It’s fascinating to see how some people, despite their financial struggles, manage to prioritize certain expenses. They always seem to find the money for various small luxuries and essential expenses. Here are 19 things people always seem to afford even when they have no money.
Smartphones
Staying connected is vital, and a smartphone keeps you socially connected to friends and family. Smartphones are also essential for many other areas of life, including searching for jobs and accessing online services. Different payment plans and prepaid options can make smartphones more accessible for people on a budget.
Streaming Services
Forbes reports that “99% of all U.S. households pay for at least one or more streaming services.” Affordable streaming options have been replacing costly trips to the cinema and more expensive cable TV subscriptions, and there are often special promotions and discounts that make these services even cheaper!
Visits to Coffee Shops
Little indulgences like visits to a coffee shop are important to give you a sense of normality and comfort when you’re facing financial hardship. Coffee shops can also serve as social hubs and free workspaces. People often make the most of loyalty programs and discounts to make frequent visits cost less.
Cigarettes and Alcohol
Cigarettes and alcohol may not be the best ways to deal with stress, but many of us turn to these habits for stress relief. This often causes people with money struggles to prioritize personal habits like smoking and drinking over other expenses. Cheap options and bulk buying can make this more affordable.
Lottery Tickets
When we have little money, we want more money! The hope of a big win motivates people to continue spending money on lottery tickets. While these small purchases feel manageable and insignificant in the moment, they do add up over time.
Fast Food
People with no money always seem to still be able to get their fast food fix, likely because fast food chains are often cheap and convenient options. According to CNN, “on any given day in the United States, an estimated 36.6% or approximately 84.8 million adults consume fast food.”
Personal Care
Maintaining hygiene and appearance is a priority for good self-esteem, so people will always find the funds for personal care products. Affordable drugstore brands and sales make these products more accessible, and you can save a lot of money with DIY beauty treatments and home remedies.
Tattoos and Piercings
Expressing your individuality and personal style through things like tattoos and piercings is important for your sense of identity. To make body art more accessible, you can use payment plans or trade services. Special deals and friend discounts from local artists can also help you save money.
Pets
When we find ourselves in a financial pinch, many of us would sooner spend money on our pets than on ourselves! Our furry friends provide invaluable emotional support and companionship, and in return, we look after them no matter what. Money is always put aside to cover pets’ basic needs.
Video Games
Video games are an affordable form of entertainment that you can get hours of enjoyment out of! People also sometimes rely on gaming communities for social interaction and support. If you’re on a budget, you can save money by buying second-hand games or taking advantage of sales.
Gym Memberships
It’s a well-known fact that exercise is good for your mental health, as the NHS says that “when we’re active, the body releases feel-good hormones that can improve our mood and boost our energy.” So, it’s important to prioritize paying for gym memberships and continuing to work out.
Visits to the Salon
Keeping on top of your appearance with regular haircuts and grooming can increase your confidence. Finding budget-friendly salons can help you save precious dollars. You could also try DIY hair treatments or call on friends you have who are hair stylists for a cheeky discount!
Clothing
Don’t underestimate the powers of retail therapy! Clothes shopping can be a great pick-me-up when going through difficult times like financial troubles. You can always make sure you spend less by shopping at thrift stores and second-hand shops or going to clothes-swapping events.
Nail Services
Getting manicures and pedicures is a form of self-care and luxury. Even when you don’t have much money, it’s important to make self-care a priority. There are always cheap options like DIY nail kits and discount salons. We all need a little luxury in our lives!
Subscription Boxes
Science Direct states that “subscription boxes, parcels containing customizable or surprising items that are mailed to the end user each month, have exploded in popularity.” These boxes are like a gift to yourself, and if you want a treat on a budget, many boxes offer significant discounts for first-time subscribers.
Travel and Getaways
Never forget to put your mental health first! Traveling and going on occasional getaways is good for your well-being, and you can do so without breaking the bank if you make the most of budget travel options, last-minute deals, and off-season discounts.
High-Speed Internet
High-speed internet service is a necessity for job hunting, education, communication, and staying informed. Some people even prioritize internet costs over other utilities! Bundled services and low-income programs can often help make the Internet more affordable.
Dining Out
Going out for meals and socializing is a great way to have fun and enjoy your life, so it’s important not to sacrifice this completely when you’re short on money. Choose less expensive restaurants or use promotions, happy hours, and coupon deals to your advantage. Treat yourself every once in a while!
Cosmetics and Makeup
Looking your best can be a top priority, especially if you’re trying to give a good first impression at an interview or a new job. Makeup and cosmetics can be essential purchases for some people, and buying drugstore brands and subscribing to beauty services can save you extra money.
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