptical that seemed like a path to a healthier you often becomes an expensive clothes rack. Consistency is what matters for fitness, not the price tag of your gear. Affordable alternatives like outdoor running or a low-cost gym membership can deliver the same results without draining your budget. Intenza Fitness / Unsplash
2. Extended Warranties and Gadget Insurance
At checkout, the pitch for “extra protection” can sound tempting. But extended warranties and monthly gadget insurance rarely deliver real value. Devices often either last well beyond the standard warranty or fail early enough to be covered. Credit cards often provide purchase protections too, making these add-ons more wasteful than wise. Graddes / Unsplash
3. Brand-Name Bottled Water
Paying several dollars for bottled water is essentially paying for packaging. A Boston University study found bottled water can cost up to 2,000 times more than tap water. With a reusable bottle, you save money and cut down on plastic waste. It’s better for your budget and the planet. Serenity Mitchell / Unsplash
4. High-End Coffee Machines
Unless you’re a true aficionado, it’s tough to justify a thousand-dollar espresso maker. Many costly machines come with complicated features most people stop using after a week. Affordable brewers can still produce excellent coffee—saving money and valuable counter space. Parham Barati / Unsplash
5. Timeshares
The promise of affordable vacation homes often unravels into financial headaches. Rising maintenance fees, rigid schedules, and limited resale value make timeshares more of a burden than a luxury. Many owners struggle to unload them, even at a steep loss. iam_os / Unsplash
6. In-App Purchases for Mobile Games
Microtransactions seem small at first—just a few dollars for lives or skins—but they add up quickly. These purchases are intentionally designed to keep you spending. In some cases, players rack up bills that could rival the cost of an actual vacation. Onur Binay / Unsplash
7. Lottery Tickets
Dreaming of riches with a $1 ticket is tempting, but the odds are nearly impossible: one in 292 million for Powerball. Half of all ticket sales go to prizes, meaning you’re more likely to lose than win. Statistically, you’re better off investing that money elsewhere. Artist Istanbul / Unsplash
8. Expensive Car Washes
The “deluxe wax and shine” packages are rarely worth the markup. With a bucket, soap, and a little effort, you can clean your car at home for a fraction of the cost. The savings pile up quickly, and the DIY option even gives you light exercise. Jan Kopřiva / Unsplash
9. Fast Fashion Items
Trendy clothing with a short lifespan drains money fast. A solid pair of jeans or durable staples last longer and often look just as stylish. Spending less on disposable fashion means fewer replacements and more space in your closet. Fernand De Canne / Unsplash
10. Subscriptions You Don’t Use
Forgotten streaming services, unused magazine subscriptions, or monthly boxes you no longer need quietly eat away at your budget. Checking your bank statements for recurring charges can reveal dozens of dollars in unnecessary spending each month. freestocks / Unsplash
11. Brand-New Cars
The moment you drive a new car off the lot, it loses about 20% of its value. Certified pre-owned vehicles offer similar reliability without the steep depreciation hit. Let someone else take that loss and save yourself thousands. Ash Saribekyan / Unsplash
12. Pre-Cut Vegetables and Fruit
Convenience costs extra, and with produce, it’s often unjustifiable. Pre-cut fruit and vegetables are not only overpriced but also spoil faster. Buying whole produce and chopping it yourself keeps costs down and reduces waste. David Trinks / Unsplash
13. Gym Memberships You Don’t Use
Many people sign up with enthusiasm but barely go. Studies show most Americans don’t meet exercise guidelines, meaning gym memberships often sit idle. Free workouts outdoors or at home can be just as effective without the monthly fee. Ryan De Hamer / Unsplash
14. Movie Theater Popcorn and Drinks
Concessions are where theaters make their real money, not tickets. A large popcorn and soda can cost more than the movie itself. Eating beforehand or bringing your own water bottle keeps entertainment affordable. LexScope / Unsplash