What Won’t You Spend On?
Posted by Gail | Filed under Saving, Smart Shopper
Very often when the talk turns to ways to save money, or how-to-NOT-buy-everything-you-want, there’s a sort of backlash from the folks who say, “You mean I shouldn’t have ANY fun?” It’s a legitimate question. After all, what’s the point of working hard if you don’t every spend anything on having a great life?
Unfortunately, most of the people with whom I work are totally undiscriminating about what they’ll spend their money on. From bras to booze, from expensive shoes to a snazzy car, from huge homes to holidays, they want it all. And this is where people often run into problems. You just have to take a look at the huge debt holes we’ve dug for ourselves to see that we’re crazy about spending.
I’m one of those people who believe if you’re carrying consumer debt, you may have to put a wholelottafun on hold for a few months until you’ve dug yourself out. After all, you done had your fun and it’s now haunting your credit card or line of credit. Time to pay for past mistakes and get back into the black.
But what if you’re not walking around with debt. Is it okay to blow a wad of cash on a new mountain bike? How about a bigger house? A fancy car? One of those name-brand handbags that cost an arm and a leg?
Hey, listen, it’s your money. You can do whatever you want with it. My beef is with the folks who are using someone else’s money to sponsor their over-the-top life. Of course, I also think you need to be doing the details of sound money management: saving for the future, creating an emergency fund and mitigating your risks. But if you’ve got your bases covered, by all means go… have a great life!
I recently got into a discussion with a friend of mine whose daughter likes to live the large life. She’s pulling her hair out because she thinks her kid is going to hell. “She won’t buy a home,” her mother bemoaned. “She’s travelling all over the place: China, Malaysia, Brazil, the islands. She should be saving for a downpayment.”
Grace, ‘cos that’s what we’ll call her, isn’t a total gadabout. She has a good pension plan at work. She’s still single with no kids. She’s got a healthy emergency fund, and last year I talked to her about buying some private insurance to supplement the plans at work, which she did. She’s got her I’s dotted and her T’s crossed. But she’s not ready to “settle down” yet. She wants to play. She works hard, does the detail and thinks she deserves to have some fun. Her mom, who comes from a very “responsible” place, wants her to play less and save more.
Everyday people make choices about how they want to use their money. Some people want to live in a beautiful home because that’s more important than the car they drive or the labels on their clothes. Some people are perfectly happy living in comfy cottages because they want to be able to travel. Some people just want to save all their money. Hey, man, whatever floats your boat.
It is of no import whatsoever what anyone else thinks you should be doing with YOUR money, (assuming you’ve covered your butt). It’s YOUR money. The important thing is only that you know what it is you want. Or maybe, what it is you don’t want.
It’s an interesting question: What won’t you spend money on? I spend $45 a week to have someone vacuum, dust and wash my floors. It’s the best $45 I spend every week. I hate those jobs and finding someone else to do them means I don’t have to a) do them and hate it, or b) ignore them and live in a pigsty. Another body wouldn’t dream of “wasting” $45 a week on a cleaning. They’d much rather spend that money going to the movies, buying a book or saving up for a family vacation. But I’d rather cut back on shoes and perfume. So to the question, “What wouldn’t I spend my money on?” there are a whole bunch of things that leave lots of money for the stuff I really think is important.
I’ve tried asking more than a couple of people “What wouldn’t you spend money on?” Often I get good answers. But just as often I get blank stares. Here are people who have never considered what they’d buy a lower quality on, or not buy at all, in order to have the things or experiences they truly want.
I think it’s just as important to be clear on what you don’t think is important as what you do consider important. After all, if you can’t do that, how can you prioritize?
So, what’s not important to you? What wouldn’t you spend money on? And what would you be willing to spend less on to have something else that is of value to you?
February 3, 2010 at 7:49 am
What wouldn’t I spend money on?
Dinner out, I could cut that out of my budget in a heart beat. I also wouldn’t spend money on brand spanking new cars, I can’t bring myself to suffer that drive off the lot, lose half the value feel. I can give up new clothing. I’ll often wear the same rags until they are rags. Vacations I can give up going places, staying put and working on debt repayment. Of course the compromise comes when I take my list and compare it to my wife’s list.
regards,
Jason
February 3, 2010 at 7:56 am
brand new books…I’ll borrow them or buy them at the used book store where I can return them (after I have lent them out of course to others that want to read them)…
February 3, 2010 at 8:04 am
big brand names. Don’t get me wrong I have spent $1000 on clothes in one shop but I got a number of excellent staples for work/evening. However, I don’t understand the urge to by a Coach bag, D&G or all those other super flash labels. I don’t think I could ever spend $2500 on a handbag.
I did buy a condo but I really understand the urge to travel. I would easily give up a year of new clothing if it meant a trip to somewhere I haven’t been yet.
February 3, 2010 at 8:28 am
Very well said! I was one of those people with the blank stares when I read this but then I got to thinking. What wouldn’t I spend money on? I couldn’t imagine spending lots of money on purses/handbags….I could give up eating out less.
February 3, 2010 at 8:28 am
New books is one thing I happily forgo as well, the library or the used book store suit me fine, I can wait to read the new releases. I’m not big into brand names, I like to wear nice clothes but I don’t buy based on labels, I love sales at my favorite stores and Winners is always a good bet for nice stuff for much less. I’m also not a fancy coffee lover, I can’t understand why people pay $5 for a latte and sometimes several a day. I do get one as a treat now and then but usually I have a kettle at work and make my own tea here.
I agree it’s about priorities, I’d much rather live more simply and drive my faithful Honda civic (which is paid for) for several more years , to afford the house we really want.
February 3, 2010 at 8:28 am
Hubby and I have a strange conundrum… for me, buying a house is something you do as a purely strategic financial decision (and I am so not there yet) and he’s more of the “it’s a forced savings plan, lets us put down roots, at my age, it’s expected that we’ll own property” type. We sold our house this past summer because I ran the “Gail Budget” and realized that virtually my ENTIRE salary was going towards housing costs (2800 of 3000). I refuse to work all day to pay for a house I didn’t really want!
I refuse to pay for car payments as well. We have a 2001 Corolla, bought used, that we plan on running until she bites the dust. We’re actively saving up for “Bess’” replacement, but since we’ve started early, it’s only like 15 bucks a week. Not enough to be very noticeable and yet grows pretty substantial after a few years of saving.
I also refuse to gamble. I’ve always been the “bird in the hand rather than 2 in the bush” type, but gambling lays that one bare.
In terms of spending less, I’ve made the last year one of reduced spending on books. I used to spend a TON of money on books but it’s just not sustainable. I’m not a big fan of libraries, so my compromise is to only buy books if I have a gift card, either given as a gift or earned with Swagbucks, or if I buy used.
February 3, 2010 at 8:38 am
Handbags – I don’t see the point of having more than 2. Summer, winter. But when I buy one, I buy good so it lasts. I bought an italian leather purse almost 20 years ago, on sale but still paid what I thought was an appalling amount of money on it ($100) but it lasted over 15 years. I would just take it to the shoe repair every so often and get it restitched….
Cheaply made shoes are another. I will never plunk down money on shoes made in china (and some of them aren’t cheap even though they are cheaply made) because my feet would never forgive me.
Designer paint. Good grief – Ralph Lauren paint?
Designer house goods? Good grief – Martha Stewart sheets? A lot of extra money for the name, but still the same cheaply made in china stuff.
February 3, 2010 at 8:40 am
I have to agree with Pam. I have no desire to drop a ton of money on labels. I dress nice and have some lovely handbags, but the most I’ve ever spent on a bag is $50. That’s my limit, and I gotta love it to spend $50.00! I don’t care who made it.
I rarely eat out because I think it’s a waste of money. Once in a while for a treat or special occassion, but not regularly. I’m a good cook and I love to prepare nice meals. When I look at what we could eat at home in comparison to what we’d pay at the restaurant, it’s hard to justify.
I rarely will spend money on expensive coffees & lattes. Again, a rare treat.
I have also given up buying expensive jewellery. I have a few fabulous original pieces that I will never part with, the rest is costume – which I adore. Mind you, you can get some wonderful deals if you’re friends with a goldsmith! : )
I’m of the mindset now to not buy a brand new car again. If we do decide to, it won’t be more than $22000ish. I can’t justify what friends have spent on big trucks only to regret them. It’s crazy, to me, to have a vehicle loan payment that’s higher than my mortgage!
I also won’t buy expensive perfumes (atleast not in large bottles) or pricy cosmetics. I will however, induldge in OPI nail polish – totally worth it.
February 3, 2010 at 8:45 am
it’s amazing how many posts pop up while I’m trying to think about my response! lol!
MP: You’re so right about designer paint & housewares. – crazy!
I’m also swaying away from cheap shoes.
Kate, I couldn’t drop even $20 at the casino without really feeling bad about it. I’m just not a gambler.
Aimee, sounds like we think alike.
: )
February 3, 2010 at 8:53 am
I recently did a budget including all the things I think I “should” have…. and realized my expectations are a little high!!!!!
I don’t spend money on getting nails done, purses, expensive haircuts, housecleaning….
But we do enjoy eating out, movies and we have nice cars!
February 3, 2010 at 8:54 am
I am also with Pam, I don’t understand the need to spend hundreds of dollars on purses and wallets. I won’t spend my money on shoes either. Payless or Walmart is good enough for me when it comes to shoes.
We also won’t spend our money on kids clothes…we shop at Value Village and Talize for kids clothes…we find great deals and spend one third of the cost of retail, generally. We do buy some new, but it’s generally when it’s a really, really good sale.
February 3, 2010 at 8:54 am
There are a great number of things that I will not pay for.
I will not pay for television (I have rabbit ears and a 20″ TV)
I will not pay for a telephone company answering machine every month when I was able to buy one for a one time cost of $35.00
I will not pay for the 407 toll road
I will not buy any item other than a house that I do not have the funds to pay for (cars, included)
I will not pay for pre-made meals — I make them myself
That’s all that comes to mind this early morning.
February 3, 2010 at 9:12 am
My biggie is not allowing myself (us) to buy a decent, normal sized house for our area that would fit all of us, but cost half my cheque every month in mortgage, for the rest…….of…………my…………life.
Don’t get me wrong. If someone were to offer me a nice pretty house I’d take it in an instant. I loathe the size of my home. Actually, I’m embarrassed by it. I have a Brother in law staying for 2 nights and he’s on the couch downstairs. I don’t like how that makes me feel.
but I would like less, how it would feel, to know that payment is coming, each and every month, to get the bigger home.
February 3, 2010 at 9:17 am
I borrow books and DVDs from the library — I only buy books I’m sure I’ll want to read again and again. There are very few movies/TV series I would watch multiple times so it’s cheaper to borrow them from the library or rent them from the DVD place. This also means I get to take them back, so there’s less clutter in my house. And we’ve drastically cut down on going to movies in theatres too. We cancelled our cable several years ago. This adds up to significant savings over the years and significantly reduces our exposure to advertising trying to sell us stuff we don’t need.
Although we’re foodies, we’ve drastically cut down on certain types of eating out. It’s neither cheap nor satisfying to buy my lunch at work, so now I pack a lunch. We used to go out for dinner several times a week, but this became such a regular event that it didn’t give us much real pleasure. Now we eat out rarely and enjoy it more.
I went without a haircut for a year and a half (growing my hair out) but this was a fashion mistake.
February 3, 2010 at 9:26 am
I don’t spend money on:
designer label clothes – I dress fine doing all my clothing purchases at one store where I get a 25.00 gift certificate when I spend $500. I can get at least 5 or 6 outfits for $500 at this store as opposed to one or two designer ones.
designer purses – I love good quality purses but don’t see any reason to go into the $100 and above range to get good quality. Average spend is about $30.
Cheap shoes – although cheaper, don’t wear well, most times look cheap, and hurt feet.
Coffee house concoctions. If I do go out for coffee, I stick with plain old coffee. No lattees or the like for me. Saves about half.
daily newspaper – I just get the weekends and during the week look online for my news.
cheap pet food – I am of the belief that as with humans, pets who have a high quality diet also have less health problems in the long run
drug store makeup – although it is tempting because of the price, I have found that one quality blush or eyeshadow can last up to 4 times as long as a cheap one due to amount of pigment and other ingredients. They don’t crumble and there is less waste. You just have to be sure you pick colours you can live with for a while.
New one for me – restaurants – have found that the food I cook and that my friends cook is way better than most restaurants so this has been cut back to the occasional – maybe twice a month? outing.
February 3, 2010 at 9:34 am
I’d have to buy stuff in order to stop buying stuff. I get groceries every week, gas when it’s needed, and the basic necessities to get through each day. We eat out maybe once a month and that’s only because “it’s been one of those days”, and at that, we spend less that $20 (there’s five of us). We get clothes when the current ones don’t fit, and presents are meant for Christmas and birthdays. Our focus right now is paying off my student loans, and preparing for a change in lifestyle when our middle daughter goes to school in the fall (less child care, more lunch meals, etc.) and making sure the “extra” money doesn’t fall through the cracks.
The one thing I will spend money on is a nice holiday – to Disney World. I’ve been wanting to go for twenty years and we really want to take our kids. So in about two years, when the youngest isn’t to young, we’re going to make that trip – and it will be paid for from my planning for it now.
February 3, 2010 at 9:35 am
What wouldn’t I spend on? Haircuts – my hair is very long, in nice shape (I got the good hair gene) and I cut my bangs, the kids bangs, and my hubby’s buzz myself. Once every six months or so the kids need a trim because they actually have hair styles. But if I spend $25 for two trims, I’m laughing. Although, since my oldest daughter moved in with us, I’ve spent more on her hair than I’ve spent on anybody else’s in years, because she colours it. But, I’m learning to be a colourist in my spare time too! Sally Beauty Supply has way cheaper and better hair colours and tools than you’ll ever get in a box at the drugstore.
Also, makeup. I know you’re not supposed to use makeup for more than three months, but I hate wasting it. The minimal makeup I do wear is not susceptible to a lot of bacteria growth anyway and I keep my tools clean. I actually considered getting new makeup the other day but carried it around the store and then put it back because I just couldn’t thoil it!!
New cars – never. My trusty rusty has 396000 km on it, and I’m rooting for it to last until March, when I will buy a new-to-me high mileage beater with the cash I’ve saved.
New clothes and shoes – I blew $400 on a new wardrobe last fall, including shoes. I’m pretty sure some of this stuff I will still be wearing 10 years from now.
Brand name anything – there are a few brands I will buy (Heinz ketchup and Miracle Whip come to mind) because we tried the generic and couldn’t handle it. Other than that, if the store brand is cheaper, into the cart it goes!
February 3, 2010 at 9:37 am
TV & car. Our TV is one I got for ‘free’ one I got with my a [used] car purchase in 1997. Was that really 13 years ago???! We have bought another used car since then b/c of kids, but I hated that purchase too. I can’t think of anything worse than researching/talking to salespeople for electronics & cards.
February 3, 2010 at 9:44 am
I won’t spend on eating out unless I feel obligated to eg:kids team function. I don’t enjoy eating out as don’t know what the food contains as far as sodium and fat and additives go nor what bacteria could be lurking within and for the amount spent on some mediocre grub could really cook up a storm at home and drink wine. I very seldom buy coffee and would have to be out of town for that to happen. At home we happily drink instant coffee ‘horror’!. It helps that we never became accustomed to brewed as it was expensive and a treat where we grew up. As we are in the position of having to ‘catch up’ as in retirement and education savings we don’t have a pets, nor go on vacations. We go on the odd day excursion and our kids play organised sports year round – kaching, kaching. Over the years have heard the pleas for dogs and cats and the “why don’t we go to Cuba live everyone else”. Now as older our kids understand that we can’t have it all and most of the world has much less.
February 3, 2010 at 9:56 am
I won’t spend money on fancy cars or expensive make up.
I will save for better quality clothing, foot wear and furniture as opposed to buying a load of cheap stuff.
I love to cook so we like to eat at home, but will go out once or twice a month for a real dinner than several times at a fastfood restaurant.
I won’t pay for a housecleaner, I find them too aggravating, but I do pay for summer lawn maintenance.
Totally will save for vacations!!
February 3, 2010 at 10:08 am
I wouldn’t spend money on:
Anything designer – shoes, purses, clothing, so I guess shopping at Macy’s is out for me! Looking for sales is definitely for me. I don’t buy cheap shoes, as my husband needs good arch support, but I do look for shoes on sale.
Expensive coffees – I bring my own coffee to work each day.
Gambling – I am not a gambler, so that is not something I am tempted to do.
Lunch out everyday – I know people who do this, but I bring my lunch to work everyday. Once in awhile is fine, but to do this everyday, well, I would rather use that money to save for a vacation.
Expensive jewellery – I don’t buy anything, and have told my husband to not buy me any anymore, as I don’t want to wear it and lose it. I have a few good pieces that he purchased for me, but other than that, I keep things pretty simple.
My one vice is that I purchase Estee Lauder (or Clinique) lipstick. Normally I do this when they have the spring or fall sale, where you buy one lipstick and you get a whole pack of free stuff. This started many, many years ago, but I should just switch to drugstore brand lipstick, which would be less expensive. I don’t wear much make-up, but I like my lipstick to last.
What I would like to spend less on is groceries. Having a 17 year-old stepson doesn’t help, since the food seems to vanish. So, I will be sticking to my grocery budget and shopping alone. My husband cannot stick to a list, and when he says “such and such is on sale this week”, I feel very guilty. Since I only have a limited amount of money to spend, I have to say “no” a lot, and I then feel guilty. Sometimes this is hard, so I put the “blinders” on and race to the check out.
February 3, 2010 at 10:09 am
Lots to think about here. I will pay for a good haircut. I’ve had TERRIBLE ones and refuse to go cheap on one. That said, I don’t spend a lot on make up. I buy good quality clothes on sale. I don’t spend on music or books. I do spend money on dinners out with friends because, as I am single, its part of my socializing. I can’t do without it.
February 3, 2010 at 10:11 am
I’ll spend money on a lot of things but two:
1) Lottery tickets / casino – the house always wins.
2) Bank fees. I’ll walk ten miles in winter to my bank than pay an ATM charge.
February 3, 2010 at 10:18 am
Lots of good responses to a very interesting question. I agree with some, and I disagree with others. We each have our own reasons.
What won’t I spend money on ? Hmm…
I won’t spend money on… replacing what isn’t broken.
My husband wanted to replace the living room tv with a fancy plasma tv. I talked him out of it. We have a really nice plasma tv in the ‘tv room’, and that’s fine. The one he wanted to replace is less than 10 years old, fits the space, and is still in excellent shape. And besides, if there’s a movie to be watched, we do it together on the big tv. I don’t need a $2000 tv in the livingroom to fall asleep by.
I won’t spend money on… buying items that won’t be used frequently.
There are all kinds of neat appliances and gadgets and doodads on the market today. I really can’t ‘thoil’ spending money on something that i won’t incorporate into my regular routine.
I won’t spend money on… cheap, or poorly made, items that I expect to last.
Sure, there are lots of ‘bargains’ out there, but if it falls apart after one season of wear, or breaks after the third use, it’s no bargain.
There are lots more things I won’t spend money on, but they are too numerous to list. The three I listed are the big ones. And besides, I am not the only person in the home. My husband has a voice too. And I know he agrees with me on these three points.
February 3, 2010 at 10:23 am
I won’t spend (much, if any) money on:
- vacations or trips
- designer label clothing, shoes and accessories
- gambling
- expensive make up
- hairstyling/colouring/spa/manicures/etc…
- expensive restaurants
We’re pretty minimalist though, in terms of shopping and how we spend our money. When we hear talk about a “make do” month, we pat ourselves on the back because pretty much every month is a “make do” month, in order to save up money to spend on the things we do enjoy spending our money on.
February 3, 2010 at 10:23 am
When the question was first posed, I really had to think about it-not because I buy a lot of stuff, but because once you get used to not buying stuff, I find you stop thinking about what isn’t there. Thankfully, others responses got the old wheels turning, and apparently, I’m not too unique around here. No fancy attire/accessories/jewelery for this gal, no fast food (if I’m going to spend money to eat out, it better be something truly yummy that I can’t make easily at home e.g., sushi), no blingy cars (just something safe and reliable-I drive a lot for work), we don’t try to keep up with the latest electronics (one of my favourite gifts was my iPod that I got Christmas 2005-it’s bigger than the new generations, but still works like a charm), and our house is modest, but plenty for two people and a dog.
I guess I spend more time thinking about what we do spend our money on, the stuff we love: time with family and friends, (my most recent purchase was for theatre tickets to make my favourite kid, my niece, to see the Broadway show Beauty and the Beast when it comes to my town-it will be a great day and a fun memory-I’m so excited to take her), travel, our favourite hobbies… with all this filling our lives, who can feel like their missing out something they’re not spending their money on?
February 3, 2010 at 10:49 am
I won’t spend money on new things for the sake of being new. For example, I drive a 2003 Blazer which my husband has often said is “about to break down any minute” and we “need” a new one. I refuse. It is in perfect shape. He’s just bored and wants something flashy. I also won’t buy the new fancy lcd tv I want until our current tv breaks (oooooh, I hope it breaks!). I also do not buy repeat items because the new one has a new feature or something (i.e. ipods)
February 3, 2010 at 10:53 am
I would spend money on a cleaning lady in a minute- but it ain’t gonna happen- sigh.
I used to think we would never spend money having someone renovate our basement- I always thought we would do the work- now, however, we are realizing that we don’t have the time in the day to do the work ourselves. I will consider that money well spent. I will not spend money on a 3G cell phone and plan. I honestly have no need for a blackberry or an iphone. Me and my pay-as-you-go cell are doing fine.
February 3, 2010 at 11:06 am
I won’t spend money on designer labels, or expensive vehicles. However, I totally understand spending money on travel rather than a house. As a single person I do not regret any trips I took, only the ones I didn’t, and when I traveled I contributed to my RRSP every year but one. Now, as travel has become so complicated and getting through boarding a ridiculous hassle I am so glad I traveled when it was fun.
I inherited a house and although it is nice to have my own home the repairs and maintenance has also clipped my wings. I will not buy granite countertops or brand new stainless steel appliances, however a good furnace and hot water tank were worth spending money on.
I will not spend money just to buy the newest gadget/cell phone/mp3 player etc. I know the minute I purchase some appliance or electronic equipment it is already obsolete, but if I don’t need all the bells and whistles I already have, why try to always get the next new model?
February 3, 2010 at 11:13 am
Sigh…. I will spend money on getting some good wine. Now that I am in training I don’t drink very often so when I do it had better be worth it.
Clothes – I just discovered a fantastic consignment store…with, get this….designer labels, oh bliss. I can indulge and still not have the credit hangover. It isn’t that I am a clothing snob, I just find that if I buy cheap clothing they fall apart, or don’t wash well so I completely wasted my money. However, a really good pair of jeans or shirt will last me for years.
Food – I am a foodie, so if I’m going to go out for a meal it had better be good, or it isn’t worth the calories and the cash. Since I have to travel to get to a great restaurant it isn’t done very often.
Pets – well I finally got a cat, and then a dog. They are a luxury, I can’t deny that. However they also really earn their keep. The dog needs to be walked everyday, so that forces my girls to go out in the cold with me, and we TALK. Wonderful exercise and family time. They don’t even complain about going out. Sometimes we stop by Tim Hortons and they use some of their allowance money to get a treat for when we get home. So also a money lesson involved. Really the dog has been priceless in return.
Car – we bought a hideously expensive van years ago, because my then husband could fit in it. He is 6′8″ and there are few vehicles that he can comfortably drive. I ended up with the van after we separated, but now it is paid for and I will drive it until it drops.
Makeup – another splurge, but not really. The cheap stuff that I have tried just doesn’t do the job. I will try some cheap mascara again after my CD runs out, but a couple months ago I went crying into the drug store saying “I can’t take the cheap mascara any more!”. MAC is somewhat pricey to buy, but I find that it lasts an extremely long time, so I save in the long run.
February 3, 2010 at 11:17 am
I would happily give up virtually everything to maximize the travel budget. For me, it’s the only thing I love to splurge on. Trouble is I have a husband and kids who like to travel but aren’t willing to do it at the expense of everything else. It’s a balancing act.
We won’t buy new cars – our newest ever was 3 yrs old and I don’t see that changing.
We hate wasting money on restaurants for things we could easily make at home cheaper and with less salt and/or fat. We generally only go when there’s a family occasion to celebrate and everyone else wants to meet up at a restaurant. Years ago before we evaluated where our priorities really were, we used to eat out weekly but now it’s never more than 4-5 times a year, and it’s never our idea. Of course, this doesn’t include eating in restaurants while on vacation – but even then we tend to get a place with a kitchen and pickup items for DIY picnics while out sightseeing.
We won’t buy any clothes unless we actually need something, or if the kids have out grown something. We don’t specifically budget for clothing at all. The kids usually get all they need at Christmas and birthdays. After a severe editing of our closets I decided that (like most women) I have plenty of clothes and just need to wear what I already have. In September I decided to suspend clothing shopping for myself completely. I’m attempting to go at least 2 years without buying any new clothing. FIve months into it and I mostly forget I set this goal because I never go into a mall without a list and a purpose so I don’t find myself window shopping. When dropping off a bag of clothing donations over the holidays I did buy a $2 sweater, in a weak moment. So I guess $2 over 20 weeks means I am averaging .10 a week. Yay! Unless I wear out a lot of stuff in the next two years, I may extend this plan indefinitely. I generally buy very classic styles, everything mixes and matches, and I had a good assortment of things to start with. I never buy anything trendy so what I have will still look good for a long time.
February 3, 2010 at 11:24 am
hmmmm..what won’t I spend money on?
- name brand anything unless it’s on sale
- gambling
- phones and other gizmo’s that i just don’t need
- purses/shoes/jewelry and other typical girl stuff
February 3, 2010 at 11:35 am
Here are some of mine:
Processed foods that I can easily make: Pizza, chicken fingers/wings, stirfry,etc. stuff that I am totally capable of making and it tastes loads better. Also if I have defrosted chicken ready it takes the same amount of time for me to make homemade chicken fingers.
Cars: I will never buy a new car ever again.
Expensive shoes/purses: I love Payless for purses, they look nice and last a long time. For shoes I usually wait for a sale, but rarely spend lots of money on a pair. Depending on the style of shoe I will sometimes buy cheap shoes (flats) or more expensive shoes (running shoes I am picky about)
Wedding things: I am planning my wedding and there are several things that I will not purchase or will make myself: brides bouqet (will make), chair covers, invitations (will print at home), photographer (my friends have sick cameras). I also bought my dress used at a charity bridal store (Brides’ Project).
The ‘best’ ipod or macbook. I am an Apple junkie and I do have a macbook and an Ipod. however when I buy them I usually buy the cheaper one. By the time I fill up my ipod in a few years time a better one will be out.
February 3, 2010 at 11:37 am
Since I am really new at all this the one thing that I will not spend money on is Children’s Clothes. If I buy a shirt at a cosignment store (still brand name) I can spend between $3.50-10, the same shirt in it’s original store…$20-45….and boys go through clothes so quickly.
February 3, 2010 at 11:38 am
The “deals” at Walmart. Walmart is destroying the capacity of communities all over the world to be financially and democratically independent. If I save a dollar, how many people lose their livelihood?
February 3, 2010 at 11:46 am
Hope that didn’t sound “snotty” or judgemental of people who choose this store. I don’t mean to be, it’s just that I’ve studeied the issues related to globalisation and for me I’d rather do without (and since I am seriously underemployed, that is my only alternative) than feel guilty about my purchase.
I try to be consistent about my values but I certainly know that I am not perfect and I’m sure that othere choices I make also have unintended-by-me consequences.
February 3, 2010 at 11:47 am
So glad about this post… Thanks Gail for reversing the perspective on this issue I had since I’m becoming debt free this month and really wondered about what to do next…
This entire experience has been quite life changing for me. My whole set of priorities have changed and I need to reassess what I want since I now know how little I actually need.
What I do not want to spend on anymore…
A car worth the yearly salary of two families. I find it indecent. I sold the car at the beginning of my getting debt free and now use the cooperative service along with transit… and my own two feet
Labelled clothing – I found out Thrift stores are filled with treasures to be discovered, cheap, neat and eco friendly.
Five stars hotels – Hostelling International kind of places are not only a great social expericence on their own, it made me realize that I don’t go abroad to spend time in a fancy room… I only need a comfy bed to rest. And have a blast booting around!
Cheap restaurant and fast food – I might as well make my few eating out worth being remembered.
A house – simply because i do not feel the need to settle and do not feel it is a worthwhile investment of time and money.
As you can see, lots I would not spend on… but that’s a nice start… now I got to find what I will spend my money on…
February 3, 2010 at 12:05 pm
lottery tickets…they’re a tax on idiots. I get points on my gas card though, so I use those for a ticket now and then.
brand name clothing. If it fits, good. If it doesn’t, I dont’ buy it. Has nothing to do with brand name.
super fancy phone. I need to make phone calls and text. That’s it. Don’t need 5000 extra, costly features.
February 3, 2010 at 12:07 pm
It’s interesting to read everyones responses. Food for thought…
I also don’t give in to the latest & greatest gadgets.
While I’d love a laptop, I’m pretty sure I can upgrade my PC for less than $200.00 (which will need to be soon).
I only have an ipod because my mom won it on Roll up the Rim – lucky me!
I broke down and bought a new cell phone because no one could hear me on the old one, but I refuse to go with a package deal. Pay as you go is more than fine with me.
I’d sure love a new pretty LCD TV, but it’s not in the budget. Maybe next year.
One of our DVD players died recently. I was going to buy a new one, but now I just move our other one between the TVs we have. We don’t use it a lot so why buy another one? It’s not complicated to move.
Being mindful of my spending has been very beneficial. It makes me be more creative and think twice before I buy.
Today I scored a beautiful dinningroom table at a consignment furniture store for $150! Our current table is in a sad state. I’m so pleased with this deal! REAL WOOD and a classic style – that will last! AND I have the money to afford it.
February 3, 2010 at 12:51 pm
I won’t spend money on:
call waiting/ answer
new cars
lottery tickets
hi-speed internet (til my kids are teenage…?)
cafeteria lunches at work
alcoholic drinks at restaurants
the latest gadgets
but I want to save for vacations, kids’ activities, cutting back enough for me to only work part-time and be home for the kids while they’re little
February 3, 2010 at 12:54 pm
things I won’t spend money on:
Cars – I live in a big city so it seems pointless to me to own a car, I wonder though if this will change if I have kids.
cheap stuff – I would rather wait and save to get the higher quality item, this includes everything from kitchen appliances to electronics to clothing. I also tend to spend a lot of time researching what is the best quality item so I find it funny that it usually isn’t the brand name.
Reading other people’s lists I find it interesting how many people wouldn’t spend money on travel, this is something I love to do so I would sacrifice a lot of other stuff for travel, however I would never spend money on a resort, cruise or all-inclusive trip. I would much rather go off the beaten track.
February 3, 2010 at 1:17 pm
I agree with Anne, thanks for your comment. I will not spend money on anything at WalMart. I won’t spend money on designer clothes or “labels”.
I *will* spend money on eating out and traveling. These are two things that I REALLY enjoy, and I am willing to make sacrifices in other areas to make these happen. I live in a smaller house in an area of the city that is sometimes frowned upon because of the crime and the population so that I have more money available for travel.
February 3, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Here’s what I won’t spend money on unless absolutely forced:
- A car (+ car insurance, gas, maintenance, parking). I bought a small condo in a location where I can walk to work and the grocery store. I take public transit for everything else.
- Internet at home and/or a Smartphone. As a single person, there is no way I’m paying Rogers or Bell over $100/month for entertainment. I decided I’d rather have (basic) cable TV over internet.
- Buying lunch. It’s tastier, healthier, and cheaper to make my own.
- Designer clothing or accessories. Are you kidding?
- The latest and greatest electronic gadgets. My tv is so old that I need a special digital-to-analog converter to be able to use my DVD player!
What I do spend money on:
- Mortage pre-payments, maximum RRSP contribution & regular savings
- Charity donation with every paycheque
- Athletic team membership with professional coaching staff
- Baking classes at the local college
- Interior decorator. I had money saved for new furniture when I bought my condo, and the decorator helped figure out the best way to spend that money on good quality, high-value pieces.
- Good shoes. This is my major transportation cost.
- Hair salon. I used to hate wasting money on bad hair cuts, and avoided the salon. Then I found Tanya.
- Travel. The last trip (Austraila) was before I bought the condo. The next trip won’t be for a few years.
February 3, 2010 at 1:31 pm
The stuff I won’t spend money on is the stuff I don’t really want – bank fees, cars, booze, cable TV, fancy coffees, purses and cell phones. On the other hand, I’ll shell out a lot for comfy shoes, Banana Republic type clothes, a top-end laptop every few years, and travel.
February 3, 2010 at 1:35 pm
We won’t spend money on a TV. We don’t have one and don’t want one. Our children are active and read books. We play together and teach them our values rather than exposing them to the crap that’s passing as “entertainment”. Besides, we can watch the good shows, like TDDUP on the internet.
We won’t spend money on a snazzy cell phone. We have one, pay as you go, to keep in the car in case of an emergency. And yes, forgetting the grocery list at home constitutes an emergency.
I was going to poo-poo the clothing catergory on the budget, after all, when, besides a new job, would I need clothes; I’m done growing? It turns out that the pyjamas I’ve had since university will fall apart after a decade. I was totally not prepared for that. And they all broke at once! Obviously I will pay more for the quality to last me the next 10 years.
As for a new car, that does float my boat, so we’ll be saving up to pay cash.
February 3, 2010 at 1:37 pm
I also am someone who loves to scrounge for a great travel trip, but to each their own! What I won’t spend money on is…
- Extra TV channels. (As much as I love A&E, the Food Network, TSN, or Slice…I am not spending $30 a month on something that I can go to a friend’s house to watch for free. Plus it gives us a good excuse to get together with them!)
- Gym Memberships. (What did people do before gyms were invented? I spent $10 on weights, and can still get the same workout at home with good old fashioned weight training, plus push-ups, crunches, lunges and squats. As for my cardio, nothing beats a good walk or jog around town! I do love kickboxing, but opted for a cost-per-use pass…$10/visit, instead of the $50-60/month they charge for membership. Works great, and I don’t beat myself up when life gets too busy, and I can’t go for a few weeks!)
- Regular Price Movies. (I love watching new movies in the theatres, but when they have cheap movie night on Tuesdays, and half-price matinées on the weekend, it doesn’t make sense to pay full price! If you bring your own snacks, you can save even more!)
- Organic Fruits and Vegetables. (My parents live near a few organic fruit farms in BC. Those farms are conveniently located directly beside farms that aren’t organic and use pesticides. I have a hard time believing that the wind isn’t going to just carry those same chemicals over to the organic farms…so paying double for these fruits and veggies in the supermarket makes no sense to me!)
February 3, 2010 at 1:48 pm
Won’ts:
Expensive coffee – it’s a treat now and again; or if I get a coffee card as a gift, I use that
Fancy spa days – these are treats now and again
Housecleaner – I can’t justify the cost – I’m not a neat freak, the place is tidy BUT I would pay someone to dust
Brand spanking new car – if it costs a mortgage payment to finance – not for me
Designer labels – I’m not a label shopper – if I like it I buy, but price is usually the factor as opposed to the ‘name’ on the label
Fancy new gadgets/electronics – I’d rather wait until the price goes down even though it still won’t be the latest or greatest version
Cell phone/blackberry – don’t currently have a cell (shocker) since Aug last yr – will have to do some research on the pay-as-you-go plans – won’t get stuck into a contract again
Expensive ‘designer’ makeup – I’m fine with the drug store brands
Bank fees, overdraft, atm fees, credit card interest . . .
Wills: I have the travel bug so would toss money at that in a heartbeat.
February 3, 2010 at 2:06 pm
Ooo thought of a few more;
I won’t spend money on movie theatres (10 dollar popcorn, really?), super high speed internet (and I work from home for one of the world’s largest tech companies but seriously don’t need it!), premium cable (as long as I can get Til Debt do Us Part, CSI, and Family Guy, I’m good)
I WILL spend money on good coffee beans to grind at home, good hair stylest (hair hasn’t been the same since chemo), and books (I donate to library when done).
February 3, 2010 at 2:13 pm
What I won’t spend $$$ on:
1. Books, magazines, DVDs: I actually spend over $250,000 on these items every year – in my job as a librarian! Why buy more when you can get all these things at the library for free.
2. A cell phone. Even a cheap $50/month plan (and most people I know spend far, far more) is more expensive than 100 calls from a payphone. And who really, really NEEDS to make 100 calls a month when they’re out.
3. A second car. My husband and I have one, but we got rid of the 2nd one. We calculated that for what we spent on gas, insurance, parking and car payments, we could take a cab to work three times a week. Or, of course, we could just get off our lazy butts and walk/cycle.
4. Gym memberships. See above. Get off your lazy butts and walk/cycle! Outdoors!
5. Clothes. Better to spend a lot of money on a few items, and have them professionally tailored, then buy a ton of cheap crap that just takes up space in your closet. Go to a designer consignment shop and get well made clothes at a low cost.
6. Interest! If you must borrow, shop around for the best rate. And try to do all you can to avoid having to borrow.
February 3, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Good for Grace for seeing the world. She’s never going to regret that. I never did.
February 3, 2010 at 2:29 pm
I would not spend money on a new car. I think it a waste of money. If you look around you can find a reliable good used car.
February 3, 2010 at 2:34 pm
I don’t spend money on anything that I can’t pay for in full at the time of purchase, including cars. I don’t like paying interest fees so I made myself pay off my mortgage.
I won’t buy something new if the old one still works.
February 3, 2010 at 2:35 pm
There’s lots of things I wouldn’t spend money on: eating out, fancy vacations, designer clothes, gambling/lottery, cars, expensive jewelry, movie theatres, housecleaning services, replacing things that aren’t broken, electronic gadgets, fancy coffee drinks, alcohol, gym/exercise classes, cable TV, haircuts or nail care.
I also refuse to shop at Walmart for ethical reasons. I try to buy at local shops rather than large chains.
What I do like to spend my money on is a modest amount of good quality clothing and shoes (purchased rarely, and on sale), good quality cosmetics and perfumes, books, and good quality food for myself and my pets. The pets are a luxury that I would sacrifice a lot to keep, since they are so important to my personal happiness. Travel I used to love but it’s gotten so unpleasant nowadays that I prefer to avoid it.
February 3, 2010 at 3:25 pm
I don’t buy status symbol items. I like classic styled clothes and footwear and will buy quality that lasts 5 – 10 years.
I rarely buy books unless I’m going to keep referring back to them. I love using the library, so many choices and if I pick a dud, no guilty feelings.
I rarely buy convenience food, preferring the taste, health benefits and quantity I can make from scratch. I love having my own selection of homemade nutritious meals ready to heat from my freezer.
I’ve gone back to a simpler lifestyle and that suits me fine.
February 3, 2010 at 3:31 pm
I will actually still spend money on just about everything and anything but the difference now is that I only spend real money, not credit. We buy needs and plan for wants. I have always been a bargain hunter anyways so I never pay full retail. The difference is that now I understand that buying 5 pairs of shoes that are on sale so that I save $100 isn’t a real savings if you buy on credit and end up paying $10,000 in interest for those same shoes.
But I do have a few of lines that I will not cross.
I will not spend money to go to a movie. The last time we went was in 1988 and we left halfway through because of the bad behavior of the audience. Kicking the backs of seats, shouting, swearing, throwing popcorn and playing touchy feely in plain view of the children. And that was just my husband. The rest of audience all had gi-normous heads that blocked the screen no matter where I moved, elbows that they must have sharpened before leaving home and the weakest bladders in the known natural kingdom. Admittedly since I am now older I completely get the bladder thing (am even pissed off with PBS – for gosh sake’s would it kill ya to have a commercial?) and it would really annoy me to miss the exciting bit of the movie (‘cause of course that is always the exact time when crossing your legs stops working) and then have to get a catch-up from a husband who thinks that whispering involves spitting into my ear canal. And come on!!! The cost is outrageous. Babysitters, parking, tickets, snacks. There have been kidnapped victims ransomed for less. If I wait a week I can rent the DVD and if I wait a couple months I get it on TV for almost free.
I will not spend money on doggie clothes. How humiliating. And not for the dog. We live in the Yukon so it is really cold up here and yet the only acceptable clothing for dogs are ice-boots. Even the neighbour’s Yorkies have learned to tough it out. Okay they do wear sweaters but at least they are knit out of wool spun from dog hair.
I will not spend money on plastic surgery or any other procedures. It is not that I don’t need it or that I couldn’t afford it if I set my mind to it but first off I just hate to see doctors getting richer and second, I am a terrible coward. I hate needles. Don’t even darn socks (my excuse and I am sticking too it). And they never tell you the truth or warn you of the real dangers. My friend had a face peel and other snips, nips and tucks and I went to visit her in hospital. She is fine, looks great now that the giant bloody scab that was her entire face has fallen off, but I am still undergoing treatment for post traumatic stress.
February 3, 2010 at 3:33 pm
Hmmm what wouldn’t I spend money on?
A luxury car — I’m not really into fancy cars. My husband and I try to buy functional and safe cars. We’re not the luxury car type people. Anything that will get us from point A to point B is all we want.
Cheap shoes — I like to have my shoes last longer than one season so I try to buy higher quality shoes (and I save money by shopping at the outlets — have to drive across the border for this but still worth it as I also buy most of my clothes there too)
Top of the line home furnishings — maybe this is because we have kids so we know food is going to be thrown onto anything and everything. We also are in a home that we know will not be our forever home. So whatever can take some wear and tear and is affordable is what we furnish and decorate our house with.
I am loving the simple life and living with less
February 3, 2010 at 3:43 pm
I will not spend money on designer bags or clothes, however do not like cheap Wal-Mart/Payless shoes they just don’t last and they are not comfortable. My Naturalizer shoes are 3-5 yrs old so well worth the $100/pr. I will not buy electronic gadgets, I do not own an ipod, fancy cell, video games/players, stereo, etc. I have a $50 cell phone that uses prepaid mins. I will not buy a new car, there are millions of excellent used vehicles out there. I own a very nice 2004 Jeep Liberty and it was the most expensive vehicle I ever bought at 14K but I will have it for many years. I will not ever give up eating out because I hate cooking and everything associated with it. I would gladly pay for a cleaning lady again in a heart beat. I rarely buy lottery tickets perhaps 6 per yr, its just a waste of $10-20. Do not rent/buy movies and I I just don’t see the point in owning movies at all.
February 3, 2010 at 3:48 pm
I won’t spend money on:
1. High end or new cars. Its a waste of money to buy new.
2. Perfume. I don’t like to smell like chemicals and give people around me headaches.
3. Lottery tickets or casinos. I wouldn’t even know how to ask the cashier for a lottery ticket. When I hear people do it its like their talking another language.
4. Lunches out at work. Can afford it and my waistline can’t handle it.
5. Technology. I hate how cellphones crap out after a year or two. It drives me nuts! Whenever my cellphone dies I ask around see if anyone has one their not using because they “upgraded”.
6. Pop or fast food
7. Movie theatre. I wait till it comes to rental and get it threw the kiosks at Safeway for 1.88$.
Oh I am sure I could think of lots more.
Its interesting to see people’s differences. There was a couple comments about how people would never spend money on gym memberships. I can not live without mine. It provides me entertainment via swimming, soccer, badminton, volleyball, curling, skating, and of course the fitness facilities. I find that I don’t have the focus at home that I need to push myself as hard as I can. I love walking and cycling outside in the summer but in the winter I can never get a good walk due to ice on the sidewalks, etc. For $41 a month I have all the entertainment and activity/exercise options that I need.
I guess you have to figure out what works for you.
February 3, 2010 at 4:05 pm
Won’t spend on:
new cars / car payments
interest payments (if I can at all avoid it)
mechanic (my husband is amazingly talented!)
techno-gadgets
replacing something that works fine
NEVER – cigarettes nor other health threatening chemical vices.
Don’t like to spend on:
dinner out (GC’s for Christmas take about a year to use up)
haircuts
software upgrades (I’ll do it kicking and screaming if I HAVE to)
retail price anything
new clothes
February 3, 2010 at 4:11 pm
Nicknacks. In vancouver there’s actually a store devoted to “chachkas” and things you use to decorate your house. But they just sit and do nothing. I’d rather take my own pictures, or leave my space uncluttered than buy things that sit there just looking pretty.
February 3, 2010 at 4:26 pm
OMG Maureen, you crack me up!! *ha ha ha*
In 18 months I can say I will not spend money on CC interest…outside of that, I do not spend money on anything Walmart-ish anymore because I know the value of a quality-made pair of pants at work. You know, the ones that don’t a) unravel at the seam while in an important meeting b) shrink so small my cats can wear them, or c) stretch the instant I put them on so that I look like I’m wearing a diaper all day at work. Yeah, I’ve experienced all 3, so I’m good with cheap quality clothing now!
I won’t spend money on electronics…I get my kids’ hand-me-down iPods at a steal, and since I rarely get to hold the remote, my husband’s responsible for any necessary upgrade purchases for tvs/stereos, etc.
I’d love to have a fairy come by and clean my toilets and floors every now and then, maybe throw a meal together while he’s there (muahahaha), but I’m too cheap for that right now, and I prefer to teach my kids to do it anyway.
But I do not cheap out on haircuts, vitamins, and medical care like massage therapy, chiro, physio, etc. It’s good for my body and soul. I’ve had the haircut that nobody could ever fix before, so until I need to become a blue-haired lady when I’m 95, I’m good with a nice trim and colour.
February 3, 2010 at 4:50 pm
I absolutely refuse to buy salon hair care items. They are an absolute rip-off! Pantene all the way for me because not only is it a much lower price, but it works the best! I’m not a coffee person so when I was in Scotland a few months ago, I was dragged from Starbucks to Starbucks… Sheesh, why go all the way across the ocean and then buy expensive coffee that you can get at home any time? I’ve seen a lot of people do that with McDonalds and other American restaurant chains too. When I go somewhere in the world I sample the local food and drink because it’s just plain better!
February 3, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Ok, I have to ask… what on earth does ‘thoil’ mean? At first I thought it was a typo, but now I see several people using it…
February 3, 2010 at 5:06 pm
Anne, right on about the Wal-Mart issue. I feel exactly the same way.
Jo-G, a girl has to have good lipstick! Isn’t that why they have referred to this latest downturn as a Lipstick Economy?
February 3, 2010 at 5:16 pm
Off topic but I partly saved my marriage by finding and hiring a cleaning lady. There’s still plenty to do, but it’s nice having the house spotless if only for a few hours every two weeks. Love it! Plus wifey is so happy.
February 3, 2010 at 5:26 pm
I would spend money on a lot more stuff if I had the money but since I am broke I don’t. So I’ll just list the things I wouldn’t buy even if I had the money:
-gambling
-call waiting – I think it is extremely rude and very irritating
-cheaply made shoes as they kill the feet and make me cranky
-alcohol – that’s because I don’t like the taste
-a Gucci bag – I think they are ugly
-a Louis Vuitton bag – same as the Gucci
-a gym membership – I know I wouldn’t use it
February 3, 2010 at 5:50 pm
Wow – it’s really interesting to read all these comments. I am having a hard time listing things I would “never” willingly spend my money on. Usually if I can see value in something I’ll buy it. Although “thoil” is part of my vocabulary.
SophieW: my understanding of “thoil” is when you can afford something but really can’t justify the expense (for example a $15 hamburger at the Calgary Stampede).
I absolutely detest giving the banks money. Like Geoff I will trek miles to go to a home bank machine than use another bank’s. I also refuse to pay interest on my credit card and I always pay the balance in full. I also ask the banks to waive administration fees on my investment accounts.
And I refuse to purchase bubble furniture. That’s just wrong….
February 3, 2010 at 6:23 pm
Things I don’t like to spend on:
eating out – difficult for me to do with my diet…I know what I’m getting as the chef
electronics – have a cell phone for emergencies only – people with phones attached
to their faces 24/7 amaze me – so rude making me listen to a call
with your mother about your visit to the obstetrician (with all the gory
details) while I’m trying to sit and enjoy a coffee and my book
the blackberry/twitter craze I hope will be short lived – I fear there will
be a carpal tunnel physicians in drive thrus
my old cd player works fine but I prefer my turntable/400 45’s/vinyl
33 1/3’s and 78’s so don’t need an Ipod or whatever
cheap shoes – I’m with those who need a couple of good pairs that last a long time.
I feel most of us treat our feet very badly…and look how hard they
work for us!
books -used to, but, not any longer. Always have used the library system,
but do now 100% unless I’m given a gift card. By the way Gail,
just got gifted with your new book for my birthday!
perfume -I became allergic about a year ago. Wish people would forego
perfumes, lotions, powders. I have to wear a mask at work quite
a bit.
designer duds – my very wealthy girlfriend (now deceased) plunked down $900
for a Wayne Clark little black dress. I almost needed a paper bag
to breath.
new car -this is new to us. We often purchased new as our cars are well
maintained and last for years. No more. Hubby is driving used
and I’m in the 2006 Toyoto (oh vey…must check the gas pedal soon)
that we will drive into the ground
elective surgery I may have the bags they came in,
but I had them when I needed them. Wrinkles? I earned them.
Won’t skimp on: fruit and veggies and other good foods
furbaby care
good coffee – this is my only vice (don’t drink, smoke or chew
or associate with those that do – old adage from the dark ages)
ah….I can’t think of anything else at present and must get cooking……
February 3, 2010 at 6:26 pm
I will not pay for a car or for cable; there’s a bus to work right outside the door and some bunny ears on top of my TV…
February 3, 2010 at 6:29 pm
Thoil – click on Gail’s archives (any month), then do a search (box of right) for thoil, you’ll find an article with it in the title (I think it’s Wants & Needs and what you can Thoil)!
February 3, 2010 at 7:08 pm
lol I didn’t even consider cigerettes and lotto tickets. As some said I have no clue on how to purchase those items.
I also don’t buy magazines off the shelf. I subsribe to two magazines, both via school fundraisers and they cost much less. I get my US weekly fix at the local Chapters.
In terms of cable vs. internet. I always go with the internet. I could careless if I have cable or not. I can watch all my shows on the internet which defeats the purpose of paying for cable (why is it so expensive anyways??). I need the internet for work (half my supply teaching days are done via email) so I can’t really not have the internet.
February 3, 2010 at 8:12 pm
Won’t buy at all: Cosmetics, anything related to the TV (no time to watch TV anyway), kitchen gear (my mother is happy that there is *something* I want for Christmas), anything with expensive designer labels, new cars.
Will buy only in minimum quantities, and with minimum features: toiletries (the bathroom cupboard is empty), electronics (hate shopping for them more than I hate shopping for clothes), haircuts, lottery tickets (one a month).
Won’t buy cheap/low quality: 1. Clothes, shoes, accessoirs. I want those things to last. 2. Fast food, take out, coffee, restaurant meals. I won’t pay for eating out if I can cook it better myself. 3. Bicyles. I want a bicyle I enjoy riding.
Other limitatations: No items that I don’t see myself using regulary. Nothing that does not fit into the existing space (be it the wardrobe, the kitchen cupboard, or the bookshelves). Nothing that I cannot pay for cash on the table. (Which means, no flat or house.)
February 3, 2010 at 9:35 pm
My husband and I agree that we won’t spend crazy amounts of money on our kid’s birthday parties. Of course we say that now since one is turning two years old and the other is two months old. Ask me again when my girls turn sweet sixteen!
But for now, we really can’t see ourselves going whole hog — renting ponies, a magician, and bouncy castles etc. Besides, at this age they won’t remember whether we had a big bash or not. I’d rather make an effort everyday to make special memories with my girls as opposed to just on their birthdays.
February 3, 2010 at 10:11 pm
I would go for making a budget. My priorities would include food, shelter, and education. If there are extras, that would be spent for family outings.
February 4, 2010 at 1:06 am
I don’t spend money on expensive clothes. I’ll buy nice stuff that fits me well, but the idea of blowing $200 on a pair of jeans or $400 on a pair of shoes just baffles me. Especially because I have 2 little kids, and they’ll smear snotty noses all over pricey clothes just the same as affordable ones, and at least the affordable ones can go in the washing machine.
February 4, 2010 at 2:28 am
I wont and I will Pay is like To BE and Not To BE is the question…
I wont pay for a expensive movie in the theatre since most time it’s just turns out a silly movie and we blown away $50..
I’ll never join a gym since there is so much to explore in the clean out doors with the seasons always changing.. So I got a flyer route. Exercise is the goal in this side job but now hubby and I have to walk twice a week.. Pull a wagon and it gets lighter as the job gets done. But now I laugh at all those ppl that think they need those machines and toys to keep in shape but I get paid to exercise in the cold, heat, rain, snow, and hail..
We will never own two vehicles unless the family ever grows and we need the second auto instead of sharing this one..
We won’t spend on another tv in the house when we can share the one..
We didn’t buy a bbq untill it wouldn’t cook any longer the food through or heat up properly…
Won’t buy cheap things since they never last. The things need to be of a good quality…
Won’t buy expensive (birthday) cards when at the right dollar store u can find the same good quality ones for a buck and sometimes other things like gift bags, doggie dishes, etc. But wont buy food or candy at a dollar store since it seems to be always stale.
Won’t buy no name brands of food since there’s always a sale on name food stuff..
Won’t buy organic foods since that food should be cheaper to grow without all extra they put in for what ever reasons … and it could be growing beside a farm with the wrong sprays flying in the wind..
Except organic beef since it taste waaaaaaaaayyyy better and less grease, and animals are treated more like animals should be treated like..
I won’t buy cleaners for the hair from the salon since I think their over price for a drugstore product.
I won’t buy dog cleaners to wash the dog when water is a cleaner in it self..
I won’t go into specified make up stores when I’ve found good products that work on me through the drugstore or Body Lotion stores..
I won’t buy designer things since I’m buying name and not the quality of the item unless I know it’s a good product but then again I don’t know a designer item is..
I won’t buy cheap clothing since most of the time it does look cheap on ppl.. I won’t follow the trends. I’ll buy things that I really really like or I’ll never enjoy it or use that much.. It becomes a dust article… I won’t spend hundreds of dollars on an article of clothing but upto hundred of dollar. I will spend upto two hundred on good, comfort shoes since I need my hard working feet where ever I go..
I won’t buy scientific animal food when the natural food we eat should be good anuf for the animals below us.. So the cheaper natural dog food and bird should keep them well anuf..
I won’t eat out as much since We have goals for the hard earn cash to go else where and now we are home owners.. We do still do eat out once or twice a week
I won’t buy insurance for ourselves or stocks or rrsp or whatever else is out there to make money on some elses money.. Than again I don’t fully understand those things so why go into blind.. No one takes of care me except myself… So it’s time to save for retirement in my own savings account…..
I won’t pay bank fees for a while. Or I’ll pay interest on cc again when they are payed off.. or buy a new vehicle on a loan untill we saved for it… even though the one it not to old yet (2002).
I won’t follow the trends in decorating my house but decor the way I like since I live in it and hardy anyone ever sees pass the inside the four walls..
I won’t pay someone else to clean my dust because if u put all ur energy into it. It only takes up to four hours in one day of the week to keep it clean.. A half hour every day to keep it tidy at most.. Unless there is more than two ppl living in the home… I won’t hire tradesman to fix something or reno unless we can’t do it..
I won’t buy consigment clothing since it seems that I don’t really wear it out as fast as the other clothing I like…
We won’t buy another article of clothing untill one wears else is the policy in the home.. To replace it.
We won’t ever get cable but we did since his brother got it last yr. and it’s our turn to do it this yr. With the expense of making dinner too and snacks to watch the games..
We won’t spend over budget unless the cash is there for the items we need or want to have in life..
We won’t say we are poor with our living or where we spent cash of what we earn since we make the desicions. But we will say that we have alot of things to enjoy like each other, roof over heads, food in cupboard, work not too far away, skiing, vehicle to go any place, biking, park near by, pets to take care of, books to read, loads of different entertainment…
February 4, 2010 at 2:13 pm
It is all about priorities and how to spend your money on exepriences and not things. In our business, we also (obviously) don’t spend $5 for a latte at a coffee shop, but we do spend money on good coffee beans so we can have a simple pleasure at home every morning. I drink coffee, so it is going to taste good.
If I want the EXPERIENCE of socializing at the coffee shop, then yes, I will go there and buy a $5 drink, but I’m doing it for the experience, not the coffee.
February 4, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Interesting to see everyone’s answers.
For my self, I won’t spend money on:
- cheap cat food: I rather buy a higher quality because I believe in a healthy nutrition + I can see a difference in their digestion (they are less vomiting) and shinier fur.
- new releases of books, movies: I rather wait and rent the movie and watch it at home and rent my books at the public library.
- drugstores makeup and hair products: I buy few high end product and they serve me on the long run.
- already made food: I prefer to cook myself most of the time
- restaurants: We enjoy more a nice meal at home than going to restaurants. We go to restaurants with family on special occasions only.
- designer clothes: not for me!! this is not my bag.
This is what comes to my mind for now.
February 4, 2010 at 9:39 pm
Lottery tickets or a new car. Both are a waste in my books.
My stat’s prof called lottery tickets a ‘tax on the stupid’. Harsh, but makes me laugh each time I think of it.
With cars: so much decline in value in the first year. I’m much more comfortable getting a 1-2 year old car (or older).
February 5, 2010 at 12:54 am
i can’t bring myself to spend money on:
1. bank fees and interests
2. cab (unless i am really in a hurry / emergency)
3. manicure and pedicure
4. expensive clothes (i can deal with decent clothes that have decent price)
5. little appliances on shopping TV
whew!
February 5, 2010 at 1:27 am
I wont spend money on -
New textbooks – after my first year of college I realized how much money I had wasted paying full price for books that I could get easily and much more cheaply from other students, or borrow from a library.
ATM fees – this was much simpler when I worked as a waitress and always had cash on hand, but I still refuse to be dinged for not thinking ahead.
convenience store anything – paying double the price? I shop at the grocery store for road trip treats and “study chocolate”.
Electronic goods add-on warranties – never again. The likely problems are not covered and they are priced to kill.
excess food – I only buy as much as I can consume and don’t consider buying a larger quantity on sale a deal when it would go to waste in my fridge.
Cable TV – I use the online services provided by the networks – like how I watch gail! online on Slice’s website.
phone – Since the internet is a must for a university student with online course requirements I use a VOIP service with all the bells and whistles for 20.99, and it also opperates as my apartment buzzer.
February 5, 2010 at 7:02 am
[...] What Won’t You Spend On? Gail Vaz-Oxlade [...]
February 5, 2010 at 7:32 am
[...] What Won’t You Spend On? Gail Vaz-Oxlade [...]
February 5, 2010 at 12:58 pm
i won’t spend money on buying books, unless they are reference books and usually after i have borrowed them from the library first to see if they are really worth it. i managed to read the last harry potter and dan brown book within a week after they were released by getting on the library wait list asap.
i’ve also seen alot of ppl on here say they won’t buy cheapo crap from walmart or the dollar store, given the impact it may on the local labour in the country of origin. i won’t seek out dollar deals on food such as fruits, strawberries, beef, chicken etc… cheap food comes at a high price to labour as well and to the care of animals.
February 6, 2010 at 5:05 pm
It’s harder for me to think of what I wouldn’t spend money on then what I would. But these are a few that I won’t waiver on:
Bank Fees – I detest bank fees. I will drive out of my way to go to my own bank and save $1.50 or $3.00 on my withdrawal fees. I also hate monthly banking fees which is why I love PC Financial.
Phone Features – It all adds up pretty quickly. I have call display, but will not get call waiting or voicemail, etc. If I can see who called that’s good enough for me – the rest is just overkill.
Movie Rentals – The theatre is expensive, but renting movies is pricey too. I will go to the theatre on occasion as a treat, but otherwise I’ll wait for the t.v. version, or borrow movies from friends. A rental can be over $6 when a previously viewed can be $10 – the whole movie store bit just seems silly to me.
…there are a few things though that I do indulge in that I can’t pass on. The big one being designer handbags. While most people are against spending a lot on a purse (and it is expensive) I buy a bag I truly love, and because of that I’ll carry the same bag for a year or more. And because it’s a designer bag I take great care of it and often switch up between the few that I have if I do want to carry something different for the season. I used to buy cheaper bags but I found I was buying a lot of the smaller priced ones and never liked any enough to ‘re-carry’ them. Designer bags feel more comfortable on my shoulder with straps that are more comfortable and stronger, and it’s my one indulgence. And there are cheaper designer bags available. Not all of them are $500+ dollars – I would never spend that much! :O But I do find the ones I love in the lower price range that are designer.
February 7, 2010 at 1:05 am
[...] about money saving, and budget making. So today after I watched the current episode, I ran over to Gail Vaz-Oxlade’s blog – she’s the host. All sorts of wonderful articles and gadgets to make budgets, set up a debt [...]
February 28, 2010 at 5:33 pm
What are your information sources? This seems very interesteing…
February 28, 2010 at 6:55 pm
I used to have “new car” at the top of the list of things I would never buy, but when we went looking a few years ago, a dealer was offering 0% financing on the new car, and 9% on used — we did the math, and it made more sense to buy new. The included warranty on the new car is also helpful as I drive 35 000 km + per year, and seldom go a year without SOMETHING going wrong.
, spend more than $7 on my kids clothes (they get Lots of hand-me-downs), and seldom more than $15 for anything for me.
I have a rule, that I will never, or hardly ever
I never impulse buy on any items for the house, and never pay full price for anything.
It is highly unlikely that we will spend money on hiring someone to do reno’s; my husband is a skilled tradesperson who can do mostly anything.
Spending money on the gas for your car as you wait in a coffee shop drive-thru is just wrong in my world. I will treat myself to a once a week coffee — everyone needs a vice.
Hmmm… I know that there’s lots more things… Basically, I don’t like to spend money on anything unless it’s to replace something that we have already that isn’t fulfilling its job anymore. (We try to live by the one in one out rule.)
It is interesting to see what others will and will not spend money on. It’s all about choices, and most of us can’t have it all, and by realizing that, I think we can appreciate everything so much more.
As the song goes: “It’s not having what you want, it’s wanting what you’ve got…”
February 28, 2010 at 11:12 pm
What I won’t spend money on:
Kitchen gadgets: I’m a former professional cook and it’s amazing what you can do with a sharp knife and a small, yet, good set of pots and pans that retain heat.
Keep your recipes simple! Complicated recipes can cost more money/time. Even world-class resorts have food budgets!
Get a wide variety of food week in and week out, not necessarily everday. We have so much choice nowadays, it’s easy to over spend/eat. Have a revolving menu say for a month or six weeks etc. Cook enough for a couple of nights and maybe a lunch or two.
No meals out, if I have food in the fridge – Always have food in the fridge
Eat oatmeal or toast or eggs for brek, not processed boxed cereals, even on sale they’re expensive.
Careful in the bulk store – I have often bought useful things such as spices etc just to have them dry out and lose flavour. Or, too many treats – those chocolate melts, yum. Use a list!
I don’t normally buy books unless I can get regular use out of them.
I supplement my wardrobe with Sally Ann purchases, but I refuse to buy old stuff, unless it’s for a dirty job that will destroy the clothes, otherwise it’s false economy. I bought a beautiful, comfortable pair of like-new shoes for $3. My clothes are really smart and it’s a good cause. Look after your clothes too!
Maintain your electronics: defrag, dump unnecessary stuff, save anything precious to CD/DVD, and clean your keyboard/computer/laptop on a regular basis.
Think ahead, eg. I considered my needs when I had to buy a computer, for school work, for the following 3 years and bought accordingly. One of my friends only buys used computers with great success!
Use the properties button on your printer (if it has one) and choose fast/economical printing. Saves a fortune on ink.
find inexpensive hobbies, I create papier-mache items and sell them too
place a monetary value on your time, spend it wisely!
I nickle and dime shamelessly – they’re my nickles and dimes!!!
If you know someone who survived the Dirty ’30s – pick their brains for tips on how to live on less!!! It’s amazing how they made things last or reused items.
My late grandmother was a genius with money. I’m glad I listened to her and now to Gail.
What I did buy:
An education with money from my grandparent’s estate.
I chose to take my courses through Ontariolearn.com which is a consortium of Ontario colleges and universities. I took the Library and Information Technician program through Mohawk College in Hamilton. I saved a tremendous amount of money on travel, etc. by taking online courses.
While I did pay for it with my credit card, it was paid off promptly each month, and was incredibly painful at times. I owe nothing! It was hard to muster up the discipline sometimes, especially when the going got tough, but it can always be found if looked for.
When I was a cook I got hurt, I hadn’t had a “regular job” in more than a decade, live with my parents, and I’m in my early 50’s. I’ve had some major ups and downs in life, but I feel such hope for the future. I now have a job at my local library, that I love, earning the best wage I’ve ever had. Although presently the job is part time, it will probably turn into full-time.
I also learned to live on so much less! I do housework for my parents in exchange for room & board and find pleasure in little things that are free or nearly free.
I’m on my last course, and I plan to graduate this October, after more than 3 years of study. I’m so proud!!
My best advice to anyone is the advice my dear mum has given me, “just because you have money doesn’t mean you have to spend it all!” It seems kind of obvious.
All the best to everyone commenting here!
Bette