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Do you know someone who constantly complains about being broke but spends on luxuries and wants all the time? I do. It always surprises me when someone complains that they can’t pay for a need, like the electric bill, but are frequently eating out.
The problem with this overspending is putting wants above needs. That’s not a winning strategy. Just cutting down on a few wants can make such a difference. We’ve found 13 things “broke” people seem to always find a way to buy.
We curated these Things Broke People, focusing on everyday items people splurge on. Some items are broad categories like ‘devices,’ which can mean phones, TVs, tablets, and more. Whether you’re someone struggling with finances or not, see if cutting out some of these items in your own spending won’t help you increase your bank account.
New Devices
Something broke people seem to always have are the newest phones, televisions, tablets, smartwatches, and more. Considering new devices can easily cost over $1,000, this hurts to think about.
However, just because someone has a new phone or TV doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling. Many people finance phones.
New Cars
I can’t imagine trying to buy a new car. New cars are expensive to purchase and repair, and the parts and maintenance or labor are steep.
Despite this, broke people seem to always have new or upgraded cars. Don’t be fooled. If you know someone who constantly buys cars, this doesn’t mean they aren’t broke.
Accessories
Accessories are a broad topic, but if we sat here and listed them all, we’d never leave. Some broke people are splurgers and overspend even on small items, like accessories.
This includes hats, earrings, necklaces, scarves, and hair clips. Personally, I like to reuse accessories.
Hair
There is nothing wrong with getting your hair done. Every once in a while, I pamper myself with a blowout or new haircut. However, constantly going to the salon is expensive.
If you know someone constantly getting their hair done, they aren’t always well off. Two to three trips a month adds up fast.
Makeup
Makeup and hair are connected. They belong to the world of beauty. Although makeup is popular, most people don’t have the funds to constantly purchase the newest makeup releases.
And yet, many broke people are glammed up in new and expensive makeup. Even ‘cheap’ makeup you can buy at discount stores and pharmacies isn’t inexpensive.
Nails
I used to get my nails done at least twice a month. This was long before the prices shot up. I have no idea how people can afford gorgeous nails and constant refills.
One trip to the nail salon can easily cost you $40 for a simple design. And this doesn’t include tips or any additional treatments now.
Payment Plans
Payment plans are rarely worth it. A common sign that someone is broke is if they are paying everything with a payment plan.
Think of short-term payment plans like Affirm and Klarna. If you can’t afford the purchases, skip them. Not all payment plans offer 0% interest, and interest accrues fast!
Food Delivery
Who doesn’t love the convenience of food delivery? I’m guilty of overpaying for slightly warm food just to avoid leaving home. However, many broke people order food delivery when they probably shouldn’t.
Food delivery isn’t expensive. Even with deals, there are always hidden costs. Not only are you charged for the food, but also the delivery, tip, taxes, and other hidden fees.
Eating Out
Technically, food delivery and eating out can belong to the same category. But both are common and so harmful that they require their own sections.
Eating out isn’t cheap, yet so many people skip cooking and meal prepping to do so. Even at an inexpensive casual dining restaurant, you can expect to pay $16 to $25 per person.
Lottery Tickets/Scratch Offs
Your chances of winning the lottery are close to none. You’re more likely to get hit by lightning than to earn back what you’ve paid for, and scratch-offs are even worse.
Although we know this, broke people still try their luck and buy scratch-offs and lottery tickets. I get it, though. Who wouldn’t want to imagine winning millions of dollars? That’s truly life-changing money.
Brand Names
Brand names are rarely better. However, so many people love to use and flaunt brands to boost their social status or reputation. I’ve never been a fan of this and prefer store brand names over anything else.
Some brand name items, like cereals and shirts, are low quality and even made in the same factories as other non-big brand names. So, is it even worth it?
Tattoos
Tattoos are a lot of fun. I have over a dozen throughout my body, which means I know just how expensive they can be. Although pricey, so many people without the funds choose to get them.
Putting yourself in debt or a worse position is never worth it. Tattoos, although beautiful and unique, are luxuries.
Vacations
If it were up to me, all I’d do is travel. Vacations aren’t cheap, though. For a quick weekend away, you can easily spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
Somehow, though, some broke people are constantly on vacation. While relaxing, this can drain your wallet quickly. According to Forbes, the average cost of a 3-day vacation per person is $1,389.09.
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